Halloween

I just had the best time with Dominic and Ronan tonight...we went trick or treating and then hung out at Stan and Sue's house...(the boys' grandparents) and it was such a beautiful night. One adult was dressed as Michael Myers and he really gave Ronan a scare. He retreated to the porch for the rest of the night and talked about the mon-ter. Really great little guy!!!!

Pax!

Gas Prices??!!??

I just filled up my little Ford Focus for 20 bucks at $1.98 a gallon. How long has it been since I have been able to do that??? Granted, I receive a 10 cent discount for using my Dillons card at Kwik Shop...but still....amazing!

Prepping for Paris

OK...my trip to Paris is a little more than two weeks away and I am starting to get very excited about it. I will be staying with my old friend, Debra Thimmesch, from Nov. 11 to the 22nd in her apartment in the heart of the city. I have been a little anxious about taking this trip with my new health issues, but after careful study and reflection I have decided to go. I ain't gonna let a little diabetes stop me from doing what I have planned for my life--and I have been planning this trip for almost a year now! I plan to post daily to this blog while I am in Paris and will keep you updated on my adventures! Yahoo! And....let's see.... j'ai sera a' Paris bien tot! And I am tres psyched about it!

Pax!

First Post in a While

So....I have been away from posting for a bit as I get my footing back on this new life of mine. Today I started feeling more like my old self--which is good. It's been a tough couple of weeks and I have been filled with amazing feelings of doubt and regret and sadness. Having said that, I also have been blessed with the gift of amazing friends and a wonderful family, so the journey thus far has been better than it could've been. Thank God for that! I will post more later as I continue coming to terms with this new development....

PEACE!

Life is what happens to us...

....while we're busy making other plans. No? Got some great pics of my brother and his family in China....one is posted.

Instead of bemoaning the fact that they are 1/2 a world away, I need to celebrate every picture they send me. Instead of worrying about tomorrow, I really need to pay attention to today--which I spent with various tribe members in a variety of amazing activities. Instead of waiting for my future, I need to continue to make it happen--moment by moment, day-by-day, relationship by relationship--life is good.

PAX!

Mary Jane Teall Awards

So....I just won Best Actor in a Comedy/Drama tonight for my work in "Moon Over Buffalo" this summer and I am genuinely humbled. The ceremony was very cool and it was such a wonderful celebration of live theater in Wichita. I am so honored to be a part of this amazing community of talented people.

Pax!

Mom at Botanica

Every year my mother has a booth of her art at Botanica's Gallery in the Garden. You can actually see her booth here: http://www.botanica.org/

I always look forward to this event (I help her set up and tear down her booth) because I get to see her new work or her works in progress. This year she had two beautiful new pieces that reflect a different tone for her. The first was a study on layered stones that was magnificent, but my favorite was a complex study on leaves that was so understated. I say complex, because when you first glance at it the painting appears very simple, but the more time you spend examining it and being pulled into the study, the more detail appears. It is a very splendid work of art and I am so proud of my mom who painted it!

PAX!

Closing night

I posted a little while back about "opening nights" and how I love the excitement and momentum as we rush towards the first night of a theater project. Tonight we closed "Tuesdays with Morrie" at my church, and while I was disappointed in the small crowds that attended, I am very proud of the show. That I was able to hold my own with Tim Robu meant the world to me! I mean that guy can act--even tonight we were discussing one of our scenes and he hit on some terrific motivation for me that helped me nail it tonight. Anyway, I loved being able to do this show and I hope Tim and I can maybe work on it again in the future.

PAX

Counting down to Paris

I can't believe that I will be in Paris for two weeks in November. My last trip to Europe was amazing, but not taken during a particularly good time in my life. Don't get me wrong--I loved it--just not what happened on my return. Anyway, this trip will be completely different...staying with a dear friend....no plans at all for anything--just going to wing it. Oh...and I started my French class a couple nights ago....FUN!

PAX

How do I say....

.....how grateful I am for my tribe? My family? My friends? My life? I suppose I could start with a simple....thank you. All of you....

What a way to burn....

In spite of copious amounts of sun screen, I have managed to get some sun--but you won't hear me complaining--it feels GREAT! Today we were visited by old friend Gary and new friend Phillip. Old friend Betsy left shortly after lunch (she is trying to get back to Houston before Gustaf hits) and then there are always lots of sunny, funny young people around as Q's daughter Julia has her teenage friends in and out of the house. We are getting ready to grill steaks for our last official meal together as the rest of us will begin our various travels early tomorrow. I do know that I have soaked up enough sun and love to last me to our next gathering.

Peace and love,

My tribe...

This place and my friends are so very good for me....I have spent the entire day in the pool as old and new friends have dropped by...or landed at the airport....or driven up from Houston....it's an odd mix of comings and goings as we all spend time together. Happy in each other's company. If only the ENTIRE tribe were here....but then, where we we put everybody????

Late Friday at the Q Lagoon

We arrived in Dallas about 10:30 tonight only to find a delicious tortilla soup awaiting us. We've been in the pool and getting the late-night lantern tour of the new landscaping. Ahhhhh.....music, Coke Zero, good food and my tribe. I am in heaven....

Pax

Saturday in the Park

Just in from an evening at the park with Dominic and Ronin--Sinda's boy's. My, my, my...what energetic little guys. Dominic went ALL THE WAY TO THE TOP of the rope ladder and his little brother Ronin spent most of the evening sliding down slides. It was a beautiful evening and just right.

PAX

New pics of my nieces on the farm!

Tuesdays with Morrie

I will be performing the role of Mitch in UCC's upcoming production of 'Tuesdays with Morrie". This simple play is touching and timely and I look forward to working on it. Tim Robu will be playing Morrie and I am also composing an original score for the piece. We open Thursday, September 11th and run the next two nights (closing on Saturday, September 13). This is an additional production to augment our usual spring musical--which will be "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" which I will be musical directing. "Joseph" opens Feb. 19, 2009 and runs through Feb. 21. Call the church office at 634-0430 for more information and to make reservations (for "Morrie" only at this time).

The Summer Sampler from Hotel Abandon

My friend Q's new summer sampler of music rocks!!! It might be my favorite (but don't tell the other samplers--they'll be jealous).

PAX

Great News!

I can't say much, but my college had some really great stuff happen to it today concerning its accreditation status. Oh yeah, and my online stuff got accredited too--so I am just a little happy--and smug!

PAX

Entheos

My friend Shanna accuses me of being "too hype-able"--whatever that means. Actually, I know very well what she means. I love hype and I am often swept up in the wave of the moment. She has some validity to her criticism--my "hype-ability" has led to some disastrous trips to the movies for the tribe! But as I thought more about it, I felt I had to really delve into this part of my psyche. I admit readily that I am easy to hype--that I am often on the bandwagon early of new things. But I have concluded that this part of me is actually born from a deep held belief that things can be better. I am not so much hype-able as hopeful. The Greek root of enthusiasm is entheos (inspired, or more literally, possessed by a god) and I like to think that my enthusiasm for the new is simply my soul's response to the possibility--the newness--that what-may-be--held within the kernel of new endeavors. So--yes, I will always be hype-able, but it is tempered with dear friends who help me see the wisdom is caution and yet let me dive in head first--enthusiastically--into all the amazing and bright things life sends my way.

PAX

Ali Jafari and lunch time chat

So--yesterday at the Campus Technology conference I was sitting and eating a quick bite for lunch, when a very animated group joined my table (it was a big conference lunch and Trish had gone ahead while I waited for the line to dwindle--you know how much I LOVE standing on line) anyway, this animated group introduced themselves all around and I soon found myself chatting with Ali Jafari for most of the lunch. Long story short--it turns out that Ali is the man behind ANGEL learning--the new LMS that my college is using. I learned tons about the creation and marketing of this powerful software and even more about Mr. Jafari's latest venture--more on that in another blog!

PAX

Olin College, Needham, MA

Trish Schmidt and I are in Boston attending the Campus Technology convention. Yesterday we we went out to Needham, MA, to spend some time on the campus of Olin College of Engineering. We were fortunate to be able to meet with Rick Miller, president, and Mike Moody, VPAA, and a host of faculty and staff. This small (300 student) private college touts itself as "reinventing engineering education"--and I must agree. Their curriculum is "project" based in theory and mostly in practice (there are a number of faculty who lecture, although they know they must be innovative). President Rick Miller told us the fascinating story of the genesis of this institution and it quickly became clear that because of a very large amount of resources (mostly money) the leadership was able to take the time and care necessary to actually develop it programs and courses from the ground up. There is lots more to report on this school--watch future blogs!

Boston--Big City--Big Heart

I am having a great time in Boston thanks to some very friendly locals who went out of their way to show this Kansan a great time. Beacon Hill, South Boston, the local arts scene, lots of great stuff-- and it was just my first day here. Because the conference is only during working hours (evenings free) I will have more free time than I expected. I want to go to Salem and see where the witch trials occured and then I want to visit Harvard yard. Oh yeah....and I will post about the tech conference too...it doesn't start until tomorrow. Trish (my co-worker) and I were sent up a day early to visit Olin College--which we are about to do here in a few minutes.

PAX

Show Closing and Boston

Tonight we close Moon Over Buffalo and I am a little blue about. Mostly because it has been such a rich and rewarding experience and I love this cast. But there will always be another show, no? We close Moon at about 10 tonight and then I am on a flight to Boston first thing in the AM. Trish (a co-worker) and I are heading to the Campus Technology conference for the week to see what is coming in....well...technology on campus. Should be great! I will try to post from Boston later in the week.

Pax,

Paul

Summer Musing

Here we are...mid-summer--and what have we done with the time? Oh...you know, the usual! I re-open Moon Over Buffalo tonight and am looking forward to seeing that wacky cast again. It looks like my sister and her girls might make it to town to see the show this weekend. Fun!

Pax!

Paul

Opening Night

I have been performing in live theater for as long as I can remember. Hardly a year goes by where I don't have at least one if not half a dozen opening nights (except for 2003 which by all indications was a very dark time in my life--I don't remember much of it!).

This year I have been blessed with three opening nights (so far)....Cotton Patch Gospel in February, The Grapes of Wrath in April and Moon Over Buffalo, tonight. I have always loved the excitement building towards curtain and today is no exception. I am sitting here at my work computer, actually getting lots of work done, but taking this break to write about tonight.

A few things come to mind--first, my body actually aches after rehearsals. This is a very physically demanding show for me and I am not as young as I once was. I recall learning the bottle dance from Fiddler on the Roof and doing it 4 or 5 times a week for almost two months! That was nothing!

Second, I am doing this show for the Wichita Community Theater (WCT) out of my love for theater in general, and good community theater in particular. While I lived in Lawrence, KS, I performed often with their excellent community theater, but the chance to perform with WCT never presented itself until now. Its a great group of people and I am honored to be a part of it.

Third, I am madly in love with this script. George Hay, my character in Moon Over Buffalo has an awful lot in common with myself. Come see the show and I think you will see what I mean.

PAX!

My Tribe

Here's a pic of some of my tribe from the July 4th Extravaganza at Powell Gardens and the Confused Castilian.

Check out the link below for more!

What a holiday!

Here are some pix from the 4th of July extravaganza at Powell Gardens.


























I think one of the best things about the event was the fact that my sister Teresa and her daughters, Mattie and Ellie, joined us for the fun!

UPDATE

Ok.....whew....life is what happens to us while we are busy making other plans! Here's what is going on:

I leave tomorrow to spend the weekend with friends in KC. My job at WATC was upgraded to Manager, Distance Education. The WCT production of "Moon Over Buffalo" opens next Thursday--come see it!

Peace and love

A Beautiful Family

My sister Teresa took this great pic of me and my other sister Valerie and my niece's Mattie and Elizabeth (Teresa's girls). What a beautiful pic and what a beautiful family. I am such a lucky man. And I love them all very much!

I Love Paris in....

.....November! I did it! I bit the bullet and bought my tix to Paris. I will spending a couple of weeks there in November. For those of you who don't know--my dear friend Debra Thimmesch teaches for KU and is in France about 1/2 of the year. She invited me there for my birthday, but I was unable to go at that time--due to a number of reasons. Anyway--November is a go, because, well, they are non-refundable tickets, so I kinda HAVE to go now, don't I? So...let's see....Paul sera a' Paris' dans Novembre'. Oui Oui!

Updates

So....sorry for the delay in posting--it's been a very busy time in my life. At work I am in charge of a major software change and I am working in the evenings on Moon Over Buffalo (opening July 10 at the WTC workshop). It also seemed to take me a long time to totally recover from my ear infection--but, thankfully, I am feeling better each day. Not much to say except--PAX!

The Wedding Singer

I just sang with my friend Karen Robu for a really lovely wedding at our church. There was a sweet story about how they met and on their first date they walked into an Italian restaurant and Frank Sinatra's "Love and Marriage" was playing. So, guess who got to sing that song as their recessional???? HMMM? It was really fun and really sweet. One of my biggest honors in life is to get to share my voice with young (and some older) folks as they embark on their lives together--it is such a blessing to be able to do that!

PAX

June is busting out all over!

OK--I am finally recovering from a NASTY ear infection--I will never enter the Q lagoon without ear plugs again as it seems my aged body can't recover from things like it used to!

Anyway...starting to feel much better....but you know, even though I wasn't at work, the work didn't get done, so I am twice as busy. Go figure!

PAX

Home from the Big D

Wow....what a whirlwind, roller coaster ride of a weekend! From various illnesses and trips to the ER (glad you are better Q!) to some of the BEST coconut curry EVER to amazing swimming and time with Miss Julia--it was just a great weekend. That my circle of friends grew by one this weekend made it even better. Thanks, J-man!

Pax

Indy!

Juila and I will be heading to see Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. Jealous????

Sunday...

...in the Pool with Friends. Great show!

Ahhh...Dallas

Just out of the pool....getting ready for a delicious lunch...then to a spa for a pedicure and then back to the pool. Ahhhh.....very happy to be here surrounded by my dear friends....old and new. Pax

Graduation day at WATC

Tonight we graduate a whole bunch of terrific students...my college awards certificates of completion, technical certificates and associate degrees. I am not sure how many people know how difficult our programs of study really are. I do--and I am extremely proud of those who manage to complete the curricula and go on to find meaningful employment. Check out our website at www.watc.edu and check out our college blog at watconline.blogspot.com Congratulations Graduates!

Moon Over Buffalo

I will be making my Wichita Community Theater debut in Ken Ludwig's hysterical comedy "Moon over Buffalo" opening July 10 and running until July 26. It is directed by my dear friend Shaun-Michael Morse and has a really top-notch cast (yes, I know I included myself in that compliment). The script is a hoot and it promises to be a fun evening of theater. Pax!

New Music

Lots of good new music in my life right now. Bought the new Indiana Jones soundtrack...lots of good cuts on it--brings a big smile to my face. Surprised at how rich the score is for the West End "Lord of the Rings" musical. Really rich themes--Celtic and Indian and they work very well. Love the new samplers from Q and still in love with the new Carly Simon CD. Peace!

Home

Home from Dallas. Hopefully today will bring my contract for our new learning platform at WATC. I have an HMU class first thing and then I will spend the rest of the week dreaming of the Hotel Abandon and the Q lagoon! Of course, I will be back there on Friday night, so my dream will come true.

Pax

Lake Dallas High School

So...if one of our challenges as educators is to pass the existing culture on to the next generation, the folks down here in Dallas are doing a fine job. Tonight's concert of music and dance was top-notch and had lots of talent and energy. Well done! And Q's daughter Julia brought the house down with her amazing rendition of 'Autumn Leaves". Woo-freakin'-hoo!

Saturday in the Big D

Just out of the pool....heading to the mall to buy a new shirt for tonight's concert. Perfect 82 degree tempature and the pool is even better. Just the tonic for me! Of course, Q's crazy family will be arriving soon (we are attending Julia's spring concert tonight) so the mania will begin shortly. Chaos and drama....ugh. Oh well! I will hide in the bedroom with my tribe and watch Torchwood....woohoo!

Peace!

Prepping for a Dallas Trip

I leave tomorrow for the first of two consecutive weekends in Dallas. Saturday night is Julia's (Q's daughter) Spring Concert and a bunch of us were invited to attend. I am excited about hearing her terrific voice (which always, always, always reminds me of her mother's beautiful voice) but I am also looking forward to a little down time and some quality time on my floaty in the pool with my tribe.

Peace!

Mid-Week

Been listening to Carly Simon's new CD. Love it. The second cut is a really beautiful song--listen to it! Been working on my WATC Online Website today and trying to get all of my new classes arranged wtih faculty. It's a good day.

Pax

A Perfect Day?

What would be your perfect day? Would it include spending some time with those you love? Would it have some good work in it for you? Would you sing out loud on occasion? Would you praise your God? Would you be thankful that you have a day at all? Would your perfect day include little children to make giggle? How about a crowd of happy Wichitans at a Riverfest event that was just right? Or a bike ride through west Wichita that left your legs with that small amount of pain that lets you know you are alive? Or sharing a chocolate mocha sundae with someone special? Would your perfect day include the anticipation of a dinner someplace special with a group of friends? How about buying gifts for your beloved mother? Does your perfect day include just a bit of television watching? Does it have you writing a blog entry about your perfect day? I am just wondering what your perfect day might include because mine had all of the previous and more!

Pax

Frazz

At lunch today one of my faculty members mentioned a comic strip that he enjoyed called Frazz....I LOVE it. Here is a sample!

A Delay

Well...I had hoped to be able to go to Paris for my 45th birthday, but it appears the trip will have to be delayed until the fall. By the time I got around to getting a ticket for a June trip, the prices had trebled....so, after much debate, I am postponing my trip until November. C'est la vie!

Grad work update

I know you are all dying to know where I am on the road to my doctorate, so here's an update: I am almost done with my first year and still love my program. The readings, assignments, discussions and papers have been rigorous, challenging and very rewarding. I mostly work with two mentors (as HMU calls their professor); Chad Redwing and Robert Burns. Both men are brilliant in their own right and we have had some amazing discussions--mostly on the philosophy of education and how people actually learn. It's been a terrific year and I look forward to the remainder! (Remind me of this post in a few years when I am sick of this program! LOL)

PAX!

Another Grapes of Wrath Pic

OK...I like this pic much better than the other one! It must be because of the smile!

Cotton Patch Gospel Pic

Here's a terrific pic from our production of Cotton Patch Gospel in February. It was such a terrific show--I can't wait for the chance to doit again!

The End of Grapes and New Beginnings

So...we have closed Grapes and struck the set. The costumes are packed away and the props returned to the closet for their next use. I was so honored to be a small part of this important and amazing show--honored to have so many friends who love me and put up with my own special brand of insanity--honored to have gifts that I can share in many, many ways--blessed to have family that love and support me (hi, Mom!) --but mostly, I am so lucky to have a second chance at this rich, thick, amazing, important, tedious, lovely, happy, God-given life. Knowing how lucky I am makes it even better. Knowing that some of you out there love me makes it even richer.

As I was driving home Q called to talk about Torchwood and Julia's concert in May and all of the things happening in Dallas and he pointed out kindly that I don't often receive the love from the people in my life. All of the love from my family and friends that I tend to take for granted--well, not take for granted, but I don't always acknowledge that I know I am loved. I appreciate this feedback more than Q will ever know. I KNOW that people love me, but I think I am afraid that if I acknowledge the bounty of love in my life that it might go away. Now, I know that is crazy, unhealthy thinking--but it is there--at the core of who I am. How to fix that? It will take time--but at least I know that I am not broken and that I am loved by lots and lots and lots of people. Know what? I love them all more than they could ever know!

PAX

Paul and Ms. Mouse

Here is a pic of me and the Nonny Mouse.

The band in Grapes of Wrath has been terrific to work with...really great musicians!

A Grapes of Wrath Pic

Here is me and Nathan Houseman in the Weedpatch Camp scene. The show has turned out quite well and it was a blast to work with Nathan and others....especially The Nonny Mouse--even thought Ms. Mouse refuses to admit that she is indeed Ms. Mouse. LONG STORY!

Pax

Grapes of Wrath--Final Dress Rehearsal

What is it about the theater that I love so much? Here I am, responsible for the equivalent of 3 full-time positions right now at work, and I have managed to find the energy to do these terrific character roles in this show. I am exhausted...but also the happiest I have been in years. It must be the way my brain is wired--I am usually at my happiest when I am in the middle of a production. This show has come such a long way in such a short time. I was mentioning to someone the other night that Shaun-Michael's vision (the director) is ALWAYS worth the amount of effort it takes to get there. He is meticulous in his craft and the show reflects that. I certainly am looking forward to some down-time on Saturday, however!

PAX

Lafitte

Last night at rehearsal, Joyce Cavarozzi (retired WSU theater professor) walked up to me with a file in her hand and told me she had been cleaning out some of her files and came across something she thought I would like. I proceeded to read my journal that I had submitted to her for class credit from my month in New York in the fall of 1984 while we were working on Lafitte for it's NYC preview. I am so thankful for this! I will post some of the entries in coming blogs.

PAX

New WATC Office Location

So...I just got moved into my new house when my VP tells me that I am moving my WATC office today....LOTS of location changes, huh? But that is just fine. I will still be on the Grove campus, just in a different building (B). This is just for a few months until the new Jabara Campus is built (late 09 or early 10) and I will be moving out there....this move does come with a new title though--Manager, Distance Learning. It's a nice step up for me! I'll post more about that when more is made official.

PAX

New House in Riverside

About this time next week I will be moved into my new residence in Riverside. While I have enjoyed my time at 815 W. River Blvd, when the chance to have an entire house (with garage) all to myself at not much more than my current rent presented itself--I had to jump on it! All of my contact information will remain the same save my address. Email me for it!

The Grapes of Wrath

I will be performing a number of small roles in the upcoming Wichita Center for the Arts' production of "The Gapes of Wrath". This show is being directed by my old friend Shaun Michael Morse and has lots of terrific people in it!. Dates of production are April 16, 17, 18 & 19 at 8:00 pm and a 2:00 Matinee on Sunday, April 20. It promises to be a beautiful production!

PAX!

Small blessings....

Ahhh....to be 40+ and FINALLY learn how to tie a full-Windsor neck tie. All of my professional life I have used the simple knot that I knew from youth--the half-Windsor. But, due to the fact that I wear a tie almost daily now, I was getting sick of the wimpy look my knots had...so, with great humility I approached our young CAD instructor, Jeremy, and asked him to teach me the fine art of FULL-WINDSOR. May I say, that I am a terrific student and after just two attempts I feel prepared to wear the knot I have right now home. There, I shall practice all weekend until I am able to do this new knot with ease. I bet you didn't know that Friday afternoons at work could be so productive! Viva la Knot!

My mother's paintings

In the living room of my little Riverside apartment there are two special paintings on the walls. Both are creations of my mother. Both are beautiful. Both speak volumes about how far this woman has come in life. One on wall is a lovely, woody setting--green and tree-filled--and when mom gave it to me, she mentioned about how my father Earl would go bow-hunting for deer and that she painted this as a remembrance of those happier times. Mom knows how important Dad was in my life. The other is a painting of trees in Autumn. It is such a colorful contrast to the first that it actually sits on the opposite wall. I love the beautiful pumpkin matting that she chose to bring out the palate in the painting. I've been thinking about these paintings (and the quilts that she has made me over the years) and the love that we have for one another and I realize what a lucky, lucky man I am to have this amazing, complex woman for a mother. Not only did she create and nurture me...but she continues to create and nurture life and love in her art and her home.

My tribe...

My buddy Quentin posted this pic on his blog and I wanted to post it here. That's my tribe up there!

Some more training....

OK- So I have been an educator and trainer for almost 20 years, yet in the past month I have attended over 60 hours of intensive training from 4 different organizations! Who knew I had so much left to learn! LOL. Mostly it was learning how to deliver their products and services, but I actually got tons of good stuff about facilitation skills from all 4 parties. The biggest thing I learned (which I hear after EVERY class I teach) is that I need to slow down. Well, maybe you all need to speed up! HA! Anyway, I know that I perceive things in a quick manner and I just assume that everyone can keep up....bad assumption. I have asked my friend Trish here at the college to make a big banner to place in the back of all of my classrooms that reads...PAUL--SLOW DOWN. It is a skill I will work on diligently as I begin to provide training to our new clients. PAX

Thoughts on my training--Our Whole Lives

OK-My minister and our Christian Education director asked me to be trained in Our Whole Lives--a sex-ed training program designed for all ages, but specifically for our middle- and high-school aged people. The training was held last weekend at Eden Theological Seminary in Webster Groves, Mo (near St. Louis) and it was an terrific experience. Our CE team at UCC has some decisions to make concerning parts of the curriculum, but over-all it is a terrific program designed to teach basic values concerning our bodies, sexual health and the part faith plays in relationships. Another facet of the training I enjoyed was meeting clergy and lay-people from both the United Church of Christ and some Unitarian Universalists--terrific theology and both congregations have such a calling for justice and inclusivity. Just my cup of tea! Oh yeah, and on the return trip to Wichita, I had Karen drop me off in KC and I got to be with my tribe for about 18 hours--a perfect tonic for me! PAX

Dinner with the Parson

My new minister and his family had me over for dinner last night and I had such a great time. They have purchased a farmhouse out in Walton, Kansas, about 10 miles north of Newton. It reminded me so much of my sister's farm in Eudora that I was instantly comfortable there. They have some horses, goats and chickens and two large furry dogs. We spent most of the dinner talking about UCC and where they met and how they came to Kansas and how I managed to find my way to UCC and tons of other important topics. I left there feeling even more confident that our congregation is in very capable, caring hands and that the difficult changes that lie ahead will be met with concern and compassion and we'll get by just fine. Not bad for a meal of spaghetti and fresh bread!

Pax

A chilly Saturday

So....I finally have a Saturday without a rehearsal, training session or other required thing...and what do I do? I go to the office to work on something else! At this point in my life, my job has a nice central point--and for those of you worried about balance, don't worry, I assure that if the sun were shining and the weather any warmer, I would be on my bike and nowhere near WATC! Tomorrow I am watching the Oscars with some friends--it seems that I have put a self-imposed embargo on watching these for the past few years, (I used to have an annual party at the house on Coe Drive) and it is time to stop punishing myself!

PAX!

Why Every Atom?

Someone asked me why I chose that specific Walt Whitman line for the title of my blog. Well, Uncle Walt and I have a long history--my father used to read me selections from "Song of Myself" when I would visit from college, so it has that connection. But there is something eternal in the poet's line. I have a concrete love of the sciences that I balance as best I can with my philosophy and theology. Whitman's line to me captures the inherent science of our natural world, that the atoms that make up matter (and eventually life) are indeed basic materials belonging to all who abide on this planet. But then he hints at broader issues here, does he not? Socialism? As in a shared society and resources. Parity? As in we each get the atoms needed to sustain life (or at least those of us fortunate to be born in cultures where such substance is made possible). So the poet blends science and philosophy and art into one lovely little stanza, which means a lot to me. I mean, look at all of the energy and time I put into this post--when the Great Uncle said is with such economy and beauty--For Every Atom Belonging to Me as Good Belongs to You.

Friendship

So my friend Q called me yesterday with a problem that he needed help with and I was more than happy to assist him. And this led me to ponder why I have no trouble getting up at 2:45 am to pick up a friend at the bus station. I suppose it's because I know that these people would do the exact same thing for me. My friends (and family) have supported me in numerous ways these past three years...there is no way I could have come as far as I have come without their love, support and deep concern for me. Last night we had the second dress rehearsal of Cotton Patch Gospel and it dawned on me that Karen Robu and I have a terrific partnership in producing shows out at UCC--and that my friends at church are just as important to me as my tribe. (You KNOW who you are!) Four years ago we were producing Godspell and I was in the middle of a failing relationship and losing just about everything in my life. In June of that year I was out of the house on Coe drive and into my little Riverside apartment (where I still am). Three years ago Karen and I were producing JC Superstar and I was just making the most important decision in my life--and it has stuck! Last year we produced Children of Eden and that brings us to this year's Cotton Patch Gospel. What a terrific two years it has been--professionally, spiritually, emotionally and personally--I am a better person because of the OTHER people in my life who have chosen our relationship to be worthy of the time and energy and love it takes to maintain. I love you all!

Caucus

What a delightful time Shanna and I had tonight at the Democratic Caucus. We arrived at 6:30 (as we were instructed) to find a line all the way around the courthouse! Lucky for us, we stepped into line behind two delightful gentlemen (Soloman and Matt) and the four of us (plus assorted other fun folk) proceeded to make the most of our FRIGID circumstances. It was sooooo exciting to see the thousands of people out to change--out with hope for our country!!! At 8:15 we finally signed in and caucused and left. As we were driving away, NPR had just called Kansas for Obama. What a memorable night! OH--What made it even more memorable was that Soloman was participating in his first American vote. He just earned his citizenship two months ago and it was an honor to be in line with him. We take our freedoms for granted in this country and it was nice to be reminded that not everyone in the world has the same freedoms we enjoy. Thanks Soloman!

Monday Morning

I just got to the office, looked at my calendar and really can't believe that Janauary is already gone. Life moves way too fast.....

Pax!

Cotton Patch Gospel

University Congregational Church will be presenting Harry Chapin's COTTON PATCH GOSPEL February 14, 15 and 16 in the Sanctuary of the church at 8:00 pm each night. There is a dinner available if you wish to eat before hand. Contact the church at 634-0430 for reservations and more details. I am music directing and playing the part of Matthew. It's a great little show with some terrific bluegrass music. Contact me for more info at pauljaxonks@yahoo.com!

Life is.....

....such a wonder.

The Amazing Ms. Peters

Tonight's concert in Dallas was such an amazing display of talent. Ms. Peters was fabulous...but the Dallas Symphony Orchestra really blew me away. What musicianship! I have had a great time at Q's.....and am ready to return to Wichita on the morrow....oh, yeah--when Bernadette sang "Not a Day Goes By" I almost lost it....and her rendition of "No One Is Alone" was stunningly simple and elegant and beautiful! Wow...I sound like a fanatic!
PAX

Bernadette Peters vs. Bette Midler

OK....so a lifetime ago I was in New York working on a show I had written some music for called Lafitte and while I was there my friend Q and I tried to see Sunday in the Park with George which we both loved. It was always sold out, so we thought we would at least wait backstage and get Bernadette Peter's autograph. Which we did. Which is where I ended up making a complete ass out of myself in her presence (imagine that!). As we were finishing up photos and chatting I mentioned to her that "Millwork is my favorite song that you do". To which Ms. Peters returned a patient look and said "Millworth?" To which my friend Q said to Ms. Peters: "Oh no, he gets you mixed up with Bette Midler ALL THE TIME". To which I am shrinking and trying to back away from one of my greatest social blunders.....anyway....
Q is taking me to hear Bernadette with the Dallas Symphony on Saturday--I'll be in Dallas Friday and Saturday nights and return early Sunday....
OMG-OMG-OMG!

A Political Statement

Obama makes me hopeful about my country for the first time in a long, long time. Is he our Kennedy?

Torchwood

OK....so the previous quote was by Captain Jack Harkness from the new BBC series Torchwood which my tribe and I watched 7 (seven!!!) hours of New Year's Eve. This quirky, funny, sexy show was too much fun for us to resist and we spent most of New Year's Eve glued to Q's tivo. Anyway, we had a great time and have a new favorite show.

The New Year is off to a terrific start--I conducted the UCC choir yesterday morning and we started rehearsals for Cotton Patch Gospel which will be at UCC February 14, 15 & 16. Work at WATC is so busy and exciting with lots of good things coming down the pike. Check out my WATC Online blog if you want to know what is happening there....also, watc.edu is the college's home page.

Pax!

Random Shoes and Captain Jack

“Life is full of near misses and absolute hits, of great love and small disasters.

"It’s banana milkshakes and loft insulation and random shoes.

"It’s dead ordinary and truly, truly amazing.

"What you’ve got to realize is it’s all here, now, so breathe deep and swallow it whole.

"Because take it from me–life just whizzes by and then all of a sudden, its . . .”

Thanks to Captain Jack and friends.....

Back in my little Riverside apartment...

....refreshed, relaxed and prepared for a New Year. Peace and blessings to anyone who may read my little blog....and may 2008 find you a better person and a more loving person. Pax!

More from Dallas....

...even though I am too relaxed to really post anything important--I will attempt it:

Games, hot tub, the pool, eating too much, a ridiculously fun trip to Chuck E. Cheese (Where Q's daughter Julia has a job) and more eating....Today we will be joined by some additional members of Q's family (some of whom really bother me but I am a guest and will be polite--ugh) and then we begin the prep for tomorrow's insane New Year's Eve. I am actually going to be ready to return to my routine I believe! pax

Yummy Dallas

Ok....So my friends Q's brother-in-law has been staying with him and going to culinary school and we get to sample his assignments, right? We just had pork scallipini and gnocchi and this Italian gellato for dessert....OMG...great food. And we have done nothing but eat and swim all day. Such decadence! We are getting ready to go out for a midnight swim in the heated pool. Don't you all just hate me right now? I know I do! Peace.....Paul

Fun Christmas in Derby

Well..the annual gift exchange and food binge was held at my Mom's house in Derby on Saturday. The weather was awful trying to drive down there (think white-out) but was much worse on the trip back....anyway....safe at home and looking forward to the rest of my break.

In Memoriam-- Orin Shank

Orin Shank (48) died suddenly last week of a hidden heart ailment. He was sent off with a lovely service yesterday and leaves behind a large empty space in all of our hearts.

So I recall the lovely words of the Mancini family:

Sometimes, not often enough
We reflect upon the good things
And those thoughts often center around those we love.

And I think about the people
Who mean so much to me
And for so many years have made me, so very happy.

And I count the times I have forgotten to say:
Thank you. And just how much I love them

Busy week...then...ahhh

I have my consultant in town again as we continue building my Online division at WATC. I really enjoy when Amanda is here because a) I can see exactly where we are through her fresh eyes and b) I can see exactly what needs to be done for the same reason! Amanda leaves tomorrow and then my last day of work is Thursday. I am taking some time off to refresh and regroup after this exciting, busy and very productive fall semester. I am lucky to get to spend Christmas morning at my mom's house and then the entire New Year's holiday in Dallas...in the pool....the heated pool....ahhhhhhhhhhh

A Weekend of Music

Last night, at my third church concert of the day, I was chatting with Pastor Rob (he is the senior minister at Covenant Presbyterian Church where I sing when I am not at UCC (which is rare, but nice for me because I really like Rob's theology)....anyway, I mentioned to him how lucky I was to be able to sing an entire Sunday--and still have a voice at the end of it! It started at UCC, my home church, where we did some really lovely four-hand piano and choir pieces. Then I performed with Ron Daray and friends at Grace Presbyterian in his annual "Christmas Soiree". This was some of the finest singing I have been involved with for a long, long time. My usual church work is solid and part of worship, but singing with Ron and friends, because it is his hand-picked team, we get a rich, full sound. Anyway, if you missed it this year--you can catch another version next year because Ron just booked me for next December! LOL. Anyway, I finished out the day singing at Covenant and just really enjoyed all of the fun music and fellowship. It is nice to be a casual attender there, because I can objectively look at the service and the congregation and I must say--it's a strong congregation and an enjoyable (although long-ish for this quick Congregationalist) service. Carpe Diem!

I am re-printing my holiday greeting that I send out college-wide because some of it pertains to everyone in my life!

SEASON'S GREETINGS FROM ONLINE LEARNING!


I figured, since you know—this is ONLINE LEARNING—that I could get away with an electronic holiday greeting—so here it is:


First, I can’t thank enough those of you who have supported me and my efforts this past semester:

The valiant instructors who came forward and showed their class and style in an online setting—there’d be no Online Learning without each of you!
The same instructors who diligently worked to get Online Learning up and running in time for a September 17th launch! I am still very proud of that one!
My WATC friends who have stayed by my side as I moved into my new roles here at WATC.
The new friends I have made on a new campus!
The old friends I miss (and still see often!)
The WATC leadership team that has placed such tremendous faith in me.
That same team for providing resources, direction and passion for my work.
Our talented students who have ventured into this brave new world of online instruction—and succeeded.
The Wichita community which has embraced Online Learning with excitement for what we’ve done and anticipation of what we’ve got coming.

To each of you I wish Happy Holidays and a very prosperous and joyful New Year!

Paul Jackson
Paul Jackson, Director

A Christmas Soiree'

For a number of years now I have been singing with Ron Daray and a host of folks to present a Christmas concert. Ron's musicality is top-notch (he's one of my favorites) and it is always a joy to sing with him and his various choirs and ensembles. Ron was unable to offer Wichita this Christmas concert last year due to a number of issues, but he's back this year and he has asked me to join the fun.

What: A Christmas Soiree--solos, duets, a terrific choir and brass quintet, also lots of fun congregational singing.
Where: Grace Presbyterian Church, 5002 East Douglas, Wichita, KS
When: Sunday, December 16th at 4:00 PM

Come and partake of the season!

Paul's Upcoming Theater Schedule

For my many fans who read this blog (HI MOM!) I thought I would let you know my upcoming theater projects:

Feb. 14th through the 16th COTTON PATCH GOSPEL at UCC. I am music directing and playing keyboards/vocals.

April 16th through the 20th GRAPES OF WRATH at Wichita Center for the Arts. My old friend Shaun-Michael Morse is directing and we are still negotiating my role(s). Should be terrific-

A draft of a paper for my doctoral studies.....

The Ideal of the Educated Person
By Paul Jackson
EARLY DRAFT
To begin any discussion on an “ideal” of an educated person, one must begin with a frame of reference. As this is a doctoral program utilizing the Great Books, my frame of reference will be reflective of that—I will look at a classical version of the ideal; a historical perspective rooted in what those authors chosen by Adler et al have at their heart to be the ideal.1 I shall also address my personal biases within this frame; that even though there is much to be garnered, studied and even emulated in the Great Books, my practice as an educator inevitably informs my “ideal” of an educated person. That my personal biases often intersect with the theories and thoughts from our Great Authors is only indicative of that reason I was attracted to Harrison Middleton in general and this program in particular—I admit to a certain elitism; nay, I embrace it and celebrate it.

To begin, let’s look at the frame from Adler’s perspective. Not only is education to be striven for, but it is to be striven for in a manner that challenges notions of rank and hierarchically structured systems. Adler wanted to create a way in which the common man might achieve a liberal education using the great thinkers from the past. By creating a system of syntopical cross-referencing, Adler and his team were able to transform the ancient Trivium and Quadrivium forms of the curricula into a practical form able to be utilized by today’s “common” man, as it were. Deducting out from this then is Adler’s ideal of the educated person—one who was able to navigate, manipulate and discuss the Great Authors in a manner that assists one with their educational goals. That this comes from one enmeshed in a higher education system (University of Chicago) is ultimately surprising and downright heretical. What Adler is actually calling for, in its purest form, would lead to the demise of higher education systems. That is, if people were to become truly self efficacious, there would be little or no need for a hierarchical system of education. However, given my personal experience with human nature, it would be some time before this would become a major issue. Perhaps the internet will assist in this endeavor?
Cite: Hutchens, Adler, Aristotle

Then one major feature of our ideal must be self-efficacy; an ability to teach oneself, to evaluate where one is in relation to one’s educational goals, and then to plan where to go next. The autodidact is the classical embodiment of this ideal. The down side to this is the potential for “false” learning—that is, by isolating oneself entirely from a community of learners, one may learn something incorrectly, or even develop habits that allow for the continual learning of wrong information. Where the Great Conversation assists with this idea is just that—it provides a sounding board for “correct” learning or “right” learning. The Great Conversation keeps one on an even keel, while allowing for movements in dangerous directions—by having a conversation with another versed in the curricula, we are able to steer our ship of learning back on course.
Cite:?

The previous ship metaphor provides us with another major feature of our “ideal”: Flexibility and comfort with ambiguity. The educated person must be able to navigate the murkiest of waters and be satisfied with perhaps never reaching the shore of their objective. Delicate shades of gray inhabit the palate of the educated person while they search for the shore of knowledge. They can be satisfied with not knowing, but that very fact of not knowing often leads them onto a different path in their search and they are able to perhaps discover other things on the way. Comfort with ambiguity and a dislike of dogmatic, reflexive knowledge allows the ideal to be creative in their search for knowledge. Of course, the downside of this is that an educated person without the rhetorical faculties to fight off the dogmatists often causes their arguments to add fuel to the dogmatists.
Citations: ???

Insatiable curiosity must also be a fundamental of our Ideal. When primitive or natural man (as Rousseau might call him) discovers ways in which to survive in nature, there is curiosity at play. Most mammals and all primates exhibit this curiosity when confronted with novelty in their environment. I am instantly reminded of Piggy and his friends from “The Lord of the Flies” and how those young men descended into primitive states during their ordeal. These boys instantly took advantage of their new freedoms and plunged into either the natural world (Jack and his band) or Ralph, with Piggy as his lieutenant, attempting to establish those institutions and power structures that they knew from civilization. Both of our groups exhibit curiosity (albeit necessary from the plot devices) that one truly believes one would experience in a similar situation. William Golding’s use of such a traumatic event actually forces us to consider the humanity within us—and the insatiable curiosity that could lead to either course being a potential choice for each of us. Curiosity did indeed kill the feline, did it not?
Cite: Rousseau, Bacon, Vonnegut?

When one thinks of the educated person, thoughts of refinement are often bandied about. I tend to think of the classic image from my cinematic and literary experience—the shabbily dressed and rumpled professor, late for a lecture, but brilliant in his performance of that lecture and somehow admired and emulated by colleagues. A theatrical image, but one that I think grows out of the tradition of the dons at Cambridge and Eton and Kent. And, as Americans with a rich tradition of cinema determining our common icons, this is only fitting. Of course, the downside here is one of elitism and stratification. That is—a perception that one who is educated will hold their selves in higher esteem and be set apart in society. I would argue that society has a tendency to place those who educate themselves into a higher category—and why not? We reward those whose studies in the end provide greater benefit to mankind. Whereas the Doctor of Philosophy may receive derision and calumny, he does provide a number of benefits to the society in which he lives and works. Granted, if this Doctor of Philosophy separates himself into his “ivory tower” and refuses to participate in his community, perhaps he deserves their injury. Either way, he does provide a number of benefits whether intrinsic or extrinsic. Intrinsically, he publishes papers, teaches classes and influences his colleagues for gain or naught. Extrinsically, he provides a model of the “ideal” that can be used for comparison and contrast with others in learned professions. His living example of an ideal of the educated person provides us with some sense of that ideal.

Perhaps if we were to dig deeper into this ideal we’d see a starker reality; deadlines to be met, grants to be acquired, a dean to appease and all of the trappings of modern academic life. In fact, he is much like any other in a modern American profession—bound to those tasks which identify and define him. And what of the academicians who inhabit everyday life but have not made a career out of it—that is; what of the CEO who is also an excellent philosopher or student of anthropology? Where does this person fit into my ideal or a learned person?
Cite: Eton College Website,

So what have I brought us? I have brought us a list of certain characteristics that the ideal of the educated person should possess; self-awareness, self-efficacy and an insatiable curiosity as well as an ability to be comfortable with ambiguity. I hope to link this fundamental set of skills to the later discussions and build further on my brief exploration herein. Knowledge is power—but only to those who understand that knowledge can be much more than a means to an end and that power is not always an end to a means.

Grateful

So...what am I grateful for? My family, my friends, my work, my studies, my church, my life, my mistakes and my talents. What are you grateful for?

Funerals

So...the older we get the more funerals we attend, no? I was deeply moved by the service for Larry Jones on Monday at the WSU Metroplex. I knew what a gem of a human Larry was as did all in attendance, but one forgets how many people he touched during his life. It was such a fitting tribute. The fact that we got most of the choir there to send him off in glorious song was a terrific feat in itself! We sang one of my favorite pieces by Danial Gawthrop and Jane Griner. I've included the lyrics here for they are gorgeous, but you really need to hear the amazing music to get its full impact.

Sing Me To Heaven

In my heart's sequestered chambers lie truths stripped of poets' gloss
Words alone are vain and vacant, and my heart is mute
In response to aching silence, memory summons half-heard voices
And my soul finds primal eloquence, and wraps me in song

If you would comfort me, sing me a lullaby
If you would win my heart, sing me a love song
If you would mourn me and bring me to God, sing me a requiem, sing me to Heaven

Touch in me all love and passion, pain and pleasure
Touch in me grief and comfort, love and passion, pain and pleasure

Sing me a lullaby, a love song, a requiem
Love me, comfort me, bring me to God

Sing me a love song, sing me to Heaven

Music

Those of you who know me know that my brain is wired differently than most....mostly in regards to music. Music is such an important part of my life that if you wanted to punish me, the most effective way would be to deprive me of music--any music! Right now I am listening to Annie Lennox and wondering what I did before Q got me my iPod! Rock On!

The best laid plans.....

....ok...so I had planned to blog lots this week--the reality was that I was WAY too busy to do much of anything. This conference and its attendant symposia were interesting and lots of fun. I did manage to get over to the ocean a couple of times and spent this morning at Downtown Disney. Lots of good information to parse and get out to my folks.....peace all!

Postings from Florida

I am posting to my college's blog while I am in Florida for an Online Learning Convention. Check it out at watconline.blogspot.com

Working at the Perk

So....I am testing my laptop's connection, sitting here at the Riverside Perk. It is a nice little coffee shop a few blocks from my apartment. I usually walk down here in the evening and work a bit on my course readings--tonight, however, I am testing the laptop that I am taking with me next week to Orlando, FL for the Sloan C conference on Distance Education. I fly out of Wichita next Tuesday, 11/6 and return late on Friday, 11/9. Part of the trip is dedicated to meeting with my consultant from Georgia who is also attending the conference.....gonna be a busy, fun week. My downtime for this trip will be spent on Cocoa Beach! I've already got my plan mapped out....

Link to WATC Online

A few weeks ago I launched a blog for my College, the Wichita Area Technical College. So far the interest has been minimal at best, but growing slowly. It'll be interesting to see how this tool is received by the faculty and staff. Visit it at watconline.blogspot.com.

My Brother's Blog

If you want an idea of what life is like in China, visit my baby brother's blog at http://www.thegarrettblog.com/ It's a nice slice-of-life on the other side of the world....with a family connection!

Pax,

Paul

Uncle Paul

So....on my bike ride today I was contemplating one of my favorite roles in life--That of Uncle Paul. I am really lucky to have lots of young people in my life who honor me with the title of Uncle. From Natasha and her brother Cody, to Mattie and Ellie up in Eudora, to my honorary nephews Dominic and Ronan to the newest....Annabelle in China (and a soon-to-arrive sibling for her!)...I have lots of young people in my life--what a tremendous gift this is. I am a lucky, lucky man.

Marcus Aurelius

Ahhh...the other night I was working on my readings for my class and I had to read some of Marcus Aurelius....ahhhh....beautiful....my reading was on meditations of his on the examples in his life and what he has learned from them. Talk about the perfect ideal of humanity. Really terrific stuff.

UCC's Music Program

The Music Program at UCC is one of the best things about my life. I am so honored to be a part of this talented group of folks. The Armed Man performances today were powerful and thrilling.
Better is peace!

Join the UCC Choir and Wichita Symphony Principals for the Wichita Premiere of Karl Jenkin's "The Armed Man". Sunday October 7, 2007 at 10:30 am and 3:00 pm.