Cathys 23 Things Plus Stuff

Today's Thoughts

2011-07-04T09:16:00.002-05:00

It has been a long time since last post - again. We are settled is Silver Lake. It has been fun making this house our home. One of my favorite spots is the screened in back porch. Chloe will wander around out there but Lucy would rather be in the house.

Today's Thoughts

2011-05-19T22:32:00.001-05:00

Changed the theme again - this time in keeping with the 2011 Summer Reading theme - One World, Many Stories. Mine is just one story among millions and millions.

My new story is another move. Moving to Silver Lake this month. Will be so glad to be living where I work.

Bought a Nook Color - that is fun - I am enjoying reading ebooks. Not reading a very good one but fun to read anyway. Listening to a Spencer book - love the reader.

Also re-reading Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool. Kansas author, Kansas setting, Newberry Medal winner.

Good historical fiction for kids and grownups alike. Good book to be reading this year - Kansas 150.

I need to keep up my Shelfari book shelves. I've read more than I have posted.

Today's Thoughts - Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T10:40:00.001-05:00

Lucy with Easter finery.

Chloe not too sure about her fancy collar.

Today's Thoughts

2011-04-23T11:47:00.000-05:00

This is the coldest 54 degree temperature I have experienced! Probably because I would really like to be experiencing 65-70 degrees with sunshine. Cloudy day so far. But a good day - have new haircut, manicure and pedicure. So nice to be pampered.
Hoping for warmer weather for our little road trip this afternoon. Going to St. Marys to look around and eat lunch.

Today's Thoughts

2011-04-14T00:20:00.001-05:00

Things are greening up! and dandelions are blooming.
This is National Library Week.

Today's Thoughts

2011-03-20T13:24:00.000-05:00

Spring is here! Sunshine and wind - that is Springtime in the state of Kansas. Warm temps today.
I think I will go find some pansies to plant in a pot. They will make it if the temp dips back to winter-like weather again.

Changed the design - as long as I am looking at the top half with the hummingbirds it is ok. Otherwise a bit too orange-y.

Put out the Easter decorations - not much. Guess I should invest in a few more bunnies. or maybe not - just have to store them later.

Today's Thoughts

2011-03-02T20:21:00.000-06:00

We trekked to Ark City today to visit with Gregory. He joined the Air Force and is getting ready to leave for basic training. Seems not too long ago we were sending his dad off for basic training - where did the time go?

Chloe and Lucy went to the groomer on Tuesday. Lucy's little bow didn't last long. I think she was embarrassed about it.
Chloe's bandanna has disappeared too.

Today's Thoughts

2011-02-15T07:27:00.000-06:00

Looking forward to Thursday evening at the Library. Meeting to see if any interest in a book discussion group. One of my favorite things that a library can offer. And Thursday is supposed to be a very nice warm day!

Today's Thoughts

2011-01-31T10:27:00.000-06:00

I am really sorry that the weather conditions are such that I felt the need to close the library again. However important I believe that library service is to the community it is not actually an essential service. I hope folks to do have books and movies to keep them company for a couple of days. I would be lost without books - but I always make sure I have more on hand than I can possibly read - just for such emergencies!

I am re-reading the Mary Russell series by Laurie R King. She has a new one coming out later this year and I wanted to refresh my memory. I actually purchased the series. This is one I will read over and over - I like it that much.

There are a few movies I feel that way about - Benny and Joon is one; Shawshank Redemption is another.

Today's Thoughts

2011-01-29T22:24:00.000-06:00

It was fun watching the kids find the state symbols and follow the animal tracks in the library this morning. They had a good time. And they enjoyed the refreshment table! As they should have - the cookies were especially good.

Today's Thoughts

2011-01-27T07:36:00.005-06:00

Getting ready to celebrate Kansas Day - Kansas 150th birthday on January 29. I added a link to my Book Stuff section - 150 "Best" Kansas Books. This a good way to celebrate - print the list, take to your local library - see how many you can find! Start reading - see how many you can read in 2011.

You can follow the State Library of Kansas blog to learn more about the celebration of Kansas' 150 years as a state.

Today's Thoughts

2011-01-20T08:13:00.000-06:00

Another snow day. Snowy Day. White out. It was another pretty snow - not much wind so it fell softly, making a nice white blanket. Snow blowers and snow plows have now disturbed the beauty of it but probably made it more user-friendly. I don't have to get out today but some folks do and it should be made as safe as possible for travel.

Today's Thoughts

2011-01-11T08:24:00.002-06:00

The little weather app on our computer says it is 7 and sunny. Do you think it makes a difference if it is sunny if it is only 7? Just wondering.

Today's Thoughts

2011-01-10T08:10:00.001-06:00

Winter arrived. Lots of snow. Pretty snow. Dry & powdery so not good for snowman-making. Right now as I look out the window, the flakes are huge & thick.

This photo is looking from our front porch to the northwest.

This one is looking across the street from our apartment.

Today's Thoughts

2011-01-04T07:13:00.000-06:00

If I check out my Shelfari shelf, it looks as if I have not been reading lately. I haven't been reading much. But I have been reading. Just not posting info on Shelfari. Maybe that should be a New Year's resolution. So here goes . . .

Today's Thoughts

2011-01-01T11:00:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year! 2011! Gee - where have the last 10 years gone? Were we not worried about Y2K just the other day?

Today's Thoughts

2010-12-24T09:37:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas! Decided to change the look to fit the season! We had a few snow flakes a few minutes ago but nothing now. I am grateful that conditions are not icy. I need to do a few last minute errands. And why is that? Because I always put off some things until the last minute.

It has been nice just puttering around this morning. Will soon get busy. Our new apartment is a comfortable home. This was a good choice.

The new job is good. That was a good choice too. Two for three - I won't mention the not-so-good choice!

I spoke - wrote - too soon. Large, wet snowflakes now. Not supposed to last long though. Looks pretty right now.

2010-12-19T10:12:00.000-06:00

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

Today's Thoughts

2010-11-25T07:11:00.000-06:00

. . . are of thankfulness - for all good things - family and friends [including all pets!], healthy mind and body [for the most part!], rewarding work, promising future.

Today's Thoughts

2010-11-23T07:15:00.000-06:00

We found two places that are pet friendly. Going today to make decision. That is a relief - to know that we have options. Not the best ones - nothing in Silver Lake. But the two Topeka options will be ok - easy to get to Silver Lake.

So by Christmas we should be settled into a new place, making a new home. Sometimes I envy people who say they are living in the same house that they grew up in. On the other hand, I wouldn't trade my experiences - good, bad, indifferent - for others. It is all about choices. Some choices have been better than others. But we were free to make the choice and for that I am grateful. That is about as much Thanksgiving as I am going to be this year. Will spend the day packing. Listening to Jerry fuss about what we have to pack, trying to keep my mouth shut, knowing that he just wants to wind me up!

Today's Thoughts

2010-11-21T08:20:00.000-06:00

It seems as if I can't leave well enough alone. Guess I like change. Now another big change. Moving again. Would like to move to Silver Lake but that doesn't seem to be working out so probably Topeka. That is not far from Silver Lake.

And what is in Silver Lake you might ask. A very nice library. Where I plan to work as of December 1. I will be the first full-time library director. I am looking forward to working with the dedicated staff and getting to know the fine community. "Good people live in Silver Lake." More than one person said that to me when I mentioned that I would be working there. But we can't find housing - because we have pets. So must find pet-friendly place somewhere not too far away and in a neighborhood that is comfortable for Jer & dogs to spend their days.

Today's Thoughts

2010-11-11T21:11:00.000-06:00

Today was dreary looking but felt good to me. Cooler, some rain. Leaves will be falling now. Our little tree has now turned red - really pretty. Jerry said when he was walking in the cemetery yesterday, the sun was shining on the trees - some are really tall - and they were glowing. Two big trees on the west side of Prairie Street across from the drive are golden orange with green tinge. They really shine in the sunlight. I would like to have a sweater just that color.

Since we have had such a nice fall, I am hoping that good weather hangs around for another couple of months. Really do not want to travel icy roads.

Today's Thoughts

2010-11-06T08:54:00.000-05:00

Life is good. Life is sweet. Life is choices and opportunities and decisions.

"When I consider how my life is spent, I hardly ever repent." Ogden Nash.

Yes - I want to spend my life in ways that do not require regret or apology - or repentance. Reflection is good. Good for the soul. So my choices should feed my soul.

Today's Thoughts

2010-10-30T08:35:00.001-05:00

My friend Susan wrote a beautiful essay on hiking Colorado trails. She used a quote that I really like:

". . .Preference is also given to hikes that will be enjoyable even if the objective isn’t reached.”

The journey is more important than the destination. Yes, I believe that has been the way I view life. Most of the time. Sometimes I try to conform and do the "Plan" with goals, objectives, action steps - but usually that falls by the wayside as I wander through life just enjoying the trip. Of course I realize that I am putting a spin on the quote that wasn't intended. Just proves my point I guess. I am easily sidetracked. Easily attracted to another possibility.

Possibility. Now that is a word that I like. Possibility. Possibilities. I like that even better. Plural. More than one possibility.

Today's Thoughts

2010-10-28T21:53:00.001-05:00

We enjoyed Pasta Palooza this evening - a fundraiser for the Farmers Market. Hope to get up and around and go to the Market on Saturday - will be the last of the regular season. But I think they are planning for a winter market - can't remember how that will be organized.

I haven't added anything new to my Shelfari list lately. I have been re-reading all of the Stieg Larsson books. The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo is the book for discussion November 3, Emporia Public Library. I am looking forward to the discussion. I still haven't figured out why I like the series but I really like it. I am sure the discussion will help me articulate my thoughts and feelings about the characters, themes, writing style. One of the things I find interesting is the series title - Millennium - the magazine - not either of the main characters. The story is bigger than either character?

Walk in the Park

2010-10-24T14:24:00.000-05:00

Flickr Photos - C of E Park

We had a nice walk around C of E Park today. Things are beginning to look like fall - here and there. Grass is still green but some leaves are beginning to show colors.

Today's Thoughts (con't)

2010-10-22T19:34:00.000-05:00

Jerry took this photo this a.m. when he and Lucy were walking - in the cemetery. Don't know what kind of tree it is. It isn't a bright red/orange color - it is a deep red, almost purple.

Today's Thoughts

2010-10-22T08:21:00.001-05:00

It really feels like fall now. I hope this weather hangs around. Not necessarily the wet part of it - the cool temperatures, breeze not wind, the perfect parts.

The pumpkin is sitting on the table on the porch/patio. Takes the place of a wilty looking plant that we pitched. The squash-type things are not real. I had some real ones out but they shriveled up and looked nasty. So they went the way of the wilty plants.

Our little tree hasn't turned red yet this fall. By this time last year it was very pretty. I may have to go around town and find a nice red tree to photograph. Maybe the park or the cemetery has one.

Not Eating Out In New York blog has some yummy-sounding/looking fall-food recipes. The skillet apple cake looks wonderful. I have a bag of Jonathan apples from The Orchard. I may try this. Since I don't have a oven-proof skillet, I think I will use a Corning dish - probably the one I use to bake the banana cake.

Photos from Winfield Trip

2010-10-10T20:31:00.000-05:00

Click here to see photos of Island Park, Winfield. We visited this weekend - Jerry's Class of "55 reunion. We enjoyed walking around the park after eating our Burger Station lunch at a picnic table. We didn't walk the trail around the park this time. and didn't follow the trail to the Nature Center. It was hot and windy on Saturday. I was beginning to get itchy - must have been something flying around in the air - so we stayed out of the thickets.

Today's Thoughts

2010-09-27T09:15:00.000-05:00

So much for the idea that going public would get me up and moving. So far, I have spent the last three evenings on the couch with Richard Jury. I am trying to help him find the one 'who dunnit.' Neither of us has it figured out yet. I imagine he will get his man before I get any exercise.

Today's Thoughts (con't)

2010-09-24T09:23:00.000-05:00

Why is it that when I do manage to get in some exercise - the physical kind - that I wonder why I don't make it a routine - a habit? Always, there comes the time when I wonder why I am doing it and just quit! Just a little bit this a.m. and I feel so much better. Just 15 minutes up earlier and I know my day would go better. I already feel fresher.

And walking - I am such a fair weather walker. and in Kansas? That does not include very many days. Today is one I think. But I am still in my pjs - on the computer! - not ready to get outdoors.

OK - here is my mini goal from now and thru the month of October - 15 minutes of exercise in the a.m.; 15-20 minutes of yoga before bedtime; and walk at least 4 times a week - minimum of 10 minutes [lunch time] and up to 45 min on weekends and days off. Maybe this 'public' announcement will motivate me. hmmmmm - I should check my previous posts. I've probably made some sort of the same announcement months ago and already forgot it.

Today's Thoughts

2010-09-24T08:29:00.000-05:00

Ah - Fall. My favorite time of the year. Hope it acts like Fall should and not let Summer stick around until Winter appears. The only downside of Fall is allergies. But since I seem to find something each season to make me sneeze or itch, I can cope.

The rain last evening seemed to clear the air and calm the wind. Chloe wanted to go out about 3:30 a.m. The night sky was beautiful. The moon and stars were sparkling. Yes - to me 3:30 a.m. is still night time. Might be early morning to some folks but I would just as soon have 'stood in bed' - as my friend used to say. But then i would have missed seeing that lovely skyscape.

Today's Thoughts

2010-09-23T06:47:00.000-05:00

I have been so pleased with myself. Loosing weight. Needing new clothes.

Then the wake-up call - buying jeans. Yes - I really do need to loose another 25 lbs. Dang! Here I go again.

Today's Thoughts

2010-09-17T07:16:00.001-05:00

When virtues were distributed, I was messing around somewhere else and missed most of them. Especially Patience. That lack of a willingness to "wait and see" has gotten me into trouble time and again. In my old age I am trying to develop a bit. So far, it isn't apparent. Even if I do wait and see, it is not with any amount of grace. My jaws are clenched, my eyes are glassy, my body is jumpy.

and on the other hand -

Patience is a minor form of despair, disguised as a virtue.
- Ambrose Bierce

Today's Thoughts

2010-09-11T11:53:00.003-05:00

I wonder why this guy came to our house today? Can you see him? on the side of the pot? He was on the side of the house but moved over before I could get the camera.

Today's Thoughts

2010-08-29T19:07:00.000-05:00

The Book Thief - will discuss it Wednesday evening at the Emporia Public Library. I love this book. I am reading it for about the 4th time. So anxious to hear what others have to say about it.

Today's Thoughts

2010-08-28T17:33:00.000-05:00

Tasty food + super friends = a very good time! So nice to see my friends from Hiawatha.

Today's Thoughts

2010-08-25T07:33:00.000-05:00

Just wondering what my life would be like if I was content with the status quo. When I said I like change, I wasn't so sure that was entirely true. More that I don't mind change. But guess I really do like change. Even if it isn't BIG change - just adjustments here and there.

I certainly like the change in the weather. Cooler is better in my opinion. Check back in January and see what I have to say about that. Everything is relative.

Today's Thoughts

2010-08-22T10:27:00.004-05:00

The Art of Eating In: How I learned to Stop Spending and Love the Stove by Cathy Erway - really liked this book about sustainable eating and living. I might not learn to love the stove but I do love the message. It is important that we make better choices about what and how much we eat and how that food is prepared. Erway's blog - Not Eating Out in New York - is full of good information. The sub title says it all - Consuming Less, Eating More.

Today's Thoughts

2010-08-15T16:46:00.000-05:00

We visited the Emporia Zoo this a.m. It was lovely as usual.
Then we walked in the C of E Park. That was nice too.

It will be nice to walk in this little park this fall.

Today's Thoughts

2010-08-11T08:34:00.000-05:00

It was a week ago today that my emotions kicked into high gear. It was such a soul-searing moment when I found out my friend was gone. Even though we were expecting it - I wasn't prepared. I know there are stages of grief - I think I skipped a few and went directly to anger. WHY can't we manage to eradicate this awful stuff called cancer? That is one of the few national charities that I support - and have for years. RFL donates thousands of dollars - no - millions of dollars - each year. Why is there not a cure.

We are grateful that our friend had two years more than they - the doctors - thought she would have. I hope she had quality time. I know she knew how to make the most of what she had - that has been her lifestyle. She was a great role model.

Today's Thoughts

2010-08-07T18:56:00.004-05:00

So today I am driving to work, listening to my audio book. Dairy Queen. And just a few minutes into the book the milk cow Joe Namath is on her last legs. and I am crying about this stupid cow dying. How pitiful is that.

Why is the milk cow called Joe Namath? Well, you'll just have to read the book.

Oh, okay, I'll tell you. They named all their cows after football players. When this cow was born, it was the year of the Jets.

Tech Day

2010-08-06T22:53:00.004-05:00

Today was really a fun day. Learned so many new things - resources by the dozens. One of the most fun things was xtranormal.com. Make your own fun movies - "If you can type . . ." Really!

Today's Thoughts

2010-07-27T21:48:00.001-05:00

Really enjoyed the evening - Antonia Felix, author of several biographies, including just-released Sonia Sotomayor: The True American Dream - talked about this new book. Interesting and entertaining talk. I am looking forward to reading the book. And I hope I have additional opportunities to visit with her. I would like to talk more with her about women in politics.

Today's Thoughts

2010-07-26T09:02:00.002-05:00

Must be something in the air. I feel dissatisfied. Only now and then. When I feel cluttered. My space, my mind, my schedule. So I feel the need to change what I can change. Then I can accept the things I can't change.

I think I will bake cookies this a.m. before going to work. How unlike me is that you think? If I am going to do so, I best get on with it.

Today's Thoughts

2010-07-25T11:39:00.004-05:00

Once again - back to the book theme.

I have been reading this weekend. Just light entertainment. Authors I haven't sampled before. Kate Morgenroth's Through the Heart has an interesting format. But once again, it is a book with a bunch of unlikable characters - except Neil - I kinda liked Neil.

Decided to check out the "Pages" feature for this blog. I wonder if that has been there all the time?! I had been trying to figure out how to add pages but had not see the option before today.

Today's Thoughts

2010-07-23T18:58:00.002-05:00

Changed the furniture again. Getting in practice for next week - shifting books.

Hoping the Farmers Market has more of the good stuff tomorrow a.m. We have enjoyed lots of good fresh veggies and fruits - not to mention baked goods - this summer.

Thinking about what to read/review next. Will be fun deciding.

Today's Thoughts

2010-07-18T11:53:00.002-05:00

It was a very nice trip to the western part of Kansas last week. It started with a stop at the Topeka Shawnee Co Public Library. The Cafe in the library serves very good food. The KLA Council meeting was interesting. I am impressed with their progress.

Then on to Hays to meet members of the FoKL Board for dinner. Lots of good food and conversation. After over night stay in Hays, we drove to Quinter for FoKL Board meeting on Friday. We were received royally! It was a lovely day. The Jay Johnson Public Library is beautiful. They are a great asset to the community. The FoKL Board accomplished much - it is going to be a productive year.

Today's Thoughts (con't)

2010-07-13T22:14:00.001-05:00

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

Today's Thoughts

2010-07-13T09:04:00.002-05:00

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood - fog and all. I feel good this week. Lots of reasons. Family & friends are the most important factors.

Today's Thoughts

2010-07-12T10:35:00.003-05:00

Anyone else feel sneezy when they look at this blog? I am taking allergy meds so maybe it will get better.

It was a good morning for a walk in the cemetery. Warm and muggy but not unbearable.

Time to hit the road - Gridley today. and Wednesday. Looking forward to FoKL meeting out west later this week.

Today's Thoughts (con't)

2010-07-11T13:48:00.003-05:00

I managed to take one photo at the zoo this morning. With my cell phone. The first ever. Then I figured out how to upload to Snapfish and save to my PC. and now here it is! It is a planter on the outside of the zoo fence. There were so many beautiful plants blooming all over the zoo. Good thing I didn't figure out how to take phone-photos until it was time to leave. Next time I go, I hope I remember the camera.

Today's Thoughts

2010-07-11T09:04:00.003-05:00

Went for walk this a.m. with Jerry. Walked through Jones Park then back home through the cemetery. It was nice. Had a country feel even though it was in town - lots of green vegetation, hoards of bugs including a big "horse" fly that followed us home and wanted to come indoors. No thanks. Some critters are just not welcome guests. Do you think it was the sweat that made us so attractive? That would be my guess.

It is going to be a good day to just catch up on some simple chores. Then go for another walk - this time around the zoo. The plants & flowers should be spectacular about now.

And time to read. I am listening to The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets Nest by Stieg Larsson and reading print edition of The Silver Swan by Benjamin Black. Both are novels in series that are for me very interesting. For one thing, the settings are European countries. Therefore the culture, the landscape, the language is not familiar - I feel as if I am learning about people & places I would not have a chance to interact with in "real life."

Today's Thoughts

2010-07-09T13:23:00.002-05:00

Ok - I said I would try this theme again in July! Dan-dee-lions! Summer memories. My sisters and I picked them and took them to our mother. She had a special little glass vase for such bouquets. Sometimes it was chick-weed.

Today's Thoughts

2010-07-03T12:07:00.002-05:00

We had a nice weekend with family - birthday party and visiting. Now this weekend is quiet for us - unless the fireworks get too close. We are not attending any get-together for celebration. It has been a tradition in years gone by.
This is a photo taken several years ago. I may have the story wrong but I think granddaughter Megan took it at Lee's Little Lake House - fireworks over the water. This was way up in the air. Big Boom!

Today's Thoughts

2010-06-20T11:31:00.003-05:00

Today is Father's Day. We are celebrating by going out to eat. Just the two of us. Kids & grandkids are not around this weekend. They will be next weekend. To celebrate granddaughters' birthdays - Katy's 16th and Megan's 19th. Gee - who would have thought it.

Thinking about grandchildren does make me think about my grandparents and my relationship with them. I had a much closer relationship with my maternal grandmother than with my paternal grandparents. For one thing we lived closer to her. But I did spend time with Grandma and Grandpa T on their farm. Gathered eggs; ate cold biscuits, raw potatoes and onions in the barn [chased by sweetened tea - it was the south after all]; made a house in the hayloft; washed the kittens in the horse tank; ate warm tomatoes right from the garden. Good memories. Except for the outhouse - we were so glad when Uncle Vic put in a real bathroom. Grandma W made doll clothes for us each year between Christmas and New Year's. We would ride the bus or the "Doodlebug" and spend a few days with her by ourselves. Fun. She made the best cinnamon rolls. I have her recipe - potato rusk. I should try a starter again. Maybe I will next fall. She had a peach tree and a grape arbor - peach cobbler and green grape pie - I am torturing myself!

Today's Thoughts have taken me down memory lane. Time to get back to the present day.

Today's Thoughts

2010-06-15T08:56:00.002-05:00

Ah - a day to organize - my thoughts, my closet, my week. At least that is my plan. Sometimes - more often than not these days - my plan is so flexible that by the end of the day, it looks as if I never had a plan. That is my plan.

Today's Thoughts (con't)

2010-06-13T09:50:00.001-05:00

Well the green/blue didn't last long - I found books and bye bye dandelions. Will try them again in July!

Today's Thoughts

2010-06-13T09:18:00.005-05:00

A new look - will see if the blue/green keeps its cheery look in my eyes - it really has a summertime flavor. It is fun to try new designs - it is like redecorating a room - only much less work!

It is another wet day. Flood watches/warnings out for most of the eastern part of Kansas. I could repost the picture from several weeks ago - we continue to have a lake to the west side of our apartment and a creek on the north. The do drain away fairly quickly but when it is raining so hard for more than 30 min, the areas run with the rushing water. And that is just a little bit of water. Those rivers that flooded earlier this year in Tennessee and just last week in Arkansas have so much power - one can see why they are so destructive and deadly.

Hoping for enough dry time to walk today. Jerry is out and about now but I am not ready yet - too early - this is my tea-time.

I am going to add some links to book pages - reviews, what to read next - that sort of thing. Will steal ideas from Lawrence and Hiawatha's websites!

Today's Thoughts

2010-06-08T08:43:00.003-05:00

Rainy day - but we might take a little road trip anyway. Surely it won't be wet all day. But it is nice to be sitting here, drinking coffee, listening to the traffic make swishing noises on the wet pavement.

I do have some chores to do so probably should get busy. Just needed a time and space to do some journaling. Sometimes things happen that my mind needs my fingers to sort it all out. I can start writing, maybe not even about the situation that is causing the clamor, then I feel calmer and my thoughts are clearer. My grammar may not be any better but can't have everything.

I love my family. We are a group of individuals who like being - well, individual! We respect each other's individuality and expect each person to be their own person. But I must admit that, viewed by others, we are probably a weird group.

I am trying to decide if I want to make this blog the place I post some creative writing projects. That might be just too much public exposure for me. Might be best to just journal. One might think that journaling would be private and posting to the blog would be too public. hmmmm Maybe my creative writing is too much like a journal. Food for thought.

New Chairs

2010-06-07T16:23:00.001-05:00

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

Today's Thoughts

2010-06-07T09:15:00.004-05:00

It was a good weekend. I survived the 5K walk! WhooHOO! Just a good reminder, a nudge in the right direction - I need to make exercise a habit - not just a sometimes thing. Of course I was pooped when I finished but not ill or disabled so I definitely should get out and walk at least half that distance every day.

I did take photos of the new green lawn chairs. Will post those sometime today or tomorrow.

Today's Thoughts

2010-06-04T07:45:00.003-05:00

Another sunny Kansas day. Hopefully not stormy. Looking forward to weekend - Farmers Market, dinner with friends, 5k walk [sure hope I don't keel over - supposed to be cooler on Sunday], and movies and books and dog-walks.

Bought new lawn chairs - bright green - will have to post picture.

Today's Thoughts

2010-06-01T07:52:00.002-05:00

It was a nice weekend. The storm did a bit of damage but settled the dust anyway. Trees, grass, other vegetation looks so green and lush. Supposed to be hot & humid today. A nice Kansas summer day.

I read Nancy Pickard's new book a week or so ago - The Scent of Rain and Lightning. It was a good book. The storm Sunday evening was like the fictional storm - wind, rain, all the stuff you expect for a Kansas summer thunder storm.

Week Sixteen - Wrap-up

2010-05-30T23:11:00.004-05:00

This is an up-date. I listened to the first Wrap-up Webinar this evening. And learned even more. It was good to hear what others had learned, what they would continue using, what wasn't so useful but were glad to have experienced. I thought I would make lists - to help me clarify my thoughts since the first thing that always pops in my mind when I think about 23 Things Kansas is "I really liked it." But what do I "really like" - the experience for sure. The confidence to use some applications that were previously unfamiliar to me. The opportunity to experiment and determine what works for me right now.

What I will continue to use
regularly:
-Facebook
-IM with Facebook
-Blog
-Shelfari
-GoogleTalk
now & then:
-Google docs
-Flickr
-Wikis
-Delicious
-Animoto
-Jing
will discontinue:
-Twitter [I don't text message so don't think about Twitter]
-RSS feeds [I forget to check]
-Library Thing [I like Shelfari better]
-Meebo [annoying!]

Week Thirteen - Slide Sharing

2010-05-30T15:34:00.003-05:00

That was fun! I now understand why everyone had such a good time with the Animoto program.

I think I have something completed for each week - not much for the screencasting session. I want to watch the Wimba wrap-up sessions.

This has really been a good experience. Thanks to all the mentors, instructors, trainers - they put in a lot of work.

Week Thirteen - Slide Sharing

2010-05-30T15:21:00.002-05:00

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

Week Twelve - Screencasting

2010-05-30T13:25:00.014-05:00

Not sure what I am doing for this week. I did set up Jing account. Can't figure out anything useful to do with it at this point. For me personally that is. I see the value and have enjoyed viewing all the other screencasts that folks have posted. The training videos have been very helpful all through the 23 Things Kansas learning experience.

I did a screen shot. So if anyone wants to know about the cemetery that is in our neighborhood - take a look! Seemed appropriate for today.

http://screencast.com/t/NmZiZmE1MzUt

I didn't create a video.

Week Ten - Video

2010-05-30T10:46:00.005-05:00

I decided since I have some time today that I would see if I could actually do any of the activities that I passed over for 23 Things Kansas. This is Video week. I think I can post a YouTube Video but can't make and post one of my own. So here goes

Gosh - it worked! and as you can tell - I chose a Library themed video - aren't they wonderful?

Today's Thoughts

2010-05-28T09:15:00.002-05:00

This is Memorial Day weekend. I tend to spend time with my memories rather than making treks to cemeteries. When I think of Memorial Day I do think of all the Memorial Days we spent in Burbank OK with my maternal grandmother - Grandma Wayman. She had little stucco house with a big front porch and a huge "yard" around the house. We would go early in the a.m. and help cut flowers to put in jars and coffee cans covered with foil and tied with ribbon. Since it was Oklahoma, southern tier, more flowers were in bloom at the end of May than in this part of the country. She usually had saved peonies in the refrigerator [ants and all] and the big pink roses were beginning to bloom. and there was a variety of wildflowers we could pick too.

We would drive out to the the little country cemetery where my Grandpa Ben and Uncle Ray were buried. As well as other family members that now I don't remember. We would put the jars and cans where Grandma told us to put them. Then walk around looking at the headstones and the other flowers that folks had placed in memory of their loved ones. My sister and I were always fascinated and saddened by the stone by the fence - a small stone with the lamb figure - for a child.

Dad and Uncle Charlie went fishing. Mom, Aunt Sancie and Grandma cooked. For the picnic we would have either at creek or a nearby lake or sometimes just at Grandma's. Fried chicken doesn't taste the same these days.

We are having company this Saturday. Family. We will probably spend time with "do you remember?" My cousin's grandson will hear stories about people he never knew and places he might not ever visit. Memories. Nice for Memorial Day weekend.

Today's Thoughts

2010-05-07T08:14:00.002-05:00

I just spent a few minutes going back through my blog posts. I missed some of the comments when they were posted so it was like finding a note stuck in my pocket. This is my favorite "Thing" from 23 Things Kansas. I read other folks blogs and haven't commented - it was so much fun for me to read the comments that I wonder if it is for other folks. I will start leaving comments now and then.

I checked the Labels for my posts and find that I have 4 weeks - weeks 10-13 - that I didn't post anything. Will need to go back through the weeks to see what I missed. I think I know and I am sure I won't manage some of those activities. I do want to watch the archived webinars.

Going to meet good friend for "brunch" and then Gridley for the afternoon.

Today's Thoughts

2010-05-06T10:16:00.004-05:00

This is a beautiful day. I have lots of "chores" to keep me busy. I have lots of books to read if I feel the need to not be so busy. We are planning dinner out - a restaurant that we haven't tried since we moved here but has great rating from the community.

We are grateful that our Tennessee family are safe. They are helping with cleanup and recovery efforts in their area.

I need to do some time management work for me! I have many things I want to accomplish each day and tend to just think about some of the things instead of doing them. Need to make Action Plan and stick to it!

Week Sixteen - Wrap-up

2010-04-29T07:42:00.005-05:00

I am so glad I participated in the 23 Things Kansas learning activities. What have I learned?

1. That I have a lot to learn

2. That I can still learn a lot

3. That I don't feel guilty if I can't learn it all

4. That I enjoy learning new things - I really am a life-long learner - I said so at the beginning when I set up this blog - now I am certain

5. That I think the most useful thing(s) (for me) that I learned were setting up & using a blog and a wiki

6. That Kansas has an amazing community of librarians (I really thought that already but 23 Things Kansas reinforced that idea)

7. That this learning format could be repeated and the participation would be just as great

Seven Things - that is just about all I can manage before breakfast.

One more thing - I think I should have named my blog something else! but maybe I can rename it. or maybe I should not worry about it. 23 Things will remind me of this experience - that is a good thing.

Today's Thoughts

2010-04-22T20:55:00.003-05:00

Yep - it really rained today. This is a little lake on the west side of our apartment. Just for a while - not there now.

It was a lovely evening - rain-washed, sun-drenched trees, grasses, etc were so bright and clean looking. The goats in a pen [paddock?] by the highway on my way home seemed to enjoy the fresh new stuff for grazing. Do goats graze? Sure they do - I knew a little girl whose father took her every spring to buy a goat at the sale barn. She kept it all summer, moving it from here to there in the yard. They never had to mow! Then in the fall they took the goat back to the the sale barn. I don't want to think about what happened to the goat then. I will pretend that some kindly farmer bought the goat, added it to his herd, and the goat lived a long & happy life.

Today's Thoughts

2010-04-22T10:03:00.004-05:00

This may be the day the rain pounds to pulp all the pretty bushes, shrubs, etc. It is a stormy day - looks and sounds as if the rain might do some damage.

And this is Earth Day - so I guess nature & earth are telling us that not everything is sunshine and roses. In honor of this day I am wearing my green t-shirt - says "save the earth. . . it's the only planet that has chocolate." Flippant, I agree. There are other reasons to save this planet. Including all these lovely plants, all the wonderful people who - well, people the planet. All the images that depict the brown, burnt planet of the future are disturbing - I hope we have enough sense as a "people" to avoid that scenario.

Week Fifteen - Wikis

2010-04-21T11:43:00.004-05:00

I created a wiki for the FoKL board - http://fokl.pbworks.com

I hope at least some folks will use the wiki to help prioritize projects for the action plan.

Week Fifteen - Wikis

2010-04-20T09:32:00.003-05:00

This is really interesting. At this time I am not comfortable editing a wiki so I did the alternate activity - explored uses. I was particularly interested in the library that is using a wiki to do Strategic Planning.

I am going to set up a wiki for the FoKL Board to use for planning. We have an assignment to do some thinking/sorting/prioritizing before the Board meets in July. For some, this will not be the best way to work through the process; for others it will work great. When we meet in July, we will have had a variety of opportunities to help us create a plan of action.

Today's Thoughts

2010-04-18T20:30:00.003-05:00

This was a lovely day for Morrill Public Library's Annual Spring Tea - their 8th annual Tea. Some years the weather for the Spring Tea was more like winter and some years summer came early. But today seemed just right. The tables were so pretty. Guess who forgot to take her camera - yep. I imagine the Library's website will have pictures posted before too long.

The drive was nice. Things are so green along the turnpike. I saw a huge - HUGE! - lilac bush in Hiawatha - but no camera so I can't share that awesome sight.

Today's Thoughts

2010-04-16T07:31:00.002-05:00

Rainy day but actually soothing - not stormy. It would be sad if all the pretty flowering trees were pounded to pulp.

Going to help put out signs promoting the Emporia Public Library's book sale. Then I need to stay away from the sale - not that I don't want to support their fund raising efforts - just that really do not need any more books in my living space! and I have access to so very much by visiting all the libraries in the area. Have I mentioned before how much I appreciate libraries? Probably so. It is worth repeating. Libraries are wonderful.

Today's Thoughts

2010-04-14T19:23:00.003-05:00

Thoughts today turned to Spring and all the beautiful flowering shrubs, trees, bushes, whatever! Lilacs, redbud trees, flowering quince, spirea - they are all lovely. And tulips are showing off in a grand way as well.

I was brave enough to ask the homeowner if I could take photos of these lilacs with redbud tree in the background. She also said I could cut a few branches to bring home. I cut just two "twigs" of the lilacs and they are filling the apartment with their fragrance.

Week Fourteen - Library Thing, etc

2010-04-14T19:21:00.002-05:00

I finally have a book shelf on my blog. and like book shelves everywhere, it takes up a lot of space. I will tweak it - again and again I am sure - until it looks ok. and it will be more fun once I update the entries.

Week Fourteen - Library Thing, etc

2010-04-14T08:32:00.006-05:00

I signed up for Shelfari - added a widget to my blog. I thought it would show a bookshelf but it didn't. Maybe the blog design determines how/what is displayed. I just quickly added four books w/o reviews that I recently read/re-read. I don't own these books. I think I will set up a Library Thing account and see which I like best

I removed the widget. I thought it was going to my Shelfari page but it wasn't. I think I need to edit something.(??) OK - maybe I got it now! Nope - will try later. Need to edit the widget I think (?)

Today's Thoughts

2010-04-13T10:12:00.002-05:00

I suppose this will not come as a surprise to the folks who actually read my blog - but it did surprise me. Not sure what that says about me - I thought I was fully aware of "Me" - guess not. I realize now how much I define myself by my profession. I am glad to be working again. I missed being an active part of a library. My role in the library world is different than it was for 12 years. That is ok. I welcome change and variety. Looking forward to all opportunities that come my way.

Today's Thoughts

2010-04-12T08:41:00.002-05:00

The library conference last week was good. I had a great time visiting with friends, making new friends, and working at the Friends of Kansas Libraries booth. The opening and closing keynote speakers were terrific! Entertaining and inspiring.

The weather has been real spring weather the last few days. Makes me want to plant something. I wonder if it is too early for geraniums. The pansies at the Emporia Zoo were just beautiful yesterday. Lots of folks visiting the zoo - it was perfect weather.

This is the second day of work at the Gridley Library. I am excited about working there. It is such a nice library. All the libraries in Coffey County are - each one unique. I hope before the end of the summer I will have the opportunity to work in all of them.

Today's Thoughts

2010-04-08T08:43:00.002-05:00

The KLA Conference is off to good start - at least from my perspective. Good sessions, keynote, FoKL/KLTA Luncheon, and KLAEF author visit in the evening. Lisa Scottoline is a very funny woman! Love her sense of humor. and she love libraries!

It is good to make new friends and reconnect to those folks I haven't seen for a year. Looking forward to another good day.

Today's Thoughts

2010-04-05T20:50:00.002-05:00

This week is Kansas Library Association annual conference. This year in Wichita. I am excited to be able to attend. It will be fun seeing folks from the library community - some I only see at conference time, others I haven't seen since I retired last summer.

It will be fun to work at the FoKL Booth this year. This is a wonderful group of people to work with - I am glad I said "yes" to serving on the board.

And I will be attending as working librarian - I start on Saturday working for the Coffey County Library system. I am so pleased - I think it will be interesting and fun.

Today's Thoughts

2010-04-03T08:41:00.002-05:00

It is another lovely day. I should be doing something to get ready to get out and enjoy it. However, I am enjoying a cup of tea, reading posts from fb friends and planning my day.

Certainly another great day for walking. I need to find a few more audio books to download so I can listen while I walk. I have a couple but one is too silly even for me and the other reader is soooo gloomy sounding that I am just not interested in listening even though I think the story is a good one.

Will be good to see at least some of our family this weekend.

Happy Easter - stay safe - enjoy the weather and each other.

Today's Thoughts

2010-04-02T08:47:00.003-05:00

Sometimes you close a door, with regret, knowing that is the best thing to do. There will be other doors.

Today's Thoughts

2010-04-01T07:55:00.003-05:00

I love it that Google chose to rename themselves Topeka for the day! It is such a positive response. Things like this give me hope! I was moaning about the lack of civility in our social discourse these days. Now I have something pointing in the other direction - good job Google.

Today's Thoughts

2010-03-31T08:03:00.002-05:00

Thinking that today is going to be a great day. Beautiful sunshine, good opportunity for exercise - class and walking. Plenty of time to plan for tomorrow. and for the weekend. Company coming - family get-together here or somewhere.

The last two 23 Things Kansas lessons have been difficult for me. Maybe before the end of the program I will be able to get some experience with the featured technology. I do like the possibilities - especially this week. Jing and related programs certainly make things easier - and therefore more useful.

Today's Thoughts

2010-03-30T07:53:00.003-05:00

I am saddened by the increased incidents that show a lack of respect, a lack of acceptable social discourse - those attributes that show we know how to live together even though we disagree. For whatever the reason, this tendency to shout, to curse, to bully has become so prevalent that I fear that it will become the norm. Why is it surprising that teens think that is the way to settle problems when they see adults - and adults that are supposed to be role models, adults that are supposed to be representing millions of others - behave without civility - bordering on unlawful.

I have had this conversation before with friends - we are afraid for our society. It is one thing to read or hear about it as something "out there" - it is another to find it happening very close to home.

Today's Thoughts

2010-03-22T11:13:00.004-05:00

Lots to think about this week. Today does seem like spring even though I can see snow out the windows. Sun is beautiful, warm but not too warm. Would really like the spring to be around rather than summer pushing in ahead of schedule.

23 Things Kansas taking a break this week. I should catch-up with last week's lesson. Not sure that my digital camera and I know each other well enough to make a video together. At least not one that should be shared.

Will probably make a trip to Lawrence on Tuesday - looking forward to visiting with family and friends.

Today's Thoughts

2010-03-17T11:36:00.003-05:00

It is another cloudy, cool, almost cold & wet, day. Sun is possibility for late afternoon. We are going the movie - Alice in Wonderland - 3D - should be fun. And by the time we leave the theater - maybe sunshine will greet us.

Today's Thoughts

2010-03-16T10:20:00.003-05:00

I thinking about library stuff today - FoKL, the conference, all the folks who make our Kansas libraries work so well. I am pleased and proud to be a member of the profession.

Today's Thoughts

2010-03-15T10:44:00.003-05:00

About writing. I did spend several days writing. It felt great. It was good therapy. I am now out from under the illusion that I am a writer. I am a wannabe. and I hope I will have the opportunity to be with others who can give advice and encouragement. Will start looking for possibilities.

Today's Thoughts

2010-03-11T18:13:00.000-06:00

That's the thing about librarians. Unlike most public servants, they actually like their jobs." Leon Prudell, The Hunting Wind by Steve Hamilton

I borrowed this from a friends signature line. I love this quote.

Today's Thoughts

2010-03-11T18:06:00.002-06:00

That previous post must have been a kick in the butt. I found all those things I have been trying to write and decided to finish something. One done. except....I keep tweaking it. I think I will send it to Kansas Voices writing contest. hmmm. if I can stop tweaking. Contest deadline is 3/15. so I guess I can fiddle a few more days.

Today's Thoughts

2010-03-11T09:12:00.003-06:00

Thinking about my unwriting. Thought that I would really get into writing once I had "extra time." Would write everyday - would be so prolific. But I haven't - I'm not. Guess that means it isn't a passion so therefore my writing wouldn't be anything worth reading. Will just have to be something that do for my own pleasure, therapy, whatever it is for the time I am in the middle of it.

Today's Thoughts

2010-03-10T09:52:00.001-06:00

Registered for 2 days of KLA Conference. Looking forward to seeing lots of library friends and friends of libraries.

Week Nine - IM

2010-03-09T11:44:00.001-06:00

I signed up for Google Talk, was already on Facebook, subscribed to Meebo - and now I feel too connected! and think that I will go read a book.