The Clash of the Cultures

So, last night, we are sitting in our living group deciding how we are going to move forward as a study group for the second half of the journey.  Pavol, who was raised in the Soviet Union before the split, said we would "force" people to read, present and participate in our group discussions.  I said, "Let's choose another word for 'force.'"  He reiterated he meant force.  I explained that was not going to work.  As he became more and more passionate about his choice of words, I realized that this was an unresolvable issue between Pavol and me.  My life has been all about choices, his has been all about forced compliance.

Starbuck's was one of our cases today for marketing class.  At CFA, we have spent considerable time understanding the strategy of and business model of SB.  We were discussing Starbuck's competition.  As I am the only one in the class that is in food service and one of two in any kind of retail business (everything else is manufacturing and financial services related), I was called on to comment a number of times.  One of the questions was how has food service responded to SB.  I explained that many, such as CFA and McD's had changed their coffee programs to be more competitive with specialty coffees, without the big price tag attached per serving.  I went on to say, that SB's competition is other premium coffee outlets, doughnut shops, quick-service restaurants and even convenience stores like Kwik Trip, explaining a little about their set up. I have told you how difficult this course is on Americans and someone is always taking a shot.  Today, it was the Icelander (pop. 300,000).  He was formerly President of the Bank of Iceland before its recent collapse just months ago.  He speaks up and says, "I would never drink coffee from an American gas station."  He has never even seen a Kwik Trip (do they have cars in Iceland or do they just use snowshoes?) Does somebody have a picture of Kwik Trip's elaborate drink station they can send me??  Given that I have never been to Iceland, it would have been like me saying, I would never go into a bank in Iceland and I have never seen a bank in Iceland or gone to Iceland, for that matter.  And, as of now, don't really have any desire to!

I did get some relief about Peter, however.  Peter sits next to me this week.  He's from Switzerland.  I immediately noticed Peter's neon pink Ipod skin.  Now, I have nothing against men who choose neon pink, but it is an odd choice as I have observed.  Finally, today, Peter said, "my daughter is really going to like this Ipod and pink is her favorite color".  Whew~

Ok, now that we have discussed the most recent culture clashes -- on to what I really learned today.

Tidbits and random thoughts:

Does anyone remember the downfall of the t.v. show "Happy Days?"  It was when Fonzie, dressed in leather jacket on water skiis jumped a pool of sharks.  Hence comes the saying of brands about to fail, "Did you jump the shark?"

"Success is simple.  If man builds a better mouse trap, the world will beat a path to its door."  Ralph Waldo Emerson

In Alice and Wonderland, the Red Queen said, "You have to run faster, faster and faster just to stay in place."  (Reminds me of my AMP experience, but was used to refer to the sustainability of an organization.)

In sustaining a business, Human Resource management is the hardest practice for a competitor to imitate.  On average, it takes 7 years to replicate someone's HR practices.  My goal is that no one could ever replicate CFA's.

The power of pre-emption:  If you can irreversiably commit yourself so there is no possible retreat, it creates strong disincentives for the competition to challenge it. It makes is a fight for your own organization.  An example of this is the Spanish conquest of Mexico.  In order to eliminate any thought of retreat when landing in Velacruz, Cortes burned his ships!  There was no turning back.

I am really grateful the men in my life wear undershirts.  Enough said.

"It is not the critic who counts:  not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better.  The credit belongs to the man (or woman) who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, and comes short again and again; because there is no effort without error and shortcoming.  But who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at best knows in the end the triumphs of high achievement and who at the worst, if he fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory or defeat."  Teddy Roosevelt

Did you know the average life of a water meter that measures with absolute accuracy is 15 years?  Did you know that the CSO (Diamond Broker) in London houses $5 billion of diamonds in a room about the size of Greenbrier III and IV at CFA and it has been that way for 100 years?

Sustainable advantages aren't forever and they are never free.

So, what's important about any of that -- nothing really -- just things that cloud my head and get in the way of the really important, which is:

"Finally, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things."  Philippians 4:8

And I intend to do just that, right now~

God bless you all and much love,

Dee Ann

Hip Hop Saved My Life

His t-shirt really said that, and I paused and said to myself, "Self, don't say what you are thinking." However, I thought about the fact that nobody really knows me here and I will never see these people again, and, finally, I just couldn't help myself. And I really needed new blog material. "Jesus saved my life," I said. "Huh?" he said. "Your t-shirt says Hip Hop saved your life. Jesus saved mine," I said. "OK," he says with a roll of his eyes. As I walked off, I said, "and He is very fond of you." Smile :)) Made my point, and it gave me new blog material.

I don't say a lot on this blog about my classmates or the material at HBS out of respect for privacy of them both. But I surely wanted you to know that my days are a lot more about learning than all the peripheral things I share with you. Today, was a great day in class -- the case studies were Apple, Simmons and USA Today and covered the subjects of innovation, strategy and leadership decision making. While the workload is quite challenging, I am really loving this learning opportunity. There is not a day that I lay down at night that I don't think about how much I grew that day, and not just mentally, but spiritually, emotionally and socially as well. God has been so very gracious and faithful to me.

Today, I facilitated our living group through an assessment of our progress thus far. It was the most difficult group I have ever been in that role with, but the success was that much more satisfying. We worked it hard, resolved some issues and put a plan in place to move forward. That was a lot of progress. "Management is getting work done through people. Leadership is getting people done through work."

Thank you, especially today, to Ashley who has taken great care of the boys (even has cooked and taken them to culture enriching events) and to my boys for being so patient while their Mom is away.

It's been a very busy day and as Robert Frost said, "I have promises to keep and miles to go before I sleep." Thanks for the chat.

Blessings and love to all,

Dee Ann

The $64,000 Question , . .

Should I have worn the mask on the airplane?  If you have been holed a way in a very tiny room, with your head in the books, you might just miss a potential global health crisis.  It sort of plays in the background, but really doesn't get your attention until you are on the plane and people are wearing surgical masks.  At first, you think maybe it's a surgeon's convention, but then I realized there was no way some of those people were surgeons.  So, of course, I worried all the way to Boston, if I, too, should have worn a mask and protected myself from Swine flu.   I had visions of getting sick and having to spend days on end in my tiny cell without anyone to care for me!!  Then I remembered Who is in control and got a grip.

It was 95 degrees in Boston today.  I am serious.  And I feel it is all my fault.  I complained and complained about the weather being so rainy and cold and I prayed for a change, and now the whole city of Boston is convinced there is also a global warning crisis in Boston and I fear it may be my fault.  No fears -- the high tomorrow is 58.  Isn't that the craziest thing you have ever heard?

I had a great weekend at home and was able to see or talk to some of you.  I loved being with Ashley, Trevor and Trey and even Copper and Smokey.  We had a busy, full weekend, but I really enjoyed going to Trevor's Concert Band Performance (see picture).  They did so well and received Superior ratings in every category.  It was so good to be in Atlanta, where I went to places to eat and visit and people know my name.  And they call me hon, baby, sweetheart and darling.  They don't do that in Boston.  In fact, it's probably better if they just don't call you anything at all :)

When I came in this afternoon, my room was about 85 degrees since the air had been off.  While it was cooling off (didn't take long!), I went for a very warm walk (without my rings, Mom).  I saw two young men sitting on a bench along the river and they both had Bibles and seemed to be studying together.  I was so surprised to see it here that I almost said, "Are you reading the Bible?" and then I decided that I had invaded enough people's privacy with the band-aids and I should leave well enough alone.  It did warm my heart and lift my spirits, though.

My week starts tomorrow after the break we have had.  We have class through Saturday, and then I am going to try to dream up something fun to do for Sunday.  I am way behind on my Boston sightseeing.  I am at the half-way mark and headed into finishing well.

Thank you for all the cards -- I received a bunch today -- I really love them, thank you for all your prayers -- I surely feel them and thank you for your encouragement -- it surely lifts me.

Love and Blessings to all~

Dee Ann

What I Love About HBS

This morning as I was walking, I realized there are things I really love about being at HBS:

I love my early morning walks along the river, while the traffic is quite and I can hear God along with the rower's paddles licking of the water.

I love Cambridge -- a place to pick up spare change off the ground, watch interesting people (I mean really interesting), and find a pretty good cup of clam chowder.

I love studying in my room and looking up to see my "encouragement shrine" from all the cards and notes you have sent me (see picture).

I love that there are no cars on campus, but many bicycles.

I love that a really nice lady cleans my room (although it is very neat) everyday and gives me fresh towels and linens. I love that the dry cleaner picks up from and delivers every day right to my bedroom.

I love that somebody else makes the coffee every morning.

I love my classes and getting hear some of the smartest people in the world give lectures.  I love watching the MBA students creating a future for themselves.

I love Baker library inside and out - but the view of it in the sunshine is stunning.

I love the old buildings that display history and the new ones that show progress.  I love that the backside of every building is as pretty as the front.

I love that I can get ready to go anywhere in 30 minutes.  I can reach most anything I need without having to move my whole body :)  And if I do have to move, it's no more than five steps from door to the other side.  I love that my wardrobe is simple.

I love that I have met God here, in times of great loneliness and that He keeps telling me He is all I need.

I love my view, especially on a sunny day.

I love that there are so many viewpoints here about so many things, that I am free to say what I want.  I love that I am surrounded by great intelligence on some many subjects.  I love that I have learned so much.

I love that the cherry blossoms have bloomed -- you said they would Lynn!

And I love that at the end, I can go home -- to the place and people I love.

So that's where I am headed for a few days~

Thanks to all the people who love me  -- I love being so loved by you and I love you!

As the Genie said to Aladdin, "I'm outta here!"

Dee Ann

Going Underground~

Guess what I found out today?  HBS has a large underground network of tunnels going from building to building.  It only took me 4 weeks to find that out and out of that 28 days, it rained 23!  Had I known this, I could have stayed a lot drier!  This weekend is our 4 day break and the weather in Boston is supposed to be 83 degrees - go figure~

Lynn, I am really thankful for those peanut bars and Amy O. and friends, I am grateful for the thin mints!  And would you believe it, but all those international people love sweet tea! And they all want to know when they can get CFA in Switzerland, India, Nigeria, China, Japan, Singapore, Germany, Malaysia, Australia, Russia, United Arab Emrites, Egypt, Spain, Greece, Jordan, France, Israel, Kuwait, Italy, Vancouver, UK, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Iceland and Ireland, etc., etc. etc.  If we can't get chicken to them, maybe we can sell sweet tea to them!

Learning bunches about the world and me.  Today, we had a simulation exercise on climbing Mt. Everest.  I was the team leader and made it to the top and only one of my team didn't make it.  When climbing Mt. Everest, you should not drink beer and talk on the telephone.  

You should have seen the faces of my Living Group tonight when I told them why it is important that the U.S. protect Israel (God's chosen people, etc.).  The funny thing was that they were speechless.  I finally found a way to make them stop talking!

Looking forward to my weekend home.  I will catch you up when I get back.  According to the calendar, it looks like it will be an interesting 4 more weeks~  Then I will have to find another excuse to write on a blog so that I can say all the trivial stuff I want to say to people who really have better things to do.

Much love and many blessings,

Dee Ann

It's All Our Fault!

In coming to HBS, I have learned many things -- some wonderful and some not so great.  One of the things I have come to realize is that most anything that happens is somehow blamed on the U.S. by those who don't live here. Last week it was the global financial crisis -- today it was global warming.  One of the most difficult challenges here has been to defend our country to those who disparage it.

But you know what?  I love the United States of America.  I love the stars and stripes and the purple mountain majesty of the Rockies, the rocky coast of the Pacific and the peaceful sandy shores of the gulf.  I love that is snows in Denver and Vermont and that it doesn't in Miami.  I love that every American over the age of eighteen has the privilege to vote in a democratic society and choose our country's leaders.  I love that we have protected the home of the brave and the free and have used that same power to help others be both brave and free.  I love the men and women I see on my flights that are in camo fatigues headed to unknown deserts so that I can go freely to my job -- one of my own choosing.  I love that In God We Trust is printed on our money.  I love the pledge of allegiance and the Star Spangled Banner.  I love that I am free to worship anywhere I choose without fear.  I love our history and I believe that we have hope and a future for generations to come.  

So regardless of what I hear, and wherever this life leads me, I know that I am very fortunate to live in the greatest country in the world and the longest surviving democracy.  God Bless America~

Blessings to all -- and I sure do miss you,

Love,

Dee Ann

How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You . . .

I am just finishing my second glass of Chick-fil-A sweet tea following a wonderful Chick-fil-A Day at Harvard. Two Operators, one interim manager and 11 staff members came up to provide the great taste of Chick-fil-A and wow with second mile service for the 165 members of my class, 75% of whom are international.  Thanks to Amy R., Amy O., Lynn C., Todd G., Lance L., Lisa H., Cathy P., Brandon B., Michael L., Will M., Melissa T, Katrina, Juan and Dusty for making me a hero today.  Everyone certainly knows who Chick-fil-A is now.

Most of all, I was so encouraged by their visit.  We enjoyed great seafood and fellowship last night at dinner and it was my favorite day at HBS, yet!  I felt so loved and lifted.

I goofed off a little while my friends were here, so I must get to my studies, but I wanted to share some pictures of the day with you.  It really was a great day.

Missing you all so much,

Love and blessings,

Dee Ann

The Eyeballs Were Staring Back at Me!

Here is a picture from the Lobster feast last night.  Once I saw those beady looking eyes looking back at me, there was no way I could crack that crustacean open and eat it.  I will have mine, tails only, thank you very much!

Have a fabulous weekend~

Love to all,

Dee Ann

Toenails, Dogs and Global Financial Crisis Day

So, which one of those thoughts should I open with?  Oh, let's get the bad news over with first.  We spent the entire day on the Global Financial Crisis in our classes today.  If you think hearing it from your investment banker, on CNN or reading about it in the Wall Street Journal depresses you,  just try hearing about it from some of the top economists in the world at The Harvard Business School.  You don't want to know what I know now.  And if you know what I know, you don't want me to remind you.  Just one hint though - you might take the suggestion to learn Mandarin very seriously.  If I was having a hard time in this class as an American before, you can only imagine the backlash from today's classes.  Although, Europe and Asia have certainly done their share to contribute as well.  It's one thing developing nations (3rd world countries) can be grateful for -- they do not inherit any blame for this situation.

Okay, on to other tidbits of my life that you will probably not be very interested in.  There are 51 steps from the first floor to the 4th floor where my room is.  I know this because I count them everyday when I walk up and down them 20 times.  I drink about 20 bottles of water a day between meals, classes, study group and personal study time.  So, you know what else I do about 20 times a day.  Speaking of water, one reason I drink so much is that it is very dry here.  It's so dry that I don't have any bad hair days here!  Great - I find a place where my hair cooperates everyday and it has to be some place that is 35 degrees in the middle of April.  

When you are somewhere that you can not possibly take time for a pedicure (really can't), you have to cut your own toenails.  Three weeks in and I finally realized that!  Okay, that was TMI.

About the pictures -- The building with glass windows is called Kresege Hall and that is where I eat my meals (the ones not in styrofoam).  The picture of the stairs I put in, because I actually saw somebody ride a bike UP them today.  They lead from campus to the bridge across the river.  The dog picture is because I even miss my dogs (well, they are really Ashley's, Trevor and Trey's - but I claim them since I am hundreds of miles away), and I enjoyed watching this dog swim in the river today.  The picture of the JFK park shows you where I spend exactly one hour on the rare sunny afternoon, such as today.  Ashley gave me this great wireless weather thingy that shows me the daily weather, hi and lo, and windchill factor and a five day forecast.  SO, I have been watching this thing all week and it said hi of 70 and sunny for today.  I worked all week day and night to get my cases done early for tomorrow so that I could enjoy the afternoon for a couple of hours and I did!

I am so excited about the CFA team that is coming in on Monday!  I cannot wait to see you all!  For those who don't know, 11 CFA staff are coming in on Monday to serve CFA to all the class members Tuesday at lunch time.  People from all over the world will be having their first taste of CFA!  I am not sure what my friends from India will think of the Eat Mor Chickin cow, but we shall see.

I better get back to work -- getting ready for Monday and Tuesday classes so I have time to visit with my CFA friends.  And tonight is lobster reception, which means there will be a little lobster and a lot of drinks.  I am going for the lobster!

I wish everyone an awesome weekend -- thanks for the many thoughtful cards -- they really lift me and thank you for all the prayers behind them.

Blessings and love to all,

Dee Ann

Paranoia and Growing Giants

"If each of us hires people that are smaller than we are, we shall become a company of dwarfs.  But if each of us hires people who are bigger than we are, we shall become a company of giants."

David Ogilvey (Ogilvey and Mather Advertising)

"Only the paranoid survive."

Lou Gertsner

 I had two jam packed days, but outstanding learning opportunities.  My classes have been in marketing, strategy, ethics, innovation, decision making, of course, finance and organizational development.  Well-known author and Harvard professor, Michael Porter spoke to us yesterday and Lou Gertsner, former CEO of IBM, Nabisco and American Express spoke this afternoon.  Hema Hattangady taught innovation class today.  She is CEO of an Indian company called Conzerve.  She has a fascinating  story how she was chosen to be the CEO of her father-in-law's company, which you can imagine would be a very odd thing to happen in India.  I may have told you that I am one of 22 women in the entire program and there are 152 men.  We are in two sections, so there are 11 women to 75 men in my class.  When she answered questions, some of the Indian and Middle-Eastern men took that as an opportunity to be condescending and insulting to her, but she responded as a seasoned executive with more grace and poise than I have publicly ever witnessed in such a situation.

The work load is still averaging about a 100 pages a night plus presentation preparation, but I am starting to get the hang of it, and I am learning so much! I would love to tell you a funny story, but there has not been anything too funny to happen.  If I could tell you of all the drama that goes on around here, you would probably laugh.  It's amazing to see very high level executives, from all around the world and in some of the top companies in the world acting in the ways that they do sometimes.  Again, I am so grateful for my team at CFA, who are the best people to work with on the planet!

I finally realized that the barrier I am experiencing has more to do with me being an American than anything else.  The rest of the world is really mad at us "for crashing the global economy."  Their perception is that all Americans fly on private jets, bail on their mortgages and over leverage their credit.  I have done my best to let them know that ALL Americans are not that way. 

I am working very hard on teaching please, thank you and my pleasure -- I miss hearing those words that are ordinarily part of my daily life.

The weather has been beautiful all week -- still cold, but tomorrow is supposed to be 70!  It gets cold again after that, but I plan to enjoy a walk by the river tomorrow afternoon.  Mom is worried about me walking, but I only walk in safe places in the daytime.  The HBS campus is a walking only campus, so everybody walks.  It's a very healthy place.  And the Harvard Police Department is very good.  I checked the crime statistics -- no violent crimes -- just bicycle theft and such.  

Melissa, thank you for the awesome snack package.  Lisa, I don't know how long I am supposed to keep those Chocolate Chip cookies, but they are the best ever -- there have been days I lived off them (isn't that a healthy thing to do!) and Kelsey, thanks for all your encouraging comments, texts and e-mails!

Please continue to remember me in prayer.  I have told you the surface stuff, but there is so much going on behind the scenes.  I am definitely on the front line of Spiritual Warfare.  God gives me just enough to keep in the game, but not so much that I am not dependent on Him.

More scenery attached -- same stuff, different time of day and different weather ~~ The building is my a picture of the outside of "my home."

Love you all,

Dee Ann

Spare Change and BandAids and other Minutia

During my sunrise walk this morning at 5:45 a.m., I was reflecting about this blog and why I write it.  As much as I want to tell you what is going on -- I really write it for me.  You see, I just need a chance to "talk" to people who care about me.  People here only want to talk about economics, or missiles in North Korea, or Obama, or capitalism or socialism or complete a spreadsheet.  No one cares that my husband is teaching my son to drive, or on Friday, Trey is going on "the biggest field trip of the year," or that my oldest son is finishing his first year of college.  They don't care how much I love my family, or children in Africa or anything about my life in Atlanta.  They don't laugh and they have no sense of humor.  So, it's actually a little selfish of me to take your time and invade your cyber world with my need to talk about everyday stuff -- thanks for allowing me to do that.  We don't ever talk about everyday stuff at HBS.  We will have dinner in assigned groups in just a little while and no one will even know the things I am about to tell you about my day.

So back to my walk this morning.  I have been here for almost 3 weeks, and noticed a completely different perspective on scenery.  The focal point of HBS is the library.  I always walk by it and it is a massive traditional Harvardish building (see picture).  But today, I found myself looking back at it from close to the river and the view was very different.  I compared it to how I have looked at my own experience here from a very close up internal view and that if I backed away and looked outward, things look different.  So that led me to the spare change and BandAids . . .

A classmate of mine is sick -- she is a delightful woman from Australia.  I really wanted to get outside on this beautiful day in Boston during my one hour break from class today.  I had really caught up on my studying (that is a minor miracle and requires missing sleep), so I decided to walk over to Cambridge and get her some medicine from CVS.  Guess what?  They don't have Tylenol Cold in Aussie. You should have seen us trying to communicate about what I needed to get.  Anyway, on my way over, I was mumbling to myself about how no one speaks or smiles or even seems to notice anyone else in this city.  It's just not a particularly friendly place.  I am sure there are many people who are nice and friendly, but in general, not a very friendly place.  So, I started thinking about how I might do it differently than them.  Then I started finding coins -- I don't mean pennies -- I mean quarters and dimes and nickels.  When I arrived at CVS, I began my retail therapy and not only bought Tylenol cold, but decided to stock up on any other drug store items I might need.  I was rubbing a bit of a blister on my heel, so I thought I might as well get neosporin and bandaids while I was there.  Had no idea I would need it, but thought I would get them.  As I started back to HBS, I passed a young couple and the woman was trying to re-attach a bandaid to her heel where she had rubbed a blister.  I stopped and said, "I have a Band Aid if you need it."  They looked at me like I had just spoken in a language from Jupiter.  So I repeated myself and he said, "really?"  I said, "yes, I have just bought a brand new box, but didn't know why. I guess they were for you."  I smiled all the way back across the bridge over the river. :)  :)  I thought -- why not bring a little cheer along the way.  Can't wait to see what retail related warm-hearted prompting God gives me tomorrow!

I had lunch today with our professor of Corporate Governance.  She, like all the others, is an extremely credentialed woman, with various experiences, and degrees, including a Harvard Law degree.  But I thought most interesting, is that she has a degree in "Moral Philosophy."  I wondered all day if that was opposed to "Immoral Philosophy," but I guess it's just a philosophical question in and of itself to ponder it.

Had my last class on negotiation today with the tree hugger (he is actually very intriguing, challenging and engaging).  I think I may have a future calling there -- definitely not in financial analysis!  No surprise there~

So much to say . . . so little time to say it.  Check out the pictures of my view from walk this morning.  Would send you something different, but the view is mostly the same each day -- only the weather changes.

Love and blessings to all,

Dee Ann

HBS AMP Week 3

Praying that you all had a beautiful Easter.  Mine was a little different, in that I had to fly back to Boston on Easter afternoon and did not get to spend Easter with my entire family.  Compared to my international classmates, however, I am glad that I was able to go home this weekend.  Dodging the hailstorms and tornadoes, I came home on Friday and went to the G-Day game at UGA on Saturday.  Much to our surprise, Trenton played the entire game Saturday at Defensive End for the Red Team, contributing to a few tackles and even deflecting an Aaron Murray pass in the waning seconds of the game.  We all had a great time and enjoyed a great family day between the hedges.  Before the game, they have a family luncheon for the team and their families.  Trey took that as an opportunity to get autographs from all his favorite Bulldogs, proudly telling them all he was Trenton's little brother :).  They seem to like little brothers there.  Go Dawgs!

On Sunday, after a wonderful worship service, led by Christian music artist, Al Denson, we had a family dinner at home, and I was able to witness Trevor driving for the first time.  Please pray for Ashley while I am gone!!

So, on my flight out of Atlanta, for the second time in two weeks I set the metal detector off.  This is quite strange since I am always certain not to wear anything that would do that.  I thought last time was a fluke, but now I knew there was definitely a problem.  So, as I am getting wanded and patted down, the TSA agent tells me that it must be part of my , er, uh, the engineering of my undergarments.  (How was that for delicate?)  I said, well, I really haven't changed my habits in that area lately.  She said they have new equipment and it is more sensitive.  You all can send in comments as to how you think I should handle that when I go through again in a few weeks, because I certainly don't want to have the full inspection for the third time.  Just a warning to women, everywhere -- your bra is being scanned for explosive material!

Nevertheless, I made it back late last night, going from the beautiful 73 degrees in Atlanta to 35 degrees in Boston, with a windchill factor of 22 degrees.  The school does not allow taxis to come to the building, so it is about a half mile walk from the taxi stand to my building.  Not so bad if it is 1:00 p.m., sunny and 70 degrees, but I don't think those conditions exist very often in Boston.  

Class started at 8 today and went to 5, followed by an hour long study group, followed by two hours of negotiation group and in 15 mins, I go to another two hours of study group!  Fun day, eh?  I enjoyed the negotiation professor very much today.  His name was Guhran Subramanian.  He is the first professor to receive tenure at Harvard Law and Harvard Business School at the same time.  Very smart guy, but very understandable.  I should be able to negotiate my way through that TSA checkpoint next time!  

Another professor today was a tree hugger that referred to people in our business as "bird murderers."  We had to have a conversation about that after class, and he assured me that before he became a vegetarian, he loved eating Chick-fil-A.  I encouraged him to order wraps and salads minus chicken, but please don't call us bird murderers, after all, we are saving Cows!

Still experiencing lots of interesting folks, but everyday is an adventure!

Thanks for all the prayers -- I really do feel lifted -- God is good, all the time, in every way --

Until next time,

Blessings, Peace and Love,

Dee Ann

Walking on Sunshine . . . And Don't It Feel Good!

The good thing about cold, rainy weather is that it makes you want to stay inside and study.  Sunny, cool weather makes you want to go out and play.  As the sun finally came out today, I think we all had a bit of spring fever.  I had to put the studying away and go for a walk this afternoon.  Of course, I will pay for it tonight eating dinner out of styrofoam!

Some of you have asked if I have any time off.  The answer to that is no.  We get a a break in the afternoon before dinner.  Sometimes it is two hours and sometimes 3.  That time is used to prepare numerous case studies for that evening's study group and class the next day.  The only day we don't have class is Sunday and usually the reading is so much that it takes all day to do it and prepare for Sunday night's study group.  I am going home this weekend for the G-Day game and when I return on Sunday, I am going to work harder on balance - not sure how, but I am going to work on it!

I had my first class in Negotiation today.  In the role play I was the buyer in a commercial real estate deal.  I did very well - I bought a piece of property worth $66 million for $42 million.  Obviously, the person in the seller role did not fare as well. I may have a new career in my future!  Of course, I haven't been telling you about all the things I mess up!

Today, I had lunch with Professor Tom Piper, who is 71 and has been teaching at HBS for 40 years.  He is retiring this year.  Professor Piper teaches Finance.  Can you imagine me having lunch with a Finance professor? Actually, he is a delightful man, a Christian and does work with schools in Ghana and South Africa.  Now that he is at the end of his career, one of the things he talks about most, is personal values.  He said something today that really resonated with me.  He was talking to a young sociology professor recently, who said to him, "I wonder in 100 years, what they will think of how we handled the current situation."  Tom said to him, "that is not what is important.  What is important is in 20 years, what will you think of how you handled the situation."

And lastly today, a Canadian woman approached me about how I was doing.  I have a had a living group situation that has been less than optimal, but have not told anybody about it.  Bev said to me that she didn't see the light in my eye that she did when I first arrived (could be because I feel like going to sleep).  She said, "you are a Christian, aren't you?"  Thank goodness she could still see it in me!  I told her that I am and she told me that this is all part of God's path for me-- it's in His plan for me to be here. I thought that very affirming since that is what I keep telling myself.  Bev prayed for me and gave me something I haven't had in two weeks -- a big hug! I forgot how much you need those everyday!  That was my God moment for the day that I didn't have to tell anyone what was going on but someone approached me to let me know that we are kindred Spirits.

 I am so grateful for your continued encouragement.

Signing off for a weekend at home~ Attached is a picture of Harvard Stadium at Soldiers Field.  It is really old!

Have a blessed Easter~

Love, Peace and Joy to all,

Dee Ann

Have a Coke and a Smile!

Today, in my five minute visit outside I noticed the most amazing thing -- nothing is blooming here, except, today, in 35 degree weather, guess what I saw?  The dogwoods are blooming in Boston.  It was great assurance of God's unfailing presence and faithfulness to all of us, regardless of where we are.

I think I turned the corner today and look a little less like a deer in headlights.  Our first case of the day was The Cola Wars: Coke vs. Pepsi 2006.  I had prepared the case yesterday and presented for 2 hours to our living/study group last night.  We have had a lot of challenges and difficulties in our living group, and last night I received harsh criticism for my presentation.  However, when I went to class today, I learned I had nailed it!  The professor was very engaging with me in considering my insights.  We had a blind taste test in the class and I was one of three chosen since I am from Atlanta.  The others were wrong and missed it, but I knew Coke was Coke.  It was a fascinating case, and my advice is to buy more Coke stock!

You would think that with all the lawyers I know (and love), that I would know a lot more about Corporate accountability.  Today, I had my introductory class in law and corporate accountability and the problem was they talked like . . . well, lawyers.  I will keep plugging and soon wow you with all my new found knowledge.

Unfortunately, I learned some things about Kenya today too.  I knew that they have a corrupt government, but did not know it is one of the most corrupt in the world, moreso than Iran, and just a little less than Somalia.  Their economic outlook is a little better than the US over the next year or two -- I don't know what that says about the US, since Kenya is a third world (or as Lynn says developing) nation, where most of its population is without food.

Thank you for the cards, notes, gifts and goodies.  I cannot tell you how much that has raised my spirits.  This has been a fabulous opportunity, but honestly one of the hardest things I have ever done.  The load itself is pretty unbelievable, but when you add being away from home for 9 weeks, living with 7 other people, who are all from a different country and keeping a schedule that sleep is a rarity and eating out of take Styrofoam containers is now common, it presents some difficult challenges.

The good news is that it makes me appreciate my God, my family, my friends, my job and my country so much more as every day passes.  And that's a good thing!!  And it stopped raining(!), but it's as cold as . . . well you know the rest of that saying . . . 

Off to living group study time -- and that is always a good time to pray for me~ :)

Praying God's richest blessings on you all and I love you,

Dee Ann

Dee Ann's Gone Techno

Hello All,

Heavy workload prohibits me from a long catch-up message, but I hope to before the week is out.  In the meantime, attached is a picture of all the gadgets I am using simultaneously and the various chargers needed for them. With all the gadgets and chargers being used by this class alone, it's amazing Cambridge has not had a black-out!

Yes, it is still raining :)!

Please keep praying,

Love you all,

Dee Ann

Tipping Point

Good Evening~

It has been a long day here at HBS, but then again everyday is! We finished up the intentsive finance and accounting work today, and have moved on to Corporate Governance, Decision making, Strategy, Innovation, etc. BUT the case studies always have a spread sheet attached. Every Monday they change our seats in the room. I went from the back row to the front, which is directly in the line of fire. However, I looked directly across the room and saw two men I had not seen before. The first man's name was "Joy" -- I promise! The second man I saw was named "Evangelious." It reminded that God wants me to evangelize JOY while I am here.

I also received joy when I received the very pretty plant from the HR team -- thank you so much!

Today, I finally met a man that I could make a faith connection with. He is from Chicago and has attended the Willowcreek Leadership Summit. His wife teaches the "Hearts for Home" program.

Without a lot of detail in a public forum, please pray for our Living Group -- we are at the point where we are not functioning together very well. I think we are all tired, studying hard, skipping meals, it is raining again and the work has become both stressful and very overwhelming. If we are not in class, we are studying all day and night. Things have become quite tense.

The gate to Harvard University says "Open ye the gates that the righteous nation who keepeth the truth may enter in." Today, I wonder what Truth people thinks that refers to?

That's all for tonight and maybe for a few days. The work is really piled on this week!

Keep the truth! Love and blessings~

Dee Ann

Living in a Brave New World

So, the Harvard police officer, says to me, in a very thick Boston accent, "You are not from around here, are you?" Oh, I wonder how he figured that out? By the way, I had not found myself in any trouble, I was only enjoying a cup of coffee at Dunkin Donuts. Not surprising, there were three officers enjoying coffee, donuts and the Boston Globe.

As my finance textbook author says, "A nearby penny is worth a distant dollar." It's a good thing, because I seem to be finding a lot of pennies and dimes! I found the Bostonians to be much less careful with their change. If I walk past a popular taxi stand, I can find a lot of spare change, as passengers are quick to enter and exit cabs here. If only they would drop a Benjamin or too!

Went to CVS this morning - between Staples, CVS and the Harvard Coop, I am able to work out my retail therapy needs. Would you believe they sell sunscreen here? In April? For what?? It has turned out to be a beautiful day here and having finished my first round of studying, I do believe, (imagine that phrase with a British accent) that I might take in another walk before the temperature drops. A very busy week of work and rain is in front of me, so I wish to take advantage of both the time and the pleasant weather.

During my two hour walk around Harvard Square and Harvard yard this morning, I found, again, the local people to be most unpleasant. So, I decided that I would bring joy and began finding random acts of kindness. You should have seen the look on the man's face thatI allowed to go ahead me in the check-out line. I don't think people do that here. When he said, "thank you," I quickly replied, "my pleasure" Both he and the clerk looked at me very strangely.

I promised you a comment or two about my Indian dinner. The food turned out to be quite good, but the atmosphere was . . . interesting (my favorite word here). Imagine me at a table with 25 men from all over the world, with a huge (I mean worthy of the Taj Mahal big) Hindu statue poised next to me. The highlight of the evening was the ladies restroom. Now, I will try to tell this delicately, but I cannot miss this story. The doors on the ladies toilet rooms were two way mirrors. I could see out, but they could not see in. The ladies who had not been in the toilet rooms had no idea of this fact. So, as I am in the toilet room doing what one does in such a place, a woman comes to the door and begins primping, straightening and applying lipstick right in front of me in the mirror. Imagine the surprise, when from behind the mirror, I said, "you missed a spot." Ha -- I have to find some humor in this journey.

I am both an oddity and misplaced soul in this present environment. I commented to my friend, Lynn, by e-mail last night that it remains to be a strange place for me. Not to be fully a part (if any a part) of this place, and yet also to be absent from that place which is familiar, but drifting somewhere in between swept in the arms of my Lord. That is really all I have here and I am quickly learning, that is enough~

Attached are some scenes from my daily life ~

Much love, peace, and blessings to you all,

Dee Ann

Weekend in New England (with apologies to Barry Manilow)

"Not everything that can be counted, counts, and not everything that counts can be counted." Albert Einstein

Einstein was, of course, a brilliant man. This was the most important sentence I heard the entire week, and I have thought about it a lot in context of where I am. After a week of being amid very smart people from all over the world, my most daunting conclusion was that there are people who believe they are so intelligent that they would never put faith in something that is beyond what can be calculated in a formula. Based on the confusion here about who God is, or if He even exist, or if He can be found in a statue, or worshipped as a cow, I have concluded that the mission field here is greater than in Africa. My prayer is that God will reveal to me why He has brought me here, what role and purpose I play. I am patiently waiting on the revelation.

It's scary how much I am beginning to enjoy finance. I made a correct application of the case study to a business principle in accounting today. That was a big victory for me! I don't know how to compute all the ratios yet, but I certainly know what questions to ask. And I learned the most important concept: "Don't run out of cash." :) Went all the way to Harvard for that one. There was an interesting story the Finance Professor told today. He was talking about choosing the right ratios to determine the health of a business. He explained that you can look at a number of them and they will all point to the same thing, so once you find the key, (which he believes is Return on Capital (vs. ROE, or ROI and now I know why), then you don't have to keep working it again and again. He said it is like when a truck runs over a squirrel in the road and it dies. It's already dead, and no matter how many more cars run over it, it cannot be anymore dead! I thought that was pretty good for an accountant (with tenure I might add!).

To my "Raving Fans at Chick-fil-A", thank you so much for the cookies. I think they may help me to redeem myself with my team. You see, I refused to purchase or participate in the c0nsumption of the Grey Goose, Heiniken and tequila (just to name a few), but I am sure they will feel better about me when I share my cookies in study group tomorrow. As I keep saying, this has been an interesting week and there is certainly emphasis on the word, interesting. Last night in study group, my colleagues from India, South Africa and Trinidad got into a shouting match over the best way to explain a balance sheet. It was really very heated -- over how to read a balance sheet!!

The clouds have still not parted and I could stand it no longer, so I had to go for a good walk after getting out of class at 3 today. I walked across the river (well, I didn't actually walk on water -- it was a bridge), and through Cambridge. I ended up at Staples purchasing items to make my little cell more comfortable and organized. The less you have, the easier it is to organize! Anyway, it is still raining, 40 degrees and very windy! Our whole group has our day planned around the expected sunshine tomorrow. It is a really big deal here, apparently, for it not to be raining in April. I really enjoyed being out and about this afternoon and getting a chance to take a good, deep breath. It is such a relief to have the first week behind me.

Well, tonight my learning and living group is going to eat Indian Fusion food with my Hindu friends. I guess, those who know me, know I probably won't like that too much, but I am trying to be a good team player and aid in team bonding. After last night, we certainly need it. I will try to get some pictures of the experience and share tomorrow. I am sure I will have a story to tell!

Don't be surprised when you see me, that I now have an accent -- and I don't mean a Boston one. You cannot live with people who speak English as a second language and expect me not to pick something up. Well, I better hurry, dinner is at 1900 hours and it is about 5 kilometers away and it is -2 degrees, Celsius that is. If I have learned anything, it's not that everyone else is so different -- it's we Americans who have chosen to be different. Yes, I have to convert time, distance and temperature in every discussion.

And just think, I am still in America! Funny, I keep forgetting that~

Love, peace and blessings to you all~

Dee Ann

Numbers, Numbers Everywhere!

Good Evening~

And Hello from sunny Boston . . . NOT!  There has been one day without rain since I arrived Sunday. The Charles River is flooding its banks and those crazy people are still out there rowing in the rain and 40 degree weather.  More rain tomorrow, before a pretty day on Sunday, before rain comes back on Monday.  If we could only send all this water south!

Today was a hard day in the classroom -- finance and accounting, BUT since I listened so well in study group last night, I actually got my question "exactly correct" in class today!  It was a treasured moment!  

I cannot wait until 3 tomorrow, since Sunday I will be out of class all day!  Still have tons of reading to do and case studies to prepare, but I don't have to get up before 6 on Sunday -- yeah!!

News from home:  Trey chipped a tooth at recess, but it was a baby tooth :).  Trevor made a 100 on his driver's permit test -- wow!  And Trenton has been moved to Defensive End because of UGA's shortage of DE's.  The good news is that he is expected to see some playing time in the G-Day game next weekend.  And Ashley is trying to keep them altogether.

Thanks so much for the cards, packages and encouraging e-mails.  Pat, I had to do both my own laundry and sew a button on today.  I really miss you!

And I really miss you all~ Keep those prayers coming, as I will for you.

The pictures attached are from the classroom and surrounding area, so you will see where I am spending so much time!

Love to all,

Dee Ann

Happy Birthday, Trevor!

Today is Trevor's 15th Birthday!  Driver's everywhere be aware!  You can e-mail Trevor good wishes at trevor.turner21@gmail.com.  Hope everyone has a wonderful day!

Dee Ann

Sort of Like Boot Camp!

Today, started very early. HBS has a wonderful three-story fitness center and so I was up at 5:30 to get weights and a walk in, checked e-mail, had an early morning phone call with family, prepared for class, which started at 8:30 today and ended at 6:30 this evening. I felt like a marine! (You know -- they do more before 7:00 a.m. than most people do all day).

Our classes today included finance, marketing and strategy. This afternoon, HBS professor, author and Board Director for Goldman Sachs, Rob Kaplan came to speak to us about the current economic crisis. He was very engaging and insightful. He gave us some tips that I thought you all might enjoy:

"What does this crisis mean for your organization? What should you do?"

1. Recognize that this is also a great time of opportunity. Many businesses will suffer, but some will do quite well.

2. Plan for this to take longer than you expect. Plan for a scenario that includes less capital, more expenses and especially expect downsizing in non-profit arena.

3. Everything you do requires more analysis, homework and preparation.

4. Start with a clean sheet of paper. Focus on core competencies, solicit advise and feedback, brainstorm for the possibilities.

5. Put a premium on Vision. Focus on priorities and leadership development through tough times.

6. Pay attention to your behavior under pressure. Present a calm and forward thinking approach.

And . . .

7. Take better care of yourself. It's a stressful time and if you are to ride out the storm, do things that reduce stress -- sleep well, exercise, eat right and do things you enjoy.

If you are interested I have slides of his entire presentation and can share with you at a later date.

It is great fun to learn so much about other cultures. There are two Hindu men in my living group and they taught me about the rite of passage for young men in India today. My South African living group member and I started a political discussion about the US. Knowing that none of these people are Christians, I decided to say what I thought about the US and went into my spiel about how God has blessed the US, not because we are His chosen people, but because we have always been a friend to His chosen people - Israel. I went on to explain how God has promised protection for those who protect His chosen people, and I am uncertain about how foreign affairs will be handled, particularly in the Middle East. Her glazed over eyes looked at me and she said, "oh." Then, I realized I had probably just alienated myself. Oh well, it's the truth!

Continue to meet more CFA raving fans! They are all looking forward to CFA day! I am too~ I miss you all so much.

Sorry, but I have no pictures tonight! I didn't see the sunshine today for more than 30 seconds!

Thank you for the continued encouragement~ Keep those cards, letters and prayers coming!

Love and blessings to all~

Dee Ann