Though I had plenty of sunscreen on, I managed to burn my back yesterday while snorkling. It´s not so bad...just warm on my back as I tried to fall asleep last night.
This morning I had coffee with a troop of monkeys. I´d been told by a local guide that monkeys appeared at 6:30am at the local bakery. I´d gone yesterday and was disappointed by the lack of monkeys and bad food. The cappachino though was good.
This morning I´d wandered down to get another cappachino. As I sipped away, a monkey bounced down out of the trees and began to pose. Really, the damn thing was posing in the branches. It made faces at other customers. It bounced around and finally a worker came out with a banana. I guess monkeys really do love bananas; this one stoled the whole thing...one chunk in his swollen cheeks, and another in each of his paws.
By the time I´d finished my drink, I counted seven primates jumping through the canopy. Pretty cool!
I´ve decided to finish reading a novel I´ve been cruising for awhile. It´ll be a day of swinging in one of the hotel hammocks and being lazy. The monkeys were a bad influence.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Monday, December 22, 2008
Joe Vs. the Volcano, Hot Spring and Wisdom Teeth
Sometimes I feel I need to be secretive. I guess it´s my stubborn nature. Maybe I just don´t want anyone to worry too much. I had taken this stubborn, secretive approach with dentistry. Yeah, crazy huh? I had planned the beginning my Costa Rica stay around a dentist appointment.
My plan had been to get my lower wisdom teeth pulled and move on to getting all of my teeth straightened. The costs in Costa Rica would in fact pay for my rt flight. It sounded smart...and even thrifty.
I tried to find my bus at the Coca Cola bus station (the station isn´t nearly as refreshing as the drink). After some wandering in a very rough crowd, I decided I could afford to take a taxi.
I got to the hospital complex and followed the directions emailed to me...building number two on the sixth floor. There were no numbers on the buildings, so logic said go to the one next door to the big building. I did. I wandered the sixth floor for a minute or two before figuring out it was the maternity ward. The babies didn´t mind.
Asking a desk person where I need to go she pointed out and beyond...one more building. I found the place. The office reminded me of a chain store hair salon. I sat on the white leather couch and listened to the elevator music as I rolled my tongue over my wisdom teeth...fully expected they had little time left in my mouth.
The dentist I was to see walked by waving in a princess manner to everyone...except me (another dentist would soon explain she expected me at 11:30 and not 1:30). So I sat and waited. I finally was directed in to a dentist chair. The dentist asked me about my teeth. Were they bothering me? Why did I need them pulled...and such. I told him I´d like to get them straightened and felt the only way would be to have my wisdom teeth pulled to create some room.
His response- your teeth are really good. Then he had an orthodontist come in to look at them. He felt they might be straightened without extracting any teeth. So, three days of waiting and 50$ later, I had my teeth looked at by a dentist. I guess I have mixed feelings about the whole damn thing.
Anyhow...tomorrow being my birthday, I decided to treat myself to a tour of a volcano and a visit to a hot spring (ends up it´ll cost me the same as my trip to the dentist). It´s true a vacation should never be mixed with a dental appointment. Off to find some grub!
My plan had been to get my lower wisdom teeth pulled and move on to getting all of my teeth straightened. The costs in Costa Rica would in fact pay for my rt flight. It sounded smart...and even thrifty.
I tried to find my bus at the Coca Cola bus station (the station isn´t nearly as refreshing as the drink). After some wandering in a very rough crowd, I decided I could afford to take a taxi.
I got to the hospital complex and followed the directions emailed to me...building number two on the sixth floor. There were no numbers on the buildings, so logic said go to the one next door to the big building. I did. I wandered the sixth floor for a minute or two before figuring out it was the maternity ward. The babies didn´t mind.
Asking a desk person where I need to go she pointed out and beyond...one more building. I found the place. The office reminded me of a chain store hair salon. I sat on the white leather couch and listened to the elevator music as I rolled my tongue over my wisdom teeth...fully expected they had little time left in my mouth.
The dentist I was to see walked by waving in a princess manner to everyone...except me (another dentist would soon explain she expected me at 11:30 and not 1:30). So I sat and waited. I finally was directed in to a dentist chair. The dentist asked me about my teeth. Were they bothering me? Why did I need them pulled...and such. I told him I´d like to get them straightened and felt the only way would be to have my wisdom teeth pulled to create some room.
His response- your teeth are really good. Then he had an orthodontist come in to look at them. He felt they might be straightened without extracting any teeth. So, three days of waiting and 50$ later, I had my teeth looked at by a dentist. I guess I have mixed feelings about the whole damn thing.
Anyhow...tomorrow being my birthday, I decided to treat myself to a tour of a volcano and a visit to a hot spring (ends up it´ll cost me the same as my trip to the dentist). It´s true a vacation should never be mixed with a dental appointment. Off to find some grub!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
My Big Loop
As with most of my travels, I arrived in Costa Rica without much of a plan. I´ll be here in San Jose for two more days. I will go to the Quaker meeting this morning and then visit a museum or two in the afternoon. Tomorrow will be a morning of museums and an afternoon of visiting with a local dentist. So, those are my big city plans.
On celebrating my 45th time around the planet, I hope to go to the volcano area north of San Jose. After that, I want to get to the Monte Verde area for Christmas-fellow Quakers- and the Cloud Forest. The next stop will be via bus and ferry...I´ll go over to Montezuma for beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula. Another bus ride and I´ll be near the Manuel Antonio National Park in Quepos...and more beaches. Then my plan is to pursue more info on the mysterious prehistoric rock spheres found near the Osa Peninsula. Finally, I will loop back to San Jose for my final days and flight back.
Plans can change. That´s the best thing about traveling alone...it always plenty of freedom. I´ll try to keep my blogging rolling along. Maybe next I´ll share some ideas related to the giant stone spheres.
On celebrating my 45th time around the planet, I hope to go to the volcano area north of San Jose. After that, I want to get to the Monte Verde area for Christmas-fellow Quakers- and the Cloud Forest. The next stop will be via bus and ferry...I´ll go over to Montezuma for beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula. Another bus ride and I´ll be near the Manuel Antonio National Park in Quepos...and more beaches. Then my plan is to pursue more info on the mysterious prehistoric rock spheres found near the Osa Peninsula. Finally, I will loop back to San Jose for my final days and flight back.
Plans can change. That´s the best thing about traveling alone...it always plenty of freedom. I´ll try to keep my blogging rolling along. Maybe next I´ll share some ideas related to the giant stone spheres.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Getting to Costa Rica
The night before last, I was taking care of last minute concerns in my apartment in Teec. My packing was finished, I´ll put a full crock of beans on for the FACE potluck, I´d watered the bonsai Christmas tree brother Chris and wife Jane had given me, and I´d finished my rewrite of Chicken Scratch Yazzie. Unlike past travels, I actually slept well. I got into my morning routine of working out before I have my morning coffee and loaded up the truck. All was smooth.
I was concerned about the weather. There were all sorts of rumors out there...Albuquerque was socked, the weather would be getting worse, and the roads were slick. One of the rumors was correct. The roads around the Four Corners were incredibly slick...I slid out to my truck on the thin sheet over my sidewalk...and took the driving slow. I got to school at my normal time...but most of the teaching staff was delayed. An 18'wheeler had tumbled off into a ravine and traffic was held up. I watched over the kids in the teacher resource room until the other teacher arrived.
I had asked for some leave so I could get to Albuquerque without any troubles. My principal was accommodating. She told me to get going.
My drive was very smooth except for one thing. My truck died in Shiprock. Evidently, my battery died right there at the gas station. I guess if it had to got...that was the perfect place. I managed to get some help from a couple of mechanics. With my new battery in place, I drove to Albuquerque. I can only say it was a little weird. I listened on the radio of weather getting worse and worse...but I seemed to be riding within a bubble of sunshine...you know, Jesus rays and all. I took it as a good sign.
The flights were smooth. I had no panic attacks. I did have my Xanex in my pocket but didn´t need it...I do think all of my panic was a product of too much mercury in my system. So, this was good. I most enjoyed looking down at lava flows off from the volcanoes of El Salvador. The jungles, jagged mountains and wild pristine waterways were pretty impressive too. The air smelt funny...kinda like near the coal burning power plants. As I waited for my final flight in San Salvador...a police officer did a little show with his drug sniffing dog....really, a show...after he had the dog sniff around every ones bags, the dog chased after a tennis ball and did several impressive belly rolls. The most life threatening situation was taking a taxi drive through San Jose to my hostel. Obviously, I lived.
I was concerned about the weather. There were all sorts of rumors out there...Albuquerque was socked, the weather would be getting worse, and the roads were slick. One of the rumors was correct. The roads around the Four Corners were incredibly slick...I slid out to my truck on the thin sheet over my sidewalk...and took the driving slow. I got to school at my normal time...but most of the teaching staff was delayed. An 18'wheeler had tumbled off into a ravine and traffic was held up. I watched over the kids in the teacher resource room until the other teacher arrived.
I had asked for some leave so I could get to Albuquerque without any troubles. My principal was accommodating. She told me to get going.
My drive was very smooth except for one thing. My truck died in Shiprock. Evidently, my battery died right there at the gas station. I guess if it had to got...that was the perfect place. I managed to get some help from a couple of mechanics. With my new battery in place, I drove to Albuquerque. I can only say it was a little weird. I listened on the radio of weather getting worse and worse...but I seemed to be riding within a bubble of sunshine...you know, Jesus rays and all. I took it as a good sign.
The flights were smooth. I had no panic attacks. I did have my Xanex in my pocket but didn´t need it...I do think all of my panic was a product of too much mercury in my system. So, this was good. I most enjoyed looking down at lava flows off from the volcanoes of El Salvador. The jungles, jagged mountains and wild pristine waterways were pretty impressive too. The air smelt funny...kinda like near the coal burning power plants. As I waited for my final flight in San Salvador...a police officer did a little show with his drug sniffing dog....really, a show...after he had the dog sniff around every ones bags, the dog chased after a tennis ball and did several impressive belly rolls. The most life threatening situation was taking a taxi drive through San Jose to my hostel. Obviously, I lived.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Plenty Going On
The weather in the Four Corners has been wintry to say the least. Yesterday we had a two hour delay at school. The drive over this morning was slick. I ended up filling the back of my truck with boxes of books from storage to get some weight over the back tires (I knew those books would come in handy some day).
Today, I'll make the 4 1/2 hour drive to Albuquerque. There's more snow expected...so it looks like I'll take a personal day (better safe than not) and make the trip.
I usually stay at a hotel in downtown. It's affordable and not sleazy like so many up on Central (if you know Albuquerque). In the morning I'll be up early for a 9 am flight.
Yes, I'm excited about my coming travels. Jungles, beaches, and all...who wouldn't be excited. Honestly though I've been so busy I haven't had much time to think about what I'll do when I get there.
There are days in my life that feel like landmarks. This is one. I finished my rewrite of the novel I've been working on last night at about 8pm. I'll print it out when I get back and read it out loud to catch any major glitches. I've a set of goals for the year listed next to my desk. Finishing the rewrite last night was a major one.
This morning I finished reading the first of my collection of Sherlock Holmes novels. I really enjoyed it! Man, Doyle definitely did not like the Mormons! I'll continue with my collection when I get back (a good winter read I think).
I've beans cooking for a potluck. I best go check on them.
Adios, Joe
p.s. If I can figure out how to upload photos, I thought I'd do this onto my FACEBOOK account.
Today, I'll make the 4 1/2 hour drive to Albuquerque. There's more snow expected...so it looks like I'll take a personal day (better safe than not) and make the trip.
I usually stay at a hotel in downtown. It's affordable and not sleazy like so many up on Central (if you know Albuquerque). In the morning I'll be up early for a 9 am flight.
Yes, I'm excited about my coming travels. Jungles, beaches, and all...who wouldn't be excited. Honestly though I've been so busy I haven't had much time to think about what I'll do when I get there.
There are days in my life that feel like landmarks. This is one. I finished my rewrite of the novel I've been working on last night at about 8pm. I'll print it out when I get back and read it out loud to catch any major glitches. I've a set of goals for the year listed next to my desk. Finishing the rewrite last night was a major one.
This morning I finished reading the first of my collection of Sherlock Holmes novels. I really enjoyed it! Man, Doyle definitely did not like the Mormons! I'll continue with my collection when I get back (a good winter read I think).
I've beans cooking for a potluck. I best go check on them.
Adios, Joe
p.s. If I can figure out how to upload photos, I thought I'd do this onto my FACEBOOK account.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Dogs are Men, Women are Cats
I remember as a child believing all dogs were male and all cats were female. In fact, I thought they were the same species (as a preschooler I didn't think species...I thought animal). Maybe this was the effect of too many Saturday morning cartoons explaining animal gender.
I've thought this could make a decent topic explaining relationship dynamics...a new twist on Men are From Mars Women are From Venus. While John Gray has some grasp on relationships, I could never take on such a project. Honestly, I'm too dumb.
Isn't that the point though? Dogs really do come off as dumb. Even the "smart" ones are typically driven by a Scooby Snack after rolling over and playing dead.
Cats are so intelligent. One of my ongoing challenges with my former feline friends was finding a toy they actually liked. I would scan the shelves of feathery, bright, jingly toys and go for whatever I found appealing. Typically, I return home unwrap the toy "All Cats Love", toss the wrapper along with the alien object on the ground and always the cats would chose to play with the wrapper (maybe I needed to search the local dumpsters and not the closest pet store).
How does all of this play into my life today? I did get a kind call from my "Friday Night Dance Partner". She explained she was sick. She asked me to forgive her. She told me she would treat me to coffee after I return from my travels. I was glad to hear from her.
Another thing I believed in as a preschooler was that a road with the sign "Dead End" lead to a giant cliff where all cars drove off and joined the wrecked vehicles at the bottom. Kinda morbid.
I've thought this could make a decent topic explaining relationship dynamics...a new twist on Men are From Mars Women are From Venus. While John Gray has some grasp on relationships, I could never take on such a project. Honestly, I'm too dumb.
Isn't that the point though? Dogs really do come off as dumb. Even the "smart" ones are typically driven by a Scooby Snack after rolling over and playing dead.
Cats are so intelligent. One of my ongoing challenges with my former feline friends was finding a toy they actually liked. I would scan the shelves of feathery, bright, jingly toys and go for whatever I found appealing. Typically, I return home unwrap the toy "All Cats Love", toss the wrapper along with the alien object on the ground and always the cats would chose to play with the wrapper (maybe I needed to search the local dumpsters and not the closest pet store).
How does all of this play into my life today? I did get a kind call from my "Friday Night Dance Partner". She explained she was sick. She asked me to forgive her. She told me she would treat me to coffee after I return from my travels. I was glad to hear from her.
Another thing I believed in as a preschooler was that a road with the sign "Dead End" lead to a giant cliff where all cars drove off and joined the wrecked vehicles at the bottom. Kinda morbid.
Friday, December 12, 2008
This is Good
So, I've read everything I can about positive attitudes. I've learned to say "This is good" even when a situation seems less than perfect.
Case in point- I just recently reconnected with a lady friend from long ago. We went for coffee, she mentioned dancing. I responded-dancing? Yes, dancing! There's open dance at the studio on Friday nights. Okay-says I.
So, while I'd like to completely believe I'm a man of the world and could never be taken for a chump. At this very instance, I feel like some little ant with a giant foot just inches over my head and about to squash me. I feel chump-ish.
Let me back up- go in reverse- hind step. I had a busy week at work. One thing that was getting me by what this potentially romantic evening of dance I had understood would be happening. I even made arrangements to sleep on a friend's couch.
Dancing would be from 8 until 10. In the meantime, I went out for pizza with my friend and his wife. Good pizza. By 7 I was already tired. I took a 10 minute power nap, got up, brushed my teeth and headed off for the dance studio.
When I found the place, I expected to see my coffee companion/female friend/fellow dance enthusiast. She was nowhere in sight. I paid my 5$ and looked some more. I asked the lady sitting up front. "Oh, yeah, she was here. She said she was going to a party." I sat on the couch and watched 5 or 6 couples dancing. Of course, I felt like shit.
But, hey, it's 9, I'm tired and I got to do just a little bit more of the blog thing right?
This is good.
Case in point- I just recently reconnected with a lady friend from long ago. We went for coffee, she mentioned dancing. I responded-dancing? Yes, dancing! There's open dance at the studio on Friday nights. Okay-says I.
So, while I'd like to completely believe I'm a man of the world and could never be taken for a chump. At this very instance, I feel like some little ant with a giant foot just inches over my head and about to squash me. I feel chump-ish.
Let me back up- go in reverse- hind step. I had a busy week at work. One thing that was getting me by what this potentially romantic evening of dance I had understood would be happening. I even made arrangements to sleep on a friend's couch.
Dancing would be from 8 until 10. In the meantime, I went out for pizza with my friend and his wife. Good pizza. By 7 I was already tired. I took a 10 minute power nap, got up, brushed my teeth and headed off for the dance studio.
When I found the place, I expected to see my coffee companion/female friend/fellow dance enthusiast. She was nowhere in sight. I paid my 5$ and looked some more. I asked the lady sitting up front. "Oh, yeah, she was here. She said she was going to a party." I sat on the couch and watched 5 or 6 couples dancing. Of course, I felt like shit.
But, hey, it's 9, I'm tired and I got to do just a little bit more of the blog thing right?
This is good.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Pondering Religion
I woke up at 2am. I'd been dreaming about going to a high school reunion. For some reason, I had to make a speech to all of my class of '81 peers. It sucked. I laid in bed and my brain started pumping out thoughts on religion.
Religion is an interesting topic. I guess we all have our reasons for believing what we do. For some it's like politics.."I'm (fill in the blank) because my parents were". Others have had a life altering experiences figure out where they fit it. For myself, I spent some of my college years trying out different religions. I felt and continue to feel Quakerism, fits me best. So, I'm a Quaker.
I try to keep religion out of the picture with friends. I think it's wrong to tell others what they should believe. So, I have close friends who are (in no particular order) Buddhist, Muslim, Christian, Jewish, Atheist, Agnostic, Native American Church...and so on. It's a good mix.
If there is one group I have problems with and find freaky, it's the Right-Wing-Christian-folk. I guess there are extremist in each of the major religions...and even the minor ones.
In my summer travels, I happened upon a monastery just outside of Granada, Spain. The patron saints were burnt alive in a cave sometime in the 1st century(the catacomb is located below one of the main chapels). With the bodies were a number of lead tablets written in Aramaic, Greek and Arabic. The "books" described the foundation of Christian, Islamic, and Judaism as the same. I found this fascinating (the guide leading me around did mention the Vatican had labelled these heresy. ..and that they couldn't be authentic as the Arabic language didn't exist in the 1st century)!
With the Christmas season here, I also like to consider the role of annual holidays. Easter, Christmas and Halloween all correlate well with Celt holidays. The summer solstic in Ireland is called St. John's Day (complete with large bonfires on every hilltop). The history of holiday dates and names (Easter for example) is pretty mind opening.
In the end, we each believe what we do. A meditation I find myself doing whenever the stars are out is first to remember how small I am in this Universe. This is followed by reminding myself I'm personally connected to the light coming from a million light years away. It's humbling and empowering. I like it.
Believe what you believe.
Religion is an interesting topic. I guess we all have our reasons for believing what we do. For some it's like politics.."I'm (fill in the blank) because my parents were". Others have had a life altering experiences figure out where they fit it. For myself, I spent some of my college years trying out different religions. I felt and continue to feel Quakerism, fits me best. So, I'm a Quaker.
I try to keep religion out of the picture with friends. I think it's wrong to tell others what they should believe. So, I have close friends who are (in no particular order) Buddhist, Muslim, Christian, Jewish, Atheist, Agnostic, Native American Church...and so on. It's a good mix.
If there is one group I have problems with and find freaky, it's the Right-Wing-Christian-folk. I guess there are extremist in each of the major religions...and even the minor ones.
In my summer travels, I happened upon a monastery just outside of Granada, Spain. The patron saints were burnt alive in a cave sometime in the 1st century(the catacomb is located below one of the main chapels). With the bodies were a number of lead tablets written in Aramaic, Greek and Arabic. The "books" described the foundation of Christian, Islamic, and Judaism as the same. I found this fascinating (the guide leading me around did mention the Vatican had labelled these heresy. ..and that they couldn't be authentic as the Arabic language didn't exist in the 1st century)!
With the Christmas season here, I also like to consider the role of annual holidays. Easter, Christmas and Halloween all correlate well with Celt holidays. The summer solstic in Ireland is called St. John's Day (complete with large bonfires on every hilltop). The history of holiday dates and names (Easter for example) is pretty mind opening.
In the end, we each believe what we do. A meditation I find myself doing whenever the stars are out is first to remember how small I am in this Universe. This is followed by reminding myself I'm personally connected to the light coming from a million light years away. It's humbling and empowering. I like it.
Believe what you believe.
Monday, December 1, 2008
New Writing
My new mini trampoline has had an effect on me. I must admit I like bouncing. I bopped around as I edited yesterday. I bounced through the evening and just before I went to bed. I dreamed I was bouncing. The floor feels way too solid when I finally step off.
I have hopes to finish my current writing project before I leave on winter break. I may write something while I'm in Costa Rica (in part to make it tax deductible)....but have started to consider my next BIG writing project.
I want to finish writing a novel on William Latham (ancestor and Mayflower stowaway). I also started a novel on a Mer-boy (who will go in search of a mermaid). They both offer exciting possibilities. I have a cryptozoologist friend who is try to get permission from the Scottish authorities to dig up a mermaid's remains (killed by a local boy and the funeral was attended by the whole town...in the 1920s I think)....maybe this could somehow be tied in? I like writing about the offbeat. If it keeps my interest, it should keep the readers. Right?
Time to get back home for a bounce.
I have hopes to finish my current writing project before I leave on winter break. I may write something while I'm in Costa Rica (in part to make it tax deductible)....but have started to consider my next BIG writing project.
I want to finish writing a novel on William Latham (ancestor and Mayflower stowaway). I also started a novel on a Mer-boy (who will go in search of a mermaid). They both offer exciting possibilities. I have a cryptozoologist friend who is try to get permission from the Scottish authorities to dig up a mermaid's remains (killed by a local boy and the funeral was attended by the whole town...in the 1920s I think)....maybe this could somehow be tied in? I like writing about the offbeat. If it keeps my interest, it should keep the readers. Right?
Time to get back home for a bounce.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Odd Turkey Effect?
It's an odd day. Not a bad day...just odd.
Last night I celebrated Thanksgiving with my brother Chris along with his family and friends. There was plenty of food and laughter (both always a good thing). I was the early to bed one...and slept well. Up for coffee, I didn't bother with my morning exercise.
On a related topic, I found a mini-tramp to get some aerobic exercise in the coming winter (this being a good thing for my detox work). It was a good buy. The sports shop had an odd way of going about making the sale...but, like I said, it was an odd day.
Chris and fam were eager to go see the newest Batman movie. In my humble opinion, it was not good at all. I always have a problem with matinees anyhow. Still, the movie was a downer for sure!
There's plenty more to consider writing about...but I'd like to spend some more time with my relations. I'll be driving off tomorrow at sunrise.
Last night I celebrated Thanksgiving with my brother Chris along with his family and friends. There was plenty of food and laughter (both always a good thing). I was the early to bed one...and slept well. Up for coffee, I didn't bother with my morning exercise.
On a related topic, I found a mini-tramp to get some aerobic exercise in the coming winter (this being a good thing for my detox work). It was a good buy. The sports shop had an odd way of going about making the sale...but, like I said, it was an odd day.
Chris and fam were eager to go see the newest Batman movie. In my humble opinion, it was not good at all. I always have a problem with matinees anyhow. Still, the movie was a downer for sure!
There's plenty more to consider writing about...but I'd like to spend some more time with my relations. I'll be driving off tomorrow at sunrise.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Sandy Consumerism
Yesterday, I drove from Teec to Sandy, Utah. It's a long drive (about 7 hours). I chopped it up into small bites. First, I made it to Pam and David's just north of Cortez for a morning conversation and coffee. Then, I made an impromptu stop in Cahone at too-much-of-something-back-in-the-60s friend who owns the old trading post (to visit and buy fresh beans). Finally, I explored an interesting thrift store in Moab (part of what makes it interesting is that it is open on Sundays). I managed to pull up to Chris and Jane's just before the sunset.
Today was a fine mix of productive and consumptive. Feeling motivated, I trekked down to the nearby Starbucks for a fancy coffee and to work on my current novel. I can feel my brain hemorrhaging over the process on some days and on other days (like today) the pen writes by itself. Odd, eh? I felt content with my writing by lunch and so made my mecca to Ross's, Ikea, and a nearby mall.
Ruth, an attractive Israeli kiosk salesperson, tried to convince me to buy some cleaning oil/salt from the Dead Sea and polished one of my nails. She also gave me a list of places I needed to go in Costa Rica. I didn't buy anything. Should I feel guilty? No.
Today was a fine mix of productive and consumptive. Feeling motivated, I trekked down to the nearby Starbucks for a fancy coffee and to work on my current novel. I can feel my brain hemorrhaging over the process on some days and on other days (like today) the pen writes by itself. Odd, eh? I felt content with my writing by lunch and so made my mecca to Ross's, Ikea, and a nearby mall.
Ruth, an attractive Israeli kiosk salesperson, tried to convince me to buy some cleaning oil/salt from the Dead Sea and polished one of my nails. She also gave me a list of places I needed to go in Costa Rica. I didn't buy anything. Should I feel guilty? No.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Back to the Steps
Sometimes you seek inspiration and it's just around the corner. Yesterday was a corner. I had a guest speaker from a local college. I was impressed with how well she connected with the ladies in my class. After her presentation, my students went to spend playtime with their children and I took a minute to visit with Michele.
Her being Native gives her insight that I sometimes lack. She gave me some ideas for a health unit. We talked about specifics and possibilites. I sometimes forget about the potential differences I'm making as an instructor of adult students. I once asked a group of my students to list the people their education had a direct impact on; one grandmother had over 50 relatives listed! So, while the numbers in my class may be small, the impact of my efforts can be great.
I guess physical health has been on my mind...but I've not been putting time into other health aspects. In my mind, I'm returning to 12 steps work. For myself I've added the 13th step of "Move on!". It's powerful to sincerely look at yourself in the mirror (both literally and figuratively). I need to help give my students some of the tools needed to thrive in this world. So, I'm inspired and realigning with all of the potential. It's good!
Her being Native gives her insight that I sometimes lack. She gave me some ideas for a health unit. We talked about specifics and possibilites. I sometimes forget about the potential differences I'm making as an instructor of adult students. I once asked a group of my students to list the people their education had a direct impact on; one grandmother had over 50 relatives listed! So, while the numbers in my class may be small, the impact of my efforts can be great.
I guess physical health has been on my mind...but I've not been putting time into other health aspects. In my mind, I'm returning to 12 steps work. For myself I've added the 13th step of "Move on!". It's powerful to sincerely look at yourself in the mirror (both literally and figuratively). I need to help give my students some of the tools needed to thrive in this world. So, I'm inspired and realigning with all of the potential. It's good!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Is This Dull?
Today is traditional dress day at the school. Already I'm seeing girls in velvet dresses with turquoise jewelry. I used to have a ribbon shirt I'd wear on such days, but sold it at a yard sale along the way.
My job is stressful. I'd say somewhere around a 7 on most days. I guess I wouldn't mind the stress as much if I felt it was accomplishing something. I'm constantly reminded I only have control over my own actions. Students and coworkers will do what they do. I look forward to one day being my own boss.
It is the middle of the week and I'm rolling towards the weekend and a full week off for Thanksgiving. I have the usual coffee shop stop on Saturday, a cribbage game on Sunday morning and the long drive to my brother Chris and his family on Sunday afternoon.
My writing isn't the best this morning. I guess I'm feeling pretty uninspired. I promise a more lively ponder on my next attempt.
My job is stressful. I'd say somewhere around a 7 on most days. I guess I wouldn't mind the stress as much if I felt it was accomplishing something. I'm constantly reminded I only have control over my own actions. Students and coworkers will do what they do. I look forward to one day being my own boss.
It is the middle of the week and I'm rolling towards the weekend and a full week off for Thanksgiving. I have the usual coffee shop stop on Saturday, a cribbage game on Sunday morning and the long drive to my brother Chris and his family on Sunday afternoon.
My writing isn't the best this morning. I guess I'm feeling pretty uninspired. I promise a more lively ponder on my next attempt.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Twanglish and Dental Jackhammers
I had an epiphany several weeks back. Twanglish! My God it describes everything and nothing. Twanglish! The newest in vogue proof of being a true American. Twanglish-was I the first to come up with this term?
I google the term this morning. Damn...others have been using it! In fact, it seems to have been used for some time (I'm thinking Joe Bob Briggs and his movie reviews from long ago may have been the origin of written Twanglish). Maybe I'd picked it up subconsciously from some politician or collective consciousness or alien mind probes.
I've had a fine weekend. I visited friends. Last night, I was the guest of honor at an inpromptu dinner party. I got to pass around some photo albums from my summer travels. I got to hear/connect/reconnect/share...just plain communicate. This shouldn't feel like a luxury, but at this point in my life it does. It was really great!
One of the topics of conversation was my plans to get my wisdom teeth pulled. The opinions were mixed. Several yeahs... a couple of nays.
Lew, a retired educator and gardener extraordinaire (who recently made the observation that his garlic bulbs were 47% larger than the original seeders), shared his scientific opinion of getting my dental work done. "I had one pulled by a dentist and one pulled by an oral surgeon. The tooth done by the dentist took several weeks to heal. The one done by the oral surgeon took only three days." Of course, we were all intrigued by Lew's observations. He went on to describe the life story of crime lived by his oral surgeon. Pressed for more information on his dentist, Lew shared, "He used a kind of miniture jackhammer that he wound up to chip at my tooth".
Laughing yourself to sleep is never a bad thing. As for by blog, I'll just "Get-R-Done!".
I google the term this morning. Damn...others have been using it! In fact, it seems to have been used for some time (I'm thinking Joe Bob Briggs and his movie reviews from long ago may have been the origin of written Twanglish). Maybe I'd picked it up subconsciously from some politician or collective consciousness or alien mind probes.
I've had a fine weekend. I visited friends. Last night, I was the guest of honor at an inpromptu dinner party. I got to pass around some photo albums from my summer travels. I got to hear/connect/reconnect/share...just plain communicate. This shouldn't feel like a luxury, but at this point in my life it does. It was really great!
One of the topics of conversation was my plans to get my wisdom teeth pulled. The opinions were mixed. Several yeahs... a couple of nays.
Lew, a retired educator and gardener extraordinaire (who recently made the observation that his garlic bulbs were 47% larger than the original seeders), shared his scientific opinion of getting my dental work done. "I had one pulled by a dentist and one pulled by an oral surgeon. The tooth done by the dentist took several weeks to heal. The one done by the oral surgeon took only three days." Of course, we were all intrigued by Lew's observations. He went on to describe the life story of crime lived by his oral surgeon. Pressed for more information on his dentist, Lew shared, "He used a kind of miniture jackhammer that he wound up to chip at my tooth".
Laughing yourself to sleep is never a bad thing. As for by blog, I'll just "Get-R-Done!".
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Sunday Reflections
You ever have one of those day when acquaintances smilingly invade your space with, "How are you?'? For me there is a short pause before I respond. Usually, I weigh being honest against not being a bummer.
I phoned Cheryl at the rehab center yesterday afternoon. She would have left a message she said. The hawk had 3/4ths inch of exposed bone and had to be put to sleep...she didn't think leaving this news on my answering machine was right. We talked for awhile and her voice cracked up a couple of times. I assured her we both did everything we could.
On a related topic, my neighbor stopped by last night to see if the bird had died (he wanted the tail feathers). I told him the woman at the rehab center was upset and I hadn't asked what they did with the body. He left after a short time; I guess he could sense that I felt the bird was worth more alive.
I spent some time working on my most recent novel last night. I plan to complete all of my revisions before I leave on my winter break trip to Costa Rica. The long list of considerations from Kevin McColley, as well as comments from a local friend who gave feedback on Navajo tradition, need to be considered. I enjoy revision; to me it's something like a word puzzle. How do you across to the readers all you mean to?
My hand has nearly healed. I did wake up with a late night concern. I felt itchy here and there. Most likely it is from the change in weather. I worried about getting mites or some other parasite from the bird handling. It brought emotional flashbacks of my earliest time with Neuro-Cutaneous Syndrome (Morgellons if you prefer). I didn't rest well and changed my bedding when I got up. I guess part of healing is dissolving the trauma.
As I once told a friend--I don't like books or movies that are predictable. Why would I want a life that's predictable?
I phoned Cheryl at the rehab center yesterday afternoon. She would have left a message she said. The hawk had 3/4ths inch of exposed bone and had to be put to sleep...she didn't think leaving this news on my answering machine was right. We talked for awhile and her voice cracked up a couple of times. I assured her we both did everything we could.
On a related topic, my neighbor stopped by last night to see if the bird had died (he wanted the tail feathers). I told him the woman at the rehab center was upset and I hadn't asked what they did with the body. He left after a short time; I guess he could sense that I felt the bird was worth more alive.
I spent some time working on my most recent novel last night. I plan to complete all of my revisions before I leave on my winter break trip to Costa Rica. The long list of considerations from Kevin McColley, as well as comments from a local friend who gave feedback on Navajo tradition, need to be considered. I enjoy revision; to me it's something like a word puzzle. How do you across to the readers all you mean to?
My hand has nearly healed. I did wake up with a late night concern. I felt itchy here and there. Most likely it is from the change in weather. I worried about getting mites or some other parasite from the bird handling. It brought emotional flashbacks of my earliest time with Neuro-Cutaneous Syndrome (Morgellons if you prefer). I didn't rest well and changed my bedding when I got up. I guess part of healing is dissolving the trauma.
As I once told a friend--I don't like books or movies that are predictable. Why would I want a life that's predictable?
Friday, November 7, 2008
Hawk in Hand
I like to walk. Friends know this. Neighbors know this. Dogs know this.
My afternoon trek is never lonely. The present parade down the dirt roads of Teec includes a brown dog named Baby Girl (very, very loyal...that's another story), an extremely ugly black dog left by a retired librarian, a fluffy mixed color dog, and a small brown puppy with a nasal problem (got hit, got repaired, runs wild). Sometimes one or two of the boys in the hood join us on their bikes.
Last night, it was just the dogs and me. We did the 3 mile loop and were on our way back to staff housing, when the puppy ran off in the brush and started chasing something. I stomped over yelling at the pup the whole way. As I got closer, I could make out it was a bird with one wing twisted and bloody off to the side.
I wanted to get it away from the dogs, so instinctually I scooped it up with my bare hands. Big mistake! I realized it was a hawk as it curled claws ripped into the palm of my hand. Part of was shocked with pain, another was amazed at how easily the claws slipped through my skin.
Somehow I managed to get the claws out of me and dropped the bird back on the ground. I slipped out of my sweatshirt and padded the space between me and the bird. It stayed with me through the night...exploring the amazing world of Joe's desk and hot water heater.
As I type, it is in a box next to me. I'll make the journey up to Dolores and a rehab center sometime today. It's an immature Red-tail. Let's hope for a quick recovery.
My afternoon trek is never lonely. The present parade down the dirt roads of Teec includes a brown dog named Baby Girl (very, very loyal...that's another story), an extremely ugly black dog left by a retired librarian, a fluffy mixed color dog, and a small brown puppy with a nasal problem (got hit, got repaired, runs wild). Sometimes one or two of the boys in the hood join us on their bikes.
Last night, it was just the dogs and me. We did the 3 mile loop and were on our way back to staff housing, when the puppy ran off in the brush and started chasing something. I stomped over yelling at the pup the whole way. As I got closer, I could make out it was a bird with one wing twisted and bloody off to the side.
I wanted to get it away from the dogs, so instinctually I scooped it up with my bare hands. Big mistake! I realized it was a hawk as it curled claws ripped into the palm of my hand. Part of was shocked with pain, another was amazed at how easily the claws slipped through my skin.
Somehow I managed to get the claws out of me and dropped the bird back on the ground. I slipped out of my sweatshirt and padded the space between me and the bird. It stayed with me through the night...exploring the amazing world of Joe's desk and hot water heater.
As I type, it is in a box next to me. I'll make the journey up to Dolores and a rehab center sometime today. It's an immature Red-tail. Let's hope for a quick recovery.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Shifty Week
What's up with this week? Daylight savings time makes me wonder. It may have made complete sense when most of us were farmers, but it makes no sense now.
Speaking of outdated shifts, when are we going to fix our Presidential elections? Again, the electorial system did make sense when we all rode in buggies. Are we really living in a Democracy, if our system doesn't always reflect on the common vote? I guess these are questions best left for the next Green party picnic I attend.
Still, it is a week of shift. We get to adjust to the new time. We get to find out who our new president and VP will be.
I'm very much hoping to see a Joe finally making it into the White House. Never has my first name been more abused and politic-warped than in this election. From "Joe the Plumber" to Palin's debate pun of "Say it ain't so, Joe" (who does she have as a speech writer? Maybe a retired writer for Hee Haw?). The Joes of America must stand tall. Go Biden!
Happy Shifting, Joe The Teacher
Speaking of outdated shifts, when are we going to fix our Presidential elections? Again, the electorial system did make sense when we all rode in buggies. Are we really living in a Democracy, if our system doesn't always reflect on the common vote? I guess these are questions best left for the next Green party picnic I attend.
Still, it is a week of shift. We get to adjust to the new time. We get to find out who our new president and VP will be.
I'm very much hoping to see a Joe finally making it into the White House. Never has my first name been more abused and politic-warped than in this election. From "Joe the Plumber" to Palin's debate pun of "Say it ain't so, Joe" (who does she have as a speech writer? Maybe a retired writer for Hee Haw?). The Joes of America must stand tall. Go Biden!
Happy Shifting, Joe The Teacher
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Foggy Thoughts
Yesterday, I visited an old friend. It was great to see her. She passed on the news that another friend of ours had committed suicide. I hate this kind of news. I'd not been in touch with him in a couple of years. He'd been the one to convince me to give Bahrain a try and also to consider Tai Chi for exercise.
For every piece of crappy news in life, there' something good. Reflecting on it has made me want to reconnect with old friends. Friends really are our "Family of choice".
My query on blogging today is not so deep. What is the difference between blogs and journals?
For every piece of crappy news in life, there' something good. Reflecting on it has made me want to reconnect with old friends. Friends really are our "Family of choice".
My query on blogging today is not so deep. What is the difference between blogs and journals?
Friday, October 31, 2008
No Coffee
The Halloween Carnival was a hit. I was in charge of the fishing pond (where the kids drop a line over the wall and I clothes pin a prize on their line). The alligator costume fit the theme but caused me to get tangled in the fishing lines through the night (it was the tail). The kids and families really enjoyed themselves.
I slept solid last night. I'm tired still. My cup of coffee is 9 miles away--left on the counter. Shit! I do have a pan of brownies sitting in my truck. I guess a chocolate sugar high will do.
I slept solid last night. I'm tired still. My cup of coffee is 9 miles away--left on the counter. Shit! I do have a pan of brownies sitting in my truck. I guess a chocolate sugar high will do.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Mr. Alligator
Halloween. What can I say? I'm never overly excited about it as a holiday.
Sure, it's fun to see the kids enjoying themselves. I enjoy the chance to confront our fears. Besides the vampires, ghosts, goblins, and (at least out these ways) skinwalkers, it just works out to be the best time for the most frightening to crawl out from their lairs; of course, I'm preaching about the religious fanatics.
Our school is having its annual Halloween Carnival at the local chapter house (local gov't building for those who wonder). When this came up in staff meetings several staff members suggested we must refer to it as a Harvest festival (but isn't that what Thanksgiving is about?!). Whatever you might want to call it, I'll be at the event dressed in my alligator costume.
The alligator costume came to me via several friends who insisted I dress for a party a couple years back. I wore it last year for the Carnival. Some preschoolers decided I was there to chase them around, so, not having much else to do, I did. They circled me taunting with "Mr. Alligator, Mr. Alligator...". Some preschool logic inisist that this is what I must always be called. There's a large number in the Kindergarden class who still yell "Mr. Alligator".
I'd hate to disappoint. The costume is back out from storage. Tonight, I slip back into my skin.
Sure, it's fun to see the kids enjoying themselves. I enjoy the chance to confront our fears. Besides the vampires, ghosts, goblins, and (at least out these ways) skinwalkers, it just works out to be the best time for the most frightening to crawl out from their lairs; of course, I'm preaching about the religious fanatics.
Our school is having its annual Halloween Carnival at the local chapter house (local gov't building for those who wonder). When this came up in staff meetings several staff members suggested we must refer to it as a Harvest festival (but isn't that what Thanksgiving is about?!). Whatever you might want to call it, I'll be at the event dressed in my alligator costume.
The alligator costume came to me via several friends who insisted I dress for a party a couple years back. I wore it last year for the Carnival. Some preschoolers decided I was there to chase them around, so, not having much else to do, I did. They circled me taunting with "Mr. Alligator, Mr. Alligator...". Some preschool logic inisist that this is what I must always be called. There's a large number in the Kindergarden class who still yell "Mr. Alligator".
I'd hate to disappoint. The costume is back out from storage. Tonight, I slip back into my skin.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
I Start Now
I like the word blog. Most of my favorite words are longer like guacamole, paparazzi, and lugubrious.
I am sitting in my classroom waiting for the first of Beclabito's three buses to arrive. I have morning duty. I don't mind and I won't apologize for not minding. In fact, I enjoy pacing along the breakfast tables and eventually heading out to the archaic playground to watch the kids. I hear a bus engine rumble. There's the start.
I am sitting in my classroom waiting for the first of Beclabito's three buses to arrive. I have morning duty. I don't mind and I won't apologize for not minding. In fact, I enjoy pacing along the breakfast tables and eventually heading out to the archaic playground to watch the kids. I hear a bus engine rumble. There's the start.
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