Labor Day 2012 - Thoughts & Reflections

"Work isn't to make money; you work to justify life. "
Marc Chagall


Labor Day paved the way for the protections we have in the work environment today, but what happened in the past that gave rise to the Unions and their power they enjoy now?

If you do a quick search on Labor Day, you'll find out what Labor Day means for Americans today: a symbolic end to the summer filled with parades, BBQs, and parties. Oh, and it's meant to pay tribute to the accomplishments of the American worker.

In today's headlines, Labor Unions have bargained for themselves (and workers) big fat pensions and benefits that most government agencies can't provide in this current economy. With most labor unions unwilling to compromise, some public agencies have been forced into bankruptcy to renegotiate the contracts. What's the right answer for today? Perhaps a quick look at the roots and inspiration of Labor Day can help give us a little guidance.

In the late 1880's, conditions for the American worker were pathetic. The average worker put in 12 hour days 7 days a week, and children as young as 5 and 6 toiled in the factory as well. They lacked fresh air, breaks, and clean bathroom facilities.

Workers began to form unions to protest their poor conditions. In 1882, workers marched in New York City in what's considered one of the earliest Labor Day parades. These parades fostered the idea of a workingmen's holiday and several states passed laws to recognize "Labor Day," but nothing occurred on the national level.

The back and forth between management and labor unions began. In May1894, workers of the Pullman Palace Car Company went on strike to protest their wages getting cut and their union reps being fired. The strike crippled railroad traffic throughout the nation. Federal troops were called in and riots broke out. More than a dozen people were killed.

The incident inspired Congress to make Labor Day a legal holiday on the national level. There was more compromise to be made, but today American workers enjoy 8 hour work days, clean restroom faculties, and breaks.

So are there lessons from the past that we can use in today's climate? I say the lesson is – have a willingness to come to the table and find meaningful compromise. It's not easy, but civil unrest is not a solution to anyone's problems. Just ask the Occupy movement.

This Labor Day celebrate the achievements obtained in the past, and remember the spirit of the holiday is more than just BBQs and parties. Labor Day's message is still relevant today as it was 100 years ago, the application just needs a modern approach.

Anyhoo…just some of my heavier reflections on the holiday. Does anyone want to add anything? What are your plans for the holiday?

I have the time off, but I need some inspiration. I want to do more than BBQ in the backyard. I might go hiking with my boys if the weather is good. Maybe we'll visit the fruit/veggie stands on the 126 heading out to Ventura. Believe it or not, I'm needing some inspiration.

My June 2012 Summer Short story is "Journey of the Heart."

Can James help Rachel save her winery or will he drift out of her life the same way he drifted in?

Opening Line: James hated wandering

4, 5 Star Reviews on Amazon
The story was compelling and not boring, which is often a stereotype of sweet romances. I would recommend this short sweetie of a story. Good job, author. - Angel E

Excerpt:
"Your case threatened to run away, so I bribed it." Her sweet expression was an arrow through his heart.

"Really? What did you bribe it with?" He wiped the sweat off his brow with a handkerchief, caused from a combination of the summer heat and lifting the heavy cases.

"A job."

He hooked his thumb toward his chest. "Are you offering me a job, Miss Santori?"

BUY LINK: http://amzn.com/B008G1JI6C

References for this blog:

http://www.history.com/topics/labor-day
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labor_Day

Weight Loss Week #2 - 8-14 JAN

I had my weigh-in on Tuesday and the boys were in school. My weight loss was 1.6 pounds so I can't complain. It's a nice start. At the meeting, we talked about planning and how planning can lead to success.

I have to admit, planning can be a challenge for me. I usually go day-by-day, but the group leader wanted us to think a week out. While I think that's ideal, it's not practical with all I have going on.

I do manage a good day-by-day plan. This week I've treated myself to beef fajitas, chicken marsala, and baked ziti with chicken sausage. I've also taken a couple of 45 minutes walks around the neighborhood. My husband, who is counting points with me lost 6 points. I'm proud of him.

Oh, did I tell you I joined the weight loss challenge at work. We "weigh" out 22-24 March. 1st place is $975. 2nd place is $400 something and 3rd place is $275.

Now, if I can through the weekend… I'm doing homemade pizza.
How was your week?

Smiles
Steph

Happy New Year! 2012 Resolutions

Well, 2011 has come and gone and its time to start a New Year with a fresh face.

Did you make any resolutions for 2011? You know, I hate to say it, but I don't think I did. I tend to set goals. Goals seem obtainable to me. Resolutions imply a firm commitment to your personal objective and I always feel like a loser when I come up short.

What makes people talk about resolutions at the beginning of the New Year? I think for the most part, people are in a reflective mood when one year ends and another begins. We naturally look to the past, evaluate where we are in life and set new resolutions/commitments/goals for the future.

I can't honestly say how long New Years resolutions have been going on. My Internet research suggests the Romans began the tradition in 153 BC when they established "Janus" the god of beginnings and the guardian of doors and entrance at the start of their calendar. Janus became a symbol of resolutions for the Romans. They looked for forgiveness from their enemies and exchanged gifts. The gifts were simple, branches or coins with Janus' face on them.


Nowadays, for those making resolutions, the motivation behind them is self-improvement. These can include: weight loss, eat better, exercise more, quit smoking, reduce stress, take a trip, volunteer to help others, and there are many more.

This year I intend to commit to weight loss. I don't want to say "I resolve" because I'm afraid I'll fail, but I'll call it a goal. This goal is going to take patience, planning, and time. Losing weight doesn't come easy or quickly. I've also noticed it’s a wee bit harder over 40 as well, but I want to be healthy, especially for the boys so losing about 30-40 pounds is a goal I want to achieve.

I'm kindling the fire of the plan as I write. I'm joining the weight loss challenge at work, heading back to weight watchers, and planning meals as well as exercise time.

Okay, I'm pooped thinking about it. This is going to take a serious commitment on my part. Yikes. Sounds a like resolution to me.

Mind you, I have good intentions. In fact, my husband's along for the ride and I've got the boys to cheer me on, but I know it's not going to be easy.

Do you make resolutions? Why or why not? Share thoughts for success, or if resolutions and goal setting isn't your thing, share your thoughts and reflections for 2012.

Inspiration flows from the exchange of ideas.
Smiles
Steph