half full or half empty?

On a day when Manitoba has another 84 positive tests for COVID-19 I'm alternately overwhelmed by the news and saddened by an announcement the virus has claimed more lives. I'm also looking forward to a weekend that is framed by being thankful. 

While the pandemic has negatively impacted many traditions and celebrations over the last few months, there is sill so much to be thankful for.  I've not written a list, but I do start each day reminding myself of what I have in my life that brings me peace, joy, contentment and for which I am truly grateful.  Some days it might be my health and that I have purposeful work.  On others it might be for a really great podcast, book, or movie.  On the weekends it is usually related to an awesome bottle of wine, a new trail explored, needed human connection, or some items removed from the 'to do' list. 

Today I am happy that I can sit in the sun that is coming through window and work happily and productively, that I can see endless blue sky, and that there is cheesecake in the fridge.

Have a great weekend. Hang out with the folks that make you smile and laugh and feel good about yourself.  Cultivate kindness.  

When asked if my cup is half full or half empty my only response is that I am thankful I have a cup.  Source unknown.

It's October 1st.

It's October 1st.  Back-to-school 2020 is in the rearview mirror ish.   One month in and buses are running, learning is happening, and the rhythm of the year is almost (almost) predictable in pace, process, and practice.  Yes, there have been bumps, some tough conversations, and hard decisions.  Anyone who thought it would be smooth sailing is delusional.  The collective efforts of many to ensure student success is evident in so many ways.  It's about respectful conversations, being open to hearing you need to do better, celebrating even the small victories, and staying connected and engaged as a community.

It's October 1st. Yesterday was Orange Shirt Day- a time for all of us to pause and reflect on the unkindness's the human race still inflicts on its own.....on the cruelty, injustice, and complete lack of civility we bear witness to every. single. day.  It's also about steps of progress, acts of genuine kindness, and movements that call all of us to action in ways large and small. 

It's October 1st.   30 days until Halloween.  85 to  Christmas.  153 until my birthday (thought I'd sneak that in).  169 until the first day of spring.  

It's October 1st.  International Coffee Day and International Day for the Elderly.  Tomorrow is looking good too-  World Farm Animals Day and Custodial Worker Day (which, if you are a custodian in a school, should be every day IMHO).  

It's October 1st and that means wishing Jimmy Carter and Julie Andrews a happy birthday!!  Happy anniversary to Yosemite National Park which was established on this day in 1890. It's the day in 1932 that Babe Ruth pointed to center-field before hitting a home run and the day in 1962 when Barbra Streisand signed her first recording contract. 

It was on this day in 1986 when Robert Munsch published 'Love You Forever'.

It's October 1st. Be kind to yourself and to others. Revel in small joys and serendipitous findings.  Embrace the LOLs and tell someone how much you appreciate them.  

It's October 1st.