Monday, August 31, 2009

Favorite Sayings- Installment 2

You can't ride donkeys in the Kentucky Derby! - Joe Taylor- Head Football Coach Florida A&M

Something to consider in your hiring and budget strategies.

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Goodbye Summer!

My entire professional life has required me to "turn the page" about this time of the year. My entire adult life I have been employed by, working with or married to the education system. As my wife returns to work and my company ramps up to meet the challenge of schools opening I find myself in a familiar spot.

As we sought to make the most of "our vacation" we went to our beloved Wintergreen and did things that make us happy. Still sitting on the brink of what I lovingly call the start of "the season" I feel the same that I did before I reported for my first teaching job at the age of 22. The thrill of that memory is tempered by the fact that it was 33 years ago. Enjoy the day!

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Writing Books!

I've had two great opportunities to write a book in my life. The first was when I lived on a Historically Black University (HBCU) campus during the OJ trial. I was coaching football there and observed not only the trial with all its hoopla, but also the Republican Revolution of 1995. Remember Newt? Thanks Mark Fuhrman! The resulting discussions left me with one question; why do I have to explain the phrase "rugged individualism" to an educated black male? It was a very educational part of my journey.

The second opportunity was dating on the internet at the age of 50! This occurred after my first marriage folded after 21 years. If you see humor in the bizarre and potentially bizarre, let me recommend that experience highly. It should be noted that I met my current (2nd) wife the old fashioned way.

I did come away with an idea of why internet dating sites prosper; it's hope! Every click might be the next "ONE". People live, vote, worship and even relocate based on hope. It might be the one condition that connects all of us.

Sunday, July 26, 2009

The kids I hang out with- Part 2

I carried over my preferences from the golf course to this year's summer meeting. We had enough down time at night to keep things interesting and once again I chose to hang with the pups! Many thanks to the young lions that are already making things happen in our company.

I think I may be addicted to youth. So far it is healthy addiction; free of transplants, dyes and gross additions of bling. My guilty pleasure? Evidently it is giving "sage" advice to those that are not yet in the habit of listening. I appreciate them putting up with me anyway. They even bought a few rounds!

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Favorite Sayings Installment 1

"Don't confuse activity for achievement"- Gene Stallings

Step outside the sweat, frustration, stress and time consumption of your daily or daunting tasks and ask yourself; Am I getting anything done?

Sunday, June 21, 2009

The "kids" I hang out with...

Golf is a big deal for me. It is now my favorite mode of competition; which means a lot when you consider where I have been in my life professionally. Who you play with regularly says a lot about you.

I much prefer to play with guys (& girls) that are younger than me. They sweat less, complain less, hurt less and occasionally can get a date with the 20 year old cutie serving drinks after the round. Thanks Chuck! I don't even remember how I played. Youngsters give old guys perspective.

Opening Post

If you read my profile, you know one thing already; I take family very seriously. The best thing about being 55 with adult children is when they "leave the nest" and actually show signs of being very successful; it is a GREAT feeling. Happy Father's Day to me! Thanks kids! Try not to screw it up!