Planting Trees

reflection 4 Comments

It feels so great to do something practical. We took 50 kids from our school out to a park today and planted 900 trees. I am exhausted tonight, but I feel satisfied. The kids really threw themselves into it. When we asked for volunteers, my entire class immediately volunteered and brought their forms back the next day to ensure they got to go. There were plenty of kids in the school who wanted to go, so we had to make it a first in best dressed arrangement. Kids were rushing into the office before school to try to be the first and the cut off occurred before homeroom started.

If you were cynical, you could say it was just about having a day out of the classroom. I believe 80% at least though want to do the right thing. They want to make a difference and are quick to jump to opportunities to do so. I see many kids doing amazing volunteer work in my community and I will tell you more about some of the things they do soon. Today it’s the tree planters day.

We could harness this enthusiasm and good will more often. If only we had the energy to keep up and keep it safe!

Offline Life

reflection 3 Comments

Routines
I have been busy offline lately. I felt my Internet usage was becoming a little invasive in my life and whilst having a bit of a stock take of the things I do with my time, prompted by some personal growth reading on Steve Pavlina and Craig Harper‘s sites I must admit. I have rearranged my routines to work better for me and have spent less time online as a result. I am feeling pretty good about it to be honest.
Exercise
As it is winter here in Australia, I have been struggling for the past month or so, to get up at 6.00 and do my 20 minutes on the stepper. I had all kinds of excuses, my heart monitor battery needed replacing, it was too cold, I had the flu. I would do it for a few days and then stop. So I solved this dilemma this week by doing 30 minutes after work. I am now getting up guilt free in the morning and not resisting getting out of bed so much because I know I have done my exercise the night before. I will probably go back to mornings when it gets a little lighter and warmer in the mornings. I am pleased this is working now, as life has become easier. Why didn’t I think of it earlier?
Housework and Lunch
As I am not squeezing exercise into my mornings, or avoiding exercise to be more honest, I’ve been able to make a healthy lunch to take to work and tidy the house before I go to work. When I get home, I do a couple of chores before exercising and it’s really satisfying to come home to a tidy house.
Bedtime
I am going to bed at the same time at night, even though I’m not always getting up earlier to exercise. I read a little longer and get a bit more sleep. I really believe enough sleep is a really important ingredient in a busy life. I can’t function if I don’t get it.
Treats
I have also been going to the movies once a week, because I love film and have decided to make the time for myself. It has improved my level of cheerfulness. I feel like I am treating myself well and I’m happier. It’s a simple thing really and I’m amazed at the difference it has made.
Over to You
I haven’t bored you with all my little routine changes just for the fun of it. I reflected today about how much happier I have been this week and wondered if this wasn’t worth sharing with others. A few simple changes might be enough to snap you out of a bout of winter blues, or get you back on track.

Queenie – One Elephant’s Story

reflection 1 Comment

The beautiful and nostalgic picture book ‘Queenie-One Elephant’s Storyby Corinne Fenton and illustrated by Peter Gouldthorpe was shortlisted for the Eve Pownall Award for Information Books. It was also a notable for the picture book category.

It tells the story of an elephant that lived at the Melbourne Zoo, delighting audiences for almost 40 years. Teachers notes provide many links to the curriculum. It’s a delightful story and a beautiful book.

Proudly powered by WordPress & Skyrocket Themes

MENU

Navigation