And I Found My Whip for the Apocalypse (If I Make It Far Enough to Experience It). I Will Call Her Octavia & We'll Leap Forward Until the End.

My full name is Cadence Sinclair Eastman. Actually, it's not, but I finished E. Lockhart's We Were Liars last night, and I'm glad I did (at the recommendation of Joanna MacKenzie). I did the audio book and it was engaging...so much so that I broke my rule of being outside in the world without headsets. In fact, as I fed Leo, Bev, Pam, and Shirley with grilled chicken, beans, Cole slaw, and sausage, I was Mickey Mouse. I wanted to finish because I was engaged. 

Not sure if I was enthralled (I'm really not one for stories of wealth and privilege, even if they are murderous), but as Joanna said, "The writing is good." It was. And I'm interested in the fact that I met the author first, before reading the book that put her on the map. I'm more intrigued in the mind of the individual who would write such a story...obviously well-educated, in proximity of old money, and in the know of power structures and how they operate. I'm also not a romance/love story reader, which Liars has, but I can say I didn't anticipate the narrative arc. I was surprised, if not frustrated. I think I'm perplexed at times -- not because of the good writing -- but why some books appeal to the masses in the ways that they do. I'm wondering if this is a story that appeals to adolescent girls and adult women, because it somehow hits all the societal expectations placed on them...if it is fantasy and desire...or if it is Bertha, the mad woman in the attic. Maybe it is all of that. I definitely picked up on the King Lear vibe, too. I'm also very interested in how its appeal resonates with urban readers who are often far removed from the privilege the characters live. 

Ah, but I found a frog car and want it to ride into the sunset at the end of the world. Maybe Nostradamus or Baba Vanga have crossed celestial predications of the future and we are living the insanity of how it all ends right now in 2025. Then I think about Chicken Little, each phase of my life, and how the sky always seems to be falling. There's always emergencies and panic and conspiracies and dire warnings. Perhaps a fear of the end is what drives us all.

In Connecticut, we have Chinese Lantern Flies not only taking over August with their checkered read and black wings, but their nymph-spider phase landing on everything. Invasive. Gross. Abundant. New. It didn't used to be this way.

Then I read an article about how fireflies are on their way out. Human chemicals have done too much for their habitats and they are not expected to survive as a species throughout my lifetime.  I like my fireflies, and I'm hoping this is not true and part of human paranoia because we're such a sick species. 

The recovering environmentalist knows that a removal of humanity is a saving grace for nature and the world....species beyond our barbaric ways. I suppose those of us in the humanities fool ourselves in believing that there's also good in human kind...I know that is true, but when the vicious and ugly hand over the narrative to Sauron and the orcs...well, I'm not optimistic on what comes from it all. I just know that my nature is more Charlie Bucket than Veruca Salt and her wealthy father. 

Ribbit Ribbit. Vroom Vroom. Blog Blog Blog. Write Write. Hope Hope. We will never know if the efforts we put forward in our time on earth will carry forward for the good of life and survival. Not when we have canines and a psyche with id, ego, and superego. Not when envy exists, power, and a battle for owning truth for the temporary gain of a few. 

And that's why I am glad I found a frog car online that I wish I could build for myself at the end of the world. 

70 Degree Nights, Fresh Air, A Wonderful Porch Couch, A Dog, and Listening to Audio Books While Thinking About the Universe. It's Simple Really

I've been distracted in almost all I've been doing the last few days because I've wanted to find ways to get back to E. Lockhart's Liars series. I'm late to the game, but with he right storytelling I can be lured into being auto-tuned (and obsessed) with not doing anything else but reading (or in this case, listening). I'm loving it, and after a morning of my own writing, an afternoon walking with a colleague and his 1 year old son, followed by a fish fry (which I should know better about eating), a night on the patio soaking in the luxury of good storytelling and comfortable temperatures is simply irreplaceable.

The Class of 2005 had their reunion yesterday and I loved all the photos sent my way and the connections made. They apparently played the video I made for them at the event, prompting all the correspondence (I sent to Jess and Jonica, who organized the event). It prompted a weekend of much reflection for me, the wonders of time and human growth, and the never-ending pursuit of making meaning from it.

Karal, the sidekick, loves when I lie on the couch, because that means she can lay on my chest and stare at me until she falls asleep (hence this Sunday photo).

We're expecting a beautiful day, and I imagine this might turn into a beach adventure (as such opportunities only come during part of the year). I'm promising myself that if I'm a good boy and get on top of the institute's game for the week (18-hours of straight instruction followed by 140-hours of literacy lab work), then I can afford a little time on the beach. I lost last night to storytelling and breathing in the rare cool, summer air that only occasionally comes through the windows in June. I love to soak it all up. 

Here's to doggier days of summer. I enjoy them more than most.

Low Key Friday Night, Spur of the Night Gatherings are the Best Part of the Summer Swing, Especially When Temperatures Cool

Pam pulled her family crew together for a hotdog, Brisket gathering and, after manning the grill, we had laughter with good food and company. It's been so hot that the majority of us have been hiding in our homes. The air was cool yesterday, so I was able to mow the lawn and get yard work done after a day of grant writing, revise and resubmits, and summer planning. 

Patrick & Stephanie's kids are getting so big, as are Kaitlyn's and Dominik's. Pam's puppy, Rico, in the mix, makes the occasion even more joyful (and Patrick and Steph brought Maude, who we all love - little rugrat that she is). 

They are calling for storms and rain this Saturday, so I'll likely hunker down and get more of the summer preparation in gear. Last night, however, it was about chasing the joy of kids, living life for their enthusiasm and curiosity, and making sure they don't make too much of a mess with all their playing.

Shirley is in town, and it's wonderful to have her back in CT after her retirement to Florida. Boy, is she tan...definitely embracing the life in hotter temperatures and the availability of pool side days.

And as I write I'm looking at all the bird poop stains on my windows and thinking I need to get out there with a hose. I'm not sure if they angle in to modernize the glass, but they sure to paint with precision. It's gross and needs to come down.

Ah, but I'm loving the house sparrows that have built a home in the frog birdhouse that Dr. Beth Boquet bought for me. I didn't think it would get inhabited, but there's a full family in there (now I just need to capture some pictures.

It Was One Thing To Celebrate My 20th High School Graduation, But to Be Invited to the Class of 2005's 20th...That Is Just Insane

I'm unable to travel to Louisville, although the reunion of the Class of 2005 offered a temptation. Their reunion is this weekend, but it's all the beginning of my busiest season, which says a lot because all seasons tend to be exceptionally busy.

I've spent the last week collecting thoughts to make a video for them, so I can be there in spirit and I realized something digitally interesting while doing this. I have photographs galore from 1995 - 2004, but such practice ended in 2005, when I started shooting video and not hoarding photographs from CVS print shop. I went from physical to digital, and I have very few memories of this time, having done all the work in mini-DV form (which I've yet to convert for this generation's way of consuming).

I was 38 for my 20th, which would be the age these kids are now. When I had them in school, I was 32 and 33 years old, younger than they are now. And yet, like all the classes, they trusted me as having something to offer them. 

This was also the largest crew I ever took to Denmark. It was a blast, with only a few incidences, and I miss the Nordic ways of my summers when we went there each year and in the Fall, when we hosted the Lille Skole's 10th grade class.

We can always say it was a different time then, and sadly almost all of the teachers I worked with overseas are no longer with us. The connection to that home away from home is still in my heart, but no longer a part of my routine. 

This is true of the Brown School, as well. Two years after they departed the corner of 1st and Muhammad Ali, I parted, too...for a doctorate. And in these twenty years since they were seniors in my care, much has changed not only for them, but for me. Everything Brown, however, stays to the core of who I am as an educator, philosopher, thinker, teacher, and human being. That school molded me into a better creature upon this planet...the kids, Martha Ellison's vision, my mentors Sue and Gay, and the incredible leadership of Ron Freeman. 

And I'm thinking a lot of things. I knew Laurie Wade because Jess (who graduated in 2005) was a student at the Brown School and she came to my nature camps when she was little. Laurie is the one who sent Sue to look for me at the Louisville Nature Center and, long story short, Sue took me under her English teaching wings and parented me as an educator, a 2nd mom, and a man in his 20s and 30s. 2005 is special, because Jess was in the class (and was on my volleyball team as well as in my classes before she graduated). 

Coincidences. That's the theme for my video I'm creating for their reunion. It was close to the time of I HEART HUCKABEES coming out and many of the film-loving students quickly noted there was a Sudanese actor in it. Well, that's Ger...and Ger became a brother during Covid. Go figure.

There's meaning in everything and meaning in nothing. It is what it is and for that, I am thankful.

Blink of an eye. Twenty Years Ago. Dang. 18 years since I left that scholastic utopia. Still know it was the best decision for me at the time, but PHEW...how luck am I that I had so many brilliant years with such a beautiful school. Dang. 

Waking Up To Say I Survived the First Heat-Wave of Summer, Make it Back to CT in One Piece, and Am Ready to Take on July with All I Got Left in Me

The trip back to CT started to see a dip in temperatures around Albany, only to resurface again once hitting Connecticut. It read about 102 the entire time afterwards. At 8 pm, it was still 92 degrees, and although I saw thunder bumpers building in all directions, they all went south and north from here. With highs in the 70s tomorrow, I know something needs to break the stagnant air. 

Maybe it just breaks. I don't know.

I finished The Brave by James Bird on the way back and am halfway through We Were Liars by E. Lockhart. Love the ways both writers write, although their styles are miles apart from one another. Different craft and remarkable talent, both. I told Chitunga I wanted to drive for four more hours to finish We Were Liars, but I figured out how to get my phone app to play on indoor speakers, so I can listen while I cook and clean most days.

The lawn needed mowing, but there was no way I was going to do that last night. I simply made a sandwich, remained in low-key mode, and decided not to sweat any of this out if I don't have to (although choosing NOT to walk Karal seems harsh...but it remained too hot for a dog walk, even for me and my Kentucky mindset). 

I also went to campus last night to get materials delivered so I would make use of the evening hours in preparation for the 158 hours in the month ahead...

...what I do for love...what I do for love...

Okay, back to my cerebral game...edits are all in, now for the play-by-play of five weeks of CWP traditions!

Once Again, Another Round of Amalfi Drive Comes to a Close and I Need to Return to Mt. Pleasant for the Insanity of July Programs.

Got some cooking done...some cleaning...some shopping...a lot of writing, planning, and organizing. There were the ridiculously hot walks, too, and a few good meals from the usual (and not as usual) places. Mom's Mother's Day clematis (dad has another word for it) is blooming still...30 years and counting, as that was a gift from my Kentucky days, when I started my hands at a green thumb. 

It will still hit 90 today, but I'm hoping the heat won't beat down on the car like the last few days. I just need to roll into Mount Pleasant and unpack all he materials that arrived to my office on campus for this summer's work.

I'm hoping to finish one book about two hours home, and start another right away, but curses on my 2014 Subaru not aligning with my updated iPhone. Frustrating, as I like to listen to my books louder than my phone will make it. Alas, I adapt. I have earphones, but I don't want to drive with them on, because I'd rather be fully alert. 

Had a brief encounter with Karl and another with Fred, but otherwise the day was rather still (like the air). Oh, and they put both hash and Manwich in the aisle next to tuna fish because, well, that makes absolutely no sense. I look everywhere until I finally yells, "I give up. Where would these items be?" I would never have guessed by the fish cans. Go figure. 

And I know my lawn will need mowing. It needed mowing the morning I left, but it was raining. But I will return to a clean home, and that is always nice...Won't be any Bucky hair either, because I vacuumed all that up before I departed. 

I'll be taking off in 3...2...1

Ladies & Gentlemen. Chubby's Has Reopened So My Father Could Have a Beer (Then I Took Him to The Waterfront for Dinner)

At 100 degrees, the hottest part of the day, my father decides to pull out his push lawnmower. I heard in stereo, "Go stop your father!" I did, but it cost me a drive to Chubby's because it reopened and he's been asking me to take him every day.

Dylan met us there, and convinced Papi he didn't want Val's chicken wings, but they should go out for fish, instead. As a surprise to both of us, he agreed, so we ended up ate The Waterfront where they got fish and I got mussels with angel hair pasta. Delicious. Impressed by the CNY ability to prepare the mussels.

It was definitely a hot one. I didn't walk Karal until the evening and spent most of the day editing three articles heading for review. So far, the feedback on all three has been great. Looking forward to getting them set free.

Also grilled mom scrambled eggs, as it was all she could stomach after a day of horrible stomach issue. I rarely make eggs because I associate them with the morning and I DON'T DO MORNINGS.

Spent the vast amount of the afternoon working on summer, CWP stuff only to be stopped over and over again with emails of people away for the summer or on vacation, or with messages saying the campus budget is frozen, as it is the end of the fiscal year. This always greets me with such happiness, as my summer work quadruples the amount I need support, but there's none to be had in the school where CWP is housed. 14 years of frustration and it is the same as it ever was...the only thing I've been able to fix is my attitude, but it seems absolutely insane that there isn't more concern for faculty and their programs.

Ah, stress is never worth it, especially when I see the good it brings teachers, young people, and the schools I continue to work with. I've learned to work around in order to have the work get done. And those I talk to listen, make promises, and then absolutely nothing happens. 

Ugh. It's simply maddening.

Father's Day Dinner a Week Later. Scallop Stuffed Baked Haddock at The Retreat with Alyssa (via Chitunga Who Is Elsewhere)

I don't think I've ever had a bad meal at The Retreat. I never ate there growing up, but had friends who worked at the restaurant in Liverpool. It's been a nice go-to location on visits back to Central New York. Chitunga sent Alyssa money to take me out for Father's Day so that is where we chose to go.

It was a hot one. I literally felt the humidity arrive about 30 minutes into our morning walk. Not sure I'll walk Karal again until this heat subsides. It's heavy. 

I will say I never thought about stuffing scallops into another fish (and I suppose it is gross when I think about it), but it was quite tasty. The rice I could have lived without and the salad was just okay. But the fish won the meal and the fact that we didn't break a sweat although we dined outside with the humidity. 

Thanks to Mike, I also got another night of ice cream. I will say that Plank Road far surpasses The Big Dip, but the Big Dip is such a North Syracuse classic, we had to have it at least once.

Karal's cousin time pooped her out rather hard, as she came back to mom and dad's simply to crash (although Dad thinks her leash create the fact that he couldn't get the garage door down) (I'm finding that one hard to believe, but I went with it). 

Alright...oppressive heat day #2 for today. Let's see what we can make of it. I have two of my writing projects down to the right word count...so that's good news...back at the editing today.

Chicken Thigh Barbecue, Roasted Vegetables, Fruit Salad, Taters, and an Evening on Amalfi Drive

Wonderful to have Abu, Lossine, and Delaney over for a later Saturday gathering after the twins got off of work. Had silence in the morning and got much editing done, then took dad to Price Chopper to stock up on all the things he said they needed (I talked him out of most items, because he really didn't need what he threw in the cart). All in all, the day wiped out Karal...so much stimulation with visits from Doreen, Brenda, and the twins. 

Also ran into Karen Perra on our walk. She was out garage sale shopping and honked me off the road. I told her it would have been nice if she had her nudist neighbors in the car, because I hear they're all the rage in Central New York...who doesn't want menopausal naked people living next door?

The real heat is supposed to arrive today, with all its misery and funk. Yesterday wasn't so bad; although it was hot, it was tolerable with low humidity. That changes for the next few days.

I'm trying to maintain my focus off the insanity of the nation and world, but it creeps in at all angles. 

Meanwhile, the world lost Kylene Beers yesterday and her ongoing battle with cancer. She was in recovery so we were all surprised by this news. I don't know I can name too many who have done as much for students and their reading, literacy, teacher professional development and advocacy, and believing in the power of education. My timelines blew up with the news, and it hit hard...I will process it in my own time, as her books remain central to many of my classes. 

Ah, but she modeled the best life. Believe in what you believe in, don't lose the focus, and go at it with all the power you have. It's a stomach punch, indeed, for many of us who cherished her insight and wisdom. 

Okay, Sunday. Let's go at it. 

Central New York Cousin Time. A Day of Writing, Cooking, Playing, Backyard Sprinting, and Pup Cups

It's finally the weekend, and probably the last day of breathable air. They're kicking up this heat as unbearable and without a pool to jump into, I'm likely to sit in my parents tub and pretend I'm going to a refreshing swim. I grilled kielbasa and burgers for them last night, then Mike and I treated ourselves to Plank Road for milkshakes and Panda Paws. Karal got her first treat, too, but didn't quite know what to make of it. I mean, all the people food she's been fed by the parents is just fine with her, but an ice cream cup with a biscuit throws her out of the element.

It's amazing how out of the shell Lucy has become from her timid, leave me alone days. She's all about being in the center of commotion now.

Dad's grill started right up without incident, and only needed a few layers of grime washed off since the last time I used it.

And I was good. I stopped at Price Chopper to get ice cream for mom and dad, knowing that if I picked it up at Plank Road, it would melt before it made it to them. 

Do I know my parents or do I know my parents? They got their treats in the end.

 

Never Made a Pie Before, but Decided I'd Start Trying While Visiting My Parents in Syracuse. Key Lime Pie it Was, with Yogurt Whipped Cream

I'd give myself a B+. Beth Boquet's was so miraculously good, that I don't imagine I'll ever match it. She was right...there are recipes galore online...it was finding the key lime juice that was difficult. In fact, all I could find was a bag of key limes and I had to squeeze 30 just to get a 1/2 cup of juice. It worked, though. Graham cracker crust. Yogurt, heavy cream, and maple syrup whipping for the top. Not quite an A, but I was close on my first try.

We had this after sliced pork, grilled Brussel sprouts, and a garlic butter tortellini dish with fresh parmesan. Not bad, and rather easy. It was a layered meal, and all that took time.

Cynde and I also assisted dad to the heart doctor, and after the PA scared them into the need of a pace maker, the pace maker surgeon's read was that a stint wouldn't help any and that he didn't think doing a procedure would do anything. The heart seems to be pumping fine on its own, even though it does take 3 second pauses from time to time (which is normal of 80-year olds). So, that scare quickly dissipated. 

Karal also got quality cousin time running out back, which they brought indoors when it started to rain. Temperatures are supposed to cool today, but then heat up to misery over the weekend...oppressive...repulsive...obnoxious. Oh, summer heat ways in the age of climate change. Joyful. The one thing I've learned from moving away from Kentucky, is that I don't miss those hot days. Yea, I was used to them while living there, but I much prefer the seasonal temperatures of the northeast. 

Okay, Friday. You've got some editing to do.

Travel Dog Pose and In Syracuse for the Weekend. Karal is Happiest When on the Road to Visit the Parental Units in Upstate New York

We said goodbye to Bucky yesterday afternoon, as Jay returned from Italy, wine, and pasta and was ready to have his pup back. That meant our last Stratford rendezvous occurred in the morning...then it was cleaning as I hate to come home to a dirty house and Bucky was a shedder...needed to get the hair up.

The trip up was uneventful, except for those going 35 mph in a two lane country road with no passing when the speed limit was 65. How one looks in the rearview mirror and doesn't see the hold up they are causing is beyond me. 

It was all good, though, as I had a book to listen to and the drive is rather beautiful. 

And now it's time for the remote wars and screaming over what it on t.v., who can hear what, and what will be chosen to view. Mom thinks she's clever telling Karal to go get her a nutty buddy, knowing full well that I'll be the one that does so. 

And with me comes high temperatures and nonstop rain. Glad to see ya, Syracuse. What's Central New York without a lot of moisture and icky air.

Okay, now to see which one of these people try to talk to me first. I hate mornings and I'm a grump. Just leave me alone. 

Wonderful Meeting with Coach Somera Yesterday on Campus, and Looking Forward to Another Year as the Volleyball Faculty Liaison

This Fall will be year 2 as a faculty liaison for the Fairfield University Women's Volleyball team, so Coach Somera and I met yesterday to discuss the transition of losing many seniors to welcoming a new team, who will be led by a roster of several members who have been on the championship team. It's always neat to get insight into the workings of an NCAA sport, especially in the summer, and to figure out a way that I'm able to contribute and help out. We're looking to Finding a Fairfield Story - Bravely Belonging. We shall see how our overarching approach works as she folds into another year with the traditions of a successful program. 

It was also cool, because the NCAA MAAC championship rings arrived while I was there and I got to see a real one in person. 

I also began laying out a plan for next Fall, as I'm returning to an 8 a.m. timeslot and hoping to work with a K-6 school in Stratford (but I'll only have incoming freshmen. Phew). Oi Vay. 

Today, I'll be hitting the road to Syracuse, but not until the afternoon when Jay comes by to pick up Bucky. He returned from Italy late last night and can't get to Stratford until after lunch around 1 p.m. - I hope to have the car packed up and ready to go by then. When I return from Syracuse it is full force crazy with CWP teacher institute and summer literacy labs. I'll be ordering and organizing during my short time visiting my parents, so I can come back and hit the road running.

Looks like fog, humidity, and rain for the drive this afternoon, followed by a very hot week (without the pool my parents used to have...sigh). 

It's all good. One day at a time. Doing what I can while I can.

There Are Perks for Being on the Metro North Path, as Trips to the Apple for Special Events Always Pays Off

I knew when Penguin Random House sent me an invite with E. Lockhart as a special guest that I'd call Joanna MacKenzie, she'd take a day off work, and we'd venture to the headquarters together. For many years, I've heard the numerous stories of her success teaching We Were Liars to her students at Warren Harding High School, an urban district. Told by supervisors that kids would jive with it, she's had only the opposite occur. THEY LOVE the writing of E. Lockhart. 

You can imagine the happiness created when I texted/emailed Joanna to say, "We're going." She's been such a great human being to my Connecticut world and our KY connection, the adopted kid connection (she was adopted), the needle sharp drive to work in particular settings where she is most needed, and her love of stories and overcoming have united us for several years.

That is why we deserved a Monday on Broadway at the Penguin Random House headquarters. I'm not sure if E. Lockhart has met uber-fans, but I know for a fact that Joanna must come close. The whole train ride in I received an earful of trivia, news, and rumors about the third book in the series, plus the new adapted version that premieres on Prime this Wednesday (trailer at the end). 

On the ride home, Joanna kept the autographed books close to her hear and is promising me that after her half day tomorrow she's reading the book then binge-watching the entire series. 

Truth is, I have all the books, but I haven't read them. I will say, however, that after E. Lockhart's talk in the Apple, and after seeing the trailer, I'm intrigued. Her brilliance, wit, and unusual way of seeing the world is right up my alley, so I now need to dig into older piles to bring the work up to newer piles for my summer reading. 

Kudos to the Penguin Random House team: the writers, the editors, the directors of education and outreach, and all the behind the scenes individuals that make the book experiences possible. 

Joanna's pure joy was worth every second of yesterday (and woot woot for the Fairfield University parking spaces available to faculty at the Fairfield train station. That was really convenient and easy).

The series might be one that my mom and I can get into over the next week.

Salmon, Cous Cous, Cucumber, Cole Slaw. It Was a Spur-of-the-Moment Father's Day Meal at the Grill, But It Worked

Fresh salmon is delicious, a little pricier, and worth the investment. bought a huge fish around lunch time and let it sit in garlic, soy sauce, fish spices, brown sugar, etc. to soak in some of the additional flavors. It came out nice, although my photo isn't the greatest.

Another wonderful day for writing, reading, walking the dogs, getting laundry done, and organizing today's trip into NYC for a Random Penguin House function at their headquarters. We will be E. Lockhart, a novelist that high school students love (and I'm brining her biggest teacher fan with me, so they can meet...sort of a gift to end her school year, because she's ga-ga about the writing and how her urban students love the work. I have to admit, I've never ready any of her books, but I can network, meet other writers, get copies of material not sent to me, and it will be a wonderful afternoon in the Apple.

I think it's been a short minute since I've ventured into the city. Covid sort of killed all that, because it helped me to realize, "Why would anyone want to live so on top of each other?" I much prefer the fresh air of the coastal towns...if I have to visit I can.

Leo and Bev brought cake and ice cream for the makeshift Father's Day event. That was a nice tough to finish out the evening...the weekend...the short spurt of writing performance I've been able to keep up with.

I'm up early to walk the dogs before we head to the trains. Ah...here's to an easy there and back. 

I Am Happy Simply to See That Last Year's Perennials Reseeded to Bring Forward Another Round of Blooms in Celebration of Yet Another Year

I love perennials. Not only the ones you divide and separate for additional locations, including those of neighbors yards, but for the seeds that drop and provide additional flowers a year later simply to celebrate the cyclical nature of life. I planted several variations of cosmos and although I harvest 1,000s of seeds to another year, the resurrection occurred simply from the ones I didn't harness, especially in locations that I've typically planted annuals. The onset of way too much rain has been kind to the Mt. Pleasant gardens.

Speaking of rain, we were forecasted to have 12 hours of liquid fall from Connecticut skies, although we've only had a few sprinkles on the Saturday that just was. Still, I used the gray (and cold) to work on writing projects that are in the making and eventually found time to get to a walk with the dogs and eventually a road trip to visit Pam, her grands, and the pupperdoodle that is getting his sea legs down on Walnut Beach.

I'm going to use this 2nd day of weekend gray to read, to reflect, and to continue the composing processes until I find the right time to get outdoors for another walk (who, by the way, is accompanied by two dogs that seem to live the leashed-life with the greatest joy - both loving the wandering and meandering through streets of Stratford...squirrels, birds, rabbits, other dogs, and scooter bikes as obvious distraction of canine distraction).

Ah, Fathers, here's to your day...here's the love the family, younger generations, and a dedication to man-up for parental responsibilities. 

May the day find everyone in peaceful contemplation and absolute joy of life's cycles and all their complications.

Culminating an Undergraduate/Graduate Student Teaching Run with Two Student Teaching Gems as They Wind Up Their Work

Kelly and Joanna were in an Extending Literacy course for grades 3-5 a few years ago, and stayed on to do their graduate student teaching in southern Connecticut schools. They said they wanted a dinner before they headed off into the great unknown, so I took them to Lil' Pub in Stratford on a beautiful June Friday before another rainy weekend arrives our way. We also played with the dogs on the back patio and talked about the experience, their hopes for the future, and the semester that just was. 

It was pure joy all the way around. 

During the day, Max and I finalized a writing project and send it out for journal review, and worked on his Newman Civic Award - also a wonderful reminder that I still do the work I set out to do. 

Delicious food, payback for all the mentors who took me under their wings as a beginning teachers, and a total investment into the future of K-12 teaching. The world is not like it was when I earned my certification, and definitely unlike the many years I had the privilege of being in public schools. Still, great minds and enormous hearts are drawn to the profession and young people will be in great hands with their care.

It is a calling and I'm so glad that I was once called to do the work, too. Even better is to pay the kindness forward in many of the ways that were once shown to me. A full circle evening, indeed.

But now for a wet Saturday and figuring out the next steps for CWP summer programs. You have to love those who teach. Angels and saints in a complicated, unpredictable world. The youth of tomorrow deserve such educators and I'm proud of them all.

Rolling Into Friday with Thoughts of a Pinker (Well, More Strawberry) Moon. Not Again Until 2043, Will It Be a Full Moon Again (I'm Thinking)

Waves. Tides. Internal clocks. Werewolves. Witches. Crandall. Love me a full moon, and Wednesday night's Strawberry moon was spectacular. Bev and Leo's son, Kai, got this photo from his location in Brooklyn overlooking NYC. So beautiful. And it had me singing Pink Moon by Nick Drake since yesterday...a theme song for when I was teaching in Kentucky....one of my favorite songs to play for students.

I'm still in a writing mode...probably because I'm in-between courses, summer programs, and I'm working on laying foundations for the year ahead, plus tightening writing on numerous writing projects from this year (it's called editing, revision, resubmitting, people). 

Yes, not sure what humans will end up doing to this great world, but I'm sticking with the artists, the writers, the youth, the teachers, and those who appreciate the diversity and joy of the world, locally, nationally, and globally. Not the greatest fan of our species, as douchebags will always be douchebags, and power will always be power. Still, on the ground and out of the spotlight are the music makers, dreamers, painters, sculptors, poets, and even historians trying to capture truth, including the good, the bad, and the heinous which exists ubiquitously right now. 

Ah, Pink Moons. Pink Pink Pink.

Always Happy to Grill for Colleagues on the Back Porch, Especially on Evenings of Clear Skies and Strawberry Moons

Bucky was the showman of the night, as he leapt into the laps of anyone who would have him, even those that wanted nothing to do with them (as those were victims of his humping, too. Good times! Such a good host, Crandall). We did wine, cheese, crackers, fruit, chicken, shrimp, mushrooms and asparagus. The highlight for me, however, was driving colleagues home (cars were in the shop) and happening upon the beautiful strawberry moon. It seemed to be a great ending to a wonderful evening of conversation, laughter, healing, and eating good food. 

I also have been on a decent writing kick, moving along with material in a way that seems logical and fluid, even if I knew/know the lawn should be mowed, there were stickers needing to be placed on more notebooks, and I should do my WB Mason order sooner than later.

"Wow. Karal is so calm with the other dog around," they say. Well, probably because Bucky takes all the adorable attention. He just wants some loving.

The best part about entertaining is that I now have leftovers, which is always a hit for the days after. That means no more cooking.

Today is wide open besides a recording of The Write Time at 7 p.m. and a meeting with a new 'writer's retreat' house in Lordship who would like to talk about collaborations. Shoot. If I can stay on the water to write for a while, I'm all in.

A good Wednesday overall. Garbage is out. Dinner was served. And now to tackle another day. 

And When He Returns from an Afternoon Walk, It Is Always Interesting to Process How Moments Lead to Moments (Symbolic...That's Your Call)

Humans aren't the only ones...with intestinal issues. Karallyne Karma Caramel Cupcake is shy with the way she goes about doing her business in the same ways most of us are. I've also contemplated what it must be like to be on a leash, walking, and having to carry about the day. She's a bit shy, and with a male dog, Bucky, at her side, she is more reluctant to do as a dog should do. Chitunga discovered it first. "She won't just go because she thinks she needs to keep moving." The result is usually a horse-esque trot of moving right along and plop, plop, plop, which makes for interesting dog-walker responsibility. She is too shy to stop and go, so she does...well, you know, on the go...go...go.

I was thinking about this when colleagues asked if I've seen the special issue in the Research of Teaching of English, that was dedicated to working with refugee-background youth. One of the articles written by Crystal Chen Lee and Jennifer C. Mann offered a critical-Ubuntu framework for empowering the beautiful young writers so many of us work with. Their article included the following paragraph which warmed my soul, as it is rewarding to see others working on doing better for young people in the world.

Student authors, particularly among the Black African refugee-background

youth, emphasized the theme of community and unity among them in the book.

In sharing and telling their stories, youth emphasized community and one’s own

humanity. This echoes the meaning behind Ubuntu, a Nguni Bantu term, which

has been linguistically rendered in most African languages (Mangena, 2023) and

which encapsulates a philosophical concept that emphasizes collective humanity

at its core (Crandall, 2016). Ubuntu emphasizes “the importance of a group or

community and it finds its clear expression in the Nguni/Ndebele phrase: umuntu

ngumuntu ngabantu, which when translated to Shona means munhu munhu

muvanhu (a person is a person through other persons)” (Mangena, 2023, p. 1).

Ubuntu focuses on “being self through others” and can sometimes be translated

as “I am because we are.” Ubuntu as an axiological framework for human rights

incorporates moral values and shapes the relationship between an individual and

their community (Mkabela, 2014). Noella, like many other authors, highlighted

the beauty of a collective multicultural and multilingual community that con-

tributes to the definition of “we” (Crandall, 2016): a whole self that is made up of

understanding and supporting others within their own refugee community.

Often, I go about doing my own business (trying my best) without realizing that what we put into the world, often gets picked up by others (and the Ubuntu philosophy I learned from my cousin, Mark, and his international work through sports and from the young people along the way that have graced me with their knowledge on why communities matter. An individual becomes an individual within the communities of others.

Yesterday was spent in the Center of Social Impact's Post Road site, discussing the Humanitarian Action minor and the Jesuit traditions of Fairfield University. I was there before the walk and the articles being sent to me. No, African refugee youth have been haulted with U.S. relocations services, but I can attest that their brilliance in our schools has always been educative, enlightening, inspiring, and humbling.

Yes, there is always going to be more work to be done, especially if we want to embrace the power of humanity and all that is possible. 

Happy Strawberry Moon!

Much Prefer David Sedaris's Plague of Tics than the Plague of Deer and Dog Tics Affecting the Northeast This Year

I'll never forget the first time I learned that tics were actually real. Yes, I knew stories of Lyme disease and heard about the abundance of the critters on Long Island, but never really experienced one until I moved to Kentucky. Actually, I experience a couple of dozen. I was biking on trails in and out of woods, only to return home to do sit ups (oh, the days of intentional exercise). I noticed all these black dots in between my thighs, and the closer I got to the groin, the more of them were there. I thought they were paint specks and first...but then had to go into total panic mode picking them off, one by one, for quite a while. I was skee'ved. Ick.

I don't have too many tick stories in Syracuse, but have seen more of them in southern Connecticut. This year, though, they're everywhere. All the local dog owners have been complaining and for the past month I've listened to Pam's daily complaints of the number of tics on Walnut Beach. I've pulled a few ticks off myself this year, and now I'm doing it daily on the dogs. 

It's gross. And when you start seeing them, you begin feeling them everywhere. You feel like they're all over your body. 

Of course, whenever I think of a Plague of Tics, I'm reminded of David Sedaris's essay of the same title (which you can listen to on This American Life - I remember reading it for the first time and laughing my ass off). Up until this current insect invasion, I've always associated ticks with his sense of humor and quirks, not blood-sucking bugs). 

I never made to campus yesterday because by the time I responded to emails and the ZOOM meetings ended, it was already 5 p.m. - hopefully I stop by today. I also looked up revolting plants for tics to plant in my yard so they stay away...I have lavender, mint, and marigolds. I now want to invest in lemon grass. 

Blech. They are nightmares, like mosquitoes. And scratching myself all over as I write this.

Seventeen Years Ago Today...I Know These Things Because I've Been Journaling Since I Was 18. Seventeen Years Ago I Was on a Biking Kick

In 2008, I moved from offline journals and books, to composing everyday online and digitally. My first year, I simply tried to get a paragraph summary every night, because I was in the doctoral program and writing for writing's sake wasn't in the cards. I was too busy writing to keep up. Ah, but 17 years ago today, I rode my bike from my little house on Eastman to Cynde's....spent time there, and then rode to my parent's house on the bike where Casey and the boys met me for pull time and we decided to get Chinese (guess who likely paid?). Hint: probably wasn't Casey, but she did drive me to pick up the order for my parents, and the entire time she kept bitching about all the cyclists on the road and how, "I wish I couldn't just run them over to get them out of the way." 

Needless to say, we got the food, likely Mom and Dad paid, we ate, and I rode my bike home hoping that a Casey-like phenomenon wasn't in the cars that sped close to my wheels. That's the power of journaling. You can remember the day to day moments that capture memory, history, and the way it once was.

That poor bike hasn't been out in years. Chitunga rode it for a long time, and then I got him another so we could ride together, but I much preferred running and never caught onto the calloused crotch phenomenon. Not my thing, although I love/loved the amount of territory you could cover. 

I made dinner for friends last night which turned into, "I'm hungover; I won't make it," and "my car broke down and I'm stuck in Hartford. I can't come," which is the way such things go, so I cooked anyways and brought it to Pam's to eat with Rico Suave Dorado and her. Their loss. Made surf and turf with steak and shrimp. Pam made potatoes and asparagus. 

The friends and I will try again on Wednesday.

Seventeen years ago, I was also 36, younger than Kaitlin, Patrick, and Rhiannon, and just a couple of years older than where Abu, Lossine, Edem, Akech, and Kanyea are now. Perspective is wild.

I was thinking about this, too, when Kwame swung through town and I was sharing specific memories of where we both were at that time and he's like, "Dude. How do you remember all this? I go blank." 

I guess it's because I capture the day...the moments...as they happen, and on nights like last night, when plans don't go as they were planned, you start reading memory lane and think, "Hmmmm, I wonder who I was on this day when I was in the doctoral program and first starting blogging at the request of my students." 

Well, I was a bike rider then, looking out for aggravated, anti-cycling drivers like my younger sister, I guess.

Introducing Rico Suáve Dorada Kelly...Mayor of Walnut Beach in Traning and Newest Member of the Southern Connecticut Crazy

Don't worry. He's not mine, but Pam took on a new pup much sooner than we all expected. Crazy to think that you get a text message, "He's in my home," and you stop everything to bring over an armful of presents and gifts. He's a low-key puppy, all white with gold trim on his ears, back, and tail (hence the Dorada in his name). Pam says she kept the name he came with because that way she could sing Copacabana to him. Of course, then I had Alexa play Rico Suave, and the names started sticking.

It was also Dominik's 41st birthday, so we headed up to Ansonia with the puppy to add to the crazy of a newborn, a 4 month old, a 2 year old, and soon to be 3 year old, and relatives from Poland in town from England for a visit. Pouring rain mean we all were int he same two rooms and nothing can match the shrill of screaming cousins excited to see each other and to have everything go their way. The dazzle of a new puppy last .5 seconds. The dog had it right...he found another room where it was quiet, jumped up on a chair, and fell asleep. 

My own dog and her visiting pal had me up at 6 a.m. as they decided I'd be best for their downward dog poses as they woke up...one across my legs and the other my chest.

We got out long hike in the morning (when it was still humid) and the rain followed soon after. It was good, though, because it kept me trapped for a morning of writing. I felt like I got som work done.

Today, the weather is supposed to part and I believe I'll be cooking for friends in the evening (what? still to decide). I told Pam, though, that it makes it hard not to want to be at her place for total puppy time....the days where they play until they collapsed to the side snoring....just go go go and zonk. plop. ZZZZZZ. It's hilarious, especially with their pot bellies and puppy breath. 

And I should probably go a grocery store. I hate them, but I need to prep.

I'm Riding June Karal Style. It Was an Executive Decision in Preparation of July/August Crazy. If You Can Nap. Nap. Let There Be Rest

I haven't had a June off ever. I always said a summer school or taught over sees or picked up a graduate course or two. Ah, but my contract doesn't require it, there's no need to bring in extra income, and I simply wanted to focus on the house, slowing down, and rest. I've been good at thus far, although it's tricky for me. I mean, I fell asleep on my couch porch while reading in the afternoon and woke up with both dogs lying on me...one at my feet and the other at my head. 

I also caught Karal sleeping in this position today, and had to snap a photo. Looks comfortable. Get the ZZZZ's where you can (Bucky is getting them, snoring, and he falls back to sleep on my lap. He has a cut on his eye, which I'm sure came form many of the wrestling matches Karal and him have had. I don't think I've had a snoring dog before...he actually fell asleep when I left Pam's after dinner...I wanted her to meet him before her new puppy arrives tomorrow.

I also visited with Jessica B. for a while and delivered more gifts for the twins, Elijah and Aliyah. They've gotten so big but aren't into posting photos online (which I think is a smart decision). Little Jess and Little Will they are. And they're huge. They already stretch half the size of Jessica, and they are in the chunky leg portion of their development. So many adorable rolls. 

Forecast is for rain today, so we'll see if they are correct. We got a great hike in yesterday, but the humidity soaked us to the bone. I know some of June is the forecast for July and August, and it should turn back to cooler temperature without humidity soon, I hope. I do like a few decent summer days without feeling like you're living in a swamp. 

Happy Saturday. Hoping for more rest.

Ah, Finally Finished Installing a Christmas Present from Chitunga and Lys. I Am Happy with the Kindness & Perfect Gift

Chitunga and Lys got me outdoor lights for the holidays, and a double bourbon dispenser to pour mint juleps at Derby. I put the lights away until the weather was nicer, and when Tunga was home last night, we pulled them out to see what was needed (it was still cold). When he arrived this time, we went to town, but we really needed two more light poles, so he ventured back to Iowa and I awaited them to come. 

The 88-degree temperatures yesterday made it seem a week bit icky, but they dropped at dusk, so I installed the new poles that arrived in the mail, and finished stringing the lights. Whethne, next door, yelled over the fence, "You're giving my wife ideas. She's asked for lights, too."

I always love the holidays because I can look at my tree for hours. I'm much calmer around those times, so I knew I'd like the outdoor lights for spring, summer, and fall evenings. I'd love to have a better way to turn them on and off, but they're easy enough to plug in, so I'll be alright.

Also had lunch with a colleague who retired 10 years ago. She also did her doctorate at Syracuse and we always shared Central New York connections. She was one of the only true intellects in our school and I hated to see her leave, because with her went so much integrity, expertise, history, and dedication. As we spoke and caught up, I was happy to see how she severed the insanity of doing the work and simply rolled into retirement with grace...making art, spending time with grandkids, and traveling. She was interested in the gossip (tea) of changes since she left, but I could tell she realized the disconnections were too many and it was hard for her to comprehend what has happened since she left.

I'm channeling her professionalism, however, as she always maintained grace and expertise in what she did. She saw the nasty stuff that comes with a department in higher education, but she didn't let her crush her (yeah, maybe an earlier than expected retirement), but she chose to go out with dignity (a trait she retains today). 

Temperatures shall drop back to more June-like this week, as this brief two-days of July/August were simply a hint and the sweaty, humid mess to come (oh, I know it could be worse...I lived in the Midwest and have taught in the South. I'm a San Diego temperature guy...just give me high 70s with no humidity...why all these other variations?

Why Yes. Why Wouldn't I Be Able To Share Your Lap with Ms. Karallyne? I Mean, I Am a House Guest for Two Weeks, After All.

Yesterday began dog-sitting adventure #2, which I knew would follow the cousin-dog romp over the weekend. To be honest, I think Karal simply wants a few days to sleep with no interruptions. That won't happen, because Bucky has arrived and he brings a tremendous amount of canine joy with him. His own, Jay, dropped him off as he takes a few weeks in Italy for self-care (his wife, Jolie, passed this year...so young...so beautiful...so good for the world). It's been a rough time and Bucky was central to their romance and healing. Now it's time for Jay to heal on his now for a few weeks.

Karal and Bucky have had a few squabbles, because they both operate at high energies (and with teeth to get one's attention). They are learning to cohabitate, although sharing my lap has been quite a challenge. There's not enough room. The good news is they walk EXTREMELY well on leashes and had zero issues. They glide at the same pace and with ease (which is good, because they will be walking a lot).

I was on campus most of the morning before Bucky arrived, getting things ready for CWP's summer programs, but I'll likely work from home the remainder of the week. It's going to get summerly hot, so I'd rather not bother with office space (yes, there is winter and summer now....very little in-between).

I need to work on grant reports, grant applications, and summer logistics, as it's all coming at me quickly.

On a wonderful note, CWP learned it received $190,500 in support from the State for the next two years. Storrs and Fairfield are extremely happy to carry forward the work of the National Writing Project for another two years!

Okay. Time to get going....

The Secret of LaGuardia Airport Drop Off is to Have a 7 a.m. Departure Time. Leaving Before 5 a.m. Means Less Traffic

Technically, we're 49 miles from LaGuardia Airport but given I-95 or Merritt Traffic, that can usually be 2 to 3 hours of driving. When Chitunga said he had a 7 a.m. departure, I first thought about getting him a hotel or sending him on the Metro with a transfer in Harlem. The last thing I want to do during the work week is sit in NYC traffic. Ah, but I'm not teaching, we had a spectacular week together, and what's a 4 a.m. wake-up time? 

It worked. It took about 55 minutes to get there and 52 minutes to return. That never happens. And when I dropped him off at 6 a.m., I was thankful I was leaving the city and not coming in. Phew. The traffic was already piling up. 

It is, though, always a nerve-wracking ordeal, as you hope your map apps are giving you the right direction. Going in, he insisted on driving, so I simply guided the journey. Coming out, I depended on the audio in my car to get me in the right directions. It's only a couple of roads, but those roads are intense...always...accept at the earlier hours...you set where the Mets play and you're about there. CITI Field says you've made it. 

I got home and started my workday and by 8:30 I looked up and thought, "Phew...you got so much done and it's not even 9 a.m." I worked, walked Karal, worked some more, and then finally updated my iPhone which needed to be traded in...it's been a minute. Ah, this meant most of the evening was spent updating Apps, remembering passwords, resetting them, and getting frustrated until all smoothed out to be parallel to the older phone. 

All good now, but I sure needed a good night's sleep. I was exhausted, and today I welcome Bucky the dog for two weeks. I imagine quite a wild ruckus of play for 14 days! It will be good for Karal (as they are about the same size and build).

Love the photo of the drop off I found online. Pfffft. Picture that with 100s of cars honking and security guards screaming at you. People triple parking and blocking everyone in. Everyone trying to push against you to get closer to the terminal. It's so much fun. 

But Chitunga made it home. All is well now. He was in Iowa by 11 a.m.. Wild. 

Bringing the Beaches of Amagansett to the Bathrooms of Mount Pleasant - The Shells Match Perfectly with the Landscape of Refurbished Rooms

I believe I'm ending my out-to-dinner posts, although I could most definitely do one from last night, as I had seafood from La Catrina Taqueria last night to celebrate Father and Son Day (officially June 2). Bev, Leo, and Pam joined us for the occasion. I went in early yesterday and had good tidings with the English Department, and then went to Canisius where the noise from construction and the complaints from the few faculty who were present basically made me want to swim across the Sound and return to Amagansett. I'm going to try my very best to keep the clown show out of my inner circle. Not my sea lions...not my circus.

Chitunga and I also hung his Christmas gift to me - outdoor lights - along the back patio and over the tables. I'm looking forward to putting them to use, as I love being outside in the evenings, especially at times when the mosquitos aren't in action (which is now and later, September). Great gift. I'm impressed by his bravery to climb heights and to balance...Mark was good for him.

I also brought back several sea shells from Mark's and my trip to the North Shore Bay. I knew they'd look good with the octopus painting above the toile (but would also look good with the shell paintings upstairs). I strategically located them after we hung the lights and had dinner with our friends (yes, I stayed with the seafood theme and had shrimp, mussels, and clams I think I may have a new addiction). 

We're up and at it early this morning, having filled the gas tank last night. He needs to be at Laguardia by 5:30 a.m., so we'll be hitting I-95 quite early. He says, "Oh, but I can sleep the whole way home." I'm like, "But I can't. I have to drive back to Connecticut."

Wish me luck, as everyone and all who know me realize how miserable I am in the morning. I'm afraid to do coffee, because the last thing I want to do is have to take a dump in NYC traffic. 

We got this. 

What a beautiful week it has been. 

Back in Stratford and a Celebration of Father & Son Day...Adoption Day June 2. We Got Good Food at the Whiskey Barrel

Yes, it was a spare of the moment visit and trip to Long Island, but it was a rejuvenating and refreshing adventure. I think we both needed it, and I need to cut away the red meat. After a week of eating fish, I felt great, but returning to a burger and fries...not so much. Blech. Would rather fell refreshed and energized as I wake up each day. 

The trip home was beautiful, as the sky formation was wild, and Karal did remarkable on the ferry, even as other dogs walked by. She seemed to be calm in between Chitunga and me, and content with the ocean waves and cool breezes. Chitunga insisted on driving,. which I'm 100% okay with. I like to be a passenger in my own car.

The last hours of Amagansett were a riot, as Mark had a 15-year old wild hair that he needed to see fulfilled, which mean putting up an artistic basketball net on a tree out front of his house, made from a 200 year old tree. He knew he'd likely get in trouble for it eventually, but convinced Chitunga and me that we needed to live the apparatus into the Sycamore out front of his house. We did this without arrest, but I await what his towns people will say to him in the weeks ahead. Only time will tell.

I plan on depositing all the photographs on Facebook so I can get them off my laptop, but I honestly can say the last week has been a much needed break from the hustle and bustled of 14-hour day insanity. It was nice to get away and to simply live for the moment, good company, and excellent food. 

We both have to face the demons this morning and return to the grind, but I can say we had a blast together over the last few days, and Karal enjoyed herself even more than the two of us. 

Hotel Amagansett never fails. We are fortunate. 

Here's to you, son. Hard to believe so many years have already flown by.

Three Cheers for Spur-of-the-Moment Getaways! We'll Be Departing Amagansett Today, But We Made the Best of the Time While We Had It

You can't go wrong with beaches, hiking, trees, waves, and fall-like temperatures. We lucked out with the wash-out they predicted, and even if it was windy and cold, yesterday turned out quite beautiful. We traveled to the north shore and collected amazing shells. Aunt Sue, Uncle Milford, and I went to hear author Jeffrey Sussman read from his latest book, Backbeat Gangsters, at the Amagansett Library. We walked the dogs all over town, and at night Chitunga and I treated the crew fish dinners that we brought to Holly Lane.

Delicious. We've achieved our fish-fiesta objective and ate very well.

We don't have to catch the ferry back to New London until later in the afternoon, and hope to do a little exploring on Shelter Island (in spaces that are dog friendly).

Then Monday will be upon us and we'll have to return to the workweek and professional responsibilities. 

I seriously used this time to slow down, enjoy the moment, look all around, and appreciate the beauty that is there. Always happy to bring CNY and Connecticut with me when I arrive, knowing the opportunities for such time is limited. 

Here's to the road...to time together...to bridging family and stories and memories at every chance we can get.