Random updates

Okay, I'm going to write a bunch of random things, so get ready. First, I am working feverishly on my courage-at-work study, and as usual, I have collected a mountain of books and articles on the topic. This is what I've been staring at all day for the last couple of weeks. I'm making good progress on the paper, though.

Second, last night we went to Ruth's Diner with our friends Kirk and Marilyn and some friends who drove in from Colorado. (It was beautiful out on the patio. Ruth's has been renovated--very impressive.) After dinner we came home and ate one of Bob's famous blackberry/raspberry cobblers. Mmmmmm..... (Logan, how did yours turn out?)

And then I went in to read some more courage stuff with Oscar. At this point, I think I was reading about upward communication and how it doesn't happen in most organizations. People are especially reluctant to communicate bad news to their bosses because (1) they are afraid they will get in trouble if they do, and (2) they do get in trouble. Look at that cute little black spot on Oscar's foot!

And finally, I went around taking photos of various flowers. Actually, I did this earlier in the day, but I don't feel like moving the photo up in this posting. I think the daisys are the prettiest right now, so here they are.

By the way, today I learned that most managers are inclined to evaluate any negative feedback they get from their employees very, very carefully, whereas they are likely to immediately accept positive feedback. Isn't that a hoot? Is it any wonder that it takes a lot of courge to deliver bad news to the boss? And, managers who do solicit negative feedback from their subordinates are seen as more effective overall. Just so you know...

We're going to visit Dunc and Betsy this weekend! Yeah us!

End of random updates.