The Hobbled Runner

How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?

2012-01-28T06:47:00.000-08:00

Don’t let the lack of blogging fool you, there has been lots of goings-on at the Hobbled House. I’m up early this Saturday reviewing materials for Wednesday’s Planning Commission meeting where we will consider a proposal by Walmart to re-plat four existing parcels into one larger parcel in preparation for development. It’s the only item on the agenda – but I suspect it will keep us busy for a few hours.

[Skin of our Teeth photo by Mac Meade. Don't strain your eyes, Maria not in the picture, but I have to post some pictures to keep the reading audience interested.]

Maria in the midst of performances for The Skin of Our Teeth at RAHS. It’s not a big role for her but that’s nice after last Fall’s Urinetown –The Musical, and this Spring’s The Sound of Music where she plays – who else – Maria. Of course, that leads to lots of jokes around here about, “How do you solve a problem like Maria?”

Are you attending tonight’s opening of the Minnesota Opera’s Werther? If so, note the children’s chorus singing off stage in the final act. The Dude is amongst them. It’s been a busy past several weeks for him as they geared up for the big show. Several long, late evening practices – but he loves it.
Here’s some nice coverage from MPR’s classical side.

Too busy at work to think, much less post but that’s the subject for another post (or a dozen), so I won’t start now.

Meeting about Meetings

2012-01-18T13:22:00.000-08:00

The subject of meetings in some corners of Corporate America has been very well documneted. I only revisit it to tell a story about what's going on in my little corner of that world.

We now have so many project “stand-ups” going on that all the key players cannot attend the meetings where their presence is required.

Long time readers of the Hobbled Runner will recall the famous Koosh Ball incident. Newer readers need only know that a stand-up is a short (usually 15 minute) meeting to check on progress of ongoing projects. Some meeting leaders enforce the standing only rule, but most allow sitting. Since most of these stand-up meetings involve our “partners” in India they take place in the early dawn Minnesota time which is early evening “over there”.

An example of how bad it's gotten: A colleague of mine told me she has 6 conference calls daily between 6:30 and 8:00 AM most days.

I really can’t complain because I have only one 7:15 meeting every day – with an additional 7:45 thrown in on Wednesdays.

Because of the problem of two many meetings, one of my stand-ups this morning started 10 minutes late (we had to wait for those "running" or dialing from stand-up to stand-up). Once under way we took up the topic of "too many meetinngs". As we listed off all the meetings currently underway that have contributed to this problem, I learned of two I should be attending but had never even heard of! Great move John – you now have two more meetings on your calendar!

Anyway, the problem is "Too Many Meetings".

The solution: We will soon be holding a meeting about these meetings in an effort to solve the problem consolidation or cancellation of existing meetings.

Posting at the Patch

2012-01-18T06:28:00.000-08:00

My latest post for the Roseville Patch is up. It's meant to encourage folks to get involved in their community by considering joining a citizens advisory committee - like the Planning Commission.

My favorite sentence:

I’m just wonky enough to think that meeting monthly with a group of six other like-minded individuals to discuss zoning law, variance applications, conditional use permits, side-yard set-backs, and the like is fun!

Many of my posts - both here and on the Patch start from one line and I build from there. This one came to me in a flash - and the rest of the thing kind of wrote itself. Like the old saying, "One percent inspiration, 99% perspiration."

A Sweeping Year

2012-01-15T15:59:00.000-08:00

The day started quietly - and early. I was up at 5:50 with Duke – he cares not that it is Sunday. Shana and the kids slept in. Maria winning the contest - slumbering until shortly after 11:00 a.m. The kids stayed up late last night to watch Saturday Night Live because Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter) was the guest host.

It snowed a bit yesterday, maybe 2 inches of powdery stuff. The snow was so light I swept it away with a broom. I’ve done that more this year (sweeping snow) than I ever recall in the past. It has not been a big year for shovels, let alone snow-blowers or plows.

As Duke and I walked through the field – where we took the photo above – I apologized for our quiet walk. Often I talk to him, but today felt quieter. I told Duke that I used to have a lot to say – or at least talked a lot more as a younger man. I still feel I have a lot to say, but have trouble saying it, or figure maybe no one wants to hear it. Or maybe, I just learned how and when to keep my mouth shut.

After visiting my mother for brunch, the kids and I stopped to pick up a friend of John's - and they are now engaged in some sort of Pokemon duel at the kitchen table. He's leaving soon, and Maria should return from a friend's shortly. Then it's time to start dinner - pasta with my home-made white sauce.

Hobbled Wife in the News

2012-01-13T13:29:00.000-08:00

Shana and her colleagues stopped by the Red Bull Crashed Ice competition during their lunch hour on Thursday. Naturally reporters wanted to know what she thought about it.

"It's been so fun to watch the energy around here," said Shana Crosson, who works downtown. "[The athletes] are insane."

Source: StarTribune.

Fair and Balanced

2012-01-13T13:25:00.000-08:00

Since Tuesday's post was about the crazy warm weather we've experienced of late, I felt compelled to balance it with today's photo from the Walking Path.

Winter is back. It's been scary cold - or at least it's felt that way after our spring-like weather. After being cooped up for two days I ventured out at lunch today. It was snowing lightly, thankfully it was less windy than Wednesday or Thursday. Temperature = 11F. No caterpillars sighted.

Spring Time in January

2012-01-10T12:22:00.000-08:00

When the weather warms as it has these past few days I know I'll share space on the walking path with my work colleagues - including many fair weather walkers - those who would not come out for a walk if it wasn't above 50 in January. (It's 53 as I create this entry.)

[You can barely see the little guy. I should have zoomed in.]

What I didn't expect was to have to step over a caterpillar. It wasn't moving terribly fast, but it was out there doing its best.

Back on the Trail - Again

2012-01-04T14:22:00.000-08:00

While I'm not that excited to be back at work, I was able to enjoy the sunny weather - with temps approaching 40F- when I stepped out for my post-lunch walk.

Shortly before venturing out, Shana passed along this video extolling the virtues of 30 minutes a day exercise. I knew I was doing something right!

It Flows No More

2012-01-01T13:19:00.000-08:00

[Note the damp ends of the branch. The Dude and I had just sampled the dripping sap. Very tasty!]

Yesterday when the Dude and I were out for a walk we noticed sap dripping off freshly trimmed tree branches at the park. Not a surprise as it was partly sunny with the temperature in the in the low 40s. The fact the branches were dripping was likely due to the warm weather and the recent pruning - at least that's my uneducated guess.

That was then, this is now.

Winter finally arrived last night. It was beautiful, big fluffy flakes and a rapid accumulation of a few inches - in the hours before midnight.

Today it's cold and WINDY - very windy. I made Shana come take a walk with me - partly for the exercise, and partly to re-visit the dripping branches to check for change.

Not a surprise - they are dry as a bone. No more sap for a few months I expect.

Happy Holidays

2011-12-29T06:57:00.000-08:00

Now that the cards are "in the mail", it's OK to post the card and letter on site - for those not on the list - and those who prefer to view the holiday greetings electronically.

Christmas 2011

It’s that time of year – time for the annual Crosson-Gisselquist Christmas missive. I’ve taken it to the limit this year, setting down to write this at 11:26 am on Christmas Eve.

What caused us to approach Christmas so late this year? We didn’t even get a tree until last Sunday when there were only 21 trees left on the lot. Our family actually starts the holiday season earlier than most I suspect with auditions for the Rosetown Playhouse holiday show the week before Halloween. Maybe by the time the show is over (2nd week of December) we are done with the holidays?

This year’s holiday show was The Ultimate Santa – a world premiere musical that asked what would happen if someone decided Santa was a tired, worn-out concept and then staged a reality TV to find his replacement – the new, ultimate Santa!. The kids and I had roles in the show, with Shana working behind the scenes selling tickets and other duties as a member of the Rosetown Board.

There was lots of drama this year – the theater kind – and music. The kind of sums it up, drama and music – with some school and work thrown in to keep us honest.

Maria (14 years) wrapped up 8th grade at the same school she had attended since kindergarten. Last summer she had a real (volunteer) job at the Children’s Museum of Minnesota – the kind you interview for and everything! She spent several weeks helping little kids navigate the museum. Every day it was something different – face painting, helping with art projects, and more.

Maria is adjusting well to high school. This fall, she landed a big role in the Roseville Area High School’s production of Urinetown: The Musical. She is enjoying high school and freshman life. Maria continues to sing with Project Opera’s Giovanni choir.

John-John, or J-J as he is testing out as a possible variation, turned 11 this year. He is in 6th grade at the Friends School of Minnesota. Rather than another year with the Minnesota Boy Choir, JJ auditioned for “Opera Choir” (the Ragazzi choir with the Minnesota Opera’s Project). Now we have two kids in Opera Choir which is fun for them, and makes chauffeuring logistics easier for Shana and me.

Shana said I didn’t have to write anything about her – so I won’t. That frees up more space for me and the kids.

In addition to the Rosetown holiday show, the kids and I had roles in the summer show – The Wizard of Oz. It was great fun – despite the weather – 90s and humid for most every show, held as usual outdoors at the Pavilion on Como Lake in St. Paul. We all played Munchkins – size was not a casting requirement for that role – in addition to other roles. JJ was Niko – the head monkey, the Wicked Witch’s henchman – a role he relished. Maria was a Scary, and a Winkie (those castle guards). In addition to my Munchkin role, I was also a Winkie – and part of the tornado. Yes, we had people in the role of the tornado – lots of fun, but I found it more challenging than my younger twister companions to spin round-in-circles on stage without falling over. Could it be age?

John (the Dad) continues to work at Thomson Reuters. In addition to Rosetown acting, John serves on the Roseville Planning Commission. He’s enjoyed it so much, that he has re-applied for another 3 year term. Cross your fingers – the Council votes in January.

Duke our Golden Retriever of indeterminate age is doing well – despite some nagging health problems. He has slowed a lot in the past year, forcing Shana and John to reconsider how they are going to get real exercise, as Duke walks SLOWLY – when he walks at all. Duke enjoys life with our three cats – Roscoe (the original), Patches (the short-term guest who has made herself a part of the family), and Reggie (the stray John found on a garbage can in the park). Many animals make for lots of fun.

We were shocked and saddened in early November when Shana’s uncle Bub passed away.

We all keep thinking of "one more thing" we will miss about Bub. Summers at the cabin won't be the same without him. Who else knows all the good fishing spots? Who will help me clean the fish we do catch? I'm no good at it - and a lot goes to waste. Bub was like my Uncle Ole - he could filet a fish in seconds, and not leave any of the good stuff behind.

Bub’s funeral provided several bittersweet moments, like the chance to visit the cabin in the off-season and pose for this family photo.

Happy New Year – John, Shana, Maria, and John-John

Blackberry, “Sampling”, and the Crud

2011-12-29T06:54:00.000-08:00

Blackberry

I apologize for the lack of pictures. On Tuesday, I started to wash my Blackberry (it was in my coat pocket). I pulled it out of the pocket – but not in time for it to have got slightly wet. It still worked, but when I picked it up, water dripped out the bottom. I took it apart, wiped down the battery, and the main body, and submerged the pieces in rice. One web site recommended the parts should remain in the rice for 48 hours – we are at about 47 hours right now – so we will try again this morning.

Sampling

It’s time for some more “sampling” – and I’m not talking statistical sampling or sampling some music pieces. No this is the time of sampling where the Hobbled Runner walks around the yard holding a yogurt container waiting for Duke to hear nature’s call. When the old boy gets ready to pee, I stoop and hold the container “just so”. In the past this has involved more pee on me than in the container – but my technique has improved over time. Last time, I came out unscathed. Wish me luck this time!

This is a follow-up for the earlier urinary tract infection. He’s done the 10 days of antibiotics and it’s time to re-check for bacteria, etc in the urine. I think he’s recovered well – but you still need a sample.

The Crud Continues

A few days back I posted about Duke and his “new normal”. I think I’ve developed a new normal myself. It’s been three weeks since my odd malady, the viral arthritis. The doctor did warn it could take several weeks for the symptoms to go away, but I didn’t believe him. Now, I believe.

I’m not sick every day. The symptoms come and go – sometimes lasting only a few hours. One day it’s a stiff shoulder, the next stiff ankles or wrists. (The rash has never returned.) The latest is the red, sore throat and sore shoulder and knee (right side only). That’s been around almost 24 hours now.

Let’s give it another few days. At that point I may contact the doctor – though I don’t know what they would do.

Blown Away

2011-12-26T18:50:00.001-08:00

Work continues on the Crosson-Gisselquist Christmas Card and letters. Don't worry, they will be in the mail tomorrow. I promise no better next year. Yes, it feels good to admit that. Our Christmas cards will seldom, if ever, arrive before Christmas. Our goal is to deliver them before New Years Day. I've stopped kicking myself for not getting them done sooner - and that makes all the difference in the world.

Walked to Kinko's to pick up copies of the Christmas letter this morning and decided to make a real walk of it - by taking the long way home. I snapped the picture above while leaning into a fierce SW wind whipping across the fields maintained by the University of Minnesota's College of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources. It's great living near the U Fields, kind of like having a farm in the city. When we first moved to Roseville in 2001, they U still kept some cattle in one field - but that's since been converted to a turf grass research site - boring, but less smelly.

In the end, I didn't blow away and I even saw a tumble-weed blow by - a post-Christmas first for me!

Spent the morning at home, doing laundry, addressing Christmas Cards, etc. In the afternoon, we were visiting with Auntie Amy (Shana's sister) and my nephew Max (age 2 1/2), who are in town for a few days. Tomorrow we have brunch with family friends, then hope to visit Como Zoo with Max.

Merry Early Christmas

2011-12-24T11:38:00.000-08:00

Pleasantly surprised to find a number of old Frank Sinatra Christmas songs on YouTube (thanks to following a couple of clicks from this post by An Affordable Wardrobe.) I've loved this song ever since purchasing Christmas with the Rat Pack several years ago. Can't find link to the version I have, it seems to change every year, but here you go - you get the idea. In the video, Old Blue Eyes describes this number as one of the "newer" holiday songs - this was 1957 after all.

Love that "living room" scene - my parents had drapes exactly like that.

Anyway - Shana and I finished up some Christmas shopping this morning and got some exercise at the same time. We walked over the Super Target - fearing bad traffic and a crowded parking lot. We observed neither. I've been trying to keep it local this season - but even shopping at the Super Target feels local as it is close to home and has a special place in many Minnesotans' hearts as Target Store #1 the original - from 1962 - I'm about 6 weeks older than the store.

For the record, here are the other local stores I've hit this year. Shana did the dirty work and went to the mall/big-stores for me (thank you very much!)

Grand Hand Gallery

Bibelot

Wet Paint

Minnesota Historical Society gift shop

Micawbers Bookstore

Duke and the New Normal

2011-12-23T06:17:00.000-08:00

At a school choir event last night, a regular reader of the Hobbled Runner inquired about Duke. Thanks for your interest! Duke is fine. His Masticatory Myositis doesn’t seem to impact his quality of life. At least it doesn’t impact it more than his seizures, or thyroid conditions, or old age. The Myositis doesn’t seem to be spreading or getting worse, so it appears to be part of the “new normal” for Duke. Having said that I’ll spend more time petting Duke and checking other parts of his body for muscle atrophy, though I suspect that would make itself evident in difficulty walking and generally controlling his body.

Annual Piano Session

2011-12-20T19:10:00.000-08:00

Things I do on vacation – play the piano – I the piano this time every year – Christmas Carols of course. Last night I played for about 45 minutes. I enjoy it, but I’ve decided that to really get good at piano, one must practice more than once a year.

Old Dog, New Trick

2011-12-20T10:56:00.000-08:00

Who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks? Duke taught himself this trick and has employed it two days running now. He needs to go out to pee late morning, and when I let him out he doesn't come back in - instead, he just lays down in the front yard and goes to sleep. Coming up on 90 minutes now.

Oh yeah - Patches wants out too. Except she doesn't - because once out she realizes it's December - despite the lack of snow - then starts yowling to get back in.

Ohh Duke!

2011-12-19T14:46:00.001-08:00

They love Duke at the Vet's. When you call and identify yourself, the person on the other end of the phone inevitably says, "Ohh Duke!" - in a sweet, rather high-pitched tone of voice - they love him so. When you arrive at the office, it's "Ohh Duke!" all over again. Ever since he came into our lives in September 2008, it's been one thing after another.

First it was the thryoid, then the seizures, then the "foreign object removal". Lately it's been a runny nose (possible fungal infection) that defies medication. Last week it was the urinary tract infection for which he's now on anti-biotics.

We just can't stay away. Today we decided to have the Vet take a look at his oddly bony head, and recessed right eyeball. Turns out it's most likely Masticatory Myositis.

His muscles around his skull and jaw have atrophied leaving a very bony skull. The right eye is recessed in his skull and often not pointing straight ahead. His visionn is probably OK (for such an old dog), but he probably has to rely more on the left eye than the right one.

Treatment - not much for now. He still chews his food just fine. He's bit slower at meals - but given the rapid pace of his eating this "slowing" would still appear to be fast for many dogs. Some dogs with Masticatory Myositis present with pain when eating, or in severe cases, the inability to open their mouths. If it impacts his ability to eat we may look into treatment options.

It's treated with high doses of prednisone or dexamethasone - which come with their own special side effects, like frequent water drinking and urination, not to mention their impact on the immune system as they greatly suppress immune system activity.

Wait and see. More fun ahead. Ohh Duke!

Duke and I – Health Updates

2011-12-12T10:14:00.001-08:00

We noticed a rapid improvement for Duke after starting antibiotics. He is peeing “normally” – meaning not every 10 minutes – and is able to rest and sleep again without interruption. This is great for him – and us.

I continue to enjoy lingering symptoms of this viral arthritis thing. Stillsome aches and pains, with a scratchy throat and limited mobility in hands/wrists and shoulders. It is difficult (but not impossible) to pull on a jacket. My shoulders don’t reach back well. My feet are kind of sore – but nothing like last Thursday. Thanks to ibuprofen the pain is greatly reduced, but the stiffness and limited range of motion remains.

I’m back at work today. At first I didn’t think I could do it, but I’m in the groove now, but may leave early. Taking it hour-by-hour.

Farewell Ultimate Santa

2011-12-12T10:08:00.000-08:00

The Ultimate Santa wrapped up yesterday. You can find lots of great pictures on the Rosetown Facebook page.

The second weekend saw three solid performances, with Saturday night’s being the best – at least for audience reaction/participation.

I may post more about this later – still need time to process it all - and whip this weird bug I have.

An Aging Dog

2011-12-10T13:19:00.000-08:00

Here are three photos of Duke. The first was taken in December 2008 a few months after he came into our lives.

The next photo is one year later - December 2009 - relaxing on the couch.

Jump ahead two years and here he is today. It's not a good day for Duke. He started going out to pee quite frequently yesterday so we called the Vet this morning. They asked us to bring in a urine sample. It wasn't hard to gather that - and even my untrained eye could see the blood.

The Vet found some some bacteria in the sample so Duke is on antibiotics for two weeks. Hope the meds kick in soon as the constant trips outside - and the accidents indoors - are no fun for anyone.

The constant in-and-out trips are interfering with his sleep. Poor old guy hasn't slept well in 2 days. He's even too tired to clean up his own runny nose. The runny nose is another issue - running for months - unresponsive to antibiotics. Probably a fungal infection, but the "cure" - putting him under to flush out his nose and sinuses is something that could be pretty hard on an old dog so we are waiting it out - for now.

BackStage at The Ultimate Santa

2011-12-10T12:08:00.000-08:00

Here's an eerie but cool backstage photo from The Ultimate Santa with dancers (above) and orchestra in the pit (below) silhouetted againt the backdrop.

Friday's show went well - despite (or because of) the 4 days off since Sunday's show. I was feeling fairly healthy - thanks to two days on the couch and lots of ibuprofen. Once I was in the thick of things, I didn't think about the various aches and pains - but this morning I could sure feel it.

Two shows remain - tonight at 7:30 and Sunday at 2:00. Get your tickets now!

Spoke Too Soon

2011-12-08T13:32:00.000-08:00

I jinxed myself by posting yesterday about feeling better.

When I woke up at 12:30 a.m. to let the dog out (same time two nights in a row - hmm), my wrists hurt. Figured maybe I had been sleeping on them - but didn't give it much thought.

This morning, I awoke at 6:15, my wrists still hurt, along with my ankles - and I was covered with some odd pin-point rash - complete coverage on arms and torso, going down to my legs. It was difficult to grip things - and my thumbs (especially my left one) didn't work well at all. Opposable thumbs are critical to one's morning routine - and most of life.

Decided to have the doctor check it out. He called it viral arthritis. We checked for strep - negative. While they were working under the hood so-to-speak, they decided to add a few more procedures, drawing blood to check my (low) vitamin D levels (awaiting a call and lecture about taking supplements), and of course they gave me a flu shot*.

Not much to do but treat the symptoms. I went to Rainbow for a few groceries and some benadryl. Lots of fun - as I hobbled around the store on my arthritic ankles. It seemed to be senior citizen morning at the store, and I fit right in. (Note to self - those self check-out lines are all open when the average of the shopper is 70!)

So now - 6 hours later, full of benadryl and ibuprofen, the rash has subsided some, the joints don't hurt, but they still don't work well. Napping on the couch, reading, blogging, etc.

*About the flu shot - I expect the side effects to kick in soon. Every time I get a flu shot, I come down with flu-like symptoms later in the day. I've stopped getting them when they are provided free at work because I always end up going home sick. The side-effects or symptoms are short lived - should pass by morning. I'm not looking forward to another weekend of Ultimate Santa at less than 100%.

December Shadows

2011-12-06T13:57:00.000-08:00

I’m back at work and feeling better – but not 100%.

Every time I recover from some malady, I’m struck by the fact that it probably started earlier than I realized. Looking back, I was probably “under the weather” by about Wednesday or Thursday last week. My day off Friday was less than productive – which should have been a clue – but the buzz of opening night kept most of my symptoms at bay. As I reported yesterday, I performed Saturday’s show with a splitting headache (should have taken more than 2 ibuprofen), and by Sunday I was Mr. Crabby.

After lunch today, I ventured out into the 18 sunny degrees only to find the sun already casting long shadows at 2:15 in the afternoon! Ah, December in Minnesota.
Many of my colleagues who walk at lunch are now walking indoors. The facilities folks have a web page with maps of the outdoor walking paths AND the indoor routes – with distances for each.

Please – indoor walking? I’m not a big fan of indoor exercise. This is Minnesota – I say, “Get used to it.” Besides it’s only December 6, and I enjoy the look some give me when they see me in my coat, hat, scarf, and gloves heading out to brave the elements. My rule is that you can’t legally complain about the long, cold winters until late February – or at least after Christmas.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m no snow freak – no winter camping for me. But I cross country ski occasionally, ice skate (outdoors of course), and enjoy walking almost daily. Lately I’ve come to appreciate shoveling of all sorts. I find roof raking the best for upper body strength and conditioning. Winter in Minnesota – it’s like your own private fitness center, without the fees, and no lines at any of the machines.

Most days you can dress warm enough to fend off the elements. On even the bitterest days, I find that if you dress in layers (but you knew that), and cover your exposed skin, you can enjoy a bit of fresh air – and possibly some elusive winter sunshine. And watch your footing! A few years back I slipped on ice while walking the dog. The result was whiplash and two fractured vertebrae, but I don’t think I missed any dog-walks because of the injury – though they were pretty slow for about a week or so. I’m now as cautious as my 81 year old mother when I see ice.

Maybe if you can’t/won't go outside for over one-quarter of the year you should consider moving.

The Show Went On

2011-12-05T09:12:00.000-08:00

Here’s an awful picture of me in the café scene, mentioned in my last post. I look like some crabby, weird, old man – but since that's how I feel - it's OK.

More pictures - and other play related stuff can be found here.

The first weekend has come and gone, and the three shows went very well. Saturday night’s crowd was the smallest of the three due to snow, but they made up for their small numbers in enthusiasm – lots of laughs.

Now it’s Monday and I’m home sick. I’ve been fighting it for several days. While stretching my stiff neck on Friday I noticed my lymph glands were swollen. All through the Saturday show I had a splitting headache that ibuprofen would not help. On Sunday I was tired and a bit sluggish, but felt the show went well. But once home I became very crabby. Shana sent me to bed early and I slept from 8:30 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. this morning.

When all the sleep left me feeling no better, I knew it was time to throw in the towel. It was inevitable I would get sick. Many colleagues at work are sick, and the cast of The Ultimate Santa – oh boy! There were lots of germs being passed around at rehearsals – kids and adults both sniffling and coughing.

Now it’s time to rest on the couch.

Opening Night a Success!

2011-12-03T12:46:00.001-08:00

Last night's opening and "world premiere" of Rosetown Playhouse's The Ultimate Santa was a success! Despite doubts earlier in the week, it all came together beautifully - as I knew it would.

One of my favorite scenes in the play is the cafe scene where I'm an extra. Unlike my scenes as Stocky (one of the Ultimate Santa contestants), I'm anonymous in the cafe and have no lines to speak. Instead I'm innocently sipping coffee with a woman at a small table. Slowly it dawns on us that celebrity "British" arts and entertainment critic Chelsea Eaton is seated at the table next to us. We have fun recognizing her and at one point I use my Blackberry to snap a picture of the famous Chelsea. The picture is ad-libbed but it seems to work. I figure celebs face that hassle all the time. In order to make it authentic, I'm taking real photos - a different one each night. Last night's turned out rather nicely - given the odd lighting - cross stage with a spotlight coming in from the upper right.

We had a big crowd last night - almost 200. Seats are still available for tonight at 7:30 and Sunday at 2:00 p.m. - as well as next week.

Performances

December 2, 3, 9 & 10 at 7:30 p.m.

December 4 & 11 at 2 p.m.

Tickets:
$12 Adults
$10 Seniors
$8 Students
$5 Children 5 and under
Buy Tickets Now!

Minnehaha Memories

2011-11-30T12:54:00.001-08:00

While cleaning out my picture files this morning, I was cruising down the list in alpha order when I came across these two right next to each other. I know the top one was taken on August 28, 2011, but the bottom one? Maybe 2008??

Inside Looking Out

2011-11-28T13:52:00.000-08:00

First day back after the Thanksgiving vacation and my brain is still in vacation mode. Looking outside at 3:50 pm and the sun is setting. Welcome to MN at the end of November.

We have 4 hours of rehearsal ahead tonight (6:00 - 10:00 p.m.). Ugh.

Here's a picture from last night.

How's that for a aimless, disjointed blog post.

Are We Ready Yet?

2011-11-26T15:45:00.000-08:00

[By Friday this will all make sense.]

Tomorrow starts "tech week" - aka the week of hell - prior to Friday's opening of The Ultimate Santa. We rehearse four hours Sunday, then from 6:00 to 9:30 Monday through Thursday. We will go over the production, in costume, scene-by-scene.

It's a painstaking process. The adults will groan and sigh; the kids will be too squirrelly to pay attention. Tempers will flare. At some point, I will promise myself never to do another show.

We are at that point when one's emotions swing between, "This will never work!" and "This will be an awesome show!" I think I know all my lines I just hope I don't miss my cues. Tomorrow I'll forget all my lines, but remember everyone elses. That's just the way it is - for me at least.

What Are You Thankful For?

2011-11-24T06:39:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for spring-like weather in November. Here's the view from my walk with Duke this morning, looking south towards home across Fairview Fields.

Speaking of dogs. I’m thankful for loyal dogs, like Duke and Major.

Major making tracks in last weekend's snow.

For the backstory on my canine cousin Major, follow this link.

For other things I'm thankful for, check out my post on the Roseville Patch.

Hope you have a great Thanksgiving!

And So It Begins

2011-11-21T13:25:00.000-08:00

Today I was surprised to see the snow pile in the field along the walking path at work. Of course I should not have been surprised as it snowed several inches over the weekend. When they clear the vast parking lots here at world headquarters, they cart the snow off into the field in the middle of the walking path. By winter’s end the piles are enormous and tend to attract a lot of deer. I suspect the deer love the salt in the plowed snow.

To counter the dirty pile of snow, I’ll offer this snow angel made by the Dude on Sunday.

Too Much Vacation?

2011-11-18T17:26:00.000-08:00

[Looking up while walking Duke this morning.]

Oh, the “burden” of too much vacation.

It’s been a busy year. It’s been so busy that I haven’t used all the vacation available to me. Company rules state we can only carry 40 hours into the next year, so I’ve got some vacation to burn. I plan to take some time at the end of the year – but that doesn’t burn it all so I’m taking a day here and there.

Today was a good day to stay home as Shana was traveling for business so I had kid duties in the AM and PM. I enjoy staying home and getting stuff done. It beats commuting to work and not getting stuff done.

After seeing Maria off, I walked Duke. Then it was home to get the Dude ready to go. After I dropped him at school, I went for a walk around Como Lake. After that I hit the library/coffee-shop, Target, and finally Goodwill.

In addition to that run-around period, I was able to do some laundry (2 loads), some “fall” cleaning: clean the drapes – (see laundry); remove dust and accumulated gunk from ceiling fans – I try to clean them every fall/spring – should do more often (yuck); cat litter (yuck squared); replaced filter on furnace – easy but always surprised by the stuff it has trapped. Old one comes out gray and dingy, new one goes in pearly white. It says replace every 3 months – this one slipped to 4 – but then there was quite a bit of time this fall when we ran neither the AC nor furnace.

After all my work, I found the cats napping. I took the hint and napped a bit myself.

Duke surprised us by having two seizures – one last night, and one this morning. We will increase his meds and hope for the best.

Here a Post, There a Post

2011-11-17T12:45:00.001-08:00

I'm now blogging on the Roseville Patch.

I hope to post there on a regular basis – and of course continue to post on the Hobbled Runner.

An Arts-Packed Weekend

2011-11-13T17:46:00.000-08:00

The theme this weekend was, support your local arts organization(s).

Friday night, Shana and Maria attended the Eat Street Players' production of Lend Me a Tenor, a show that included Michael Sheeks – from Roseville Area High School – the man who directed RAHS’ recently concluded success Urinetown: The Musical.

Saturday night Maria and I attended the final performance of Roseville Area Middle School’s production of North Woods Nonsense. As a high school freshman, it was fun for Maria to see the “little kids” taking center stage, some of whom we’ve both performed with in Rosetown productions.

On Sunday, the Hobbled family chose the divide and conquer approach, with Shana attending a performance by percussionist and educator Dame Evelyn Glennie at House of Hope, while the kids and I headed over to the Old Arizona Theater for Going to the Soiree, a production of the Kinetic Evolutions Dance Company featuring two young women we have worked with at Rosetown – Kayla Schlitgen (who choreographed Music Man, Oliver!, and Christmas Carol), and Jenny Sung who choreographed last summer’s Wizard of Oz and now is working with us on The Ultimate Santa. I had never been to a dance performance before – besides Maria’s dance school recitals. We had a great time.

In addition to all that craziness I raked the yard – let’s hope for the last time, cleaned the gutters, and did a number of loads of laundry.

Saturday night brought its own little challenge as Maria and I changed a flat tire at 10:00 pm on a dark side street. Note to self – get a strong flashlight and keep it in the trunk. Cell phones barely produce enough light to change a tire by – especially when the one holding the flashlight has to keep pulling it away to answer texts. Or maybe cell phones would work in a pinch if the one holding it is not a 14 year old girl with an active social life. (Of course it wasn’t a simple puncture – so we had to replace the tire – actually both tires actually “for balance” of course.)

Monday it's back to work, where I can get some rest.

Veteran's Day

2011-11-11T12:01:00.000-08:00

[My Dad on the left. I believe this was taken at Kearns Air Base outside St. Lake City, Utah - summer/fall 1943. More about that in these various posts.]

Today is Veteran’s Day – an important day of remembrance. I regret not working downtown anymore. There was always an old vet on the corner selling those plastic poppies – not really selling them – more like he gave you one if you donated a buck or two.

For the past few years I’ve thought about driving out of my way to find a poppy. Maybe Ft. Snelling cemetery would have one. I could visit my Dad’s grave at the same time. Maybe take in the Veteran’s Day celebration.

I think about doing it – but never do.

Business Jargon Alert: My Ask?

2011-11-10T12:26:00.000-08:00

In a meeting with colleagues, one of whom had a question.

He set it up this way,

“I think my ask is . . . [insert question here]”.

“My ask” – seriously?

Celebration of Life

2011-11-09T17:54:00.000-08:00

Shana's Uncle Bub died unexpectedly last week. It was quite a shock.

Shana and her parents drove up to Vergas on Monday for the visitation, and the kids and I came Tuesday for the funeral. It was only the second funeral the kids remember attending. (Maria was at my Dad's funeral - but being only 3 doesn't recall any of it.) It was nice to see the wonderful turnout. The Community Center was packed with friends and family. We saw folks we hadn't seen in years which was nice.

We've had some interesting discussions since the funeral. The Dude was curious why Bub wasn't buried in a suit. He thought everyone was buried in a suit. I told him that the family decides on burial clothes. For the record, I thought Bub looked great in jeans and an outdoorsy/hunting-style shirt.

The Dude and I also keep thinking of "one more thing" we will miss about Bub. Summers at the cabin won't be the same without him. Who will take us fishing? Who else knows all the good spots on West McDonald? Of course we will continue to fish on our own, but who will help me clean the fish we do catch? I'm no good at it - and a lot goes to waste. Bub was like my Uncle Ole - he could filet a fish in seconds, and not leave any of the good stuff behind.

From a personal point of view, I lament the passing of one more male elder in my life. The number of older, father-figures is really dwindling. Of course that happens as one approaches 50, but it doesn't make it any easier. As for women, I'm blessed to have my Mom, my mother-in-law, many aunts and other elders of the female persuasion. Long may they live!

Visiting Vergas gave us the chance to see the cabin and the farm in off-season - something I've never done in the almost 20 years I've been a part of the Crosson family. Down at the cabin, everything seemed smaller. Without leaves on the trees and underbrush, you could see farther - making everything look closer.

[Maria on the shore.]

After touring the closed up cabin and taking pictures around the cabin, we headed out - but not without stopping by the farm.

That Darn Cat

2011-11-02T10:11:00.000-07:00

I was up and out of the house early this morning for a 7:00 am Telepresence with folks in India. Rather than my usual eggs, I made something quick and easy to transport – one apple and ¾ of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

Why ¾ you ask?

Roscoe got the other quarter when I turned my back for a moment.

Later: After 2 hours of meeting I discovered that breakfast was still being served in the cafeteria - sausage/egg/cheese bagel. Umm - that hit the spot - but 3 hours later it's still hitting the spot - and not in the most pleasant way.

Changing Seasons

2011-11-01T14:17:00.001-07:00

[Yesterday's picture - a beautiful Halloween.]

My daughter is growing up before my eyes. It’s not just physical, though any time she wears shoes she’s as tall or taller than me. No, the growth I’m talking about seems linked to her getting a lead role in this Fall’s production of Urinetown: The Musical – as a freshman. She now spends a great deal of time with older kids – the kind that drive and have real boyfriends and girlfriends. There’s a lot going on. I’m not part of it.

Let’s call it maturity – with an edge.

I feel the distance when we are together in the same room. It doesn’t make me sad. It just feels more and more like two separate and distinct people – like me and some other adult.

As for the Dude, he and I went trick-or-treating with a friend yesterday. It was probably the last time out for me. If he goes next year, he can go on his own. He’ll be 12 years old and in 7th grade. Just remember to save some candy for Dad.

Time – and How Not to Use It.

2011-10-28T13:27:00.000-07:00

[Picture from walking path at work - illustrative of a good way to spend your free moments.]

Sunday I returned from a run and decided to do what little post-run stretching I do in the back yard. It was warm and sunny and Shana and the Dude were gardening. As I lay on my back looking up at the clouds it hit me – when was the last time I laid on my back and looked up at the clouds? When I was 12 years old? No, better make that 10? If you think about it – or maybe if you don’t think about it – it almost feels like you are on a giant ride (let’s call it Earth) and you can feel it spin you around – forward.

On a related note I read this interesting piece about time, and how we use it – or don’t – and working – or not working:

Yes, we're Americans. We are, by and large, utterly terrified of silence, stillness, spaciousness, the doing of nothing so as to feel the totality of everything. Meditation, for most, is disquieting and strange. Deep quiet feels weird and dangerous, a void aching to be filled. The Internet has us convinced that the world is a roaring fire hose of urgent information, and if you can't swallow it all, well, something must be wrong with you.

Mark Morford Hat tip: Austin Kleon.

Related – in a way: Sitting in a meeting Wednesday. Everyone had their laptops open. One colleague turned to another and said, “Four emails! How can you only have four unopened emails in your in-box?”

Both this colleague and I have close to 200+ emails unopened at any time. I’m kind of an email slacker – if the subject line or sender doesn’t jump out at me, the email is ignored. This other guy, he’s a getting-things-done kind of guy, but even he can’t keep up. On the other hand, at least one colleague does keep up with email. So how does she do it?

“Every morning at 4:45 when I’m eating breakfast, I read email, sorting and deleting as I go along,” she replied.

Four-Forty-Five in the morning! Ugh – another example of how the corporate rat race is one I’ve lost. There are days when I’m certain I’m not even entered in the race.

New Year - Old Tasks

2011-10-28T09:30:00.000-07:00

Found this to-do list in the pocket of a coat I don't wear very often. It's an old "barn coat" purchased in the mid-1980s at Dayton's. In the pocket was this old to-do list. It could be from last year, but I also found an old receipt - for the purchase of donuts and pumpkins at Rainbow dated October 24, 2009. So maybe the to-do list is 2 years old.

Despite the passing of a year - or two - the tasks remain almost the same as those we accomplished (or failed to do) last weekend. Both the Dude and I got haircuts. We also went to the library to pick up a book on hold.

The list also has some things I still need to work on: We still haven't purchased pumpkins and our Anniversary is tomorrow (17 years) and I still haven't bought a gift!

Thank Goodness for Indian Holidays

2011-10-27T09:56:00.000-07:00

Until I read the Wikipedia article, I knew nothing about Diwali (or Deepavali) except it meant no 7:45 AM “stand-up” call this morning.

True confession: I am usually sitting down at my dining room table for these stand-ups.

Urinetown Press

2011-10-27T09:47:00.001-07:00

[Photo by MacDonald Meade.]

The Roseville Patch published our press release and a nice photo.

The Roseville Review also ran the photo (in their paper) - but not the article.

While the article/press-release was written by me, it was a real team effort. Lots of great photos by Mac Meade (parent), and Shana's interview with the production's director Michael Sheeks.

Problem/Solution

2011-10-26T13:18:00.001-07:00

Problem: Can’t sit still!

Solution: Short work bursts – don’t expect to sit still through all 319 unopened emails – just isolate one email chain and read, respond, and delete.

Then get up – move around – and return for the next attack.

The Ultimate Santa

2011-10-26T13:12:00.000-07:00

The kids and I have roles in Rosetown Playhouse’s upcoming production of The Ultimate Santa. It’s very exciting for me as I have a named role, “Stocky” – a stock-broker and contestant in the Ultimate Santa television reality show.

So what's it all about?

Is Santa irrelevant? Perhaps? An unscrupulous television network, trying to boost ratings has decided to cash in on questions circulating about the continued relevancy of Santa Claus by hosting a reality TV show to find a replacement, a “new” Santa. Twelve people are put forward to compete for the title of The Ultimate Santa – including the real Santa Claus, and Mrs. Claus – along with a cast of characters with little or no experience to actually be Santa.

We’ve had two rehearsals so far – concentrating on lines and blocking. Dancing starts Thursday! Yipee!

It’s a busy time in our household with Maria getting ready to open Roseville Area High School’s production of Urinetown: The Musical.

From Whence I Came

2011-10-23T18:01:00.000-07:00

[Ole and Marie Olson - my great-grandparents. Date unknown.]

Maria is doing a project for Geography where she has to trace a set of ancestors who emigrated to the United States. Always up for a challenge, Maria decided to avoid the easy route which would have been to follow my father-in-law's forebears. As a Mayflower family they are very well documented - going back to the 1300s or something in England.

No, instead she has chosen to document my mother's grandparents (my great grandparents) Ole Olsen and his wife Marie. Not a lot is known about them - in fact we don't even know when they immigrated. Ole was born in 1866, Marie in 1864. Their first child was born in the United States in 1884 - so he was 18 years old and in the U.S. But when did he arrive? Was he married? Did they leave the old country as a married couple, or meet up here?

Little is known - he was dead by age 34 - and only two pictures survive. This picture of he and Marie taken in Willmar, and separate head and shoulder shots that appear to be taken the same day, based on their dress and general physical appearance.

Assuming our great grandchildren will still be able to access the media our lives our are stored on, let's hope their future geography projects are much easier.

Move Along - Nothing to See Here

2011-10-20T13:17:00.000-07:00

The bench is gone.

As you recall, it was neglected. I guess it was a choice between repair or remove - and remove won out. It was obvious no one sat on it anyway.

The Santa-Hole

2011-10-19T13:37:00.000-07:00

On Monday the kids and I auditioned for Rosetown Playhouse’s The Ultimate Santa. Everyone who auditioned was required to sing a non-religious Christmas song. I sang what I call the “Hula Hoop” song, made famous by the Chipmunks. Maybe it’s really called “Christmas Time is Here” or something.

Then we had to present a one-minute monologue answering one of these questions:

1. Where does Santa really live?

2. How did reindeer learn to fly?

3. What happened the year Santa got pneumonia?

I choose the first, and presented a short monologue about Santa living in our hearts, in a "Santa-Hole". The idea was based on the theory of the God-shaped hole that I first read of in James Lileks' Bleat. (Alas, can't find link to original Bleat.)

I did it without notes – but here is what I prepared ahead of time. I stuck to the text (mostly) but as often happens in those instances you get off message and have to just go with it.

Where does Santa really live?

Santa lives in the hearts of each and every one of us.

You may not know this, but we are all born with a little “Santa-Hole”. In fact, about 1/16 of our heart space is allotted for Santa. Most of us fill that space with the joy of Christmas, gift-giving, merry-making, and so on.

Unfortunately that hole grows smaller as we age.

But sometimes events conspire to turn back the normal aging, Santa-Hole shrinking process. Of course the most famous example of this was the Grinch who stole Christmas.

Technically speaking his Santa-Hole didn’t grow – instead his entire heart grew, thus increasing the size of his Santa-Hole in proportion. But – same result –larger Santa-Hole, more joy and giving for the Who’s down in Whoville.

But I’m not the Grinch.

What can I do to stop the normal Santa-Hole shrinking process brought on by aging?

Well, absent a Grinch-like change of life the rest of can only hope to keep our Santa-Holes from shrinking by following this advice: Eat right, get plenty of exercise, and never stop loving the gift of giving, the true spirit of Christmas.

Of course the third part of the audition was the dreaded dance which seemed easier this year – though I won’t kid myself. I won’t be amongst the featured dancers.

Good news this morning: Call-backs tonight the Dude and I. Not certain about Maria yet – she had a number of conflicts

Dear Santa: Send White Shirt

2011-10-16T17:55:00.001-07:00

I apologize for the blurry shot - that's me flabbergasted by the Christmas decorations at Macy's in Rosedale. Macy's was our third stop in the elusive search for the white dress shirt.

The Dude and I set out after noon today in search of the white dress shirt - straight collar (not button-down). He needs it for "opera choir" as we call it around the Hobbled Household - more officially Ragazzi, part of Project Opera. (Both he and Maria are in "Opera Choir" - M being in Giovani for the older kids.)

First stop Kohl's which had plenty of button-downs but no straight collars. From there we ventured over to the Mall. We had hoped to avoid Rosedale but since Kohl's didn't come through, it was off the the Mall.

Penney's - Nope; Macy's - No; Herbergers - Yes, but none in his size. Home to order online which is what we should have done in the first place.

Other weekend accomplishments include 7 loads of laundry, yard work (mowing, etc), cleaning the bathrooms, cooking a great ham on Saturday, and ham soup with the left-overs tonight.

Engaged in some parent-powered-publicity for Urinetown. I drafted a "news" story for the local press, The Roseville Review, and the Patch. Shana is interviewing the Director tomorrow morning before work hoping for some quotes to round out the article, another partent is providing a few pictures. After all that work, let's hope they print it.

This morning I did a short run - continuing a recently established tradition of the once-a-week run. It's amazing that it works. I think all my walking during the week helps provide something of a "base" for my weekly 2+ mile run. It's fun, I (sort of) wish I could run more, but once-a-week works for me.

Friday - No Longer Pizza Night

2011-10-14T11:31:00.001-07:00

[A close-up look at the walking path - complete with festive fall colors.]

Tonight for dinner it’s Noodles and Company which now alternates with Chipotle, replacing our Friday Pizza Night in the Hobbled household – at least for the duration of the show as Maria is instructed to avoid tomato products of any sort (including pizza) while on “vocal rest”.

Yes, I am aware that most pizza establishments offer a “white” pizza (free of tomato sauce). But try serving that to kids – I dare you.

Alternate Routes to Work

2011-10-13T11:25:00.000-07:00

For the benefit of a neighbor and co-worker - two alternate routes to work.

The shortest - and least free-way intensive.

View Larger Map

Slightly longer - includes freeways and the ever colorful Yankee Doodle Road.

View Larger Map

Too Big?

2011-10-13T10:32:00.000-07:00

Can a monitor ever be too big? The answer for me is, "Yes".

Our department admin was so proud that she scored these nice new monitors for everyone. I'm less excited. With my glasses (progressive lens bifocals) I find I have to turn my head from side to side, and up and down, to take it all in. I've gone to using my laptop open on my desk. The small screen is best for viewing everything at once, and it's low enough and can be angled "just right" so my bifocals work great.

I still have a tuck-under keyboard - but it's screwed to the "wrong" spot since I don't use that cool, new, BIG monitor. Instead I just tap away on my laptop and use the big screen when someone stops by and I want to show them something - or like today (the other 95% of the time) when it's a great venue to showcase my desktop background. That's a photo snapped Tuesday morning while walking Duke.

Dry, Dryer, Driest

2011-10-10T13:48:00.001-07:00

Some dry-looking plants along the walking path at work.

We are enjoying a long run of crazy nice weather. We’ve had about a full week of highs in the 80s, windy, and dry.

On Saturday Shana asked me to dig a hole to plant a new shrub rose. I dug down about 18 inches and it was bone-dry the entire way. I’ve never seen it that dry before.

We’ve been watering that rose, and other parts of the yard all weekend. We’re not looking for lush green grass, but want to get some moisture in the ground before the inevitable freeze and snow.

But we will enjoy the shorts in mid-October while we can!

Getting Better - Thanks to Caribou

2011-10-07T11:36:00.000-07:00

Things are looking up - with my free coffee our in-house Caribou. Hmm - The note says I should call a radio station and tell them how this gift made me feel. Won't go that far - thanks anonymous benefactor and/or KTIS. For the record, I felt "good" - which might not sound like much, but given my day up to that point, that's not bad.

For a warm, almost summery Friday it's been a very frustrating day – though I did make it to 9:19 AM before sending my first crabby email. It's amazing I made it that long.

I’m trying to accomplish one big thing that MUST BE DONE all the while answering questions about our products from what seems like every sales person out there. Here's a hint to those who want my attention - Microsoft Outlook's Red Exclamation Point of High Importance does not help. Once everyone starts using them - it's like working in a bell factory - you can't hear the ringing anymore.

Ahh - the power of coffee - especially FREE coffee!

Always the Last to Know - School Bomb Threat

2011-10-05T14:34:00.000-07:00

I've never been one of those "Helicopter Parents" but this would have been nice to know about. Cut and paste from Roseville Police Press Release:

During the late evening hours of Tuesday, October 4th, Roseville Police Detectives arrested and placed a 15-year old Maplewood male at the Ramsey County Juvenile Detention Center on a probable cause Terroristic Threats violation.

It was at 12:53 p.m. on Tuesday, October 4th, the Roseville Police Department responded to a bomb threat at Roseville Area High School located at 1240 West County Road B2.

Roseville Area High School officials told investigating officers an anonymous caller had called the school and left a voice mail message indicating he would “blow-up” the school at the school at 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 5th.

Police and school officials searched the school and found no suspicious items.

During the subsequent police investigation, detectives learned the identity of the suspect who made the bomb threat to the school. When questioned by detectives, the youth admitted to making the bomb threat to the school as “a prank.”

This 15-year old suspect was charged by the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office earlier today with felony terroristic threats.

The Roseville Police Department is continuing to investigate this case to determine if others were involved.

Still haven't received a communication from school - the Shana got this via email from the City (she subscribes to all their news via email).

Update - Shana reports there is a voice mail on the home phone left at 9:30 AM today. They were probably waiting to see if the bomb went off at 7:30 before calling. Considering I knew all about homecoming week BEFORE it even happened, thanks to the School's listserv email, you think they would notify us Tuesday - the day of the arrests, etc.

Yo - Ho - Ho - We Won!

2011-10-05T09:23:00.000-07:00

There was a little friendly competition amongst the groups at work to prepare a basket for a local charity silent auction.

The theme involved shelter as the charity, Dakota Woodlands, is all about shelter – so birdhouses were distributed. We were told to prepare a gift basket using the bird house in some fashion. Since our bird house was a pirate ship we decided to go the rum and treasure route.

You can see the finished product with the bird house painted by yours truly. There are several bottles of rum, a $100 gift certificate to Treasure Island Resort and Casino, and some poker chips.

Urinetown - the Trailer

2011-10-02T19:15:00.000-07:00

While I cleaned the kitty litter boxes this afternoon, Maria and the cast of the Roseville Area High School's production of Urinetown was having a lot more fun - filming this trailer. Everyone is getting excited - opening night, October 28.

Vocal Strain - The Hobbled Voice

2011-10-02T06:57:00.000-07:00

We have a bona-fide theater related injury at the Hobbled Household - Maria is suffering from vocal strain. As much as I like to include pictures in my posts, there is no way (with phone camera) to capture a picture of what vocal strain looks like. There really isn’t much to see.

If she were in the traditional sports, it would be easier to demonstrate injury – and elicit sympathy – with a cast and crutches – or at least a limp.

Mostly it looks like a quiet 14 year old – which I realize is rare. Maria is under doctor’s orders to maintain “vocal rest” which is easier said than done.

Things were going fine for Maria’s voice despite (or because of) three choirs, private voice lessons, and rehearsal for Urinetown five nights a week. Then something happened. After a particularly forceful solo at rehearsal, M reported her throat hurt. After a few days without improvement we consulted with her voice teacher, who recommended a doctor who works with singers. (He is also the father of one of M’s classmates). The ENT observed a thickening on one side of her vocal chords.

Recommendation: “Vocal Rest” – limited (or no) talking. No singing – but she continues to attend U-town rehearsals – but is not singing in the choirs – merely attending – and lip-synching (kidding). Avoid pop (soda for you non-Minnesotans), tomato based stuff – pasta sauces, pizza, etc – and citrus (OJ, etc). She is on Prednisone and an ant-acid to deal with possible acid reflux – which is common among singers because the heavy pushing with their diaphragm can cause the stomach acids to sometimes leak through – further irritating the already injured vocal chords.

I expect the remainder of the weekend to be quiet. I’m sure there will be no whining about homework as that would be a violation of the “vocal rest” protocols.

September Wrap Up

2011-09-30T12:58:00.001-07:00

Duke observes early falling leaves in late September.

It's been a poor month for blogging. In order to finish on something of a high note, I thought I'd conclude with a list of items that I could have (should have) posted on this month but was too busy or otherwise distracted to post. Since a picture is worth a thousand words, I've thrown in some pictures to help move things along.

Back to School - The Dude started 6th Grade, Maria started 9th/High School

Maria was cast as Hope Cladwell in her Roseville Area High School's production of Urinetown. It’s a great opportunity for her – and a bit overwhelming (at least it seems that way to the parents).

Fall - my favorite season.

Finally, given that it is Friday, and I do love my oldies - here's the Easybeats performing Friday on My Mind. Heard this one many times over the years on oldies stations but never seen the group - much less heard/seen them live. Quite the energetic lead singer - dig that crazy shiny shirt. [Hat tip, Maverick Philosopher.]

Let's hope for a better-blogging October.

Orange - My Favorite Fall Color

2011-09-22T13:56:00.001-07:00

Above - some early orange amongst the yellows,browns, and greens discovered on the walking path at noon. Below, some fall color (or at least drying flowers) from the home garden.

Time for a Nature Break

2011-09-07T14:19:00.000-07:00

After a busy morning which started with a 7:00 am conf call, and the discovery of ABC gum in my midst, it was time for a nature break.

Fall colors have begun - with the browning and yellowing of the grasses.

Here's a real close-up of the walking path.

Thanks for the Gum

2011-09-07T14:14:00.000-07:00

Left my cube at lunch, turned the corner and discovered this little gift on a filing cabinet.

Who would leave ABC gum on a filing cabinet in a hall at the office?

My kids often ask if my work-life is like The Office.

I usually just chuckle and say, "No. Nothing like that happens in real life."

Anyone Working?

2011-09-06T09:42:00.001-07:00

Is anybody here?

I ask as I get one Out-of-Office reply after the other to my email. Maybe we should just schedule regular holidays – and force everyone to take the same days off. Can well agree that Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day will be 4 or 5 day weekends – taking (at least) the Friday before and Tuesday after off as well?

Farm Fun

2011-09-03T16:21:00.000-07:00

We all went to the farm for a mid afternoon picnic to celebrate Jake’s 76th birthday, and the end of summer. No farm event is ever complete without some work. Shana's uncle Bub cut down an old dead elm, then cut it into pieces and we all hauled it over to the bonfire. The fire was welcome on this late summer day as the temperature was in the mid 60s, the sky was cloudy with a few clouds producing a little drizzle, but the sun peeked out from time to time. Several of us grabbed a chair and had our food around the fire.

After dinner and some work, Shana and I walked around with Duke. I took a few picture of the old place as the sun shone through – putting everything in its best light.

Labor Day at the Cabin

2011-09-03T07:34:00.001-07:00

Sun rising on what could prove to be a cool, fall like day.

Duke and I found evidence that Fall has begun on our early morning walk.

I Knew It Would Be An Interesting Day When . . .

2011-08-24T15:34:00.000-07:00

The day started with a broken coffee machine, and ended with a failed attempt to understand these sentences in an email:

The plan to hibernate the old plan and create a new plan with the desired content. In special offers it is a frequent scenario that a renewal contract will continue to grandfather-in the content the customer had included in their previous contract(s).

Systematically when a material is hibernated is we are unable to process an order for that material.

A solution for this could be to process that hibernated material as an inclusion under their primary sub . . .

No time to stop home for dinner - as I'm off to the Civic Engagement Task Force at City Hall.

Hide the sharp instruments.

Old Dog – New Tricks

2011-08-24T07:19:00.000-07:00

With an eye towards the (distant) future, I’ve set out to acquire new skills. Shana and I are preparing a grant for Rosetown Playhouse Community theater. Shana serves on the Rosetown board.

Shana has more experience than I in the grant world – working in the museum where a lot of the project work is funded by grants – but she has never written one herself. In the ancient days when I worked for the Minneapolis City Council, I sat on a committee that reviewed grant applications, but I’ve never written one either.

So in an effort to acquire new skills that may or may not serve me well in the future, I proposed to Shana that I help her prepare this grant application. We spent about an hour working on it Monday.

This could be one of those things that brings us closer – or not. Stay tuned.

The Gravel Pit

2011-08-21T15:54:00.000-07:00

The Dude and I are on rock-collecting jag this weekend. After exhausting the possibilities on Lonnie's Park Road yesterday, we set off this afternoon for what I call "The Gravel Pit."

The Gravel Pit is located just outside the edge of the farm property. It's over a quarter of a mile back to what once was a gravel pit. At one point the road back was paved - sort of an oil and tar deal. At the pit itself you can see the remnants of an asphalt parking lot or working surface. It's all overgrown now. All that remains is the large sand/gravel pile.

The Dude scampered up the pile - he's much more nimble than I am. Within minutes we spotted a snake (dead) and a lizard (live) along with several caterpillars. The rows of holes along the top are nests hollowed out by swallows.

As much fun as it is to climb - or try to climb up - it's more fun to climb around the back and reach the top, then leap over the top, surfing down as you go. I was a mere observer to that activity, but it sure looked like fun.

On the way out I snapped this photo - an old fence post.

Which Would You Choose?

2011-08-21T15:53:00.001-07:00

Morning on West McDonald

2011-08-20T05:53:00.001-07:00

Up early this morning - waking before the dog.

It worked! A co-worker told me this trick yesterday so we just had to try it. Use a toothpick to trace a message on a banana. Within hours the message "appears". Great for sending messages to your kids in their lunches.

Take a Break

2011-08-18T13:17:00.000-07:00

Two pictures from the walking path this afternoon where it was 80 degrees, breezy, and sunny - a beautiful day.

Surely not enough people have stopped to sit on this bench.

When I saw this bench on today'w walk I was reminded of a colleague's observations. This colleague had recently returned from 3 years in Switzerland (for the company) and was commenting on how the pace of things had changed around the office. He noticed that everyone now eats lunch at their desks. It was rare to eat lunch in the cafeteria (no one ever thinks of leaving the "the campus").

Maybe he should take a look at this bench!

What doesn't show in this picture are the dozens of huge dragon flies hovering overhead.

Gotta Love Roseville

2011-08-18T08:19:00.000-07:00

Today's Pioneer Press has 9 fun tips and tidbits about the local food/drink scene including just another great reason to love Roseville and some of the surrounding communities:

You're in St. Paul, it's after 8 p.m., and you want to buy a bottle of wine or a six pack. You're out of luck if it's a weekday. By city ordinance, off-sale liquor stores can stay open only until 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday. But that doesn't mean it has to be a dry night. Many surrounding cities - Roseville, Lilydale, Falcon Heights, Minneapolis, etc. - let liquor stores stay open until 10 p.m.

Cheryl's Cabin

2011-08-15T07:59:00.000-07:00

Monday morning seems like Friday afternoon, as I slog through Friday’s email today.

I left early on Friday for a doctor’s appointment to investigate a lingering cough and now sinus infection that’s been dogging me since Philadelphia. The antibiotics are fighting the germs valiantly, though I’m not sure who will win. Still feel pretty worn down.

We celebrated Shana’s old friends with our annual weekend at “Cheryl’s cabin” where there is no wi-fi so no temptation to bring laptop and try to keep up. That’s good as it was very relaxing – but now I’m living my Friday afternoon on Monday morning. I’m not sure when I’ll find time to fit in Monday morning.

It was a great weekend: beautiful weather, and lots of fun in the water. The “grown-ups” (6 of us) are always amazed at how well the kids (8 of them) get along. They only see each other once or twice a year but they get right back into the groove when we get there – as if it hadn’t been 6 or 12 months since our last get-together.

The gang - ranging in age from 8 to (almost) 15. Next year we may have another driver in our midst.

Meal - Alone

2011-08-11T13:57:00.001-07:00

One of the most tedious parts of business travel is completing the expense report. Having recently returned from 6 days and 5 nights in Philadelphia I had a lot of expenses to account for.

The online expense tool we use requires you to select, from a drop-down menu, the purpose of each expense. It's depressing how many times I selected, "Meal - Alone".

Need Bigger Pan

2011-08-09T15:45:00.000-07:00

Home from the lake and preparing dinner - pork chops, potatoes, and this huge veggie saute/stir-fry. Thanks (or not) to the CSA and our own garden, we have veggies coming out our ears. I need a bigger pan!

Up at the Lake

2011-08-08T18:53:00.000-07:00

[Monarch caterpillar spotted while walking Duke this morning.]

It's been a pleasant day at the cabin. The “girls” left yesterday, so the Dude and I are here with Helen and Jake. We are leaving Tuesday morning.

We visited Glendalough State Park today. Shana and I last visited the park in August 2009.

[The Dude on the trail. Note the "trail fashion" - designed to blend well with his surroundings.]

The Dude and I hiked the Beaver Pond Interpretive Trail which should have been named the trail of a thousand frogs and toads. Parts of the trail were underwater, and most parts were pretty spongy. That brought out amphibians by the score. The Dude had to stop and try to catch every one. That made the 1.4 mile hike into almost a 90 minute affair.

[One of a hundred or so frogs and toads.]

After that one hike we called it quits and headed headed to lunch in Perham – where we ate too much at Lakes Café – should have opted out of the pie for dessert.

While they were gone I trimmed branches overhanging the lake so we will have a better view of the lake. We used a very tall step ladder set in the lake and I used this extension trimming device to make the cuts. I used muscles I haven't used since mid-winter roof-raking.

Later I engaged in some vigorous kayaking as I chased down the Dude and a cousin and her friend who had been gone "too long" in the paddle boat. It turns out they were in some far off back bay looking for wildlife and were all tuckered out so the return trip was taking three times as long as the journey out there.

We all got back just before the rain. After the rain, it's cool (throw an extra blanket on the bed tonight).

[After the rain.]

Old Fashioned Analog Games

2011-08-08T18:48:00.001-07:00

It's the second night of good old-fashioned games at the cabin for the Dude and I. Last night it was Go Fish and Poker, followed by Yahtzee. Tonight we are in the midst of a Yahtzee tournament.

H (my mother-in-law) asks, "Do you often play Yahtzee at home?"

Me: "No - usually we all sit at home on our various hand-helds playing games (like Word with Friends) with people hundreds or thousands of miles away."

Not that we haven't played our share of iPod, iPad app games this weekend, it's just that both evenings we've ended up doing it the old fashioned way.

Hobbled Runner at Rest

2011-08-06T15:46:00.000-07:00

A scene from Saturday at the cabin: laptop with gin and tonic.

The Dude is upstairs moving furniture. I hear lots of dragging and banging noises overhead. "What are you doing?" I ask.

"Nothing."

Did I really expect a different response.

Escape

2011-08-03T11:29:00.000-07:00

[I was here.]

After my 2 simple tasks became 7 I won't finish - let alone start, I escaped to walking path. What a day!

[I was not here.]

Her Wired Life

2011-08-02T07:35:00.000-07:00

Shana has a new blog – My Wired Life, Observations about Living and Learning in the 21st Century. It grew out of her work and interest in “21st Century Learning”. Despite my bias, and the fact that she only has four posts, I think it’s gonna be great.

Looking for Some Mellow Air

2011-07-30T06:33:00.000-07:00

I see this everyday when I make eggs for breakfast. It’s the controls for the fan above our stove. It has nice late 1950s look. Surprise – Mel-o-air is still in business. They’ve been in business since 1952 according to the website – “nearly 50 years” – hmm, time for an update on that math.

Given the weather recently it would be nice to have a button to summon some real mel-o-air.

Friday was a sick day. It was a partial mental health day with some authentic symptoms thrown in for good measure. I’ve been fighting a cold for about 2 weeks. I thought it went away, but its back. Symptoms include sore throat, swollen glands, cough, and general exhaustion. Doesn’t really feel like a cold. It feels like everything (play, work, work-related travel, oppressive heat and humidity) has caught up to me. It’s been chasing me for about 2 months, but I must have slowed enough for it to tackle me from behind. I would like to give it an olde fashioned name like dyspepsia (wait that's a real ailment). Here's a good one: Nervous Prostration - though it seems a bit melodramatic.

I know I bring it on myself by engaging in too much activity which can be loosely defined as activity other than work. But I can’t help it. Extracurricular activities like the Planning Commission and Rosetown productions help get me up in the morning. Another PowerPoint presentation and the latest spreadsheet doesn’t do the trick.

Broadway Debut

2011-07-24T14:24:00.001-07:00

Don't look so grouchy man! It's your Broadway debut after all!

Having some free time on Saturday, I took the train to New York City to conduct a little research for work. Dont' ask for all the details but "Yes" you have to go to New York to do this. The fact that I was in Philadelphia for other business made it easy. After some work time at the New York Public Library, I found myself with several hours free before I was to catch my train back to Philly so I played tourist, going to the top of the Empire State Building - a first for me. I snapped a few photos from the edge, but got a little dizzy and queasy and found it much more comfortable to hug the inside of the wall on the observation deck.

[Looking north and a bit east, the Chrysler Building, George Washington Bridge (I think).]

After that it was off to Times Square. That was an overwhelming experience - with millions of tourists, incredible noise - not to mention temperatures near 100.

After Times Square I wandered for another hour or so ending up in Hells Kitchen where I must have looked more local than tourist as I was greeted by a candidate for civil judge and given a brouchure. It was fun getting away from all the tourist stuff and seeing people where they actually live.

But - enough of that - I had to retreat to Penn Station well before departure time because I was too darn hot after several hours of wandering Manhattan.

Hot Time in Philly

2011-07-24T14:04:00.000-07:00

[Checked the weather on Friday afternoon - ouch.]

I decided to follow this oppressive heat wave as it crosses the United States, arriving in Philadelphia on Thursday for meetings with customers. I had some free time on Friday so (like a fool) I wandered around in the 104 degree heat.

[From the top of the steps looking east.]

I visited the Philadelphia Museum of Art - famous for it's incredible steps that Rocky ran up in the original movie. Not a lot of tourists were doing the run up the steps and posing with hands held high - though a few couldn't resist the urge. I walked to the top of the steps in long pants, sleeves rolled up, carrying my laptop bag over my shoulder and holding my sport coat in my hands. Upon reaching the top I did not pump my arms, instead I retreated into the blissful air conditioning of the museum where I spent over an hour wandering the galleries and cooling down. When I signed my credit card receipt at the admissions desk I dripped sweat onto the receipt. The young woman behind the counter took it in stride, suggesting I might wish to use the complimentary coat check as it seemed I woundn't be needing my jacket.

I took a cab back to the hotel.

Ahh to Be at the Lake!

2011-07-21T19:21:00.000-07:00

My nephew is quite the fisherman. While he shows the usual impatience of a younger fisherman - constantly switching bait - never letting the bait sit still for a second as he casts and reels in, casts and reels in - he must know something I don't. One thing he can do is respond correctly to a bite and set the hook properly. Here's a few snapped over the recent 4th of July holiday by Auntie Amy. He caught these from the dock all by himself. (Purple plastic worms - that's the ticket!)

These pictures from Amy come as a welcome relief. I'm sitting in Philadelphia (business trip) where the god-awful heat and humidity has followed me from Minnesota. Landed at 4:30 and it was 97 degrees - with terrible humidity. Went to dinner by cab - not far and probably would have walked had the weather been better.

I love the silhouette - I think I'll make it my new Facebook image!

Whew! Wizard of Oz Comes to an End

2011-07-18T14:47:00.000-07:00

[Curtain call - me in middle with tie.]

We wrapped up the Rosetown production of the Wizard of Oz Saturday night. If you will forgive the metaphor, the show was as hot as the weather – with humidity and temp climbing throughout the day. Despite a great deal of tumultuous weather, we lucked out. There were no weather related cancellations like last summer’s tornado shortened final performance of Oliver!, or the snow-cancelled Christmas Carol performance last December.

The end of a production is always bittersweet. We are happy to have our evenings back, but “regular” life seems so boring compared to life in Oz.

Congrats to local Mayors Peter Lindstrom of Falcon Heights and Dan Roe of Roseville for their cameo appearances as “Honorary Mayor” of Munchkin City. Reciting lines over music on a stage filled with close to 100 Munchkins, in front of a crowd of over 500 can be a daunting task. But the mayors rose to the challenge. I spoke with Mayor Roe. He seemed to really enjoy it – and looked quite the part in his mayoral sash and top hat. (See far left in picture above.)

Thanks to Amy Crosson for the picture above. Many others have documented the show, see this great Flickr collection, and more on the Rosetown Facebook page.

What’s next? Like all strenuous activities – when it’s over you say, “Whew! Glad that’s over, I’ll never do that again.” But of course, you will try out for the next production because you’re hooked. Why? It’s a gas to spend so much time with your kids – and other families. The cast of Oz ranged in age from 4 to 54 (or so). It’s a great community and inter-generational activity. Other reasons include the obvious – it’s so much more rewarding than the “day job”.

The next show? The Christmas production, a musical, The Ultimate Santa. Next summer – Fiddler on the Roof.

Dress for Success

2011-07-18T10:45:00.001-07:00

I’m preparing for upcoming business travel. I will be at a trade show in Philadelphia starting later this week, doing the usual PowerPoint presentations, and conducting some focus groups.

The instructions in the picture above come as a great relief as the clothing decisions have been made for me. (Note the orange spotted tie!) I’m befuddled about what color belt and shoes to wear. Maybe I’ll go crazy on socks.

Twin Lakes

2011-07-12T14:07:00.000-07:00

[This was a once a parking lot. Would you guess it's only a few blocks NE of the 35W and Highway 36 interchange?]

Shana and the kids are out of town, and I was feeling antsy after dinner so I hopped on my bike (something I don’t do too often) and set out on a little field research in my role as a member of the Roseville Planning Commission.

Mission – to visit the Twin Lakes site. I won’t go into all the gory history, and there is a lot of history. It’s still something of a hot-button political issue in Roseville.

I had visited the site on other occasions, but always as a motorist, driving the streets. Up until now I had only driven the main streets. Tonight I wanted more detail so I used the bike. I biked around the overgrown parking lots. Some of it felt very post-apocalyptic – like a Twilight Zone episode or maybe that book published recently about what would happen to our infrastructure if humans suddenly “left” Earth. There are numbers of open buildings, warehouses mostly with loading-docks. There are plenty of areas where kids and others could walk right into these buildings. I suspect lots of partying takes place back here – or at least it would have when I was a kid. Maybe kids today are different? Lots of interesting graffiti.

When I was back there the police showed up. I biked over to the squad car to greet the officer figuring they were after me (trespasser), but he just said "hello" and kept driving. I probably didn't look too threatening.

Later I discovered what the young kids were doing. While riding by the Metro Transit Park and Ride multi-story ramp I observed several kids skate boarding in the ramp. It’s probably a great skate boarding site once the cars clear out post-rush hour. The police didn't drive through the ramp – maybe he didn’t see them, or figured kids will be kids.

[A view of Langton Lake, located at the north end of the Twin Lakes area.]

Oz is Hot - and So's the Weather!

2011-07-10T07:14:00.000-07:00

[Photo Source – Rosetown Playhouse. You can't see me but I'm helping hold up the gates of Oz.]

The first three performances of The Wizard of Oz are over. Now we can rest up for next week’s shows on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (July 14, 15, and 16). We had a big crowd last night – 700 some. (Approximately 550 attended on each of the first two nights).

Notes:

Kids are scared of the Wicked Witch. You can hear the littlest members of audience tittering and gasping when she first appears. Score one for great make-up!

The Cowardly Lion is a great hit – especially with the Lion King reference.

The joys of outdoor performance: It’s almost impossible to easily get into and out of costumes when it’s almost 90 degrees with humidity to match.

The Essential Non-Essential Spouse

2011-07-08T08:21:00.000-07:00

As many know, Shana is a non-essential state employee and so has been laid off with the recent Minnesota state government shut-down. Friday was her first official day of unemployment, but as Friday is her usual day off, it passed unnoticed – for the most part.

With the 4th of July holiday, Tuesday marked Shana’s first official day away from work as a laid off employee. Upon returning from the cabin, she got right to work – around the house. When the kids and I returned from Oz rehearsal Tuesday night at 10:00 p.m., there was furniture to move. She had been working and cleaning in the family room – and had done everything she could on her own. It was up to the Dude and I to lend a helping hand on a few pieces of heavy furniture.

I’m not sure what all the future holds for the non-essential, essential spouse. She’s talked about more furniture re-arrangement, clutter control, and some painting as well. If it wasn’t for the lost income, this shut-down may turn out to have a positive impact on the household.

As I tell her - you may not be essential to the state of Minnesota, but you're still essential to me and the kids.

We’re Off to See the Wizard!

2011-07-08T08:09:00.000-07:00

It was a great opening night with 552 in attendance.

We only get access to Como on the day of the show. Up until then we rehearse at Roseville Area Middle School (RAMS) in the theater and/or cafeteria with the floor taped off to mark the entrances – so you never know how it will really work until you get there. There are always last-minute details to work out like entrances and exits and dance changes – moving folks off the stage and into the spacious aisles of Como. I was great!

Toto remains a bit of a wild-card, running through the audience, up and down the rows of benches and chairs, but it’s funny (and cute) enough to almost seem a planned part of the show.

First Dress Rehearsal

2011-07-01T04:15:00.000-07:00

Here's the Dude in full flying monkey costume. He's Nikko - the "head" flying monkey, the henchman of the Wicked Witch of the West.

I love the back stage stuff. Here's the "official" order from the sheriff stating that Dorothy must give up Toto to Miss Gulch.

I Am (We Are) Rosetown

2011-06-30T13:30:00.001-07:00

Great promotion video for Rosetown, featuring Shana and I.

I apologize for lop-sided view - not sure why it embeds that way. For better view, you might try YouTube.

Flash Mob! - and More

2011-06-26T16:36:00.000-07:00

I’m a little concerned. Shana left town today for a three day conference, and I’m already exhausted – and it’s Sunday, the supposed day of rest.

Neither Shana nor I slept well knowing she had to leave before 5:00 a.m. Duke was the only one happy to be up at that time, but with a little coaxing, he let me have another hour in bed.

Then the kids got up early – which was good for Maria as she had to “work”. She is a volunteer at the Children’s Museum this summer and she had to work 9:00 to 2:00 today. That’s right – wondering what to do with your kid at 9:00 am on Sunday? Take them to the Children’s Museum.

After taking Maria downtown to the museum, I came back for some laundry and room cleaning with the Dude. Good news – he has still has a floor. It was under there after all.

After house cleaning we were off to the museum. It turns out Maria did get a lunch break after all. This is the first time I’ll bail her out by bringing a lunch – probably won’t be the last. From there we were off to Rosedale for a Flash Mob performance with the cast of The Wizard of Oz.

I think I was more nervous than I ever would admit because the relief I felt upon completing that singing and dancing at Rosedale was incredible. There was no time to savor victory, for it was off to Hallmark for a graduation card, then back to the Museum to pick up Maria who was a few minutes late – she had a meeting.

From the Children’s Museum we headed off to look at a desk Shana learned about on Craig’s List. It was very nice Ikea desk. We bought it, and the chair. They will go in Maria’s room – after we pick up the desk. Not sure why Shana drove her car to the airport – but there’s no way that desk would fit in mine – though the chair did. Shana can retrieve the desk when she returns Wednesday.

After the desk, it was on to a graduation open house for the daughter of a friend who will be attending Wesleyan this fall.

It’s sprinkling off and on and I declare it too wet to mow. We will be getting take-out pizza for dinner – with a nice salad courtesy of our CSA.

Wizard of Oz - Poster Anyone?

2011-06-23T14:00:00.000-07:00

Postering Day - Saturday 6/18/11 - Maria in the middle with friends. We had just stopped at Edible Arrangements. They took a poster - and provided free samples, chocolate-covered strawberries.

Wizard of Oz rehearsals are going well. I’m starting to see how it will all come together. Of course I know the show – everyone does – but when you spend a great deal of time rehearsing songs and dances for just a few scenes – and often in a very random order – it’s sometimes a challenge to wrap your head around the idea that this WILL come together in time for opening night, July 7.

I’ve been negligent in documenting Oz rehearsals. The Rosetown Playhouse Facebook page has some nice shots - including some with Maria. I will try to take some pictures tonight – maybe even a short video with the Flip.

New Topic/Same Post

Summer officially began this week, but you knew that already. The problem is that here in Minnesota it feels like Spring, or Fall, depending on your perspective. It’s been stormy and/or rainy, and a bit on the cool side. Leaving work yesterday, I heard on the radio that it was only 63 degrees. The average high for this time of year is 81.

Went for a walk today at noon – (11:45 AM – 57 degrees).

I’m hoping for a little sunshine to perk me up.

A cool, gray day.

Before Weather Went to Heck

2011-06-21T13:36:00.001-07:00

Two views from the walking path at noon.

Almost stepped on this little guy - I was so busy futzing with my Blackberry.

Happy Summer Solstice

2011-06-21T13:34:00.001-07:00

[View out the office window - 3:30 pm]

The days are getting shorter. Can you feel it?

The kids call in the early afternoon. The door from garage into house has fallen off a hinge. It’s still connected, but tenuously. I tell them to prop it up as best they can and I’ll fix it when I get home.

An hour later they call. They just wanted to let me know that they are in the basement with Duke. The tornado sirens are going off.

Eventful afternoon.

Father's Day

2011-06-20T12:51:00.000-07:00

Maria had a very nice message for me on Facebook.

Five GREAT Things About My Dad:

1. He loves dandelions.
2. His dad was born on the 4th of July and liked to talk about how the fireworks are for him.
3. His stage debut was at age 47.
4. He has a widows peak that is about 5 inches long and it cracks me up!!
5. He used to run a lot in high school.

I love you John Gisselquist! I would have said more but statuses can only be 420 characters long.

Here's a picture of me that combines #1 and #4 (my hairline).

Guess How I Voted

2011-06-15T14:17:00.000-07:00

I will be attending the American Association of Law Librarian conference in Philadelphia in July. I'll be doing the normal vendor things - staffing a booth, meeting with customers, etc. The company sends lots of people to this event and it's important we all look good - and that we all look the same.

Yesterday I received this email.

As AALL approaches, we thought we would take your opinions into consideration as to what the ‘approved’ booth attire will be this year. Please review the options below and use the voting button to select your preference! Please have your response by June 17th. We will send out the results next week!

Option #1
Dark colored jeans, a summer style WHITE shirt (Must have sleeves) and sporty orange tennis shoes (provided by trade show).

Option #2
Business Casual: Black slacks/skirts, white shirts (must have sleeves) and either a orange & white polka dot tie/scarf (provided by trade show).

Guess how I voted.

Business Jargon: Level-Set, POA, and RPU

2011-06-15T14:11:00.000-07:00

It’s been eons since I’ve posted on business jargon, but the past 24 hours have present a number of instances so I figured a post was in order.

In a meeting yesterday afternoon, someone used the term level-set about 5 times in the first 5 minutes. I had a general idea what he meant, but I had to look it up to confirm:

To ensure that everyone is at the same 'level' of understanding. "You better level-set your team before you send them on-site." Source.

Then today, there's this request via email: I’d like a quick meeting to discuss our POA. What? Turns out POA is Plan of Attack or Plan of Action.

And finally, I didn’t get the memo but it’s we now measure things with RPU (revenue per user), rather than RPA (revenue per attorney). I'm always the last to know.

Follow the Yellow Brick Road

2011-06-12T06:39:00.000-07:00

Saturday was the first day of set-building for Rosetown's production of The Wizard of Oz. The Dude was put to work painting bricks for the Yellow Brick Road.

I was tasked with less glamorous work like moving set pieces around in an attempt to make a large elevated circle to encase the orchestra whilst allowing case members to dance around them. We also constructed the frame for the house - which blows away during the tornado. Given my carpentry skills that's a job I'm cut out for - building things that will blow away in storms.

Last Day of School

2011-06-10T06:38:00.000-07:00

Last day at Parkview and Maria has taken the old kindergarten bag out of the closet for one last time. Each year kindergarteners are given a bag with their name on it. They use only that bag – not a backpack. It’s easy to spot the kindergartners.

When Maria first started, the 8th graders looked so big. Some were as big as me. One even needed to shave – occasionally. As a parent of a kindergartner I feared those big kids might step on her. Now she’s the big one – almost 5-10. Yes, she’s as big as me (maybe a 1/2 inch shy).

She hasn’t stepped on any that I know of.