Scripps Spelling bee – Indian participation

The 2010 Scripps national spelling bee competition is underway. Out of 48 odd semi-finalists, Indians (or kids of Indian origin) have pretty health representation – about 10-12.

http://public.spellingbee.com/public/results/2010/finishers/html?type=semi

Besides being over-represented, the other interesting thing mentioned in profile of  most of the Indian participants is that they are learning Indian classical music and/or dance. This begs the question - are the (American) Indian parents pushing their kids too hard?

Dealing with in-laws

Isn't this a classic question - how to deal with your in-laws? Well Carolyn Hax (WashingtoPost columnist) has addressed it and given pretty good advice on how to do that. In summary - Don't go for all out war, just pick your battles.

The other question she addresses is from a man who breaks up with his girlfriend after six years feeling that he was not emotionally connected with her. The natural reaction for most is a surprise - like "does it take six years to realize that you are not emotionally connected ?".

Carolyn has a very nice perspective on how to take it -

When people surprise themselves, it's usually a good thing -- even when it's a bad surprise -- because it suggests that a long-neglected side of them finally got their attention

Read the full column here - Carolyn Hax - Carolyn Hax: Learn where to draw line with meddlesome in-laws

Recession Troubles

Well one knows for sure there is a recession when the Forbes magazine starts pinching pennies. It seems Forbes has already laid off about 10% of its staff since last year.

NY Time is carrying the story here.

Looks like we are all in this together.

Free National park days - the sound of "free" is magic

"National Park service is giving 3 weekends for free this summer."

Sounds so sweet!!!

More job cuts

The wave of job cuts is continuing causing more losses at Citi - Bloomberg.com: Worldwide

Hike Of The Week: Turn your boots loose in the 'Issaquah Alps'

Hike Of The Week: Turn your boots loose in the 'Issaquah Alps'

Good article on the trails in Issaquah area

Dignity of work

Came across a beautiful quotation on Forbes.com. Simple and true, yet it gets overlooked easily.

"'No task is so humble that it does not offer an outlet for individuality.' -William Feather "