This is the first time I've joined an internet forum, and I feel quite nervous. However, you people seem to be so friendly and easy-going I don't suppose it would be the end of the world if I posted in the wrong place or whatever other mistake I might make. All guidance will be received with thanks.
I've just started a habit calendar. It's to help me to get into the habit of dealing regularly with the bits of paper that accumulate. I seem to have a real resistance to sorting them out even though it's in my own best interest to do so. I want to sit at my desk each day and do at least one thing.
I'm picturing each task as a glass paperweight ( hard and heavy but with a most beautiful core of colour and light). My doing whatever needs to done transforms it into a perfect paper aeroplane floating off to wherever it needs to go. It carries the colour and light with it - but there's plenty left for me to enjoy in all the remaining paperweights (tasks).
Setting up the calendar and posting this counts as today's transformation, but I feel so encouraged that I think I'll do something else!
Savena's "paperweights_paperplanes" check-in
Moderators: Soprano, automatedeating
Savena's "paperweights_paperplanes" check-in
Last edited by Savena on Tue Sep 25, 2007 5:37 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Thanks Reinhard. Lovely to get a reply.
It's Saturday today so it feels as though it should be an off -duty day. We're off to the theatre tonight (to see the musical "42nd Street" - I wonder if there is anyone from New York in this forum). This morning I found a "just right" birthday card for a friend, and am counting sitting at my desk to address and stamp it as today's transformation from a paper weight to a paper plane. (This one should really lift off because it's got twinkly balloons on it!) Sounds so trivial - but I missed sending an anniversary card last month (lost in the pile) and I was so sorry. Also, just to come into this room and feel happy doing something is a break through.
It's Saturday today so it feels as though it should be an off -duty day. We're off to the theatre tonight (to see the musical "42nd Street" - I wonder if there is anyone from New York in this forum). This morning I found a "just right" birthday card for a friend, and am counting sitting at my desk to address and stamp it as today's transformation from a paper weight to a paper plane. (This one should really lift off because it's got twinkly balloons on it!) Sounds so trivial - but I missed sending an anniversary card last month (lost in the pile) and I was so sorry. Also, just to come into this room and feel happy doing something is a break through.
Today's piece of paper - a flyer advertising an exhibition at the Millenium Gallery in the city centre.
"Fashion & Fancy Dress - One family. Six generations of women. Sixty fabulous frocks".
It emerged from the pile yesterday having been there since the beginning of June. Today was the final day. I went. It was interesting and fun.
So was town. Pleasantly lively. There was a farmer's market I didn't know about (therefore venison sausages for our evening meal), as well as some good street music and an open day at the (Victorian Gothic) town hall. The weather was kind and the roads were quiet so the (electric) bike ride there and back was a pleasure too.
If it hadn't been for the "paper-weight, paper-plane" game I would have missed out on the exhibition and a very happy afternoon.
I'm surprised to find that this project isn't simply about filing and checking bank statements etc. That was my assumption. Maybe it was mistaken. Maybe this is one of those times when "I had plans for life but life has plans for me - and maybe they're better! "
"Fashion & Fancy Dress - One family. Six generations of women. Sixty fabulous frocks".
It emerged from the pile yesterday having been there since the beginning of June. Today was the final day. I went. It was interesting and fun.
So was town. Pleasantly lively. There was a farmer's market I didn't know about (therefore venison sausages for our evening meal), as well as some good street music and an open day at the (Victorian Gothic) town hall. The weather was kind and the roads were quiet so the (electric) bike ride there and back was a pleasure too.
If it hadn't been for the "paper-weight, paper-plane" game I would have missed out on the exhibition and a very happy afternoon.
I'm surprised to find that this project isn't simply about filing and checking bank statements etc. That was my assumption. Maybe it was mistaken. Maybe this is one of those times when "I had plans for life but life has plans for me - and maybe they're better! "
Today's paperweight was a list of errands to be done in town - bits of business such as paying a cheque into my account. They've been accumulating for weeks, and worrying away at the back of my my mind. It feels really good to have sent them flying on their way.
Also I found some green gloves - fine soft leather, silk-lined, buttoned close and high over the wrist. Beautiful and just the right price for me. I lost my elegant going-out gloves when I was mugged earlier this year. (They were in the bag that was stolen.) So I was particularly pleased to find some that are even better.
Also, a second paper plane is it's way. I've booked for the matinee of a new play put on by a new theatre company - Sheffield Theatre Company - which is to be "a home for actors, writers and directors who live in Sheffield". (We were given a leaflet when we went the theatre last Saturday.) They'll be performing in smaller venues but our main theatres - the Crucible and the Lyceum - have been very supportive. The initiative comes from someone who has wanted to do this for some time and, having inherited "a little bit of money" from his mother, has decided to use it to get this project off the ground. I think it's a really worthwhile endeavour and I want to support it.
When I started this project I thought I would be desk-bound, just pen pushing, but I seem to be taking off too. I'm getting out and about more than I've done in a while. I'm glad about that.
Also I found some green gloves - fine soft leather, silk-lined, buttoned close and high over the wrist. Beautiful and just the right price for me. I lost my elegant going-out gloves when I was mugged earlier this year. (They were in the bag that was stolen.) So I was particularly pleased to find some that are even better.
Also, a second paper plane is it's way. I've booked for the matinee of a new play put on by a new theatre company - Sheffield Theatre Company - which is to be "a home for actors, writers and directors who live in Sheffield". (We were given a leaflet when we went the theatre last Saturday.) They'll be performing in smaller venues but our main theatres - the Crucible and the Lyceum - have been very supportive. The initiative comes from someone who has wanted to do this for some time and, having inherited "a little bit of money" from his mother, has decided to use it to get this project off the ground. I think it's a really worthwhile endeavour and I want to support it.
When I started this project I thought I would be desk-bound, just pen pushing, but I seem to be taking off too. I'm getting out and about more than I've done in a while. I'm glad about that.
Two paperplanes on their way today. I've just finished letters to my son and to a friend. Quite time consuming but very pleasant, especially as it has turned a lot colder and I was cosy while writing. I've been a poor correspondent for a while and it felt good to spend time with/for people I care about. However, I mustn't get over-enthusiastic because of my paperweight/paperplane project. I find it quite scary when people reply too quickly. Hard to keep up with them.
Even though I've effected two tranformations today I know I can't carry one forward to tomorrow. It's simply yes or no each day. This is not about achievement but about forming a habit. So far so good.
This is an add-on. Buoyed up by my success I found the courage to check both bank statement and credit card statement. No intention of going into detail here but very pleased and proud that I tackled these.
I can't believe the difference the HabitCal and Daily Check in have made. It seems to have removed a real mental block. Also, I get a real sense of companionship and support even though I don't suppose anyone has the slightest interest in my posts.
Even though I've effected two tranformations today I know I can't carry one forward to tomorrow. It's simply yes or no each day. This is not about achievement but about forming a habit. So far so good.
This is an add-on. Buoyed up by my success I found the courage to check both bank statement and credit card statement. No intention of going into detail here but very pleased and proud that I tackled these.
I can't believe the difference the HabitCal and Daily Check in have made. It seems to have removed a real mental block. Also, I get a real sense of companionship and support even though I don't suppose anyone has the slightest interest in my posts.
I've claimed today as a"yes" day, but I think I'm being generous with myself - and why not? It's been a really busy day, it's 11pm and this is the first time I've had for myself. I used my bank card this morning. Instead of putting the slip in the "to be sorted" (goodness knows when) heap, I've put it on a clip marked "payment due", which is now hanging from a hook in clear sight. If I keep doing this I might avoid one bit of the avoidence I'm caught up in!
Another "yes!". Sorted two items of financial stuff. I don't understand why I have been finding it so difficult to deal with this aspect of things. It's not so bad when I face it. In fact, I've just received a small refund so it can be really rewarding. I've been wondering whether to make Saturday and Sunday exempt days (as with the S Diet), but I'm beginning to enjoy this. It's a good feeling.
Yes. A tiny thing again, but I keep reminding myself, it's not about achievement, it's about building the habit.
Some time ago I decided to always use re-chargeable batteries and this has now become habitual. However our batteries vary and different ones need different length of charge. The instructions on the charger are in such tiny print that I've needed the magnifying glass each time I used it. Each time I've been irritated. This afternoon I learned how to use my scanner to enlarge stuff and I've enlarged the instructions. I feel very pleased.
A little while ago I heard someone on the radio who wasn't impressed by the stress reliever techniques that are so popular. He suggested that the next time you felt "wound up" you should walk round your home 'til you found something that had been getting on your nerves (not a person!) and do something about it immediately. He promised you'd feel better! I feel better for having fixed this and even if I didn't it would still be fixed. Which is good.
In browsing this site I've seen that Rheinhard and his wife have a second child. I don't yet know how, or where, to post my congratulations so I just want to say here that I am really happy to hear this good news.
I also saw that Reinhard's book can be pre-ordered on Amazon and I was glad about that too. I do feel that this site is inspirational and that this is because he is one of those genuine, generous, rare people who can inspire others. His book will be another means to communicate his ideas and enthusiasm. I will certainly put my name down for a copy. That can be my paperweight/paperplane job for tomorrow. It counts because I've written a reminder to myself. Rather than lose it in "the pile" it's stuck on the mirror.
Tomorrow it will fly!
Some time ago I decided to always use re-chargeable batteries and this has now become habitual. However our batteries vary and different ones need different length of charge. The instructions on the charger are in such tiny print that I've needed the magnifying glass each time I used it. Each time I've been irritated. This afternoon I learned how to use my scanner to enlarge stuff and I've enlarged the instructions. I feel very pleased.
A little while ago I heard someone on the radio who wasn't impressed by the stress reliever techniques that are so popular. He suggested that the next time you felt "wound up" you should walk round your home 'til you found something that had been getting on your nerves (not a person!) and do something about it immediately. He promised you'd feel better! I feel better for having fixed this and even if I didn't it would still be fixed. Which is good.
In browsing this site I've seen that Rheinhard and his wife have a second child. I don't yet know how, or where, to post my congratulations so I just want to say here that I am really happy to hear this good news.
I also saw that Reinhard's book can be pre-ordered on Amazon and I was glad about that too. I do feel that this site is inspirational and that this is because he is one of those genuine, generous, rare people who can inspire others. His book will be another means to communicate his ideas and enthusiasm. I will certainly put my name down for a copy. That can be my paperweight/paperplane job for tomorrow. It counts because I've written a reminder to myself. Rather than lose it in "the pile" it's stuck on the mirror.
Tomorrow it will fly!
Tried to pre-order Reinhard's book, but couldn't find a way to do this on the UK site. (I went to Amazon from Everyday Systems.) I've put it on my wish list, so this plane has set off on its long journey. It's not going to land until March 2008 when the book is published. I wonder if it seems a long journey to the authors.
Also, seem to have lost September on my HabitCal and haven't yet worked out how to get it back. Come back, my pretty green squares! I miss you!
I'm going to e mail Reinhard now instead of writing myself a reminder to add to "the pile". Since I made this comittment to reduce it I am extremely reluctant to add to it so more things are getting dealt with immediately. Feels good.
Also, seem to have lost September on my HabitCal and haven't yet worked out how to get it back. Come back, my pretty green squares! I miss you!
I'm going to e mail Reinhard now instead of writing myself a reminder to add to "the pile". Since I made this comittment to reduce it I am extremely reluctant to add to it so more things are getting dealt with immediately. Feels good.
Yes! A shopping day today - mail-order or on-line - but its moved all the catalogues and reminders out of "the pile". I went through this site to Amazon UK and am hoping that this will bring a tiny tiny contribution to the maintenance of this site. I've bought True Blues Rubber gloves, 2 DVDs ("The Draughtsman's Apprentice" which is a gift and "Into Great Silence" for me), 2 umbrellas guaranteed not to turn inside out in the wind, a battery tester so I can check whether batteries need charging, and shirts for my husband. Only the gloves and CD's from Amazon,I'm afraid. I was amazed to see on a link from EverydaySystems that they sell bread, so maybe they would have had the other stuff too. I'll write a reminder to find out. (Whoops, that's added to "the pile".) I've so much to learn! But I did know already that this sort of bread is excellent. It's my first choice.
I've also been trying to understand the difference between naturally occuring transfats and those that are industrially produced in in hydrogenated oil. I'd written myself a reminder to do this so that counts as a plane on it's way. There'll be another too, because I now need to find out from the producer of Pura Buttery Light Touch whether the trans fats in it are natural or industrial. The email on their website doesn't work so I will write a letter. I do hope they're natural because it's delicious, really useful and has an excellent nuitritional profile. I haven't touched it for ages, even though there's only a tiny amount of trans fat. I just can't fancy the artificial stuff any more.
Also I've gone through "the pile", sorted it into folders, and topped it off with an A4 sheet with a post it note for each folder's "next action". These weights have not yet flown but at least they're ready for take off!
I've also been trying to understand the difference between naturally occuring transfats and those that are industrially produced in in hydrogenated oil. I'd written myself a reminder to do this so that counts as a plane on it's way. There'll be another too, because I now need to find out from the producer of Pura Buttery Light Touch whether the trans fats in it are natural or industrial. The email on their website doesn't work so I will write a letter. I do hope they're natural because it's delicious, really useful and has an excellent nuitritional profile. I haven't touched it for ages, even though there's only a tiny amount of trans fat. I just can't fancy the artificial stuff any more.
Also I've gone through "the pile", sorted it into folders, and topped it off with an A4 sheet with a post it note for each folder's "next action". These weights have not yet flown but at least they're ready for take off!
Just about made it today. Done a bit of filing. I have this habit of clipping useful stuff from the newspaper - e.g. recipes, places to visit, computer advice etc. It then sits about in heaps all over the place. The recipes are not cooked because I can't locate them, I don't go anywhere ditto and the computer remains unbacked up. Those on my desk are now sorted into folders and the other piles from elsewhere in the house are gathered into a box to be gone through as and when. I'd probably be better chucking them, but we've cut down on the newspapers - we've been taking too much time over them - and I feel better knowing I have my "archive". I had loads of time today but I came across a note of a web site that shows the public health grades of all the eating places in the city. I've gone through them all. My goodness, what a shock! Some of my favourite places don't do very well at all and neither do some quite prestigious establishments! I'm not sure it was a good idea to look but it was compulsive viewing. Mind you, many of the "best" were places such as McDonalds. My two favourites don't compare with them, thank goodness. Not nearly as plastic. So that's where my afternoon went.
Last edited by Savena on Thu Oct 04, 2007 9:26 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Today the sun shone and it was warm. A lovely day. I did the essentials and then sat in the garden and read the paper. I suppose it flew into the re-cycling when I'd finished but I think it would be stretching the metaphor too far to count it as a conversion from a weight to a plane. However, I did manage to avoid clipping any articles. The archive is big enough and, thanks to being a little more aware, it didn't get any bigger today. I had intended to write to Pura (re trans fats), but we've been asked not to post anything for at least a week because there's a strike. I took that as a message to have a day off! I've enjoyed it.
Another 'Yes!". Booked for Martin Simpson (brilliant guitarist) and Roy Bailey (his father-in-law - folksinger/songwriter, local, very intelligent/challenging, very good) at the Crucible Studio tomorrow night. It's part of the Sheffield "Music in the Round" season). I'd crawl over broken glass to get there, but I don't think that will be necessary. There is a bus from the bottom of the hill. (I live at the top. It's steep.)
Also, apropos of an article in the local weekly newspaper saying that Sheffield has been allocated a large sum of money from central government to upgrade the street lights, I contacted the responsible council department for re-assurance that the design of any new lamps would cut down on light pollution i.e.be hooded. I went up and up the hierarchy (all credit to the staff for progressing my call in this way) before I got to the top and found someone who knew what I was on about. Yes! Yes! Yes! Apparently, any leakage of above 10% into the night sky is now deemed unacceptable and is illegal. Brilliant - or should I say "dazzling darkness" in this case? The night sky is so beautiful. I've heard there are youngsters in cities now who've never seen the stars. This morning's sky was wonderful; to the west a deep deep blue lit by the morning star and the moon on its back, to the east the horizon flamed by the rising sun.
Also I contacted our travel agent because we go on holiday a week on Monday and the postal strike will prevent our receiving necessary documents. They've e-mailed them. Isn't science wonderful?
Also, apropos of an article in the local weekly newspaper saying that Sheffield has been allocated a large sum of money from central government to upgrade the street lights, I contacted the responsible council department for re-assurance that the design of any new lamps would cut down on light pollution i.e.be hooded. I went up and up the hierarchy (all credit to the staff for progressing my call in this way) before I got to the top and found someone who knew what I was on about. Yes! Yes! Yes! Apparently, any leakage of above 10% into the night sky is now deemed unacceptable and is illegal. Brilliant - or should I say "dazzling darkness" in this case? The night sky is so beautiful. I've heard there are youngsters in cities now who've never seen the stars. This morning's sky was wonderful; to the west a deep deep blue lit by the morning star and the moon on its back, to the east the horizon flamed by the rising sun.
Also I contacted our travel agent because we go on holiday a week on Monday and the postal strike will prevent our receiving necessary documents. They've e-mailed them. Isn't science wonderful?
I've decided today is an exempt day. It's Saturday, I've had a happy and productive day pottering round the kitchen and catching up with my radio programmes. I really do appreciate the BBC's "Listen Again". It's marvellous to be able to listen to what I want when I want (so long as it was broadcast in the previous 7 days) via my laptop. I have wireless headphones which makes it even easier to listen while I work.
The concert was a bit patchy but worth going just to hear Martin Simpson do "Little Musgrave" live. On the way home there was an unpleasant incident while I was waiting at the bus stop. A big man, obviously troubled and very drunk, hammering on the glass,, shouting, abusive. I was a few inches away on the other side. I just turned and walked briskly to the cafe across the square. I went back after a while and was told that he'd caused bother on a bus that had pulled in, and then continued down the road, knocking a man down in front of the Town Hall. I felt quite rattled even though there was no real harm done and none to me. Earlier this year I was mugged (my bag stolen and I was hurt) . That was after we'd been to a concert in Liverpool. This was the first time I've been out at night on my own since then. I feel shaken and disappointed.
I had intended to do at least one little thing on the paperweight/paper plane project when I got in but, in the circumstances, felt my time was better spent comfort eating (a good vegetable & bean soup with walnut bread) and listening to the CD I'd brought home with me. All three were excellent.
The concert was a bit patchy but worth going just to hear Martin Simpson do "Little Musgrave" live. On the way home there was an unpleasant incident while I was waiting at the bus stop. A big man, obviously troubled and very drunk, hammering on the glass,, shouting, abusive. I was a few inches away on the other side. I just turned and walked briskly to the cafe across the square. I went back after a while and was told that he'd caused bother on a bus that had pulled in, and then continued down the road, knocking a man down in front of the Town Hall. I felt quite rattled even though there was no real harm done and none to me. Earlier this year I was mugged (my bag stolen and I was hurt) . That was after we'd been to a concert in Liverpool. This was the first time I've been out at night on my own since then. I feel shaken and disappointed.
I had intended to do at least one little thing on the paperweight/paper plane project when I got in but, in the circumstances, felt my time was better spent comfort eating (a good vegetable & bean soup with walnut bread) and listening to the CD I'd brought home with me. All three were excellent.
Yes. Today's paper weight: the set-up instructions for a Bluetooth computer mouse. It's been in "the Pile" for over a year. I tried to get it going in March 2006, had problems and put it to one side to "sort out later". Well, "later" arrived today. Still as dead as a doornail and I know I'd trouble-shooted it every which way. Still assumed it must be me missing something simple - until I googled its name +problem and discovered it was me and a million other people. That mouse is now flying (does that mean it's a bat?, no, it's a plane etc.) It's on its way to the tip which has a special section for recycling electrics.
If I'd got round to this earlier I would have been able to return it and get my money back. Oh well - education doesn't come cheap. Another lesson learned and I'm glad that it's not hanging about any more.
If I'd got round to this earlier I would have been able to return it and get my money back. Oh well - education doesn't come cheap. Another lesson learned and I'm glad that it's not hanging about any more.
Another "Yes". Been grinding my (blue)teeth over a set of instructions again. Yesterday I was defeated by a blue toothed mouse. Today I 've triumphed over a bluetooth headset. As I write this Art Tatum's "Blue Skies" is dancing in my head. Just how I feel! As usual, they only told half the story about the setup process. Nothing about the "configure" bit which was located somewhere else (and where I couldn't tell you even though it was only a few minutes ago.) Why do they do this? It might be obvious to them but it isn't to a great many of us. The only good thing about it is that you feel like Einstein when you do manage to get something to work. And the instruction are now out of "the Pile" and in the file.
Yes! and this is the 21st day. A review of the Hbait-Cal shows one day a "No", another exempt, and the remaining nineteen a "yes". I believe Reinhard would say that I'm well on the way to building a habit and it feels as though he'd be right.
So what does the last three weeks look like? For a start it doesn't seem like three weeks. It's just flown (like the paper-planes). I thought that dealing with "the Pile" would be boring but it has been both challenging and interesting.
I hadn't realised that bits of paper are a major way of connecting with the world. I suppose that in not dealing with them I was hiding from the world. (The words "ostrich-head-sand" spring to mind.) Well, there's no harm in that at times. The world is often too much with us and I've reached a stage in life where retirement and sanctuary are both a pleasure and an entitlement.
But the fact that I maintain "the Pile" indicates that I am interested. If I wasn't I'd just put stuff in the bin and not write all these reminders to myself. So what have I learned? Perhaps to exercise a little more care on what I choose to follow up, and to deal at once with obligations, both to other people and to myself e.g. financial. Doing both has really taken a weight off my shoulders. I've felt a lot easier in my mind, and less queasy in the pit of my stomach.
My husband is away at the moment and I've been focused on my own stuff today. Wearing really comfy clothes and no make-up always indicates serious committment! I couldn't say exactly what I've done. I've worked my way through the various questions arising (all on little notes in "the Pile") from bringing the laptop into play. For instance I've just started using iTunes (what a wonderful thing) and I need to keep my music files on an external hard disc. When I started I didn't even know if this was a possibility. Now I know what to do. I also know what I need to do to digitise audio tape. These things are so simple for those who know but they're really hard for me and I feel quite proud of myself.
This room is really pleasant now. There's still a pile, but it's organised and labelled and listed and it doesn't frighten me any more. There's nothing that won't wait it's turn, and everything is my choice. It's not on the desk. The desk is clear of everything except the current job and the tools I need to do it. (Oh - and the old audio leads I've been scrambling through to see if I'd got anything useful. Nobody's perfect!)
I wonder how long this will last?
I think I'll continue the check in to see if it does.
So what does the last three weeks look like? For a start it doesn't seem like three weeks. It's just flown (like the paper-planes). I thought that dealing with "the Pile" would be boring but it has been both challenging and interesting.
I hadn't realised that bits of paper are a major way of connecting with the world. I suppose that in not dealing with them I was hiding from the world. (The words "ostrich-head-sand" spring to mind.) Well, there's no harm in that at times. The world is often too much with us and I've reached a stage in life where retirement and sanctuary are both a pleasure and an entitlement.
But the fact that I maintain "the Pile" indicates that I am interested. If I wasn't I'd just put stuff in the bin and not write all these reminders to myself. So what have I learned? Perhaps to exercise a little more care on what I choose to follow up, and to deal at once with obligations, both to other people and to myself e.g. financial. Doing both has really taken a weight off my shoulders. I've felt a lot easier in my mind, and less queasy in the pit of my stomach.
My husband is away at the moment and I've been focused on my own stuff today. Wearing really comfy clothes and no make-up always indicates serious committment! I couldn't say exactly what I've done. I've worked my way through the various questions arising (all on little notes in "the Pile") from bringing the laptop into play. For instance I've just started using iTunes (what a wonderful thing) and I need to keep my music files on an external hard disc. When I started I didn't even know if this was a possibility. Now I know what to do. I also know what I need to do to digitise audio tape. These things are so simple for those who know but they're really hard for me and I feel quite proud of myself.
This room is really pleasant now. There's still a pile, but it's organised and labelled and listed and it doesn't frighten me any more. There's nothing that won't wait it's turn, and everything is my choice. It's not on the desk. The desk is clear of everything except the current job and the tools I need to do it. (Oh - and the old audio leads I've been scrambling through to see if I'd got anything useful. Nobody's perfect!)
I wonder how long this will last?
I think I'll continue the check in to see if it does.
Yes. I think the habit must be taking root. Giving myself a "yes" feels pretty routine - and that, surely, is what this is about. My bank statement arrived this morning. It was checked and filed in a couple of minutes. No big deal. It used to be.
I'm more interested in an unexpected result of the `Habit Cal and Check In. Now I'm back in this room and feeling OK about it, I've begun getting back in touch with the various projects I started a good while ago. For instance, a lot of my files were left on the old iMac which used OS9. When I moved over to this lovely laptop (which is so fast and uses OSX) they simply remained there - for years. I've now transferred them.
It's weird. Like being introduced to myself. A lot is irrelevant now. I can see how a lot of things I worried about have sorted themselves out. I feel very grateful. It's lovely to be able to trash those files.
On the other hand, some stuff is very interesting, including reference material for something that I believe is worth writing up.
I'm also involved in finding out about backing my computer stuff up. Once again, I'm sure it will be simple when I know how, but at the moment it's quite a challenge deciding what my needs are and what I need to do meet them. I'm amazed to discover that I find this sort of thing fascinating!
On a less theoretical level, I've rigged a platform for my laptop so that ithe screen is raised. In conjuction with the bluetooth keyboard I can now use it for sustained periods without it being a terrible pain in the neck. Literally. The platform isn't very high tech - an upside-down paper tray with non-slip fabric stitched onto its bar feet. Thank goodness for the old craft skills. No needle and thread function even on a Mac!
I'm more interested in an unexpected result of the `Habit Cal and Check In. Now I'm back in this room and feeling OK about it, I've begun getting back in touch with the various projects I started a good while ago. For instance, a lot of my files were left on the old iMac which used OS9. When I moved over to this lovely laptop (which is so fast and uses OSX) they simply remained there - for years. I've now transferred them.
It's weird. Like being introduced to myself. A lot is irrelevant now. I can see how a lot of things I worried about have sorted themselves out. I feel very grateful. It's lovely to be able to trash those files.
On the other hand, some stuff is very interesting, including reference material for something that I believe is worth writing up.
I'm also involved in finding out about backing my computer stuff up. Once again, I'm sure it will be simple when I know how, but at the moment it's quite a challenge deciding what my needs are and what I need to do meet them. I'm amazed to discover that I find this sort of thing fascinating!
On a less theoretical level, I've rigged a platform for my laptop so that ithe screen is raised. In conjuction with the bluetooth keyboard I can now use it for sustained periods without it being a terrible pain in the neck. Literally. The platform isn't very high tech - an upside-down paper tray with non-slip fabric stitched onto its bar feet. Thank goodness for the old craft skills. No needle and thread function even on a Mac!
Yes. It's been a veritable snow storm of paper planes from this desk today today. They've not flown very far, mainly into "awaiting action" but I now know exactly what action they're awaiting. They're all lined up, ready for take off, and I will now able to decide which one is going to go first.
There are dozens of things to maintain, to mend, to learn, to think about, to do. There's no wonder I've not done them. There's far too much to fit in. I don't feel inadequate any more, just over-ambitious!. However, I'm feeling much more confident about being able to so something about some things, thanks to the experience of the HabitCal and the CheckIn.
I'm signing out for a couple of weeks now because I'm going on holiday. For the first time in years I won't be worrying about leaving my lads with a terrible mess to sort out if the plane goes down! At least they'll be able to find the will. (That's a joke, but I can't see an Emoticon that would fit. )
I hope to start a new tag when I come back, probably related to developing and implementing a back up strategy for the computer. I want to use it more for music and photos and I'd prefer not to lose all the material and the hours of work. I'd like to find an image to support the "back-up" project. (I think Reinhard's right about this. The paperweight-paperplane idea really helped me keep checking in.) Perhaps one will pop up while I'm away.
There are dozens of things to maintain, to mend, to learn, to think about, to do. There's no wonder I've not done them. There's far too much to fit in. I don't feel inadequate any more, just over-ambitious!. However, I'm feeling much more confident about being able to so something about some things, thanks to the experience of the HabitCal and the CheckIn.
I'm signing out for a couple of weeks now because I'm going on holiday. For the first time in years I won't be worrying about leaving my lads with a terrible mess to sort out if the plane goes down! At least they'll be able to find the will. (That's a joke, but I can't see an Emoticon that would fit. )
I hope to start a new tag when I come back, probably related to developing and implementing a back up strategy for the computer. I want to use it more for music and photos and I'd prefer not to lose all the material and the hours of work. I'd like to find an image to support the "back-up" project. (I think Reinhard's right about this. The paperweight-paperplane idea really helped me keep checking in.) Perhaps one will pop up while I'm away.
Yes. It's been a veritable snow storm of paper planes from this desk today today. They've not flown very far, mainly into "awaiting action" but I now know exactly what action they're awaiting. They're all lined up, ready for take off, and I will now able to decide which one is going to go first.
There are dozens of things to maintain, to mend, to learn, to think about, to do. There's no wonder I've not done them. There's far too much to fit in. I don't feel inadequate any more, just over-ambitious!. However, I'm feeling much more confident about being able to so something about some things, thanks to the experience of the HabitCal and the CheckIn.
I'm signing out for a couple of weeks now because I'm going on holiday. For the first time in years I won't be worrying about leaving my lads with a terrible mess to sort out if the plane goes down! At least they'd be able to find the will. (That's a joke, but I can't see an Emoticon that would fit. )
I hope to start a new tag when I come back, probably related to developing and implementing a back up strategy for the computer. I want to use it more for music and photos and I'd prefer not to lose all the material and the hours of work. I'd like to find an image to support the "back-up" project. (I think Reinhard's right about this. The paperweight-paperplane idea really helped me keep checking in.) Perhaps one will pop up while I'm away.
There are dozens of things to maintain, to mend, to learn, to think about, to do. There's no wonder I've not done them. There's far too much to fit in. I don't feel inadequate any more, just over-ambitious!. However, I'm feeling much more confident about being able to so something about some things, thanks to the experience of the HabitCal and the CheckIn.
I'm signing out for a couple of weeks now because I'm going on holiday. For the first time in years I won't be worrying about leaving my lads with a terrible mess to sort out if the plane goes down! At least they'd be able to find the will. (That's a joke, but I can't see an Emoticon that would fit. )
I hope to start a new tag when I come back, probably related to developing and implementing a back up strategy for the computer. I want to use it more for music and photos and I'd prefer not to lose all the material and the hours of work. I'd like to find an image to support the "back-up" project. (I think Reinhard's right about this. The paperweight-paperplane idea really helped me keep checking in.) Perhaps one will pop up while I'm away.
Well. Here I am again. Main reason for checking in is that I don't want to get out of the habit of checking in. I got back from holiday on Saturday (today is Tuesday) and it's taken me 'til now to get my feet back on the ground. I've done a lot of catching up with myself, including mail etc., so feel well justified in claiming Sunday, Monday and Tuesday as "yes"'s. I think I like paper planes better than real ones. We were delayed on the way out and on the way back and I found it exhausting. I would prefer to confine my flying to flights of fancy - better for me and for the environment. We only do one trip per year but I think that's one too many for me.
Tomorrow I intend to set up another HabitCal. This one will be HighWire_SafetyNet and is intended to encourage me to sort out a system for backing up the computer. (At the moment I feel as though I'm on a high wire without a safety net.) The idea is that I take at least one action towards it a day. Setting up the HabitCal can be tomorrow's "action". I don't know why but I feel horribly nervous about sorting this one out. Weird
Tomorrow I intend to set up another HabitCal. This one will be HighWire_SafetyNet and is intended to encourage me to sort out a system for backing up the computer. (At the moment I feel as though I'm on a high wire without a safety net.) The idea is that I take at least one action towards it a day. Setting up the HabitCal can be tomorrow's "action". I don't know why but I feel horribly nervous about sorting this one out. Weird
It's very late so I'll be brief. Yes. I kept the paper planes flying today. I've sorted out a list of things to take when I go away, bearing in mind the latest trip. It took me a ridiculously long time to pack, I took more than I needed, and forgot one or two small items that I really missed. Sorting this was a small project using Everyday systems thinking. I called it "Donkey Work-Travel Light". I felt overburdened and now I don't. I haven't done anything about the computer back-up habitcal so that's carried forward to tomorrow. I expect the travel stuff was avoidance, but it doesn't matter. It's a good job well done.
Yes. Paper plane on its's way. This morning two parcels arrived in response to others sent previously. A tiny battery tester which will be a godsend. We only use rechargeable batteries these days and I'm sure I've been leaving them in the charger longer than necessary which rather defeats the object. Also a superb windproof umbrella (two for the price of one so theres a spare for my husband!), guaranteed not to turn inside out. It's wet,windy and warm at the moment. We have woods along the edge at the top of the road and the autumn leaves are really whipping off the trees. I'll take it out for a test run tomorrow. This is brave. I have COPD and easily run out of breath but it's so beautiful at this time of year it's worth a bit of a struggle
Also set up highwire_safetynet habit cal. I've downloaded the SuperDuper! back up software and found out what I need in the way of hardware Unfortunately, this turns out to be a fire wire ext. hard disc because I want to make a bootable clone for a power Mac. These seem to be more expensive than USB. Never mind. I'll work it out. The main thing is that I've made a start. Another step tomorrow and the day after that and the... etc. and I'll end up where I want to be.
Also set up highwire_safetynet habit cal. I've downloaded the SuperDuper! back up software and found out what I need in the way of hardware Unfortunately, this turns out to be a fire wire ext. hard disc because I want to make a bootable clone for a power Mac. These seem to be more expensive than USB. Never mind. I'll work it out. The main thing is that I've made a start. Another step tomorrow and the day after that and the... etc. and I'll end up where I want to be.
"Yes" on paperplanes. That has to be the shopping list, restocking after being away, and sorting out "odds & ends". I was particularly pleased to find a replacement tool to use with my wok. I don't know what it's called - sort of a spade shaped metal spatula, for stir frying. I've had my wok,[dirt cheap, old fashioned, large, thin metal (don't know what sort)] with it's original "spatula"for 35 years and it's been in constant use. The "spatula" fell apart a couple of weeks ago and I felt as though I'd lost an old friend. I've found an almost identical replacement at the place that supplies the Chinese restaurants. £3 and priceless!
No on highwire_safetynet. Laundry as well as shopping, and my husband back from his trip so needing to catch up on things. I've thought about it though, but I can't count that as action! Been thinking about it for a long time.
No on highwire_safetynet. Laundry as well as shopping, and my husband back from his trip so needing to catch up on things. I've thought about it though, but I can't count that as action! Been thinking about it for a long time.
Paperplanes-yes. I've decided to cut out the middle (wo)man (that's me) on all the mail order catalogues that come through the door. I've got enough stuff so it's simply a waste of time looking at them, and of money and space if I succumb to temptation (but I do like my new brolly and battery charger!). So, they are now going, unopened, straight into the recycling basket by the front door.
Highwire safetynet - Yes! My husband has given me a fire wire disc he's not used for ages. I will try to set it up as a clone tomorrow. I understand that Macs are picky even between particular fire wire discs, if you want to be able to start up from them in the event of a disaster. I'm hoping that I'm lucky and that this one will do the business. I emailed the Super Duper people and they say its worth a try. If it doesn't work I've found out which one I need to save up for!
A lovely day. Lots of odd jobs done but missed out on the ironing so as to give time for a drive in the Peak District, and coffee in Castleton. Good choice. Loads of walkers, cyclists and climbers out, but it never seems overcrowded. Great to get the wide views and the big skies, and the autumn colour is amazing. Am especially pleased at progressing the back-up stuff as part of such a full day. Am still nervous of it.
Highwire safetynet - Yes! My husband has given me a fire wire disc he's not used for ages. I will try to set it up as a clone tomorrow. I understand that Macs are picky even between particular fire wire discs, if you want to be able to start up from them in the event of a disaster. I'm hoping that I'm lucky and that this one will do the business. I emailed the Super Duper people and they say its worth a try. If it doesn't work I've found out which one I need to save up for!
A lovely day. Lots of odd jobs done but missed out on the ironing so as to give time for a drive in the Peak District, and coffee in Castleton. Good choice. Loads of walkers, cyclists and climbers out, but it never seems overcrowded. Great to get the wide views and the big skies, and the autumn colour is amazing. Am especially pleased at progressing the back-up stuff as part of such a full day. Am still nervous of it.
Yes for paperplanes. Loads of "notes to self" sorted. These were made when reducing the chaos of "the Pile" to order. A paperweight was transferred into a 'plane but only went a short way to a hanger to await its time slot for departure. Several are now well on their way. Feels good. It gets dark early now and from this window I can't see much sky but the bit I could see round about sunset was particularly beautiful. There were a lot of fireworks and bonfires last night, the nearest Saturday to 5th November (which is Bonfire Night in the UK). I think the residual pollution created spectacular colour. You should have seen the sunsets in Sheffield before smokeless fuel, when we were a mega steel producer. Made up a little bit for the smogs!
Yes for highwire-safetynet. If the computer backup routine is going to work it's got to be dead easy. If it's not I won't do it. I therefore need space to hand to put external discs. (I also want to keep my music and photos on them because there isnt room for them all on the laptop.) This means I've got to remove stuff I don't use.I've discovered that the old iMac and all its peripherals which were "left-overs from my husband but never use doesn't need to be here. I thought it was an essential part of the broadband connection. He says it isn't and he's very good at this sort of thing. Goodness, I do feel thick! Anyway this means that they can be put away (don't know where but I'll work that out another day) and I will have somewhere I can really make my own. I'm so fortunate to have this space, (a little room, easy to keep warm, overlooking the garden) but it's never really felt like"home".
I'm feeling better about this project. It isn't as simple as I thought it should be. There's more involved than meets the eye. My putting it off makes more sense, and I find that reassuring. Also, I'm starting to see what I need to do and the separate elements seem more possible.
Nevertheless, I'm still putting off the actual thing of plugging in a disc, opening the software and seeing what I ought to be doing with it. That's the bit that scares me. I might break something! I might not be able to do it at all. Oh well, so what? I'd be no worse off than I am now, and it would be a triumph just to try. I've written myself a note to do that tomorrow. It can be tomorrow's paperplane.
Yes for highwire-safetynet. If the computer backup routine is going to work it's got to be dead easy. If it's not I won't do it. I therefore need space to hand to put external discs. (I also want to keep my music and photos on them because there isnt room for them all on the laptop.) This means I've got to remove stuff I don't use.I've discovered that the old iMac and all its peripherals which were "left-overs from my husband but never use doesn't need to be here. I thought it was an essential part of the broadband connection. He says it isn't and he's very good at this sort of thing. Goodness, I do feel thick! Anyway this means that they can be put away (don't know where but I'll work that out another day) and I will have somewhere I can really make my own. I'm so fortunate to have this space, (a little room, easy to keep warm, overlooking the garden) but it's never really felt like"home".
I'm feeling better about this project. It isn't as simple as I thought it should be. There's more involved than meets the eye. My putting it off makes more sense, and I find that reassuring. Also, I'm starting to see what I need to do and the separate elements seem more possible.
Nevertheless, I'm still putting off the actual thing of plugging in a disc, opening the software and seeing what I ought to be doing with it. That's the bit that scares me. I might break something! I might not be able to do it at all. Oh well, so what? I'd be no worse off than I am now, and it would be a triumph just to try. I've written myself a note to do that tomorrow. It can be tomorrow's paperplane.
Paperplanes-Yes. I'm afraid there was conflagration on lots and lots of them. Lots of bits of paper with personal info have been awaiting disposal. Today they were burned, outside on an iron dish. It was dry and still. Unfortunately, the wind got up and the rain came down halfway through this process. You should have seen me trying the protect myself and my mini bonfire from the elements with a very large umbrella. The wind kept changing direction so now I know all about "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes."
Highwire-safety net - yes. The old desk top has lost two of its connections - broadband and printer. Three left in the hub. I'll try and discover what those are tomorrow. Still not plugged in the external hard disc, though.
Highwire-safety net - yes. The old desk top has lost two of its connections - broadband and printer. Three left in the hub. I'll try and discover what those are tomorrow. Still not plugged in the external hard disc, though.
Paperweight converted to paper plane and on its way. A note-to-self suggested I discuss our holiday with my husband. We have a time share on Madeira which is lovely, both the apartment and the island, but isn't really working for me any more. My poor breathing is so limiting in such a precipitous place. Often we're above the clouds and the air's thin. I really struggle. And I would be glad not to have to fly any more. There's so much in the UK I want to see eg the west coast of Scotland, and I've never been to Ireland. My husband is half Welsh so we know Wales quite well, but we'd like to go more often. We were very much on the same wavelength which was a relief. We've decided to explore the possibility of selling. Don't suppose we'll get much but it feels the right thing to do.
Highwire-Safetynet - Yes!!!!!! I've plugged in the firewire external hard disc and it worked! I'd worked out what was putting me off. Didn't know whether I'd got all the kit, complete ignorance. no manual or instructions. To cut a long story short, I found a manual on the website, together with a forum which gave me some idea. So now that's one thread in place. Time to get weaving!
Highwire-Safetynet - Yes!!!!!! I've plugged in the firewire external hard disc and it worked! I'd worked out what was putting me off. Didn't know whether I'd got all the kit, complete ignorance. no manual or instructions. To cut a long story short, I found a manual on the website, together with a forum which gave me some idea. So now that's one thread in place. Time to get weaving!
I'm calling today an S day - Shopping for Supplies and then Sorting out Storage has filled up the day. We got two free range chickens, beautiful birds, for half price each so I skinned, jointed and packed them for the freezer. Good stock and meat from the bones, which gave us a fine rissoto for our evening meal. Also we use a lot of vegetables. Because there's just the two of us, I pack them very carefully to avoid wastage. I wrap tightly in paper and then polythene, store in a cool place - I have a fridge in the cellar - so as to avoid wastage. They keep for fresh ages like that. This takes time but I think it's worth it. (I bothered about the extra fridge at first but it's only opened once a day, when I gather the day's grub, so consumption of electricity is minimal.)
There's just been a survey that says that, nationwide, out of every three bagsful of shopping, one ends up in the bin and this is mainly fruit and veg. There's a campaign on to try to persuade people to use them up in soups and things, but they never talk about storage. I don't think they know how.
In the old days people used to bury things in an earth clamp. The idea is to keep out the air and the light. A sheet of newspaper (for eg cabbage, celery) or sheets of kitchen roll put together as appropriate (for eg brocolli, cauliflower) together with a polythene outer works on the same principle. I exclude as much air as possible, twist and fasten with a freezer clip if it's a bag. If I'm using sheets (made from carrier bags) for larger items I use rubber bands to hold them in a tight parcel. The outers can be used over and over, because they never touch the food. The paper gets damp but it's perfectly clean.
It's not just the waste of money that bothers me, or the feeling that waste insults those people who don't have enough to eat. When food rots it releases methane which makes a measurable contribution to global warming. I don't want to contribute to greenhouse gases. Oh dear, I've gone all Serious. It really is an S day!
There's just been a survey that says that, nationwide, out of every three bagsful of shopping, one ends up in the bin and this is mainly fruit and veg. There's a campaign on to try to persuade people to use them up in soups and things, but they never talk about storage. I don't think they know how.
In the old days people used to bury things in an earth clamp. The idea is to keep out the air and the light. A sheet of newspaper (for eg cabbage, celery) or sheets of kitchen roll put together as appropriate (for eg brocolli, cauliflower) together with a polythene outer works on the same principle. I exclude as much air as possible, twist and fasten with a freezer clip if it's a bag. If I'm using sheets (made from carrier bags) for larger items I use rubber bands to hold them in a tight parcel. The outers can be used over and over, because they never touch the food. The paper gets damp but it's perfectly clean.
It's not just the waste of money that bothers me, or the feeling that waste insults those people who don't have enough to eat. When food rots it releases methane which makes a measurable contribution to global warming. I don't want to contribute to greenhouse gases. Oh dear, I've gone all Serious. It really is an S day!
Yes for yesterday and today on Paperweights-Paperplanes. I'm thinking of stopping the HabitCal for this one because it's now starting to feel rather routine - which is excellent! Bits of papers are now sorted as they come in. They don't go into "the Pile". In fact "the Pile" no longer exists. I'm not saying that everything's done. I am, however, saying that everything is properly parked (should I say "stacked" to maintain the flying metaphor?) and ready for take off at the appropriate time. I can't believe how much difference this has made. I feel happier, more confident in my ability to deal with things, more motivated ditto, and even, more energetic! I am very grateful to Reinhard for setting this site up. It's a real help.
Yes for yesterday and today on Highwire-Safety net. I've actually plugged in an exterior hard disc, needed some info, got through on a support line! to a really nice fella, and had a sensible conversation with him. It would not have been sensible if I'd not clued myself up, so I now feel the time I've taken to find out about things has been well spent rather than a pathetic waste. The disc is now "re-formatted" in the right format, has been "zeroed" and I am now about to have a go at "partitioning" it! Get me! Again, I'm sure it's all very obvious and simple to those who know how but I, who certainly didn't/don't, feel very proud of myself for learning. A very good feeling
Yes for yesterday and today on Highwire-Safety net. I've actually plugged in an exterior hard disc, needed some info, got through on a support line! to a really nice fella, and had a sensible conversation with him. It would not have been sensible if I'd not clued myself up, so I now feel the time I've taken to find out about things has been well spent rather than a pathetic waste. The disc is now "re-formatted" in the right format, has been "zeroed" and I am now about to have a go at "partitioning" it! Get me! Again, I'm sure it's all very obvious and simple to those who know how but I, who certainly didn't/don't, feel very proud of myself for learning. A very good feeling
I've removed the tag for Paperweights-Paperplanes, but will go back to it if I find things piling up again. I don't know whether to start a new check in or whether I can rename this "thread" (is that the right name?) It was a mistake to limit it to just the one habit, but I didn't realise it would be so helpful and that I would want to use the same technique for other issues.
Regarding Highwire-Safetynet, I discovered that I needed to buy a new external hard disc. Nothing terribly technical, just that the one my husband had passed to me was so noisy it would be impossible to live with. I want to put my music files on it because they're taking all the memory on my lap top. It would be horrible trying to listen with all that whining and clattering going on.
Anyway, one should now be on its way to me, ordered on line yesterday, I've been saving up for a beautiful wicker coffin (for me - I want a green funeral when the time comes - and I've reached the stage in life where it's important to get this sort of thing organised), so I was able borrow from these savings to fund my safety net. I can always have beautifully painted cardboard one instead if I've not had time to pay back!
Regarding Highwire-Safetynet, I discovered that I needed to buy a new external hard disc. Nothing terribly technical, just that the one my husband had passed to me was so noisy it would be impossible to live with. I want to put my music files on it because they're taking all the memory on my lap top. It would be horrible trying to listen with all that whining and clattering going on.
Anyway, one should now be on its way to me, ordered on line yesterday, I've been saving up for a beautiful wicker coffin (for me - I want a green funeral when the time comes - and I've reached the stage in life where it's important to get this sort of thing organised), so I was able borrow from these savings to fund my safety net. I can always have beautifully painted cardboard one instead if I've not had time to pay back!
Highwire-Safety net - yes!. More clearing out of redundant/obsolete stuff. Trouble is, for years my husband has upgraded his computer system and passed the old stuff to me. I've kept it. It all looks wonderful but I haven't the faintest idea what to do with it, there are no manuals and no instructions. I don't know what these things are, what they can do for me and/ or how to use them. There are no instructions, no manuals. no CD's to go with them. So it's taking me a while to locate these things on-line so that I can decide whether to use, store or pass on to someone else, and to pack them up in such a way that they're not inaccesible to whoever I pass them on to. There are so many different cables with so many different connections. I'm having to be really careful not to mix them up, to label what goes with what. It's taking a while.
However I'm learning an awful lot in the processs and I do find it interesting. I'm also enjoying seeing the space that's emerging as, item by item, I sort things out.
There's no wonder I've felt overwhelmed for so long. There's so much stuff it is overwhelming. I think I'm doing really well.
However I'm learning an awful lot in the processs and I do find it interesting. I'm also enjoying seeing the space that's emerging as, item by item, I sort things out.
There's no wonder I've felt overwhelmed for so long. There's so much stuff it is overwhelming. I think I'm doing really well.
HighWire-SafetyNet - Yes for yesterday and today. I went through all the stuff in the boxes and made sure everything was there. Not much but it's a tiny step forward. Count what counts and even tiny steps count.
As always a very busy day, and the time at my desk was taken by my replying to a very nice e mail from a friend. During the PaperWeights-PaperPlanes project I decided not to take so long to respond to people. Though they're very forbearing, it preys on my mind knowing that they've taken the trouble to get in touch with me and my getiing back to them is delayed to the point of rudeness. I thought it would take a tenth of the energy I spent worrying and feeling awful about not replying to just get on with it. So I put a note in my diary ro reply a fortnight after receipt, and it's done and I enjoyed focussing my thoughts on a dear lady.
I didn't have time to check-in yesterday. Yesterday I saw a wonder. We went to see "The art of Willard Wigan - In the Eye of a Needle." Willard
Wigan makes these microscopic (Lliterally. Some of his work is no bigger than three human blood cells) models and mounts them in the eye of tiny needles, e.g the Mad Hatter's Tea Party, the Statue of Liberty, a Tiger, Lloyds Building (to make the cranes on the roof he caught a speck of dust from the air and sculpted it). There was a speck so small you could hardly see it, mounted on a pin point. When you looked through the microscope there was a birds nest, apparently made of twigs, with five eggs in it and two blue birds, with feathers, flying round. Unbelievable. Indescribable. I can't get my mind off it. I want to know how he does it. I know he has to go into a meditative state and slow his heart right down, working between heart beats, but he must have tools of some sort. How did he make the tools without tools , if you see what I mean. Talk about 'to see a world in a grain of sand, and eternity in a wild flower."
I came away feeling that if a human being is capable of the skill and patience to do what he's done, any of us can do anything if we just give ourselves the chance. Mind you, I've got a feeling he might not be very good at keeping up with his correspondence!
As always a very busy day, and the time at my desk was taken by my replying to a very nice e mail from a friend. During the PaperWeights-PaperPlanes project I decided not to take so long to respond to people. Though they're very forbearing, it preys on my mind knowing that they've taken the trouble to get in touch with me and my getiing back to them is delayed to the point of rudeness. I thought it would take a tenth of the energy I spent worrying and feeling awful about not replying to just get on with it. So I put a note in my diary ro reply a fortnight after receipt, and it's done and I enjoyed focussing my thoughts on a dear lady.
I didn't have time to check-in yesterday. Yesterday I saw a wonder. We went to see "The art of Willard Wigan - In the Eye of a Needle." Willard
Wigan makes these microscopic (Lliterally. Some of his work is no bigger than three human blood cells) models and mounts them in the eye of tiny needles, e.g the Mad Hatter's Tea Party, the Statue of Liberty, a Tiger, Lloyds Building (to make the cranes on the roof he caught a speck of dust from the air and sculpted it). There was a speck so small you could hardly see it, mounted on a pin point. When you looked through the microscope there was a birds nest, apparently made of twigs, with five eggs in it and two blue birds, with feathers, flying round. Unbelievable. Indescribable. I can't get my mind off it. I want to know how he does it. I know he has to go into a meditative state and slow his heart right down, working between heart beats, but he must have tools of some sort. How did he make the tools without tools , if you see what I mean. Talk about 'to see a world in a grain of sand, and eternity in a wild flower."
I came away feeling that if a human being is capable of the skill and patience to do what he's done, any of us can do anything if we just give ourselves the chance. Mind you, I've got a feeling he might not be very good at keeping up with his correspondence!
HighWire-SafetyNet- Saturday and Sunday were "S" days. I've now cleared away the old stuff and there's space to put the new discs. I felt the need of a break and a sense of a fresh start on this one. I've been dreadfullly slow - 14 green days to get this far! - but if I hadn't started the HabitCal I would still have been in a complete fog worrying about it. I now feel sufficiently well informed and equipped to sort it out (said she optimistically). Trouble is I know I've got to partition the disc, but I don't really know why, and I don't know how big to make the parts. Still, at least I know what the question is so I should be able to find some kind person to answer it.
It snowed this evening - a white world.
It snowed this evening - a white world.
HighWire-SafetyNet - just registered three reds on the Habit Cal i.e. three days "no"' progress. Looked at my last post and it seems my confidence was misplaced!. However, during the last three days I have put together a Homecare work plan, This will, hopefully, enable me to work smarter and ask for help, so allowing me more free time for other things. Also my kitchen is gleaming! Talk about avoidance activity! Even so, it's been very useful and rewarding activity as well as having been on my "TO DO when time allows" list for a while, so I'm still giving myself a pat on the back despite three "nos" in a row.
I've not been quite idle with the new external hard discs. They're unpacked, plugged in (lovely, really quiet), and reformatted. Tonight I'm going to put together an e mail asking the helpful person in America what size I'm supposed to make these partitions and how many I need for what I want to do. That's what's stopping me. I'm hoping he'll be able to get me unstuck. I bet it's really obvious when you know, but I've searched in the manuals and the forums and I can't find the answers.
I always read other people's posts when I check in. Really encouraging to see people "keeping on keeping on" so cheerfully, (or not, as the case may be). It reminds me that the task is to keep building the habit. I suppose the underlying habit I want to develop is to "stick" at things when I feel out of my depth, rather than give up. My HighWire etc project is an excellent opportunity to practice doing just this.
I've not been quite idle with the new external hard discs. They're unpacked, plugged in (lovely, really quiet), and reformatted. Tonight I'm going to put together an e mail asking the helpful person in America what size I'm supposed to make these partitions and how many I need for what I want to do. That's what's stopping me. I'm hoping he'll be able to get me unstuck. I bet it's really obvious when you know, but I've searched in the manuals and the forums and I can't find the answers.
I always read other people's posts when I check in. Really encouraging to see people "keeping on keeping on" so cheerfully, (or not, as the case may be). It reminds me that the task is to keep building the habit. I suppose the underlying habit I want to develop is to "stick" at things when I feel out of my depth, rather than give up. My HighWire etc project is an excellent opportunity to practice doing just this.
Yes! for yesterday and for today. Sent off my e mail yesterday. Read and understood the reply today. Been to town today (on my bike) so not enough spare time to do anything else. - errands and a wonderful mezzo soprano giving an hour's recital in the cathedral at lunch time. What a treat and completely unexpected.