I’m sitting here on Mother’s day and after posting on Facebook I thought I should post something on my blog. Really? It’s been a month since I posted a blog?! I guess it’s about time.
Now that the weather is getting better I’m missing my “stuff”. I can’t just pull out the gas grill or my motorcycle or even the little things like a pruning snip. (I miss my grill the most.) We’re hoping we can get back to east side and gather up a few of those things to enjoy this summer.
We are enjoying the area already. There are great walking paths around the area and while Dena go for regular walks with Cindy (a friend from church) Dena and I have taken a few walks ourselves. I took a bike ride just yesterday on some trails I hadn’t explored but now I’m excited to start riding regularly and maybe take off a few winter pounds. The area is really nice and we’re starting to enjoy living in town again.
At work I have been keeping my promise to myself to slow down a little and I have been working hard on “the project”. While I’ve made some progress I still get side tracked by all my other duties. I also got a few other things off the ground as well.
I got a page on the city website done and started a facebook page for the PD. Now I’ve committed to putting time into them but it’s not like I have a history of neglecting things....like this blog...Doh!
I’ve also have to go over resumes this week and see if I can pick up a couple of more part time officers. I want to get the staffing where it should be so I need these people but it scares me a little because of the turnover. I really don’t want to have to keep hiring more people all the time but that’s just the way it’s going to be.
I’m also learning a more about the life of a budget. I have to figure out how to squeeze some Tasers out of a budget that doesn’t have a budget for Tasers. I’m a little conflicted because I know what a great tool they are and want to have them for the officers but I don’t have much experience at politicking for that kind of stuff. This is a learning curve that I want to flatten out a bit. I just have to put some focus on that project now.
Have you ever enjoyed a juggler that can juggle an egg, a knife and a bowling ball all at the same time? I’m thinking that I can do that...American Funniest Video style. That’s how I feel sometimes but it’s still a rush. I’m really enjoying the adventure, learning new things, making new friends and facing new challenges.
Maybe next time I’ll have a good story to tell. Later.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Sunday, April 10, 2011
April 10, 2011
I really hate yard work. If you ever visited my house you would know that but there’s something intoxicating about the sun. Sunday afternoon was the first day the temperature topped 70 in I don’t know how long. I decided that I would go to our little patio to work on my blog but as soon as I stepped outside something, some sort of instinct, something that overcomes even the most sprouted couch potato, and I started to do yard work.
IT’S NOT EVEN MY PROPERTY!! And I couldn’t stop either. I not only cleaned up around our patio I went out and picked up all the papers and cans in the parking lot! I needed a CURE and I got it.... I started to sweat. The sensation made me realize that I was doing WORK and I put everything away, got a Coke and sat down in front of the computer. Wow! That was close. You can call me Spud again.
As a kid I got up every Saturday morning to watch Buggs Bunny and The Roadrunner and Coyote show. I would watch Wile E. Coyote work so hard to devise a way to catch the Roadrunner and then fail miserably. Sometimes the way things go I wonder if I didn’t subconsciously make him a role model but I digress. One episode I recall the Coyote tie several large balloons to his waist.
The bright red, blue, green and yellow balloons slowly lifted him high in the air where he came to the cliff where the Roadrunner waited. When Coyote reached out for his prey the Roadrunner filled the Coyote’s arms with an anvil and poor Coyote sped to ground with a crash and the balloons were replace with swirling stars around his head. Did you every wonder why the Coyote didn’t let go of the anvil? Are you wondering why I’m telling this story?
I thought of that illustration after my week at “New Chief School”. Here I have been chasing this thing and I reached the cliff to grabbed my prize. Then they warned our group of all the things expected of a Chief and warned of all the things that could go wrong and the prize suddenly felt like an anvil. AAAGGHHH!! A voice in my head said, “Let go of the anvil! Why did you reach for it in the first place!? Weren’t you happy and safe before?!”
Friday morning at class I looked around the room and suddenly I had a swell of peace and pride. I was EXACTLY where I wanted to be. God had put me here and I had nothing to be afraid of because no matter what my position is, God is with me. I’m gonna hold onto that anvil and enjoy the ride.
I do have to say that the thing I took away from my week at school was not so much the information as the inspiration and motivation. I’m refocusing myself and I’m going to try and be more deliberate in what I’m doing and I had a good week at work. Still much to do and many decisions to make.
To cap off my week I decided that I would go out Friday night and hit the streets. I’ve heard it said that you never forget how to ride a bike but you need to have all the parts on your bike and know the trail you’re riding or you can still crash.
When I was in a patrol car I prided myself on being fully equipped and prepared so just minutes into the shift I showed up to assist the night sergeant Doug on a stop. He turned to me and asked if I had something to remove a license plate, “Of course I do” I thought to myself and then realized that I left my briefcase with wrenches, pliers and screwdrivers back at the office. Doh!! So I headed back to the office.
I got back with my tools and Doug has the driver completely filling the back seat of his patrol and says to me, “Can you take her to jail for me?” “Of course I can” I say to myself and stride up with confidence, tell her she’s under arrest, put the handcuffs on her and reach for my handcuff key...DOH!! I try to be kind to myself when my mind says, “It’s in your desk drawer you fool!” “Ha!” says the right hemisphere, “I’ve got a backup on my key ring.” DOOOH!! “You gave that back to Owosso moron” the left hemisphere replies. The frontal lobe responds cooly and I use the handy ink pen in my pocket instead to double lock the cuffs.
Now I’m covered for the short term but eventually I’ve got to take these things off and I’m going to a jail where I have never been before. Remember that pride I talked about Friday of Chief school, well I get to swallow all of that plus when I have to ask Doug for his key at the jail. The procedure at the jail isn’t difficult but it was like going to visit the first home in Japan when I didn’t know whether to take off my shoes or bow to my hose. Awkward.
The night was fun but made me feel like a guest conductor for a symphony without having the sheet music, I’d just be waving my arms. But it was fun and now I have another page of the music to work with.
More later.
I really hate yard work. If you ever visited my house you would know that but there’s something intoxicating about the sun. Sunday afternoon was the first day the temperature topped 70 in I don’t know how long. I decided that I would go to our little patio to work on my blog but as soon as I stepped outside something, some sort of instinct, something that overcomes even the most sprouted couch potato, and I started to do yard work.
IT’S NOT EVEN MY PROPERTY!! And I couldn’t stop either. I not only cleaned up around our patio I went out and picked up all the papers and cans in the parking lot! I needed a CURE and I got it.... I started to sweat. The sensation made me realize that I was doing WORK and I put everything away, got a Coke and sat down in front of the computer. Wow! That was close. You can call me Spud again.
As a kid I got up every Saturday morning to watch Buggs Bunny and The Roadrunner and Coyote show. I would watch Wile E. Coyote work so hard to devise a way to catch the Roadrunner and then fail miserably. Sometimes the way things go I wonder if I didn’t subconsciously make him a role model but I digress. One episode I recall the Coyote tie several large balloons to his waist.
The bright red, blue, green and yellow balloons slowly lifted him high in the air where he came to the cliff where the Roadrunner waited. When Coyote reached out for his prey the Roadrunner filled the Coyote’s arms with an anvil and poor Coyote sped to ground with a crash and the balloons were replace with swirling stars around his head. Did you every wonder why the Coyote didn’t let go of the anvil? Are you wondering why I’m telling this story?
I thought of that illustration after my week at “New Chief School”. Here I have been chasing this thing and I reached the cliff to grabbed my prize. Then they warned our group of all the things expected of a Chief and warned of all the things that could go wrong and the prize suddenly felt like an anvil. AAAGGHHH!! A voice in my head said, “Let go of the anvil! Why did you reach for it in the first place!? Weren’t you happy and safe before?!”
Friday morning at class I looked around the room and suddenly I had a swell of peace and pride. I was EXACTLY where I wanted to be. God had put me here and I had nothing to be afraid of because no matter what my position is, God is with me. I’m gonna hold onto that anvil and enjoy the ride.
I do have to say that the thing I took away from my week at school was not so much the information as the inspiration and motivation. I’m refocusing myself and I’m going to try and be more deliberate in what I’m doing and I had a good week at work. Still much to do and many decisions to make.
To cap off my week I decided that I would go out Friday night and hit the streets. I’ve heard it said that you never forget how to ride a bike but you need to have all the parts on your bike and know the trail you’re riding or you can still crash.
When I was in a patrol car I prided myself on being fully equipped and prepared so just minutes into the shift I showed up to assist the night sergeant Doug on a stop. He turned to me and asked if I had something to remove a license plate, “Of course I do” I thought to myself and then realized that I left my briefcase with wrenches, pliers and screwdrivers back at the office. Doh!! So I headed back to the office.
I got back with my tools and Doug has the driver completely filling the back seat of his patrol and says to me, “Can you take her to jail for me?” “Of course I can” I say to myself and stride up with confidence, tell her she’s under arrest, put the handcuffs on her and reach for my handcuff key...DOH!! I try to be kind to myself when my mind says, “It’s in your desk drawer you fool!” “Ha!” says the right hemisphere, “I’ve got a backup on my key ring.” DOOOH!! “You gave that back to Owosso moron” the left hemisphere replies. The frontal lobe responds cooly and I use the handy ink pen in my pocket instead to double lock the cuffs.
Now I’m covered for the short term but eventually I’ve got to take these things off and I’m going to a jail where I have never been before. Remember that pride I talked about Friday of Chief school, well I get to swallow all of that plus when I have to ask Doug for his key at the jail. The procedure at the jail isn’t difficult but it was like going to visit the first home in Japan when I didn’t know whether to take off my shoes or bow to my hose. Awkward.
The night was fun but made me feel like a guest conductor for a symphony without having the sheet music, I’d just be waving my arms. But it was fun and now I have another page of the music to work with.
More later.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Sorry
Sorry
Before I get too far into my bolg, which is long overdue by the way, I want mention a couple of people. First is that nasty, mean spirited, grumpy, sadistic, horrible, stingy with her grades like Ebenezer Scrooge with her grades, composition teacher I had in high school, the only teacher with enough NERVE to give me a D, Ms Pohl. Thanks. You made me earn my grade and made me learn.
Second is Dad. He loved to talk and tell stories and did have a way of spinning a yarn. He passed that on to me and I probably wouldn’t be writing this if he hadn’t. Still miss him sometimes.
I have started to write a couple of times here but had a bad case of writer’s block. There are still new experiences every day but I now it seems more like watching a NASCAR race. Each day flies by as a blur of things like the lead pack zoom, zoom, zoom......zoom. Fun, but the real excitement comes at the finish. What?! There’s no finish line!? I guess this is where staying in the lead lap is the goal.
I’ve had to make a few trips back to Owosso for unfinished business. Two times I got all the way back for hearings just to have them canceled. That’s as frustrating as getting to the bakery and finding out they don’t have any jelly filled donuts! Hopefully that business will all be over soon because I like road trips about as much as having the dentist inject Novocain in my jaw.
It’s fun to go back “home” but there’s never enough time to visit everyone. That too is a little frustrating. This weekend (25th) we’ll be back around the home area because I have class in Lansing the last week of March. I’m going to “new Chief school” to learn what mistakes I made the first 3 months or better yet how to fix them.
I still want to be more patient and take time making changes but I can’t help myself. Maybe I’ve been possessed by Lindsay Lohan? And I don’t understand why some of my friend’s sounded sarcastic when I told them about this.
My first budget project is due tomorrow and I’ve got it all done but it’s amazing how fast the dollars add up. Everything is legitimate and justifiable but it still somehow seems like too much. Now that I’ve decided what to ask for I have to decide what to stand up for. The whole thing will be an interesting learning process. (Keep telling yourself that Squiers.)
Dena and I have visited a few churches and think we have found a church to stay with. The pastor is a young man, a very energetic and good teacher and he seems to have a plan for the church. We’re excited about getting plugged in again and have volunteered to help with their Awana Fair.
Dena hasn’t found work yet so she continues to work on making me fat and then drags me out into the cold for long walks so I won’t get fat. If I didn’t cooperate so much with her first efforts I wouldn’t have to cooperate so much with the second. I’ve had to give up the basketball because I hurt myself enough that I’ve got to if I want to golf this summer.
Sorry it took me so long to post but today was the first day of Spring and Spring brings things to life. There ya go.
Before I get too far into my bolg, which is long overdue by the way, I want mention a couple of people. First is that nasty, mean spirited, grumpy, sadistic, horrible, stingy with her grades like Ebenezer Scrooge with her grades, composition teacher I had in high school, the only teacher with enough NERVE to give me a D, Ms Pohl. Thanks. You made me earn my grade and made me learn.
Second is Dad. He loved to talk and tell stories and did have a way of spinning a yarn. He passed that on to me and I probably wouldn’t be writing this if he hadn’t. Still miss him sometimes.
I have started to write a couple of times here but had a bad case of writer’s block. There are still new experiences every day but I now it seems more like watching a NASCAR race. Each day flies by as a blur of things like the lead pack zoom, zoom, zoom......zoom. Fun, but the real excitement comes at the finish. What?! There’s no finish line!? I guess this is where staying in the lead lap is the goal.
I’ve had to make a few trips back to Owosso for unfinished business. Two times I got all the way back for hearings just to have them canceled. That’s as frustrating as getting to the bakery and finding out they don’t have any jelly filled donuts! Hopefully that business will all be over soon because I like road trips about as much as having the dentist inject Novocain in my jaw.
It’s fun to go back “home” but there’s never enough time to visit everyone. That too is a little frustrating. This weekend (25th) we’ll be back around the home area because I have class in Lansing the last week of March. I’m going to “new Chief school” to learn what mistakes I made the first 3 months or better yet how to fix them.
I still want to be more patient and take time making changes but I can’t help myself. Maybe I’ve been possessed by Lindsay Lohan? And I don’t understand why some of my friend’s sounded sarcastic when I told them about this.
My first budget project is due tomorrow and I’ve got it all done but it’s amazing how fast the dollars add up. Everything is legitimate and justifiable but it still somehow seems like too much. Now that I’ve decided what to ask for I have to decide what to stand up for. The whole thing will be an interesting learning process. (Keep telling yourself that Squiers.)
Dena and I have visited a few churches and think we have found a church to stay with. The pastor is a young man, a very energetic and good teacher and he seems to have a plan for the church. We’re excited about getting plugged in again and have volunteered to help with their Awana Fair.
Dena hasn’t found work yet so she continues to work on making me fat and then drags me out into the cold for long walks so I won’t get fat. If I didn’t cooperate so much with her first efforts I wouldn’t have to cooperate so much with the second. I’ve had to give up the basketball because I hurt myself enough that I’ve got to if I want to golf this summer.
Sorry it took me so long to post but today was the first day of Spring and Spring brings things to life. There ya go.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Wednesday Nights
Wednesday nights
I’ve been really busy lately and I’ll blog some thoughts from that sometime soon but one of the things I’ve really enjoyed since coming to Whitehall is Wednesday nights. I’ve said before that the people here are close and have fun together. Wednesday night Travis (the School Resource Officer) gets the gym at the local elementary and we play basketball on 7’6” rims. I need the exercise especially since Dena hasn’t found a job yet.
So let me explain. I’ve been spoiled like the only child of a rich family and now I’m getting to be half of the duo on “CHiPS”...Paunch. Dena gets up with me in the morning and makes me breakfast. I come home at lunch to a fresh hot lunch and when I get out of work Dena has dinner ready and on the table. Hopefully Dena will get a job before I’m the size of both “CHiPS” stars together. Until then (and probably after) I’ll play basketball on Wednesdays.
Before any of you start thinking I’m too old for this, you’re right but be quiet anyway. When I show up at the court I can see the fear in the other player’s eyes. I’m the tallest player on the court and when I make a move for the basket....they know I could trip and fall and take them out without mercy.
Case in point. Just two weeks ago I was standing under the basket ready to gobble up the rebound like a dog on what the cat threw up. Being a giant among men I was able to reach up and do a reverse slam dunk...right into my own face. Tell me that story doesn’t do something to you. Ha! You can’t! There is also a certain karma to that.
Not that I’m a big believer in karma but you gotta wonder. Months ago I bought nice new glasses and at the same time bought a cheap pair for sports so the new glasses would have a better chance at survival than my old glasses. When I started Wednesday night basketball I forgot my “sports” glasses and went without. While this made my vision as fuzzy as a cheap stuffed animal I never took a hand, elbow, basketball or my own knee to my face. (this is where I could tell the story of breaking my own nose with my own knee but maybe some other time)
Weeks went by where I would either remember my sports glasses or go without and nary a face shot. Then the fateful week I decided to wear my good glasses. That was when I slam dunked into my own face. Just a short time later my hands functioned as a deflector shield...the deflected a basketball pass right into my face. This one knocked off my glasses, cut my nose and gave me a black eye. So now with the other players again looking like teddy bears I finished the night with my glasses intact but not so my dignity.
What the heck, I’ll still play basketball and hopefully I’ll remember my sport glasses.
I’ve been really busy lately and I’ll blog some thoughts from that sometime soon but one of the things I’ve really enjoyed since coming to Whitehall is Wednesday nights. I’ve said before that the people here are close and have fun together. Wednesday night Travis (the School Resource Officer) gets the gym at the local elementary and we play basketball on 7’6” rims. I need the exercise especially since Dena hasn’t found a job yet.
So let me explain. I’ve been spoiled like the only child of a rich family and now I’m getting to be half of the duo on “CHiPS”...Paunch. Dena gets up with me in the morning and makes me breakfast. I come home at lunch to a fresh hot lunch and when I get out of work Dena has dinner ready and on the table. Hopefully Dena will get a job before I’m the size of both “CHiPS” stars together. Until then (and probably after) I’ll play basketball on Wednesdays.
Before any of you start thinking I’m too old for this, you’re right but be quiet anyway. When I show up at the court I can see the fear in the other player’s eyes. I’m the tallest player on the court and when I make a move for the basket....they know I could trip and fall and take them out without mercy.
Case in point. Just two weeks ago I was standing under the basket ready to gobble up the rebound like a dog on what the cat threw up. Being a giant among men I was able to reach up and do a reverse slam dunk...right into my own face. Tell me that story doesn’t do something to you. Ha! You can’t! There is also a certain karma to that.
Not that I’m a big believer in karma but you gotta wonder. Months ago I bought nice new glasses and at the same time bought a cheap pair for sports so the new glasses would have a better chance at survival than my old glasses. When I started Wednesday night basketball I forgot my “sports” glasses and went without. While this made my vision as fuzzy as a cheap stuffed animal I never took a hand, elbow, basketball or my own knee to my face. (this is where I could tell the story of breaking my own nose with my own knee but maybe some other time)
Weeks went by where I would either remember my sports glasses or go without and nary a face shot. Then the fateful week I decided to wear my good glasses. That was when I slam dunked into my own face. Just a short time later my hands functioned as a deflector shield...the deflected a basketball pass right into my face. This one knocked off my glasses, cut my nose and gave me a black eye. So now with the other players again looking like teddy bears I finished the night with my glasses intact but not so my dignity.
What the heck, I’ll still play basketball and hopefully I’ll remember my sport glasses.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
The Washing Machine
The Washing Machine
I guess that not everything on my blog has to be about the new job. There are so many things that have been affected by the move and one of them was a washing machine. When we moved we didn’t want the old washer because of the abuse it received from our salty water and I didn’t think the stackable washer/dryer we had would fit. I though we could just get by for a while and maybe even have to buy new appliances. That stackable didn’t work right the last time I tried it.
Now three weeks in Dena was a little tired of the laundromat and so was I. (What am I saying? I never stepped foot in the laundromat!) I mean I felt bad for Dena. So the this last weekend we were planning on going to Owosso to visit family and friends and play Bunko. We thought we could kill two birds with one stone and pick up the washer/dryer at the same time.
Now like most of the stories I tell this isn’t going to over soon so get a cup of coffee or tea before you continue. The story actually covers 5 days so it wasn’t over soon for me either.
Friday afternoon we headed out with a plan of efficient and swift movement but no such plan can withstand my luck. First we went to Dewitt to get the trailer to haul the washing machine but the lights that worked the last time I used the trailer now wouldn’t work at all. (Sometime I'll have to tell you some of my trailer stories.) After fussing about an hour and a half in the cold (I don’t like cold) I decided I would just have to return later.
Of course that also made us late for the next stop where we also realized that we left the gift for Becca back in Whitehall. That also made us late getting to Mom’s who was waiting for medicine we were bringing her. Okay, so now we get a night’s sleep (not a “good” night’s sleep because the air mattress was loosing air) and I’m up the next morning to fresh snow to shovel and then a trip back to Dewitt to get the trailer.
I still couldn’t get the lights to work so I figured I’d be nice to all the other cars and take back roads. That led to an hour and a half of white knuckle driving and then to get the washing machine. Manny and Amy who are renting our house in Owosso were willing to help me get the machine out of the basement but that was probably because they didn’t know how difficult it would be.
The combo is 6 feet high and weighs just a little less than a full grown elephant. The staircase to the basement is just wide enough to strip the skin off your knuckles and the steps are too far apart to use my hand truck. Moving the washing machine up the stairs gave me insight to what it would be like to move a sumo wrestler out of the ring. When we finally got the washing machine to the trailer I wasn’t up to the task of putting a 6 foot into a 6 foot tall space. I just laid it on the floor.
The best part of the story is we got home safely and got the washing machine into the apartment and bathroom with relative ease. “Relative” is an important thing to note because it really wasn’t all that easy. I’m just saying my luck was better at this point. Then because the washing machine wasn’t working right the last time I thought I would have to fix it before we could use it. It turns out that after we set it up it worked just fine without any repair and I had all the parts. Hallelujah!
Now that’s not the end of the story. On Tuesday I was scheduled to go back to Owosso and there’s no room for that trailer here so again thinking I’d try to be efficient I planned to take the trailer back to Dewitt. I just got started on the trip when Dena called to remind me that again I forgot to take Becca’s gift so I had to turn around and go back. I guess I can give up on the second career as an efficiency expert.
The white knuckle Saturday was nothing compared to Tuesday. I was on I-96 with traffic on all sides of me and wind blowing across the road when I started to jackknife and slide. You know that taste you get in your mouth right after a brush with death? They’ll never make a breath mint out of that taste.
I was about half way to Dewitt when I got a call that I didn’t have to go to Owosso after all. Strangely it was of no comfort at that point. I pressed on and got the trailer back to Dewitt and eventually returned to Whitehall alive but mentally battered.
This ordeal cost only about $100 in gas but I’m thinking next time I’ll just buy the new washer and dryer.
I guess that not everything on my blog has to be about the new job. There are so many things that have been affected by the move and one of them was a washing machine. When we moved we didn’t want the old washer because of the abuse it received from our salty water and I didn’t think the stackable washer/dryer we had would fit. I though we could just get by for a while and maybe even have to buy new appliances. That stackable didn’t work right the last time I tried it.
Now three weeks in Dena was a little tired of the laundromat and so was I. (What am I saying? I never stepped foot in the laundromat!) I mean I felt bad for Dena. So the this last weekend we were planning on going to Owosso to visit family and friends and play Bunko. We thought we could kill two birds with one stone and pick up the washer/dryer at the same time.
Now like most of the stories I tell this isn’t going to over soon so get a cup of coffee or tea before you continue. The story actually covers 5 days so it wasn’t over soon for me either.
Friday afternoon we headed out with a plan of efficient and swift movement but no such plan can withstand my luck. First we went to Dewitt to get the trailer to haul the washing machine but the lights that worked the last time I used the trailer now wouldn’t work at all. (Sometime I'll have to tell you some of my trailer stories.) After fussing about an hour and a half in the cold (I don’t like cold) I decided I would just have to return later.
Of course that also made us late for the next stop where we also realized that we left the gift for Becca back in Whitehall. That also made us late getting to Mom’s who was waiting for medicine we were bringing her. Okay, so now we get a night’s sleep (not a “good” night’s sleep because the air mattress was loosing air) and I’m up the next morning to fresh snow to shovel and then a trip back to Dewitt to get the trailer.
I still couldn’t get the lights to work so I figured I’d be nice to all the other cars and take back roads. That led to an hour and a half of white knuckle driving and then to get the washing machine. Manny and Amy who are renting our house in Owosso were willing to help me get the machine out of the basement but that was probably because they didn’t know how difficult it would be.
The combo is 6 feet high and weighs just a little less than a full grown elephant. The staircase to the basement is just wide enough to strip the skin off your knuckles and the steps are too far apart to use my hand truck. Moving the washing machine up the stairs gave me insight to what it would be like to move a sumo wrestler out of the ring. When we finally got the washing machine to the trailer I wasn’t up to the task of putting a 6 foot into a 6 foot tall space. I just laid it on the floor.
The best part of the story is we got home safely and got the washing machine into the apartment and bathroom with relative ease. “Relative” is an important thing to note because it really wasn’t all that easy. I’m just saying my luck was better at this point. Then because the washing machine wasn’t working right the last time I thought I would have to fix it before we could use it. It turns out that after we set it up it worked just fine without any repair and I had all the parts. Hallelujah!
Now that’s not the end of the story. On Tuesday I was scheduled to go back to Owosso and there’s no room for that trailer here so again thinking I’d try to be efficient I planned to take the trailer back to Dewitt. I just got started on the trip when Dena called to remind me that again I forgot to take Becca’s gift so I had to turn around and go back. I guess I can give up on the second career as an efficiency expert.
The white knuckle Saturday was nothing compared to Tuesday. I was on I-96 with traffic on all sides of me and wind blowing across the road when I started to jackknife and slide. You know that taste you get in your mouth right after a brush with death? They’ll never make a breath mint out of that taste.
I was about half way to Dewitt when I got a call that I didn’t have to go to Owosso after all. Strangely it was of no comfort at that point. I pressed on and got the trailer back to Dewitt and eventually returned to Whitehall alive but mentally battered.
This ordeal cost only about $100 in gas but I’m thinking next time I’ll just buy the new washer and dryer.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Month 1
I’ve got to get more creative in the way I title my blogs. How boring is “Month 1”? As soon as I wrote it down I was going to change it but I thought I would have more fun with a rant about the boring title so I left it that way. Probably the better title would be, “What Did I
Get Myself Into?!”
I remember years ago when I interviewed for a Chief’s job and they asked me what I would do first. I said that I would sit on my hands for a few months before I did anything. I promised myself that I would do that now too. I broke my promise. Maybe I should have known that I couldn’t sit still that long and those of you reading probably knew that better than I did.
I’ve already made a few tweaks but there’s about a hundred little things that I’ve got in que to change. I want to change things that I don’t even know how to change. The hardest thing might be setting some of those things aside until I’ve gotten through some priority items first. Of course I’ll be agonizing over prioritizing.
Spent some time on “the project” every day this week but my tolerance for time spent on the project is waning. I’m more than half way through the first part but it’s only one part and one of the smaller parts. When I need a break I just move over to the last file drawers in my office and go through looking for things to throw out.
I was in my file cabinet clean out mode and one day found some files from ‘82 but the file that blew me away was finding a stand up folder with a manilla folder with a single piece of paper that was a copy of a magazine ad. Doesn’t take too long for that to weary one’s mind and then I go try and find something else to do, like get a cup of coffee and check the mail.
Tuesday was the department meeting. I spent a lot of time trying to get ready but I still thought I could have done better with my presentation, kinda like my interview for this job. :-) I think it went well but I’m sure some walked away with questions about what it’s going to be like working with me. I know that it’s all about developing relationships but I some of that is going to be hard because of schedules. I’ve just got to give it time. After the meeting there were three other “meetings” and i got home late.
If I didn’t have enough going I decided to take on a high school career intern. I love the energy that people have at the beginning of any endeavor, especially career wise, and I want to encourage them any chance I can. The problem is that I see I have work to do to make this a positive experience for the student and the officers. Prioritize Squiers!
Tuesday’s late night is catching up now and I’m tired Thursday. A day when i didn’t feel like I accomplished much. I did continue to work on the project and the clean up but I was running low on gas. I’m going to have to hire some more part time officers but I just don’t know how or when. More work.
For the record though, I’m staying. A little hard work never hurt me although a lot of hard work will probably leave me face down on my bed bawling like a baby. Just kidding. I’m still excited to prove to myself that I can make it work. More later.
Get Myself Into?!”
I remember years ago when I interviewed for a Chief’s job and they asked me what I would do first. I said that I would sit on my hands for a few months before I did anything. I promised myself that I would do that now too. I broke my promise. Maybe I should have known that I couldn’t sit still that long and those of you reading probably knew that better than I did.
I’ve already made a few tweaks but there’s about a hundred little things that I’ve got in que to change. I want to change things that I don’t even know how to change. The hardest thing might be setting some of those things aside until I’ve gotten through some priority items first. Of course I’ll be agonizing over prioritizing.
Spent some time on “the project” every day this week but my tolerance for time spent on the project is waning. I’m more than half way through the first part but it’s only one part and one of the smaller parts. When I need a break I just move over to the last file drawers in my office and go through looking for things to throw out.
I was in my file cabinet clean out mode and one day found some files from ‘82 but the file that blew me away was finding a stand up folder with a manilla folder with a single piece of paper that was a copy of a magazine ad. Doesn’t take too long for that to weary one’s mind and then I go try and find something else to do, like get a cup of coffee and check the mail.
Tuesday was the department meeting. I spent a lot of time trying to get ready but I still thought I could have done better with my presentation, kinda like my interview for this job. :-) I think it went well but I’m sure some walked away with questions about what it’s going to be like working with me. I know that it’s all about developing relationships but I some of that is going to be hard because of schedules. I’ve just got to give it time. After the meeting there were three other “meetings” and i got home late.
If I didn’t have enough going I decided to take on a high school career intern. I love the energy that people have at the beginning of any endeavor, especially career wise, and I want to encourage them any chance I can. The problem is that I see I have work to do to make this a positive experience for the student and the officers. Prioritize Squiers!
Tuesday’s late night is catching up now and I’m tired Thursday. A day when i didn’t feel like I accomplished much. I did continue to work on the project and the clean up but I was running low on gas. I’m going to have to hire some more part time officers but I just don’t know how or when. More work.
For the record though, I’m staying. A little hard work never hurt me although a lot of hard work will probably leave me face down on my bed bawling like a baby. Just kidding. I’m still excited to prove to myself that I can make it work. More later.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Week 3
Week 3
The week started with with the realization that I was already into a routine. The first thing is a change in routine. I actually arrive EARLY for work and not just 30 seconds. I’m sure part of it is the later start to my day and the shorter commute but I finally followed Dena’s persistent suggestion (not nagging mind you) that I make a habit of arriving early. (She’s right but don’t tell her.)
I’m learning my morning tasks but still forget to get the mail till after lunch sometimes but most of the day is open so I keep spending most of my time working on the rules and regulations manual. Now that’s another subject altogether.
Should it be called rules and regulations or policy and procedures or general orders and what difference does it make? I don’t know but I’ve changed my mind twice on just that issue. Poo!
Tuesday I decided that I would get in uniform and into a patrol car and explore the city a little. I’m lucky I didn’t have to find my own way to a call. I’ve got a lot to learn there too. I did go on one call and seemed to slip through a space portal to Owosso. I guess people are the same everywhere.
Wednesday morning when I walked in the office I saw three “used” stop sticks on the desk. There was a sudden swirl of thoughts in my head. “What questions should I ask?” “What questions will I have to answer?” and “So this is what it like be be the one responsible.” I used to get an adrenaline rush when heading to an exciting call, the anticipation of danger, dream of success, your heart racing created a thrill... and this was nothing like that. It was more like that moment you see the deer running toward the front of your car. Actually it was okay.
There was a chase of a stolen car on US-31 that came northbound in the southbound lane and Sgt. Morris and Officer Kozal used the stop sticks to help end the chase. The bad part is that somehow TV13 thought it was enough to put a sound bite of mine in their story which means I’m supposed to buy lunch for everyone in City Hall. I think I was set up.
I spent most of the rest of Wednesday in front of the computer working on “the project” and for all that time I didn’t feel like I got anything done. Thursday wasn’t much better. It seemed like it took a hour to type one sentence. (Maybe it did.) I really hate the feeling that you didn’t get anything done all day.
Friday was little better but just as I got started moving forward I ran into Microsoft. Oh, you all know what I’m talking about. I’m typing along and suddenly Word decides to reformat the whole document then by the time I got it straightened out my blood pressure meds were totally wasted. I made some headway but it’s gonna be a long road.
Have I mentioned that there’s a lot of snow here. When there was about 14 inches of snow I put a yard stick by my patio chair so I could see exactly how much there was. Now there’s only a small part of the middle that’s visible. There’s over 18 inches of snow on the ground. Is it summer yet?
The week started with with the realization that I was already into a routine. The first thing is a change in routine. I actually arrive EARLY for work and not just 30 seconds. I’m sure part of it is the later start to my day and the shorter commute but I finally followed Dena’s persistent suggestion (not nagging mind you) that I make a habit of arriving early. (She’s right but don’t tell her.)
I’m learning my morning tasks but still forget to get the mail till after lunch sometimes but most of the day is open so I keep spending most of my time working on the rules and regulations manual. Now that’s another subject altogether.
Should it be called rules and regulations or policy and procedures or general orders and what difference does it make? I don’t know but I’ve changed my mind twice on just that issue. Poo!
Tuesday I decided that I would get in uniform and into a patrol car and explore the city a little. I’m lucky I didn’t have to find my own way to a call. I’ve got a lot to learn there too. I did go on one call and seemed to slip through a space portal to Owosso. I guess people are the same everywhere.
Wednesday morning when I walked in the office I saw three “used” stop sticks on the desk. There was a sudden swirl of thoughts in my head. “What questions should I ask?” “What questions will I have to answer?” and “So this is what it like be be the one responsible.” I used to get an adrenaline rush when heading to an exciting call, the anticipation of danger, dream of success, your heart racing created a thrill... and this was nothing like that. It was more like that moment you see the deer running toward the front of your car. Actually it was okay.
There was a chase of a stolen car on US-31 that came northbound in the southbound lane and Sgt. Morris and Officer Kozal used the stop sticks to help end the chase. The bad part is that somehow TV13 thought it was enough to put a sound bite of mine in their story which means I’m supposed to buy lunch for everyone in City Hall. I think I was set up.
I spent most of the rest of Wednesday in front of the computer working on “the project” and for all that time I didn’t feel like I got anything done. Thursday wasn’t much better. It seemed like it took a hour to type one sentence. (Maybe it did.) I really hate the feeling that you didn’t get anything done all day.
Friday was little better but just as I got started moving forward I ran into Microsoft. Oh, you all know what I’m talking about. I’m typing along and suddenly Word decides to reformat the whole document then by the time I got it straightened out my blood pressure meds were totally wasted. I made some headway but it’s gonna be a long road.
Have I mentioned that there’s a lot of snow here. When there was about 14 inches of snow I put a yard stick by my patio chair so I could see exactly how much there was. Now there’s only a small part of the middle that’s visible. There’s over 18 inches of snow on the ground. Is it summer yet?
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Week 2
Another good week but during the week I talked to a friend from NA (National Academy) who is a police chief in Florida. When I talked about how things were going he reminded me that there is a honeymoon period and things would change. How did he know?
The week started with more to learn as Brandon (the Lt.) gave me a quick lesson on payroll. I got a package of model policies from the insurance company to begin my work on a new policy book. I found 3 CDs of documents along with some booklets. Do you know how many documents there are on 3 CDs!!?? Crazy! So I’ve got a LOT of work to do to.
We did get a good taste of lake effect snow. Nearly every morning there was a new accumulation of light fluffy snow. It is kinda pretty and there’s at least a foot of snow on our patio table now. I really miss my garage now that I have to go out and brush and scrape in the morning. Everyone around here seems to know how to deal with it though because there are almost zero weather related accidents.
Tuesday the multiplicity of tasks and decisions that come with the job began to take hold. Work schedules, meetings, training... and the first decision is deciding what decision to make first. Matt and Krista were both here and came to visit. For some reason at 26 and 23 they weren’t as impressed with a police station as they were at 6 and 3. :-)
Had my first City Council meeting Tuesday night but it was short, sweet and nobody complained about me yet. After that meeting I spent some met with the patrol sergeant to talk since our paths would never cross otherwise.
Early Wednesday morning was the countywide chiefs meeting where once again I felt like I was getting to sit at the adult table. I don’t know why, but I expected there would be more weighty issues in the larger Muskegon area but the issues are really the same everywhere. It also that on Wednesday I was busy all day but didn’t get anything done. I hate days like that.
Thursday I worked on just trying to create a layout for the policy book and that only made the task seem larger. As I would write something down a new thought would pop in my head about another area that would need a policy. It was easier when the thoughts that would pop into my head were about the cookies I had hidden in my desk drawer.
Friday was a good day but it was also a day when the decisions from the rest of the week came back and whispered in my ear, “You didn’t think about that part, did you?” then laughed maniacally at me. It’s a good thing people don’t know what goes on in my head. Oops. I just told you didn’t I? I’ll take the lessons from this week and do better next week.
Either way the shine isn’t wearing off and there’s still a big smile on my face. I can see that there will be some more difficult days ahead but I knew that all along. I just have to remember why I’m here, who I really work for and what I have to do and everything will be just fine.
On a more personal note; Linda and Tony came for a weekend visit and we had a really good time with them. We had fun checking out the town, going to dinner, talking and playing games. I also have to say that Dena was right.
Dena thought the microwave didn’t work right but we had bought it while Matt was still a baby so it was only 25 years old so “What could be wrong with it?” I said. Friday night Dena burned a bag of popcorn so Linda and Tony insisted on buying a new microwave as a house warming gift. When Dena made a bag of popcorn this time it was perfect. I guess we needed a new microwave. Thanks Linda & Tony!
The week started with more to learn as Brandon (the Lt.) gave me a quick lesson on payroll. I got a package of model policies from the insurance company to begin my work on a new policy book. I found 3 CDs of documents along with some booklets. Do you know how many documents there are on 3 CDs!!?? Crazy! So I’ve got a LOT of work to do to.
We did get a good taste of lake effect snow. Nearly every morning there was a new accumulation of light fluffy snow. It is kinda pretty and there’s at least a foot of snow on our patio table now. I really miss my garage now that I have to go out and brush and scrape in the morning. Everyone around here seems to know how to deal with it though because there are almost zero weather related accidents.
Tuesday the multiplicity of tasks and decisions that come with the job began to take hold. Work schedules, meetings, training... and the first decision is deciding what decision to make first. Matt and Krista were both here and came to visit. For some reason at 26 and 23 they weren’t as impressed with a police station as they were at 6 and 3. :-)
Had my first City Council meeting Tuesday night but it was short, sweet and nobody complained about me yet. After that meeting I spent some met with the patrol sergeant to talk since our paths would never cross otherwise.
Early Wednesday morning was the countywide chiefs meeting where once again I felt like I was getting to sit at the adult table. I don’t know why, but I expected there would be more weighty issues in the larger Muskegon area but the issues are really the same everywhere. It also that on Wednesday I was busy all day but didn’t get anything done. I hate days like that.
Thursday I worked on just trying to create a layout for the policy book and that only made the task seem larger. As I would write something down a new thought would pop in my head about another area that would need a policy. It was easier when the thoughts that would pop into my head were about the cookies I had hidden in my desk drawer.
Friday was a good day but it was also a day when the decisions from the rest of the week came back and whispered in my ear, “You didn’t think about that part, did you?” then laughed maniacally at me. It’s a good thing people don’t know what goes on in my head. Oops. I just told you didn’t I? I’ll take the lessons from this week and do better next week.
Either way the shine isn’t wearing off and there’s still a big smile on my face. I can see that there will be some more difficult days ahead but I knew that all along. I just have to remember why I’m here, who I really work for and what I have to do and everything will be just fine.
On a more personal note; Linda and Tony came for a weekend visit and we had a really good time with them. We had fun checking out the town, going to dinner, talking and playing games. I also have to say that Dena was right.
Dena thought the microwave didn’t work right but we had bought it while Matt was still a baby so it was only 25 years old so “What could be wrong with it?” I said. Friday night Dena burned a bag of popcorn so Linda and Tony insisted on buying a new microwave as a house warming gift. When Dena made a bag of popcorn this time it was perfect. I guess we needed a new microwave. Thanks Linda & Tony!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
The First Week
The First Week
I’m tempted to say “I survived” but that would indicate that I was under duress and I wasn’t. Everyone here was kind and helpful and made me feel very welcome. I met so many people but I did a better than usual job of keeping up, and the world gets smaller. I went to the Muskegon Sheriff’s office and the receptionist graduated from Belding HS in ‘86 and somehow remembered me. 8-o
I’ve had morning break and lunch with “the guys” a few times this week. I also spent a few hours in a patrol car with a couple of them. They are a close knit group and are friends away from work as well and it seems like that enjoy their jobs and have a lot of fun. I invited myself to Wednesday basketball with them.
Travis (the school resource officer), Chris (dayshift patrol), Scott (City Manager), Bill and Brian (Central Dispatch) and Jason and Mike (Travis’s friends) were all there. We played in an elementary gym with 7’6” rims and a short court. I had a blast once I stopped being afraid of hitting my face on the rim.
Wednesday I went out and qualified at the range. There was about 8 inches of snow on the ground which made picking up my clips an adventure and forget about the brass. I did fine with the gun but I DO NOT like the holster I have. That will get fixed.
I’ve been settling into my office and putting things where I want them. (see photos) The biggest task has been going through the files in the office. I found some outdated files like the firearms standard from 1975 and a request from the State Police for information from 2005. I’ve also started looking at the budget to see if I can buy some things that I want for the PD like Tasers, and some RMS licenses. It’s a lot different now than just saying, “Hey Chief, I want ____,”
Tuesday we had a staff trivia contest. Scott made up the questions and the rest of City Hall staff had to answer. That included Pat (receptionist for PD and CH), Karen (City Clerk), Lori (Treasurer), Sandy (Deputy Treasurer) and Katie (Playhouse Manager). It was Bret Farve trivia and Katie is a big Green Bay fan but I won on the bonus question.
It really is an adjustment to move from the front lines to the back but I’m already excited about the challenges to come and ready for week 2. More later.
Monday, January 3, 2011
The First Day
I had a GREAT day! That's because I'm still so excited about having this opportunity. I wonder now how I might have responded if I had gotten that job 20 years ago in East Jordan. I'm sure that I appreciate this whole thing more than I would have back then.
Early this morning was my first "staff meeting" and it was like being at a family Thanksgiving and sitting at the adult table for the first time. I was just taking it all in. Then there was all that stuff of setting up the computer and e-mail and being sworn in. I think I asked "why" more than a 4 year old each time I learned something new.
Now that doesn't mean that there weren't a few challenges. There were so many things coming at me and so many things that are yet to come but I did my best to take it all in. It's amazing that the same problems can have such different approaches. I also used one of my former boss's advice, "Delegate, delegate, delegate". In a few weeks I'll have a better feel of things and start defining my role a little more.
Enjoyed lunch with the D/Lt., our SRO and our senior patrol officer. Good time talking and telling stories and I've seen them all go out of their way to make me comfortable.
My parents have been gone for some time now but this is the first time I really wished they were here. Mom and Dad were always so supportive and proud of all their children and they would have loved to see this day. It's been a long day and I was up really early so I'm ready for bed.
I'll work hard at keeping everyone up to date. More later.
Early this morning was my first "staff meeting" and it was like being at a family Thanksgiving and sitting at the adult table for the first time. I was just taking it all in. Then there was all that stuff of setting up the computer and e-mail and being sworn in. I think I asked "why" more than a 4 year old each time I learned something new.
Now that doesn't mean that there weren't a few challenges. There were so many things coming at me and so many things that are yet to come but I did my best to take it all in. It's amazing that the same problems can have such different approaches. I also used one of my former boss's advice, "Delegate, delegate, delegate". In a few weeks I'll have a better feel of things and start defining my role a little more.
Enjoyed lunch with the D/Lt., our SRO and our senior patrol officer. Good time talking and telling stories and I've seen them all go out of their way to make me comfortable.
My parents have been gone for some time now but this is the first time I really wished they were here. Mom and Dad were always so supportive and proud of all their children and they would have loved to see this day. It's been a long day and I was up really early so I'm ready for bed.
I'll work hard at keeping everyone up to date. More later.
Anticipation
Spent about 4 hours Sunday trying to settle into my new office. There are so many files that I'll have to go through but I've already thrown out a lot of outdated items. Found three guns in my desk drawers (revolvers no less). I can see that I'll have to spend some time after work to go through the stuff because I'm sure the day will be busy enough. It was an odd but good feeling as I finished and went through the mail. I'm beginning to feel like...a Chief.
I've been awake since 3:30 a.m. and couldn't get back to sleep so I read through some more of the ordinances, policies and budget. I kind of feel like the first day of kindergarten; lots of excitement that I'm finally going to do something special but a little scared that the whole thing will swallow me up and I'll never be seen again.
I'll go get myself ready now and I'll report on my first day later.
I've been awake since 3:30 a.m. and couldn't get back to sleep so I read through some more of the ordinances, policies and budget. I kind of feel like the first day of kindergarten; lots of excitement that I'm finally going to do something special but a little scared that the whole thing will swallow me up and I'll never be seen again.
I'll go get myself ready now and I'll report on my first day later.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
The Move
The last week of December was a furious pace.
SUNDAY: Our last regular Sunday at Bethel and I taught Sunday School, sang on the praise team, and did the morning sermon then went directly to the Martin Christmas gathering where I ended the day wrestling on the floor with my great nephews.
MONDAY: Worked a full shift but there wasn't too much to do. I closed my cases down to 1 so I wouldn't leave Rusty with a full basket and Monday night went out to dinner with Tom, Deb, Mick and Julie; part of the old-timers crew.
TUESDAY: My last day at Owosso PD. A little cake and punch at City Hall for my "retirement" and a few gifts from GREAT friends then took the second half of the day off. (I wasn't going to do anything anyway.)
I have been soooo excited about my move to Whitehall that I never felt hesitation or sadness about leaving Owosso and even felt a little guilty for not feeling sad. Owosso was a good place to work and there are a lot of good people and I've spend the majority of my career there but as I was picking up the last of my things before walking out for the last time I did have a moment of a few tears. Then I remembered I was leaving not to an end but to a beginning and the sadness went away almost as quickly as it came.
WEDNESDAY: Thank God for brother-in-laws! Durk and Tony came and spent the day packing trailers and trucks and boxes and we were able to get almost everything in that we wanted to take. Wednesday night was a get to gather at the FOP with the people that I've worked with. It was nice to see everyone and I stayed till 0200 talking with those that were hardy enough to stay.
THURSDAY: Moving day. Got started later than we hoped but moving things from the trailers to the apartment went well and then we hustled back to Owosso for a party with Dena's office. That was another good time with long time friends.
FRIDAY: Loaded the very last of our things into the van and Jeep and headed to Whitehall and officially moved. Actually it went pretty well as we settled in and put our things away but after all that Dena and I are pooped!! New Year's Eve and I fell asleep on the couch at 10:30 so we just went to bed.
SATURDAY: I actually slept till about 7:30, the first night all week I got a full night's rest. Every other night I would wake up in the middle of the night and there was so much on my mind that I couldn't get back to sleep. Dena and I will be leaving soon for a Squiers get together. Hopefully I'll get a chance to move some things into my office later today.
Roger
SUNDAY: Our last regular Sunday at Bethel and I taught Sunday School, sang on the praise team, and did the morning sermon then went directly to the Martin Christmas gathering where I ended the day wrestling on the floor with my great nephews.
MONDAY: Worked a full shift but there wasn't too much to do. I closed my cases down to 1 so I wouldn't leave Rusty with a full basket and Monday night went out to dinner with Tom, Deb, Mick and Julie; part of the old-timers crew.
TUESDAY: My last day at Owosso PD. A little cake and punch at City Hall for my "retirement" and a few gifts from GREAT friends then took the second half of the day off. (I wasn't going to do anything anyway.)
I have been soooo excited about my move to Whitehall that I never felt hesitation or sadness about leaving Owosso and even felt a little guilty for not feeling sad. Owosso was a good place to work and there are a lot of good people and I've spend the majority of my career there but as I was picking up the last of my things before walking out for the last time I did have a moment of a few tears. Then I remembered I was leaving not to an end but to a beginning and the sadness went away almost as quickly as it came.
WEDNESDAY: Thank God for brother-in-laws! Durk and Tony came and spent the day packing trailers and trucks and boxes and we were able to get almost everything in that we wanted to take. Wednesday night was a get to gather at the FOP with the people that I've worked with. It was nice to see everyone and I stayed till 0200 talking with those that were hardy enough to stay.
THURSDAY: Moving day. Got started later than we hoped but moving things from the trailers to the apartment went well and then we hustled back to Owosso for a party with Dena's office. That was another good time with long time friends.
FRIDAY: Loaded the very last of our things into the van and Jeep and headed to Whitehall and officially moved. Actually it went pretty well as we settled in and put our things away but after all that Dena and I are pooped!! New Year's Eve and I fell asleep on the couch at 10:30 so we just went to bed.
SATURDAY: I actually slept till about 7:30, the first night all week I got a full night's rest. Every other night I would wake up in the middle of the night and there was so much on my mind that I couldn't get back to sleep. Dena and I will be leaving soon for a Squiers get together. Hopefully I'll get a chance to move some things into my office later today.
Roger
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