- At 4:30 this morning as I was leaving for work, I saw a strange formation of lights over town. As I moved closer, I could see an amoeba-like outline glittering like embers in a campfire. A large section of the mountain across the river had evidently caught fire, and was still smoldering. I left wishing I could have watched the scene a little while longer, to contemplate the feeling it inspired.

- Today Shirley asked me: "Whatever happened to people being good-natured?" It was a very heartwarming and sympathetic moment. I felt a surge of "togetherness" that has largely been absent from my workplace.

- When I count in tens to see what time I need to be back from lunch, I use my fingers. Should I be embarrassed?