Diary 12/31

The year is essentially over. I can't say that time flew. I do not remember much of this year at all. Maybe that is a good thing.

Next week I will be starting my final semester at Pitt. I feel as though my life will start the minute I walk across the stage and walk away from that school. I hope I am right. I am hopeful that all of us who have endured Pitt these last two years will be successful and find career happiness.

I have not received the syllabus for my final class but, as usual, I have been doing some pre-class research to get myself ready. I found out that the instructor Susan Alman is the author of a Marketing book! My library does not own it but I ordered it through ILL so I can review it for her thoughts and position on Marketing Libraries.

Along the same line, today I "gave up the ghost" and opened MySpace and Facebook accounts. I opened them both under pseudonyms with all sorts of contrived information for my personal security. I felt it was time to find out WTF this social networking phenomena is all about and to learn how to create a page and surf the sites. After a few hours of working with them Facebook is hands down my favorite due to its ease of use. MySpace is, in my opinion, convoluted and boring if you're not planning to find "friends". I could not easily find national companies - very frustrating. I'll keep working with both. I have a feeling we'll need them in this upcoming Marketing class...

Other than that there is not much going on in my life.

TTY in 2011

Diary 12/24

I DID IT! I DID it! I did it! I was really concerned about that TLC grade and ready for a battle with the instructor but none was needed. Thank you for all of the prayers, meditations and support. This semester was a rough one but I pulled it out.

Next semester I have one final class, marketing, and I am D*O*N*E! I cannot begin to explain how happy I am about this.

Tomorrow is Christmas and the week after a new year. I doubt I'll be writing anything during these final days leading up to Spring semester so,

Diary 12/14

I'm done. I submitted my final bit of work today at 5pm on the dot. Now comes the wait.

I have no idea what I am getting in the TLC class. I've received three A's and three B's. The grade for the final assignment will tip the scale.

The problem with the way this instructor grades is that she puts a grade but no percentage or number out of a total so the grade can be calculated. I have no idea if a B is an 85 or less etc. Very confusing.

I am contemplating calling the professor to find out each percentage but she might get irritated and I want her to think loving thoughts about me until the grades are entered.

I'll be watching and waiting...Fingers crossed.

Diary 12/12

I am hopeful that my final paper will be complete by today. I have dillie, dallied all week on this thing. For some reason, probably anxiety, I just do not feel like writing it. I just hope that after all of this research that I have done that the teacher likes it and I get out of that course with the appropriate grade.

I am still checking the DB for grades of other assignments I have turned in for that class - nothing is listed. Right now I do not have a good handle of what my grade will be.

I have worked hard and battled with some real demons - group work ;oD - I deserve an A!

968

Diary 12/09

For our final DB post in the TLC class we had to write three things that we learned. I was trying to figure out a way to write that group projects suck in a very PC way. To my surprise Valerie - a fellow classmate - had already essentially wrote this for me. I gleefully cut and pasted from her post, placed it in mine with italics, gave her author credit and thanked her. I bet my lazy group are sick of me riding this horse - lol! I wonder which group Valerie had a hard time with. Though I hate that she went through whatever it was, I'm glad to know I do not struggle with group work alone.

Today was the final class for RFA. I happily received a response to my DB post. The instructor was very interested in my opinions and even mentioned that post and another response about fantasy football on the panapto.

I laughed when he said "you guys must really hate this school" about my first post. If only he knew...

To complete the term I now have to comment on the final RFA speaker and complete the TLC paper. I hope to have everything complete by Sunday so that Monday can start three blissful weeks of freedom from Pitt and MLIS studies.

Next term I will take Marketing and Public Relations for Library's (MPRL) with Dr. Sue Alman. I really dithered about taking this class because she is a hard taskmaster. I am going to take a leap of faith that, with only one class, I can handle the stress and will be a star...

Get ready, I'm sure I'll be begging for your prayers and support quite soon - LOL!

Diary 12/08

I just finished watching the Panapto of my final groups presentation. I watched it twice.

The song and dance was priceless. I could tell that the two on campus people did not gel. The alpha -on campus - girl (who did the 2nd most work after me on the project) got in there and pontificated for almost 13 minutes. I was tickled! My passive aggressive threats worked.

The instructor sounded pleased. We might get a good grade...

Diary 12/06

True to form my final - thank god - group has the class presentation tomorrow but they have yet to check the GDoc to see the information needed for the assignment. I refuse to send an email to make sure they are okay ( I am still in Passive Aggressive mode). I have a feeling that the two on campus students are speaking to each other, trying to strategize on how to minimize the damage of their doing little to nothing for our group project. I made sure that I made extremely clear to the instructor EXACTLY what portion of the project each member did. If she has read the peer review she will be watching their song and dance very closely. I can't wait to see them on the Panapto...

On a positive note, the assignment done by my first group was featured on the ACLA youth services blog. One of the University of Pitts instructors - Rebekah- chose the top two submissions and highlighted them. My group and I were honored. If you want to see the blog and other digital story that was mentioned click on the link below:

http://aclayouthservices.blogspot.com/2010/12/digital-storytelling.html

Today I turn in my third paper - after I read it one final time for perfection.

Three down and one to go! This final paper is the big one.

Sunday, I finished reading all of the research for the final paper and formatted the works cited page. Now it is time to get writing. I am expecting great things :o)

My semester ends 12/14 :oD :oD :oD

Diary 12/04

Since year one I have had to refer to these words at least once, usually more, a semester since I began pursuing my MLIS at the University of Pittsburgh. I am sharing them with you now - I think for the first time - so that you too can get through whatever life or Pitt is throwing at you. These words have helped me. I hope they help you too...

Don't Quit!

One day I decided to quit...

I quit my job, my relationship, my spirituality. .. I wanted to quit my life.

I went to the woods to have one last talk with God.

'God', I asked, 'Can you give me one good reason not to quit?'

His answer surprised me...

'Look around', He said. 'Do you see the fern and the bamboo?

'Yes', I replied.

'When I planted the fern and the bamboo seeds, I took very good care of them.
I gave them light.

I gave them water.

The fern quickly grew from the earth.

Its brilliant green covered the floor.

Yet nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo.

In the second year the Fern grew more vibrant and plentiful.

And again, nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo He said.

'In year three there was still nothing from the bamboo seed.

But I would not quit.

In year four, again, there was nothing from the bamboo seed. I would

not quit.' He said.

'Then in the fifth year a tiny sprout emerged from the earth. Compared

to the fern it was seemingly small and insignificant. ..But just 6

months later the bamboo rose to over 100 feet tall.

It had spent the five years growing roots. Those roots made it strong and gave it what it needed to survive.

I would not give any of my creations a challenge it could not handle.

He asked me, 'Did you know, my child, that all this time you have been struggling, you have actually been growing roots'.

'I would not quit on the bamboo.

I will never quit on you.

'Don't compare yourself to others.'

He said.

'The bamboo had a different Purpose from the fern.

Yet they both make the forest beautiful…

'Your time will come', God said to me.

'You will rise high'

'How high should I rise?'

I asked..

'How high will the bamboo rise?' He asked in return.

'As high as it can?' I questioned.

'Yes.' He said, 'Give me glory by rising as high as you can.'

I left the forest and brought back this story.

I hope these words can help you see that God will never give up on you.

You must never give up on yourself.

NEVER, Never, Never Give up!!!

951

Diary 12/02

A little follow up from previous posts:

• The professor of my RFA class did not respond to the thread I posted. I'm surprised. I did get plenty of similar response from fellow students which surprised me even further. I thought I was on this island alone... I guess not. This is good to know, maybe we can effect some change.

• My TLC group is SLOWLY moving along. The project is due on the 7th. The poster - thank god!- is done and submitted. We are now working on what is needed for the on campus students to present the poster. I am ashamed to admit that I have become passive agressive - I hate those type of people! But I have no recourse. I have been submitting information on our Google Doc to passively let them know that I am going to aggressively kick their A#$ when it comes to the peer review. I can smell their worry...

• I received some resources from IPL within the suggested deadline. Those resources were so helpful. They stimulated my mind into thinking about other angles and I found even more resources. I think I have enough now to write a comprehensive paper. I have two more papers to write before 12/14. This is down from the high of four papers that were due two weeks prior. Almost to the finish line!
  

Finally - for this post - I found the greatest, most informative post for advice to potential librarians. To get the most out of it, you have to read all of the links and the comments from other readers. I was blown away by all of the information out there for us. I've shared the link:

http://librarianbyday.net/2010/11/30/is-she-crazy-to-want-to-work-in-libraries-advice-for-a-potential-librarian/

Less than two weeks to go before holiday break. Yea! Yea! YEA!!!!!

Diary 11/30

For my TLC class I have two weeks to get it right - right being an "A" grade. I was stressing and stressing over resources for my paper when I remembered - Ask an ipl2 Librarian -That resource came quite in handy one semester and I pray they come through again. Today I filled out the online question form. Hopefully, I'll be sent some resource suggestions by the middle of this week.

How exciting! Here is the link if you need it http://ipl.org/div/askus/

Oh goodness. I just received this email from ipl "We wanted to let you know that our current volume of questions is heavier than normal. Your question is important to us, but we may not be able to work on it quite as fast as usual. In fairness to all of our patrons, we work on questions in the order that they are received, so be assured that we will get to it and as quickly as possible!"

Uh Oh - Not a good sign. I'll begin my research tonight just in case they are too backed up to send me anything before mid week.

Sigh...

Diary 11/28

I have not been truly ahead of any assignments all semester. I have been either one day early or turning them in 15 minutes before the deadline. I feel like this semester has been rush, rush, rush or push, push, push then b%^, b$&, b%^&. I am worn out!

I think my final group has an acceptable project. Unfortunately, I will not be on campus to present it. I cannot imagine what the on campus people are going to say was the motivation etc. since they basically did NOTHING!

Today I turn in one paper and have two more due by 12/08 and 14 respectively.

I think I might make it through...

I am assured (in my mind) of one class grade being an "A" but my other class grade hinges on these - cursed (literally I am cursing) - group projects and the final paper.

My fingers are crossed. Please cross yours too - I'm serious!

Diary 11/25

Happy Thanksgiving!

I am catching up with my school work before the evening meal. In my RFA class I came across an article entitled "Why Survival Is Not Enough" by Richard J. Cox

The article really fired me up. Maybe because I am so unhappywith the University of Pittsburgh or maybe because I am tired of my TLC group but I vented big time on the discussion board. I am sure the - very nice - professor is going to raise his eyebrows when he reads this. He responds to all of our submissions. I am eager to read his reply.

I've been told that I am very blunt in my speech. I strive daily to work on softening the edges but today I felt it these words needed to be shared.

I pasted a copy of what I posted on the DB below.
Richard J. Cox's view is that "library schools have a questionable future.” I agree but not for all of the same reasons.

“Why do most people come to library schools in the first place?” I came because like many I was “drawn by a love of books, reading, and scholarship associated with the word, including interests encompassing the Web and digital publications.”

Enrollment in MLIS schools like Pitt is thriving but not due the exceptional school or staff. The economy is driving the enrollment. Americans have been indoctrinated to believe that higher education is the only way to promotion. “The university … is no nobler than credentialing people to secure jobs”

One of the areas discussed in the article is the distance learning that is being offered to a large new audience. I am among those in the distance education audience and I am not happy. I am far from the only complainant. The effective delivery on online education goes beyond just the professor and their lesson. Effective is also the services offered to students, advisor counseling, peer networking, faculty/adminstrator response, etc. As far as many of us are concerned we are being ignored and library school has become nothing more than a frustration that begs the question of why am I here? Can this blatant lack of interest in individual students, their interests and motivations be confused for “being run like a business”? What business can thrive using this format?

“librarians have for the most part deemed distance education a grand success…the chief criterion seems to be the number of students online classes attract. Distance education tempts university administrators with its ability to generate extraordinary revenue”

I agree with Linda Pastan’s reflection, this has been about the most miserable two years of my life. I have not been completely lost but I’m pretty far gone…

“We need to commit to building a self-sustaining, quality library education program … We have an important product to sell: a quality education in an area of critical importance to society, its organizations, and its citizens. We have something we can believe in.”

Preach, Richard Cox, preach!

TTYL. I'll let you know what the professor responds...

938

Diary 11/20

The template for this final - praise the lord - group project (at least this semester) is giving me the blues. To add to that the group has added nothing to it. I am doing it all. I cannot figure out any other way to get this thing done. Last week I emailed everyone the template and requested the group members put their portions in. I got one response from a group member saying her stuff was in but, when I look at what she sent is EXACTLY what I had already done. The other two have not bothered to respond or do ANYTHING! This project is due in less than two weeks. We - the cursed group and I - meet tomorrow to discuss our progress.

I am unsure how I should even start the group conversation. I am going to have to make it clear that I am not doing this on my own and am done stressing over their lack of input. Sunday, either we meet until we complete an acceptable first draft of the template or I am going to do my own and submit it with an explanation to the professor as to why I had to do this.

I have enough to do without this mess! I have two end of term papers coming due that I have not even begun to research and multiple other smaller class assignments that are required.

I also have a life outside of Pitt.

I am very unhappy/upset. This SUCKS.

Diary 11/18

One of my group projects was to make a digital story using a childrens tale. My group and I have just finished the final cut. I am placing a link to the story which is in VoiceThread for anyone interested to review. The project was actually very fun putting together. The idea for the initial story is mine but the group worked together to put together the script, graphics and illustrations. This is a project any group can do fairly easily.

Though I cannot stand group work I think this project turned out fairly well.

The intended audience is elementary school children in the 4th to 5th grade.

ENJOY! I hope you like it.

http://voicethread.com/share/1452419/

Diary 11/14

Can we all say lackadaisical together? Not in this group we can't!

All of the sighing, "I must go to another appointment" - after only 30 minutes of dialogue!, shallow contributions and late arrivals do not an "A" project make. Therefore, I must step up my game by doing more research, take on a large portion of the project and come across as a pushy B. This group project cannot be over soon enough!

Thankfully next semester I will have only one class. Then, graduation and the multi-faceted world of full time Librarianship. Woo Hoo!!!!

If I ever teach for a library school, which I am contemplating, I will not have my students do group projects. I think they are cruel and unusual punishment.

921

Diary 11/14

I received notice that I had a misspelled word in my blog. Of all words it was librarians (!!!!). I can only assume that I was typing too quickly. Why didn't spell check catch that?!?! When I sent that question, I received this very funny spell check poem. I laughed and laughed...

(Read it out loud!)

Eye halve a spelling chequer
It came with my pea sea,
It plainly marques four my revue
Miss steaks eye kin knot sea.

Eye strike a key and type a word
And weight for it two say,
Weather eye and wring oar write
It shows me strait a weigh.

As soon as a mist ache is maid
It nose bee fore two long,
And eye can put the error rite
Its rare lea ever wrong.

To rite with care is quite a feet
Of witch won should bee proud,
And wee mussed dew the best wee can,
Sew flaw's are knot aloud.

Eye have run this poem threw it
Your sure reel glad two no,
Its letter perfect awl the weigh
My chequer tolled me sew.

-Sauce unknown

Diary 11/06

ALA is giving a FREE webinar on November 18th for new and future librarians looking for jobs. I plan to attend if I can make that block of time available. The link below is for registration and information.

"This interactive webinar is intended for library students or recent MLS graduates about to enter the workforce or start a job search.

Speaker: Brian Keith is Assistant Dean for Human and Financial Resources at the George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida. He will share his insight and advice from years of experience recruiting librarians and will answer questions from participants."

https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/188096954

Job Hunting for the Recent or Future MLS Graduate

Thursday, November 18, 2010 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM CST

Diary 11/05

Group work is the worst. If I could post without potential repercussions the sob story one of my groups just received about why another member STILL cannot meet, all of you would gag. I am totally serious.

It is not that I am not sympathetic to circumstance but YOU ARE IN GRADUATE SCHOOL! This is a choice you made. If you cannot handle that choice at the current time, drop the class. It's not like you cannot come back next semester or later. Why punish the group and jeopardize our grade?

I am just sick and in between a rock and a hard place. Other group members seem to be feeling timid about addressing the issue. I feel like contacting the professor but want to give a bit more leeway - not that I have not given to potential breaking point already!

I am going to see what happens the rest of the week. If nothing, I may have to be the snitch on Monday. This is actually the first time, I've had a member this bad. I guess I have been blessed. I have been told by others that they have been in worse group situations...

God forbid! 908

Diary 10/29

Dear Lord,

Why isn't this semester - better yet year - over yet? What have I done to feel so forsaken by you? Please help me get through these final two semesters. I need you to infuse me with strength, patience and wisdom - immediately.

Thank you in advance for responding to my prayers.

AMEN.

Diary 10/24

I have reflection #2 due next week. Today is the day I start and finish (?) that paper. I refuse to be working on this up to the last minute like I did the first reflection.

My DS group seems to be moving right along with everyone in sync - thank god!

A few days ago, I received an email from one of the members of my e-poster group, she sounded so excited, filled with ideas, and ready to go when one of the other members sent her an email saying she wasn't ready to start because she had too many other things she is currently working on - So the F what! - don't we all?!?!?! I was not pleased with that response. And, the person who wrote the email is an online student. I expect better from those of us hearty enough to be online! We online students work, go to school, raise families etc all while getting our assignments done one on top of another. I say - Suck it up !!!!!! We are all busy - Just Do It !!!!!!!!! I sent an email to the group telling them that I loved the other girls idea and was ready to assist her with anything she needed NOW. I know I am carrying on but I could not believe that response, like she was the only one with work to do and we were expected to wait until she finished and probably at the last minute to get our posters done. I don't think so...

On another note in my RFA class we had a week off and I am all caught up. Cudos to the teacher for giving us that opportunity.

Okay, bye! I must commence working on this paper.

890

Diary 10/18

Woohoo! I'm back home. FT weekend was rather pleasant this time. I had a productive meeting with my TLC group, a nice dinner with Apryl of cohort 9, the class was reasonably entertaining - I stayed awake, I did not destroyed any hotel rooms (always a plus). The next time I come to Pittsburgh will be to graduate.

One thing I must say, DO NOT stay at the Holiday Inn - North Pittsburgh on McKnight Road. It was the worst hotel I have stayed in EVER! The walls are very thin, the guests are not monitored (there was rampant screaming, banging doors, loud televisions, running down the halls, people trying to open doors, ACK!) The keys demagnetized after every use - meaning the doors would not open and we had to get new keys every time we left the room, housekeeping did not clean the room - not even to take out the trash or leave fresh towels! The workout room was a joke with three pieces of rickety equipment, a water jug with no water and no towels for guests to use (on the positive side it was open 24 hours). Never have I been so disappointed in a hotel stay. The best thing about that hotel was leaving it.

That Sunday when we left there was a football game between Pittsburgh and Cleveland. We went to brunch and everyone had on their Steeler's paraphernalia. Pittsburgh loves their team. I got back to Cleveland around 1pm when the game was just starting. I did not see one person in a Browns shirt. I think we Clevelander's correctly assumed the outcome of the game. We lost 28 to 10. I can only laugh...

Diary 10/16

I turned in my application for graduation today. HALLELUJAH! I am so happy. With the acceptance of the application I know that the end is near. In seven months on May 1st, I will be walking across that stage and away from Pitt forever. I mean it. I have no plans to even return for a quick visit. If I pursue a Doctorate it will be in Boston. I can't remember the name of the college off hand but they have a library management Doctorate for future Library Directors.

We'll see, I am currently tired of anything involving school work, projects, groups...

Diary 10/10

It's coming up on week 8 and FT weekend. As usual, I do not look forward to the joy of sitting in my classes for three hours each trying to give the impression of interest in the lectures. Oh well, why complain (then again why not?) it's only once a semester and I only have one to go after this is over.

Today I harvest what is left of the garden. The temperature will be 78 so we plan to get all of the yard work done. My first order of business is the garden. I am going to uproot everything except the asparagus which will FINALLY be ready to eat next year (I think I told you it takes three years to grow). I have lots of tomatoes green and red that I will be dispersing to friends and family. I will also be making some tomato basil bisque today - YUM! Once I am done uprooting the final items I will turn over the dirt and prepare it for next years harvest. This is the first years I have done this. I am hoping this preparation will make next years harvest more bountiful and healthy. Then comes the weeding, mowing of the lawn, seeding of spotty areas in the grass around the house etc. I expect we'll be outside at least three hours.

Later this evening I'll be having my 2nd Skype meeting with my TLC group. Did I tell you that the first meeting went well? if not, it did. I must say I did not expect anything from the PITA but she stepped up to the plate with good ideas and was very interactive. She probably read my blog and knew that her review from me was about to be s#$%. Thankfully, we might be a good team after all.

I'll keep you informed. 872

Diary 10/01

I like Barry. He is really enthusiastic about his class and he tries to make sure that the students have what they need to succeed.

I am still not feeling any connection - at all - with either of my classes but I really like Barry the RFC professor.

Just a random thought I felt like sharing at 4:45am :oD

Diary 09/29

Oh god! We are only five weeks in and I could just quit. I cannot get into this semester. All this video watching and discussion boards - ARG! 11 weeks to go.

I have been assigned a group for one course. There are three of us. One person is open and willing to do whatever/whenever. The other is a PITA (figure it out) she answered our emails late, can only work on stuff between the weekday hours of 8 and 3. She works Saturdays so cannot meet then. When Sundays were suggested she can't do mornings etc etc etc. I am already sick of her. Unfortunately she is the on campus student. Thankfully we get to rate our group members. I have a feeling, unless she gets her rear in gear, that I will not be complimentary.

FT weekend in two weeks... 858

Diary 09/23

I found a new book that may be of interest to some. I ordered a copy today. I'll let you know if it was worth the $52.

Author:	Doucett, Elisabeth
Title:	WHAT THEY DON'T TEACH YOU IN LIBRARY SCHOOL
Year Published:	2010
Publisher:	Ala Editions ; 2010

Diary 09/21

I feel like I am getting behind in my TLC class. There is so much reading to do then DB's, video watching etc. that I do not feel confident that I am on task. I barely got my 500 word paper in today. For some reason I assumed the paper would be due at the end of the week. But no, her assignments are due the day of her class by 5pm. can't we have until midnight? I mean what about those of us who work?!?!?!? that assignment was no fun. Now I have to go catch on on the DB posts of which there were three (!)

To make matters worse I still have to answer DB's that need research for my RFA class before he tapes his next lecture.

I am feeling quite disgusted right now. I have reports due at work, I need to plan the next nine months of programming. Work is piling up. It is all I can do to stay afloat. I can't wait for this to all be O*V*E*R.

I am going to turn off the light now and meditate. I need to find my happy place...

Diary 09/17

So far neither of my classes have captured my interest. I hope this is because it is only week 3. I have thus far watched each Panapto in their entirety. This is mostly due to the fact that the TLC professor said that Panapto activity can be monitored. She seems the type to do random checks. And, because the RFA professor likes us to comment on what his guest speakers say. I don't know how the on campus students do it...

One thing I will be working on this weekend for TLC (besides the 500 word paper due next week) is an avatar on 2nd Life. Lori has gotten hers mostly together and tells of some interesting experiences while in the virtual world. We shall see.

847

Diary 09/13

My allergies are unFREAKINGbelieveable this year. I can't breathe out of anywhere - mouth, nostirils -anywhere. My eyes are itching, even my skin itches. It is horrid! I cannot even fathom where all of these allergans are coming from. I was okay at the beginning of the season. What is the problem? Is it global warming? Ack, I am totally miserable.

My garden, which I have neglected to tell you about for a while, is at full ripeness. Other than my cucumbers, I had a decent harvest. I picked around 7 ears of corn, I've had some of the spinach, the basil is growing like gangbusters, my tomatoes are large and red without bug infestation and my kale is the most delicious salad green I have ever tasted.

Oh, I forgot my brusell sproats, garlic and onions. The BS's grew but never seemed to form. I have leaves galore but no sproats. I'll try again next year. The onions and garlic are MIA but I'm not worried they always appear near the end of the harvesting season.

The asparagus I planted last year will be ready next summer. I really flowered this season. It is as tall as me. I am very much looking forward to tasting the difference between store bought and fresh asparagus.

School is in its third term. There is not a lot to tell on that front.

TTYL.

Diary 09/09

I applied for the YALSA (young adult library services association) mentoring programming. I hope to hear back soon as to whether I have been accepted.

Q: How does the YALSA mentoring program work?

After being matched with his/her mentor, the protégé will contact her mentor and determine when and how they will communicate. Mentors and protégés should establish short-term and long-term goals for the year, which meet the learning needs of both the mentor and protégé. YALSA encourages mentors and protégés to identify and collaborate on specific activities to support the learning goals of the mentoring relationship.

YALSA will provide participants with a handbook that includes monthly discussion topics as well as a suggested list of resources that mentors and protégés can use to develop their mentoring goals or jump start their mentoring conversations and activities. In addition, YALSA will provide a space on ALA Connect for mentors and another for protégés. The space can be used for sharing resources, networking, exchanging ideas and more. YALSA will also host quarterly chat sessions for mentors and protégés. If enough participants indicate an interest, YALSA will host a get together for mentors and protégés at ALA’s 2011 Midwinter Meeting and Annual Conference. At the conclusion of the program, mentors and protégés will be asked to complete a program evaluation.

I hope to be chosen. I have decided that if this is going to be my career I might as well jump in with BOTH feet...

Diary 09/05

I found an interesting blog post recently - So you want to be a Librarian? A guide for those considering an MLIS, current students & job seekers. My favorite posted question was what the eff (as in f$^&!) can you do with an MLIS degree?- I laughed and laughed before I even read the answer. That is a question I have been fielding for the past year and a half... Here is the link to the blog. There are many interesting questions and answers.

http://librarianbyday.net/2010/09/so-you-want-to-be-a-librarian-a-guide-for-those-considering-an-mls-current-students-and-job-seekers/

ENJOY! 831

Diary 09/03

Confusion has already set in. I cannot figure out what all of the links to books on the DB are for in my RFA class. People have written on threads in the links but I am unsure about what he wants. I looked up two of the items on the internet but got distracted by the job that pays the bills. I'm going to sit down and carefully review the schedule and requirements for both classes over this long weekend. There is no need for me to start messing up my GPA this close to the end of the road.

Diary 09/01

And away we go... I've just written two DB posts introducing myself to my respective classmates and one DB post defining what I think a library is.

I'm back in the saddle - LOL! - I must admit I kind of missed the DB. I found myself checking it regularly trying to find work to do (crazy, huh?). Now that both classes are up and running, I see that there are plenty of readings, papers and group projects listed in the syllabi.

Ack! Let the games begin.

Diary 08/29

I'm almost ready for classes to start. I have all of my books for the TLC class. For a moment I thought I was going to have to buy one of the books (!!!!!) What is the use of working in a library if you have to buy books? I couldn't find the book in our system anywhere. The one place I found it they were "considering ordering" the book. I tried to order the book through WorldCat but was declined because the book was only published one year ago. For a moment I was stumped and then I remembered Ohiolink (YEAH!) they were able to link me to colleges/universities in the area that had the book. I placed my order and had the book within a week. I'm impressed!

I have not heard from my RSA instructor and there is nothing on Blackboard. I'll see what turns up in my email on Monday...

TaTa - 818

Diary 08/19

Okay, my teacher for Resources and Services for Adults (RSA) is Barry Chad. I had never heard of him. Time to do some research...Interestingly, he works for the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh as the assistant head, Pennsylvania Department, The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. He has transcribed a number - at least 47- of interesting oral history interviews about Pittsburgh and its past. Chad is an adjunct professor at Pitt. He and his background sound interesting. I look forward to seeing what this course entails.

11 days until we begin fall classes.

Diary 08/15

Fall classes begin 08/30.

Dr. Bowler sent us the list of books needed for her class. I'm impressed that she thought to do that. I've ordered all of my books for Technology in the Lives of Children and Youth. For one of them I've had to do an ILL request. Hopefully, since that book is coming from Columbia (or something like that) I'll have it by the time class begins.

I haven't heard a peep from my other instructor. I've never had a class with him thus do not know what to expect. Hopefully Resources and Services for Adults will be a great learning experience.

There are no links for either class on blackboard yet. I guess I should be just relaxing and enjoying the down time before the stress of class re-starts - LOL! I won't though.

Hmmm, Pitt has changed the entire layout for their website. It is more user friendly. I like it! I've just paid for the semester. Now I am all set until the 30th...

After this semester there is only one more to go until graduation. WooHoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

802

Diary 08/08

I have been neglectful of my blogging :o(

So much has been going on! The last week of class I find out that my field experience is listed under the wrong instructor and that I must fill out all of this paperwork to do a late drop add in order to get a grade. I was FURIOUS! I had already gone through heck and back just to get the Storytelling class dropped and the FE added back in May. How in the F#% could they have screwed up the instructor?!?!?!?! Not only that, why is this now my problem?!?!?! I was incoherent with disgust. Because I had to, I filled out the paperwork, emailed, cc'd etc everyone and backed up that paperwork and emails with calls. Do you think they got it together? N-O! It is a horribly helpless feeling when you are not in the place where your school is and you need to get through the bureaucracy. I finally called "student services" and had a melt down. I expressed my frustration with them, the university, the lack of organization on and on. I know they were like who is this crazy person. I don't even know why she is calling - LOL. Needless to say, I was transferred to a higher level person who basically held my hand and walked me step by step through the process all the while, attempting to unruffle my fur. One day before grades were due all of the paperwork was completed and signed by the proper individuals. Currently I have an "I" for my FE but I am assured that by Fall term I will have the "S" I so richly deserve.
I cannot tell you how frustrating it is to be an online student at the University of Pittsburgh. I know THEY are glad I'm not local.

Diary 07/31

I went in one last time to the branch to discuss all that I've accomplished with the branch manager. During this FE - 165 hours - I have:

• assisted with the coordination of a parade,
• shadowed in three departments,
• weeded CD's, DVD's, adult fiction and non-fiction,
• set up a program for patrons on how to buy on eBay and
• organized both the staff lounge and work areas.

I am whopped! I realize that in order to stay relevant I am going to have to continue volunteering in some capacity, at least once monthly, with the library. I am going to work out those logistics later...

I've begun writing my paper. I already have seven pages and have not finished adding all of the areas the report requests that we cite. Looks like I'll be doing a bit of editing Sunday.

Diary 07/30

Today was the final day of my field experience. I am now moving on to writing a five to ten page reflection paper outlining the experience. Thankfully, I have kept copious notes. This shouldn't be too difficult.

In other news... My cucumbers have died :o( I have been bummed for almost a week about this. I tried so hard to save them but nothing worked. I've pulled them up by the roots and thrown them away. Out of that entire crop, I only harvested four cucumbers. They were great tasting. Too bad. I plan to re-till that soil and plant the rest of the kale seeds. From what I have read, kale is a cool weather vegetable that grows through November. I hope that soil/area is not contaminated...

776

Diary 07/25

I have nine months before I graduate. Wow! I am 2/3 of the way complete. I know that is still a long time but it's further along than I initially thought I would come.

I have been told that now is the time to start sending out resumes for librarian positions. In the current economy I have read that it will take around 6-9 months to find an acceptable position.

The biggest hurdle is not finding a job to apply for but being chosen for an interview. To be chosen your resume has to stand out to the Human Resources representative.

I am currently working on my resume. I found two interesting articles on how to make them better and avoid common mistakes.

http://www.swissarmylibrarian.net/2010/07/20/notes-on-reading-resumes

and

http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/life/what-not-to-do-7-ways-to-ruin-your-resume-2009803/

I hope these articles are helpful :o)

Dairy 07/23

It has been HOT, HOT, HOT!

And I have been BUSY, BUSY, BUSY!

I mistakenly took on a STEM - science, technology, engineering and math - camp in partnership with NASA for the month of July. Those kids and their projects are working me to death!

Add to this my independent study and my failing/wilting garden (that I am working overtime to save). I'm a bit worn out.

BTW - I have no air conditioning so even as I try to rest I can't due to the heat.

Heard enough whining? Okay, I'm done for now.

A bright spot in my life is the Spectrum Scholarship money. I just received the bill for Fall classes and it was 33% less. Halleluja! My education is still not cheap but it is cheapER which is wonderful.

I'm off to the pool.

TTYS (764)

Diary 07/17

Phew busy week! I've been so busy between work and this independent study that I had not checked my email in three (yes! 3) days. When I did go into my email I found 54 Spectrum emails from fellow recipients introducing themselves days ago. I feel like such a slacker. I have to hurry up and compose my own introduction. I'll hopefully get it done today... I also found out by reading the emails that Pitt's "iSchool" has a newsletter - who knew? In the newsletter they announced the Spectrum scholars.

http://www.ischool.pitt.edu/news/index.php#spectrum

"The American Library Association (ALA) has announced the 2010 Spectrum Scholarship winners, four from the School of Information Sciences. The Spectrum Scholarships are offered to American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino and Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander students pursuing graduate degrees in library and information studies. ALA states that the goal of the Spectrum Scholars Program “is to improve service at the local level through the development of a representative workforce that reflects the communities served by all libraries.” The iSchool is pleased to note that four MLIS students will receive the prestigious awards: Ameerah Al-Mateen, Amiya Hutson, Sherry Cuadrado and LaMonica Wiggi. Cuadrado and Wiggi will enroll for the first time in Fall 2010. The iSchool has hosted more than 16 Spectrum Scholars since 2004."

How exciting for us! In the last 6 years Pitt has only hosted 16 Spectrum Scholars. I think the four of us are the largest cohort to date.

In other news, I still do not have a grade for the LRTL class. The instructor posted Fast Track students presentations so we could see/hear ourselves. I was overall pleased with my presentation. It was good to see myself. I looked pretty comfortable (though I was NOT- LOL). Being my own biggest critic I think I read off the screen a bit much and was fidgety. I will take that into consideration for future presentations.

IS is going well. I'm back at the branch. The current project of interfiling DVD's into a new system is my least favorite. The only good part will be the completion. My eyes are tired of DVD numbers.

Speaking of tired, my cucumbers are wilting! I am not sure what could be the cause. They were growing so bountifully and flowering wonderfully. I water them twice a day- before sun up and at sun down so I cannot image they are wilting from thirst. Just in case, I gave them more water and checked on them again this morning at 6am. The leaves that were wilting still look sad so I cannot tell if the extra water helped. I would be truly despondent if those plants died. I LOVE fresh cucumbers. Sigh, I'll have to hope for good things.

BTW, thank you for sharing my journey. I appreciate you!

756

Diary 07/11

I had a great time during FT weekend! The smashing of the picture was the only glitch in an otherwise wonderful weekend.

Friday I went to class, met the wonderful instructor (Lisa Santucci), listened to LOTS of presentations then went back to the hotel and slept. I TOTALLY recommend everyone taking LRTL when it becomes available. LS is a warm, friendly, engaging instructor. One of the best I've met at Pitt to date.

Saturday I went to the hotels front desk to find out about the picture. They told me "not to worry about it." Thank goodness! I was willing to pay a reasonable charge for the picture but they were going to have to put it in my trunk because it was going home with me. Anything I pay for I keep. Thankfully, we did not have to go through those shenanigans - smile.

Also on Saturday, I had the opportunity to tour the Botanical gardens and get some great pictures of flowers, butterflies, etc. Very nice and soothing. I think Pitt students should get a more comprehensive ticket discount ($1 off sucks) but oh well!









Lastly, I went back to LRTL class and did my presentation. I went 15.01 - almost perfect! We were given a 15 minute time limit I only exceeded it by 1 second. The class reviews to my presentation were very favorable. I am satisfied that I will receive the appropriate grade for the class.

When we got home I checked my garden. Everything was in order. The cucumbers were attached to a few of the corn stalks but I disentangled them, weeded a bit, gave the garden some water and went to bed.

Today, I unpack. Monday I am back to IS (independent study) in the branches...

748

Diary 07/09

We're Heere!

I just hope yesterday is not a sample of what is to come.

Last evening we got to the hotel, ordered the portable bed and went to our room. The room was perfectly situated right next to the fitness center. We got into the room without incident-all keys worked. I moved the bed (that hotel staff left in the hallway) into the room, it was a tight fit but it was working. As soon as the bed turned the corner and was lowered it hit the picture in the room and glass exploded everywhere. I was shocked! I felt like a rock star. I had just destroyed a hotel room.

Sigh... I called downstairs to let hotel staff know about the accident and we were assigned to another room down the hall. The hotel staff still did not help move the bed or situate it in the room but this time Lori and I worked as a team to ensure no more mayhem.

I hope they don't charge me for the picture. The accident was basically my fault but isn't the staff supposed to set up portable beds so incidents like this don't happen? I don't know. We'll cross that bridge when we come to it.

I'm ready to go home.

Diary 07/06

Fast Track Weekend here we come again. Sigh... Will I ever look forward to a FTW?

After this only one more FTW to go in October and then, praise Jesus, GRADUATION!

I am sooo ready to graduate and more on with my career.

This FTW I have 10 hours of LRTL. I have a 15 minute presentation to give and then 25 or so 15 minute presentations more to listen to. I have no idea how I am going to stay sane through this...

For fall I have registered for Technology in the Lives of Children (TLC) and Resources for Adults (RA).

Now to my FP, last week I shadowed staff from my area of least interest. Surprise, surprise it was fun. Every department had really great, helpful staff. These last couple of weeks I have received an eye opening tour of the library environment/world.

Lastly, the garden - smile! My garden is a thing of beauty. Something chewed on my baby kale so I cut the rest and put it in a salad. It was delish! The rest of the vegetables are flowering and getting ready to give me a seemingly bountiful harvest. Everything has flowered. I even found the missing basil plants.

732

Diary 06/27

Here is the official Spectrum Scholarship announcement! There are four U of Pitt student recipients this year. I don't recognize any of their names but I am going to try to meet them before I graduate. How exciting...

Spectrum Scholarship winners announced

For Immediate Release
Tue, 06/22/2010 - 16:03

Contact: Gwendolyn Prellwitz
Office for Diversity (ofd or div)

CHICAGO - The American Library Association’s (ALA) Office for Diversity announces the 2010 Spectrum Scholars.

The Spectrum Scholarship Program provides scholarships to American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino and Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander students pursuing graduate degrees in library and information studies. Its mission is to improve service at the local level through the development of a representative workforce that reflects the communities served by all libraries. Since 1997, the ALA has awarded a total of 683 Spectrum Scholarships.

The 2010 Spectrum Scholars are:

• Ameerah Al-Mateen, University of Pittsburgh
• Ana-Elisa Arredondo, University of Arizona
• Sheena Barbour, University of Denver
• JaTara Barnes (ACRL Scholar), Syracuse University
• Julianna Barrera-Gomez, University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
• Sofia Becerra-Licha, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
• Holly Beeman (MLA/NLM Scholar), University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
• Joseph Bellanca, University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign
• Felipe Alberto Castillo (Clowney Scholar), University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign
• Vivian Choy, University of California, Los Angeles
• Grace Chung, University of Washington
• Carla-Mae Crookendale, Valdosta State University
• Sherry Elaine Cuadrado, University of Pittsburgh
• Mariaelena de la Rosa (MLA/NLM Scholar), University of Arizona
• LaNesha “Gail” DeBardelaben, Indiana University - Bloomington
• Wendy Dere, San Jose State University
• Hoan-Vu Do (YALSA Scholar), San Jose State University
• Janis Elmore (Teeple Scholar), Dominican University
• Emmanuel L. Faulkner, University of Maryland - College Park
• Concepcion Flores, San Jose State University
• Yrenes Fornes, University of South Florida
• Sylvia Franco (ALSC Scholar), University of Texas - Austin
• Nancy Gallegos (REFORMA Scholar), Dominican University
• Yvonne Garcia, Texas Women’s University
• Katrina Gardner, Catholic University of America
• Jennifer Irene Garrett, University of British Columbia
• Benita Ghura, San Jose State University
• Mary E. Gibson, Simmons College
• Peter Grassman, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign
• Aron B. Gutierrez, Indiana University Purdue University – Indianapolis
• Darla Rose Gutierrez, Queens College (CUNY)
• Jennifer Hamada, University of Hawaii – Manoa
• Dorothy Hargett, University of Tennessee
• Brandon Hodge, University of North Texas
• Julie Hong, San Jose State University
• Amiya P. Hutson, University of Pittsburgh - That's me :o)
• Latanya Ingraham, Clarion University
• Angelica Johnson, University of Washington
• Andrea G. Johnson, University of Missouri – Columbia
• Mosi Kamau (Giles Scholar), Dominican University
• Emily Kornak, University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
• Christopher Kyauk, San Jose State University
• Jacqueline Macias, University of Arizona
• Katy Mahraj, University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
• Sylvia Martinez, University of South Florida
• Leni Matthews, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign
• Ramona Melody, Simmons College
• Claudia M. Melton, University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
• Christian Minter (Gordon Scholar), Catholic University of America
• Jeri C. Morton, Florida State University
• Julie Motooka, University of Hawaii – Manoa
• Karla Anne Merino Nielsen, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign
• Jefferson Perales, Queens College (CUNY)
• Vanessa Pozan, Long Island University
• Erin Prentiss, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign
• Daniel Ramirez, University of Maryland – College Park
• Anna Lisa Raya Rivera (Turock Scholar), Rutgers University
• Yesenia Rosado, Fairfield University
• Sarah Hashemi Scott, San Jose State University
• Sandy Shitanishi, University of Hawaii – Manoa
• Mishalla Spearing, University of Hawaii – Manoa
• Rachel Keiko Stark, Drexel University
• Sean Sullivan, San Jose State University
• Julie Tanaka, University of Washington
• Adoracion Thomas, University of Oklahoma
• Jade Torres-Morrison, San Jose State University
• Susan Trujillo, San Jose State University
• Kia Vang, University of Wisconsin – Madison
• James W. Wallace Jr. (Calloway Scholar), Indiana University Purdue University – Indianapolis
• Amanda Webb-Trujillo, Simmons College
• Kui Wedemeyer, University of Hawaii - Manoa
• Lisa West (Albert Scholar), Dominican University
• LaMonica Wiggins, University of Pittsburgh
• Stacie Williams, Simmons College
• Haruko Yamauchi, Queens College (CUNY)

Established in 1997, the ALA committed resources for 50 annual scholarships of $5,000 a year for Spectrum’s first four years. The Spectrum program continues to fund scholarships through the initial endowment and the generous contributions of individuals and organizations whose donations support named scholarships in the Spectrum Family of Funds. For 2010, scholarships have been awarded in honor of the following individuals: Leo Albert, Ron Clowney, Gregory Calloway, Louise Giles, William R. Gordon, Howard M. and Gladys B. Teeple and Dr. Betty J. Turock.

For more information on Spectrum and how you can contribute, please contact the Office for Diversity at 1 (800) 545-2433 ext. 5048 or visit www.ala.org/spectrum. The application period for 2011 Spectrum Scholarships will open in late October 2010.

Diary 06/20

FT weekend is fast approaching! We leave in 18 days for Pitt. I've just turned in my pamphlet in the LRTL class and am now working on the 15 minute presentation that must be done during FT weekend. I am not the best presenter. I put everything together and then get nervous in front of the group which I feel negates all of my prior preparation... I am going to practice, practice, practice for this presentation. I hope not to use cue cards or any prompts. My goal is full memorization.

Last week I did some staff shadowing. I LOVED IT! I felt like I had the inside scoop on what the library is attempting to accomplish. No doors were closed to me. No questions too big or small. I was invited to attend all meetings and events. I think shadowing is the best time I've had at the library. My goal of being a Director of an Urban library is alive and well :o)

This week I shadow again in another department I have a lot of interest in. I hope to have as energizing a time as I've had during this week.

Now to the garden...I replanted as I planned and have been extremely diligent with watering and weeding. My work seems to be paying off. I definitely see the tomatoes - I may have too many. I also now have definite brussel sproats growing. I still do not see any new kale or basil - Oh well... This garden may not be as prolific as last summers but I'll have a decent harvest.

711

Diary 06/13

Wow! It is already mid June. I feel like that with the advent of warm weather the days are flying right by. Slow down summer...

Saturday concluded one of the outreach projects I worked on for my field placement (FP). The parade went really well. The crowd was immense and really seemed to enjoy the entire parade, dare I say, especially the libraries float and costumes. We had a blast!

I've moved from weeding adult books to the the music CD's. I am about weeded out. Next week I move away from weeding to shadowing staff in various areas/departments. I am really looking forward to that. I should be quite well rounded by the time this FP is complete :o)

LRTL is still a very interesting, well run class. Last week I turned in my lesson plan and am currently working on my handout and ideas for the 15 minute presentation due FT weekend. I am not the best public speaker so I must start practicing soon.

My garden is a conundrum. I can't find the brussel sprouts (sigh). First, I lost track of the tomatoes now this! The cucumbers, corn and kale (at least I think it's kale. It might be spinach) are doing fine. Last week I replanted tomatoes and this week I'll replant brussel sprouts. I didn't have these issues last year...

703

Dairy 06/08

OMG! OMG!! OMG!!!

I just received a call from the American Library Association letting me know that I am a SPECTRUM Scholar!

This scholarship will provide me with financial assistance for my final two semesters of college, free membership renewal to ALA and a stipend to attend ALA's annual convention (2011) in New Orleans!!!!!!!

I am very happy right now... Maybe this career is meant to be :oD

688

Diary 06/06

I am really contemplating taking three classes fall semester. If I make it successfully through this summer, success = A's, and I get approval to do individual research, there is a 90% chance that I will go for it.

Then, I will be done

I am tired of school.

I am ready to get O U T !!!!!

Now I realize why I stopped years ago instead of continuing on for a PhD...

Dairy 06/02

I'm working diligently on my lesson plan for LRTL. I am not one to completely listen to Panapto lessons but for this class I have listened to all seven (7!) plus hours. Thus far, I like this instructor. She seems to really care about her instruction, the students and what we all (herself included) will get out of this course. She has me excited to learn.

I am also weeding away at the Cleveland Public Library as part of my field experience. I started with adult non-fiction and am currently making my way through the rest of the adult material. There is so much good stuff here that will be sold at our book sale. I cannot believe the array of great material that has barely been, by the look of it, touched. People do not know what they are missing when they go see the movie instead of reading the book. I'll be quiet about it, I know I'm preaching to the choir.

On another note, my garden is all planted outside. Somehow, two of my three tomato plants have disappeared! I hope the rain/mud just covered them up. We'll see in a few weeks. The cucumbers look lively. I think they might give me the best yield. My corn looks sad and wilty (not a word according to blogger). I'm not sure if I planted the corn in the correct area. I'll give it another week. I might need to transplant it elsewhere. Everything else looks status quo. Neither good nor bad. I'm in wait and see mode.

Be back with an update soon :o)

675

Diary 05/29

I just received this notice from ALA about Mentoring opportunities...

http://cro.ala.org/chapters/index.php?title=Mentoring

ALA has launched MentorConnect in ALA Connect so you can find or become a mentor.

MentorConnect is an informal mentoring network implemented within ALA Connect that allows all ALA members to participate and only requires that you actively choose to join the network in order to begin serving as a mentor or seeking a mentor.

Mentoring others is one of the most powerful ways you can give back to the profession, but it’s not a relationship to be entered into lightly. If you join MC, you’re making a commitment to help someone else. A strong mentoring relationship requires consistent contact between the mentor and mentee so think carefully about making this commitment before offering your services as a mentor.

Having effective mentors is important for your professional and personal growth. Asking someone to take the time to mentor you is a serious commitment. When someone agrees to mentor you, they’re making an investment in your future. Plan on spending time with your mentor via MentorConnect in order to get the most from this important relationship.

Diary 05/28

I'm still fiddling with the BP "reflection" paper due Sunday - It'll get done. I'm submitting whatever I have on Saturday. It's time to move on...

LRTL has a project due next week that I am a tad confused about. I'm going to review the assignment long and hard on Saturday. Hopefully, I'll gain some clarity. If not, I'll send the instructor a list of questions. She seems nice and low key. I don't think she'll mind.

In the mean time I plan to use this weekend to plant my seedlings outside. they have been hardened all week out in the sun and they've flourished. Now for the next test of placing them in the ground. I'm quite excited. My corn and cucumbers look like they are going to be beautiful.

BTW, some animal has been chewing the stalks off of my cherry tomatoes. If I catch that creature, I'm going to give it a good whack! The nerve.

TTYL

Dairy 05/23

I've finally started on my reflection paper for BP. It is barely two full pages. I am having the hardest time finding legitimate things to reflect upon. I still have a week until it is due but really I should have had this done weeks ago. I'm not sure what my problem is!

The LRTL course started on Friday. It looks like the instructor is very organized :o) I think I'll enjoy this course.

My field placement is going well. I am currently helping organize the library's participation in a community parade we participate in every summer that showcases businesses/organizations in the community. It should be great fun.

I'm not sure if I've mentioned that I am growing a garden again this summer. I am so excited. I have started seeds of corn, spinach, brussel sproats, cucumbers, beefsteak tomatoes, and basil. I started the seeds inside in a covered container. This is the first time they have been exposed to the sun. Next week I'm going to place them in the sun all week to make them hardy enough to plant in the soil.

I already have asparagus, cherry tomatoes, garlic, onions, lettuce and parsley, that returned from last summer, happily growing in the garden. I hope to have another great harvest.

TTYL. I want to go outside to enjoy the sun just like my veggies.

659

Diary 05/19

We in cohort 9 have exactly one year until we are in the job market seeking a library job. I found this article...

Tips for library job applicants in a tight market

http://meredith.wolfwater.com/wordpress/2010/05/18/tips-for-library-job-applicants-in-a-tight-market/

Happy Reading!

649