Over the past few months, I have found myself involved in many discussions about the Texas State Board of Education and their ridiculous new social studies standards. They are making headlines across the country, and countless friends and acquaintances from outside Texas have e-mailed me asking my opinion--not so much because of what I do for a living, but because I live in Texas, which makes me a part of this travesty, I suppose.
And my official opinion is. . . the whole thing sucks. Besides being politically slanted and backwards, the new standards are so long and specific and unwieldy as to be almost useless. I pity the teachers and administrators who have to sort them out. And I really feel for the poor writers who have to figure out how to create workable materials for Texas classrooms.
I've written and edited textbooks and other educational materials for all the major American publishers for the past 18 years. Lucky for me, I do very little social studies work, and when I do it's elementary social studies. I've refused to dive into the treacherous world of "history" for good reason--it's a trap!!
I know how textbooks are developed. I have lived the process--from development of the initial scope and sequence to watching the fold-and-gathers come out the birthing end of a big machine that I don't know the name of--more times than I can count. But mainly I'm in the trenches of content development. I'm one of many who sit at a desk covered with lists of standards from the "important" states and try to figure out how they can be caressed and coddled to correlate with content and instruction and whatever buzz words the marketing people heard at the last big educational conference. Despite what many people believe, we try to do it in a way that makes some kind of sense and in a way that makes the content interesting to kids. Unfortunately, we often don't succeed. The sad truth is that as states produce longer and longer lists of standards that must be met in order for materials to be eligible for purchase, the development of cohesive and meaningful content becomes almost impossible.
In traditional educational publishing, the biggest markets (CA, FL, TX) drive the development of textbooks that are sold across the country because publishers can't afford to publish special editions for every single state. Because of this, the TX standards potentially play a big role in the development of textbooks that are used in other states. This is why the standards in Texas are big news. Well, that and the fact that the people who determine Texas standards are apparently a bunch of nutballs.
So, it makes for very big headlines when our SBOE does something as boneheaded as passing these newly revised social studies standards. I'm embarrassed to see my home state cast in such a negative light (but, sadly, I'm getting used to it). I'm embarrassed by the ignorance and intolerance demonstrated by people who supposedly "represent" me. But I don't believe that the new standards will change much of anything.
Although niche publishers might try to sell some books by publishing "crazy" history that strongly reflects SBOE members' attempts to re-whitewash history, the big publishers will continue to produce materials that teach history as fairly as possible, because even though Texas may drive the content, they still have to sell the books in other states to make their investment back. Writers have ways of meeting silly standards with carefully worded paragraphs in call-out boxes or in the teacher's edition, leaving the actual content intact.
But the real question is whether the publishers are even going to bother with Texas' new social studies standards. Over the past year, publishers have been scrambling to produce books to meet Texas' convoluted new science standards. You remember those; they made headlines last year. But just last week the Texas legislature decided to postpone adoption and purchase of new science textbooks for at least two years. This means that all the money publishers spent deciphering the science standards and developing materials to meet them is lost for now.
Publishers are, above all, businesses. They're not going to continue to invest untold dollars to develop materials for Texas if Texas isn't going to buy them. This, if nothing else, may save the rest of the US from our ridiculous folly.
But there's even more promising news. The entire educational publishing industry is in flux right now. Schools want to move away from the big, expensive basal textbooks with their shiny boxes of supplementary materials that nobody ever uses. More and more content is being developed to be delivered online and on-demand, allowing teachers to easily customize materials that meet their specific needs on a daily basis. As this becomes more and more common, the great big hardback teach-everything-with-one-book books will be phased out, and content providers will be able to offer content that meets the specific standards of each state. Then Texas' standards will be irrelevant to everyone except for the poor schmucks who make them up. Hallelujah!
None of this makes what's going on in the SBOE okay. For one thing, the system is clearly broken and nobody seems to be moving to fix it. Furthermore, the fact that the new standards are a reflection of the political climate in our state saddens and frightens me. Really, the whole thing is enormously embarrassing. But if you think the standards as they passed are bad, you should have heard some of the stuff they tried to get through that DIDN'T pass. One of the board members actually proposed that we teach children both the "pros and cons" of the Civil Rights Movement. Do you know what the "con" was that this imbecile wanted kids to learn about? The Civil Rights Movement "lead to unrealistic expectations of equality."
That one nearly put me over the edge.
* NB: I'm still processing this whole thing. Opinion subject to change without warning.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Negotiations
If this sounds familiar, it's because I posted the first part of the story on facebook as the events were unfolding. I'm repeating it here because 1) as far as I can tell there's no good way to find past posts on facebook other than scrolling through them all and 2) the story continued last night. So. . .
A couple of weeks ago, Mia (to be known henceforth as "the client") hired Zoe ("the artist") to design and create her birthday invitations. The negotiations were hilarious. The artist offered to do the design for $3, and the client declined. Then the artist said she'd go ahead and design something without setting the price, and if the client liked it, the artist would set her price then. The client saw that for the trap it was and agreed on the artist's original bid of $3. So far so good.
The artist produced a prototype. The client wanted changes. The artist wasn't willing to compromise her vision. The client threatened to fire the artist. The artist quit and went to her room. The client sat on the stairs and cried.
Ultimately, artist and client found common ground. The design was accepted and printed. Payment was made and a cupcake was shared as a sign of goodwill.
I sent the invitations out and had a strong drink.
Well, last night, Mia decided that she wanted the original art work to raffle off as a door prize at her party. Zoe told her that for her original $3 fee, she only relinquished the digital rights to her image. If Mia wanted the original piece, she was going to have to pay for it. "$10!" "No way! I'll give you $1." This went on for some time, with Mia eventually agreeing to pay $5. Mia handed over the money and Zoe handed over the artwork. No cupcakes were consumed. But there was no crying this time, either.
In case you don't know, these children are 10 and (almost) 9. The next few years are going to be interesting for sure.
A couple of weeks ago, Mia (to be known henceforth as "the client") hired Zoe ("the artist") to design and create her birthday invitations. The negotiations were hilarious. The artist offered to do the design for $3, and the client declined. Then the artist said she'd go ahead and design something without setting the price, and if the client liked it, the artist would set her price then. The client saw that for the trap it was and agreed on the artist's original bid of $3. So far so good.
The artist produced a prototype. The client wanted changes. The artist wasn't willing to compromise her vision. The client threatened to fire the artist. The artist quit and went to her room. The client sat on the stairs and cried.
Ultimately, artist and client found common ground. The design was accepted and printed. Payment was made and a cupcake was shared as a sign of goodwill.
I sent the invitations out and had a strong drink.Well, last night, Mia decided that she wanted the original art work to raffle off as a door prize at her party. Zoe told her that for her original $3 fee, she only relinquished the digital rights to her image. If Mia wanted the original piece, she was going to have to pay for it. "$10!" "No way! I'll give you $1." This went on for some time, with Mia eventually agreeing to pay $5. Mia handed over the money and Zoe handed over the artwork. No cupcakes were consumed. But there was no crying this time, either.
In case you don't know, these children are 10 and (almost) 9. The next few years are going to be interesting for sure.
Wednesday, May 05, 2010
My People: RIP Lee Mannix
Some time ago, a friend called me to ask whether I knew someone who did something. I can't remember exactly what she wanted. But I remember what she said next: "I was talking to So and So about this, and she said to call Robyn. Robyn has people. She has people for everything."
I laughed, but then I realized it's completely true. I have people, AMAZING people, all around me. Family, friends, neighbors, and countless acquaintances. And I'm extremely loyal to my people--whether they're family members, close friends, or people I pay to help me with something. If someone does a job for me, for example, and they do it well, I'll call them again. And again. And again. I think I take for granted the fact that they'll always be there, because my people always are.
Except they're not. Not at all. This week, I lost one of my people. And I know a lot of others who feel the same way. If you didn't know Lee Mannix, you might think that his personality and his talent have been exaggerated in the obituaries, reports, and articles that started to appear within 24 hours of his death. But I can assure you, they have not. The man was a giant--literally and figuratively. He could be intimidating, because he was enormous. But he also had a twinkle in his eye and a smile that lit up everything around him. Mr. Pink and I took three different classes with Lee, and I never saw a dog who didn't respond to him immediately. For real. He could get a dog to do exactly what he wanted with no tricks or prodding. When Lee was at the other end of the leash, a dog paid attention.
My girls had a great relationship with Lee. They were mesmerized by him. For one thing, he had NO filter whatsoever. The man said exactly what came into his head, regardless of who was nearby. He cussed like a sailor in front of my kids, and they thought it was hilarious. He also told a story like nobody I've ever known. Even if it was complete bullshit (and some of his stories must have been) he told a story like it had biblical significance. And if the story didn't have a lesson, it had a punchline. Zoe and Mia were also floored by his way with dogs. He could be working with a dog on one side of the training ring when his super-Lee sense indicated a dog across the ring was about to get in trouble . Whizzzzzzzzttt. He'd frisbee his hat, or a water bottle, or a chair, across the ring where it would land a few feet from the offending dog, distracting and redirecting the behavior. I never, ever saw him hit an animal, but he was always throwing things at just the right moment and it ALWAYS worked. This blew my girls' orderly little minds. Zoe and Mia spent a week with Lee in a special youth dog-handling camp out on his land last summer. They loved that time with him. I know it was a week they'll never forget.
About six months ago, Lee came to our house to help us work on Mr. Pink's terrible front door manners. He had Pink on a leash in the house, and he had his assistant come ring the doorbell. As soon as the doorbell rang and Pink started to go ape shit, Lee blew a whistle, snatched Pink's leash, opened the door, and handed the leash to the assistant, who immediately walked away with the dog. It only took one time. Pink was quiet as a mouse when the assistant rang the bell again. But I knew it wouldn't last. I was sure that the first time the doorbell rang after Lee left, all the barking, snarling silliness would start again. "Nope," he told me. "That's what the whistle is for. Put them all over the house. When someone rings the bell and Pink starts up, blow a whistle." He said that when Mr. Pink heard the whistle, he'd stop what he was doing and look around to find out "where that Irish asshole is hiding."
I could tell ten more stories like this one. And so can hundreds of people. Just check the Lee Mannix Center for Canine Behavior page on facebook and see for yourself. Reading them makes me laugh and cry. Lee was well aware of the effect he had on dogs, but I wonder if he had any idea what kind of an impact he had on the people around him. I sure never told him. And although I think he knew on a certain level because we all kept coming back for more, I'll bet he would have appreciated knowing exactly how he had impacted our lives.
I can't do anything about Lee. He's gone, as unbelievable as that is. But I can start letting the other people in my life know what I love, appreciate, or respect about them. That's what I'm going to do to remember Lee. That, and love my sweet dog every minute of every day.
We're going to miss you, Lee.
I laughed, but then I realized it's completely true. I have people, AMAZING people, all around me. Family, friends, neighbors, and countless acquaintances. And I'm extremely loyal to my people--whether they're family members, close friends, or people I pay to help me with something. If someone does a job for me, for example, and they do it well, I'll call them again. And again. And again. I think I take for granted the fact that they'll always be there, because my people always are.
Except they're not. Not at all. This week, I lost one of my people. And I know a lot of others who feel the same way. If you didn't know Lee Mannix, you might think that his personality and his talent have been exaggerated in the obituaries, reports, and articles that started to appear within 24 hours of his death. But I can assure you, they have not. The man was a giant--literally and figuratively. He could be intimidating, because he was enormous. But he also had a twinkle in his eye and a smile that lit up everything around him. Mr. Pink and I took three different classes with Lee, and I never saw a dog who didn't respond to him immediately. For real. He could get a dog to do exactly what he wanted with no tricks or prodding. When Lee was at the other end of the leash, a dog paid attention.
My girls had a great relationship with Lee. They were mesmerized by him. For one thing, he had NO filter whatsoever. The man said exactly what came into his head, regardless of who was nearby. He cussed like a sailor in front of my kids, and they thought it was hilarious. He also told a story like nobody I've ever known. Even if it was complete bullshit (and some of his stories must have been) he told a story like it had biblical significance. And if the story didn't have a lesson, it had a punchline. Zoe and Mia were also floored by his way with dogs. He could be working with a dog on one side of the training ring when his super-Lee sense indicated a dog across the ring was about to get in trouble . Whizzzzzzzzttt. He'd frisbee his hat, or a water bottle, or a chair, across the ring where it would land a few feet from the offending dog, distracting and redirecting the behavior. I never, ever saw him hit an animal, but he was always throwing things at just the right moment and it ALWAYS worked. This blew my girls' orderly little minds. Zoe and Mia spent a week with Lee in a special youth dog-handling camp out on his land last summer. They loved that time with him. I know it was a week they'll never forget.
About six months ago, Lee came to our house to help us work on Mr. Pink's terrible front door manners. He had Pink on a leash in the house, and he had his assistant come ring the doorbell. As soon as the doorbell rang and Pink started to go ape shit, Lee blew a whistle, snatched Pink's leash, opened the door, and handed the leash to the assistant, who immediately walked away with the dog. It only took one time. Pink was quiet as a mouse when the assistant rang the bell again. But I knew it wouldn't last. I was sure that the first time the doorbell rang after Lee left, all the barking, snarling silliness would start again. "Nope," he told me. "That's what the whistle is for. Put them all over the house. When someone rings the bell and Pink starts up, blow a whistle." He said that when Mr. Pink heard the whistle, he'd stop what he was doing and look around to find out "where that Irish asshole is hiding."
I could tell ten more stories like this one. And so can hundreds of people. Just check the Lee Mannix Center for Canine Behavior page on facebook and see for yourself. Reading them makes me laugh and cry. Lee was well aware of the effect he had on dogs, but I wonder if he had any idea what kind of an impact he had on the people around him. I sure never told him. And although I think he knew on a certain level because we all kept coming back for more, I'll bet he would have appreciated knowing exactly how he had impacted our lives.
I can't do anything about Lee. He's gone, as unbelievable as that is. But I can start letting the other people in my life know what I love, appreciate, or respect about them. That's what I'm going to do to remember Lee. That, and love my sweet dog every minute of every day.
We're going to miss you, Lee.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Hmmmm. Let's See.
I haven't posted in forever. What with Facebook as my outlet for "clever" commentary, and the fact that a lot of what I'm thinking about these days isn't fit for public consumption, I just haven't had anything to write about.
Or I've been lazy.
Or both, really.
The girls are healthy and doing great at school. Unfortunately they're reaching an age where they're less than charmed when I post funny stories about them on the internet, so that once-bottomless source of fabulousness has pretty much dried up. (BORING)
I'm struggling to come up with some fitness and nutrition goals that will get me out of this awful weight rut I've been in for the last year and put me on the path toward long-lasting good health and well-being.(SOOOO BORING)
2009 was a seriously slow year in educational publishing--or at least it was for me, so although we're still financially secure, there's not a lot extra for big fun trips to Boston or Europe or a beautiful white-sand beach in the Caribbean. (BORRRRRRRRRING)
So, what does that leave to write about? Politics? Religion? Yo mama? Hahaha. I'll pass on all of the above. At least for now.
Maybe 2010 will be the year that I pack up the old blog and put her away. Or maybe I'll find some inspiration yet. Stay tuned.
Or I've been lazy.
Or both, really.
The girls are healthy and doing great at school. Unfortunately they're reaching an age where they're less than charmed when I post funny stories about them on the internet, so that once-bottomless source of fabulousness has pretty much dried up. (BORING)
I'm struggling to come up with some fitness and nutrition goals that will get me out of this awful weight rut I've been in for the last year and put me on the path toward long-lasting good health and well-being.(SOOOO BORING)
2009 was a seriously slow year in educational publishing--or at least it was for me, so although we're still financially secure, there's not a lot extra for big fun trips to Boston or Europe or a beautiful white-sand beach in the Caribbean. (BORRRRRRRRRING)
So, what does that leave to write about? Politics? Religion? Yo mama? Hahaha. I'll pass on all of the above. At least for now.
Maybe 2010 will be the year that I pack up the old blog and put her away. Or maybe I'll find some inspiration yet. Stay tuned.
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
In Honor of My Anniversary. . .
I think this perspective on monogamy is fascinating. . .
And to think, I could have earned the same super-human status by learning to play the violin, but the last 19 years* wouldn't have been nearly as interesting.
*14 years of marriage
Who said monogamy was natural?(The Week Magazine, Wednesday, November 25, 2009)
“Right-wing pro-family advocates are correct: Monogamy is definitely under siege,” said David Barash. But don’t blame radical feminists and gays, or Godless communists. “The culprit is our own biology.”
Researchers in animal behavior have long known that “monogamy is uncommon in the natural world,” and a growing body of research shows that “Homo sapiens carries all the evolutionary stigmata of a mildly polygamous mammal.” But before you take this as a permission slip to cheat on your spouse, remember that “natural isn’t necessarily good.” (Think of earthquakes or pneumonia.)
The point is, some of the most satisfying human accomplishments, from mastering the violin to scaling a mountain, don’t come naturally, but require dedication and hard work. “A case can be made, in fact, that people are being maximally human when they do things that contradict their biology.” For its part, monogamy can foster an ever deeper intimacy between partners, to say nothing of family stability.
“To be sure, monogamy isn’t easy; nor is it for everyone. But anyone who claims that he or she isn’t cut out for monogamy misses the point. No one is.”
And to think, I could have earned the same super-human status by learning to play the violin, but the last 19 years* wouldn't have been nearly as interesting.
*14 years of marriage
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
Gift Rant Revisited
I posted the following in February of 2008:
Funny how some things never, ever change.
A Stupid Vent--feel free to skip this one
Those of you who know me well know that I love to give gifts. I truly enjoy choosing gifts for people I care about, and I'll often see something perfect for someone and have to wait months for the appropriate opportunity to give it to them. Maybe I do it because it's so hard for me to say how I feel--and this is an easier way to show people they're important to me and that I care enough about them to think about what they would really enjoy, or what would make them laugh, or what they need and don't even know it.
I *KNOW* that not everyone sees gift giving the same way I do. In fact many of the people I know and love actually find it to be an unwelcome obligation.
So, these are my disclaimers. I get that I'm a freak, and I get that you might not derive as much pleasure from choosing a gift for me as I do for you. I'm cool with that. I really, truly am.
But what I'm NOT cool with is somebody asking me what I would like for, let's say, an upcoming birthday. And asking me again. And asking me again, more insistently. And then, once I've finally come up with something out of sheer guilt, deriding me because what I suggest isn't something they would want or because it's not "special" enough. Are you kidding me? They why the hell not just get me what YOU want to get me? Or get me nothing. Or donate some money to a charity in my name and be done with it. Really! Any of those options are PERFECTLY fine with me! But don't freaking put me down after you've been on my ass for a month just so you can check me off your to-do list.
It occurred to me today. What I *really* want for my 40th birthday is for you to stop riding me about what I want for my birthday. Just be nice to me. THAT's what I want for my birthday.
Now, if only I could figure out how to get that message out to the right person.
Funny how some things never, ever change.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Time, the Universe, and Law and Order
It's been a long time, I know. "Aren't those kids doing anything funny these days?" you might be asking yourself. And the answer is of course they are, but I figure you people, all five of you, must get tired of me talking about my kids. So. . . I've been posting all the good kid stuff to facebook where I only have to write sentence fragments and you can easily ignore it if you're tired of 'em.
But something inspired me this morning. And not in a good way. I've ALWAYS had trouble thinking about time and space. As a child I would lie in bed at night and try NOT to think about the universe and whether it was finite--and if it was finite what it was hanging in or resting on. The universe is big and infinite in ways that overwhelm and confuse me. And don't even get me started on time. Relativity? WTF? Really it's simply more than my little brain can process with comfort. As controlling as I am, I just can't deal with the enormity of space or the squishiness of time. And right now I'm having trouble finding words that express what I mean--which upsets me further.
So, I'll get right to it. . . an editorial that appeared in today's New York Times:
I don't get it. I mean, I do, but only kind of. It's like I have this tiny glimmer of understanding, but the whole is just out of my reach. I don't LIKE that feeling. So instead of thinking about the universe, I watch Law and Order. I get a few minutes of not knowing, followed by maybe half and hour of kind of knowing and then BOOM, they spell it all out for me. Yay. I love Law and Order. It's so. . . orderly!
But something inspired me this morning. And not in a good way. I've ALWAYS had trouble thinking about time and space. As a child I would lie in bed at night and try NOT to think about the universe and whether it was finite--and if it was finite what it was hanging in or resting on. The universe is big and infinite in ways that overwhelm and confuse me. And don't even get me started on time. Relativity? WTF? Really it's simply more than my little brain can process with comfort. As controlling as I am, I just can't deal with the enormity of space or the squishiness of time. And right now I'm having trouble finding words that express what I mean--which upsets me further.
So, I'll get right to it. . . an editorial that appeared in today's New York Times:
In April, NASA’s space-based Swift satellite sent back a text message announcing that it had detected a gamma-ray burst, the remains of an extraordinarily violent explosion that ended the life of a distant star. Since then, astronomers using ground-based telescopes have been able to measure the spectrum of the burst’s infrared afterglow and estimate its distance from Earth.And here, for your sourcing pleasure, is the link.
When you look at the stars, you are looking at light that comes from the past. This gamma-ray burst, officially GRB 090423, is, in fact, the most distant, and oldest object, yet detected in our universe; it is some 13.1 billion light-years away. In other words, this is the vestige of an explosion that took place a mere (when it comes to the life of the universe) 630 million years after the Big Bang.
Light coming to us from such a distance is stretched because the universe is expanding. The greater the stretching — called redshift — the more distant the object. The previous most-distant object, a galaxy, has a redshift of 6.96. GRB 090423 has a redshift of 8.2 and appears to observers as an extremely red point of light. When that explosion took place, the universe was more than nine times smaller than it is now.
It’s one thing to explore such remote recesses of time in theory. It’s something else again to witness their afterglow. And GRB 090423 is an invitation for all of us to unfetter our imaginations. We imagine looking outward from that distant point knowing that our own exploration still lies some 13 billion years in the future.
I don't get it. I mean, I do, but only kind of. It's like I have this tiny glimmer of understanding, but the whole is just out of my reach. I don't LIKE that feeling. So instead of thinking about the universe, I watch Law and Order. I get a few minutes of not knowing, followed by maybe half and hour of kind of knowing and then BOOM, they spell it all out for me. Yay. I love Law and Order. It's so. . . orderly!
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
My Fall Blahs
I seem to have official embarked on my annual fall funk. Seriously. It seems to be a recurring fall thing. And I think I'm starting to understand why. Fall used to be my favorite time of year. Besides the fact that I get extremely excited about the first real cold front with its chilly breezes blowing through my open windows, fall has always marked new beginnings for me--far more than spring, which I suppose is the official season of new beginnings.
As a child, I got very excited each year for the start of school. New teachers, new classmates, new challenges, new SCHOOL SUPPLIES. I loved it all. Then, as a young adult, fall marked bigger beginnings. Going off to New Orleans for college, returning to Tulane and my first apartment sophomore year, leaving for a year in Germany, returning for my senior year at Tulane and a great job as an RA, and then heading back to Germany for my Fulbright year. All that cool stuff happened in the fall. Then I moved to Austin for graduate school, started my first teaching job, and later started my career in publishing. . . all in the fall. I spent the fall of 1995 preparing for my wedding and the fall of 1999 eagerly awaiting Zoe's birth. In the fall of 2000, I discovered I was pregnant with Mia. In the fall of 2001, we sold our first house and moved into our second house.
So, yeah, fall has always been about new beginnings, making changes, moving forward, making things better. It was about taking risks and knowing adventure was ahead. It was about the sense of connection that comes from meeting new people and building new relationships.
But now? At this point in my life fall means getting the kids into a school routine, shuffling schedules to make everything fit together smoothly, selling crap to raise money for the school, and fretting over the looming family obligations of Thanksgiving and Christmas, which require careful negotiations with warring parties and usually involve one, if not several, major emotional meltdowns on my part. To describe it all with one word: Blargh (thanks to the eloquent Allison Dancy for providing the perfect word).
I'm happy with my life, don't get me wrong, but I want the OLD fall back. I really, really miss that sense of wonder about what lies ahead, that excitement about what's to come. But how do I get that back? I don't think it's as simple as signing up for tap dancing lessons or a creative writing class (good lord, can you imagine?). But I don't know what the answer is.
As a child, I got very excited each year for the start of school. New teachers, new classmates, new challenges, new SCHOOL SUPPLIES. I loved it all. Then, as a young adult, fall marked bigger beginnings. Going off to New Orleans for college, returning to Tulane and my first apartment sophomore year, leaving for a year in Germany, returning for my senior year at Tulane and a great job as an RA, and then heading back to Germany for my Fulbright year. All that cool stuff happened in the fall. Then I moved to Austin for graduate school, started my first teaching job, and later started my career in publishing. . . all in the fall. I spent the fall of 1995 preparing for my wedding and the fall of 1999 eagerly awaiting Zoe's birth. In the fall of 2000, I discovered I was pregnant with Mia. In the fall of 2001, we sold our first house and moved into our second house.
So, yeah, fall has always been about new beginnings, making changes, moving forward, making things better. It was about taking risks and knowing adventure was ahead. It was about the sense of connection that comes from meeting new people and building new relationships.
But now? At this point in my life fall means getting the kids into a school routine, shuffling schedules to make everything fit together smoothly, selling crap to raise money for the school, and fretting over the looming family obligations of Thanksgiving and Christmas, which require careful negotiations with warring parties and usually involve one, if not several, major emotional meltdowns on my part. To describe it all with one word: Blargh (thanks to the eloquent Allison Dancy for providing the perfect word).
I'm happy with my life, don't get me wrong, but I want the OLD fall back. I really, really miss that sense of wonder about what lies ahead, that excitement about what's to come. But how do I get that back? I don't think it's as simple as signing up for tap dancing lessons or a creative writing class (good lord, can you imagine?). But I don't know what the answer is.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Maybe I'm being oversensitive, because, you know, I *am* a woman!
Let me start by saying I'm not much of a feminist. Don't get me wrong. I totally benefit from the hard work of my feminist foremothers and I know it. And hell yes, I believe women are as capable as men and should share all the rights, responsibilities and benefits afforded to me. But I'm not actively fighting the fight. And I'm not the type who's looking for slights around every corner.
Let me also say that I'm not an enormous Hillary Clinton fan. I think she is capable and qualified for her job and I'm glad she's doing it, but I'm not all rah-rah Hillary Clinton or anything like that. I supported Obama over Clinton in our last election. But you already know that.
I make these disclaimers so that it's perfectly clear that I wasn't looking for a fight when I innocently happened across this story today. But POW!!! My previously unknown pro-Hillary feminist hackles were raised in a big way when I saw this video clip.
Okay. MAYBE she could have reacted more diplomatically (being our head diplomat and all), but come on!!! Clinton didn't "misunderstand" the question. Sure, the question may have been mistranslated--or, as appears more likely--the student asking the question may have mispoken. But Clinton didn't MISUNDERSTAND it. And I've never heard a more clearly sexist question posed in public. Ever. So, I don't fault her for her testy reaction. Not one bit.
But the (female) news commentator pondering whether the cause of Clinton's outrage was jetlag, JEALOUSY, or (ACK) a bad hair day left me speechless.
Seriously?!? I'm glad the commentator's time ran out, or she very well might have gone on to speculate whether Clinton was grumpy because she was on the rag.
I feel so fortunate to have all the options that I have because better women than I fought the good fight and continue to do so. But, clearly, sexism lives on.
WOW!
Let me also say that I'm not an enormous Hillary Clinton fan. I think she is capable and qualified for her job and I'm glad she's doing it, but I'm not all rah-rah Hillary Clinton or anything like that. I supported Obama over Clinton in our last election. But you already know that.
I make these disclaimers so that it's perfectly clear that I wasn't looking for a fight when I innocently happened across this story today. But POW!!! My previously unknown pro-Hillary feminist hackles were raised in a big way when I saw this video clip.
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
Okay. MAYBE she could have reacted more diplomatically (being our head diplomat and all), but come on!!! Clinton didn't "misunderstand" the question. Sure, the question may have been mistranslated--or, as appears more likely--the student asking the question may have mispoken. But Clinton didn't MISUNDERSTAND it. And I've never heard a more clearly sexist question posed in public. Ever. So, I don't fault her for her testy reaction. Not one bit.
But the (female) news commentator pondering whether the cause of Clinton's outrage was jetlag, JEALOUSY, or (ACK) a bad hair day left me speechless.
Seriously?!? I'm glad the commentator's time ran out, or she very well might have gone on to speculate whether Clinton was grumpy because she was on the rag.
I feel so fortunate to have all the options that I have because better women than I fought the good fight and continue to do so. But, clearly, sexism lives on.
WOW!
Saturday, July 18, 2009
And Now for Something Completely Different
Tonight in my yard I heard the STRANGEST sound coming from one of my trees. Really, if I didn't know better, I might have guessed that it was some kind of monkey being attacked by a rattlesnake. "Chica-chica-chica-chica EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE-chica-chica-chica-chica" it screeched into the night.
What the hell?
Davy The Unflappable theorized it must be some kind of weird cicada.
HUH?
Cicadas are part of summer in Texas. Really, it's one of the clearest signs that the true summer heat has set in. First you get your June bugs, and then come the cicadas. As a kid, we used to do all sorts of weird things with the dried up skins they left on the trunks of the huge oak trees at summer camp and in our grandparents' lawns. They were great for scientific study, puppet shows, and terrorist attacks. I'm sure any child of Texas could make their own list of cicada skin activities.
And at night, the sound of their song would lull you to sleep.
But what I heard tonight? Honey, I KNOW cicadas, and that was NO cicada!
Only it turns out it WAS!!!!!! Check this out: http://texasento.net/Cicada.htm And make sure you scroll down and listen to the sound files. Because they're not kidding. One of over 40 different species of cicada in Texas (who knew?), it appears these guys have moved into Austin for the first time this year. They are NUTS! I hope you all get a chance to hear one, and I hope they don't scare the bejeebers out of you! I can tell you with relative certainty--if one of these guys ends up in your yard, he won't be lulling you gently to sleep!
What the hell?
Davy The Unflappable theorized it must be some kind of weird cicada.
HUH?
Cicadas are part of summer in Texas. Really, it's one of the clearest signs that the true summer heat has set in. First you get your June bugs, and then come the cicadas. As a kid, we used to do all sorts of weird things with the dried up skins they left on the trunks of the huge oak trees at summer camp and in our grandparents' lawns. They were great for scientific study, puppet shows, and terrorist attacks. I'm sure any child of Texas could make their own list of cicada skin activities.
And at night, the sound of their song would lull you to sleep.
But what I heard tonight? Honey, I KNOW cicadas, and that was NO cicada!
Only it turns out it WAS!!!!!! Check this out: http://texasento.net/Cicada.htm And make sure you scroll down and listen to the sound files. Because they're not kidding. One of over 40 different species of cicada in Texas (who knew?), it appears these guys have moved into Austin for the first time this year. They are NUTS! I hope you all get a chance to hear one, and I hope they don't scare the bejeebers out of you! I can tell you with relative certainty--if one of these guys ends up in your yard, he won't be lulling you gently to sleep!
Sunday, July 05, 2009
Work Blahs
For me, one of the most difficult aspects of freelancing is getting started on a new project. It's hard to get back into the routine--especially if I haven't worked in a while. . Double especially if I have have to get started in the summer when my kids are home and I'd rather be hanging with them at the pool, or playing Blazer Tag, or, to be completely honest, folding laundry and watching Deadliest Catch. The problem is, if I haven't worked for a few weeks it's really hard for me to get back in the swing of things. But swing I must.
I've accepted two small projects that both launch this week. Neither one of them is especially lucrative, and I would have most definitely declined one of them in previous years. But the economy being what it is, and freelance writing jobs suddenly coming as infrequently as they are, I don't really have much choice in the matter.
So starting tomorrow, I have to force myself back in the routine. I'll be working in the mornings, while the girls do their best to fend for themselves in the other room. It's not ideal, but it's how we're going to have to do it. In the afternoons we'll still do the fun summer stuff.
The only real question is when am I supposed to have time to watch Deadliest Catch??
Bleh.
I've accepted two small projects that both launch this week. Neither one of them is especially lucrative, and I would have most definitely declined one of them in previous years. But the economy being what it is, and freelance writing jobs suddenly coming as infrequently as they are, I don't really have much choice in the matter.
So starting tomorrow, I have to force myself back in the routine. I'll be working in the mornings, while the girls do their best to fend for themselves in the other room. It's not ideal, but it's how we're going to have to do it. In the afternoons we'll still do the fun summer stuff.
The only real question is when am I supposed to have time to watch Deadliest Catch??
Bleh.
Friday, July 03, 2009
Nothin, really
This little blog got a record number of hits last week. Crazy!! The surge was clearly related to my Girls Rock Camp post, the link to which was apparently sent out to all the volunteers that made the camp happen. I didn't write the post thinking they would read it, but I'm glad they did. I think it's good for people to know they're appreciated.
So, not much going on here. My mother was in town all week. The girls had fun with their grandmother, and that was good. She's on her way back home right now, and Davy's ginormous family is on its way here from San Antonio. I'm cooking like a fool. Brisket's cooking, beans are simmering, potato salad is made, and queso's next up on my list. I've got a huge watermelon chilling with the beer. Now all I need is a nap (ha!) and a strong drink and I'll be all ready to entertain the in-laws.
This is the first 4th of July weekend in years that I'm not playing fireworks concerts in Bastrop and Round Rock, so I'm kind of reveling in the holiday-ness of it all. We may even head out to Bastrop to watch the fireworks tonight. I've played with my back to them for the last 15 years, so that should be a revelation!
So, not much going on here. My mother was in town all week. The girls had fun with their grandmother, and that was good. She's on her way back home right now, and Davy's ginormous family is on its way here from San Antonio. I'm cooking like a fool. Brisket's cooking, beans are simmering, potato salad is made, and queso's next up on my list. I've got a huge watermelon chilling with the beer. Now all I need is a nap (ha!) and a strong drink and I'll be all ready to entertain the in-laws.
This is the first 4th of July weekend in years that I'm not playing fireworks concerts in Bastrop and Round Rock, so I'm kind of reveling in the holiday-ness of it all. We may even head out to Bastrop to watch the fireworks tonight. I've played with my back to them for the last 15 years, so that should be a revelation!
Friday, June 26, 2009
Girl Power!
Zoe, my 9 year old, has been at Girls Rock Camp this week. This is her second year with this amazing program, and I just can't say enough good things about it. Unlike any other rock and roll camp program, Girls Rock Camp provides scholarships for about 50% of the girls that attend--which means that this program is empowering a truly diverse and talented group of girls.
During the course of the week, the girls take instrument classes, form bands, write a song, and prepare to perform their song at a showcase at the end of the camp. In addition, they have daily guest speakers on topics from how to market a band to the objectification of women in the music industry. They publish a "zine," create band "merch," and watch a lunchtime concert by a different local band each day. Some of the girls arrive with advanced skill on their instruments; others are absolute beginners who are playing an instrument for the first time. It's really amazing to see how much they can accomplish in the course of the week.
Besides the strength of the program itself, I think the aspect of this program that excites me the most is the incredibly diverse group of women who make the camp happen. What an amazing group of role models these women are. They are traditional and alternative, straight and gay, famous and unknown. They represent all ages, sizes, and colors. Some of them have conventional jobs; some of them not so much. Some of them make good money; others not so much. All of them are beautiful, strong, talented women who give up a week of their lives to empower young girls, to teach them what they know about music, and to share with them a little of what they know about life.
It's hard to explain why this is the thing that moves me the most, but I'll try. . . I can only be me for my daughters. I am one kind of woman who chose one path, and it just so happens that most of my wonderful female friends have ended up on the same path. So it's really cool for my girls to have strong female role models who have done things differently, who have made other choices and taken radically different paths, and who have happy, productive, fulfilling lives to show for it. I think it gives my girls a greater sense of the possibilities that are open to them.
Zoe has had a great week. She's excited about her band Randomness and about their song "Try." I can't wait to hear and see what they can do!
During the course of the week, the girls take instrument classes, form bands, write a song, and prepare to perform their song at a showcase at the end of the camp. In addition, they have daily guest speakers on topics from how to market a band to the objectification of women in the music industry. They publish a "zine," create band "merch," and watch a lunchtime concert by a different local band each day. Some of the girls arrive with advanced skill on their instruments; others are absolute beginners who are playing an instrument for the first time. It's really amazing to see how much they can accomplish in the course of the week.
Besides the strength of the program itself, I think the aspect of this program that excites me the most is the incredibly diverse group of women who make the camp happen. What an amazing group of role models these women are. They are traditional and alternative, straight and gay, famous and unknown. They represent all ages, sizes, and colors. Some of them have conventional jobs; some of them not so much. Some of them make good money; others not so much. All of them are beautiful, strong, talented women who give up a week of their lives to empower young girls, to teach them what they know about music, and to share with them a little of what they know about life.
It's hard to explain why this is the thing that moves me the most, but I'll try. . . I can only be me for my daughters. I am one kind of woman who chose one path, and it just so happens that most of my wonderful female friends have ended up on the same path. So it's really cool for my girls to have strong female role models who have done things differently, who have made other choices and taken radically different paths, and who have happy, productive, fulfilling lives to show for it. I think it gives my girls a greater sense of the possibilities that are open to them.
Zoe has had a great week. She's excited about her band Randomness and about their song "Try." I can't wait to hear and see what they can do!
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
A Girl and Her Dog (cross-posted on facebook)
So, I've got this really, really talented friend (and I realize I could describe most of you that way, but this is about Laura!). She's a metalsmith. Seriously--a metalsmith--in 2009! She makes insanely cool jewelry, which you already know if you see me in person very often, because I almost always have something of hers on. Or perhaps I've given you one of her pieces as a gift. If so, you already know that Laura, known professionally as Metalsgirl, is amazing.
But there's another side to Laura. And that's the dog side. Laura is one of the co-founders of the dog rescue group Blue Dog Rescue. Over the years, Laura and her husband Tom have personally rescued, fostered, and found homes for countless dogs, including our very own Mr. Pink. But what happens when a dog they have rescued from certain death at the animal shelter *doesn't* find a perfect forever family? Well. . . if you were to visit Laura and Tom's home you'd know the answer. These lucky dogs end up living there. This wonderful couple shares their home with no fewer than 12 dogs (and 2 cats!) that, for some reason, could not be placed in another home. And, amazingly, it's not the chaos you might expect. In fact, the dogs are all very well-behaved, and the house is charming, cozy, clean, and (really, this boggles my mind) does not smell like dogs.
So, here's the thing. One of their pack, a completely deaf great Dane named Preacher that they adopted some 10 years ago has just been diagnosed with lymphoma. Laura has loaded up her website with all sorts of one-of-a-kind clearance items, and she's hoping that selling many of them will help them pay the costs of Preacher's chemo. . .
Take a look. Really, it's worth your time. Laura makes beautiful things, and you're bound to find something cool for yourself and a gift for someone special. Laura does really cool custom work, too.
Check it out!
www.metalsgirl.com
But there's another side to Laura. And that's the dog side. Laura is one of the co-founders of the dog rescue group Blue Dog Rescue. Over the years, Laura and her husband Tom have personally rescued, fostered, and found homes for countless dogs, including our very own Mr. Pink. But what happens when a dog they have rescued from certain death at the animal shelter *doesn't* find a perfect forever family? Well. . . if you were to visit Laura and Tom's home you'd know the answer. These lucky dogs end up living there. This wonderful couple shares their home with no fewer than 12 dogs (and 2 cats!) that, for some reason, could not be placed in another home. And, amazingly, it's not the chaos you might expect. In fact, the dogs are all very well-behaved, and the house is charming, cozy, clean, and (really, this boggles my mind) does not smell like dogs.
So, here's the thing. One of their pack, a completely deaf great Dane named Preacher that they adopted some 10 years ago has just been diagnosed with lymphoma. Laura has loaded up her website with all sorts of one-of-a-kind clearance items, and she's hoping that selling many of them will help them pay the costs of Preacher's chemo. . .
Take a look. Really, it's worth your time. Laura makes beautiful things, and you're bound to find something cool for yourself and a gift for someone special. Laura does really cool custom work, too.
Check it out!
www.metalsgirl.com
Monday, June 01, 2009
A Remarkable Gift
Zoe received a very special gift today. It was completely out of the blue, and from someone she doesn't see every day. Zoe's just about to leave 3rd grade. In fact, the last day of school is two days away. Today Ms. Markham, her phenomenal teacher from last year, who is retiring after 30 years of teaching, sent her away with a very heavy bag that she was not to open until she got home. As soon as she got in the door she reached into the bag and pulled out a note and an old, tattered, hard-back Webster's dictionary. In the note, Ms. Markham explained that she'd had this dictionary for over 40 years, and it had provided her endless hours of learning, but she had never had as much fun with it as she'd had looking up words with Zoe last year. So she wanted Zoe to have it, and learn from it, and love it as much as she had.
Zoe and I were both flabbergasted. I know this is a gift that she will always treasure.
If it weren't a complete breach of trust, I'd publish Zoe's thank-you note here. Suffice it to say I couldn't read it without crying. I know I'm completely biased and all, but she's an amazing kid--on her way to become an all-around spectacular full-grown person. A remarkable gift in her own right.
Zoe and I were both flabbergasted. I know this is a gift that she will always treasure.
If it weren't a complete breach of trust, I'd publish Zoe's thank-you note here. Suffice it to say I couldn't read it without crying. I know I'm completely biased and all, but she's an amazing kid--on her way to become an all-around spectacular full-grown person. A remarkable gift in her own right.
Monday, May 04, 2009
Can't Think of a Title
Tonight during dinner I received an interesting phone call. It was one of those robocalls that come during political campaigns. The recorded voice on the other end of the phone introduced herself as somebody Prejean--"you probably know me best as the woman who courageously spoke out in defense of marriage at the recent Miss America pageant."
Well, truth be told, I didn't know her best as anything, but I hung up as I realized 1) it was a recorded political call, and 2) I had no interest in listening to some goof ball tell me why my traditional marriage was somehow threatened by the possibility of gay marriage. Because, basically, I believe that's a load of horseshit. Energetically hanging up the phone led to an interesting conversation at the dinner table about why I hung up. And, happily, my daughters also found the idea that gay marriage somehow threatens traditional marriage, completely absurd. We had a fascinating conversation about being straight and being gay and who we know that is straight and who we know that is gay and who we know that might not open-minded about the whole issue. . . but I digress.
So after dinner I decided to do a little bit of research to find out what had happened, and what this Miss Prejean had actually said--because I did find it surprising that a Miss America contestant would choose the biggest pageant of her life to publicly air her political views. And the story I read is almost as absurd as Ms. Prejean's position.
If you, like me, totally missed the hubub, here's a summary. Celebrity (??) blogger Perez Hilton was a judge at the Miss America Pageant (WHY?), and he ASKED HER--as her pageant question--what she thought of gay marriage. So she answered the question. Based on her background and upbringing, she believed that marriage should be between a man and woman, and gay marriage is wrong. And Perez Hilton gets all bent out of shape and goes on the Today show and God knows where else, and says how completely inappropriate it was for her to ANSWER HIS QUESTION. What kind of bullshit is that?
So, here's the thing. I TOTALLY disagree with her. I reiterate, I DO NOT share her opinion. Not at all. BUT, what the hell was she supposed to do? Lie? Sure it might have been more diplomatic, but it wouldn't have been true. Hilton could have reacted publicly by saying he was sorry she felt that way, that he disagreed with her, whatever, whatever, whatever. But NO, he's up in arms because she answered his question and he didn't like it.
What a loser.
Anyway, now that I know a little bit more about what happened, I kind of want to know why her recorded voice was calling me. We've got local elections coming up this weekend, but they don't have anything to do with gay marriage. Heck, they barely have anything to do with party affiliations. What could the money behind that robocall possibly have wanted from me? If any of you get the call, try not to hang up until you figure out what they're calling for. I'm interested.. .
Well, truth be told, I didn't know her best as anything, but I hung up as I realized 1) it was a recorded political call, and 2) I had no interest in listening to some goof ball tell me why my traditional marriage was somehow threatened by the possibility of gay marriage. Because, basically, I believe that's a load of horseshit. Energetically hanging up the phone led to an interesting conversation at the dinner table about why I hung up. And, happily, my daughters also found the idea that gay marriage somehow threatens traditional marriage, completely absurd. We had a fascinating conversation about being straight and being gay and who we know that is straight and who we know that is gay and who we know that might not open-minded about the whole issue. . . but I digress.
So after dinner I decided to do a little bit of research to find out what had happened, and what this Miss Prejean had actually said--because I did find it surprising that a Miss America contestant would choose the biggest pageant of her life to publicly air her political views. And the story I read is almost as absurd as Ms. Prejean's position.
If you, like me, totally missed the hubub, here's a summary. Celebrity (??) blogger Perez Hilton was a judge at the Miss America Pageant (WHY?), and he ASKED HER--as her pageant question--what she thought of gay marriage. So she answered the question. Based on her background and upbringing, she believed that marriage should be between a man and woman, and gay marriage is wrong. And Perez Hilton gets all bent out of shape and goes on the Today show and God knows where else, and says how completely inappropriate it was for her to ANSWER HIS QUESTION. What kind of bullshit is that?
So, here's the thing. I TOTALLY disagree with her. I reiterate, I DO NOT share her opinion. Not at all. BUT, what the hell was she supposed to do? Lie? Sure it might have been more diplomatic, but it wouldn't have been true. Hilton could have reacted publicly by saying he was sorry she felt that way, that he disagreed with her, whatever, whatever, whatever. But NO, he's up in arms because she answered his question and he didn't like it.
What a loser.
Anyway, now that I know a little bit more about what happened, I kind of want to know why her recorded voice was calling me. We've got local elections coming up this weekend, but they don't have anything to do with gay marriage. Heck, they barely have anything to do with party affiliations. What could the money behind that robocall possibly have wanted from me? If any of you get the call, try not to hang up until you figure out what they're calling for. I'm interested.. .
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Nature or Nurture? Our house is almost better than a twin study.
Next week is "TV Turn-off Week" for our elementary school. Children and their parents are encouraged to sign a pledge not to watch any television or play any computer games for one week. We've done this every year since the girls started real school. It's a bit of a chore--not because my kids watch SO much tv, but because they do watch some. Not having it available requires us to think of other things to do--which is exactly the point. I don't mind doing it, but this year there's a new wrinkle at our house.
One child has opted out.
Child A (with enthusiasm): But, if you don't watch any tv all week, you get a ribbon!
Child B: (cynically): What am I going to do with another ribbon? Frame it? I'm watching tv.
So, I leave it to you, dear reader, to guess which child is which. Whoever guesses correctly might win a ribbon.
One child has opted out.
Child A (with enthusiasm): But, if you don't watch any tv all week, you get a ribbon!
Child B: (cynically): What am I going to do with another ribbon? Frame it? I'm watching tv.
So, I leave it to you, dear reader, to guess which child is which. Whoever guesses correctly might win a ribbon.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Last Year About This Time
Early in April of 2008, I posted this.
Well, this year it's Zoe's turn. Her artwork, entitled "The Beast of the African East" was selected for the AISD district-wide art show.
Wow!
AISD seems to love Czarnecki art.
I'll post a photo after I've actually *seen* the piece.
Well, this year it's Zoe's turn. Her artwork, entitled "The Beast of the African East" was selected for the AISD district-wide art show.
Wow!
AISD seems to love Czarnecki art.
I'll post a photo after I've actually *seen* the piece.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
A Couple of Photos from Poland I Need to Post Here in Order to Repost them Somewhere Else. . . Carry On!
Here are some photos from our trip to Poland. I had to post them here to be able to post them on another site for a photo contest on up-and-coming travel destinations. And get this. . . I WON! The prize was a cool little camera that essentially replaces the one Davy dropped down the stairs at the castle in the picture. Yay, me!
Here, for posterity, is my entry. . .
When we told friends we were heading to Poland for Christmas/New Years, we got all kinds of reactions. Nobody we know had ever been, which, truly, is a shame. Poland is a beautiful country. It has changed so much since I first visited in 1991, but the generosity and hospitality of the Polish people is unequaled!
This trip we visited the beautiful city of Gdansk, home of the shipyards that were the setting of the Solidarity movement. We found both the city and the surrounding countryside to be more beautiful than we ever expected.
And the food wasn't bad either!
My travel tip? When exchanging money, at least in Poland, you don't always have to accept the posted exchange rate. It's worthwhile to try and negotiate a better rate, or at least a waiver of fees. It doesn't always work, but sometimes it can save you a few bucks (or zloty, or whatever). And that's always good.
And another tip: Don't travel near the Baltic Sea in the dead of winter if you're going to be a sissy about the cold. If you do, pack plenty of wool socks and silk undkies. It's C O L D. But frankly, coming from the mild winters of Texas, a little bit of cold is exactly what we were looking for.
While this next photo is NOT representative of how much we enjoyed our trip, I'm posting it because it's one of my absolute favorites. We like to call it "Why the Czarneckis Left Poland in the First Place."
Here, for posterity, is my entry. . .
When we told friends we were heading to Poland for Christmas/New Years, we got all kinds of reactions. Nobody we know had ever been, which, truly, is a shame. Poland is a beautiful country. It has changed so much since I first visited in 1991, but the generosity and hospitality of the Polish people is unequaled!
This trip we visited the beautiful city of Gdansk, home of the shipyards that were the setting of the Solidarity movement. We found both the city and the surrounding countryside to be more beautiful than we ever expected.
And the food wasn't bad either!
My travel tip? When exchanging money, at least in Poland, you don't always have to accept the posted exchange rate. It's worthwhile to try and negotiate a better rate, or at least a waiver of fees. It doesn't always work, but sometimes it can save you a few bucks (or zloty, or whatever). And that's always good.
And another tip: Don't travel near the Baltic Sea in the dead of winter if you're going to be a sissy about the cold. If you do, pack plenty of wool socks and silk undkies. It's C O L D. But frankly, coming from the mild winters of Texas, a little bit of cold is exactly what we were looking for.
While this next photo is NOT representative of how much we enjoyed our trip, I'm posting it because it's one of my absolute favorites. We like to call it "Why the Czarneckis Left Poland in the First Place."
If you think all I talk about is my kids, you're probably right.
Mia, this morning, out of the blue: "If I were a Cinnamon Toast Crunch, I'd probably eat myself for the yummy goodness."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
