Sadie's Gathering

A Little Dab of This & A Little Dash of That

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

What You CAN do This Holiday Season...



     *This was originally posted in 2015 for Thanksgiving.  Those days were filled with the "fun" of getting kids to school, on time, keeping them in a good mood, free of drama, (any parent of school age kids, knows what I'm talking about); my car not starting, thanks to evolutionary savvy squirrels; and more.  This year, my car of 21 years, quit.  Oh vell.  As I know, when you're having a tough day, wait for just a bit, and you'll see others having so much worse.  So, while we get through tough times, and the craziness this year's entailed,  I hope you enjoy this post and pass it on, because of the message.  Plus if you're a snow lover like me, I hope the fun picture above brings a smile.  'Cause many will not get a white Christmas!  
     Also, ladies, please check out and consider submitting to The Sadie Project!  We'd love to hear your story!
     Now, to the original~

     Just a thought, inspired by the cast of Sesame Street's performance on the Macy's Parade today.  They did a fun song, I'm not sure of the title, (searched extensively for a video of it), but a reoccurring line was, "I'm growing kinder everyday."  So... that got me thinking...

     Money may be tight, or even if it's overflowing, here's a suggestion that I am also going to try for this holiday season.

     Speak sincerely, kindly, to "EVERYONE YOU MEET", and if you can add a smile, all the better.  You may give someone the gift of HOPE, and that is a powerful thing.

Sunday, December 3, 2023

From 40 Years Ago! My Remake of "'Twas The Night Before Christmas"!!!

 

All those years ago...😉

I wrote this in the spring of 1983-9th grade, last year of Jackson Junior High; aka Freshman Year, when I was 15.  I was a Pin Pal~ supporter for the Generals Wrestling Team of  1982-1983, Jackson Jr. High, in Vienna, WV. 


I just recently found this in a box with lots of letters, photos, and other fun items of the past.  Brings back great memories, that make me smile and laugh.

Hope it does the same for you!



’TWAS THE DAY OF THE TOURNAMENTS

                                                                                             By: Susan Lowe


’Twas the day of the tournaments

When all through the school

The students were psyched

For their wrestlers were cool.


The wrestlers were trained

By Coach Rexroad with care

And they knew that tonight

They’d have nothing to fear. 


The wrestlers they sat

In the classes they dread

While visions of victory

Danced in their head. 


When over the intercom 

There arose such a clatter

The teachers all jumped,

The papers all scattered.


“Attention all teachers

“and all students too,

“Tournaments tonight

“And we’re gonna need you!

“The Pin Pals will be there

“to cheer the guys through-

“But we’ll need the school’s spirit

‘So you be there too.

“Beat Falcons, beat Eagles;

“Whip Bobcats and Wildcats;

“Pin Panthers, pin Devils

“And down Yellowjackets.


Then they heard the announcer say,

As it said with all might,

“Good luck to all wrestlers

“And to all a good fight.”



I read this on the intercom in Evelyne Moore’s office. Ms. Moore was a school counselor, and I was an assistant along with Kim Goodwin, Angie Emerick and Scott Adams. 


If you enjoy and donate even $1~ I'd be ever so grateful!  

As you can see, it's been over 40 years that I've been writing... 

Happy Holidays!!!

Friday, November 24, 2023

Technology vs. Me...

Porcupine in a Balloon Factory ©SJaye 2013, This post 


     As you no doubt know by now, I go NUTS dealing with technology.  

     I even fail to see the benefit of having a huge television.  Yet, having to own the latest phone where you can watch the exact same thing, on a teensy-weensy screen... AIE AIE AIE.

     I constantly misdial, mistype, or somehow, get to some unintended person or screen, only to let rip a stream of obscenities~ you probably will not see here.

     In fact, it is quite common for my husband to walk into a room, only to hear me swearing at an inanimate object, that he doesn't bat an eye; he knows better than to laugh.
 
     I often say, "for every thing that technology helps; is causes another 2 headaches."

     There have been many medical advances, as well as other types of progress, that without technology, would only be a dream.  I know that.  That is why I strive with the finesse of a porcupine in a balloon factory to learn and keep up with the latest kryptonite. 

     Writing this blog has been quite an adventure for a non-techie like me.  I have a Mac computer with a big ol' monitor that is larger than our family television.  Boggling I know, that we only have one tv. However it suits us.  I love my Mac, and since beginning to spend more time on it during the last year, I have begun to understand what all the hubbub is about.  Still, there are times that I still roll my eyes.

     If you read my post, The Perks of Being Fired, you'll recognize this picture:

Yes, I modeled for this.


     While I know this contraption is used in many fields, and different professions; I am not a fan.  I understand fully the need for it if you are protecting the President or another person of equal stature.  
     I also get it, that it helps when communicating across a large area, such as a restaurant, sports arena, or stage.   However, in these scenarios, where it's not a matter of national security; I think it's important to realize the impression the wired ear pods give, to what are paying guests/customers.  Those are who keeps businesses in business. 
     I humbly suggest to think long and hard, about WHO REALLY NEEDS TO BE WIRED?

     There are public service announcements, that are showing with more frequency, about the loss of loved ones due to texting while driving.  Pretty sure it's illegal now in most places.  Still, it's unnerving how many drivers, I witness doing exactly that; not to mention how many who are obviously "on a call", while driving.  Either that, or there's a lot more talking to one's self going on these days.

     Think about all the ways technology has affected us.

     I grew up in a time, when one learned how read body language.  When conversing, looking someone in the eye was a sign of respect.  With people looking constantly at screens of one kind or another, looking someone in the eye today, makes people uncomfortable.  
     Last weekend, while dining with a friend at a nice local restaurant, the what I presume was the manager stopped by to check on us.  After the initial "good evening," his eyes scanned the room instead of meeting with either of ours, for the remainder of the query.  My friend had sent her entree back, and when he stopped we assumed it was due to that, but then he didn't mention it or ask about it.   My friend, (who's in sales) and I got a kick out of it.  I think we could have told him Martians had landed, and he would have given us the same slick, rehearsed spiel.
      Dating has changed as well.  Gone are the days of the "smolder" or "look of longing".  Now,  after finding each other through a site, be it Hot Singles, Match.com, or Christian Mingle, I would be surprised if the two individuals in question actually found time to have an actual conversation amid the "tweeting" about the possibilities of their date; who they googled extensively prior to the date to find out all pertinent info.

     On the matter of technology that's less obviously "wired"- remember the good ol' days when you decided when you were finished on the pottie?  In the attempt of saving water, most public places now have toilets that flush automatically ... still figuring out what the "cue" is.  
     Then you move on to washing your hands.  There are times I swear, there must be a hidden camera complete with an audience laughing uproariously as I try to find one spigot that will bestow water onto my hands, as well as anticipate what direction the automatic soap dispenser will spurt.  Finally, drying your hands: the new dryers- you might as well wipe your hands on a piece of clothing (I suggest your own); or if it is working- be sure to hold on to your hat.  Checking the mirror before you leave the restroom might be wise as well.
   
     Keeping this topical, where would some politicians be without technology?  On one hand, (naughty, naughty) without it they may have kept their fantasy lives "closer to the vest".   On the other hand, (I admit, I am smirking as I write this) since they are endowed with technology, it's not in the same realm in my opinion, as other polititians who've committed various acts (and what variety!) mano a mano, or au naturel; so to speak.

    Going forward, this old fashioned porcupine will try to walk the fine line/tight rope between being digitally literate, and overwired.  However there are some of the old customs that I hope remain, so I vow to continue-   
     When I meet someone new, look them in the eye, and smile.  If the mood strikes, shake hands.
     Enjoy and engage in actual conversation.
     Remember how fun it is to laugh with another human being.
     Because no matter how advanced technology gets, it will never satisfy all the senses.  

     Lastly I will still read,  books.  I love the smell, the history, the je n'sais quoi...  that jumps out from my 1911 edition of J.M. Barrie's,  Peter and Wendy.  It's old, heavy, and lovely.  No Nook, nor Kindle, nor whatevah, can hold a candle to that.  And I also love the smell of a wood burning fireplace; no flippa switch for me, thank you.

    


This post was originally published on 7/31/2013!  Ten years ago, yet I still get miffed by technology.
I have a new post coming that will air my thoughts on AI 😉

If you enjoy my blog and donate $, I'd be ever so grateful! 

Happy Holidays! 







Wednesday, November 22, 2023

Thankful!



     What I'm thankful for... by no means conclusive... which I'm also thankful for; that this list is ever growing.

     My family, past, present & future; my friends, past present & future; my jobs that have added countless good times, and friends including the love of my life! Please know there is no order to these! I am also so incredibly thankful to have one of my dearest friends of 30+ years; who, when I was venting about the woe of losing a job, told me to get off my butt, and start writing!  Since creating and starting Sadie's Gathering, I have had amazing online connections with people from around the world, whom otherwise we'd never have had our paths cross!

I wish for all, joy, compassion, understanding and love.



Have a safe, fun, and wonderful Thanksgiving.

Sunday, November 19, 2023

History Be ...¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Danged

Cartoon by Davis Jaye Contact: davisjaye@aol.com


     What prompted me to start this post was learning about the Ludlow Massacre on UpWorthy.

     Now, granted, it's been several years since I have had a history class.  Even longer for a class on American History.  Thinking back, I believe I was in 8th grade when I first experienced an American History class.  Given that I met my now best bud of 30+ years there... don't think we paid much attention honestly.  So, it is possible I missed that chapter, or have just forgotten in my old age.  Don't remember a whole lot being taught about the Suffragette Movement, or the people that called this land mass their own before the French, or Christoper Columbus showed up, and got a little confused.


     If we are to know and to understand history, in order to avoid repeating our mistakes, wouldn't it be best to pull up the carpet, and know the whole history?  Or is that really even possible? 
PLEASE CLICK ON TITLE TO SEE ENTIRE POST...

Thursday, November 9, 2023

The Man Has A Point

from Internet
     Probably doesn't come as a shock that I'm a fan of Bill Maher.  This post was written 11/9/2015; and along with so many other points I hear Bill Maher make-> If we were to ever sit down, doubt if we'd agree on everything; I'll admit there are times when he says something that seems crass or just out there... but then after I think about it for a bit, I'll be damned- he's gotta point. So, reposting this post, 8 years later.
¯\_(ツ)_/¯