tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-313710372024-03-07T17:55:03.970-06:00Mel dyes her hair...and likes it.Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.comBlogger118125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-86822460341090114692014-07-07T19:39:00.000-05:002014-07-07T19:52:56.129-05:00Make me a Mixtape: 5 songs for the queens of the neighborhood<br />
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<i>Today, let's listen to some grassroots, third-wave feminist-y, DIY embracing, empowering, educative music that is about something. Music that forces you to confront things in a world where people don't often want to think about things that matter, especially in their spare time. Because what grrrls have to say is important and relevant. We are undeniable, capable, indescribable, revolutionary. We are fucking beautiful. </i><br />
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<b>Listen While: </b>Crafting a zine about how you show up in the world- without apologies.<br />
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PUSH PLAY<br />
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Let's start things off with a voice-over, because every good mixed tape has a voice-over:<br />
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"Certain people are like 'Oh, here come the Feminazis!' You end up acting 10 times nicer than you even need to be, to be the opposite of the stereotype like 'You're the man haters!' <b>We're always bending over backwards being extra nice</b>. And I don't know if being nice is my legacy.<br />
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While everyone's experience of oppression is different and complicated and often overlapping, <b>I really believe that if you have privilege, you need to learn as much as you can about the world beyond yourself.</b><br />
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I can't constantly be trying to write the unwritten song, the song that the 15-year-old girl needs. <b>I need to write the song that I need." -Kathleen Hanna</b><br />
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SIDE A<br />
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1.<b> Rebel Girl</b> // Bikini Kill<br />
"When she talks, I hear the revolution/In her hips, there's revolutions/When she walks, the revolution's coming/In her kiss, I taste the revolution."<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mZxxhxjgnC0&feature=kp" target="_blank">Listen Here</a><br />
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2. <b>A Real Man</b> // Sleater-Kinney<br />
"All girls should have a real man/Should I buy It?/I don't wanna/I don't wanna join your club/I don't want your kind of love."<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7xMphneYxo" target="_blank">Listen Here</a><br />
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3.<b> Do You Like Me Like That? </b>// Bratmobile<br />
"I've got a story about D.C. to tell/And I don't think you are going to like it very well/It's about boys and girls and the rich and the poor/But what if no one can afford to live here anymore?"<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7cTGqx4aLY" target="_blank">Listen Here</a><br />
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4. <b> Her Jazz</b> // Huggy Bear<br />
"You think you're going far, but you're going nowhere/You think you're taking me, but I'm going elsewhere."<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfP5HNvsWAo" target="_blank">Listen Here</a><br />
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5. <b>D.A. Don't Care</b> // Team Dresch<br />
"They tell you you lie/It's your word against his so tell me who's right...I had on a polyester basketball uniform/and I can't forget this if I try."<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsFm_LhZQHw&list=PL5101A1FC8BF7B5D6&index=8" target="_blank">Listen Here</a><br />
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<b>INTERACT: </b>What's on the B Side of YOUR Queen of the Neighborhood Collection?<br />
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<br />Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-51000839406419041062013-12-19T16:37:00.000-06:002013-12-19T16:37:54.734-06:00first snow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Snow makes whiteness where it falls,<br />
The bushes look like popcorn balls.<br />
The places where I always play,<br />
Look like somewhere else today. <br />
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Author: Mary Louise Allen </div>
</i> <br />
So our first snowfall came and went and now everything is absolutely covered in snow here. It's so amazing how different a place can look when covered in snow, even as you look at it every day. As I wade thru piles of snow and scrape my windshield with a plastic cup from Jimmy Johns, I'm still amazed at how fast the roads can be cleared and still struck by the magic of snow. I feel like a child these days (in all the best ways) and I may or may not have been seen multiple times around town standing out in the snow with my head tilted back cathcing snowflakes on my tongue.
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My friend Tom often shakes his head at me and utters, "oh you are so southern." Oh and no one here knows about <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/southern-snow-cream-113172?layout=desktop">snow cream</a>. WHAT?!
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So I owe you an update on my fall commitments that <a href="http://mel-dyes-her-hair.blogspot.com/2013/10/slowing-my-role.html">we discussed over caramel apple and coffee: </a><br /><br />
<b>Short and sweet:</b> I'm feeling good. I loved fall and I'm living and loving winter (as evidenced above). You can still find me on Thursdays drinking beer and covered in clay. I've still got a long way to go. I'm almost there, but I'm still here.<br /> <br />
<b>INTERACT:</b> How are you? Have I told you lately that I miss you?Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-38002146020886429672013-10-26T21:29:00.000-05:002013-10-26T21:29:36.116-05:00a lifetime of turningpoints<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've had a few experiences recently that I truly feel will eventually change my life. <br />
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My friend MK would often say something like, "We never know the impact that this experience has on people down the road of their lives." I have a strong sense that one day I will look back at my time in Lafayette, IN as not only a formative time but also an immensely magical and shifting time in my life.<br />
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I'm not really ready to share the details (mainly because I don't know all of them yet, but I want to acknowledge out loud that there's something out there, "down the road of my life," and its going to be good. <br />
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I'm also consistently reminded that when congruence is a valued discipline and utilized strength, every day and every moment can have a significant impact on shaping who I am and who I am becoming.<br />
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I think its high time for a list (oooh I love a list!).<br />
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<b>Possible Life-Changing Happenings:</b><br />
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<ul>
<li>Presented at the <a href="http://www.inrnwest.blogspot.com/p/women-in-nonprofits-leadership-symposium.html" target="_blank">Indiana Women in Nonprofits Leadership Symposium </a>and met some amazing thoughtful women.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Started the "unravelling process" with about 140 other women around the world by joining them in <a href="http://www.susannahconway.com/e-courses/unravelling/" target="_blank">this Susannah Conway e-course</a> that I have been eyeing for awhile. </li>
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<ul>
<li>Walked through a magical paper lantern lit path to a Tator Fry, laughter and love at <a href="http://sustainableindiana2016.org/warren-piece-intentional-community/" target="_blank">Warren Piece</a>.</li>
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<ul>
<li>Learned from the wisdom of labor union organizers in hospitality at a <a href="http://www.unitehere.org/about/" target="_blank">Unite Here site visit. </a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Spoke with Cornell West about Ella Baker and <a href="http://www.anarkismo.net/article/7645" target="_blank">participatory democracy</a> in a last minute lecture sneak-in.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Decide to start a community <a href="http://www.vday.org/home" target="_blank">V-Day Campaign </a>in the local Lafayette area.</li>
</ul>
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INTERACT: What is happening right now that (might) change your life? </div>
Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-46685094781927773492013-10-07T23:12:00.000-05:002013-10-07T23:12:30.271-05:00let's slow things down a little<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There's nothing that a coffee pour-over and chocolate covered caramel apple can't fix. That's what I always say. At least that's what I'm saying these days. This past weekend as I sipped my coffee at the <a href="http://www.starcitycoffee.net/" target="_blank">perfect patio spot</a> and graded papers, I waited for a rain storm to come in and I breathed.<br />
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I decided that I need to slow down.<br />
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Here are some commitments I made to myself to help me take more moments to breathe. <br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>#SacredThursdays</b>. I've been taking pottery classes at <a href="http://theredpoppystudio.com/" target="_blank">here</a> for about 3 months on Thursday nights and meeting up with some folks after for drinks and laughs. I love that the clay requires me to unplug and be present, physically and mentally. I've come to value the friendships made in the class and really appreciate what I am learning about letting go of control and perfection from the craft and my classmates.<br />
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<b>#MondayNightMadness</b>. An old habit in a new town. I know myself too well to commit to walking out the door when the clock strikes 5. However if I commit to one night a week of working late and barreling through tasks, I'm sure to ease my anxiety and guilt from the nights when I'm hanging with friends. Best part about Monday Night Madness? A few of my student friends join in on the fun and set up post to study in my office. Lots of laughter on those 5 min breaks.<br />
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<b>#JustOneThing</b>. I will do one thing every day towards my decision to choose to live. Inspired by<a href="http://www.susannahconway.com/2012/10/just-one-thing/" target="_blank"> this post </a>When I am overwhelmed with how long the list is, I have decided to do JUST one thing instead of freezing.<br />
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<b>#ExperienceFall.</b> I absolutely love fall and I haven't gotten to enjoy it in the last 8 years in Texas. I do not want to miss it because I am running from one thing to the next or sleeping in on weekends. I'm committing today to NOT miss it, but to LIVE it. <br />
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When we get our first snow, I will check in again with an update on how I'm doing with these.<br />
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Interact: Do you need to slow down? What will you do this fall to ensure that you take a moment to BE?Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-64027845317652866992013-09-02T18:10:00.000-05:002013-09-16T19:27:01.454-05:00Make Me a Mixtape: 5 songs for working people<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Labor Day is more than an opportunity to mark the end of summer; it is an opportunity to reflect on the contributions of working people and the American labor movement. Organized labor has a lot to teach the broader community about leadership and social change. Listen to some tunes below and think about how solidarity can show up in your life more often and remember the lesson of the working people: each person has a responsibility to look out for the interest of all. </i></div>
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<b>PUSH PLAY</b></div>
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Let's start things off with a voice-over of my favorite Woody Guthrie musings:</div>
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"<b>I hate a song that makes you think you are not any good. </b>I hate a song that makes you think that you are just born to lose. Bound to lose. No good to nobody.No good for nothing. Because you are too old or too young or too fat or too slim. Too ugly or too this or too that. Songs that run you down or poke fun at you on account of your bad luck or hard traveling. <b>I'm out to fight those songs to my very last breath of air and my last drop of blood. </b>I am out to sing songs that will prove to you that <b>this is your world</b> and that if it has hit you pretty hard and knocked you for a dozen loops, no matter what color, what size you are, how you are built, I am out to sing the songs that make you take pride in yourself and in your work. And the songs that I sing are made up for the most part by all sorts of folks just about like you.</div>
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I could hire out to the other side, the big money side, and get several dollars every week just to quit singing my own songs and to sing the kind that knock you down farther and the ones that poke fun at you even more and the ones that make you think you've not got any sense at all. <b>But I decided a long time ago that I'd starve to death before I'd sing any such songs as that</b>. The radio waves and your movies and your jukeboxes and your songbooks are already loaded down and running over with such no good songs as that anyhow." <span style="text-align: right;">-Woody Guthrie</span> </div>
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SIDE A:</div>
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1. <b>Which Side Are You On?</b> // Pete Seeger</div>
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"Don't scab for the bosses/Don't listen to their lies/Us poor folks haven't got a chance/Unless we organize."</div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=msEYGql0drc" target="_blank">Listen Here</a></div>
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2. <b>Solidarity Forever</b> // Pete Seeger<br />
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"When the union's inspiration through the workers' blood shall run/There can be no power greater anywhere beneath the sun/Yet what force on earth is weaker than the feeble strength of one/But the union makes us strong."</div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ly5ZKjjxMNM" target="_blank">Listen Here</a></div>
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3. <b>Bread and Roses</b> // Julie Collins</div>
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"As we go marching, marching/We battle too for men/For they are women’s children/And we mother them again/Our lives shall not be sweetened/From birth until life closes/Hearts starve as well as bodies/Give us bread, but give us roses"</div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mK3MqwsqnPY" target="_blank">Listen Here</a></div>
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4. <b>Ballad of Joe Hill</b> // Joan Baez</div>
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"From San Diego up to Maine/In every mine and mill/Where working men defend their rights/it’s there you’ll find Joe Hill."</div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_f2J4ceCikI" target="_blank">Listen Hill</a></div>
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5. <b>Three Miles Down</b> // Gil-Scott Heren</div>
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"Hard to imagine workin' in the mines/Coal dust in your lungs, on your skin and on your mind/I've listened to the speeches/but it occurs to me politicians just don't understand/the thoughts of isolation, ain't no sunshine underground/It's like workin' in a graveyard three miles down."</div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nhc55qjHHXs" target="_blank">Listen Here</a></div>
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<b>INTERACT: </b>What would you suggest for the B Side?</div>
Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-25640200154102651582013-08-13T17:44:00.000-05:002013-08-13T17:44:33.226-05:00this place is starting to feel like, well, you know, home.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This green chair has been with me in all of my homes post-college: Jackson, Waco, Ft. Worth and now West Lafayette. Its the only piece of furniture that can claim the honor. I am often reminded of a family that gifted it to me along with their love and I am thankful. I surround myself with things that remind me of those places I am homesick for and the lessons that I learned in those places along the way. But its really important for me to call THIS place home, physically, emotionally, spiritually. It feels really important for me right now to remember that this place, home, will teach me even more lessons and continue to shape who I become. <br /> <br />
This place is lonliness, excitement and unknown. This place is smaller yet bigger and mysterious. This place is single, transitional and dancebreaks. This place is opportunity, self reflection and small kitchen. <br /> <br />
I told a student once, "Sometimes you actively live where you love and sometimes you actively love where you live. But it's always home." <br /> <br />
So as I moseyed down main street last Saturday and watched the belly dancers do their thing, I realized, "I love where I live, because I am home." <br />
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INTERACT: Where are you home?<br />
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<a href="http://www.susannahconway.com/the-august-break-2013/" target="_blank"><img alt="The August Break 2013" border="0" src="http://www.susannahconway.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/ABfooter4.jpg" /></a>Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-66405479991088853082013-08-08T11:58:00.004-05:002013-08-08T11:58:51.904-05:00boiler up, y'all.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is is view from my computer monitor these days. The students are coming back and this is our "tax season" as we buckle down cranking out final details for programs and prepare to make guest appearances at other folks' programs. This is the time of year where we stand in fromt of students, behind tables and up to eat between meetings and tasks. We will share "the work we do" over and over as we try to woo new students to give us a shot and other students to stick with us. You know how runners always talk about trusting the training? This is it. This is our work. This is the training; marathon is next week. Trust the training. The students are coming... Boiler Up! We are changing lives here, people.</div>
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*So if this life was a dry quirky comedy movie and I was the nauseating and over the top boss-type character, then I think I just wrote the draft for a team meeting speech. Shall I try it out on my colleages and with a straight face too?</div>
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INTERACT: What are you training for these days?<br />
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<a href="http://www.susannahconway.com/the-august-break-2013/" target="_blank"><img alt="The August Break 2013" border="0" src="http://www.susannahconway.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/ABfooter5.jpg" /></a>Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-54497911708014488542013-08-02T12:34:00.001-05:002013-08-02T12:34:10.307-05:00the most beautiful meal of the day<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL9BQa3-GFthjGm5VCq85S3TiYT1hPm7kDCqQDcjTPOCs_GhdNXhFbQsm-4kIAnZOTi_Wf_2mt5mcs7i7U6qQjkIIsce0VOcQvvCTYAn8rZahPQklfnooOnm7PJHUuqdFOUNLI1g/s1600/05.06.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" dba="true" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL9BQa3-GFthjGm5VCq85S3TiYT1hPm7kDCqQDcjTPOCs_GhdNXhFbQsm-4kIAnZOTi_Wf_2mt5mcs7i7U6qQjkIIsce0VOcQvvCTYAn8rZahPQklfnooOnm7PJHUuqdFOUNLI1g/s320/05.06.13.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">source: <a href="http://simplybreakfast.blogspot.com/">http://simplybreakfast.blogspot.com/</a></td></tr>
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I wanted to take a picture of my breakfast this morning, becasue I had this amazing blueberry and ricotta crepe and a yummy latte from <a href="http://greyhousecoffee.com/">Greyhouse Coffee Co.</a> But atlas, it was so delightful, I inhaled it before I remembered it was photo worthy. So intead I will include an image from one of my favorite blogs that inspires me to not only eat breakfast, but to be more creative with my breakfast options.<br />
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Simply Breakfast is one of my all-time favorite go-to blogs. Upon visiting I am struck with the urge to get to my sewing machine and stitch up some beautiful table linens and napkins. From the about page:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"...food and lifestyle photographer living in Brooklyn, NY. I grew up in the South eating grits and biscuits. Breakfast is my favorite meal and coffee is my favorite way to start the day. I keep this blog as a way to add a bit of creativity to my everyday and to keep me shooting photos just for fun. Sitting down to a meal in the morning helps me to be present and allows me to think and to set intentions for the day ahead." </blockquote>
My favorite breakfast is chocolate gravy; I mean I dream about that stuff poured over crumbled biscuits. Who says breakfast can't be more than a bowl of cereal sitting on the back of my toilet whilst I blow dry my hair?<br />
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Talkback: What did you have for breakfast today? What do you WISH you would've had? Tell me in the comments. <br />
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<a href="http://www.susannahconway.com/the-august-break-2013/" target="_blank"><img alt="The August Break 2013" border="0" src="http://www.susannahconway.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/ABfooter6.jpg" /></a>Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-9214240742945109452013-07-31T20:42:00.000-05:002013-07-31T20:42:31.591-05:00now i'm just some blogger that you used to know...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvGc_3BKir8HlPVcj2sYtDCOG5SvqWPVbmbkjNmrAeJhZbOX23JobA1rO3EvAlo4abFLKSEDTiwWXzfNXEGtwLUfPYXNFuUHoUfOniIXK8CDRX1kjdRmP4vyBAIS3uQyQOzCKwPw/s1600/gotye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dba="true" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvGc_3BKir8HlPVcj2sYtDCOG5SvqWPVbmbkjNmrAeJhZbOX23JobA1rO3EvAlo4abFLKSEDTiwWXzfNXEGtwLUfPYXNFuUHoUfOniIXK8CDRX1kjdRmP4vyBAIS3uQyQOzCKwPw/s320/gotye.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I've been gone for a while, but soon you will be hearing from me again. A lot has changed since my last post. Instead of catching up, I say we just fall in.<br />
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But you know, we should probably take things slow. How does that sound to you?<br />
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Sorry for treating you like a stranger. It wasn't you; it was me.<br />
Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-7007782501501562542011-02-23T21:56:00.010-06:002011-03-01T01:22:28.000-06:00Don't Go Breaking My Heart...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqItrV0XsNP01ds340ZBU_FRBB4nsXrT1smZ9lgXTQfM-n7r6B9qWRdQzS-OT4VX1UusEV7_Y7TMldobrZnNjYpe_YMropFDs13qMzUB3P9cB5bEcexgoKZNwCZWe0JswMSc4GvA/s1600/breakup.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 309px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqItrV0XsNP01ds340ZBU_FRBB4nsXrT1smZ9lgXTQfM-n7r6B9qWRdQzS-OT4VX1UusEV7_Y7TMldobrZnNjYpe_YMropFDs13qMzUB3P9cB5bEcexgoKZNwCZWe0JswMSc4GvA/s1600/breakup.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Not much makes me happier than a good list. In the interest of making me happy and to provide you with something to read, I have compiled a list of some of my FAVORITE break up songs of all time. I had intended on dedicating each song to a past boyfriend or ex-friend, but fortunately there are more songs than failed relationships in my life so I went ahead a made a few playlists. So click on over to the videos and dedicate one to someone from your past today.<br /><br /><strong>Top 5 Angry Break Up Songs</strong><br /><em>This one goes out to Matthew Johnson who broke up with me in an email Sophomore year and got engaged three months later.</em><br /><br />5.<strong>These Boots were Made for Walking</strong>//Nancy Sinatra<br />"You keep lying when you ought to be truthin'/ you keep losing when you ought to not bet/ You keep samein' when you ought to be changin'/ Now what's right is right/ but you ain't been right yet"<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbyAZQ45uww&feature=related">Listen Here</a><br /><br />4.<strong>You Oughta Know</strong>//Alanis Morissette <br />"It was a slap in the face how quickly I was replaced/ Are you thinking of me when your (with) her?" <br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPcyTyilmYY">Listen Here</a><br /><br />3.<strong>No Children </strong>//The Mountain Goats<br />"I hope that our few remaining friends/ Give up on trying to save us/ I hope we come out with a fail-safe plot/ To piss off the dumb few that forgave us"<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRP6egIEABk">Listen Here</a><br /><br />2.<strong>Song for the Dumped</strong>//Ben Folds Five<br />"Give me my money back, you b---ch/ I want my money back/ And don't forget to give me back my black T-shirt." <br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVk_e31dnlE">Listen Here</a><br /><br />1.<strong>Call Tyrone</strong>//Erykah Badu<br />"I think you'd better call Tyrone/ And tell him come on help you get your sh--/ You need to call Tyrone Hold on/ But you can't use my phone." <br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVSIPHQdQT0">Listen Here</a><br /><br /><br /><strong>5 Songs for When You Just Know It's Over</strong><br /><em>This one goes out to Andrew Duffle who I dumped between classes in the cafeteria b/c I heard he made out with this girl on a band trip. He later told me that was the worst day of his life.</em> <br /><br />5.<strong>It’s Not Right,But It’s Okay</strong>//Whitney Houston<br />"Pack your bags up and leave/ Don't you dare come running back to me/ It's not right but it's okay/ I'm gonna make it anyway/ Close the door behind you/ Leave your key/ I'd rather be alone than unhappy"<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiM3bGcXYxk">Listen Here</a><br /><br />4.<strong>It's Too Late</strong>//Carol King<br />"And it's too late, baby, now it's too late/ Though we really did try to make it/ Something inside has died/ And I can't hide and I just can't fake it" <br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sb5MORLi8K0">Listen Here</a><br /><br />3.<strong>Don't Speak</strong>//No Doubt<br />"It's all ending/ I gotta stop pretending who we are.../You and me I can see us dying...are we?"<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TR3Vdo5etCQ">Listen Here</a><br /><br />2.<strong>I will Always Love You</strong>//Dolly Parton<br />"Good-bye, oh, please don't cry/ Cause we both know that Im not/ What you need"<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMmYqRvSRS8">Listen Here</a><br /><br />1.<strong>Don't Think Twice</strong>//Bob Dylan<br />"I ain't sayin' you treated me unkind/ You could have done better but I don't mind/ You just kinda wasted my precious time."<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQZI0fZOQng">Listen Here</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>5 Songs to Help You Navigate the Post Break-Up Emotional Roller Coaster</strong><br /><em>This one goes out to R.J. Atchley who I dated twice, loved never, but who had me convinced my life was over after we broke up for the last time over the high school pay phone before firt period.</em><br /><br />5.<strong>Ex Factor</strong>//Lauryn Hill<br />"It could all be so simple/ but you'd rather make it hard/ loving you is like a battle/ and we both end up with scars/ tell me, who i have to be/ to get some reciprocity/ no one loves you more than me/ and no one ever will"<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cE-bnWqLqxE">Listen Here</a><br /><br />4.<strong>Everybody Knows</strong>//John Legend<br />"I still can’t believe you found somebody new/ But I wish you the best, I guess./ ‘Cause everybody knows, that nobody really knows/ How to make it work, or how to ease the hurt"<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7NLq5Soq_E">Listen Here</a><br /><br />3.<strong>The Winner Takes It All</strong>//ABBA<br />"I don't wanna talk/ About the things we've gone through/ Though it's hurting me/ Now it's history/ I've played all my cards/ And that's what you've done too/ Nothing more to say/ No more ace to play"<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFeAsPdE52k">Listen Here</a><br /><br />2.<strong>Not 'gon Cry</strong>//Mary J. Blige<br />"Eleven years out of my life/ Besides the kids I have nothing to show/ Wasted my years - a fool of a wife/ I should have left your ass long time ago." <br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiM3bGcXYxk">Listen Here</a><br /><br />1.<strong>She’s Got You</strong>//Patsy Cline<br />"I've got your picture that you gave to me/ And it's signed "with love," just like it used to be/ The only thing different, the only thing new/ I've got your picture, she's got you"<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UtkFmCY9IZ0">Listen Here</a><br /><br />INTERACT: I could go all day, but I would LOVE to hear YOUR favorite break-up songs. Leave 'em in the comments!Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-82233951912792886582011-02-11T01:51:00.005-06:002011-02-11T02:02:25.055-06:00a bed for the nightI ran across this on another blog today and I thought it for me: "This here is a relaxed, slow-moving weblog. It ain't one o' them hyperactive updated-all-the-time weblogs. Slow down a little."<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhBQE2EmNICqDiekSfuwg0Fijga8YJKP_D926JJDwVRMwA14k-WdeFKAf15A8IHjxosk5mkVdDLCXuyu6VVSjpl3Y5ZRxVQBTzgYi0StW0VwChxyVROrNIR0YSABr7q58Way0I9w/s1600/SSB.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 307px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhBQE2EmNICqDiekSfuwg0Fijga8YJKP_D926JJDwVRMwA14k-WdeFKAf15A8IHjxosk5mkVdDLCXuyu6VVSjpl3Y5ZRxVQBTzgYi0StW0VwChxyVROrNIR0YSABr7q58Way0I9w/s400/SSB.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572338969439003266" /></a><br /><br />Speaking of slowing down. I am leading a local Service: Spring Break "trip" to Fort Worth focusing on the issue of Homelessness. The idea is that these days off from classes are PRIME TIME to really dig deep into an issue in our city. We plan on doing a full imersion experience with some service and meetings with the city and LOTS of hang out time in the Homeless District. I've a got a faculty member on board and a GREAT student leader, so I think it will be pretty great and one of those life changing kinda things.<br /><br />In compiling some readings for the participant curricullum- I re-ran across the following poem and I thought you might be interested to ponder on its words as well:<br /><br /><br />A BED FOR THE NIGHT<br /><br /> I hear that in New York<br /> At the corner of 26th Street and Broadway<br /> A man stands every evening during the winter months<br /> And gets beds for the homeless there<br /> By appealing to passers-by.<br /><br /> It won't change the world<br /> It won't improve relations among men<br /> It will not shorten the age of explotation<br /> But a few men have a bed for the night<br /> For a night the wind is kept from them<br /> The snow meant for them falls on the roadway.<br /><br /> Don`t put down the book on reading this, man.<br /><br /> A few people have a bed for the night<br /> For a night the wind is kept from them<br /> The snow meant for them falls on the roadway<br /> But it won't change the world<br /> It won't improve relations among men<br /> It will not shorten the age of exploitation. <br /><br /> - Bertold Brecht<br /><br />INTERACT: Are giving and serving related to social change? <br />How can we become better givers? <br />Should we try to identify with the people we want to serve? <br />What does mercy have to do with justice? How should they be related? <br />What prevents us from being compassionate?Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-51908749448378505072011-01-27T00:14:00.002-06:002011-01-27T00:37:12.279-06:00sometimes they all run togetherIn case you missed the State of the Union or zoned out during the speech, I have created a Word Cloud JUST for you using the transcript of the speech:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmV0qTrp7yltRVHMT_B2xPjP7i-zsWirWayNGiOrUQws7ZaafdZexJld8bm1NtQXAOzTzUcH2QWSo0Bj_bLKEkmnO3XROm4GcmTY1UGUSH7FJKSk211zhCHQxpMwUyIRCFhkT0UA/s1600/SOTU3.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmV0qTrp7yltRVHMT_B2xPjP7i-zsWirWayNGiOrUQws7ZaafdZexJld8bm1NtQXAOzTzUcH2QWSo0Bj_bLKEkmnO3XROm4GcmTY1UGUSH7FJKSk211zhCHQxpMwUyIRCFhkT0UA/s400/SOTU3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566746097292290850" /></a><br /><br /><br />Or you can read it yourself<a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/01/25/remarks-president-state-union-address"> HERE.</a><br /><br />I always like hearing about individual stories of real people -like Kathy Proctor seeking to inspire her children by going back to college. (If you follow me on twitter, you've already seen what I think are the hoghlights). But in the interest of full disclosure, I also zone out from time to time in long speeches.<br /><br />But then again, moments like these <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIVoV2Zd0vI">THESE in this clip</a> make curling up with a cup of hot tea and a blanket and listening to our President really exciting. Perhaps next year I will write/record my OWN "State of the Melon" and post it on the blog for all to tweet about, discuss, tear apart, etc. Who's gonna volunteer to post a response?Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-26931879645403859152011-01-08T00:14:00.005-06:002011-01-08T01:04:40.471-06:00a handmade holiday...Happy New Year, friends! I hope December treated you well. Since one of my new year's resolutions is ALWAYS to spend the time to MAKE more things, I thought I would remind myself (and you at home) of some of the handmade gifts I gave this past holiday. You know, to like...remind me that I have fun when I'm making.<br /><br />This year it snowed on Christmas so I thought it was fitting that most of my handmade gifts were accessories that help with the cold:<br /><br />a knitted infinity scarf for M.K. It's a long circle scarf that you can wear tons of different ways (just google it)... <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ8a3IIDzxhvCxig-S4SEiOz7Tthz485L_faAuGna45y89kCqlNrtUQphQiPXa5tWTUNsD9VpXTuZ7f1r9quHocoIUwytkfeiQ8UcUtWowSeATFL96C8lV0G1h9i12ccfZ5_gWvA/s1600/IMG_2004.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ8a3IIDzxhvCxig-S4SEiOz7Tthz485L_faAuGna45y89kCqlNrtUQphQiPXa5tWTUNsD9VpXTuZ7f1r9quHocoIUwytkfeiQ8UcUtWowSeATFL96C8lV0G1h9i12ccfZ5_gWvA/s320/IMG_2004.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559703523206427170" /></a><br /><br />this scarf for my boss. You know how I LOVE color...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihF8GhlaScG1uzDEYJ0xqLXVM5vSwaBiM2rvnVUwPHNfNID53GhSbLIHzeHDPJCrsHRxSajtdClQd9_xpzZtBy0UVq2G-Q3borWXmlbgfzQQXC-JNjL2tpcDs4nqzok4dpHF5OaQ/s1600/IMG_2018.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihF8GhlaScG1uzDEYJ0xqLXVM5vSwaBiM2rvnVUwPHNfNID53GhSbLIHzeHDPJCrsHRxSajtdClQd9_xpzZtBy0UVq2G-Q3borWXmlbgfzQQXC-JNjL2tpcDs4nqzok4dpHF5OaQ/s320/IMG_2018.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559703518879307618" /></a><br /><br />another infinity scarf for my cousin, Sandra. (Daniel offered to model for me...)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nf0hgwlDXQQTcDp0kpxSAdLjfikbgyrjjlARyQaIeamUFG9Xc6k5l0ztylM9rk1MnwAqrjERWIZY392q7WVhLaapBWHgMP0K-Fq9pLL49NANHM4m79vVlE_WcMBpm2LH2HA2HA/s1600/IMG_2076.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nf0hgwlDXQQTcDp0kpxSAdLjfikbgyrjjlARyQaIeamUFG9Xc6k5l0ztylM9rk1MnwAqrjERWIZY392q7WVhLaapBWHgMP0K-Fq9pLL49NANHM4m79vVlE_WcMBpm2LH2HA2HA/s320/IMG_2076.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559703518201983362" /></a><br /><br /><br />and for the boyfriend- I made what we are affectionately calling: the "infinity" hat.<br />It turns out that a HUGE hat can be worn A LOT of ways!<br /><br />look number 1: (there were SO MANY, but I will only bore you with a few...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_FbhI2njF5eH9JoZps9A0gr17u4tSchF_tbnongQfnYTqhRLqypnKfBADGXFOfxMsFjgZ3OydSWzpe7XcBSCo0SBjlOZzWtOC7V_WFwEZFWPn7UXkT6mpQBFxjg-jnUThENIaw/s1600/IMG_2119.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_FbhI2njF5eH9JoZps9A0gr17u4tSchF_tbnongQfnYTqhRLqypnKfBADGXFOfxMsFjgZ3OydSWzpe7XcBSCo0SBjlOZzWtOC7V_WFwEZFWPn7UXkT6mpQBFxjg-jnUThENIaw/s320/IMG_2119.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559701102492266226" /></a><br /><br />look number 2: we're calling this pope meets cat in the hat...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3dN-OCEmaqesaoVSU5gXsN-IwfrzEqnfiUJTz-Df3dWunnR8eulzApRglXBiw_yk4gYD-Upxnst4H0wleEFVBGb__6CEOAxsFuU095-hrvgwCkDrFUQe5yAb68WnwgXPkmLQdXQ/s1600/IMG_2120.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3dN-OCEmaqesaoVSU5gXsN-IwfrzEqnfiUJTz-Df3dWunnR8eulzApRglXBiw_yk4gYD-Upxnst4H0wleEFVBGb__6CEOAxsFuU095-hrvgwCkDrFUQe5yAb68WnwgXPkmLQdXQ/s320/IMG_2120.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559701102644041890" /></a><br /><br />look number 3: JT trying to look like Sway...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtfQA1k7F4lAnzApdOGmS3QyGABmrHaifPxIFwKT3FXZWyOEWnPamuhY051PoIWil1Xm2CuOAWSsXSHJi9lENV-sdUh68FXrvZfk8I6vnGNhZROjO3vFG6qtkfty-Goz1jnZL2LA/s1600/IMG_2124.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtfQA1k7F4lAnzApdOGmS3QyGABmrHaifPxIFwKT3FXZWyOEWnPamuhY051PoIWil1Xm2CuOAWSsXSHJi9lENV-sdUh68FXrvZfk8I6vnGNhZROjO3vFG6qtkfty-Goz1jnZL2LA/s320/IMG_2124.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559701100571797922" /></a><br /><br />look number 4: He likes this one..<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRZnyhyFgGAnafSGolUi0ubDc7r6hpCyECL51zbr8HOA41VH2VD4FWMYa_5RhrBps6x6Z-n_BxasBfImVDudxMvBOv6k23RYzf9e-4WiL8GUq_Jgf7rq2dcK3G8PBphyphenhyphenPVJWIrVw/s1600/IMG_2125.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRZnyhyFgGAnafSGolUi0ubDc7r6hpCyECL51zbr8HOA41VH2VD4FWMYa_5RhrBps6x6Z-n_BxasBfImVDudxMvBOv6k23RYzf9e-4WiL8GUq_Jgf7rq2dcK3G8PBphyphenhyphenPVJWIrVw/s320/IMG_2125.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559701094947535858" /></a><br /><br />You know I had to try it out myself...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5PtKrQM9nlKH5kVmNDa6avVYb7xEMms0tUurTEQIUbvKgnVpe46fVyUteocn_tl_Nx6XpmfRIsqyZsKyQswFZQQ1KZ3E_SiOrUfV1tI5gnHNmGcH3GLFB_ymld1H8XWz0jr8pg/s1600/IMG_2128.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5PtKrQM9nlKH5kVmNDa6avVYb7xEMms0tUurTEQIUbvKgnVpe46fVyUteocn_tl_Nx6XpmfRIsqyZsKyQswFZQQ1KZ3E_SiOrUfV1tI5gnHNmGcH3GLFB_ymld1H8XWz0jr8pg/s320/IMG_2128.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559701095058279410" /></a>Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-81235707192167108532010-11-28T20:19:00.007-06:002010-11-30T01:19:05.017-06:00paper coffee cups are red again & my mom is buying presentsIt is tradition in our extended family that we "turn our Christmas lists in" by the evening of Thanksgiving or we don't get any presents. For me, (since I haven't been home for Thanksgiving since 2005 -until this year!!) that usually means I rack my brain ALL day and send my mom and/or aunts sporadic texts and emails requesting whatever combination of items I need and/or want that will fit into my luggage for the return trip. I like surprises so I try to make my list longer than it has to be. Since I'm too big and too creeped out to sit on the mall Santa's lap, I thought I would post my list here of my reasonable//usual//impossible Christmas wants for the 2010 Season (for my mom's reference and your enjoyment of course).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">DISCLAIMER:</span> <span style="font-style:italic;">Now before you go about judging us on our consumerism and touting on in your head about the "reason for the season," etc, :) there are some things you should know about our family: <span style="font-weight:bold;">1.</span>My grandfather LOVED presents and watching us open them, and I think in our own ways we still perform for him each Christmas- getting and giving gifts and posing for photos with all our spoils. <span style="font-weight:bold;">2.</span>We have an elaborate system of gift giving that includes high levels of communication between cousins, aunts & uncles, and the matriarch, grandma- all with aunt jeni keeping the records in her pocket book! I really like when I get to see my family in action, thinking about each other regularly and sharing shopping days and wish lists, learning how individual interests have grown and changed over the year. It's a hyped up version of how close we all are already. <span style="font-weight:bold;">3.</span>There is so much about our Christmas that truly points to the love that exudes from the "reason for the season" and while we are cutting back a little on gifts this year (to adopt an angel family) and I am trying give handmade (mostly) this season- I still really like presents. :)</span><br /><br />NOW- on to a few highlights from the list:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">The old Stand by calendar</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgofWd25kj1b6UYuYffZnzKLTVB4hmoYIDROjudv1MZhQxa5Emhc7DMCgjFrQxL-g07roSaNLMVTIqAtCOljVQbXLqxZGm4La9KmpbIbStmukCUGMbULJtnWmLJ4RmHd7u4J-1ndw/s1600/nuns.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgofWd25kj1b6UYuYffZnzKLTVB4hmoYIDROjudv1MZhQxa5Emhc7DMCgjFrQxL-g07roSaNLMVTIqAtCOljVQbXLqxZGm4La9KmpbIbStmukCUGMbULJtnWmLJ4RmHd7u4J-1ndw/s320/nuns.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544797134862928322" /></a><a href="http://www.4allcalendars.com">Source</a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />This book (get on amazon, Mom, & save some money)</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51YPJog2aQL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51YPJog2aQL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Some boots to keep me warm AND professional</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.kohls.com.edgesuite.net/is/image/kohls/638594_Black?wid=1000&hei=1000&op_sharpen=1"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 500px;" src="http://media.kohls.com.edgesuite.net/is/image/kohls/638594_Black?wid=1000&hei=1000&op_sharpen=1" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/shoes/bootsnew/womensboots/midcalf1/PRD~638594/SO+Blissful+Midcalf+Flat+Boots.jsp">Source</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Pretty accessories for my head</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.kohls.com.edgesuite.net/is/image/kohls/621236_Port_Royale?wid=1000&hei=1000&op_sharpen=1"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 500px;" src="http://media.kohls.com.edgesuite.net/is/image/kohls/621236_Port_Royale?wid=1000&hei=1000&op_sharpen=1" border="0" alt="" /></a><a href="http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/PRD~621236/product.jsp">Source</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">This ENTIRE outfit-</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.redcatsusa.com/is/image/roamans/mm/0544_16471_mm.jpg?wid=269&hei=387&qlt=95&op_sharpen=1"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 269px; height: 387px;" src="http://media.redcatsusa.com/is/image/roamans/mm/0544_16471_mm.jpg?wid=269&hei=387&qlt=95&op_sharpen=1" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.roamans.com/clothing/Grey-Crinkled-Chiffon-Casual-Dress.aspx?PfId=198683&DeptId=21906&ProductTypeId=1">Source</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Gift Cards (Lane Bryant//Old Navy//Joann Fabrics//Subway//Starbucks//Hobby Lobby//Books-a-million) you can't go wrong</span>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bargainblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/gift-card.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 395px; height: 327px;" src="http://www.bargainblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/gift-card.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><a href="http://www.bargainblessings.com/2010/11/christmas-gift-card-bonus-deal-round-up/">Source</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">THIS-</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYK-WtbvvGf817Pz-KVkilsLB-5tZ77IisefLovR9ORya_SonaDr3HmGKcEDNj2VnVULtC2U1lVhMn2lPmajmttIgpO0e5rR5N4ohEN7SzIKmQdxWonXdTs7cbAjCbhP6O2-dc6A/s1600/cassette.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYK-WtbvvGf817Pz-KVkilsLB-5tZ77IisefLovR9ORya_SonaDr3HmGKcEDNj2VnVULtC2U1lVhMn2lPmajmttIgpO0e5rR5N4ohEN7SzIKmQdxWonXdTs7cbAjCbhP6O2-dc6A/s320/cassette.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544837980966879778" /></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62575088/cassette-laptop-decal?ref=sr_gallery_4&ga_search_query=cassette+laptop&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=&order=&includes[0]=tags&includes[1]=title&filter[0]=handmade">Source</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Movies & Shows!! Oh my!</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pickyourdvds.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/How_I_Met_Your_Mother.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 389px;" src="http://www.pickyourdvds.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/How_I_Met_Your_Mother.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.untitledrecords.com/images/Away%20We%20Go.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://www.untitledrecords.com/images/Away%20We%20Go.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Tights and leggings in bright colors!!</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.redcatsusa.com/is/image/womanwithin/mm/0018_28389_mm.jpg?wid=269&hei=387&qlt=95&op_sharpen=1"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 269px; height: 387px;" src="http://media.redcatsusa.com/is/image/womanwithin/mm/0018_28389_mm.jpg?wid=269&hei=387&qlt=95&op_sharpen=1" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.redcatsusa.com/is/image/womanwithin/mc/0018_05125_mc_0025.jpg?wid=271&hei=388&qlt=95&op_sharpen=1"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 271px; height: 388px;" src="http://media.redcatsusa.com/is/image/womanwithin/mc/0018_05125_mc_0025.jpg?wid=271&hei=388&qlt=95&op_sharpen=1" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.redcatsusa.com/is/image/womanwithin/mc/0018_84224_mc_0441.jpg?wid=271&hei=388&qlt=95&op_sharpen=1"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 271px; height: 388px;" src="http://media.redcatsusa.com/is/image/womanwithin/mc/0018_84224_mc_0441.jpg?wid=271&hei=388&qlt=95&op_sharpen=1" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.redcatsusa.com/is/image/womanwithin/mc/0018_05125_mc_0319.jpg?wid=271&hei=388&qlt=95&op_sharpen=1"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 271px; height: 388px;" src="http://media.redcatsusa.com/is/image/womanwithin/mc/0018_05125_mc_0319.jpg?wid=271&hei=388&qlt=95&op_sharpen=1" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.redcatsusa.com/is/image/womanwithin/mc/0018_05125_mc_0263.jpg?wid=271&hei=388&qlt=95&op_sharpen=1"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 271px; height: 388px;" src="http://media.redcatsusa.com/is/image/womanwithin/mc/0018_05125_mc_0263.jpg?wid=271&hei=388&qlt=95&op_sharpen=1" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Flip UltraHD</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiVKIT-5_FHOqWMebNd51Fcm_-6WFD5VaFkQZzuxp5K_4TC7lFvVQGpBhv9M2_ucZngpjgLrTSZ_4CK12ePAF8jHrt35UQmrAzQlTOQL0wdsv-J1i67Rchgvg8044ZbpciEpO8BA/s1600/beststuffflip.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 151px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiVKIT-5_FHOqWMebNd51Fcm_-6WFD5VaFkQZzuxp5K_4TC7lFvVQGpBhv9M2_ucZngpjgLrTSZ_4CK12ePAF8jHrt35UQmrAzQlTOQL0wdsv-J1i67Rchgvg8044ZbpciEpO8BA/s320/beststuffflip.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544850817616344274" /></a><a href="http://www.beststuff.com">Source</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Snow...</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://psdfan.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/icethumb200.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://psdfan.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/icethumb200.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">And something a little simpler...</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.gregcampisi.com/images/world_peace.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 342px; height: 342px;" src="http://www.gregcampisi.com/images/world_peace.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Just a few things that I'm interested in this Holiday Season.<br /><br />INTERACT: What's on YOUR Christmas list this year?Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-80488012983465342702010-11-23T17:49:00.008-06:002010-11-23T20:52:23.217-06:00“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving”-Albert Einstein<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijWkyze-98FTxLWGCpH9fJjjJi4l85c8kBYoiXhSdalF1RVsB6HfDLfDXNYmeEfUWItJX6fQsisGfZK61avbmC42W1dC9-DCG6senZY7e9dlY8AqYueGlnBhx-Yuuq8t0R0QJyyw/s1600/officedrawings.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijWkyze-98FTxLWGCpH9fJjjJi4l85c8kBYoiXhSdalF1RVsB6HfDLfDXNYmeEfUWItJX6fQsisGfZK61avbmC42W1dC9-DCG6senZY7e9dlY8AqYueGlnBhx-Yuuq8t0R0QJyyw/s320/officedrawings.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542896682638490290" /></a><br /><br />I love moving. Not the actual physical act of moving- I hate that. Watching people move your stuff//realizing that I have too. much. crap.//tapping into my control freak tendencies//"oh no, don't..drop..that thing that to you is nothing, but to me is...EVERYTHING" No I do NOT love that. <br /><br />But I love the way moving make me FEEL things. Sentimental about leaving behind a place and the memories that it contains...Hopeful about the new empty place just waiting to store all. that. crap. and new stories laughs and experiences. Everyday is a great day for a fresh start and moving is a helpful reminder of the ability to make a fresh start and the importance of a clean slate. <br /><br />The past few weeks I've been moving my office from one side of our suite to the complete opposite side. The office is a bit bigger, and in a more strategic location for purposeful student interaction, so I couldn't turn down the possibility. It's my good friend, CR's old office and I have to admit, it feels a little weird to be moving into her space- but it reminds me of all the laughs we had in there. (miss her!) My friend, <a href="http://tiffslifenow.blogspot.com/">Tiff,</a> told me once that "all changes carry with them a grieving process," and even though I'm merely shifting my items a few feet away, I am leaving A LOT behind...like the temporary feeling you get when you're a VISTA, being able to holler out to students, "come on back!" and my very. first. 40/wk. nameplate bearing. office. That's a lot.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzT1tR6stofDrlSwvaj2Yk5I7sHN2zsomoA9rzYYsz8KHC6RMCNoGDdGFoAxoMr_iH2KD38um1bRJYvdmE927HMpNaRUhWqb3BLfKDYvnox9xT9ltdkd9h9VwlmLXsdoWt37bb-A/s1600/oldoffice.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzT1tR6stofDrlSwvaj2Yk5I7sHN2zsomoA9rzYYsz8KHC6RMCNoGDdGFoAxoMr_iH2KD38um1bRJYvdmE927HMpNaRUhWqb3BLfKDYvnox9xT9ltdkd9h9VwlmLXsdoWt37bb-A/s320/oldoffice.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542898715498217394" /></a> <span style="font-style:italic;">my old office</span><br /><br />I was meeting with one of my students last week and when I told her that I was moving she asked if I was excited. I told her that I thought it was a good decision, but that I didn't really like change sometimes. She laughed and said, "that's ironic, because your whole job is about change." <br /><br />I'm glad to have moments that forced me to physically interact with my things and my work and to really reflect on the going ons in my space and the positive change that took place. I'm hopeful and eager to see what stories my new space will live to tell.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivLWK24ULr3cVXEOq5xhYProBnA3T2rK6AMEDX8lqTm9_pX5rsL5JQy8xR1GtnlDXJsO4Mtr6XCvO3LT0mjvMvHJHr64D54JNRgEkP5zPfhFNh1GmsKYvxsgRaD3ns-a6_hNA8Fw/s1600/newoffice.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivLWK24ULr3cVXEOq5xhYProBnA3T2rK6AMEDX8lqTm9_pX5rsL5JQy8xR1GtnlDXJsO4Mtr6XCvO3LT0mjvMvHJHr64D54JNRgEkP5zPfhFNh1GmsKYvxsgRaD3ns-a6_hNA8Fw/s320/newoffice.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542898779223569874" /></a><span style="font-style:italic;">my new space just waiting for you to come in and help me put all. my. crap. away.</span><br /><br />INTERACT: How do you <span style="font-style:italic;">feel</span> about moving?Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-3514567335195286322010-11-03T20:18:00.002-05:002010-11-03T21:02:51.530-05:00We cannot make good news out of bad practice. -Edward R. MurrowYou may be aware that my VISTA placement at TCU was completed on August 28th. I have officially completed my term "serving our country." (You can thank me later) :) IT was a really great year professionally and personally, but while living below the poverty line is educational and spiritually enlightening, it is really difficult. It was a hard year making less than $800/month at an institution where some students spend my monthly pay on a pair of boots or a purse. I also struggled with the feeling that I am behind my peers as I read emails/facebook filled with wonderful life and work related updates. But I was geared up to complete a second VISTA year at TCU, because I absolutely LOVE my students and the work that I do.<br /><br />In June, we got word that we would not be receiving any VISTA positions for the 2010-2011 year. I was devastated...again. I felt like...why is this happening to me? How am I going to support myself through another year long job search? Why does this happen to me? <br /><br /> After a long, long, loooooooooong waiting process, we got word that our department was receiving a permanent position, Community Engagement Coordinator, working with both academic and co-curricular Service-Learning programs/classes. After an interview process that beat me up more than anything, I was hired on as the Community Engagement Coordinator for the Center for Community Involvement & Service-Learning at Texas Christian University on September 27, 2010.<br /><br />I still LOVE the work I do and the students/faculty that I work with and am again remembering what a busy season this is for service-learning at TCU. I am looking forward to working more closely with faculty to assist them in developing/maintaining s-l courses and partnerships.<br /><br />I hate to say that sometimes I feel like my value is wrapped up in what I DO, but I do feel that sometimes. It's really good to see that others value my work enough to give me this opportunity and that people appreciate the work that I do. In general, I just really enjoy doing good work.<br /><br />It does feel slightly strange that for the FIRST time since 2001 (senior year of high school) I have a little extra to buy a little something that I want/need and to treat others as well. (granted, you ALL know my live simply stance, so life won't look TOO different). Anyway, its been a long time coming.<br /><br />Thank you for your thoughts, laughs, prayers, concerns and support (both emotionally and sometimes financially) along the way.Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-12913795656413344682010-08-02T16:35:00.004-05:002010-11-23T20:00:07.289-06:00A letter to Indiana<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizjgxRYeYwT33wbzhrGHDOTGtz12T7F4KYzlc8RzKaHClLx6-DzegRvsZJu15l8xpnOQQiceNLdO_tLP_9c-_pa0c6kyiMZzLsu7S5dB0XdjSt8n0mIdCmRgNIyT272gI5vWi8Zg/s1600/41710_9222401_2287_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizjgxRYeYwT33wbzhrGHDOTGtz12T7F4KYzlc8RzKaHClLx6-DzegRvsZJu15l8xpnOQQiceNLdO_tLP_9c-_pa0c6kyiMZzLsu7S5dB0XdjSt8n0mIdCmRgNIyT272gI5vWi8Zg/s320/41710_9222401_2287_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500929742754909314" /></a><br /><br />Dear Indiana,<br /><br />Soon you will receive a gift. A gift named Jere(o)my Thurman. I'm not sure if you know what you are in for, Indiana. He's going to change your whole world. He changed mine, and I will never be the same. I know the winters can be cold there, but I hope you have some great people there to warm his heart. Take care of him. And Indiana, I'm trusting you. But that doesn't mean I won't be by to borrow him from time to time.<br /><br />Love,<br /><br />MelMel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-79786530326866718832010-07-04T12:00:00.000-05:002010-07-04T12:00:02.816-05:00Today we celebrate our independence day!Since today is the Fourth of July, I plan to take some time to reflect on the great moments of our nation's history. I can't help but remember that 14 years ago, with humankind inches from annihilation, our president Thomas J. Whitmore delivered one of the most inspirational speeches in the history of our great nation:<br /><br /><br />"Good morning. Good morning. In less than an hour, aircraft from here will join others from around the world, and you will be launching the largest aerial battle in the history of mankind. Mankind, (and we could replace this with humankind) that word should have new meaning for all of us today. We can't be consumed by our petty differences any more. We will be united in our common interest. Perhaps it's fate that today is the 4th of July, and you will once again be fighting for our freedom. Not from tyranny, oppression, or persecution, but from annihilation. We're fighting for our right to live, to exist and should we win the day, the 4th of July will no longer be known as an American holiday, but as the day when the world declared in one voice, 'We will not go quietly into the night! We will not vanish without a fight! We're going to live on, we're going to survive. Today we celebrate our independence day!"<br /><br />President Thomas J. Whitmore<br />July 4, 1996Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-74722361855907451112010-06-22T19:19:00.004-05:002010-06-30T22:23:09.323-05:00i'm that desperate...or am i?Today I shall wash my clothes in the bathtub. I'm a little excited about it. I'll let you know how it goes. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32eZeTKWd0P76frg2fc9ZTJeoEtyv1Xg-VTtCrXKF-ncbRlGGdN2r6rdVP6eJkRxUEEOdgXOE9L40aIQgOwYuDMaVbUbSlT47nkhRKhIYJLPZLA8bj9wA6pYeHE72RWMfpRVoNg/s1600/washing.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 255px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32eZeTKWd0P76frg2fc9ZTJeoEtyv1Xg-VTtCrXKF-ncbRlGGdN2r6rdVP6eJkRxUEEOdgXOE9L40aIQgOwYuDMaVbUbSlT47nkhRKhIYJLPZLA8bj9wA6pYeHE72RWMfpRVoNg/s320/washing.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485757836037968002" /></a><br /><br />UPDATE: just hung the last of my clothes up to dry and what an easy breezy task it is to wash clothes in the tub. This may have sparked a complete lifestyle change.<br /><br />UPDATE 2: you can do a final soak with liquid fabric softener, but I just like to rub the dry clothes together to make them soft.<br /><br />INTERACT: What do you do (to be green, save money, etc) that most people would think wack-a-doodle-weird? My list could go on and on...Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-30870917092432350672010-05-16T00:30:00.000-05:002010-05-16T00:31:41.068-05:00TommorrowI will be here and I'm stoked:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU0F-UBilUBOpI26V51lLEuLXb843xOFWg_0jlv7wBaIp-g31zC_lPqFhZLHjDWPE6s4NK9Cy74a33AfE-CC8nRA9lHHnkRBvsRz_CV1TNoKLBVQA481PmfwzRvVdZ2qDI5mE-8A/s1600/austin-eflyerRGB.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 247px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU0F-UBilUBOpI26V51lLEuLXb843xOFWg_0jlv7wBaIp-g31zC_lPqFhZLHjDWPE6s4NK9Cy74a33AfE-CC8nRA9lHHnkRBvsRz_CV1TNoKLBVQA481PmfwzRvVdZ2qDI5mE-8A/s320/austin-eflyerRGB.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471736211236649314" /></a>Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-33181599548212045462010-04-10T12:01:00.003-05:002010-04-10T12:31:03.868-05:00Teeny Cheesy Cremini Pizza Recipe<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71neAIZcXqklm2LDxRT4gzNzHrHBiYTdVhZ2kEF5dFaWtzP15mVIqxyF6uNmE3zZcyYfGoWDF3p01CWfHEq8ZjPOPiL5woa0M0THknPt6PTwrNOTVSSjCR6UIXDJPl9gL6Ce6fA/s1600/photo-741285.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71neAIZcXqklm2LDxRT4gzNzHrHBiYTdVhZ2kEF5dFaWtzP15mVIqxyF6uNmE3zZcyYfGoWDF3p01CWfHEq8ZjPOPiL5woa0M0THknPt6PTwrNOTVSSjCR6UIXDJPl9gL6Ce6fA/s320/photo-741285.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458555289844331394" /></a></p><br /><br />Today I needed to use up some items in my fridge before they went bad, and as I was brainstorming, my belly started to crave some pizza. I threw some things together, and I was skeptical that it would be any good. BUT it was delicious (and vegetarian)! <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Teeny Cheesy Cremini Pizza</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Melissa Gruver</span><br /><br />2 Whole Wheat Tortillas*<br />few spoonfuls of leftover spaghetti sauce* <br />grated Parmesan cheese<br />shredded Italian cheese mix*<br />handful of cremini mushrooms* (or any other type)<br />fresh basil*<br />pepper<br />red pepper flakes<br />*indicates that these were the items I was NEEDING to use<br /><br />Heat oven to 350 degrees. Spray pan with non stick spray. Sprinkle Parmesan on tortillas and spread spaghetti sauce over top leaving a small edge. Layer the following: shredded cheese, chopped basil, mushrooms, a little more shredded cheese. Top with a pinch of freshly ground pepper and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Bake at 350 for 8 minutes. Enjoy!Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-74513819941662917882010-04-09T01:11:00.001-05:002010-11-23T20:38:35.651-06:00Crafty Conversations: fabric flower funThis banquet that I am going to on Friday has a Roaring Twenties theme so, one of my favorite friends, Natasha, came over earlier in the week and we made fabric flowers to complement our outfits. It was a really great time and I remembered two things:<br /><br /> 1. How much I LOVE just hanging out with people.<br /> 2. How good I feel after crafty something AWESOME.<br /><br />We live near each other, so we both decided that we should get together and craft more often and maybe even walk the trails around our apartments in the morning together. How wonderful new friendships can be!<br /><br />Halfway through my project:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaN2kijEaxwIJSx397ouHz_G6O5Fv2fqoB8zMONy9vEKEG8DRdJzWE0vEhqf2rIIIrTpEm-0w7aQFMNRi4uvrqckB99nyCiNeGSz99ACHzn4MoM-yK0zq6qPkqfqP1rVUc54oW3g/s1600/IMG_0341.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaN2kijEaxwIJSx397ouHz_G6O5Fv2fqoB8zMONy9vEKEG8DRdJzWE0vEhqf2rIIIrTpEm-0w7aQFMNRi4uvrqckB99nyCiNeGSz99ACHzn4MoM-yK0zq6qPkqfqP1rVUc54oW3g/s320/IMG_0341.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457647471143700834" /></a><br /><br />Natasha showing off her work. Silly girl!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi77q6g1_FVVKtZSuG1Wn478lWZOpU7s1TmGpIjCAyszS2jQNB1Lm7S-Xi0-me4EwD74VR_9w-rtXtx79hEgpjKQIUK0U_I1OeS_XPUXxaKDGtHNc5J_0VaIY5s_DBqnU875WWJiQ/s1600/IMG_0344.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi77q6g1_FVVKtZSuG1Wn478lWZOpU7s1TmGpIjCAyszS2jQNB1Lm7S-Xi0-me4EwD74VR_9w-rtXtx79hEgpjKQIUK0U_I1OeS_XPUXxaKDGtHNc5J_0VaIY5s_DBqnU875WWJiQ/s320/IMG_0344.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457647465355149954" /></a><br /><br />My finished product. Anyone want to buy one?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8by0ob1m1qTauJYArhdwxP6j5m1yBRH5LVNwqg4sRDINyGLvVfFYutnM_-wYMOYBxamf1nGvD6m6FXBGGVOHMIB656UJ_WfohWa-MCCI9J1kwT95LrJDpD9j1R0NOUc1UnEFnIg/s1600/IMG_0346.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8by0ob1m1qTauJYArhdwxP6j5m1yBRH5LVNwqg4sRDINyGLvVfFYutnM_-wYMOYBxamf1nGvD6m6FXBGGVOHMIB656UJ_WfohWa-MCCI9J1kwT95LrJDpD9j1R0NOUc1UnEFnIg/s320/IMG_0346.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457647460373599986" /></a><br /><br />INTERACT: What should you be doing more often?Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-88279995207161219842010-04-07T22:07:00.000-05:002010-04-08T00:56:03.942-05:00A productive weekend...for a changeNow don't get me wrong. I did plenty of sleeping in over the long Easter weekend, but I also got a chance to some things I've been wanting to do. Gotta love a productive weekend! Here are some of the highlights:<br /><br />I went shopping for some recipes that I have been DYING to try, and made THREE of them!!! I took JT took the Water Gardens in Ft Worth, but for some reason they had drained the water and turned off all the fountains! I was bummed, but then JT climbed "the mountain" and we did few cart wheels and back bends in the grass, so it turned out to be a good time.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBxmBeYFG0DccZombM80VDhikUn7F_7KPFO9kd35yjFwlxQIsGYHdn5OKQESuRkS61OzyXMDQODAw5ovHzaxaZmdMtUfmPssd18v4FKOBk6TVRDkZEfuERA3N6K2jvZLiVdycsDQ/s1600/IMG_0337.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBxmBeYFG0DccZombM80VDhikUn7F_7KPFO9kd35yjFwlxQIsGYHdn5OKQESuRkS61OzyXMDQODAw5ovHzaxaZmdMtUfmPssd18v4FKOBk6TVRDkZEfuERA3N6K2jvZLiVdycsDQ/s320/IMG_0337.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457632674974405858" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhwDr7AuXhnU8Ha4rBKU5DoceAqcbNS7-h7MtmDZ6-jRTBiP_Jan5mSQnfCZRnDU9d1IIdXsOAAgcOiwAKCl0jvDbg12cudjhN9YgkuAZGdRppHOZ9pSygrF5h3F_YTQfPmpTDA/s1600/IMG_0336.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhwDr7AuXhnU8Ha4rBKU5DoceAqcbNS7-h7MtmDZ6-jRTBiP_Jan5mSQnfCZRnDU9d1IIdXsOAAgcOiwAKCl0jvDbg12cudjhN9YgkuAZGdRppHOZ9pSygrF5h3F_YTQfPmpTDA/s320/IMG_0336.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457631809285771058" /></a><br /><br />We watched "God on Trial" with Natasha which was excellent and so thought provoking. I would definitely recommend it. Now here's the BIG news. IF you know me well, you know that I can't keep things alive- plants, fish, love (kidding about the love). I mean really, the only time I remember to water the bamboo (a hand me down) in my office is when a student just happens to be drinking water right next to it. "Hey Andrea, wanna pour a little of that into Mr Bambi?"<br /><br />Well, over Easter weekend I thought it would be fun to celebrate by planting something, so I started a little herb garden. SO I poured some water over some soil pellets, spent a LONG time breaking them apart, planted Basil, Rosemary, and Tyme.<br />This is how it looked on my back porch:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMp9_PZw82gd1iZT3J3oPZD1ZnUaTjuj3MVX0r9Xru6wHMVB3sL14it9-2WdJ2JrF5cIp4d6pp2TskOCMoV-mfJhQwfySq4EZsFcDqsYp2DL-aRy42cdN5HrXtrpUn8WgJ3oNx9g/s1600/IMG_0335.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMp9_PZw82gd1iZT3J3oPZD1ZnUaTjuj3MVX0r9Xru6wHMVB3sL14it9-2WdJ2JrF5cIp4d6pp2TskOCMoV-mfJhQwfySq4EZsFcDqsYp2DL-aRy42cdN5HrXtrpUn8WgJ3oNx9g/s320/IMG_0335.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457631817713556162" /></a><br /><br />And here is how it looked today!!! I mean, I planted those babies from seeds and dirt! Fascinating. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7C6v-9OTldMvJ7nIfR9sniVctsZPONiU8aP0-sycOv7s9cfHwOsJ8F_niVG9JkB9WBvW9Juz_lsTBQ8ccPuAMSEbJyNh3HLRVLLVejL6MkjagLpKu4EFNMIjcD6mgNMES0o21g/s1600/IMG_0345.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7C6v-9OTldMvJ7nIfR9sniVctsZPONiU8aP0-sycOv7s9cfHwOsJ8F_niVG9JkB9WBvW9Juz_lsTBQ8ccPuAMSEbJyNh3HLRVLLVejL6MkjagLpKu4EFNMIjcD6mgNMES0o21g/s320/IMG_0345.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457632682045085730" /></a><br /><br />The second day, I went out to water and the pots had tipped over and half the soil came out, so we will have to see if the seeds got mix up in the process by the time the plants get bigger. I had some extra seeds, so I covered a tomato can with scrapbook paper, hammered some holes in the bottom, and planted a little more thyme.<br /><br />Today I went and bought a cheap pot and some bright lights chard seeds and some sunflower seeds for guerrilla gardening in outside around my apartment. I guess I have found a new hobby...<br /><br />INTERACT: What should I cook with my new herbs, once they grow?Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-60875995077007948452010-03-23T21:22:00.007-05:002010-03-23T23:03:04.198-05:00post 100: A month in reviewI know it has been a while since we spoke last, so in honor of my <span style="font-weight:bold;">ONE HUNDREDTH</span> blog post I'm going to do things a little different today. Here's a review of the things I've been up to since my last post. You let me know if there is anything you want to know more about and I will dedicate an upcoming post to that topic. ENJOY!<br /><br />My friend Marianne came and we discussed how this would be an AWFUL bridesmaid dress:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_8sQ00gUHXt5VQdJTyMUkn9x7QZOPdz8PJSViR3EeWBnJRib2oJTN7yH_3mCNJacJLvzNuijdr0aVuizzyJFwAfQUJlr3lzIS-qAPAWXfewifroYgSLPcP168x7BIuxX7IpgsA/s1600-h/iphone+163.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_8sQ00gUHXt5VQdJTyMUkn9x7QZOPdz8PJSViR3EeWBnJRib2oJTN7yH_3mCNJacJLvzNuijdr0aVuizzyJFwAfQUJlr3lzIS-qAPAWXfewifroYgSLPcP168x7BIuxX7IpgsA/s320/iphone+163.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452034706091545810" /></a><br /><br />I decided I need a pair of boots.<br /><br />I served a few meals to some older adults: <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPTByOvEJN5kA0FXSCHsNEYZxAyq_vBiiLUjmBOjgozFXh_Q-WsZAOwCLwML3nU2X4z_q5FWbjwuYDojxfTxC68Z1WVlARHfxq6I0AK8I0lzdEorcegh9WnpWTjH_a4CwPW63nmA/s1600-h/iphone+173.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPTByOvEJN5kA0FXSCHsNEYZxAyq_vBiiLUjmBOjgozFXh_Q-WsZAOwCLwML3nU2X4z_q5FWbjwuYDojxfTxC68Z1WVlARHfxq6I0AK8I0lzdEorcegh9WnpWTjH_a4CwPW63nmA/s320/iphone+173.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452034698198984514" /></a><br /><br />I got some ashes on my forehead at a service before work.<br /><br />I stopped by Religious & Spiritual Life to ask them to redo my ashes so people would try to wipe the "dirt" off my face all day.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVwbX-2vpLkSYoJgtGvj4avZFG7fhyphenhyphenyF_zddTkhZD8bVN8Vm6-RuXGxM3zQXVfjw8e5wvTQIoZ764KBV4_X3m5-emzrwGIOggT8CTEL3TQm3z4YIYMN6jLqiwiNuWDiIR_Kb-6vw/s1600-h/iphone+172.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVwbX-2vpLkSYoJgtGvj4avZFG7fhyphenhyphenyF_zddTkhZD8bVN8Vm6-RuXGxM3zQXVfjw8e5wvTQIoZ764KBV4_X3m5-emzrwGIOggT8CTEL3TQm3z4YIYMN6jLqiwiNuWDiIR_Kb-6vw/s320/iphone+172.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452041802646253250" /></a><br /><br />I contemplated my Lenten promise and felt guilty about not having one, so I avoided the blog.<br /><br />I saw this:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8tx-7fE-QuRw3d79QjQrmO5DZJJtnZGB7AxvVwdLVjRqEO1bKiaDgj1-Irc4qsoYIn7XFz0kjYuwq27U37bIV9iYM4UVxyOWthlypDNkv6dzyV6stNVKvtDTlVq9fdp9i38K83w/s1600-h/iphone+170.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8tx-7fE-QuRw3d79QjQrmO5DZJJtnZGB7AxvVwdLVjRqEO1bKiaDgj1-Irc4qsoYIn7XFz0kjYuwq27U37bIV9iYM4UVxyOWthlypDNkv6dzyV6stNVKvtDTlVq9fdp9i38K83w/s320/iphone+170.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452041800713161458" /></a><br /><br />I laughed.<br /><br />I help build a house:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL4YBu8xPV_G8IKwFiNTvPHZ2qXPi1mbJtG9jaa5MBnIm5hSFPiprs_rM5JF4gRHV-9T2576FbsV29LYFqknycYm1pVU67GMdHfxqr9GnJf6l3AdMPC-KZRp6xrcLlA3Dz2yK10A/s1600-h/iphone+175.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL4YBu8xPV_G8IKwFiNTvPHZ2qXPi1mbJtG9jaa5MBnIm5hSFPiprs_rM5JF4gRHV-9T2576FbsV29LYFqknycYm1pVU67GMdHfxqr9GnJf6l3AdMPC-KZRp6xrcLlA3Dz2yK10A/s320/iphone+175.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452034693373485554" /></a><br /><br />I worked late...A LOT (but with a friend).<br /><br />I had a couple of scheduled coffee breaks when working late.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgjM9Aut6pzRFAXVnrN-gcUtFcAGF5Cz-zxQ_bkZRxranIlBVv8_COoqQFM3_lu6mn1xgicwrrqSHeOrijiyTAGsTBPFXi67A7trN5Qykb59myyILBbmvIWXtwv2pvZ26JUgumKg/s1600-h/iphone+168.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgjM9Aut6pzRFAXVnrN-gcUtFcAGF5Cz-zxQ_bkZRxranIlBVv8_COoqQFM3_lu6mn1xgicwrrqSHeOrijiyTAGsTBPFXi67A7trN5Qykb59myyILBbmvIWXtwv2pvZ26JUgumKg/s320/iphone+168.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452033988680373106" /></a><br /><br />I participated in leading a webinar with my office.<br /><br />I taught a class on gender & leadership and had students try on corsets.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpyg8rCd8h6bt5zOhOAP85io_Q1CI636-BWFqXyE_Z_j749JpolEFeJivF2nzaoYuejg3ropXZoPoPXLcBwq2mEmI7dHzomz4QvCeRugyk_O42mFPDfuGS0accmEQ8xBmWP4ImIQ/s1600-h/iphone+218.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpyg8rCd8h6bt5zOhOAP85io_Q1CI636-BWFqXyE_Z_j749JpolEFeJivF2nzaoYuejg3ropXZoPoPXLcBwq2mEmI7dHzomz4QvCeRugyk_O42mFPDfuGS0accmEQ8xBmWP4ImIQ/s320/iphone+218.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452033978268291442" /></a><br /><br />I saw my boyfriend.<br /><br />I hosted 135 high school students on campus and managed 135 college volunteers for Minority High School Conference/College Student for a Day<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXIK44GS2v5LZBQRjV2MBowh5yXCcJeTCEV043BaPYxuKbmbP7XV8pmUtsn8Fjy0DQS7A8D2Zor2jyPaVI3Km8pU9TW9KnEfzyEgFikFeGTOK9WHEF5fTitTGsgOrRqyPakVDn2w/s1600-h/iphone+201.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXIK44GS2v5LZBQRjV2MBowh5yXCcJeTCEV043BaPYxuKbmbP7XV8pmUtsn8Fjy0DQS7A8D2Zor2jyPaVI3Km8pU9TW9KnEfzyEgFikFeGTOK9WHEF5fTitTGsgOrRqyPakVDn2w/s320/iphone+201.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452033968153535634" /></a><br /><br />I thought about going to Chicago.<br /><br />A week later I WENT to Chicago and saw my best friend.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpMDUzomMA9ofjmS2rlm-mSiVu32tQPmJPh3BKkn3uzhBO5ZHiWas8ftOSIpLh5FCkLvkJ0-CNiiPop_zvisEcVlzorKwtWDFAXKi9qmlPR2qzPcMaVjzvFQpfnvB7Pi0jUJDWQ/s1600-h/besties.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpMDUzomMA9ofjmS2rlm-mSiVu32tQPmJPh3BKkn3uzhBO5ZHiWas8ftOSIpLh5FCkLvkJ0-CNiiPop_zvisEcVlzorKwtWDFAXKi9qmlPR2qzPcMaVjzvFQpfnvB7Pi0jUJDWQ/s320/besties.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452033960165968834" /></a><br /><br />I saw a college friend's band play at a bar and stayed up WAY too late.<br /><br />I interviewed.<br /><br />I blended in with a booth.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1P-adc6E0IKYy4N1u1ZrD19EC7vvyPY7vUyYMaxd-dRO3-x0JX5pqJSfGQGWJALQ6IHzFjMRwqEKPvXhZHKUno5yE3HNRvlznmy-_tjIGMZPslCH6Kr6gbbMN62Bh6UmlseqpGQ/s1600-h/booth.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 285px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1P-adc6E0IKYy4N1u1ZrD19EC7vvyPY7vUyYMaxd-dRO3-x0JX5pqJSfGQGWJALQ6IHzFjMRwqEKPvXhZHKUno5yE3HNRvlznmy-_tjIGMZPslCH6Kr6gbbMN62Bh6UmlseqpGQ/s320/booth.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452033957022443890" /></a><br /><br />I missed my boyfriend.<br /><br />I ate this:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH5lQKPO9YxVMVf88TnQHxBjJHU6LvTycH24Ubtk_yTdNRu70A-JCiAm5uqtCUDAd2-E6ABZ5r0vFaWW1AcqL4QzYs-zdxvDZOhJ8NZaX8tJOWkB0XnEWBqspkZDupQpRinV4FiQ/s1600-h/iphone+225.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH5lQKPO9YxVMVf88TnQHxBjJHU6LvTycH24Ubtk_yTdNRu70A-JCiAm5uqtCUDAd2-E6ABZ5r0vFaWW1AcqL4QzYs-zdxvDZOhJ8NZaX8tJOWkB0XnEWBqspkZDupQpRinV4FiQ/s320/iphone+225.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452032363677362018" /></a><br /><br />I accidentally abstained from television.<br /><br />I added the Grand stop on the L to the list of public places where I have changed clothes.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvZbyCt1e8KAIgcZCetcBfq-gK9z387_ugo1lWGlGPEiouSz3e-kt1YYhF-uqLy4Thj9L4gA4ATf28uxRhWJWSa9CqW8xkHE-_l-p54TO54QUwmtEpe-ScSfxRIZC0WMo4TeUF8g/s1600-h/iphone+228.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvZbyCt1e8KAIgcZCetcBfq-gK9z387_ugo1lWGlGPEiouSz3e-kt1YYhF-uqLy4Thj9L4gA4ATf28uxRhWJWSa9CqW8xkHE-_l-p54TO54QUwmtEpe-ScSfxRIZC0WMo4TeUF8g/s320/iphone+228.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452041814652931426" /></a><br /><br />I rode the L to have dinner with some college friends-and had a great time.<br /><br />I rode the L the next day to the same stop to see this guy and had an even greater time:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRcZ-FqbG7ojikcjgcYdD64mrZLmuCB1s1qkt531S-phEfdZUNba2ElCR4q7A11z9U3h4N7M_F27aBXbx_Nsj7NQNRXgM_YG3b8N7sDu6-18TXBMW_zJdPCOvc7GAAbyzHmKb6qA/s1600-h/josh.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRcZ-FqbG7ojikcjgcYdD64mrZLmuCB1s1qkt531S-phEfdZUNba2ElCR4q7A11z9U3h4N7M_F27aBXbx_Nsj7NQNRXgM_YG3b8N7sDu6-18TXBMW_zJdPCOvc7GAAbyzHmKb6qA/s320/josh.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452032360928355554" /></a><br /><br />I said hello and goodbye to some good friends.<br /><br />I did a Sic 'em.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQocIUMkQVIQhU_iuGk6jSaJoZgrljJOvUZVT57tQv84LOW6a88ZoXFJqs5u0sAZ1v5VgPrQf35G1tZKi7BwBlPZ3aGxoS7nW8vOOqV3oqsWxW2nxh40UYNapxtIZv3JROiC2mPA/s1600-h/sicem.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQocIUMkQVIQhU_iuGk6jSaJoZgrljJOvUZVT57tQv84LOW6a88ZoXFJqs5u0sAZ1v5VgPrQf35G1tZKi7BwBlPZ3aGxoS7nW8vOOqV3oqsWxW2nxh40UYNapxtIZv3JROiC2mPA/s320/sicem.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452032353711516770" /></a><br /><br />I hung out with my Dean of students from college, made some new friends, and learned some things.<br /><br />I said goodbye to my best friend..and to Chicago.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZeJOR4NuGBnN6Utzbf0MAS9lHec3FXHlvFhp_Fo29Ff_tz0DsqHMTBi_K7CZ4lvUhLaFpGYdas9m0csylA25bYCnKYEvaEg5xrd_p8hhI5JyAKMpAe2gstLdFwKwmOMsWf_DpxA/s1600-h/byestefi.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZeJOR4NuGBnN6Utzbf0MAS9lHec3FXHlvFhp_Fo29Ff_tz0DsqHMTBi_K7CZ4lvUhLaFpGYdas9m0csylA25bYCnKYEvaEg5xrd_p8hhI5JyAKMpAe2gstLdFwKwmOMsWf_DpxA/s320/byestefi.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452032347960583266" /></a><br /><br />I got excited about Aldi opening up down the street.<br /><br />I took some students on a spring break trip---to Ft. Worth!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgypKXOZTmC0CytPMSJPX54Y09Xt6jp0vuJXWzLguKuggo3RY7mdTziTWNpB16VGM4K8qY0_8mcMgTz99hudHqkKNl2j2aiJb1gAFRLQ9gDRoWksXeh1JMEVKclfPfmVys86dpNGA/s1600-h/service_ft_worth.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgypKXOZTmC0CytPMSJPX54Y09Xt6jp0vuJXWzLguKuggo3RY7mdTziTWNpB16VGM4K8qY0_8mcMgTz99hudHqkKNl2j2aiJb1gAFRLQ9gDRoWksXeh1JMEVKclfPfmVys86dpNGA/s320/service_ft_worth.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452030145982694706" /></a><br /><br />I slept on a YMCA floor- or tried to at least.<br /><br />I walked into a giant fountain and didn't get wet.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbCuHsU_Q4kClGxWfoHr6lZqhZl5KXDmXKCRkWVAoi2htsN3PgtBRQWL1NG21-pqG8-bhFch71D0xSXDqkPwM8CszY0YLQv0ugTzRKoH2yXXr-KdrncpkgGxVUdusBbMRiugiveA/s1600-h/fountain.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbCuHsU_Q4kClGxWfoHr6lZqhZl5KXDmXKCRkWVAoi2htsN3PgtBRQWL1NG21-pqG8-bhFch71D0xSXDqkPwM8CszY0YLQv0ugTzRKoH2yXXr-KdrncpkgGxVUdusBbMRiugiveA/s320/fountain.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452030141687189234" /></a><br /><br />I hung out with refugee children, role played with social workers, served food at a shelter, played catch phrase with some great homeless guys, helped with a field day for adults with development delays, served some meals on wheels, ate some meals on wheels, talked about "the issues," reflected, learned, laughed...<br /><br />And I bought this:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0zM2894xpw9lY0qxqXjc-WnKGMxXoIKukhyphenhyphenKmnXbrGxJEVLmpnCawK3PhyphenhyphenXU9Rp2wutuJqV9qg0F10BLKWDDDyi1vDu9WdxZjpwNuc84LCRyyYs3F7AqXs__1ffpd4gww36SSA/s1600-h/iphone+281.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0zM2894xpw9lY0qxqXjc-WnKGMxXoIKukhyphenhyphenKmnXbrGxJEVLmpnCawK3PhyphenhyphenXU9Rp2wutuJqV9qg0F10BLKWDDDyi1vDu9WdxZjpwNuc84LCRyyYs3F7AqXs__1ffpd4gww36SSA/s320/iphone+281.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452032344121644338" /></a><br /><br />I got a new computer at work and moved my desk out from against the wall so I can be more creative.<br /><br />I sat on a giant horned frog with my boss.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQriFQEi4skENmtqwuk-WIyJa7R1Tuw0zLHD5xFz3E_ZdLAytj4MBjhU8FB8gcBAaphVdyEWkPc1x6MyQ0jZVBqrJoOatsIPZ0x7Xqfwm8ByxkEN2ngnkNZYHhFyqa25z534UttQ/s1600-h/iphone+307.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQriFQEi4skENmtqwuk-WIyJa7R1Tuw0zLHD5xFz3E_ZdLAytj4MBjhU8FB8gcBAaphVdyEWkPc1x6MyQ0jZVBqrJoOatsIPZ0x7Xqfwm8ByxkEN2ngnkNZYHhFyqa25z534UttQ/s320/iphone+307.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452030133705382674" /></a><br /><br />I snuck into work late and I snuck out early.<br /><br />I stopped to smell the flowers.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE4s7JbthDdhWfXvAVOftiUznOHg1Y_hmNxX_Ymi1gxbMmVIrwUbjVkz__b_ZgvzWrn6cfhXFgkVFHjkD30NEb8UUnBKSXQNyu3EdNNsnf6ZrUoUwY848bZry038fwJnHWLNCBuQ/s1600-h/iphone+308.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE4s7JbthDdhWfXvAVOftiUznOHg1Y_hmNxX_Ymi1gxbMmVIrwUbjVkz__b_ZgvzWrn6cfhXFgkVFHjkD30NEb8UUnBKSXQNyu3EdNNsnf6ZrUoUwY848bZry038fwJnHWLNCBuQ/s320/iphone+308.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452030125023889858" /></a><br /><br />Then I blogged about it.<br /><br />INTERACT: Wanna know more about any of the above? Let me know in the comments.Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31371037.post-39904456090249064832010-02-14T22:46:00.005-06:002010-02-14T23:05:39.013-06:00Do you make a stop at Hemphill and Berry?As part of my job I teach along with my boss a seminar (READ: class for leadership credit)called Community Action each semester. The purpose of the class is get students talking about service & leadership. This semester we have restructured the 8 week class with the first 4 weeks being exposure weeks and the last four being action weeks. Here's how the first 4 weeks break down:<br />1. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Personal Definition of Service</span><br />2. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Strengths & Community-</span> this is a favorite of mine because we talk about not only our strengths and how they play out in community, BUT how those we serve have strengths as well---GOOD DISCUSSION HERE.<br />3. <span style="font-weight:bold;">What about YOUR community?</span> We brought in some folks from the United Way that do community assessment and talked about the SPECIFIC needs of Tarrant County that can be categorized as INCOME, EDUCATION, & HEALTH.<br />4. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Exposure Day</span> and then there is week four, a two hour class.<br /><br />For this class, we told students that we would be doing an agency visit and tour, but what we DIDN'T tell them was that we would be taking the city bus! Transportation is one of the issues the United Way discussed, so we gave them some route sheets (right and wrong) and gave them some time to figure out how to get there, transfers and all. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizRqGItEkY0Iurkml72JA9vyTNDssH_xfxcfmP4f9CqcwXwXaXuElS-UMCNdGc242ChUr9dxzr2Ui1BvuRX4Kxl_MQGC3mietlqDnQKKUU-62A2OoweLATOXrj_gXvmdIWy5EmyQ/s1600-h/photo+(1).jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizRqGItEkY0Iurkml72JA9vyTNDssH_xfxcfmP4f9CqcwXwXaXuElS-UMCNdGc242ChUr9dxzr2Ui1BvuRX4Kxl_MQGC3mietlqDnQKKUU-62A2OoweLATOXrj_gXvmdIWy5EmyQ/s400/photo+(1).jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438330031008368546" /></a><br /><br />The students made some great observations about the experience of regular bus riders and the difficulties in navigating that system. We even learned some things from some fellow passengers. The visit at Catholic Charities was great because the group learned A LOT about refugee services and some global issues. Friends, THIS is why I do what I do. Man, I love seeing people think and learn. What a great day!<br /><br />I am looking forward to the second half of the semester as we discuss ways to take action and who is already taking action. We are also requiring 3 hours of service with a local agency. I'm hoping students volunteer at Catholic Charities and maybe take the bus a little more and burst that TCU bubble.Mel Gruverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10042966016456190294noreply@blogger.com0