Tuesday, April 7, 2009....
I was excited and apprehensive about this past weekend. I suck at grammar and have run as far away from writing for public viewing most of my life. As we introduced ourselves the first night, I thought I may have been over my head. Everyone was either a writer, editor or had known since childhood writing was their passion. For me, writing, other than in my personal journal, was something I bolted from.
In my ultimate wisdom, I chose a major in college that required me to write numerous papers and 6 years ago landed a position that challenged me on a daily basis to write.
Writing, editing and modifying legal documents was not fun for me. I could never interject my voice into my work and the following words: shall vs may, nonetheless and furthermore, pushed me over the edge.
I think it was during this time I was overcome by the need to just write about everything and anything with an air of whimsy. It was the counterbalance I was missing and desperately needed.
Over the years, friends and family commented that I had a quirky way of relaying a story so when I became unemployed, my sister encouraged me to start this blog (probably so I wouldn't lose my mind while looking for work).
The workshop was perfect. Mignon created a very interactive workshop and opened herself up so I wasn't intimidated by her knowledge of grammar (I had visions I would be corrected every time I opened my mouth).
It was obvious she spent a lot of time preparing for this workshop. She explored various topics with the group such as:
- Expressions of Writing (journaling, blogging)
- Exercises (free writing and prompt writing)
- Promoting Oneself
If you haven't heard of Mignon, aka Grammar Girl, I'd suggest signing up for her newsletter or podcasts Grammar Girl. Personally, I really enjoyed her book and will use it as a reference guide.
In addition to the workshop, I got to spend some quality time with my sister. She had signed up for a singing workshop and had to sing without lyrics in front of 30 people. I had many suggestions for her (SuperFreak by Rick James and any BeeGees song because who can really decipher what they were singing), but she ignored them. Hmmm... I can't figure out why.
While I wasn't torturing her, I was able to read and meditate. I'm now at a place where I need to meditate for 30 minutes because it takes me a good 15 minutes to stop the chatter inside my head. I will make meditating a priority in my daily routine because I felt great after my practice.
I left Friday wanting and needing to clear my head. Sometimes, I wish for things which don't happen. However, that wasn't the case this past weekend.
Showing posts with label Grammar Girl. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Grammar Girl. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Friday, April 3, 2009
Kripalu and The Grammar Girl
Friday, April 3, 2009.....
This weekend couldn't come at a better time. Wednesday, I heard the position I interviewed for, was pulled. Ironically, this is not the first time I've had this happen to me. Many employers are "window shopping" for the perfect candidate, but don't have the budget to pull the trigger and hire. I'm becoming accustomed to this, but wasn't prepared for the recruiter's reaction on Wednesday.
He whined to me. He whined to me about his personal fears of losing his job. I try to be empathetic, but after 11 months of being unemployed, I don't have it in me to placate another person's fears over the possibility of losing their job. I wish I could say he's unique, but no. Others do this to me. Typically, I handle this well, but right now, I just don't want to hear it.
My energy is low and I'm in definite need for some "head clearing" (I believe head clearing should be an activity like skiing).
Several months ago, my sister asked if I'd be interested in this workshop at Kripalu grammar girl workshop. I admit, I hadn't a clue who Mignon Fogarty was, but really liked what I read. I'm looking forward to her workshop and staying at this retreat center for yoga, health, and holistic living. The atmosphere is peaceful and I plan on spending some time meditating.
I can't wait! A weekend of learning coupled with a zen-like atmosphere is just what I need.
Woo Hoo!
This weekend couldn't come at a better time. Wednesday, I heard the position I interviewed for, was pulled. Ironically, this is not the first time I've had this happen to me. Many employers are "window shopping" for the perfect candidate, but don't have the budget to pull the trigger and hire. I'm becoming accustomed to this, but wasn't prepared for the recruiter's reaction on Wednesday.
He whined to me. He whined to me about his personal fears of losing his job. I try to be empathetic, but after 11 months of being unemployed, I don't have it in me to placate another person's fears over the possibility of losing their job. I wish I could say he's unique, but no. Others do this to me. Typically, I handle this well, but right now, I just don't want to hear it.
My energy is low and I'm in definite need for some "head clearing" (I believe head clearing should be an activity like skiing).
Several months ago, my sister asked if I'd be interested in this workshop at Kripalu grammar girl workshop. I admit, I hadn't a clue who Mignon Fogarty was, but really liked what I read. I'm looking forward to her workshop and staying at this retreat center for yoga, health, and holistic living. The atmosphere is peaceful and I plan on spending some time meditating.
I can't wait! A weekend of learning coupled with a zen-like atmosphere is just what I need.
Woo Hoo!
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