Wow. I leave Michigan for a few months and come back to find out my doctor now emails prescriptions in. Now, if only I coud figure out a way to get appointments and refills by email. Or better yet know in advance when I will
need medical help.
I tried the natural way of getting rid of the achy, can't talk or breathe or hear crud by drowning myself in sleep and liquids. But I gave up and slipped into the doctor's walk-in line after learning the first available appointment was in 8 days. I was shocked that I was seeing a doctor less then 30 minutes after I signed in! The next shock - right after the sting of a few shots - was learning prescriptions on paper were no longer routine.
Actually, I think emailing the prescriptions in is a good idea. It should cut down on misread prescriptions and missing pads. Plus, this way I could go straight home (more sleep) and ask my husband to pick up the drugs later.
I do hope the practice extends to nationwide - especially if the doctor sends the requests directly to the drug plan's mail order place. Think of the paperwork that can be saved on behalf of senior citizens whose only hope of avoiding the Meficare Part D donut hole is using the mail order option.
On the other hand, I feel sorry for any doctor with patients enrolled in a Medicare Part D plan. I finished out my year comparing 52 plans in my mom's ZIP code in the annual gamble of trying to find the one plan that will cover the most drugs she may take in 2009. The fun is starting with a list of 8 drugs she is currently taking. The chosing is a gamble because first you can't really know what drugs are needed and second, the company can drop at time any drug.
Imagine the pain of the doctor's office, though, that needs to keep track of which of the 52 plans each patient with. (oh yeah, seniors get to choose a new plan, effective Jan. 1 every year).
Medicare Part D has become an annual end of the year ritual for me. This year, I only helped with 2 plans and that was enough. The choosing is almost as painful as breathing right now.
January 7, 2009
January 5, 2009
Can we all tell 'hey Mabels?'
Hearing 'that's a 'Hey, Mabel' story was high praise from one of my first editors. It meant you had found and written a tale that would be discussed at the dinner table and near the water cooler.
Of course, that praise came when newspapers were delivered in time for dinner, a meal families ate together in early evening. The line was delivered before vending machines with bottled water and break rooms replaced water coolers as standard office equipment. And when was the last time anyone said 'Mabel?'
Good stories still get discussed today. My questions are: Are there too many stories? Does who tells them make a difference?
I once was an avid storyreader, who gravitated to those first person pieces in newspapers and especially in magazines. But recently I realized that even an offer to get the old standby Women's Day for less than a quarter an issue had little appeal.
I fill that need niche with blogs and rss feeds. Now, I can find quilters, crafters and do-it-yourselfers 24/7. Also available are others who share how they cope with ms, elderly parents and twenty-somethings who move back home. I can read one blog or adopt a variety through a service like BlogHer. When I find a story or cause that pulls my heartstrings, I can talk back as well as PayPal some $$.
I can get even more as the Non-profits and businesses I already support seek my stories and then share what they gather from customers, contributors and clients in their appeals, newsletters and magazines I get for my loyalty.
What I think we lose/lost is the collective knowledge that helps form community around geography
We also take on the need to filter, to think for ourselves. We have to be editors as well as readers. Certainly, mass media sometimes was scammed by storytellers who twisted their lines to elicit donations.
Plus I worry about overload - when you can choose to "know" so many stories does it become easier to tune them all out?
If the Boys & Girls Club, the United Way, the YWCA, the Girl Svouts and others use stories to illustrate impact of programming and funding do the tales all blend into one? (I have been a long time critic of how mass media chooses the medical victim of the week to feature. Now, i wonder how a church, VFW and other groups chooses who to support with an suction or fundraising dinner when so many are in need of help. Some Sundays, I am sure my entire congregation is on the sick list and in need of prayers.)
Does the technique of revealing who we are lose power when it becomes the basis for marketing and changing rather them understanding who we are?
No answers. Just questions once more.
(also, please, be patient, as this post was penned on an iPhone as I try to fulfll a resolution of posting at least 5 times a week)
Of course, that praise came when newspapers were delivered in time for dinner, a meal families ate together in early evening. The line was delivered before vending machines with bottled water and break rooms replaced water coolers as standard office equipment. And when was the last time anyone said 'Mabel?'
Good stories still get discussed today. My questions are: Are there too many stories? Does who tells them make a difference?
I once was an avid storyreader, who gravitated to those first person pieces in newspapers and especially in magazines. But recently I realized that even an offer to get the old standby Women's Day for less than a quarter an issue had little appeal.
I fill that need niche with blogs and rss feeds. Now, I can find quilters, crafters and do-it-yourselfers 24/7. Also available are others who share how they cope with ms, elderly parents and twenty-somethings who move back home. I can read one blog or adopt a variety through a service like BlogHer. When I find a story or cause that pulls my heartstrings, I can talk back as well as PayPal some $$.
I can get even more as the Non-profits and businesses I already support seek my stories and then share what they gather from customers, contributors and clients in their appeals, newsletters and magazines I get for my loyalty.
What I think we lose/lost is the collective knowledge that helps form community around geography
We also take on the need to filter, to think for ourselves. We have to be editors as well as readers. Certainly, mass media sometimes was scammed by storytellers who twisted their lines to elicit donations.
Plus I worry about overload - when you can choose to "know" so many stories does it become easier to tune them all out?
If the Boys & Girls Club, the United Way, the YWCA, the Girl Svouts and others use stories to illustrate impact of programming and funding do the tales all blend into one? (I have been a long time critic of how mass media chooses the medical victim of the week to feature. Now, i wonder how a church, VFW and other groups chooses who to support with an suction or fundraising dinner when so many are in need of help. Some Sundays, I am sure my entire congregation is on the sick list and in need of prayers.)
Does the technique of revealing who we are lose power when it becomes the basis for marketing and changing rather them understanding who we are?
No answers. Just questions once more.
(also, please, be patient, as this post was penned on an iPhone as I try to fulfll a resolution of posting at least 5 times a week)
January 4, 2009
Iphone photo art? Some days are like that ...
Oh yea. This is my second photo in this technique
Help. What am I doing to get it to look this way.
Barber school will not help me or 'client'
I cut it all one length; chemo contributed the bald spots.
Shall I stick with caregiving on the local and family level and skip barber school?
January 3, 2009
Cross that October task off the to-do list because the ONA08 evaluations are done
I'm sure the planners of the 2009 Online News Association Conference are breathing a sigh of relief now that they have 32 pages of comments and workshop evaluations from the 2008 event to guide them.
Those evaluations on paper traveled from Washington DC to Michigan to Indiana to Tennessee to Michigan to Tennessee to Michigan and now back to Washington DC. Part of the transcribed evaluations were lucky enough to be on the thumb drive that didn't survive a parking lot mishap so I got to do some twice (and let me assure you that some journalists have lots to say.)
In some ways, it wasn't easy giving these evaluations up. The perfectionist wanted to compare my spelling of all the folks who signed their evaluations with the conference attendee list.
The perfectionist wanted to put the program description with each set of ratings to make it easy to understand comments, especially the question on how well the session met objectives outlined in the description
Instead, I transcribed the comments, counted the check marks and sent the work on its way.
Generally, folks loved what was offered content wise. The room setup gathered the most complaints. Folks seem to want chairs and tables and plugs for their computers. Some want the rooms warmer.
As I wrap up the detail work for one more conference, I suggest that the organizers of the next event do all that - plus make the forms available online so folks can type in their own comments. Or make everybody print letters at least 1/2 inch tall and with a medium that won't smear in early snowfalls in Tennessee.
Another option would be to consider going to the unconference format - just get everyone to the hotel, gather a ton of computers, projectors and tech tools and let folks meet up and teach each other. No evaluations necessary.
(Seriously, I appreciated that folks realized sometimes our priorities change rapidly. I know way too much about cancer, planning funerals, and the need for better ways to pay for, find and evaluate health care for those under 30 and over 70. Oh yeah, don't drop a thumb drive under the tire of a moving car.)
Next up, I'm hoping to learn better how to ask for help faster and how to say no :)
January 2, 2009
A hairy day is a fine one for hats
Today a box of hats arrived from Heavenly Hats, which uses a tagline of sharing hope through hats. I certainly needed hope on this very hairy day - especially late this afternoon when the 24 year old acted liked a 3 year old with scissors.
The hats organization was founded by a 10 year old boy and distributes new hats to those who lose their hair because of medical conditions.
All of the hats are new. Many carry the sample label. Some are knit, or crocheted or sewn by volunteers. Some are an instant hit. Some make us laugh and laughter is good. Hey, she started the afternoon saying the purple one would never go on her head and look where it is now.
We, of course, knew not all hats are perfect. Here's my daughter's first attempt to make her own chemo hat. She's doing much better now that she really knows how to do a double crochet.
The hats come on a good day - a clump of hair came out when she ran her fingers through it while rating her fourth meal of the day. (Yes, many here are sure that the reason it took hours longer then expected to put in her port was doctors secretly hollowed out a leg so she could attempt to eat us out of house and home.)
The hats come on the day she's decided the top of the head pain is from the tenderness of the hair leaving the trail in the shower, on the pillow, on the rug and now the table.
The trail bothers her for a couple of reasons - the fact that it is hers and the fact that it is a trail. Who knew I raised a neatnik. I'm too busy cooking and she's not expecting the energy boost to clean until sometime next week. She's rejected my offer to get rid of the three dogs in attempt to eliminate some hair.
The hats come on the day she's decided it would be easier if it just fell off all at once. We could have skipped the short hair stage - which she hates, she says. Fortunately, I am peeling onions when we both realize why some choose to shave their heads; why even the short cut isn't enough.
Her long shower gives me time to finish that batch of tears and I brace myself for the bald head.
Instead, i get another laugh as decides to wait to shave. Instead, she comes out with a most unusual style as more rebellious lengths decide to stand at attention. (Unfortunately, I didn't get a picture of that!)
Later in the day, I learn I better not wait to post from now. She left the kitchen to trim her bangs and came back wearing a new do. What do you think?
Oh, by the way -- I could send you to her blog. But, I'll just borrow some of it now. I don't think we have a crossover audience. Let's start with her Facebook status: Katie W is done with 2... now i'm wilting!
Round two is done.. gearing up for 3!!
hello peeps! i emerge after resting for a couple of days. I had issues with the hospital this week, They scheduled my appointment for 11am with the doctor and my chemo treatment for 5pm! So yes we got to hangout around the hospital for a long time! But i now know i don't like treatments at night and prefer getting them over with because it kinda of woke me up that night and I really couldn't sleep til the next day. Plus now my days are all screwed up and I swear today is still thursday even though everything says friday!
I hope everyone had a better new years eve then i did and everyone old enough to have a drink had one for me! before treatment Lew and I rented a whole bunch of movies and have only 1 left out of 6! i must say we rented don't mess with the zohan and well it was one of the worst adam sandler movies I have ever seen! I really like him too! It was a bummer but hopefully we saved the best on for last kung Fu Panda!! That will be tonight's viewing!
Oh yea some great news from the last doctor's appointment my tumor before treatment was 6 cmX 9 cm on the outside of my skin ( they take a rough measurement because they really can't tell how big it is on the inside without more expensive tests so this is like the cheap version of measuring/ monitoring using a ruler) (sorry about the spelling) but after the first round it is now 5cmX5cm - sooo whoohoo!!!! go yucky chemo drugs that are doing their job! I told my mom the bright red color of the drug reminds me of tiny hatchet men from the music group lewis and I listen too and I keep visioning them attacking the tumor whenever it gets injected... she gave me a weird look like many of you are probably doing too but i read that it helps to vision the meds working like this and it makes tons of since to me since the color is like bright blood koolaid! Ahh... well i must trim this mop of hair i have left! Laters!!
By the way, she's wrong. Mom likse the imagery of the hatchet men. The haircut, I'm not so crazy about.
So peeps, Laters!!!
January 1, 2009
Can laid-off journalists do web business ?
A headline change on LinkedIn (Job or freelance work wanted), a FaceBook status on someone acquiring a co-worker's flowers, and a couple of posts in blogs written by people I've worked with help create a gloomy start to 2009. Yes, more folks I know either start 2009 jobless or know they soon will be.
Yet some still offer hope, the idea that there might be a way to ensure communities are covered and laid-off journalists can find new ways to earn pay.
For instance, a group of believers that the changes happening can lead to something better ask:
Anyone interested is invited to a Jan. 21 Talkfest set in Columbia, Missouri. Only cost is getting there. Or you can also attend via Adobe Connect.
Bill Densmore invited folks via his FaceBook status to an event called "Putting Feet on the Streets for Journalism/" The event recognizes layoffs atnewspapers, lack of coverage in communities while web efforts grow.
Over on the wiki about the effort it says:
The plans for the one day session are set:
Fellow Jane Ellen Stevens is the main contact (jstevens@mmjourno.com, 707-495-1112) is the contact. But first head to the wiki for more details on program, goals, etc.
Happy new year. Happy new ways.
Yet some still offer hope, the idea that there might be a way to ensure communities are covered and laid-off journalists can find new ways to earn pay.
For instance, a group of believers that the changes happening can lead to something better ask:
What would a news-organization incubator look like?
Anyone interested is invited to a Jan. 21 Talkfest set in Columbia, Missouri. Only cost is getting there. Or you can also attend via Adobe Connect.
Bill Densmore invited folks via his FaceBook status to an event called "Putting Feet on the Streets for Journalism/" The event recognizes layoffs atnewspapers, lack of coverage in communities while web efforts grow.
Over on the wiki about the effort it says:
"the RJI Collaboratory could provide resources and knowledge on how to start effective and successful Web-based news organizations. Those who could benefit from the news organization incubator are entrepreneurial mid-career journalists, and existing news organizations that are undertaking the transformational strategies necessary to adapt to a Webcentric world."
The plans for the one day session are set:
"During the one-day event, we'll meet together in the morning to show you some successful Web-based news organizations. We'll discuss why we think a news organization incubator is necessary, and identify issues that entrepreneurial journalists and existing news organizations face as they make the transition to becoming Webcentric news organizations.
In the afternoon, we'll meet in working groups to address particular issues in starting a news organization incubator, and how it will function. The approaches developed in those groups will serve as the foundation for a plan for the RJI Collaboratory. "
Fellow Jane Ellen Stevens is the main contact (jstevens@mmjourno.com, 707-495-1112) is the contact. But first head to the wiki for more details on program, goals, etc.
Happy new year. Happy new ways.
December 27, 2008
First words on their last day and other links
I pulled out the laptop today, cleaning up my list of "must read" sites. At the end of the day, I see that changes in journalism still attract me. You?Perhaps, I always will. You can catch up on Jim Smith's ideas of who will announce by the Dec. 29 deadline in Flint on Free From Editors. He expects half of the newsroom to go.
The cake is from the first big buyout bash - one of the folks going in the second big buyout posted a bunch of photos today on Facebook. Still waiting to hear when the bash is, but at least I found some "helpful phrases" to use.
What are Twitter friends for?
Jim MacMillan: Blogging, News, Information and Opinion from Philadelphia, like many of us knows of folks who are leaving the news business. He remembered his last day - you want to be remembered, but it's not really a day to celebrate.
Another round of layoffs and buyouts were coming up and he didn't know what to say. So he used Twitter to solicit advice on what do you say to journalists on their last day ... or the day that they find out that they are done.
Suggestions included send a message to them reminding them about some good work; buy a beer; take them out for fun; make sure they are on Linkedin and recommend them .... and more
• Quest for Expertise « Disparate
Tracking down the "rule of thumb" that it takes 10 years to be an expert; blogger includes primary sources, more links to follow
• Top 10 tips for journalists who blog « Save the Media
Gina Chen's new blog is Save the media. The post with 10 tips could be squished into fewer. Her 10: Start with intro; be accurate, use attribution; know audience, get a personality; talk, write, give something new, give an opinion; interact. My take: Be a journalist to look up to by writing accurately for a group of folks who care about something, but more importantly be an opinionated human being who follows the golden rules of giving credit where due, gives more then takes, and doesn't bore people to death. You know, someone you wouldn't mind sitting next to at another chicken-dinner fundraiser.
• What the Ann Arbor News should do
A former employee gave up waiting for the newspaper to explain what's going on with the buyouts and changes coming to this Booth newspaper so she explains what she knows and what she thinks should be done
• Exploitation of the Voiceless
More proof that you don't have to buy expensive equipment - more on the Flip.
An editor looks at what was
A weekly newspaper gives a former editor, Tom Honig, a place to write about what changed at the Santa Cruz Sentinel. It's about one newspaper, but could be about many.First, Tom tells us how depressing it can be to pick up a skinny newspaper, especially when it once was larger.
He talks about credibility. Plus, he shares the story of a newspaper going from a family-owned newspaper to one owned by a chain and then another chain.
Take a gander: News & Culture in Santa Cruz, CA | 12.03.08
A bonus is the printing of a Phil Meyer piece on "the elite newspaper of the future." Yes, it's a repeat, but it is important advice for all who are deciding how to ensure the success of newspapers
December 8, 2008
A measure of success (or something)
It's the end of the year, a time when I usually measure how well I've met goals of the year. Plus, I need a break from gloomy things so what can be more uplifting then Twitter. TweetStats helped me learn a lot - like 19 times in 13 months I've had Twitters that were exactly 140 characters long, that 36% of my tweets are replies to others and I share a lot of links, talk a lot about the iPhone, news and Twitter. I love word clouds (see illustration) as a way of telling me what I'm saying. If only I could get that at the dinner table :-)
The TweetStats program shows May, August and October were my slow Twitter months. But, boy was I noisy in Feb. when I had more then 100 (and to my surprise lots of folks still followed me.)Sunday seems to be my favorite day to send out a Twitter. I'll Twitter at any hour of the day with 8-11 p.m. EST my most popular times (although 6 a.m. seems popular too).
One nice gift from TweetStats - it shows what program I used to send Twitters and that helped me remember that Hahlo was the program I liked on the iPhone (before its last crash; some days I'm so glad there are computers available to help us keep track of life's little things.)
Even more, I'm glad life is a bit more normal - I'm actually watching Jay Leno for the first time since October.
(If you click on the graphics you can actually read them.)
December 5, 2008
What people say: Angels
A friend notes that me without computer access is like an angel without wings.
That makes me laugh because two groups that started calling me Mary Angel recently are waiting for projects that require my computer. And the same day I heard the angel line is the first time I heard from them in awhile.
Wish I had wings - I would fly the coop to a clutter-free, no boxes, no pain place (with consistent computer access, please)
That makes me laugh because two groups that started calling me Mary Angel recently are waiting for projects that require my computer. And the same day I heard the angel line is the first time I heard from them in awhile.
Wish I had wings - I would fly the coop to a clutter-free, no boxes, no pain place (with consistent computer access, please)
December 1, 2008
Following follies: Real life and online
I failed following today - at the grocery store and online. And that's actually a good thing for me.
At the grocery store, a place I rarely go, I lingered too long looking for Goo-Goo bars and something to heat later for dinner. I wanted a few other things for the 10-hour road trip on Tuesday too. But I was walking too slow and as everyone who was in the store knows I don't listen well either.
At least that's the opinion shared by my daughter right before I suggested perhaps she should do her own shopping and then wait for me in the car. Afterall, I may not shop a lot but I can do it on my own.
Now, I suppose some of this is because she is scared to start her cancer treatments, sad about leaving a job she worked hard to get and I get that she is physically hurting.
But I am doing her no favors by being her punching bag. As I explained later, moms are people too. And though I love her dearly, her words are not the only thing I listen too - yes, I talked to a stranger which is why I didn't hear her talking to me. It was tough, but I also had to remind her other folks have needs too. Her cancer card doesn't wipe out needs of others. We still have to eat, sleep, breathe, even laugh. Yes, the caretaker needs caretaking too.
Online is harder because I don't get this autofollowing stuff - especially if the new follower gets upset because they don't like what I tweet or post or say.
Just because I comment or heaven forbid follow someone, it doesn't mean I want to be best buds. It might just be I need what you are righting about right now
See, I know I love this new techie stuff - I tried Mr. Tweet, Qwitter and PeopleBrowsr as soon as I heard about them - but these days I am just as interested in breast cancer at 24 or anything Girl Scouts or Open Space or journalism or storytelling and I might post, tweet or bookmark that. Don't like the diversity? Feel free to unfollow. Feel free to tell me why. Just don't expect me to change anytime soon.
At the grocery store, a place I rarely go, I lingered too long looking for Goo-Goo bars and something to heat later for dinner. I wanted a few other things for the 10-hour road trip on Tuesday too. But I was walking too slow and as everyone who was in the store knows I don't listen well either.
At least that's the opinion shared by my daughter right before I suggested perhaps she should do her own shopping and then wait for me in the car. Afterall, I may not shop a lot but I can do it on my own.
Now, I suppose some of this is because she is scared to start her cancer treatments, sad about leaving a job she worked hard to get and I get that she is physically hurting.
But I am doing her no favors by being her punching bag. As I explained later, moms are people too. And though I love her dearly, her words are not the only thing I listen too - yes, I talked to a stranger which is why I didn't hear her talking to me. It was tough, but I also had to remind her other folks have needs too. Her cancer card doesn't wipe out needs of others. We still have to eat, sleep, breathe, even laugh. Yes, the caretaker needs caretaking too.
Online is harder because I don't get this autofollowing stuff - especially if the new follower gets upset because they don't like what I tweet or post or say.
Just because I comment or heaven forbid follow someone, it doesn't mean I want to be best buds. It might just be I need what you are righting about right now
See, I know I love this new techie stuff - I tried Mr. Tweet, Qwitter and PeopleBrowsr as soon as I heard about them - but these days I am just as interested in breast cancer at 24 or anything Girl Scouts or Open Space or journalism or storytelling and I might post, tweet or bookmark that. Don't like the diversity? Feel free to unfollow. Feel free to tell me why. Just don't expect me to change anytime soon.
November 30, 2008
Listening, sleeping, traveling
Life unravels quickly. New software, new ideas pop up faster then I can keep up because the only routine is that there is none.
I am back in Tennesee. The first day I had the fever my daughter was warned to avoid. I slept while she worked and accepted a card filled with wishes and dollars. It is good that we returned so they all could say goodbye.
The second day, I filled out the dreaded, annual, yes the man with alzheimers still needs the government's help to survive - safely - forms. When I look for thelaptop's powercord, I discover it is in Michigan
That means I am limited to the iPhone.
I had hoped to bring a piece from my head to the computer to help me figure out what to say at my dad's service on Saturday.
I wanted to empty the warp and weavings of people and time that haunt me when I return to the place where I was told -30
years ago - that I would never see 30 years old.
I wanted to finish a few projects to prepare for the launch of 3 new projects - 1 destined to be a part of Typepad's Bailout Program for Journalists.
Instead, I will try paper. I will try reading. And perhaps more sleep so that I am strong for the new results and actions wwaiying our return on Tuesday, a return after the snow
Instead I listen to those who say I am too
Raw to share right now
.
I am back in Tennesee. The first day I had the fever my daughter was warned to avoid. I slept while she worked and accepted a card filled with wishes and dollars. It is good that we returned so they all could say goodbye.
The second day, I filled out the dreaded, annual, yes the man with alzheimers still needs the government's help to survive - safely - forms. When I look for thelaptop's powercord, I discover it is in Michigan
That means I am limited to the iPhone.
I had hoped to bring a piece from my head to the computer to help me figure out what to say at my dad's service on Saturday.
I wanted to empty the warp and weavings of people and time that haunt me when I return to the place where I was told -30
years ago - that I would never see 30 years old.
I wanted to finish a few projects to prepare for the launch of 3 new projects - 1 destined to be a part of Typepad's Bailout Program for Journalists.
Instead, I will try paper. I will try reading. And perhaps more sleep so that I am strong for the new results and actions wwaiying our return on Tuesday, a return after the snow
Instead I listen to those who say I am too
Raw to share right now
.
November 22, 2008
Who is leading the Girl Scouts now?
Catching up with some of the Girl Scout convention action instead of packing :-)
Just in case you don't keep up with all the e-mail lists and blogs about Girl Scouts and read every word in the the workbook, I thought I'd share some information about the new Girl Scout board.
The 2008-2011 National Board of Directors includes:
Officers
* President – Connie L. Lindsey, Chicago, Ill. (You can read or view the "Great Leaders are Great Servents" acceptance speech of this woman who became a Girl Scout nearly 40 years ago in Milwaukee, Wis.)
* First Vice President – Davia B. Temin, New York, N.Y. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Second Vice President – Linda P. Foreman, Durham, N.C. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Secretary – Angel L. Rodriguez, Parker, Texas
* Treasurer – Joan Wagnon, Topeka, Kans. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
Members-at-Large
* Sylvia Acevedo, Austin, Texas
* Barbara F. Adachi, San Mateo, Calif.
* Harriet Edelman, Stamford, Conn.
* Raquel Egusquiza, Dearborn, Mich.
* Ellen S. Fox, New York, N.Y. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Lisa Guillermin Gable, Upperville, Va.
* Linda Mazon Gutierrez, Tucson, Ariz.
* Nan C. Hillis, Winter Park, Fla. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Michelle L. Holiday, Washington, D.C. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* John Hom, South Orange, N.J.
* Marie C. Johns, Washington, D.C.(was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Ingrid Saunders Jones, Atlanta, Ga.
* Karen A. Maloney, Chatham, N.J.(was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Sharon H. Matthews, Charlotte, N.C. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Robert L. Morris, Columbia Station, Ohio
* Debra Nakatomi, Los Angeles, Calif. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Susan P. Peters, Fairfield, Conn.
* Vikki L. Pryor, New Rochelle, N.Y.
* Patricia Romines, Bartlesville, Okla.(was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Rhea S. Schwartz, Washington, D.C. and Sun Valley, Idaho
* Sara L. Schwebel, Columbia, S.C. (was a Girl Scout as a girl, who earned her Gold Award)
* Eileen Scott, Basking Ridge, N.J.
* Gail M. Talbott, Cocoa Beach, Fla.
* Susan L. Taylor, New York, N.Y.
* Marisa Tabizon Thompson, Eugene, Ore. (was a Girl Scout as a girl, who earned her Gold Award)
Over on the Boys and Girl Scouts blog, we learn that the newly elected first vice president of the board of directors was once the top cookie seller.
The blog author/administrator says:
"I looking on the Marketwatch site at the press release that the GSUSA put out regarding the election of the First Vice President of the Scouts’ Board of Directors, Davia Temin. I’m glad someone thought to put in this connection with Girl Scouts as it seems like the pros who run the organization many times don’t have a close connection with the traditions of Girl Scouts.
A former Girl Scout, one year Ms. Temin sold more cookies than any girl inhttp://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=6526127125590696183 Ohio. She was honored by The Girl Scout Council of Greater New York as a Woman of Distinction in 2007."
Did I miss any former girl Girl Scouts (14 of the 27 possible) or directors who earned their Gold Awards (2)?
Originally posted in Convention Talk.
Just in case you don't keep up with all the e-mail lists and blogs about Girl Scouts and read every word in the the workbook, I thought I'd share some information about the new Girl Scout board.
The 2008-2011 National Board of Directors includes:
Officers
* President – Connie L. Lindsey, Chicago, Ill. (You can read or view the "Great Leaders are Great Servents" acceptance speech of this woman who became a Girl Scout nearly 40 years ago in Milwaukee, Wis.)
* First Vice President – Davia B. Temin, New York, N.Y. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Second Vice President – Linda P. Foreman, Durham, N.C. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Secretary – Angel L. Rodriguez, Parker, Texas
* Treasurer – Joan Wagnon, Topeka, Kans. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
Members-at-Large
* Sylvia Acevedo, Austin, Texas
* Barbara F. Adachi, San Mateo, Calif.
* Harriet Edelman, Stamford, Conn.
* Raquel Egusquiza, Dearborn, Mich.
* Ellen S. Fox, New York, N.Y. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Lisa Guillermin Gable, Upperville, Va.
* Linda Mazon Gutierrez, Tucson, Ariz.
* Nan C. Hillis, Winter Park, Fla. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Michelle L. Holiday, Washington, D.C. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* John Hom, South Orange, N.J.
* Marie C. Johns, Washington, D.C.(was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Ingrid Saunders Jones, Atlanta, Ga.
* Karen A. Maloney, Chatham, N.J.(was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Sharon H. Matthews, Charlotte, N.C. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Robert L. Morris, Columbia Station, Ohio
* Debra Nakatomi, Los Angeles, Calif. (was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Susan P. Peters, Fairfield, Conn.
* Vikki L. Pryor, New Rochelle, N.Y.
* Patricia Romines, Bartlesville, Okla.(was a Girl Scout as a girl)
* Rhea S. Schwartz, Washington, D.C. and Sun Valley, Idaho
* Sara L. Schwebel, Columbia, S.C. (was a Girl Scout as a girl, who earned her Gold Award)
* Eileen Scott, Basking Ridge, N.J.
* Gail M. Talbott, Cocoa Beach, Fla.
* Susan L. Taylor, New York, N.Y.
* Marisa Tabizon Thompson, Eugene, Ore. (was a Girl Scout as a girl, who earned her Gold Award)
Over on the Boys and Girl Scouts blog, we learn that the newly elected first vice president of the board of directors was once the top cookie seller.
The blog author/administrator says:
"I looking on the Marketwatch site at the press release that the GSUSA put out regarding the election of the First Vice President of the Scouts’ Board of Directors, Davia Temin. I’m glad someone thought to put in this connection with Girl Scouts as it seems like the pros who run the organization many times don’t have a close connection with the traditions of Girl Scouts.
A former Girl Scout, one year Ms. Temin sold more cookies than any girl inhttp://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=6526127125590696183 Ohio. She was honored by The Girl Scout Council of Greater New York as a Woman of Distinction in 2007."
Did I miss any former girl Girl Scouts (14 of the 27 possible) or directors who earned their Gold Awards (2)?
Originally posted in Convention Talk.
If you look, you'll find support - even in Girl Scouts
The first time I learned that the recent national Girl Scout convention was evidence of the movement leaning left was through a Yahoo group called GreenBlood News.
Carol Lee Spages, who runs the group does a great job of sourcing her posts, so she led us to Politically Direct Jane Chastain. "Girl Scouts go hard left – and downhill" is Chastain's analysis of what happened at the convention.
Chastain, the former Girl Scout who has come out against the Girl Scouts and its Journey programming before, starts off:
Over on GreenBlood Gab, a companion Yahoo group where anyone can speak, reaction was swift with some agreeing and some not.
What amused me is how quickly Google and Yahoo searches started sending me links to what was Chastain's piece, only posted under different attributions. I'm amazed at how many just pick it up word for word.
Like American Daily, which says it is a site of "Analysis with Political and Social Commentary." and picked up Girl Scouts go Hard Left and downhill. word for word. At least the poster only put the first few paragraphs and linked to the rest.
There's some reaction over on the blog from Lighthouse Trails Research. See Girl Scouts Continue Plunge into New Age Spirituality there, a site devoted to exposing the "dangers of contemplative spirituality."
And some in the Feminine-Genius blog, where the writer starts off by saying she's not into the outdoors in a blog that "explores the richness of authentic femininty."
The original by Politically Direct Jane Chastain has gotten some reaction, like this one by Lee Ross under "Watching the watcher."
Lee starts this way:
You can read the rest over on Watching the Watchers ("a journal of media criticism and political coverage that has been published since July 2004"), but I really like this reaction to Chastain being upset that Geena Davis spoke to the convention on Sunday:
Want to know how scary another speaker was? Former Ms. Foundation president Marie Wilson, who founded the White House Project and Take Your Daughter to Work Day, upset at least one convention goer.
If you want to see more comments on the original posting, you need to go to Jane Chastain's blog.
Carol Lee Spages, who runs the group does a great job of sourcing her posts, so she led us to Politically Direct Jane Chastain. "Girl Scouts go hard left – and downhill" is Chastain's analysis of what happened at the convention.
Chastain, the former Girl Scout who has come out against the Girl Scouts and its Journey programming before, starts off:
Change” was the buzz word for the Obama campaign. Change was also the buzz word at the 51st Girl Scout National Council Session and Convention held earlier this month in Indianapolis, Indiana. It stands as further proof that change is not always for the better.
From the opening ceremony to the exhibitors in the convention hall, it is clear that the direction the Girl Scouts has chosen is a hard left, downhill.
Over on GreenBlood Gab, a companion Yahoo group where anyone can speak, reaction was swift with some agreeing and some not.
What amused me is how quickly Google and Yahoo searches started sending me links to what was Chastain's piece, only posted under different attributions. I'm amazed at how many just pick it up word for word.
Like American Daily, which says it is a site of "Analysis with Political and Social Commentary." and picked up Girl Scouts go Hard Left and downhill. word for word. At least the poster only put the first few paragraphs and linked to the rest.
There's some reaction over on the blog from Lighthouse Trails Research. See Girl Scouts Continue Plunge into New Age Spirituality there, a site devoted to exposing the "dangers of contemplative spirituality."
And some in the Feminine-Genius blog, where the writer starts off by saying she's not into the outdoors in a blog that "explores the richness of authentic femininty."
The original by Politically Direct Jane Chastain has gotten some reaction, like this one by Lee Ross under "Watching the watcher."
Lee starts this way:
"Why does Jane Chastain fear, hate, and/or disdain the Girl Scouts of America (GSA), of all groups? Well, apparently because they're leftists addicted to change kind of like Barack Obama, and because they've added an asterisk to God. And you were worried about al Qaeda while all the while the Girl Scouts were selling God and country down the river of new age waters and multicultural streams!
Now being anti-Girl Scout is hardly a crime, and you have to take into account that Chastain is the same person who basically said that America's financial meltdown was one of God's little ways of telling us that abortion (and a bunch of other modern stuff, I presume) is bad. In the same column where she flat out said that "Obama, has pledged his allegiance to Roe v. Wade, while giving lip service to God. The other candidate, McCain, is honoring God with his stand and, for the most part, has a record to back it up." So we're not talking a lot of open mindedness, here, we're talking the right wing tip of Christian literalness and extremity. But, come on, fear of the Girl Scouts?"
You can read the rest over on Watching the Watchers ("a journal of media criticism and political coverage that has been published since July 2004"), but I really like this reaction to Chastain being upset that Geena Davis spoke to the convention on Sunday:
"Geena Davis is a "left-wing" political activist because she has sought equal treatment of males and females? And even worse, she starred in "Commander in Chief?" Holy crap, how could they foist such filth on young female minds?"
Want to know how scary another speaker was? Former Ms. Foundation president Marie Wilson, who founded the White House Project and Take Your Daughter to Work Day, upset at least one convention goer.
"
"I was at the national convention, and the feminism of Ms. MS and Ms. Davis was so overwhelming and scary for me that I had to leave the convention hall and go outside for a breath of fresh air. Ms. MS told us that we’d have to help ourselves, “the military won’t help us”. That did it for me - my son is becoming a Marine as I write this, and that was absolutely all I wanted to hear from her.
If you want to see more comments on the original posting, you need to go to Jane Chastain's blog.
November 21, 2008
Girls tell the story in videos done at national Girl Scout Convention
Here are videos taken at the national Girl Scout convention and now posted at ConventionTalk
VIDEO: Girl Scouts was my Safe Haven Pam S, an adult Girl Scout, tells the story of being the only Jewish kid in her school, how Girl Scouts became her safe haven, and how she has passed on the tradition to her own daughter and other girls. The video was done completely by Angelena C. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Importance of CPR training Lee Knight shares the story of saving her husband's life - and brain - as a result of her Girl Scout CPR training. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Why we are at Open Space Quick clip about why an adult Girl Scout chose to attend Open Space prior to the 2008 National Convention. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Julia's Story Michelle G interviewed Julia about Girl Scouts while Stephanie F. stayed behind the camera Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: GSLI nighttime crash Girls being girls having fun after a long day at Girl Scout Leadership Institute on Wednesday night. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Su Chin Pak Girl Scout Alvine R learns that even Su Chin Pak of MTV has insecurities. Su Chin Pak also talks about what she liked about the Girl Scout Leadership Institute. Christian C did the editng of the video. See another interview with Su Chin Pak Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Favorite moments in Girl Scouts Jessie and another Girl Scout share their favorite moments as Girl Scouts. What's yours? This video was edited by Christen C. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Mary S finding a Girl Scout friend after 20 years Mary S of the Atlanta area tells the story of finding her Girl Scout friend after 20 years, and how she continues to remember her Girl Scout sister. Laura R is the videographer. Angelena C is the editor. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Deborah Hearn-Smith Listen to Deborah Hearn-Smith, the CEO of Girl Scous of Central Indiana, talk about role in the convention and what she has done as a Girl Scout. Amber K of Texas interviewed her while Ellie A of Indiana did the camera work. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Girls speak up to open Open Space A poem was co-created by young women (Splendiloquent Girls) to kick off the Open Space session. Their words remind us who we are truly working for. The video was edited by Angelena C. The interviewees were from the Girl Scout Leadership Institute. The girls shared the poem at Open Space. This poem was...
VIDEO: A Girl Scout for 60 years Meet Bonnie LaForme from Florida. She's been a Girl Scout for 60 years. As an only child, Girl Scouts helped make her connections. She stayed involved with Girl Scouts while in college and since. Find out what job she really loved the most. The interviewer and videographer is Katherine D. Sue McNabb... Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Michelle, Susan and Kat share their Girl Scout stories Michelle M of Girl Scouts of Gateway Council, Inc. in Florida and Susan D, Girl Scouts of Jersey Shore in New Jerey, share memories of two camping experiences. Katherine B, Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey talks about her daughter's Gold Award project and the impact it had. Tracy C did the camera... Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: GS Stories from Carol Lee Spages, Maggie E and Stephanie T Listen to what three Girl Scouts from GS of Nassau County shared with digital StoryWeavers at the 2008 Convention, Tracy Carrol interviewed and took the video Carol Lee Spages, owner of the e-groups Green Blood News and Green Blood Gab on yahoo. Carlie M interviewed Maggie E and Stephanie T while Carmel... Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Sick, with no friends Jessica B tells her story of going through a very serious illness and the support she received from her Girl Scout sisters to Mayesha H, interviewer and videographer. Barb S is the editor. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Fri, Oct 31 2008
VIDEO: Girl Scout Destinations Interviewer and Videographer PJR catches up with Kaitlyn B. from Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, Inc. in New Jersey while she was at Girl Scout Leadership Institute Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by Gabriel on Thu, Oct 30 2008
VIDEO: Rachel & Alvine's Girl Scout Story Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by Gabriel on Thu, Oct 30 2008
VIDEO: Molly K's Girl Scout Story Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by Gabriel on Thu, Oct 30 2008
VIDEO: Girl Scout Leadership Stories Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by Gabriel on Thu, Oct 30 2008
VIDEO: What does Girl Scouts do for older Girl Scouts? Girl Scout Robin M interviews Gregory Jackson of the Girl Scout headquarters staff on what he thinks Girl Scouts does for older Girl Scouts. The video was recorded by Teresa R and edited by Kelsey H. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Mon, Oct 6 2008
-----------------
VIDEO: Committing to Action, Advancing Our Mission Lisa (left) and Martha Webb at Open Space Lisa Hinshaw shared photos and insights in the closing session of the National Council. She also asked all members to honor the commitment to discuss the 64 topics Girl Scouts had submitted online and at the convention. Each idea was seen by one or more Girl... Posted to Live from 2008 Convention (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sun, Nov 2 2008
VIDEO: Cafe Conversations Posted to Live from 2008 Convention (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sun, Nov 2 2008 VIDEO: Closing comments and reflections from Open Space This video includes some photographs and thoughts of Open Space, held just before the Natioinal Girl Scout convention.
VIDEO: Girl Scouts was my Safe Haven Pam S, an adult Girl Scout, tells the story of being the only Jewish kid in her school, how Girl Scouts became her safe haven, and how she has passed on the tradition to her own daughter and other girls. The video was done completely by Angelena C. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Importance of CPR training Lee Knight shares the story of saving her husband's life - and brain - as a result of her Girl Scout CPR training. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Why we are at Open Space Quick clip about why an adult Girl Scout chose to attend Open Space prior to the 2008 National Convention. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Julia's Story Michelle G interviewed Julia about Girl Scouts while Stephanie F. stayed behind the camera Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: GSLI nighttime crash Girls being girls having fun after a long day at Girl Scout Leadership Institute on Wednesday night. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Su Chin Pak Girl Scout Alvine R learns that even Su Chin Pak of MTV has insecurities. Su Chin Pak also talks about what she liked about the Girl Scout Leadership Institute. Christian C did the editng of the video. See another interview with Su Chin Pak Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Favorite moments in Girl Scouts Jessie and another Girl Scout share their favorite moments as Girl Scouts. What's yours? This video was edited by Christen C. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Mary S finding a Girl Scout friend after 20 years Mary S of the Atlanta area tells the story of finding her Girl Scout friend after 20 years, and how she continues to remember her Girl Scout sister. Laura R is the videographer. Angelena C is the editor. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Deborah Hearn-Smith Listen to Deborah Hearn-Smith, the CEO of Girl Scous of Central Indiana, talk about role in the convention and what she has done as a Girl Scout. Amber K of Texas interviewed her while Ellie A of Indiana did the camera work. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Girls speak up to open Open Space A poem was co-created by young women (Splendiloquent Girls) to kick off the Open Space session. Their words remind us who we are truly working for. The video was edited by Angelena C. The interviewees were from the Girl Scout Leadership Institute. The girls shared the poem at Open Space. This poem was...
VIDEO: A Girl Scout for 60 years Meet Bonnie LaForme from Florida. She's been a Girl Scout for 60 years. As an only child, Girl Scouts helped make her connections. She stayed involved with Girl Scouts while in college and since. Find out what job she really loved the most. The interviewer and videographer is Katherine D. Sue McNabb... Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Michelle, Susan and Kat share their Girl Scout stories Michelle M of Girl Scouts of Gateway Council, Inc. in Florida and Susan D, Girl Scouts of Jersey Shore in New Jerey, share memories of two camping experiences. Katherine B, Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey talks about her daughter's Gold Award project and the impact it had. Tracy C did the camera... Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: GS Stories from Carol Lee Spages, Maggie E and Stephanie T Listen to what three Girl Scouts from GS of Nassau County shared with digital StoryWeavers at the 2008 Convention, Tracy Carrol interviewed and took the video Carol Lee Spages, owner of the e-groups Green Blood News and Green Blood Gab on yahoo. Carlie M interviewed Maggie E and Stephanie T while Carmel... Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sat, Nov 1 2008
VIDEO: Sick, with no friends Jessica B tells her story of going through a very serious illness and the support she received from her Girl Scout sisters to Mayesha H, interviewer and videographer. Barb S is the editor. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Fri, Oct 31 2008
VIDEO: Girl Scout Destinations Interviewer and Videographer PJR catches up with Kaitlyn B. from Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, Inc. in New Jersey while she was at Girl Scout Leadership Institute Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by Gabriel on Thu, Oct 30 2008
VIDEO: Rachel & Alvine's Girl Scout Story Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by Gabriel on Thu, Oct 30 2008
VIDEO: Molly K's Girl Scout Story Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by Gabriel on Thu, Oct 30 2008
VIDEO: Girl Scout Leadership Stories Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by Gabriel on Thu, Oct 30 2008
VIDEO: What does Girl Scouts do for older Girl Scouts? Girl Scout Robin M interviews Gregory Jackson of the Girl Scout headquarters staff on what he thinks Girl Scouts does for older Girl Scouts. The video was recorded by Teresa R and edited by Kelsey H. Posted to Swapping Our Stories (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Mon, Oct 6 2008
-----------------
VIDEO: Committing to Action, Advancing Our Mission Lisa (left) and Martha Webb at Open Space Lisa Hinshaw shared photos and insights in the closing session of the National Council. She also asked all members to honor the commitment to discuss the 64 topics Girl Scouts had submitted online and at the convention. Each idea was seen by one or more Girl... Posted to Live from 2008 Convention (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sun, Nov 2 2008
VIDEO: Cafe Conversations Posted to Live from 2008 Convention (Forum) by StoryWeaver on Sun, Nov 2 2008 VIDEO: Closing comments and reflections from Open Space This video includes some photographs and thoughts of Open Space, held just before the Natioinal Girl Scout convention.
November 19, 2008
Technology mends, bends, breaks
Sometimes we are blessed that today's technology lets us achieve the impossible - or at least what we plant in our brain as improbable.
I needed the impossible: To be in two places at the same time. With my father. With my daughter.
I needed the impossible: An overnight cure of chills, sniffles, sore throat.
I needed the impossible: Letting go of a shared project, secure in knowing it would continue.
My husband helped with first, driving to my dad, holding a cellphone and letting me share another set of "love you's and goodbyes."
By the time my husband arrived at my dad's hospital an hour away, I knew going to see someone with pneumonia was too risky for my own health, for my daughter's health. I need to be here to comfort my daughter, even as we both know I cannot assure her of a different fate. But the opportunity to express love once more mends the ache of wanting to be with my father physically as he takes his last breaths.
To achieve the second meant swallowing my pride. Yes, I couldn't believe that the name of the solution had slipped from my mind. Yes, I couldn't believe I was going to break my promise to me to avoid rejection. Yes, I would be needy again. But the first words in 11 months let me know I had not misjudged the man's heart, only failed to recognize boundaries. Bending isn't breaking.
The last need seemed to be met with a public, gracious offer. But words that to most would read as positive shout to me "go away." Yeah, call me if you need me....oh, don't forget I don't return calls.
.
I needed the impossible: To be in two places at the same time. With my father. With my daughter.
I needed the impossible: An overnight cure of chills, sniffles, sore throat.
I needed the impossible: Letting go of a shared project, secure in knowing it would continue.
My husband helped with first, driving to my dad, holding a cellphone and letting me share another set of "love you's and goodbyes."
By the time my husband arrived at my dad's hospital an hour away, I knew going to see someone with pneumonia was too risky for my own health, for my daughter's health. I need to be here to comfort my daughter, even as we both know I cannot assure her of a different fate. But the opportunity to express love once more mends the ache of wanting to be with my father physically as he takes his last breaths.
To achieve the second meant swallowing my pride. Yes, I couldn't believe that the name of the solution had slipped from my mind. Yes, I couldn't believe I was going to break my promise to me to avoid rejection. Yes, I would be needy again. But the first words in 11 months let me know I had not misjudged the man's heart, only failed to recognize boundaries. Bending isn't breaking.
The last need seemed to be met with a public, gracious offer. But words that to most would read as positive shout to me "go away." Yeah, call me if you need me....oh, don't forget I don't return calls.
.
Question leads to more questions
One blog? Many blogs? I toss the question out on Twitter and get Twitter responses and a thoughtful blog post.
How many weblogs? Topical vs. personal So, the short answer is I have questions to answer before know which way is right to write.
Why am I writing?
Am I an expert on anything?
Do I want to be?
Should I be?
Can I be?
Will the permanence of what I write play a role in determing what I write, or at least what I share?
Do I care?
Should I care?
Wasn't age 2 supposed to be the one when you ask questions forever?
How many weblogs? Topical vs. personal So, the short answer is I have questions to answer before know which way is right to write.
Why am I writing?
Am I an expert on anything?
Do I want to be?
Should I be?
Can I be?
Will the permanence of what I write play a role in determing what I write, or at least what I share?
Do I care?
Should I care?
Wasn't age 2 supposed to be the one when you ask questions forever?
November 18, 2008
Observations of distractions: 0
I listen, I read, I watch videos. I follow one thought to the next . I let the hours slide by. Then, wonder why.
Is it really a lust for learning? A curiosity for knowing? What am I to do with this insight into change, community, journalism, technology and, now cancer, dying fathers and blogging.
I like the idea of zero life when I hear that someone too young has died. If I don't hear the news, does it happen? As I wait for my father to draw his last, labored breath I realize everyone is too young
Edward Vielmetti started me off on a tangent when he delicioused a link on going EmailZero, which, when I read led me to his Oct. 8 post on Twitter Zero.
Basically, the argument is don't read all of Twitter; just keyword it - that is search for keywords that you care about. It worked in Usenet; works elsewhere too.
Again, I stumbled into this practice without realizing others do it; just as I once could not ignore a ringing phone, but now can with ease I find that I can dismiss unread items in the rss; ignore twitter for days; skip friendfeed, facebook. too...
Instead, I rely on the Tweetscan of words I'm most interested in for Twitter, RSS feeds by individuals of Twitter or subjects collected via search.twitter.com
I read via Ed about Facebook Zero - no, but maybe the sepia idea would work
Scott Brown on Facebook Friendonomics Brown called the Facebook app Fade Utility, something that would blur the neglected profile. It calls attention to what you are ignoring, then you can decide if you should/could/want to pay attention
But I'm usually happy enough reading the status updates via the RSS. But even then I'll just nuke the whole thing.
Wish I could nuke some of what is happening now. My daughter jokes with a coworker that it is a good thing that they didn't start the weight-loss contest a few weeks ago. After all, the pounds slide off easily now - 12 pounds in 10 days despite the fact that she's emptied the Halloween candy bowl twice, gobbled chips by the handful and endured her mother's forced home-made meals, plates of vegies and offers of cheese. Yea, Katie has a legup. She has cancer.
It's the same reasoning e she uses with a co-worker moaning about weight gain over pregnancy. "I know a cure," she says quietly.
And when another co-worker complains about a bad day - something happened at school - Katie stops that with a smile, and the line. Oh, really you have cancer too?
The lines tumble out of her mouth so quickly. I wonder if this is her way of ensuring she knows that it is real.
Today gives us another reason to move back home. The MRI folks need the ultrasound. The ultrasound guy says he sent it three times and he knows the fax is working because no one else complains. The fax? I don't think so.
That smile carries her into a district meeting, where the boss announces with tears what's up with Katie. That tears up more, who offer to help in anyway they can. She jokes so they stop crying.
ha. ha. ha.
Is it really a lust for learning? A curiosity for knowing? What am I to do with this insight into change, community, journalism, technology and, now cancer, dying fathers and blogging.
I like the idea of zero life when I hear that someone too young has died. If I don't hear the news, does it happen? As I wait for my father to draw his last, labored breath I realize everyone is too young
Edward Vielmetti started me off on a tangent when he delicioused a link on going EmailZero, which, when I read led me to his Oct. 8 post on Twitter Zero.
Basically, the argument is don't read all of Twitter; just keyword it - that is search for keywords that you care about. It worked in Usenet; works elsewhere too.
Again, I stumbled into this practice without realizing others do it; just as I once could not ignore a ringing phone, but now can with ease I find that I can dismiss unread items in the rss; ignore twitter for days; skip friendfeed, facebook. too...
Instead, I rely on the Tweetscan of words I'm most interested in for Twitter, RSS feeds by individuals of Twitter or subjects collected via search.twitter.com
I read via Ed about Facebook Zero - no, but maybe the sepia idea would work
Scott Brown on Facebook Friendonomics Brown called the Facebook app Fade Utility, something that would blur the neglected profile. It calls attention to what you are ignoring, then you can decide if you should/could/want to pay attention
But I'm usually happy enough reading the status updates via the RSS. But even then I'll just nuke the whole thing.
Wish I could nuke some of what is happening now. My daughter jokes with a coworker that it is a good thing that they didn't start the weight-loss contest a few weeks ago. After all, the pounds slide off easily now - 12 pounds in 10 days despite the fact that she's emptied the Halloween candy bowl twice, gobbled chips by the handful and endured her mother's forced home-made meals, plates of vegies and offers of cheese. Yea, Katie has a legup. She has cancer.
It's the same reasoning e she uses with a co-worker moaning about weight gain over pregnancy. "I know a cure," she says quietly.
And when another co-worker complains about a bad day - something happened at school - Katie stops that with a smile, and the line. Oh, really you have cancer too?
The lines tumble out of her mouth so quickly. I wonder if this is her way of ensuring she knows that it is real.
Today gives us another reason to move back home. The MRI folks need the ultrasound. The ultrasound guy says he sent it three times and he knows the fax is working because no one else complains. The fax? I don't think so.
That smile carries her into a district meeting, where the boss announces with tears what's up with Katie. That tears up more, who offer to help in anyway they can. She jokes so they stop crying.
ha. ha. ha.
November 16, 2008
For the record: Jelly was better
Given a choice, I'd rather be the jelly smooched between slices of bread then a layer of an open-face sandwich.
It's not my choice.
I can only choose to focus on now, this second. That's enough. Breathe. Pray. Grab a bigger plate.
To understand, read Sandwich woman: Spread between cancers. My father died while my daughter was a few miles away in another hospital, getting prepared for her cancer treatments.
It's not my choice.
I can only choose to focus on now, this second. That's enough. Breathe. Pray. Grab a bigger plate.
To understand, read Sandwich woman: Spread between cancers. My father died while my daughter was a few miles away in another hospital, getting prepared for her cancer treatments.
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