I get it, but... (Thing #5)

I started my Google Reader and I have to agree with Abby's blog on the subject- I prefer to see the websites themselves. I've found it visually unstimulating, and that's part of the fun of reading online- all the artwork and backgrounds that enhance the reading experience. I have to admit, even as an adult, books with pictures get my attention first!

I can understand the convenience of a site like this, and I can see where it can come in handy for getting the most recent information, especially from various news sites. What I would like to do is find something on the order of the Times Bestsellers list for spanish books. I'd be interested in up to date information on popular titles that we should be adding to our collection.

I see that the Reader can be added to our blog... I need to take a minute to figure that out because it's probably fairly simple; I just haven't noticed the right buttons yet.

Take Notice; I've Been Reading

Just a mention- I've already added a link to my Goodreads page to my blog. I've only got a few books up there because that's what I'm currently reading- I have dozens of my previously read books already listed on Shelfari, so I haven't gone through and added them to Goodreads. Keeping it simple.
Happy reading!

Siete y Una Medias Hábitos...

We joked a little bit amongst ourselves about having to learn how to be lifelong learners- as library employees I would hope we all have a good grip on that concept. But, the truth is, it's wise to step back and think about the habits we've formed that can help us, or keep us, from completing our goals in life.

I'm still trying to figure out which habit I have the most trouble with. I have so many unfinished projects around the house; I'm not as fluent in spanish as I'd love to be; I'm not always the perfect girlfriend and step-mom; I've barely progressed beyond the G, C and D chords on my guitar... why is all this? I hope that going through the seven and a half things will help me narrow it down to something besides laziness and the ever-increasing pile of books on my coffee table.

I'm good at the first habit- imagining the result of my goal. That's usually what gets me started in the first place.

I think I'm good at accepting responsibility for my goals; I don't assume that anyone else can do what I want to get done.

Viewing problems as challenges might be one of my roadblocks. Problems look like, well, problems to me, and I'm working on changing my views on that. Maybe when problems arise, it's a good time to go back and imagine the end result of getting past it, and see it in a more positive light- something I can be proud of having worked through.

Confidence has always been a bit of an issue with me. I was fairly sheltered and shy as a kid, and I'm proud of myself when I look back and see how far I've come. Still, I tend to see other people who are more accomplished, more outgoing, and more confident than myself. Maybe I should refer to Habit 5, and look at those people as a part of my 'tool kit' who I can let motivate me, rather than discourage me. It's all in how I look at things, right?

So in reference to creating a tool box, maybe I need to put more thought into that- see who and what is around me that can help me.

I'm fairly comfortable using technology. There's always more to learn and use, which, of course, is why I'm participating in the 23 Things, and I'm looking forward to getting familiar with some new (to me) tools.

I love when I realize I have something to offer others from my own learning and experience, so I'll keep that in mind, and look for more opportunities to teach and mentor others, and reinforce my own learning.

I've already said that playing is a strong point of mine- I'm always looking for ways to make everyday tasks more fun and interesting!

Don't Get Me Started...

Seems like we're off to a good start with the FRL 23 Things project; it's been interesting looking in on everyone's comments and blogs, so I guess I'd better jump in here myself!

First off, I'd like to say that I really appreciated how our staff development day was set up- it was good to interact a little more with those of you from the other libraries! I keep saying that 'us newbies' at MCPL need to take a day-long field trip to get acquainted with all the other branches; I'm embarrassed to admit that I've never even been in the Nantahala or Cashiers buildings. I grew up using at least five different libraries fairly regularly, so you'd think I could get a visit or two in to all of my regional branches! One of these days, I promise, I'll venture out.

I'm looking forward to the rest of our tasks. I don't think I'll have a problem with Number 7 & 1/2 "Play!" More about the others in my next post.