They Are Who We Thought They Were!

I love this line! .... Former Arizona Cardinals football coach Dennis Green, created this infamous one liner in a press conference immediately following a devastating loss to the Chicago Bears .... when it was suggested by a reporter that maybe they under estimated their opponent and weren't prepared for their personnel! .... You see, there are many things in life that don't always reflect the real facts! .... There's a cute story out there that once a guy walked into a bar that was fairly crowed. He proceeded to order a drink and shortly there after, removed from his briefcase .... a tiny piano .... a mouse .... and a parakeet! .... The patrons were curious and became amazed when the man instructed the mouse to play and the bird to sign!  The mouse played brilliantly and the bird sang with an unbelievable operatic voice.  When they finished and the crowd settled, a very wealthy patron walked up to the man and offered him $100, 000.00 for the parakeet.  He agreed to the price and promptly handed over the bird!  When he was gone, the bartender approached than man and said, ' You are crazy, you could have gotten millions for the bird and you settled for a mere $100,000.00!'  The man smiled sheepishly and said,' No big deal, the mouse is a Ventriloquist!' .... So here's the lesson I take from both of these scenarios, I need to examine and believe in what the truth is, and don't get caught up in the excitement of the moment and overreact! .... I need to make sure that in all cases, and with everything that I do from this point forward ....  I Know Who I Thought They Were!

Changing The Rules .... Or Enforcing Them?

In case you haven't noticed, many of my post are analogies of some thing or someone in sports! .... Let's face it .... I Love Sports! .... Not just the game but the psychology, intricacies, and nuances of the games.  I consider myself a true sports freak because I am versed in all sports and pride myself in knowing most all rules of all sports .... even obscure sports like field hockey .... squash .... lacrosse ....even water polo! .... Although I must admit that I still haven't figured out how they get those horses to hold their breath under water! .... All right I kid! .... But seriously, water polo is a very physically demanding sport, and considering that I'm not exactly 'Aquaman' when it comes to the water, I have great respect for anyone that plays! ....  As I told my students many times when I was teaching, don't just be a fan, be an enthusiast! .... Understand the rules and appreciate all sports! .... A true sports fan makes it a point to know the rules to help enjoy what you are watching! .... You will be better prepared  and appreciate the strategies imposed by coaches, managers, and players! .... A perfect example of what I am talking about is never more relevant than right now with all the talk and controversy involving the NFL .... and the focus on illegal hits and safety issues of players! .... As a fan, if you don't know at least the basics of the rule that applies to this topic, you may become someone that looses interest, and listen only to the opinion of others and make those opinions yours! ....  There is hardly a person .... sports fan or not  .... that hasn't watched television or viewed a web page this week, and have seen displayed the hits by .... Brandon Meriweather .... James Harrison .... and Dunta Robinson  .... in NFL games this past weekend! .... So here's the issue with all of this! .... Is the NFL really trying to make the game safer and prevent some catastrophic unthinkable injury, or are they just covering their butts? .... As a true sports fan you need to know .... Rule 12 ....  and how it covers 'Helmet to Helmet 'hits! .... Then, as an knowledgeable fan, you will be part of the solution, by formulating your own opinion .... instead of relying on others! ....  From this Sunday forward .... games .... plays .... players .... teams .... and outcomes .... will be dramatically different from what we have been accustomed! .... You know, the funny thing here is how closely sports mirror life! .... So what is the .... 'Rule 12' of life ? ....  The  'Helmet to Helmet' hit! .... Whatever it is ....  I'm going to make sure that I  understand and know it as best I can ....  to judge wisely what I see .... as I see it!

Oh Great ..... Rain!

Terrific .... the forecast the next couple of days is for rain .... clouds .... and gray skies! .... Unbelievable,  this is supposed to be sunny Southern California! ....  Some of you who know me realize that I have pet peeves about things in nature .... Wind .... Trees .... and .... Rain! .... Trees and rain being the worst! .... It's probably because growing up on the East Coast, a good week would be if the weather forecast was for mostly cloudy and cool with an 80% chance of rain daily ....  and a slight chance of ever seeing the sun! .... Okay .... I exaggerate, but only slightly!.... In addition, if you have not been back east, the problem is that with the exceptions of the big cities, there are so many trees that even when the sun shines in certain places .... you still can't see it! .... Call me crazy .... give me those 350 days of clear skies .... I'll figure out a way to shade myself without a 'Rain-forest'! .... Think about  it .... 'Rainforest'  .... those two words alone should strike terror in the hearts of any sun loving soul! .... See, here's the thing .... natural forces are like friendships and relationships! .... If you are fortunate enough to be in a geographical location where things are constant, the stress of daily life only needs to be about our work .... or off time! .... On the other hand, living in a location that is unpredictable, with a major chance for climate variances .... besides work, what do you have? .... What you have is a better chance to focus on interpersonal contact! .... In my opinion .... trees represent .... friendships and relationships! .... They provide the cover that shields and hides us temporally from the inevitable .... it's raining and we're going to get wet! ... So unlike trees that thrive in rain .... we get a false sense of security .... we are tricked by are own mind into thinking .... that just because we can't see it or feel it .... it's not raining! .... And what about rain? .... Maybe the rain is the real culprit .... at least for me! .... Even on the rare days when it does rain it's a problem for me!.... Instead of performing the wonderful function that nature intended .... which is to give life and hope by washing away dirt and debris, and providing the basic element humans require (water) .... rain leaves me sloshing in the dirt and debris of others! .... You would think that things would be good once the rain stops .... but for me .... as I look out the window in this down pour .... I see only gray skies and debris!

In Search Of ....!

This is so cool! .... I decided that being retired,  gives me a lot of time to explore new opportunities!  .... One of those opportunities comes with the understanding that everyone has to eat! .... So I thought that since I have to eat anyway, why not make it a little more interesting! .... Some of you may remember a television show a few years ago that was called .... 'In Search Of' .... I think the premiss at the time was for the reporters to travel around the world and discover unusual people .... events .... or locations.  Anyway it was entertaining, especially since it aired before the age of the Internet and everything else that is at our fingertips today! .... Still,  I thought it would be fun .... since I have a few extra minutes of time each day anyway .... to explore what most people don't agree is .... that sandwiches are not fast food! .... Okay for the most part they are! .... Even the Earl himself thought so when he created the 'Sandwich' .... as a late night snack several centuries ago! .... Never the less, I think since the sandwich originated from such royal beginnings, it should be dignified with more attention payed to it than let's say .... pizza .... or ,,,, tacos! ....  I'm still going to post my life and 'Retirement' as I see it .... including my opinions on everything and anything that moves me .... but in addition, I will be posting on another site .... that I call .... 'One Great Sandwich' .... pretty much everyday! .... The website is .... ongreatsandwich.blogspot.com .... and I will also link that through my Facebook page. (Hopefully in a day or two I'll have found my first 'Great Sandwich'! ) .... When I looked at the vastness of this project it was a little overwhelming .... but hey ....  Rome wasn't built in a day .... and the Steelers don't win every Super Bowl! .... But the facts are that like the Romans and the Steelers .... I'll try .... and always be  .... ' In Search Of ' .... that .... 'One Great Sandwich!'

Social Networking!

Cool term! .... But what is it and how long have we known about it? .... The Wikipedia definition is as follows .... 'A social network is a social structure made up of individuals (or organizations) called "nodes," which are tied (connected) by one or more specific types of interdependency, such as friendship, kinship, common interest, financial exchange, dislike, sexual relationships, or relationships of beliefs, knowledge or prestige.' ....  Okay, now this makes sense! .... See, I thought this was a relatively new term to our society, but I now realize it's been around along time and has involved some well known characters in history! .... Even some famous story-lines from movies and television involve 'Social Networking'! .... First the historical characters! .... There are far too many to list in this post, so I'm just going to deal with a couple that everyone can identify with! ... Almost everyone is familiar with Benjamin Franklin. .... That's right .... the 'kite guy' ....  everyone knows of at least one of his famous exploits! .... What most of you don't know is that he was one of the great Social Networkers of his time .... both with men and .... especially the ladies! .... Hard to believe those funky looking glasses could be considered sexy, but they really worked for old Ben! .... You see, when it came to .... 'getting around' .... he was a better candidate to be called .... 'father of our country' ....  than George Washington! .... The ladies loved him! .... No .... I  mean they really loved him! .... I'm not sure the his total number of offspring has ever been accurately counted .... but it's many! .... The other great Social Networker of his time was Thomas Jefferson! .... He too was a great communicator and did everything in his power keep his slaves ....  Happy .... If you know what I mean! .... But seriously, the imagination of Gene Roddenberry .... the man behind the Star Trek iconic science-fiction series, captured in his plots the future of Social Networking! ....  He stated in his prolog that .....'We would go where no man had gone before' .... at least not yet! ... In most of his story-lines he constantly was seeking new life sources and trying to establish an open line of communication .... even if these life forms were different from what we knew! .... The challenge for the star-ship Enterprise and its crew was to find common ground to link various civilization together, constantly seeking discussions rather than conflict. .... Did he have the right idea? .... Was this the true meaning of Social Networking? ..... Is it possible that with the advancement of technology this is the greatest tool mankind has ever received? .... Or have we gone too far too fast from Franklin and Jefferson's time? .... Have we made it too complicated? .... I think not! .... I believe we do need to .... 'Go where no man has gone before' .... Heck we have too! .... Franklin and Jefferson have already taken care of the other!

America's Team!

Are you kidding me! .... I think it's time to retire that term for the 'STAR'! ( Dallas's Logo) .... Let's face it, in an earlier post I commented on a quote by George Allen, when he referred to a very talented NFL rookie running back in the early seventies .... When ask by the press as to how good and how successful  he thought  this young man could be ....  he replied. "Talent is not enough"! .... Now we flash forward forty years and because we are so enamored by flash and cash .... the marvelously over rated mystique of the Dallas Cowboys  and other pro sports franchise's, has become tarnished and quite frankly a little annoying! .... The annoyance comes from the plethora of football retirees and so called experts, dissecting every aspect of .... 'What's wrong with the boys'? .... I say who cares? .... There are 31 other NFL teams that deserve the respect and attention for what they do .... not only on the field .... but off of it too! .... In this age of the pro sports athlete and extremely high salaries, it is becoming difficult listening to excuses and finger pointing as to why they are coming up short of expectations! .... Criticism of these talented individuals is based as much on personal life styles as on field performance! .... These criticisms are justified! .... There are so many instances where athletes have been more easily recognized for their poor judgement .... reckless endangerment of themselves and others .... suicides or accidental deaths ....  and greedy me, me, me only attitude! .... For the thousands of pro athletes that go about their job with enthusiasm ....  hard work .... dedication to family and community .... and commitment to team and owner .... there is a very small percentage of malcontents that attract the majority of the press! .... So here it is! .... We can't stop people reporting the information the way they do ..... but we can recognize when images and symbols are becoming bigger than the definition of athletics and what they mean to a city or country! .... We can shun sleazy marketing techniques of a few owners whose egos are bigger than the games themselves! .... We can expect a quality product and outstanding effort! ....  We can reject the behavior and thoughtlessness of those few! .... because .... 'Talent is not enough!'

Life As We Know It!

You may have noticed that I have not posted as much in recent weeks .... that may have something to do with today's topic! .... For years scientists have insisted that they have not identified life anywhere in the universe, and a term they frequently use is .... 'As We Know It!' .... I've been thinking about this and coincidentally heard the term used recently in a commercial for a new movie .... Life As We Know It  .... being released in a couple of days.  This is a perfect term for anyone that has gone through stuff .... retirement .... relationships .... friendships .... and generally any other changes! .... The point here is that change is not all bad .... scary .... but not bad .... just different! .... And when you come to grips with the reality of it, it can be therapeutic! .... The down side is that some parts of your life that you grow accustomed to are no longer available for you to use as a safety net and comfort zone! .... It's a mechanism we have in place and use .... that both protects us and hinders us.  In my case many things have changed for me since I turned .... dare I say ....  'SIXTY'! .... And of course retirement ....  has proven to be extremely more difficult to adjust to than I thought! .... Aside from that though, surprisingly, friendships have been altered! .... At first glance I integrated the two and made them symbiotic with resolution and conciliation! .... Not the right approach .... A better approach is to reflect back on the affects and derive a process in which I garner wisdom to accept and glean peace and tranquility! .... You see this is just another piece to a very intricate puzzle that we call life! .... I am beginning to understand that my new life is different from the way I understood my old one! .... In my classroom on the front wall, I posted a quote by legendary Indiana University and Texas Tech basketball coach .... Bobby Knight .... He said, " The will to win is not as important as the will to prepare to win." .... and as I told my students many times, they need to work hard, stay focused .... realize that working hard is more important than raw talent .... if you want to succeed! .... The same can be said for ultimately adjusting to life's course changes .... I need .... 'to prepare to win' .... at this new life challenge! .... I need to realize that ...."Life As I Knew It" .... has changed!

Paradise Lost!

Okay .... maybe not to the extent  John Milton's 'Paradise Lost' referred to in the 17th century poem .... but paradoxically  to what's happening in my world.   Milton's poem has strong biblical implications and closely aligns with the story of Adam and Eve! .... But goes even further to develop tie ins to other forms of religion and worship throughout civilization! .... Ultimately it's the original story of good versus evil .... but Milton's twist is that the villain .... or evil ....( Satan in this setting ).... is not that bad a character! .... So how is this a paradox for me? .... Simple, for many reasons most of us are judged on how our life's turn out.   We usually are perceived and evaluated based on our body of work .... which includes but is not limited to our relationships and accomplishments! .... Example, a quote from Milton's work states that ' It is better to rein in Hell than serve in Heaven.' .... Now remember that when Milton wrote this .... modern psychology was still more than 200 years in the future ....  Freud and Skinner  .... were still in waiting! .... It doesn't matter how often  that what I perceive to be a good deed .... an altruistic gesture .... goes unnoticed and overlooked .... it only matters what the final score is! .... I don't know who keeps score on this stuff .... maybe no one .... never the less, it still affects me and how I will proceed to rule the rest of my life! .... If I'm the only one that sees benefits in what I am doing .... while others believe that what I am doing places me in my own personal 'Hell' .... then so be it! ....  Once again ...  maybe Milton was right? .... ' It is better to rein in Hell than to serve in Heaven!'

Results May Vary!

What a great statement! .... If you use this phrase you can pretty much cover your a _ _ for anything you do when it doesn't work out! .... But what does this really mean? .... I'm sure that no one sets out to almost accomplish what they want .... even-though the companies that rely heavily on this phrase have no qualms about taking your money! .... Diet and Pharmaceutical companies are notorious for placing this statement in their adds. .... But for me it has a less sinister meaning! .... I understand it to mean that I am free to experiment and enjoy opportunities that if I take the safe approach I might miss out on something wonderful .... Still, knowing this, instilled caution sometimes prevents me from venturing forward and just let things happen! .... To help me get a better grip on this imperfection, I need to relate life to a sporting analogy .... Here are the facts! .... Countless times in team sports the most talented team with the best players .... highest salaries .... extensive media coverage .... end up underachieving! .... Many reasons are scrutinized .... rationalized .... and publicized .... but ultimately something really simple is the culprit! .... ATTITUDE .... that's right attitude of the players involved .... George Allen .... the legendary Washington Redskins coach .... once commented about an extremely gifted running back that had all the tools to be a Hall of Fame player .... but had issues with authority and following the rules! .... He replied when asked by a reporter as to his opinion on how great a career this individual might enjoy .... 'Talent is not enough!' .... From the first time I heard this I have tried to understand and incorporate this in my youth coaching and then in my classroom when dealing with students that were talented but sometimes were difficult to deal with because they were talented! .... I learned that patience and understanding for these individuals was the best elixir .... along with a strong firm hand of discipline! .... So my point is that having known this for years and understanding how to use it to help others, I forgot that this may now apply to me! .... Doing and saying all the right things .... expecting that I had all the answers .... not allowing room to try different things .... is critical during the change from working to retiring! .... I realize now that I truly need to accept the idea that .... Results May Vary!

Upon Further Review!

Maybe it's the time of the year, or maybe this phrase is being used more often! .... I was thinking how .... 'Upon Further Review' .... might relate to me too! .... You hear this term used after a play on the field has been called by an official .... umpire .... or referee .... but they may have missed it! .... The play or call can be challenged as to being correct! .... Anybody that has watched a National Football League  game is familiar with the procedure! .... After a period of time the head official returns from a sequestered location that involves a camera .... hood .... security .... and earphones .... to inform the television audience and thousands of somewhat knowledgeable fans .... that .... 'Upon Further Review' .... they got it right or they screwed up! .... Most sports .... professional and amateur .... have adopted at least some version of instant replay! .... Unbelievable advancements in technology has created an entirely new culture for the sporting world that allows .... managers .... coaches .... and in some sports .... even the players to question officials decisions! .... It seems natural for this technology to play a major role in sporting events because of the insatiable appetite to .... scrutinize .... optimize .... analyze .... and anyway else .... dissect everything! .... The intent of this process and highly developed technology .... is to get it right! .... Now to the point as it relates to me and who knows .... maybe even you! .... Until recently we lived our life .... did the things that people do for years .... were successful or not .... but had to wait awhile to find out if what we did or accomplished was important .... meaningful .... hurtful .... good .... or bad! .... And for many .... by the time we out .... it was too late and nothing could be done to change it! .... But with the advent of social networking .... YouTube  .... Facebook  .... Twitter  .... we can now judge or be judged almost immediately! .... If we are challenged by something or someone about how we act .... talk .... or think .... 'Upon Further Review' .... we can change it!

As The World Turns!

How many of you know the television 'Soap Opera' that originated in the 1950's by the same name? .... That's right ....  'As The World Turns' .... It recently broadcast its last episode .....  A daily show that aired for over fifty years! .... Like other baby boomer creations, it ran its course and rode off into the sunset! .... But, just like everything else in life the world doesn't stop turning .... Television shows will continue .... other shows will replace this icon .... story lines will be revisited .... but with different characters! .... This is true for anyone that retires and moves to the the next stage of life called retirement .... Even though we consider what we do unique and special .... The truth is in the phrase itself .... 'As The World Turns' .... says it all! .... No matter what, everything will turn as agreed .... It's been this way since the first cave dwellers walked from their shelters and discovered that it took a lot of work just to get to the next day! ..... If you were lucky, you lived to 'retire' and were taken care of at the ripe old age of about twenty! .... That was the ultimate 401k! .... Live long enough and you garnered the spoils of life's accomplishments .... became wise .... revered by a few .... looked at with awe by some, and contempt by others! .... Is it any different tens of thousands of years latter? .... I say no! .... Oh yeah the social scenery has changed .... Walmart  has replaced the Wooly Mammoth  hunt as a source of garnering supplies to survive! .... Ipods .... Computers .... Facebook and You Tube .... have filled in nicely for meeting new neighbors instead of attacking and enslaving them! .... We are much more civil now .... we have political parties to take care of that! .... The point here is that we realize no matter what we think .... or how we pride ourselves into believing we are better prepared for this time in life when it comes .... and that we are really ready to just sit back .... enjoy .... reflect .... and accept the process! .... The question remains .... do we truly understand the phrase .... 'As The World Turns'? 

Are We There Yet?

Who among us have not experienced these famous words .... "Are We There Yet?" .... I'm sure most of us with kids have! ....  I am convinced that this question is no longer for kids bouncing around in the back seat of the family station wagon .... or mini van .... It has now become a battle cry for me! .... I keep thinking that each new day will provide me with a message divinely delivered! .... The message would include directions to peace of mind and understanding as to how long it'll take to get to a place where I enjoy everything .... without feeling anxiety of separation from the work force! .... Some of my friends have a hard time understanding why I can't relax and get on with 'it' .... whatever 'it' is! .... Let's think about this for a minute .... the .... 'it' .... becomes the destination .... and just like those kids in the back seat, I get tired of the ride and loose patience! .... But this is the irony of retirement .... there's more time .... actually more time than you need .... but not enough time to get clarity and understanding to accept and appreciate the .... 'it' .... I get impatient .... anxious ....  and want to get there now .... just like the kids! .... My problem is .... it's not the same as the kids riding along in the back seat! .... The difference is .... I'm driving and control .... where .... when .... and how long ....  it'll take to get to  .... 'it' ! .... So the message to me is to sit back .... relax .... checkout the scenery and stop asking .... "Are We There Yet!"

The Most Famous Retiree In The World!

It's appropriate that today is the first full day schedule of the 2010 NFL season .... Why? .... Because the most famous retiree in the world .... Bret Farve .... Quarterback for the  Minnesota Vikings .... is an intriguing part of that organization! .... And ....  he has retired and unretired more than Charlie Sheen escapes prosecution! .... But see.... Bret does it the right way .... he keeps getting more money and having to work less! .... I wish I could do that .... miss training camp .... have people hang on my every move .... make mistakes and others take the blame for me! .... I need that kind of love! .... Recently .... CALSTRS .... sent a flyer explaining the procedure that needed to be followed if you were considering unretiring! .... I was shocked that was even a realistic possibility! .... Understand this .... I'm not planning to .... UNRETIRE .... but I am intrigued and empowered by the possibility! .... Flattered would be a better term! .... My concern is that maybe, like Bret, if I do come out of retirement .... how effective could I be? .... My recent volunteer assignment with kindergardeners is proving ....  that when you first comeback the energy and enthusiasm is there .... but after the daily routine sets in .... the stamina and old instincts seemed to have deteriorated to the point that each day gets tougher doing the job! .... Don't get me wrong, I really enjoy the opportunity to be in my comfort zone and ease into full retirement .... but it's also nice to know that if it gets too tough, I can just walk away! .... Now let's look at what that really means .... to do that we need to look at Farve's latest unretirement adventure! .... It occurred during a nationally broadcast game against the World Champion New Orleans Saints thursday night! .... I, like most sports fans, am fascinated by a forty-one year grandfather ....  who can play competitively with youngsters half his age. .... As I watched the game I couldn't help to notice that .... in my opinion .... there was something missing this time from Bret's game! .... It seemed as though, that famous fire .... passion .... and love of the game was missing! .... And, I for one know that when you loose the drive to be the best .... it's over! .... Maybe the remaining fifteen games will contradict or prove wrong what appears to be a reality! .... There finally comes a time when you can't let others influence what you know to be best for you! ....  Remember and reflect back on everything you have accomplished .... then enjoy and accept the next great adventure!

You Don't Wear White After Labor Day!

And I say .... "Why Not?" .... Ever since I can remember, I was told that after labor day you couldn't wear white! .... Shoes .... Pants .... Straw Hats .... Underwear! .... Not really underwear .... I just threw that in to poke a little fun at a tradition that needs to go away! .... Yeah, it's time we come up with something new .... Something like you can't eat hamburgers on Monday's after Thanksgiving! .... Or how about .... You can't drive black cars on Sundays after Halloween! .... See how ridiculous this is? .... When I lived back east, I thought that you didn't wear white because the weather was turning colder and with it, the .... rain .... snow .... and slush .... might ruin your pretty white outfit! .... That turned out to be only partially right! ....  When I moved to Sunny Southern California .... I thought that I would never be faced with this dilemma again .... but I was wrong! .... Not to long ago I was reminded by one of my friends when he saw me wearing a pair of white shoes in November ....  that I had just created one of the greatest  Fashion Faux Pas of the year! .... He scolded me for .... 'Wearing White' after labor day! .... I was horrified! .... What will happen to me? .... Will I be banned from shopping on Rodeo Drive? .... Will I be forbidden to attend the Grammy Awards? .... or worse .... Will  Ralph Lauren  reposes all my 'Polo'  products? .... Probably not! .... See .... it turns out that this ridiculous tradition has come under close scrutiny from others, and it seems as though that it is time for it to go! .... The reasons given for its emergence .... in addition to the middle class tradition set throughout the 50's and 60's .... the "no white after labor day rule"....  which became as important as chicken pot pie and drive-in movies .... as a way to assert their new found social status .... were the following ....   (1) 'An arbitrary way for the nouveau riche to assert their status by crafting a complex social code .... and .... (2) The fashion-industry's conspiracy to force you into buying fall clothes.' .... So there it is, finally an explanation! .... Okay then .... who's with me? .... Post a comment and let me know what your thoughts are on  .... 'Wearing White After Labor Day ' !

What An Unusual First Week Of Retirement!

Okay .... I haven't posted for a couple of days because .... I've been BUSY! .... That's right, busy working .... actually volunteer teaching in a kindergarten classroom and having a blast.  The perfect way to ease into retirement is to go to work when you really don't have too! .... The comparison is like going to a restaurant that offers an all-you-can eat Steak and Seafood Buffet .... and only choosing to eat a salad. You know you're doing something good .... (even-though it hurts a little) .... but when you get home you can look back and be proud of yourself.  This experience is awesome .... coming at the right time in my life when patience is an absolute necessity .... and a chance to work with youngster leaving the security and comfort of their homes and family .... in some cases .... for the first time! .... I'm teaching them order .... structure .... learning to share .... getting along with others .... and they are teaching me to be loving .... accepting .... forgiving .... and excited about new opportunities! .... The symbiotic relationship leans more in my favor because I have forgotten some basics of life .... just relax and enjoy the moment .... stop to smell the roses .... put aside petty differences .... and learn each day! .... Maybe when we work at a job for so many years we become so consumed in the .... JOB DESCRIPTION .... that we forget what made us go after the job in the first place .... It wasn't just money or power! .... We wanted the job because it excited us .... made us feel useful .... made us feel good! .... But after a while, we became afraid that if we didn't perform to someone's imposed Norms or Standards .... that we wouldn't be doing our JOB! .... I recently watched the movie .... 'Jerry Maguire'  ....  and was reminded by Tom Cruise's character, that at some point there's more to it than the money and glory! ....A part of his epiphany occurred coincidentally, at the hands of a youngster in the movie .... He was able to reflect on what was really important! .... Summing up my thoughts in this post .... I admit that I believed teaching was what I did because I had a lot of life's experience to share with students and they could learn ....  they did! .... What I now realize is that .... I still have a lot to learn myself .... and my teachers .... although young and short .... are very good!

Every-day's Not A 911!

It's like this .... if you know anything about the term .... Metaphysics .... you'll understand what I'm sharing with you today .... Admittedly, my life has been far from  NORMAL lately! .... I have always viewed normal as something to aspire to, but after listening to  Rev. Joe ....  from the " Center For Spiritual Living" .... I discovered that I needed to rethink .... My Normal .... If you compare normal to  front page stories of a newspaper .... (you know, the important stories) .... then understanding normal begins to take on a unique perspective ....  According to Rev. Joe, "Life just isn't about the front page story, it's about the comics too!" ....  I can relate to this and how I have been dealing with many aspects of my life .... especially this new retirement thing! .... Good news for me though .... every problem has a life span ....  keeping that in mind, a new normal is in store for me.  As I stated in my previous post, this coming week school will start and for the first time since I've been in high school, I officially do not have to report to a ..... NORMAL  .... job! .... Work is a large part of our every day life's .... but for me, sitting back and enjoying the spoils of life is my reward for being a .... NORMAL American worker! .... How will I handle it? .... How will others handle me? .... How will the world survive without the guidance and control? .... You see, if I'm not dealing with the 'Front Page Stories' .... How can I exist?.... How can the world exist .... without its .... 'Super-hero' ? ....  So this is the point of today's post, no matter how hard I try to force issues like .... activities .... friendships .... travel .... relationships .... I can't make them  NORMAL! .... NORMAL is going to happen when it's ready .... and in a way that is ultimately best for me and anyone that touches my life.  So there you have it .... everyday doesn't need to be a 911!

I'm Back .... Rested And Ready!

Oh yeah .... I feel much better!  I was having such a good time adjusting to my adventurous new life, that I forgot to take care of myself.  Well I'm better now and for those of you who have contacted me wondering why I haven't posted lately I say .... Thank You .... It's nice to know that you are inspired,  perspired,  or retired .... and interested in living vicariously through my adventures! .... So let me bring you up to speed on what's going on.  This week has been a little difficult for me because this is usually the time of year that I would be preparing my classroom and bracing for the onslaught of a new group of eager to learn .... P. I. T. ' s .... ( People In Training ) ....  I always explained to them that they were in my class because my job was to get them ready for high school and prepared for life after this transition year.  Like most of us .... even though we don't admit it .... at some point in life we pretty much think we know it all .... The difference with an eighth grader is that they insist they know it all .... and try to make you believe IT! ....  Remembering this, I have now decided that it's time to create an acronym for people like me .... here it is .... we will now be known as .... R. I. T. 's .... Yep, you got it .....  RETIREES IN TRAINING .... just like those young people have to learn about social interaction and the challenges that face them beyond the protection and security of what they are used to .... retired people need to learn that retirement is more than the financial .... it's .... Carpe Diem .... and they should .... because they have earned the right and the spoils that come with having reached a most time honored pinnacle .... RETIREMENT .... a place in life that offers challenges .... but at a slower pace!

Fish, Fish, Make A Wish!

I'm finding time in this retirement thing to pursue more of my unusual quests .... for instance to find the country's best fish sandwich! .... I'm not sure the Earl of Sandwich, the 18th century statesman who is generally associated with the culinary treat, would find my quest interesting though? ....  But here's the thing .... yesterday with my continued stay on California's beautiful southern coast .... the thought occurred to me that not once during the week had I pleasured my pallet with fish! .... As I was driving north along the ocean .... the craving began to overtake me and I needed a fish sandwich! .... But where could I find one .... I mean the PERFECT ONE?   Surely along this beautiful stretch of landscape there must be something .... someplace .... that would meet my needs! .... The problem though, was there were too many choices .... restaurant after restaurant passed by .... through beach cities like .... Del Mar ....  Cardiff By the Sea .... Solana Beach .... Encinitas .... but which one would have the best .... the perfect sandwich?  By the time I decided, I realized I had driven all the way to Carlsbad .... I've stayed there quite a few times and remembered seeing a restaurant called Jay's Gourmet Pizza and Seafood, .... perfect, I'll stop there .... they've got to have a fish sandwich! .... Whoops! .... when I checked the menu I couldn't find a fish sandwich .... there were many seafood dishes available both lunch and dinner .... but no FISH SANDWICH! .... total disappointment .... what now?  Just then, Jenna, a very pleasant employee approached me ....  I explained to her that I was really hoping to get a fish sandwich .... the reason she explained that one was not on the menu, was because none of their food was fried! .... She said that maybe they could create one for me .... I thought,  that'll work! .... She asked what kind of fish I wanted and I told her to pick one ....  her choice was Halibut. .... I ask for fries and she reminded me that they don't fry anything .... so instead, I had a bowl of clam chowder, ( which by the way was excellent) .... Finally, my special creation arrived and looked terrific .... it was grilled .... placed on a large focaccio roll .... topped with lettuce and tomato .... and was huge! .... The first bite told me that this was a great choice .... the fish was cooked to perfection and the warm roll melted in my mouth .... they did well! .... As I said, this sandwich was huge .... but I finished it! .... I have eaten fish sandwiches in many places around the country .... some really great ones ..... but I have to say that this truly was one of the best I've had yet! .... I'll keep looking now that I'm retired .... but this one's going to be hard to top!

Time To 'Beer' Down!

This could be my favorite title yet! .... While I was working I didn't have time, or at least choose to participate in a growing popular pastime .... frequenting 'Micro Breweries' !  Friends of mine have been telling me for a while, how they have really enjoyed visiting various breweries in different locations, and getting into the nuances of the art of beer tasting .... Having been a college student during the sixties, I thought I new all about beer .... Heck, I can do better than that .... my grandparents owned a bar back in western Pennsylvania .... that alone should automatically qualify me as an expert! .... But not so fast .... this is way beyond pulling a draft tap .... uncapping a bottle .... or popping a top on a can .... this is a highly refined eloquently explained and deliciously delivered experience .... it's tasting at its finest!  I'm learning that beer tasting is becoming as popular as wine-tasting .... and the cool thing is you don't have to wait for anything to ripen on a vine .... or be affected by the weather .... you just need to be patient and allow natural fermentation ..... and .... presto .... Tap A Keg!  There are thousands of Micro Breweries scattered around the country and all have unique ways of delivering their goods.  My recent experience was in San Diego at the Karl Strauss Brewery,  and at an event they call  'Cask Nite' ! .... First let me say .... I really enjoyed the appetizers, and the food menu was outstanding .... very yummy ....  my beer choices were pretty good too .... but my Cask Nite experience was interesting .... The way this process works is that at certain times during the month, the brewery announces they are going to 'Tap a Keg' of one of their Brew-master's concoction of unusual ingredients .... could be anything from lavender pedals to coriander .... whatever.  Everyone gathers .... they pick a time .... grab a wooden mallet .... and .... after a ceremonial count down by all present .... whapp .... a keg is tapped! Samples are available for all with the hope that this will become the next most popular flavor and huge best seller.  As always, the aficionados ooh and ah about the body .... color .... aroma .... and of course taste .... But the proof of success remains in the ultimate testimonial .... will anyone buy it? .... Some will .... but others think of it as interesting and fun ....  preferring to stick with their personal favorites.  So there you have it .... 'Cask Nite' .... good food .... good fun .... great friends! .... Oh yeah, the beer .... it was flavored with coriander and lavender .... and as far as my inexperienced pallet determined .... tasted a little soapy! .... Cheers!

The Sun, The Sea, The Surf!

I'm staying ....  at least for a couple more days! Oh yeah .... this place is great. I noticed an add yesterday for a part time job at a company here in La Jolla .... "Fishmore and Doolittle"! .... Maybe I'll apply? .... seriously though, I spent yesterday at the pier in Oceanside, CA. .... this is one of my favorite spots to pier fish in Southern California.  First off, it's the longest pier in California .... the fishing is great .... the people are interesting .... there's a Diner, ( Ruby's Diner), at the end of the pier .... and plenty of parking fairly close .... plenty of exercise from walking the long pier .... and oh yeah did I mention .... absolutely great views of the coastline both north and south .... check out the link and you'll see what I'm talking about, .... it's just a great place to spend the day and forget about everything .... even putting more money in the meter! .... by the way, the Wyndham Oceanside Pier Resort Suites, is a great place to stay ..... walking distance to everything and reasonable rates .... Okay, now the cool stuff .... especially for a few of you who have ask and want to know about .... THE FISHING! .... As always, when I'm here it's impossible to leave .... I forget about everything .... eating .... phone calls .... parking meters ....  almost! .... See it's like this, I get so caught up from all the excitement of people catching things, I don't want to stop .... I'm afraid I'll miss out on that one great catch .... The pier is home to some doggedly dedicated anglers .... and they are the culture of the pier. Eager to give advice on everything from the bait needed that day, to the kind of equipment you need .... even about what you are wearing!  And let me tell you .... they catch fish, a lot of fish! .... Usually, so do I .... just never the really big ones .... at least not yet. I'm still learning from my mentors all the tricks .... but I'm getting better and really think I should spend more time here .... The great thing about pier fishing in California is that you don't need a license .... it's great because the money you save can be spent on more important things .... like more tackle! Anyway .... the day was great .... Good Sun .... Good Sea .... Good Surf! ....  Maybe next time you can join me?

Now This Is More Like It!

Wow .... why didn't I think of this before .... I guess my thought process is still not in the right mode. I'm sitting in heat and humidity that becomes oppressive at times and certainly limits all my outdoor activities .... when all I had to do was get in my car .... drive less than 120 miles .... and here I am .... in a place where the ocean breezes are a cool and refreshing 72 degrees! See, this is what I've been talking about .... it's hard to remember that .... I'M RETIRED!! It means relax and enjoy, you've earned it.  A friend recently sent me some retirement bumper stickers that she found on this website .... check out a couple, because I think they go along way towards explaining this 'Brave New World ' or is it 'Old World' .... whatever .... here they are .... Bumper Stickers.  See what I mean, it makes you think. Anyway, getting back to my fabulous get away, the weather is great .... the Pacific is blue and the fishing .... the fishing is still to come! I'm still finding all the cool places to frequent. Today's gastronomical expedition is taking me to the Pizza Port in Solona Beach .... sounds like my ship may come in there .... my two favorite diet busting entrees .... pizza and beer! But listen .... I worked out this morning .... ran on the beach .... remembered what my trainer taught me, (I had to promise to keep working while I'm away) .... and generally recovered from my first night's celebrations .... I deserve to relish in the culinary treats of beach comfort food .... I mean why not .... tomorrow's another day and anyway it's cool here ....  maybe I'll work out this evening .... or maybe not! .... Instead, I'll get back here and write about the great drive I took ....  along the coast with the top down .... the great views .... the smell of the salt air .... the wind in my face .... or maybe about how badly sunburned I got, and how much aloe vera I still need! .... Anyway, I'll keep you posted ....!

The 'Chase' Is On!

In my last post I talked about two things that happened to me within a 24 hour period of time that reminded me what working and being is all about. The second epiphany .... occurred at one of my favorite morning coffee shops .... Panera Bread .... with people who were still working and others also retired. As usual there were several of the regulars sitting around their previously designated location within the establishment. By the way, this is a great place to solve all the problems of the .... world .... country .... state .... family .... an Universe! I received my order and listened intently to a question asked by one participant that dealt with Chevy Chase .... Okay, before I go any further I need to ask YOU if you know anything about Chevy Chase. Before you answer check out these two links .... first .... Chevy Chase  .... and then of course this link .... Chevy Chase ! Alright tell the truth, how many of you new this before you looked it up .... come on be honest .... okay I thought so. Don't feel bad because this is truly the point to this scenario .... none of the philosophers sitting around the table new the answer .... along with several other patrons in the establishment ....  and they were using computers to get started on their days work! Here it is .... there was an article in the local paper quoting something Israeli Prime Minister,  Binyamin Netanyahu  said to a former U.S. diplomat .... he said, "You live in Chevy Chase. Don't play with our future." .... They were perplexed by the comment because the only Chevy Chase they new of was the actor/comedian, and they wondered why a world leader was basing international politics on a character who was best known for his edgy slapstick comedy. Having sat there for several minutes, the teacher in me took over and I chimed in to inform my peers that the comparison was between a bedroom community outside Washington, D.C. and the dangerous and tense geography of the Middle East. So there you have it .... teaching is an on going job .... whether I want to or not .... It's Automatic! Before I left, I Googled Chevy Chase, MD. on my Motorola Droid and showed them a picture .... it was a good thing! I think I'll go back there soon .... the conversation is quite stimulating ..... and rewarding!

It's Working!

Okay .... this is really cool .... some of the things that I have talked about in my previous posts are starting to make sense .... at least to me .... and soon others! As the 18th century moralist Joseph Joubert wrote, .... 'To Teach Is To Learn Twice',  this holds true in everything we do .... that is why for 15 years in my classroom I posted this on my wall .... not to impress my students, but to remind me that I didn't have all the answers, and that I was always learning .... especially when I share with others. So how does all this relate to retirement? Like this .... I HAVE JUST REALIZED THAT YOU MAY NOT BE REPORTING TO WORK EVERYDAY, BUT YOU ARE REPORTING TO LIFE EVERYDAY. Therefore, the shear interpersonal relationships offer many teaching moments .... and most importantly .... learning moments. Twice in the past 24 hours things have presented themselves allowing for those kind of moments! First .... having dinner with friends, the discussion was centered around the art of photography and the need for equipment that would satisfy specific goals as it relates to .... picture quality .... ease of operation .... convenience .... expense, both time and money .... and finally .... ultimate personal comfort. My personal photography experiences cover 30 years, from 35 mm film to more recently digital video and still photos. My latest camera of choice has been a Cannon Rebel Xsi  with a standard lens and a 75-300 telephoto. So I recommended they purchase one. To me this camera would do all that I needed and then some and was relatively easy to use with outstanding results. I tried my best to convince my audience that they could do this and to not give up .... "It'll get easier and you'll love it" I said. But, this is the point .... all of the basics I outlined were in place, except that people need to find their comfort level and take a path that enhances their goals .... anything less is stifling to the natural thirst for self fulfillment. If the same can be accomplished by a lesser means, then as that other great philosopher said .... 'Just Do It' ! My second epiphany happened at the coffee shop and I'll tell you about that in my next post.

For Those Still Working!

Let's see, how does this work, oh yeah .... you get up everyday .... grab a coffee .... think about what to wear .... how you're going to fix your hair .... (if you have any) .... anticipate the work you have to do .... worry about the fellow employee that you don't quite see eye to eye with .... worry about your boss and hope he's at a meeting or took the day off .... remember the one thing you were supposed to have done before you left yesterday and .... then wish it's Saturday so you don't have to go to work! Well guess what .... everyday is Saturday for a retired person. Now there's good and bad with this realization .... first the good .... you can sleep in, play golf, wash the car, have a long drawn out breakfast on the patio, play tennis, do Starbucks,  and a whole host of assorted other THINGS. Second the bad .... wait .... there is no bad! That's the catch .... it only seems bad because you feel just a little guilty for taking it slow and easy. Now let's all picture what it would be like if everyone was retired .... can't do it can you? Nope, because even some of you who read what I write have a hard time relating to what really goes on in a retirees world. I know, it was the same for me .... I can remember driving from my home to school and every once in a while before getting there, I would stop by Panera Bread for an Asiago Bagel and coffee .... I'd listen to all the retirees gathered at various clan-destined locations scattered throughout the establishment, planning their days .... and wish I could do that instead of going to school. I can't tell you how many days that scenario took place. Even now .... my friends are envious of all the free time coming my way .... and you know what .... it is kind of fun!  I guess it's just human nature for us to resist the self proclaimed dedication and commitment we bestow on ourselves as harbingers of noble worthiness, usually reserved for only Lancelot and The Knights of the Roundtable. So .... Gallant Knights and Fair Ladies of Camelot .... dawn the tapestry of a work ethic and release the chains of servitude ..... or something like that .... and wait for your turn. It'll be here before you know it! 

Moving Along Nicely!

It's working .... I'm not but it is! The IT is adjusting to my new life .... the one with no schedule ..... no clocks .... no worries! On my last post I talked about my physical challenge and what I needed to do to take care of my body. The harder challenge appears to be working on the most difficult organ in the body .... the brain! In my case, my brain is dealing with retirement as a great end to a rather unique life in the workplace. This may sound normal and healthy, but ah .... here's the catch. I feel used up .... unnecessary .... displaced .... without purpose.  Okay, we get the picture .... what else is there left? The physical part is easy to diagnose .... all you have to do is look in the mirror .... get a physical .... or some other diagnostic process and there you go .... you can take action. But what about this mental thing .... who can really get into your head and understand what that marvelous ultra controlling organ has planned for you? This part is difficult .... a lot more difficult than working out with a personal trainer. I don't have this completely fixed yet, but I am starting to listen to my inner thoughts .... counseling therapy helps .... but ultimately you have to allow time to redefine yourself and make something happen. I have always been a semi-positive person .... that means half the time I'm not, and that is the part that I have to live with the most. Before I became a teacher, I was a pretty good salesperson .... cars.... real estate .... time shares .... my dad's vegetables .... wait, that's another story for later! But relatively speaking, I was successful and I liked doing it. So here is the point to all of this, I had to think of what motivated me to put myself on the line everyday and earn a living. One was the need to eat .... but the big thing about sales was that when I sold, I felt good about myself. I proved to me that I could go into the game and win. I could be a Hero ! So there it is .... I need to do something that motivates me to see myself as a hero in my own eyes. This was going to be my toughest sales job ever .... my customer new all my tricks!

So Many Time, So Little Things!

Yes, you read that title right .... early retirement feels like that. Admittedly, recent developments have changed my slant on this phase. Follow me through on this .... I had just made the final decision to .... send in the paperwork .... and I was walking by the full length mirror in my cozy but crowded bedroom, and I noticed what I thought was another person standing there! Opps ..... that wasn't another person, it was more of me than I had noticed before. See .... I figure it was the fact that I was busy working .... and I hadn't paid much attention to what had become of me .... ALL OF ME! Here's the deal .... I'm retiring .... but I have let myself reach an unhealthy phisical state. If I was going to have a chance to survive this great new unknown challenge .... I needed to address this problem quickly. The first step I took was to purchase a brand new 21 speed .... wonderfully designed .... sexy Trek bicycle. This was going to be my method of attack on a body that had become bigger .... and close to replacing Pluto as a planet in our Solar System! Great idea .... great bike .... good start .... but more was needed. I needed someone to keep me focused and encourage me with a gentle nudge .... or more! Through the help of some friends, I found what was to be a perfect fit for my Oddesy. Unlike Homer's , I needed mine to work a lot faster. So I did what any good natured .... larger than life .... out of shape .... sixty year old retiree would do .... I hired a Personal Trainer! Yes .... I did it .... I signed up for a gym membership at Anytime Fitness, and secured my version of pain and agony in my very own personal trainer. It's what I needed and what has helped me progress through the early stages of retirement. It's working .... and it's hard .... but a 'journey of a thousand miles begins with a first step.' I'll share more in future posts about the highs and lows. Until then .... I'll be sweating it out!

Okay, This Feels More Like It!

Wow .... writing this page is starting to feel like a job!  But wait, that's a good thing, it's forcing me into Semi-Retirement .... and now I'm only bored half the time!  I must admit, that all the years I taught English Composition to my students, I didn't realize the pressure they were under .... especially with my imposed deadlines. I am now the victim of my own lesson plans. Okay, in my first post I mentioned that my retirement was unexpected, much like when you wake up one morning and realize that you forgot to buy tooth paste the night before, and you are now faced with the prospect of slithering through the day with your mouth closed so as not to offend too many people. See .... most people can relate to feelings they have for their job .... feelings i.e. .... I work too hard .... I do more than anyone else around here .... I wish I didn't have to go in today.... I could have been an athlete/politician/actor/ writer etc. ..... okay, you get the picture! But fact is, most of us are doing exactly what is right for us, and what we like. Basically, we're just complaining, mostly to ourselves. I know personally I said, "I can't wait to retire and get out of this rat race."....  and then it happens .... they make you an offer you can't refuse .... and just like Mario Puzo's novel, there are strings attached! These strings are emotional strings .... afraid to stay .... afraid to go .... 'Oh Rhett, what is a soul to do' ....  Margaret Mitchell made it clear in 'Gone With the Wind', you finally get to a point where you have to do something! Alright, you're starting to get my mind set at the initial point of retirement. The good thing was that I still had to work four months .... in a career that I  wanted and worked hard to get for nearly twenty-five years, and now I was about to walk away. Of course I rationalized it, that's what we humans do when we're unsure of things. I told myself that education wasn't what it used to be .... thank God it's not! .... and that I have done all I can, it's time to let someone younger shoulder the educational responsibilities to our youth. Politically correct words, but really not what I believed. But it was done and time to plan for the future .... 'these were going to be the first days of the rest of my life' .... and I was starting to look forward to those days! Now that you know some of the process I went through, my future posts will detail some of the early trials and tribulations of my Retirement!

Here We Go!

I have been thinking about this long and hard since that magical day first dawned its relatively insane option. That's right .... RETIREMENT! Wow, I thought .... one .... I would never make it to this point,  two .... when and if I did I'd worry about it then.  By worry about, I mean of course the financial part ....  I never thought about all that extra time I'd have once that day actually happened!  See the problem is that many of us go through life and only give lip service to retirement. Oh sure, it's part of that great "American Dream" .... get an education, end up with a great job, meet the girl of your dreams, marry, have 2.7 kids, a wonderful home, work until your 65, and then, .... now wait for it .... RETIRE! Problem is .... that happens to less than 10 percent of us. Most others experience the "D Words".... Debit, Divorce, and Death! Okay.... so far I've only gone through two, a couple of times! Now you have to be thinking .... 'wouldn't retirement maybe be a better solution?' You'd think, but a whole new set of unforeseen problems grip me like a pair of old rusty barbecue tongs, left in the elements to fend for themselves with no protection. Somehow they still work, but there never going be the same as when they were new, so maybe it's time for me to RETIRE them! ....  Here I am .... too old to be young .... too young to be old .... but, at least I've made it this far! The next great adventure has begun and where do I go from here, what do I do with all this time, how about the financial end, can I make it on this fixed amount? .... stay tuned and I'll keep you posted.