2014 Goals Update

Exercise/Stretch 5+ Days a Week, Body Fat 14%

I put in a call to a local health clinic to see if they did individual body composition, I'll have to follow up on this. Meanwhile, I'm right at 14%. I did more stretching than in any previous month this year, about six times. My weight is holding steady and I got all my exercise in.

Healthy Elbow, Teeth

My elbow's had its healthiest month of the year. Maybe it's because I've altered my routine so well, but some days I barely think about it at all. Despite continued texting all throughout finals week, there hasn't been a lot of irritation. I have been re-thinking my teeth and whether or not to explore a root canal there while I still have dental insurance, so that I can chew on that right side without pain. I've been laying off most chewing on that side, just in case rest is the answer.

Tutor 300 Hours

I averaged more than 4 hours per calendar day - over 130 hours in total - and am exactly at 400 hours just as the spring semester ends. I logged 40 hours one week, for yet another personal record. By every measure it's been a successful year, and high time to adjust the annual goal upward significantly from the 300 dreamed back in January. I also obtained my substitute teaching license this week so am all set to market myself that way. Considering that I have at least a half-dozen students set up for the summer, I'll just double the year-to-date hours up to 800 and feel conservative. So grateful to God on this one.

Blog Thanks Weekly

I did three this month, better than last month. Three out of four ain't bad, but four's better.

Make 10 New Acquaintances

On a last-minute whim I auditioned for and got a spot in Shrek the Musical. I should be able to make some progress.

Clean House

We got an estimate for the basement repair and landscape re-grading so hopefully will make a decision by the end of June. I also reached out to the Board to help with the driveway project. I need to do more with the wardrobe, but this goal is generally well on its way at this point.

Finding Unity

"God made us all different, but there's always something they share. It's the coach's job to find it." - Bill Fitch

At a business, the team shares the goal of helping the customer, or at least the goal of doing a job well enough to get paid. Our condominium association wants good property values. Local teachers and I want students to get ahead. The Shrek cast wants a satisfied audience. The list goes on. The leader's job is to keep that unity in front of us, despite the waterfall of differences among us.

Bad Lip Reading Debate Highlights

Bad Lip Reading Herman Cain

Bad Lip Reading Presidential Debate

Friends In High Places

"Realize in this business your friends are very few. Make sure to treat them specially. You have to be willing to be tough with everyone else, and you need to be O.K. with that." - Adam Silver

Soldier Surprises Family At Baseball Game

Practical Pastor

Years ago I had several incidents of people asking me if I was a pastor. I found that to be a huge personality compliment, and part motivation to enroll briefly in seminary. In time I came to realize that the ministry I'm actually called to serve thrives on the same gifts that suit a pastor. A patient smile and encouraging words bring comfort to children who are struggling to find their way. It just happens to be a struggle of math rather than life and death. Regardless of their views of the hereafter, to have a friend to help them through the here-and-now is the cause that lifts me up in the morning.

RIP Velda Konrad

Dena's grandmother passed away around 7:30pm last evening, after a long and fruitful life.

She experienced loss in her life, notably the passing of Dena's mom at the young age of 36. Yet I always knew her as someone with an enthusiastic and welcoming spirit.

She lived most of her life in Vandalia, Illinois, a quiet town with close friends and an independent lifestyle.

Whenever Dena and I came to visit there was always company, card games and chocolate chip cookies. She laughed a lot and shared a sharp wit that made her delightful to talk with.

I'm glad to be part of her family. We'll miss her, but also reflect her in the upbeat way we live our own lives in tribute to her.

Landon & Hannah's Wedding

A sparkling day yielded to an elegant reception at the Marriott hotel to celebrate Landon and Hannah Meece's first evening together as husband and wife.

Hannah's sister, Landon's brother, and Hannah's father all gave heartfelt, blessing-filled toasts attributing the compatibility and compassion they have for each other.

"Never stop smiling," her father said.

"She's the first thing I think of when I wake up in the morning," Landon was quoted through his brother's toast.

The dinner was elite, and the best of the Actuarial Department and alumni were there:

Andy Wieduwilt, Randy Petersen, Carl Streily, Betty Connour, Myra Turner, Jennifer Frasier, Glen Simpson, Martin Smith, Cody Mitchell, Robert Astleford, Chris Nienart, Jared Roach, Katie Lenzini, Robert Gomez, Ben Leifheit, Emily Ehrstein, Justin Mai, Jason Boice, Kyle Slavish, Kelsey Monroe, Paulette Cocco, Shyam Lakshmin, Sean Roethle, Corin Chapman, Jeff Holzbauer, Todd Harrison, Tony Phipps

It's a testament to the quality of God's newest couple that so many were excited to share this day with them.

South Carolina High School Squad Wins State Title Without A Track

By Ben Rohrbach, Pep Rally:

This season, Pageland (S.C.) Central High's track team adopted the motto: "No Track, No Problem."

Even the Eagles, though, couldn't have imagined what resulted over the course of the spring season. Despite practicing on dirt and grass with broken hurdles and a single starting block dubbed "Old Rusty," according to WBTV-TV, Central captured the school's first state track and field championship.

"Our conditions are bad," Central coach Billy Blakeney told the local TV news station. "We got potholes. Running around the field, one of my guy's twisted his ankle one day right before a meet."

Yet, the Eagles swept county, regional and Upper State titles before taking home the Class AA state championship over the weekend. Central junior Marquise Welch captured an individual state title in the long jump (22-3), but the relays really carried the way. Working as a true team, the Eagles won the 4x400-meter relay (3:25.63), placed second in the 4x100 (42.96) and took fourth in the 4x800 (8:36.09).

Considering the practice conditions, that may have been the most unlikely avenue Central could have taken to the crown. As senior Devin Coleman pointed out to WBTV, other teams "know their marks, their times and exchange zones, but when you get to us, we're going in blindfolded."

In the end, the Eagles credited their success to the lack of a track, using the disadvantage as motivation.

"Just because we don't have a track doesn't stop us from anything," Central senior Travay Hatten told WBTB. "I take it as, this is what made us better. This is what made us a championship team."

Substitute Teacher Certified

My substitute teacher certificate arrived in the mail yesterday.

Next week I meet with Unit 5 administration to handle some paperwork.

Then, summer fan that I am, I can gladly say that I will be in the (substitute teaching) pool!

My dad was a substitute teacher. So once again, I resemble him. And that's a great thing.

Shrek The Musical: Cast And Performances

http://communityplayers.org/shows_shrek.html

Pay-What-You-Can Preview: July 10, 2014
Performances: July 11–13, 17–20, and 24–27 in 2014

Thursday, Friday and Saturday Performances at 7:30 pm
Sunday Performances at 2:30 pm

Shrek The Musical, based on the Oscar® winning DreamWorks film that started it all, brings the hilarious story of everyone's favorite ogre to dazzling new life on the stage.

In a faraway kingdom turned upside down, things get ugly when an unseemly ogre — not a handsome prince — shows up to rescue a feisty princess. Throw in a donkey who won't shut up, a bad guy with a SHORT temper, a cookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you've got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there's one on hand...and his name is Shrek.

Full of all-new songs, great dancing and breathtaking scenery, Shrek The Musical is part romance, part twisted fairy tale and all irreverent fun for everyone!

Cast List

Shrek - Chris Terven
Fiona - Lisa Groves
Donkey - Matthew Henry
Lord Farquaad - Jaron Rhoda
Pinnochio - Ramsey Hendricks
Gingy - Aimee Kerber
Big Bad - Brenton Ways
Elf - Breeann Dawson
Fairy Godmother - Treasure Davis
Humpty Dumpty - Ryan Groves
Mad Hatter - John Poling
Baby Bear - TBD
Mama Bear - Jennifer Rusk
Papa Bear - Tony Smith
Peter Pan - Jake Rathman
Pig - Nick Benson
Pig - Brian Clark
Pig - Sean Stevens
Sugar Plum Fairy - Ce Ce Hill
Ugly Duckling - Shelby Sharick
White Rabbit - Austin Travis
Wicked Witch - Wendi Fleming
Young Fiona - Melea Hauck
Teen Fiona - Sammantha Bettis
Queen Lilian - Jennifer Maloy
King Harold - Joe McDonald
Young Shrek - TBD
Mama Ogre - Wendi Fleming
Papa Ogre - Brenton Ways
Blind Mouse - Kellie Nolan
Blind Mouse - Katie Grogg
Blind Mouse - Sarah Bertram
Dragon - Jennifer Rusk
Dragon - Christie Vellella
Dragon - Sequita Bridges
Dragon - Rachel Phillips
Pied Piper - Joe McDonald
Bishop - TBD
Dwarf - TBD

Ensemble
Rebecca Angels, Katryce Bridges, Kylie Bronke, Rosie Hauck, Scott Heap, Dave Holliday, Kelsey Holliday, Hunter Kisandi, Joseph Knotts, Alexandra Lovel, Shelby Miller, Lindsay Nolan, Rejene Phillips, Jennifer Stevens, Christian West, Kristen Woodard

Children
Jeb Bender, Lilian Burns, Jordyn Coyle, Kira Fleming, Anna Greenfield, Gabby Heern, McKenna Jensen, Natalie Kasper, Lexi Kisandi, Natalie Maloy, Jaiden Mapugay, Kalen Mapugay, Jacob Miller, Ashtyn Mitchell, Caleb Rogers, Solomon Rogers, Savannah Sleevar, Thomas Toohill, Adyn Walker, Devon Walker, Halie Walker

McDonald Tabbed In Dual Roles For Shrek The Musical

Joe McDonald was offered the roles of King Harold and the Pied Piper for Community Players Theatre's production of Shrek The Musical on Wednesday night.

Harold, father of Princess Fiona and eventual father-in-law of Shrek, appears in Act 1, Scene 1 in a flashback along with Queen Lillian, as the two songfully escort Fiona to live in a tower.

The Piper appears in Act 2, Scene 1 as a grossly underachieving musician who Fiona merrily tutors to competence in less time than it takes for her to sing a song.

McDonald last appeared at Players as Vice Principal Douglas Panch in the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.

"I'm excited to be back in the mix. The talent at the auditions was spectacular and energetic, and the script is funnier live than it is on Netflix. You know a musical directed by Alan Wilson is going to be top-quality, and this will be a big cast with plenty of new faces. I'm looking forward to meeting and playing with them all."

The tandem of Wilson and choreographer Wendy Baugh reprises their successful dynamic from previous musicals Hairspray and Aida.

Tutoring Quote Of The Day, Part 2

"Hey Joe I got a 78 on my final and C in the college algebra class! Thanks so much for helping me do this. I start taking my summer class in the first week of June and will contact you about meeting then."

Tutoring Quote Of The Day

"My son got a B in his accounting class after having to drop out last semester! Thanks for all your work in helping him do this. We will be contacting you in the fall for his next class."

Marine Brother Surprises Bride On Wedding Day

https://screen.yahoo.com/inspiration/marine-surprises-bride-wedding-day-144731791.html

Hero Cat Saves Boy From Dog Attack

Cats are good for more than catching mice!

Bad Lip Reading - Mitt Romney

Forgive the unusual language, but there's some good stuff in here!

Mama Bear Saves Cub From Traffic

Birthday Buoy

My day was like this:

- Woke up 6:00. Hit the snooze.
- Woke up at 8:00 with the kitten curled up next to me.
- Took the kitten outside for a 30-minute frisk around the property in idyllic weather.
- Took a shower.
- Cooked up a late breakfast.
- Watched a movie on Netflix, also sending a few texts to organize tutoring sessions from under a blanket while summery breezes wafted through the living room.
- Met with eight students between 11:30 and 9:00. Kept up with e-mail during breaks. Read birthday well-wishes from 25 people or so.

Going home with a big smile on my face. I worked until 9:00 on my birthday and loved it.

Living the dream!

19 Words That Will Make People Like You More

By Bill Murphy, Jr. of Inc.com:

Want to make a better first impression and engender positive feelings that last a long time? Focus on what you say as much as what you do.

First impressions can lead to lasting impressions. So to improve, a lot of people will tell you to dress better, read more (so you'll have interesting things to talk about), and ensure that your online presence is respectable (because many people will check you out online before meeting in person).

But, how far will that get you? Despite what many people would like to believe, the things you say often make an even greater early impression than the things you do. To take advantage of that and get you started easily, here are 19 words--grouped into a handful of easy phrases--that you should make a habit of saying every day. They're virtually guaranteed to improve your standing with others if you use them often enough.

Words No. 1 and 2: "Sir" and "ma'am"

American culture is pretty informal compared to many other places in the world, but a little bit of formality can really make you stand out in a positive way. I carry this inclination from the military, and also from having been a lawyer in the federal court system. These are environments in which people use the titles "Sir" and "Ma'am" constantly--not just in talking with high ranking military officers, but also addressing civilians.

I know that this doesn't work in every situation, but using these titles can be a sign of respect that gets people's attention. It can be important in professional relationships, especially when dealing with people you don't know well, and who are older or more experienced than you.

Words No. 3 and 4: "You're welcome."

Sometime in fairly recent history it seems people stopped saying, "You're welcome," and started substituting, "Yep," or, "No problem." At the risk of sounding older than I am, I think this is a step in the wrong direction--at least in a business or professional setting.

Why? Because ditching "you're welcome" for these other phrases changes the message. "You're welcome" acknowledges that you've done something worth someone else's thanks, while "no problem" suggests that it wasn't that big of a deal. Saying the former phrase conveys that you think it was a worthwhile favor. That's an impressive message to send.

Words No. 5 to 7: "Here's what's happening."

If you've ever worked in an environment in which people guarded information like a valuable commodity, you'll appreciate how much affinity you develop for the few people who try to keep everyone else accurately informed.

Of course you don't want to be a know-it-all or spread rumors. However, even if you don't know the full story, being willing to share the information you have that affects others' lives can make you instantly more likable.

Words No. 8 to 11: "How can I help?"

Nobody accomplishes anything amazing alone. Thus, with the exception of the sociopaths among us, we're all eventually grateful to those who help us achieve great things. I think we're especially grateful to those who proactively try to help.

This doesn't mean you have to go way out of your way to offer assistance, but it's often the case that you have access to something or the ability to do something that won't take much on your part, but that can really have a positive impact on someone else's success.

Words #12 to 15: "I'll find out."

This is one of my favorite phrases. It's related to "how can I help," but is even more proactive. It says that you're not only willing to offer assistance, but that you're willing to go out of your way to do so.

(By the way, this helpful phrase is also the diametric opposite of the most bureaucratic phrase known to humankind, uttered incessantly by some of the least likable people: "That's not my job.")

Words No. 16 to 19: "I believe in you."

Henry Ford recalled that when he was still an unknown, and was working on gasoline engines, a few short words of encouragement from an already famous Thomas Edison were a massive shot in the arm.

It's amazing how just a little bit of validation from other people can inspire people to work harder and achieve more. Four short words can have a huge, positive impact--both for the people you're encouraging, and for their feelings toward you .

Happy Birth May: The Week In Thanks

I remain convinced that May is the best birth month in Central Illinois. It opens opportunities to enjoy a greater part of the earth - the outdoors.

Yesterday opened with a therapeutic massage, which has helped considerably in relieving ongoing elbow issues.

Walking back to the car passed me through the downtown Farmer's Market in Bloomington. Dozens of local vendors with attractive booths. It also brought me past the increasingly revitalized downtown, lined with small business boutiques selling everything from bagels to yoga to art to hospital scrubs.

I drove to the Normal Public Library for tutoring with windows down, and the usual springtime aromas of grass, flowers and warm earth filtered in.

The Uptown Normal parking garage was teeming with not only people but puppies, as the creatively named Pooch Parade was preparing to start. This is one event that in my mind runs counter to the "fresh smells" aspect of spring, as confirmed by some step-overs I had to do on the sidewalk, but the sight of a hundred pups is delightful.

The tutoring was as good as its been all week. Final exam prospects have students ultra-focused, and it's showing through one student's recent 94% test score. Another needed only a 10% score on this upcoming week's test in order to be able to skip the final exam. Another showed how much he's grown in the last two years by staying riveted and productive for a two-hour session.

Dena texted me just before I left the library. On the way home I stopped off at Colene Hoose school where Cupcake was enjoying her first ever park-walk, scampering and darting at things real and imaginary the way kittens do. The sun was high and bright, the wind was slight. It was picturesque, our little family basking in the best of nature that God has to offer.

Settling in for the evening, I took a bath and read a magazine. 

Then I did some accounting for my business, tallying that I've had 340 paid hours this semester and so have already surpassed my goal of 300 for the entire year. Few things satisfy as much as under-promising and over-delivering. This week I delivered thank-you notes and complimentary 30 minute massage gift certificates to people who referred students to me. I also placed large magnets on my car directing traffic (no pun intended) to my web site, and two different people have talked to me about them.

Heartland wrapped up for the summer, so 10 more hours of my days are free. I am taking full advantage of the free time to reinvest in the business, and to catch up on some to-do's around the house.

My birthday is Tuesday. It's hard to think of anything I need that I don't already have. There are too many blessings to count... but it's deeply satisfying to keep trying.

Tweaks And Guides

"No matter how smart you think you are, you need river guides to help you navigate the rapids." - Randy Hetrick, creator of TRX band-resistance training

Hetrick says it took 50 tries to get his original body-weight band system to work. That's either 49 failures or 49 learning opportunities. How many more until your wealthy breakthrough?

Dust Yourself Off And Carry On

"I've gone out with guys who didn't always get it right, but they learned from their mistakes. That's all I can ask for - that when you fall on your face and make crappy decisions, you discover something about yourself. That's what you win." - Garbrielle Union

When my face is in the mud, that's the question to ask. What can I learn from this? Whether I just burned the popcorn, locked myself out of the house, or did a faux pas in front of a roomful of people. One simple lesson I've learned, if not perfected: Don't say something you're not sure about. Calling someone by the wrong name is a blunder with potentially far-reaching consequences. Know the facts before opening your mouth.

Keep Shooting

"Keep reaching. Stretching. Shooting. Sure, you'll miss plenty of shots. But you'll also surprise yourself and score." - Bill Phillips

The reason I set out to make 10 new acquaintances every year is because some of them will lead to others, and in time will lead to the right people for the adventure I never even knew I wanted. It would be a shame to realize too late that a better life lay just outside the perimeter we didn't dare to cross.

Movie Review: Heaven Is For Real

The life-based story of a 4-year-old boy who nearly died from illness and experienced heaven during surgery had feel-good written all over it.

The toddler's father, a local pastor, is quite successful until a series of mishaps precedes his son's near-fatal episode. It's a Job-like path for the man who seems to be trying to shake off the possibility that the heaven-visit was real, stunned by the ongoing evidence from the son that it was not, and tortured by the angst from his church (and wonderfully-played wife) around his indecisiveness.

Along the way he heals not only physically, but also in his relationships with some church members. At last he reaches a decision and professes it to an intensely curious audience.

Considering the relative simplicity of the plot, it held my attention throughout and would be a good at-home movie.

Plain Friendly Talk

"He received me with an offhand cordiality, like and old acquaintance... and we sat down together. In a somewhat high-pitched but pleasant voice... [he] talked in so simple and familiar a strain, and his manner and homely phrase were so absolutely free from any semblance of self-consciousness or pretension of superiority, that I soon felt as if I had known him all my life, and we had very long been close friends." - Carl Schurz, recalling his introduction to Abraham Lincoln

In my tutoring relationships I find humility and plain talk to be nearly as important tools of the trade as formulas and pencils. There's often a shorter, simpler, more understandable way to explain a term. Students already have a knowledge gap; if they sense an intelligence gap, or that math should be fun, from the tutor then it can drain the confidence out of the hour. Plain, friendly talk makes a student better, and the tutor.

Winning Through Laughter

"They say I tell a great many stories. I reckon I do; but I have learned from long experience that plain people, take them as they run, are more easily influenced through the medium of a broad and humorous illustration than in any other way..." - Lincoln

Surely studies have proven that a person is more agreeable when in a good mood. Why not practice good humor, both adopting it and sharing it? Good storytellers are almost instantly popular and influential.

Practicing Your Practice

"Extemporaneous speaking should be practiced and cultivated. It is the lawyer's avenue to the public. However able and faithful he may be in other respects, people are slow to bring him business if he cannot make a speech." - Lincoln

Whatever the profession, it's important to be immersed in the skills. Speaking or relationship-building are always near the top; you have to be able to read a person's values and state of mind and help meet their needs in order to be fully successful.

This morning I'll be working on a final exam review packet for geometry. Even though I know the curriculum for geometry will be changing next year so that this packet will never be used again... it gives me practice in the subject matter. It will be a valuable guide as I determine what topics I'll teach my summer geometry students amid the uncertainty. And it will refresh my skills on some of the geometry topics.

We're either growing or shrinking. Growth is a daily commitment.

Tolerance For Failure

"Lincoln had great tolerance for failure because he knew that if his generals were not making mistakes they were not moving." - Donald Phillips

I was in a meeting yesterday where I took a position on an issue. Once I laid it out there, it was instantly challenged. I listened to the explanation for the counter-position, presented support for my position, and then left it on the table to be decided. At no time did I feel anxiety, which is a leap from my younger days. Ideas are just ideas until they become part of personal ego, at which point they become irritation.

My presentation, which could have been accepted, was a failure in a literal sense. And also in the best sense, since it provided extra consideration to the group in making their decision. Good failures are learning experiences.

The Kroger Guy

There's a guy who presides over the self-checkout machines at Kroger. He is alert!

Always greets random-customer me with a cheery hello.

Notices me trying to swipe my Kroger card after I've already pressed the "pay now" key. Politely pointed out how I could fix the problem before I even knew there was a problem. Saved me $2!

Wishes me well as I head out.

I love encountering people who have the personality of helpfulness that is my ideal, no matter how distant it is.

Abstinence From Arguments

Something about my nature makes it really hard to not get defensive when attacked.

Once I posted something on a message board that someone else mocked. The right response in my mind is no response at all. Unless it's a core moral principle in my life - and maybe not even then - I've found there to be nothing but loss paid by defensiveness. An ego is a heavy burden to bear, and all we have control over is to do our best. Throwing negativity around (defensiveness is a cousin) only births more negativity.

In this case, I didn't even do the old psychological trick of writing a pretend response and then deleting it (though admittedly some content crossed my mind).

I find that it takes less than a week for a temptingly "important" challenge like this to fade into the ether.

Library: My Second Home

I'm lucky to have the resource of the Normal Public Library in town. The staff is great, the facility is comfortable. I call it my home away from home.

For some, it's the closest thing they have to home.

Yesterday (and with some frequency) there was an elderly woman sitting in the library carrying three large bags. It had the kind of look as if all her worldly possessions were in them, and well-worn. As she read a book, a strong long-since-showered stench crept into my nose. While waiting for my next student, I had to shift to another seat.

I can't know for sure what her situation was, but you never know what circumstances place a person into a poor material state. That evening I knew I'd have a shower and a bed and clean clothes ready for me when I needed it. You pray for those who lack those basics, and thank God for the ones you have.

Cupcake's First Six Months

Summer Coming

 Walking into Heartland today had a breezy humidity reminiscent of our trips to the Atlantic beaches. It jump-started a rush of adrenaline for the days ahead.

It's been a long time since I looked so forward to a summer. Last summer was terrific but with the uncertainty of the transition to self-employment there was an edge to it. This year's blessings for the business have me wildly past expectations financially. So not only is there a free and clear run-up of anticipation to the end of the semester and the promise of summer just over the hill, but with more financial security and flexibility to do things than I'd dreamed.

My charge is to be thankful everyday for the gifts that God continues to give us.

Video Rocks: The Week In Thanks

I joked in a previous post about Mom bringing me into a world where you can express love electronically. More seriously though, video technology is a true benefit to us. Next Saturday we'll pull off our first tri-location Skype conversation with Jack in California and Mom in Bloomingdale. At the moment few things excite me as much as the way that video can be used to capture life's favorite moments.

Mini-crisis proved again how talented the band is. Sean's guitar cracked but Tim was able to fix it before Mass began, including de-stringing and re-stringing it. Meanwhile Mike was busily fixing up Doug's audio so that he could hear the vocalists. As a group we seem to be blessed with grace under pressure, and the last few weeks we've been taking fullest advantage of that.

I tried to improvise some humming harmony on Mother's Day during the ladies' duet. It was rejected, which historically has been a bad ticket with me, but I've lived enough life to roll with it this time. I used the opportunity to quietly listen to their beautiful work.

Sometimes the waves and troughs of business match up perfectly. Heartland's math tutoring lab was slow last week, so I was able to use the time to catch up on a ton of errands. Most happily, I was able to write thank-you notes and stuff them with business cards and a token of thanks in the form of a free 30-minute massage.

The body's natural healing powers continue to sustain me. This week it's a complaining ankle, a straining hip from over-compensating that ankle, and a random Cupcake scratch.

If there's a better person on the planet than Dena at picking greeting cards that perfectly fit a personality and situation, I haven't met them. She also often does my laundry, most of the dish washing, and garbage take-out. I'm the retired one and she's getting more done than me. She is amazing!

I get to road trip with the Amazing Dena to Los Angeles for a family event, then meet up with Jack, then roll down the coast in a rented car to utopian San Diego. I am about as jacked up about this trip as one can possibly be.

Cupcake's continue to bloom into a fully grown cat. She's just barely six months old but finding her way in the world. Our walks around the condominium complex have emboldened her to wind her way down to the street, as well as to dart madly around the lot on occasion, giving me the look of a stumbling drunk with a leash. So much fun.

Happy Mother's Day!

Mom and I reminisced about the time that she read me crossword puzzle clues during my first collegiate drive through the highway-hypnosis-inducing cornfields of central Illinois. She might have saved our lives that day!

Happy Mother's Day Mom!

Kid Calls 911 For Math Help

Better Late Than Never: The Week (Ago) In Thanks

On Friday night Dena and I used a $75 gift card from Leadership McLean County to spend a long evening at Jim's Steakhouse. I hadn't been there in some time, so it marked a special occasion worthy of celebrating eight months of busy volunteer work by eating pricey red meat. My gift card shopper was wise, it was just enough to cover the three of us with a decent tip and (appropriately so) no dessert. Rosann had reached a milestone in her legal proceedings as well, and as the anniversary of Dena and I dating approached we were in high spirits.

It was a record-setting tutoring week as I crossed 40 hours for the first time. Added to the 10 hours at Heartland, and I'd worked my first 50 hour week in years. As I thought about it, I remarked to Dena that it was the first 50-hour week I'd worked enthusiastically since 2001. That summer I put in a ton of work developing as a young supervisor up until Dad passed away in the fall. The conscious decision to work normal hours fit well with a job for which I had abilities but not true gifts. Now that I'm plugged into my best skills through this job, I've been all in.

One student submitted a testimonial that in 8 weeks of working with me his grade had risen from 49% mid-semester to 75% at the end! It's as much his and God's work as mine, but the teamwork feels incredibly rewarding.

I underwent a physical as part of qualifying for substitute teaching. I am physically fit with a resting heart rate of 54 beats per minute. And apparently a mild case of anemia which would explain some of my tiredness and would be explained by my low-iron diet. Which is one more reason to be grateful for the steakhouse gift certificate. The givers must have known me better than I knew myself.

Condo clean-up day was a success, Dena worked her tail off while I was tutoring a load of 7 students.

The raspy-voiced priest uttered a phrase during Mass that stuck with me: "Be who we are called to be." Rosann commented over dinner that I seemed really happy. And why not? A teacher is what I'm called to be, and I'm in the process of becoming more and more of one every day.

Although I didn't audition for any shows this spring, I'm still glad to have Community Players Theatre almost within walking distance of my house. Spring flowers cast memories of Spelling Bee and Hairspray with amazing casts and staff and scripts and music, creating still-fresh memories. Even today when the band is walking up the aisle to receive Communion on Sundays, I find myself singing "Nicest Kids in Town" as if I'm prancing onto the stage for the first time in Hairspray.

Thank-You To Those Who Referred Students To Me

Person X,

Thank you for your referrals for math tutoring this year! I have enjoyed working with Jane Y and Jimmy Z. If I may be of any more help, please let me know. Meanwhile, I hope you can take advantage of this gift and have a relaxing summer!

Joe McDonald

Kyoto Sanga Score Soccer Goal Using Crazy Free Kick Strategy

One Habit Of Highly Successful People

By Heidi Reider, Ph.D.:

According to one of my favorite bloggers, you should say “no” to be successful and “yes” to be happy. Highly successful people say no a lot, Eric Barker explains, instead focusing intently on their specific craft to achieve a high level of excellence. Happy people, on the other hand, are open to a variety of opportunities that provide them with new and interesting experiences. They tend to live more spontaneous lives and interact with more people.

I agree with the general premise that saying “no” is important when you have goals you want to achieve, and saying “yes” creates more spontaneity and happiness, but I would suggest an important nuance to this premise: I believe that people who are both successful and happy don’t automatically say yes or no to anything. Instead, they determine when to say yes or no based on well-defined criteria.

I use such criteria for my own life and I find it quite useful. I call it my GPS to Yes Test. GPS, as you probably know, stands for Global Positioning System—the satellite-based system that tells you where you are relative to where you want to go. If you want to say yes to the things that truly matter, and no to just about everything else, consider these three questions:

G: Will I have a Good time?
P: Are valued People involved?
S: Will it develop my Skills?

Good Time: Happy people tend to say “yes” a lot, but not to everything. They say yes to experiences that bring them connection, laughter, and joy. They say yes to things that are novel and push them to grow. When an invitation or request comes your way, consider the first question of the GPS Test and ask yourself if the activity will be fun or energizing for you. Playing softball twice a week can be a great way for many to enjoy some friendly competition and share some beers. For others, it may be a routine they no longer enjoy (and one that hinders their commitment to a low-carb diet). Determine what’s true for you and answer accordingly.

People of Value: Successful people have strong networks, so saying yes to activities that connect you to like-minded people who create value is a good idea. However, if you find yourself repeatedly saying yes to the same individuals but those relationships are not generating any value, or worse, hindering the achievement of important goals, it may be time to redirect your attention to those more suited to your cause who help you grow your network. Ask yourself if you are saying yes—once again—because you really want to, or just because this group has come to expect it from you.

Skills Developed: Successful people are eager to learn new things that allow them to grow and hone their skills. But they also know that saying yes to every learning opportunity isn’t necessarily the best use of their time. A new sales rep might want to attend every seminar that could increase her knowledge and sales ability, but once she’s cultivated a successful book of business there’s probably more value in investigating new skills to help her career, rather than agreeing to another repackaged seminar.

If your answers to the GPS Test questions are positive, it’s a good time to say yes and doing so will likely increase your happiness and success. If two or three of your answers are negative, it’s probably time to kindly and respectfully say no—a valuable skill in itself.

Another consideration is whether you have enough gas in your tank to take on another activity. You can only agree to so many things before you run out of fuel. Recently, I was asked to speak to a group of students on campus. The opportunity wouldn’t really improve my skills, but it would be a good experience and I valued the people involved. The challenge was attending the meeting late on a Friday afternoon, after a full day of teaching, and before dinner plans (for which I was the cook). Although the GPS test was mostly positive, I realized I just didn’t have enough fuel to do it all. I graciously declined.

Of course, there are those times when it doesn’t matter how much gas you have in the tank—the GPS reading is so strong that you say yes anyway and rally to summon the energy. I’m still waiting for my dinner invitation from the White House, which I’ll happily attend, even after a long day of teaching.

Whenever an opportunity comes your way that you have mixed feelings about, put it to your own GPS Test. Mastering a sense of when to say yes and when to say no can make you both happy and successful.

22 Ways To Beat The Afternoon Slump

By Laura Schwecherl.

[Hidden Blog note: I have become an especially big proponent of afternoon "naps": even if I don't fall asleep, just closing my eyes for 15 minutes is quite refreshing. And usually, I do fall asleep.]

Most of us have been there: a super-productive morning finishing projects, working towards inbox zero, and fighting the urge to tweet at co-workers. (Just us?) Then the clock strikes two and we might as well pull down the shades, throw on pajamas, and hop into bed.

It’s completely normal to feel super-tired once the afternoon rolls around. Circadian rhythms, which affect our sleep patterns, may be to blame for the midday-slump. In fact, our “sleep signals” peak at night and during the afternoon (right around 2pm!), which may explain why we want to grab an afternoon cat nap [1]. Other factors, like what we eat, hydration levels, and how much time we spend staring at a screen can also affect those tired eyes.

So to beat the mid-afternoon slump, try these 22 tips to boost energy and feel lively all day long.

Pump, Pump It Up — Your Action Plan

Think it's time to curl up in the cubicle? Here are some ways to fix the fatigue as soon as sleepiness strikes.

Quick Fixes

• Work out. A midday trip to the gym may not only boost productivity; it could ward off sleepiness, too. Stick to some light aerobic exercise before getting back to the books. Don’t have time to hit the gym? Try these deskercises to work out at work.
   
• Step back from the screen. In order to avoid eyestrain (which can make the eyes feel tired) keep a safe distance from the computer screen — about an arm’s length. That, or try a pair of snazzy computer glasses.
   
• Stretch it out. Feelin’ stiff? Stretching out can provide a quick boost of energy. If there’s no stretching station in sight, try a handful of these desk stretches to keep the muscles loose.
   
• Move around. A change of scenery may boost productivity, so do some work at a coffee shop or camp out in a meeting room. Try to park near a window for some natural light, which may keep us more alert.
   
• Grab a towel. Splash some cold water on your face to wake up.
   
• Sip some green tea. With less caffeine than a cup of coffee, a mug of green tea can give us that afternoon pick-me-up without making us stay awake all night. Plus its nutritional benefits are enough to keep anyone wide-eyed!
   
• Talk it out. Instead of emailing a coworker down the hall, take a trip to his/her cubicle and talk in person. This’ll stretch out the legs while providing a break from staring at the screen.
   
• Have a snack. Not meal time yet? Have a snack to help boost energy levels. Try an ounce of cheese, a handful of nuts, or another high-protein snack to keep alert.
   
• Try a walking meeting. Take that meeting to the streets and discuss what you would in the office outdoors. Here at Greatist, we love doing laps around the neighborhood for some fresh air!
   
• Switch tasks. Working on the same project for five hours? Try tackling something else to stay stimulated and keep things fresh at the desk.
   
• Take a catnap. Sometimes the best remedy for fatigue is to simply shut the eyes. Learn how to power nap (10-20 minutes of snooze time!) to get that midday boost you really need.
   
• Schedule an appointment. Have to hit up the dentist? Schedule an appointment during lunch for some forced activity that prevents us from feeling doze-y. This way, you avoid eating at your desk, too!
   
• Take a break. Tired? Take five to do something besides work (like calling a friend or doing a crossword puzzle) in order to give your body and mind a break! Use these tips to relax in five quick minutes before getting back to the grind.
   
• Chew gum. Afternoon energy may be as simple as chewing gum (seriously). Stick to the sugar-free kind, or be on the lookout for the caffeinated versions.
   
• Turn up the tunes. Listening to some favorite music might help us focus and feel more energized. Pro tip? Listen with headphones to really hone in on a task and side-step sleepiness.

All-day Assists

Try to get into the habit of these helpful tips in order to prevent the midday slump from happening in the first place!

• Remember breakfast. Forgoing the most important meal of the day may lead to an energy crash come 2pm. Remember to eat a healthy breakfast to sustain energy throughout the day.
   
• Eat a small(er) lunch. Supersizing that sandwich may be the reason for midday fatigue. Opt for a smaller (but satisfying) lunch; choose something with more protein and less carbohydrates to dodge drowsiness, like a salad with grilled chicken or a black bean burger.
   
• Avoid sugar. A little sugar may go a long way — in the wrong direction. Consuming some sweets may provide a sugar-high that will only lead to a sugar crash, causing us to become even sleepier.
   
• Stay hydrated. In order to avoid dehydration and its sleepy side effects, just keep sipping. Aim for 11-16 cups a day. (Yeah, we’re serious.)
   
• Stand up. Whether or not you’re Slim Shady, please stand up. Staying on our feet could help avoid drowsiness and increase focus. Grab a standing desk and work away!
   
• Skip the booze. Ease up at the office happy hour. Fatigue is a symptom of the good ol’ hangover, so avoid drinking during the week, or keep consumption at a minimum. (One to two drinks!)
   
• Get enough sleep. This may be a no-brainer, but getting enough sleep is vital to staying energized throughout the day.

Throwback Wednesday

Sorry to jump the gun, but I'm the proactive type. Actually I just borrowed this from a friend who posted this last week. This is about a month before my professional career began. Arguably, it was the peak of my career!

Compliment Of The Day

College was one of the fondest and most successful periods of my life. Recently an ISU friend had to say:

"I've always looked up to you. So glad to see you enjoying life! Take care!"

The old dorm may be gone, but the memories and friendships are still alive inside.

I've Got Some Nerve

During my physical I got a new diagnosis on the ongoing discomfort in my elbow.

I'd had it examined by a trainer and physical therapist, who concluded that "tennis elbow" was the culprit. It may have been, but the treatments did only moderate good in relieving the pain.

Eventually they recommended a massage therapist, who has done wonders in relieving the tension in my forearm and should that I believe was seeded by the hoisting of 5,000 basketball shots last summer.

Doc Poag felt around for a while, after my 6 months of attempted self-treatment, and identified it as a tender nerve in the ulnar tunnel of my joint. That made sense to me, as "irritation" is a good word to describe the sensations that have plagued that region.

The general consensus is that surgical treatment is the best remedy. I may be trying Doc's alternative of acupuncture in the near future. I was pleased that he certified massage via prescription, confirming my tax-deductible nature of the expense.

Weekly massage. One more item on the list of ways that my life has become more awesome in retirement.

Farewell To Randy Perry

Randy Perry's last sermon at Calvary United Methodist Church was last weekend.

Randy joined Calvary shortly after Dena and I were married, in 1999. The church was coming off of a pastoral placement that had been a poor fit. Randy turned out to be an excellent fit.

During his nearly 15 years at Calvary's helm the growth spurred a new building in an upward-trending part of town. The youth program exploded in popularity, as did the membership of the church. Calvary became a shining star in a denomination of long-dying ones.

I personally gained a great deal during our time at Calvary. I discovered music and was given the opportunity to use that gift for others, as well as my teaching skills. My administrative skills left something to be desired, but these got stronger by trial and error in an environment that was safer than my then-corporate career. The mistakes I made as a leader at Calvary made me a better leader in my paid job, and probably a better husband too.

Randy's leadership style gave me much to think about. I came to emulate his unspoken principle that it's better to be seen than heard in a meeting when you are the leader. I adopted a more encouragement-driven than bottom-line attitude in my speeches. I learned never to send a negative e-mail. I distinguished the types of behaviors that offended and inspired different personality types.

Calvary may look back on this as a golden era in its history. No ordinary pastor could have fueled that.

I'm extremely happy for Randy and wish him a graceful retirement. As he would say, "May the words of my mouth, and the meditations on the hearts of all of us be acceptable in your sight O God our strength and redeemer. Amen."

Why Work At Heartland?

Working in the Heartland Community College walk-in math tutoring lab I only make a fraction of the pay that I do in my business. So why do I do it?

For one, they have an emphasis on training. Once a month there are a few hours of Saturday lecture/activities to get us thinking about math-specific topics, or the challenges of a diverse student population, or teaching certain types of personalities.

For another, it's an exposure to learn things at no cost to the student. I have several statistics students, finite math, occasionally calculus. Many use technology like StatCrunch or various models of Texas Instruments calculators, which I have learned quite a bit about these last eight months.

Importantly, it's the atmosphere. You get the sense that no one here is in it for themselves, they get a deep-seeded satisfaction from helping other people. They also take interest in the lives of each other. The pace is scaled way back from the corporate world grind.

Glad I'm here while it lasts!

A Half Day In My Life

Here's how the day started:

- Woke up at 4:00 from a weird dream where a plane re-entering earth's orbit at a dangerously low altitude got caught on top of a ferris wheel. It was one of those mid-night hazes where my mind started going into overdrive trying to plan for the day ahead.

- Thought to myself, "I'm retired! It doesn't matter if I'm awake! I have nowhere to be until 11. I can go downstairs, distract my mind to sleep with some Parks and Recreation reruns, and wake up refreshed.

- Woke up around 8:00 to the sound of Dena off to work. Minutes later, the kitten curled up on my chest for a nap. Watched some more comedy while breezes blew softly through the living room.

- Around 9:00, went out for my first bare-chested 3-mile run of the year, made possible by the first 70+ degree morning of the year. The sky was bright blue, the air still and each breath fragrant with the scents of freshly mown grass and cherry blossoms.

- 9:30, took Cupcake outside for some exercise. Watched the parks department mowing the grass across the street, and cardinals flitting about the property. Spent some time in the shade.

- 10:00, got some of Dena's delicious sloppy joe mix reheating in the oven while I took a leisurely shower, shave, comb, spray.

- 10:30, enjoyed the sandwiches and gathered my things to start a shift at Heartland.

-11:00, settled into the math lab to start reviewing e-mail, fantasy baseball scores, and catch up on some blogging.

Life is good, y'all.