tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68739044813434364752024-03-13T09:12:29.932-06:00nancy comptonputting 'out' there what is going on 'in' herenancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-47098157549144333572011-09-20T10:26:00.003-06:002011-09-20T11:25:52.274-06:00a great fearIt always amazes me how the right quote shows up at just the right time.<br /><br />Today, <a href="http://astroanne.com/">Anne Ortelee</a>, who shares an insightful weekly Astrology Column, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/AnneOrtelee">tweeted</a> one of those quotes that hits you right between the eyes when it is a message you need to hear:<br /><br /><blockquote></blockquote><span style="font-style:italic;">"High Noon Clarity: "Our worst fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure." - Nelson Mandela"</span><blockquote></blockquote><br /><br />I won't give you the dirty details. Let's just say I have been treading water. My days have been feeling like Ground Hog Day. Or, at the very least, I've been living my life in shades of gray. This might work for some folks. Heck, it might even be the life they aspire to. A life where there are few surprises and little risk. But, for me, someone who has mostly lived life by the motto 'experience all you can, every moment you can', living life in this holding pattern has felt like suffocation. Stifling and dull. And, my spirit yearns for more. <br /><br />So, the quote comes to me today with a POW! and a not so gentle voice saying "What have you been thinking!?!?!?" Breathe girl! Yes, live your life full of breath! Stop standing still and get out of that holding pattern. Of course, that voice of fear starts to raise the volume. It too wants to be heard. But, I remember what it is like to live a life out loud. To live a life moving forward. Action creates more action. It all starts with one step, then two. Sometimes those steps turn out to be a whoops. Let's consider those opportunities to gain some wisdom. Learnings from which to make the next step.<br /><br />As I wrap this up, I leave you with the full quote. Nelson Mandela was quoting <a href="http://www.marianne.com/">Marianne Williamson</a> from her book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0060927488/qid=1110256933/sr=2-2/ref=pd_bbs_b_2_2/%22%20target=%22_blank">"A Return to Love"</a>. May the wisdom of Marrianne's words speak to that inside of you that is greater. And -- perhaps, just perhaps, it will encourage you to take a step towards that which is calling forward.<br /><br /><blockquote></blockquote><span style="font-style:italic;">"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."</span><blockquote></blockquote>nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-88445028654802828352011-04-28T22:53:00.002-06:002011-04-28T22:56:39.395-06:00Everyday WisdomSome days you see something that sits with you. A thought that you might pull out over and over throughout the day for a little inspiration. Thanks to my friend Jen for recently sharing this little dose of inspiration.<br /><blockquote><br />I have an everyday religion that works for me. Love yourself first, and everything else falls into line. - Lucille Ball<br /></blockquote>nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-57342459856858258012011-02-28T10:01:00.007-07:002011-02-28T11:12:31.556-07:00Like a ToothacheIn 2004 after 14 years of marriage, my former husband and I went our separate ways. With no children and both of us with full-time careers, it was a pretty straight forward and amicable divorce. We found a way to remain friends and I am truly happy to see him when our paths cross.<br /><br />Six months after Dave and I separated I met what some folks refer to as Dave 2. I've always gotten a chuckle out of that and I think he did too. It was a whirlwind romance and within our travels, dinners, entertaining and conversations I found a part of me I hadn't previously known. I liked her. Life was fun, we lived it at full throttle, I felt deeply loved.<br /><br />Somewhere along the line things shifted. It came with a sense that things weren't quite right. Call it intuition. Whatever it was, I put on my detective hat and snooped. Had I come up empty handed I may have chalked it up to irrational fear of having a good thing. But I didn't come up empty handed. I was hurt, he felt violated. Many conversations and we knew mutual trust was something for us to work on. <br /><br />But the cycle had begun -- intuition, snooping, validation, hurt, feelings of violation. Wash and repeat. Wash and repeat. Wash and repeat. <br /><br />Sounds pretty horrible when you read it, but it wasn't all bad. There were many joyful moments and experiences and a deep love for one another interwoven with the pattern.<br /><br />It always felt like a toothache to me. While things looked good and there was happiness in our shared lives, there was always a low level pain. It was like going to the dentist and him saying, "That tooth is acting up, but it is a good tooth and until it is really screaming at you I wouldn't extract it."<br /><br />This past weekend, after a long time coming, the tooth was extracted. And like a real tooth extraction, there is relief. There is also some bruising and tenderness and an empty space. The bruising and tenderness will heal. The question comes -- what to fill the empty space with? <br /><br />After six years of a meaningful relationship, filling it with another person doesn't quite feel right. Although I must admit my thoughts have turned to that easy distraction a time or two. For now it is self care and reconnecting with myself. I'll kick it all off with an upcoming trip to <a href="http://www.presentmomentretreat.com/">Mexico</a> and when I come back home I'll settle into yoga, piano, being outdoors and time with friends. With that and my work, the empty space will come to feel a bit less empty. And, then there may come a time when it feels right to make room for a little something more.nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-88519072549942803032010-05-23T12:07:00.000-06:002010-05-23T12:08:38.897-06:00my first great loveToday my thoughts turn to my Dad. Really, I think about my Daddy just about everyday. But, yesterday was an anniversary of sorts. It was 13 years ago and at the age of 56 that Fred Columbus Compton took his last breath.<br /><br />If I am honest about it, I was not quite ready for him to go. I was 30 when he passed. I'd learned to appreciate him in the years before, but felt there was so much more for me to learn. Like how to make his world famous potato salad and tangy baked beans. I hadn't thought to ask before, when he was ill it was not important, and now there is no one that can get that recipe just right. Every try is a miss. A little thing I know, but a reminder of what was left to ask. <br /><br />My Dad was the strong silent type. Tall...6'4", with baby blue eyes and a kind face. He was a handsome man. The kind that turned heads but never seemed to know it. He believed in doing what is right, doing your best in everything, and never missing the mark on anything. He served his country as a soldier in the Army for over 27 years. I think he would have made it to 30 years if the Army hadn't planned to send him on his 4th tour to Germany. He was ready to settle in and grow some roots at that point and another overseas tour just wasn't what he had in mind.<br /><br />As an Infantryman my Dad was gone alot. Sometimes for thirty days or more it would be Mom and I living our everyday life just the two of us. Even so, he influenced how that life was lived. In addition to having high expectations for himself, my Dad expected the best from his family. Not in a harsh way, but in a 'I know you can be the best you can be and be that everyday' kind of way. <br /><br />Yes, my Daddy had high expectations, but he also knew what being human is. When I pushed the limits as a teenager (and for the record I REALLY pushed the limits) he was there to guide me through the rough road I had gotten myself on. I don't remember scolding nor berating. What I do remember is a kind underlying support I could lean on until I got back on the right track. Which I did pretty much did each time. <br /><br />I so wish that Dave could have met my father. Instead Dave hears stories of a man that lived his life by morals and values and ethics. A man that loved and served his country. A man that could be counted on no matter the circumstance. A man who worked hard, played and won at cards, drank beer, tended after his yard, drove on back roads, listened to Merle Haggard, watched basketball, never ever judged others, and saw the best in others so they could rise to their greater selves. A man who true to form at the time of his last breath was not afraid or focused on himself, but instead expressed his worry for those he would leave behind.<br /><br />This is the first time I've written of my Dad. It is scratching the surface and there is so much more to say. For now, I am sending love and thanks to my father for protecting and providing for me. I lived a childhood knowing I was safe, accepted and cared for. I knew there was always a rock of a man for me to lean on. Now I know that was a great love. Thank you, Daddy, for everything. I miss you and celebrate your life. A life well lived.nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-80065461586362455422010-04-08T11:51:00.002-06:002010-04-08T12:07:46.113-06:00sitting in the quietFor years I have practiced meditation in an on again off again style. I've believed what all the new thought / spiritual leaders have had to say about the value of meditation. You know, sitting in the quiet helps you connect with spirit and that little voice of knowing that helps guide us through the twist and turns of this thing called life.<br /><br />Yep, I have believed it is a valuable tool, but I struggled getting it into my daily life.<br /><br />Six weeks ago I began the Science of Mind Beyond Limits course. While there are many facets to this teaching, a cornerstone of successfully integrating the tools and beliefs in one's life is...you guessed it...meditation. So, I committed to giving a meditation practice another go during the 10 week course. While I may slip a day or two, it is nearly a daily practice for me right now. <br /><br />As my post yesterday shared, there was a bit of drama with a family member. I stayed amazingly calm and focused on what it is I would like in the relationship. Last night I reflected on why. Certainly the works I am studying have laid a foundation, but upon reflection I believe meditation played a larger role than I gave it credit for. <br /><br />Just fifteen minutes a day of reading an affirmation and sitting in the quiet are giving me a clearer focus on the day. And when those bumps and zingers show up, I find myself feeling capable to handle whatever comes my way with a little more ease. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Two sources I am currently using for daily affirmations: <br />- Creative Ideas by Ernest Holmes<br />- Science of Mind magazine </span>nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-53135012086277368442010-04-07T22:17:00.006-06:002010-04-08T13:32:27.576-06:00taking a breath, and then anotherToday something happened that once upon a time would have sent me over the edge. I received a text from a close family member that called me out on something that just was not true. There was that one moment of "Oh, my gosh, I've got to fix this". Then there was a breath. And another. Then I knew I could not fix how the other person felt, but I could hold my truth and be kind in the process.<br /><br />I've been off work since August. Much of that time off was by design. I wanted to take a break and recharge the batteries before jumping into my next gig. If you know and love me, you know I tend to jump into my work with all I have. The time off was to clear the cobwebs. To dust out the corners and rejuvenate. I traveled. Took my first solo road trip ever. It was a blast. Something about driving on a dirt road in New Mexico on the way to an <a href="http://www.ojocalientesprings.com/">awesome spa</a> that sparks spirit in the depths of the being. I did yoga. I slept in. Alot. I took classes and got to know myself in a way I have not until now.<br /><br />Much of what I have been studying is relationship material. The other is spiritual in nature. It has been a good mix. The result? I live from a place of calmness and certainty that was not familiar to me previously. So, when that text landed in my inbox today, my response was not one of activation and need to control. I was able to respond from a place of calm and truth and as a result there was not tension or harsh words exchanged. Instead, we exchanged some texts and all seems to be moving in the right direction. Oh, and I took a walk. Any excuse to get outside and get some of that Colorado sunshine.<br /><br />I'm noting the classes I've take over the past few months. I've learned something from each. This work blended with a blooming meditation practice has wrenched free much of the criticism, defensiveness, and desire for control that sometimes was my first response. Instead what is coming first these days is an interest in understanding and a knowing I don't have to take on responsibility for the situation. I can listen, I can receive calmly and I can love. Even in the face of confrontation. At least I can sometimes...and I am learning to make those sometimes greater than the alternative. Often all it takes is a breath. And, then another breath.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rebuildingseminars.com/">*** Fisher - Rebuilding When Your Relationship Ends</a><br />This course was previously titled Fisher Divorce Recovery. I took it when <a href="http://twitter.com/DaveSkinner">my sweetie</a> and I were re-evaluating our relationship. For me it provided the tools to clear out old relationship behaviors and look at myself and how I choose to interact in a couple relationship. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.understandmen.com/about/index.html">*** PAX Programs</a><br />I started off by reading Alison Armstrongs's '<a href="http://www.understandmennewyork.com/products/kingdom.html">Keys to the Kingdom</a>' as a woman I have great respect for recommended it more than once. The PAX charter is to transform the way woman relate to and create partnerships with men. I attended three workshops and plan on attending more. This is work I will be interested in for life.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.milehichurch.org/courses/beyond_limits.asp">*** Science of Mind - Beyond Limits</a><br />I have been a fan of the new thought movement and many of the current leaders for years. In taking this class at <a href="http://www.milehichurch.org/">Mile Hi Church in Denver</a>, I am now learning the structure to receive the abundance that can be ours through the teachings of Ernest Holmes and Science of Mind and Spirit. One of the things I value about this work is it is non-denominational and can compliment any belief system and religion.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Disclaimer: What I am sharing is my personal experience and the courses and study I have found to be helpful for me. Wanna share what rings true for you? Drop a comment below. </span>nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-7947927721506798422010-01-25T10:57:00.004-07:002010-01-25T20:50:46.514-07:00remembering martha edna comptonJanuary 23rd would have been my Mamaw's birthday. <br /><br />Even though she passed away while I was in my early twenties, she has remained with me and continues to be an influence during those times I need a bit of guidance. <br /><br />While Mamaw was born on what some call Compton's Mountain, she was not born a Compton. She came into the world as Martha Edna Dingus, one of fourteen children born to Paddy and Nannie Dingus. The Dingus family was poor and the family shared just two rooms in a shack that held no luxuries, not even that of running water.<br /><br />Martha counted herself lucky to make it through the second grade when she then had to drop out to cook for the men and help raise the babies after her elder sisters had married and were starting families of their own. Now that I am grown, I am awed at the dedication and desire to learn she had to teach herself how to read and write. She had beautiful handwriting and rarely a misspelled word. <br /><br />She married late by 'hill' standards. I think she and my Papaw married when she was nineteen. I wouldn't venture to say that life was easy then, but she married into a well respected family who owned a butcher shop, local stores, and had the wealth of much land. Somewhere along the line my Daddy was born. Ten years later Uncle June arrived. The stores closed, Papaw left the mines and Mamaw became the breadwinner by working in a sewing factory. <br /><br />During my childhood she lived in a four room shack without heat or water. She began the day when it was dark and stoked the coal cooking stove to make breakfast as much as to heat the house. She fed her family, worked a full day, and fed her family again in the evening. No fast food meals, most meals included her yummy buttermilk biscuits and fresh food from the large garden my Papaw tended. Her Saturday's centered around a trip to the laundry mat and grocery stores where she not only took care of her home's needs but also that of her elderly mother. Sunday was for church, often both morning and evening.<br /><br />In my tenth year my Mom and I lived with my Grandparents for eight months while we awaited housing to join my father in Bamberg, West Germany (there was a West Germany then). That year my grandparents moved into their new home. It was made of block and brick and held six rooms. Running water did not come until later and always remained hit or miss as it relied on rainwater caught in a cistern. There were still trips to the laundry mat and heating with the fireplace when heating costs were high, but my Mamaw had nicer things and loved her home and the land on which it sat. <br /><br />All of her life she lived on the mountain, within a mile of the shack in which she was born. She loved the land and had a real appreciation for all of God's creatures large and small. She shared with me her love of being with nature - the beauty of a butterfly, the antics of a groundhog, the gifts of the trees and berry bushes. <br /><br />When I think of Martha Edna Compton, first my heart fills with warmth of having been loved well my an amazing woman. Then my thoughts turn to a woman who created a good life from hard beginnings, who knew the value of learning and growing, who never complained, nor had a harsh word about others, who loved her family and loved her earth. Still, I am learning from her and from the example of how she lived her life with a kind heart, determination, and spirit. <br /><br />Happy Birthday, Mamaw...thank you...you are greatly missednancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-8834019910433521122010-01-22T15:54:00.003-07:002010-01-22T16:22:27.541-07:00picking up an instrumentToday I checked off the first box to completing one of my 2009 New Year's goals. Yes, I know it is 2010, but this one took a little longer to get to the root of.<br /><br />See, I am a music lover. Music interweaves with just about every part of my life. I start each and every day with my 'start the day music'. Music to get me centered to start the day joyfully. Rarely is there not music playing in the background as I go about my day (right now am I listening to Nawang Khechog's <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Music-as-Medicine-Nawang-Khechog/dp/B0007GAEAS">music as medicine</a>). Much of my social life is centered around music events, whether seeing favorite (or new) local musicians or the big names that come through town. The only place music is absent for me is during work. Not that there is a barrier to me listening to music as I go about my work day (that is when I am working), but I get lost in the music...it takes me to other places. Not so good when you have objectives and goals to meet.<br /><br />My love for music began early. Gotta thank my Mom for that one. Some of my earliest memories are of her putting on 50s and 60s tunes and she and I dancing the night away. As much as music has been a part of life from the get go, I have never played an instrument. Not sure why really. I could give you the excuse that we moved alot when I was a kid. That many of the schools I attended were too poor or too understaffed to have band. That would be true, but plenty of folks figure out how to teach themselves and make it happen. I didn't.<br /><br />My friend, Marilyn, figured it out. She played French Horn in High School (maybe even earlier) and majored in music in college. I first met her many years ago at an <a href="http://www.rocknsoulcafe.com/calendar/?call=2889">annual music event</a> she hosts. Not only does she play french horn, she also sings, plays guitar and keyboards, writes her own songs, and plays a mean cowbell. She ignited in me a little flicker that I might be able unleash my inner musician and play an instrument, too.<br /><br />I spent a year savoring the thought of picking up an instrument. At first, it was those type of instruments you can actually pick up...the bango or the guitar. Then, I landed with the piano. Can't say why for sure, but I can say I am happy with my choice and happy with the new (to me) <a href="http://www.yamaha.com/yamahavgn/CDA/ContentDetail/ModelSeriesDetail/0,6373,CNTID%253D2425%2526CTID%253D205800%2526VNM%253DLIVE%2526AFLG%253DY,00.html">digital piano</a> that sits in my loft waiting for me. Now I just have to learn to play it. Let the journey begin...nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-34684657395090725122010-01-21T14:15:00.005-07:002010-01-21T14:45:16.361-07:00taking on the happiness projectAs we begin each new year I set aside time to reflect on the previous year and set some goals for the coming year. <br /><br />Last year I took a stab at a new angle and wrote about it <a href="http://nancycompton.blogspot.com/2009/01/resolution-game-plan.html">here.</a><br /><br />I wouldn't say I failed, but I will say that I missed the mark to hit it in 2009. Revisiting the post I realize that these desires have lived with me as goals this past year, but seem to be more likely to manifest in 2010. This very afternoon I am off to look at a set of keyboards to get that 'learn an instrument' goal underway. And, in my new job search, I am focusing on roles and companies that meet that passion I seek in my work life. <br /><br />Just as I was beginning to think about the coming year and what my desires were for 2010, <a href="http://www.happiness-project.com/happiness_project/the-happiness-project-book.html#buy_book">"The Happiness Project"</a> book arrived on my doorstep courtesy of my aunt and her family. The objective of the book is something I can certainly get into for the New Year...BE HAPPIER!<br /><br />After devouring the Getting Started and January chapters, I have taken the first steps in the journey to create more happiness. Some of it is very little things...some take a more consistent commitment. I am looking forward to the road that lies ahead and look forward to sharing it with the author, <a href="http://www.happiness-project.com/happiness_project/about.html">Gretchen Rubin</a>, chapter by chapter as the year progresses. <br /><br />You can check out more of what this is all about on <a href="http://www.happiness-project.com/happiness_project/">Gretchen's blog</a>. Interested in joining the happiness journey? She has also invited us all to join the 2010 Happiness Challenge by signing <a href="http://www.happiness-project.com/happiness_project/the-year-of-happiness-challenge.html">this petition</a>.<br /><br />I am tossing in my January list as much as a reminder to myself as to share it with you. I'd love to hear what you are shooting for this year to increase your happiness and live more of the life you love. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">JANUARY HAPPINESS LIST</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">*Get more sleep </span><br />Shooting for 8 hours plus. Making it more days than I used to. AND, when I do hit that 8 hour mark, not only do I have more energy and greet the day with more enthusiasm, I am also a more patient, kinder soul.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">*Provide myself a time buffer </span><br />Instead of using up every last minute and rushing to get to where I am going and arriving in a flustered state, I am giving myself a bit of extra time. Amazing how this provides a calmer arrival and me in a more receptive state of mind.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">* Move more</span><br />This crud I have had for 4 weeks has thrown a wrench in this, but I am targeting more movement to the tune of Yoga 2x/wk, Dance 2x/wk, Being Outside 2x/wk<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">* Do it now</span><br />Adopted this one from Gretchen and it is making a difference already. If it takes moments to do, I am addressing it in the moment instead of putting it off. The result is a shorter to do list, less mental tracking of what I have not gotten to and fewer piles yelling at me. Nice!<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">* Declutter</span><br />I am a pretty neat person already, but have to fess up my office has gotten out of hand. Tackling it a little a day and look forward to having it done by the time we roll this month over to February.nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-35057782596000370092009-08-27T13:41:00.001-06:002009-08-27T22:33:45.362-06:00my new favorite bandEach year I block off the weekend of the <a href="http://www.bluegrass.com/folks/">Rocky Mountain Folks Festival</a> over at <a href="http://www.bluegrass.com/">Planet Bluegrass</a>. This is one of my favorite music events of the year with three days of non-stop music from 11:00am until the last set winds down at 10:30pm. <br /><br />The folks over at Planet Bluegrass never disappoint with the <a href="http://www.bluegrass.com/folks/lineup.html">lineup</a>. There are the tried and trues that play late in the day and draw the crowds and there are the bands I've yet to discover. The lineup this year stuck to the aforementioned formula...crowd drawers and new discoveries. <br /><br />This year was an amazing blend of the must sees: <br />- <a href="http://www.don-mclean.com/">Don McLean</a> - Who got the entire crowd on their feet to sing and dance to a ~20 minute rendition of 'American Pie'under the stars. Never mind that there was a <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-9599-Boulder-Rock-Climbing-Examiner~y2009m8d16-Crystal-WhiteYates-falls-off-cliff-during-Folks-Festival-in-Lyons-while-screeclimbing">fallen climber rescue</a> going on just across the creek (thankfully she got away with minor injuries).<br />- <a href="http://www.madeleinepeyroux.com/flash_content/main.html">Madeleine Peyroux</a> - Not your typical Folks Fest set. There was a moment of feeling like I was in some small cafe in Paris listening to a funky jazz artist.<br />- <a href="http://brettdennen.net/">Brett Dennen</a> - A <span style="font-style:italic;">discovery </span> from a Folks Festival a few years back when he played an early afternoon set. He has since taken the main stage at Telluride Bluegrass and blew the crowd away this year with his full band during his Sunday early evening set.<br /><br />Which leads me to the 'discoveries'. I've been going to the Folks Fest since 2001. Haven't missed a year yet, and don't plan to unless some amazing travel opportunity just gets in the way. Each year without fail there is a find. An act that shows up on the lineup that I've never heard, but just blows me away. And theirs is the CD I buy for the weekend. Yep, I just buy one for the entire weekend. Previous years finds have been the likes of Brett Dennen, Missy Higgins, The Waifs, and Darrell Scott to name a few. They have remained personal favorites and I have seen them all develop their sets and presence over the years. It is fun to witness in which direction the success takes them.<br /><br />In the tarp line Friday morning, a conversation with a Bob Dylan fan (identified by his concert t-shirt) from Colorado Springs turned to who is the new must see act this year. We talked about Over the Rhine (who when all was said and done were my runner-up), Joe Pug, and Will Hoge. They were all awesome and worth putting on the rain gear for (which was done multiple times). <br /><br />The Dylan fan told me about an act he heard about on NPR. They did a <a href="http://vimeo.com/2975715">tour along the West Coast riding their bicycles</a>. Kinda cool, huh? I was curious and marked them in the schedule as a 'don't miss'. Good thing, too. Turns out <a href="http://blindpilotmusic.wordpress.com/">Blind Pilot</a>, the band in question, was the hands down find of the weekend. <br /><br />Now the tough part. Why were they the find of the weekend? In the moment, sitting in a sea of tarps with my festivarian glow I was wowed by how tight the band played and the use of 'not everyday instruments' such as the trumpet, harmophone, xylophone, full size base, and non-bluegrass banjo. Their music filled the senses in a good way. It may sound fluffy, but that it is. I like the feeling their music evokes for me. And, that feeling keeps coming each time I listen to their CD. Over and over and over. <br /><br />You can get yourself a dose of it <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-usPwbzwIEk">here</a>.nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-83574969724478600932009-08-11T14:42:00.002-06:002009-08-11T14:53:07.362-06:00a guiding mantraI am a big believer in affirmations. The words we use (internally and externally) become our reality. It is but a matter of time before our world is manifested from our thoughts and our words. <br /><br />Today, I stumbled upon a <a href="http://jaredmatthewkessler.blogspot.com/">Jared Matthew Kessler's blog</a> that spurred some thoughts and uncovered what he calls a mantra. Feels like a pretty darn powerful affirmation to me and I'd like to share it with you. You can check out the entire post <a href="http://jaredmatthewkessler.blogspot.com/2009/08/cant-find-job-great.html">here.</a><br /><br /><blockquote>“I believe I’m always divinely guided, I believe I will always take the right turn in the road, I believe God will always make a way even if there is none.” <br /><span style="font-style:italic;">courtesy of Jared Matthew Kessler's blog</span></blockquote>nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-5146295919999761522009-03-17T12:21:00.019-06:002009-06-29T13:53:44.389-06:00celebrating the irishOn St. Patrick's Day those of us that have even a wee bit of Irish heritage become fully Irish for the day. We talk of the luck of the Irish, wish each other well, perhaps share a pinch for those not sporting green, and celebrate further by lifting a glass or two. <br /><br />At our home we often celebrate by watching John Wayne rediscover his Irish roots in <a href="http://www.filmsite.org/quie.html">'The Quiet Man'</a>. It's a love story and a story of a Yank coming home to discover what he is really made of. Here's a clip of the big fight scene. And, of course, some drinking.<br /><br /> <object width="344" height="344"><br /> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/8Bm0RIs-VJU&hl=en&fs=0"><br /> </param><br /> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/8Bm0RIs-VJU&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"><br /> </embed><br /> </object><br /><br /> I wish you and yours a Happy St. Patty's Day and a bit of that luck of the Irish.<br /><blockquote><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />May there always be work for your hands to do,<br />May your purse always hold a coin or two.<br />May the sun always shine warm on your windowpane,<br />May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain.<br />May the hand of a friend always be near you,<br />And may God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you.<br /></span></blockquote>nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-73380506538611170342009-03-09T09:51:00.007-06:002009-06-29T13:54:42.032-06:00life's for sharingThis was posted on a friend's Facebook today (you know who you are!). It made me smile. Not just that across the face smile, but the heart and soul smile. I love that fun and silliness is something that pulls people in, connects us, and makes friends of strangers. Even if for a moment. <br /><br />It is titled 'Life's for Sharing'. Hope watching it brings you a heart smile, too. Now, go forth and create some sharing and happiness in your day. :-)<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Watch the moment Liverpool Street Station danced to create this special T-Mobile Advert. Life's for sharing.</span><br /><br /><object width="344" height="295"><br /><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/VQ3d3KigPQM&hl=en&fs=1"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/VQ3d3KigPQM&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="295"></embed></object>nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-88382073696199233892009-03-06T12:02:00.000-07:002009-03-06T12:03:04.424-07:00*Not* Dark As A Dungeon<a href="http://www.johncowan.com/">John Cowan</a> kicked off the Wildflower Pavilion 2009 concert series at <a href="http://www.bluegrass.com/">Planet Bluegrass</a> in Lyons last night. Being a big fan of who I refer to as John 'Oh My Gawd' Cowan, I have seen him many times - from 3rd row at the Boulder Theater to a sea of tarps with 13,000 festivarians at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. <br /><br />Last night John was at his best. <a href="http://www.lyons-colorado.com/">Lyons</a> is a warm crowd that loves John, and at the lack of sounding all gooey, John loves this crowd back. Doesn't hurt that he has a stellar band that is able to crank out traditional bluegrass tunes, some funky bluegrass jazz, and put their own twist on rock covers such as Tuesday Afternoon (Moody Blues) and Going to California (Led Zeppelin).<br /><br />One of John's signature songs is 'Dark As A Dungeon'. The song tells of the life of a miner. What it is like to be below the earth without sunshine or rain. Without connection. With destruction of health. With risk of death. <br /><br />No one does a better delivery of this standard than Johnny C. I've heard him belt it out many times. Have always loved it. But, last night sitting in the 5th row in such an intimate setting, the song struck a cord beyond appreciation of music. <br /><br />It is this darkness and physical risk which is the everyday reality of a mining life that motivated my Mamaw (Grandmother) to be adamant her boys *not* follow the family business and enter the mines at an early age. That they not sign up for later years of black lung and a crippled body. That they create a life based on another livelihood. <br /><br />Not sure she knew she was signing up for her eldest son, my Daddy, to be a career soldier and travel the globe. That his family would be far away from her and she would not have the joy of spending more than the infrequent vacation with her only grandchild. Even so, I believe she would have chosen it if she had known. Mamaw wanted a better life for her sons and their children. <br /><br />With her encouragement my Dad created a life different than the one John sang of. He chose instead a path that lead away from the coal mining hills of <a href="http://www.danteliveson.org/">Dante</a> Virginia, to many duty stations across this country and world, and eventually lead to his daughter being in the <a href="http://www.bluegrass.com/wildflower/">Wildflower Pavilion</a> last night listening to Johnny C sing about what about *used* to be the family business. <br /><br />I am thankful to both my Mamaw and my Daddy. She for having the courage to see and encourage a better life for the generations to come. He for having the courage to make it so.<br /><br />You can check out an early recording of John singing 'Dark As A Dungeon' with New Grass Revival...<br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/VvRdUz96WCA&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/VvRdUz96WCA&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-91270171042996003592009-01-29T17:08:00.002-07:002009-01-29T17:10:53.065-07:00may there be peace withinI came across this quote yesterday via a friend's Facebook post. <br />And, loved it. I knew immediately that I had to share it. <br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-style:italic;">May today there be peace within. <br />May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. <br />May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. <br />May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.<br />May you be content with yourself just the way you are. <br />Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.<br />It is there for each and every one of us.</span></blockquote><br />Being that I reference an author when possible, a quick Google search lead me to a prayer of St. Theresa (below). No doubt the secular version finds it roots in this earlier prayer. <br /><br />Choose the version that speaks to your soul.<br />The one that inspires *you*. <br />And, may there truly be peace within.<br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-style:italic;">May today there be peace within. <br />May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. <br />May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. <br />May you use those gifts that you have received, <br />And pass on the love that has been given to you. <br />May you be content knowing you are a child of God. <br />Let this presence settle into your bones <br />And allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. <br />It is there for each and every one of us. <br /></span></blockquote>nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-32465772248764135252009-01-21T22:42:00.013-07:002009-06-29T13:51:15.846-06:00Celebrating a New BeginningJanuary 20th marked the end of eight years of the same US administration. As George W. Bush walked through the halls in his last moments as President of the United States, I couldn't help but feel a bit of sorrow for him. I believe he loves his country, but that somehow, he did not know how to leave behind the old school traits of corruption and excess that he is familiar with in order to lead this country in a new way. He was unable to make the changes that needed to be made to take our country forward. Worse yet, I am not sure he believed change was in order.<br /><br />The job he accepted 8 years ago and again 4 years ago was not an easy one. Tough choices were faced everyday and the choices his administration made have lead to a time of high unemployment, extended war that has members of our troops deployed for repeated tours, and a low in national confidence and pride of country. Perhaps he served his country in the best way he knew how. But, it was not enough and it is time for change. <br /><br />Yesterday that change came to be. A new President was sworn in and now takes the reigns of leadership. We know the challenges his administration will face in early days. There will be other challenges that we do not yet know of. President Obama himself has said that the road will not be an easy one. <br /><br />The one thing we can count on is a leader that views the world differently. A leader that searches first for those things that we have in common and that bring us together as Americans. A leader that expects the citizens of this country to come together and work together on weathering this storm and being once again the leader we and the world expect us to be. A leader that is asking us, each and every one, to be involved. To be part of the solution. <br /><br />I do have questions. And, if I am honest, a doubt or two. But, more than anything, I am hopeful and ready for the start of the new. For all of us...together...as a nation...as a country.<br /><br /><br /><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/5RbVbHHGq28&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The video is "End of the Old Times" by local Boulder band <a href="http://www.myspace.com/somethingunderground">Something Underground</a>.</span>nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-7439133601254322792009-01-08T17:25:00.002-07:002009-01-22T17:06:00.556-07:00Dreaming of MexicoThis morning I came across a post on <a href="http://cowgirlswest.blogspot.com/2009/01/happy-new-year.html">A Cowgirl's West</a> about her holiday trip to <a href="http://www.puerto-vallarta.com/">Puerto Vallarta</a> and <a href="http://www.sayulitalife.com/">Sayulita</a>. <br /><br />Ah - just what a girl needed (or at least what this girl needed), a reminder of the surf, sand, and off grid time that awaits us in February. Dave and I will be heading out for our annual 'toes in sand' trip with its promise of warm days, calming waves, and a little adventure. It is this annual trip that gets me through the final winter months. <br /><br />Last year we made the trek to PV, followed by a few days near Sayulita. More on that at <a href="http://nancycompton.blogspot.com/2008/03/best-trip-ever-pv-chapter.html">The Best Trip Ever! The PV Chapter</a> and <a href="http://nancycompton.blogspot.com/2008/04/in-last-chapter-our-travelers-were.html">The Best Trip Ever! The Beach Chapter</a>.<br /><br />This year we'll be heading straight to Sayulita. While I am sure there will be plenty of reading time on the beach, I am beginning the research for our days of adventure. Our last trip took us to San Sebastian in the Sierra Madres, so my thoughts are turning to the trips we *just* talked about last year up the coastline to San Pancho (aka San Francisco) and the fishing village of San Blas. Just thinking about the adventure that lies ahead inspires me.nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-16421423994649080842009-01-05T22:40:00.001-07:002009-01-06T10:13:10.069-07:00The Resolution Game PlanHere we are five days into the New Year. A few weeks back, I heard someone refer to 'new' as improved, better, something more than what we have now. It seems to be that this applies to the hopefulness with which we human souls enter a New Year. It is with this hopefulness that we look toward the coming year and call out what it is we want to achieve, what we are hoping our lives will look like in the year to come.<br /><br />My resolution setting has taken a journey of its own over the years. I've set my share of the typical resolutions. You know the sort - lose 20 pounds (which I have done and undone several times), quit smoking (which after a few false starts actually stuck), exercise (some years I make it so, other years not so much). While this format may help others get the jump start they are looking for, frankly I struggled with greeting the New Year with a list of rigid goals.<br /><br />Then, a few years ago my resolutions shifted to broader sweeping goals. With more introspection, I found myself setting goals for the year to include being kind, being less critical of myself and others, setting aside judgement. These guidelines worked for me. I was able to regularly affirm what I wanted to achieve. "Be Kind". That is an easy goal to remember. Not always easy to deliver on, but certainly easy to remember. Maybe it was a bit of a cop out as there was nothing to measure, but there was a large amount of change going on in my life and it felt like progress was being made. <br /><br />But, there was something missing. <br /><br />Part of it was the absence of really reflecting on the past year as a whole - the dusting off the memories and taking a look at the significant, and sometimes insignificant, moments of the year. What am I thankful for? What did I learn? What did I accomplish? What would I do differently the next time around? Maybe more importantly, the flat out stating what it is I want to achieve in the New Year was also missing.<br /><br />This year, I've updated my resolution game plan. Three days of peace and quiet in the mountains and I have come away with those things I'll be getting after in 2009. Some of them are daily commitments - sit in silence at least 10 minutes each day. Some are less structured - blog regularly. Others are things I'll be kicking off this year - learn to play an instrument. Still others are open ended - use what I am passionate about in my daily work.<br /><br />For someone who tends to be a nose to the grindstone girl, my intention is to tuck some cool life stuff into the daily grind. To find ways to achieve my goals and to give back. To check some things off my list and, yes, to still be kind.nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-65668283535297871072009-01-05T17:20:00.001-07:002009-01-22T17:06:45.939-07:00Got Lijit?I recently had the opportunity to spend some time with a member of the <a href="http://www.lijit.com/">Lijit</a> team. <br /><br />As a Boulder area technology enthusiast, I have been aware of Lijit for sometime. You can't live here, be interested in technology, and not have come across the Lijit folks at a tech meet-up, via a <a href="http://twitter.com/lijit">Tweet</a>, or a local publication. They are nearly 3 years into their business, recently raised a significant round of funding, and come across as a team that is passionate about what they are doing - and they do it well. <br /><br />Or at least that is what I have heard. I had not experienced what they do first hand. It was not for lack of interest. Being someone who is curious about how things work, I had been out to a few Lijit supported sites and tried out the search function. Even went as far as to understand how their advertising model works.<br /><br />But, I am relatively new to blogging and have yet to have gotten my groove on, so to speak. I thought that I'd be better suited as a Lijit publisher when I reached the status of consistent blogger and had a following. Not so, this Lijit man told me. He said <a href="http://www.lijit.com/signup/start">"Install the widget now."</a><br /><br />I figured I'd give it a go and installed just before we headed out for a New Year's break in the mountains. Took minutes to install. Really. <br /><br />Now, I have this widget on my blog that shows at a glance where readers are coming from. Frankly, it is pretty cool to see that there are folks other than my Mom that stop by. You can take a look in the right hand column (just click on recent readers). And, more importantly, readers have the ability to easily search my site and those that are in my community. Add to that ad revenue share. I don't blog to make money, but for those that do, this should be a no brainer.<br /><br />Those Lijit folks even push a Weekly Stats Report your way. My first landed in the inbox yesterday and includes details like daily visits, source of the visit (direct or via another blog), searches that brought readers to the blog. Of course, you can view stats real time via your Lijit account anytime.<br /><br />But, don't take my word for it. Check out what others are saying about Lijit right on their <a href="http://www.lijit.com/">home page</a>. Or, you can try it out first hand. If you do, I'd love to hear your take.nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-49455335556241663192008-12-18T12:28:00.001-07:002009-01-22T17:07:56.352-07:00Helping Out With a DreamIn September, our dear friend Lisa invited Dave and I to attend the annual 'I Have a Dream' luncheon. Well, she invited us and our checkbook. Lisa will read that and probably gasp a bit because it may come across as we were invited for our checkbook. In reality, I believe she invited us because we like to support our friends and their passions and because we have expressed a genuine interest in learning more about I Have a Dream.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.ihaveadreamfoundation.org/html/">I Have a Dream</a> is a national non-profit that adopts entire classes of low-income 2nd grade students and supports them through their primary and secondary education years. Each student who successfully graduates from high school has the opportunity to further their education through vocational training, college, or university. <a href="http://www.ihadboulder.org/joomla/">The Boulder Chapter</a> has grown from humble part-time beginnings 12 years ago to a fully staffed operation that recently celebrated the Grand Opening of a new Community Center.<br /><br />The luncheon was a moving experience as <a href="http://www.ihadboulder.org/joomla/index.php?option=com_content&task=category§ionid=4&id=53&Itemid=79">Dreamers</a> shared real life stories of the difference the program makes for them and their families everyday. Board members, donors and volunteers shared the rewards of contributing to the life of a child as they overcome challenges to reach the goal of an education and make the dream of a career a reality.<br /><br />We chose then and there to support this life changing program and look forward to becoming more involved in the coming year. There is sure to be another post down the road, but if you want to learn more today, check out the Boulder County I Have a Dream website <a href="http://www.ihadboulder.org/joomla/index.php?option=com_content&task=category§ionid=2&id=3&Itemid=26">here</a>.<br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-style:italic;">"Dreamers are taught at an early age that college is possible for them. As they mature, they receive extensive career and college preparation guidance, visit campuses, and are assisted through the application process."</span> - excerpt from "About Us" on the Boulder County I Have a Dream website</blockquote>nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-50532422943051827962008-12-17T17:19:00.000-07:002008-12-17T17:19:20.692-07:00The Choice of a CarI grew up in an American car family. My Dad was raised in rural Virginia where the American car is king. We come from a long line of coal miners and back in the day the dream car was a Lincoln Continental. My Mamaw wanted one in the worst way. Funny since she did not drive. She road instead in a short bed Chevy pickup, with a side step.<br /><br />Even when we lived in Germany, it was an American car that tooled us around the country as we explored places my Daddy had been stationed on earlier tours and discovered new places for us all. I couldn't tell you the model, but the car was a white hatchback and most certainly a GM product.<br /><br />In later years when we became a two car family, it was two GM vehicles that filled our driveway. My Dad would buy a new ride every three years. Sometimes a Chevy, sometimes an Olds, sometimes a Pontiac. But, always a GM. Well, there was that short time that we had a Ford Courier pickup, but that is another story.<br /><br />The first car I called my very own was a GM too. It was Pontiac Sunbird held together with duct tape. It had no air conditioning (we lived in Florida) and broke down at the most inconvenient times, but it had a great radio and it was mine. There was one other used Chevy Ciatation that periodically stopped in intersections. Not stalled, but died all together. That created some interesting moments for a nineteen year old girl. Then, I had a steady job with good pay and my very first new car was about to become a reality. Dad and I looked in the car lots on Thanksgiving day and decided on a beautiful Blue Pontiac Grand Am. It had it all...an awesome sound system, power windows, and it was stylin'.<br /><br />It could have been a long love affair between my first new car and I, but just shy of the warranty expiration my mechanic friend tells me that I better find a shop I like doing business with because this car has trouble coming. <br /><br />Then, I bailed. I walked away from family tradition. I bought a Mazda. Dad was not happy and jokingly told me that my car was not welcome in his driveway. But that Mazda, I had it for 10 years. And, it never let me down. Ever. <br /><br />And, my Dad stayed true to GM. To him the General Motors cars stood for something. The pride America once had in making a product that was the best. That met the market needs. That created an image and a lifestyle that he was proud to be a part of. <br /><br />Just last year Mom traded in the last car he bought her before his passing. I think she would have liked to buy American, but she needed a reliable, high gas mileage car that would last for more than Dad's three year cycle. In her garage is a Honda Civic. She loves it. And it will be on the road for years.<br /><br />The American car companies are in trouble. There are many reasons this is the case. In my view it is largely because they are not meeting market needs, they are not setting trends, and they are not making cars that will last on the road for ten years with little effort. They have forgotten that we consumers do have a choice about what we buy, even if we do not have a choice about who we bailout.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2cboroFYm3attMC19sSZpP-XwyTjSv76uJ4VNe0QHEaFqmzr3sayhZRbmkbuNBTW-y389NRlwMy9MiK_DFPtJOgJbBALjXlMxt3AaSgW362enSq8l3QvHOlKkEm2s47R3QtqKtsvH-o5i/s1600-h/youwouldntbuyour.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 231px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2cboroFYm3attMC19sSZpP-XwyTjSv76uJ4VNe0QHEaFqmzr3sayhZRbmkbuNBTW-y389NRlwMy9MiK_DFPtJOgJbBALjXlMxt3AaSgW362enSq8l3QvHOlKkEm2s47R3QtqKtsvH-o5i/s320/youwouldntbuyour.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5278723240111351410" /></a>nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-64140524268672024052008-12-11T13:36:00.007-07:002008-12-17T17:19:55.444-07:00Changing The NameEarlier this year I kicked off my blog and have experienced the on again, off again posting phenomenon that other 'non-professional' bloggers comment on. <br /><br />Blogging, Twittering, and Facebooking have little to do with my current place in the professional world. I participate in the Social Media world as a way to educate myself on these trends. After all, who knows when there might be a use in my workaday world for what I learn. There is also an interest to have awareness of what is developing in our Boulder Tech Community and the industry at large. And, if I am completely honest, it is just plain fun to be have access to the vastly different views that I am not exposed to in my day to day life. There are also those moments I learn something new, or expand my knowledge on a topic that I care about. <br /><br />At some point, I'd like to contribute to this knowledge share. I figure the first step is to begin to post regularly those things that hold my attention, use my brain power, or my heart power. It may be only me that reads these posts. That's fine. Probably preferred. That way I can cultivate what this blog will be without an audience to impress.<br /><br />That brings me to the name change. Just yesterday, as I am thinking about this, I pop out to my blog. Except I don't type it just right and I end up on a pretty explicit porn site. <br /><br />Ack! was my first response. Then, holy shi*!*!*. What if my Mom makes the same mistake when visiting my blog. What if my friends do. What if someone I know professionally stumbles upon the site. So, there ya have it. The reason for the move to the new blog name that is a little less imaginative than the norm. It is after all, just my name. But, hey, no matter how my life, experiences, profession, or person evolve, it will always apply. And, I think it is a pretty safe site url to keep those I care about from making an unexpected visit to a porn site.nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-71564765221056215852008-08-29T11:58:00.023-06:002009-01-22T17:08:54.115-07:00Freedom of FaithI am not an expert on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Creationism">Creationism.</a> Having said that, I guess I am a bit surprised by the movement to teach Creationism in the public school system.<div><br /></div><div>It is not that I don't believe there is a Creator. I do. In my childhood years as a Southern Baptist this Creator was the traditional Christian view. My view has shifted over the years and what I now call the Creator / Spirit / Universe has a different meaning for me. It is a fair bet that my view and sense of a Creator will continue to evolve while I walk this earth and have more experiences with each passing day.</div><div><br /></div><div>My view is that, just mine. I am pretty fortunate that I have people in my life with views that are both differing and similar to mine. Often it is those differing views that prompt reflection and a check in on my position. Lively conversation can entail and my view of the world inevitably expands.</div><div><br /></div><div>Our country is a melting pot that brings a blend of people along with each of their views - cultural, political, religious / faith based. One of the gifts of being a US citizen is that each individual is able to choose what we each believe and what faith we observe within our homes, with our family, and with our children. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>As I do not have children, my connection to the public school system is not an active one. My interest is purely as the collective whole and understanding that the children are indeed our future. Children in our public school system come from homes with differing views and faiths. It is a 'good' thing that they are exposed to new learnings via school curriculum, but to suppose that <span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;">each</span> child should be taught the Christian view of Creationism flies in the face of honoring and respecting their family's right to the religious freedom and practice of faith supported by the <a href="http://www.usconstitution.net/const.html#Am1">First Amendment</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Make Creationism available to those that choose to learn it, just as my high school Theologies class was available by choice. Or make it a choice to teach it in the home. But, make it just that, a choice.</div><div><br /></div>nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-59577377432405390752008-08-26T10:05:00.016-06:002008-08-28T08:43:05.950-06:00Reminders for a Better LifeIt has been some time since my last blog. It is not that I don't think about blogging. I do. Almost every day. <div><br /></div><div>I think about blogging about the music events we have been to recently, the cool up and coming new technology companies in Boulder, the experiences we have living on open space, and those people that have been a positive force in my life. <div><br /></div><div>I've considered blogging about <a href="http://download.srv.cs.cmu.edu/~pausch/">Randy Pausch</a> and what an inspiration he continues to be as his <a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=ji5_MqicxSo">Last Lecture</a> reaches more and more people everyday. About <a href="http://wherethehellismatt.com/?fbid=f9gAF">Where the Hell is Matt</a> and how his simple act of joining people through dance warms the heart. About Eric Lowen of <a href="http://www.lownav.com/">Lowen and Navarro</a> and how he is living his life to the fullest while <a href="http://www.alsa.org/als/what.cfm?CFID=765545&CFTOKEN=7528b9febcef1a65-FFD0B930-188B-2E62-80A517F6F9D0E1C4">ALS</a> changes his life a little more with each passing day.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have thought about it, but the words have not made it onto the page. </div><div><br /></div><div>And then, this week I received an email that touched me. You know the kind - an email that makes the circuit. As we each read it, we think "wow, that makes sense" and then we pass it along to our friends. I did pass this one on. And, then I read it again. Then I printed it to keep close by as a little reminder to take care of myself, make the time for what is important, and to be kind to those I love as well as random people I meet in my day to day life. </div><div><br /></div><div>Now, I am breaking my blogging fast and am sharing it with you. Perhaps it will "make sense" and you'll pass it along. Perhaps it will be your little reminder, too. Or, perhaps the words will sit with you quietly and come back to you just when you need the wisdom they share.</div><div><br /></div><div>(I am sorry to say I do not know from where the list originated and a Google search brought only others that were sharing the words just as I. To the unknown author - thank you.)</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">25 Tips for a Better Life</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ol><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Take a 10 - 30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Buy a lock if you have to.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement, "My purpose is to _________ today."</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli, almonds and walnuts.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Try to make at least three people smile each day.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy vampires, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a college kid with a maxed out credit card.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Life isn't fair, but it's still good.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">No one is in charge of your happiness except you.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Forgive everyone for everything.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">What other people think of you is none of your business.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">God heals almost everything.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">However good or bad a situation is, it will change.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Each night before you got to bed complete the following statements: "I am thankful for _______ . Today I accomplished _______ ."</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Forward this to everyone you care about.</span></li></ol></div></div>nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873904481343436475.post-21465848308972418632008-04-17T16:53:00.008-06:002009-01-22T17:09:53.723-07:00That Was Then, This Is Now<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVlWSMthE-Ipnlfc-jqS3IpOngJi8htwKOQA_TGUu0qJbG3MSB3qRxv_ugHxhhwGvL_dcP2jejYxkGIn3fFNhRXcpOIK-1cpga61Bp5MLlYjRAbrX0CcyAKlD7sNOzPh2B5K4a-ggi_467/s1600-h/Becky+%26+Nancy+Then.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVlWSMthE-Ipnlfc-jqS3IpOngJi8htwKOQA_TGUu0qJbG3MSB3qRxv_ugHxhhwGvL_dcP2jejYxkGIn3fFNhRXcpOIK-1cpga61Bp5MLlYjRAbrX0CcyAKlD7sNOzPh2B5K4a-ggi_467/s320/Becky+%26+Nancy+Then.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5190619277696014930" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4UAx64ymDprnApShm89ZMqFUSpi2gpL7Mn6_9Tv5eEmYFrmxO9cH50lRg58hBYXvI6k9I5Tuk1-WKSWmS6DbTt8tt6l4yyrpCNhg6LVCmCHrvvZmlC26xwzpvG2rlSGCw1Snol24bqVlI/s1600-h/Beck+and+Nanc+April+2008.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4UAx64ymDprnApShm89ZMqFUSpi2gpL7Mn6_9Tv5eEmYFrmxO9cH50lRg58hBYXvI6k9I5Tuk1-WKSWmS6DbTt8tt6l4yyrpCNhg6LVCmCHrvvZmlC26xwzpvG2rlSGCw1Snol24bqVlI/s320/Beck+and+Nanc+April+2008.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5190619196091636290" border="0" /></a><br />My dad was career Army. So, I was raised as a military kid and moved quite a bit. The long duty tours were three years, others were shorter. I learned to appreciate new environments, seeing things I had never seen, and meeting new people. <span style=""> </span>This is the foundation of my thirst for adventure, change and moving house more than the average bear.<br /><p class="MsoNormal">One of the things that my childhood did not hold was friendships that lasted for more than a duty tour. Sure, we'd stay in touch for a while and write a few letters. But, then you are off to your new life and so are your old friends. You might hold your memories close and pull them out (along with photos) from time to time, but the connections fade.<br /><br />While the internet has made it easier to find those long lost friends, I have learned that many of those delinquent friends (yep, we were a handful for our parents) just aren't connected via technology. I'll leave the entertaining details out about some of the folks I have tracked down. Just trust me when I say it is the stuff of grocery store rags. You know the kind, <a href="http://www.nationalenquirer.com/">The National Enquirer</a> and the Star.<br /><br />There are a handful of us that have not only survived, but are doing pretty darn well. I am lucky to count myself in that group and was very excited to reconnect with another such soul last week.<br /><br />Becky and I became quick friends when I arrived to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hephzibah,_Georgia">Hephzibah, GA</a> (perhaps the armpit of Georgia) in1979. She was the kind person that reached out to the new kid and brought her into a very tight neighborhood group of kids. Becky was the calm force in the chaos of those early teenage years. The years of first broken hearts, climbing out of windows, rock music, walking everywhere, and figuring out who we were going to become.<br /><br />Becky has not only become a wonderful person, but also an accomplished career army warrant officer. She has taught soldiers celestial navigation skills, delivered soldiers to R&R areas via her boat in times of conflict, and has found her place in history being the first female CW4 to skipper a boat in the US Army.<br /><br />Our evening together was full of forgotten memories that came back to life like they happened just yesterday, laughter, and a new friendship that is developing based on who we are today.<br /><br />Beckola - here's to who you were then, who you are now, and to creating more memories together!</p>nancy comptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03279105472626631332noreply@blogger.com0