A March Mélange: Googly Eyes, Passing Grades, and Snazzy Socks

/ Ally Bean

I bugged out of blogging last week.

I didn’t mean to neglect you, my gentle readers, but it was a spontaneous decision on Monday morning. I wanted to finish my online self-directed college class and decided to just do it, get all the reading, research, and writing over with. It took me a few hours every day causing my eyes to blur and spin in my head, but I finished the class a few weeks early, earning a passing grade of 93%.

And that, as they say, is that.

It was fascinating to see lectures, read assignments, do homework, and write a research paper again. It took me outside of my usual thinking patterns, so the mental challenge was a good one. For winter. During a pandemic.

Was it worth it? Will I do it again? That is, take another online university class with homework?

Welp, I’m going to say probably NO.

I didn’t hate being a student, but I didn’t love it either. Fortunately I understood the subject matter [history learned through the interconnections among antique objects and academic disciplines in a museum] but I vehemently disliked the computer user interface for this online course. It was clunky and awkward, visually cluttered– and there were typos and inconsistencies that bothered me, a writer.

The mediocre system made every assignment a struggle and as such sucked the fun out of this whole adventure in higher education. No matter really. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

In fact, continuing on with the idea of something gained, much to my delight while in the process of researching my final paper I stumbled on the word SNAZZY used in an advertisement in the current Vermont Country Store catalogue. Don’t ask how I ended up there, but I did and it was worth it.

Yes siree kids, it’s my all-time favorite word spotted in the wild.

In this case the best word ever is used to describe mild-compression support socks. Granted the topic of socks had nothing to do with the project I was working on and I don’t think I need these particular ones, but I am getting older so maybe I do and just don’t know it yet.

Anyhoo, that’s where I’ve been and what I’ve been doing. And you? Whatcha been doing?

Spill the beans in the comments below. Missed ‘ya. Mean it.

173 thoughts on “A March Mélange: Googly Eyes, Passing Grades, and Snazzy Socks”

  1. This is really interesting! I’m not even sure what that subject matter is, let alone understand the content. Great that you did it. That sort of thing appeals to me – the research, the writing several papers, the lots of reading. Part of my degree was called the Oral History Project, and I loved it for all those reasons. I looked into doing an online course but I couldn’t even get any sense out of the customer support in order to sign up, so I thought it was probably a bad idea. So instead, I signed up for a Mental Health First Aider course, 4 weeks, online, via webcam plus additional work during the week. It wasn’t as involved as I thought it was going to be, but I enjoyed it. I also signed myself up for an online styling session, which has been interesting. Given that I practically live in jeans and a black tee shirt, it’s given me lots of ideas and inspiration. Which is good, because I am also job hunting, and I’ll need to look smart for my Zoom interview!

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    • Polly, I liked the content in the class because it forced me to reconsider some ideas I had about history and museums. And the class confirmed that I can learn new things, then write about them. But the confusing computer interface was tedious. I can understand how you found yourself unable make sense of how to sign up for an online class. Sad isn’t it?

      Your mental health course sounds valuable as does your experience learning about your own personal style. I could use a few insighst into how to upgrade my look, especially after this year of being home. all. the. time.

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  2. Congrats, Ms. Bean. Both for completing the course AND for realizing that on-line instruction courses may not be in the cards for your future.

    At this stage of life, I could see myself auditing a course IF it was held on a beautiful campus in a room with comfy seating with ample parking close by for rainy days. Of course, for me to stay the course with the course, the professor would have to be engaging and the subject matter would have to appeal . . . perhaps “Expanding your Sixth Sense” or “Developing your powers of Intuition.”

    Liked by 3 people

    • Nancy, thanks! I’m pleased that I tried this way of learning and I did find the professors engaging so the lectures weren’t dull… but never again with homework if I can avoid it. I like your idea for auditing a class in person on a real campus. That being said, I don’t think I’ll be doing that any time soon. Spring is here and the outside beckons to me. Forget academics, you know?

      Liked by 1 person

      • I do! We’re taking advantage of the temperate temperatures now by getting out and about to do some “exploring” before the temperatures climb causing us to dive into the pool for the duration of the summer.

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  3. I love learning. That being said, I don’t want to learn in a formal environment. I would consider auditing a class though

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  4. My mom used to say “snazzy” when my brother was dressed up. I forgot about it until it popped out of my mouth when my son put on his first soccer uniform. Now I use it more frequently.

    Doing my part to bring back snazzy!

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    • AutumnAshbough, I appreciate you using the word SNAZZY when you can slip it into polite conversation. I burst out laughing when I saw it in the copy for the socks, but thought it made sense considering the Vermont Country Store is filled with old-timey things for sale.

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  5. I’ve abandoned my blog, seemingly, for quite some time now. I feel like I haven’t a thing to say. Feh.

    Congrats on finishing your course with an admirable final average. You did it! And now you know you just don’t feel like doing it again. That may be the most valuable thing you learned now that it’s all said and done.

    And of all the things I could have guessed that would have been described as Snazzy, compression socks would not have made the list. LOL.

    Liked by 4 people

    • nance, I get how you can run out of things to write about in your blog, my blog, any blog. Some weeks I am filled with the ideas, other weeks it’s not so easy. That being said, I’m sure you’ll get back into the swing of it soon enough. You always do, don’t you?

      You nailed it, btw: “And now you know you just don’t feel like doing it again.” That is my bottom line about this adventure in higher learning [with homework]. Also with you on *snazzy* being used to describe compression socks. WTH?

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  6. Snazzy compression socks – who knew?
    😀
    Good for you on the on-line course challenge…I’ve often thought about doing it – more so during this Pandemic and still came up with a ‘no’. HA! I need me a group of people to mix, mingle and learn with especially after being in isolation for sooooooooooooo long! Still hangin’ in there.

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    • Laura, yep the sock for sale are *snazzy* and ain’t that pip? 😃

      I believe that if it weren’t for the pandemic and being home all the time, I would not have taken any online collegiate course. However it did help me pass the time and I enjoyed the lectures. BUT like you I am ready to move about the world again, learning in the now moments so to speak.

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  7. Those socks are pretty snazzy. I love fun, bold socks, but as we’re finally moving closer to sandals weather I’ll hold on the idea for now. Congrats on the course completion Ally Bean! It can be challenging to stick with online learning when auditing only, at least for me. I can lose my motivation rather quickly, but then again I have to ask myself: “Deb, do you really want to go back to writing research papers…” and the answer is always “no, NO I do not” and so my great intentions just fizzle out. And there you have my contribution to our double z word of the day.

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  8. We struggle through while you were off getting all educated. I’m glad you passed, and I understand how a poor user interface can suck the fun out of anything – I used to write those poor interfaces for a living 😉

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    • Dan, somehow I figured that everyone would be able to carry on with his or her life while I was away. Call it blogger intuition!

      I was shocked by this user interface [and the typos] of this particular class. I’ve used enough computerized systems doing things online to know they can run smoothly, intuitively. This was not one of those systems.

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  9. When I think of the word “snazzy,” my mind immediately goes to mild-compression support socks. Doesn’t everyone’s?

    Congrats again on “improvising, adapting and overcoming” the on-line course. A shame that the process overwhelmed the enjoyment of learning.

    As you know, I am a puzzle boy, and my accomplishment for the winter has been to complete my first 2,000 piece puzzle. On to the next one before Spring arrives!

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    • Zen-Den, you are soooo right about how *snazzy* and mild-compression support socks are meant to be used in the same sentence. Case in point, I just did it.

      I am thrilled with your ability to put all the pieces together on the puzzles that seem to be getting bigger and bigger. I cannot do that, as you know– but enjoy the results of your hobby that is slowly turning into an addiction… but you didn’t read that here.

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  10. CONGRATULATIONS on finishing the course – I’ll say “with honors” for persistence. Okay?

    I took a course titled “Monasteries of the Heart” recently. The course content was excellent but the instructor was a little spotty with comments. No pressure, though, and no grades. It was a peaceful, non-threatening experience.

    Very COOOL, spectacled Bean. You would be pleased to know I got new spectacles – red rims!

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    • Marian, I’d forgotten all about the collegiate phrase “with honors” and am pleased to have it bestowed upon me. It didn’t happen way back when I was in college, I can tell you that.

      I like to learn, but in the future will do so without homework and research papers. Your new eyeglasses sound, dare I say, SNAZZY!

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  11. Congrats on finishing your course and with good grades too! Well done!
    Snazzy is a fun word! Thanks for reminding me about it!
    Thanks for the post!

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    • Ellen D, I’m relieved to have finished the class and rather amazed at my final grade. I was failing for most of the course, but pulled a better grade in the end once it was more about writing and less about multiple choice quizzes.

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  12. Congratulations on taking the course and following through. I’m not surprised that you finished early and got such a great grade! I remember hubby’s mom always taking courses at the local college: German, Hebrew and art history. I was always impressed. I couldn’t go back for anything. I was lucky to have made it through college the first time!
    I remember you always used the word snazzy. What a fun word to say and spell!

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    • Beth, I just decided to finish what I started with this course and while it made my head swim last week, I prevailed. Your MIL was impressive taking all those course, but I’m not going to try this again. Homework and quizzes at our age? Ridiculous. There are too many other snazzy things to do with my time. 😁

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  13. Congrats on finishing your course – even if it wasn’t the most fabulous, it does sound like a good winter project. And now it’s almost Spring, so they’ll be new things to put your attention to. Yay! I’ve definitely overflowing with inspirations/ideas/projects in my usual Spring creative mania. If only I could find more hours in the day. But one of the fun things I’ve been doing is taking a months-long class on perfumery and scent in ancient Egypt taught by an Egyptologist. I’m in fragrance heaven!

    You have me wondering if googly-eyed compression socks would be the epitome of snazzy – what do you think?

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    • Deborah, I enjoyed the professors and their lectures were informative, fun even. That part was the best for me. And I like to write so doing a research paper was, in its own way, fun for me. But homework and quizzes and footnotes? Too old for that shit.

      Googly eyes on compression socks is an idea whose time has come! Made me laugh out loud with that one. It is, indeed, the epitome of SNAZZY. Leave it to you to figure that out! 😆

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  14. Congratulations on finishing your online course – it’s too bad that the interface was disappointing. Glad to have you back – I may be at the age at which I would describe a new pair of socks as snazzy! 🙂

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  15. Congratulations on finishing the course! And in learning g you don’t want to do homework again
    I will someday take more courses, but what I really liked about school was the relationships with other students, the discussions. They were all younger than me. By a lot. It was so interesting. Did you have any of that in this course?

    As for the socks, definitely snazzy. My mom used to use that word. There’s a store near me that sells socks in crazy colors that don’t match left to right foot. The tag says life is too short to have matching socks. I bought pairs for my aunt and my sister for Christmas.

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    • Dawn, you’ve hit upon why this course ultimately fell flat for me. Without the interaction among students and a sense of being in this class together, it was a weirdly isolating experience. I did what was asked of me, which included reading a few other students’ projects, but no real discussion.

      I’ve not heard of a store that sells intentionally mismatched socks, but I like the idea. Matching socks? Why bother, eh?

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  16. Those socks really do just scream SNAZZY!

    That’s cool that you completed a real honest to gosh college course this winter. I watch MasterClass videos and genealogy instruction videos and never do any homework.😀

    But of course I do have my writing that includes plenty of footnotes. It’s just what I do. Then there’s taxes. Yes, I recently gathered up all that and took it to the accountant, because even though I have an accounting degree I totally hate doing tax returns. I also have to take care of my mother’s and discovered that her accountant totally screwed up two years ago and I didn’t catch the error. (Kicking self) Gotta watch out for those CPAs. How’s that for going off topic?

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    • Eilene, I took this course on a whim. I could see a long winter at home ahead of me and thought it’d be good to challenge my brain. And I did that, but now it’s over. And unlike you there’ll be no more footnotes in my life again.

      I have a friend who’s a CPA and she doesn’t do her taxes either. I can understand why you don’t. Very sorry to read that there’s an error in your mother’s return. Getting that kind of mistake sorted out can be a part-time job. We’ve been audited by the IRS before, not a happy thing.

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  17. Congratulations, Ally! That is an impressive grade. “No flies on you” – a complimentary term probably the same vintage as “snazzy”. I’ve done a fair bit of online learning since I retired, and for the most part it’s been very enjoyable. When it’s not enjoyable is when the instructor can’t figure out Zoom or how to effectively translate the learning from in-class to virtual. My courses have been of the fun variety though – (almost) no homework, and no grades issued. I am about to start 2 online art classes this week. Would you consider a more “fun” online learning experience?

    Deb

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    • Deb, your “fun” online learning experiences sound great. Being curious I love to learn, but maybe in a less structured way than this course I just finished. Not unhappy that I did the work, but not willing to do that type of graded learning experience again. Eventually I know I’ll try online learning a second time, but now it is spring and I want to be outside away from screens. And quizzes.

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  18. Congratulations on passing! Bigger congrats for realizing what you want and what you don’t!
    Compression socks are snazzy. I have a pair, though they are not as colorful as the ones in the ad. 😃

    Now that the course is off your plate, what will you do next?

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    • L. Marie, thanks. You summed it up with the idea that I now know, for sure, what I don’t want to do in the future. This course was good, but now I’m moving on.

      As for my next adventure in learning, I’m going to try Duolingo. I’ve never been good at speaking any foreign language so maybe I can do better with a bit of fun instruction. And it’s free.

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  19. I am not making this up, but last night I thought to myself, “self, Ally has been quiet lately”. So I looked you up on Twitter and saw you hadn’t been present lately other than a retweet the other day. I AM NOT A STALKER. Just a concerned blog friend who gets worried when others are quiet.

    Now I know you were getting edumacated at that snazzy college. (I spelled that incorrectly on purpose).

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  20. I actually thought about you last week, Ally, and checked your site. Funny how that happens. Interesting, your take on the course. Once I see the word snazzy and the photo of the socks, I cannot unsee it. Thank you…..I think. Congrats on the course!

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    • Erica/Erika, thanks for checking up on me. I rarely disappear from blogworld without announcing my intention beforehand. BUT last week I was overcome with a desire to finish what I’d started with this darned course. Doing so took all my focus, tiring my eyes by staring at the screen for hours at a time.

      I know what you mean about the snazzy socks. I couldn’t stop laughing when I saw the advert– and now am left to wonder I need a pair of them. Not sure that I do, but…

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  22. I wish I still had the attention span to actually attempt an online virtual class. I can’t even read a novel anymore, too many words too many pages. My twin brother and I share original haikus quite often. Life reduced to 17 syllables. I love that you took the class and stayed with it. And the word snazzy is great. Two syllables. I may use it in a future haiku!

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    • Robin, yes, yes. Use SNAZZY in a haiku. It’s meant to be in one, I’m sure of it. As for sticking with the course, I found the topic intriguing and that helped me as I somehow managed to do the readings, quizzes, research paper. However, this was a one-off and shall not be repeated. I want to go outside and play.

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    • Arlene, I like how you say this. I enjoy learning about new-to-me ideas, but am usually more self-directed in my approach. Still I’ll do what it takes to have snazzy synapses– and wouldn’t that be a great name for a blog!

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      • I love this overly … snazzy synapses – or snapping the snazzy synapses – I want to pinch it please. There is an annual international A-Z blog challenge that happens beginning 1st April. Invitations are open for those who want to join. I MAY join it this time … it is a time cruncher to post daily for a month (except on Sunday), something short and snappy, and to respond to all those who may pop by. IF I did this, this time round, I would dig to give my blog name for the A-Z something like snapping the snazzy synapses .. or snazzily snapping synapses. For my daily entry (IF I partake) I would use a quote or say something short snappy and very interesting about eg Archimedes, or Karen Armstrong; B for eg Bilbao, C for Camus (the one about winter and spring) D etc etc etc

        I don’t mind if you say no … I can use something else (IF I do the A-Z) eg short and snappy – or serving the synapses ..

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        • Susan, are you going to do the A-Z Challenge again? I did it once and like you said, it was work to keep up with the writing and the responding to comments. That being said, I LOVE your idea for a theme– and it has nothing to do with the use of *SNAZZY* as a part of its description. I look forward to whatever you decide to do this year.

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          • Thanks for your encouragement Ally Bean! It’s still a big IF on my side – I wonder – maybe – mmmmm. I’d have to get cracking – give it all a BIG think – add name, theme reveal, and make up some short snappy interesting stuff’ ala A to Z, and do some serious prescheduling –

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            • Yes, that’s why I cannot get myself motivated to do the challenge. It doesn’t just happen, and while that’s the fun of it, it’s all the burden of it. Best wishes if you decide to do it again.

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  24. Snazzy blog post. That word is underutilized, so kudos to you for doing your part to bring it back into the mainstream.

    I like “loquacious” personally. It’s got a good mouth feel. Haven’t tried to use it very often, though.

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  25. Congrats on the completion and the grade!! A question – if I have snazzy socks do I have to wear them with a snazzy outfit? If so, I better stick to plain socks. 🙂 I’ve been doing a lot of gardening webinars, an hour at a time, and that is plenty. There is something not so fun about staring at a computer screen and not moving around at all. I take notes, but don’t have homework so I guess that’s a plus. Stay well, and it’s always good to hear from you. 🙂

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    • Judy, in my humble opinion the wearing of snazzy socks does not require the wearing of a snazzy outfit. In fact, I’d suggest that you’d want to keep your outfit rather plain so that your socks are a feature and not overlooked.

      You’re right about staring a computer screen. An hour would be fine, take notes, go do something else. But taking this class was all about the sitting still and being intent upon the screen for hours at a time. It was exhausting to focus that much… at my age.

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  26. You got an A! I don’t think I would do well in an on-line course either. Typos, YIKES. I would feel compelled to point them out to the instructor or college. (not OK!) Those socks are definitely snazzy and colorful. I need some new socks.

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    • Margaret, I did lousy on the quizzes but did better in the modules that required writing. No surprise, I suppose. As for the typos and inconsistencies in the ways in which the information was presented [in a class branded as being from Harvard], I mentioned them in my final course review. 🤨

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  27. Congrats on your accomplishment. While I would not consider going back to school with homework at this point, I do have a few classes that I am going to be taking related to learning things about marketing and the like. I love the snazzy socks. I’m prepping now for my A to Z next month, San Francisco is my theme.

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    • Janet, I like learning and would consider taking classes that just teach me something new, like the marketing class you mention. But no more classes that require homework and research papers. I’m finished with that kind of online learning. Good luck with your A to Z. It’s fun, but time-consuming as I recall.

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    • Marty, yes this class was through Harvard, so the profs and the readings were great, informative. But the computer interface made the rest of the process tiresome. As for a snazzy celebration we had a champagne toast in honor of me completing what will probably be my last college class ever. 🥂

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  30. Maybe it’s a thing in Vermont to have wild socks! I wear Darn Tough ones and they come in the snazziest colours you can imagine. I have an work friend who has the wildest colour socks. Makes life more than an on line homework inducing course! Congrats on the A+ mark!

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  31. Congratulations! I understand what you mean about online learning. I took a whole degree that way and really disliked the platform the entire time.

    Got shot number two – that’s my big news from last week. Had the reaction, and now I’m happy to be done. 🙂

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    • Lynette, you got your entire degree using online classes? That’s amazingly cool. I admire you for being able to do that. I got through one class with my teeth clenched. You are tougher than I.

      Congrats on your second shot. That’s great. We have yet to even rate the opportunity to attempt to get appointments, being too young and too healthy to make the list.

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      • Yes, I did my masters that way. Thank you very much, but I didn’t feel particularly tough, just stoic. 😉

        I work in an area (the Subarctic) where everyone is being vaccinated, town-by/town, regardless of age or medical condition. The mobile unit arrives and they set up shop jabbing everyone. It’s an amazing organisation; many of the nurses doing this left retirement to volunteer.

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  32. I was at the zoo today with 3 toddler boys 2 yrs to 20 mos and a 7 mo old baby girl. I call Tuesdays ‘toddler Tuesdays’. It was a beautiful 65 degree day and the folks I sit for and many zoo visitors think I’m crazy, but I am not crazy. I love a challenge and I love getting my charges out and about just like I used to do with my kids. How crappy would it be to be stuck in a daycare all day while mom and dad are at work?

    Congrats on completing the class. I took 2 classes in 2020. I could take another. Someday. My plate is pretty full at the moment. I disliked the peer portions of my class because not all of the peers were working or writing at my same level, so their critiques and mine back to them were a bit lopsided or awkward.

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    • Ernie, I haven’t been to the zoo in years. What a fun place to visit, even if you are herding a bunch of toddlers. You are a brave woman. I bet their reactions to the animals are fun.

      My class had very little peer interaction but I can understand what you mean about the lopsidedness of doing that. After a certain point, the more polished writers are going to shine while the other students are quite obviously not.

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  33. Yeah, for finishing it and getting a good grade too!

    At this point in my life, I’m only interested in classes pertaining to photography, painting, drawing, or the French language. I don’t even think I’d mind deadlines and homework with those courses.

    Those are some snazzy compression socks! They sure beat my plain black ones.

    I spent last week with my daughter, S-in-L and grandsons. We had a blast playing with the boys, and being there with them. I’m missing the noise and laughter this week. 😀

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    • Deborah, thank you. I liked the information and the readings, but maybe not the homework! If I do another class of any sort I’m going to be more of someone who audits it, rather than a student.

      I can imagine there’s a letdown after being around kids with energy then going home to stillness. I’m glad you had the opportunity to get together with your family, even if for only a week. Fun memories

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  34. Congratulations on finishing the class and doing so well. I love “snazzy” as well and those socks really are. I bought a non-snazzy pair of compression socks at Target the last time I went to Europe because of the long flight and they did the job beautifully.

    What have I been doing? Biggest thing here is that my parents and I all got our second Covid vaccinations today and my husband has his first tomorrow morning. Who would have ever thought that getting a shot would be the highlight of the year?

    janet

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    • Janet, congrats on getting your shots. We’re nowhere near to getting ours, so I’m jealous– but happy for you! [I’ve never been one to resent another person’s good fortune.]

      I hadn’t thought of the socks as being good for air travel, but should I ever do that again I’ll get a pair of these snazzy little numbers. As for when I’ll be traveling again, see the first paragraph of this comment. 😉

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      • I won’t be traveling by air any time soon, but whenever our daughter and her husband have settled in to their new apartment in southern California and she can take a few days off, I’ll be driving out there. My other trip on the horizon is a driving trip back to Chicago to see all our friends there and sing with the praise team while I’m visiting. 🙂 As I like driving trips, these both excite me, even though the drive to the LA area is IMHO the most boring 6-7 hour drive I’ve ever taken and I’ve been driving all my life!

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        • This all sounds like great fun. I’ve driven LA to Las Vegas and it was rather bleak. As for getting back to Chicago, for whatever reason, that would be lovely. When all is well again I hope to get back there too. I’m glad you have some adventures on your horizon.

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  36. Snazzy is a great word and it should be used more often.
    Congratulations on passing and finishing your course. I’m not a bonafide writer, but It would also bother me to see glaring typos. ESPECIALLY in regards to a college course.
    Please share what your graduation gift was/is. A new car? A trip to Europe? *giggle giggle*

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    • Suz, if only my graduation gift was a trip to Europe… but alas that is not to be. Nope, my gift was a champagne toast and a sense of relief about seeing this [ill-advised?] course through to the end. Never again, I say

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  37. I actually have a very snazzy friend who has to wear compression socks… so I passed the ad on to her. You have performed a great public service.

    Congrats on your educational adventures. I can’t imagine writing a paper… with footnotes… for a grade!!! My head is exploding at the mere thought. I’ve taken a few course but they have been of the artsy variety and with no pressure of working for a grade.

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    • Janis, that’s wonderful. I hope your friend, if she buys some of these socks, likes them.

      As for my course, I took it knowing what I’d be asked to do so I can’t say it came as a surprise. But I won’t be doing that again if I can help it. Fun, sort of, once as a way of reliving my youth. Once.

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  38. So glad you’re back! I was wondering where you were last week but I think it sounds like a great way to spend an absence. I’m with you on online delivery. I’ve only take two classes online and I was NOT a fan.

    And those are some snazzy looking socks!!

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    • Katie, it never occurred to me that the class would be using a computer system that was not intuitive and that there’d be odd inconsistencies in the presentation of the content, but I learned otherwise. That being said, I liked what I learned about history and museums so I can’t say the class was a bust. Pity I didn’t have those socks to wear while I was taking the class. That might have made a difference! 😁

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  39. Congratulations Ally on being a Harvard grad! And 93 is very impressive. Nothing new here, same old, same old. I don’t know what I did all week, but I didn’t even manage to get a blog done, so it will have to be a wordless wednesday.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Joni, thanks! I’m glad I finished the class all at once. It was hanging over my head and now it’s behind me so I can ramble about my life doing whatever. Although like you, I don’t really have any specific plans for the week…

      Liked by 1 person

  40. Missed you too, Ally! I find, in this era of pandemic, if I don’t hear from a blogger-friend for a while, I assume the worst. Glad to hear it was a university class and not the dreaded virus that kept you away from blogging!

    There are some words that are inherently appealing. Serendipity is one of them (for me). I agree – snazzy falls into that category too.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Laurie, I’m the same way about bloggy friends. When one who is usually here goes missing, I worry about Covid-19. Such are the times.

      I like serendipity, too. I could use some of it in my life, to snazzy it up, so to speak. 😊

      Liked by 1 person

  41. I totally enjoyed this little trek into your head. I can relate to the college thing from both sides of the computer course, and misspellings/typos…aaarrgh! Happy to see you in my email this a.m. And you are way too young for those snazzy socks…just sayin’.

    Liked by 1 person

    • writemindedwoman, I enjoyed learning what I did because the topic was of interest to me, but that computer interface was difficult. Then being who I am, I noticed all the little mistakes in the written words. Most annoying. Distracting.

      I hope I’m too young for those socks. But when the time comes you gotta admit these are the ones to wear to make a fashion statement. 😉

      Like

  42. Ally, I’m delighted to hear there was no negative reason for your absence, and what an interesting subject you chose to study. Excellent work on your results but I’m sorry to hear that the interface was clunky and substandard. There must be something in the air for I’ve also just signed up for some self-study programmes. Possibly more than I can easily fit in… but well, we’ll see how I manage to juggle stuff.

    Those socks are certainly SNAZZY with capital letters & flashing neon 😀 I’m pretty certain I’d not be brave enough to wear them, except possibly for a dare!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Deb, last week I had this overwhelming desire to finish the course, so I did. I learned more about how museums curate exhibits than I may ever need to know, but I’m no worse for it.

      The socks caught my eye and then the copy about them made me laugh out loud. Gotta take my happy where I can find it.

      Liked by 1 person

      • Funnily enough, Himself has been sharing with me some lengthy vlogs on the subject of whether museums or private collectors are the better curators. Of course they’ve been in his specialist area of militaria so that may skew matters, but it’s been an interesting discussion.

        Yes, yes, yes – you’ve got to grab you happy wherever you find it – especially at the moment.

        Liked by 1 person

        • You’re experiencing a little bit of what this class was about. The class delved into how and why museums choose the objects they do– and how over the decades an object can move from one museum to another museum as societal mores changes.

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  43. Congrats on finishing your course, Ally, although it did not sound at all pleasant. I’ve been poking at the Master Class lessons for writing, but the issue here is that the assignments do not have to be submitted to anyone and that makes me a bit lazy. Fortunately, I have learned a few things to help my writing and that’s what really counts, right?

    Liked by 1 person

    • Mary, I agree. If you learn something, anything, then the class has had value for you. Like you if I didn’t have to submit assignments, then I probably would be a slacker sometimes. But I’d still learn something. Where are these Master Classes, btw?

      Liked by 1 person

      • Master Class is a year long subscription ($180) that allows you to take classes from experts in their field. Classes include writing (David Sedaris, Malcolm Gladwell, Margaret Atwood), photography, cooking, science, etc. I had been wanting to try this for a long time and ended up gifting myself from the last stimulus check. It includes videos, a PDF document, etc. for each class.

        Liked by 3 people

  44. I could write a book about online learning, but it would not be snazzy. Congrats on finishing the course and on following your gut on what’s right for you. Hope we are all better able to do that as we move on from this pandemic year.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Rita, this was my first experience with taking a structured class online. I finished my college degrees before this was the done thing. I enjoyed the content, but fussing around with contrary computer program was not for me. Right there with you about the idea of moving on from this pandemic year. Soon I hope.

      Liked by 1 person

  45. Snazzy is one of my best friend’s favorite words, it seems. She uses it frequently. I think you would like her.
    Compression socks reminds me of the show Bob ❤ Abishola. Bob sells compression socks. It's a very cute show.
    Congrats on completing the class! I think I would have the same experience as you: enjoy the learning, hate the interface, conclude not to do it again. The typos and inconsistencies would distract and bother me too. Before clicking on your blog post, I was trying to learn the new newsletter system I have to use for work. I HATE it! I know I'll eventually learn the ropes, and all will be fine. But in the meantime, ughitty ugh ugh! (Another favorite expression of my aforementioned friend.) Tech stuff and I do not mix, which is why I needed a break. Lo and behold! New post by Ally Bean! 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

    • Frank, I like to learn, but in the future I’m going back to self-directed, following my own whims. You were in Alabama! Sounds warm and lovely. Good job getting your jab.

      Like

    • Tara, yes, this class was a snazzy use of my pandemic time. BUT no more formal educational experiences for me, at least for a while. Spring is a’coming.

      [Is your blog working better today?]

      Liked by 1 person

      • I see. You’re going to do independent study out of doors. Good choice.

        [Yes, thank you. Apparently, there was an issue with the SSL and once I went back to http and started over with my host, all was better after that. Thank you for your assistance.]

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    • The Travel Architect, sometimes what you call boring can be the best thing to do. I took this course on a whim, did it, but am ready to be less involved with ye olde computer screen. I might even say I’m looking forward to being boring!

      Liked by 1 person

    • Donna, I took the class because the topic interested me and to see if I could do it. NOW having learned what I need to know from this experience, I’m over it. The snazzy socks made me laugh out loud. What’s the point of a personal blog if you can’t share silliness?

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  51. For $16.95 (Plus applicable tax and shipping fees), I would sure hope those socks are not only snazzy, but super special snazzy enough to break the Snazz-O-Meter! I could buy an entire pack of non-snazzy socks for that price…

    Liked by 1 person

    • evilsquirrel13, yes the snazzy socks are pricey. I don’t know the first thing about compression socks and don’t plan on buying these beauties, but I had to laugh at the advertisement. As for a Snazz-O-Meter, now there’s a great idea. I wonder if one already exists or I [you?] need to create one? 🤔

      Like

  52. Normally I read the comments as well as your response Ally Bean but time flieth. The first word that comes to mind for me is Shazam – with an exclamation mark at the end of the word. Shazam! Shazam for your exemplary mark – in spite of difficulties which would have irritated me no end, your persevered. Shot! – is also a word I use to say congratulations.

    O yes, snazzy is a terrifical word. I see snazzy socks everywhere. Nothing more delightful than a snazzy pair of socks – and that snazzy socks are available in your neck of the woods with the added and wonderful benefit of adding support to the ankle, makes this a MUST HAVE item … in fact a few of them.

    Welcome back – 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

    • Susan, I like your ways of saying congratulations and feel honored. Shazam! is a lost word that is in need of a revival. I haven’t seen or heard it in years.

      As for the snazzy socks, they charmed the socks off of me, so to speak. I don’t know that I need compression socks, but when snazzy socks jump off the page at you… maybe I do! My ankles deserve the best.

      Liked by 1 person

  53. Congratulations on completing your course and stretching your brain, Ally! I’ve been blogging about brain health recently, and one of the basic tips is to use your brain to try something new or think in a different way. I’m pretty sure learning new words like SNAZZY falls in that category as well. Yea for you and your brain! Even if you don’t need compression socks, I recommend you reward yourself with something snazzy!

    Like

    • Christie, interesting to know what you’ve been blogging about. I must have a healthy brain right about now because this class challenged me with new information and connections. But mostly it challenged me with its non-intuitive time-wasting computer system. Not that I’m bitter about that part of the class. 🤨

      As for SNAZZY, it’s a great word to say and write. I like your idea of a snazzy reward for my collegiate efforts. Will think on that!

      Like

  54. Snazzy is a good word – I like it and often use it in my posts. Good for you finishing your class Ally and ahead of time and with flying colors too. I’ve heard others who took college classes online and that said the interface was what ruined the class for them, so you get a pat on the back for getting past that and finishing up.

    Liked by 1 person

  55. Congratulations on your class, that’s great! I worked at a University for a couple of years, and we could audit classes for free if we wanted to. I audited a class on Hindu mythology, which meant I went to the lectures and did some of the reading but none of the work. I liked it a lot! I wasn’t working towards a grade and didn’t get credit, but I got to learn, it was perfect for me at the time. Of course, without writing papers or doing ALL of the reading, I didn’t get as much out of it as I could have, but really, I was just in it for fun so that was fine. Several years ago I listened to an online class, more of a podcast I guess, that was lectures about the Civil war by a Harvard Professor. Not really a podcast, it was just his lectures before the class. So for that I did zero reading, just listened, and again, really enjoyed it.

    Liked by 2 people

    • J, to take this class I had to sign up as a *student* so I knew I was going to do homework. I decided to do this class on a lark for something to do during this long pandemic winter. If I was to do anything like this again I’d follow your lead and audit the class, if possible.

      Now that you mention your experience listening to some lectures, I wonder what else is out there in ye olde www that might educate/entertain me. At the moment I’m ready to enjoy the great outdoors, but once the heat of summer hits I might look into more book learning.

      Like

  56. Pingback: Peoria Pair – Myricopia

  57. Your blog is among my favorites and I admit to reading you in the morning, but being unable to Like or comment because stupid phone WP thing. You’re missed when you’re gone, even though it seems like I’m the one who’s gone.
    Congratulations on your recent endeavor. Online classes are not for me. I have audited some lectures, and enjoy that, enjoy learning, but do not like to type for points or make projects without other merit, not a good use of my time.
    I have been working a lot (at work). Did Mentor’s work for a while and one boss was out for a while and I’ve just been catching up on my work, trying to get my flow back. I’ve been cooking and baking more, and really trying to do at least one fabulous thing each weekend day. I think this plague has put me in a funk, sucking all the snazzy from my free time. No likey. Trying to get my flow back at home too.

    Liked by 1 person

    • joey, thanks for the compliment. I love having you stop by to read & comment– and not just because you say sweet things to me.

      The online class was a whim. A lark. An idea that seemed wonderful when I started it, but dragged on. I enjoyed the lectures and the reading so I learned, but I won’t try one like it again. I’m too old for homework.

      I don’t feel like I’m in any flow this winter either. Your idea of doing one fabulous thing each weekend day is brilliant. We’re becoming duller every weekend, either stuck at home because of lousy weather or because of inertia. You’re right about the plague putting you, me, all of us into a funk. This has been one hell of a year for everyone.

      Liked by 1 person

      • Yes!
        We’ve been trying to get more walking in, seeing fewer people makes it a low risk activity. However, a year is long enough without bookstores and other specialty shops – spices, plants, jewelry, rocks – whatever floats a goat, and no small shop is too crowded.

        Liked by 1 person

        • Walking is good. We like it, too. You can wave “hi” but keep your distance without officially keeping your distance. I miss bookstores and I miss just wandering Target or Kohl’s for no reason other than to see what you can see. Soon we should be able to get back to it.

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    • philmouse, yep, computers cannot compete. I learned many things, and I enjoyed the lectures + readings, but the rest of the class was nothing but botheration. And now I’ve done that, so I can move onto other ways to use my time.

      Liked by 1 person

  59. This was just refreshing to read, first time reading your work though. I’m glad I stumbled on this, also I get your plight about not hating and not loving being a student, I can totally relate 😒 and to have done it in this pandemic, completely different ball park. Congratulations on completing the course.

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  60. I have two in college and one is definitely not a fan of classes online. He opted for as many that met as Zoom meetings vs watching videos/self-reading lessons as possible. I’m hoping they are able to have in-person classes by next fall. Not everyone learns the same way which has been very apparent over the course of the past year.

    Like

    • Amy, you’re right that everyone learns in different ways. I liked the content of the class enough to keep with it, but without fellow students around it was kind of lonely. Still I’m glad I did it.

      Liked by 1 person

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