tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051647826158540872024-03-19T01:43:10.664-07:00It's Me, Jean - A BlogsiteJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-4039658773154533822017-11-02T14:22:00.001-07:002017-11-04T17:21:20.365-07:00Cultural Appropriation - We're Not All "Sexy Nuns" on Halloween<div id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2896">
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<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2829" style="font-family: "calibri";">I decided to put together a Halloween costume this year.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2830" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Leave aside the fact that that fact makes me a big kid past 50, I want to be Frida Kahlo.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2831" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>As you probably well know, she has become an iconic part of popular culture in recent years.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2832" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>In part, due to the movie made about her life in 2002.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2833" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>But also her raw, moving, and complete art collection came north of the border for the first time several years after the movie was released.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2834" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>I flew to Atlanta specifically to see it, and was not disappointed.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2835" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>I have had books of her art and biography around the house for years.</span></div>
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<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2837" style="font-family: "calibri";">Upon sharing my costume idea with a young adult daughter (she’s going to be a mermaid this year), I was informed that it would be in bad taste and represent disrespectful “cultural appropriation” for me to do that.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2838" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>My knee-jerk reaction was to be crestfallen.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2839" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>The last thing I wanted was to be hurtful or offensive.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2840" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>But being over 50 comes with its benefits, too.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2841" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Quickly righting myself, I began to wonder why Frida could not belong to me too?<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2842" style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2844" style="font-family: "calibri";">Yes, Frida was Mexican.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2845" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>She was also a woman of unique strength, heart, talent, and before her time giant balls.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2846" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>It is with complete respect I emulate her for a day – and if I am being presumptuous at all, I think she would be pleased at her name coming up at a party so long after her death.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2847" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>What a legacy!<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2848" style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2850" style="font-family: "calibri";">There are many things we have all integrated into our daily lives.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2851" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Good things that have their roots in other cultures.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2852" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Far from being a put down, “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery”.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2853" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>I speak Spanish.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2854" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>My first ever love was a Mexican man.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2855" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>We cook and eat Mexican food.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2856" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>I will never BE Mexican.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2857" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Does this mean I must treat all things outside my own culture as one-dimensional property of others?</span></div>
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<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2859" style="font-family: "calibri";">And it’s not just Latin cultures that we could, in theory, be admonished for enjoying.</span></div>
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<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2861" style="font-family: "calibri";">I exclaim “Mazel Tov” occasionally.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2862" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>I am not Jewish</span></div>
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<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2864" style="font-family: "calibri";">As a show of support and acceptance, rainbow flags are flown by those who are not gay.</span></div>
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<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2866" style="font-family: "calibri";">You may take your shoes off when entering someone’s home – even if not Japanese.</span></div>
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<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2868" style="font-family: "calibri";">I think it is hypocritical to wish for One Love, yet feel so fiercely proprietary about the beautiful things brought here from other people and places.</span></div>
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<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2870" style="font-family: "calibri";">I guess it all boils down to intent.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2871" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Cuisine, language, music, fashion, history.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2872" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>The more we share of ourselves, the more others learn about who we are.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2873" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>And to withhold who you are from the curiosity and interest of others assumes they do not value you.<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2874" style="margin: 0px;"> </span><span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2875" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Please don’t assume that!<span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2876" style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Use it instead as a springboard for education and conversation.</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509656980481_3277" style="font-family: "calibri";"><span id="yiv6517699305yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509040312396_2880" style="margin: 0px;"></span>Sometimes, donning something of another makes us feel beautiful - and we tend to try on the identities we admire.</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509656980481_3285" style="font-family: "calibri";">Think about it. I welcome your viewpoint and comments.</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1509656980481_3288">xoxojean</span></div>
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" 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Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-17230508602491431632017-05-19T08:00:00.000-07:002017-05-19T08:00:01.819-07:00Jean's Awesome Personal Travel Tips - Chicago, Anywhere
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">Travel is like money, or beauty.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>If you judge yourself based on others, you
often fail.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">Just when I am
feeling like a hot shit for, say, driving New England on my own - or carrying out
my arbitrary goal of “leaving the state once per month” -<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>I meet someone who has been to Dubai, <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Reykjavik and/or Costa Rica….recently!<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>While it’s true, sticking to domestic
destinations is a conscious choice right now for me, I admit to some “travel
envy” and a feeling of competitiveness.<span style="margin: 0px;">
</span>Muttering the proverbial “I’ll get there next year.”<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>In the meantime, I pick their brains for
ideas.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">It is in
that context that I offer you, in no particular order, my top tips for
comfortable travel.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Not sure they are
revolutionary, but they are personally tried and true.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>I hope you find something here that makes
your next trip just a bit more comfortable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"> </span><u>- Peppermint Oil.</u><span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>While some inconvenience and discomfort are
integral to travel, airplane odors sometimes get to me – even jet fuel smell is
a bit nauseating. <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Putting peppermint oil
under your nose, behind your ears, etc can really help.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Don’t worry about the person next to you complaining.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>It seems to be universally appealing, and
does not hang in the air. <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>It is also
excellent for keeping cool in hot climates.<span style="margin: 0px;">
</span>Just apply liberally at the back of your neck before heading out for the
day.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span><span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Here is a good quality one on Amazon:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Peppermint-PREMIUM-Pharmaceutical-Grade-Essential/dp/B00P6O9KDS/ref=sr_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1495112746&sr=8-5&keywords=peppermint%2Boil&th=1"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri;">https://www.amazon.com/Peppermint-PREMIUM-Pharmaceutical-Grade-Essential/dp/B00P6O9KDS/ref=sr_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1495112746&sr=8-5&keywords=peppermint%2Boil&th=1</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">
</span><u>-Conditioner.</u><span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>It’s not just
for your hair.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Whether you pack yours,
or use what the hotel gives,<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>conditioner
has lots of uses.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>One of my favorite is
in place of shaving cream.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Please stop
buying that ridiculous metal dispenser full of fluffy cream.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Men’s beards and women’s leg/underarm hair can
be softened with ordinary hair conditioner.<span style="margin: 0px;">
</span>Then, after shower, many of them are formulated to not feel sticky or
greasy when used on feet and hands as lotion.<span style="margin: 0px;">
</span>Or banish static cling by rubbing a tiny bit on your hands and separating
yourself from your garments.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"> </span><span style="margin: 0px;">
</span><u>-Forgot your phone charger?</u><span style="margin: 0px;">
</span>Most hotels have a huge lost and found box full of them.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Even if you are not near your own hotel, the
nearest one will likely be happy to rummage through and find one that will
work.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Take a break in the lobby, and
juice up for the day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"> </span><u>-Germ freaks unite!</u><span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Before leaving for the airport, I have
adopted the custom of liberally coating my nasal passages with Vaseline or
other heavy lotion.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>The nose is a major
pathway of entry for all of those mysterious coughs you hear. <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>The eyes too. <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Consider leaving out your contacts and wearing
glasses during transit as yet another buffer.<span style="margin: 0px;">
</span>Yes, I am serious.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">And now for
some Chicago specific ideas…..</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">-Try the L Train from either airport.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></u><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">Don’t make your friends and family have the distinct
displeasure of circling the airport to pick you up – especially at heavy
traffic times.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>You could take a Lyft or
Cab (I do recommend Lyft over Uber, by far), but the blue line from O’Hare, and
the orange line from Midway straight into the loop works great.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Even if your destination is too far from the
loop stop, a cab from there will be much cheaper.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Don’t believe the crime hype you read.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Use the trains.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">-Regarding site seeing, bigger isn’t always better</span></u><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">.<span style="margin: 0px;">
</span>Okay, this is purely opinion.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>But
the obvious places don’t always yield the best experience.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>For example, everyone sees the Art
Institute.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>It is beautiful, world class,
and right in the middle of everything.<span style="margin: 0px;">
</span>But go a bit north, and see the Contemporary Art Museum instead.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Less exhausting, more intimate, and the gift
shop has lots of unique items.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://mcachicago.org/Home"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri;">https://mcachicago.org/Home</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">or this one in a gorgeous neighborhood historic mansion if you are into
science….</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://imss.org/"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri;">https://imss.org/</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">I could go on and on.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>But, that’s
plenty from me.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Please feel free to
comment with YOUR best travel tips.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Tell
us what you’ve learned from experience.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">As always, wishing you safe journeys.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">Xoxo</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px 48px;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">jean</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-88925802430681501952016-08-22T09:37:00.000-07:002016-08-22T09:37:15.673-07:00Why I Believe Facebook Has "Jumped the Shark"
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Just as I was late to the party in joining Facebook, so is
this tale of how I how find it loathsome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I am not the first to figure out that for most of us, it should simply
run its course and cycle out of our lives – sort of like the requisite bad
relationships and dead end jobs that make up a full life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’ve been 100% Facebook free for well over a year now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A fact I admit (with some discomfort) is partially
responsible for my contented state.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have passions, yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But they are not
tied to the phony distractions of others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is my position that Facebook has given platform to the senseless, and
made decorum and privacy a thing of the past.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I see myself as a modern gal and free thinker.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a writer, free speech is near and
dear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But the strange, disingenuous
sociological changes that take place online cannot be denied – and I would
contend can be the death of meaningful exchanges.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">See if you recognize any of these people on your “friend”
list.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-The person you know is going through a lot of difficulty in
real life, but all of her multiple posts show a smiley, fulfilled person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-The superficially confident friend who constantly posts
photos that are “accidentally” sexy and flattering – thereby soliciting a
running feedback of “omg you look great!!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-The person who passive aggressively seems butthurt by the
fact that you don’t “like” all their posts, no matter how inane.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-The person you find out is functionally illiterate, or has
uninformed or polarized viewpoints that are offensive to you – all of which you
learned due to Facebook, but were blissfully unaware of before.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’m sure I could come up with more caricatures of our shared
experience, but you get the idea.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So how did all of this equate to unhappiness for me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found it was a thing to navigate – a stressor
without merit. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The more time you put
into a thing, the more you feel you should get out of it, right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was a vicious cycle of effort + expectation + time suck =
frustration. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I discovered some
unflattering things about myself, too. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
can be very mercurial online in a way I would never be in person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even
if you claim you are not bothered by the intermittent remarks, opinions, and
boring life details that are put out there, I urge you to have another
look.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had roughly 100 friends when I left
Facebook.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know perhaps 3 of them
now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And guess what?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have time to have dinner together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is here that I will acknowledge that some people use
Facebook in a healthy way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having
frequent shares with friends or family across the miles can maintain and even deepen
relationships that today’s busy lifestyles wouldn’t permit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A wild guess on my part would say that about
ten percent of the FB population are enjoying only this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">On the other hand, there can be a loss of patience and
respect from the “oversharing” that goes on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I lost one close girlfriend and a cousin to this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It IS a double-edged sword, so be careful out
there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s also probably no mistake that newer sites like
Instagram (which is photo driven) and Twitter (which allows for only 140 characters
per post) are getting bigger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
recommend either of these over Facebook for all of the fun, without the pain in
the ass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also have never had that “cyber
tracked” feeling on Twitter, or been solicited by a crowd funder for Save the
Pandas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Do what you do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Love
what you love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let me know your
thoughts. In the meantime, </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<a data-ved="0ahUKEwjsre6wutXOAhVBRyYKHfKABXUQjRwIBw" href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjsre6wutXOAhVBRyYKHfKABXUQjRwIBw&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcriticaldispatches.com%2F2013%2F04%2F15%2Fi-hate-inspirational-facebook-update-pictures%2F&psig=AFQjCNGGPNAdkVmO85glT5TCaluoqiB-Lw&ust=1471970162032879" id="irc_mil" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;keydown:irc.rlk;irc.il;" style="border-image: none; border: 0px currentColor;"><img alt="" height="393" id="irc_mi" src="https://criticaldispatches.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/18581_10151364792972985_1345137226_n.jpg" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="556" /></a><a data-ved="0ahUKEwiGtcfwudXOAhUDeCYKHfytDIsQjRwIBw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiGtcfwudXOAhUDeCYKHfytDIsQjRwIBw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.memes.com%2Fimg%2F382739&psig=AFQjCNGhCyv_NTZcpVbPR7iUjIZQ6ai0dA&ust=1471969721808892" id="irc_mil" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;keydown:irc.rlk;irc.il;" style="border-image: none; border: 0px currentColor;"></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Xo<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">jean<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-73715514257959844762016-08-19T19:10:00.000-07:002016-08-22T05:43:36.530-07:00Euthanasia Is Not A Dirty Word<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI5OTsPO5s0xbCjLIDgK5OviqUIZWc0qKeIgZhNvJt0aHgtfMbVSp37HqfxvwB-Zyrzb0TW0rrrUT8wiGigex-thSR-81EJCGgAmkUmlycf8C1stmLOeTQ7sg98muM3eVuNVCf5GRj6C60/s1600/arthur+goes+to+school+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI5OTsPO5s0xbCjLIDgK5OviqUIZWc0qKeIgZhNvJt0aHgtfMbVSp37HqfxvwB-Zyrzb0TW0rrrUT8wiGigex-thSR-81EJCGgAmkUmlycf8C1stmLOeTQ7sg98muM3eVuNVCf5GRj6C60/s320/arthur+goes+to+school+002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Arthur at 3 months old</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">We recently
said goodbye to our long time dog family member, Arthur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was the first dog any of us had had –
including my husband and myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t
grow up with pets, and my family always seemed to have a cat or two around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Back then, people didn’t pamper their animals
the way we do now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cats spent time
outdoors and came inside when it behooved them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was more of a roommate situation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">What led up to
his death was not so much a sequence of events, but what I would call a climate
change.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our family had been managing his
slow decline for what I admit was nearly 2 years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His sight was not great, he had Cushing’s
disease (which we chose not to treat because the side effects of the medicines
sounded worse than the illness) which caused constant hunger and thirst.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When he had free access to water, accidents
were commonplace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">About 6 months
ago, these symptoms worsened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He began
to follow me from room to room, which I eventually had to acknowledge was
because he was nearly blind, deaf, and uncomfortable alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The walks in the evening stopped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no interest in toys, car rides, or
our other dog, Dora.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Since it was my
credo from day one that no pet of mine would suffer, we began to talk about euthanasia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At first, it seemed more of a concept than a
reality.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After all, he was not in any
acute pain (that we knew of), so there was no hurry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is not my custom to “poll the audience”,
but this was such new territory, I began to ask friends who were also dog
lovers/owners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Turns out, fully MOST
people had been in this position before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Our family was experiencing a rite of passage, and there was an
unexpectedly supportive atmosphere around us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">I phoned the
emergency veterinary clinic near us for information, and was met with a warm,
professional voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She described the
procedure and added “the timing is your decision, and we respect that”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cannot tell you the comfort that statement
gave me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">There were
another two weeks of goodbyes and getting our heads around it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was decided that my younger daughter and I
would be the ones to actually take him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In the end, it was a Monday at nearly midnight when we both were
available and had the guts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I phoned
them before we left, as they had recommended, so they could be prepared for
us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After spending ten minutes in their
parking lot not sure we could go through with it, the inevitability settled in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Once inside, “shit
got real” as they say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Signed some
papers, and we were in the room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The vet
did not rush us, she explained each step, we did not feel awkward weeping
shamelessly in front of her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Veronica
commented how the place was empty, and that was good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We held hands, told a few anecdotes about
him, and that was that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">When it was
over, the doctor said we did the right thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Another kindness I will not forgot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Within a week, we had sympathy cards from that office and our regular
vet (they notified him).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">While sad –
epically so – I didn’t see it as a negative experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I learned that my daughter is a strong,
loving young women who can do selfless things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I met a doctor who has set me free with her pragmatism and decency.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remained true to my promise to Arthur of no
suffering, which I made 12 years ago when we brought home the little 4 lb runt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Ingrained in
our culture is a kneejerk need to see every ending as something ugly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe it’s time to try to turn that on its
ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Painful goodbyes are the price of
love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But love is the good stuff, and the
alternative is unthinkable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr3krWzC8e7BqQBWX1VSuJiuB_wm7M9pUCLg8K3763hjdf72mJzBgQ6q1zTPcBrwytP8yVz09LypLx3HMBydfd5eG1rWIK3x6CeBz3hIMGnfxDCapL3KDUnFldTSzCC5fxJFRtvZ677fj8/s1600/DSC00003+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr3krWzC8e7BqQBWX1VSuJiuB_wm7M9pUCLg8K3763hjdf72mJzBgQ6q1zTPcBrwytP8yVz09LypLx3HMBydfd5eG1rWIK3x6CeBz3hIMGnfxDCapL3KDUnFldTSzCC5fxJFRtvZ677fj8/s320/DSC00003+%25282%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Xoxo<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Jean<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p></div>
Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-72174972004336550762016-01-27T18:43:00.001-08:002016-01-27T18:43:19.141-08:00The Secret Life of Hugs - A Valentine's Day Contemplation <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Lets-Shirt-Funny-Vintage-Shirts/dp/B0064POI3U">http://www.amazon.com/Lets-Shirt-Funny-Vintage-Shirts/dp/B0064POI3U</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In the
discussion of tactile greetings in our culture, it would remiss not to start
with the most common - the handshake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
social animals, these are chock full of information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We may only make vague note of our first
impressions and judgments based on a handshake, but they are there.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For example,
we’ve all received the “dead fish” – the one where it just feels like a limp
appendage comes to rest briefly in your palm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Or how about what I have dubbed “The Lobster Claw?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A lunging reach, culminating in a mildly
painful pincer grasp. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What do you perceive
about each of these people?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is it
different if it’s a man or woman delivering it? <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I should confess here that I often view
handshakes as an awkward, antiquated greeting – and one of the best ways to
spread illness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, it’s pretty tough to
win with me on that front.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In my
experience, less than half of the time do people land what I would consider the
perfect hand to hand contact.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s call
it “The Classic.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is marked by a
warm, unrushed, confident touch, coupled with simultaneous eye contact and a
few kind words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hugs are a
completely different story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Good, solid
ones may well be the antidote for our touch deprived culture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They seem to be regaining popularity, even in
a casual business setting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At least, it
seemed like I received more of them at events this holiday season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tell myself that is because I’m getting
more huggable with age.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or more likely, with
age, there is less risk of it being received as flirty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Boooo.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Regardless,
it set me to wondering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is there a
cultural shift happening?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I really hope
so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While still giving rise to a silent
opinion, they are virtually impossible to screw up because at any given time we
all secretly could use a hug.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I decided a
very informal text poll of some contacts was in order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It turns out, the responses were surprisingly
specific and heartfelt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are some
direct answers, though some partial, to “Tell me an observation you’ve made
about hugs.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Bigger people equal bigger, warmer hugs.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>VS<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“If they give a quick one, it is just
out of obligation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they hold on and
squeeze for a bit, that tells me they are sincere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is true whether from a man or woman.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-Pat R</span></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sarah states: “I’d just like to take
boobs out of the hugging equation.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
don’t care how they are perceived.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
just don’t want to be pushing my boobs onto people.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(it should be noted here that Sarah has
magnificent boobs)<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Hugs with backpacks are awkward
because you can’t get your arms all the way around.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-VS<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Beth says, “It’s the only way left to
physically show affection to my kids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Can’t kiss them anymore, but hugs are great!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“A good hug feels like letting the air
out of an overinflated tire – a stress reliever.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-Jim<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Usually I notice what kind of
clothes they’re wearing because I am short, so my face is on their chest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, I’ll notice what they smell like and
how warm they are and if they hug you tightly.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>- JP<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“The verdict is still out on whether
or not they are better than drugs.” –KK<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">What’s it
all mean?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t answer for everyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But as my New Year’s Resolution, I plan to
hug to the verge of being against social convention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In that moment of hesitation, I hope you
decide to embrace with abandon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Turns
out it’s what we are all craving…and it’s FREE!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVMoPMzFdgM"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVMoPMzFdgM</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">xoxo<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Jean<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-78267310012991459292016-01-20T10:46:00.001-08:002016-01-27T08:37:15.073-08:00Rock What You've Got - Recalibrating Feminism<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The online
dictionary defines feminism as “the doctrine advocating social, political, and
all other rights of woman as equal to those of men.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel monumentally lucky to live in a time
and country where, in a legal sense, this is true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Things we and our daughters take for granted
today, were once unheard of.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">But now that
all of this is in place, what are we doing with it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On an interpersonal level, are you supporting
the truths that those before us suffered to establish?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just because we have all of the choices
available, are we keeping ourselves from making them freely?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">We all do it
- call ourselves evolved, and then harbor a confused resentment toward those
who go against our personal tenets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If we
are to truly support a group, we must allow for ALL choices, with only ONE judgment
– that they are socially responsible, non-abusive and allow for the completely
natural variations in human beings.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">In the
animal kingdom, we see plenty of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some
species mate for life, while others mate with multitudes every day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Often, the females are the early nurturers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But sometimes, it is the male who sits on the
egg, or keeps the babies warm while Mom hunts. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">So, if we
are to support feminism, the same logic applies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These completely natural, inborn differences
are not to be tolerated, nor celebrated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Just observe and accept them from your own place of comfort for how you
live<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A true supporter of women’s rights would not take issue with a little
girl who is dying to dress up as a princess for Halloween, or who dreams of
growing up to be a mother.</b> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More importantly, look at how she prepares for
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s like the old saying – “Whatever
you are, be a good one”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<u><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Have the
Courage of Your Convictions<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">On the other
end of the spectrum, much of the feminist rhetoric revolves around the
traditional business world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My husband
had a booth for his business at a trade show recently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We spent four days rubbing elbows with brush
manufacturers from around the globe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Scintillating for him, and my younger daughter and I got some serious
people watching done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I observed at
least three women speaking, almost apologetically, about leaving their children
at home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Guess how many men were talking
about that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I kept thinking, “you can
only be where you are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ve chosen to
be here, so why not just BE here?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
way I see it, the power for women in these realms is one of refusal to spend
time on emotional waste.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">If you can separate yourself where
appropriate (dare I say, the way many men do) from the weight of conjecture of
others’ thoughts, feelings and motivations, you will transcend those that see
you as a “girl” rather than colleague. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Let me add….<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">In doing so,
you must not deny your femininity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Breasts
and hips are not a handicap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are a
strong, integral part of your identity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
you have doubts, try asking any woman who’s had a mastectomy.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<u><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">What Are
We Modeling?<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The above
mentioned daughter was the impetus for this blogspot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She is extremely interested in the disparity
of social convention and the unique talents that may be wasted by following
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the tender age of 17, she has
inspired me to explore my own judgments of women and their choices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If your
drives lean toward the stereotypically female, then the rejection of them would
also be misogynistic, no?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And yes, I
believe women can be very misogynistic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I am not
encouraging you to be a cheerleader (or linebacker) for women’s issues. Just
take silent note of those who choose differently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is my contention that most of the distaste
we have for the “other side” comes from our own lament of the path we did not
take.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Voltaire said, “Appreciation is a
wonderful thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It makes what is
excellent in others belong to us as well.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">And every
time I see one of those “Live, Love, Laugh” signs I want to amend it to
something like this:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">“Live Unapologetically,
Love Fearlessly, Laugh Louder than anyone else in the room.” … Admittedly not
as aesthetically pleasing.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">As always, I
welcome your comments posted to the site, or privately at
swashblogger@gmail.com.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Xoxo<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">jean<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-90987112800017845802015-04-01T06:37:00.001-07:002015-04-01T06:37:37.503-07:00For The Calendar Tells Me So
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Time marches on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
sooner or later you realize, it’s marching right across your face” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">– Dolly Parton</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My father has been dead 15 years, as of yesterday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was a wonderful man, and for years I kept
him “in the loop” of our lives emotionally and in thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remember for a long while I focused on the
bad things he’d avoided by dying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example,
he missed the tragedy of 9/11, and the subsequent changes that caused in the
world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In death, he remained innocent to
it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">On the ten year anniversary of his death, I got a tattoo
(admittedly after 3 martinis), to honor him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A large, colorful US Navy anchor on my left upper arm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After about a two month identity crisis
directly afterward, I have grown to love it as part of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">At the 15 year mark, the pertinent dates of his life still
make my consciousness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My parents’ wedding
anniversary (January 15<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>), his birthday (in May), and, his
death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Admittedly, I have a strange “thing”
for dates.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I still recall the birthdates
of lots of past friends, and the exact date I lost my virginity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This has always surprised me, as I am quite
unsentimental about most things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe
storing dates is my way of relegating memories to their proper place and amount
of energy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">How we feel about loss is dependent on so many variables of
the people and situations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is no
right or wrong way or timing – only that, like all things, it changes over
time. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can tell you from my process, I
learned the following:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-You can continue to have a relationship with someone long after they
are gone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even now, I sometimes consider
how my dad might have reacted to a person or event – taking his “advice” posthumously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It happens less and less as the years go by, but it’s there,
and I am so grateful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here is a poem I wrote on the subject at about the 10 year
mark.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">Jabberwocky<o:p></o:p></span></u></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">The
charismatic sheriff left town.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">He was
the only one who believed I’d be the people’s poet.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">Words
are, after all, the perfect veil for the encomiast.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">He was dead
tired.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">Then,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">dead
man walking.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">I
watched him fold up like a gate leg table,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">speaking
in tongues of undulating stares.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">Still
unable to get yoked up to the jesuswagon.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">Dead
silence.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">Oh, how
the preacher tried!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">Just
plain dead.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">So now
I brush and love his white horse.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">The one
he rode at forty.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">And the
silvered leather tack gets polished<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">every
time I speak of him.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">(you
see, this poem is earning its keep)<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">In
town, the street again filled with daily dust,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">and the
saloon door swings one direction.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">Unladylike
for a gal to drink alone.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">But
land sakes,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">I’d
give my spurs for one more sunset.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thank you for listening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I bid you peace, and welcome your comments or contact in confidence at </span><a href="mailto:swashblogger@gmail.com"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri;">swashblogger@gmail.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Xoxo<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Jean<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-9259201250631163042014-10-17T13:08:00.002-07:002016-01-13T09:05:39.151-08:00Gallbladders, Healthcare, and Hospitals - Surveying the Situation<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">Hello Again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">I have not posted in a long while.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could blame poor health (more on that in a
bit), a busy life, writer’s block, and on and on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead, I will admit to an intellectual
laziness brought on by wondering if anyone is really out there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">But, when I began writing a facebook post this morning (let’s
be honest – the epitome of intellectual laziness) it became so impassioned, I
had to write it here instead. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">Ten days ago, I had a cholecystectomy or gallbladder
removal surgery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This came after literally
20 years of stomach issues off and on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
the 6 weeks leading up to it when the troubles peaked, I had a rather dramatic
weight loss and some even more dramatic evenings spent playing “Is It Worthy of
the ER?” with concerned family members.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">I will spare you the more boring details, because the
point I want to make is not about this particular extremely common procedure. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s actually about the recent changes being
made to healthcare delivery in this country, and how we have more control and
responsibility than ever. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">Forget that I probably spent decades with unnecessary
discomfort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am taking responsibility
for that because I didn’t push doctors hard enough, articulate my symptoms well
enough, or take MYSELF seriously enough to see that I got answers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So many avoidable things can occur because of
our cultural need to “not be a pain in the ass”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">Doctors work for YOU - so treat each malady as though you
are the supervisor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, as with all
power, there is great responsibility, Grasshopper.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">For starters, please read (or reread) my earlier post
about your role in your communicating your health. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It rings more true to me than ever – even though
I myself fell short! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;"><a href="http://lmtpoet.blogspot.com/2013/07/in-praise-of-western-medicine.html"><span style="color: #0563c1;">http://lmtpoet.blogspot.com/2013/07/in-praise-of-western-medicine.html</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">Another VERY important point is about the new
accountability factor for healthcare workers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Medicine is one of the only industries I can think of where employees
(everyone from the desk clerk to the surgeon), are not paid according to their
performance as perceived by patients.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
have now been offered a chance to weigh in on our experiences as a patient,
which will have a DIRECT effect on how much insurers pay those doctors and their
staff.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">I just took in the mail, and in it was a Same Day Surgery
Survey from Hinsdale Hospital where I had my operation 10 days ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It would be easy enough to throw it away, but
that would be akin to not voting, and then bitching about who became President
(and we all know THOSE people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ahem)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">Look.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hospitals
are a business.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s help them be
successful by doing our part in the process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It matters and here are the major points to the individual as I see them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">-The future of insurance payments appears to also be
dependent to some degree on how well you have taken care of yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Obesity and smoking, for example, are going
to affect how much of your portion is paid for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Don’t say you weren’t warned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">-Tell your doctor everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Provide information to the best of your
ability, always.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">-In turn, expect a responsive, caring and tenacious
effort to answer your concerns.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">-Fill out ALL feedback surveys you receive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This newly implemented step, over time, will
greatly influence which doctors, nurses and other workers remain successfully
in medicine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">Let me close by saying, as surgeries go, I had a pleasant
as possible experience with an excellent outcome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My team is getting two thumbs up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But if it had gone another way, believe me
they’d have heard about it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">As always, I am open to your comments and any experiences
you might like to share.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">Stay well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;">Xoxoxox<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: small;">jean<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-21766737693030810722014-01-01T02:46:00.000-08:002014-01-01T02:46:05.893-08:00Wishing You An Enlightened and Gentle New Year<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Maybe it’s because of the 4:00 AM hour (or the fact that I notoriously take January 1<sup>st</sup> too seriously), but this struck me as brilliant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The very best of everything is wished you, as we all say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But when the hardship comes, know that we all share in it.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pass it on.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Xoxo<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Jean<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
<a href="http://www.elephantjournal.com/2013/03/we-are-not-here-to-fix-each-other/">http://www.elephantjournal.com/2013/03/we-are-not-here-to-fix-each-other/</a>Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-73091580598197649272013-11-20T08:57:00.004-08:002013-11-20T08:57:57.333-08:00The Cigar Smoking Poetess - Spotlight on Amy Lowell<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 24.2pt 0in 6.9pt; mso-outline-level: 3;">
<b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Amy Lowell (1874-1925) was an award winning American Poetess, from a long line of brilliant people including a Harvard president and a noted astronomer. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She never attended college because, you know, it wasn’t proper for a woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lowell was reputed to be a lesbian, which is reflected in some of her love poems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She died at the age of 51 of a cerebral hemorrhage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her work enjoyed a renaissance in the 1970’s when the women’s movement got a foothold.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';">It may seem an odd time to ponder a poem entitled “Summer”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I encourage you to give it a read, as it is actually singing the praises of winter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a lovely paradigm shift, and a sentiment I share with the author.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Poems about nature are very often too idealized or saccharin to feel sincere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This one rings true to me, and I am adding it to my “Best of the Best Anthology”.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Let me know if you agree.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #f88000; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Summer – by Amy Lowell<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Some men there are who find in nature all <br />Their inspiration, hers the sympathy <br />Which spurs them on to any great endeavor, <br />To them the fields and woods are closest friends, <br />And they hold dear communion with the hills; <br />The voice of waters soothes them with its fall, <br />And the great winds bring healing in their sound. <br />To them a city is a prison house <br />Where pent up human forces labour and strive, <br />Where beauty dwells not, driven forth by man; <br />But where in winter they must live until <br />Summer gives back the spaces of the hills. <br />To me it is not so. I love the earth <br />And all the gifts of her so lavish hand: <br />Sunshine and flowers, rivers and rushing winds, <br />Thick branches swaying in a winter storm, <br />And moonlight playing in a boat's wide wake; <br />But more than these, and much, ah, how much more, <br />I love the very human heart of man. <br />Above me spreads the hot, blue mid-day sky, <br />Far down the hillside lies the sleeping lake <br />Lazily reflecting back the sun, <br />And scarcely ruffled by the little breeze <br />Which wanders idly through the nodding ferns. <br />The blue crest of the distant mountain, tops <br />The green crest of the hill on which I sit; <br />And it is summer, glorious, deep-toned summer, <br />The very crown of nature's changing year <br />When all her surging life is at its full. <br />To me alone it is a time of pause, <br />A void and silent space between two worlds, <br />When inspiration lags, and feeling sleeps, <br />Gathering strength for efforts yet to come. <br />For life alone is creator of life, <br />And closest contact with the human world <br />Is like a lantern shining in the night <br />To light me to a knowledge of myself. <br />I love the vivid life of winter months <br />In constant intercourse with human minds, <br />When every new experience is gain <br />And on all sides we feel the great world's heart; <br />The pulse and throb of life which makes us men! <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-4343064879315005662013-11-07T12:40:00.000-08:002014-03-12T07:10:52.844-07:00Volunteer Work - Just Say NO<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’ve been noticing a trend that I do not like one bit - giving away one’s talent, services, and skills…for free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is not the pure thing it was in past, when Aunt Susie volunteered two days a week at the Pink Elephant store in town.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh no.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is blatant disrespect, as I see it, for the professional creativity and skill of others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now, I’m pretty sure we are all grateful for people like volunteer fireman, professionals who do pro bono work for those unable to pay for their services, and neighbors who step in to help when someone is in trouble.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a massage therapist, I have offered my time and skills to various charities and individuals whom I felt I could help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The operative word is “offered”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If I am solicited for my professional skills, I expect payment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now, before you tune me out and say “oh, there goes the almighty dollar, getting in the way of good deeds again”, let me explain the principle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Let’s say you have an art opening, for which you wish to have live music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your guests are coming free of charge, and as much as I LOVE art, I do not consider it a life or death necessity (ie you’re not the children’s cancer ward at the local hospital).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why on earth would you not charge a dollar or two per person at the door and give some of it to your skilled help and performers?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Again, it’s <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>principle.</u></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may only be able to pay 20 bucks to someone who worked all day to make YOUR event a success, but it matters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And before you hold up the “gilded lily” of beefing up their resume’ or garnering future clients, let me say this – a PAID gig (the exact amount is not important) looks good on a resume’ and in my experience, those attending fully free events are not generally seeking the services of musicians, caterers and the like, so that’s a dead end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Furthermore, those who do this sort of gig out of friendship, or frankly, insecurity in their skills are setting the bar low for their respective industry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In other words, you are screwing your own colleagues out of being taken seriously and ultimately making a living from their chosen profession.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So please, think twice the next time some long-faced event planner hits you up for your time and service for absolutely zero effort or money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is almost always a more worthy recipient of your talents.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">*smacks you on the ass*</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">jean</span></div>
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Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-35673847301789555692013-10-17T14:57:00.001-07:002019-12-14T07:15:09.670-08:00"Hominy, Hominy, I Think You Dropped A Bomb on Me!"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUOC87qp66yb9c8D10h0HsK1JX3MTYbFpNneB19Ofxi5IvftvDt9sDzkHDa01wBpvROoOnIJCP9VHpGrPMN6BoUc3-OQbO48rgmcLGYlx28eJJGXd14skfA4NyKALRb1ny6f4X26qY74vP/s1600/posole+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_88608="null" esa="true" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUOC87qp66yb9c8D10h0HsK1JX3MTYbFpNneB19Ofxi5IvftvDt9sDzkHDa01wBpvROoOnIJCP9VHpGrPMN6BoUc3-OQbO48rgmcLGYlx28eJJGXd14skfA4NyKALRb1ny6f4X26qY74vP/s320/posole+pic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">As I write this, I can almost hear my husband rapping that phrase – which he invariably does when I make this soup.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh, and there’s a little dance that goes along with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sure he will be thrilled I am telling you that.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Unless you frequent authentic Mexican restaurants, where this soup is typically only made on weekends, you may not have heard of Posole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Posole in Mexico is what we call hominy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a white corn, with distinctive, yet somehow mild flavor and texture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The recipe, along with a lot of raunchy phrases in Spanish, were taught to me by the women I worked with in a manufacturing plant 25 years ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have made it (and swore in Spanish, come to think of it) at least once per year ever since.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s nothing like coming home to an Army-sized vat of this soup on a cold day, which is why Nick tends to break into a little song and dance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I am going to publish here, for the first time, a vegetarian version – which could easily become vegan with one small change.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The original variety is very meaty, caloric and expensive to make if you do not stock multiple varieties of dried peppers in your cabinet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope you find my updated, ultra-healthy version something you make throughout winter to warm you up.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">What you’ll need:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-Large stockpot<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-Blender<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-2 to 3 Chicken bouillon- try Knorr brand soft cubes (or vegetable broth for vegan)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-A good 2 lbs. of tomatillos (green tomatoes).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Husks removed and rinsed, left whole.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-A few regular tomatoes, any variety, cut in half (this is a great thing to do with overripe ones)<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-One large or two small onions, peeled and cut into quarters<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-Crushed red pepper, black pepper, minced garlic, ground cumin….all at your discretion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d say about a teaspoon of each.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-2 to 3 <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>15.5 oz cans of Hominy, drained. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bush’s is fine, or there are some Mexican brands (I can’t tell the difference)<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">What to do:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the stockpot, place all tomatoes, onions, bouillon and spices and cover with cold water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bring to boil and let simmer until tomatillos “explode”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They will get soft and seeds will spill out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let cool slightly.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Ladle the pot contents into blender.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It may take more than one fill up to blend it all, and it’s okay to leave the bulk of the water in the pot, as you are only trying to blend the tomatoes and onion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pulverize it and put back in stockpot.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Bring it back to a boil and pour in the hominy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stir well and it’s done!<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Now, heres the fun part. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When serving the truly Mexican version, provide one or preferably ALL of the following fresh “condiments” to go on top of the hot soup.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s like a salad on your soup.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-squeeze of lime (this one is pretty much mandatory)<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-Tabasco or other favorite hot sauce for the inevitable person who wants it hotter.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-sliced avocado<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-sliced radishes<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-finely shredded green or purple cabbage<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-finely chopped onion<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-cilantro<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-Chihuahua cheese<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">-corn tortillas for dipping<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Try serving this at one of your football gatherings this winter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a real crowd pleaser, and you’ll get points for thinking outside the “chili” box!<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Xoxo<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">jean<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-62285027232055693832013-10-07T14:44:00.002-07:002013-10-07T14:44:36.195-07:0010 Things I Know For Certain - Jeanslist<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A number of popular magazines have a section called “Things I Know For Sure”, or something similar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many times, I skip to this section – regardless of whose list it is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am fascinated by a summation of what life has taught any individual.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is why I don’t feel it overly self-indulgent to create and publish my list for you (Although, let’s be honest. The very act of blogging is a pretty self-indulgent practice).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many of you I have never, and will never, meet in person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why would you care what I have to say about the meaning of life?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t necessarily, but it is my hope that it will inspire you to create your own list. <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So please read the following, knowing that they are NOT presented as some sort of empirical truths, but rather “The World According to Jean”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For me, this list is fluid and should change as new things come to light.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And since I believe the meaning of life is whatever the individual assigns to it, this sort of exercise is pretty important to me.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In a world where we are always faced with the unknown, and bombarded by just how little we do know, I find it strangely comforting to tie a string to my own kite of wisdom and watch it fly!<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In no particular order……<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being overly concerned with how others perceive you is narcissistic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Claiming to not give any sort of shit about the perceptions of others is anti-social.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is yet another thing we must balance.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you are doing them right, sex and friendship will get more satisfying with age.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you plan to live past 50, no suntan will ever be worth the ravages it leaves behind.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">One’s children are the only vulnerability that cannot be overridden.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Doing a constant post-mortem exam of your past is an excuse to not listen to the answers that are in the present.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">6.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Anything that science and psychology has not yet explained, has simply not been explained yet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For me, there is no comfort in anything mystical.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">7.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Love does not conquer all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, it is often quite impractical.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">8.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Even “honesty” is subjective.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">9.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The greatest virtue is kindness. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">10.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The greatest travesty is mismanagement of resources. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve never met a person who did not in some way waste what was available to them, myself included. <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So there it is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It took me a surprisingly short time come up with these -and I could likely write 20 more fairly easily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was not an emotionless endeavor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of these were learned with great pain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Still, looking at them all in a row is the adult equivalent of turning on the closet light to scare off the Boogeyman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Your challenge, should you choose to accept it, is to come up with a black and white list of your own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One day, when you feel particularly adrift, it might just be your anchor.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I bid you peace.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">xo<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">jean<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-4080280510730678002013-09-25T16:17:00.001-07:002013-09-25T16:17:32.397-07:00Parent/Teacher Conferences - Thanks, But No Thanks<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We just received notice by mail that Parent/Teacher Conferences will take place this month at our tenth grade daughter’s school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At our high school, the scheduling, or rather “requesting” of a conference time is a multi-step process involving logging onto to the school website, using a password, asking for your most convenient time and then awaiting their response – at which point a computer randomly selects the times anyway.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I unapologetically admit to you that I have not been to one of these formal conferences, for either child, in years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To some this may be unthinkable, so allow me to explain my position.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have been impressed over the years with our schools – and especially our high school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We attend the Open House Curriculum night and of course, registration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The teachers and other officials are always “on the ball”, things are organized and inspire confidence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve just never felt the need for the contrived “check in” of conferences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sure, my girls have had personality conflicts, good and not so good times academically, and a few pink slips over the years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How do I know?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because we talk about it, the school sends copious written and email communications, I read their reports and have never hesitated to phone or arrange a talk with a teacher, if necessary. I feel quite strongly that there is nothing you could tell me in an “8 minute maximum” sit down that I do not already know.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Also, from a teacher’s perspective, I have heard that the preparation leading up to conferences is more than one would think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many parents DO require detailed information, and perhaps a pat on the back for raising such a wonderful person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ahem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I submit that those weeks of stressful preparation could be better served by providing extra study help, discussion groups among teachers or hell, throwing a party.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would also support a formal meeting between teacher and student, 8 minutes in duration, to discuss their own strengths and weaknesses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That sounds like great practice for being evaluated in a future work environment.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The first year I skipped, I remember my older daughter worrying a bit about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I asked her to “give me the bullet points” of the semester thus far. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As she did, a few new pieces of information surfaced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We hashed out a plan, on paper, to make her feel more in control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Voila -an exercise in adult problem-solving!<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Look, I am not trying to marginalize teachers - quite to the contrary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their job is hectic enough wrangling young people all day long, checking up on their work, planning lessons and tests and meeting standardized requirements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not to even mention getting into teen angst and the inevitable behavior patterns of that time of life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I said, there must be more constructive uses for the time they would save were it not for this ritual of Conference Time.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My position is clear, and I am comfortable with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I welcome feedback from all sides. Here are some thoughtful questions.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-What, if anything, do you or your student get out of these meetings?<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Do you faithfully attend, no matter how inconvenient?<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Any teachers want to share how they prepare for conferences? <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Do you, as a parent, prepare in any way to meet with the teachers?<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Do you worry about the perception on your family if you do not attend?<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sound off!<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Xoxo<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">jean<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-32440985220081702502013-09-10T18:21:00.001-07:002013-09-10T18:21:47.096-07:00Our Pets, Ourselves - Does Your Dog Bring Out the Best in You?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVr1yiOlp4MeBhjoksZVKQXl-jGvYdZ6Lmfh4PEmVam8vEHEqhjQQZlMbLqXFVnsmtYs944cNCKggPZs1UJ0c6zOmy2Q9KzBzMjqttqmu6ZRtQn_XAbMGIGfQcbM7QcTrZZcqawZ42AxJt/s1600/Arthur+on+couch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_820842="null" height="240" isa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVr1yiOlp4MeBhjoksZVKQXl-jGvYdZ6Lmfh4PEmVam8vEHEqhjQQZlMbLqXFVnsmtYs944cNCKggPZs1UJ0c6zOmy2Q9KzBzMjqttqmu6ZRtQn_XAbMGIGfQcbM7QcTrZZcqawZ42AxJt/s320/Arthur+on+couch.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dogs are everywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Statistically, about 44% of American households have at least one dog – which is higher, in some counts, than have children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As I stare at my own two little Boston Terriers, I begin to wonder exactly what it is that is so rewarding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think it’s safe to say that the added expense, housekeeping, and general responsibility for another living thing should be a deterrent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But clearly, this is not the case.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why do we ignore the impracticalities of pet ownership?<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well, I have said on more than a few January Firsts, that “this year, I want to be the person my dogs think I am”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That pretty much covers the ridiculous excitement that ensues every time I come home – even when I’ve been gone 10 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can be intoxicating to be exalted, just for being you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then there’s the effortless companionship that comes with a day on the sofa watching movies, or spontaneous walk when no one else wants to go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am thankful for these things often.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">But, on closer examination, two less touted reasons for the relationship with our dogs, comes to light.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are our “forever babies”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unlike raising children, we have no expectation of them ever functioning independently in the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They do not need to have other successful relationships, earn a living, or even learn to drive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For us, this takes all of the pressure off of the relationship, and lets the cream rise to the top.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is something like what I imagine has been described to me as the “perfection of being a grandparent”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We require nothing of them but to not bite, and not poop in the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And let’s be honest, we forgive even those things pretty easily.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the case of most dogs, the comedic element cannot be denied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On many occasions, they do things that can only result in a genuine and spontaneous laughter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In our home, this is held in the highest regard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What higher calling can there be than to bring levity and being present in the moment to a household? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dogs achieve this without even knowing it, and we respond with genuine grateful affection -never complaining about following them, in the rain, with a plastic bag.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, next time you come home to your guileless groupie of a companion, be sure to give him or her an extra pat and a kind word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enjoy the unencumbered love with shameless abandon and strive to be the person your dog thinks you are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Xoxo<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Jean<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">PS.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are a few fun and helpful links for dog owners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are vetted (no pun intended) by yours truly, and highly recommended.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pet sitting and walking services.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Call Sharon at 630-915-6912<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></i></b><a href="http://www.4legsandaleash.com/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">www.4legsandaleash.com</span></i></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Fun dog items delivered monthly to your door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></i></b><a href="http://www.barkbox.com/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">www.barkbox.com</span></i></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dog Grooming at Happy Tails.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>9018 31<sup>st</sup> St. Brookfield IL<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>708-485-6976<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-89859083158963991632013-08-26T09:55:00.000-07:002013-08-26T09:55:40.861-07:00Musings on Emily Dickinson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4ZxBmobrGN3MDyoAWJwt6GkKF19P1VDPyDoPOEBRhTD3juP1-6L4CPl41Yv-sRFbSOI3jHIebkxI2mCXqcyWXMuBZ3wDmo2wEQ0I9-NaDpvntsCjyxJT-3fhKdJ6Gf2lXknHQrtJMlfG/s1600/Take-Your-Poet-to-Work-Emily-Dickinson-cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" osa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4ZxBmobrGN3MDyoAWJwt6GkKF19P1VDPyDoPOEBRhTD3juP1-6L4CPl41Yv-sRFbSOI3jHIebkxI2mCXqcyWXMuBZ3wDmo2wEQ0I9-NaDpvntsCjyxJT-3fhKdJ6Gf2lXknHQrtJMlfG/s320/Take-Your-Poet-to-Work-Emily-Dickinson-cover.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Every year, in late August, I am struck by the changes in light.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The shorter days and new angles of sun spur the leaves to change, and it happens whether or not temperatures drop, or school has started.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So that is why, during the hottest week of summer 2013, it’s time to dream of autumn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From the chill of air conditioning, out any window, I no longer see summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gold is creeping in, and squirrels we have not noticed for months are in the yard, doing their squirrel work.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Emily Dickinson wrote a poem called, “The Name of It is “Autumn”, which is one of my favorites.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Emily was born to a prominent family in Amherst, Massachusetts, lived a remarkably sequestered life, and died in 1886 at the age of 56.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Taken at face value, this work is a beautiful depiction of fall landscape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, given that it was written in 1862, it is clear that the dark reality of the Civil War did not escape her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She read the daily newspaper from the safety of her family home in the Northeast, and came up with this Haiku-esque beauty.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The name – of it- is “Autumn” -<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The hue – of it – is Blood –<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">An artery – upon the Hill –<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A vein – along the Road –<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Great Globules – in the Alleys –<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And Oh, the Shower of Stain –<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When Winds, upset the Basin –<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And spill the Scarlet Rain –<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It sprinkles Bonnets - far below –<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It gathers ruddy Pools –<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Then – Eddies like a rose – Away<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Upon Vermillion Wheels –<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now, since Emily never married, and by all accounts scarcely left her parent’s home or even her own room, I leave you with the following poem to ponder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She did not tend to title her work, just assign it a number.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This one is 506.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I find fascinating the fact that such a proper and reclusive lady had a rich, inner life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But in this case, it sure sounds like somebody was getting some action…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just sayin’.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">He touched me, so I live to know<br />That such a day, permitted so<br />I groped upon his breast<br />It was a boundless place to me<br />And silenced, as the awful sea<br />Puts minor streams to rest<br /><br />And now, I'm different from before<br />As if I breathed superior air<br />Or brushed a Royal Gown<br />My feet, too, that had wandered so<br />My Gypsy face—transfigured now<br />To tenderer Renown<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Into this Port, if I might come<br />Rebecca, to Jerusalem<br />Would not so ravished turn<br />Nor Persian, baffled at her shrine<br />Lift such a Crucifixial sign<br />To her imperial Sun<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well, how about that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The last stanza is a bit convoluted - but the first two?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come on!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My habit of irreverence aside, today I invite you to take a few minutes and ponder this woman’s rich inner life and written legacy, coming to you from a far away Autumn.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">xoxo<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">jean<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-90290446365796894752013-08-19T13:00:00.001-07:002013-08-19T13:32:39.624-07:00Gratuities - Think Before You Thank<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;">
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Most of us don’t spend a lot of time thinking about the custom of tipping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It seems like standard procedure to do so, when receiving a service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These days, with “tip” jars on every coffee shop counter, and services like Massage Therapy gaining in popularity, it bears review.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The practice of leaving a gratuity for service seems to have begun in 16<sup>th</sup> century England.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Houseguests would leave something for the “help”, since they had extra duties while they visited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a way to compensate underpaid workers, and this is why it can be considered faux pas to tip the owner of a business.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The general custom of tipping did not begin in the US until after the Civil War, when travel abroad exposed us to that culture, and we brought it back.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Since it’s opening in September 2008, Mindful Massage has had a zero gratuities policy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a little sign in my studio that reflects this fact, and I am very comfortable with the decision.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Regular clients have grown accustomed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do, however, get asked about it quite frequently – even by colleagues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are my top reasons, and darned good ones if I do say so myself.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As the business owner, as mentioned above, gratuities should not be accepted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many people still tip their hair stylists, even if they own the salon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Salons have much higher overhead than I do, and different atmosphere, so a case could be made.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Massage Therapists working within a salon/spa setting depend on tips, since they only make a fraction of the fee charged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I see Massage Therapy as a necessity of good health for many.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I have said, “you do not tip your physical therapist, personal trainer or dental hygienist, do you?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a way that I bring the healthcare element to my industry.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As a Massage Therapy client myself, I know that I spend the last minutes of the massage at a new place wondering how much I should leave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The very idea that anyone on my table would spend one second calculating a tip is cringe-worthy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add to this the fact that many clients know each other and may wonder how they compare as a “tipper”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ugh!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I intensely dislike the implication of a bigger tip yielding better future service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When you buy a massage as a gift, wouldn’t it be nice not to require the recipient to pay for gratuity out of pocket?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">6.</span><span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s simply a better value and easier to budget monthly when the price is just the price.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">What I hope to accomplish with all of this is to spur more thought on this gratuity thing, which should be commensurate with quality of service. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is meant as a “thank you”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all work hard for our money, and it should not be a perfunctory duty to leave extra every time you turn around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reward the good ones generously, but do not feel compelled to give 20% extra for passionless work!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And next time you see “tip jar” on the cashier’s counter, put a scrap of paper in that says “don’t smoke in bed”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I dare you.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">jean<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-52409561468853232452013-08-05T14:45:00.001-07:002019-12-14T07:10:53.526-08:00Cauliflower - It's What's For Dinner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you had told 12 year old me I'd be craving what is in this photo, I would have laughed my roller skates clean off! But that is just what happened today, and nothing else would do. Nothing fancy or complicated, for sure. But it is my own made up combo, and I thought you might like to try it.<br />
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1 head fresh cauliflower, cut into size you like.<br />
1 lb. fresh brussels sprouts, outer leaves removed and cut in quarters if large ones, half for smaller ones.<br />
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Place prepared veggies on a single baking sheet. Today I used about 1/4 cup of avocado oil, but olive oil is great too. Pour it right on there, shimmy the baking sheet to distribute and add sea salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper and CURRY. Omg curry is the magic ingredient. The house smells divine!<br />
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Roast in preheated 400 degree oven for a good 15 - 20 mts. Serve on top of whole wheat pasta, which gives it protein, for a complete meal! Oh, sometimes I add a bit of feta or parmesan cheese if I'm feeling crazy like that. <br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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jeanJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-38028971213394672702013-07-28T14:23:00.001-07:002013-07-28T14:23:15.804-07:00More Massage Therapy FAQs- Lotion and TalkingVery recently, I've had some new questions asked by the-person-on-the-table-who-shall-always-remain-nameless. I really enjoy it when clients ask direct questions about their treatment, and relish the opportunity to demystify any aspect of massage therapy. Of course, my answers are from my perspective and experience, but I hope they are helpful.<br />
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Also, you do not have to be a client to have your Q answered here. Feel free to email me at <a href="mailto:swashblogger@gmail.com">swashblogger@gmail.com</a> with anything you'd like to say - massage therapy, or otherwise. Your idea may appear here anonymously (or with full credit, if you prefer!)<br />
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Q: What type of lotion do you use for my treatment? What's in it?<br />
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A: Some people think in terms of actual ingredients (and rightfully so). I've heard the statement "don't put anything on your skin that you would not eat". It's a great concept, as skin is a breathable organ, but perhaps a bit of an overstatement. For example. Would you drink the pool or lake water you swim in? Do you use Neosporin on your morning toast?<br />
It makes sense to minimize the number of ingredients in the lotion we use, but most of what is on the mainstream market is generally considered very safe. I have gone almost exclusively with professional products like Biotone and Lotus touch, which are widely used in the industry.<br />
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My largest concern when choosing a product is whether it is fragrance and petroleum free and the correct viscosity for the particular type of massage. Thinner lotions are more conducive to Swedish-style work, while thicker lotions tend to absorb more slowly and are better for deep tissue. Those of you that have been on my table know I use a minimal amount of lotion for most treatments. Lifting the tissue and sports work calls for little or no emollient.<br />
Also, I personally do not like the feel of oil, no matter how fine, on my skin. This is one exception to the "don't put your preferences on your client" rule. If I am creeped out by the feel, how can I be effective?<br />
I do use a tiny drop of aromatherapy oil here and there, mixed into the other product, however.<br />
Finally, I always invite you to bring your own product(s) if you have sensitive skin or a strong preference. <br />
I will roll with it!<br />
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Q: Does it bother you (the therapist), when I talk during my massage? <br />
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A: It probably does not come as a surprise that I LOVE to talk, and I am NEVER bored by the chats I have with clients. I also recognize that talking can be part of the relaxation process - it was for me when I first started receiving massage. It's a safe place to hash out your day, discuss your recent vacation, upcoming event or even an annoying store clerk. I really do consider it an honor to provide an atmosphere of privacy that allows this to flow.<br />
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Now. Here is the other side of that coin. There are times when (usually a first-time client) feels the need to "entertain" me while I work. This is very common, and I pride myself on putting people at ease. So, usually by the second or third treatment the topics change, and they are able to relax more quickly. <br />
Also, when receiving work to the front of the neck, face, or scalp, it is HIGHLY recommended that the client not only be silent, but also meditate on letting go of each area touched. Even 10 minutes of this will be day-altering! <br />
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Lastly, it is absolutely more than fine to say at the beginning of treatment that you really desire quiet. I am usually pretty in tune to when to stop engaging a client in talk - you know, the moment when your brain goes numb and begin to trail off. But, you will not hurt my feelings by requesting an hour of complete silence at the outset. I even keep music to a very background level so that it can be tuned out completely when your brain is relaxing. <br />
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Bottom line: It is YOUR time. One of my favorite aspects of my job is leaving myself at the door and being present for another person. Do what feels right to you in regards to communicating. Sometimes you may know what you need on a given day, other times you can let it happen organically. Just be sure to make it about what YOU need in the moment. Massage should be a different experience each time you receive.<br />
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We fight gravity all day every day, massage is your opportunity to let it win for an hour. Have fun with it!<br />
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jean</div>
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Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-75753295247463974032013-07-20T20:08:00.003-07:002013-07-20T20:08:43.411-07:00In Praise of Western Medicine<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Man, I love to play devil’s advocate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the subject of traditional v holistic approaches to wellness, I have a fairly good view from both sides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My mother was an old school Registered Nurse, before and up until the shift in the healthcare system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For those of you who are not old enough to remember, let’s call it “the time before open heart surgery was practically an outpatient procedure.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Common in our house growing up were graphic hospital work tales of motorcycle wipe outs, accidental needle sticks, and various and sundry unchecked venereal cases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somehow, out of this, I grew to have a deep respect for medical doctors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Along with this appreciation, we were taught that our health was, ultimately our responsibility.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A doctor is one person, who largely uses the information you provide to help you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He or she does not have a crystal ball, and it is your job to help them connect the dots when you are sick, and express concerns you have about staying well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example, you’d be surprised the number of women who cannot tell the obgyn when was the start of their last period.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>C’mon ladies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ask yourself this:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What if next time I went to the doc, I whipped out a well kept log of (insert symptoms here), including times, possible triggers, what I did to calm it, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you think maybe the doc would respond in kind and be grateful for an informed and motivated patient?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am a practitioner of what is largely regarded as a holistic practice, Massage Therapy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Though I would argue that it can be very clinical, it meets the holistic requirement of facilitating the body’s natural inclination to seek homeostasis, or “perfect” balance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Obviously, I am a huge believer in massage and its power.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, I am respectful of the boundaries of “natural” practices, up to and including acupuncture, hypnosis, homeopathy, yoga, chiropractic, reflexology and a whole host of others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just as these have limits, so too does traditional medicine - and<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t ever want to be without either side!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My point is this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All practitioners are just human beings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doctors do not live inside your body, feel what you feel, and they cannot be expected to hatch a proper course of treatment without your help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hear a lot of anti medical community banter, and I don’t agree with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I assure you that doctors are not lying awake at night trying to figure out how to poison you with pills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if you have a condition that can be controlled ONLY with holistic practices, that is wonderful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is my greatest wish for all of us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">But should you ever need something a bit stronger, please give your MD a little something to go on.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">xo</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">jean</span></div>
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Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-55681702760064518412013-07-16T11:02:00.001-07:002013-07-16T11:02:37.792-07:00Babies Juggling Chainsaws - A Story of Craigslist Faith<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>This is a true story of a situation that could have gone very wrong, but didn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I choose to view it as a testament to old fashioned trust, meeting up with a great work ethic.</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>This spring I had finally had enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The yard had been steadily getting worse over the last 3 – 5 years, as we were doing only the bare minimum to keep up with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had to admit defeat over the overgrowth of bushes, trees, weeds and uncharted, plant-able areas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I say “we”, because my husband lives here too, but would rather hang by his toenails than spend weekends carrying out landscape projects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whatever happened to kids (my own, the neighbors’) who would do odd jobs for cash?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>On a whim, I opened up my local Craigslist page and searched “landscapers”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of the first to pop up was clearly put up by an individual and not a big company.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The ad said they served ours and the towns surrounding us, and contained a number I spontaneously dialed.</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>After an initial overview, we settled on a date for him to come out and look at the job.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He showed up promptly, in a new pickup truck with a small wood chipper unit in back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was struck by how young he looked, but he listened intently and was professional.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We settled on a date to start the work.</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>On that date he showed up ready to work and brought his younger brother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Adorable, brace-faced kid I figured for maybe 15.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What followed was the most anxiety-inducing afternoon of my life</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Watching two kids, on a ladder, with a chain saw hacking and trimming and using a wood chipper was agony.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean, it literally felt like I’d hired babies to juggle chainsaws on our property!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I gave the younger one some work gloves, and sheepishly asked if they had safety goggles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also distantly wondered if their mother knew where they were.</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>They worked like troopers until nearly dark and did an amazing job.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In one day, the yard was taking shape!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will not tell you what they charged, but I will tell you I paid about a third extra and told them they are under-valuing their work.</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>I found myself inviting them back for more yard projects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instinctively, I knew I’d found a gem.</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>The second visit, he brought his sister.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A beautiful young girl who pulled every weed, no matter how small.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I couldn’t resist asking “how old are you and your brother?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She replied that she’s 18 and he is 26.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Twenty six!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A grown man, who I had taken for maybe 19.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sadly, everyone looks like a teenager to me these days.</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>They have been back to our yard 4 times, and scheduled for a 5<sup>th</sup>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Last time, an older brother came, too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He worked until dusk with the other guys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That time, as I brought them sandwiches, I couldn’t resist asking “how many of you are there?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To which he replied, “twelve”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d like to shake the hand of those parents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>How many of us, usually myself included, would be too afraid to take such a leap of faith?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean, they could have been anyone, and up to anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But in this instance, not over-thinking it yielded one of the best contractor experiences I’ve had as a homeowner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, it feels good to give money to such industrious, professional and pleasant “children”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>So, for me the moral of the story is that sometimes, “cover your ass” mentality keeps you from the very best things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Try a little more trust – in your own judgment, as well as the decency of others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Helen Keller said “Avoiding danger, in the long run, is no safer than outright exposure”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Wonder if she ever used a chain saw.</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>jean</em></span></div>
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Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-59674677069920479732013-07-12T08:02:00.000-07:002013-07-12T08:02:41.755-07:00Your Lymphatic System and You. Yes You.<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Of course I love muscles. They are the “meat” of my business so to speak.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But today I woke up thinking about the lymph system (I know, it’s a problem).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We spend a significant amount of time studying it in school, only to not speak much about it in practice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stimulation and draining of the lymph system is believed to be one of the biggest benefits of regular massage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A good deal of the relief you feel after a massage is due to even incidental movement of lymph fluid back into the “hopper” as I call it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unlike blood, lymph does not have an automatic pump to move it through the body to be cleansed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It requires muscle contraction to force it along.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Think of the analogy of a self-winding watch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leave it on the dresser and things stop moving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now, the job gets done primarily by living our daily lives, walking around, exercise programs etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Massage can give a serious boost to the process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is even a specialty in massage called MLD (Manual Lymphatic Drainage) that is gaining popularity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It requires lot of additional training and in future I believe will be used widely as a pre and post operative treatment, particularly for oncology patients.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So what IS lymph fluid?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a clear, watery fluid containing protein molecules, salt, glucose and urea and works sort of like a soldier – collecting the used components from around the body and returning them for cleansing and responding to invaders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You do not lose or gain significant lymphatic fluid (we each move about 3 liters per day), it just keeps wagon training through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can see how the filtering of it through the lymph nodes, spleen and liver are vital.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s the ultimate recycling process!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">What does this mean to your life?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you were inclined, you could get much more detailed information about these things by searching Google.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What I am hoping to impart is a wider appreciation for the water consumption, movement throughout the day (ahem, office workers), and regular massage that we Massage Therapists are always preaching.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the way, you can ask your therapist to give priority to lymph fluid movement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is a completely valid request and the firm, consistent pressure feels great.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Consider this type of massage before and after a long trip, or even a long week behind your desk. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will feel better and give your immune system a boost!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thank you for giving 5 minutes today for this unsung hero, Your Lymphatic System.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Please enjoy your day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Xo</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">jean</span></div>
Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-22021507051447918842013-07-10T15:20:00.000-07:002014-08-15T07:14:19.462-07:00The Irish Have Oatmeal - A Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1OjSz2T-IQKV7GICyLQDeFnaWhIggWznUb7PMR-NSvp7Bgs4CUofdXCI4p8UcSvkYW1FldSqholtrdjgG4xCdk7ng3_O-oALNWbfRutUNMLcfKTin_qwWu-l0_hhy5vyzdiLGdqQFcIKT/s1600/mccanns+irish+oatmeal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1OjSz2T-IQKV7GICyLQDeFnaWhIggWznUb7PMR-NSvp7Bgs4CUofdXCI4p8UcSvkYW1FldSqholtrdjgG4xCdk7ng3_O-oALNWbfRutUNMLcfKTin_qwWu-l0_hhy5vyzdiLGdqQFcIKT/s320/mccanns+irish+oatmeal.jpg" height="320" nya="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">McCann’s Irish STEEL CUT Oatmeal is so under appreciated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The texture is a bit different than traditional “Quaker” type oats, but I actually prefer it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is less processed and has more nutrients and fiber naturally than quick cook oats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think it’s used less often because there is a 30 minute cook time. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But made this way, you’ll have breakfast for a whole week prepared in your fridge and ready to go.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Use recipe on container of McCann’s Irish STEEL CUT Oatmeal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Up the recipe to make SIX servings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Package says 30 minutes cook time, you can lessen that just a little bit to keep more of the grainy, chewy texture (I love that!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, lessening the amount of water used in recipe just a tiny bit will ensure that it will get nice and solid in the fridge and be easy to cut into portions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Once it has cooled a bit, pick one or more of the following to stir in (or come up with your own twist)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Raisins or dried fruit of any kind</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Cinnamon or nutmeg</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Nuts of any kind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like walnuts, pecans or sunflower seeds best</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Sugar or Stevia</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Dark chocolate bits or even cocoa powder</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Fold your choices into the oats and pour it all into a (preferably) glass baking dish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Put into fridge overnight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the morning, cut into six slices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each one is a meal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can eat it cold or better yet, put a bit of milk or cream on top and heat in microwave for one minute.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As prepared (without the goodies you may have added), one serving has 150 calories, is loaded with both soluble AND insoluble fiber, low sodium, zero cholesterol, and has just a half gram of saturated fat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ah, those Irish : )</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">jean</span></div>
Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-12167762109322645592013-07-08T14:20:00.002-07:002013-07-08T14:20:48.393-07:00Proper Hygiene for Insomniac Zombies<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Since I was a kid, people have been saying “Hi Jean”, and then chuckling when they realize it sounds like “hygiene”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So let’s get that little joke out of the way first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Tapping foot…<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Okay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not actually talking today about cleanliness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of us have that down pretty well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But the (I think underused) term Sleep Hygiene is an important topic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With the ever changing and growing stresses we all face, proper sleep of 7 to 9 hours in each 24 hour period can seem elusive and luxurious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve also sensed an undercurrent of status among people who almost brag about being tired, but too busy to rest. I gotta say, this is a pet peeve of mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Time to make it uncool to zombie your way through the day.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Some of you are now saying, “What does she know?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to sleep, but can’t!” We’ve all been there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This piece is not about the truisms of being sleep- deprived.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To those excuses I say - all the better reason to make sleep a priority!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Here are just a few examples, for clarity.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Just had a baby, work stress, spouse snores, going through menopause, can’t fall/stay asleep (no particular reason), too much to do, caretaking a loved one, financial woes, only have late night time to myself, shift worker, side effect of medication..</span></i></b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">…<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">did I miss any?</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">So now I am on a soapbox and, as such, better come up with something that is not in your basic Google/Bing search result.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am not a doctor or researcher, most of this information IS anecdotal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But a lifetime of considering sleep sacred may have yielded something you can use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">-If you’ve ever put a child to bed, you know that a routine leading up to bed time is invaluable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Consider what you do the two hours before sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whatever you decide is appropriate, keep to it as much as possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your body will grow to think of these things as “sleep triggers”, just like a child.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Note:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hot shower or bath is great.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, our bodies require a drop in temp to become drowsy and fall asleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do all hot stuff a good two hours before bed.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">-Your bedroom is for sleep and intimacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make it dark, cool, quiet and uncluttered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even a small amount of light can cause you to wake for seemingly “no reason”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you have a computer in there?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Charging your phone, with a glowing cord?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>TV….really?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve even put a piece of tape over the fan I run in the bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has a little yellow light on top.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh, that reminds me, a fan or other form of “white noise” is a must to drown out little noises.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">-This is a very personal point, but during difficult sleeping periods, it may be helpful to have a retreat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If possible, have a separate space to go to for rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your significant other will understand!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being able to turn on a light, read and move about freely will at very least make time awake more comfortable for you both.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s okay to leave the wrapped-up-in-the-sheets scenes for the movie screen sometimes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No, really, it is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">-As Homer Simpson once said, “Alcohol -the cause of, and solution to ALL of life’s problems.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A drink or two may help you fall asleep, but even if you haven’t made the connection, is a common cause of middle-of-the-night wakefulness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is primarily due to a drop in blood sugar from the pure sugars of booze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you do wake from this, a sensible snack can make you drowsy again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Try a small bit of cereal with milk, toast with butter etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, eating a pure protein with dinner can help regulate the blood sugar overnight.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">- Keep realistic goals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even 20 extra minutes per night can make a big difference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We need less sleep as we age, too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve noticed that some nights, 5 hours is plenty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other times I get 8 and feel pooped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who is to say what our body’s rhythm is?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">-Finally, if you have a bought of truly unexplained insomnia, be the willow and not the oak.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Consider it an opportunity to enjoy some quiet time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Experts recommend if you are awake for more than 20 minutes, you should sit up and do something else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lie down again only when you feel drowsy.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Hope you found something here that is helpful.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Please make sleep a priority.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Crabby is never a good look.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">jean<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605164782615854087.post-61913726854680018732013-07-07T17:26:00.003-07:002013-07-07T17:26:55.078-07:00Another 2 Ingredient Recipe What What?? Avocado n Egg Bake<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>I overheard this one on the train. No joke. Since two of my favorite things in the universe are eggs and avocados (and foolishly, I never thought to put them together), this may be a regular at our house.</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>It occurs to me that they would look fantastic on a brunch buffet, but are easy enough to make for an everyday meal. </strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Cut the avocado in two (a less ripe, more firm one works best)</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Remove pit, and perhaps two tablespoons of the flesh (eat it while no one is looking)</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Place the halves in a baking dish, preferably so they fit snug and don't rock.</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Crack an egg into each one. Use a fork to semi mix it/break up the yolk a bit as it will cook more evenly.</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Place in 425 oven for 15 - 20 minutes or until cooked to your satisfaction (I like everything WELL done) </strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Serve immediately with salt, pepper, salsa, hot sauce, cheeses...whatever appeals!</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Wow. Loaded with fiber, protein, and good fats!</strong></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP2XIGLSLadRXRc1MWQ_ExEgYDsOPfjoywidGT5ykTTcX7uisjkXBd-E0NNS9bpzKBFNygM1qtEoiL05cRSNi07dUxFnD5vnSAwm3EJzs_4cKJGsWsjd0-61gY-wkh56J79MN5PqXHB-Uo/s1600/Baked-Eggs-in-Avocados.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" oya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP2XIGLSLadRXRc1MWQ_ExEgYDsOPfjoywidGT5ykTTcX7uisjkXBd-E0NNS9bpzKBFNygM1qtEoiL05cRSNi07dUxFnD5vnSAwm3EJzs_4cKJGsWsjd0-61gY-wkh56J79MN5PqXHB-Uo/s320/Baked-Eggs-in-Avocados.jpg" width="262" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>You're welcome.</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>xoxo</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>jean</em></strong></span></div>
Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03259164043200788660noreply@blogger.com0