First of all let me tell you a little bit about PEN. The acronym stands for Parents Education Network, a coalition of parents collaborating with educators, students and the community to empower and bring academic success to students with learning and attention difficulties. If you live in the San Francisco Bay area and have children with these challenges, this is a lively group, well worth your time and energy.
In mid-March PEN Speaker Series welcomed Patricia Oetter talking on Sensory Integration: Do we really need it?
She began her presentation defining the senses. Nerves can best be described through neurobehavioral organization. These sensory neurons work in tandem with our motor neurons. Why? We need to do something with the neuro-sensory part of our selves.
I referred to biologyreference.com for a little more detail.
Sensory neurons bring information about the world within and around the body from sense organs to the brain and spinal cord.
Motor neurons carry messages from the brain and spinal cord out to the muscles and glands.
An example: if a mosquito lands on a person’s arm, sensory neurons in the skin send a message to the spinal cord and then the brain, where the message is understood, and a reaction formulated. The brain’s response may be to use motor neurons to cause muscle contractions resulting in a slap on the skin.
Ms. Oetter expanded the usual definition of the senses: see, hear, taste, touch and smell, to include to:
- Vestibular system. This sense contributes to our balance and our sense of spatial orientation. It’s the sense that is about being in motion and knowing how to handle oneself. She reminded us that children learn balance by falling down purposefully – it’s movement through space.
- Proprioception. This sense indicates where the various parts of the body are located in relation to each other.
Ms. Oetter cautioned us to remember that our senses are continually providing information to the brain which means that in any given moment, a person may react in one way or another, depending on what sense is dominant at that moment. For this reason she seemed to eschew placing too much emphasis on the phrases “hyper” meaning beyond or excessively or “hypo” meaning under or below normal. She re-iterated for the teachers present: A student in a state of hypo-activity is just in a momentary state. Before you know it, the student may become hyper-active.
She talked about the intensity of sensation which is experienced through the duration of its frequency and pattern: novelty vs repetition. She explained that the neuro-chemistry inside our cells when turned up or down are a part of how we perceive something. Our cells are turned up when we are not feeling comfortable or safe.
She had an interesting comment that touch is the key for vision: If you don’t know what is going on with your vision, your body doesn’t know where it is.
She re-iterated several times her concern that boys in our school systems are lacking experiences they need for development. The reason? It seems the schools learning systems are focused on a girl’s point of view. As a result the experience of risk is diminished, an important component for young boy’s growth. She recommended three books that are helpful in raising boys:
Raising Boys by Steve Biddulph and Paul Stanish
Raising Cain: Protecting the Emotional Life of Boys by Dan Kindlon and Michael Thompson,
The Trouble with Boys: A Surprising Report Card on Our Sons, Their Problems at School, and What Parents and Educators Must Do, Peg Tyre
Ms. Oetter made a sobering comment. It takes 25 – 30 years of age before the brain is mature enough to handle the senses. It seems it takes that long for mylenation, the development of an insulation material to form a layer, usually around a neuron. This sheath is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system. One of the components that ensures mylenation is the condition of feeling safe. She reminded us that boys, girls, young adults, all of us actually, need smiles and touch to find a way to feel safe.
There is so much more information that Ms. Oetter shared. However, now brevity is important.
I would like to comment on the value of these lectures sponsored by PEN. Over this last year I have attended most of them. As a dyslexic and hyperlexic these perspectives have been very useful to me. And, as each dyslexic/hyperlexic has different reasons for their challenge I know it is important to examine a wide variety of solutions. Each speaker gave me another clue into how I function or not. In Ms. Oetter’s case, over the last twenty years I have focused on my senses to understand some of my dyslexic behavior. I found her information most helpful. It gave me another point of view on the topic.
I just wish that parents and teachers challenged with children who have learning issues were in attendance in droves so they, too, could learn. These lectures are one of the best “buys” in the Bay Area.
Comment on this postChildren with Challenges is a Yahoo group of parents, therapists and persons challenge with disabilities such as dyslexia, hyperlexia, aspergers, autism and many others. See http://groups.yahoo.com/group/childrenwithchallenges. The group was initiated by a mother in a support group who was learning the Masgutova Method.
Recently this mother took the initiative to begin a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) relating to the solutions that Svetlana Masgutova has unearthed for different disabilities. I provided some ideas for the FAQ on dyslexia and hyperlexia and then Svetlana added details. The results are below. I highly recommend that you visit the Yahoo site http://groups.yahoo.com/group/childrenwithchallenges for responses on other topics.
1. How does that Masgutova Method help children and adults with dyslexia (challenges with sounding out words, reading and vocabulary) and hyperlexia (challenges with comprehending – both reading and aural)?
The Masgutova Method (MM) addresses core issues behind both challenges. If a child or an adult’s reflexes normally developed in utero and during the first three years of life are delayed the technical skills required to read and comprehend can be impacted.
Non-developed or retained reflex patterns cannot serve as a neurophysiological basis for learning skills development, and more over, non-integrated reflex patterns inhibit the learning process. The negative effects of automatism, incorrect reflex pattern functioning (its dysfunctional sensory system, brain processing, and motor response), and lack of development of inner control will not allow a child/adult to deal easily with hands on tasks: to focus, to analyze, to decode information, and to process it appropriately. Integration of these non-developed reflex patterns gives the possibility for the development of inner control and skills.
2. Can reflex corrections be made to improve a dyslexic and hyperlexic’s ability to read and comprehend?
Yes, there have been many hundreds of examples where a marked increased in reading and comprehension has been reached.
3. Do the emotions play a part in dyslexia and hyperlexia?
Yes. We have seen cases where linking an emotional issue with an under-developed reflex and making the appropriate corrections have resulted in a marked increase in reading skills and comprehension.
To learn more about the Masgutova Method go to: http://www.masgutovamethod.com
If you have topics that you would like me to address about my experience in overcoming dyslexia and hyperlexia feel free to send your ideas through the comments below.
Information on this blog is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or health care professional.
Comment on this posti hated reading. i mean, REALLY hated reading. at the suggestion of a friend, i bought ann farris’ book, the other side of dyslexia, with no intention of reading it- #1, because i wasn’t dyslexic, and #2, like i said, i hated reading. just out of curiosity, i began reading ann’s book, and i didn’t hate it at all. in fact, i really liked reading it. so much so that i have read and re-read the book several times, cover to cover. go figure. as it turns out, i AM dyslexic. this book has really helped me come to terms with a lot of what dyslexia actually involves, and how it affects my life. it’s not all mixing up letters and numbers like we all think! the other side of dyslexia is a great book for people who have dyslexia, for those who don’t, and for those of us who hate to read but don’t know why. what an incredible resource this book has turned out to be for me, and i hope you find it to be so too. –Leah, posted on Amazon
Comment on this postChildren with Challenges is a Yahoo group of parents, therapists and persons challenge with disabilities such as dyslexia, hyperlexia, aspergers, autism and many others. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/childrenwithchallenges. The group was initiated by a mother in a support group who was learning the Masgutova Method.
You can learn more about how this Method helped me overcome my hyperlexia by reading my Article on this website. Click Article on the top menu above. You can also go to http://www.masgutovamethod.com for more details on the Method
I joined Children with Challenges four years ago and monitor the input on a regular basis. Parents and therapists offer feedback on techniques that are working with both children and adults challenged with a disability. I always am looking for new approaches that might assist me in improving my comprehension – both through the written and spoken word. Not long ago this information was posted.
Please note: I have had no personal experience with these two products but as others seem to have had good results in improving comprehension I am passing this information on.
1. Fast ForWord, a program designed by Scientific Learning. Here’s the link: http://www.scilearn.com/products/fast-forword-language-series/language.
2. Earobics. It is a cd with games. One person reports that Super Duper has the best price for this CD. She also commented Super Duper has free games online called Game Goo.
And, if you want to more information about Children with Challenges here is the link to their Yahoo Group.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/childrenwithchallenges.
____________________________________________________________
If you have topics that you would like me to address about my experience in overcoming dyslexia and hyperlexia send your comments through this blog below.
And, I am planning to continue evolving this site. I want to incorporate dyslexic and/or hyperlexic information that others have to share. Yes, I am looking for your ideas. Send them via the Comments. below.
Comment on this postWelcome: You have come upon a blog whose focus is primarily offering tools for dyslexics and hyperlexics. I have both conditions. The material is also germane for parents and therapists. The topic, this time, is financial support. Occasionally I come across names of institutions or individuals who offer financial support. I will update this list as I discovered more information.
Danielle’s Foundation is a comprehensive support and resource center for parents, caregivers, and loved ones of children with cerebral palsy and brain injury. Recently they have annouced a grant program. The first deadline has been extended to April 7th, 2010.
Here is what their press announcement states:
In keeping with our mission to help parents of children with cerebral palsy and brain injury get the care their children desperately need, we have developed a grant program to assist deserving families in getting the necessary therapy/ medical equipment for their children (which insurance has either denied or will not cover).
Our grants are based on need and will be given out on a quarterly basis. Each grant will range from $2,000-$5,000.
To apply your child MUST be under 18 years old, have a diagnosis of cerebral palsy or brain injury, and need assistance in getting therapy or medical equipment. For more information and to receive a grant application please call our toll free hotline 1-800-996-1148 or
For more information and to receive a grant application please call our toll free hotline 1-800-996-1148 or http://www.daniellesfoundation.org .
If you have topics that you would like me to address about my experience in overcoming dyslexia and hyperlexia feel free to send your ideas through the comments below.
__________________________________________________________
Information on this blog is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or health care professional
Comment on this postWelcome: You have come upon a blog whose focus is primarily offering tools for dyslexics and hyperlexics. I have both conditions. The material is also germane for parents and therapists. The topic, this time, is hyperlexia and dyslexia on-line resources. Some of these contacts I have had first hand experience and others not. I indicate the latter.
http://www.masgutovamethod.com
This website provides details on the Masgutova Method – an approach that considers the health of reflexes of a child and an adult. Her techniques to correct under-developed reflexes was a major component in my overcoming the negatives of hyperlexia.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/childrenwithchallenges.
An excellent support group for parents, therapists interested in or working with the Masgutova Method.
This organization provides excellent dyslexia and hyperlexia assessments and offers effective tools to overcome the mechanics of both conditions.
An organization founded by a dyslexic thirty or more years ago and offers movement exercises that are very effective in dealing with learning issues.
http://www.dyslexia-program.com. This is a British Newsletter that comes out bi-monthly. Written byJohn Bradford the online newsletter has 28,000 subscribers.
http://www.parentseducationnetwork.org
A San Francisco-based organization assembled by parents of dyslexics, ADD etc. They are very active, presenting an ongoing program of resources for parents as well as programs for learning challenged children.
http://www.audiobooksgalore.com/books/hebrew-magazine.
I came across this website. It has an interesting article on dyslexia, hyperlexia and other topics. The author is succinct in her presentation and the information useful.
http://www.interdys.org/ An international organization focussed only on dyslexia. It’s large and has a major annual meeting. I find the information they offer is very limited in scope. They are hesitant to introduce any approaches that have not been through the scientific process. As a result they are not a progressive group.
Mr. Vance writes a newspaper column about people with disabilities. He focusses on writing their personal story from their viewpoint avoiding the trap of making them out to be victims or superheroes. He sees them just as people. He did an article on my story and it was very geniune. This is the link to the story: http://www.danieljvance.com/disabledweek402a.html
I read about this organization from a newspaper report describing the ability of a 12 year-old, Laura Miles, to overcome her dyslexia and coordination problems. The article reported that Dore’s process offers ”a series of simple exercises designed to target an area of the brain called the cerebellum. Dore believes the cerebellum is the root cause of learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dyspraxia (developmental coordination disorder), ADHD and Asperger’s syndrome.
Laura had to do exercises for 10 minutes, twice a day, in the morning and at night. Her exercises included juggling bean bags – for eye-tracking and to help co-ordination; a wobble board – to help stimulate and improve balance; and an eye chart – to give the person different things to focus on.”
These exercises sound very much like the Brain Gym approach which I found very helpful.
http://www.beingdyslexic.co.uk
I came upon the Being Dyslexic website found their material helpful. This site provides a range of dyslexia information for people of all ages and situations who are either dyslexic or interested in dyslexia. Everything on Being Dyslexic is free and accessible for anyone to use and share. Being Dyslexic also hosts one of the largest dyslexia community forums on the internet. They suggest: why not “pop along” (very British phrase) today and discuss dyslexia with other people!
A mother reports on her discovery that her child had excess histamine in the body. She feels this condition is a part of the reason of her child’s hyperlexia.
http://www.resources-teachers.com
I came across this website as they picked my article. It’s valuable for teachers.
http://www.dyslexia-adults.com
This website offers a free newsletter (they have 30,000 subscribers). John Bradford is the editor and has over thirty years experience of working with children, teenagers, college students and dyslexic adults; he has worked as a lecturer in education, as a school principal/head teacher, and has been involved in advising, counseling and teaching dyslexic children and adults from age 4 to age 72! The site covers dyslexia testing and assessment, teaching dyslexic children, advice for parents of a dyslexic child, coping techniques for dyslexic adults, free magazine articles, research, and much, much more.
___________________________________________________________
If you have topics that you would like me to address about my experience in overcoming dyslexia and hyperlexia feel free to send your ideas through the comments below.
__________________________________________________________
Information on this blog is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or health care professional
Comment on this postWelcome: You have come upon a blog which primarily discusses tools to help dyslexics and hyperlexics. I have both conditions. The topic, this time, are senses: see, hear, taste, touch, smell.
When I began exploring how to help myself with the confusing issues that my dyslexia seemed to bring me I discovered that some of the confusion comes from the fact that I am also synesthesic. This means that I experience two or more senses simultaneously - an advantage and a detraction.
It’s an advantage because it gives me heightened sensual awareness. It’s a disadvantage because the clashing of senses simultaneously can create confusion. To diminish this confusion I spent some time training myself to understand what was happening. These are the steps I took.
For a couple of months I went several times a week to an art museum or gallery to spend a half hour standing in front of paintings asking myself the following questions: if that painting had a smell, what would it be, or how do I taste that painting, or how do hear that painting and so on. This “schooling” made me conscious of the information coming from my senses, rather than from my brain.
Now I know to determine if the information from my brain clashes with that from my senses. Here is an example:
I was attending a concert of new music at Carnegie Hall in New York. My head was trying to tell me that I liked the piece. I decided to check with my senses. I asked: how do I hear this new piece of music? cacophanous sounds: how do I see this new piece of music? four by eight pieces of wood clashing against one another, what is the touch I feel from this new piece of music? like sharp pins sticking up and blooding my finger, what do I smell from this new piece of music? something unpleasant, what do I taste from this new piece of music? shit.
Yes, I get honest answers from my senses.
Let’s not forget there are two other components to this equation.
1. Sometimes two or more of my senses are working simultaneously are causing confusion.
2. Sometimes it is simply the fact that I am not imaging the words – my hyperlexic condition.
One fact I feel. My senses tell me truths.
Do any of you reading this blog have any comments to make about your sensorial experiences?
If you have topics that you would like me to address about my experience in overcoming dyslexia and hyperlexia feel free to send your ideas through the comments below.
__________________________________________________________________
Information on this blog is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or health care professional.
Comment on this postUsually this website is about dyslexia and hyperlexia. This is a diversion – report on my 2010 Olympic trip – to Vancouver. Day eight, Feb 17th, last day.
I am sitting at the airport, gone through security – more thorough these days – had to open my computer and turn it on. That hasn’t happened for a cat’s age. And I have gone through customs. No line. Now I have my Starbucks cup of chai tea and a muffin from Mum’s on Denman and am sitting at a long counter with huge windows in front of me giving me a spectacular view of the Coast Range Mountain. Tucked behind them is snow-capped Whistler. It’s a beautiful twilight. Word has it that this coming week there will be sunny weather. I am so glad for all the visitors – they need a break from rain.
Guess what, I lost my umbrella yesterday!
Riding on the subway to the airport I sat next to a woman coming to meet her brother coming for the Olympics. One thing led to another and we ended up on the topic of security. She commented: I worked at Expo 67 in Montreal – we had none of this intense security. Well, said I. So did I work there and we were off and running on many topics. She worked in the office at Ile de Cite – sp? And of course, had a great time. This caused me to share with her an ah ha I had yesterday. One of the reasons these Olympics seem so much fun for me comes in part from the fact that I was never a “tourist” at Expo 67 or 86. I was too busy working and occasionally dashing to see a Pavilion when I could squeeze it in. Now, I have the privilege of seeing the results of so many other people’s hard labor. They have done a fabulous job.
By the way, I meant to tell you about Jap a Dog. The other day on the bus I passed a hot dog stand with a line that was a block long. Four people were feverously selling hot dogs. The bus moved on. A few blocks later I saw the same thing and it was then that I grabbed the name. Jap a Dog. This street side concession is very popular in VCR. And, not all the patrons were Asian. Wonder if this is anywhere else?
I did have one disappointment today. I wanted to buy a pair of the Olympic mittens – they are bright red and adorable. It turns out that Vannoc gave the concession to two large retailers: Zellers and Hudson’s Bay. There’s no Zeller’s downtown so I high tailed it to the Bay. Can you believe there was a line that would take me and hour and half to go through to buy a pair of mittens? You are right, I didn’t do it. Isn’t odd that Vannoc didn’t want their merchandize sold all over the City!!!!
I was on my way to have lunch with Rae Ackerman – a former Expo 67 colleague who now manages all the Civic Theatres. I was early so I jumped into a bar to see what sport was happening and to be viewed on a big screen. Women’s down hill. Oh my God, did you watch? They go at a speed that’s terrifying. But with the sun out and the blue and green mountains in the background juxtaposed again the white snow with those strange watery blue lines to give the skier a sense of where she is and then the skier in her outfit – the sheer beauty of it all took over. I sat with two guys who kept their eye on the stop watch - Hey, one would say – she’s losing time or look at that, she’s under. And, then together the three of us would hoop and holler.
Hey, Mam, won’t you have a beer.
Sorry, no. I am going to a meeting at noon.
Oh, Okay.
And, soon I left them. They were good company.
Rae bought me lunch – delicious ribs and stuffed potato. I cleaned my plate. There is something about the Olympics. I eat and don’t seem to gain. I like that.
I did go back to the Ontario Pavilion – had heard the film was worth seeing. Well, it was okay – would give it a six. It’s 4-D. If you haven’t seen a 4-D film yes, go. Otherwise, it’s a pass. There is a half- hour line. I was glad, however, to go back by GM Place area– for the crowds were energized – half of them were exiting after a hockey game (Finland versus Belarus). You probably know Finland won. And, then half the crowd was just about to enter for the next hockey game. It’s that kind of energy that is fun to be around.
And, then it was time to get back to Katherine’s, grab my luggage and head for the airport.
My plane is now loading. So, let me say, thanks for listening – you’ve been a great audience. It’s enriching to record my experience and share it
PS. Those of you in Vancouver or coming: don’t forget the short train ride from the Athletes Village to Granville Island. It’s fun.
Comment on this postYes, this blog is usually about dyslexia and hyperlexia but occasionally I am adding other topics. This sequence is describing my Olympic 2010 experience. Day Seven, Tuesday, Feb 16th, 2010.
Another full day – now only two things but ……… After a few errands I headed to Northern House (corner of Hastings and Seymour). Peoples of the Northern Territories have transformed an old bank – you know one with high, high ceilings and a few posts to hold the next floor up - into a pavilion. This Pavilion wins my top marks. They organizers gave much thought – so much imagination is oozing out of that space. The entire space has a natural feel.
Northern artists – different ones – were engaged to create poster art for the columns. They are splendid!
Northern Pavilion: Ann's Rock Sculpture
And, the environment brings out the artist in us – the visitor. On a table are stones, stones from their land. We are invited to create sculpture.
Mine actually stood up!!!!
And, athletes are present showing us some of the competitive games they play. They are mostly feats of strength like hanging by your wrists on a pole as you are carried around the stage or the head to head pull – a strap around two person’s heads and they pull. It’s fascinating to watch. No, I didn’t try but many children and adults did.
And, they have beautiful art, simply displayed – including hand made clothes.
Go, you will enjoy. I stayed two hours.
Then I caught a bus to the Coliseum for a late afternoon – into the evening of Men’s Figure Skating: Short Program. Well, it was short for the artists but four and a half hours for us. Now, I am not complaining, I loved it but when I looked at my watch and it was 9 pm, I went wow. Time has flown by.
I am glad to have seen the skating before the elimination. We saw thirty skaters – only 20 move on to the final competition tomorrow. We didn’t see the list of who made it into the finals but there were some very young skaters who did wonderful work. They were just not in the league with the stars. The stars, Russian, American and Japanese were spectacular. Their choreography was complicated, their skill amazing, their music appropriate. They deserved being the top three. What saddened me the most was the tumble. So many of the skaters tumbled. Nerves, I guess.
I do have one complaint – nothing to do with the skaters but with the media. Surely to goodness, in this day of heightened technology, some creative technician can come up with a way to film events like this without disturbing 2,000 people. My seat was terrific – except that the media was a boom with a camera that kept jumping up in front of me and blocking my and so many other’s view. This is not the time to penny wise and pound foolish. I feel sure the technology is there. Producers need to put their foot down, stamp it down, and say to the media: this kind of disturbance is unacceptable! Solve it.
And, programs. They are non existent at the Olympics. I searched the Coliseum yesterday. I was told there was a souvenir program – couldn’t find it but was also told it said nothing about the skating athletes. I, for one, like to know! All there was, was a piece of paper scotch taped to the wall at the entrance that gave the list of when the skaters were performing Same things goes for the Cultural Olympiad. So little information about the work and the artists. I felt sad about that. Yes, I know it is green not to have programs with a decent amount of information but…………..If this is a harbinger for the future I feel sad for future audiences.
By the way – here’s the current solution to the Robson Bus. It is cancelled until March 1st. They have created a downtown bus which goes up Georgia, down Pender to Homer loops around to Richards, up Richards to Davie, down Davie to Denman and then repeat. So, all of you coming and staying in the West End, be prepared. There are lots of buses, the route is just different. And, someone needs to give these bus drivers a huge pat on the back. It is amazing how good their cheer is. Tonight coming back – 10:30 ish – downtown was jumping. An amazing amount of action on Davie. The party continues.
By the way, I see posters all over town for Nixon in China: It’ an opera by John Adams a much respected contemporary composer being produced by the Vancouver Opera. If you still have a few pennies in your pocket – go – it’s in mid-March.
Comment on this post
2010 Olympics: Medals Ceremony
This blog usually focusses on dyslexia and hyperlexia but I thought it would be fun to add my experience at the 2010 Olympics and Culural Olympiad. This is day six, Monday, Feb 15th, 2010.
Today, I joined my nephew, Jason, his wife, Sarah and their energetic and curious kids, Jane (age 11) and Owen (age 9) and off we went exploring. First Stop: Code 1. Another digital location – this time Great Northern Way – a humoungous warehouse that is draped in blacks to create many large spaces for digital installations of all sorts. It began with us wandering through a series of hanging plants which when you touch them make noise. The four of us had quite a cacophony of sounds going. That was a great beginning – it gave the kids the sense of – hey, anything goes here and they were off and exploring. And, so were we. The kid in us had a great time. In one room were “ Condemned Bulbes” yes, that’s how it was spelled!! – large, like a foot tall and 8 inches in diameter incandescent blubs hanging shoulder height. It was quite a beautiful, peaceful sight until we began wandering through them and they began to make sounds back at us. At first we thought movement was important so we began rushing the space – then Jane said: stop!.. We stopped, different sounds happened and so it went. Great fun.
At one point we entered a room where the kids were invited to put on a cloak with many buttons. Then, they ran up and down this forty foot space which caused the huge pictures on three large screens to change – from the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa – to a pyramid – etc. There was one magic button on this cloak. Push it, and the world exploded on three screens – that caused much merriment. Owen’s favorite exhibit was Papparazzi; a camera followed you, just like those insidious paparazzi - and your picture was constantly imaged on a large screen. And, so it went. We were there an hour and half exploring. A wonderful time had by all. And, as I muse on the experience now, I am wondering, are digital artists only interested in the interactive – is that how they measure their satisfaction with their creativity?
2010 Olympics: Jane, Ann, Owen and mascot
On to the Russian Pavilion. We were traveling in Jason and Sarah’s car. The question was: Where to park? Parking is non existent these days. Can you believe, we turned down a side street off Main, turned right again, by the old CNR railroad station and there was one block one with one parking space and no signs that said we couldn’t. NONE. We blessed Mother Kabrini, Katherine’s patron saint of parking, and headed off for Science World, you know that huge dome at the end of False Creek. Currently it has been taken over by the Russians. As we waited a few minutes to enter, we looked across False Creek at the four huge apartment blocks that make up the Olympic Village for the contestants to discover they are draped with the flags of each country participating – a wonderful sight.
The Russians have gone all out. All, and I mean all, of the Science World Exhibits are gone. The place has been painted a warm white and Sochi, a tiny town on the Black Sea is the feature. This city will be the host for the 2014 Winter Olympics. It seems this city has a very warm climate – 60 degrees - in winter. (sorry, I have no idea what that is in centigrade). And, it’s a tiny town, much smaller than Victoria. There are many screens and wall pictures showing this tiny town and the mountains an hour away. It seems it gets colder than Whistler! Must be a fast descent.
At the moment, Sochi is busy building a railroad which will have a solar and electric train running, taking all the visitors up. That is not all they are about to construct. They have to build several huge arenas to handle hockey, ice skating, etc. Vancouver thought they had a lot of construction to undertake. Nothing like Sochi: Nothing exists yet.
Jason, Sarah and I had a chuckle when we discovered who were these young Russians decked out in black suits with white hats. They work for the railroad! It was hard to see what their job was here as they headed for the room with computers, went on-line – we guessed sending an e-mail home. At that point we were being entertained by six women in traditional colorful costumes with lovely voices dancing their way around the temporary stage. I suddenly thought I would love to go to Sochi and said: Hey Jane how about you and I volunteer for Sochi – it could be fun. She’s not to sure. We’ll see when we get closer.
We headed on – to other pavilions – there was a huge line to get into Saskatchewan pavilion – we continued on, went into Quebec – it’s nothing, we continued on to Ontario: They have a six minute film – but at least a half hour wait so we decided to check out their “common” space. Large screens allowing us to see some of the sports activity on Whistler and women’s hockey in Vancouver.
We were close to BC Place. I ran to see if I could get a ticket to the Medals – no go. Sarah kept saying, you are taking my ticket – we have tickets for another medals night and are going again, I will get to see it. So, that’s what I did. But first we had to eat. Not much around so we headed to Tinsletown and a Chinese restaurant. A strange building with a huge movie complex and no people activity at all. The dinner was delicious.
Back to BC Place for the ceremony. I must say I was grateful to Sarah. I loved being in the space, feeling it. To warm us up for the ceremony there was a French Canadian group – good solid entertainment – almost folk like. Then, it was ceremony time. The energy of all 20,000 people was throbbing. They were going to see the first Canadian Gold Medal winner. He got a heroes welcome. And, when it was time to sing O Canada the place rocked. Finally they played the anthem as it was written – not like the opening ceremony. That romantic version drove me nuts!!!!!
I, of course, got caught up in the lighting technology. So many different tools – vertical lights, streaming thin lines of different colors into the audience, the moving lights wafting back and forth in different colors, the “movies” playing behind the action. All this action, in itself, creates an ambiance that says, it’s exciting. I was really surprised that the flags which are raised as the gold medal winner’s anthem is played are not reaching as high into the space as I thought. On TV – which is the only way I have seen it before, it always seemed to me to be stretching way up into space. Not so. Maybe 30 feet. That’s not much. Hmmmm. Then we watched the medal ceremony in Whistler. I had passed that location just a few days ago – now it was jammed with swaying people in colorful outfits and with flags of many countries being waved. It didn’t matter that the sound didn’t work, at first. Yes, it was perplexing but eventually It corrected itself – or rather technicians rushing about probably corrected it.
A rock band took over as the ceremony concluded. Not long after the kids were done – We had been going eight hours and they had been troupers. So we headed off into the night. I bid fond farewell. They headed for buses and home. I am grateful to Sarah. When I go home and see a medal ceremony I will know the truth of how it’s produced. I like that.
I headed for Live City – thought I might be able to get in. I suppose I could of but it would have been an hour and half wait and the rain was starting. So I ventured off to find a bus. By the way, Sue did say yesterday that they now are handling 10,000 a night. There’s no question Live City is a huge success.
Returning to Katherine’s was a giggle. To explain. The crowd around Robson Square keeps getting larger and larger – spilling down Robson toward Stanley Park making bus travel on Robson nearly impossible. Last night I couldn’t find a bus coming down Robson at Burrard. It was almost midnight. I asked a policemen. He said: They are rerooted. Go to Davie. I hopped a bus to Davie. No luck there, so I jumped in a cab.
So, tonight I wondered what will happen. Success, I found a Davie bus and we went down Davie to English Bay. I jumped off, and went to the bus in front which I expected would continue down Denman to Robson and go up Robson.
I said to the driver: Are you going down Denman? Yes.
I got on. Then the bus driver from the one I had just exited got on to talk to my bus driver.
He said to his colleague driving our bus: Okay, I now have three stories on what route I am to drive. The two of them started howling with laughter. And, the rest of us with them. One driver said he was going to go down Robson until he couldn’t – the other said no, I am going down Georgia turning left on Burrard. We all chimed in with ideas. It was time for our bus to leave. Our bus driver turned around to us and said: Anyone expecting I am going down Robson:
Yes, chimed in several.
Okay, that’s what we are going to do.
We left. I exited before the bus turned on Robson. I will see tomorrow what is up.
What is delightful is that somehow it all works and everyone is just going with the flow having a good time. And, these bus drivers don’t seemed hassled at all. In fact, our driver said, it’s fun, adds to the merriment of the experience. (He’s very British with a distinct Brit accent).
Before I forget it each day I am sending these e-mails from a coffee house, MUM’S on the corner of Denman and Haro. If you are in the neighborhood, drop by. They make all the muffins, breads, etc daily in their kitchen and they are DIVINE. Fresh, large – I know, not good for the waist – but what the heck, they are delicious!!!
Time for bed.
Comment on this postWe woke up to sun. Yes, sun. The mountains can be seen. I had a quiet morning – time to work out at a Centre a block away. My body needed that!
Twas a cultural day, and a darn good one. Met Susan Celms Baldwin, a colleague from Expo 67 days, and also from Vancouver and Crofton House, at the SFU’s bran new theatre in the stunning Woodward’s complex in downtown Vancouver. Our purpose? Matinee of Robert LePage’s The Blue Dragon. I saw this production a couple of years ago during the Cal Performances season at UC Berkeley and loved it. This time I found myself standing back from the production, watching it’s many components and the interweaving of them together. Mr. LePage’s is a story teller, a simple story teller who uses technology – simply. I don’t mean that it’s simple to do – cause it’s not – but the show isn’t about technology, its focus is the story with the technology helping to move the tale along. Three brilliant performers made this a wonderful afternoon.
Afterwards we meandered. For those of you in Vancouver or coming, check out Urbanity, a store on Abbott Street. They have stylish clothes in “real” fabrics coming from various parts of Scandinavia. Then we ambled over to the Aboriginal Pavilion which is housed on the Plaza of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Both of us were excited to go – the aboriginals are making a major contribution to these Olympics. Well, we all know you win some and then you don’t. Here was an amazing opportunity to tell their stories, stories from their wise ones, stories of their culture. But, this was not their choice. We were offered 360 degree screen of pictures – yes of their art and of their people and their places but none of it seemed to pull into a whole. We went away feeling sad about that.
After a hearty dinner we headed to the Queen Elizabeth Theatre for Dance Canada Dance – bringing together dancers from the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and the National Ballet of Canada. This concept was born twenty five years ago by David Y.H. Lui – a dance impresario – for Expo 86. It worked then, (Les Grands Ballet, from Montreal were also involved), and it worked now – brilliantly.
Susan and I made a very wise choice and bought balcony seats – several weeks ago. We like seeing patterns. Well, there tons to see.
We were offered three ballets beginning with the National Ballet dancing to Chopin with choreography set by Marie Chouinard, an avant garde choreographer. I know, you might ask: did it work? Yes, it did. Ms Chouinard had them moving – not ballet steps (although they did slip in) – mostly it was movement. I was fascinated. The evening continued with As above/So Below combining National Ballet and Royal Winnipeg dancers. The piece was choreographed by Mark Godden. I loved this work. Musically it began with Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata and then segued into John Adam’s Fearful Symmetries. This mesmerizing music gave a flow that had me wondering where I would be taken next. And each time, I was moved to something new. During this piece I had the flash of how nice it is to see the work of other ballet companies. We have a fabulous company in San Francisco, but I see them often. And, they have their artistic stamp. It felt refreshing to see new dancers, different choreography.
The final piece was my favorite. The Royal Winnipeg Ballet doing Hikarizatto choreographed by Itzik Galilli to percussive music – strong, powerful, percussive sounds. The lighting in this piece added an important ingredient holding each segment – sometimes only ten seconds but mostly longer – together. This was a collaborative effort – it must have been – to reach such heights. At it’s conclusion Susan turned to me and said: That is why the RWB is so great. They are truly innovative.
Before Susan headed home we walked across the street to Live City – Downtown. This location has the large screen which carries the live entertainment that Sue is overseeing at the David Lam Park, a mile away. The Canada Pavilion is in this location and worth visiting. It is a good place for kids into computers, great computer games to be played – about Canada, hockey, skating etc. etc. And, for those tourists who are dying to see a Royal Canadian Mounted Police in their Red Uniform and brown hat – they are there. I don’t know about you but know I have been asked by several foreign visitors: Where can I see a Mountie? Well, now I have the answer.
By the way, I have a correction to make. In my first report from the Olympics, I mentioned that Sue had been my assistant at Expo 67. Wrong! She was with me at Expo ’86. Susan Celms caught this error. Sorry Sue.
And, others have been asking for the name of the bar where I watched the Opening Ceremonies. Here are the details: It’s called Jimmy’s and it’s at the corner of Robson and Homer. If you are planning to watch a game there, I suggest you go into the temporary tent – the one with the peak. It’s right on the corner of Robson and Homer. Entrance is through the bar. And, they do serve food.
Good night. It’s been a lovely day.
Comment on this postI know this website has a dyslexic/hyperlexic theme but thought I just add some other spice. My time at the 2010 Olympics. This is Day Four, Saturday, Feb 13th, 2010
Good morning:
Oh my gosh, there was no way I was writing last night!!!!!!!! Not even for myself. I got back to Katherine’s at 12:30 am. It was POURING RAIN and the streets, even her street in the West End was teaming – well, about ten of us – with Olympics people – all volunteers heading wearily home for a good night’s rest. The guy I chatted with as we walked the block from Denman to K’s apartment is from Montreal – He’s a volunteer – driving artists all over town and loving it every moment. He’s was all decked up in his “blue and green uniform with his identification hanging down in a pouch from his neck, feeling very proud He’s having a blast!!!!
Day Four, yesterday, began with a quick trip to the Vanoc Box Office – looking for a medal’s ceremony ticket. No luck yet!!!!!!!!!!!!! Then my day four really began.
Whistler. Now, can you believe the last time I went to Whistler was 1964. Haig and Mary took me along with Jane and Charlie Kimbrough who were in VCR performing at the Vancouver International Festival and Romilly. It was a beautiful sunny day. All I remember is a colorful meadow with many sorts of wildflowers and a stream, a rushing stream and Mary’s generous picnic including a bottle of red wine. Those were my drinking days!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We had a great time.
Well, ladies and gentlemen, that has all changed. Thank heavens I had pre-arranged my transportation which departed at 9:10 promptly – leaving many behind to wait for the next bus. I had a cup of hot milk from Starbucks to keep me company as we set off. I was lucky to garner a front seat – my seat partner was a pilot with Fedex who had dead- headed from Connecticut via Memphis and then VCR. I learned a lot about FEDEX behind the scenes but mostly we kept questioning our bus driver – what’s that, oh, what’s this. It was one of British Columbia’s typical winter days – overcast. The clouds were hanging every so low as we journeyed into the mountains. The new road is beautiful – does hang a bit on a cliff at times – not unlike Highway 1 going out of San Francisco to Santa Cruz.
We passed through Britannia Beach. Remember how at school we learned about businesses in Canada and how copper came from Britannia Beach. Well, there we were going through Britannia Beach. Kind of a sad town now!
And, then two and half hours later we were in Whistler. The bus driver admonished us. Be sure you take note of where I have dropped you off. Remember Seven-Eleven. Whistler Village will all seem similar and for the Olympics our stop has changed. We leave on time so get back here – find your way in plenty of time. I knew I would get lost, directions are not my best! Seven-Eleven, that I can find, ‘cause I can keep asking until I find it.
The first thing that struck me about Whistler is the architecture. Some of the hotels seem reminiscent of the old CPR and CNR train hotels with their peaked roofs – no not copper – but still. Whistler didn’t feel like a quaint old ski town. Hmmmm
Then I realized, I have no idea what to do here. I asked one of those Vannoc volunteers in their blue and green outfits – you can’t miss them, you know: Where is the Tourist Bureau. You go turn left and then right and then left. Grump. I got lost twice (didn’t care – kind of fun) but then, voila, there it was. I asked: How can I best take advantage of my day in Whistler; I have a ticket in the evening to The Nix but nothing else.
Well, it began with a trip up the gondola – me and six others. They all had skis and those funny boots. Have you watched how people walk in ski boots – it’s like they tip toe – only they are in these clumsy, not flexible boots. I would HATE that experience. They seem unconcerned. Our gondola headed straight up, over snow, mounds of snow. We even watched for a few minutes – from our bird’s eye view – a practice session of the salalom (sp) race – you know, know the one where they have to wind their way around poles. I learned it’s okay to hit them?????? My fellow travelers in my cubicle high above the snow told me: Be sure you get the clear floor when you go peak to peak. They were referring to the next top of the mountain ride I was going to take. Okay, Okay I said. We arrived at the top of whatever, I think it was Whistler and it was darn cold as we exited. There were people, and skis and people and skis everywhere. I looked to my left and was befuddled. What in God’s name is that? It looked like a Jackson Pollock painting– you know the one where all the paint is spattered on the canvas – only this was huge. I approached and laughed and laughed. It was rows and rows of skis waiting their owners to pick them up. Kind of like lost children.
I wandered about a bit and decided – time for peak to peak. Now, it’s an overcast day and fog – yes – fog was about. So, the drama of this trip was minimized somewhat for in the valley between each peak was scattered fog – seemed like SF home. This is an extraordinary ride: It’s a suspension ride. One very tall tower on one mountain whose stable cables are driven deep, deep into the group holds three cables strung across this immense valley to the next mountain and another very tall tower. I decided for my first trip across I would choose a cabin with the solid floor – didn’t want to scare myself to death.
Had great fun chatting with all the skiers from ALL OVER THE WORLD, each with a unique story. We made it across, whew!!!! – took twenty minutes. I wandered this mountain for a while. I would love to come back and hike here!!! Then, my tummy told me – eat Ann. So I headed in. Awful food – but who cared. I chose a hamburger – needed protein and of course chips. It’s so great to be back in Canada – they serve vinegar with chips,, the one redeeming lunch feature. I found myself sitting at a table with four volunteers, in their late 50’s. They are from Thunder Bay in Eastern Canada. Guess what they are doing? Preparing the courses for the skiers. Today the gals – went in tandem sideways down the steep course sideways stamping down the course so it is flat and pristine and their husbands stood on the side of the course and had huge whisks on long handles gently brushing aside the powder snow that their wives have unsettled. They had been up since 5 am and it was now 1:30 pm. Famished, exhausted and hilariously funny. Didn’t matter my lunch was so awful.
Time to return on the gondola back to the original peak. I never did figure out when I was on Whistler and when on Blackcomb. Didn’t really matter. This time I went in a glass bottom gondola. LOVED IT. It was like sitting on top of trees ladened (sp) with snow. It would have been fun to be able to swing from those tree tops. The fog was doing its fog thing, swirling about. We all took each other’s pictures. Lot’s of fun.
Ann in a gondola atop Whistler Mountain
I hung out on the other mountain top for a while, just taking it all in. So beautiful. And, I wasn’t cold at all. Had one of Mum’s hand knitted sweaters – the bright orange one - with its high neck. No cold could get in there! And, then it was time to return down the mountain. This time I got a gondola all to myself. What a treasured time that was. And, guess who called on my cell? Haig and Mary – They are in Hawaii sunning. What a hoot that with all the technology no matter where you are you are connected!
My late afternoon in Whistler Village was figuring out where the Seven Eleven is. You know, the village all looks alike so I need to get my bearings for I was taking another bus up to Lost Lake for a performance at 7:30 pm and knew everything would look different later. I finally felt like I had it figured out, found a Starbucks for my afternoon Chai and then headed to the large screen to watch the first part of the Canada and ? hockey teams play. Canada was well ahead when I meandered on for my theater. Now, I had to take the number 6 six bus to get there. It was jammed with tired skiers and visitors. A man said to me: Lost Lake, theater. I don’t think so. Oh yes, I said. At which point an Asian couple said, yes, she’s right, we’re going too. It took the bus half an hour to get us there. Nearly the last stop. And, suddenly we were left – the three of us in the dark. A lady appeared with a flash light and said welcome to THE NIX. Just walk down this snowy path and you will come across a tent. Now, I could see why the instructions I printed off their site had a BIG warming. DO NOT WEAR HIGH HEELS. This was a snow adventure.
The play took place in snow sculpture. It was a good enough play – you know about being uphappy and finding love. It was the environment that was unique. I had a little blanket that stored into nothing that I brought along. This young New Zealander was sitting by me – he was dressed for the summer, so we shared my blanket. I didn’t want his teeth chattering!!! I told the guy taking tickets that I had a 9:30 bus to catch back to Vancouver. After the half hour trip to get to the “theatre” I was a bit apprehensive about the reality of my making my bus. Oh, he said: I will get you a taxi. Seemed somewhat impossible out in this wilderness – but by gum, it did happen. The return trip was no more than five minutes and he knew where the Seven-Eleven was. Yes, I made my bus.
Predictably, the bus was jammed. We were all tired. The chatter soon stopped. Before we knew it we were back in Vancouver – two and a half hours had flown by disembarking at the Hyatt, next to the subway. It was just past midnight. Vancouver was jumping. Oh my goodness.
A wonderful day.
Comment on this postKla how ya Tillicum. (Indian, for how goes it) With me, just fine, in fact, more than fine. I know this website has a dyslexic/hyperlexic theme but I am departing for a few blogs to share my time at the 2010 Olympics. This is my day three, Feb 12th. Opening day.
I am sure many of you watched the Olympic opening tonight. That show speaks for itself – they did a wonderful job!!!! For me, a highlight was seeing Barbara Ann Scott one of the eight carrying the Olympic Flag. I remember when she won her gold. I was so excited for her!!! (for those of you who have NO IDEA who she is, she was the winning figure skater!) I did talk with my nine year old nephew, Owen and my eleven year old niece, Jane as they sat in BC Place before the show began. Jane said, Ann, if they don’t do anything else I am happy. BC Place is beautiful and they have given each of us a packet of stuff: a white jacket, a drum, a light. We are going to be part of the show. We are going to bang a drum. !!!!!!!!!. I am so excited. Then, Owen came on. Ann, it looks like someone is going to ski here – there is a ski run. Oh, it’s so wonderful. I was just so excited those kids were going to have this special evening.
Choosing where to watch last night’s spectacle was my challenge. I couldn’t make up my mind. I was toying with going back to the Live City – Sue’s venue – for there are two huge screens. In fact I set out to go there when it started to rain. I decided tonight was not the night for rain, I really wanted to see the show, not darting umbrellas – so I headed for a bar. It took me a few trys before I was satisfied with my environment but then I settled in. A restaurant had been very smart and enclosed their veranda at the front of their venue – room for six tables and a huge screen. I joined a table of two Swedish guys here for the entire duration of the Olympics – determined that Sweden will take back the hockey gold. We had a great time. Around us were tables of Canadians who knew the names of the Canadian athletes and singers so we were well informed. There were about twenty of us – we had our own party. All of us were cheerers – and cheer, hoot and holler we did. It was a fun evening marveling at the creativity and talent – both sport and artistic being displayed before us. And, when Wayne Gretsky took to the street with the torch, we were just a block away and could see him start on his journey through the city – down Georgia to Thurlow, turn right and down to the water on the Stanley Park side of the huge Canada Pavilion from Expo 86.
It’s odd, I walked by that site this afternoon and said to myself, what a shame that Vanoc (Vancouver Olympic Committee) has put up a wall along here blocking the beautiful view of the mountains. Well, there was method in their madness. They were hiding the form that created the base for the flame. I have just come in from viewing the flame, there. 
It is truly spectacular. My little phone camera doesn’t do it justice unfortunately – there is so much light emanating from flaming sculpture that the subtle blues get lost in the picture. Oh well. I have it in my mind.
The streets of Vancouver are in a celebratory mode – especially around Robson Square. Everyone is having fun!!
By the way, I did get up early this morning to watch the flame go down Denman. I woke up and thought, well, how silly not to make the effort even though I saw it last night. I wasn’t disappointment. The street was lined with cheering crowd three rows deep. One young couple had just come racing from Stanley Park. They had wanted to see Arnold Schwarzenegger (sp?). It seems many others did. Interesting eh?
And, another woman told me that her brother, who is policeman in Manitoba is here with several of his colleagues. These and many more security types are staying on three cruise ships in the harbor – being treated with great care. Fun eh?
Today I was dealing with basics, like picking up my ice skating ticket for Tuesday. That was easy. It was awaiting me and no line!!!. However, I have been trying to get a ticket to the Awards Ceremony on Monday night with no luck. Finally I discovered why. Vanoc has tickets, they just parcel them out in small doses and one has to be in the right place at the right time to get one. Most frustrating! I will keep trying. Somehow I will win.
I decided to explore pavilions today. Now, the definition of a pavilion here is not like a World Exposition. These are, for the most part, tiny centers with some info – some better than others. Be sure to check out the Bell Pavilion if you are coming. In my journey to find pavilions I was wandering down by the old Train Station – it has another name now????? – to discover that the parking lot has been taken over by the Germans who have created a beer Haus. I was hungry and felt sure they would have sausages. Correct!!!!. The place was a mad house – noisy and crazy. I got my sausage, asked for a non alcoholic beer – they thought I was crazy – so I ended up with water. I found a place to sit – and began chatting with a couple from Beijing. Quite fascinating. He’s thirty seven, made his money in technology in China, has retired and is now searching for his next whatever. He seems to think he ought to go to Harvard for an MBA. His friends tell him he is over qualified. We had quite a conversation.
Time for bed. The days just flew by. I must have walked nearly eight miles today. My body is looking forward to being prone!!!!!
Several of you have responded saying you are enjoying these reflections. I am glad. Writing them is a great way to relax after my day
PS. Walking home I passed a rather proper type couple sitting under an umbrella drinking coffee. They had the tiny drums in tow. I asked: Was it fun playing them? Oh, it was marvelous, and what was even better, we didn’t have to clap – we could just bang, and bang and bang!!!!!!!
Comment on this postI know this blog is about dyslexia and hyperlexia but I thought it would be fun to add some diversity and share my wonderful time at the 2010. This report is my day two, Feb 11th, at the Olympics.
A weary voyager is checking in. We were on a 12 hour marathon today. It was wonderful, fun, entertaining and informative. And, now I am just wondering what it was we did, there was so much.
To set the stage, it was cloudy, at times pouring with rain. Neither mattered, we just soldiered on. My friend Marie had done a lot of reconnoitering so our time was well spent.
To start the day was a visit to London Drugs to get me a backpack and thank goodness we did for throughout the day we picked up SO MUCH STUFF, maps, tour guides, a book. A hint to those of you still coming. Forget purses. Bring a wallet belt for around the waist and a backpack. You have much more freedom, especially if it’s raining. Gives a free arm for the umbrella.
Our first Cultural Olympiad stop was the Vancouver Art Gallery and a show with original and copies of Leonardo Da Vinci’s drawings of the body, detailed drawings, more detailed than most books that exist today. It seems that he and a doctor in the early 1500’s collaborated and the result is some of the most beautiful and factual explanations of how the movement system of how the body works. It’s a sobering show – sobering to think that five hundred or so years ago so much information on the body became available. And, as we were viewing almost simultaneously we said to one another – how brilliant of the Gallery staff to present this show – what are the Olympics but about the body, a healthy body. Leonardo wrote thoughts in the margins by the drawings: most of them encouraging anyone viewing these works, to think about themselves, the way they lived and the importance of treating the body with love and care. And, all of this happened a half a millennium ago! The setting of the show is done with simplicity. There is aesthetic space to breathe, to take in the achievements.
We headed back out into the rain to take in the “wrap” of the Vancouver Art Gallery – the old court house. In this rainy day, the colorful huge flowers covering the immense space added life and lightness. And, then we noticed that many of the high rise office buildings have huge hangings welcoming the visitors and athletes. It was very exciting to see and feel. As we waited for the bus, in the pouring rain, to take us to Granville Island we watched with awe a free ride: Zip ride: two very tall towers, like two hundred feet have been constructed in either end of Robson Square. A cable is strung between – about one very long city block apart. You can climb one tower, don a suit, hooked to the cable and “fly” along the rope to the other side. One guy was very brave and kept turning himself upside down on his journey. Amazing. I think I will pass on that one. I understand the Premier of the Province, a gentleman well into his sixties took the ride when it debuted. Brave man!
We began to realize that we were very lucky to be viewing/sightseeing today. Tomorrow the crowds will burst on the scene. We were able to get with ease into everything we wanted. We spent quite amount of time at Code 2: The digital show at Emily Carr. (Code 1) I have not been very interested in digital art and its many ramifications but today I became intrigued. Artists are using technology and coming up with very satisfying results. We loved the “costume” show. Beautifully constructed “costumes” with digital elements make them alive – one dress whispered, another had lights that twinkled, subtly when you walked by and on an on. We also sat in a theater – miniature – two rows, donned headsets listening as we watched. There were two purposes for the headsets. To tell the tale of the film we were watching and to disturb, interrupt – it was quite disconcerting at first – a voice was whispering in our ear – want popcorn or did you leave the stove on at home. And then we could hear someone chewing on popcorn. I hate popcorn, so I got really annoyed for an instant and then of course realized it was only on the headset. All the while we were watching a very odd film. Marie became very annoyed with the audio and took off the headset. I had no idea she had done that until the end. It was a disconcerting but interesting experience.
In the middle of all of this we had lunch at the Granville Island Market: I inhaled protein. I was starved and then we headed back out into the rain and more digital art. We discovered a train running from Granville Island to the Olympic Village that has been built on old railroad tracks. It seems that 100,000 people have taken this train since Jan 1!!!!. They use it as a commuter getting across the City. We just marveled and then returned to the Market to relax at the Granville Island Tea Company. I had the best cup of tea in years. A special brew – kind of Lapsang Suchong but softer. We had great fun sitting at the counter and chattering with the visitors that passed by asking them where they were from. Everyone seems to wander in groups wearing skiing jackets to identify them. Our challenge was guessing where they were from. The Swedish jackets look not unlike the VANOC jackets – only have yellow. We were very forward, stopping them and asking. Some guys sat down next to us and they were chattering away in what sounded like German – they were Swiss – musicians – here to perform for the President of Switzerland who was about to arrive at the “Swiss Pavilion” – located in Bridges, a large restaurant on Granville Island. And, so it went.
Then it was time to head to the other side of the Creek to LiveCity Yaletown – Sue’s project. We took the tub: an adorable boat which gave us a trip down False Creek by the new Arthur Erickson building: Another legacy that is so distinctive. Disembarking we were right at the Live site – stood in line – for an hour – to get in. The security was major – like the airport. Nobody seemed to care about waiting. Royal Bank and Coke, two sponsors, were busy giving out freebees and everyone, even in the pouring rain, were in good humor. Once in, we had a good time. We saw three pavilions – Aker from Italy with many interesting technologies which we tried. Yes, we did! Samsong – left me rather uninterested and then on to the: Laneway House, an efficient and most attractively designed house using green technology. It’s a product of two designers in North Vancouver. Haig, if you and Mary do decide to build – I suggest you look at this company!!!!
Then it was time to find a place for the show that began at 6:30 pm. We discovered that tonight the feature was the arrival of the Olympic Flame. The rain stopped, thankfully, umbrellas went down which meant we could see the stage. (Yes, there were large screens so you could see but I like also to see people, in their real selves, not blown up.) And, I had great fun watching the “moving lights” that are computer programmed and hang above the stage in full view. As we waited for the Flame there were entertainers and at one point Marie whispered: Ann, did you leave the stove on? The two of us howled with laughter. And, then came the moment for the arrival of the flame through these thousands of people and up onto the stage. It went right by me – two feet away. I got some great photos on my phone camera. 
To cap the event was a fireworks show. Sue had a triumph tonight. It all worked beautifully and thousands of us had a wonderful time.
Marie and I looked at ourselves and said, let’s find a place to sit – we had now been standing for nearly five hours. Several blocks away we came across a Starbucks. That chai latte never tasted so good.
And, now to bed. I am so glad I am here. It’s very special.
Comment on this postI know this blog is about dyslexia and hyperlexia but I thought it would be fun to add some diversity and share my wonderful time at the 2010 Olympics.
Day One: February 10th/2010 – two days before opening of the Olympics.
It’s true, I am certainly meant to be here. Everything worked like clockwork: It began with an easy trip from SF. Yes, our plane left a few minutes late but the time was made up – and it flew by. I couldn’t resist after I had settled into my window seat to turn to the man sitting by me and say: So, why are you going to Vancouver? I wasn’t surprised when he said: The Olympics, But I was surprised as he continued: I’m a volunteer. I looked at him, a volunteer? Yes. I will be working the ice arena at UBC for 21/2 weeks beginning with women’s hockey – as an usher. I get a uniform, you know, it’s worth $1,000. I pick it up tonight. Tomorrow we have training and then we are off and running.
What made you do this?
I grew up in Vancouver. I want to be part of it.
What do you do?
I am executive with Chevron!!!!!!!
And, so it goes, the excitement two days out is just ringing in the air. The new subway from air port to downtown Vancouver operates like a dream. I was a bit confused when I got off. No one took my ticket when I got and there is no place to put your ticket to exit. I stopped someone to ask, where do I exit? Oh, he said, you have. It is the honor system here. Yes, there are people who do spot checking but….
Traffic downtown is almost non existent – so many main streets seem to be closed. Bus routes are changed. Going to the Orpheum Theatre from Katherine’s apartment, I thought the Robson bus would get me there. Nope, it turned down Burrard. It will take continual surveillance to get it, but nobody seems to care. In fact, you don’t hear much English around. So many people, speaking so many different languages. Thank heavens the bus drivers, proudly wearing Olympic vests, are good sorts. They are getting a ton of questions.
I have just come home from the Russian Gala: I was a bit dubious about what this might be. Well, they pulled it off with panache, style, talent and creativity. The first half of the program featured the Moscow Soloists Chamber Orchestra. The key word in those last four words is Soloists. This is an ensemble of soloists who performed Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings. We all know this piece, we hear it, we hear it. Never, I venture to guess like we heard it tonight. The collective sound they created was magical. Each note so clearly played, the pathos deep and sad, the beauty of the humor profound, the attention to detail amazing. The conductor Yuri Bashmet – a tiny man who knows how to bring out the best as he gives the best.
The next and last piece in the first half was Bashmet as viola soloist playing Schubert’s Sonata for Viola and Strings. I don’t think I have ever heard a violist as soloist with an orchestra. The sound is so different: deep, resonant. The audience got into it.
A moment about the audience. Sold out house. The Russians were out in full force. Old, and young. Next to me on one side were three Russian woman, the mother who doesn’t speak English and two gorgeous blonde daughters, on the right hand side of me was a Russian family, mother, father, probably in their mid thirties and their young son – maybe six. The child was totally absorbed. He got it, he even laughed when the music made him laugh. It was wonderful. As the lights came up at intermission the older Russian Mama on my left – with few teeth – said to me in her few words of English and with tears streaming down her face: Russians good??.
Oh yes, oh, yes I said. And we gave each other a hug.
Second half. A rendition of Bizet’s CARMEN. What was fun for me was that on Monday night in San Francisco I saw a wonderful performance of CARMEN from the MET at the movies. I wondered what will this orchestra and a few stars from the Bolshoi do with this. Well, they matched the excellence and creativity of the Monday performance – that chamber orchestra and five Bolshoi dancers. It wasn’t the CARMEN score as we all know it, Yes, the themes were there but it was a percussive and strings Carmen that literally talked us through the opera/ballet. They added two characters: At first I couldn’t figure out what this marionette like figure who was dancing with CARMEN at the outset could represent (Burke Taylor later said Death). Then came the Don Jose – a sensuous man, strong and dramatic. The Toreador was a real bull fighter: elegant, full of himself and ideal. All the while lurking about was fate in black. Well, it was quite a night.
I did see both Sue and Burke. For those of you who don’t know them Sue Harvery was my wonderful assistant when we did Expo 67, since then has done several things, but more recently overseen “culture” for the City of Vancouver. Now she’s responsible for the free entertainment at the Olympics. That’s a responsibility. And, Sue debut’s tomorrow night with her free entertainment – outdoors. Yes, it will probably rain, it’s Vancouver! But, we and thousands of others will be there. And, Burke Taylor is another Expo colleague – Canadian Pavilion and now responsible for the Cultural Olympiad which has been up and running for three weeks. It’s been quite a journey getting to this point. As the Chairman of the Vancouver Olympics said in his opening remarks last night before the concert: these last four years have gone so fast! Now we are here! At this point all they all can think of is one down and more to go. And, all goes well. Finally the press are being supportive.
And, I must away to bed. Full day tomorrow.
Comment on this postWelcome: You have come upon a blog discussing tools to help dyslexics and hyperlexics. I have both conditions. The topic, this time, is holding strong in an emotional situation.
I have noticed that dyslexics and hyperlexics, myself included, can be highly charged when confronted with an emotional situation that seems unfair, uncalled for, or doesn’t reflect the facts as seen by the dyslexic/hyperlexic.
I am always searching for tools to help me master this challenge more effectively. Recently I read a blog which, I feel, provides a good approach. The author, Pam Stuckey, Body/Sense Blog. http://bodysenseblog.typepad.co has given me reprint permission.
Emotional Attacks
Hurtful confrontations often leave us feeling drained and confused. When someone attacks us emotionally, we may wonder what we did to rouse their anger, and we take their actions personally. We may ask ourselves what we could have done to compel them to behave or speak that way toward us.
It’s important to remember that there are no real targets in an emotional attack and that it is usually a way for the attacker to redirect their uncomfortable feelings away from themselves. When people are overcome by strong emotions, like hurt or anguish, they may see themselves as victims and lash out at others as a means of protection or to make themselves feel better.
You may be able to shield yourself from an emotional attack by not taking the behavior personally. First, however, it is good to cultivate a state of detachment that can provide you with some protection from the person who is attacking you. This will allow you to feel compassion for this person and remember that their behavior isn’t as much about you as it is about their need to vent their emotions.
If you have difficulty remaining unaffected by someone’s behavior, take a moment to breathe deeply and remind yourself that you didn’t do anything wrong, and you aren’t responsible for people’s feelings. If you can see that this person is indirectly expressing a need to you—whether they are reaching out for help or wanting to be heard—you may be able to diffuse the attack by getting them to talk about what is really bothering them.
You cannot control other people’s emotions, but you can control your own. If you sense yourself responding to their negativity, try not to let yourself. Keep your heart open to them, and they may let go of their defensiveness and yield to your compassion and openness.
Pam Stuckey, Body/Sense Blog. http://bodysenseblog.typepad.co
If you have topics that you would like me to address about my experience in overcoming dyslexia and hyperlexia feel free to send your ideas through the comments below.
__________________________________________________________________
Information on this blog is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or health care professional
Comment on this post
You have come upon a blog discussing tools to help dyslexics and hyperlexics. The topic, this time, is emotion.
When I was first diagnosed as dyslexic (age 45) I was told there were no solutions to help me. The reason: I could sound out works, read words and had a good vocabulary — the usual definition of a dyslexic. Yet, the test pigeonholed me as a dyslexic.
What to do? I kept asking and two years later I was given two invaluable pieces of advice:
1. Give up eating foods with refined sugar. The reason: stop the inner rushing in my body. I followed the advice and a year later the rushing stopped almost entirely. This correction made me ready to move to the second piece of advice.
2. Work with a therapist to discover within myself emotional issues that were unresolved. At first I wondered, is this really necessary? But going off refined sugar had improved my ability to be quiet within and more willing to pick up a book. So, perhaps clearing pesky emotions was worth exploring.
My therapist was brilliant. Her intuition told her I was masking anger. It took me some time to find it, but find it I did. As I released my hold to past anger I discovered many things about reading:
- my buried disruptive emotions stopped me from wanting to read and reading
- when reading a book with characters who had emotional issues that resonated with me, I would not continue reading the book. When I discovered this behavior I taught myself to stop reading. I defined where the emotion being expressed in the book was existent in my life and then processed it. By processing, I mean delving into the issue, seeing where I was the victim or the perpetrator and then discovering how to forgive myself and others. The change doesn’t happen quickly but eventually positive results emerge. When done, I went back to the book and continued reading until another emotion stopped me. It took me about a year using this discipline to move out of this ”stopping reading behavior” caused by buried emotions that needed attention.
What I now understand is that my feelings were hidden, or not accepted as real by me or others. They were churning about within, an explosive energy. No longer were they simply a feeling.
My technique as a child and adult was to bury my dark feelings. Feelings left unexpressed build up. They took up space inside me. They tried to get my attention by “preventing” me from being able and/or willing to read. I didn’t realize they wanted attention. I can see now that my emotions are my reactions to my feelings I was choosing to avoid.
Years later I was re-diagnosed as hyperlexic: meaning I could read words fine, but comprehension was the problem. If I hadn’t done the emotional homework I know that my work of correcting the hyperlexia would have been much more difficult, if not impossible.
______________________________________________________________________
If you have topics that you would like me to address about my experience in overcoming dyslexia and hyperlexia feel free to send your ideas through the comments below.
______________________________________________________________________
Information on this blog is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or health care professional
Comment on this postWelcome.
This blog provides a list of books that specialists in dyslexia, hyperlexia child development and other relevent topics have recommended or have written. I am continually adding titles to this list as I find them on-line or when attending talks. So, do revisit this blog. While I have not read all those listed I do include a brief description of each book. Hope this information is helpful to you.
Integration of Infant Dynamic and Postural Reflex Patterns: Svetlana Masgutova. This title may sound intimidating. However, it is worth spending time with this information. About four years ago I discovered the work of Svetlana and her associates. Through her we unearthed the fact that some of my reflexes (like crawling on my stomach) were not properly developed when I was in utero or during the first three years of my life. Svetlana Masgutova’s Neuro-Sensory-Motor and Reflex Integration Method for Children and Adults increased my ability to both read and comprehend. I strongly recommend that anyone with a dyslexic, hyperlexic, autistic, aspergers child research this approach. Changes occur. And, I recommend that this be one of the first steps to take with a dyslexic/hyperlexic. I can say that having my reflexes now functioning at full capacity changes much for me in my ability to read and comprehend.
Smart Moves: by Carla Hannaford. I have used many of the approaches that Ms. Hannaford recommends with very positive results. Some of them are:
- Dietary awareness, drink enough water, less sugar intake, etc
- Help the brain to perceive events less stressful by doing physical exercises
- Create a less stressful environment for people with learning difficulties
Brain Gym: Paul E. Dennison (a dyslexic) and Gail E. Dennison. This book outlines in easy to understand form activities for Whole Brain Learning. This approach was very helpful to me in mastering some of my dyslexic characteristics.
Visualizing and Verbalizing: For Language Comprehension and Thinking: Nanci Bell. Ms. Bell is one of the founders of Lindamood Bell. This company has an excellent assessment process to determine dyslexia and hyperlexia as well as programs to improve dyslexic and hyperlexic conditions. I took the Visualizing and Verbalizing course – seven weeks, five days a week, four hours a day and moved my comprehension skills from Grade Three level to Grade Nine. This outfit is very professional.
Overcoming Dyslexia: by Sally Shaywitz. This book has been out for sometime and is considered an important resource by most. Most of the findings are based on research. I have heard Dr. Shaywitz speak several times. She has followed several dyslexics from a young age to maturity. Her focus is very scientific.
The Schwab Learning Website, http://www.schwabfoundation.org, lists six books that a parent, Darla Hatton, thinks is most useful for others suddenly faced with the challenges of dyslexia, be they a parent, teacher or dyslexic.
The Schwab Learning Center offers this list:
Parenting a Struggling Reader: by Susan L. Hall and Louisa C. Moats. Their book explains how school systems work along with practical guidance
Wrightslaw: from Emotions to Advocay: by Pam Wright and Pete Wright. I haven’t read the book but from experience with my dyslexia and hyperlexia, there is much credence in giving focus to emotional issues as part of the process of handling both conditions towards a positive result.
One Word at a Time: by Linda G. Tessler. A dyslexic’s story: She’s a PHD and dyslexic.
Dyslexia Wonders: by Jennifer Smith. It’s a child’s point of view.
Instructions and Assessment for Struggling Writers: edited by Gary A. Troia. It describes several best practices for teaching writing.
Other sources offers these book on dyslexia:
Dyslexia in the Workplace : Diana Bartlett, Sylvia Moody (Paperback, 2005)
Dyslexia for Dummies: World of Dyslexia says: this books indicates how to spot the signs and get the proper treatment. This friendly guide shows parents how to identify the signs of dyslexia, choose among dyslexia treatment options, and find an individualized education program for their child. They’ll also find practical tips on assisting with homework, helping a child build self-esteem, and easing the transition to high school and college.
100 Ideas for Supporting Children with Dyslexia : Per World of Dyslexia: this book provides one hundred excellent techniques to support the learning development of dyslexic children. This handy paperback guide includes lists that range from identifying the needs of individual pupils and their learning styles to developing pupils reading, writing, numeric and communication skills
How to Reach and Teach Children and Teens with Dyslexia: World of Dyslexia says this book is a comprehensive, practical resource giving educators at all levels essential information, techniques, and tools for understanding dyslexia and adapting teaching methods in all subject areas. Over 50 full-page activity sheets that can be photocopied for immediate use and interviews with students and adults who have had personal experience with dyslexia. Organized into twenty sections, information covers everything from ten principles of instruction to teaching reading, handwriting, spelling, writing, math, everyday skills, and even covers the adult with dyslexia.
Patricia Oetter, an OT Therapist, during a lecture at PEN (Parents Education Network in San Francisco) re-iterated several times her concern that boys in our school systems are lacking experiences they need for development. The reason? It seems the schools learning systems are focused on a girl’s point of view. As a result the experience of risk is diminished, an important component for young boy’s growth. She recommended three books that are helpful in raising boys:
Raising Boys by Steve Biddulph and Paul Stanish
Raising Cain: Protecting the Emotional Life of Boys by Dan Kindlon and Michael Thompson,
The Trouble with Boys: A Surprising Report Card on Our Sons, Their Problems at School, and What Parents and Educators Must Do, by Peg Tyre
Primal Teen by Barbara Strauch At a recent PEN speaker’s panel this book was highly recommended by a Resource Specialist.
Update as of 9.10. At a recent PEN Speaker Series discussion, the speaker Claudia Koocheck, Head of School at Charles Armstrong, in Belmont, CA recommended these two books for parents of children with learning challenges.
- Mindset, The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck, (2006), Random House Publishing Group, New York. It describes how kids perceive themselves.
- Brooks, Robert and Goldstein, Sam (2003), The Power of Resilience: Achieving Balance, Confidence and Personal Strength in Your Life. New York Contemporary Books/McGraw Hill.
Update: 11.10 I attend a talk by Katherine Ellison whose new book, Buzz, has just been published by Voice, Hyperion, New York. The topic: Attention Deficit Disorder. I highly recommend it. There are excellent explanations of the challenges and useful solutions she discovered with her son who is ADD. Ms. Ellison is also ADD.
Dr. Daniel Korb, a developmental and behavioral pediatrics specialist recomends books by Carol Gray. These social story books describe a situation, skill, or concept in terms of relevant social cues, perspectives, and common responses in a specifically defined style and format. http://www.thegraycenter.org.
Finally, I am continuing to evolve this site, including incorporating dyslexic and/or hyperlexic information that others have to share. Yes, I am looking for your ideas. Send them via the Comments below.
__________________________________________________________________________
Information on this blog is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or health care professional.
Comment on this postYou have come upon a blog discussing tools to help dyslexics and hyperlexics.
Today I read about a recent book, Dyslexia in the Digital Age, which focuses on ways that technology can be helpful to dyslexics, both children and adults.
Speaking for myself, using a computer/internet etc has been very supportive in giving me freedom to learn new ideas quicker — mostly because I seem to be able to image words faster working on the computer or reading the information on-line. And, when I can’t image, Google is there. I put in the word that is stumping me and I get a definition. This enables me to get an image (usually) and then the word makes sense.
This new book, Dyslexia in the Digital Age, is written by Ian Smythe who’s a dyslexia consultant working on specific learning difficulties in different language and cultural environments. It seems the book is organized in a methodical way and has the potential of being very useful for dyslexics/hyperlexics as well as parents and teacher. Here’s the table of contents:
1 Definition of Dyslexia
2 Testing
3 Assistive Hardware
4 Assistive Software
5 Literacy Learning Software
6 The User Interface
7 E-learning and Knowledge Assessment
8 Multilingualism
9 Conclusion: Spreading the word
It’s available in hardback only. Paperback will be out in May, 2010. I went on Amazon and they are selling the book in the US for $26.32.
Have any of you read this book yet? Please comment if you have.
For more information relevant to this book, go to:
Ibis Creative Consultants – http://www.ibisconsultants.info
Techo Dys – http://technodys.blogspot.com/
Finally, I will continue to evolve this site, including incorporating dyslexic and/or hyperlexic information that others have to share. Yes, I am looking for your ideas. Send them via the Comments below.
_______________________________________________________________________
Information on this blog is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or health care professional?
Comment on this postYou have come upon a blog discussing tools to help dyslexics and hyperlexics. The topic continues to focus on exercise.
Yes, I know, we are forever hearing how important exercise is: for our physical health, a good disposition, longevity of life and on and on. And,, those are true, but I have found that daily exercise is also good for dyslexia and hyperlexia. Why? Because:
- Exercise is a grounding agent. After exercising, my left and right brain are ready to work in a more connected way. I don’t space out as much.
- Exercise keeps my eyes healthy and ready for the process of reading
- Exercise gives me the energy and willingness to sit down and read.
Exercises that work for me.
- Three days a week at the health club: on the bicycle or elliptical for a half hour and then core exercises: crunches, along with exercises that address the muscles in the middle of my torso, then on to arm and leg stretches as well as working with weights. It sounds arduous. You know, it just isn’t. I love going and I love the result -– being grounded.
- And, one day a week I work out with a trainer. He helps me advance my exercise program as my body is ready for more. One day he gave me an exercise which has another value. It switches on my eyes. I see things much clearer. It just happens. Here’s the exercise, you might like to try it. Stand with your feet parallel and hip width apart, knees softly bent. Image the center and bottom of your pelvis as lifting up to the center of your body. Then visualize the upper sides of my pelvis pushing down into the ground. I shift my whole body on to one foot and I bring one knee up, straighten the leg forward, rotate the leg outward from the hip so that my foot moves outward and then bring it down. After 10 rotations of each leg my eyes are really functioning clearly. Now, that was a surprise.
- Eye exercises. Over the years I have worked with two eye specialists. Dr. Roberto Kaplan, Doctor of Optometry, www.beyond2020vision.com and Dr. Larry Jebrock, behavioral optometrist, www.eyeexercises.com. Both have provided me with an eye exercise program that keeps my eyes at 20/20 vision. Strong eyes seem to mean that my eyes are willing to be grounded, ready to assist me in the process of reading and comprehension.
- Walking and hiking are also a passion. I feel so much better always after being outdoors. Walking on the ground, keeps me grounded, a very important ingredient for comprehending what I read.
- Yoga as exercise. I have also taken years of yoga. These exercises assist my body in being grounded.
- Gabriel Roth’s five rhythms. Movement to music reflecting five different feelings: flowing, staccato, chaos, lyrical, stillness. In the San Francisco Bay area you can learn more on http://www.movingcenterschool.com. I find this class quietly restorative.
Now, I would love to hear what exercise works for you or what your questions are!
Finally, I will continue to evolve this site, including incorporating dyslexic and/or hyperlexic information that others have to share. Yes, I am looking for your ideas. Send them via the Comments below.
_______________________________________________________________________
Information on this blog is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or health care professional?
Comment on this postPosts in this category
My Book
Want to know what if feels like to be dyslexic?
MY BOOK
The Other Side of Dyslexia
$18.95