Lessons from the Weekend - Feb 14-16

For those of you reading that are squash players- you can say “I told you so” but you won’t. You won’t because you exemplify the sportsmanship of your game.  For those of you with the novice view I had before a weekend at Vassar- I must share!  Here is what I appreciated:

•       Those close quarters and fast actions, in 4D (four walls, the ball can bounce off 4 walls) create an elegant meeting.  A parent compared it to wrestling and boxing- I agree.
•       The self-advocacy and confidence developed with requests for lets and strokes, important, our students need this and oh did they impress me..
•    The players' roles as a referee in partnership with an opposing team member- brilliant, purely brilliant. I’d hire any squash student for this reason alone or encourage them to accept a leadership role in their extracurricular activities. They will be able to facilitate any meeting with this experience.
•       The matches moved- there was no drudgery- I found it completely entertaining and in some case awe-inspiring. The flexibility, quick reflexes, athletism and strategies evident in this sport!
•        A parent used the word gamesmanship- the introductions, the respect, positive approach, the full attention beyond their own matches.  I like this.
•        The commitment of the Denison coach and these players now. History is being made. This sport is moving from club to varsity.  The Women’s program is recently launched- all because of those that have gone before and this crew NOW. Now is an impressive time to join the journey.  I look forward to talking more and sharing individual experiences and insights with you!  To be continued in my life on Newark-Granville Road.

Of course, I do not have a favorite Denison sport- that would be like having a favorite child or as Joe says a favorite beer or scotch.  Depending on the day and time, one or more are preferred!  Congrats to the DU Women's Swim Team on their NCAA championship. I loved my time at the pool on Thursday with you and was watching. Thanks to all the parent energy and commitment there!

 AND....I have to report on the lessons of homework and my grad work. IT IS HARD! I stayed "in" in NYC to do homework- reading, prep for the paper due on Monday. I woke up early on Sunday to work on the paper.  It isn't just flowing. The concepts and theories are deep and complicated. I'm waking up a part of my brain that has been dormant.  And it feels good.  It felt better last night when I was able to hit submit to the assignment I must say.

It was a busy weekend. I hope you felt the love in the air on Valentines' Day. It is fun to have a day where it is cool and good to say I love you and engage if you want to in tokens of expression.  We are low key about it but I was happy and grateful to find the Valentine's Card in my suitcase from Joe. I was happy to accept a sweet carnation at lunch on Friday from the restaurant during a work meeting.  I carried that flower to two hotels and put it by my bed. I have two carnations on my desk from the campus sale- grateful for the love I feel in so many ways. Hoping to send it to you as you read this and know what is happening in my life on Newark-Granville Road!