Ice

Tonight, I had the pleasure of joining my mom and my daughter for a girls' night out at a performance of "Disney on Ice".  Seems appropriate that we went to watch an event that took place in an ice rink, since we've spent much of the last month hibernating inside due to all the snow and ice on the ground.  It was a great show; Disney rarely disappoints.

As I sat watching the skaters, I began to think about the title of the show, "Princesses and Heroes"; I'll admit that it got on my nerves a little bit.  I noticed that none of the princesses featured in the show were also heroes; instead, they waited for a prince to come and save them (although, I'm not familiar enough with Princess Tiana's storyline to know if her happy ending depends on the intervention of a prince; sadly, the newest princesses, Anna and Elsa, were not included in this show).  This is not a new observation, by any means, but it was in full force as so many children watched, mesmerized by the movement on the ice. 

I'm not saying that the Disney princess stories are bad, or that little girls shouldn't watch them, but I would like to see more princesses taking care of themselves.  C'mon, Disney, let's see more strong, independent female heroines!  It seems as though most of the female characters who are independent are also villains.  (Oh, and I was totally rooting for Maleficent's dragon tonight, even though I knew how the story ends.) "Frozen" was great, because it does feature two strong women who are able to fend for themselves; so, there are two of these strong role models, out of a cast of at least six princesses (I could be missing one).  It's better than nothing, sure, but I'll still hope to see more in the future.

Aside from the time I spent watching the show from my perch on my soap box, we had a great time.  I was pleasantly surprised to find that the parking garage was $10 less for this event than it was for the hockey game we attended a few weeks ago.  And, when we left, I fully expected to sit in the car for an hour (like we did last year after DoI), waiting to exit the parking garage; but, we were able to pull right out of our spot and sit for less than five minutes to get out.  If nothing else, that was worth the cost of the show right there, ha!

But, most importantly, I got to spend an evening with two of my very favorite people.  Soap box or not, I wouldn't have traded that for anything.  

**A friend brought to my attention that Merida, from Brave, was an independent character.  I'll admit, I totally forgot about her, as well as a couple of other princesses (who may or not fit into this; I can't remember their stories).  So, I'll bump my count to three strong role models, out of nine.  JFK

Olympics

I love the Olympics.  The excitement, the pageantry, the uniforms.  It's all very exciting. 

This time around, there has been a lot of negativity surrounding the games.  Being a supporter of equal rights for all, I am troubled and concerned about the safety of the athletes and those attending the events.  I'm hopeful for a peaceful experience.  If you are able to look past that (huge) issue, you will certainly hear about the less than appealing accommodations in Sochi.  When you combine it all together, the sparkle and shine of the Olympic games is definitely dulled.

As the games begin, though, I hope that the true spirit of the event outshines all the negative reports we're sure to hear throughout the next couple of weeks.  I know that I will watch the events and marvel over the hard work and determination that was put forth by the athletes (and their families!) in the years leading up to their big moments. 

The Olympics are a great opportunity to sit with my family to watch something that we all enjoy.  There are few shows on television that we can all watch together, so these games are a big deal in my house.  I love how passionate the kids can be while watching; cheering on their favorite athletes, worrying over those who fall or are injured, insisting that we all stand every time our national anthem is played during a medal ceremony.  It's really cool to share the Olympics with my kids. 

In fact, I think I will try to focus on this during these winter games.  I'll try to watch them through my kids' eyes, and just see the splendor and the athleticism, and not get too wrapped up in the reality that threatens the event this year.  If I can pull that off, I think we'll all enjoy the games a bit more.

Choices

Earlier today, as I scrolled through my Twitter feed (@jnfranklin, if you'd like to follow me), I discovered the big CVS decision to stop selling tobacco products later this year.  My left eyebrow automatically shot up, as it so often does anymore, because I immediately had two thoughts.  First, I was impressed; that is a gutsy step, as it will cost them money and make people mad, but good for them for trying to live up to their wellness philosophy.  Then, I kind of groaned, thinking of all the nonsense people would soon start spouting in reaction to this announcement.

I was right.

Almost immediately, I saw tweets and Facebook posts condemning this decision, because no commitment has been announced by CVS regarding the removal of junk foods from their stores.  I found this comparison kind of funny because there are some grocery stores that sell neither tobacco nor "junk" food, but those stores aren't really mainstream grocery choices.  Maybe this is because their prices are higher?  Could be.  But, because the "junk" products are available at other places, we have the choice to not shop at the stores which refuse to carry them.  How is this any different?  If you're a tobacco user, then you may stop shopping at CVS, just like if you are a junk food eater, you're probably not shopping exclusively at Whole Foods.  I don't see the issue.

I was actually kind of surprised to not see much about how this infringes on the rights of tobacco users; perhaps people realized how ridiculous that sounded, right from the start, as these products will still be made available somewhere.  The government didn't order CVS to stop carrying the products; it was a private choice to stop offering unhealthy choices.  I did see a few remarks alluding to the loss of rights, and I'll admit, I rolled my eyes a bit. 

I don't mean to sound insensitive; I'm sure this decision will make life a bit more difficult for smokers who live in towns where there is only one store, and it's a CVS (but really, is there such a place?!?).  But maybe it will actually encourage people to reexamine their habits, and make healthier choices for themselves and their families.

And if not, then they can choose to shop elsewhere...for now, at least.

Facebook

Today is a big day for Facebook.  Ten years old!  Double digits. That's quite an accomplishment.

I enjoy Facebook.  I love being able to connect with friends all around the world.  It's so fun to see their pictures, hear their adventures, and share in their joys.  As a tool to keep people connected, Facebook does a fantastic job.  If you can concentrate on keeping your newsfeed positive, and not fall into the gloom that seems to wait at every turn, then it can be an enjoyable experience.

But, as we well know, negativity can ruin a good thing.  I've had to train myself to not read user comments on posts from news outlets or public figures; the ignorant, rude comments stick with me and I find it difficult to shake the negative vibes.  I think there is enough drama and negativity in every day life, and I just don't have a use for it when I take the time to scroll through my newsfeed. 

Debates are another trouble spot on Facebook.  I'm all for intelligent debate, but wow, have I seen some doozies.  I've seen other users post that they need "Facebook breaks", and then sign off for a period of time, especially during election years.  The negativity drives them away from something that is meant (in my opinion, anyway) to provide entertainment.  It's a shame that as adults, we can't engage each other and challenge our differences of opinion without becoming belligerent. 

That will continue, I'm certain, for as long as diversity is considered an evil instead of an asset.  We'll still see rude, bullying posts from those who maybe can't logically defend their stance on whatever topic is controversial on any given day.  It's easier to sit behind a computer/tablet/mobile device screen and be angry than it is to participate in a cordial discussion.  I don't think that will change any time soon, but I'm hopeful that it might.

And until then, I'll still take joy from seeing family and friends' photos, read their cheery updates, and pray or send positive thoughts when someone asks for that support.  That's is what I most appreciate about Facebook, so that is what I need to keep in mind when I see the negativity start to creep back into my newsfeed.

Happy birthday, Facebook.  I'm going to hop back over to my page to watch all the wonderful movies that have been created today. 

Dribble

Mondays are always long days.  I doubt there are many that would debate me on that.  My Mondays are especially long, because Andrew doesn't have school and Mark bowls in the evening.  Today, though, I had something to look forward to because Alex had a Special Olympics basketball game after school.

I challenge anyone to leave a game like this in a bad mood.  You might be cranky when you arrive, but you'll be inspired before you leave (same goes for Miracle League baseball, but I'm sure I'll post about that after baseball season begins...).  It doesn't matter if your kid's team wins (by chance, tonight's game ended in a tie); you'll find yourself cheering for every kid on the court.  It's all about watching them light up when they get the ball, dribble down the court, or make a shot.  They all get that look of wonder, pride, and happiness, and it is amazing.  You can't help but feeling proud of all of the players, even if it's the first time you've seen them.  It's quite an experience.

Watching my Alex run up and down the court, his little legs working so hard, is awesome.  He loves basketball, and his enthusiasm shines through as he keeps up with all the bigger kids.  He can't run without grinning from ear to ear, and seeing him able to dribble the ball clear down the court is fantastic (especially since the kid didn't walk until he was almost two years old, and still has minor gross motor issues).  Although Al is still a bit too short to score many baskets, he still takes his shots (and gets quite a reaction from the crowd!); in a couple of years, he'll have that down, too.

For now, though, he seems content to just be out on the court, playing his beloved game of basketball.  And I'm happy to be the mom in the crowd holding her breath and fighting back tears, every time he touches that ball.

Parking

We've lived in our home for almost eleven years.  We didn't anticipate staying in this house for this long, but as we know all too well, sometimes life has a way of changing an agenda when you least expect it.  So, we're still here, quickly growing out of this house, but we'll probably be here for a couple more years.

The house is great; we just need more room.  The location is good (close to schools, shopping, entertainment), and we can get downtown or across town with few problems.  Overall, the school district is fine (having a child on an IEP, we're bound to have some issues with any school district; that's just a sad fact), and the neighborhood is ok.  We have the same neighborhood drama that probably everyone has; there's always "that" neighbor who gets on everyone's nerves (or maybe you are "that" neighbor, ha!).  We hear fireworks every night in July (not just the 4th!), kids roam about unsupervised, lawns don't get cut maybe as often as they could.

I can live with that (ok, I complain about it, as I'm sure Mark would quickly tell you), but the one thing that is constantly on my nerves are the cars parked (permanently, even!) on the street.  Drives.  Me.  Crazy.

It's not that some houses don't have garages, or driveways.  Nope.  Everyone has a two car garage, and a driveway that could fit two cars.  So, theoretically, a single family could accommodate four vehicles and not have to utilize the street.  But some people do anyway.  All the time.  Drives. Me.  Crazy.  (Yep, typed it twice.)

I completely understand that sometimes there is a need for street parking.  Parties, driveway maintenance, or car troubles are all good reasons to utilize alternate parking options.  A few weeks ago, when Mark's car died, the tow driver dumped his car right in front of our mailbox, and we had to leave it there because the road was so icy that we couldn't even push it out of the way (we tried...I'm sure it was quite comical to watch us slipping about, trying to maneuver the car out of the way).  But that was a rare circumstance, and we had the car towed off as soon as we could.  Other people choose to park their cars on the street, every day.  Or, the cars aren't used, perhaps (there is one right now with at least two flat tires...that thing probably isn't going anywhere soon), so they're just dumped in the street...out of the owners' way, but in the way of everyone else.

Our streets aren't super wide, so when there are cars parked in the street, traffic becomes an issue.  Few people know the appropriate driving rules; I can't tell you how many times I've had to stop, even though I have the right of way, to avoid being hit head on by someone who can't pause their commute for thirty seconds because there is a car parked on their side of the road.  Ugh!  Frustrating.

It all comes down to respecting your neighbors and being considerate.  Unfortunately, sometimes those things seem difficult to pull off, leaving "rule followers" like me to pull our hair out in irritation.  I know, it's not an end-of-the-world situation, and I'm sure that other people have bigger neighborhood issues than this. But, I'm guessing it will be something that continues to bug me.

That is, until we can move into a different, bigger home...and then I'll find something else that annoys me.

Gala

Tonight I had the pleasure of attending the third annual Dancing with Our Stars Gala for the Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio.  What a fabulous evening!

This event raises money for the adult programming funding through DSACO, and one of the highlights is watching the self advocates dance.  They learned and performed either the waltz or the merengue, which was fantastic, but then the real fun was watching them let loose and party on the dance floor after all the official business of the evening was finished.

I have not danced like that in a long time.

Sure, the kids and I have kitchen dance parties, but I don't usually get a chance to dance like this outside the house (perhaps the kids prefer it that way, ha!).  We had such a good time, and I was happy to hear that a good amount of money had been raised for the adult programming.

In all, it was a great evening, and now I am up way past my bedtime (and I'm sulking a bit because the date on this post will be 2/2 instead of 2/1).  It's definitely time to take my sore dancin' feet to bed.