A Map of my Life, so Far...

more marks

2011-04-18T23:52:00.003-04:00

I finished my experiment in the abstract, and I really like it. As geeky as this sounds this print dictated to me, what direction to go. I know this sounds like i can claim, "I'm not responsible", when someone criticizes the print, but I won't go in that direction. I'll tell them how it felt a little dangerous, out of my comfort zone it wasn't planned. And it makes me hungry to do more. Okay, that's all for now. Printmaking geek ,signing off.

first marks

2011-01-07T01:31:00.004-05:00

It's been awhile, it's not like I meant to forget you, but my need to gaze at my navel...
had dissipated some.So I stopped writing, about myself,but maybe I'll look at my printmaking.

This is a block, like some I develop,it is a go between block.
The other print I am doing, is having drying problems. So until it dries, no 4th color for it, coincidentally it's working title is "four"
So this block I am planning very little, but trying to coax a feeling out of the viewer.It makes me feel something too, interested in it's outcome.It feels like a journey, or a path I'm taking.

I am also using Charbonnel's Aqua wash oil based inks. To quote Rachel Zoe, "they are to die for". They cleans up in minutes, a spray of soapy water, and wipe it up. It doesn't get much easier than that.They are also densely pigmented, a little goes a long way.And that is a win win in my book.

grace in small things ::19/365

2010-04-06T23:02:00.003-04:00

1.A dear friend that lets you lay your head in her lap and cry, while rubbing your back.

2.An i Pod filled with loud music,to drown out unnecessary mind noise, so I can focus.

3.Rolling a brayer slowly across a rich silky ink slab, of black.

4.The ability that strong round of sun salutation can have on a questioning mind.

5.The purring company of one small cat.

the snowshoe diaries:continue

2010-01-14T13:17:00.005-05:00

So another day of snowshoeing ends, and this is what I discovered. It is easier to sweat like a beast during the winter, no one looks worried at you,and also because the dog doesn't care.She understands the panting, she thinks I'm cooling myself off.

I've started to use my husband's ski poles, and I'll have to say it's been a nice addition, to what I am doing. They are there when I need to dig in, as I'm climbing up a hill, and are great for an impromptu calf stretch, plus it's another way to get my heart pumping.

I'd like to say , I've moved out of the panting,"oh my gawd, I'm so out of shape" mode but I haven't , though I know it's coming, I'm being impatient. I should probably concentrate more on that's a good thing, that I'm doing right now, instead what will be.

I read this little blurb on snowshoeing from easternslopes.com, it was helpful, and as you look deeper into the blog, there is more on advanced snowshoeing. I wouldn't call what I am doing advanced, but I'm a little more than a beginner.

So if I was to make a snowshoe 101, entry it would mention these things;
1. wear layers, easily opened ones, or ones that breathe,and keep you warm even if they get damp or snow covered.
2.Have a hat with you or earmuffs, a frostbitten ear is never sexy.
3. I would suggest gaiters, to keep the snow off the back of your calves, but since I have well rounded, don't fit into regular gaiters, type of calves, go back to suggestion number 1.
4. Used ski poles, they add another depth to the cardiovascular work out you are getting from snowshoeing, plus they make an impromptu tripod, if you have your camera with you, and you can use them to lean into to stretch after your walk.

oh and the last thing, get up and just do it.

the snowshoe diaries

2010-01-09T15:35:00.006-05:00

when you google the term "shoe diaries", you get many different colors,pink,red and black but no snowshoe diaries. I'm not going to change the name of my blog, but for the winter, or at least whiles we have snow, I'm going to go on about snowshoeing, and how it will possibly change me from a flabby,out of shape, forty seven year woman, to a maybe less flabby, but better in shape 47 year old woman.

So let's get this show on the road.

jack's back with the usual suspects.

2009-10-26T20:26:00.002-04:00

tasskaff 3| bowlful of berries

2009-09-12T02:03:00.002-04:00

breakfast, anyone?

grace in small things ::18/365

2009-07-31T02:02:00.002-04:00

1.a perfectly ripe avocado, there's nothing like it, I prefer mine as simple as possible.There's is nothing that can compete with the smokey smoothness.

2.Summer, the warm weather, the blooming flowers, the great produce being grown locally.

3.Visiting my local grower of perennials, these plants are healthy, and grown for the zone we live in, and so inexpensive.

4.Learning from my experience as a gardener so far.My Gardens are pretty well established, I only buy what I can plant that day.

5.Homemade Chicken Parmigiana Sandwiches, real chicken, melted cheese, and tasty sauce, to go with.

bra torture

2009-07-29T12:58:00.005-04:00

With the advent of this hot and too humid weather, I've come to a few conclusions about bras and the fabric they are made from.
Bra makers of the world, make a good cotton bra. No, let me restate that make a frickin' great cotton bra, that lifts, supports, and does the things all great bras do.
I know you have all these smoothing, nylonly, spandexy, man made fibers at your fingertips to make a bazillion bras out of. But, it is those fibers, that make me feel like I am wearing a wool bra in the heat of summer. Frankly it's a deal breaker for me.
The other down fall for me, the hot ~~sweaty~~ glowing woman, is the Vice Grip principle, is there a reason my bra won't move on my body, just a little. Instead it sticks to me like an uncomfortable second skin? A second skin that needs to be peeled off.
Underwires, why do they need to end in my armpit, it makes the bra annoying, and uncomfortable, if i bend over, and I have an underwire poking into my armpits, at the same time,that can be a Deal breaker too. I understand it from a support point of view, but as an actually working theory, when I wear the bra, it's a "good bra" , "bad bra" scenario. It's a good bra that it supports the girls, it's a bad, very bad bra that it tries to poke a hole in my armpit.
Now what do I love about a cotton bra,they are comfortable even when you are sweating ~~like a beast.~~ It moves a little, so it supports, but doesn't attempt to squeeze the last breath out of me. And it washes easily, with my other cotton items, instead of having to be hand washed. When do you suppose I have time for that? Like never.
Now know that any other time of the year, when it's cooler, and not humid, I love those other bras, just as much as my cotton bras. Which interstingly enough,I can wear in hot or cooler, even cold weather.
And this is my last request, could you make your cotton bras in other colors besides, beige and white? I'd appreciate some color,please.
Thanks, and have a nice day.

meatless mondays

2009-07-27T01:05:00.006-04:00

I was reading Organic Gardening this month, and it mentioned Meatless Mondays , as I read the paragraph, I realized what a good doable idea this is. Why, meatless you ask? Well, this could be a reason or two.
On Mondays it's just the two of us eating , and we are happy to have an omelet and toast, sometimes I add veg, or herbs to mine, and we have sausages.
It's mostly a meatless meal, except well for the sausages. But they make Veggie sausages, so that could make this very do-able. When I mentioned it to my husband, he rolled his eyes at me, and was like "no".At first I was going to become this Meatless Mondays cheerleader, and tell him how it's not only good for you, it's good for the environment, and well I know that reaction too, when I mention the word environment.So I took pause, and I let it go. I realized if I want to do this, I should, and there is room in the kitchen ,for the both of us.

grace in small things ::17/365

2009-07-25T10:03:00.003-04:00

I have been negligent with my grace in small things. Today I hope to get back to this on at more regular basis.

1.Home grown red raspberries.There is nothing like fresh picked berries, to pop in your mouth and sprinkle over cereal, or add to yogurt.

2.Hummingbirds,I think they may be more nosy that chipmunks. I love to hear the buzz of their wings , than look up to find one stopped in midair looking at me, looking at him.

3.Sunshine, it's amazing how many plants seem to grow overnight,when they get some sunlight. My smallish sunflowers, have gotten taller, and bigger!

4. Enjoying the anticipation, of my upcoming camping trip, I can't wait, I love looking forward to it.

5.Pulling together, some things to read, on said camping trip, it's a bit like finding presents, but not opening yet.

unconditional

2009-07-14T20:13:00.001-04:00

camper capers

2009-07-13T19:22:00.016-04:00

This is my small success story with stop motion movies.In iMovie, there is a default Ken Burns effect that makes anything stop motion look whack-a-doo, or it makes it look like I was drunk when I took it. I finally figured out how to stop the dreaded effect.

We are going camping this weekend, and we set the camper up before, so we can pack it, and make sure no mice have decided to inhabit it over the winter, make smelly messy nests. One year we opened the camper to this nest made out of a roll of paper towels, that we had left in the camper, in a word, it was GROSS!!

grace in small things::16/365

2009-06-22T18:21:00.004-04:00

1.Farmer's markets. I really love the community feel, and all the great things to buy.

2. Local strawberries are the best, their juicy sweetness, their brilliant red juice that stains everything.

3.Local made ice cream, this same family is at two of the farmer's markets I frequent, the ice cream is fresh, made from ingredients you can pronounce,and it's delicious.

4.Local baked bread, there is a local bakery that sells loaves of wonderful bread.

5.A husband that cooks, and washes the windows, and curtains. I am always grateful for that.

grace in small things::15/365

2009-05-22T21:45:00.003-04:00

1.the small swarm, of possible honeybees, in my potting shed.that had no interest me, as they were busy doing something, it was fascinating, and a little scary, in an exciting fun kind of way.

2.My newly planted asparagus bed. small tender spears, poking up through the soil.every row I planted, I have success.This will be a spectacular bed when mature.

3.My new raised bed, that is all rich soil, and no weeds!

4.The crispy sweetness of Ines Rosales, tortas de aciete. thin golden brown layers,covered in sugar, each bite filled with a sugary crunch and tender anise seeds.

5.the return of the barn toad. Every year we have a toad that hangs around the barn, and my flower gardens.I am glad they provide the perfect homebase for my toady friend.

grace in small things::14/365

2009-05-20T00:40:00.016-04:00

1. Jack-in-the-pulpit, rich green, and purple,punctuating the woods.

2.the scent of etching inks, carded onto warmed copper.

3.A steady palm wipe, that adds another layer, to the print I am making.

4.Seedless red grapes that burst upon toothsome bite into sweet, tart and juicy.

5.Fresh Spearmint tea, and sharing it with my studio-mates.

grace in small things::13/365

2009-05-10T21:03:00.003-04:00

1.Working beside my husband and my son, filling the raised bed, that was built for me, for Mother's Day.

2.Planting the Asparagus crowns, I bought this morning, marveling on how this bunch of roots , are going to be future dinners for me and my family.

3.Using compost I made myself, to put in said Asparagus bed, to feed and nourish, those growing spears.

4.Thankful for a sunny and breezy day, to plant, there were no bugs!

5.Thankful that I can prepare an asparagus bed.I can still turn sod, pick rocks and weeds,and plant 3 rows of asparagus.

grace in small things::12/365

2009-05-07T21:35:00.004-04:00

1. Asparagus-cooked simply, and eaten with your fingers.

2. Rain storms in the spring, with quiet flashes of lightening.

3. Finding a fool proof method, to make chicken cutlets, that is quick,and delicious.

4. Listening to a Barred owl, calling out into the night.

5.Loving that my son drives us to the movies, and knows a quicker way to get there.

grace in small things::11/365

2009-05-03T18:49:00.006-04:00

1. My sister's cat Megs, who came to live with us many years ago. She's a sweet purring poof of soft fur, who outsizes the younger cat, but who is timid and shy, and purrs as loud as an outboard motor.

2.the View from my upstairs window,on all sides there are something to see, and sigh and feel grateful for and enjoy.

3.My first prints, which are rudimentary at best , but so vital, in teaching myself about being an artist.

4. Walking barefoot, on the fuzzy bathroom rugs, thick in pile, and deep blue in color, and so soft on my feet.

5.Clouds, I love them.

love in this club.

2009-05-03T10:05:00.004-04:00

Seriously, this music is righteous, and will make you smile unbelievably HUGE!

hit play, Now!

grace in small things ::10/365

2009-04-29T23:40:00.004-04:00

1.Enjoying the blooming magnolia blossoms, inside my house. My friend Deni has a beautiful magnolia bush, often when it's in bloom, she cuts of the lower bud filled branches, and shares.This year her son Sam, did the honors. thanks Sam

2. Sushi made with brown rice, omg!

3.Brownie bites from Whole Foods!

4.Listening to Rachel Maddow's podcasts, she's intelligent, and keeps me up to speed with what's going on with the world.

5. Thankful, I have a studio to go to and create prints. Right now I have a work in progress, not even close to a finished idea ...but getting definitely warming

grace in small things ::9/365

2009-04-27T09:42:00.002-04:00

the breakfast edition.

1. Hot strong dark roast coffee, frothy with the perfect amount of milk.

2. The icons that jump up and down on my Mac's dock, relentlessly until I click on them.I pretend my computer has figured out the best way to get my attention, and it always makes me smile to be pestered by them.

3.Having a good morning read, on the interwebs.

4.Letting the cat in through the side window, now that the grill is back in place, and she can sit there, looking in and meow at me, until I do.

5. Perfect instant oatmeal, that's creamy warm, and a complete little boost to get you going on your day.

grace in small things ::8/365

2009-04-25T22:46:00.003-04:00

1.Soaking sweet pea seeds to plant in the morning.

2.Wearing shorts for the first time this year.

3.Having the weekend off, to enjoy the hot sunny weather.

4. Listening to the peepers fill the night air with their song.

5.Sitting around the fire tonight, enjoying the peepers, and the night air.

grace in small things ::7/365

2009-04-24T22:32:00.003-04:00

1.An ice cold glass of Harpoon's IPA.

2.Sweeping all the winter grit off the porch,which is a win win. It's clean and I exercised!

3.Perfectly cooked pizza crust, the right amount of crunch,and flavor.

4.Finding a new rechargeable lithium battery, for my older Leica d-lux.

5.Parallel surfing the interwebs, with the hub.

grace in small things ::6/365

2009-04-22T16:37:00.003-04:00

1.A cup of hot genmaicha,such a subtle flavored tea,with the yummy note of toasted rice, to tie it up nicely.

2.Planting seeds for flowers this summer.

3.Listening to music on my laptop, while I type this.

4.Settling into a warm house as the afternoon, turns rainy cold.

5.Having asparagus for dinner, all buttery, and lemony divine.

grace in small things ::5/365

2009-04-20T23:14:00.004-04:00

1.Planting seeds for lettuce, and scallions, and sugar snap peas today.

2.Looking forward to the rain to water, said seeds.

3.Napping with my cat posse,a cat on either side of my body,keeping me secure, as I slept.

4.Editing my daily 365 minute videos, even though I am 20 days behind!!

5.Pleased that my hair is long enough to put in little hair clips. and not looking like a total dork.

grace in small things ::4/365

2009-04-18T01:18:00.004-04:00

1.Attending my friend's art opening---->.

2. Listening to my favorite podcast, while inking a copper etching.

3.Having Friday off from work.

4.listening to the wind, blow by the building that the studio is in.

5. the sound of the plate cutter, as it cuts a piece of copper in half in a satisfying "chunk"

grace in small things::3/365

2009-04-16T09:46:00.013-04:00

1.Loose leaf tea.

2.Daffodils that are blooming.

3.Watching the Starlings, build their nest under the roof of our back porch.

4.Spending the day at the studio, creating, contemplating art, and eventually pulling prints.

5.Watching the dog roll in the grass, then straighten herself up, to properly soak up the sunshine.

grace in small things ::2/365

2009-04-13T15:08:00.007-04:00

1.A sunny and breezy day to hang washed clothes in.

2.Planting seeds, for arugala, and a piquant salad mix.

3.Tarragon, that is poking it's little leaves, through the soil, to let me know it has survived the winter.

4.The nakedness of the trees right now, making it so much easier to see the crows, when they land.

5.My dog napping by following the sunny spot around the living room floor.

grace in small things ::1/365

2009-04-13T00:23:00.005-04:00

1.Having my 10 year old neice, climb into my lap, so we can talk.

2.Boston Baked Beans- that have been cooked for days.

3.Red Tulips, that are blooming in my mudroom.

4.Our cat Ginger, who caught a mouse in the house, yesterday!

5.Easter Dinner , with the family, everyone was happy relaxed, and hungry, and it all was sooo good.

100 pushups!

2009-04-07T01:24:00.009-04:00

Now before you get too impressed with my hidden prowess, and silently envy me, take a deep breath, it's something I'm thinking of exploring with my flabby, but mostly healthy 46 year old body.
100 push ups is a program where you take a little push up test and see how many good form push-ups, you can do. It is safe to say that I am in the 0-5 bracket, does this disgust me, hardly, I didn't think I could do that many! I'm not such a weakling after all.From there you do push ups, for your work out. It stresses there should be a day of rest, between work out days. hey I like that concept, already.It also stresses working out only 3 days a week and take weekends off,I could agree to that.

Now when I took the test this morning, I did them, but boy It worked me, but I felt no pain, no sore muscles, so I thought cool. that was until tonight when I felt my biceps and triceps singing a little pain song to me, while I watched Antiques Roadshow. That's why they made Tylenol, and Arnica Montana, to ease the soreness.

I read about this from one of my facebook friends, yes that's right, I admit it, I have friends on facebook, and sometimes they even influence my life, a little.

Take a look yourself, it sounds pretty doable, you can do regular plank style push-ups, or modified knee bent push ups, so right there I'm not too fearful, as the modified bent knee ones will accomplish just as much, as the plank style, and who knows, maybe I'll graduate to that style, as I strengthen my body.

I am pretty sure I have written much about various ways I tried to commit to doing regular exercise, it's not like I don't know it's possible, but for some reason or another, after I have done a months worth,I begin to be a fair weather friend, I do it less and less, and then stop, and then flab out some more.

I recently came to the conclusion, that I won't be getting any younger!! so why ~~the hell~~ not. I'd liked to be a retired, active, Grammy someday, so maybe counting to 100 will insure that.Here goes nothing.

the windy city

2009-03-23T00:22:00.004-04:00

This year the Southern Graphic Council Conference is going to be in Chicago, I've never been there, and I'm looking forward to it.
To see all these printmakers in one place,will be amazing.I'm looking forward to listening to Kathan Brown, from Crown Point Press. She has written many wonderful books about printmaking, one that I am especially fond of called "Ink,Paper,Metal,Wood", it recounts her different experiences with different artists. It's not a name dropping kind of book, it instead, is written as genuine respect and admiration, for the artist that have joined her there.It's a very inspiring read, and reason to explore printmaking.
Along with something wonderful like that is, the other things I'd like to see in Chicago, "the bean" at Millennium Park, I am looking forward to seeing the Art Institute, and trying some deep dish pizza.

My only hesitation, is that it's the end of March, the weather could be much like here, coldish, possible rain and snow!!!, so now I think of what to pack, thin, but warm layers, I have a great wool pea coat, that'll keep me warm, but now the possibility of snow, poses the shoe challenge. Luckily, I own lots of wool socks, and a pair of black work boots, I was hoping to bring only one pair of shoes, these great Asics I recently purchased. These are dream sneakers, they came out of the box, went on to my feet, no breaking in period. they were comfortable from step one.But sneakers and pssible snow...brrr. That may change depending on the weather, and I'll throw a hat in my suitcase too, but that will hardly take up any room.I figure I'll just be aware of the upcoming weather and dress accordingly, I live in New England after all, and our weather changes, one minute from the next,I'll just plan on packing smart.

the hairy post

2009-03-13T22:10:00.004-04:00

today I got my hair cut, it's been over 4 months, it was longish, and not making me crazy, and I thought hey, I'll give this a shot, I kind of like it.
So my idea was to get in between the short short cuts I used to get and this long overgrown hair I have now. I went to a new stylist and frankly, my expectations were high, i love that she lives across the street, I can walk there...cool.

She asked me what I wanted, I told her ~~I thought~~ what I'd like, I like the length, but I knew it needed to be styled, and well she agreed, and started saying long in the back(yes!!) shape up the bulk in the back (well okay)and then make it wash and go (YES!) and then she said something but some height on the top (umm okay), and then her scissors went cutting and there was a lot of hair falling, kind of sickeningly in slow motion, and then I looked up and well gulp... my hair was short, like wtf short!!!

I looked in the mirror,I smiled ~~in shock~~ and paid, and left...noticing, it's still winter, and now I would need to wear earmuffs, as my ears were exposed, and chilly...brrr.
Now I was home to process, and I went from pissed, to crying out loud, freaking ~~maybe I am losing it~~, I never before have cried over cut hair, maybe I was due. Whatever I was not liking it, so I continued to rant out loud occasionally noticing my dog's look of concern.Finally ,I got over my big bad self, and realized that my hair will grow, and well she did give me a really great cut. So now I'll just buy some cute earmuffs.

grocery store observations

2009-03-07T10:45:00.003-05:00

This came to me while I was shopping for groceries today.It's one of those mundane tasks, that you have to do whether you want to or not.
I especially like to observe couples that shop together, basically I see this with straight couples, gay couples seem to be able to get that whole concept of divide and conquer. Whereas straight couple either actively shop together and split the work load, or they, don't. If they don't then it's mostly the man pushing the carriage, looking like an impostor, feeling a little out of place, or scared. You'll often find them standing there gripping the carriage, in a quiet aisle, while their loved one is off hunting and gathering. I find it curious behavior, as to why he can't continue on in the maze of the store, putting things in the carriage,maybe these couples aren't list shoppers,so he has no clue, what kind of cereal he eats, or chips he likes to snack on, or even what kind of toilet paper he likes to use. It's a little sad, and well a little annoying.
I also love to see the woman's gentle redirection of the cart,it's done silently, and by hand.We know that shopping aisles are like streets, that have two sides, you need to get on one side of the other, middle of the aisle shopping is for straight men, and permissive parents, who feel it's okay to let their kids push those huge car carriages down the middle of the aisle, because well the child can't see over the car part of the carriage, and so they stay in the middle, to avoid bumping into things, which keeps the parent lectures to minimum, and leaves them in peace, to push the carriage, as slow as they want.
This sometimes impresses and again annoys me depending on how much of a hurry I am in.
The other thing that has always impressed me , is the ability of kids to stare, directly at you, not even shyly looking away, if you look back at them.I always hope a little that this skill will carry this child to adulthood, where they will continue to make direct eye contact, instead of looking away.
My last observation,~~for now~~ whatever happened to just politely saying excuse me, when someone is blocking your way in the aisle, or in front of your item you want to get to. I frankly get annoyed by people, who will just stand there passively, waiting for me to get out of their way, just say "excuse me", and I'll move, I'm not a mind reader, and I won't turn to a pillar of salt if you ask me, I'll just move , and not think another thing about it.

pear shaped

2009-02-28T00:56:00.007-05:00

I have never gone through my life doing things effortlessly, or smoothly.I've dealt with that kind of life rebuttal in many ways. I'm sure anger was one way, or emotional eating was another, but as I get older, I realize, that I don't or try not to let these weird events bother me very much. A kind of "there's no use crying over spilt milk", because well it's spilt,and god knows what was on the floor,so shush and get yourself another glass, and move on with your life.

Thursday I received my first Mac book, it was exciting but I had to work, plus I needed to update some things on it,so I really didn't have time to play much with it. Friday I did I discovered, my mac book pro doesn't recognize its' battery, huh!?!?
So this portable device , now becomes something that I have to anchor to a plug.
All in the name of saving a few hundred dollars~~$500to be exact~~,I bought it from a 3rd party vendor. A really reliable one , instead of apple.com itself.So I should just call them and that will be that, except well they are an Orthodox Jewish run company, and are closed on Saturdays!

So my solution to my battery problem, is delayed.

My son and I search their website, and discover that a battery problem, does exist, and we should just be able to download the solution, but wait my little mac book pro says "I don't need no stinking update," when actually I do.

So another avenue of solution is blocked, wtf?!?!

So I can't call the third party vendor, but I can call Apple.com, for support and I do, and a nice young man named Jason , I'm sure he's younger because, well everybody seems to be younger then me, but anyway.He helps me, or well tries too,I give him serial numbers, which tells him my Mac is a 6 month old Mac!! I tell him I just bought it this week, he notes that down,I remove the battery I reset the Mac, and it still has no battery,as far as it's concerned...bah!

I get a case number, and my phone support from Jason ends, he suggests that I register my Apple Care plan online later on, as that would be helpful for myself.

I do that very thing the next day, or well try to, because well as far as apple is concerned, by the serial numbers that I give I'm no longer eligible! oy vey!

I am counting my blessings that tomorrow is Sunday, and hopefully a solution.
I guess I would be more upset if it didn't work at all but it does, and well. I will solve this problem, but in a leisurely relaxed way, whether I want to or not, dammit!

bird rescue, 2

2009-01-29T11:19:00.005-05:00

Last fall I rescued this bird out of my potting shed, I know because I had my magenta hooded gloves on, it was a crazy gift, from the universe, and made me smile big.

Today as I let the the dog, and then the cat out, I saw this crumpled little shape of a bird, It looked maybe injured, or maybe my cat Ginger, had caught it, but no she didn't give this little feathered shape a second look, neither did the dog, so I had to investigate.
On went the boots,my wool V-neck, and my bird rescuing gloves, as I stepped out I noticed a little movement, but not really. I was afraid, maybe the birdie, had flown into our big window in the mud room, maybe it's neck was broken. Gingerly I picked up this soft little form that just barely filled the palm of my soft gloved hand, I clasped my other hand over, this little feathered mass, which didn't try to fly away, it didn't move much except for breathing, and occasionally blinking. I could feel her heart beating, as I now recognize, this soft colored bird, as a female goldfinch.
She is gripping my finger with her feet, so I think that has to be a good sign. Now I begin to think maybe my little bird friend is suffering from hypothermia, it is only 21 degrees F, and I did find her in the shade.
So I hold her nestled in my gloved hands, for a while, long enough to consider, if it's "smart to be outside, in my flannel pajama bottoms?", "should I go get my camera,and take a picture of this?" I tell you the pattern of small feathers across her head were to "die for", the detail awesome, it helped me ignore the cold.

I held her long enough to consider getting a small box, and bringing her in maybe she's not going to get more alert, about that time I thought that, I felt her little heartbeat, stronger. She began to blink and focus her little dark eyes, her body tensed, she began to move, I moved too, opening my hand, making that magenta glove that held her , more of a point to take off, then a warm furry nest.
Then time stopped briefly, for she stood, paused a beat or two ,then spread her wings. and flew off.

And yes, I thanked the powers that be, for this morning's gift.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

2009-01-19T18:49:00.000-05:00

I think often, I'm better at the visuals then the written word.

the dog and the chocolate cake

2008-12-26T16:19:00.003-05:00

It began quite innocently. I received this really cool plate, from my friend, for Christmas.
She mentioned, she had wanted to make a cake to put on it, but she didn't have time. I assured her I would accept this cake anytime later, and not to worry about it.

So on the afternoon of Christmas Eve, she made the cake, a German chocolate cake with coconut pecan glaze, and dropped it off, my husband happily accepted it, and placed it on the counter, meanwhile I was asleep because I had worked the night before.

Tom was in the other room online, reading his blogs, when he became aware of the rustle of wax paper.You see the cake was covered in waxed paper. He came around the corner, to see our dog Wilma eating the cake, it was a star shaped cake, and well now it was missing a point.

Wilma is a 60lb, English coonhound.Who eats pretty much anything you'll give her, except maybe figs.

So like any good dog owner, he called the vets, only to get their answering machine, after all it was Christmas eve. So then he went to the internet, and read the awful things that were due to happen,hyperactivity, extreme thirst,then vomiting, and diarrhea. All these symptoms would occur in 1-3 hours. About the time all our guest would arrive.

So about 3:30pm I woke up, to Tom telling me the story I just told you.The ending of the story, I'm happy to report is boring, nothing happened, she got none of those symptoms, and enjoyed her Christmas Eve just like all dogs do, cleaning up potato chip crumbs, possibly getting a raw carrot that fell to the floor, or a goldfish cracker or two.

Am I telling you this tail, umm tale, to tell you that chocolate is good for dogs, no, not all all.I'm telling you so maybe you'll make sure the chocolate cake isn't on the counter, within reach of the dog.

I'll have to say the only thing Wilma does when we have a piece of the cake,Yes we still have the cake, come on people I wasn't going to throw away the whole cake, I just cut away the dog nibbled part. She looks at it longingly, because well we are not sharing.We don't want to push our doggy luck.

happy holidays

2008-12-24T04:13:00.003-05:00

So this year it's Christmas Eve, at my house. Family is coming. I've made skateylleven Italian meatballs, so we won't run out. I have munchies for the crowd to graze on, drinks to drink, and I look forward to the whole loud mess, as usual.

We'll have NORAD tracking Santa, on the computer, to see where he's been, and where he's going to.It's all computer generated, but it gives me chills , plus watching my younger niece and nephew, watching it with excitement, is enough to put any Scrooge into the Christmas spirit.

There will be music playing, and the dog will get lots of goldfish crackers, from the kids.The only thing missing is my sister and her husband, she has to work a 12 hour shift, so there's no question, the girl has to sleep.They will be missed.

There will be the massive un-wrapping, paper flying ,as people open gifts.It's easy to miss what people get.Something my husband decided one year, ~~the year he decided to buy gifts before Christmas,~~ it was for the 3 of us to open our presents , together after everyone else went home,mostly so he could enjoy our son's, and my reaction, on the job well done, he did in buying gifts that year.
and he did really good.

Whatever your holiday traditions, be them old or new,I hope you have a Merry Christmas, or a Happy Hanukkah, or a festive Kwanzaa, and a most Happy new year.

the ice storm cometh

2008-12-14T04:45:00.007-05:00

Thursday the rain started, then the temperatures dropped, then the ice started forming.When I opened the door to let the cat out, it wasn't wind I heard blowing, it was creaking ice laden branches. Around 9pm the light flickered dim, and then again at 9:30, I should have followed my thoughts, that told me to turn up the heat some, and turn the temperature of the refrigerator down, just in case the power went out. I of course ignored those voices, I was too busy photographing the icy trees, reflecting the light outside my window.

Hours passed, then at 12:15 am ...POP booop, the power was out, My son and I wait a few seconds for it to come on, and then we realized it wasn't going to happened, off we went finding flashlights, and some LED lanterns, that I had bought years before, and use around Halloween, to light the stairs to our walk way. The dog was less than pleased with the power outage, "what was going on, why were we running around, in the dark?" So off to bed we went, me to my electrically powered heated water bed, and he to his room.My husband was already asleep blissfully unaware, at one point during the night, I thought the lights had come on, but I was too warm in toasty in our bed, and fell back asleep, I'd shut them off in the morning. In the morning noticing the lights were still out , and it was cool in the house, I realized my brain was processing a cars headlights going by,not actual lights coming on.

In the daylight hours the ice covered trees were magnificent, in this kind of surreal frozen fairytale like setting.It was amazing to see how ice covered everything was, and how it came showering down when the temperatures outside increased. We sat, read, drank alot of hot tea, and cocoa, made grilled cheese sandwiches, and naively believed the light would be on in the afternoon, just like a friend rumored, no such luck Chuck.

We ate dinner by candlelight, and camping lantern light.We did the dishes a la camping style, we heated pots of water on the stove, to combine with are only cold running water.I slept on our water bed , this time above the covers, in my sleeping bag, surrounded by a cat or two, I got ready for work, by LED lamplight, and missed the heat in my house , and the hot water alot. I felt unshowered, and tired,and I was. I was also a little annoyed that the neighbor had electricity, and we had none, damn it.

I drove to work,Friday night. It was another surreal event, I and the full moonlight were the only light on the road, as I drove, an occasional lone driver would illuminate how ice covered bushes and trees still were in some areas.One road I drove down the trees were bent so far forward, I wondered if they might touch the roof of my little Subaru.I went through several towns where the usual signal lights were out, the funny thing was I still slowed down, just like they were working.I guess old habits die hard. That night the temperatures dropped to 14 degrees.

On my ride home Saturday morning , I got to see those ice covered trees, in the daylight, which didn't make it any less scary, but more so because you could see how thick the ice still was, and how affected everything was by it. I also noticed at the top of trees the stark pointed white tipped branches left behind after all those that had broken off from the weight of all that ice

I arrived home with some necessities, milk, juice, cat food, and bread, as I got out off my car I noticed a white wire, extending from our house to the neighbors, my husband, the jack of all trades,had hooked us up, he used to be an electrician, before he became the boiler repair man. We talked briefly the night before of putting an extension cord, from our house to our neighbors. Well lo and behold, he had done that very thing! I walked over the thick white wire, to be greeted by my son, telling me that "Dad is hooking up the furnace so we would have heat, and hot water!!"

Yay!! Our house had dropped down to 55 degrees, and the mud room was even colder, colder than the temperature in our fridge, where the temperature was rising.By the time I ate my breakfast in my heaviest wool sweater, the heat was slowly rising, the smell of heat is wonderful, if you haven't had it, for a 24 hours or more. I went to bed that morning, in sweats, with a cat joining me for warmth. I woke up in the afternoon, to warmth, and no lights, but no lights, is nothing compared to no heat.
The hoards of candles I had received as gifts, many a Christmas, did us well, as did my little LED lanterns.

That evening at 6:30 precisely, the lights came on, at first my husband didn't realize, because we had turned the lights off, the first day we were without power.
But quickly we got the picture, and celebrated, with pancakes, and bacon. after all I had to work that night .

day 155 | stop mo laundry

2008-12-06T10:02:00.004-05:00

This was my first foray into trying stop motion, using Windows Movie Maker.
It was unreal how many times the program crashed, and I restarted over and over.

What the hell Microsoft,were you thinking when you created this program.Lets create a program, that's kind of lame, and crashes alot, once the person using the program gets really proficient at it, you crash and freeze up more.Seamless interface would be a lie, it was more like dogged determination, that I would prevail.
rawr!
I don't want to sound totally disrespectful, for this program has been helpful in my learning curve, of video. which i really like doing. :)

But at the end of it I got tired, of taking a single still, and did video.I compressed 7 minutes of still photos into 1 minute, shooting 95 stills, and adding a little video at the end.

the music is by engeo

tea city

2008-12-02T10:40:00.003-05:00

I'm not sure if there is a tea city, but if there is, I'm a citizen.

A lovely flickr friend, sent me a tea gift certificate, for $5 dollars off, and I figured, I have to check this out, because money off, if well money off. So I went to Adagio teas to check it out, I was able to purchase a black tea sampler, with 6 teas, and a special blend made for my zodiac sign.

I received it in two days, with no extra postage paid, the 6 cannisters are packed full, and the tea is awesome, it's actual loose little leaves, not dust in a bag ~~like most tea bags~~. My favorite flavor so far is golden monkey, now I know it was the name that attracted me first ~~because sometimes I am a 12 year old~~ , but it's smooth and yummy just like a great black tea should be, and I love to add milk to my tea, and it only added to it's wonderfulness.

So if you want to be a citizen of tea city, why don't you come by and have a cuppa, the water is always hot enough.

World AIDS day

2008-12-01T18:44:00.000-05:00

oh the places you'll go

2008-11-24T19:39:00.002-05:00

Another visit to museums, for Zack's art appreciation class.

come take a look

2008-11-24T11:39:00.005-05:00

I feel lucky , to have figured out, what really attracts my eye, as an artist, it's definitely the patterns in thing, those lovely repetitive colors or shapes, and if they occur around me even better.
I'm thankful, that I looked at it I didn't pass over any object, no matter how mundane. I found my pattern to look at, no matter where it occurred.

If you have never viewed anything on a PictoBrowser, you just click on the image to advance it, or rest your mouse in the bottom edge of the browser, and a thumbnail scrim will pop up.

bird rescue

2008-11-23T15:56:00.004-05:00

I'm not exactly sure how a little bird, got into my potting shed, but it did.

I keep the birdseed in there, in two old playmate coolers, they are perfect containers, they are mouse proof, and keep the seed fresh and dry, they also have great handles, when I need to fill the bird feeders, I can take them with me.

I walked into my potting shed to do that very thing, fill the feeders. I heard this fluttery noise, then I spotted a little slate colored junco, flapping against the windows. I thought for a minute how to get him out, I opened the barn door wide, and considered shooing him out, but then I thought that would just scare the poor little birdie,or drive him deeper in the corner of my potting shed.Slowly I reached my soft gloved hands toward him, caught him and cradled him in my hands, feeling his warm little body nestled in my gloves. I stepped outside, slowly opening my hands, where he sat for a second, then picked up off of them, rising up and flying away.

It made me feel happy, like I had received a little gift.

the B word

2008-11-22T01:52:00.006-05:00

That's right, I'm going to type it, Bra!
There is something to being forty something, that gives me a new appreciation of the need to wear a bra.A proper fitting bra. Even Tim Gunn, says the foundation of a woman's wardrobe, is a proper fitting undergarment.

Before gravity, or weight gain, or lactation, changed and modified my girls into something other that what I expected,I began as a small breasted, almost flat chest young woman, and grew into a more well endowed, cross your heart type of bra Woman!
I used to be able to get away with tank tops, or camisoles, and even a sports bras, but then I began to notice, that these undergarmets of my youth didn't really cut it.As gravity will have her way with your body I noticed my breasts decided they were very enamored with where my feet are, decided they should head in that direction. At first I ignored this, until one day looking in the mirror, I realized those wayward sinking bumps on my boobie horizon, were my nipples, and how in the hell, did they get there, and why? Was my body paying a cruel trick on me, or did I just need a bra. oh the betrayal!

So online I went ,and bras I bought, sometimes successful, sometimes not at all. I figured if the bras I wore without trying on, didn't fit me well, it was a waste of my time to go to a store where a bra lady would help me, find my right size, because there is no right size with me.Part of my reluctance was that I believed I didn't have the right body shape for a bra, I had sloped shoulders that's why, my straps never stayed up, I decided I was a size I really wasn't, and wore mostly bras that didn't fit right.

Until a dear friend clued me in to ~~my delusions~~, the error of my ~~thickheaded~~ ways, she told me to to run, not walk, to go to Lady Grace, and I did reluctantly.There I met Stephanie,a very nice sales consultant, she did what all bra ladies do, they measure, and have you try on, and they adjust your wayward girls in the bra, what a concept! . Her assistance was non judgmental,gentle and told me most women wear the wrong bra size until they get fitted for the right one!!She turned me around, helped me see the light, and buy the right size
It was amazing to wear a bra that fit right, there was no pinch, no slipping strap, and the girls were looking up again. I actually enjoyed wearing a bra, because here's the shocker, it felt good!!

So If you've always believed you were a bra misfit, because you weren't the right shape,it isn't true sister, you just need to go get measured, and you will see how great your shape actually is.

working title

2008-11-20T00:29:00.008-05:00

Over the last 3 years, I have participated in some type of attempt at daily self portraiture.I began in 365 days, here the main focus was a daily picture, which at the time was a struggle, I have insecurities or had insecurities about how I looked, I got over that, and rarely cringe at photos of myself, there are times , more then not, that I enjoyed and found it to be very empowering. my attempts at year 2 , really were that attempts, I just really had been there done that before, and for me, it wasn't creative, it was more of an annoyance, and that's silly, to continue with something you don't really feel.

This spring flickr introduced video, which I thought cool, but it really doesn't apply to me. I never did videos of myself,i couldn't imagine it. Then I received my first invite to a group called "just say no, to video" and frankly I was intrigued, as to why I should say no.. So I started to do videos, and well It was exciting and creative, and huge eye opener.

If I thought I might balk at still images of myself, there are body angles,and chin doubling, you just can't hide in full motion video,so you either grimace, or get over your big bad self.

In July I joined 365 minutes,at Ipernity. A groups started by two friends from the original 365 days.
At first, months before I started I felt intimidated,by what others were creating and then in July I got over myself and I jumped in.Though it makes me grimace to admit I have a less the firm chin,or belly or anything, that also the beauty of it, it's gone in a flash erased, by another action, or music, or image I am portraying. It's an honest views of my life, of me, of my need to be a poseur video rock star wannabe, sometimes, but mostly they are real, and fairly mundane.
What will I do next July,when I finish, well i guess I will decide that in July.

the big love post

2008-11-18T11:22:00.002-05:00

So this post isn't about the HBO series, but about how you love your family. They make you feel huge amounts of pride, even when they do the simplest things.

This video was taken on my ride home from my Open Studio weekend,my son, his girlfriend, and her friend, were great about helping out.
There is something for me , when your riding in a car filled with family, and friends, that just is cozy, and gives me the warm fuzzies. Come take a ride, won't you.

printmaking

2008-11-17T01:56:00.002-05:00

I have been a print maker, steady for the last 6 years. Over the last year and a half i have done strictly relief,linoleum block, wood cut. I've pulled prints, full of line and form. I am mostly a representational artist, but I have begun to revisit my love of pattern and color. Before that I used to switch back and forth between etching and relief printmaking,then I decided in the Autumn of 2007, to just strictly do relief.

I didn't suddenly hate etching, I just wanted to focus, on one thing, at that time I figured I would switch back and forth on a yearly basis. When I came back in September to the studio, I thought alot about , How now it was 2008, and I should be doing etching, but I didn't really feel like switching, which frankly had my little obsessive mind worried,maybe I just didn't have any skill at etching , where I had skills at relief printmaking, and then some, maybe that's why I didn't want to switch. Then thankfully my inner wisdom, took hold of me and game me a shake, and said "there could be worse things, are you really questioning whether you should continue doing a type of printmaking that you are really good at?"
Yes it's true, I can be that insecure about my art. So I took a deep breath, and realized I'm the one setting the schedule here, so it was up to me to choose. I chose to continue on with the relief.

Well that was until I joined in the soft ground practicum, where we experimented with soft grounds, and it was great, wiping a copperplate, came back to me, with ease, phew! It made me want to take a little break from doing relief printmaking, and concentrate on etching.
Recently a artist friend and I decided to trade prints, she has one that I really like, and vice versa, it's also giving me the idea to return to an old set of plated, I haven't printed in years, and revist them, and possible go from there, and create another version of this quilt series, I started over 5 years ago.
Either way, the possibilities are endless.

yoga-riffic update

2008-11-13T10:14:00.005-05:00

I am pleased to report, that I did commit and mostly do daily yoga.I am also pleased to write that it has changed the flexibility, and strength of my body. Are my arm rock hard, well they are firmer, and jiggley part under my arm, doesn't jiggle anymore.
I found another benefit, It made me slow down and focus , on myself, get in touch with how I was feeling, and how I would feel after I finished. Which was empowered and relaxed. It also delighted my dog, in the fact I was down on the floor, and she could give me a nose lick now and then. Will I stop my daily yoga? No. Did it hurt my back? No!!
Will I sometimes be too busy, yes, unfortunately, but you know on the days I had to skip, I was all the more determined to do it, the next day, and I did.
Did I have to play new age music to get into the whole yoga thang? Nope!
I found playing my new music obsession , named Adele, if you don't know her, you should, this girl can sing, plus her music is sublime. You should play the music the resonates with you, and that will do you the most good.

So will I return to my glory days as a couch potato, no. I will become a limber yoga-mama that sometimes sits on the couch. Yes ma'am.

falling off the wagon

2008-11-11T05:25:00.008-05:00

Not that wagon, but off the daily posting wagon, called NaBloPoMo.
I've been busy .

Last weekend, was our Open Studio weekend, it's changed from past years, it became more of a print fair, all the artists at Zea Mays Printmaking showed their work, if they wanted to join in, in years past, only the full time members showed their work, that gave somewhat of narrow view of what the studio was about, and what kind of art was being produced.

Do I like the change? The answer would be yes! It freed me up from bring every print I've ever done to just 20 prints, that represent me the best. I also made my usual greeting cards,which a young woman thanked me for making.Every year,she looks forward to them, she can't afford, to pay for a print, but she can afford, my cards. That was great validation for me, sometimes I question whether I should do them, but that was answered by her, I really appreciate her for telling me, it quashed that self doubt that I had about it.

And now for the video part of this post, a glimpse into our Friday night preview party.

print fair north

2008-11-06T23:25:00.002-05:00

This weekend marks Open Studio weekend at the Arts and Industry building, where my studio is located.
On Friday we are having a VIP event, for print collectors, friends and family.We have rearranged the studio, so people can flow through, view our prints, and maybe even purchase.

the day after.

2008-11-05T23:12:00.004-05:00

I'm still happy and hopeful. I feel blessed that my fellow Americans believe in hope and goodwill just like I do. It makes me very proud, to be part of this historical event.

If I had to describe how I felt in one word, it would be proud, than satisfied, and then ready, for a change.

Ariel at Electrolicious summed up the phenomena, of election night perfectly in this lovely set of pictures. That displays the feeling of shared emotion.All in one word, mostly.
Though I wasn't at her gathering I was at one of my own,watching the election results come in,with friends and acquaintances, we were enjoying a good glass of wine, and a yummy nosh, for that alone was worth it,and to think this country stopped what they were doing to pay witness to this defining moment, along side me, gives me the warm fuzzies.

get your vote on

2008-11-04T23:30:00.000-05:00

and look what happens.

Obama 338 electoral votes
McCain 156 electoral votes

I am a Real American

2008-11-03T13:25:00.003-05:00

Over the last weeks I have watched senators and,Sarah Palin, make statements about who are the real Americans.
In my opinion we all are, no matter how diverse our views may be.We are all real Americans. We are all in this together, to face the issues of our time, as a nation.

I encourage you to show yourself, and this website brings that point home succinctly.
Think about participating and letting your real American voice be heard.
I am a Real American.

mum show

2008-11-02T22:16:00.005-05:00

Smith College has two flower shows a year. A bulb show in the spring, and a chrysanthemum show in the fall, besides being small, and just about flowers, you can also tour the rest of the conservatory, which is a plant lover's dream.There is always something blooming, or fading...the koi are fat and vibrant, and if you have a sharp eye , you can catch a glimpse of the frog that lives there, too.
I went this weekend with my Mom and my sister, and my best friend Denise.We had a great time, my mother went through rolls of film, like she was breathing, and we all had a wonderful visit.

dubious beginnings

2008-11-01T23:48:00.006-04:00

and so NaBloPoMo begins...and all I have to show for it is a lame video.

Today is the first day of my staycation.Yes, one of the newer words in the american lexicon, that I agree with fully. There is nothing like a home based vacation, it's fairly inexpensive, and mostly relaxing. Mine will be some of that, but it also includes preparing for Print Show North, which will occur next weekend.
Getting ready for open studio weekend, is exciting, and tiring.
And with the way everyone's finances are this year, I'm definitely going to price my prints accordingly,so they will be hopefully affordable.

Now back to my less the stellar video, in my excitement about being on staycation, and doing my first video for NaBloPoMo, but 124th video, for 365 minutes group at Ipernity,
I realized I had only recorded 30 seconds, I need to fill a minute, for the group, so the rest of it I filled with pictures of myself...ummm I promise this won't happen again, really.
I promise, cross my heart, hope to die.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-29T08:37:00.005-04:00

a small video, about pumpkin guts.

your brain on, your brain

2008-10-24T13:00:00.002-04:00

this is a jpg. your brain is making the movement.

NaBloPoMo

2008-10-24T04:50:00.003-04:00

I haven't decided if I will this year or not, I did pretty good last year, but I did miss a day,If I do daily post it may be from my daily video project, over at Ipernity. Because unless the days get longer, I really can't see,having the time to write daily, and edit video. As I write this I think I will lean more towards, sharing my daily video, maybe with a little written blurb. Maybe.

time flies

2008-10-23T10:53:00.002-04:00

A few weekends back, I went to the farmer's market in Hardwick. Across from the street, is an old Church, and an even older cemetery.I spent a sunny autumn sunday taking some photographs.

free fall-ing

2008-10-23T00:39:00.003-04:00

yoga-riffic

2008-10-16T09:52:00.005-04:00

So I've been continuing on my daily yoga goal, and it's been working, less pains, and twinges, more standing upright with better posture, in my past life I was a hunchback, and at times I try to return to that posture, as it's so attractive, on my flabby little body.

I have been doing daily rounds of sun salutation .
Now would I just start doing sun salutation on my own without taking a yoga class at all, I don't think so, I think I would be confused, and not get the full benefit. But In saying that, I tend to obsess and worry about things, I'm not sure of, and that gets in my way of just following the directions, and figuring it out on my own.I think the link I posted, is clear and concise, so you could figure it out by yourself, but I recommend if you have the opportunity to try a yoga class, like an Introduction class. Do it!(now!)

So if your couch to 5K plan, isn't doing the things for you that you thought it would, maybe some daily yoga, would fit better.It would support those twingy knees, and sore backs, that sometimes speak very loudly, and won't budge. Yoga will quiet all that, make you stronger, more flexible, get you in tune with your body.

Like the Nike ads say, just Do It!

face value

2008-10-05T01:00:00.005-04:00

The other day, I joined my son on a trip to our local art museum. He's taking an art appreciation class, so he is required to visit a few art museums.He invited me to join him It was relaxing, we had fun and this video is a result of that visit.

music by the unique brad sucks

the bitch is back

2008-10-01T21:52:00.009-04:00

some days you just have to bitch.

Today was a good day, though it started out late. I had one of those surreal moments this morning in bed, as I looked at the time, it wasn't registering in my head why my clock read 8:15am, not 7:30. My brain briefly asked "why is the time, wrong on your clock?" Then quickly recognition came to me, " damn, I'm running late, there is nothing wrong with my clock!!"
Uggh thud, out of bed I slow motion moved, to get showered, fed, and off to the studio, my plan to get there earlier wasn't happening today.Why I thought I would somehow wake up with out an alarm,is beyond me.
What else is beyond me , is my inability to commit to exercise. It's annoying to me how I can find reasons not to do it, yet dislike the squishy over 40 belly I have become.
You know what I'm talking about , that belly that showed up one year, in the forty somethings, like some uninvited relative that just won't leave. It just hangs around like a life preserver, for just in case, I drown on the couch!?!
I mean honestly , what is my issue? When I begin regular exercise my body loves it, I get that endorphin buzz, I get more energy, more flexible, less concerned about my less than perfect body, I begin to accept it, because I'm more in tune with it.I actually feel , dare I say empowered.
I unfortunately am really good, at falling off that wagon, over indulging on sweets, becoming more sedentary, more achy. Man, what a whiner I can be about this.
I started the Ass project '08 in august, I was doing well, until I pulled some back muscles, I may want to hang with Mr. Bowflex, but I ended up overdoing it to the point of back spasms...which frankly sucked. It stopped me dead in my tracks, did it stop me from returning to a jiggling goddess? No!
What saved my back muscles, and the soon to be developing hole in my stomach, from all the Motrin I was taking, was yoga.
Yoga, that four lettered word, that frankly I should be wanting to hear, was my lifesaver, it stretched out my very tender muscles, it decreased my pain, and cripes, it even kept my arms firm.Without endless rep of bicep curls or tricep extensions.I made me use my own inflating weight, as the weight I would lift to keep my muscles strong, firm , and flexible.
What a concept! This is the ultimate in no frills exercise equipment, I guess it's true, that all you ever need to succeed is yourself.So this may be the day to vent my flabby little spleen, but it's the first day, of my commitment to daily yoga.
In 39 days will be our Print Fair North, at our studio, I'm using that as a small reasonable goal to aim for, daily yoga for the next 39 days, if it doesn't change my body, in strength, and flexibility, then I can stop. Become a couch potato, grow that third chin to accent the developing second chin, I've been growing, and wallow in self pity (waaah!)

But I believe, I will discover, the exact opposite.(fingers crossed)(see, more exercise)

pain in the ...

2008-09-06T03:06:00.000-04:00

I want to write ass project '08, because that would be so cute. But really it's my back...it started on Sunday, it was beautiful sunny, there was a breeze was blowing, my husband was going sailing, I wanted to join him, but my back had other ideas, the spasmy painful kind.

How did the back pain occur, I'm thinking Mr. Bowflex, might of had something to do with it, but I'm denying that for now, even though I know I'm probably right.

I find at 45 years of age,I do something physical, that my body protests about, it's 2 or 3 days later, I get the soreness, well this time I got the pain....grrrr.

So I spent Sunday icing my back , and taking Motrin every 6 hours, I can be such a good patient/nurse when I want to be. It helped, and then later that night a hot shower, and my arnica shower gel helped too, along with more Motrin. I was able to go to work, and I thought I was on the mend until my 5am rounds, at work, and my bra began to feel like a vice grip , as it was trying to become one with my back. So I took more Motrin, and I tried not to breathe too deep. As much as I wanted to rip my bra off, I can't really let the girls fly at work. Though the pharmacy tech, that always looks at me at boob level, might have liked that.

Thankfully I could drive home with my bra unhooked, and by the time I reached home, my Motrin was working, and the ice packs were ready. I went to bed feeling less pain.
Well I maybe went to bed like that but 6 hours later my back muscles had had enough, and wanted out of the bed, no more sleeping, and the spasmy pain was back full force.

Needless to say, I wasn't handling it very well, I was weepy, and pissed at myself for being a baby, I was worried I might have to call out sick, and then my tired mind, started saying "what if it never goes away, then what will you do then?!?!"
Luckily my body ignored my mind, and the Motrin began to work, so I got on my hands and knees, and did cat stretches which started to help, in a way that made me glad I'm still able to remember yoga stretches .

By Tuesday my back was in much less pain, and no more spasmy muscle feelings, though I still stopped myself before I sneezed , or coughed, that was more fear based, because over the weekend it hurt alot to do those very thing, I even went with out Motrin, but I didn't go with out doing my cat stretches, which evidently amused the dog, because she gets playful every time, I'm kneeling doing them.

I also was really good about resting my back, no heavy lifting, and I took a week off from Mr. Bowflex, and I walked a few days instead.
Next week I'm planning on going back to Mr. Bowflex, but I will decrease the weight by 5 or 10 lbs. And I'll stretch before and after, something I've been being stupid about.

I'll also get right on treating this pain, if it comes back, instead of thinking it'll just go away.

'08 AP-week four

2008-08-28T08:18:00.004-04:00

My commitment to this project grows, as my ass is hopefully shrinking.
I think I may have seen some results this week, no wait let me rephrase that I did see some results.

The other day as I got dressed , I put on my favorite turquoise colored t-shirt and my most comfy pair of denim shorts. It wasn't until I walked by the mirror, that I caught a glimpse of my shrinking belly roll . My body was more gravity defying. No, wait that's too strong a word, it was less jiggly. there was less jiggling going on.When I flexed my arm, I had a firmer muscle under there, a bicep and triceps, for cripes sake.

My brain has an Oprah moment, right then and realized simply that, exercise is good for my body!!! That exercise, that's right I'm using the E word again,helps build muscle tone.
I am shocked and pleased at how frickin' simple this whole concept is, and why I let it allude me. I'm actually using moderation when eating. Moderation, not dieting. I eat two oreos instead of 6. I'm eating more fruit and veg. I'm still having my ice cream. And stop the presses!! I'm drinking more water, even.

I look forward to my visits to Mr. Bowflex,I no longer mock them,I'm getting more flexible, and strong doing a a few sets of yoga. Who knew endorphins could feel so good.So so so good.

I'm four weeks in, and I feel great. Yay! me.

'08 AP-week two

2008-08-14T09:26:00.004-04:00

So as I work my way through week two, what have I found.

This is starting to feel good, and I'm being more successful as I mix it up. I also noticed, there are small muscles under my soft flab that are firming up, and that feels good.

I walked up a flight of stairs with out having to catch my breath, not that I was out of breath, but I would take a moment and stop, then continue on.

This is the second week of my staycation, so I'm hoping to lay down a firming foundation, before I go back to work next week, and that changes my motivation to exercise, slightly.

and now for this weeks video.

the wednesday project

2008-07-31T17:48:00.004-04:00

As I don't want a lot of unwanted ass attention, I decided to post my proclamation on Thursday, beside the fact I just read the post over at Mrs.G's, today.
But from here out I'll be posting on Wednesdays, about the disappearance of my double twin, I mean my chin.
Over at Derfward Manor, a gauntlet was thrown, okay not really thrown, but it makes for some dramatic blog entry, if I say that.

It's all about the '08 Ass Project. A motivational tool to get off mine and get moving, A suggestion is to use the couch to 5k running plan. But I know myself, and sometimes repetition gives me a reason to rationalize to stop. So I'll be doing a mixture of that, and walking, and swimming, or something.

Other committed people(bloggers) will posts pictures of their body parts, as they firm up and get into better shape. Because I like to do things a little different I will post a little video , as I'm in the midst of a video Self Portrait over at Ipernity called 365 minutes.

So this the part where I roll the video, of my rolls.

the holiday In Amsterdam (part 3)

2008-07-06T15:36:00.007-04:00

So when In Amsterdam there are things you should remember.

1. Taking a walk.
That wide cobblestone path, that seems like a walk way, is not. It's the bike path. And there are a lot of bikes in Amsterdam, alot! You'll be tempted to walk down this path, because it's in great condition, but as you're walking, you'll hear a far away ringing sound, that becomes more insistent as it approaches behind you, this is the bicyclist, asking you to move...NOW! The smaller narrower path is the sidewalk, so get on it.

2. Crossing the street
- the streets in Amsterdam are narrow, cobble stoned,a different pattern then the bike paths. When you first arrive, after the jet lag goes away. When you first walk the city, your eyes will be upward, looking at all the cool architecture, the gables, the cornices, the pulleys at the top of the gables. You won't notice when you cross, that you standing in the middle of the side streets,you won't notice until a car stops suddenly, where the driver doesn't flip you the bird, they instead encourage you to continue, and to be polite you should, don't stand there encouraging them to go, because they'll stay there, waiting for you to go.So just go, and say thank you.

3. the bill, please. or Mag ik afrekenen. say (Maahk ik ahf-ray-ken-neng)
When you eat out, ask for the bill. The restaurant will let you sit for many hours undisturbed, not like in America, where they are in a rush to get you out of there. Your waiter will watch you stretch, drum your fingers on the table, it's not until you ask for the bill do you get it. The Dutch are laid back people, and forthright too. They don't beat around the bush, which is refreshing. They also don't bring the bill, until you ask.

4. the Tram
When you get on the tram, get on in the back, that is where the conductor is.From him or her, you can buy a ticket or a strippenkaart. In Tram have a seat, and remember that accordion looking middle does take corners, just as you would imagine it would,by bending at an angle.

5.the strippenkaart-
this ticket gets you on the tram. You should consider buying them in strips of 15, as it's less expensive. You can buy them at a supermarket, or a smoke shop, and this is the kind of smoke shop that you can buy cigars , and cigarettes at not the other kind of smoke shop.
You can still buy them on the tram, but they cost a little bit more.With srtippenkaart in hand you'll get on the tram seamlessly, not holding up the other passengers behind you.
The stamp on the strippenkaart will get you travel for up to one hour, they are stamped with the date, time, and zone in which you have boarded.
They can also be used on buses, remember with a bus you get on in the front.

6.Electricity
In the Netherlands, the voltage is 220. Before you buy a voltage converter, look at the electrical things, you are bringing with you,most likely they are dual voltage. Look at the input voltage listed, if it gives a range, like 100-250V, you're in like Flynn. You just need a plug adaptor, because the Dutch use the two pin continental plugs. We were able to recharge batteries, for our camera's and charge our phones, and charge our laptop too, all with plug converters.

7.Albert Heijn or Dirk Van den Broek
these are supermarket chains. You can buy food, soap, booze, baked goods, delicious yogurt, tissues,water, but you cannot buy any of the OTC drugs. No Nexium to go with that spicy salsa, just chips. Also you buy your grocery bags, and they're at the front the the register line, not the end. They are worth their price 0.25Euros. They are big, and carry alot.

8. it's pronounced Gowdah not Goodah.
Buy some Gouda cheese.Find yourself a cheese shop or a Kaashuis.
Ask to try some, be it young or older aged Gouda it's all good,some of the cheese shops will even vacuum pack your cheese if you want to take some home with you, on the plane.
Where it'll be mistaken for plastic explosives in your luggage, so customs will search your luggage. I kid about the explosive part, but you'll still get your luggage searched, even when you tell them on your custom form, that you have it.

9. Good shoes
bring your best, most comfortable walking shoes, because really if you wanted too, you can walk the city of Amsterdam, it gives you a wondrous view,the cobblestone sidewalks and streets are lovely to look at, but your feet will complain at night about the whole thing. What I recommend, soak your feet, in the tub or in a basin or whatever ,nice warm water, a drink or a beverage of choice is recommended, talk about your days events and soak those dogs, you'll be surprised, how un-sore your feet will be the next day.

10. Money
Don't take alot of money, with you, instead bring your ATM card, you'll get the best daily exchange rate that way, and they are everywhere. If you're still not sure about using an ATM, get some Euros at your own local bank, but still bring your ATM card.

Amsterdam Holiday (continued)

2008-07-04T09:31:00.003-04:00

Zaterdag, 7 June Amsterdam

We are now well rested, it's amazing what a little jet lag will do for your sleep, I think we slept at least 9 hours,it's amazing, how it can change your outlook, on things. We are happy, and ready to go. well kind of. we all, us the parents, and the young man, are having a little trouble agreeing on an earlier time to get going, we'd liked to get out of the houseboat before noon, and well Zack has other ideas.

So Tom takes a walk to our local bakery, returning with some yummy thing to nibble on while we wait for Zack to get moving.

We also continue to leach wi-fi off of someone, and we thank them for that, some morning routines are hard to break.A morning surf with coffee, as we were eating breakfast and watching the canal traffic go by, we are also visited by the water birds on the canal, the ducks and the screaming greebies, and all have babies, as soon as we open the windows, they come by hoping for food, i don't have much to offer.

I walk around to take pictures, and look into the church down the neighborhood, where a wedding is taking place. I heard the bells earlier, but didn't want to be standing out there in my pajamas,just to see the bride.

The weather continues to be a little too warm ,frankly. I am discovering that travel sized deodorant, is really only good for it's size, it really does nothing else. I smell like I've been participating in some sport event.

But regardless of my smell we walk to the neighborhood called De Pijp (say da pipe) there is a great open air market, called Albert Cuypmarkt. You can find anything here. We buy some fresh cherries, some warm in the paper bag roasted nuts, they are salty and fresh, and the macadamia nuts are huge, Manua Loa, should be ashamed at the size Macadamia's they sell, because they don't compare. We also find some AAA rechargeable batteries, for our travel clock that died, 6 hours after we arrived, though it has been running for 6 month straight before that, it wasn't in to actually being a travel clock.

That night we have a great dinner at Meghna(Utrechtsestraat 28) which is just down the street from us, Tom and Zack haven't had Indian food before, and we have a really helpful waiter, who is good at explaining, what's good, and they decide, we all choose chicken dishes, and they are wonderful fresh, and we enjoy it fully. I have a Kingfisher beer, a little hoppy but nice.

holiday in Amsterdam

2008-07-01T14:24:00.010-04:00

There is something about the word holiday, as opposed to vacation that makes it seem, like it's so much more. In America we use the word vacation, in Europe they use the word holiday, which sounds like a better deal.
But actually whatever word you use,last month I went to Amsterdam with my husband and my son.I had been there two years previous. I went with friends we stayed on a houseboat, we fell in love with the city.
My plan was while I was there, I would blog daily, and write about it, but realistically there were 3 of us using the same computer, and well typing with any type of speed, is not my strong suit, so I opted for the moleskine method...pen and paper, what a concept, and portable too.
So with out further adieu, I'll now blog about my trip.

Thursday June 5 Logan Airport- Boston, Massachusetts

We just went through security, I remembered to wear my Ecco shoes, so i could slip them off, and walk through with socks. Not have to bend over untie. So here we sit, near our gate, watching the Big TV, which is on CNN, over and over it plays that Barack Obama has won the nomination for the Democratic party which I take as a good omen, for our trip, as I am an Obama Mama. They've just called us for boarding, I'm looking forward to getting back to Amsterdam, to see the houseboat, the canals, the cobblestones of the street.
Our flight is your typical red-eye, and older smaller plane, where they have the little movie screens in the aisle, and the purser, who tells us, he won't make a lot of announcements, so we can all sleep, feels the need to go up and down the aisles, offering water...Water....WATER! i want to shove the water bottle somewhere...so he'll shush and be quiet.

Vridag -6 June Schiphol Airport, Netherlands

We have arrived, 30 minutes earlier, which is nice but we have time to kill before 2pm, when the houseboat will be ready.
We pass through customs, they are patronizingly friendly and ask us if we will be riding bikes around Amsterdam, I mention we are staying in a houseboat on the canal, they remain friendly, but the patronizing tone stops...does this mean we are cool now?

My husband and his little nicotine monkey need to walk outside, I am sleep deprived, and take every sign so literally, that I question whether it's okay if we go out the revolving door that's marked to buses and taxis...my husband silently rolls his eyes, and lights up, he and his little nicotine monkey take a deep inhale, and all is good. We stand outside in hot weather, like mid 80's degree weather...a thought circles in my head... that perhaps I should have packed more pairs of shorts.
The weather report at home for Amsterdam, spoke of 60-70 degree weather....ah well welcome to global warming.I also discover my dual band phone, not so great, but luckily my son has a more modern phone, and it's quad band, so after figuring out I need to dial the country code, we connect with Rene, who is the owner of the houseboat, he tells us the should be ready at 2pm, and he'll see us then.

We go back into Schiphol, to keep cool and kill a little time, before then. We purchase some wi-fi and surf on Zack's Mac. I send of some local emails, I'm meeting up with a friend I have known from Flickr, and I send her off a email, to get an immediate reply, as we are now in the same timezone, she in Rotterdam visiting her boyfriend. As we kill our wait the people watching is fun, there is a young Mom and her Daughter, waiting for her Daddy to come home, It makes me think of my son, who is now a young man sitting across from me, and how when they are little they hang on your every word.

Finally it's time we take a cab, into Amsterdam. Our Cab driver is older, and speak only when spoken to,so we have a quiet ride, but we are all, a little sleep deprived,and not really talking either, so it's okay.

We arrive at the houseboat!! We have the great fortune of meeting Rene, the owner, what a great host, friendly, colorful, his personality fits the decor of the houseboat perfectly.We go over some new improvements of the houseboat, since I've been there last, he points out the magnet if we drop the keys into the canal, Tom learns how to use the Senseo coffee maker. I also enjoy how Rene speaks of the canal being a public road, so we should shot the windows on the houseboat when we leave, not that anything has happened, as far as theft, but we should be wise about it.
If you saw the number of boats that pass by daily you would agree.

This time around it's a little different I know my way around the neighborhood, I'm familiar with the boat, it's still great to be back. We go off to the mini market,and pick up some breakfast things, and stop in one of the bakeries for something for lunch, which we bring home and eat on the houseboat, we also decide to take a little nap, which is great, before we go out for supper.

After sleeping for an hour or so, there were a few snooze alarm hits, we're up to find supper, that night we eat at Na Siam a wonderful Thai restaurant, on Kerkstraat, reasonably priced it costs 53Euros for the 3 of us, the spring rolls were light and crisp, the Singha, relatively cold. Our food was fresh, so delicious, and cooked to order, this is the night we discover they would let us sit for hours and hours, they don't bring the check until you ask for it. So we ask.
By now our jet lag has caught up we watch a little TV, that has dutch subtitles, then we are off to sleep.

work , one of those levels of limbo...

2008-05-16T10:47:00.000-04:00

that Dante never wrote about, probably because it was his job to write, you know.

I've worked as a nurse for 24 years. I mostly love my job, until the management turds decide, they need to save money by trimming cost such as staff. They tell you out of their lying two faces, that it's about the patient, that it's not about the money (LIARS!) They think that a cool way to cut costs is to minimize staff, because of what they consider a low census,they never take into account the acuity, that would require some thought or a backbone, to make that decision against the matrix, yeah, that's what they call it. A f*cking matrix.

To make this long story short, let suffice to say, I ran around like a freak, keeping my nose above water. or kept my patient's nose above water, between the suctioning, and medication administration, to sending my patient off the floor for a test at 0400, it sucked!

I shouldn't have to be stressed out in an environment, that stressful from the git go, I should be able to take care of my patient, fully...FULLY, no short cuts, no by the skin of my teeth, I should be an asset, because I do a great job, not because I have enough experience to keep afloat. there is something wrong about that type of logic.

I just try to believe karma has to pay those turds back eventually.

promtastic

2008-05-04T18:14:00.006-04:00

This weekend my son and one of his friends, took dates to the Junior prom, though they themselves are seniors. The Junior class, knows a money item when they sponsor one, and invited the Senior class.

What impressed me more than that, is my son, went with the friend of the girlfriend.He also bought her wrist corsage, all I had to ask is if he bought one, at first he said "no", then he went out an ordered one. I was also impressed with how he and his date both looked happy, posed for pictures. If it hadn't been for the frigid weather, the girls would have been really happy in their gowns with no jackets or pashminas to wrap up in. I was just as impressed there was no pouting or grandstanding, that they were social with us,and were good sports posing for the few pictures I asked for. I'd like to think I was that savvy at that age, but who knows if that's true.

To me it's just another example that my son, is ready to go off to college, and survive and make decisions, all on his own. Which makes me very proud, but also a little sad. When they are little, you look forward to them growing up, and then one day they have, and though you knew that day would happen it still pulls a little (alot!) at those heart strings, and can bring a tear or two to your eye, knowing that they are ready to begin another chapter in there lives, separate from you.

novice video discovery

2008-04-16T00:32:00.004-04:00

With there being video at Flickr now, I am exploring doing a daily video. I's been an amazing 7 days. People who I know by the pictures they take, are now moving , speaking, I'm hearing what their voices sounds like, our different but similar dialects.

I'm a total novice at this video stuff. if you had told me 1 month ago I would be doing a daily video selfie, I would have told you "no way!you're crazy!" It's not that I didn't like video, it's just that I couldn't imagine, me expressing myself that way, I'm kind slow in my geek abilities.
But now I am,I doing a daily video, and it RAWKS! I love it's immediacy, I love that I have no idea what I am doing,and I'm having so much fun creating these 90 second little slices of life.I'm learning mov. files can be smaller, than avi. I'm learning which of the cameras, I have can accomplish small files, but great sound.
I'm watching in awe, at my contacts, and what they are creating, and how they are revealing themselves, it's great, and inspiring, and I am so thankful, to pay witness to it.I'm also thankful for the glimpses of humor, that keep my smiling big.

video on flickr!

2008-04-11T21:30:00.004-04:00

I belong to flickr, it's a great photo sharing site. There is as much of a community there, as there is here. The newest development at Flickr is the advent of being able to upload 90 seconds of video.
It seems like progress to me, another avenue to create and express yourself visually.

What has surprised me is the vehemence of people against it! Like huh??? The commentary has been amazing to read. There is even a group at Flickr against it, and they have an online petition you can sign to voice your disgust. The people against feel it will destroy the sanctity of the still photograph. Are you serious!?!

This is my take on it, I feel that the same wonderful, real, hugely creative people, that take those breathtaking , and charming photos, I love will, do the same with their videos. And I'd like to say for the record here, that very thing has happened. I now am able to supplement the photos, I love with these rich little video clips from their life, and frankly I am in love with it. It gives me the warm fuzzies, it makes me feel good and smile alot.

and honestly, it's only a video, if you press play.

happy birthday ,Zack! part un

2008-03-30T14:23:00.010-04:00

I think as a blogger,and a Mom, it is correct of me to write somethings about the birthday boy.As it is his nineteenth birthday, what better time to tell it like it is.

19.his favorite hat.He went through a hat phase, all he wore was this baseball cap until it was smelly and faded. a well loved cap. I believe he wore hats exclusively for 3 or 4 years.

18.Swing! He definitely is an all or nothing kid.He's playing at a friend's house, here he is giving it his all.
17.psyched! this is his 3rd birthday, and he got a Batman helmet, he wore that for the rest of the day, plus his BFF Luke gave it to him , so he was all the more excited to receive it.

I believe he is saying " COOL!!"

16. naked and grinning - and flashing your mom, is a lot of fun. His expression delights me.

15. the right tool ,for the right job -during the hat phase, He also loved to dress up from carpenter, to Indiana Jones, to a mean Ninja Turtle.He also wore the knees out of all his pants.

happy birthday ,Zack! part deux

2008-03-30T09:30:00.002-04:00

14|teenage mutant ninja turtles! how a ninja turtle, likes to enjoy his juice and curly straw. Hanging tough with the other turtles.

13|bang! guns in all form and shapes have become a favorite toy . This is before the "hat period", though interestingly enough he is wearing a necklace he made, when we went to visit friends in Santa Barbara. It was something he wore everyday, until the string broke.

12| loyal-what can I tell you about this, nothing beats a good friend, and a sandbox, and matching helmets.He has always been loyal to his friends.
11| a kind and gentle boy-he is an only child, but has always been kind, and gentle with kids littler than himself.
10| renewable resources-many activities, seem to go better, faster, quicker, when using your tongue plus it was so funny.Not only does he have unboundless energy, he displays a wicked sense of humor.
9.birthdays rawk!- before Ninja Turtles, there were soft purple bunnies with long ears, who knew how to "karate chop".I believe Sesame Street, could be to blame (not!) for that, but I distinctly remember it.
8. sass- At 2 years old, it was never terrible, it was the age of questions, and the famous catch phrase "in a minute" existed, to haunt me. As I said it often to him evidently, when began replying to me the same way, it made me do a double take, but it was funny, in a karmic payback kind of way.
7|play-lots of play. The name of this play center escapes me, but we went a few times. It made me wish for knee pads and gloves, but I joined in climbing the tubes, sliding the slides having alot of fun.My kid is cool, he lets me play, and doesn't make me feel like I can't.
6| halloween rawks! at the grammie and grandpa's house, getting the Halloween dole.
dressed as a ninja turtle, he had a cool shield and sword. By now the mask was off.
5|make believe- imagination is healthy and strong, and it thrills me that my kid, has great Halloweens.He wore this costume , often and delighted in scaring others with it.
4| discerning tastes-Zack was a kid that ate like a bird. But when he liked something watch out. He loved the lemon slice cookies, and enjoyed a beater now and then.This may be around Christmas, as I was making those lemon slice cookies, even then.
3. my aim is true- this is the house we live in now, this was my first time seeing it.
Zack and Tom stopped in this house days before , while I slept after the night shift. They came home beaming with excitement.I believe that may be Indiana Jones right there. Notice the gun, holster, and hat on a hat.
2| music-he's always liked music, and I thank him for bringing me in 21st century. I have seen his musical tastes range from Korn and Limp Bizket, to now the Roots and Talib Kweli, and frankly I'm thankful for his latter tastes.

1| pride-I have always been and always will be proud of my son, from his wicked sense of humor, to his fashion sense, and the computer skills, that helps his parents often, when they forget how.He is calm , and level headed, and has been the best movie going partner for years.
Happy Birthday Zack , and to many, many more.

happy easter

2008-03-23T02:23:00.002-04:00

I hope yours is full of laughter, good food, family and friends,
and a peep or two.

spring bulb show

2008-03-12T09:52:00.005-04:00

You can tell it's March, the Spring Bulb show is at Smith College.

sweet tooth

2008-03-04T09:53:00.006-05:00

birthday cupcake madness.

old fashioned peppermint candies

mocha toffee crunch ice cream cake, made by little ol' me

heart of gold, sugary teeth destroyers

artist statement , take two.

2008-03-01T02:16:00.004-05:00

This whole artist statement thing, had me feeling self conscious. Then life got in the way.I've been too busy over the last couple days to fret about it. And that was due Friday.I kind of forgot about it.
I was lending my convalescing friend some much needed internet time,I have a connection, she does not.She surfed and answered email, while I ate breakfast.Later when she went home and I was about to turn into bed,I realized, aak! I can't sleep yet, I have to email off my statement,that I haven't written, yet!!
I had this little gem tucked in the back corner Of Word, and I'm so happy I found it. I neatened it up, finished my sentences, punctuated too.

Often I feel with printmaking, as if I am being let in on some wonderful secret, like a prize or a treasure, and how can you adequately describe that.
When I create a piece, it’s usually rooted in something personal, something related to me; it’s also fixed on whatever technique I am using at that point in time.
I find myself looking at everyday things, being in awe of their beauty, and immediately, thinking of how can I recreate this image through printmaking? How can I recreate that feeling again?
So often it is my love of a particular method that fuels the images I make.
From there it’s a forward process, in creating the block, to printing it.
With my relief prints, it’s often about the carving, what kind of curved line can I create.
I draw my images directly on the block or transfer them from photocopies of drawings I’ve made.
It’s just a matter of carving away the block, and sometimes adding cuts, not in the original drawing as I go along. This occurs depending on how fluid I can make them; the more effortless it is the more I spontaneously add to my original idea. It definitely is this immediacy that forms the image, and attracts me to the relief process as whole.

the lucky leap.

2008-02-29T12:52:00.003-05:00

I don't have a remote for my camera, so I did this by timer, this was my first attempt, and my only successful one the others I was preparing to jump or had just landed.
I was a little on the fence of posting it, but I said to myself "f*ck it,I'm gonna be brave and just do it. regardless of the bulges or my hot sexy Sorels(haha) and oh by the way it was 19 degrees out too!

I also love, Wilma in the background, thinking (again) what is that silly human doing, now?!?!

I figure I have 4years to either buy a remote, or perfect my timer jumping.
Cheers to a great leap year!

stalling techniques

2008-02-28T00:42:00.003-05:00

in an attempt to stall writing an artist statement, I will post distracting winter pictures instead.

artist statement

2008-02-26T23:30:00.002-05:00

I've been able to call my self an artist, specifically a printmaker for the last 5 years.Today, my show opened at the gallery, at Zea Mays Printmaking.I'm showing alongside two other artists, who are also members of Zea Mays.
I'm supposed to write a small artist statement, about what my art is saying, or why I create it as such, the thought of this makes me queasy. I'm nervous that I won't be able to come up with any good words to describe what makes me tick, as an artist.

I remember printing at the studio for the first time, feeling like a novice, but not in a bad way. They had knowledge and experience behind their printmaking, and they were generous to share it.I absorbed it like a little sponge.Beside finding my style,I also got over my big bad self and realized, I am artist, and it's okay to utter the "a" word.In the past I had always , known I was artistic, but I am nurse, who took an occasional art class.Now, I am a printmaker, and a nurse.

So back to the initial statement, about the queasiness I get about writing about myself as an artist.How to describe, what inspires me to make an image. Nature inspires me, it's the repetitive patterns that occur out of necessity, not just because they look good.I find that awe inspiring for me. It's not just me that is inspired this way, storytellers, are inspired by nature too. And that's the second part of it. I have been told by people, my prints remind them of folk art. I keep an eye out for everything , how people present images, how a kernel of that must works it's way into my visual memories. I draw a fish, it's part realistic, part fantastic, part Dr. Seuss. It's my version of a fish, and somewhere in that, is a memory of a feeling, that I present, how it makes me feel, which i hope make you feel something too.

Not sure if this can be considered an artist statement, but I consider it a first draft.
I think I will sleep on it, and consider this again tomorrow.

pulling the print

2008-01-30T13:16:00.001-05:00

pulling the print |28, originally uploaded by ms.Tea.

I have a show coming up , toward the end of February with 2 other artist, so I'm thankful the ideas have been flowing.

wintery

2008-01-24T09:44:00.001-05:00

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

2008-01-21T16:00:00.001-05:00

"A nation that continues year after year to spend more money on military defense than on programs of social uplift is approaching spiritual death."

Martin Luther King,Jr.

"I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal."

I have a Dream

the text of the speech

the Family of Driver

2008-01-17T09:44:00.000-05:00

I don't claim to be the best driver (though I am) But these are a few things that cause me to grind my teeth during the daylight hours,while driving, and frankly my dentist would like me to stop.

1. the Non Directional user- you know this person, they can't make that long reach to turn on their directionals.But they can stop suddenly in traffic, and wait and hold up a line of cars behind them, but they can't(can NOT) turn on that directional. How they can ever turn their steering wheel enough, to actually make that turn, is surprising, but they do, albeit slowly.

2.the Tailgater aka the Headlight Blaster- this person is a wimp, most likely makes passive aggressive snarky remarks, but is too weak willed to pass you, or shut off their high beams, or fog lights. The follow behind you closely, like somehow that will help them save gas, or maybe it gives them time to talk on their cell phone,with out having to look at the road. They also feel they are doing a public service, by lighting up the back of your head, and the inside of your car, to enable you to see better.

3.the Wimpy pull out driver- this person has no patience. They are the person, who has either pulled out across your lane of traffic, waiting to get in the other lane going the opposite direction, and they don't care that they are blocking your way.They are sick of waiting, that's it, they've had enough, they're going whether you are coming or not. They have also been know to pull the nose end of their car out in traffic, so you and the other 50 cars behind you, have to deliberately drive around. Evidently they have never been hit, while performing this maneuver, because if they were, they'd find out quickly, that Insurance companies call this "failure to stop", and it'll make them responsible for the damages incurred on their car and yours.

4.the Premature pull out driver- is a close cousin to the wimpy one in #3.They have been known to pull out suddenly in front of you, when your the only car on the road, and then drive extremely slow in front of you. I believe these people can't see, perhaps they are sightless, like underground moles, or maybe it when the invisibility shield on my car decides to work, nonetheless they pull out and you actually have to brake for them to complete this maneuver, that they are so talented at.

5. the Snow driver- this person has many of the above ailments, but they all occur when it snows. The snow can turn the average driver into an impulsive idiot. This person can't drive in the snow, their car isn't prepared for it, and they have no snow driving skills. They either drive too slow, or much too fast. They must pull out in front of you suddenly, because braking in the snow and ice is something they have no concept, and they're a little misinformed about the laws of momentum and inertia. They also usually don't clear of their cars of snow, or their windshields, except on the driver side so they can see, damn it. They are usually heading to a supermarket, or to Dunkin' Donuts, and that's important and worth risking your life for.

6. the Red light yeller- this person, drives too slow in the snow often, or too slow period.They get highly offended, when the street, turns from single lane to double, and you have the nerve to drive in the other lane, no longer following them, or you drive faster then them,when you pull in the other lane. They tend to come out in snowy weather, driving 15 m.p.h.At the stop light they will exert the energy, to open their window, to yell at your closed window, but won't put that energy into pressing on the gas pedal, or using their directionals.

I'm sure there are other species in this family of drivers, but this is the variety, that I curse silently under my breath, and through my gritted teeth.

Fifty things about my husband

2008-01-12T17:53:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was my husband's 50th birthday. I would have loved to have this posted then, but life gets in the way. Besides I was baking him a cake, a birthday fruit cake. Hey what can I say he likes fruit cake.So with out further ado Fifty things about my man.

50.He likes fruitcake, really likes it. Bemoans the fact, he can't find it anymore, like he used to be able to.

49. He is very much my partner in this marriage, it's very 50-50 with him.We split the parenting equally, as much as we split everything else.You know the else: laundry, cleaning the bathroom, we have two so we each take one. He does the cooking more and more, now that I am in the studio twice a week.

48.He makes the best chili, and the best hamburgers too.

47.He makes me laugh everyday.

46. He can fix anything,which I wouldn't trade for anything.

45. He does his Christmas shopping ,at the last minute,every year like it's a brand new holiday he has never heard of before, and didn't realize he need a gift for.

44.Comes home for lunch everyday, he loves to be able to squirrel away in front of the computer, read the latest headlines, and his favorite blogs and gets slightly annoyed when I happen to want to talk to him at that time.

43.Is the king of finding the best deals on Craiglist, he's bought two sailboats,two flat files for me, and our newest member of our family Mr. Bowflex.

42.Is a Capricorn, and procrastinates worse then I ever do.

41.Washes the dishes, granted it's the stuff we can't put in the dishwasher, but he does it.

40.Is a Republican, and loves me even though I am a Democrat, and same for me. He's one of these more liberal people caring Republicans, we both believe in same sex marriage, etc.

39. He sings but horribly off key, which makes it all the more charming.

38. He's a great short order cook, and loves to do a large percentage of the cooking when we go camping. We have a mega huge cook stove, and he makes the best homefries on it.

37.Empties the dishwasher, but doesn't like to close the door completely after, so that clean light stay on, which makes me think, there are still clean dishes in it when there are not.

36.He is patient with my need to complicate things.

35.He drives like an old man, which to that he will tell you I drive with a lead foot.

34.He bought me my first digital camera.

33.He is able to buy groceries , and have it actually be the things on the list.

32.Laughs hysterically at evil, but funny grossness of South Park.

31.He watches The Simpsons faithfully.

30.He eats the same thing for lunch everyday, well he has two choices, either ham and cheese or hot dogs, fried to brown crispiness.

29.Is very supportive, of me, our son, and the weird decisions we sometimes make, or the weird things we do.

28.He is an expert cat holder.You know you need to give the family cat medicine, but they are too wily to just take it, hidden in hamburger like the dog. So you need a cat holder, maybe wrassler would be a better term, so the ill feline can get her medicine.Without destroying any of the fingers of the med giver.

27. He thinks capri pants are the biggest joke on women everywhere, unless you have legs that are skinny and long, he thinks they make your legs look fat and short, and after listening to his reasoning, you know ladies it does.

26.His favorite movies are Casablanca, The African Queen, and Barbarosa.

25.His favorite shows on the food network, are Good Eats, ans the Ace of Cakes, he has a not so secret crush on Mary Alice, the receptionist of Charm City Cakes.

24.Bakes a mean Cornbread, no wimpy pan he uses a cast iron skillet.

23.Has been a good mentor to other oil Burner technicians where he works, explains things simply but completely. I've seen him talk to one of my friend's husband when they had furnace problems, so well that they were warm and snugly on bitterly cold night, last January.

22. He is a good sailor, and spends his free time reading about all things sailing.

21.He is very loyal.

20. He is also very stubborn, but will change his ways when he's shown the error of them.

19. He is trying to quit smoking.

18.He loves to putter around, whether it's cutting up the fallen trees, in our woods,or doing finishing work around the house, he can spend his whole day doing that.

17.He never nags about things.... never.

16.He is a reluctant traveler, he really is a homebody. But with much gentle nudging on my part,he is taking a family trip to Amsterdam this summer.I think it's because we are staying on a houseboat, but shh don't tell him I know that.

15.He is the best reader of kids books ever, I have fond memories of him reading to our son, especially from Dr.Suess, and Roald Dahl.

14.He taught me how to play cribbage, when we were first dating.And admittedly I was quite a sore loser, until I figured out the game. How he didn't burst out laughing at me as i pout through my beginner loses, is a testament to his teaching abilities, or his ability to love me when I'm being a brat.

13.He doesn't drink milk, he has it on his cereal but he won't drink it, it goes down the sink drain.

12.He brushes his teeth after supper, every night, except maybe when we're camping.

11.He gives his opinion when asked, but doesn't get upset if you don't take it.

10.He was in awe of our son from the day he saw him on the ultrasound screen, and has always been one of his strongest supporters.

9.Is a smart aleck, you know the kind you laugh with even though they are giving you a ration.

8.Has a good poker face, and will let me know after I've had to steer the sailboat, into our slip, how nervous he was, but how proud he is of me for not crashing the boat.

7.He loves hosting the family get togethers as much as I do. We love it, but sometimes we wonder why, after they've gone home, when we are by ourselves,giggling at some of the things that were said and done by them.

6.He is one of the nicest men,I've ever met.

5.He walks the dog, as much as he'll tell you our dog Wilma is a dope, he secretly loves her, and spoils her with dog biscuits.

4.He often does the opposite of what I ask, but I do too, so it makes us perfectly matched.

3.He can read a map, though he may not necessarily follow the directions he can read from it.

2.He loves his families (mine and his)even if he likes his peace and quiet.

1.He's my BFF, he gets me, laughs at my jokes, and listens to my disappointments, that I can only share with a BFF.He knew before I did that we would be together,and I thank my lucky stars that he had the patience to let me come to my senses, and find that out too.

funny

2008-01-10T08:21:00.000-05:00

Where my studio is located, where I continue my self education of printmaking.
Is also the studio of Hilary B. Price , who has a funny website Rhymes with Orange and a new equally funny book called Pithy,Seedy,Pulpy,Juicy.
We were reading it at the studio, laughing out loud. She has a way of capturing the humor of everyday which is hilarious. I suggest you run,not walk and buy this book.*
You will be laughing at the register as you buy it, because you know you will be thumbing through it. And if you do mail order, your box will be mysteriously not damaged but retaped because the UPS or the Fedex driver will have opened the box to read it and laugh hysterically too. I'm telling you it's that funny.

*this may also be a presumptive review of the book as, I read half of it,and was blinded by the tears I had from laughing, so I'm buying one today, when I go back to the studio.

happy birthday

2008-01-02T22:11:00.001-05:00

yes it's my birthday. I am officially 45 years old. I wouldn't trade it for anything, I like getting older, I'm more comfortable in my own skin at this age, finally.

I notice as I get older, I am looking more like my Nana, I have her cheeks, her teeth. I'm sure i will turn completely grey like she did. But I'm taller than her, and I don't smoke, and I wash my cast iron skillet, after each use, unlike her, who left it "seasoned", as a kid it gave me the heebies, when she would offer to cook me eggs in that pan. She loved me fiercely and laughed at my jokes, and spoiled me just like a good Nana should. She also taught me how to shop for fresh produce, one of her jobs as a single mom was working at a produce stand,I know what to look for when I buy strawberries, and melons, and especially cherries. I remember picking out the fruit she would buy, and her being happy with my decisions. I felt pretty smart, accomplished, as a young girl learning that.

Thank you Nana.xxoo

After the holidaze

2007-12-28T10:11:00.000-05:00

It's over,Christmas is over, I have two large trash bags full of just wrapping paper!It was amazing and exhausting,do I find it depressing? No!
I'm a little baffled by the post holiday Christmas blues, but that's said more out have never experiencing it, then incredulous outrage at the thought.

Our family gatherings were split and separate this year, His family on Christmas Eve, mine the day after Christmas, and Christmas we spent at his sister's, lots of fun, lots of good food,and a nice pinot noir.

I served a spinach lasagna, and italian meatballs, and garlic bread, plus a table full of things to munch on; nuts, cheeses,chocolate graham bunnies. On Christmas Eve we tracked Santa via NORAD ,yes that's right, Virginia... NORAD! Who knew that the North American Aerospace Defense Command, also kept track of Santa. If you've ever believed in St.Nick, or have kids that believe in him,this is a lot of fun, especially if you have a partner to view it with, like say my 4 year old nephew, who was so happy and excited, and dropped the greeting" Feliz Navidad", often.
I received some really nice presents, a blooming Christmas cactus was one of them, and one of those easy to use corkscrews, no more pieces of cork to spit out.

On Christmas day we opened our presents, My husband still thinks I wear post earrings, which i haven't in a decade, luckily no feelings were hurt. I find with work , and having to wear a mask that posts get caught, or torn out, and french wires, may be removed just as easy, but no one looses an earlobe over it.
I received a great iPod docking receiver, my son and I both own iPods, and we can put either one in it, it'll be nice for up in my home studio. To crank those playlists.We also had our annual cinnamon rolls. Don't be too impressed , they are the Pillsbury kind, that come with the little can of frosting, but they're a fun Christmas memory.Then in the afternoon, we went to his Sister's house, she had some good food, and snacks to nibble one, the pinot noir was flowing. It was another relaxed day, plus we had turkey.

On the 26th, my family came with lots of presents in hand,see above photo, my mother is a force to be reckoned with, and she buys everything you want and then some. My sister too, and myself we have learned well from my mother. It was kind of cool to see the amount of gifts, but oy! all that paper. We also got to meet Zoey the littlest puppy, too cute and fun, and my dog Wilma didn't mind her much, though when she got too close to her when she was eating, she gave her a growling little smile, that put the puppy in it's place. Of course there were also dog gifts as well as people gifts, Wilma received a squeaky raccoon, and Zoey received a squeaky pheasant, which was as big as her, but she attacked and gnawed at it happily.We had ( in the house that night, but it was a lot of fun.

And yesterday, finally it was over.
The tree is still up, and will stay up until New Year's Eve, I'll take it down on New Years Day, it's a safe activity, if you've had some fun, maybe too much fun on New Year's Eve.
All in all it was a very nice holiday.

happy holidaze

2007-12-25T08:48:00.001-05:00

Have yourself a Merry little Christmas.

zoey

2007-12-22T02:33:00.001-05:00

zoey, originally uploaded by ms.Tea.

this is my sister's puppy, zoey. this picture was also taken by my sister, I merely enhanced it a little.
Isn't she too damn cute!

christmas music

2007-12-19T22:42:00.001-05:00

There is a lovely group at Flickr, called my Monday music advice. I try to post to it, but sometimes I forget and miss my Monday post.
I guess when that occurs and I need a subject to write about , it'll be my Wednesday music advice, but I'll post it here.

So lets get down to it.

Christmas music can either numb you, with bland Muzk, where you're not exactly sure, what the song is because it sounds the same,as the one before.
Or it can fill your heart, bringing back good Christmas memories, the same way really food can.
Here are my recommendations for the Christmas season:

1."Christmas around the world" by Putamayo
this collection covers all the bases from"Joyuex Noel", to "White Christmas", to a wonderful Cuban influenced version of "Deck the Halls", and a awesome Cajun version of St. Nicholas. Everyone will like this from your Gram to your gothed out niece. It's just that good. People will be toe tapping and enjoying Christmas time traditionals, and you'll put this CD on the carousel, and play it for hours.Think of it as an international retelling of songs that you already now.We may all celebrate the holidays differently , but there are some things that unify us, and music is definitely one of those things, and this CD presents that beautifully.

2."Jazz to the World"
This jazz collection is great a wonderful glimpse at how well Jazz can enhance old Christmas standards, my favorite is a version of "Baby, it's cold outside" with Dianne Reeves and Lou Rawls, when ever I hear this song, it makes me want to look out the window and see the snow falling fast and heavy, plus it very playful, and flirty. Another favorite would be "Il est Ne, Le Divin Enfant" by Dr. John, this bluesy New Orleans based version is fun, and down and dirty, just like the holidays can be especially if you have that extra glass of pinot noir. I also want to curl up under my Christmas tree and listen to only Diana Krall singing "Have Yourself a Merry little Christmas", her version it's just sublime. Another favorite that'll make you stay there is Michael Franks version of "Let it Snow! Let it Snow!"

3.A Very Special Christmas 3
This is the third in the series of A Very Special Christmas Cd's. I own most of them, but this is one I put on often , In this this Cd, some unexpected artists, like the Smashing Pumpkins, and their song "Christmas Time", is beautiful, and timeless. Also Natalie Merchant singing "Children Go Where I Send Thee", maybe the only reason you need to buy this Cd, it's gorgeous rich and gives me the chills, this woman knows how to arrange a tune.
The other unexpected treasure in this collection is "Santa Baby" led by Rev Run and the Christmas All Stars, that include Mase, Puff Daddy, Snoop Doggy Dogg, Salt and Peppa, Onyx and Keith Murray, before you get all, " those are hip hop stars, I don't do hip hop", you need to just listen , and then I'm thinking you won't make that statement again. It has an infectious beat, and isn't it time to listen to another version of this fun song, that might even be a little naughty.Other highlights are Jonny Lang singing "Santa Claus Is back in Town" this is raucous, and flirty and bluesy, and might make you want to start dancing, or have Mommy doing more than kissing Santa Claus, if you know what I mean. (wink wink, nudge nudge)

All and all I hope this music just makes for a happy, stress free holiday for you and yours.

snow days

2007-12-16T05:32:00.000-05:00

Last Thursday ,we had a really good snow storm, well I guess the people that had to drive in it, maybe weren't so thrilled, but I was home it was my day off, and I was psyched!(translation excited.) My son was equally psyched, as he got released early from school, and they had a two hour delay the next day.

Then comes this weekend, and on Saturday night more of the white stuff arrived, except this time I was at work.Was I afraid to drive home in it? No, secretly it thrills me, what was not so thrilling, was that the city I work in and the surrounding towns, hadn't really thought that plowing should be their first prerogative. It was Sunday morning, maybe they hit the snooze one extra time, or had one more cup of the delicious coffee, before they went out and started clearing the roads, or maybe they thought who works on the weekends?

Me, I work on the weekends, and holidays, etc, and if you want me to get to my job safely, and take care of your sick loved one in the hospital, I have to be able to get there. Hospital's are open 24/7 they don't close down on holidays (wouldn't that be nice for me) they don't close on weekends, especially Friday nights, when college students feel the need to do one too many shots, and pass out cold, and then their frightened, but drunk friends, call the ambulance to bring them in. It also doesn't close during a snow storm , for those people that feel they need to climb a ladder to clear, the snow off their roof, and end up clearing themselves off too, into a bank of snow , bruised to a royal purpleness. No we're there to take care of you. How about returning the favor? So my one small request, clear the roads, when it's been snowing for the last 3 hours.

Did I get home that Sunday, of course. It puts another notch in my snow driving belt, I can now sign an affidavit, for the Subaru Forrester people, and tell my funny story how I drove home through mostly unplowed roads, in one of the lower drive gears, I didn't slip or get stuck. I did have some precarious drive and dodge moves where I had to avoid, people that were out in the snow and should not have been, but that'll be another charming post for some other time.

Do I have snow tires for my AWD Subaru, you betcha, but that's because they don't plow much at night either, just like on the weekends. When I had to return to work that night, and the big fat fluffy snow flakes were streaming before me, was I concerned, about the less than perfect visibility, No! Because the roads were plowed perfect, and after my drive in snowy cookie dough that morning, and few thousand snowflakes were nothing.

ps: to you snow plow drivers that were out before I was on the road Sunday morning, Thank you.

enlightened |day 104

2007-12-10T01:22:00.001-05:00

enlightened |day 104, originally uploaded by ms.Tea.

"A lovely thing about Christmas is that it's compulsory, like a thunderstorm, and we all go through it together."
-- Garrison Keillor

my perfect tree

2007-12-09T02:19:00.001-05:00

, originally uploaded by ms.Tea.

I know your saying to yourself, "no, i have the perfect Christmas tree", but I'm sorry that's not true. I have the most perfect tree, full of ornaments from the last 20 years.It's perfectly shaped, and fits in the room perfectly.
I'm all about the whimsical ornament, many are from Hallmark, with the little date mark showing. I also have an attraction to painted wooden ornaments.

One year my mother in law was getting rid of some ornaments she didn't want any more. I kept them and gave most of them to my sister, and kept the wooden ones for me. They're the ornaments i hang low on the tree, that are unbreakable. I know that's something my Mom did,but she had a lot of glass ornaments, where I have very few, mostly unbreakable, but i still hang the wooden ornaments at the bottom for the little ones in our family.

This tree is also perfect, because it's little branches can handle all different sized and weighted ornaments.Those little resin figures may seem cute, but they are sold and heavy, and not all trees can handle that.The hard thing with that is, if the branches are going to be strong most likely the needles will be pinprick sharp...and these are. So who ever said you can't put lights on the tree in leather garden gloves?

Lastly the scent, is divine.no matter how hard Yankee Candle may try they can never truly capture this rich pine scent, never.