Friday, March 29, 2013

Funk

I have been in an expat funk these last few months. I finally feel like I am starting to see the light at the other end of the tunnel.

I am walking the dog at least 5 days a week and we are doing around 17-20 miles, and I think that the exercise routine is good. I am also playing tennis more and taking lessons outside of the neighborhood, which is also a really good thing!

I still think about Hong Kong almost daily. It's not that I long to go back there, it's just good memories of traveling, the time I got to spend alone with the girls and the friends that I made.

Sunday is Easter and J's birthday. We are having good friends over for dinner and dessert - and I'm really excited about cooking a big meal!

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Friday, March 22, 2013

Loading the plane

I am amazed, why I'm not sure, of the lack I respect people have for each other. This seems to come out the most When you board the plane.

I have always told the girls to be aware if their surroundings. They need to notice if someone needs help or if just standing up could make passing by
A little easier for someone. I just witnessed a family let their 10 year old just sit in the seat while two grown (not small) people had to climb over them. They were in the last row and all he had to do is stand up to make their lives easier.

We need more awareness and acts of kindness.

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Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Everyone should pay taxes

If this does what it's title says it should, this would be AWESOME!

The Federal Employee Tax Accountability Act of 2013 requires the termination of employment for tax delinquent federal employees, while also prohibiting the hiring of new federal employees with a substantial amount of delinquent tax debt.




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Monday, March 18, 2013

Spring break.

In December we were throwing out ideas for spring break. I thought that it would be awesome to go skiing. I am personally not a skier, but thought that the girls would enjoy it - especially if they could ski with their dad.

We actually decided to go in a different direction and hit Puerto Rico instead. By the time March hit and it was still 30* in Arkansas, I was pretty sure I made the right decision.

Right now, we are basking in 77* temps And headed to the beach. Arkansas is currently 42* and will hit a high of 50.

I believe the right choice was made!

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Wednesday, March 13, 2013

"No we are not going to balance the budget in 10 years."

What the hell is wrong with this government? We are putting this country in debt for our children and grandchildren.

My family has to run on a balanced budget, why shouldn't we expect the country to have the same values? Yes, we need to provide for the sick and elderly, but do we need to provide for people who don't want to work because the government gives them all they need? No.

Come on, get over the left and right aisle stuff and get on with what is really good for our country and future generations.

Monday, March 11, 2013

Fwd: [New Post] Tim Elmore on 03/11/2013

I have been experiencing some interesting things recently. The neighborhood that we live in has gone crazy.  Many of these people are quick to point a finger at others without looking at themselves first.  We are having issues with kids taking things from unlocked cars, taking alcohol from open garages, and breaking onto homes that are for sale.   These same people that are complaining and blaming have some if the kids that are doing the deeds. 

As I read the list below, I find it very true.   We are a country of "give me what I want not what I deserve or earn". 




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Evaluating the Shifts and Drifts in How We Lead Students

old-classrom

photo credit: roujo via photopin cc

There has been a slow shift going on over the last forty years in how we lead our young people in America. I actually think I am seeing this shift happening all over the world. Adults view the educating and raising of children differently, and it's affected our work with young kids as well as young adults.

YESTERDAY VS. TODAY

We used to pride ourselves on giving kids whatever they needed.

Now, parents pride themselves on giving kids whatever they want.

 

We used to offer school rewards when our students put out excellent effort.

Now we reward everyone, because we don't want anyone left out.

 

We used to say to kids: "You can do whatever you want; go figure it out."

Now we say: "You can do whatever you want, and I will make sure it happens."

 

We used to give kids an allowance for doing chores around the house.

Today, we give kids money regardless of any contribution they make.

 

We used to allow kids substantial playtime outside to exercise and make up games.

Now, we structure their days with practices and playtime is in front of a screen.

 

We used to let our kids fail and lose, but would help them learn lessons from it.

Today, we refuse to let our kids fail. We don't want to damage their self-esteem.

 

We used to see nearly every teen work at a job; it was the only way they'd have money.

Today, most teens don't work yet somehow find the money for items they want.

 

We used to affirm young people for outstanding behavior, performance or character.

Today, we praise young people for effortless and even basic behavior.

 

We used to learn about values and how life works over dinner with our family.

Today, kids may learn about life, values, and even sex from school, since there's no time for dinner together at home.

 

Yesterday, when a student got in trouble in school, they also got in trouble when they returned home. Parents took sides with the school rules.

Today, when a student gets in trouble in school, the parent sides with their child and the teacher or administrator now gets in trouble.

 

This may just explain much of what we see in our culture today.

What do you think? Leave a comment.

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© 2012 Tim Elmore
Growing Leaders 270 Scientific Drive NW Suite 10 Norcross, Ga 30092
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