Backpacking 2.0

Posted on July 6, 2012 by Carrie Mattern

The only gift Paul asked for this Father’s Day was a family camping trip. That is it. Simple, right?
Not when camping to Paul is hiking in the forest…with two kids under seven…who have only hiked For Mar Nature Preserve.
With proper planning and practice, we decided on a trail we have hiked before (smart, I know) and one that was only 2.5 miles to the first campsite. It is in Vanderbilt, MI and is referred to as the Green Timbers Trail, known for the shelters that still exist from old steel money who hosted retreats for his workers during the 1930s. The second site, known as the Honeymoon Cabin, was located another 2.5 miles in, and at an elevation of 1050ft. We did not make it that far. This time.
The kids had their own packs and each carried a set of summer clothes and one set of layering. They also carried a bottle of water. Leo (4) wanted to take a flashlight, and Claire (7) a journal.
Treats really helped motivate the kids on the hike, and I found a couple of great resources online that mentioned Swedish fish or anything chewy they can work on instead of thinking about walking. I also chose a pack of Mentos for each as it was hot when we started our hike (11am), and the mint made it feel cooler for a moment. Other snacks included jerky, meat sticks, and dried fruit. It was nice to have options to pull out for them as we hiked. We stopped often for water and to check in with everyone. The estimate is kids can hike as many miles as they are old, but practicing with a pack, is essential. The kids were squealing with anticipation…and I, in pain.
Paul carried all the medical supplies, kitchen utensils, sleeping gear (except my bag), water purification system (and extra bottles), and tools. I carried the food and my sleeping bag. While researching for our trip, I could not find adequate information on what to pack in regards to feeding a family for 2 full days, so I packed too much. I had enough food for us for four days at least. Here is what you should take for 2 days in the woods, if you are a family of four, and are taking small children;

A 20-40 pack of tortillas; great for roll ups, baking into chips, and sopping up gravy or stew
2-4 packs of tuna in packet (not can)
1 jar peanut butter OR Nutella
3-4 packages dried fruit (mix them into one container for the ultimate snack)
2 packages just add water rice OR pasta (if you take a pasta, choose one that is less dense than others for quick cooking purposes)
1 can beef stew or chicken in water (try to find this in packet rather than weight of the can)
1 box granola bars w/protein
1 bag beef jerky
1 bag meat sticks
1 bag almonds (our family likes these the best)
1 container each salt and pepper
Small container olive oil OR cooking spray
1 package each Swedish Fish, Mentos, gum
1 box Crystal Light ‘On the Go’ flavor packets (or other additive to spice up your water)

I did not choose to make a trail mix this time due to the quantity and weight of the food, and also the weather. Adding chocolate (like the kids and I prefer) would have melted over everything so climate is something to consider for your trip. I also took a package of bagels which added weight and was unnecessary along with the tortillas. They were tasty, but tortillas are much more versatile when it comes to cooking over a fire. Finally I found a jar of honey and packed it, but it also was unnecessary (and heavy) with our families eating habits.
My hope is this list helps one person plan a successful 2 day family hike. If you have questions about other items we carried, I would be glad to answer them in the comments section. Paul ended up carrying the kids’ packs on the way out so they could run, skip, and sing down the path. I wish I could have taken that picture to share.
The only item we forgot was a pair of swimmies for our son, Leo, who is four, but that is another blog itself! Happy hiking, and Happy Father’s Day to all the dads who share their love of nature with children; one of the most important gifts a dad can give.

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The Heavy list, but not as in hot and heavy.

Posted on June 24, 2012 by Carrie Mattern

This list is for those who want to expand their minds more so than entertain with a summer read. It does not dissuade the reader from a simple romance, or a hot and heavy beach laden sex scene, but it does provide alternate choices that may not be the perfect sandy choice, but may be nice to read on the beach and quietly cry behind your sunglasses.

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer

This book was a struggle for me until I learned to quit figuring it out and just enjoy the plot. The narration was the issue, and I could not comprehend when Oskar (9 years old) was narrating, and when someone else was…regardless, it was intense, authentic, mysterious, and close to home. We all have secrets in our families and secrets tend to become less secretive as we grow older. In this case, Oskar is only 9 and he is on a mission to figure out a few things about his family, which is not at all off for this problem solving genius. What is odd, is the way that stories from the past combine in light of recent events that provoke ultimate family sacrifice, betrayal, and a little boy’s daunting task. I love the imagery of New York and I also love the image of Oskar, determined to find out the final message his father left him before dying on September 11. I cried through this book, and will not watch the film, but let me know what you thought of the book or the movie if you have experienced either.

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
This is another book that gave me trouble. So much that when it first came out (2005), I put it down. Twice. I only picked it up again because my tutor got a class set donated from World Book Night. She recommended it yet again, and I thought, I really have to read this book now. After I got through the first few chapters I realized how beautifully tragic this story is written. Death narrates the tale of one book thief through World War II. Yet she, the thief, is a mere child. After reading an interview with the author, I realized why I loved this book so much after plowing through the German phrases, tough dialect, and harrowing adventure; he stated that each page should evoke a profound image carefully crafted through use of simile or metaphor. As an English teacher, I am in awe of this, and as a reader, engrossed. If you are interested in this period of history or just a really well written young adult story, this is it. You will fall in love with the characters, and be immersed in their lives until death narrates one final time.

On Writing by Stephen King
Regardless of your opinions on Stephen King the horror man, meet Stephen King, the author. His memoir shares highlights, and lows, of writing, and life. This does not read as a self-help guide to any writer, or alcoholic, but does provide insightful advice and entertaining stories. One quote I was attracted to is, “The scariest time is just before you begin,” which I see on the faces of my students, and am facing now, as I begin writing my young adult novel. This book ties flawlessly the stories of a young King, new to the writing world, to an older, experienced author who has seen it all including alcoholism, drug abuse, and a rehabilitating car accident. Did you know that he hardly recalls writing “Cujo”? Not that this is what stuck with me throughout the text, but it illustrates his honesty with the audience. And his real life persona. This book is for those who like a good story, those who like to write, and even those who teach. I also recommend his short fictional story, “Herman Wouk is Still Alive” if you are a fan.

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
Currently my mom is reading this book as her Mother’s Day gift, but many others recommend it from teachers to those interested in the medical field. This story is awe inspiring and non-fiction. I was introduced to it last summer, as it was published in 2010. The story revolves around Ms. Lacks, who in 1951, became the first cancer cell donator, although no one asked her to donate. Her cells, now known as HeLa, have been used to help diagnose Polio, gene mutations and exploration, as well as ultimately gave birth to now what we call Bioethics. The story reads like a novel as you meet her doctors, nurses, and family…and the obstacles her family is put through regarding experimentation, poverty, education, and racism. A must read for the aspiring doctor, nurse, or those in the field who still have not heard this intense true story. A must read for those willing and wanting to learn more about ethics, medicine, and society. A must read for those who care.

Emperor of All Maladies; A Biography of Cancer by Siddhartha Mukherjee
Cancer. One word. Such powerful reactions.
This book chronicles cancer in its various forms and facets. Everyone knows someone who has suffered, and while it is not the most uplifting book (hence the heavy list), it is a book that everyone should read. It weaves together history with molecular biology with a novel-like transcendence. It brings together all walks of life and it touted the ‘everyman book of cancer’ by one critic, and ‘the Moby-Dick of cancer’ by another. Regardless of what they say, readers actually enjoy this book, while becoming more educated due to the casual style it is written. Look past the medical terms, or look them up on your Kindle while you read! It comes recommended from someone who has fought cancer numerous times, and still deals with the repercussions on a daily basis. It comes recommended from one who reads for fun and enlightenment. It comes recommended from The New York Times. It comes recommended, so read it. You will not be disappointed.

And finally,

Arc of Justice; A Saga of Race, Civil Rights, and Murder in the Jazz Age by Kevin Boyle

This book has made quite an impact on readers in Michigan as it was the Great Michigan Read book this year. It is shameful to say that I never learned who Ossian Sweet was until I read this book, this year. And I am a student from Michigan, who teaches in Michigan. Dr. Ossian Sweet is who this book chronicles during the Jazz Age. He was forced to protect his family at all costs during a race riot in Detroit. Although this book is long, hence the heavy list, it details Detroit during the time, as well as race relations, and the Sweet history. Kevin Boyle writes with ease and understanding given his history and law background, all the while crafting a story of love, murder, and law escapades that any Michigander should be well aware of. I am still ashamed it took me thirty years to learn about this historical feat, but proud that I shared it with senior students last fall. Take some time and meet Ossian. You will not forget him.

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Summer Reads “Light” 2012

Posted on June 20, 2012 by Carrie Mattern

This year’s list brings division; those who are reading for pure fun and those who wish to read a bit more in depth. In depth does not necessarily mean length or content, but could be a mix of both. For fun does not necessarily mean ‘romance dime-store’ novel. Without further ado, I bring you the Light Summer Reading List. All recommendations come from this author, and her reputable sources.

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
I heard this author on NPR speaking about her story and immediately read the first three chapters on NPR’s first read website.
http://www.npr.org/2012/05/14/152289627/exclusive-first-read-gone-girl-by-gillian-flynn
All I can give you are a few words because you have to read this one for yourself: unreliable narrator, unbelievable suspense, and irony that can be found within every marriage or partnership. It reminds me of something a friend of mine once said, “We all have our gray areas, but we must draw the line somewhere.”
Currently I am reading one of her other two novels, Sharp Objects, right now. It is also very, very good so far. A little like Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood.

Divergent by Veronica Roth

This book was recommended to me by a teacher friend and former student. I cannot believe I waited so long to read it! If you liked Hunger Games, or Lois Lowry’s The Giver, then this is a must read. I have not read the other two books in the series yet, but I am sure they are stellar due to Roth’s flawless imagery. I pictured myself in this world and all of its oddities, being forced to choose between leaving my family or living a life where I knew I did not belong. I pictured my brother leaving us and heading to California because he knew that is where he belonged. I pictured the mysterious 4, and wondered if he really looks like Channing Tatum. It is an amazing read, for young adults and us old folks.

The Mighty Miss Malone by Christopher Paul Curtis

Who wouldn’t want to read another great book by local author, Christopher Paul Curtis? This one introduces us to a female protagonist (yeah!), Deza, who is a likable as Bud, from Bud not Buddy. She actually is the random girl who Bud kissed in Bud, not Buddy. Anyways her story is slower than his other books, but highlights poverty and those who really suffer; the children of the United States, particularly in Flint and Detroit, MI. This works well for young adults, adults, and perhaps a pre-teen audience. Good work again, Mr. Curtis.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

This book came highly recommended from a former student touted as her “favorite book…ever! ” She finally loaned it to me, and I realized why this should be read by every young adult…it’s real. Chbosky captures the essence of that typical teenage boy who is not yet a man, but very ‘over’ his childhood. He is not the jock, not the artist, but somewhere in between. Somewhere along the torturous journey of high school he finds himself with the help of a teacher and two older friends. This is a terrific read. Reminiscent of a young adult Garden State.

Poser: My Life in Twenty-three Yoga Poses by Claire Dederer

To begin, you do not have to be a yogi to enjoy this book. It is more about motherhood and the way many women find something that balances them—it may be reading, writing, or religion, but we tend to gravitate toward a constant. As we should. Lives are too busy, and filled with materialistic things, which is what Claire struggles with through her memoir. I think every mother can relate. She is funny and heart warming, but does not overdo either. There are yoga references, but it does not focus on the practice. This read is good for anyone who is called mom, or has helped raise children.

So there is the light half of the list. Motherhood, poverty, leaving family, a mysterious marriage, the journey into adulthood….may not seem particularly light to you, but just wait for my HEAVY list! If you have others to add, please leave me a comment and I will update it as summer progresses. Also, if you have read any of these and disagree, let my readers know. It is important to have both points of view.

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Evolving Balance

Posted on August 14, 2011 by Carrie Mattern

To begin, please understand that I am an athlete, and many yoga practitioners may say that athletes and yoga practice can be a pretty interesting mix. This tends to be due to an athlete’s intrinsic idea of competition. In yoga, competition and the athleticism are not highly regarded since they tend to connect directly with the ego.  And the ego, as many of us know, can be detrimental to much of what yoga tries to instill within the mind and body. With that being said, I have practiced yoga for nearly 3 years.  After my first year of practicing, I actually stopped going to a specific class, Ashtanga, because I knew there would be balance poses and I knew at what point during class that I was going to be the most challenged.  Gritting my teeth, sweating, and tensing up were effects I distinctly recall happening  prior to the first extended-hand-to-toe or airplane pose.  For those of you unfamiliar with Ashtanga, it is a series of similar poses that correlate to a long dance sequence. You do the same poses, at the same time, in the same room.  Every. Single. Class.  The athlete in me tried my best to accomplish these balancing poses, but time and time again I felt angry and frustrated that these poses were just not feasible. So, I stopped going to Ashtanga class.  Other forms of yoga are not as scripted, and I decided those were the classes I would attend.  I did not want to dread yoga, as it was becoming more of my daily routine, and one thing I truly looked forward to each day.  I didn’t like the fact that this was not working for me, and I could usually control my body in an athletic sense.  All this changed when my dad purchased a used Paddle Board for his own enjoyment in Harrison, Michigan.  We soon learned that SUPING (Stand up paddle boarding) isn’t the only thing you can do on a Paddle Board. I began doing yoga on the board as a fun way to practice balance. It made me look forward to trying poses that I struggled with in class so many times. I’ve also been called a ‘water baby’ for as long as I remember, and this rang instinctually true as well.  If we consider the fact that we are in water for 10 months to begin life, it makes complete sense that water can be a source of comfort and our ultimate connection.  My practice on the Paddle Board made yoga new again, but it also spoke volumes to what I was really struggling with at this point in my life: balance.  As a working mother (2 jobs if you count being an author) and loving wife, I was constantly struggling to balance work, play, and family.  With my practice on the water ultimately testing my balance, I realized that actually getting down on the floor and playing with my kids, or reading them that second Mo Willems’ book before bed is significantly more important than finishing the stack of papers I brought home from work, or matching up the three bins of single socks.  Although I realized this, I still struggle.  When I became an author, that added another facet to my already busy life.  Often I wonder why I keep making plans and maintaining such a go-go-go mentality when I feel absolutely content in the middle of Townline Lake on a Paddle Board, even without a paddle!  That stillness, that connection with nature, and that peace of mind, is the epitome of yoga. This is what balances me.  When I get overwhelmed with that to-do list in my head, and I’m writing a lesson plan with one child in time-out and the other tugging on my leg, I remind myself to breathe.  I contemplate the feel of the water beneath my feet, and the constant rippling sound the current brings.  It’s all about balance. My instructor’s words during Ashtanga class also remind me today  that every day our own balance is different and unique.  It can be a simple task one day, and our most challenging pose the next. This may be due to our inner ear controlling our balance, sinuses that are congested, breathing that may be blocked, or even the stress load that we carry in our shoulders. There are many reasons why balance differs, but this phrase not only helped my ego ‘deal’ with the fact that I couldn’t conquer these poses each time, now it relates to the everyday challenges that life brings.  Some days seem as peaceful as a vacation in Maui, while others can be the worst of all bad-hair days combined.  Breath and patience can balance the challenging days and provide us with comfort that tomorrow can be better,  or that we will make it through a day that may be even more difficult.  This balancing act will challenge me as life goes on, but the incorporation of yoga, especially on the Paddle Board, will continue to be an outlet for my own evolution.  Without yoga and that used Paddle Board, it may have taken me longer to appreciate what Ashtanga class was teaching me: patience, acceptance, and most of all, true balance.

Please see http://vimeo.com/27702053 to see the beautiful work of Tanner Shay, and listen to the talented Kate Nash.

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I Survived, along with 24,912 others.

Posted on August 1, 2011 by Carrie Mattern

The Warrior Dash www.warriordash.com came to Michigan last Saturday and it was an event that brought tears of joy to my face, and tears of pain as well. I had been waiting (and training) for the event since May, and it was worth every hot mid-afternoon mile that I ran this summer.  The race itself made me feel like a kid again at Cedar Point, climbing over the nets that they used to have back by the Aquarium, and stomping over tires that used to be our hopscotch in a field by my parents’ house.  It also made me happy that I had trained because it really was a challenge.  The trail went through the woods, but for the most part, seemed very open during our 1:00pm start time. And it was hot.  With only one water station, I felt pretty dehydrated the whole race, but the cool, wooded trail seemed to come pretty quickly.  That’s when the mud also made its way into our shoes, hands, and for some, bodies.  I am not going to divulge all the tips we received, the pros and cons, or the course strategy I used, but instead want to comment on the best thing about the race (besides the beer at the finish).  This race equalizes pretty much everyone.  Sure there are hard core runners that train all year for marathons and just fly through stuff like this, but what I enjoyed the most about this event was the fact that it is made to be accomplished. The creators make sure  every person who signs up can feasibly finish. The time doesn’t matter, unless it is a personal goal to you.  People of all shapes revert back to childhood, when running was fun and getting dirty was a part of the every day activities.  People of all sizes are encouraged to dress up, and have a fun time, whether that means sprinting or jogging at the fiery start.  People of all ages cheered each other on.  I have never been a part of something that is called a competition, but is full of so much camaraderie.  When I finished I felt like everyone was cheering for me, even though I did not recognize a soul at the finish line. People of all ethnicities are encouraged to help each other, and be patient with one another.  The patience for me was quite a lesson as this is what I truly struggle with every day in life.  And I had a finish-time goal, too.  But at one point, on the last ‘real’ obstacle, there was this woman on top of the last wall  and she was absolutely terrified.  So I just gave her encouragement, and waited. I could make up the time running, I thought. And she made it. She conquered a fear that day while teaching me a lesson. I wish I would have thanked her.  After that I ran hard over fire and swan dived into the mud pit.  Then I realized that my time didn’t really matter at all.  I swam for a few in the mud and enjoyed the freedom (until I tried to open my eyes anyway) of being childlike again. I am going to thank the Warrior Dash for that, and a few more things. Sure you guys made a boat load of money, but you also brought positive light to an area that really needs it.  You brought people together from 40 states to a location only minutes away from the ‘deadliest city’ in America.  You really gave us something to cheer for: each other.  Thank you for allowing us all the chance to survive.

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Peace.

Posted on July 24, 2011 by Carrie Mattern

When I tell people I am headed to a Yoga Retreat they usually give me a wide-eyed look, then ask, “Where?”  Often they assume it is in California or New York, or maybe even Colorado, but no, I tell them “Up north, here in Michigan.”  Their eyes grow even more wide and they say again, “But, where at?”  Some of these individuals are even trained yoga instructors, in Michgan, mind you, so I tell them, “Song of the Morning, in Vanderbilt. It’s right past Gaylord.”  Then I get a nod of recognition, and a bunch of questions regarding the retreat, so here it is.  Song of the Morning is one of the places I will travel for the rest of my life.  There is something very tranquil and magical about this beautiful, 70s-built retreat.  Now it may be the spiritual aspect of the facility, which does house a lodge for meditating and Sunday service, it may be the fact that it is nestled up in the woods, so deep in fact that there is no noise from nearby I-75 and elk roam the property, it may be the beautiful people that are so generous and connected, or it may be that my husband had me in mind when booking our first retreat a year ago, but whatever it is, this place is something I cannot wait to share with my children on August 19-21.  We are headed back for another weekend retreat, but this time it is for the program, Jump for Joy.  It is Kids Weekend at Song of the Morning for children ages 5-12. We are also taking our niece who fell in love with Paddleboard Yoga just a few weeks ago.  She cannot wait to do it “for real.”  During the program there is an opportunity for parents to join the kids, enjoy the peace of the ranch, or even take advantage of a few programs ongoing for their age such as hiking, yoga, and a societal deprogramming class to learn to undo what the media provides as accurate messages to our children. It should be an interesting weekend, and I am sure my kids will fall in love with Song of the Morning like PQ and I have! http://www.songofthemorning.org/

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“Are we there yet?”

Posted on July 2, 2011 by Carrie Mattern

This update is coming straight to you from Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. Home of the beautiful Lake Detroit, the Davis family, the Olds family, and some pretty great pizza at Zorba’s. We are here to enjoy family over the 4th!  Like many vacationers, we decided to drive instead of fly.  It was a great choice for our family. Here is how we made it (the 17 hour drive) work:

1. No travel timelines: We decided to stop in Munising, Michigan because I adore this city!  I may move my family here in the future.  The Pictured Rocks and many gorgeous hiking trails full of waterfalls make this a perfect destination (or in our case, layover) for the outdoor friendly family. My kids waded in the frosty Lake Superior, skipped stones with their papa (who was there for a kayaking tour), hiked the beach with their Meme, and swam with their loving parents in the Holiday Inn before getting back in the car for the remainder of the journey. We enjoyed our stay and decided not to stress over making it at checkpoints like we have done in the past.  Stop frequently for the kids to stretch, run, play, whatever. It helps. It works!  If you see a cool playground, pull over and enjoy it.

Papa, Claire, Leo, and Meme

2. Be creative.   The kids did not mind the drive at all, and even were caught  pretending most of the trip. I heard a lot of you “You be the baby and I am the mom,” or “You be the driver and I the tourist,” or “You be the teacher and I the student.”  They NEVER even needed the electronic devices such as Leapster, movies or IPOD because they read to one another, conversed with each other, and imagined they were anyway but a car!

3. Be prepared.  I have friends who make entire meals and pack coolers for the trip. This saves time and money.  I forgot band-aids and Kleenex, but keep a bag handy with all the necessary items you and the kids may need along the way.  For example, toilet paper!

4. Try taking the back route and stop at anything but a chain…we have met some of the nicest people in mom and pop restaurants.  We stopped  in at a bakery in Bessemer, MI just before crossing into Wisconsin for lunch, and ate sandwiches with some of the best homemade bread I have tasted! We left with 2 loaves and our total bill still did not meet $20.

5. Sing.  The kids and I sang, Paul and I sang, Paul sang alone, I had my time for solos, and we all sang together.  Music makes the trip memorable and continues to make our family think, talk, and truly listen.  Often music says what we wish we could say, and it sounds so much better!

I hope you have a safe journey wherever you are headed this holiday weekend.  Sing along with a little Kate Nash and Eminem while the kids nap, and outlaw the phrase, “Are we there yet?”

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Summer Reading-The Adult List

Posted on June 27, 2011 by Carrie Mattern

If this is your first time reading, Welcome!  I wrote a children’s reading list a few posts ago and ended with my first adult recommendation, Go the F*#! to Sleep, which is free for IPhones on Audible, or you can access it here, www.ebaumsworld.com. It is something all parents, nannies, and grandparents can connect with!

The rest of my recommendations are from my personal reading and also outside recommendations from former students and other teachers, so thank you. Beware that the list is not a typical summer reading list composed of light, “Beach-Worthy Reads,” just reads that I think are totally worth your time.

Born to Run by Christopher McDougall.  I mentioned this book in my last post, and it was a re-read. I am not a “runner,” but this book inspires me to be and to do it more often and enjoy it.  I love how the history and science of runnie ties in beautifully with the present tense adventure tale that is composed of Tarahumaran runners, two Party-kids, a reporter, a scientist, an old man and his son, and a guy who calls himself “Caballo Blanco”-the white horse.

Redeeming Love by  Francine Rivers.  This was a read I enjoyed last weekend while at the lake house, recommended by a former student.  It is a re-telling of the book of Josea.  And I didn’t even know that book existed int he Bible, so that presented further research for me!  I enjoyed this book immensely, although it was very tough to begin after reading what occurred to such a delightful child…moms will likely struggle, but the imagery is not graphic.  Rivers allows your mind to tell the rest of the story, and that is something that can often be worse than an author’s description.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins.  If you have not read this young adult series, you are truly missing out!  Typically I do not like futuristic sci-fi thrillers, but his book combines that element with survival of the fittest, compassion, and crossing the boundary between friendship and love.  I have lent this book to 3 or 4 students who are almost finished with the series (3).

Invisible Monsters by Chuck Palahnuik. This rec comes from my dear hubby. I found him laughing aloud while reading this piece!  This author does not play well with everyone, so if you have not read any of his works, be ready for controversy, wit and pushing limits.  I love him and his name.  I cannot wait to read this book!

Getting Stoned with Savages by J. Maarten Troost.  Travel writing is something I have always seen myself doing, but still have not done.  So, I read travel writers’ memoirs and try to live vicariously through their experiences.  It does not work all the time, but it sure did with this book.  I thought this guy was hysterical, crazy, compassionate, and tender—all in one sitting!  I love his style of writing and the stories he tells, plus the title just grabs you!

Insight Yoga by Sarah Powers. This is my current read.  It was referenced by Elena Brower on www.yogaglo.com, and I absolutely loved her class, so I thought I should check this book out.  The education and background I am receiving is helping me understand my yoga practice, therefore making me a better student of the physical aspect of yoga.  I recommend it to practioners and also those who think yoga is bunk.

Bossypants by Tina Fey.  This rec comes from a teacher friend who loves to laugh.  And laugh she is doing with this read!  Tina Fey humorously juggles life as a mother, wife, star, writer, stand up comedian, and actress.  Busy moms all have these issues, well maybe not the celebrity one, but she handles them gracefully with her wit and confidence.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett. This book took me awhile to get into, but it was well worth it!  I love the narration from three distinct characters with a unique perspective on a very moving, life-altering event.  The historical background in this book helps the narration focus, as opposed to slowing it down.  I highly recommend this book to any aspiring writer.

13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher.  This is my most recent read and I still tremble inside reflecting on the craft of the story, as well as the profound content.  It is a must read, but a harsh read.  The Five People you Meet in Heaven taught me that we touch many more lives than we are ever aware of, and this book proves that our touch is not necessarily a positive one.  Thanks to a former student for this recommendation!

With that, the line-up is through for now. Vulgarity, humor, tragedy, timeless lessons, cultural immersion, love, travel, lust, trust, education, equality, tenderness. Besides, what more do you need in life for entertainment than your family and a couple of good books?  Take a moment and enjoy one or two of these…then let me know what you think.  I appreciate all your comments!

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Warrior

Posted on June 24, 2011 by Carrie Mattern

Today I look forward to my run.  I don’t think I have thought that in years, let alone shared the thought with anyone.  Although it is diminishing, I know exactly when my hatred for running began; SVSU.  I was a freshman pitcher.  We had just returned from Florida, losing every game except one. Coach told us we had to run as many miles as we had strike-outs looking. For those of you who are a little rusty on your softball knowledge, this means the number of batters who looked, instead of swung, at a strike 3 pitch.  The magic number was, drum roll please, a horrific 17…and that was the amount of miles we were to run.  We had 5 days to do so, but it still managed to seem like the worst punishment ever…and running was never a punishment in my life before. If you think about it, as kids, most of us loved running.  My two babies run everywhere, anytime they can get away with it!  As we grow, that perspective shifts with social norms and responsibility, and for some, it becomes a chore.  Today is my long run.  I am prepping for the Warrior Dash http://warriordash.com/register2011_michigan.php in July.  It is going to be a challenge, but my goal is to finish in 45 minutes or less.  I will be freshly 31, and I am going to do it for myself, and for my EFA club at school.  Two of my most compassionate students began this last year and formed a group of CAHS students who have presented Bullying Awareness skits and rallied together to become a more positive role-model group within the school.  I am going to become a running warrior for all the kids who have been bullied, and continue trying to focus at school each day, for those who get called names at home, and at school, for those who have Hate Pages made for them, and those who hurt.  If you are willing to donate to this cause, please email me.  Tonight I am looking forward to my long run, and I know with that mindset, running can turn into something enjoyable for me again.  It can provide peace, a personal meditation, change, and the warrior workout that I need. Afterwards I may set down with my book, Born to Run, http://www.amazon.com/Born-Run-Hidden-Superathletes-Greatest/dp/0307266303 and continue to be inspired. It is a second read, and it continues to open my eyes to the power of positive thinking, the awesome feats our bodies can overcome, the true simplistic nature of life, and the joy that running can truly become if we just smile as we face our challenges head on and warrior heart forward.

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Bluebell

Posted on June 23, 2011 by Carrie Mattern

Last night was a long one with a poor sick baby, but we made it to Bluebell Beach on time for a presentation by “For Mar on the Road” http://www.geneseecountyparks.org/pages/formar …or so I thought.  Whoops kids, it’s at 2pm and NOT 11am. Let’s play on the jungle gym!  If you didn’t know, Bluebell Beach, located on Bray Rd., has a bad rap due to the Ecoli that inhabits the water on an annual basis, however the playground is exceptional! The kids had a blast on the rock climbing wall (which was at least 10ft), and Leo managed to climb it on his own, but did not know how to use the fireman pole to slide down.  My ingenuity had him piggyback riding me while we slid down together.  Much better than him jumping off and me catching him like Caylin suggested! The fun also consisted of large telephones similar to the one in Whoville that was used to speak with Horton.  We also strolled along a stormy beach. Notice Leo’s cape billowing in the wind.  Before we left for lunch we saw a beautiful swam enjoying the peaceful water.

Like Bluebell, there are many free playgrounds in the area if you just take a minute to map them.  Your kids would really love Flushing’s Riverview Park that my kids refer to as “Emerson’s Castle Park.”  The Flushing “A” is nearby where you can get an affordable lunch or snack while in your car, or inside the old-fashioned A&W.  http://flushinga.com Nearby in Davison we have “The Castle Park” that is know more commonly as Jack Abernathy Park.  They also have sand volleyball and tennis courts.  In Grand Blanc you can check out Bicentennial Park with a toddler water park (Bluebell Beach also has one too), and a terrific playscape with picnic area. Indian Hill Elementary also has a really fun playground if you regularly hit Bicentennial Park, and Rust Park is located nearby with basketball courts.  In the Flint area, Randels Elementary is nice with a pavilion, and directly off Ballenger Rd. is St. Paul’s hidden gem, while downtown there are a few open areas parallel to South Saginaw St. that beckon the children from shopping or dining with their parents.  Regardless of the town you are in, free parks are plenty. Lapeer hosts playgrounds within walking distance for most residents, where Fenton has North Road Elementary school that puts other school parks to shame.  Regardless of where you are located, have fun with your children while they are still children. There are 89 free parks in Genessee County alone!  Leave your phone in the car, and just go PLAY!

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