PTA Inspirations

Last day of March (3/31/2017) and the 90th day of 2017.  A day filled with errands and tasks out and about my community, because I had another use-it-or-lose-it PTO day.  And the day ended in the Oaklyn Public School (of course) at the PTA Ice Cream Social.  This is an event that Sarah and I have coordinated for the PTA for almost 10 years (if not more!)  I love the excitement of kids when they are able to make their own sundaes (or get a water ice pops) for only $1.  Working with the PTA of Oaklyn inspires me because of its mission to better the lives of the students, teachers, and families of Oaklyn Public School.  It is also inspiring to work alongside other parents (and teachers) of OPS.  I had a great time tonight, thanks Oaklyn PTA!

Blue and Gold Inspirations

The 89th day was a milestone day for us.  3/30/17 was Blue and Gold Night and it was the last time Alexa's 9th grade class will participate in this event.  As I watched the competition tonight, I was inspired by this amazing group of young people.  They have been together for a long time (some since K, some since PRE-K!) and they are an amazing group of kids.  I have said it time and time again, I feel blessed that I like my kids' classmates and friends.

Villagers Inspire Me

Another long day at work on the 88th day of 2017.  But you knew that 3/29/17 would be a great day, it was palindromic!  And, I hopped into my van to get home and the odometer was....wait for it....palindromic! and then a great Prince song came on the radio and I looked at the clock... 7:17 (palindromic!)  But my inspiration today was not about palindromes, tonight was the annual shopping excursion to get supplies for the Little League Snack Stand.  Tonight I am inspired by all of the people who are willing to drop what they are doing and help me.  Nobody does anything alone, it truly DOES take a village.  And, tonight, my villagers inspired me.

Excellence Inspires

The 87th day of 2017 was a long day at work.  I am still trying to catch up from being away from two conferences in four weeks...and on 3/28/17, I stayed late in the office to complete tasks and answer emails instead of attending the Models of Excellence ceremony.  However, that does not make me any less inspired by and proud of my friends and colleagues who were honored today.  I love the MOE Ceremony and I hope to be able to attend next year!  Until then, I will be inspired by the MOE's mission of "encouraging excellence, providing inspiring role models, and recognizing innovative staff accomplishments!"

Geno Inspires

I have to admit I try hard to root again the UCONN Women's Basketball team.  Rooting for them is like rooting for the House in Blackjack, or being a bandwagon fan.... But, on the 86th day of 2017, as I watched UCONN dispatch another opponent and reach another Final Four, I cannot help but be impressed by this man.  As he was interviewed on 3/27/17, he said all the right things, he was downright humble, and seemed to really love his team and its players.  Good coaches have inspired me throughout my daughters' participation in sports.  And Geno is a good coach.  Don't get me wrong, I am still rooting for South Carolina and Dawn Staley, but Geno is an inspirational man.

Buzzer Beater Inspirations

So I was at home, at my computer screen, for a lot of the 85th day of 2017.  3/26/17 started at Church, as most Sundays do, but I spent most of the afternoon and evening catching up on things: work email, financial secretary work, and also following my NCAA brackets!  And we watched basketball as well.  A lot of the games were VERY close and, I have to admit, I was inspired by the hard work and the tenacity of these college students as they, in most cases, truly left it all on the court as they tried to will their teams to victory.  Let's remember that these are students, and are all missing classes, friends, exams, and other (minimal, I know) campus activities to travel across the country and compete on this big stage.  Their effort and dedication inspires me.

Old Friends Inspire Again

On the 84th day of 2017, I was thinking about early in my career at Penn, when I was invited to a "Cool Person Happy Hour."  That gathering of student affairs people across campus grew into a networking group, a group that discussed pressing student issues on campus, and, I think, to the SALT community we have on campus now.  So it was great, on 3/25/17, to get together with some of the original "cool people" and reminisce, update each other, gossip, and laugh a lot.  It inspires me that we have stayed connected for so many years even though many of us (not me, of course), have moved on from Penn.  Once a Quaker, always a Quaker!

Laughter Inspires

So, maybe it's because I had a birthday this week, or maybe it's because I am still sore from walking so much at the conference.  But, on the 83rd day of 2017, 3/24/17, despite my PTO day (another use-it-or-lose-it) I was still feeling old and tired.  Then I went to pick up my kid from softball and drove her and a bunch of her teammates home.  I guess there is something about the youthful exuberance and laughter that inspired me to feel younger and better and it made the evening a lot more bearable. I am blessed with the kids I have, and I am glad I like their friends too.  Their laughter inspired me to remember what really matters.  And stress less about the rest!

Puppy Inspirations

The 82nd day of 2017 is National Puppy Day.  On 3/23/17, I proudly display this picture of Skylar. She will always be our puppy, even if she is 60+ pounds and stretches out across the room to take up a lot of space.  She also exhibits undying love for us and inspires us to smile and love (and feed her).
Happy Puppy Day All!

Reuniting Inspires

So it was at the curb, on the 81st day of 2017, that I felt some inspiration today.  3/22/17 was my last day of the conference and we flew back from 78 degree weather to 32 degree weather!  But, I was feeling refreshed standing on that curb, waiting for the girls to pick me up, and I was watching all of the other pickups happening.  It was so nice to see people so excited to see their friends and loved ones.  Squeals of happiness, hugs, smiles, and then they drove off.  And then, it was my turn (complete with Skylar as well).  I had a great conference, but it was hard to be away from family, but reuniting was inspiring and it felt good.  Hey, I know a song about that!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZOhm7qS-AI 

Connections Inspire

I do not mean to harken back to 2015 on the 80th day of 2017, but today I felt connected.  For, on 3/21/17, after my conference sessions were over, I was back in Disney Springs (still being good - no Parks) eating dinner with a former Nursing student (twice over) and her husband.  It is good to see good friends.  And I ran into a friend in Disney Springs on Sunday and I have run into colleagues from many campuses at this conference and I have made vendor connections and even better connections with the team from Penn.  I do not like being away from my family, but I DO enjoy aspects of conferences....good to be home tomorrow.

Disney Inspires

I found myself, at the end of the 79th Day of 2017, at the top of the Disney Contemporary Resort, watching the Wishes Fireworks show at the Magic Kingdom.  3/20/17 was a LONG day of the conference.  From Breakfast at 6:45AM to getting home from a business dinner at Midnight - WOO - I am tired, but I am inspired.  I love the vibe of Disney and being here and looking in from the outside just makes me want to retire here even more.  I know it is 19.5 years from now, but inspired to keep moving forward to those magical times....and, in the meantime, we just need to make more family trips here!

Conference Inspirations

Not even a full pat down in the TSA line at PHL Airport could ruin my 3/19/2017.  The 78th day started with a hiccup, but the flight to Orlando was nice and the weather here is amazing.  We had our opening meeting (Grand Opening Session is tomorrow AM) and the Vendor Reception tonight and I cannot help but smile here.  It was at E-Live (well, really Degree Works Forum) that I was notified of my being selected at Univ. Registrar.  So the vibes are good here and I am inspired to learn as much as I can and network with as many people as I can so we can ensure a smooth Banner implementation and a successful NGSS!  Being here with such amazing colleagues from Penn is cool too!  Tomorrow starts EARLY (6:45AM Breakfast) so it's off to be as soon as Summer Reg and Fall Advance Reg open and I am sure the system is working.  Goodnight!

Birthday Wishes Inspire

It all started on the day BEFORE the 77th day of 2017 (isn't it cool that I was born on a palindromic day, and the number 7, which is my favorite number!?!).  But, 3/18/17 was filled with a plethora of birthday wishes that streamed in to me from in person, from FB, from Messenger, from text, and even some good ol' fashioned calls.  And they came from all facets and aspects of my life.  I so appreciate that so many people took the time to remember me on this day and the connections and the love I feel today will inspire me the entire year.  I'm 48 now and, as my Brother-in-Law stated tonight, seem much more into numbers than ever before.  So, I will leave you with the fact that 48 = 2 * 3 * (2^3). The sum of these integers is 10 - so we are looking for a perfect 10 year!  Thanks all, I am sorry that I could not reply to each and every message, but please know they were appreciated and inspiring!

Community Inspirations

The 76th day of 2017 was not just St. Patrick's Day.  3/17/17 was the 13th Annual OMAYSC Celebrity Gym Night.  And, after a long, but great, day at work, I dragged myself to the Oaklyn Gym for this event.  Yes, I was tired, but this event is an annual event and (I think) the kids really look forward to it.  And this year's event was great.  Thanks to a local connection, we had players from the Philadelphia Soul Arena Football Team and their acrobatic basketball skills were much appreciated. And they were joined, as always, by our members of the Oaklyn Police Department.  Local professional athletes who care about the kids in their community plus local law enforcement showing the epitome of community policing plus a group of amazing 4th - 9th graders equals an event that inspires even the tired old guy who had a long week at work.  Thank you Soul, Thank you OPD, and thank you OMAYSC.

Godson Inspirations

It was early in my relationship with Sarah and, knowing we'd be together for a long while, I was honored when asked to be the Godson to my new nephew, Kevin.  3/16/17, 19 years later, and he continues to impress, amuse, and inspire me.  On the 75th day of 2017, I send him only the best of wishes and want him to know that he makes us proud.  Working hard, keeping his smile present, and being an amazing young man.  I have never had a son, but, if I did, I would want him to be like Kevin.  LOVE YOU KEV!

Brooke Inspires Me

I did not have a Caesar Salad on the Ides of March.  No, on 3/15/2017, I ate a hoagie at my desk while having a meeting with my colleague.  But, that was not my inspiration on the 74th day of 2017. Today, I saw this article about the daughter of a friend of a friend.  Even though that connection may seem distant, I assure you that the whole community feels connected to Brooke's story and inspired by her optimism and strength.  And this story, about an author of book, a producer of a movie, and a four legged actor all responding to a Facebook post and all coming together to make a dream come true. During these trying times, when FB seems filled with arguing, vitriol, and hate, it is SO INSPIRING to see Social Media being used for good.  I pray nightly for Brooke and her family, and I invite you to be inspired by this story, and add your prayers as well.

http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2017/03/15/movie-star-dog-makes-special-visit-to-young-patient-at-chop/

Inspired to Persevere

Well, I have to admit, the 73rd day did not go as I thought it would.  On the even of 3/14/17, we actually knew ahead of time (by 10:30PM) that Penn, Temple, and OPS were all closed.  So we got to sleep in late, but were surprised, at 8:55AM that the power went out.  And, for four and half hours, we scrambled to make due.  Luckily we had cranked up the heat overnight (actually in anticipation of this), and the phone still worked so I was able to do all of the conference calls I needed, and the girls just huddled in their beds, warm under the covers.  I even started the stove with a lighter, to make them hot chocolate after some shoveling outside!  And the power came back on before I had to start in on the melting ice cream. :-)  And my work conference calls were productive, and inspiring, as we figured out the best direction to take the facets of our projects.  Persevering through the unknown, at home and work, and realizing that, even in bad tines, we have it better than a lot of other people in this state, this country, this world leaves me humbled, and feeling blessed and inspired.  Stay Warm and Dry everyone!

Church Meeting Inspire Me

The 72nd Day of 2017 found me in another familiar place.  On 3/13/17, for the first time in over two years, I attended an Elders Meeting at Old First.  I am back as an Ex-Officio member since I am now the Financial Secretary and, tonight, I was inspired by the thoughtfulness that filled the room.  The caring for members (and friends) of the Church, the collaboration and consensus decision making. Some people abhor meetings, but, when they are inspiring and faithful, I love them.

Flowers Inspire - Spring is Coming!

It's an annual rite of the coming Spring season.  The Philadelphia Flower Show!  And, on the 71st day of 2017, Sarah and the girls got to attend.  Honestly, I do not enjoy the Flower Show, but I enjoy THEIR enjoyment of the event (and the resulting pictures).  But, as we come to 3/12/17, and we look forward to a snow event of an unknown size (but sounds like it might be a big one!) coming on Tuesday, The Flower Show inspires me to look past this last (it has to be the last one right?) gasp of winter and reminds me Spring is coming.  And I need Spring.

Family Inspirations

Day #70 of 2017 arrived and it was a good day.  3/11/17 was filled with family, relaxation, and, yes, a few naps (had to prepare for losing an hour of sleep tonight).  What was inspiring to me today was the annual "March Birthday" dinner that was held for the George/Walters/Sherr families.  Kevin on 3/16, me on 3/18, and Grandpa Bill on 3/19.  We always make sure we can get together, as families, and celebrate together.  There is always love, laughter, and, of course, good food!  I love being a part of such an amazing extended family who keep family traditions.

School Spirit Inspires

3/10/2017 was the 69th day of 2017.  It was another day filled with meetings and I have a LOT to catch up on this weekend.  But tonight, exhausted, I found myself at the Oaklyn Public School, for the OMAYSC Blue and Gold Dance.  It was a loud dance, but it was filled with camaraderie, school spirit, and good ol' fashioned competition.  The cheers and laughter inspired me to get through the event, and now I am smiling as I slog through my email.  I thank the kids of OPS for inspiring strength in me.  Hopefully it allows me to get my work done!

Departmental Inspirations

On the 68th day of 2017, I found myself back in a familiar place.  That is because the SRFS conference, on 3/9/2017, was held in good ol' Fagin Hall.  And it was a great conference, filled with teamwork, collaboration, and a great sharing of ideas.  My spirit was renewed by the event and I am inspired to work harder to make Penn a great place for students.  I am exhausted, but feeling good!

Again, Inspired by Women

3/8/2017 was International Women's Day.  And, on the 67th day of 2017, some women chose to stay home, and or wear red (or black) in solidarity with women and equal rights issues.  I have always considered myself a feminist.  I think it is because I have ALWAYS had strong women in my life. My mom and sister were excellent examples for me, as I grew up.  My grandmothers, aunts, cousins as well.  And I have always found myself surrounded by strong women.  So many of my close friends in HS and College were women.  I am a part of a community where there are a lot of strong, female leaders.  Most of my bosses at Penn have been women.  I worked in the Nursing School.  And now, in the Senior Director group at SRFS, all are women but me.  And that is excellent.  In my house, well, I am the only male and I am pretty sure Sarah and I are raising two strong women.  I am blessed by the amazing women in my life and in my history and today I celebrate them and appreciate all of the inspiration they have imparted upon me (and continue today to impart upon me).

Inspired by Kasey and Stip

3/7/2017 and since the 66th day of 2017 was a palindromic number, I knew it would be a good day!! And it was - lots of meetings at work, but they were productive and filled with good humor. And then the day ended at the Palestra, with the Penn Band watching the women's team beat Princeton! Watching them cut down the nets, I was inspired knowing how hard they worked to go 13-1 in the Ivy League and win their second Ivy Championship in a row and the 3rd in 4 years!!! I am also inspired by (and going to miss) the Senior starters of this team. Sydney has been a special player since the day she hit the court and is my second most favorite Penn basketball player of all time. And Kasey played hard no matter what the game situation. Her motor is always going! These seniors' inspirational leadership will be missed!!

Inspired by Dylan?

Some days, finding an inspiring thing to write about is harder than others. 3/6/2017 was a hard day, I have to admit.  And at the end of the 65th day of 2017, I could not think of an item about which to write.  So, in search of something, I turned to Google Images and I found this pearl from Bob Dylan. So, THANK YOU, Bob, tonight I will find inspiration from your quote....not what I expected tonight, but I'll take it.  Hoping for a better day tomorrow.

Inspired to Accept Imperfection

As the 64th day was a Sunday, 3/5/2017 started at Church.  And, I am not sure he meant it to inspire me in this manner, but Pastor Michael's sermon really spoke to me.  The message I got from the sermon and the service was that we are not a perfect species.... and that is OK.  I need to hear these sometimes as the quest to please everyone is sometimes my downfall.  As I enter another long work week tomorrow, filled with meetings (I think 37.5 hours of my 40 hours in the week are already booked), may I be inspired to heed these words and be OK with a bit of imperfection as long as I can be the best me I can be.  Goodnight!

Penn Basketball Inspires

I love the 63rd day of 2017, March forth on 3/4/2017, and so it was fitting that Alexa spent the day in Honor Band with the Penn Marching Band, and our evening was spent at the Palestra with the Penn Band and then at an alumni reception for Basketball Homecoming.  Penn Basketball had a pretty good evening as well!  First, the women became the first Penn Women's Basketball team to win back-to-back Ivy Champs.  And then, at the Palestra, on Senior Night, with hundreds of Penn Volunteers, the Palestra Honor Band, and Basketball Alumni all in attendance, the men fought off Harvard for a thrilling win and clinched the 4th spot in the men's bracket for the Ivy Tournament.  I am inspired by the work ethic of both of these teams and I am really inspired by the leadership of their head coaches.  GO QUAKERS!

Talent Inpsires

Day #62 of 2017 and 3/3/2017 was the OPS PTA Talent Show!  After an exhausting and stressful day at work, I was backstage for the show, helping out.  It was fun and inspiring to see the excitement of all of the kids as they performed their acts on stage.  Alexa's last Talent Show, so it's kinda bittersweet, but it was an excellent time!

Youth Inspire Me

There is nothing more fun than listening to a group of teenagers plan and collaborate on behalf of a team.  On the 61st day of 2017, my daughters hosted a Blue and Gold Meeting in our house.  I tried to stay out of the way and not meddle, but I got a few words in edgewise!  On 3/2/17, amidst a heavy load at work, and exhaustedly lying on the couch, I was inspired by their action and teamwork and energy.  Oh to be young again!

March Inspirations

We've come to the 60th day of 2017, 3/1/17, and March came in like a lamb (although it looks to be becoming colder and more like a lion in the coming days).  On this windy, warm day, my thoughts turned to the impeding Spring Season and the rebirth that will be experienced.  It's a good inspiring thought when things seem a bit overwhelming.  Breathe!