The 2010 year is coming to a close in two weeks and like many of you, I am looking back at the past year and wondering where the time went. So, what did you accomplish in 2010? What did you gain? What did you lose? Who did you lose? What are you proud of? What do you wish you could go back and change?
Very soon it will be 2011 and like many people, you may have high expectations of the coming new year—as if it were a clean slate. I think that we appreciate having a new start in order to strengthen our resolve and to gear up for whatever the task may be. Quite often we make New Year’s resolutions pertaining to weight loss or improved health and happiness. I suspect that more and more people will have goals pertaining to education, employment, and financial and family security.
Why mark any particular year with memories or milestones? I believe that a year is a point of reference, a marker, and a way to remember our past. I use dates to remember what was happening in my life 2 years ago, 10 years ago, and even 20 years ago. It’s important to remember our past in order to learn and grow and to experience how life changes—whether we want it to or not.
Can you imagine what life was like in your city or town 250 years ago? Have you ever done any research on the history of your area and come away with a renewed appreciation for the present day? Or, perhaps it made you long for days gone by.
The passage from one year to the next is an essential part of history. Years become decades, and then eras, generations, and centuries—each which seem to have defining traits. What makes us so different from past generations? You are contributing to history at this very moment, so just imagine what people in the future will think of us. How do you want to leave your mark and be remembered? I suppose I could be remembered as someone who stopped to “smell the roses” occasionally and encouraged others to do the same; all while trying to “cultivate” a better life.
Take an interest in history. Honor it, protect it, and learn from it. Celebrate.
Happy New Year!
Friday, December 17, 2010
Friday, October 22, 2010
In the Spirit of Debate
Why can’t you see things MY way?? I know that I’m right and you are wrong—horribly mistaken even! Perhaps if I tell more people about my side of things then they will join with me and support me against your ludicrous way of thinking. It’s my way or the highway…right?
At the same time that I am thinking this, you are thinking the same. You are reviewing conversations and circumstances in your head and you absolutely refuse to back down or give in to my reasoning!
Can you see the problem?
You can continue to dwell, stew, debate, harp on, and grumble about the difference in our opinion, perhaps taking it to a level you might not typically reach; but what good will that really do? Perhaps you just don’t care what people think, and that makes it easier for you to throw your opinion at me.
I think that most people who feel passionately about something are genuinely kind people who want to see the right thing done for the right reason—but, because we are humans with minds that are capable of independent thinking, we offer opinions which come from our own personal perspective. Our perspective and our opinion is our own and may or may not be right or wrong. Debating is a lively and important part of communication. It helps us to expand our horizons and our knowledge base; but when does debating harm? When one or both of us has lost sight of the original importance of the situation, only to be more concerned about who is right, that is harmful!
When you begin to ask yourself “why did I sign up for this?” and your pride and feelings are hurt, we may have damaged our relationship permanently. Since my thoughts and feelings seem to have no value to you, then I see no reason to continue trying to value yours. Oh, remember that situation we began to work together on? That is no longer my concern. Go ahead and have it your way. You win. Happy?? Neither am I.
The previous scenario is actually not a reflection of any one particular conflict I have observed, but it seems to fit several that I can currently think of. If you truly value a relationship and support a cause, practice good diplomacy and think carefully before you speak. If necessary, use an impartial third party to help you move beyond your differences. On the other side of the opinion is someone like you who just wants to be heard.
At the same time that I am thinking this, you are thinking the same. You are reviewing conversations and circumstances in your head and you absolutely refuse to back down or give in to my reasoning!
Can you see the problem?
You can continue to dwell, stew, debate, harp on, and grumble about the difference in our opinion, perhaps taking it to a level you might not typically reach; but what good will that really do? Perhaps you just don’t care what people think, and that makes it easier for you to throw your opinion at me.
I think that most people who feel passionately about something are genuinely kind people who want to see the right thing done for the right reason—but, because we are humans with minds that are capable of independent thinking, we offer opinions which come from our own personal perspective. Our perspective and our opinion is our own and may or may not be right or wrong. Debating is a lively and important part of communication. It helps us to expand our horizons and our knowledge base; but when does debating harm? When one or both of us has lost sight of the original importance of the situation, only to be more concerned about who is right, that is harmful!
When you begin to ask yourself “why did I sign up for this?” and your pride and feelings are hurt, we may have damaged our relationship permanently. Since my thoughts and feelings seem to have no value to you, then I see no reason to continue trying to value yours. Oh, remember that situation we began to work together on? That is no longer my concern. Go ahead and have it your way. You win. Happy?? Neither am I.
The previous scenario is actually not a reflection of any one particular conflict I have observed, but it seems to fit several that I can currently think of. If you truly value a relationship and support a cause, practice good diplomacy and think carefully before you speak. If necessary, use an impartial third party to help you move beyond your differences. On the other side of the opinion is someone like you who just wants to be heard.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Taking the Bad with the Good, and Vice Versa
I have sat down to write a new column so many times in the past few weeks, but the words have not come easily. In fact I just deleted three paragraphs and decided to start over. For me, a lack of words--written or spoken--is not so typical. I was trying to find a way to put a positive spin on my current situation.
How many of us tolerate negative things in life in order to get by without disruption or chaos? We get comfortable with our routine, even though we know that it might not be perfect or even the best situation for us. We take it like medicine...we don't like it, but it has to be done. We do this because we strive to avoid conflict. I think that I was raised to avoid conflict...either that or I have too much of the "patience and acceptance" gene! So, when I do decide to "rock the boat," it's usually of Titanic proportions. Do most women feel this way about their roles within the family? I think to some extent it is true.
After years of tolerating, avoidance, fear of the unknown, and the advice of well-intended people in my life, I changed. First, you can never do something just because someone else tells you to. You have to make the decision on your own, when it's the right time for YOU! You have to be confident and strong in the decisions that you make so that you can stand by them later. I have decided to not blame anyone else for problems in my life--I took back my independence. Now, with the support of family and friends, I move on to a new stage in life.
Taking the good with the bad means making that move toward something good or better for your life, despite how difficult it may seem at first. To anyone facing a huge obstacle, a life-changing decision, or something that pulls you from your comfort zone, you are not alone. Congratulations on taking that step for you!
How many of us tolerate negative things in life in order to get by without disruption or chaos? We get comfortable with our routine, even though we know that it might not be perfect or even the best situation for us. We take it like medicine...we don't like it, but it has to be done. We do this because we strive to avoid conflict. I think that I was raised to avoid conflict...either that or I have too much of the "patience and acceptance" gene! So, when I do decide to "rock the boat," it's usually of Titanic proportions. Do most women feel this way about their roles within the family? I think to some extent it is true.
After years of tolerating, avoidance, fear of the unknown, and the advice of well-intended people in my life, I changed. First, you can never do something just because someone else tells you to. You have to make the decision on your own, when it's the right time for YOU! You have to be confident and strong in the decisions that you make so that you can stand by them later. I have decided to not blame anyone else for problems in my life--I took back my independence. Now, with the support of family and friends, I move on to a new stage in life.
Taking the good with the bad means making that move toward something good or better for your life, despite how difficult it may seem at first. To anyone facing a huge obstacle, a life-changing decision, or something that pulls you from your comfort zone, you are not alone. Congratulations on taking that step for you!
Monday, May 24, 2010
The Column Continues...
Since http://www.belchertown-news.com/ is on a permanent break, I've been thinking about how much I miss writing. I also tend to proof and edit things randomly and I'm sure that my friends and family are tired of me finding typos in the most basic things. I'm perfectly capable of creating my own typos and overlooking them too, since we all seem to miss our own mistakes.
It seems like just yesterday that I headed back to college for my BA degree. In September of 2008, I began the Saturday Program at Bay Path College in Longmeadow; and while I was excited about the opportunity, I was a little nervous that my thirty-something year-old brain wouldn't work the same as it did the last time was I was in school. To my pleasant surprise, not only could I handle the workload, but I actually excelled in the program. What a coincidence it was that I had originally intended to go to Bay Path right after high school, when it was only a two-year school. Somehow I ended up at Holyoke Community College with a lot of my friends and earning both a certificate and an Associates Degree in my two years there.
In the seventeen years that followed, I was employed by educational institutions--supporting others in their quest for a college degree. I felt like I had squeezed as much life as possible out of my associates degree, and I realized that there is an invisible door in the employment world which can only be opened up with a four-year degree. All the experience in the world isn't going to matter to an employer who is concerned about that piece of paper. That fact really hit me after I left my last job in 2007 and learned later that a younger degree holder in the office had not only taken over my position, but did so with an advanced title. While I was happy that she had been given the opportunity, it further strengthened my desire to earn my degree.
I have no regrets. I know that the sequence of events in my life happened for a reason--perhaps for no other reason than to say that I now am the mother of a daughter in college, and I appreciate my having graduated now far more than I would have appreciated it back then. I have no immediate plans for a job change either, I'm just going to enjoy this for a while. Some have asked me if I plan to continue to get my Masters. I'm not sure just yet--but I did bring home the application.
I am grateful to all those who have encouraged and supported me with words and with patience. Thank you! I am also grateful for the many new Bay Path friends I have gained along the way.
To reflect on the haiku which I wrote for my World Literature class:
After eighteen years
it is her time which has come,
mine begins again.
One more thing... YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It seems like just yesterday that I headed back to college for my BA degree. In September of 2008, I began the Saturday Program at Bay Path College in Longmeadow; and while I was excited about the opportunity, I was a little nervous that my thirty-something year-old brain wouldn't work the same as it did the last time was I was in school. To my pleasant surprise, not only could I handle the workload, but I actually excelled in the program. What a coincidence it was that I had originally intended to go to Bay Path right after high school, when it was only a two-year school. Somehow I ended up at Holyoke Community College with a lot of my friends and earning both a certificate and an Associates Degree in my two years there.
In the seventeen years that followed, I was employed by educational institutions--supporting others in their quest for a college degree. I felt like I had squeezed as much life as possible out of my associates degree, and I realized that there is an invisible door in the employment world which can only be opened up with a four-year degree. All the experience in the world isn't going to matter to an employer who is concerned about that piece of paper. That fact really hit me after I left my last job in 2007 and learned later that a younger degree holder in the office had not only taken over my position, but did so with an advanced title. While I was happy that she had been given the opportunity, it further strengthened my desire to earn my degree.
I have no regrets. I know that the sequence of events in my life happened for a reason--perhaps for no other reason than to say that I now am the mother of a daughter in college, and I appreciate my having graduated now far more than I would have appreciated it back then. I have no immediate plans for a job change either, I'm just going to enjoy this for a while. Some have asked me if I plan to continue to get my Masters. I'm not sure just yet--but I did bring home the application.
I am grateful to all those who have encouraged and supported me with words and with patience. Thank you! I am also grateful for the many new Bay Path friends I have gained along the way.
To reflect on the haiku which I wrote for my World Literature class:
After eighteen years
it is her time which has come,
mine begins again.
One more thing... YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
New Year
Written for the 6/29/2009 Edition of Andrea's Random Thoughts:
You may recall that it was just over a year ago that I started writing this column under a pen name—Samantha B. It was with the New Year’s edition that I “came out” and resolved to always take credit for my writing. Being anonymous gives one so much freedom to openly express thoughts, ideas, and even criticisms; and given that I was new to writing a column, naturally I wasn’t sure of the direction I was going to go. Those who read my column know that I don’t do much criticizing anyway so there really is no need to duck and cover.
I think that this is where I’m supposed to start talking about New Year’s resolutions… I read on-line this morning that the top bad habits to kick are: nail-biting, smoking, eating too late in the evening, forgetting to floss, and sun-worshipping/tanning. I’m probably somewhat guilty of at least 3 out of the 5. I’d also like to add a few more resolutions to my list: read my mail immediately and toss out the junk mail daily, drink more water, eat healthier, and slow down a little. I’d also like to have time to read for enjoyment—I hear that there are some book suggestions in this week’s editorial. I think that everyone has something that they could change or would like to change. There is strength and support in numbers, so by all means verbalize your goals and enlist the help of friends and family!
Not only is the upcoming 2010 year a new year, it’s the beginning of a whole new decade! So what can we say about the past decade? Technology, war, terrorism, energy conservation and global warming are the things that stand out in my mind. Remember ten years ago we were all concerned about Y2K and that the change in date would wreak havoc upon the world’s computer systems?? (I have that Prince song “1999” stuck in my head!) We’ve learned a great deal since then.
So as long as we don’t text while driving, don’t let our guard down at the airport, don’t use the wrong products, and don’t remain oblivious to our planet, we might be on the right track. I think it’s more about using common sense and watching out for each other. Don’t put off helping someone or getting involved in a cause just because you think someone else will do it. We’re all in this together and it’s our turn to bat.
Happy New Year! Happy New Decade!
You may recall that it was just over a year ago that I started writing this column under a pen name—Samantha B. It was with the New Year’s edition that I “came out” and resolved to always take credit for my writing. Being anonymous gives one so much freedom to openly express thoughts, ideas, and even criticisms; and given that I was new to writing a column, naturally I wasn’t sure of the direction I was going to go. Those who read my column know that I don’t do much criticizing anyway so there really is no need to duck and cover.
I think that this is where I’m supposed to start talking about New Year’s resolutions… I read on-line this morning that the top bad habits to kick are: nail-biting, smoking, eating too late in the evening, forgetting to floss, and sun-worshipping/tanning. I’m probably somewhat guilty of at least 3 out of the 5. I’d also like to add a few more resolutions to my list: read my mail immediately and toss out the junk mail daily, drink more water, eat healthier, and slow down a little. I’d also like to have time to read for enjoyment—I hear that there are some book suggestions in this week’s editorial. I think that everyone has something that they could change or would like to change. There is strength and support in numbers, so by all means verbalize your goals and enlist the help of friends and family!
Not only is the upcoming 2010 year a new year, it’s the beginning of a whole new decade! So what can we say about the past decade? Technology, war, terrorism, energy conservation and global warming are the things that stand out in my mind. Remember ten years ago we were all concerned about Y2K and that the change in date would wreak havoc upon the world’s computer systems?? (I have that Prince song “1999” stuck in my head!) We’ve learned a great deal since then.
So as long as we don’t text while driving, don’t let our guard down at the airport, don’t use the wrong products, and don’t remain oblivious to our planet, we might be on the right track. I think it’s more about using common sense and watching out for each other. Don’t put off helping someone or getting involved in a cause just because you think someone else will do it. We’re all in this together and it’s our turn to bat.
Happy New Year! Happy New Decade!
Getting Educated
Written for the 6/16/2009 Edition of Andrea's Random Thoughts:
As I awoke early on Saturday morning for the start of two new classes in my degree program, I thought about the funeral that I would have to miss that day. Due to the stringent rules of the program, missing a day would result in a significant grade reduction for the six-week course, and so I needed to seriously weigh the consequences. I had taken off a Saturday for my daughter’s prom in May (which I do not in any way regret), but I certainly saw the effects of my absence.
Micro-economics for five hours in the morning may sound dreadful (as would any class for that duration), but it turned out to be quite refreshing and the time passed fairly quickly. I know that she was in favor of women receiving as much education as possible, so I am sure that she would have understood why I wasn’t at the service. As we went around the room introducing ourselves in class and I listened to my classmates’ stories, it was clear that there are people really struggling out there with choices and decisions that I could only imagine. The core of the class is, of course, the economy and its micro effect on every level, and so we started off talking about some of the difficult choices that women have to make. If only she had been able to talk about how she was feeling and then perhaps she would have known that there was a better way.
Most of the women talked about job issues and the financial concerns which go along with going back to school, while some struggled with paying for their children’s tuition at the same time—all while trying to afford groceries. Some young women are caring for their parents and siblings while working full time and attending school. Some had moved back in with their parents to save money. It was clear that we all had one thing in common—we all value our education and are making a sacrifice for it. While listening to these stories, I couldn’t help but think about my friend who left her family and a teenage daughter behind. It’s easy for people to say that it’s a selfish thing to do, but sometimes we never really know the pain that someone else is going through until it’s too late. My heart went out to one woman in the class who lost her job a few months ago and who deals with health problems that have yet to be properly diagnosed and treated. The class exercise was very useful, as it brought us out of our own little worlds and reassured everyone that regardless of our struggle, we are by no means alone. A support group or a micro-economics class—a bonding, thought-provoking, educational experience just the same.
As a young mother who had gone through so much and achieved so much by the age of 33, my friend devoted her time, her work, and her heart to the social causes which meant the most to her. It seemed that everything she did had a meaningful purpose. I am not sure how many of us can say that about our own life. As I looked around the classroom and then at the clock on the wall, I realized that the funeral had probably started and I wished that someone would find a clue to her mystery. It had been a few years since I last spoke to her, but what I do remember about our conversations always stayed with me. Though there is no complete answer to explain her decision, one thing is perfectly clear--we need to step outside of our own problems and pay more attention to those around us. Do something nice for someone today—for no reason other than it’s the right thing to do. Even if it means just listening, you might be helping in ways that you never imagined.
As I awoke early on Saturday morning for the start of two new classes in my degree program, I thought about the funeral that I would have to miss that day. Due to the stringent rules of the program, missing a day would result in a significant grade reduction for the six-week course, and so I needed to seriously weigh the consequences. I had taken off a Saturday for my daughter’s prom in May (which I do not in any way regret), but I certainly saw the effects of my absence.
Micro-economics for five hours in the morning may sound dreadful (as would any class for that duration), but it turned out to be quite refreshing and the time passed fairly quickly. I know that she was in favor of women receiving as much education as possible, so I am sure that she would have understood why I wasn’t at the service. As we went around the room introducing ourselves in class and I listened to my classmates’ stories, it was clear that there are people really struggling out there with choices and decisions that I could only imagine. The core of the class is, of course, the economy and its micro effect on every level, and so we started off talking about some of the difficult choices that women have to make. If only she had been able to talk about how she was feeling and then perhaps she would have known that there was a better way.
Most of the women talked about job issues and the financial concerns which go along with going back to school, while some struggled with paying for their children’s tuition at the same time—all while trying to afford groceries. Some young women are caring for their parents and siblings while working full time and attending school. Some had moved back in with their parents to save money. It was clear that we all had one thing in common—we all value our education and are making a sacrifice for it. While listening to these stories, I couldn’t help but think about my friend who left her family and a teenage daughter behind. It’s easy for people to say that it’s a selfish thing to do, but sometimes we never really know the pain that someone else is going through until it’s too late. My heart went out to one woman in the class who lost her job a few months ago and who deals with health problems that have yet to be properly diagnosed and treated. The class exercise was very useful, as it brought us out of our own little worlds and reassured everyone that regardless of our struggle, we are by no means alone. A support group or a micro-economics class—a bonding, thought-provoking, educational experience just the same.
As a young mother who had gone through so much and achieved so much by the age of 33, my friend devoted her time, her work, and her heart to the social causes which meant the most to her. It seemed that everything she did had a meaningful purpose. I am not sure how many of us can say that about our own life. As I looked around the classroom and then at the clock on the wall, I realized that the funeral had probably started and I wished that someone would find a clue to her mystery. It had been a few years since I last spoke to her, but what I do remember about our conversations always stayed with me. Though there is no complete answer to explain her decision, one thing is perfectly clear--we need to step outside of our own problems and pay more attention to those around us. Do something nice for someone today—for no reason other than it’s the right thing to do. Even if it means just listening, you might be helping in ways that you never imagined.
My Daughter's Graduation
Written for the 6/9/2009 Edition of Andrea's Random Thoughts:
My daughter, Alexis was among the 174 members of the Class of 2009 who graduated from Belchertown High School this past Saturday. I have enjoyed celebrating her last few months of high school through my column and it’s helped to restore the pride that I had in my own high school experience here. I want to also mention that three other members of the Class of 1987 are also parents of BHS ’09 graduates. Congratulations to them and all members of 2009 and their families! On the morning of graduation, my daughter told me that guests are “not allowed past the black line” in the gymnasium when taking pictures; however, in my quest for the perfect shot of her processing in, I may have overstepped a little. She told me later that she wasn’t surprised to find me up front. As I waited with other photographers at stage left, I was so thrilled to be able to give her a big hug and kiss on the cheek just moments after she was handed her diploma. As a parent, BHS alum, and the press, I just knew that I had to be up front, even if for a few minutes.
I have been promising a Tribute to the Class of 2009 for several weeks now and I truly spent most of Sunday working on putting it all together in a Microsoft Word document. Little did I know that I was also creating somewhat of a “pixel monster” which our news website could not easily handle. What you see attached here is a scanned version of the tribute I had created. It includes a list of all the graduates followed by several photos (graduation, senior show, prom, and random group photos). If I add any more to it, I could run the risk of crashing the website or something terrible like that and I certainly don’t want to be responsible for such a catastrophe! I hope that you enjoy the photos.
During Principal Vigneux’s speech during Saturday’s ceremony, I remember hearing her say that when our graduates were little in the early nineties, we thought that they would be around forever—after all, they are in the class of 2009! It’s true--the year 2009 seemed so far off back then. For many of the graduates, the timeline since then included the Belchertown Community Pre-School, Cold Spring School, trips to the CHCS playground and pool, trips to the library, Berkshire and Tadgell Schools, candy sales, Swift River Elementary, learning to play an instrument for band, Chestnut Hill Community School, events at the Old Town Hall, dance and/or sports, four years at the new high school (they just missed being in the old high school by a year), car washes, Relay for Life Walk, and the Belchertown Fair to name just a few of the highlights.
I was always amazed by how quickly news spread amongst my daughter and her friends. Of course, technology has everything to do with that. With cell phones, email, and online social networking sites, word travels faster than this 80’s grad ever thought possible. I do like to keep up with the times, and my child, and I must admit that I have gotten pretty good at text messaging. I will never forget the time I dropped Alexis off at a sleepover and pulled out my phone for some (texting?) necessity and heard several “wows” and even one “your mom is cool” from one of her friends. I wasn’t trying to be cool, but I do try to stay current—I think you have to be otherwise you will miss something. Believe me when I say that knowing this technology has served this parent well over the years…I also have a Facebook profile which enables me to view my daughter’s profile and of course at the same time, allows me to reconnect with many of my former BHS classmates! In fact, just today I heard from a classmate who I haven’t spoken to in about 20 years! Perhaps this technology helps the graduating class of 2009 work through any concerns they may have about never seeing each other again.
It is interesting to note that of the 174 graduates, 60% of them will attend a four-year college, 32% will attend a two-year college, 1 person will attend a post-secondary school, 3% will join the military, and 5% will seek employment.
As of this fall, my daughter and I will both be in college! I might even have an interesting tale or two to share. In the meantime, congratulations and best of luck to all the members of the Class of 2009 and their families! I will certainly miss you.
My daughter, Alexis was among the 174 members of the Class of 2009 who graduated from Belchertown High School this past Saturday. I have enjoyed celebrating her last few months of high school through my column and it’s helped to restore the pride that I had in my own high school experience here. I want to also mention that three other members of the Class of 1987 are also parents of BHS ’09 graduates. Congratulations to them and all members of 2009 and their families! On the morning of graduation, my daughter told me that guests are “not allowed past the black line” in the gymnasium when taking pictures; however, in my quest for the perfect shot of her processing in, I may have overstepped a little. She told me later that she wasn’t surprised to find me up front. As I waited with other photographers at stage left, I was so thrilled to be able to give her a big hug and kiss on the cheek just moments after she was handed her diploma. As a parent, BHS alum, and the press, I just knew that I had to be up front, even if for a few minutes.
I have been promising a Tribute to the Class of 2009 for several weeks now and I truly spent most of Sunday working on putting it all together in a Microsoft Word document. Little did I know that I was also creating somewhat of a “pixel monster” which our news website could not easily handle. What you see attached here is a scanned version of the tribute I had created. It includes a list of all the graduates followed by several photos (graduation, senior show, prom, and random group photos). If I add any more to it, I could run the risk of crashing the website or something terrible like that and I certainly don’t want to be responsible for such a catastrophe! I hope that you enjoy the photos.
During Principal Vigneux’s speech during Saturday’s ceremony, I remember hearing her say that when our graduates were little in the early nineties, we thought that they would be around forever—after all, they are in the class of 2009! It’s true--the year 2009 seemed so far off back then. For many of the graduates, the timeline since then included the Belchertown Community Pre-School, Cold Spring School, trips to the CHCS playground and pool, trips to the library, Berkshire and Tadgell Schools, candy sales, Swift River Elementary, learning to play an instrument for band, Chestnut Hill Community School, events at the Old Town Hall, dance and/or sports, four years at the new high school (they just missed being in the old high school by a year), car washes, Relay for Life Walk, and the Belchertown Fair to name just a few of the highlights.
I was always amazed by how quickly news spread amongst my daughter and her friends. Of course, technology has everything to do with that. With cell phones, email, and online social networking sites, word travels faster than this 80’s grad ever thought possible. I do like to keep up with the times, and my child, and I must admit that I have gotten pretty good at text messaging. I will never forget the time I dropped Alexis off at a sleepover and pulled out my phone for some (texting?) necessity and heard several “wows” and even one “your mom is cool” from one of her friends. I wasn’t trying to be cool, but I do try to stay current—I think you have to be otherwise you will miss something. Believe me when I say that knowing this technology has served this parent well over the years…I also have a Facebook profile which enables me to view my daughter’s profile and of course at the same time, allows me to reconnect with many of my former BHS classmates! In fact, just today I heard from a classmate who I haven’t spoken to in about 20 years! Perhaps this technology helps the graduating class of 2009 work through any concerns they may have about never seeing each other again.
It is interesting to note that of the 174 graduates, 60% of them will attend a four-year college, 32% will attend a two-year college, 1 person will attend a post-secondary school, 3% will join the military, and 5% will seek employment.
As of this fall, my daughter and I will both be in college! I might even have an interesting tale or two to share. In the meantime, congratulations and best of luck to all the members of the Class of 2009 and their families! I will certainly miss you.
School Days
Written for the 6/2/2009 Edition of Andrea's Random Thoughts:
You are cordially invited...to take a look at my days as a student in Belchertown. Prior to my putting together a tribute for my daughter's class (BHS '09) in honor of this Saturday's graduation, I thought that it might be fun to relive some memories.
Twenty-two years ago, in 1987 to be exact, 92 of us processed into the former BHS gymnasium to the tune of "Pomp and Circumstance" for an evening graduation ceremony on June 4th. It was a magical evening full of proud moments and big dreams, mixed with a sense of finality. Some of us would never see each other again and we knew it.
I started out in kindergarten at Cold Spring School, attended first through third grades at Franklin School in the south end, went to Center School for fourth grade, fifth and sixth were at Lawrence Memorial Hall, and then I spent the next six years at the high school on North Washington Street. Our principal at BHS was James Rokas followed by Dennis Pike, who had just started the position at the beginning of our senior year. Robert Byard was the Superintendent at that time.
Over the past week or so, while covering some retirement events for Belchertown-News.com, I had the wonderful opportunity to visit with some former teachers (Bettencourt, Smith, Vaz, Kirk, Beresky, Mierzewski, Knightly, Beebe, Oparowski, and Brennan) which helped to kick off this trip down memory lane. It’s amazing that some of them actually remembered me. After years of teaching so many students, I can just imagine how their memory banks might get a bit full. I think it’s a real testimony to the dedication and nurturing of the teachers in our “small” town and less about me standing out for any particular reason. I certainly didn’t set fire to the third floor bathroom at BHS or anything remotely close to it. Honest!
I tried to think about what really distinct memories that I have from my school days in Belchertown. Ok, here we go: Kindergarten—making green eggs and ham (Dr. Suess) and the long hallway down to my classroom at Cold Spring; Franklin School—learning to read, the jungle gym, dressing in colonial period clothing for a play, and meeting my best friend; fourth grade—Mr. Beebe, and playing kickball; fifth and sixth grade—walking to Parsons Field and the Old Town Hall for gym class, moving desks aside in Mrs. O’s class for afternoon dancing, and also learning the state capitals; playing card games or marbles at recess in the back of the Town Hall; and singing in the musical “Oliver Twist”; seventh and eighth grade—feeling like somewhat of misfit in a school with the big kids, and, of course, hating the locker room; and then high school (9-12)—dissecting a frog in biology; Bunsen burners, goggles and all kinds of chemical symbols in chemistry; re-enacting Belchertown history in the Federalist Fair in Mr. Bresnahan’s history class, as well as a trip to a monk’s cave in his Anthropology class; learning about the Holocaust in Ms. Shenkman’s 10th grade global studies class; the Junior Stand; the Junior Prom, the Candy Cane Ball, four great years of Spanish with Myra; and the girl who took (and refused to return) my combination lock for my locker at the time they were reissued at the beginning of senior year. I had that darn thing the five previous years and I still can remember the combination—6 to right, 8 to the left, 13 to the right. I guess she thought it was easy to remember too. It’s kind of ironic that the only thing that was ever taken was my lock, and I wasn’t much of a bully. Isn’t it funny the things that we remember? There are actually too many wonderful memories to include here. Thank you to our teachers--past and present!
Next week I will share some of the class of 2009’s finer moments and hopefully not embarrass them too much in the process. It’s hard to believe that the time has already come. I hope they realize how lucky they are to have spent their childhood years in Belchertown.
You are cordially invited...to take a look at my days as a student in Belchertown. Prior to my putting together a tribute for my daughter's class (BHS '09) in honor of this Saturday's graduation, I thought that it might be fun to relive some memories.
Twenty-two years ago, in 1987 to be exact, 92 of us processed into the former BHS gymnasium to the tune of "Pomp and Circumstance" for an evening graduation ceremony on June 4th. It was a magical evening full of proud moments and big dreams, mixed with a sense of finality. Some of us would never see each other again and we knew it.
I started out in kindergarten at Cold Spring School, attended first through third grades at Franklin School in the south end, went to Center School for fourth grade, fifth and sixth were at Lawrence Memorial Hall, and then I spent the next six years at the high school on North Washington Street. Our principal at BHS was James Rokas followed by Dennis Pike, who had just started the position at the beginning of our senior year. Robert Byard was the Superintendent at that time.
Over the past week or so, while covering some retirement events for Belchertown-News.com, I had the wonderful opportunity to visit with some former teachers (Bettencourt, Smith, Vaz, Kirk, Beresky, Mierzewski, Knightly, Beebe, Oparowski, and Brennan) which helped to kick off this trip down memory lane. It’s amazing that some of them actually remembered me. After years of teaching so many students, I can just imagine how their memory banks might get a bit full. I think it’s a real testimony to the dedication and nurturing of the teachers in our “small” town and less about me standing out for any particular reason. I certainly didn’t set fire to the third floor bathroom at BHS or anything remotely close to it. Honest!
I tried to think about what really distinct memories that I have from my school days in Belchertown. Ok, here we go: Kindergarten—making green eggs and ham (Dr. Suess) and the long hallway down to my classroom at Cold Spring; Franklin School—learning to read, the jungle gym, dressing in colonial period clothing for a play, and meeting my best friend; fourth grade—Mr. Beebe, and playing kickball; fifth and sixth grade—walking to Parsons Field and the Old Town Hall for gym class, moving desks aside in Mrs. O’s class for afternoon dancing, and also learning the state capitals; playing card games or marbles at recess in the back of the Town Hall; and singing in the musical “Oliver Twist”; seventh and eighth grade—feeling like somewhat of misfit in a school with the big kids, and, of course, hating the locker room; and then high school (9-12)—dissecting a frog in biology; Bunsen burners, goggles and all kinds of chemical symbols in chemistry; re-enacting Belchertown history in the Federalist Fair in Mr. Bresnahan’s history class, as well as a trip to a monk’s cave in his Anthropology class; learning about the Holocaust in Ms. Shenkman’s 10th grade global studies class; the Junior Stand; the Junior Prom, the Candy Cane Ball, four great years of Spanish with Myra; and the girl who took (and refused to return) my combination lock for my locker at the time they were reissued at the beginning of senior year. I had that darn thing the five previous years and I still can remember the combination—6 to right, 8 to the left, 13 to the right. I guess she thought it was easy to remember too. It’s kind of ironic that the only thing that was ever taken was my lock, and I wasn’t much of a bully. Isn’t it funny the things that we remember? There are actually too many wonderful memories to include here. Thank you to our teachers--past and present!
Next week I will share some of the class of 2009’s finer moments and hopefully not embarrass them too much in the process. It’s hard to believe that the time has already come. I hope they realize how lucky they are to have spent their childhood years in Belchertown.
(My) Last Prom
Written for 5/19/2009 Edition of Andrea's Random Thoughts
I think that perhaps only those who have gone through planning a wedding or prom preparation could possibly understand or sympathize. If you have a teenager, especially a girl, you probably know what I am talking about. My daughter, along with the other members of the Class of 2009, has been busy planning for the senior prom for several months. The grand event was held this past Saturday at the Hampden Country Club. This formal is one of several we have prepped for over the years, but somehow it seemed the best one on record…and it’s our last, I mean, HER last!
Probably back in February or March was when I began to see the websites for prom dresses flashing upon our computer screen at home as my daughter agonized over what to choose this year. Of course, as she asks me for my opinion on a particular dress, my first reply is almost always the same, “Great, how much is it?” She explained to me the protocol of prom dresses, “You have to buy something new when it’s your prom, but you borrow a dress from someone else if you are a guest at someone else’s prom.” I sure am glad that there is some borrowing going on somewhere, but this time we had to purchase. Many girls purposely order their dresses on-line instead of buying locally to avoid the chance that a classmate will have the same dress. I probably won’t argue with this too much given that at my own junior AND senior prom, the same girl had the same dress as me. I think that many shopped at the Deb store back then.
The dress that we ordered on-line for my daughter this year was shorter and light yellow. About 10 days after placing the order, I decided to call the company and find out where it was, only to be told that the order was cancelled due to the dress being out-of-stock (although when I first called them it was in stock). I never did get their email notifying me of the cancellation. The good news is that I had built in some extra time, but we had to act fast to fix the horrific look on my daughter’s face. We located the same dress on another website and I called them. The man who answered was incredibly helpful and even called the dress designer while I waited on the other line. He told me that they no longer had the yellow, but offered it in a royal blue with aqua which could be shipped in 3 days. Now this was good customer service! I won’t mention the companies’ names directly, but if anybody wants to know who came through and who didn’t, feel free to email me. The blue was a smashing success!
We followed up the preparation with a trip to the mall for a pair of silver shoes (remember last week’s Mother’s Day story?). The gorgeous hairstyle my daughter chose was made possible by Tara at Station 5 Salon on Jabish Street, the beautiful corsage was from D’s Flowers on Federal Street, and her boyfriend’s perfectly matching boutonniere was supplied by Donahue’s Flowers on Stadler Street. For past proms we have also enlisted the help of Pamela-Jean’s Tailoring for dress alterations and dry cleaning services. We have so many wonderful businesses right here in Belchertown and I am happy to give them their due credit!
After the photo session in another parent’s front yard, the limo arrived to transport the seniors to their magical evening. I had joked with my daughter about there being enough room in the limo for me…of course she gave me that look. The event was a big deal for us parents too. I even took the day off from my classes to be present for all of the activities. I wouldn’t have missed being a part of such a special day! Everyone looked wonderful! Great job Class of 2009!
I think that perhaps only those who have gone through planning a wedding or prom preparation could possibly understand or sympathize. If you have a teenager, especially a girl, you probably know what I am talking about. My daughter, along with the other members of the Class of 2009, has been busy planning for the senior prom for several months. The grand event was held this past Saturday at the Hampden Country Club. This formal is one of several we have prepped for over the years, but somehow it seemed the best one on record…and it’s our last, I mean, HER last!
Probably back in February or March was when I began to see the websites for prom dresses flashing upon our computer screen at home as my daughter agonized over what to choose this year. Of course, as she asks me for my opinion on a particular dress, my first reply is almost always the same, “Great, how much is it?” She explained to me the protocol of prom dresses, “You have to buy something new when it’s your prom, but you borrow a dress from someone else if you are a guest at someone else’s prom.” I sure am glad that there is some borrowing going on somewhere, but this time we had to purchase. Many girls purposely order their dresses on-line instead of buying locally to avoid the chance that a classmate will have the same dress. I probably won’t argue with this too much given that at my own junior AND senior prom, the same girl had the same dress as me. I think that many shopped at the Deb store back then.
The dress that we ordered on-line for my daughter this year was shorter and light yellow. About 10 days after placing the order, I decided to call the company and find out where it was, only to be told that the order was cancelled due to the dress being out-of-stock (although when I first called them it was in stock). I never did get their email notifying me of the cancellation. The good news is that I had built in some extra time, but we had to act fast to fix the horrific look on my daughter’s face. We located the same dress on another website and I called them. The man who answered was incredibly helpful and even called the dress designer while I waited on the other line. He told me that they no longer had the yellow, but offered it in a royal blue with aqua which could be shipped in 3 days. Now this was good customer service! I won’t mention the companies’ names directly, but if anybody wants to know who came through and who didn’t, feel free to email me. The blue was a smashing success!
We followed up the preparation with a trip to the mall for a pair of silver shoes (remember last week’s Mother’s Day story?). The gorgeous hairstyle my daughter chose was made possible by Tara at Station 5 Salon on Jabish Street, the beautiful corsage was from D’s Flowers on Federal Street, and her boyfriend’s perfectly matching boutonniere was supplied by Donahue’s Flowers on Stadler Street. For past proms we have also enlisted the help of Pamela-Jean’s Tailoring for dress alterations and dry cleaning services. We have so many wonderful businesses right here in Belchertown and I am happy to give them their due credit!
After the photo session in another parent’s front yard, the limo arrived to transport the seniors to their magical evening. I had joked with my daughter about there being enough room in the limo for me…of course she gave me that look. The event was a big deal for us parents too. I even took the day off from my classes to be present for all of the activities. I wouldn’t have missed being a part of such a special day! Everyone looked wonderful! Great job Class of 2009!
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