April 30, 2013 The Community Gathers for Sports

Many of my students participate in sports, and this spring is no exception. It is important to them that their teachers are interested  and will attend the games and meets. Today was a perfect opportunity for me to give a couple of hours of my time to view these athletes. The community is very supportive of athletics, so there were many spectators this afternoon.

First, I watched the JV baseball team while visiting with parents and cheering these boys on. Next, I went to the varsity baseball game to witness how well these young men play. Finally, I walked over to the track to observe a few races and jumping events. Attendance at these contests is a good reminder of how hard these teenagers practice and the pride they take in their performance. It is meaningful to see them in a setting outside of the classroom to appreciate their dedication to something they enjoy.

April 29, 2013 Impending Flat Tire

Lake Champlain, Vermont

I must give credit to my husband for identifying today's act of kindness. We had to travel to Vermont for an appointment and decided to stop at the large bookstore in that city. I was so excited to peruse the books that I didn't notice the nearly flat tire on the car parked next to us, but my husband saw it immediately. He had a pen with him, and I produced a small notepad that I always carry with me (one never knows when an item of interest might need to be recorded). A message was quickly scribbled on the piece of paper and left under the wiper. I am sure the driver appreciated the warning about the tire.

April 28, 2013 Run For the Bulls

Signing up a little runner

One of my favorite parts about my job is working with Student Council, a group of smart, motivated, and creative teenagers. We put in long hours planning and carrying out events to benefit the school, the community, the nation, and abroad. This year they decided to host a 5K run/walk to raise money for Heifer International, an organization that teaches people how to raise farm animals and become self sufficient. I had the pleasure of spending several hours today helping set up the course and run the event. It was so rewarding to see people of all ages - three to mid sixties, and a variety of abilities enjoy themselves, get some exercise and support a great cause. It is a good day when one gets to hang out with about eighty pleasant people on a bright sunny day!

April 27, 2013 An Early May Day Tradition

Today's Surprise

When I was young, there were traditions associated with May 1, or May Day. One custom was to put flowers in a basket and then leave them on the doorstep of a neighbor. I remember in first grade we learned the steps to weaving ribbons around a May Pole which seemed extremely complicated at the time, but resulted in a beautiful pattern of colors. I was inspired to celebrate May Day early today because the conditions were perfect - my daffodils are blooming and the sun was shining. I put two bouquets of  those cheerful yellow flowers in vases and went for a walk. The first I gave to my neighbors across the street . Since they were home, I couldn't perform this task secretly, but they seemed pleased by my gift. The second container, I placed on a table near the front door of a family I don't know. I hope they were excited and surprised to see the bright yellow faces of these perky daffodils!

April 26, 2013 Fire

Charred Railroad Trestle, New Hampshire

When one lives in a small community, news of sorrow or joy spread very quickly resulting in the community coming together to support whatever actions need to be performed. Whether it is a spaghetti dinner to raise money for students going to Europe or a concert to gather funds for an individual who is ill, the outpouring of assistance is immediate. We had a near tragedy in the neighboring village this week when a fire broke out in an apartment building. Fortunately, everyone escaped safely, but most of their possession were lost. One of my colleagues suggested that we organize a jeans day at school in which the faculty would wear jeans and make a donation to aid this family. I was delighted to do the organization and pleased by the excellent participation.   We raised a tidy sum of money to help these victims. It is said, very appropriately, that it takes a village to raise a child.I believe it also takes a village to support and care for its residents so all can lead productive lives. 

April 25, 2013 Honoring Others With Trees

For in the true nature of things, if we rightly consider, every green tree is far more glorious than if it were made of gold and silver. ~Martin Luther

Plantation Tree, Louisiana

Tomorrow is Arbor Day, an event which was first organized in 1872 to encourage citizens to plant and care for trees. I have always found trees to be majestic and protective; I admire their branches brushing the sky and their shelter from the gentle rains. I planted my first tree at the age of seven. It was a willow tree that my father helped me to place in our small back yard among the lumber mills of a little town in southern Oregon. I checked on that tree off and on over the years and marveled at its growth. Today I gave cards to several of my colleagues informing them that trees were planted in their honor in National Forests. I selected these recipients because they all represent dedicated teachers who also care deeply about the community we live in. They don't ask for special recognition, but they deserve to be acknowledged for their commitment to the betterment of our region.

April 24, 2013 Reaching Out to a New Mother

The joy of a sleeping baby

Staying at home after the birth of a baby is an admirable decision and one which many woman would prefer to do. However, there are those mothers who need to work both for the income and the interaction with other adults. I have a young friend, a new mother,  who lost her job last year due to budget cuts, but fully expected to return to the classroom in the fall after a retirement took place. Unfortunately this position has also been eliminated. I stopped by her house to visit for a spell, meet her baby, and boost her spirits a bit. Understandably, she is upset and disappointed that she will not be returning to our district.  She is an excellent teacher who creates a lively classroom where every individual counts. Her absence is truly a loss to our students. It felt good to reconnect, and I know she appreciated my visit.

April 23, 2013 Taco Tuesday!

The Pleasure of Food

Just the thought of food can make your mouth water, your eyes light up, and your brain anticipate the satisfaction of a savouring a favorite dish. You can imagine the importance lunch has to growing teenagers. Not only is it an occasion to be with friends, it is an opportunity to replenish that nearly always empty stomach. Today was Taco Tuesday, a choice meal among the diners at school. I realize that not all of the students can afford the lunches, so this morning I paid for several in advance.  My cafeteria friend who works the cash register spread this treat out to those who will benefit from it most. A surprise culinary creation can brighten a person's day. I hope they enjoyed the tacos!

April 22, 2013 Earth Day

We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children. ~Native American Proverb

Local Clean-up

   Happy Earth Day! This day was created in 1970 to celebrate the need for environmental awareness and to encourage all citizens to rally together to promote education and local activities. What a perfect day to don a light jacket and head outside to clean up the sides of the road. With garbage pickers in hand and bags blowing in the breeze, a small group of students, a colleague, and I spread out along the shoulder of the route in front of the school. It is incredible what junk one finds after the winter snow has disappeared.Our hour long effort was well worth the work; six bags of assorted trash was disposed in the dumpster! Kudos to all who celebrated this day honoring our planet!

April 21, 2013 Mending

A home sewn dress

Sewing, stitching, patching - mending clothes is becoming a lost art. Few people have sewing machines, and home ec classes have been eliminated or so watered down that most youngsters don't learn how to sew. It is an ability which can be very useful, however. Today I was able to repair some items  for a family member which I enjoyed doing. It is satisfying to put the seams back together and hear the hum of the machine. Voila! A couple of minutes later, the clothing is as good as new. Whether it entails fixing rips or creating a unique personal item for a friend, sewing is very rewarding and appreciated by those who don't know how to do it.

April 20, 2013 Sunday School

Church, Montreal

There is a place of worship down the street which has been an important part of my community for over 150 years. Although this is not my church, I fully respect the role that it plays in the beliefs and values of the majority of my friends and neighbors. Faith is an essential part of many peoples' lives. Numerous churches are facing severe financial difficulties, and this particular parish had to close its parochial school last year. When I heard that the Sunday School was in need of supplies for the children, I knew I had to help. Today I donated paper and crayons to their program. It is the least I can do to assist these volunteer teachers with their religious instruction.

April 19, 2013 Phone Call

The buses had pulled away; the seniors had driven off, and I was heading home when I saw a girl standing in the parking lot. Everyone has a phone in their possession these days, so I gave little thought to why she was there. Undoubtedly, she had  called a parent for a ride. But, she looked so solitary that I felt obligated to stop. I lowered the window to ask her if she needed  help. My intuitions were right - she had no phone and didn't know why her parents hadn't arrived to pick her up for an appointment. She borrowed my phone to call her mother who was able to straighten out the mix-up. It was a simple little gesture for which her mother later thanked me. Right place, right time, and a phone were all it took to offer assistance.

April 18, 2013 Battling Illness

An Uphill Climb, Italy

Complaints, gripes, grumblings, and annoyances- are people whining more because it is so easy to express themselves via social media and technology? If we take a step back to examine these comments, they often seem petty and banal. There certainly are those who have reasons to be down, but frequently these individuals remain silent. I learned today of a student whose mother is battling ALS or Lou Gehrig disease. I am sure that his feelings of anger and worry warrant venting from time to time. Instead, he has formed a team with one of his teachers to participate in the Walk of Hope to raise money to fund research into those illnesses such as Parkinson's,Alzheimer's, and ALS. These neurodegenerative disorders affect many, and will undoubtedly touch someone in your network of friends. I made a donation to this student's team. Please check out www.alsraisinghope.org to learn more about this event. Reach out to those who truly need your support; you may find your personal laments are much diminished.

April 17, 2013 Economic Crisis in Education

Creativity, New Orleans

As much as I strive to be positive and uplifting, it is difficult today when it became official that several of my colleagues are losing their jobs. It is a situation which can not easily be avoided and on which it does little good to place blame. I have taken time to talk to these co-workers who represent the best in teaching- intelligent, caring, dedicated, professional. I want to wave a magic wand to right the wrongs that are occurring across the country which result in excellent teachers leaving their chosen profession. But, I do not possess this power,and all I can do is to let them know that I value them as friends and educators. They will be successful in whatever they choose to do; their outstanding qualities will be appreciated by future employers. In time, their future work endeavors will be rewarding and exciting because these are people who are creative and strong, but right now it simply makes me sad.

April 16, 2013 Indomitable Will

"Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from indomitable will." Mahatma Gandhi

Auburn, NY

This is the quote that I gave to each member of Student Council as well as to some of my colleagues today. My message to them is simple and concise. During times of sadness and confusion at work, in our nation, and abroad, one might become afraid, but I believe that humans around the world possess a powerful spirit which moves them to produce positive actions. All of these difficult challenges push us to look fear in the face; however, let's choose to find courage and gain strength to move forward together. One must focus on the heroic actions big and small, the moments of comfort between friends and strangers, and the strong will of human nature to help each other throughout the nations.

April 15, 2013 Giving Children Wings

New Orleans

"There are two things you give your children - one is roots and the other is wings" . Part of the process of letting them fly away is letting them know that you believe in their ability to soar. As an educator, I usually witness their desire to leave and their fear of the departure. Much of this uncertainly comes from the apprehension that they may fail academically or financially. One of the last actions I can perform for my students is writing letters of recommendation stating their strengths and promise, for who knows them better than someone who has taught them for three to four years? Today I composed several letters for scholarship applications, an elite health careers program, a service project, and a job reference.I enjoy bragging about these solid individuals.
 Grown-ups are the best advocates for these young adults; their flying skills are still a little shaky.

April 14, 2013 The Mpingo Tree

Clarinet Section, Area All State Concert

I had never considered that a tree and a musical instrument could be the basis for an outreach program, but that is exactly what Michele Von Haugg has developed. Her organization called Clarinets for Conservation is an educational effort in Tanzania to teach students how to play the clarinet as well as instruct them in conservation practices of their native tree, the Mpinga, which is used worldwide in the fabrication of musical instruments.The high demand for this wood threatens its existence. I was fortunate enough to attend one of her concerts this weekend. After her performance I left a donation for this organization. Please check out www.clarinetsforconservation.org. I find it fascinating that such diverse topics can be united educationally to benefit people in another continent.

April 13, 2013 Gaining Independence

Stages of Childhood

As children go through the various stages of development, one can see the push and pull of the need for independence. One minute he/she runs defiantly from you, and then the next moment the child is glued to your leg like white on rice! It is a confusing time which requires great patience from the parents and caregivers. Establishing an appropriate amount of freedom also requires a certain amount of self-confidence and the belief that he/she belongs to a social group which values them. I maintain that it truly does take a village to raise a child. Today I sent a card anonymously to a child I know with a message supporting her strengths. She, as is most everyone her age,is becoming more independent and learning how to develop her own interests. I think she'll appreciate her own individualized note just as would anyone from toddler to teen to adult because being recognized as special is a desire one never outgrows.

April 12, 2013 Snow in April

the van in winter

One can only describe snow in April with adjectives of dismay. It is the season to see leaves of daffodils and tulips stretching upward while parts of the lawn look slightly green. Alas, today all was covered by snow followed by rain and sleet and then another inch of snow. It simply postpones the arrival of spring which we so dearly need. As I left work this afternoon, the air was filled with a misty rain and fine flakes floating slowly down. The soupy slush on the pavement made walking treacherous, and I carefully skated through the mess to retrieve the snow scraper from my van. It felt good to be outside. I pushed the snow off the windows and noticed that this exercise was energizing me. So I moved to the next vehicle and removed the snow from it. About six cars later I realized that my pants were soaking wet. Time to go home! What a great way to end the week at work.

April 11, 2013 The Open Door to RAK

An Old Fashioned Phone

Engaging in random acts of kindness is not difficult, but one must stay well aware of the happenings around you.Often this simply means stepping out of the comfortable box of routine and self concerns to perceive the needs of those nearby. I was not looking forward to today due to an appointment, but three things occurred in which I was able to brighten someone's day. First, we let a young woman cut in front of us at a restaurant, so she could eat with a friend. She seemed so surprised and grateful. Later, I noticed a handicapped woman in a wheel chair who could not reach the base of a land line phone to hang up the receiver. She was relieved when I helped her. And finally, I saw some keys fall from the parking attendant's pocket, and called his attention to them. He was very appreciative of my message. I did nothing special in these deeds except noticed that they could be accomplished.  Even on those days when one might think there will be no opportunity to spread actions, situations appear. Responding to them is nothing more than old fashioned common courtesy, but it sure makes all involved feel great!

April 11,2013 The Fear of Numbers

I certainly respect the need for numbers and math, but my preferred method of thinking involves words. Give me a pen, not a calculator to express myself and explore the world. I imagine that is why I am apprehensive in the areas of bookkeeping and insurance. Fortunately, I work with two women who are exceptionally competent at their jobs and always willing to help me with my questions. I respect their knowledge and ability to be patient with those who are not experienced in these disciplines. These ladies assist me professionally and with courtesy which I appreciate. Today I brought them some tulips to brighten their offices a bit. Each of us has an area in which we feel less than confident, so take some time to tell those who aid you in these tasks how much you value their expertise.

April 9, 2013 Optimism

“A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.”

Winston Churchill   A Sunny Day, Oregon In a nation and a world beset with problems, it is difficult to find any joy. Even in our own communities, we have issues which result in loss of jobs, cultural cutbacks, and reduced services. Where is the sun amidst all this gloom? I search daily for the positive aspects around me, and I locate them in the students, colleagues, neighbors,family, and friends with whom I associate. I believe that hope is more practical than despair. There are those whose sunny personality and bright smile are so welcome when the negativity is drowning us. I took a moment to let a co-worker know today that I always appreciate her positive outlook and supportive comments. Optimism is a powerful tool when one decides to use it.

April 8, 2013 The Hair Salon

Tree Fort at Sunrise

There are many locations where one can feel peaceful: kayaking in the lake, hiding high in the branches of a tree, standing atop a mountain. However, opportunities to feel pampered are often few and far between. Maybe that is why I look forward to going to the hair salon where I can sit calmly, chat with my personable stylist, laugh at the jokes that pass among the group, and leave feeling refreshed. With scissors, a blow dryer and some mousse, my hairdresser is a magician who transforms my fine tresses into a magnificent coiffure. My tip today can not cover the pleasure of being able to completely relax after a hectic day at work. Take time to seek those moments of indulgence, and remember to thank those who make it possible.

April 7, 2013 Music and Children

"Music is the universal language of mankind." - H.B. Longfellow

Dancing on Ice

Music has a powerful effect on each of us; it can cause one to reflect, to remember, to sing, and to sway. Certain songs will always evoke specific memories of a special time or of a person long gone. Youngsters, however, usually find music makes them move. What can be better than putting on a song and joining the little ones as they dance around the room laughing? I came across a couple of CDs of lively children's tunes today, so I took them to a house down the street. I know those active kids will enjoy creating crazy dance moves to entertain their parents! Whether you are in sneakers, skates, or your slippers, put the music on so the whole family can dance together.

April 6, 2013 Old Friends

“A friend is a gift you give yourself."

Robert Louis Stevenson   One of the many challenges we face is maintaining friendships across the miles and throughout the years. It is so simple to let the days, months and years flow by as people come in and out of one's life. Perhaps friends are not meant to stay with us as we go through various stages,but there are always those few who remain dear in our hearts and in whom we have entrusted our confidence. To lose them is to lose a bit of ourselves. I found some photos of long ago and sent them to my best friend from college today. They were taken on a gray day in a park near campus where we had gone to escape the doldrums brought on by too much studying. Who could guess that forty years later, I would reflect on the need to keep in contact with old friends. If you have a moment to reach out to someone from your past, make that call or send that card. It will certainly brighten the day for both of you.

April 5, 2013 Vermont

Vermont

The State of Vermont is unique in many ways, and I always feel a connection to its land and people. My paternal grandmother's family settled here two hundred years ago. Although I was raised three thousand miles from the Green Mountain State, when I moved to the East, I was pulled to spending time in Vermont. Today a close friend and I were able to pass the day in Burlington. In one store I came upon a collection jar for a foundation called the Waterman Fund whose goal is to support education and programs to preserve the Northeast Alpine areas. This group has awarded many grants to organizations who work on taking care of these terrains.I left a small donation in the container to help them with their efforts. Take a minute to check out this group to see if you would like to get involved.

April 4, 2013 Sidewalks

Welcome Spring!

It is said that fences make good neighbors, and in my case that is true. We have a polite, but cool relationship with the person who lives next to us. I am usually cautious in my dealings with her; however, today I was inspired by the sun and a strong dose of spring fever, so I swept and shoveled the sand from the sidewalk in front of her house as well as the two houses on the other side of us. Perhaps my action will go unnoticed, but it felt good to make a small gesture of kindness in hopes that our relationship might become friendlier.

April 2 - 3, 2013 Lake Placid

The quaint village of Lake Placid is best known for hosting the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, but it is a beautiful gem in the Adirondacks for a myriad of activities. Skiing, skating, hiking, kayaking, and biking are a few of the pursuits which draw visitors to this region. I spent the past two days in Lake Placid where I was able to spread some random acts of kindness. All the public parking near the shops are metered, so my first action was to place coins in the kiosk that prints the parking receipts.The next couple of people seeking to pay for their parking found it had been covered. My second deed took place at one of the popular restaurants. Our waitress was delighted to credit my donation to the bill of an older couple who was enjoying a quiet meal together. Little surprises are always appreciated, but when one is traveling,
small acts like these will leave a positive impression about the area on those tourists.

April 1, 2013 Public Service

Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance.
Confucius

Spring Flowers

Tonight I will be sworn in as a village board member.This is a position that I am approaching with both excitement and trepidation. I know little of local government, but I have the desire and motivation to make a difference in my community through this process. As I age, I have come to realize that the more I comprehend, the greater is my awareness that there is much of which I remain ignorant. A life spent learning is a life well lived! While I become familiar with the management of the village, I will rely heavily on the expertise of the the two office assistants who are always willing to answer my questions and share their wisdom. Today I brought them a bouquet of daffodils to brighten their desks and offer thanks for all the aid they will be giving me in these next months as I tackle my new responsibility.