Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Journey to degree complicated by ADHD-ChristianWeek Ontario Edition Article: July 2009
This is a recent article that was published by Christian Week which is a National Newspaper across Canada. I've typed out the article for you so that it is easier for friends and family to read.
Nancy Little -Special to Christian Week-July 2009 Ontario Edition:
HAMILTON, ON- Twenty-seven years after he began his studies, W. Ian Walker finally graduated from university-in part because he was finally diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivy Disorder).
Walker developed a passion for the arts during high school where he took part in all facets of the arts program. Upon graduating he began a music degree in voice and opera at the University of Western Ontario. In the summer of 1981, he attended the Young Artists Vocal Program of Boston University Tangelwood Instiute (BUTI) where he met Leonard Bernstein and other classical musicians. Later he met and worked with two icons of Canadian Classical Music, Maureen Forrester and one of the last remaining founders of the Canadian Opera Company, the late Nicholas Goldschmidt.
Walker was forced to end his studies at the end of his second year at Western because of his undiagnosed ADHD struggles. He went on to work with Orchestra London Canada for four years in various arts management positions.
“All of these wonderful arts related experiences, both vocal and choral, were such a part of my life for many years. However I felt unfilled without a University degree." say Walker. "Despite all of the ups and downs of the journey I knew that God had a plan, and I wasn't going to give it up." says Walker. "There were many moments along this journey where I just had to let God take control of my life."
"When I got the assessment results I felt an enormous load had been lifted off my shoulders." says Walker. " I knew when I was in public and high school that I was different and that my way of learning was different. Now it was like the pieces of the puzzle coming together. "Once I started making the changes the Centre of Student Development (CSD) guided me in, things drastically improved." He also credits his mother and grandmother with their faithful years of praying for him, saying "I really believe I am receiving the blessings now from those prayers."
Walker graduated from McMaster University this year with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Film. He's chronicled his road to graduation in his new book Stirring My Soul to Sing, Overcoming Obstacles of ADHD.Walker hopes to write articles and develop future film projects about learning or physically challenged artists. He's the founder and Music Director of the Youth Choir for the Nations, a member and Director of Marketing and Communications for the Orpheus Choir of Toronto and has formed two companies Emlian Music Group & Emlian Communications Group Inc., which provides services in arts development and marketing.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Nine Words That Men Need to Know!
Author Laura Davis wrote on her blog: “It's time for a little levity. I received this in my email box from one of our members and had to share it with you. Men, pay close attention because this is especially for you!”
1. Fine - This is the word women use to end an argument. Do not say anything further. This is is the time when you keep your mouth shut.
2. Five Minutes - If she is getting dressed, this means a half hour. Five minutes is only five minutes if you have just been given five more minutes to watch the game, before helping around the house.
3. Nothing - This is the calm before the storm. This means something and you should be on your toes. Arguments that begin with nothing usually end with fine. (see #1).
4. Go Ahead - This is a dare, not permission. DON'T DO IT!!
5. Loud Sigh - This is not really a word, but you need to be aware of its meaning just the same. This is a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. A loud sigh means, she thinks you are an idiot and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here and arguing with you about nothing. (see #3).
6. That's Okay - This is one of the most dangerous statements a woman can make to a man. That's okay, means she wants to think long and hard before deciding how and when you will pay for your mistake.
7. Thanks - A woman is thanking you, do not question it or faint. Just say "You're welcome." (I want to add in a clause here - this is true UNLESS she says "Thanks alot" - that is PURE sarcasm and she is not thanking you at all. DO NOT say "You're welcome" as that will bring on the next word which is 'Whatever').
8. Whatever - Is a woman's way of saying TALK TO THE HAND.
9. Don't worry about it, I've got it - Another dangerous statement meaning this is something a woman has told a man to do several times, but is now doing it herself. This will later result in a man asking, "What's wrong?". (For the woman's response refer to #3).
Of course this is all in fun, but I have to say a lot of these statements seem correct to me. Ladies and Gentleman, what do you think?...
Just some background on Laura Davis and my friendship, we’ve known each other for close to 20 years. We’ve performed together in various concerts when I lived in London, ON for 13 years. We both were involved with Christian Contemporary Music -ministering in numerous churches and public engagements through the late Ivan Hutton's “Sounds of Praise” concerts and events. I’ve known about Laura’s passion for life and her infectious laughter. My response to her blog, made her “laugh her head off” as she could relate to some of the annoying things wives do…when husbands want some downtime watching and listening to a good movie. Enjoy!
As one of the male members in "Laura Davis’ Group" when words or tone of action, like this come up in my dialogue with my wife Elaine...it usually means that she is talking to me from the kitchen and I'm in my office either writing, creating or working on a project for a client.
I am also guilty" of the term "five minutes" when I hear her speaking that to me, which could mean..."dinner's ready, get your butt out here...the food's' hot and I hate eating cold food." My wife is usually very patience with me, as she doesn't like to eat our "main meal" together without me. So, if I hear the "five minute warning" than I know I'll be in trouble if I don't respond!
Being male, and also engrossed in whatever I’m writing or creating...I don't always hear these “9 words”; unless I'm not responding and she'll come and talk to me at the entrance of my office. That usually means something is important and we need to talk about it!
However, ladies...I'm a movie buff (now with my partial degree in this genre) and I hate it, when Elaine wants to talk to me "using some of these 9 words plus sign language" when the movie is just beginning. Ladies, why do you talk to your husbands when something important, is either on TV or Video (excluding sports) and you need to let us know..."right there and then" what's on your mind?
Could you not give us warning as the DVD is starting to engage...that you need to chat about something? Great, stop the DVD...and we can chat? NOT IN THE BEGINNING OR THE MIDDLE OF THE MOVIE!
I see my father married to my mother, 55 years this October...does not respond at all when my mother chats throughout a movie. I think part of the problem is that "he's deaf" or that he chosen to block out my mother's dialogue. It doesn't bother him anymore...my mother has used these “9 words” on him for years and it hasn't done much good.
I would rather be progressive and tell my spouse that there is a season for everything, “a time to live and a time to die” and a time to chat before the beginning of an important TV show or DVD!!
That's how I would take using these “9 words” in our relationship. Now Ladies, don't hate me, I think when you are dealing with an artistic male, life is different on many sides of the coin.
Celebrating our 10th Wedding Anniversary: Reflecting on Marriage, Courtship and Family
"Theme to Love Story" was a piano piece of music that I heard recently on video during our anniversary weekend and it was so beautifully performed. The music brought back wonderful memories when I was a teenager, first seeing this film on the big screen and knowing that it would become a classic someday! The "Love Story" theme was a nice way to end our 10th Anniversary celebration and fun-filled weekend
We had a blast on our special day of June 26th! I bought Elaine roses and the fragrance of these flowers filled our living room area for many days. We went out and had an amazing dinner at "Canyon Creek Restaurant" in Mississauga, ON. The food and service was outstanding! When I made the reservations, I informed them that it was a special anniversary. When the bill came, we were offered two glasses of champagne, on the house. That was very nice of them and their gesture added to our celebration!
On June 27th, we had our best friends Craig and Marie, over for dinner to celebrate our joint 10 years (and fourteen years of friendship) with many years of laughter and great times together. Their anniversary is in March and we celebrate usually a day or two after ours; as we four, thank God for another year, as the two couples who so enjoy each other's friendship and special company. Craig and Marie gave us this beautiful plaque that says: Friends are like flowers in the garden of life!
I'm such a romantic. I gathered up all of our anniversary cards to each other during the last 10 years...firstly, I put them on the kitchen table where Elaine would see them on the morning of 26th just before she went off to work. I then secondly, moved them to a bureau where they could be seen by both of us and our friends that dropped in to visit. I wanted to make a big deal of this anniversary as Elaine has "put up with me for the last 10 years" and for many sacrifices of financial hardships that together we have gone through. Partly due to my ADHD status and in not been able to find steady employment (combined with dreams of finishing my degree) until I created and developed my own company, working in Arts PR and Marketing and also being able to work from my home office.
Love and security as a couple are so important to me. We both have been blessed, watching and reflecting on our parents’ married lives together after 50 years. Elaine’s parents in September 2009 will celebrate 57 and mine in October will celebrate 55 years. We both had great role models to watch, and reflect on the good and the bad years, as the song states “As Time Goes By”.
Just near the celebrations of my parents 25th anniversary, they did together, the unspoken rule, that couples are warned not to do…they wall papered together! The second floor of their two story house, needed to be done and so the upstairs consisting of three bedrooms and bathroom, one main wall with entrance ways into these rooms had to be done and papered properly! The first phase went well with their measuring, cutting of the wallpaper and watering and rolling the sticky paper then matching the stripes of paper to the wall. The project was going fine and all seemed harmonious for “phase one” of this project
Then came “phase two” of the measuring of the paper for the stairwell and high ceilings; coordinating the delicate wet pieces of wall paper together. One of the partners goofed in their measurement and the wall paper was miss-matched! You would have thought that world war three, started in our house…as the guns were blazed at each partner and there was much “heated discussion” ringing from the ceilings, in their tone one to the other. We kids knew better than to interfere or offer assistance in any way. It was better to stay clear, perhaps stay over a friends’ place that evening and let my parents work out their differences between them.
They did, and we as a family celebrated my parent’s 25th anniversary with an memorable open-house that brought into attendance many friends, relatives and close church friends of my parents; some whom they then had not seen in a long time. We four children tease our parents about “their wall papering experience” and we four have vowed that we will in the future, either hire a professional to do the work, or ask a friend to help should a project such as this come along, rather than involving one’s spouse.
Love and security issues, seeing your parents work out their differences, in times of disagreements, or in times where there are successes or failures in communication; represents to me to a good, healthy marriage and/or partnership. There are times when forgiveness has to be said to one partner or the other…holding onto grievances only creates as the bible says “a divided house that will not stand”.
I get concerned and when I start to ponder what Christina, my daughter's "concept of family, love, marriage, relationship and/or commitment" (coming from a divorced home) will be in ten years or so if she chooses to get married at all? Coming from an active Christian family, where marriage is very important and living together is not accepted. Christina is 18 now, and going off to University. She will be following the family genes and career choices, as both her mother and I have done initally choosing to study music.
At least Christina, can witness the love, respect and devotion to Elaine (Elaine has a mild form of CP that has not hindered her lifestyle at all) that I have for her and the special care that I try and watch over Elaine’s needs,when we are out in public. I am also so blessed that Christina and Elaine get along so well. Christina was two when my first marriage broke up and five when Elaine and I got together as couple. Out of consideration for Christina with our blossoming relationship, at nine, she was comfortable with Elaine, becoming her step-mom. We waited three years until we were married on June 26, 1999.
Next to the love and nurturing that my mother has given me; Elaine has loved me, “like no has loved me before.” I told you I am a romantic; this lyric is as one of my favourite love songs by Harold Arlen, Come Rain or Come Shine. So here's to the next 10 years of continued happiness, success as Canadian author/speaker and recording artist/producer. Here’s too many more happy and memorable anniversaries coming our way in the future. Combined with lots of love and laughter from close friends; who enjoy our company and for me, Elaine at my side. She blesses me and my identity as an artist everyday!
Music in a way brought us initially together and as Neil Sedaka wrote in his song "Love will keep us together"; these word are so true for Elaine and me, until death will keep us apart!
Monday, July 6, 2009
HOW DO YOU THANK A MENTOR,WHO HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN YOUR LIFE FOR CLOSE TO 30 YEARS?
On June 8th, 2009, the 27 year trek to obtain my Arts Degree is now complete...yeah! The celebration of achieving "my own personal goals in obtaining my BA" has been celebrated with my family and many friends. Four individuals within my "inner circle" were there at my convocation ceremonies; my parents, Bill and Doreen Walker, Elaine (my wife) and my dear friend and mentor Robert Cooper, C.M. and Artistic Director of several choirs in Ontario.
Mr Robert Cooper, C.M. is an Order of Canada receiptant who is also an internationally known Choral Conductor and has been my mentor for close to thirty years. Bruce Cockburn International musician and social activist combined with Hamilton native Shirley Elford (Glass Artist and designer of the Juno Awards) both received Honourary Doctorates at my convocation. It was an amazing day despite the rainy weather. Elaine deserves half of this degree, for putting up with me these last 10 years. As I have been talking and planning to complete this academic journey.
In 2010, Robert and I will celebrate a friendship of almost 30 years. Not only as mentor to mentee, Robert has supported my ups and downs in my life...as a close personal friend, he has watched me go through the good and the bad times with my ADHD disorder. I hope that this blog/note will be an encouragement to all of you, for the friends and associates that you know who have this disorder. Mentorship made all of the difference for me in achieving my goals!. Robert Cooper has stood by me, despite some very hard times in my life.
In 1980, this tall, gangly and almost a "scarecrow" type figure (me) connected with "Robert (or "Cooper" as we call him)" at a youth choral event in London, ON. This connection led to a friendship being formed as Cooper invited me to audition for his then Toronto Mendelssohn Youth Choir (TMYC). I was living in Dundas, ON (just outside of Hamilton) so I could get access into Toronto every Tuesday night to be a part of this choir. I made it into TMYC in 1980, and my two years being associated TMYC and with Robert Cooper, changed my life drastically! I grew as a musician, and as apprentice Arts Administrator being a part of Cooper’s choirs and its busy administration.
When I went off to The University of Western Ontario (UWO) in London, ON; I was accepted into the Faculty of Music Vocal program in 1982, this university was Cooper's alma mater. Already his influence in vocal and choral music was beginning to rub off on me. I enjoyed the vocal and choral ensembles that I was a part of and oh so much "stimulating music making" with many wonderful friendships and connections made then (from the student body); who are "now" movers and shakers of today's Canadian Classical Music Industry. Cooper and I were always in touch, if I had a new idea, or discovered some new organization or person that I thought that Robert should liaise with; we would connect on the phone as the flow of communications would continue between us. I could count on Cooper’s advice, when I needed to ask him to be a reference for a particular arts management position. He was always there to listen to my viewpoint or be that voice of wisdom; I then needed as I was moving to the next professional arts employment opportunity.
Academically, I was having problems into my second year, as I was doing very well with my performances courses, however my academic classes (such as music history, theory or other courses that required tests or exams...I would fail) UWO, at that time did not have special accommodations for learning disabled students, nor counsellors to work-with ADHD students. I had a difficult time in sharing with Robert, what actually were the problem areas with my academic studies? I didn’t know myself if it was my academic or if it was my “study skills issues”? These issues would later be discussed with Robert when I was diagnosed in 1997. My writing skills were a problem in getting me to advance to the next middle to senior administration level. Robert is a perfectionist when it comes to excellent communications and writing skills. He would proof read my letters or writings, giving me feedback if he felt that my work needed editing.
When I was diagnosed with ADHD, my disorder affected my writing skills NOT my verbal skills. When I started to use the aid of voice activated software and through a program called “Read and Write” this software would scan all of my written materials; then through voice activation, it would then be read back to me. I would then edit any problems areas that just didn’t look or sound right, gramatically to me. I may have left out a word or the paragraphs would not link properly due to my problem with syntax.
Robert was so intrigued by this process and encouraged me daily to use this new software. He could tell the difference when I would use it and when I didn’t. We used to have this joke between us that when I would submit something for him to proof or to submit professionally, he would say to me “did you check this document with your special thingy?” Due to the fact, that my writing skills have improved so much, I hardly have to scan my written work (unless it is a full report or something that needs to be professionally published.)
Robert Cooper has planted “good seeds” of self-esteem within me, in developing and demonstrating to me, how to maintain a high level of professionalism on the job. Robert constantly encouraged me to continue my pursuit of the passion and “zoë” for life; keeping the “creative flow of my passion for the arts,”combined with my resolving of administrative issues and my “outside of the box.”style of management. Cooper encouraged me to strive to develop areas within my personality, that I knew that I could “shine”. These areas are now: public relations, arts marketing, media accommodations and as of 2005, fundraising; which has provided for me to be employed and classified as an Arts Consultant.
In 2001,we reconnected again, when he asked me to become the TMYC Choir Manager for the remainder of what would be Cooper’s last season of 23 years with the organization as their Artistic Director. I was thrilled to be an alumni stepping back into this organization as Choir Manager and secondly to be working with Cooper again. In 2002, Robert Cooper became the Artistic Director /Conductor of the Orpheus Choir of Toronto and I have had the wonderful privilege of singing in this chorus and also aiding him and the Board of Directors with their arts marketing and fundraising needs for six years.
How do you describe a mentor these days? I think that you’ll agree that Robert Cooper has been a friend and an advocate to me in many ways despite my ADHD status. Is there someone in your circle that has blessed you, knowing about your abilities, or has been there as a professional and/or personal support system to you? Write them a letter of thanks or email…where would you be in your life without their support and/ or their influence? Do not be afraid to seek this person out, if you don’t have a mentor. Just by having someone, (besides a family member) speaking positivity into your life, has aided me to believe that I could achieve all of my own personal goals and ambitions.
Robert Cooper has been there to guide me and to be a door of encouragement when at times others were prepared to “write me off” once they knew of my learning disability. Having the strength to be vulnerable and asking someone to become your mentor is the first step. In my opinion, once the mentorship has begun, this process starts the catylst for developing your own self-esteem and your “own voice”. Despite whatever kind of learning or physical disability that you have. Mentorship meant all the world to me!
IS THERE LIFE WHILE MOVING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SCHOOL TERM?
Initially written in March 1998 and revised in 2009:
Post the holiday period of 1997, I had many things on my mind while trying to accomplish the journey of my first year of re-education, returning to university, telling myself, “it’s time to finish this journey via McMaster University”. Having to move again from one’s comfortable but expensive apartment to a cheaper basement apartment; was not the best way to achieve ones academic goals so early into the second term. Finances demanded that I do this, even with a student loan to off set my costs. The place of residence was excellent and cheap for my then budget to accommodate. However, the stress that this move caused me was not one of my most brilliant ideas!
Re-entering the saddle after twelve years being away from scholarly writing (although I had been writing for sixteen years for many arts organizations (in PR and as Marketing Specialist in September 1996 – 1997) I decided that it was the right time to come back to the “ivy walls" and attempt the process of finishing my degree.
This was not a very good time for me; I was dealing with custody issues with my daughter and my ex-wife was very difficult to deal with. As I look back, knowing within my own spirit, that I had a learning disability (as ADHD would formerly be diagnosed in my second year of 1997) trying to pack in all of these strategic movements to stay ahead of my studies. As well as packing and boxing up my belongings as well as, trying to throw out so much accumulated paper. Realizing that I had to keep up with my studies, was also an emotional roller coaster ride for me during this move! I remember telling myself, that I had many pages to read “before I sleep”. Being a mature and created arts student, my emotional reflexes and physical adult body was just beginning to settle into, somewhere, that was unfamiliar space for me, it was called the “academic zone”.
The best way to describe this feeling is like that of the middle ages actors or the “jongleurs” that we had been studying in first year drama courses; about their customs and the formation of the performers and "art guilds” in the middle ages. “How many balls or areas of concern, can I juggle,today? Or I ask myself, “Am I really like the King of the Fools,” for not recognizing that this would be a stressful experience and ride attempting to move at the end of January 1998? Especially, during my first academic year back in school..what was I thinking? Oh yes, I needed to save money and that was my goal on my student run budget!
I never imagined that it would take such detail, military precision and or strategy, to move one’s belongings from a two bedroom apartment (in the West Hamilton) into a spacious basement apartment on the outskirts of Dundas, ON. Stressful thoughts partly due to my ADHD, kept crossing my mind as I would think “I should have re-organized of this stuff months ago”, became my daily mantra and or vocabulary, as I was stuffing more paper and crap into boxes. Then reflecting on my own silent confession and torture having to do this now! Especially when dealing with family, close friends and or perfect strangers; whom were called or hauled in to help with the move at the very last minute!
These individuals were moving my personal belongings; and you receive comments such as: “my, you have a lot of books” or “have you read all these books? And lastly, “do you use all of this stuff? Your next thoughts are to crawl under a rock and not come out. At least until all of these items and boxes from the move have been unpacked. Your stress levels are right up there to almost 100% and you visualize yourself at this particular time and space going for a “Nestea Plunge” in a warm heated pool, wouldn't that be just the ticket right now? Even though in reality it’s the end of January, it's cold, however, thank God that it is not snowing!
You are grateful that many have helped you achieved this military operation of getting you from Point A (old location) to Point B (new location). Then there are areas of pleading “mercy and grace” to one’s professors as a mature student. As you have asked or sought permission from them to provide for you an extension on all assignments due. The feelings of “emotional exhaustion” zaps your nerve endings, and for the first few days as you are surrounded by boxes in your new home, misplaced furniture, and you are not sure where the other part of your computer terminal or stereo system was placed by your “friends and family.”
No, this is not an infomercial for the local US/Canadian Telephone Company promoting for you to join their special “friend's network.” It is your text books calling your name rather loudly! The only problem is that you’re not really sure where they these books were last placed, in or what boxes they’re under? Finally, normalcy starts to settle in, food has been re-stocked in the new fridge, towels and bedding have been found, boxes have begun to be unpacked and furniture is arranged. You can say to yourself “it’s beginning to look like home again?”
You place that familiar and beloved painting that was created by your Great Aunt upon the wall and think to yourself: “This place is just right, the carpets, and the painted walls and coverings match the colors of my furniture and my artwork! What a divine place in time for me to be here? Perhaps God was listening the day that I found this place? “Just right” as Goldie Locks from the fairytale story would comment.
While listening to some relaxing Mozart choral music, to calm your nerves as you are unpacking yet another box; you suddenly remember that you have better get “cracking” on that last extended paper which needs to be completed, in three days from now, to be exact! Yikes! Back on the emotional treadmill you go, bravely stating in your subconscious “that you would not wish this amount of stress of moving at this time of the year on anyone.” This is definitely one of life’s experiences that you will remember in your post university years!
Mental note to me, in the future! When you accomplished this feat of stupidity, you were making a family memory and you had to deal with all of these circumstances. You also had a loss of “memory” when you allowed yourself to accomplish moving at this particular time of the new year. However, you remind yourself to instruct your children, grandchildren and if you live long enough, your great grandchildren; never attempt a move heading into second term with one's exams pending, while trying to keep up your academic studies. I wonder what Andy Rooney of CBS’s 60 Minutes commentator, would say about all of these matters?
Post the holiday period of 1997, I had many things on my mind while trying to accomplish the journey of my first year of re-education, returning to university, telling myself, “it’s time to finish this journey via McMaster University”. Having to move again from one’s comfortable but expensive apartment to a cheaper basement apartment; was not the best way to achieve ones academic goals so early into the second term. Finances demanded that I do this, even with a student loan to off set my costs. The place of residence was excellent and cheap for my then budget to accommodate. However, the stress that this move caused me was not one of my most brilliant ideas!
Re-entering the saddle after twelve years being away from scholarly writing (although I had been writing for sixteen years for many arts organizations (in PR and as Marketing Specialist in September 1996 – 1997) I decided that it was the right time to come back to the “ivy walls" and attempt the process of finishing my degree.
This was not a very good time for me; I was dealing with custody issues with my daughter and my ex-wife was very difficult to deal with. As I look back, knowing within my own spirit, that I had a learning disability (as ADHD would formerly be diagnosed in my second year of 1997) trying to pack in all of these strategic movements to stay ahead of my studies. As well as packing and boxing up my belongings as well as, trying to throw out so much accumulated paper. Realizing that I had to keep up with my studies, was also an emotional roller coaster ride for me during this move! I remember telling myself, that I had many pages to read “before I sleep”. Being a mature and created arts student, my emotional reflexes and physical adult body was just beginning to settle into, somewhere, that was unfamiliar space for me, it was called the “academic zone”.
The best way to describe this feeling is like that of the middle ages actors or the “jongleurs” that we had been studying in first year drama courses; about their customs and the formation of the performers and "art guilds” in the middle ages. “How many balls or areas of concern, can I juggle,today? Or I ask myself, “Am I really like the King of the Fools,” for not recognizing that this would be a stressful experience and ride attempting to move at the end of January 1998? Especially, during my first academic year back in school..what was I thinking? Oh yes, I needed to save money and that was my goal on my student run budget!
I never imagined that it would take such detail, military precision and or strategy, to move one’s belongings from a two bedroom apartment (in the West Hamilton) into a spacious basement apartment on the outskirts of Dundas, ON. Stressful thoughts partly due to my ADHD, kept crossing my mind as I would think “I should have re-organized of this stuff months ago”, became my daily mantra and or vocabulary, as I was stuffing more paper and crap into boxes. Then reflecting on my own silent confession and torture having to do this now! Especially when dealing with family, close friends and or perfect strangers; whom were called or hauled in to help with the move at the very last minute!
These individuals were moving my personal belongings; and you receive comments such as: “my, you have a lot of books” or “have you read all these books? And lastly, “do you use all of this stuff? Your next thoughts are to crawl under a rock and not come out. At least until all of these items and boxes from the move have been unpacked. Your stress levels are right up there to almost 100% and you visualize yourself at this particular time and space going for a “Nestea Plunge” in a warm heated pool, wouldn't that be just the ticket right now? Even though in reality it’s the end of January, it's cold, however, thank God that it is not snowing!
You are grateful that many have helped you achieved this military operation of getting you from Point A (old location) to Point B (new location). Then there are areas of pleading “mercy and grace” to one’s professors as a mature student. As you have asked or sought permission from them to provide for you an extension on all assignments due. The feelings of “emotional exhaustion” zaps your nerve endings, and for the first few days as you are surrounded by boxes in your new home, misplaced furniture, and you are not sure where the other part of your computer terminal or stereo system was placed by your “friends and family.”
No, this is not an infomercial for the local US/Canadian Telephone Company promoting for you to join their special “friend's network.” It is your text books calling your name rather loudly! The only problem is that you’re not really sure where they these books were last placed, in or what boxes they’re under? Finally, normalcy starts to settle in, food has been re-stocked in the new fridge, towels and bedding have been found, boxes have begun to be unpacked and furniture is arranged. You can say to yourself “it’s beginning to look like home again?”
You place that familiar and beloved painting that was created by your Great Aunt upon the wall and think to yourself: “This place is just right, the carpets, and the painted walls and coverings match the colors of my furniture and my artwork! What a divine place in time for me to be here? Perhaps God was listening the day that I found this place? “Just right” as Goldie Locks from the fairytale story would comment.
While listening to some relaxing Mozart choral music, to calm your nerves as you are unpacking yet another box; you suddenly remember that you have better get “cracking” on that last extended paper which needs to be completed, in three days from now, to be exact! Yikes! Back on the emotional treadmill you go, bravely stating in your subconscious “that you would not wish this amount of stress of moving at this time of the year on anyone.” This is definitely one of life’s experiences that you will remember in your post university years!
Mental note to me, in the future! When you accomplished this feat of stupidity, you were making a family memory and you had to deal with all of these circumstances. You also had a loss of “memory” when you allowed yourself to accomplish moving at this particular time of the new year. However, you remind yourself to instruct your children, grandchildren and if you live long enough, your great grandchildren; never attempt a move heading into second term with one's exams pending, while trying to keep up your academic studies. I wonder what Andy Rooney of CBS’s 60 Minutes commentator, would say about all of these matters?
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Walker Family New Year's Letter 2009
Dear Friends and Family:
Happy New Year from the Walker Household! It is being some time since we’ve written a family newsletter and some of you than asking, what has been musically happening for all three of you? The fall was very busy for all three of us and we look forward to exciting and fulfilling events in 2009. We’ve included a recent photo of Emily and Ian for you to review.
Ian’s dear friends Michael and Louise Rutledge of Brantford (friends from High School) celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary this past August and it was a grand and affair. Michael and Louise have been great friends to both Ian and Elaine as we’ve enjoyed spending time with them when we can. To celebrate their anniversary they had a square dance and that was a fun filled evening, looking back on our high school days, their wedding (Ian was their best man) and there are ongoing family life. We wish them many more years together in the future.
For the last two years, Ian was writing his autobiography about his life with ADHD. With Elaine’s support to finish this manuscript, the book will soon be published through a Canadian publisher in the spring of 2009. The book is called Stirring my soul to Sing, Overcoming Obstacles of ADHD. Ian hopes that the book will be a blessing to those ADHD North American families, who to have suffered through this disorder. Ian’s book shares his story that through arts education, awareness (also having a strong faith) and through vocal and choral singing; led him to overcome his difficulties and focused on a career as an arts consultant. We will keep you all in the loop once our new web site is up and running and you can order the book from Amazon.CA
In conjunction with the publishing of the book, Ian returned to McMaster University in Hamilton ON, in September, 2008 to finish his Arts BA in the “Theatre and Film.” It will be completed in April, 2009, and initially he needed six courses to finish. Now in the term a two, he has only two more courses to go until he graduates. There are a work opportunities for Ian in the near future within the School for the Arts at McMaster or within Alumni Advancement Department,as well as promoting his book in the near future.
Ian decided to take a sabbatical year from and duties with the Youth Choir for the Nation’s… in order that he could concentrate on his studies. He has been getting new ideas for choral works and tour and opportunities when he resumes conducting the choir in the spring of 2009. In the late summer months we have formed a tremendous board of directors that have been working very diligently, creating I were bylaws for this organization. We’re proceeding towards our own charitable status in the near future. We would greatly appreciate your prayer support as they seek the lord for 2009 and for his directions and for the duties that the board of directors will administer. Elaine and I are so blessed by these friends and colleagues that the lord has brought together and we gratefully thank them for their commitment to our revitalized organization.
Elaine has had some new opportunities herself with the promotion of Canada revenue agency (CRA) as of October; she formerly worked in the clerical area for a lead in the years, and is now an officer in the collections department. She continues to love to learn more about culinary delights and most evenings (after a busy day at the office and relaxing in front of the TV) Elaine is happy to pull out several of her cookbooks and planned for the week’s meals and wants to try out these new recipes on Ian and herself. Elaine has become someone who likes to check her “Facebook page” every night, seeing what new and old friends have been in touch with her? Hopefully, in 2009, Elaine will have the opportunity to take some clarinet blessings that she has wanted to get back to her all own music making.
Christina who is 17, is in her last year in High School in London, ON and it is soon to be planning for auditions to universities that have a music program in both violin and viola studies. Christina's excellent academic standing, she applied and was accepted to take one free course from UWO and she selected “Astronomy”. Christina is taking five courses this year, plus her university course and is keeping up with both of her violin/viola lessons and she is also very involved in her church youth group. She also works part time at her local Tim Horton’s restaurant-needless to say, she is one busy girl!
The Orpheus choir of Toronto (“OC” 60 mixed voices) activities have been keeping both Ian and Elaine very busy. Ian continues to look after publicity and marketing needs for the choir. Our season with Robert Cooper, artistic director and his choral repertoire –keeps getting better and better each year. If you are within the GTA and never been to an “OC” concert you’re missing some great music making! For the opening of our 44 season, we performed a new Canadian and now nationally commission to work called The Houses Stand Not Far Apart, with 100 voiced Chorus Niagara and orchestra. We combined our resources for two concerts in Toronto and in St. Catharine’s, ON. We gave the Toronto premiere of Lux Perpetua by British composer Jonathan Willcocks. We were so pleased to have internationally renowned Sir David Willcocks ( father of Jonathan) conduct this works with us.
It was a thrill for Ian to sing in the “OC” under Sir David, as both of us began a friendship with him in 2001. Sir David is 89 years young and is still going strong with his career. Elaine is such a great supporter of the choir and we appreciate her assistance on “front of house duties” or at the box office. While we were rehearsing with the orchestra on November 2 (day of the concert) Elaine had the opportunity to sit and chat for most of the afternoon with lady Rachel Willcocks which was very relaxing for both ladies.
If you’d like to know more about our ongoing 44 season of the Orpheus choir of Toronto, please check out our web site at www.orpheuschoirtoronto.com
In December, we’ve gone back to bell Canada so our phone number and e-mail ISP has changed. Our new number is (905) 813 –9884 and our email address is emlian2@sympatico.ca . Elaine has set up her e-mail as elaineruth1@sympatico.ca . Please update these addresses in your contacts directories.
May god richly bless you and your family for this New Year! Happy “choral singing” and music making from our family to yours in 2009.
All of our love,
Ian, Elaine and Christina
Happy New Year from the Walker Household! It is being some time since we’ve written a family newsletter and some of you than asking, what has been musically happening for all three of you? The fall was very busy for all three of us and we look forward to exciting and fulfilling events in 2009. We’ve included a recent photo of Emily and Ian for you to review.
Ian’s dear friends Michael and Louise Rutledge of Brantford (friends from High School) celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary this past August and it was a grand and affair. Michael and Louise have been great friends to both Ian and Elaine as we’ve enjoyed spending time with them when we can. To celebrate their anniversary they had a square dance and that was a fun filled evening, looking back on our high school days, their wedding (Ian was their best man) and there are ongoing family life. We wish them many more years together in the future.
For the last two years, Ian was writing his autobiography about his life with ADHD. With Elaine’s support to finish this manuscript, the book will soon be published through a Canadian publisher in the spring of 2009. The book is called Stirring my soul to Sing, Overcoming Obstacles of ADHD. Ian hopes that the book will be a blessing to those ADHD North American families, who to have suffered through this disorder. Ian’s book shares his story that through arts education, awareness (also having a strong faith) and through vocal and choral singing; led him to overcome his difficulties and focused on a career as an arts consultant. We will keep you all in the loop once our new web site is up and running and you can order the book from Amazon.CA
In conjunction with the publishing of the book, Ian returned to McMaster University in Hamilton ON, in September, 2008 to finish his Arts BA in the “Theatre and Film.” It will be completed in April, 2009, and initially he needed six courses to finish. Now in the term a two, he has only two more courses to go until he graduates. There are a work opportunities for Ian in the near future within the School for the Arts at McMaster or within Alumni Advancement Department,as well as promoting his book in the near future.
Ian decided to take a sabbatical year from and duties with the Youth Choir for the Nation’s… in order that he could concentrate on his studies. He has been getting new ideas for choral works and tour and opportunities when he resumes conducting the choir in the spring of 2009. In the late summer months we have formed a tremendous board of directors that have been working very diligently, creating I were bylaws for this organization. We’re proceeding towards our own charitable status in the near future. We would greatly appreciate your prayer support as they seek the lord for 2009 and for his directions and for the duties that the board of directors will administer. Elaine and I are so blessed by these friends and colleagues that the lord has brought together and we gratefully thank them for their commitment to our revitalized organization.
Elaine has had some new opportunities herself with the promotion of Canada revenue agency (CRA) as of October; she formerly worked in the clerical area for a lead in the years, and is now an officer in the collections department. She continues to love to learn more about culinary delights and most evenings (after a busy day at the office and relaxing in front of the TV) Elaine is happy to pull out several of her cookbooks and planned for the week’s meals and wants to try out these new recipes on Ian and herself. Elaine has become someone who likes to check her “Facebook page” every night, seeing what new and old friends have been in touch with her? Hopefully, in 2009, Elaine will have the opportunity to take some clarinet blessings that she has wanted to get back to her all own music making.
Christina who is 17, is in her last year in High School in London, ON and it is soon to be planning for auditions to universities that have a music program in both violin and viola studies. Christina's excellent academic standing, she applied and was accepted to take one free course from UWO and she selected “Astronomy”. Christina is taking five courses this year, plus her university course and is keeping up with both of her violin/viola lessons and she is also very involved in her church youth group. She also works part time at her local Tim Horton’s restaurant-needless to say, she is one busy girl!
The Orpheus choir of Toronto (“OC” 60 mixed voices) activities have been keeping both Ian and Elaine very busy. Ian continues to look after publicity and marketing needs for the choir. Our season with Robert Cooper, artistic director and his choral repertoire –keeps getting better and better each year. If you are within the GTA and never been to an “OC” concert you’re missing some great music making! For the opening of our 44 season, we performed a new Canadian and now nationally commission to work called The Houses Stand Not Far Apart, with 100 voiced Chorus Niagara and orchestra. We combined our resources for two concerts in Toronto and in St. Catharine’s, ON. We gave the Toronto premiere of Lux Perpetua by British composer Jonathan Willcocks. We were so pleased to have internationally renowned Sir David Willcocks ( father of Jonathan) conduct this works with us.
It was a thrill for Ian to sing in the “OC” under Sir David, as both of us began a friendship with him in 2001. Sir David is 89 years young and is still going strong with his career. Elaine is such a great supporter of the choir and we appreciate her assistance on “front of house duties” or at the box office. While we were rehearsing with the orchestra on November 2 (day of the concert) Elaine had the opportunity to sit and chat for most of the afternoon with lady Rachel Willcocks which was very relaxing for both ladies.
If you’d like to know more about our ongoing 44 season of the Orpheus choir of Toronto, please check out our web site at www.orpheuschoirtoronto.com
In December, we’ve gone back to bell Canada so our phone number and e-mail ISP has changed. Our new number is (905) 813 –9884 and our email address is emlian2@sympatico.ca . Elaine has set up her e-mail as elaineruth1@sympatico.ca . Please update these addresses in your contacts directories.
May god richly bless you and your family for this New Year! Happy “choral singing” and music making from our family to yours in 2009.
All of our love,
Ian, Elaine and Christina
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