Spinal Surgery on Wednesday :-(

Haven't posted lately....lots on my mind.
Perhaps, you have had a surgery and got the what-ifs before the operation. That is what I've been experiencing the last couple of days.  I am finding that keeping busy helps. Twelve years ago I had to have 5-7 cervical disk fused and now 3-5 are in a very unstable condition. I've put it off for three years so I am very grateful for the extra years. Now, however, I can't work in my gardens, something I love to do, have less energy due to the discomfort,the prospects of skiing this winter are a BIG no(if I fall the results could be horrible) and can't do what I love to do-travel! So, surgery is Wednesday. I will find out tomorrow during the pre-visit as to what exactly I won't be able to do for a while. I already was told-no piano(just returned to taking lessons after 47 years and love it!), probably, not computer?, no driving-for a month.
Hopefully, I can use my laptop-otherwise,going NO computer will be VERY difficult. Stocked up on videos and some books to read. Any recommendations of "fluff"-nothing heavy as I'm sure the pain meds will keep me from concentrating for a few days, would be appreciated.
Hmmm, maybe, after a few days when I am not to groggy, I just might start my novel.
I will try and post again soon.
Gail Hennessey

NOAA says Beluga Whales Should Roam Freely! :-)

I saw an article on beluga whales today that brought a smile to my face.  The world's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, in Atlanta, Georgia, was told they can not acquire 18 more beluga whales. They currently have four such whales.  The National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration said that the beluga whales,which are very intelligent,should exist in their natural habitat, the polar oceans, and not in an aquarium.  I realize that there are two sides to the issue. In captivity, scientists can study beluga whales and better determine how to protect their dwindling species. On the other hand, I favor wildlife being able to roam freely. What do you think?

Extension Activities:
1. Pretend you are a beluga whale. Write about a day in your life.
2. Learn about the beluga whale from the link below. Draw/color a picture of a beluga whale and write 4 cool facts learned about the whale.
3. Pretend you work at the aquarium. Give 2 reasons why you feel you should be able to acquire more beluga whales. Pretend you are a marine biologist, give 2 reasons why you feel beluga whales should not be allowed to be captured for aquariums.




Learn more about the beluga whale at this link:http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/beluga-whale/



Note: Photograph from animals.nationalgeographic.com