Why Do I Hate Group Projects?

This is another blog entry that has no easy answer. I am not a fan of group projects. In a few cases,  I have been the one doing all the work and conversely, there was an instance where I was the one being the trouble maker. Yes, I was the troublemaker because I was going through a phase. However, in more cases, I believe that I did my fair share and of course, there were the few instances where I did more than my share. I always want good grades/evaluation so I will push and get my work done. I'm not afraid of a challenge and I will do my best to get the job done.

I see my children  having group projects this school year and it is frustrating. I tell them to show leadership and ensure that all the students have a part to play. I know how it is in college and on the job with these types of stresses - so imagine a nine or eleven year old. Of course, I'm fearful for them because I don't like the fact that another student's performance could impact my children's grades.

Mind you, I do love the collaborative aspect because it helps to build teamwork and leadership skills. So I'm not knocking it completely. I think it's probably a bit too much one time. I guess if I had one child, it wouldn't bother me as much. All I can do is assist with research and ideas, and pray that all will go well.

Ribbon

What to Do When There's No Electricity

To be honest, I don't have a right answer. When the power is out, if you live in breezy areas like me, you can sleep, cook, take a walk or wonder why you didn't charge the phone! If you have a vehicle, take a drive down the road and see what's up.  Yesterday, I cleaned windows and screens, and mopped the porch. Today, I rested.

The one thing that we all love to do is get on the phone and call the power company. If it had gone until 12pm, I would call because the power was also out at my children's school. Lunch time - no microwave - not good.

However, as we think about the lack of power, tv, internet etc, maybe the time should be spent reflecting on improvements for the future. Literally do some housework or organization or meditate on your next move. What can I do differently as a person, as a parent, as a student, as an employee and as a supervisor? How can I impact the world? I wear many hats and this demands that I be organized. How can I better take car of my health?

Sometimes, we get so caught into technology, we forget to live and relax. So, firstly, plan and organize yourself. Get up in the morning and get ready. Iron your clothes in advance. We just have to aim at being more prepared - in mind, body and soul - for work and for life.

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POEM: Managing the Challenges

Challenges are inevitable

but remember those moments

that are memorable

because they may be linked

to some unforgettable

challenge that opened our eyes

or brought some big surprise

that completely changed our lives

maybe not for the better

but God know best

and with every test

we become not less

but impressive

as our life resumé

expands and improves

so take each day in pace

because no one knows

what is next to be faced

sometimes we lose our grace

and may even feel disgraced

but rise up and rise above and 

take every step with love

Ribbon

The Holiday Eating and Heading to 2016

I made a statement yesterday that this is the worst time of the year for eating. It's the time when we overeat on the foods that we should have in small portions. It's the time of the ham and baked goodies - which are all so delicious. Of course, everyone wants to share their goodies with you too. It's hard to have in moderation when there is so much temptation.

This  blog post is not to give a solution to the problem but instead to remind us to try to be moderate around these times. I am trying to stick things in the freezer for future use and this works out sometimes. I am trying to eat more fruits and vegetables and cut down on the starches. We all have to do what we have to do to preserve our health.

Try your best in small steps to ensure that you keep you and your family healthy during the holidays and all year round.

Be good and safe as we approach 2016. We know not what lies ahead but have faith, be courageous and focused.  Do the best you can at all times.

Ribbon

An SMH Moment

I posted on my Facebook page that I may be naive when it comes to people's behaviors. I guess we tend to get comfortable and suddenly, there's some action that causes a knee jerk reaction. It's a life lesson that can burn the soul. Sometimes when I hear people say certain things, I get so angry and disgusted.

Then... there it comes - SMH and SNB - should've known better. However, I persevere because although, I express anger (verbally or non-verbally), I'll do the same thing the next time...but with a twist.

For now, I'm still shaking my head and I'll be doing that for some time.

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Following the Good Examples

We like to make statements like "do you and I'll do me". However, I'm one who thinks that we should emulate positive behaviors. There's a lot of negative around us but for sure there's a lot of positive too. Instead of focusing on what's sad, lame or gossip, we can make good people / good behaviors a role model for us.

Of course, I can't be exactly like you, but if you are a part of a non-profit group - then I can donate my time, funds or ideas to that group or another. If I see my neighbor making an addition to his/her home, I don't have to be jealous. Instead, I can congratulate them on the move. If your neighbor in church can tithe in the thousands and you can only give pennies, give what you can and pray that it helps someone or builds the church's mission.

Following good examples is not complicated. Just do what you know is right!

Ribbon

Christmas 2015

It's the holiday season! Matter of fact, it's Christmas Day. We have so much to be thankful for, despite what our circumstances might be. Face it, not everyone is not going to be rich and there always will be some who  are broke. We just have to make the best of our circumstances. Share what you can afford. This tends to be the season when we get lavish and want to give perfect gifts. I am thankful for everything that I have received because I can see it all came from the heart. I try to teach my children that they should share and give to others.

Adults are funny. We complain about everything and are usually not willing to try or give things a chance. I like the opportunity to share something with persons in need and wish more people would be like that. Not everyone feels this way and it get's difficult dealing with these situations in a group setting.

However, don't let other's behaviors dampen your spirit. There are non-profit organizations, elderly homes and needy families that you can give to. Do what you can to help others.

Ribbon