Surprise!

In the words of Flo, "Surprise!"" Did you ever think that things seemed calm or even predictable? Just wait about an hour or two and that will surely change. So with that I ask myself, or tell myself, "Never be surprised!" Is this born of cynicism? No just the voice of experience. And perhaps I wouldn't want it any other way. Perhaps.

Parents' Eyes

Never think you have been alone in your journey. We have been with you every step of the way. Usually just watching but sometimes steering, just a little. When you crashed on the rocks we too crashed and when you sailed high we did as well. We hope for you a restful time of peace before being forced again to test the ever changing waters. Always remember a quiet cove is just around the corner.

Like a Bag of Bricks

I have been very aware of the enlargement tools for the computer screen for many years. Often at work when I can't read a number sequence, small print of listed ingredients, or when I need to enlarge a computer screen on my projector at work for students, I utilize this feature. Just Friday, I was teaching the students working on research for Science Fair in the Computer Lab, to use this enlargement tool instead on sliding forward the screen.(I was severely warned against this practice by the lab teacher who also does a Jim-dandy job of managing cafeteria and line behavior) They were very impressed by the enlargement process and were much more willing readers I might add. But did this hit home with me? NO! I didn't see that I should ever really use the enlarger but dah! Today while I was doing some Windows Update Installations and had to see small print, I enlarged and failed to turn back to 100% when finished. I just sat down to check my email,....Presto Chango! for the first time in months(years?) I can comfortably see. Yes, comfortably! If you are a young person this seem odd to you, I know. Those of us 50+ understand. Another benenfit of large print is that it cuts off the ad margin of Facebook and other sites! Well enough said. I am a happier, more relaxed person due to the 150% magnification of my screen.

Something Old, Something New

I'm always amazed at the lengths people will go just to cheat. It would be easier just to master the skill or fulfill the obligation as expected or required. This year alone I experienced the sign language cheaters, the paper grading cheaters, the take test for a friend cheaters, the copied from home ahead of time cheaters, the paper in the lap cheaters, and the so obvious that I'm cheating that I can't be cheating cheaters. I'm sure that I've forgotten one or two by now but you see my point? You plan, get in cahoots, hide things, develop a language...for crying out loud just spend 15 minutes preparing! Just read the assignment! Just put your effort into your work not your plan to be unprepared! If you hate to put out the effort just own up to it and fail! I hate the stunned look when I discreetly pick up the paper and whisper that I won't be able to take that grade. Never do I accuse, point the finger or use the dread word but it hangs in the air between us. They know that I know, and that is all that matters.