Stop in at your Neighborhood Cobbler

I am pretty sure that some who actually read my posts may have to Google cobbler; not the kind you eat for dessert.

 I recently discovered I had a wardrobe malfunction of a very serious kind. Nothing was exposed thank goodness but I dug out my boots for the winter and remembered that I had a flapping strap on one boot. I am not entirely sure where I lost the grommet that kept the flap down but knew that I had to fix the problem and quick because the flip flopping was driving me more crazy than normal.

Although, they are just regular dress boots, it brought back wonderful memories of my skating days and all the special hands that kept my figure skates and many other skaters equipment in tip top shape.  It didn't matter what ice rink I went to in my career you always had someone either inside the rink or across the street or nearby that you could trust basically with your skating life to fix your skates or blades in a pinch. 

Those wonderful cobblers were definitely like the characters in the stories by Hans Christian Andersen fame. Working the magic to get them in tip top shape brought back a flood of memories when I walked into our Cusack's Shoe Repair shop in our town. It is definitely a lost art. That leather and polish smell brought a tear to my eye not because of the various smells but because of the many years and many, many shoes, boots or purses this man has fixed over the years. He is definitely a much needed business in downtown Sedalia, even today.

If my blade had a screw missing, my blades needed sharpening or dulling, new skating boots needed dyeing or stretching or some other occasional problem, you had a place to take it and whether it be a quick fix or a long operation you knew that it would be done correctly. Skating cobblers much like regular shoe repair workers always had wonderful stories to share.

I always learned some interesting stats, tidbit memories of skater's long since past.  I am sure that Mr. Cusack has had some famous feet walk into his shop over the years. A cowboy or two, maybe local political figure or someone just passing through town. He took but a moment to fix my flapping problem for me. I told him how it had been a long time since I had been in for a repair and when he told me it would be a simple $1.00 for my problem, my mouth probably dropped to the floor. I really tried to give him much more than that, but of course he declined. "You keep it sweetie". "I am just glad you stopped in".

I am too, Mr. Cusack; I am too.

The Rainbow Bridge Not Just a Crossover for Animals

Correct me if I am wrong, and boy I am always corrected when given the opportunity; this has been the week from hell! It is definitely times like most recent weeks, I would love to be able to walk out the door with my skate tote on my shoulder and go to my home ice rink of years ago and just skate as fast as I could. Alas, those days are gone forever. That would mean living in the past and heaven forbid, those days we are told to leave behind us. Things almost always change in an instant these, days and you have to have your running shoes and not figure skates to keep up.

When I attempt to wrap my mind around the last several weeks I pretty much stop because my mind is like mush. This past year has been like what I would anticipate playing chess is like. I have never taken the time or had the inclination to actually play the game but in actuality I guess everyone pretty much in life plays without knowing they are.  In every game you have a winner and loser.

This week I felt I was constantly on the losing side of most situations. I won't get into the political part of it entirely but don't assume you know my response unless you really truly know me. I voted end of story. If you think or assume you knew who I voted for you probably would be wrong on that too.

People do not like to hear the negative and especially when it comes to something or someone you care about. Several weeks ago we got the sad news that our Snookie had mouth cancer.  Yes the damned "C" word. Another life cursed by hell. Unfortunately, or fortunately it was not long before we had to make the decision to have him escorted across the rainbow bridge. It was the first and only time I hope I have to make that type of decision for an animal. He had a long life of almost 14 1/2 years. He provided hours of everything imaginable. Joy, havoc, sleepless nights, opinions only a little four-legged creature could provide. Some may think he was spoiled rotten and he was.  He was a little life-long companion for our other 14 1/2 dog Scooby who is still with us and with time we all will go on and he will be waiting at the end of the bridge.

Many bridges in life are rocky. We all must cross certain bridges we would rather not. Some more than others. Solid ground is my preferred path at least for the foreseeable future. I guess only time will tell. I do still have my skates so may bring them just in case.

To quote two individuals this past week "Don't panic" and "Only the Good Die Young".

Harassment Today, Yesterday and Tomorrow--What Does it all Mean?

Several years ago I mentioned in a blog post about an incident when I was skating on the synchronized team about a little article that was in our local paper shortly before we were to defend our national championship. I still have the article and look at it occasionally and fondly remember those special skating times. Shortly after the article appeared I received a fan letter (I still have it). This was before the anything was something you had to be careful of. I think today, because of media and news coverage in mostly the negative we have become a society of constant paranoia. Yes, we should always be aware but does being overly cautious take the fun out of things?  Several versions of the truth or opinions travel the Internet I never thought the fan letter I received was anything but. I didn't read into it and think, is this person going to stock me?  Appear at the skating rink? It was just a simple thanks for providing the article and this person's joy of watching skaters hone the sport they enjoy. I am a fan of several former figure skaters and am just putting it out; I will try and not stalk you on social media.

Another skating scenario came up where an inappropriate touch was made by a random individual to several of the ladies on our team. Again, this was back in the day maybe early 90's. We were walking along a pier and it was quick and hard to really react. This specific incident surprised us all so much at that time that we really had no recourse in doing anything--it was so quick and he ran off that what could you do. It is a memory and it happened and if he did it frequently maybe he did it too someone who could do something about it. Touching is an interesting thing; some people don't mind being touched but when it comes to the places where you should ask before touching still applies.

Now I turn to my experiences in harassment in the workplace. Again, back in the day, when I was a young office worker and public service employee, it was hard sometimes to know where to draw the line but the lines were sometimes vague. By today's standard I probably could have shouted harassment but my line was like chalk lines--easily drawn and then erased.  Some comments were made by men who at the time somewhat similar to what is happening today. They were allowed to get away with jokes, innuendo's and casual sexist conversations.  It was chalked up to consider the person, the time and whether to make it a situation that could affect your working situation. Did it hurt me? Yes. Jokes are jokes but when you lump it together it can be hurtful and make for very difficult times.

Today, I have to say I am older, wiser and have been around longer so I probably wouldn't take the same comments. Some people are thick skinned and can let things roll off their backs. Should you? Sometimes yes, unless it gets to be a continuing habit. Should you draw that chalk line and let them know? Yes, sometimes you need to set the tone of how you want people to treat you.


I see it as the new generation comes up. They can sometimes be mean, hurtful and push those boundaries. They get it from media, how they are raised and what they see in everyday life situations.  It isn't always about toughening up, being thick skinned or just ignoring situations. It is teaching about right from wrong and how to define it better.

Nice people still exist, often it is hard to find them sometimes.  What you allow and accept is up to you.  You can either accept anything and everything at face value, voice an opinion follow through but for everything has a consequence and sometimes those consequences will come back from yesterday and make today and tomorrow oh so different.

Are We So Out of Touch We Can't See the Forest from the Trees?

 Does it take Hurricane Matthew to uproot the palm trees for people to get the message? Do you ask certain questions of friends and family and because they don't either have an answer or don't want to engage or confront the situation at hand that you receive that far off blank facial expression with a slight grimace or half smile?

Some interesting scenarios have come forward with Hurricane Matthew this week hitting the eastern seaboard. One news station was interviewing a woman who lived off the coast of Florida. The interview started with the newsman stating matter-of-fact "are you dumb or what?". He seemed as though he might have known the person interviewed by just the conversation they had back and forth but in a nutshell she said "we don't feel as though it is really going to be as bad as they say". Well no one has a direct line to Mother Nature but hurricanes (although thank goodness I have never experienced one) does look pretty intense. If it isn't the wind or rain it will be the surging water levels that can make you see your maker just a little sooner than expected.  I have heard first hand from people who experienced Hurricane Katrina in the Gulf coast and they are glad that they made it out when they did. In my estimation I will stick to my philosophy in that I would much rather be in an earthquake than a tornado or hurricane. No questions.

This week has been tough in that I have known several people who have passed on just in the last couple weeks. Yes, I know now that I myself am almost surely more than half way through my probable lifespan (55 in a few weeks sounds so strange rolling off my tongue) but this as they say happens as you get older although your hope is that that at least you get to reach a more golden age. Either by freak accidents, the damn "C" word or just being their time to go, way to many have been called to rest on the permanent lounge chair.

October is noted for many things. The beginning of Fall, Breast Cancer Awareness, Domestic Violence Month, Halloween and many other noteworthy things. Going to that place I sometimes find myself'; is it strange that just the things I listed above deal with death? Yes, it isn't always the outcome, laughter, renewal, rebounding comes to mind but with the fall colors I first think of death.

At a meeting this past week we had a role playing program that discussed different scenarios in Domestic Violence situations.  Our scenario dealt with a  black, married couple, both successful practicing lawyers and the husband continually abused his wife. We were asked to chose  "the victim" at our table and we had to come up with her possible choices of what to do step by step. Some of the choices were to: seek out a friend or family, clergy, contact the police etc. Our table discussed the possibilities and commented whether she would leave or return each time or make other choices. Ultimately, we hoped our person didn't end up at a tragic end. Personally I have always said, "if a man touched me even once in any violent manner--out the door I would go, no question. No return date. Thankfully, I picked the right man for me and after 32 years married, yes we have argued but never came fist to cuffs.

Most of us that evening had in some way, shape or form had had at least one instance where we had been aware of some sort of domestic violence in our lives. The other tables had other interesting scenarios to deal with and ultimately one tables' "victim" did not have a pleasant outcome. After each scenario was completed we discussed around the room.

 It was shocking to hear one person indicate that she was surprised in today's society how widespread it domestic violence really is.   Whether this person is "out of touch" that is still a question for me.  We should never be too old to spread the branches on our trees and see that wide vast forest beyond our own noses. Anything is possible these days, whether we accept it or not. If the tree gets blown away by a hurricane, or chopped down due to an uninformed individual, lets keep our world supplied with new growth.

Information is available about Domestic Violence assistance. CASA Citizens Against Spousal Abuse, Inc. have Shelters around the country or The National Network to End Domestic Violence have Facebook pages and websites.

To Observe National Peace Day You Must Have Peace, Really?

Almost every day on social media a day is set aside as some special day to observe. National Ice Cream Day, National Pie Day, Pizza Awareness Day, My Favorite Color is Purple Day. Yes, I am being rather sarcastic on a day that first popped up as National Peace Day.

Our universe has gotten so that finding peace within and even out and about is getting more difficult. Along with the Autumn Equinox, full moon syndrome it seems like every time each year around this time things begin to go a little haywire. Is that why this day was set aside as National Peace Day? I am not sure but peace in the valley, home, office, where ever you might request it, gets more difficult it seems.

Each day after picking up my granddaughter I try and ask some non-traditional questions along with the usual one's. How was your day? What did you eat for lunch? What was your favorite thing to do today? Sometimes it gets a little challenging to pull things out of this six year old. I'm sure she isn't any different then every other kid but these challenges are not exactly fun for this MiMi. Today was also Picture Day at school. To have that day paired with National Peace Day must have been a joke in our area because I am sure that several parents this morning tore hair out from their heads on what the child should wear and look like. Thank goodness my granddaughter informed me that her pictures were early this morning so we wait with baited breath on how they turned out. I am sure they turned out well.

Along with the conversation of picture day, she informed me that they had Stranger Danger Drills. I really didn't need or want an explanation of this but I listened to her.

My age and thinking kicked in. When I was in school we had earthquake and fire drills. Oh how things change. How sad it has come to the fact that kids can hardly be kids the way they were mean't to be.

Peace in the Valley is hard to come by these day. Grab those peaceful moments not just today but everyday you can. Look at a sunset or sunrise (if you want to get up that early), turn off the devices in your life, meditate, listen to music, coloring book therapy, whatever it takes.  Be it a moment or a day. everyone requires a little peace. 

Do a little celebrating of peace today.  I chose not to have a picture of the old peace sign I grew up with so a peace lily will work just fine.

Barbie Era--Oh How She has Changed

Now that school has started, summer is almost over.  This year was a little more of a challenge since I had a little helper, my granddaughter during the day. She can be a great help but also that ugly word would come up called "bored". We did the usual things to occupy her time, a week at bible school, a week at kids summer activities through the local college for several sessions, day trips to some of the local landmarks (yes we have a couple), but sometimes just staying home was on my list.

Toward the end of the summer she came one day and mentioned that her mom had talked with her the night before about her mom's Barbie collection in the attic. So of course she had to see them. Papa graciously complied and brought down the box. I think we both were glad to have one more item out of the attic. My first concern was yes they had been packed up but also the attic gets pretty hot during the summer so wasn't sure what condition they might be in.

In our find, I also came across my own small Barbie Collection.

I didn't play with Barbie's at my granddaughter's age of 6 I was slightly older but what few I had were tucked away in the carry case that my grandpa had bought. As I slowly opened my box it was like opening a time machine. Vintage clothes that my mom and grandma had sewn, the velvet blue gown with sequins hand stitched, the flashy Ken slacks, the knee high plastic boots, brought me way back.

Some of the Barbie's were fused to the box because of heat but after a little tugging they came off, none the worse for wear.  It was special to be able to hand down my treasures along with my daughter's slightly more modern 90s models to my granddaughter. It was one day that went on and on with clothes, and accessories from one end of the floor to the other but was a wonderful summer experience. I am pretty sure they will be played with for many more years to come.

My skating Barbie collection will remain, in the boxes in the cabinet only for our eyes to see.

Educators--They Never Stop Teaching

As a rule we should never stop learning. No matter what age we do things and see things that strengthen our minds and souls in different ways.  When in school you sometimes get the impression that the only reason teachers are in your life is to torture you with tasks and to be unkind. I had teachers I remember from my childhood and my perspective at that time was some of them were mean and hateful; now I look back and there was a purpose for the techniques they themselves learn and used to teach, it was a sign of those times and the times before me that molded the way they taught and the perspectives of that time. I guess this is a sign of maturity and wisdom.

Many educators have made many impressions throughout my life. Many educators made impressions in my eyes when my children were in school.  It was not only a cultural shock moving to the Midwest from the West but some of the teachings at the time brought back those unkind times of my years in school.

When my son started middle school not only was it tough being an outsider trying to fit in but dealing with several different personalities of long term educators was a challenge for both of us.  One of his teachers cultivated his love of music. He saw something in him that directed him into singing and show choir throughout middle and high school.  Some of his other teachers during his time in middle and high school made it known that they thought enough time wasn't spent on the basics of which at the time he had more difficulty with than the arts and sports aspects. Many conferences with these teachers throughout the year pushed my frustration level with educators to my limits.

Over the last couple weeks I have run into almost all of his middle school teachers at events in and around town. They are all retired now, enjoying life but I am sure have those special "teaching" moments with former students and their children.

I see his music teacher all to frequently and he asks about him and always says "I can't believe he is married and has children of his own". Usually the next question is "do they enjoy music too?". Oh yes, I am sure he will have at least one little entertainer in his family.

I see another of his teachers at the grocery store almost each week. She had no children and her husband passed away a couple years ago. On a recent occasion I was doing a quick purchase and had my oldest granddaughter with me. It was a pretty packed store and lots of families with small children were in toe with parents. One young woman had two small children with her that were obviously not too happy to be out in the heat and shopping with Mom. One would start screaming, then the other started crying. You could hear it from one end of the store to another. We all hope and pray we don't have too many of those shopping trips, but we do. We picked up our items and were approaching check out, when the teacher stopped behind us. She never acknowledged me but kept looking at my granddaughter quietly standing next to the grocery basket. Don't get me wrong she is tall for her age and can sometimes be mature for her age and also can act younger than her age.  She assisted putting our purchases on the checkout and remained quiet throughout. As we finished and started bagging our groceries, the teacher stepped up along side of my granddaughter (mind you also this teacher is around her height, my granddaughter sometimes has been mistaken for at least two years older than she is). To my surprise, the next words that came out of the teacher's mouth, made me smile.

"I have been watching you in the store, you have been so nice for your mother". "You haven't created a scene like those two children have for their mother". My granddaughter didn't say a word just nodded her head to her. I am pretty sure that the teacher did not recognize me and I also didn't correct her in that I am her grandmother but I so wanted to make it known that I wasn't her mother but was a parent to one of her former students and bring to her attention how mean she had been during his time with her but, in my infinite wisdom I chose not too. Why?

Well even educators change throughout the years. They retire, they move on and maybe in her years of teaching young minds, not all of them came out like she wanted them too. Many she taught didn't succeed in life even after the lessons she taught them. Other students who she thought might never succeed, in fact did and rather well I might add.

Every human being gets life lessons, we teach, we learn and we grow along the way. We just took the compliment and walked out of the store with the screaming still in our ears.

The Joy of Going to a Library--Not Just to Read Books

One thing that I inherited from my grandmother and mother was the love for reading. That was one fascinating thing I learned after finding my biologic roots. That precious time with a book is a great connection to have. I have the pleasure of knowing two librarians. One is a young enough to be my daughter the other is around my age, but both I consider my friends. I have learned great things from each woman, both with differing knowledge.

When I was a kid I had go to authors I would read during the summer months, in between my time at the ice rink. You  could read between sessions, read in the car (some find that unmanageable but I don't have a problem). I read books dealing with skating history or how to books. Unfortunately, even today the only way you can learn skating is doing not by reading a book. Many former figure skaters have written books on a journey and struggles while skating or after but all in all you can learn so much by reading. My library card has been like my license, I have had it longer than my license but I use it all the time.

But having access to the library just isn't about reading books. For instance, our library has many different programs available I have learned just in the last year. They didn't always have them but social media and a little bit of hard work by the Outreach Program Librarian, Patty Long she is making it happen.

Patty Long, Sedalia Outreach Program Librarian

Trivia Day Prize 

I can see that the times have changed since going to the library as a kid. The still have the card catalogs, but now they are on computers. You can still find things in the archives in most libraries but most things are at your fingertips.

Patty had events: Walk and Read in the Park, Trivia Day, and a Recycled Book Project and has many wonderful ideas planned in the coming months. With a little help from others I can see our library being the go to place for more than just reading, again.

 A little bit of trivia, the Sedalia Public Library was the first library in Missouri that was awarded a $50,000 grant  from Andrew Carnegie to be built. It is on the Missouri Registry of History Places and went through a renovation a few years ago.

I actually like to pick the brains of both librarians in my life because they are so different. Each has a specialty type of book to read and although there are certain books they each of them dislike, sometimes it takes that open mind to maybe find a new path to forge. I know personally having either talked with each of them or since my young librarian is on Goodreads, I know what books she would like to read and what she has read and sometimes go off that list for my own suggestions. With Patty she has recommended some that I also wouldn't have thought of since I started going to the Book Club at the Library a few months ago. 

So while the weather is hot, or when the fall weather approaches, if you haven't visited your local library. Stop by they may have a program you can get involved in.  I still refer to my childhood library the Wilmington Public Library in the Los Angeles Public Library System or where I live now Sedalia Public Library in Sedalia MO. Both have Facebook pages and obviously the Los Angeles Public Library has many branches throughout the area. You don't have to be a reader but you never know you might find something that peaks your fancy.

The Town that Painted Rocks 2016

Isn't it funny how an idea can get started with a snap of a finger? We will do just about anything to get our kids and ourselves doing something constructive or artistic as this case seems to have turned into. Just last week the Pokemon Go became a weirdly strange activity for individuals and families to get involved in.   Actually, while getting some troubleshooting tips from the computer technician at Staples last week, our conversation included whether or not I was seeking Pokemon characters.  I told him I thought I was too old for that but when he was impressed with my knowledge of other social media sites, I felt much better. I guess it is not so strange to those who liked Pokemon cards way back when. But long before Pokemon Go,  someone in town had an idea called Sedalia Rocks. It already has its own Facebook page Sedalia Rocks-MO Official and has reached over 1,200 likes.

Already so popular that one of our newspaper reporters is considering a story about it. While most are listening to political banter, horrific news stories around the world and  all the papers and television is focused on very little positivity, it is refreshing to be able to do something artistic yet fun for everyone.

Haddie finding her first rock.

Found another!

Now this rocky activity has taken on a whole life of its own. Where to get the rocks. How to paint the rocks. What to paint on the rock, make sure you spray the rock with clear coat. (Yes, I have already started to paint one with a figure skate on it, although I will have to find a creative place to hide that fits with it.) I hopped on the rock painting wagon a little early on. Our first rock was a large orange one with a pink butterfly on it. Although we have never heard if it was actually found or re-hidden my story I like to put behind it is--just like a butterfly they come and go from out of know where.

 Some put more time than others into this and although their are official "rules" set aside, really I think the sky is the limit to this activity.  This has become a summer phenomenon in our little town, but I have heard it is also taking off in other towns around the country. A little bit of a scavenger hunt, with color and imagination all rolled into one little or large rocks, smooth or bumpy, you decide.  Also check out Pinterest for the artist in you and check out the varieties available.

Yes, several people snicker at you when they ask "have you jumped on the Sedalia Rocks bandwagon?" Well they may laugh but don't be surprised if you see them in the dark of night, or at noontime with a rock in hand ready to launch that clue on the official Sedalia Rocks MO Facebook page. Thanks to all those who are participating and making it a fun and easy addition to many in town.  I hope it continues on and on and on--one rock at a time.

If you Want it Done, Do it Yourself World we Live In?

Looking for the good in everyday life is and always has been a very big challenge; especially for me.  While I was growing up I probably didn't really realize what a great upbringing I really experienced. Does any child ever; really!. We had food on the table, (not every meal was a gourmet meal) clothes to wear (mom and grandma made just about every stitch of clothing I wore through elementary school, except for undergarments), and I figure skated on a weekly basis.  I was raised in a very regimented, environment to say the least.  No wasn't really an option in our house. You either did it or lived with the consequences. Being also an only child I had not a sibling to turn to for blame or advice.

Today and I admit I sometimes can be just as guilty as the next person when it comes to social media, although lately I stick to a pretty true list of what I do and don't reveal, because one hit of the enter/send button can truly make your life a living H double hockey stick.

With that regimented environment, parents and a time way back when where you learned how to do different things to survive or "it just was how it is" era many recent events lately just make we wonder as everyone is doing in so many instances "is this really what our world has become?"

At this time in my life, one group tells me let go and let someone else take the wheel on issues. On the other hand I try to give the wheel up and no one wants it.

Case in point. We have had in the works for some time putting up a privacy fence around part of our backyard. Growing up literally everyone had a living or privacy fence. One yard didn't go into the next, each person had his/her own yard. No one came into your yard without at first asking. Our yard had locks on both gates and really the only time they were unlocked or opened was when the utility person came to read our meters or when my Dad mowed the yard.

To even get to the point that we are at now, seemed to take an act of congress. Try and figure out based on the temperature when is the best time to put up the fence which of course leaves an approximate window of about six months time in Missouri if you place your bets between rain and heat and other acts of Mother Nature you may or may not be prepared for.  Call to make sure you don't dig where gas, water or power lines are: check. Remove a tree stump where the fence will be placed: check.  Figure what type of fence will last the longest and withstand the weather; vinyl:check.

 So the last thing on the list was find someone to install the fence. First, the choices of actual companies or trustworthy individuals who do this type of work seems to be few and far between in little rural areas and those you do call either don't have time or the inclination to even do the job.Please don't tell me to check Angie's List or any other list that really isn't available to smaller areas, thank you.   You call people to give estimates; they don't show up and don't call to give a reason. I think we have heard every story in the book. I have even asked for recommendations from people and those haven't went well either.

I still am holding out hope that we may still get someone who does things the old-fashioned way and wants to actually work for a living, returns calls as a courtesy to a possible returning customer and appreciates work being sent their way. I would really rather add other accomplishments to my list but am not feeling post hole digger or fence installer to my who cares in business resume.

Oh and by the way the picture I attached is of a golf course and not my back yard. To me that is the only piece of land with grass I don't think should have a true fence around it.

Hopefully, before the good weather season is over I can proudly say we have a private backyard to enjoy.

The Sanctity of Marriage

One thing people always associate June with is weddings. I know many, many people who have chosen the month of June. Usually the month is beautiful weather for outdoor weddings and its a time when school is usually out so everyone is free to travel around the country to attend a family or friends special day.

I have posted many times, I believe about marriage in general and my own.  My hubby and I will soon celebrate 32 years. To some our blueprint is unique in many ways. I have often said I compare ours to military wives, he is fighting on the road of life and not true combat and although I do not move around, he is gone at long periods of time.

I will start by saying, no marriage is 100 percent perfect! Those of you who are or have been married already probably knew that. If anyone tells you they have a totally perfect marriage, they are not only fooling you but themselves.

Marriage is hard. It is a lifetime commitment. It is a constant work in progress. It is 100/100 by each person. Everyone has their own model of a good marriage. We were both born at a time when families were usually two parent families. I can't speak for David but I really only remember having one friend who had parents who were divorced.

Both of us came from completely different family dynamics. I was biologically born to unwed parents. I was adopted at birth. My biological mother was married multiple times, my adoptive father was married multiple times. Although my adoptive parents were married 47 years they created some interesting situations during my lifetime.

Now David's parents on the other hand have been married almost 66 years and although I have only known them for the time I have been married to their son, I don't think I have ever really observed them other than a completely loving couple. They probably have had many instances where they didn't agree with each other but overall one could not live without the other.  As they have gotten older I have seen that the for better or worse has been tested to extremes.

Recently I came across a short video on Facebook on "How to Make A Relationship Last 25+ years". by David Wolfe. It hits on many true points that most marriages and relationships should or probably do follow. I connected with many of them, of course the "skating" couple caught my eye immediately with"always support each other no matter what". During my figure skating days David was won of my greatest supporters along with the kids when they were growing up. It was especially fun during our "team travel" days. He managed to capture several interesting videos that I wish I still had.

For those who are thinking about getting married, think long, hard and put all your efforts into the processes before you tie the knot. Marriage should never be taken lightly and or for granted at all. The one moment you start forgetting your to do list of marriage is when problems start creeping up. Mark my word it will happen at least once in the marriage.

My advice for those who are having a rough patch. Go through all available avenues to repair the patches. Exhaust them all before making the decision that the road you paved together is no longer the road you want to travel down together.

I hope those couples lately that I do know are able to find what they need to continue on. If not well you are the writer to the end or the beginning of that story yourselves.

Many Milestones of May

What would we do without milestone calendars?  No one can just have one calendar anymore. I certainly don't! From dry erase to daily planner to phone; one just isn't enough. Keeping track of myself plus everyone in line behind me and those in my circus tent. It definitely becomes challenging. Keeping track of major or minor milestones whether you are young or old makes for some interesting times especially at this time of year.

It hardly seems possible next month is 37 years since high school graduation. As I keep track on Facebook with many of those school friends, many of us have busy lives. Some married high school sweethearts, others had a second chance with a high school love, others have remained single and loving it. Still other's have passed on to heaven way to soon. But many are truly successful in every way.  Looking back I am sure none of us would look forward in time and think our lives would be what they are today. My hopes, dreams and milestones of those long ago years were not at all what my life turned out. Lots of surprises, twists and turns its been a ride to say the least.

Graduation Banning High School 1979 with friend Kim (Bury) Vinal

Whether it be graduating through years of school or just special milestones in life the milestones bring a flood of emotions and memories abound.

The journey through education has begun also for two of my grandchildren. Our oldest finished Kindergarten and our second oldest finished her first year of preschool. Both have come so far it is boggling to the mind. If I can see anything in my crystal ball I hope they both become successful, strong, opinionated (they are both on track with that last trait already) young women who follow whatever dreams they have in life.

Hadleigh 2016 Kindergarten Ms. LaCasse

Greenlee first and last day of Preschool 2016

 Summer for many was usually always a time of moving on too new places and adventures.

 A new friend recently retired from many years of teaching and molding young minds. Her excitement in turning over a new leaf in life has been refreshing. You never truly can expect what will happen as you put your hand on that door knob of life. Turning left or right you just forge on and hope good things are on the other side. I venture though that she will do just spectacular things.

We all have those moments in time where we may question our reasons. I have had many and will probably still continue to question some of the things and the outcomes that have occurred. Some of my milestone moments have been life changing, others well are yet to be determined I suspect.

Whatever May brings beside flowers, warmer weather and times of reflection only a few more days of May remain..Make them milestone moments.

Giving Credit, Where Credit is Due

Our society today is filled with giving everyone a trophy syndrome. Participation trophy's just for putting on the uniform or hat. When I competed in my first figure skating competition at 16, I came in first place. I like to think the reason I placed first was due to hard work, a clean program, and lots and lots of practice. I picked out my own music, helped in the making of my costume so needless to say I was very hands on in the entire process. Yes it took a village.  My mom did the sewing of my blue costume, I took lessons from a wonderful coach and I spent hours and hours of preparation for my first competition. I pushed myself into competing, it wasn't my parents pushing although they initially started me in the sport.  I was at 16 years old mature enough to make the decision that it was time to show what I had learned over the many years of practice.

Figure skating taught me many lessons in life that I continue to carry today. Although it is a sport with many opportunities to either skate and or compete individually, pairs, and also as a team, each entity of the sport has its own advantages and disadvantages. My choices were individually and also as part of a team. Although in individual skating you really only have yourself to blame if you did not skate well usually. Blaming your coach, the ice surface, your equipment sometimes can be the culprit-really you are responsible for the final outcome to a point, the judging and popular opinion take it from there.

As in sports your personal and professional life runs into similar situations also. 

I have been experiencing many strange Manic Monday moments that have seemed to take over the entire week for up until recently every week for almost two months. From Corporate America's crumbling communications with its clients to other small businesses taking on more than they can handle and you being the go-to-person for damage control; juggling both of these situations has been in one word: challenging. Add on running our business, daily family scenarios, helping with fundraising for a community organization,  and attending a long-weekend event recently that I had intended being all fun and no issues; well it didn't quite meet those expectations. unfortunately.

Struggling with issues is definitely not something I do well. I sometimes find that just taking a shower and hearing the water run is my only peace of the day.  Taking up yoga 10 months ago has definitely helped--a little, but lets give credit where credit is due; life can be extremely difficult these days!

If you are not positive Polly, happy Harriet, or smiling Sarah well your just not someone people want to be around.  I look at people who are overly positive with much wonder. I guess hiding behind that rainbow poncho helps keep the negativity away. Also trying to find "moments" that create those positive moments can also be challenging.

I actually started this post several days ago and after having a few glitch moments and a few positive sprinkles left and right: finishing a couple books, babysitting youngest grandson, helped just a bit.

Yesterday I came across a post on Facebook about a 90 year old woman that was very well known in the skating world who had passed away recently.

 Many in my skating circle had competed with her over the years and I actually competed with her daughter a few times. I watched a few videos that had been posted on Facebook at her last competition she had been in 2015 and she still nailed it.

 I have to give her credit, she stuck with what she loved, continued to forge ahead and in the end she will be remembered as someone who loved the sport her whole life. I may not always have those same opportunities I did in figure skating to express my abilities but the memories are fantastic and life continues on.

  

International Women's Day 2016--Where We Have Been, Where we Are Going

As my story goes, I was too busy celebrating International Women's Day with my multitude of daily activities that my focus on finishing my post for the day wasn't completed.(I went to my first Book Club experience, and what an experience it was!) So I had to go into Day 2 with my thoughts and feelings for how my day progressed. One thing I noticed was my life was filled with information left and right and I attempted to absorb it all to the best of my ability. As women today we try and process things from every direction, gather it all together and at the end of the day hopefully process all that was given. Having said that.......

Well it is 2016. We are deep into the political arena for the race for a new President. Yes, we are down to one female candidate. The litany of mudslinging gets worse as the time gets closer. We have come a long way from the day when American activists such as Alice Paul, Susan B. Anthony and hundreds of other women throughout the world paved the way for the women of today. Yes we have made some changes in the last ninety plus years in not only the United States and the world, but we still have a long way to go baby!

Today, March 8 is designed International Women's Day. In a time we designate each day something new: National Donut Day, National Grandparent's Day, National Eat Your Green Vegetables Day (I don't know if that day is actually designated but I am sure someone will add it to the list) Every day is an important day for one reason or the other. Personally, my day was filled with snippets of just about everything imaginable.

Women today have a plate full of duties that seems to never end either by choice or by life's requirements. Looking back at women's history, especially reading many articles over the past 24 hours many words come to mind but my favorite is--resilience. When at a point in history you think it may be lost on deaf ears it comes back with a vengeance.

A post on the Times Magazine Facebook page reflected on how March became Women's History Month. Although February 28, 1909 was one of the first notable dates, in more recent history Former President, Jimmy Carter signed a proclamation declaring March 2-8, 1980 Women's History Week. A variety of sites such as The Women's Rights National Historic Park, Alice Paul Institute and the National Women's History provides a vast amount of information about women's history and insight into the thousands of women who have made a difference in the world today because of struggles they experienced.

I randomly came across a poem called "A Strong Woman vs. A Woman of Strength by Luke Easter. Take a moment to read it. I am sure you might find something in it that either you believe, you have witnessed or maybe something you aspire to in your life.

I compiled this list several years ago as an informational sheet while in charge of a women's organization speaker event. When you take the time to look at just these 100 women you can add so many more to this list of inspirational females. Many of these women broke barriers and the new generation will break down even more. Jennifer Lawrence, Emma Watson and Patricia Arquette are just a few recently in the news and I am sure you can come up with your own 100 List of Ladies who are an inspiration.

This is the thing about women our lists are endless in what we have accomplished and can accomplish, don't be silent--In this situation, "silence is NOT golden".

100 Influential, Famous and Infamous Women in History

1. Esther (Bible)
2. Amelia Earhart
3. Anne Frank
4. Helen Keller
5. Anne Sullivan
6. Mother Theresa
7. Martha Washington
8. Susan B. Anthony
9. Rosa Parks
10. Joan of Arc
11. Sonja Henie
12. Lilian Gish
13. Kate Smith
14. Ella Fitzgerald
15. Martha Stewart
16. Maribel Vinson  (figure skating)
17. Eleanor Roosevelt
18. Danielle Steel
19. J K Rowlings
20. Madonna
21. Annie Oakley
22. Peggy Fleming
23. Jackie Kennedy
24. Barbara Walters
25. Charlotte Bronte
26. Helen Gurley Brown
27. Geraldine Ferraro
28. Babe Didrickson Zaharias (sports, track, golf)
29. Oprah Winfrey
30. Danica Patrick   (auto racing)
31. Diane Sawyer
32. Esther Williams
33. Alice Paul
34. Nancy Pelosi
35. Betty Grable
36. Lucille Ball
37. Bonnie Parker
38. Marie Pasteur
39. Dorothy Hamill
40. Clara Barton
41. Shirley Muldoney  (first female drag racer)
42. Marie Antoniette
43. Gloria Allred
44. Gloria Steineim
45. Liu Yang    (first Chinese astronaut)
46. Louisa Mae Alcott
47. Shirley Temple
48. Libby Riddles  (1985 First Iditarod Champion)
49. Wilma Rudolph
50. Madeline Albright
51. Mary Kay Ash
52. Debbi Fields  (Mrs. Fields Cookie founder)
53. Carrie Chapman Catt
54. Christa McAuliffe
55. Queen Noor of Jordan
56. Pocahantas
57. Sally Ride
58. Sara Blakely  (Spanx founder)
59. Bethanny Frankel
60. Josephine Baker
61. Angela Merkel  (German Chancellor)
62. Indira Gandhi
63. Cathy Rigby
64. Billie Jean King
65. Deborah Simpson (first female military service)
66. Dilma Rousseff ( first Brazil president)
67. Deila Hasket Rawson (first female letter carrier)
68. Mary Kies (first woman receive U.S. patent 1809)
69. Lettie Pate Whitehead (first to serve on board of directors Coke)
70. Betty Ford
71. Hillary Clinton
72. Florence Nightingal
73. Dolly Madison
74. Marissa Meyer  (Yahoo CEO)
75. Marie Curie
76. Elizabeth Taylor
77. Grace Kelly
78. Charlotte Cooper (first Wimbeldon winner)
79. Norma McCorvey (Roe vs. Wade)
80. Cleopatra
81. Anne Boleyn
82. Clara Boothe Luce
83. Susanna Madora Salter(first woman Mayor KS 1887)
84. Marie Ruoff Bryum (first woman to vote 1920 MO)
85. Molly Williams (first female firefighter 1815 NY slave)
86. Mabel Fairbanks      (1^st Black Professional Figure Skater)
87. Emily Dickinson
88. Sandra Day O’Conner
89. Jane Goodall
90. Hedda Hopper        (Hollywood Gossip Columnist)
91. Eva Peron           
92. Alice Stebbins Wells   (1910 1^st Los Angeles Police Officer)
93. Margaret Thatcher
94. Erin Brockovich
95. Lady Diana Spencer
96. Katie Couric
97. Hazel Palmer  
98. Arabella Mansfield  (1869 First Female Law School Graduate)
99. Mary Katherine Goddard (1777 Postmaster)
100.  Phyllis Diller

Have you Driven 90 MPH?

I was asked this question recently by a friend. "Yes, I said I actually have but it wasn't because I wanted to but I didn't realize I was going that fast". Sometimes I have been told I often have a lead foot, but in all honesty when you have learned to drive in one of the most traffic busy cities you have to go with the flow for sometimes the wrong reasons.

I learned to drive in a rather large 1964 Cadillac. I was one of the oldest driver's in my driver's education class at school. My parents would not allow me to get my license until I was 18 and could pay for my own insurance and buy my own car. Learning responsibility? Yes, it was a hard pill to swallow but looking back I probably wasn't ready to hit the LA roads at 16. Many of my friends did and they are still around to tell about it. I am thankful that I learned on the mean streets of California. I have to say I had a few fender benders in my time; 2 my fault, 1 I wasn't even in the car at the time and one hit by flying debris. I consider myself pretty fortunate since my commute was for a long time 80 miles round trip per day. I got myself into some pretty terrifying predicaments and some Indy style driving helped probably save my life a few times. I witnessed several life changing/driving style changing accidents too. Having said that I look to my now place of residence and state in which I live and shake my head in disbelief, again!

1964 Cadillac

 Our 1984 Corvette and Hadleigh helping wash. 2012

It has been a difficult couple weeks in our community. In the course of a couple weeks we had two young men die way to young due to car accidents.  I am sure as a parent these parents grapple with many things they wished they may have done differently.  Kids think they are indestructible, many push the envelope of life and end up with an empty piece of blood-stained folded paper. Hopefully, whatever the scenario was in these two incidents it will open the eyes of other children, parents and open up a dialog to change MO laws and also the way we drive as individuals.

Back in my horse and buggy days you were required to take driver's education in schools.  Yes, so having read this post I was one of the seniors in the car full of young teenage drivers. It was a part of the school programs at the time and a help to parents who didn't or couldn't or wouldn't teach their kids to drive. My dad took me briefly to quiet industrial areas and taught me but the majority was done by the instructor. Also many driving schools were dotted in my State so there was no option uncovered except maybe those who just didn't want to learn to drive, of which I knew a few. Still shake my head at that also.

A few days after the incidents I was talking to people from several groups and most came back with the same response. Why do they not make it a requirement to go through driver's education for people especially kids to get licensed? A day later an article suddenly appeared in our local paper (Sedalia Democrat) http://bit.ly/1QqvVjR

One of the consistent comments I have heard why parents don't have them take the course is: cost. In our school district it is $180.00. I understand the cost could be a hardship for some people due to economic reasons but my philosophy and I find I have not been alone is "IT IS WORTH IT" If it gives a little extra tools, practice and hours behind the wheel why not? Do without so that it gives you and your child a little extra knowledge of that crazy road out their.Putting an inexperienced person behind the wheel of a vehicle is a major milestone of sorts.

  Both of my kids took the course. I remember asking them having took a similar course if they thought it was worth it and both said yes. I almost think they should go a step further and require all drivers, yes all drivers to take a refresher course. We all tend to forget, the rules of the road and we should welcome it.

You never know when you get in a vehicle these days especially with texting, cellphones etc. what situation you might be faced with. Keep your hands on the wheel, and stay safe. Your life and those around you might depend on it. 

Broken Hearts-Repairing, Renewing, Rejoicing

At this time of year, for many reasons, the heart portrays a significance in many things. Valentine's Day is celebrated and hated by many people. For those who have love in their life it can truly be a wonderful thing. For those who reflect back on a lost love or a broken relationship it can be like sandpaper.

 At our Lent Service this week,  our pastor talked about broken hearts restored. He told of a personal story about as a young student in the seminary and newly married, he gave his wife a heart necklace. It was not the most expensive, but it showed how much he cared and signified their love. As children were born and the years went on that heart was used as a teething object, pulled out of shape by tiny hands but in her eyes it continues to be a treasured piece of her heart over the years. He also spoke about how God wants us broken so that he can repair and renew us.

Hearts are a precious organ and need constant care and nurturing. Since February is Women's Heart Health Month we often get bombarded with everything heart related. Sometimes it is a wake-up call to get things checked out. Women usually have a disadvantage in detection because, frankly doctor's usually do not take it as seriously.  Gotta love that female intuition though!

As teenagers our hearts are really put to the test. Every young person has at least one story, well more than one sometimes, about how a person broke their heart in some way or another. Believe me you will live through it although at the time you think you will never trust or love again. It is all part of growing up. The right one is out their for everyone at some point in life.

I actually received my gift a little earlier than usual. With my hubby being out on the road most Valentine's Day cupid visits through other means. I remember mentioning last year that usually he sends flowers and then unless I take a picture he never gets to enjoy them with me.  This rose came last weekend through the mail via ihatestevesinger.com. The story behind the 24kt. rose is pretty funny.

Love is about, laughter, crying, snuggles, and many, many things. Broken hearts can last a minute or a lifetime. You are the keeper of your heart along with many other special people in your life.

Etiquette-Do We or Don't We?

Etiquette-Definition a code of behavior that delineates (borders or boundaries) expectations for social behavior according to contemporary conventional norms with a society, social class or group. My first thought is what a definition!

As I often comment, all it takes is a conversation or comment and that is how a post begins. At a recent dinner meeting, meals were being served at our table and someone realized they had started eating before everyone else was served. When she commented on how sorry she was for going ahead and eating many of us just had a chuckle with it all.  "What is the etiquette about eating before others are served"? she stated.  This wasn't our first rodeo as they say and we gave her a pass to go ahead. Our group is pretty casual and friendly even though we are professional business women. Checking on-line at one source The Kitchn.com, provide two great suggestions. One, its a judgement call. Check around the table the (one) person still waiting to get her food tells everyone else to go ahead and eat. Another rule, six or fewer at the table should wait until everyone is served. At our next gathering we will try and remember this tip.

I also checked out Ehow.com for some basic etiquette on lapel pin and name tag etiquette which also was brought up. Generally, lapel pins are worn on the left next to your heart. Usually it is often left as a symbolic gesture to the wearer and is not considered a faux pas if worn on the right.  A name tag should be worn on the right side of the chest as it helps with name/face recognition.  My suggestion don't wear too much on your shirt, jacket or tie because then you will be recognized as the human advertisement!

I am not sure how it is in the figure skating world now but usually rink etiquette was in my mind, if they were going faster than you, they got to do whatever they wanted. Truly, at a freestyle session the coach and/or student who had their lesson and music playing had the right-of-way. My mom would often get mad at me because she said I spent more time leaning against the railing then I did skating at times. All bets were usually off at a public skating session. People skated this way and that and you usually hoped that you made it through a session without getting knocked down or skated over. Skating guards were usually the etiquette watchers then.

Back when true social etiquette was an indicator of  wealth and refinement, no move was made without precision, grace and thoughts of others around you.  Today, most people throw caution to the wind and hope that no own is judged in this overly judgemental world in which we live.

Emily Post Institute has a great website and also a Emily's Etiquette Daily on Facebook that has some interesting tips about handling those tough situations we find ourselves faced with.  

When you find yourself on "thin ice" do what comes natural, bend your knees and let whatever happens happen it usually does anyway. To the ladies that were at the dinner table, we always usually have fun at our meetings and throw caution to the wind.

The ME in Mentoring

Sometimes you never know what situations might come your way. I recently took on a task for a group that I wasn't sure about. After some thought and looking back at the history of it all I thought about all the times throughout my life when I took on something I wasn't sure about.

When I started skating early on my Mom and Dad focused on Ice Dancing. Each session they would go to I would sit and watch the couples skate patterns on the ice over and over. At the time I thought this form of skating was set aside for "older" people due to the fact not many kids my age ice danced. Most kids started single or pair skating and either due to injury or not cutting it in the other discipline's they turned to dancing.  I tried it a few times but for me it just wasn't my thing. Ice Dancing now is one of the premier forms and much more interesting than it was then.

Many kids today look sometimes toward the wrong types of people too get inspiration from. Song lyrics and actions can often times give the wrong message. Studies have shown that video games are good for some individuals to get their brains working in a way that traditional teachings maybe won't work for them. Some will try most anything to get young minds involved or engaged.

When I was in high school I had several great teacher's. One stood out among the rest though. I knew pretty much from a very young age that I was meant to work in business. I can remember going  with my mom and grandma to the Podiatrist office and often the office staff would let me play on the machines in the office. For some it would have been just to keep me busy but I truly think I knew then what my path would be.

Throughout high school I always knew who Mrs. Dixon was. She was the young, snappy dresser with the Dorothy Hamill haircut, always a smile on her suntan face. I never heard a negative comment when her name was mentioned. When I decided to go in the direction of business I hoped I would have her as a teacher. My junior year I was lucky enough to do so. Always the positive and energetic soul she mentored all her "young ladies" to the best of her abilities. Always being positive, engaging, and willing to go the extra mile for you if you produced great work abilities. She recommended me for my first job during high school and motivated every young lady to take civil service exams. Many of her girls went on to big things.

Several years ago I read an article about mentoring and those who influenced you in your life. The first person who came to mind was Mrs. Dixon (I still can't call her by her first name even after all these years). I contacted someone through, surprise Facebook that until that time had not been aware that she also attended our high school.  She has since retired and enjoys retirement, family and grandchildren. I asked this contact if she saw her to pass along my address so that I could "thank her". To this day we keep in contact each year. I always enjoy hearing from her and remember my days being mentored by her fondly.

 I recently took on a project to help an organization on social media engage more with other generations. My first contact was a young girl who had an interesting new idea to start a mobile hair salon. We conversed back and forth on Facebook and I was as enthusiastic as she was about getting a business like this started in our town. She is motivated, kind, and although she has went through struggles just like any other young person, she doesn't let it get her down. She is definitely a breath of fresh air. I admire that she is trying to do something different in a town that doesn't often except differences.

We talk, and keep in contact and I hope that her dreams become realities. As I have told her every business goes through trials and tribulations. Even though other than being in salons and having friends who have been stylists that is as far as my knowledge of hair goes. Other than right now as I get older it does things I don't often want it to do. I have told her some experiences that any business can go through and hope that she will be able to feel she can ask me anything and I will be honest with her.

Time will tell but I hope I can say someday that I may have had a little bit to do with mentoring her in a Long Lasting Career!

New Member, Sedalia Business Women Nicole Vallery and myself.  (Photo courtesy of Linda Fisher)

Not Just Any Broken Teacup

The beginning of the New Year brings putting away Christmas decorations and putting back your usual decor. As in every year I always say after taking down the holiday decorations how "bare" everything usually looks. Even if you rearrange it stills seems a little lonely for a while. Usually each time I try and pack things pretty well but somehow this year I had one upsetting disaster. While unpacking one container I noticed one of my old family heirlooms got broken. My fault, I take full responsibility but it brought a little tug to the heart.

I have but a few mementos from my adopted grandma I grew up with. When she was still alive she would have little packages for me when I would visit her in her later years. She knew that the way the family dynamic had evolved that whatever she wanted me to have or that I had admired over time she would have to give to me on her own. Her sister, my Aunt Irene was a feisty gal. She was a smoking, opinionated woman who said it like it was. She was definitely the flip side of my grandma in many ways. She lost my uncle when I was around seven and never re-married but was always the life of any party.  One of her many hobbies was china painting. Both she and my grandma had cabinets of the different creations she made. Teacups, plates, bowls and a beautiful large vase.  Each year when I visit our State Fair I always walk through the building that houses the exhibit for china painting. It brings back great memories.

About six months before Aunt Irene died I remember the difficulties she lived with.  She would call my grandma numerous times during the day to ask her to read the T.V. Guide. It would frustrate my grandma so much and usually the conversations would end up in arguments and hang-ups. Of course, later she would call back asking about something else and my grandma would go over the previous conversations and she wouldn't remember the conversations and sometimes not even who my grandma was.  It came on suddenly, without warning. The only thing I remember my grandma saying was "your Aunt Irene is getting senile".  Now we know it by another name; Alzheimer's. Her situation quickly progressed. Her family put her in a facility and she passed within three months.

My friend Linda who I have known for over 10 years lived with the journey for more than just months. Her blog; Early Onset Alzheimer's started with stories about her husband, Jim and their journey. Now years later, she has been an advocate, ambassador, "guru" and writer about the disease. Each year for the last several years in mid-December her blog has been nominated for Healthline's Best Blog of the Year Contest. for 30 days one vote per Facebook and Twitter accounts are tallied and 1st Place Winners receive $1,000 and 2nd and 3rd Place receive $500. 

 I have to admit it has been a great diversion the past month posting comments and sharing with long time friends some who have had family members that have passed, friends who are healthcare worker's who have experience in it hands-on and just people who have want to see more done to help  her on her quest.  

 

Oh the teacup, I managed to glue it back together.  Still a little chip on it but now I have decided to put in my china cabinet for safer keeping.   The connections of Alzheimer's are endless. The little purple teacup, humm interesting that the cup is Alzheimer's Purple?

For more information on Alzheimer's:  www.lsfisher.com  You can also go there to vote for her blog until January 21st.

Getting a "Pink Slip" Sometimes A Good Thing

It is funny how one thought can snowball into a whole interesting story. Several times this week, for no apparent reason, the subject of what our company does has come up in conversations. I had to look into purchasing a new phone for my husband. As no surprise he wanted the same type (flip phone) he will only venture so far into the technology world and will not switch to ("dumb") smart phone.  So the litany of phone calls and e-mails with the business customer manager began. In one conversation with her it came up what our company was and what we do. She thought it was interesting and didn't realize a niche in the "exercise machine transport business" could be so interesting. I can't even tell you how many cellular representatives we have had in the past 17 years. The company we have used since day one recently announced even more layoffs and when I heard that my first thought was "I bet we get another rep". This one has been the nicest and most helpful and lives on the east coast. For both our businesses I hope she stays for a while. In today's corporate world short stays apparently are the new normal.

I recently posted an article on one of the social media pages I am administrator on"You Should Plan on Switching Jobs Every Three Years for the Rest of Your Life". The title alone peeked my interest. In summary it basically read that with expectations to learn, develop and advance in careers most millennial feel clinging like past generations to the same employers is antiquated. Well, everyone has his or her own opinion and of course several people shared opinions on the subject. Most of us of a certain age or "the antiques" pretty much said the same thing. How can you learn and leave in 3 years?  One of the comments made on the article pretty much was right on point with my previous job history. If working for a large corporation or agency, don't stay in the same position, move around as much as possible to other branches or agencies your job hopping but basically within.

I worked for State government, but transferred to four different agencies in the course of my 17 year service. Employment, Transportation, Lands, Museums. I had many other opportunities at various times to promote but usually it came down to commute and was it good for my family situation.  The constant dealing with bureaucracy, personalities, paperwork, time schedules doesn't get any easier if you are working in corporate America, self-employed, or are an entrepreneur.  More seems to be expected in every given situation today.

Although the dreaded "pink slip" is a doom and gloom in the employment world, it has become a happy, excited reward to our granddaughter. There has been many school situations that can be sometimes puzzling for a parent these days. Due to teacher's creativity in reward systems and the "praise everything" syndrome, To be "pink slipped" at school is a truly great thing.  The color coding rainbow system used on a daily basis to reward bad and good work behavior ultimately can be a reward with a pink slip at the end of the day for reaching the ultimate in a day. From what I have heard from other conversations with people if the kids don't get a "pink slip" it also can be the ultimate doom in their world but not they way we think.

Are you as confused as I am about keeping up on changing times?