March 30

Does anyone besides me remember how to do the Freddie?

1965

I'm Telling You Now - Freddie and the Dreamers

Almost the end of March already! Tomorrow the Navy Band comes. Bob is going to play with them on the sousaphone! But he won't let me come and see him.

There's a new rule now - you can't get a library pass unless you might have some research to do. I've been going there every D period, because we have study in the chemistry lab. I can't study there. The desks are too small and I like to spread my books out.

Comment 2006

Someday I am going to ask my brother why he didn't want me to come to the concert. But since he is now 63 and claims to have "forgotten" all the times he tricked or teased me, I doubt if he'd remember this either.

Comment 2023

“The desks are too small and I like to spread my books out.” 

Every now and them I get a glimpse of future Jo, and this is a great example. When I work, I need my space. Big library tables are the best, especially if I have them all to myself. The years when I had an officemate were tough, especially that one person who arrived before me and left their stuff on MY desk. (Grrrr.) When the kids moved out of our four-bedroom house, I finally had a room of my own for sixteen blissful years. Now I have an officemate again, my dear husband of 50+ years, bless his messy soul. But it’s fine; when I am at my desk, I can’t see his workspace. My desk is neat and organized. I can spread my notes and books across the entire L-shaped span: TWO 4.5 foot tables set at right angles to each other. When we are both working, I can listen to music on my headphones. He talks to himself. But as I often say, he has many other fine qualities.

Does anyone besides me remember how to do the Freddie?

A refresher...

2003

Woke up to snow falling steadily at 7 AM, with already an inch or two on the ground. It is a heavy, wet snow; the tree branches are bowed over. All I can think is: What a lovely gift.

This was the best retreat ever. No low points, no especially high points. Just a series of special moments, every one precious.

Next year, find and bring the table cloth.

2006

Finally heard from BH about my review of “Declining by Degrees” for the Faculty Voice. Apparently, the editorial board liked it well enough to ask me to serve on the board. Since I rotate off Senate this year, I will have the time. I basically said yes, if I could continue to do reviews. I figure if I am going to stay here and be considered a crank, I may as well embrace the role.