Back at Home, With Friends, With Calm, and With Hopes for a Wonderful New Year

Casey ordered two shirts that she didn't want, so snuck them in a bag of my Christmas goods and I thought, "Hmm, these would be great Bert and Ernie outfits for Halloween." I tested them out on Glamis and her best friend, Jake, who spent the day together on Walnut Beach to keep out of the cold and rain. The arms were a little too long.

In the morning, I assisted Pam who needed to get a shot in her knee, which I obliged for the payment of an everything bagel egg sandwich. This later turned into a chicken wing lunch and a cheeseburger dinner - let's just say the holiday food consumption hasn't been turned off just yet.

For a period of time, most of CT was without Internet, because the local provider lost its service. This was a bit of a challenge, as most everything we're accustomed to do relies on Internet service. We tried to entertain ourselves with made up games and conversations, but we kept wanting to get online for the next thing. We are addicted. Society has made us this way. We are socially defunct.

And today is the last day of 2019, and I'm excited for a new decade, especially since 20/20 has a ring to it (more to come tomorrow).

It was a great day to sit by a fire, to sip wine, to share holiday tales and to make predictions for the upcoming year. I also drove around trying to finish Educated but I still have 3 hours left. It's so good; I'm looking for excuses to listen more to this book (it's an 11-hour book!)

But today is for crossing i's and dotting t's (intended pun) and for putting a close to the year that just was and the one that is on the horizon.

Happy New Year's Eve, world. I think many of us are looking to a better year.

In Memory of Faye Gage, Founder and Director of @CWPFairfield - a @WritingProject Champion in Each and Every Way.

I was a 40-year old when I first came to Fairfield University - when I was contacted by Faye Gage to report she was delighted I was hired to replace her. She was ready to retire. I still hadn't finished by dissertation, but came to co-direct the summer institute with her, following the rhythm and flow of her grant-writing, teaching, course load, and guidance. 

She was passionate. She was fiery. She was brilliant. And she was dedicated. That first summer, Faye Gage arranged for my writing teaching hero, Kelly Gallagher, to come and visit campus as a guest speaker. I called her to ask what  the charge would be and she responded, "Charge? There's no charge for you. You are in charge. You're the Director." I bit my cheek. I guess I was. And I pretended I knew what I was doing, but I'm not sure I did. 

All I knew was that Faye was gracious and the National Writing Project way was my way - the best investment in teacher leaders in the nation. Faye introduced me to the grant officer on campus and quickly shared with me the budgets, which took a hit at the time as states and the nation were defunding educational programs. In order to survive, ingenuity was a must, including the creation of Young Adult Literacy Labs and mountains of paperwork in hopes of receiving grants. At times, we've been lucky. Other times we have not. 

That first summer, I remember that Gina Forberg hosted an end-of-the-summer ISI party on her back porch and true to the form I learned in Louisville, each and every teacher wrote (or sung)(or performed) a reflection that blew my mind. One wrote an entire song, and another a full-length script she performed. Faye and I were united at that moment forever. The transition occurred quickly and the volume of work snuck up fast. She deserved retirement and I kept her away from any and all that was stressful. Her retirement party filled the Dolan School of Business. She was tremendously loved and for a few years, I was able to work with her during Joel Barlow portfolio scoring in February. I always loved the reunions. I learned, however, that she soon began to face the demons that come with age and relied on reports from others as to how she was doing. 

When I returned to Stratford last night, news came from her good friend Del (an incredible partner during the summer for numerous years) that Faye passed on December 27th. I'm deeply saddened by this news. I found the last letter she wrote for CWP-Fairfield and I share it today to cherish her memory, numerous contributions and dedication to the profession. She will be greatly missed. 

Letter from Faye Gage 

As has been said by so many teacher/consultants, the Connecticut Writing Project-Fairfield is a life changing experience in profound ways. Back in 1986, I thought I was a pretty good English teacher – or maybe even very good if a particular class had gone well. I made sure that all of my students read, analyzed and appreciated the great literature that had nurtured my soul for so many years. I counted on those many literary quotations I had incorporated into my repertoire to guide me through many real life situations, some wonderful and some daunting. And I still rely on them. But CWP helped me realize that students who are given tools to access literature can find those gems themselves.  

My experience with CWP taught me that it mattered greatly how the literature was delivered – which required a new understanding of how students learned, a different philosophy of literacy. After much reading, considering, discussing, and a few missteps, I relinquished the sage-on-the-stage role and gradually learned to respect the thinking of even the most inexperienced readers as they began to make their own meaning of texts. The movement from assigning five paragraph essays to writing that explored, considered, chased down ideas changed my understanding of writing and my instructions to my students, a shift that empowered their responses to texts but also showed them how to nurture their thinking. In short, CWP made me a far better teacher.  

Underneath this shift in my teaching, was another less satisfying shift. Twenty five years of administration of this program has left me increasingly uncertain that public education has the wise and generous supporters it so badly needs. I have become more and more outraged over the professed and unprofessed enemies of education. They are legion. They withhold institutional support or provide only minimally; they talk a lot in government babble but barely seek out funds for what should be robustly supported; they too frequently make decisions that are not in the best interests of either teachers or students and they demonize teachers rather than provide funds to nurture and support the best. I have a number of dents from encounters with such folks. 

Rather than expound on this problem, I would prefer to thank the people who have been exceptions: Senator Bob Duff who has been consistently loyal and intelligently informed; Representative Jim Himes, a new, enthusiastic supporter; Dean Susan Franzosa who made CWP integral to the University; and the many public school administrators who have sought our professional development services to improve teaching and learning in their buildings. They, and many others, believe in CWP. Like so many of you, however, the most important change in my life was brought about by the people who make up the membership of CWP. Every Summer Institute introduced me to teachers who are committed to their students, thoughtful about their work, and eager to collaborate with each other. Their participation is the life blood of CWP. They also make the lives of their students richer and promising. Their effect on me was equally life changing. They are a rare group of professionals whose wisdom and support I will carry with me. 

As will the influence of people who took leadership roles in CWP. I cannot name them all, but I know that Del Shortliffe, Lynn Winslow, Bill McCarthy, Bob Wilson, Betsy Bowen, Kathy Brody, Kristin Veneema, Jack Powers, John Chiappetta, Andy Neidick - all people with whom I worked closely - gave me knowledge, inspiration and unyielding support. They have been my professional family whose imprint on my life is deep and secure. 

I will miss being the Director of CWP-Fairfield, but I carry with me twenty five years of experiences that changed and enriched me. I am overwhelmingly grateful for having spent the time with all of you.~Faye 

I know many of us are extremely thankful to the legacy of Faye Gage and the fight she took on to bring CWP-Fairfield to where it was when the reigns were handed over to me. I post these thoughts today in her memory and with tremendous prayer that her incredible wit, mind and strength will watch over us as our battle for excellence continues.

Angry That Today Is My Departure Day, But Not as Angry as The Angry Garlic in Baldwinsville. That Was a Fast Week

I've found the faces I've been making with thoughts that the holiday week was coming to an end so quickly.

Yesterday was Cynderballz's birthday and one gift certificate later, a fun time at Hafners, and a gathering for food and spirits one last time with friends and family, means that today is the day I go back to Mt. Pleasant. Time to return and face the music of Connecticut - including too much that I successfully ignored while I was visiting my parents.

Arrival, Birthday, a savior is born, Birthday, Departure.

Actually, I'm thinking I'll have a slow morning, as I can try to get a run in before driving and maybe even a walk with the dog. When I arrived there was a blanket of snow on the ground and lucky for me the hot temperatures of Syracuse, 45 degrees, melted all that away. Now it is green grass again, but the storms are expected to return.

Phew. Marking myself a survivor of another Christmas break on Amalfi Drive.

Now, for Glamis the Wonder Dog's neurotic road trip home.

World's Sexiest Couple Only Have Two More Nights Left with Their Only Son at Home & Yee Haw, It's Cynderballz's 50th!

I've grown accustom to the pajama-lifestyle of 5388 Amalfi Drive where  coffee is drunk and dad reports who is walking down the street before the mailman actually arrives. That is why I was taken by surprise when my parents both came out in holiday sweaters on a Friday morning announcing to me, "Well, we're off to our doctor's appointments." I said, "You want me to drive," and they said, "Nope. We got this."

Okay. Let me get their picture then...looking sexy before I even hit my bowl of Raisin Bran. They get check-ups and I go for a run.

I only had one thing on my mind - seeing Star Wars with Casey, Dave, Chitunga, Dylan and the boys, which I did. I'm satisfied, even though my neck is super sore from staining to see the screen - we were way up front. Ah, but it was good, so I didn't mind. I'm always up for eye candy and epic stories. I loved every second of it. I'm a sucker for the series.

But yippee-kai-yay! Today is Cynderballz's day...the first of the Crandall kids to hit the big FIVE - UH - OH. Fifty Fifty Fifty Fifty Fifty Fifty Fifty Fifty.

Yee-Haw. It's older-sister-celebration day! It's also U of L vs. UK basketball day. It's daughter day and mommy day and aunt day and wife day.

Nikki says we're going to start with shots at 7 a.m., but I said, "Not me. I can't do shots until after I wake up...I need until 10 a.m. before I can do birthday shots with my older sister.

Maybe it will turn into The Hangover movie for her - where the shots she does all day erases all memory of what actually happened to her. Who has the roofies and who is going to slip her one? How do we get her performing "I feel pretty, oh so pretty," while she eats a pizza upside down and tip toes on the edge of a water bed (again)?

Seriously, it began with mom's birthday and ends with Cynde's. In between, a savior was born.

Let the day begin.

I've Been Home Seven Days, And It Was Only Last Night That My Father Talked Me Into Going to Chubby's

We were the only ones there besides the employees. We got our drinks and, after dinner, my father felt the need to order fried mushrooms - no idea why. He ate them, and I sipped bourbon while the bartender played Quick Draw. It's been a week. I feel complete withdrawal that it took this long to be invited to Chubby's. The wait was worth every second.

Meanwhile. I spent the day working on 2020 and getting projects started that are going to be awaiting me Sunday when I return to Connecticut. Mike and I created a safety net for my parents' new television, and I put in the new floor mats that Chitunga bought my Subaru.

Glamis and I walked. I ran. I organized the gifts on a living room chair to return back to the Nutmeg State. I grilled up green beans to go with the leftovers and Butch introduced me to every Price Chopper employee as we went together to get a container of orange juice. We did his rounds after we visited Walmart to get a new belt.

It was an event-filled day.

And now it is Friday. Here we go. Phew.

Saying Goodbye To the Holiday Events and Bringing on Transitions to 2020 (Let the Family Rest in Happiness)

After Cynde and I walked the dogs last night (Bella - now that is a tricky dog to walk) we turned around and saw a beautiful CNY sky. I ran inside to get my [phone so I could get a shot from Amalfi Drive with my father's lighted deer and, well, this is what I got.

We had a successful brunch, that was digested and then I ran, followed by a walk with Cynde and then began an evening of teaching my mom and dad to use their new Smart television to access the internet and to watch videos. Let's just say we watch 3 hours of drum and bugle shows from the 1960s and a just as many winter guard shows from the 80s on. Mom is now able to control YouTube from her iPad (if she remembers in the morning I will be shocked) and it brought smiles and tears to them as they went down memory lane.

Of course, we also listened to 5 renditions of Barbara Streisand and Neil Diamond's You Don't Bring Me Flowers, as mom looked for a video she wanted to show my father. They also found Bob Hope shows which was funny, because they were sponsored by RCA televisions - the kind that you stood up to as you turned the channel from your antennae. "They've only just begun / to live," sand the Carpenters as the opener began with a clarinet soloist. It's sort of nostalgic and fun, as this generation had to move fast to the changing technologies as everything moved so fast, but now all the old shows can be found on her iPad and projected onto their 40 inch screen. Perhaps I created a monster - only time will tell.

Meanwhile, the Isgars and the Barnwells were a barrel of fun (as the photo on the right demonstrates). They were tired, after all - it's a lot of work eating, drinking, and opening presents. Good thing Casey and Dave have comfortable furniture. This was good, too, for the boys who were playing their new video games (making me jealous for the days of Super Mario Brother with Casey and the Oreo Cookies and Drink Boxes).

Then mom moved onto Adam Lambert, her crush, and made dad and I watch another hours of YouTube videos.

I'm afraid a monster has been created. The real test, however, will be if she can remember how to do it in the morning when a new sunrise arrives.

Absolutely amazing that another round of holiday shenanigans have found themselves to yesterday's memory. I can see why the Isgars chose sleep.

Merry Christmas, Everyone - I Hope Your Holiday and Family Time is As Joyful As Ours

The Crandall/Barnwell/Isgar tradition is a silly one, but it works for us and it keeps all of us on our toes. We simply eat, drink, read a Flake Like Mike and A Cracker for Dave, then the silliness begins. We move to gift-giving, game-playing, laughter and memories. Sean-man debuted as Santa Clause this year and we added Hank, a blow-up doll for playing charades with Mike, a few frog-portraits, lots of socks, a few towels, and Santa sunglasses. The dogs seemed to enjoy the festivities, too, although Glamis chose to fall asleep throughout most of it, right in the middle of the living room.

The food was delicious, the cookies even better and the company absolutely outstanding. Nothing better than a night of Dave one-liners to keep everyone cracking up. Hank, however, was the hit of the night - not Backgammon or calculus math, but entertaining none-the-less. He was the prop that kept everyone guessing at an advanced game of guess what I'm trying to say.

Meanwhile, this morning, we start all over again, but this time over breakfast/brunch in Manlius.

My parents have a new television and plenty of stocking stuffers (including Oven Off) and Chitunga will have many an outfit for the 2020 season. Glamis got a giant, squeaking squid toy and Papi-Butch has a new electronic blanket and a massage machine for his neck.

Yes, this is a holiday about love, family, togetherness, thankfulness and aiming to live the best life possible - one that strives for goodness and joy on earth. The quest for grace and peace.

Merry Christmas, 2019. May you enjoy every second with your loved ones and friends.

Getting Closer To the Big Day (and I Am Smart - Hitting the Stores at 8 a.m. Before All the Fools Get Out There)

 Highlights for the Monday was cooking the ham all day, going for a run, going for a walk, wrapping the presents and meeting Chitunga, Kanyea and Abu for lunch at The Retreat in Liverpool. I'm becoming a creature of habit at that restaurant - their strawberry, goat-cheese, mandarin orange salad is outstanding.

Of course, 3 hours later I was starving, but mom, dad and I did a throwback: grilled peanut butter, broccoli and cheddar cheese soup, and potato chips. That worked out well.

Then it was practice time. Nikki needed to learn how to make the cranberry mojitos, so during the day I put all the ingredients on Pine Grove and promised to come over at 7 p.m. to teach her how to mix the drinks. We had success, as evident from Cynde's love-fest with Nikki Minaj and Glamis - all three looking radiant in the television set glare.

Today is the big Crandall, Barnwell, Isgar fiesta, and I look forward to the food, laughter, silliness and love of another year all around Cynde's Days of Our Lives tree with our Christmas ornaments.

And for those of you who don't live in the northeast, you might be surprised to know that this big, yellow orb came out in the sky today heating up the air to 55 degrees melting most of the white stuff that has been blanketing the ground. We are likely to have an unusually green Syracuse Christmas.

Nikki and I are very excited to share the cranberry mojitos with Casey, to see how she does with the rum and mint.

Let the chaos begin.

New Traditions are Wonderful Traditions! Cranberry-Mint Mojitos with the KCO to Celebrate a Semester (and Families)

For the 2nd year, I've stopped by Kelly Chandler-Olcott's while visiting CNY family to be greeted with rum, cranberries, mint and cookies. It's a wonderful treat and celebration (so much so that Chitunga requested it this year).

The drink this year was extra delicious and was a perfect way to spend an afternoon...

...after cleaning an oven for 3 hours in the morning, going for a run and taking the ol' dog for a walk on a balmy, excessively hot CNY winter day (it was 45 degrees and everyone was stripped down to tank tops and shorts).

A few people got their lawn chairs out and I swear I heard a lawn mower.

Actually, while at the Olcott's, Lucy spotted a mother fox running along the creek and we all looked out to see the beautiful animal, who kept looking up at the house. It was wonderful and a beautiful scene (before all the snow melts during this heat wave of the week).

And today is technically the last day to do the holiday shopping and I need to be committed to the goal of getting it done. Yesterday, it thrilled me to deliver an original print to Kelly - a piece of art that we used for our LRA presentation and that captured our iterative collaborations (a joyous gift that I was lucky to find online)

A vacation Monday is much more fun that one that begins a work week. They should all be this way.

Mom Was Officially Dressed for the Holidays Last Night in a a Pair of Hot Pink Penguin Pajamas. All is Official.

I knew as soon as I saw them, that my mother needed these pajamas for the holiday season. It is my tradition to get her a couple of pairs and lucky for me (after a bad attempt) I walked right into the Chill-Out penguin this afternoon. She can now chill out on her iPad, over fire-lit dinners, and on late nights in her chair. She's officially sporting the tacky while she sleeps - which she's been doing to humor me for several years (if not decades).

And I have the holiday crud. I'm not coughing, but congested and my head feels like it is under water. I tried to take a nap, but couldn't - I've never been able to do that. One of these days I need someone to teach me how.

Glamis is good at it, though. I took her for a long walk, so I knew she'd be ready to call it a night.

After a bit of drama, it does seems as if the stove will be salvaged on Amalfi Drive for another year, although she is resting in Oven Off for a few days (needing a few layers of materials to be attended to). We learned, too, that grease fires do not have the power to blow up an entire house, but baking soda is the cure-all (that, and a cookie tray to smother the burning grease). We're lucky, because Mom might have been wearing pajamas where you couldn't see the penguin.

How many brother-in-laws does it take to screw in a light bulb? Two. As long as they have a niece screaming directions from the other room.

It's the most wonderful time of the year!!!!

Warm fuzzy pajamas for the win! Now time for Christmas.

Reunited With RLAC Alumni & Staff, All While Hearing Jodi Burnash Sing - Such a Great Band

 First on the holiday agenda, all by chance, what to see Rhythm Method perform in Baldwinsville, as they were reuniting for a Christmas special and I knew Reading and Language folks from Syracuse would likely be there. I was right. Rhiannon Berry joined my sister, Nikki, Chitunga and I for a semi-attempt to be normal bar-hopping folks.

Extra special for me was to be reunited with Becky Freeland, who kept me laughing and thinking and focused through all the years that I was doing my doctorate up on the hill. She has since retired (I sent her wind-up toys) and moved to the 1,000 Island region.

The music of Rhythm Method was as good as always and non one can work a crowd quite like Jodi. It's such a good concert with great 70s, 80s and 90s rock. She gets everyone excited to be in the crowd, singing along.

Wow. It seems incredulous that I met these women in 2007, and now 12 years have flown by. Where did all the time go? When can we get together again? Why does everything move so quickly.

Jodi. Rhiannon. Products of KCO and BRC in the RLAC - so wonderful.

And poor Chitunga has to endure it all - me with the selfies here and Cynde and Nikki trying to do a bunch of their own. He's a good sport (we got photos with him, too.

Meanwhile, I'm definitely feeling old and nostalgic and happy, and overwhelmed and lucky and appreciative. When you are living through an experience you don't necessarily realize how spectacular those very moments actually are. I returned to Syracuse for family, but also get to return to Syracuse for extended family. It's awesome, as it got larger and larger the 4 years I was home

Syracuse will always be a home.

And He Made It In Time to Celebrate Mimi's 75th at Cicero Country Pizza (with Cake In Hand)

The trip from CT to Cuse was without drama, unless you consider the burning flesh or scrapyard lacerations as depicted in Tara Westover's Educated dramatic. The traffic was limited and I didn't hit snow until Tully (of course - the CNY gray). Chitunga recommended the book via Sue McV and after hearing his enthusiasm, I knew I wanted to have it for this trip (I packed 4 audio books and 4 hardcover...we'll see if I get to 8 in a week).

It's a really good book, well-written, and very engaging.

Meanwhile, I made it home for the celebration where we ate thick, Sicilian crusted pan pizza, wings and came home for the Crandall cake I brought from Stratford. It was good and seemed to be enjoyable to others. Woot Woot.

We returned for presents, and Glamis got some lovin from Casey and Sean!

Now I wonder, "What are the chances no one will be out shopping tomorrow so I can have full reign of all the stores for myself?"

Ugh. That's what I thought.

Well, Friday, wish me luck. I'm going to go out in the madhouse of Rt. 11 and Rt. 31 to face the freaks out last-minute shopping (okay, that is me, too)

We got this.

And after a day of car food, pizza, and birthday cake, I'm ready to run a marathon and call it a holiday. The food! It's always too much from the 19th - 28th.

That is why we have New Years.

TGIF.

This Morning I Pack. I Head Out. I Take a Break That I Haven't Had in a Year. But First, There Was Yesterday

I don't need today's post to be political, because I believe in courts, laws, due process and fairness for that. I also believe in hard work, so after a quick stop for a haircut, I headed to campus for grading, grant writing, meetings, publications, and a surprise visit from Vilia - my surrogate daughter from Lithuania who simply makes me happy beyond words. We connected last year over Hoops4Hope and I've loved the energy and joy she brings to my office and to our campus. I haven't seen much of her this semester because our schedules have not aligned. She's been busy working in NYC and staying atop of her studies, and I've been swamped with graduate courses and NWP work.

Still, we have text. We touched base there. Yesterday. I loved every second of it, especially when she stopped by.

Vilia sent me a message Tuesday night saying her last exam was in Canisius at 8 a.m. Wednesday and wondered, "Will you be there?" I said, "Hell, no. But I will be there by 2." So, she took her exam and came back by 2 so she could show me she was dressed as a Soul Cycle Ninja. I knew she would make me smile, so I ran to Trader Joe's and got her the chocolate peanut butter cups she loves. Merry Christmas. It was for her drive back to to East Hampton. But her gift to me, her energy and humor, made my last day on campus extra special.

Vilia also told me that she will be in Berlin next semester, so I'll not be able to have her joy stopping by on a weekly basis (boo), or the 'here and there' text needing a big brother in Connecticut. This makes me sad! I love how she has become the filler in the gap between my cousin Mark, my whimsical Brown School days, my love for international travel, and my need for simply being silly.

These three photos say it all! I challenge her to wear that very outfit (with Ugg Boots) to the next H4H benefit next year. She wouldn't dare.

Okay, so this will be the last post from CT for a while, as I returned home to make my mother's birthday cake, delivered treats to all my neighbors and wrapped the last gifts in Mt. Pleasant for the holiday season.

I didn't eat much for dinner, but my mind was on getting several items mailed in the morning before I head on my rt. 17 trek to Syracuse (several texted me today to report the white-out conditions of Syracuse - I'm hoping it will not be that way tomorrow).

Instead, I have to give drugs to my dog, queue a new audio book or two, load the car, and then head to Clay, New York for Cicero Country Pizza and a round of "Happy Birthday for Sudy Rip!" Chitunga was supposed to drop off the birthday gifts to the house, so I'm hoping he accomplished this task.

I can't wait to have a week to unwind with family and to be be joyful in the spirit of the season. I have to applaud Vilia, though, because she came to my office like an angel, bringing me the hope and light for the next few weeks that I've been gravely missing all semester.

I get to return to the roots to wish my first angel a "Happy Birthday" too. Here's to Sudy Rip. I will be seeing you soon.

Blink. Morning. Blink. Coffee. Blink. Grading. Blink. Ice Storm. Blink. Lunch. Blink. Dripping. Blink. Flood. Blink. Water Damage.

It's all under control now, but for a few minutes, it was simply crazy. I was on my Crandall chair grading when all of us a sudden I hear dripping turned to a steady faucet. In a matter of seconds, the layered ice and rain outside started pouring into my foyer area where the sunlight is. It was a stream. I quickly got a bucket, then sent Edem upstairs to investigate what was happening on the roof.

Here's the skinny of what I think happened. We got layers of ice last nice - so much that all the schools were closed. I'm thinking that the ice around the skylight was frozen, which caused a trap for the rain and melting ice around it. I'm thinking this caused a puddle and that puddle didn't know where to go so it poured in the crevices of the window and onto the floor.

We acted fast. I dried the area above and Edem climbed out the roof to hammer down tiles and to soak up the puddled water with towels. The leak stopped as quickly as it started. It was fast and crazy.

Of course, now I'm just paranoid. Where is the water coming in? Were we right to think it was in the skylight (we think so, it worked)? What happens if this happens again and I'm not there to act so fast? Now, who do I call to repair the damage? Do I do it? Can I teach myself? How much will this cost?

And other such joys of home ownership.

It could have been so much worse and I'm lucky I was seconds away and could act as quickly as I did. Also fortunate that Edem was with me.

Phew.

Something to keep an eye on.

That Point of the Semester When The Countdown of Projects & Papers Begin and You Know It's Gotta Get Done

Like all in the profession, this is the week of absolute exhaustion. From a.m. alarms to late night attempts to get more done, it is nothing but grading, grading and grading. From the time assignments come in, to the deadline for submitting grades, there is usually only 48 hours. That, and you know that as soon as the materials are returned, you are emancipated to move onto other items.

Like holiday shopping. Like traveling to Syracuse to be with family. Like reading books. Like watching a few shows without the guilt. Like running more and walking Glamis.

The truth is, too, that as soon as it is all over, you simply want to go to bed for a few months. I am remembering the portfolio-scoring days of Kentucky, too, that were followed by senior research and projects. It seemed that there was never an end to all that reading and scoring. By the end of it all, you simply want to dig out your eyes and be buried alive - just end it already

Well, I'm almost there.

The University called for morning cancellations (AGAIN) due to inclement weather, so I've been graced with a day at home to finish more and more grading. I'm getting there. But there's only so much that can be completed in a day.

Meanwhile, I'm still wondering how so many educators from my days earning Masters and a doctorate still haven't returned a single item to me. I got grades (usually really good), but zero feedback.

That is not how I roll. I spend time giving feedback because I think it is most important.

As is sleep. I need more sleep. And I will get it...eventually. It's that time of the season.

Day of Grading - But A Few Gifts Delivered Over the Weekend. The Departure is Almost Here

I have no problem being a cheap bastard. Well, I got Kaitlyn Marie a couple other gifts, but the scarf was only a couple of bucks at OSJL a few months ago. I know she knits scarves, but something about the bushy balls on this one caught my attention. I thought, "By God, this knitted piece should don the neck of my French-teaching friend, Kaitlyn."

Oui. Oui. A success. She loved it. And of course I had to say, "It was only $3. The only one they had."

I also got her Old Fashion glasses with Christmas K's on them for her name. If I go over, I guess it can be Krandall, too. Or Kris Kringle.

And the gift she got Tunga and I arrived in Syracuse. I sent it with him so I wouldn't be tempted to drink it before going to see my family.

Sunday? A run, a very cold walk with Glamis and Edem, success shopping (the Bed, Bath & Beyond store in Shelton was going out of business and everything was 40% off. Fun - although I didn't get much there...just for my house).

And I graded.

But the truth is, the kid didn't get home until 3 a.m. on Sunday morning causing Glamis to bark for 30 minutes as he and his friend debated politics out front. Could of killed him. Instead, I went with love. Said, "I'm not angry. I love you and glad you relaxed this weekend and had fun. That is what I know you needed. Now go to bed."

My 7 a.m. wake up time did me in. Not too much sleep, therefore last night I was in bed very early.
Here's to a day of grading and hopes everything will be completed by Wednesday! Fingers crossed.

Definitely a Bridgeport Gem - The Cabaret: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

We bought the tickets early in the season, and it was the perfect way to welcome the holiday season as grading finds an ending and road trips ensue: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. I remember having to study this production as a freshman in college, but I don't think I ever sat still long enough to absorb the story line (a storyline I'm still trying to surmise - boy dreams, boy is given coat, boy's many brothers are jealous, brothers have brother sold to slavery, boy is arrested for being sexually attracted to pharaoh's wife, boy is jailed, boy predicts good crops, boy becomes a right hand man, brothers are starving, brothers come looking for food, brothers are fed, brother sold to slavery forgives brothers, and boy gets his rainbow coat back).

The music is good. The Cabaret's cast was phenomenal. The entire productions was joy and wonderful. But I'm left thinking, "This is the story? Okay, I guess I'll take it. It was fun."

Very theatrical on all levels. That is happiness, too. Everyone on stage was having a great time, and that was contagious.

Okay, Sunday. Time to face reality. Grades are due, gifts need to be purchased, and you stupidly got yourself on Rank & Tenure, making your entire holiday break a bust so you can read and review the work of colleagues. I know it is a service that is good and I will learn a lot from it, but on this Sunday morning, thinking about my Saturday, I'm simply exhausted.

I wanted to stay up to see the Louisville game at 11 p.m. last night, but I'm old and I needed sleep. That is the almost-50 life. Sleep matters most.

Congratulations to Joseph, though. He has his coat and that is what it is all about. 

Wonderful Friday Evening Spent with Fairfield County Community Foundations Networking with Wonderful People

Was great to collaborate with the Fairfield County Community Foundation to host a networking opportunity for Bridgeport non-Profits at the Hub & Spoke restaurant last nice. CWP-Fairfield did the mailings and programs, and I am forever grateful to Joanna, my graduate assistant, for finding the time in her hectic life to keep me focused on this event. It was wonderful to have her daughter, Jillian, with us, too, as well Edem, who has returned to live with me in Connecticut. The evening was exceptionally wonderful with good people, excellent company and a roof to hide the rain.

My greatest celebration of the day, however, was from watching the Louisville/Texas NCAA volleyball games, especially as Louisville (unrated) went up two games and Texas (#2) came back two games. Although we had to leave for the community event, Edem and I later learned math Louisville took the 5th match, upsetting the #2 team. So awesome. Definitely watching them tomorrow night at 11 p.m. (if I can stay up that late).

But it needs to stop raining.

Meanwhile I did a little more holiday shopping, cooked for the weekend, and graded everything that has been submitted to me thus far. Come on, graduate students, keep the projects coming.

Today, I'm heading to the Cabaret to see Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - a musical that I haven't seen since my college days...Ah, but it's a gathering of friends for a fun afternoon, so when in Rome I'll be Roman.

Happy Saturday, all. 

A Cartoon That Sums Up The Question I've Asked Almost Every Day of My Life

My answer. Beats the Fudge out of me. I did lousy in my freshman philosophy course, but can attest to the fact that since then, I've lived a life of questioning everything. Still do. Always will. And I am comforted in the fact that the answers simply reveal another hallway of questions I didn't even know existed. Such is the life, I suppose, of a professor (but it was the life I lived as a K-12 teacher, too).

Finding answers typically doesn't provide much comfort - only additional quandaries. And as an 'idiot upon the stage' I simply resort to asking more.

Queu George Carlin here or Stephen Wright, even. Bring on the thinkers who live similar paths.

A day away from the office turned into a day at the office working 3 hours past the time I assigned myself

I knew Chitunga was coming home for a quick weekend, and I want to have every second I can available to him (he's only got one more semester left, and this one exhausted him - I want to provide home while he's here, however he chooses to define it for the weekend).

I also have obligations to a benefit and to a show at the Cabaret I booked with friends months ago. We are fitting in the tight squeeze before the holidays.

Why am I here? Why are any of us here? What is any of this really about?

I don't know, but I try to tackle it with hard work and humor. Edem was engrossed in CSPAN when I got home, and I found myself stress cleaning to avoid the insanity of the news. Occam's razor is usually my go-to reaction. If it looks like a duck, quacks like a duck, well, I'm pretty sure it's a duck, unless we choose to call it a swan. Then it is a swan. Or maybe it is a wren. Wrens are cool, too. Ducks can be wrens. That is, until they go to quack, and it's a wren noise. But birds don't exist - it's in our imagination.

The only truth we have is birth and death. The in-between is the chaos we call life. While I have this chaos, I'm choosing joy...my simple definition of good (which is God with an o)(but probably perceived as Evil by others - which brings us back to the chaos we call life).

Why am I here? To promote Hope, I hope.

But that, too, is an evil trapped in Pandora's box.

So, beer. That's antiquated. Bourbon. That's a perk.

What did the dolphin say to the philosopher? I'm looking for my porpoise in life. (Thanks, Alexa, for this  morning's joke)

Three Snapshots of a Day That Just Was - Celebrating the Last Classes of the Semester (Phew)

Last night of teaching at Fairfield University for the semester and this was the moonrise (full) that followed the sunset. I was on campus all morning, so came home at lunch to run and walk the dog before the last classes could be taught for the semester. Sadly, I had to miss the department's holiday party because the Dean scheduled on a night when several of us teach.

As I looked out my window in preparation of the classes, I saw the moon was huge and the winter scene was sort of beautiful (although this photo doesn't do it justice). I also loved the pink sky as I pulled in - in fact, as I drove back around 4, the sky was almost a red, white and blue. It was simply the kind of lighting that you get only a couple times a year.

It's hard to believe the 14th class of the semester has ended (I missed a week because of a conference). I also couldn't believe that as the students did evaluations and I met with them one by one in the hallway, that the entire 2 hours flew by. I was conferencing in the hallway when a couple came out to say, "We're heading home." I was like, "Oh, okay, are you done?" They replied, "It's time for class to end." I didn't even get to my final Jerry Springer moment for the season. That was the fastest two hours of teaching ever.

It's funny, too, because I began class by acknowledging that teachers like me are one blips of the radar. They will have many and already have had many. Someday, I'll only be a little flashback in their narrative tale (remember that guy who showed us the world's saddest commercial...remember that guy who wrote a script for our class we all had to act out....remember that guy who handed out tissues as some of us read our personal narratives in class).

Just like that. Blink It's over. Just a fragment of one's way of being. A glimpse.

I opened with a writing activity with the graduate students last night - the same one my senior Speech teacher did with us (he was the drama director and an English teacher at the school). It was such a powerful activity for the last day of class when he did it with us. I've been doing it during last classes of writing for my entire career. It is pretty much a 100% hit-hit activity....so much so that the first hour spent with graduate students 100% engaged in their writing. That followed with sharing, too, which led to conversation - no wonder the evening went by so fast.

I tend to be a lucky instructor. I get phenomenal students who sign up for my class and over a semester we bond over a passion of being writers and sharing our lives. It always bothers me when it ends, but it has to. I am a sunset and a moonrise.

Mr. Moonbeam.

One day, they might say, "I had this Professor once who......"

That's all we can ever be.

Definitely on the Holiday Bandwagon...Almost As If I'm Addicted, Actually. It's the One Day I Take a Break!

My older sister collaged a bunch of photos from over the years, and it sparked me to do the same. She wondered what theme I'd go with this year (and to be honest, I've only heard the theme that we should not keep the traditions alive and lighten Christmas, so it wasn't on my mind to do anything). But, the photos instigated that something has to be done, as the 24th is always spent on Pine Grove getting my sisters drunk and then having a reading of A Flake Like Mike and Cracker Dave, The Farting Christmas Cat. It's too much, which is on par for how I live my life and I assumed it was no more.

But...it's on.

Yesterday, Tuesday, was day 2 for 14 hour days and I was excited to take part in a National Writing Project call where Allison Fallon, Beth Boquet, Mary Himes and I were able to share our work (and NCTE presentation), "Unloading a Response to Gun Violence: Pens in the Hands of Writers." We all played numerous rolls on the collaboration, so it will be exciting to be in the same space to share the thinking with the entire network. 

I also got ESTP meeting minutes done and GSEAP Faculty notes sent. Why? Well, Wednesday requires 150% of me to be on task with EN 411: Teaching the Composing Processes - we have a huge night ahead and I need to get ready for all of it. It now looks like Chitunga arrives Thursday, so that will be Thursday night and Friday will have to be our shopping spree. God bless, I hate crowds but we got to get this done...together.

On another note, I barbecued cauliflower last night to go with pulled chicken and green beans. It's the little things that excite me --- that is, I found time (and keep finding time) to cook every night. Go figure. And, I am finding/making time to run! 

The older I get the more time-restrained my days - I simply got to make things happen.

I Suppose I Could Be Bah-Humbug, But I Love the Ridiculousness of the Holidays...Always Have

A few years ago, when President von Arx was at the University, Fairfield released holiday videos that wished everyone a fantastic break and that brought hilarious humor and cheer to all of us getting ready for a much needed break. I forgot about these, but they resurrected yesterday and, cough cough, so did the screen shots. Basically, a film crew came with holiday wear and we had to lip sing to a holiday song.

I, of course, had my own holiday Christmas wear and brought it in for the shoot. We did a choreographed, Radio Music Show routine, but my face was extremely animated through it all. A colleague said, "Crandall, not your best angle. That's for sure."

Still, it was fun. All of us grading and stressing and frustrated and exhausted, simply came out to the hallway to perform like foolish elves in front of the camera. Wait, I bet I can find it...

...I think I did.

I'm laughing, and excited, and happy to post this hear as December does what it does and we close out last classes for the season (then the grading, ah! the grading).

It's this, however, that gives us reason. I love the silliness and campiness of such shenanigans. Any excuse to be tacky and corny....I'm in.

Who wants to shoot a video this year?

In An Unusual Stance, Glamis the Wonder Dog Positions Herself As If She Is Ready for the Holidays in Syracuse

Although some of the gifts are under the tree, I am doubtful Glamis is ready to drive to deliver them to family. She did, however, pose in front of the tree as if she was mildly excited. I must have said the word, "Walk," or something and caught her sitting up on her bed. She is anxious in the car and she would not sit like this if we were actually heading home.

We simply have to get through this week and next: observations schools, meetings, last classes, final projects, papers, and grades - that, and a couple of holiday events to celebrate the season. The closer it gets to departure, the harder it will be to maintain the routine.

With that said, Chitunga's there now. He has finished his final projects and starts a new accounting job next week, and he simply wants to get the #$#@ out of Syracuse (it doesn't help that they are already in snow season). Yesterday, while talking to him, I totally got the frustration and exhaustion. He wants to be done. He wants the whole graduate program over. He wants to start his life. More importantly, he simply wants to be home.

So, home is where he is heading until the new job starts. He knows I'll be following him to Syracuse soon after. It's all a part of his establishing many homes for himself. I have a home in Syracuse, on in CT, and another in Louisville. I also fee the sense of home in Denmark - locations where I've spent time and taken part of with the local culture.

When a period of time ends and there's a mental space to unwind, however, it's awful not to be in your original space. That's home. I tried to tell him that throughout my Master Degrees and 11.5 hour commute back and forth between Syracuse and Louisville, I felt most at home in the car heading from one place to another. Going and coming were where my greatest thinking occurred. When he said, "I just want to get in the car and process my life," I totally understood.

Lucky for me, he's heading back this way in the processing space. Glamis will be more than thrilled. Now, if I can only get him to sit around to do nothing. Of course, I don't know how to do that, but at least I can expect it of him.

Wow, it's a Monday and a Monday it will be. Back to the accounting and Workday. I can hardly wait.

We got this. Soon it will be Christmas time.

Didn't Last To The Holidays - Officially Shaved the White Spaghetti Squash Growing on My Face. Better?

Before and After. Before, up until 9:30 p.m. and after, soon after I got out of the shower after a long day. I knew I wanted to shave, but it became easier when Leo and Bev gave me a new razor and shaving cream because someone they know works for Gillette and dropped off bags of them. I took it as a sign.

I also see that I got sun while in Tampa - I thought it was all the booze we drank at the conference. Look at that, Lizzie, it is a tan. It is a tan.

I am amazed, however, that it takes a couple of years off rather quickly. I will soon be all white, but for now it is my sides and beard that is white. As a goatee it is tolerable; as a beard however, I look like a Billy Goat. It feels so much cleaner to be shaved.

That was yesterday's major accomplishment. Actually, I caught up on grading, got groceries and picked up Edem from the bus station. He has returned home after 3 years of working in Iowa. It's a transition time for him and I feel lucky that I am here. He's such a hard worker, dedicated young man; he hasn't found the perfect job yet. Instead, he's been strung along by many crappy ones. He needs a good lead and new experience.

Glamis says, "I'm glad he's back. It's someone else I can annoy."

Looks like I'll be making pulled chicken today and doing more writing (I'm trying to resist a tempting invitation for Nashville in February - I think I'm going to give in) (like, it could be so very very cool).

Okay, I need to tackle this day with my baby-bottom cheeks. I'm off.

It's the Small Things In Life...Like Having Leg Room on a 2.5 Hour Trip Home. That Rarely Happens

I was given a seat in the front row coming home from Tampa on Spirit Airlines. I've only flown them one other time, and I had my knees in my chest, because they crunch so many people in their vessels. This time, however, I had lots of space for my legs and I was very thankful. So thankful, because I actually was comfortable enough that I fell asleep and it was the fastest flight of my life.

Space is good for long-legged fellows.

Meanwhile, I cursed myself, because I said, "Wow, the drive home from Hartford is smooth sailing." There was little traffic. Of course, after I got through the tunnel in New Haven, an Enterprise truck stalled and blocked the right lane, causing for a crawl all the way to Stratford. Ah, Connecticut life.

I started thinking, especially as I looked at the wide-open, domed sky above the parking lot on the Merritt, that vehicular travel is outdated and ancient. There's all this space above us, so we shouldn't have to sit for hours, when we could rise up and fly over such mishaps. I've got my Jetson-phone capabilities (FaceTime), and now I want my mini-space car to go forwards and backwards, and up and down. It's time. Highway driving is too archaic.

I am thankful to be home, however, and to focus on closing out the semester at Fairfield University. My graduate students deserve all my attention and I will give it to them.

Breathe in. Breathe out.

Here we go.

Truth Is, I Have Two Different Sized Feet - Still Doesn't Change The Fact That I'm a Book Nerd

Funny how I've wanted someone to photograph my socks for some time now, but have never had the opportunity to let the dogs breathe while wearing them. Yesterday, however, in the heat of the conference, I took my shoes off and Tess, a Syracuse Alumni, was able to take a picture. It's official. The socks purchased by my colleague Diana Hulse have officially debuted on my blog. I am a Book Nerd, and I am proud. People might not understand my hoarding of books, but I geek to with them and have a difficult time letting them go.

So, another day of the Literacy Research Conference was a success, and I can say that I sat in the sun and did foot shots. Actually, I had a productive day of doing grant reports, networking, attending talks and reminiscing with Syracuse people.

Today will be full return mode, and although I will want to sleep on the plane, I'm sure I will read a book and work on items needing my attention for the weekend.

It was great playing in Tampa, but I know it's time to fess up to the inevitable of the northeast. For those staying at LRA for a couple more days, enjoy every second of it. I wish I could stay, but I have obligations needing my attention. It was a wonderful time.

Put a Fork in Me. I'm Done. I'm Cooked. I'm Zooted. I Am Feeling the Last Two Years. And Today I Will Sleep

This is what 7 a.m. looks like...well, 7:30 a.m. - I left at 6:45 a.m. to meet these two at Starbucks before our 8:30 presentation. They were wide-awake and happy, whereas I'm exhausted and don't do mornings well. Still, we met, somehow color coordinated, and zapped together the final presentation for the LRA conference (perhaps the most solid work put together for one of our collaborations).

I owe Dr. Kelly Chandler-Olcott the world for mentoring me at Syracuse University and Dr. Liz Lewis the applause for guiding the way (she was Kelly's doctoral student before me). Now we gather from time to time, put our heads together and think strategically about the work we're doing in 3 states. That was our presentation yesterday, and it was well received.

Let's just say that the 6:45 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. pace of the day had me returning to my hotel completely exhausted. There's much to post about the entirety of the day, but for now I'm just happy with this beautiful picture - time well spent with sages, mentors and friends. The conference season for 2019 is officially over. Amazing how the 2020 people are already recruiting me for sessions next year. I can't. I am simply fried at this point.

I am, however, thrilled that it ended with these two! I look forward to revising and editing the work. This has been a spectacular collaboration.

And I failed at sleeping in. I'm up at 7 writing this post. 

What 24 Hours Mean: From Snow and Cold, to Palm Trees and a Pool. Ready for my 8:30 a.m. Presentation

With LRA, I always find a hotel away from the conference, because conference hotel costs are rather steep. I lucked out, and although I doubt I will get to the pool much (nor are the 60 degree temperatures conducive to swimming), but it still beats the 20 degree weather back home.

I used my flight to finish George Takei's graphic novel and to watch an X-Men film I hadn't seen. I also watched two episodes of Jim Carey's Kidding on Showtime which is really interesting and very well done, although the pornographic scene in episode 2 embarrassed me, as it went from kid-focused, to adult, really quickly and I was afraid everyone was wondering what the old man in the aisle 24B was watching. It was a fast scene, but enough to make me extremely embarrassed. I would think that airlines would censor such material, given the family-oriented nature of most flights.

I will slide into my a.m. presentation then regroup to figure out where I am, what's going on, and what I can do to take advantage of the short stay here.

I was lucky to find Kelly and Elisabeth, and I dropped them off at the fancier hotel before I went out for fish and chips and called it a night. Always strange to sleep in a strange bed, but I'm excited to learn and soak in everything the conference has to offer. I also scored with my hotel room, as it is has a couch, a kitchen and plenty of space to spread out.

Here's to us!

A Snow Day For Turkeys. This CNY'er Is Not Having Snowmageddon Over a Weather Report. Please

I'm out of here. I can't take the wimpiness of New England drivers and superintendents...shoot, even our University called it off. I kept looking outside for a reason everything was shut down, but I never found one. There were rumors of this and that, but not much fell. Shoot. Even the Fairfield Turkeys were busy at work, having survived the holiday and knowing this was prime feeding weather - clear lawns, worms surfacing, and no one around to bother them.

I'm heading to weather in the high 70s with colleagues from Syracuse and Pennsylvania. Granted, they might be in snowier conditions than me, and if I have to, I will represent for us all. But Tampa, here I come.

The dog-sitters are on their way and the chili is spicy enough for the strongest of stomachs.

Yes, I went to the office anyway. Why? There was work to get done, including the inevitable disaster of Workday and the budgeting crisis that occurs on a weekly basis - I just want K-12 teachers to get what is theirs...the bureaucracy of our system at the University is an absolute impediment. Now I know why so many of my colleagues across the nation say, "Keep your budgets off campus. Set up a 501c account. Manage the money as it works best for kids and their teachers."

Nope. It's a full time job to argue with powers that be that CWP's funding belongs to the schools we work with. Ugh. Shaking my head.

I did get off campus early, though, and went to a few stores. No one was out because it was supposed to be treacherous. It barely sprinkled. So, I got the stores to myself and was able to accomplish a few things on my list.

By this time tomorrow, I'm hoping to have some Floridian snapshots. I am flying the Walmart of airlines there and back, and if my memory serves me correct, they basically strap passengers to the floorboards with your luggage in your lap. They were direct flights, however, and the 2.25 hour flight was appealing.

When I was their age, we used to snowmobile 15 miles in 18 inches of snow to get to school. Please. What has happened to America? Yesterday was just dumb.

Wow, December 2nd. Look at You Bringing Us Ice. Didn't Stop Me From Meeting My Goals, Though.

I had two goals for my Sunday and I am happy to say that I met them both. The first was to hit the 'submit button' on a collaborative piece teachers and I have been writing, trying to make an earlier deadline than we anticipated. The second was to upload the 31 days of not shaving photos to YouTube to see how my beard is growing in.

Here's a truth, when I couldn't grow a beard, I'm sure the hairs were brown and black. Now that I can grow facial hair, the majority beyond my goatee grow in white. I channel my father's hunting days as I always remember that was the month he looked like a ruffian and smelled like cold deer carcass and outdoor turkey poo. As I've grown older, I've missed that smell and although I don't hunt, I like the idea of not shaving. In fact, it caused me to consult with several of my fully-bearded friends on how (and why) they choose to groom facial hair. It's a pain in the ass.

But I will go with it, because I look better in a Santa hat. I still have spots, however, where no hair grows. I am racking my brain onto whether or not there was a childhood accident to cause this.

I should also admit I took two breaks on Sunday, one to hit the grocery store to stock up for Glamis-sitters #2 this week (that is, I made chili) and the second was to take said dog for a 4-mile walk. It was wet, windy, icy and cold. I loved it. She didn't. It was a break to stop editing.

Oh, and I did laundry.

I'm not sure how this day will go due to the weather, Burt I have back to back meetings and then need to pack the bags for Tampa - collaborative work between colleagues in New York and Pennsylvania.
I hated that Chitunga chose to leave early because of his own impeding workload, but reflecting on it today, I realize he and I are the same....just get the work done.

It's Monday, the first in December, and I'm hoping my mind will soon transition to gifting. Something tells me that when I finally get a break, I simply am going to sleep for weeks on end....(as if breaks are coming my way).

Needless to say, I feel accomplished (sort of). In academia, we just never know. Even so, I try...I try...I try.

Time to fly.

Okay, December, Bring On the Snow (Well, Until Tuesday). Our Charlie Brown Tree Is Ready

After a late Friday night, plans for a productive Saturday sort of got side-tracked due to impeding projects for the Masters student and, well, a pretty significant storm likely to make Sunday travel pretty challenging. So, as we gathered together in the a.m. to lay out a plan of action, Chitunga said, "I think I need to head back tonight. I still want to shop and help decorate the tree, but I need to hit the road."

Ah, Syracuse. That is the way you are.

It's sort of a ritual to see him hanging the ornaments on the hand-me-down-Monroe-Pam tree we use. I never put up trees before (real or fake), but since Mt. Pleasant, I kind of enjoy the ritual. It looks pretty frumpy and pathetic here, but once everything is up and the lights are on, it's actually a wonderful tree that I love staring at while working on my laptop at night.

His frustration with graduate school is a 'been there, done that' phenomenon that is hard to coach. He's ready for it to end, but has one more semester. He hasn't tasted the fruits of the hard work, so he's wondering, "Why am I doing all this? What is is for?" I remember thinking that over and over again with all my degrees, but one can't see what it is for until they are on the other side of the sacrifice. As I told him before he left, "You'll be 24 years old with a Masters degree. That is something to be very proud of and it will help you in your career. You'll see."

Writing papers, taking tests and doing projects doesn't translate to the work he'll be doing once it is all over. I told him, "K-18 schooling is 19 years. A career is often twice as long (and you can't get out of that...be thankful you invested in yourself young)."

With a quiet house, I believe I will edit a commentary invitation I've been working on for a few months, and finish the LRA slides for our presentation in Tampa. Of course, I also need to return the lights I bought to replace the lights that went out over the winter (because I accidentally bought blinking ones. I hate those). I also have to restock the house for the dog-sitters before I leave again (hoping this storm blows right through).

And let me say something about leftovers. There are none. I sent guests with their own containers, and Chitunga does his best Spencer Ripley impersonations and continually finds room for more plates (and he packed the last of it for his return to school). When I went to get dinner last night, there was only a few pieces of dark turkey meat and a lump of potatoes. Fine dining, I tell you.

And poor Glamis. I think she hates his departure as much as I do. She looks for him in the bay window and keeps sniffing at his door. I love the way the two of them bond when he's able to be in Stratford. We'll be up in Syracuse soon enough.

And Upon This Day, Last Day of November, Mt. Pleasant Shall Be Completely Decorated for the Holiday Season

When I was a kid, going to my Grannie Annie's was always a treat, because she always grabbed a branch that had fallen outside and decorated it with silver tinsel, and underneath this, the had all these figurines: ice skaters, woodland creatures, and winter shenanigans. Everything was so tiny, and we were into our presents, etc. but always loved looking at her creativity and silliness.

Fast forward to Kentucky when my Aunt Bobbie and Uncle Dick handed down their nativity set to me, a gift made by my mom in ceramics and the only holiday decorations I had. each year, I can't wait to set it up with the Snowman tree with its tiny ornaments because it reminds me of my grandmother's house.
I always like to add to the manger scene with special friends: frogs, a Buddha cat, Buddha, adult Jesus (hiding behind one of the Wise Men, and 3 lil' frog stones made for me by Kaitlyn (Abu, Lossine and Chitunga sitting on a log - Shut up, kids. Shut up, kids. Not tonight. Not tonight).

I put up the tree and lights yesterday, too, but will wait for Chitunga to decorate it, as that has been a ritual he's enjoyed for many years (although my ornaments are somewhat lame, as everyone has handed me back the ones I've made for them over the years with my sense of humor). Getting the ornaments out is always a special time, though, simply because so many of them have memories and document time and place.

There's something very calming to be on Mt. Pleasant with the television off, the lights off, and the house lit up with white lights. I still have to do the garage and back porch, and I figure I'll wait for Chitunga for those, too - he went out with friends to a comedy club last night, but promised most of Saturday to be on duty.

I did manage a super long run and a great walk, but then screwed everything up by having a plate of leftovers at 9 pm last night, making me feel lethargic and over-calories again. Ah, tis that season.

And I'm proud to say I didn't buy a single thing yesterday on Black Friday, simply because I hate shopping and hate crowds even more; instead, I uploaded proposals to the Consortium of Northeast Writing Projects Conference in the Bronx this spring.

How I survived yesterday without a nap to recover from Thursday is beyond me...

...but I did. Today, however, I think we might shop. Just kills us (or wish us luck...whatever you prefer)