Essence of Towels

Time gives a perspective to events that can change the way one may relate to others in a positive or a negative way, the choice is for each person.

Events that shape our lives sometimes seem small while they are happening. Over the course of years, events that are not dissimilar may be joined together in a series of moments that show how we are trapped in the sameness of our decisions or how we have matured, changed grown into a different, hopefully better person.

Case in point: How to fold a towel

At a young age I was shown how to fold a towel. I remember the lesson because it was delivered in a “you should know this already” tone. Honestly, I can’t tell you if it was the first how to fold a towel lesson or not, but it was the one I remember. It was exactly how towels should be folded and that is how I folded them.

Fast forward to marriage #1

He: Why are you folding the towel like that?
Me: Because that’s how towels are suppose to be folded?
He: You’re so stupid. Do I have to show you everything? Fold towels like this. If I find them any other way you’ll regret it.

Fast forward to marriage #2

He: Why are you folding the towel like that?
Me: Because, that’s how I was told to fold them, but I’ll fold them anyway you’d like.
He: I would like them folded like this when they’re in the cupboard and like this when they’re on the hanger. If you love me, you'll do as I say.
Me: I'll fold them how you like them.
He: That's a good girl.

Fast forward to marriage #3

Me: How would you like the towels folded?
He: Is it clean? **Laughing**

It's all about perspective.

This is story about my personal growth. It took a while to get there but finally and again I realize that the most important thing is the essence. The essence of the bathroom towel issue is “are they clean?” The most important thing isn’t about control, it’s about comfort and putting priorities in place. Folding the towel in a particular way doesn’t really matter. Fold it how you like. Fold it and be happy.

Poverty in America

Two former co-workers met on the street.

Ann: "OH Becky, we all just miss you so much since they laid off your department."

Becky: "Have they hired anyone back?"

Ann: "No, they just redistributed the work and sent the essential stuff overseas. Cost cutting, you know how it is."

Becky: "Yes, I know."

Ann: "They're doing so good now, I got a bonus."

Becky: "Good for you, Ann."

Ann: "Yes, we're going on that cruise I told you about."

Becky: "Do send me a postcard."

Ann: "I will. You know Becky, you lost so much weight. I just hate you for looking so good."

Becky: "You should try my new diet."

Ann: Is it one of those expensive drink diets?"

Becky: "No."

Ann: "Is it one of those with the special food?"

Becky: "No."

Ann: "It's not counting calories, is it? I hate that."

Becky: "No."

Ann: "Don't keep it a secret. Tell me!"

Becky: "Poverty."

Book Review: Reading Magic Review

Reading Magic: Why Reading Aloud to Our Children Will Change Their Lives Forever by Mem Fox

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
For this reviewer, there were no revelations in Reading Magic. Most of what Mem Fox writes is in the “of course” category for me. But what was exceedingly enjoyable was her take on reading to kids. Her style and examples were delightful.



This was a quick read in the pick-it-up, put-it-down, pick-it-up style of reading I seem to do these days.



While waiting at the dentist’s office, I read a portion of this book aloud to my 13-year-old son, who said, “I love it when you read to me, even if it’s reading about reading.” Reading Magic provides plenty of ammunition against the the learn-at-school-only crowd.



Get this book if you want to understand how children learn to read, how to teach children the particularly difficult language of English (which is only about 50% phonetic) or how to improve your read-aloud persona. Read it. Follow the suggestions. Read to your kids, every day for just 10 minutes. You will be glad you did.



For the rest of this review, check out the review section at eclectichomeschool.com/








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Book Review: Winning Words

Winning Words: Sports Stories and Photographs by Charles R. Smith, Jr.

My review

Reviewed for www.eho.org, should be on site shortly. Sports play such an important role in children's lives. Coaches need to stay focused on the positive aspects of sports and motivate kids to do their best. Winning Words provides some great examples with some inspirational quotes.


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