I was recently on a plane that was delayed. No big surprise for anyone who travels often. However, we sat on the plane at the departing gate for about 30 minutes because we waiting on a maintenance person to bring some tape to fix a tray table. Seriously. We could not leave because they needed tape. The man seated next to me, along with two people across the isle from us, remarks how he is surprised no one has tape on the plane in the first place. He says, "Even the Apollo 13 had duct tape on board." This led to a man across the isle remarking, "Everyone should always have duct tape around."
While the story itself is kind of amusing, it made me think. We should all have duct tape around all the time. I think this is true literally and metaphorically. Obviously, duct tape wins for being able to fix virtually anything and for its ability to sturdily hold together most things. Yet recent events have made me realize how important keeping a tool around to fix life's little issue can be.
Think of all the little "fixes" duct tape can do, and all the times you have probably used it or maybe wished you had some around. Now think about all the little daily and even bigger life "brakes" that happen. If you are not prepared with some tape in your back pocket, they can get out of hand and almost seem unfixable.
Duct tape could be a number of things we use frequently: a sand timer to help you take a few deep breaths, a favorite song, a go-to quote, a friend that listens, any little fix that helps you hold the situation together. I think we all have them. We just need to be sure we identify them, know where they are, and how to use them. That way you don't have to wait 30 minutes for the maintenance person to show up.
6/21/11
5/6/11
WOTD #4
Today's word: friends
Definition: (according to dictionary.com) people attached to another by feelings of affection or personal regard
Reason: The first reason this word came to mind today is two very dear friends are in town to visit. The second is I just left a retirement party for someone from my office. Although I have very different relationships with these people, both situations started me thinking about friends and what they mean in life. I found it heartwarming to see a table of old friends at the retirement party. A group of women who have experience much of life together in some way. Tonight, I will get to catch up with my own friends, and although I have not known them for 30 years yet, we too have shared life experiences that define us. Our relationships with others truly make life worth living, and I hope I tell my friends often enough how much they mean to me. I know I am not always the best at keeping in touch (especially via phone...as almost anyone can attest to), but my friends mean so much to me. Even if I just need to see a smiling face or vent over coffee, I appreciate all of you.
I almost picked "lackluster" as today's word since I feel that describes my current blogging status. Life seems to be getting in the way this week, but I hope someone is getting something out of reading these nonetheless!
Definition: (according to dictionary.com) people attached to another by feelings of affection or personal regard
Reason: The first reason this word came to mind today is two very dear friends are in town to visit. The second is I just left a retirement party for someone from my office. Although I have very different relationships with these people, both situations started me thinking about friends and what they mean in life. I found it heartwarming to see a table of old friends at the retirement party. A group of women who have experience much of life together in some way. Tonight, I will get to catch up with my own friends, and although I have not known them for 30 years yet, we too have shared life experiences that define us. Our relationships with others truly make life worth living, and I hope I tell my friends often enough how much they mean to me. I know I am not always the best at keeping in touch (especially via phone...as almost anyone can attest to), but my friends mean so much to me. Even if I just need to see a smiling face or vent over coffee, I appreciate all of you.
I almost picked "lackluster" as today's word since I feel that describes my current blogging status. Life seems to be getting in the way this week, but I hope someone is getting something out of reading these nonetheless!
5/5/11
WOTD #3
Today's word: change
Definition: to make something different than it was before, or a deviation
Reason: Well, really change happens all the time. So I do not know that I really need a reason. I suppose today this word is poignant because of the amount of change that always seems to happen at once. Graduation at FSU was just this past weekend. This means students are moving on to bigger and better things. My graduate assistant of two years, Selby, has already made his move to Texas to start his professional career. I have already hired and started training my new graduate assistant, Alyssa. Almost five weeks ago, I became a fiancee, a word I am still getting used to saying (but of course I am loving!). I have actually been job searching, trying to find the next step in my career. I have no idea what kind of change that will bring. Coworkers and friends have already found that next step in their lives, meaning they are already moving on and changing the landscape of FSU. Lots and lots of change! (Insert some sappy quote here about how change is the spice of life, or whatever...) Okay, I am excited about all the change. It just seems like when it rains, it pours!
On a lighter note, Meredith and Billy are coming to visit this weekend. WOO!
Definition: to make something different than it was before, or a deviation
Reason: Well, really change happens all the time. So I do not know that I really need a reason. I suppose today this word is poignant because of the amount of change that always seems to happen at once. Graduation at FSU was just this past weekend. This means students are moving on to bigger and better things. My graduate assistant of two years, Selby, has already made his move to Texas to start his professional career. I have already hired and started training my new graduate assistant, Alyssa. Almost five weeks ago, I became a fiancee, a word I am still getting used to saying (but of course I am loving!). I have actually been job searching, trying to find the next step in my career. I have no idea what kind of change that will bring. Coworkers and friends have already found that next step in their lives, meaning they are already moving on and changing the landscape of FSU. Lots and lots of change! (Insert some sappy quote here about how change is the spice of life, or whatever...) Okay, I am excited about all the change. It just seems like when it rains, it pours!
On a lighter note, Meredith and Billy are coming to visit this weekend. WOO!
5/4/11
WOTD #2
Today's word: stuck
Definition: unable to move
Reason: I am currently stuck at the Atlanta airport. This means to free wireless internet. I will not be making it home until after midnight. so this also means I am stuck doing a half-written post because I am using my phone. On the bright side, I have a smart phone that allows me to at least post something. Seriously. Why can we not have free wi-fi at all airpots? And for that matter, hotels? I think i made my point about that before.
So I hope to bring better posts tomorrow and the rest of the month. Thanks for sticking with me.
Definition: unable to move
Reason: I am currently stuck at the Atlanta airport. This means to free wireless internet. I will not be making it home until after midnight. so this also means I am stuck doing a half-written post because I am using my phone. On the bright side, I have a smart phone that allows me to at least post something. Seriously. Why can we not have free wi-fi at all airpots? And for that matter, hotels? I think i made my point about that before.
So I hope to bring better posts tomorrow and the rest of the month. Thanks for sticking with me.
5/3/11
WOTD #1
Today's word: cop-out
Definition: excuse, take the easy way out
Reason: Today is only the second day of Blog a Day. However, I do not have time tonight, and really won't have much time tomorrow to put much effort into posts. Hopefully, throughout the month, I will be able to come back and explain why. Until then, here is my cop-out post. I promise to get better. Really.
Definition: excuse, take the easy way out
Reason: Today is only the second day of Blog a Day. However, I do not have time tonight, and really won't have much time tomorrow to put much effort into posts. Hopefully, throughout the month, I will be able to come back and explain why. Until then, here is my cop-out post. I promise to get better. Really.
5/2/11
Blog A Day Challenge: Take 3!
It's May...and we all know what that means...Blog A Day in May Challenge time! For anyone who has followed me, you already know what this means. For anyone who hasn't, this is pretty much how this whole blog began.
The plus side of the challenge is it gets my lazy butt back blogging again. The down side this year is how crazy this month is going to be. However, no worries. I will prevail! (Okay...that may have been a little much, but you know what I mean.)
My first year, I went without a theme for the month. Last year, I went with a "Quote of the Day" theme...and dinosaurs. I think this year, I may go for a "Word of the Day," unless better inspiration hits me soon.
Nonetheless, I'm excited to do the challenge again, and I'm even more excited to get back into the habit. As I've said before, I need some blogging in my life. We also have some changes in the challengers this year. When I have a little more time, I will make the updates to the sidebar so you can all follow the others.
And with that, let the challenge begin!
The plus side of the challenge is it gets my lazy butt back blogging again. The down side this year is how crazy this month is going to be. However, no worries. I will prevail! (Okay...that may have been a little much, but you know what I mean.)
My first year, I went without a theme for the month. Last year, I went with a "Quote of the Day" theme...and dinosaurs. I think this year, I may go for a "Word of the Day," unless better inspiration hits me soon.
Nonetheless, I'm excited to do the challenge again, and I'm even more excited to get back into the habit. As I've said before, I need some blogging in my life. We also have some changes in the challengers this year. When I have a little more time, I will make the updates to the sidebar so you can all follow the others.
And with that, let the challenge begin!
3/27/11
Traversing the Skies
I am an introvert. Shocking to some, but not at all surprising to those who know me. And I realized today that this is one of the reasons I love flying alone. Now, of course I absolutely love taking trips with friends. (This is something I’m trying to work in more often.) I also love flying for the obvious reason of judging people in airports. Again, anyone who knows me would not be surprised by that fact either.
However, as I was sitting in the Tallahassee and Atlanta airports today making my way to Baltimore for a conference, I realized how relaxing it is for me to travel alone. Even though airports and flights are full of hundreds of people, I have absolutely no pressure to interact with any of them if I so choose. And for the most part, I don’t. I can sit, watch, read, listen to music, play around on the internet (if I can find free wi-fi…please explain to me why Atlanta still does not have this…), and really just retreat into my own world while I go from Point A to Point B.
Part of this realization may stem from having recently traveled to a different conference with a good number of friends and colleagues. I easily get overwhelmed and subsequently aggravated when trying to coordinate a group of people traveling. Overall, and when reflecting on the trip, these experiences are more often than not positive and good ways to bond with others. Yet, admittedly, by the time we were heading back home, I did not want to see or talk to most of the people with me.
It’s not you, Its me. Truly. In all senses of the term, I am an introvert. I love people, in small doses. I love meeting new people, in small doses. At the end of the day, I want to unwind either alone, or with just those closest to me. (Currently, this typically involves my boyfriend and my cat. A good cuddle from one or the other or both tends to be helpful.) I am energized by alone time. I recharge when I have time to breathe, reflect, or just get away. This is why I love movies and reading.
I am always amused when students do not believe I am an introvert. I often explain how extroverted qualities are learned, and are a necessity of my job. At work, I enjoy the constant interaction I have with students. If I didn’t, goodness knows I would not work in Student Affairs. But I relish the times like today where I can have a mini-getaway for myself. Even if I get nothing more out of it than a blog post, starting a new book, listening to favorite songs, or laughing at ridiculous people in public, I enjoy the little rewards.
(Sidenote: Traveling in itself is not always relaxing of course, but when I actually have time to sit before or in between flights, it can be enjoyable.)
3/23/11
SMH
July of last year was my last post. And I see that as a problem. I am currently thinking of ways to return to the blogging world. Especially since my twitter looks like it may become another Higher Ed venue...which is fine, but takes away a personal outlet. So this is my attempt to hold myself to reviving my blog-self. While I am thinking of creating a higher ed themed blog...I need to bring the personal reflection back. Anyone want to help hold be to it?
PS...I also realized my last post was about my Jeep being vandalized. Since then, it was actually totaled, and now I have a Chevy Aveo. Crazy how much can happen in a few months...
PS...I also realized my last post was about my Jeep being vandalized. Since then, it was actually totaled, and now I have a Chevy Aveo. Crazy how much can happen in a few months...
7/3/10
Unsettling
This morning I went outside to find someone had broken into my Jeep. The person very simply had smashed my front passenger side window, reached in, and took my work bag. Nothing else. When I realized what had happened, I went through a number of emotions pretty quickly. I was pissed off, upset, sad, aggravated, confused, and well...pissed off. So I call Mike, then my mom, to fuss and mostly curse. I call the police, and they send an officer to come take a report. I call my insurance to find out I am not covered because I have the most basic insurance I can have. I call what felt like every auto glass repair place in Tallahassee to find out the best place could not fit me in until Monday. So I tape up a trash bag to my window because we all know it will rain at least three times before then, and I resign myself to having a bunch of glass in my passenger seat.
Mike came and picked me up to go to lunch with one of his friends who was driving through town. I looked forward to taking a more pleasant break to the day since the rest of my plans were pretty much derailed. On the plus side, the glass repair people called me during lunch to say they had a cancellation and could fit me in today. They were extremely helpful and nice. They replaced the glass very quickly and even gave me a discount. If you are in Tallahassee, I highly recommend Safelite Auto Glass. Rock star service.
The first thing I thought when I saw the window was, "Really? Out of all the cars around, this person picked my Jeep?" If you have ever seen my lovely vehicle, you see the irony in this. Then when I realized they had only taken my work bag, I was even more annoyed. Granted, it was a nice leather bag with some pricey higher education books, a pair of Rainbow flip flops, and an umbrella in it, I cannot imagine any of it had much street value. Left inside was my satellite radio, car stereo, and CDs, the only things really worth anything. Perhaps the person was almost caught and ran off before (s)he could grab any of that. Perhaps the person is just an idiot. The door was still locked despite the busted window.
Now with my Jeep repaired, I will have to use a different bag for work on Tuesday. Luckily, I still have the brown version of the one that was stolen. I bought these from a leather store back home at a ridiculously good sale price a couple of Thanksgivings ago with my sister and Suze. Good times. I will have to replace my black Rainbow flip flops, which honestly were on their last leg anyway. I was simply waiting for them to completely fall apart before I spent money on new ones. This just expedited that process. I will have to look for a replacement of my favorite leadership book, and figure out what to do about the other books on student organizations that technically FSU paid for me to purchase at a conference. Sigh.
All in all, things are not that bad. I just find it unsettling when these things happen. A stranger violating your personal space/property is not a pleasant feeling. I just hope the person gets a good deal on the Black Market from those student organization management books. Ha.
Mike came and picked me up to go to lunch with one of his friends who was driving through town. I looked forward to taking a more pleasant break to the day since the rest of my plans were pretty much derailed. On the plus side, the glass repair people called me during lunch to say they had a cancellation and could fit me in today. They were extremely helpful and nice. They replaced the glass very quickly and even gave me a discount. If you are in Tallahassee, I highly recommend Safelite Auto Glass. Rock star service.
The first thing I thought when I saw the window was, "Really? Out of all the cars around, this person picked my Jeep?" If you have ever seen my lovely vehicle, you see the irony in this. Then when I realized they had only taken my work bag, I was even more annoyed. Granted, it was a nice leather bag with some pricey higher education books, a pair of Rainbow flip flops, and an umbrella in it, I cannot imagine any of it had much street value. Left inside was my satellite radio, car stereo, and CDs, the only things really worth anything. Perhaps the person was almost caught and ran off before (s)he could grab any of that. Perhaps the person is just an idiot. The door was still locked despite the busted window.
Now with my Jeep repaired, I will have to use a different bag for work on Tuesday. Luckily, I still have the brown version of the one that was stolen. I bought these from a leather store back home at a ridiculously good sale price a couple of Thanksgivings ago with my sister and Suze. Good times. I will have to replace my black Rainbow flip flops, which honestly were on their last leg anyway. I was simply waiting for them to completely fall apart before I spent money on new ones. This just expedited that process. I will have to look for a replacement of my favorite leadership book, and figure out what to do about the other books on student organizations that technically FSU paid for me to purchase at a conference. Sigh.
All in all, things are not that bad. I just find it unsettling when these things happen. A stranger violating your personal space/property is not a pleasant feeling. I just hope the person gets a good deal on the Black Market from those student organization management books. Ha.
Of course one of the first things I did was take a picture with my phone.
I am glad the repair people vacuumed up all this!
Sidenote: This is my 100th blog post! I was hoping it be on something a little more fun, but I am sure better topics are on the way. :-)
7/1/10
IPDS 2010 (a.k.a. Networking in Indiana)
Yesterday I returned home from the Association of College Union International's (ACUI) Indiana Professional Development Seminar (IPDS). This is basically a type of orientation for new professionals in higher education, specifically those of us who work in and with college unions. I have to say the expereince was not only amazing, but far exceeded my expectations.
We were part of a class of about 50 participants from around the country. The seminar was about five days, and we covered a wide range of topics from career development to sustainability to collaborations between operations and programmers. The program was hosted at Indiana University, which is a beautiful campus in Bloomington. Four of us from FSU attended: Mike, Lori, Ian, and myself.
Most participants stayed in the hotel located in the Indiana Memorial Union. However, Mike, Lori, and I were part of 12 people who did not get rooms and had to stay further into town. (Ian got lucky and was upgraded to one at the last minute.) While this may seem like an inconvenience, it turned out to be a really nice walk to and from the hotel. It also made for a great running path in the mornings.
All in all, I have to say I really enjoyed the connections I made with other professionals. While networking is often a goal of most conferences and experiences, this time I really felt connected to the people there. We also seemed to make friends really well with the delegation from the University of Delaware. Who knew? I also connected with a number of people who have jobs similar to mine, and now we can connect, commiserate, and celebrate together. I can only hope that we will truly have a new network of people on which to rely as we navigate our careers in higher education.
I also felt like I really was able to take away much from our sessions and the experience as a whole. I gained a number of good ideas, tips, and tricks from the faculty and my peers. It was a great re-energizer (despite the fact that I am exhausted from travel). We also were able to learn much from the University of Indiana, and we were even able to tour a local brewery, Upland Brewing Co., to learn about their sustainability efforts and do a beer tasting! I was also able to have a geek moment when I had time to visit the Kinsey Institute. Amazing.
The most surprising thing was I now have a desire to learn more about ACUI and possibly get more involved with the association. (ACUI also hosted the Women's Leadership Institute I attended last December.) Luckily, the regional conference is going to be hosted at FSU this fall. So that will make things pretty easy!
We were part of a class of about 50 participants from around the country. The seminar was about five days, and we covered a wide range of topics from career development to sustainability to collaborations between operations and programmers. The program was hosted at Indiana University, which is a beautiful campus in Bloomington. Four of us from FSU attended: Mike, Lori, Ian, and myself.
Most participants stayed in the hotel located in the Indiana Memorial Union. However, Mike, Lori, and I were part of 12 people who did not get rooms and had to stay further into town. (Ian got lucky and was upgraded to one at the last minute.) While this may seem like an inconvenience, it turned out to be a really nice walk to and from the hotel. It also made for a great running path in the mornings.
All in all, I have to say I really enjoyed the connections I made with other professionals. While networking is often a goal of most conferences and experiences, this time I really felt connected to the people there. We also seemed to make friends really well with the delegation from the University of Delaware. Who knew? I also connected with a number of people who have jobs similar to mine, and now we can connect, commiserate, and celebrate together. I can only hope that we will truly have a new network of people on which to rely as we navigate our careers in higher education.
I also felt like I really was able to take away much from our sessions and the experience as a whole. I gained a number of good ideas, tips, and tricks from the faculty and my peers. It was a great re-energizer (despite the fact that I am exhausted from travel). We also were able to learn much from the University of Indiana, and we were even able to tour a local brewery, Upland Brewing Co., to learn about their sustainability efforts and do a beer tasting! I was also able to have a geek moment when I had time to visit the Kinsey Institute. Amazing.
The most surprising thing was I now have a desire to learn more about ACUI and possibly get more involved with the association. (ACUI also hosted the Women's Leadership Institute I attended last December.) Luckily, the regional conference is going to be hosted at FSU this fall. So that will make things pretty easy!
6/20/10
The Votes Are In, and We've Started a Trend
The moment you've all been waiting for...we officially have the votes for the 2010 Blog-A-Day-In-May Challenge. Each winner was based on the number of votes. For the overall winner, we voted for our personal 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, and then each of those were assigned point values to give an overall score. All scores are listed below in parentheses.(We were also able to reference specific posts in our justifications. Thanks to Regina for already linking them all on her blog. :-))
Readers' Choice
Adam (4)
Kelly (4)
Amber (3)
Mike (2)
Regina (1)
Most Supportive Blogger
Regina (4)
Kelly (3)
Amber (1)
Best Blog Post
Mike (3) - Medal of honor-"Fatal Frame II"
Adam (1)
Kelly (1) - What the crap?
Amber (1) - Flash Mob
Regina (1) - To throw or not...
Meghan (1)
Laugh Out Loud Funny Post
Adam (3) - Montgomery flea market proprieter on target employee and customer
Amber (2) - Crank Yankers - This one goes out to all my fellow bloggers
Billy (1) - Enjoy a good laugh
Julia (1) - Daily Puppy - Silas
Meghan (1)
What the Crap Post
Billy (2) - Not really a toy, but my favorite book from my youth
Adam (2)
Julia (1) - No daily puppy today
Kelly (1) - Put a ring on it
Regina (1)
Mike (1)
Cheesiest Post
Kelly (3) - I don't dance, I just shimmer - Suze, I love you - Put a ring on it
Mike (2) - Red Dead Redemption Drops Tomorrow
Amber (1)
Julia (1)
Billy (1)
Weirdest Post
Adam (5) - - Creepin -Elmo on Kitten - Creepin' Lead Singer of Smash Mouth on exotic birds
Mike (2)
Most Universal Blog
Regina (3)
Billy (1)
Adam (1)
Kelly (1)
Julia (1)
Most Creative Blog
Adam (5)
Mike (2)
Kelly (1)
2010 Overall Champion
Mike (65 pts)
Amber (30pts)
Regina (30pts)
Meghan (20pts)
Kelly (10pts)
Julia (5pts - Not eligible for overall champion award as voted out by other participants)
Billy (o pts)
Adam (80 pts - Not eligible for overall champion award as voted out by other participants)
So thank you to all my readers for voting me Readers' Choice. The comments made with each vote were pretty entertaining as well. As the second annual competition has closed, I am looking forward to next year. In the meantime, we I have entered the Summer 2010 Blog Challenge with some other friends you can see listed on the side of my blog. This one is a little less structured as we only have to blog once a week. However, I love that this is catching on!
Readers' Choice
Adam (4)
Kelly (4)
Amber (3)
Mike (2)
Regina (1)
Most Supportive Blogger
Regina (4)
Kelly (3)
Amber (1)
Best Blog Post
Mike (3) - Medal of honor-"Fatal Frame II"
Adam (1)
Kelly (1) - What the crap?
Amber (1) - Flash Mob
Regina (1) - To throw or not...
Meghan (1)
Laugh Out Loud Funny Post
Adam (3) - Montgomery flea market proprieter on target employee and customer
Amber (2) - Crank Yankers - This one goes out to all my fellow bloggers
Billy (1) - Enjoy a good laugh
Julia (1) - Daily Puppy - Silas
Meghan (1)
What the Crap Post
Billy (2) - Not really a toy, but my favorite book from my youth
Adam (2)
Julia (1) - No daily puppy today
Kelly (1) - Put a ring on it
Regina (1)
Mike (1)
Cheesiest Post
Kelly (3) - I don't dance, I just shimmer - Suze, I love you - Put a ring on it
Mike (2) - Red Dead Redemption Drops Tomorrow
Amber (1)
Julia (1)
Billy (1)
Weirdest Post
Adam (5) - - Creepin -Elmo on Kitten - Creepin' Lead Singer of Smash Mouth on exotic birds
Mike (2)
Most Universal Blog
Regina (3)
Billy (1)
Adam (1)
Kelly (1)
Julia (1)
Most Creative Blog
Adam (5)
Mike (2)
Kelly (1)
2010 Overall Champion
Mike (65 pts)
Amber (30pts)
Regina (30pts)
Meghan (20pts)
Kelly (10pts)
Julia (5pts - Not eligible for overall champion award as voted out by other participants)
Billy (o pts)
Adam (80 pts - Not eligible for overall champion award as voted out by other participants)
So thank you to all my readers for voting me Readers' Choice. The comments made with each vote were pretty entertaining as well. As the second annual competition has closed, I am looking forward to next year. In the meantime, we I have entered the Summer 2010 Blog Challenge with some other friends you can see listed on the side of my blog. This one is a little less structured as we only have to blog once a week. However, I love that this is catching on!
6/16/10
It's All Good
For some reason this afternoon, I needed to stop and think about the good things in life. Maybe I was channeling my inner "Jessica." Okay, if you have not seen the video yet, I will post it at the end. The point is, I felt the need to write some of my own affirmations:
And if you really haven't seen it yet, here is a little girl who has the right idea on affirmations:
Sidenote: I finished W1D2 of the C25K Plan this morning. Definitely feeling it, but feeling good about it. I also will be looking at running shoes this weekend, but the biggest thing is I have started working on a blog for all of us getting active to publish together. So stay tuned!
- I truly enjoy my job.
- I have wonderful friends.
- I love my family.
- I have great mentors.
- I am dating a good guy.
- I am healthy enough to enjoy life and get active.
- I have some amazing support around me.
And if you really haven't seen it yet, here is a little girl who has the right idea on affirmations:
Sidenote: I finished W1D2 of the C25K Plan this morning. Definitely feeling it, but feeling good about it. I also will be looking at running shoes this weekend, but the biggest thing is I have started working on a blog for all of us getting active to publish together. So stay tuned!
6/14/10
C25K W1D1
I have always envied runners. Always. I think it looks like such a great way to not only get in shape but take off the day and decompress. However, I have never enjoyed doing it myself. I tried running for a bit with a girlfriend in college, but it did not work out. I just wrote running off as something I just do not do. Until I found a new inspiration.
My fantastic friend Tara introduced me to the world of the Couch to 5K Plan. You may have heard of it. Quite often today people I talked to about it had either heard of it, tried it, were thinking of trying it, or know someone who has or is doing it. Crazy. Well, I looked into it, and started week one, day one this morning. Woo!
The premise of the program is pretty simple. In nine weeks, you work your way up to being able to run three miles. It starts you off slow because the mistake of most new runner is jumping in too quickly. So this week, it is a five minute warm-up walk, then alternating 60 seconds of running with 90 seconds of walking, then a five minute cool-down walk. In total, the workout is about 30 minutes. Each week is designed for you to run three days, with at least a day break in between. This week, my goal is Monday, Wednesday, Friday. As my schedule gets crazier, I am sure I will switch up the days.
I figured I would give this a shot not only because of my envy and my respect for Tara, but also because running is such an easy way to work out anywhere. This summer is bringing with it a bit of travel, both professional and personal, and while I love my Wii workouts, they are not exactly portable. Of course, I also love a challenge. First the 30 Day Challenge with the first EA Sports Active, then the 6 Week Challenge with EA Sports Active More Workouts. (And add in blog challenges and such.)
So yesterday I downloaded a suggested podcast to get me going from another woman who has done the C25K Plan. It may not be all my favorite music, but it got me going this morning. Plus, not having to time myself because she tells me when to walk and run is much easier. I do really see myself doing this to really run a 5K, but who knows. I really just want to find a new way to be active.
Now I have joined the world of want-to-be runners. I also hope to be a support (and get support from) Tara...and it seems Susan may be joining the ranks as well? I had a thought today that maybe we could blog together about it, or find some form of online support/sharing venue as we all live in three different states. Although I am not sure I will stick to blogging each day I run. We shall see.
Nonetheless, here's to running!
Sidenote: I joined a new blog challenge today. Blogging at least once a week for the rest of the summer. So far, the other participants are:
Critically Acclaimed (Justin)
Pocket Susan (Suze)
Finding Focus (Richard)
Exchanging Keys (Regina)
Waiting on the World to Change (Tara)
And no word on this year's May challenge winner yet. I will keep you all posted.
My fantastic friend Tara introduced me to the world of the Couch to 5K Plan. You may have heard of it. Quite often today people I talked to about it had either heard of it, tried it, were thinking of trying it, or know someone who has or is doing it. Crazy. Well, I looked into it, and started week one, day one this morning. Woo!
The premise of the program is pretty simple. In nine weeks, you work your way up to being able to run three miles. It starts you off slow because the mistake of most new runner is jumping in too quickly. So this week, it is a five minute warm-up walk, then alternating 60 seconds of running with 90 seconds of walking, then a five minute cool-down walk. In total, the workout is about 30 minutes. Each week is designed for you to run three days, with at least a day break in between. This week, my goal is Monday, Wednesday, Friday. As my schedule gets crazier, I am sure I will switch up the days.
I figured I would give this a shot not only because of my envy and my respect for Tara, but also because running is such an easy way to work out anywhere. This summer is bringing with it a bit of travel, both professional and personal, and while I love my Wii workouts, they are not exactly portable. Of course, I also love a challenge. First the 30 Day Challenge with the first EA Sports Active, then the 6 Week Challenge with EA Sports Active More Workouts. (And add in blog challenges and such.)
So yesterday I downloaded a suggested podcast to get me going from another woman who has done the C25K Plan. It may not be all my favorite music, but it got me going this morning. Plus, not having to time myself because she tells me when to walk and run is much easier. I do really see myself doing this to really run a 5K, but who knows. I really just want to find a new way to be active.
Now I have joined the world of want-to-be runners. I also hope to be a support (and get support from) Tara...and it seems Susan may be joining the ranks as well? I had a thought today that maybe we could blog together about it, or find some form of online support/sharing venue as we all live in three different states. Although I am not sure I will stick to blogging each day I run. We shall see.
Nonetheless, here's to running!
Sidenote: I joined a new blog challenge today. Blogging at least once a week for the rest of the summer. So far, the other participants are:
Critically Acclaimed (Justin)
Pocket Susan (Suze)
Finding Focus (Richard)
Exchanging Keys (Regina)
Waiting on the World to Change (Tara)
And no word on this year's May challenge winner yet. I will keep you all posted.
6/13/10
Prevention is a Process, Not a Program
From last Wednesday through Saturday, I attended the third annual Novak Institute for Hazing Prevention. The institute is an interdisciplinary meeting of professionals and students and is put on through HazingPrevention.org. Florida State has been lucky enough to have one of our Associate Dean of Students as one of the faculty of the institute. We were also privileged to have been awarded the first Zeta Tau Alpha Award for Innovation in Hazing Prevention and Education, which allowed us to help ease some of the cost for myself, one graduate assistant, and five students from various organizations to attend this year's institute.
My original goal was to blog at the end of each day (like I did for the Women's Leadership Institute last December but failed to do for ACPA). However, the length and intensity of the days coupled with my poorly functioning laptop kept me from doing that. So here, I just wanted to get out a few thoughts about this experience because it was truly a meaningful one.
Without getting into the details of the curriculum, I will just say we spent half of the time learning about a new way to think about hazing and grasping a new framework by which to approach this difficult topic. The other half of the time we were able to talk about how to apply the ideas we were learning to our specific areas and campuses. Again, FSU is somewhat ahead of the curve as we have modeled this approach by implementing our online presence for hazing prevention (although we are now talking about what our next steps may be). These conversations and sessions were so interesting because they were truly interdisciplinary. We had students and professionals from Greek Life, Student Affairs, Campus Recreation/Athletics, Marching Bands, ROTC, Housing, and even some police officers.
What was truly inspiring about the experience was being in such an intensive environment with a group of people who were all truly interested in the topic. The power of dialogue can be so amazing. I also have been able to think about what I learned and how it applies not only to hazing prevention, but it will also shape how I approach a number of things I do in my current position. So much of the curriculum was focused on how we need to move beyond just doing programs to truly implementing a process of preventing hazing behaviors. I realized on Thursday after hearing from a psychologist and his views on what hazing means to people why I was interested in this topic to begin with: I love thinking about what makes people who they are and why they behave the way they do.
Watching our students was also a rewarding experience. Although some of them struggled with the concepts, I was encouraged by watching them process the information and what it meant to them and their respective organizations. I also loved meeting so many amazing professionals not only from Higher Education but also from national organizations.
Although it felt like summer camp at times since we were staying in a residence hall and eating in the dining hall, I had a great time. I roomed with Panhellinc women who all worked for their sororities' national offices, which anyone who know me was a new experience in itself. But really it was about becoming part of a larger movement. All the work being done with hazing prevention is very young, but I can feel it moving like a steamroller as we get others on board. The work also draws from other areas of prevention (sexual violence, alcohol and other drugs). This is not about policy, but about true change. How can we best increase desirable behaviors in our students?
As you can tell, I am still processing all of this. I could also keep writing much more, but I will not do that to anyone who is actually still reading. I will likely become part of reigniting this movement here at FSU, which is pretty exciting. I am certainly grateful for this experience, and I hope I can pay it forward.
My original goal was to blog at the end of each day (like I did for the Women's Leadership Institute last December but failed to do for ACPA). However, the length and intensity of the days coupled with my poorly functioning laptop kept me from doing that. So here, I just wanted to get out a few thoughts about this experience because it was truly a meaningful one.
Without getting into the details of the curriculum, I will just say we spent half of the time learning about a new way to think about hazing and grasping a new framework by which to approach this difficult topic. The other half of the time we were able to talk about how to apply the ideas we were learning to our specific areas and campuses. Again, FSU is somewhat ahead of the curve as we have modeled this approach by implementing our online presence for hazing prevention (although we are now talking about what our next steps may be). These conversations and sessions were so interesting because they were truly interdisciplinary. We had students and professionals from Greek Life, Student Affairs, Campus Recreation/Athletics, Marching Bands, ROTC, Housing, and even some police officers.
What was truly inspiring about the experience was being in such an intensive environment with a group of people who were all truly interested in the topic. The power of dialogue can be so amazing. I also have been able to think about what I learned and how it applies not only to hazing prevention, but it will also shape how I approach a number of things I do in my current position. So much of the curriculum was focused on how we need to move beyond just doing programs to truly implementing a process of preventing hazing behaviors. I realized on Thursday after hearing from a psychologist and his views on what hazing means to people why I was interested in this topic to begin with: I love thinking about what makes people who they are and why they behave the way they do.
Watching our students was also a rewarding experience. Although some of them struggled with the concepts, I was encouraged by watching them process the information and what it meant to them and their respective organizations. I also loved meeting so many amazing professionals not only from Higher Education but also from national organizations.
Although it felt like summer camp at times since we were staying in a residence hall and eating in the dining hall, I had a great time. I roomed with Panhellinc women who all worked for their sororities' national offices, which anyone who know me was a new experience in itself. But really it was about becoming part of a larger movement. All the work being done with hazing prevention is very young, but I can feel it moving like a steamroller as we get others on board. The work also draws from other areas of prevention (sexual violence, alcohol and other drugs). This is not about policy, but about true change. How can we best increase desirable behaviors in our students?
As you can tell, I am still processing all of this. I could also keep writing much more, but I will not do that to anyone who is actually still reading. I will likely become part of reigniting this movement here at FSU, which is pretty exciting. I am certainly grateful for this experience, and I hope I can pay it forward.
6/2/10
Voting Time!
As our Blog-A-Day Challenge has ended, now is the time to vote for this year's winner. Thanks to Regina, we have two surveys this year to help us determine the 2010 champion.
Blog Participants: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/BLVP7BQ
Blog Readers: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/BK6JVST
All voting is expected to be done by Sunday, June 6 at 12:00 pm.
So if you have been keeping track, go vote! I will keep everyone posted once the results are in. :-)
Blog Participants: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/
Blog Readers: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/
All voting is expected to be done by Sunday, June 6 at 12:00 pm.
So if you have been keeping track, go vote! I will keep everyone posted once the results are in. :-)
5/28/10
QOTD #20
"I was reading your blog..."
Today marks the official end of the Blog-A-Day-In-May Challenge. I am relieved and sad. This year's competition seemed a little different from last year. We had not only new challengers, but new readers as well. I went with more of a theme this time instead of just normal blogging. We also had just a change in the overall feel in the event that I do not think I can really explain.
I have said before how much I enjoy blogging. I find it a good way to get (at least some) thoughts out. I like keeping in touch and learning about others by reading their blogs. However, I have really enjoyed how much this year's challenge seemed to really bring a number of us together. And this is not just the challengers, but those around us and our readers. I felt a sense of communication across people new and old. For example, Susan throwing her support behind Regina, even though this is the only way they really know each other since they have never met.
This year has also led to interesting conversations outside of the blogs. "I was reading your blog and it made me think of..." "Well after reading your blog I realized..." "Your post today was..." Even when we could not think of what to blog, it became the topic of conversation. Camaraderie through competition. Somewhat like my comments yesterday, I enjoy the interactions and draw competition can have on a group of friends.
So good job everyone. I hope we keep it up, and I certainly look forward to next year!
Oh, and a note to any readers, I am pretty sure you will get a chance to have voice in this year's winner. So stay tuned.
Sidenote: I may have a better quote later since a number of us are heading to dinner, but I wanted to make sure I did not miss the final day. ;-)
Today marks the official end of the Blog-A-Day-In-May Challenge. I am relieved and sad. This year's competition seemed a little different from last year. We had not only new challengers, but new readers as well. I went with more of a theme this time instead of just normal blogging. We also had just a change in the overall feel in the event that I do not think I can really explain.
I have said before how much I enjoy blogging. I find it a good way to get (at least some) thoughts out. I like keeping in touch and learning about others by reading their blogs. However, I have really enjoyed how much this year's challenge seemed to really bring a number of us together. And this is not just the challengers, but those around us and our readers. I felt a sense of communication across people new and old. For example, Susan throwing her support behind Regina, even though this is the only way they really know each other since they have never met.
This year has also led to interesting conversations outside of the blogs. "I was reading your blog and it made me think of..." "Well after reading your blog I realized..." "Your post today was..." Even when we could not think of what to blog, it became the topic of conversation. Camaraderie through competition. Somewhat like my comments yesterday, I enjoy the interactions and draw competition can have on a group of friends.
So good job everyone. I hope we keep it up, and I certainly look forward to next year!
Oh, and a note to any readers, I am pretty sure you will get a chance to have voice in this year's winner. So stay tuned.
Sidenote: I may have a better quote later since a number of us are heading to dinner, but I wanted to make sure I did not miss the final day. ;-)
5/27/10
QOTD #19
"Put a ring on it." -Billy, today at lunch
I have many reasons why Billy and I are friends. However, one of the reasons at the top of the list (if not the #1) is his timing of snarky comments. Most often he is somewhat reserved, contributes to conversation where he needs to, and is an all around nice person. Yet on occasion, he comes out with a comment like today's where he floors us all, and he either gets two points or way crosses the line. Today, he got two points. Mike has even dubbed him the "Joke Assassin - One Shot, One Kill."
The conversation: We were having lunch at Tijuana Flats (yum) and were discussing a possible road trip up to my hometown. Billy and I started trying to get Mike in on the trip. One of the enticements for Mike, who hates long car trips, was the prospect of meeting my family. (Suze, I expect a comment of what meeting my family means.) Mike's statement was something along the lines of how he wanted to meet my parents, to which Billy seamlessly and shamelessly replies, "Put a ring on it," as he continues to enjoy his flautas.
We all (including Selby and Lori who were with us as well) LOST IT. The effect of this may not be as great for anyone who does not know Billy well, but just know that it was perfect. We laughed for a good five minutes before we could move past it. Good times. (I suppose I should also explain here for anyone who does not know us well, Mike and I are often (read: always) mistaken for dating because we are pretty ridiculous together, and this is quite often the subject of such jokes.)
Afterward I started to think about how much I love all my friends, even when (maybe especially when) they are snarky. I see it as a measure of the level of comfort people have with each other. I think of anyone I have considered a good friend, especially in groups of friends, and I know I can pinpoint numerous conversations like the one today with all of them. You learn to laugh at yourself. You learn to not be so serious. You learn much about yourself. And besides, if your friends can't rip on you, who can? Love you guys!
I have many reasons why Billy and I are friends. However, one of the reasons at the top of the list (if not the #1) is his timing of snarky comments. Most often he is somewhat reserved, contributes to conversation where he needs to, and is an all around nice person. Yet on occasion, he comes out with a comment like today's where he floors us all, and he either gets two points or way crosses the line. Today, he got two points. Mike has even dubbed him the "Joke Assassin - One Shot, One Kill."
The conversation: We were having lunch at Tijuana Flats (yum) and were discussing a possible road trip up to my hometown. Billy and I started trying to get Mike in on the trip. One of the enticements for Mike, who hates long car trips, was the prospect of meeting my family. (Suze, I expect a comment of what meeting my family means.) Mike's statement was something along the lines of how he wanted to meet my parents, to which Billy seamlessly and shamelessly replies, "Put a ring on it," as he continues to enjoy his flautas.
We all (including Selby and Lori who were with us as well) LOST IT. The effect of this may not be as great for anyone who does not know Billy well, but just know that it was perfect. We laughed for a good five minutes before we could move past it. Good times. (I suppose I should also explain here for anyone who does not know us well, Mike and I are often (read: always) mistaken for dating because we are pretty ridiculous together, and this is quite often the subject of such jokes.)
Afterward I started to think about how much I love all my friends, even when (maybe especially when) they are snarky. I see it as a measure of the level of comfort people have with each other. I think of anyone I have considered a good friend, especially in groups of friends, and I know I can pinpoint numerous conversations like the one today with all of them. You learn to laugh at yourself. You learn to not be so serious. You learn much about yourself. And besides, if your friends can't rip on you, who can? Love you guys!
5/26/10
QOTD #18
"SOOOOO EXCITED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (oh yeah, I'm that excited - 24 exclamation points worth of excited. Take that Regina!)" -Suze, via email
After numerous (read: everyone) people have told me I need to take a real vacation, I have finally listened. Shocking, I know. As of today, I am working on not only a vacation, but a relatively elaborate plan to visit two cities and four friends. This will include Austin, TX where I get to see Susan and J. Brady, and Orlando, FL where I get to see Josh and McKercher. The trip will put me out of Tallahassee for a little over a week. SOOOOO EXCITED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (24 more!)
In telling the whole story, I have to admit I have told Suze for the past two years I would come visit Austin. Yet, as life often goes, things kept me from going. Then, J. Brady (a.k.a. Best Spuddy Ever), moved to Austin last fall. I again starting promising to visit but have not followed through. Why? Money. Time off. Waiting on my sister's wedding. I am a terrible friend. You know, the typical excuses. This morning I finally decided I needed this visit. Period.
I emailed my Austin friends, and relatively received the reply above along with the beginnings of a plan. As I started searching flights and comparing prices between Florida airports (because Tallahassee is insanely expensive), I thought to look at the Orlando airport. (For anyone not in Tally, Jacksonville is typically the fall back international airport for us.) And who lives in Orlando? Josh and Adam. Granted, I get to see relatively more often, but of course not enough. Then my wheels started to turn, and I am now in the process of coordinating what will become an awesome vacation.
So to my supervisor, mentor, graduate assistant, colleagues, and even my students, I am taking a vacation. Be proud. And to Susan, Justin, Josh, and Adam, I cannot wait to see your faces!
Sidenote: I had to include the note about the exclamation points for Regina (see previous post and comments). It made me laugh.
After numerous (read: everyone) people have told me I need to take a real vacation, I have finally listened. Shocking, I know. As of today, I am working on not only a vacation, but a relatively elaborate plan to visit two cities and four friends. This will include Austin, TX where I get to see Susan and J. Brady, and Orlando, FL where I get to see Josh and McKercher. The trip will put me out of Tallahassee for a little over a week. SOOOOO EXCITED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (24 more!)
In telling the whole story, I have to admit I have told Suze for the past two years I would come visit Austin. Yet, as life often goes, things kept me from going. Then, J. Brady (a.k.a. Best Spuddy Ever), moved to Austin last fall. I again starting promising to visit but have not followed through. Why? Money. Time off. Waiting on my sister's wedding. I am a terrible friend. You know, the typical excuses. This morning I finally decided I needed this visit. Period.
I emailed my Austin friends, and relatively received the reply above along with the beginnings of a plan. As I started searching flights and comparing prices between Florida airports (because Tallahassee is insanely expensive), I thought to look at the Orlando airport. (For anyone not in Tally, Jacksonville is typically the fall back international airport for us.) And who lives in Orlando? Josh and Adam. Granted, I get to see relatively more often, but of course not enough. Then my wheels started to turn, and I am now in the process of coordinating what will become an awesome vacation.
So to my supervisor, mentor, graduate assistant, colleagues, and even my students, I am taking a vacation. Be proud. And to Susan, Justin, Josh, and Adam, I cannot wait to see your faces!
Sidenote: I had to include the note about the exclamation points for Regina (see previous post and comments). It made me laugh.
5/25/10
QOTD #17
"This is a pretty bold statement from an association I am proud to be in." -Zach, a fellow student affairs professional and ACPA member, via Facebook.
One of the major topic in news and politics? The State of Arizona Senate Bill 1070, a.k.a. the Arizona Immigration Law. Typically, I read things in the news and politics, think "that's interesting," and move on. However, this particular topic has gained a momentum I do not think I can ignore. I am paying even more attention now that I am seeing the reaction of higher education and student affairs institutions. Notably, today, I read that ACPA, one of the major professional organizations for higher education professionals, issued a statement pulling their 2011 Mid-Level Management Institute from Tuscon, AZ. This was quickly posted across our networks, including by Zach above.
Another colleague and mentor of mine just before this shared with me that the NASPA (another major professional organization) Latino/a Knowledge Community also issued a statement speaking out against the bill. The general consensus of these major organizations, as well as others, is they do not support an environment that essentially works against the inclusion and understanding they are trying to promote. As the ACPA statement read, "S.B. 1070 may create an atmosphere that is totally contradictory to the core values of our association and
profession."
I have to admit that I do not personally know this bill inside and out, but I get the point that Arizona is giving law enforcement the power to profile individuals and determine if they are legal citizens. I can see how this creates a new world of concern, especially in a country where racial conflict, profiling, crimes, etc. already happen much too often. As higher education professionals, we often encourage the idea of global education and inclusion. So I can see where this controversial bill does not really fit.
In all, I am proud to be part of a profession that not only has a sense of civic duty but that also acts on it. ACPA is one of what I hope will turn into many taking a stand for core values. Will it help change any lawmakers' minds? Maybe, maybe not. But it all has to start somewhere, and this is certainly better than promoting a state making poor decisions. I also hope it sends a message to other states (read: politicians) who think Arizona is a good example to follow. I have already seen infuriating political television ads on how one candidate should win over another because he believes in Arizona's bill. Really?
Additional McKercher Dino-Quote of the Day: "Life lesson from a childhood treasure: Littlefoot doesn't grow up to be a Tyrannosaurus. That one's for @JK_83 to ponder today." via Twitter
I just wanted to share it because it was a good giggle to start a long day. And The Land Before Time was a great movie. Period. (The first one, sequels, not so much.)
One of the major topic in news and politics? The State of Arizona Senate Bill 1070, a.k.a. the Arizona Immigration Law. Typically, I read things in the news and politics, think "that's interesting," and move on. However, this particular topic has gained a momentum I do not think I can ignore. I am paying even more attention now that I am seeing the reaction of higher education and student affairs institutions. Notably, today, I read that ACPA, one of the major professional organizations for higher education professionals, issued a statement pulling their 2011 Mid-Level Management Institute from Tuscon, AZ. This was quickly posted across our networks, including by Zach above.
Another colleague and mentor of mine just before this shared with me that the NASPA (another major professional organization) Latino/a Knowledge Community also issued a statement speaking out against the bill. The general consensus of these major organizations, as well as others, is they do not support an environment that essentially works against the inclusion and understanding they are trying to promote. As the ACPA statement read, "S.B. 1070 may create an atmosphere that is totally contradictory to the core values of our association and
profession."
I have to admit that I do not personally know this bill inside and out, but I get the point that Arizona is giving law enforcement the power to profile individuals and determine if they are legal citizens. I can see how this creates a new world of concern, especially in a country where racial conflict, profiling, crimes, etc. already happen much too often. As higher education professionals, we often encourage the idea of global education and inclusion. So I can see where this controversial bill does not really fit.
In all, I am proud to be part of a profession that not only has a sense of civic duty but that also acts on it. ACPA is one of what I hope will turn into many taking a stand for core values. Will it help change any lawmakers' minds? Maybe, maybe not. But it all has to start somewhere, and this is certainly better than promoting a state making poor decisions. I also hope it sends a message to other states (read: politicians) who think Arizona is a good example to follow. I have already seen infuriating political television ads on how one candidate should win over another because he believes in Arizona's bill. Really?
Additional McKercher Dino-Quote of the Day: "Life lesson from a childhood treasure: Littlefoot doesn't grow up to be a Tyrannosaurus. That one's for @JK_83 to ponder today." via Twitter
I just wanted to share it because it was a good giggle to start a long day. And The Land Before Time was a great movie. Period. (The first one, sequels, not so much.)
5/24/10
QOTD #16
"The most important part of your life was the time you spent with these people." -Christian Shepard, LOST
Last night, for anyone who somehow did not know, was the series finale of LOST. And anyone who knows me of course also knows that I have devoted a few years to the show (not all six as I did not get into it until season three). I will not go into too much of how this show has been a milestone for television as you can search the numerous articles that say so. However, I will say that I have thoroughly enjoyed it, and even more, I have enjoyed what it has meant in my relationships with others.
This is why I took this quote from last night's episode. Not only was it really the epitome of what the storyline meant to the characters, but I think it well summarized what they show has meant to its many fans. LOST, and many shows like it, had a way of bringing people together. Honestly, this is how I started watching it in the first place. In my attempt to be social the second semester of grad school, I started to hang out with a few people who were already addicted to the show. (Actually, it tended to air right before pint night at Delaney's. So this became part of the ritual.)
I honestly was not immediately hooked because I had no idea what was going on since I somewhat jumped in the middle of it. However, the show grew on me, and as I went back to catch up on what I had missed, I was hooked. I then became a "Lostie" with the rest of them, and it became something we all did together.
As we graduated and moved our own ways, we could not give up the camaraderie that the show provided us. So we started a weekly email discussion after each episode. This quickly became what many of us looked forward to in the weeks of the season. We share thoughts, reactions, theories, research...all the things that crazy fans do I suppose. I especially held on to these interactions as I had moved to a town where I did not really know anyone yet, much less anyone who watched LOST. So for a while I sat at home yelling at the television by myself. (Do not act like you have never done it.) Eventually, I found out that Mike and some others watched it, and we quickly bonded over the shared experience.
And this is all the point of today's quote. As one my fellow bloggers pointed out, television can become a big part of who we are and of our relationships with others. LOST has been a shining example. It gave us something to connect over in a way that not only created dialogue, but often intelligent dialogue (heaven forbid). Okay, it was not always intelligent...Katie B and I enjoyed talking about shirtless Sawyer probably more than anything else, but I stand beside my point.
We treasure the time we have spent with others. These relationships make us who we are and who we will become. So thank you, LOST, for bringing me closer to some really amazing people while connecting us all with dynamic characters and a story that will surely be earmarked in the history books.
Last night, for anyone who somehow did not know, was the series finale of LOST. And anyone who knows me of course also knows that I have devoted a few years to the show (not all six as I did not get into it until season three). I will not go into too much of how this show has been a milestone for television as you can search the numerous articles that say so. However, I will say that I have thoroughly enjoyed it, and even more, I have enjoyed what it has meant in my relationships with others.
This is why I took this quote from last night's episode. Not only was it really the epitome of what the storyline meant to the characters, but I think it well summarized what they show has meant to its many fans. LOST, and many shows like it, had a way of bringing people together. Honestly, this is how I started watching it in the first place. In my attempt to be social the second semester of grad school, I started to hang out with a few people who were already addicted to the show. (Actually, it tended to air right before pint night at Delaney's. So this became part of the ritual.)
I honestly was not immediately hooked because I had no idea what was going on since I somewhat jumped in the middle of it. However, the show grew on me, and as I went back to catch up on what I had missed, I was hooked. I then became a "Lostie" with the rest of them, and it became something we all did together.
As we graduated and moved our own ways, we could not give up the camaraderie that the show provided us. So we started a weekly email discussion after each episode. This quickly became what many of us looked forward to in the weeks of the season. We share thoughts, reactions, theories, research...all the things that crazy fans do I suppose. I especially held on to these interactions as I had moved to a town where I did not really know anyone yet, much less anyone who watched LOST. So for a while I sat at home yelling at the television by myself. (Do not act like you have never done it.) Eventually, I found out that Mike and some others watched it, and we quickly bonded over the shared experience.
And this is all the point of today's quote. As one my fellow bloggers pointed out, television can become a big part of who we are and of our relationships with others. LOST has been a shining example. It gave us something to connect over in a way that not only created dialogue, but often intelligent dialogue (heaven forbid). Okay, it was not always intelligent...Katie B and I enjoyed talking about shirtless Sawyer probably more than anything else, but I stand beside my point.
We treasure the time we have spent with others. These relationships make us who we are and who we will become. So thank you, LOST, for bringing me closer to some really amazing people while connecting us all with dynamic characters and a story that will surely be earmarked in the history books.
And as an homage to the shirtless in LOST:
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