Every Woman Has Her Chair

My Letterman ~ John Patrick Cline

2012-01-29T20:05:00.000-08:00

I met him my first year in high school, and he is still a part of my daily life. When I put together my Omega Project he was one of my "Fab 6". Late night walks on Mt. Tabor in the snow, Raggedy Ann dolls, Dad Floyd, a 56 Chevy and secrets.

Thank you JP for the present today ~ I am putting it (and you) in reserve.

Pay It Forward

2012-01-25T01:11:00.000-08:00

At the start of the new year, my niece Lindsay posted this on Facebook:

Pay it Forward 2012: I promise to send something handmade to the first 5 people who leave a comment here.

The rules:
1. You must send me your address at some point in the next 11.5 months.
2. You must post this on your page and send something YOU make to the first 5 people who comment on your status. This item MUST be handmade by you, ............and it MUST be sent sometime in 2012.

I copied and pasted it onto my Facebook and by the end of the day there were 13 peeps that had left a comment.

I decided to make necklaces,

valentine tags,

a couple of my new moo cards,

and a mail art envelope to let each know how marvelous they truly are.

Such a fun, fun way to start off 2012 with a little art and a reminder to always try to Pay It Forward!

She Gets Me

2012-01-16T23:29:00.000-08:00

On Christmas morning I unwrapped my gift from Kristi. The words were brief and simple. "My gift to you is time spent with me ~ along with snacks and art!"

The date was set, but I still had no idea as to what and where I was going. She picked me up and as we drove many thoughts and guesses were racing through my head.

We arrived at a two story building and she brought out a very large picnic basket.

We were at The Loaded Brush for a night of art and wonderful snacks. The basket was filled with the best cheeses and breads, fruit and wine.

For the next two hours, Kristi and I would be guided by Aaron in painting our masterpieces of Mt. Hood along with ten other artists.

My masterpiece is complete and I am in love with it. But I have to say that I am in "bigger" love with that little girl carrying a basket full of my favorites and knowing what makes a perfect date night for me.

Thanks for always "getting" me Kristi Bryan....

A Tea Party With Penguins

2012-01-01T22:47:00.000-08:00

When I first retired in 2007, the very first classes I started taking at collage were card making classes among various others (yes, the infamous itty bitties taught by Dayna Collins). In those classes I was blessed to meet a lady with the most infectious laugh and love for life. Her name is Tawny and we always seem to bump into each other around town throughout the years.

One of our last bumps last year lead to an invite from her to a summer tea party at her home. (When I had bumped into her that time she asked for my address. I went to give her my email or facebook and she quickly told me that she only does snail mail....pitter pat went my heart....how cool is that?) The party's consist of a theme, a collaborative mix of foods from the guests, a craft, a white elephant exchange and of course...tea!

A couple of week ago I received a snail mail invite for another tea party for January 1st from Tawny and her friend Robin. I quickly RSVP and ask if it would be okay if I brought a friend. "Of course, we love friends!", so I called Gina to see if she would like to attend.

This party's theme was "animal", real or fictitious. I asked Gina if she would like to be a penguin with me (without our harmonica's!).

Robin's home is a collectors delight....

The food was the yummiest....

The craft was beaded bookmarks....

Tawny's costume was spectacular....

As were everyone else's....

And the white elephant coming home with me (which I secretly adore)....

Such a great afternoon, welcoming the first day of the new year, spent with 26 gorgeous funny ladies. And next summer's tea party theme is......PROM! Seven months to find that all so perfect dress ~ I am giddy with delight!

A Book About Death

2012-01-01T18:42:00.000-08:00

In November I received a message from Michael Harford. In it he said that if I was up in the Seattle area to stop in and see the exhibition A Book About Death at the Quetzalcoatl Gallery. I soon found out that in addition to his wonderful submission; there were also submissions by others that I knew.

A wonderful train ride up (now one of my 8 favorite loves of 2011), plus one taxi ride and we were at the gallery. The gracious Kathleen McHugh and Al met us at the door and introduced us to the owner Almendra Sandoval.

And soon we were in, seeing all the great submissions of Michael, Kathleen, Sonja, Nikki, Michele and Lorenzo and all of the others.....

I leave knowing that I have met a kindred spirit in Kathleen. And leaving I also know that I will be visiting my two favorite stores in Seattle before climbing back on the train to Portland....

sitting next to a very handsome man, drinking white wine and eating the best dang mac 'n cheese!

Thank you Michael for suggesting that trip up to Seattle and thank you Kathleen for being so welcoming.

Back home I receive in the mail a fantastic Christmas CD from Michael along with his and Lisa's art books to add too, which I will do after the first of the New Year.

2012 is going to be a fantabulous year!!!!

Paint Nights With Master Po

2011-11-26T22:06:00.000-08:00

A couple of months ago I emailed Destree and asked if she would be willing to meet with me once a month, to show me art techniques that she knows and that I admire, ..... and she said yes! So once a month, we meet..... for an evening of me being "Grasshopper" and she being "Master Po".

The first month was brushes and paints and eyes and eyelashes! (I'm not quite ready to share that one yet :)

This month was blending and contrasting and the wondermous STABILO! We decided to do our hands (still being a work in progress)!

She had also ask that I bring my canvas of ME that she had sketched back in April. Before I could leave our painting session she said that I needed to add a splash. A splash of anything...I just needed to begin. And so I did......

Thank you Master Po.....

..... you were right. I was ready, I just didn't know it!

A Weekend of Artful Play

2011-11-14T00:16:00.000-08:00

About a month ago Dayna invited me to be her guest at a weekend retreat that she and her Portland Art Collective group go on each year at Menucha.

Already giddy with excitement I knew the weekend was going to be the best ever when I turned to drive in. My love of trees and art and a room full of inspiring women...

It was also Dayna's birthday and I think she loved her presents!!

And we all got our fortunes!

A room full of artful women, each creating such wondermous things, each so embracing and inspiring and funny.

A couple of the ladies taught classes - Tory taught us how to felt soap.

But the greatest part of the entire weekend, even after working on my art projects.....

.....and sitting across from this adorable lady every day

was that she made me pinkie swear two things. One....I can NOT tell anyone what her pajammies look like and Two....that I could no longer refer to her as my teacher, I could only refer to her as my friend.

Thank you Dayna for inviting me to one of the best weekends ever. And thank you for being my friend!

A Boat Load of Caribbean Goodies

2011-11-05T10:09:00.000-07:00

It's been a month since I went aboard the Freedom of the Seas to bask in the sun and do art with Tim Holtz. I have just now finished putting away the mammoth amount of art supplies given to each participant. Each class would yield more and more until I was at the point of being totally overwhelmed.

Upon arriving in Florida, there was a four hour wait to pick up our luggage due to lightening. It's always so laughable that when you are going somewhere fun, there's pretty much nothing that can bring a frown.

Once on board, we found where the classes were to be held, our room and met our dining mates (and women I would be sitting with in class) and of course, the infamous Tim Holtz!

Our Ports of Call included CocoCay, Bahamas

St. Thomas

And the best time ever on St. Maarten

Meeting wonderful fun people......

.....and the cutest newlywed couple ever ~ who now have my Angel and know its story.

And of course, no trip is complete without meeting my "Hot Guy" (and this one definitely was!)!!!!

A week after getting home I received in the mail a beautiful acrylic book made by Brenda, my art buddy that I sat by each day, the one who took me under her wing and showed me what to do.

Thank you Brenda for making my trip so much more enjoyable, for my beautiful book and for your friendship!

Leap and the Net will Appear

2011-10-30T01:28:00.000-07:00

I love the word Serendipity and I love it even more when it comes into my life.

Earlier this year there was a small group of people that began a Gluebook group. I was an observer during round one and am participating in round two (it's just in the process of finishing up-but that's another blog post).

The creator and host of the group is Corinne Marie who is so incredibly talented. Equal to her talent is her gift of being this fantastic cheerleader to all, along with her openness to share what she knows. She was the one that suggested the Tiny Book Swap to me, which lead me to the wonderful Catherine Mommsen. She is definitely a gatherer of people and one of the most gracious and inspirational artists I know.

A month ago she created a new group ~ Creative Round Robin Books and asked if I wanted to join. Pitter pat pitter pat goes my heart....of course!

The theme for my book and title is "Leap and the Net will Appear", a quote from Julia Cameron. I have so many ideas swirling around in my head for 2012 ~ I just know it will be a great year. Some of the ideas are a bit big and some a little scary. I am eager for December 31, 2011 midnight to arrive, to be bold and to take that leap.

Here are the beginning pages of my book that will be sent on to four amazing artists.

I'm excited to see what the others will create in it and look forward to its return home just as 2012 begins. Thank you Cori for doing what you do, for being so welcoming and encouraging. And thank you for letting me be a part of your very artful group.

ReUsed Plastic Fun!

2011-10-12T22:24:00.000-07:00

I received an email from Paul Perry a couple of months ago. He was forwarding a possible art project/fundraiser called the International Plastic Quilt Project that he thought I might be interested in doing. He also mentioned that maybe Annette Lansing and Cat Zimmerman might want to join in as well.

That week in clay class after the other students had left, I brought up the project ~ the four of us were in! Our task was to create squares (preferably 12x12) made of nothing but plastic (thread could be added if needed). I suggested that we do transfer images via packing tape. The next week we all showed up with our stacks of favorites pictures and began to group them together.

Once grouped, I signed up to piece them together. Cat signed up to quilt them to their backing of bubble wrap and various used plastic bags. Electrical tape was added to edge them and Annette added grommets for easy hanging. They turned out spectacular!!

In addition to the measurements and use of plastic, each one had to incorporate the word "PLENTY".

The first one we titled "Plenty of Europe"....

The second one we called "Plenty of Nature"....

The third one we called "Plenty of Eyes"....

And ending with "Plenty of Creatures"....

Thank you Paul for your vision of what could be ~ such a great collaboration of Professors, Teachers, Mentors and Students from the Gerontology Program.

The fundraiser is going to be on November 4th at 100th Monkey Studios (which is located at 110 SE 16th Avenue, Portland). Hope to see you there!!!!

ClayMEtion

2011-09-11T08:08:00.000-07:00

Another session of clay handbuilding has ended. I never would have thought that I would love getting that slab of clay each Friday, but I do.

Part of the reason that I love this class is that I feel safe. Annette Lansing clearly teaches and shows that beautiful creations are in the eyes of the beholder ~ there is greatness even in mess-ups! And she says it's alright to steal, especially anything of hers (she takes it as a huge compliment!).

The class began with masks. One of ladies in class thought mine looked like Nicolas Cage (so know I have a drunk Cage and a sober Cage!).

My most favorite though would be my self portrait. I was excited and giddy the entire time of its coming to be. I love to hold her.

Shelby posed the question the day I brought "me" home, "Question: What is your perception of self portraiture in art? If you are an artist and you do or have done self portraiture what is your motivation/process. If you answer I will do my best to put my ideas into words as well."

I loved Destree's reply, "Self portraits to me are a way of working from the inside out. Sometimes it has been a way to sort through an issue (such as the one I did to quit smoking) or also as a way of manifesting secret desires. Visual work is easier for me to be real with, words have a tendency to choke when they are coming from deep within me."

Making "me" felt very therapeutic (especially when I had to explain to the class why she is my favorite piece that I made).

Thank you again Annette for another great session. You are a fabulous teacher and I am quite eager for Paul to slice me my next slab of clay!

The Pot Washer

2011-09-09T22:13:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time there was a pot washer on 4th & Alder. I would purposely miss my bus (several times) just so we could sit and talk and laugh. He was from Roosevelt and I was from Washington. Those evenings would become the roots of a lifelong friendship. There would be moments when he would take my breath away ~ moments filled with unexpected surprises and giddiness and the most beautiful watercolor paintings I have ever seen.

There are moments when he still does.....

I love remembering those evenings with that blond haired pot washer, giggles and missed buses.... and I love that he is my forever and always friend!

Margaritaville Bliss

2011-09-07T21:45:00.000-07:00

It came in the mail ~ a wonderful package from the incredibly talented artist Catherine Mommsen.

An envelope containing such wondermous goodies, words and an exquisite box holding one of her very much coveted tiny books!

As I had written before, she and I had participated in a tiny book swap. She emailed me and asked if I wanted to swap books after the swap if we did not receive each others in the swap. Mine were tiny origami books I had recently learned how to make. Hers were out of this world fantastically fabulous. (Of course I would swap!).

She named my book Margaritaville.

Each page is lined with gold ~ each page holds words and wonderful pieces of her paper, art and designs.

Along with her book making talent, Catherine is also a wonderful pen and ink artist!

AND (not that I'm partial) she's from the Northwest with plans to come visit (how great is that?!)!! I already have in mind two fun art places I want to take her to to see when she comes to Portland ~ thank you Catherine for asking to exchange with me and for sharing your art! I am so very privileged to have one of your tiny books!

I Heart Skinny Malinky

2011-08-27T20:20:00.000-07:00

I am blessed. I know this. Earlier this year two very close friends told me that I needed to "clear my path". I know they are right, but it is sometimes very hard for me to do. They have guaranteed me if I clear out the negative that positive will fill its' place.

A couple of months ago in my first clay class were two gentlemen, Stanley and Scott. I was intrigued as to who they were but I did not ask. Soon after the end of the class I started interning at the Neighborhood House Senior Center. I was given the task of being the "leader" for the Lunch of the Month group as one of my objectives. To my delight, Stanley and Scott had signed up to go. I sat with them - they soon learned about my journey into the Gerontology Program and I learned that Scott is a very accomplished artist and Stanley is a very accomplished author and playwright (he was also the very first male kindergarten teacher in California!). Stanley wrote down the title of his first book The War Between The Pitiful Teachers And The Splendid Kids. I asked him if he would autograph the book for me when I get it. He said he would only autograph it after I had finished reading it and had given him my thoughts about it. (Very humble I think to myself).

At lunch I also learn that Scott, who previously worked for the Getty family in California, restoring their artwork and displaying his own, was having an art showing of his works at SAID Interior Design in Multnomah.

What I love about these two is that neither one is boastful about themself. But as one leaves the table, the other one is quick to tell me how greatly talented the other one is.

I make a note to myself to find Stanley's book and to attend Scott's art show.

I found the book on Amazon and quickly ordered it (I actually ordered two!). It is simply wonderful! I hold on to each chapter, not wanting to read too quickly. I do not want it to end. The main character is a kid named Skinny Malinky and my heart has become quite smitten with him. Stanley has written a trilogy, one remains to be published.

I also attended Scott's art show. I asked Ann my "boss" from Neighborhood House and Cat my "brain professor", Stan and Al if they would like to go with me. The five of us head over to SAID Interior Design....his work is wonderful and breathtaking ~ Paintings and Panels and Mirrors!

A wondrous evening with Scott, Cat and Al.....

.....Stanley and Stan!

Sometime during the evening I pull Stanley aside and bring out his book. I ask him to autograph it (even though I am only half way through it). He is as excited to autograph it as I am to have him ~ I am his fan!

A week later I receive a package in the mail from Stanley; it was not expected and I am giddy with delight. It's an autographed copy of his book of poetry!

I see Scott and Stanley at the Neighborhood House along with Gabriella (three people who carry and bring passion to everyone around them). My internship has ended but I have signed up to be a volunteer.

I have consciously been clearing my path ~ and I love knowing and having Skinny Malinky in my life nowadays!

Mr "T" Necklace

2011-08-27T02:32:00.000-07:00

Oh dear blog....I have missed you!

Lunch with my Fav ~ We were cashing in on our lottery winnings! After we had ordered, he said he had something to show me. When he started to unbutton his shirt I thought...What the hey....

It was a Mister "T" necklace he had made from the daily notes I had sent to him during his 35 days of radiation treatment!!!! Pitter Pitter Pat Pat went my heart!!

A scrumptious lunch and a wonderful afternoon spent with my Fav. I love you Uncle Leon....always have....always will!

Ava's July Art Day

2011-07-19T22:54:00.000-07:00

Today I was blessed with getting to spend the day with Miss Ava Miranda.

After block building and block throwing and lunch of pasghetti and strawberry yogurt, we got down to some serious art creating.....

We then took a couple of walks through the neighborhood and settled down to a much needed nap.

It was a glorious and best day in a long time ever!!!!

I love you Miss Ava Miranda Randolph!

A Drunk Cage Clay Creation

2011-07-13T10:03:00.000-07:00

After I took Annette Lansing's Beginning Clay Handbuilding class at the Multnomah Art Center I was kind of hooked. I love getting my hands dirty and I love the way she teaches the class (and I also love the fact that Paul is there as her assistant!). After "passing" the beginning class, I signed up to take her "intermediate" class.

Same teacher, same assistant but a new added feature....."CAT" my brain professor would also be taking it with me (I have also talked her into joining me in the International Collage Collaborative and The Sketchbook Project)! We had our places right next to each other and only got threatened once to be put at opposite ends of the classroom (okay, maybe more than once) for excessive talking and laughing.

Each week we would learn new techniques - from making chachki's to bowls to facial masks.

Kristi thinks my mask looks like a drunk Nicholas Cage from Leaving Las Vegas!

I never would have thought that I could have made a face - I love it (and Kristi wants to steal it) as well as my tiny three legged vessel!

I signed up yesterday for Annette's next clay class. A quick email to Paul and he will be there as well! Can't wait to see what we will be creating next and who I'll be getting dirty with.

In the Mean Time ~ Sharing The Artist's Way and Jesse Reno

2011-07-07T09:32:00.000-07:00

An evite came from Dayna last month to join she and Howard on their "yacht" (they call it a boat but it's an awfully HUGE boat!) on the 4th of July on the waterfront. I have been invited before but have always been out of town. I was very, very excited to be in town this year and be able to attend.

In the mean time, after I had received Dayna's invite, I got an email from Catherine who lives in the Washington DC area. She is an artist who participated in the Tiny Book Exchange that I participated in earlier. She is a lover of the Northwest, having previously lived here. We exchanged emails and agreed to swap books with each other if we did not receive them in the swap. Her book creations/submissions are spectacular and very unique (hers are one of my most favorite in the swap)and extremely coveted.

In the mean time, Catherine begins reading my blog and I tell her to be sure to check out Dayna's blog. She reads the one about Dayna taking a class given by Jesse Reno and tells me how much she admires his work (she as well is a fantastic pen and ink artist!). My brain begins to swirl because I know that Jesse Reno is going to be on Dayna's boat on the 4th....hmmmm.

In the mean time, I pack up a baggie filled with tiny black and white sheets that will fit into Catherine's book I am making her, black pens, white pens, acrylic and watercolor crayons (part of my brain swirl).

It's now the 4th and Stan and Kristi and I head down to the waterfront. The day is warm, the sun is out and we can hear the blues festival in the background.

In the mean time, I am on board and sitting with Destree. I tell her about "my baggie" and she shoots me one of her "You Go Girl" smiles (but advises me to lose the baggie!). I find Jesse and tell him my story about Catherine's love of his work and ask if he could possibly sketch/draw a couple of little pieces. He agrees to do it and my heart is skipping a beat. He comes and sits with us and not only draws one...but five, yes FIVE! I tell him how much I appreciate what he is doing and that a present with be forthcoming to him.

The rest of the afternoon is spent meeting people I have heard about. Kelly who just recently moved here from Wisconsin and has created the most funny, hilariously entertaining video blog ever!

Meeting and talking with the infamous "Gretchin" who once upon a time taught Dayna The Artist's Way so that she could teach so many of us.

Dayna would drive to Portland each week just as I would drive to Salem. I know Dayna understands what all she means to me and how instrumental she has been with me trying new adventures (maybe it's that drive we both made!).

In the meantime, Yoga Dawn shows up in time to watch the fireworks with us and Gretchin has glow necklaces and bracelets for all.

This has truly been one of my most favorite 4th of July's ~ seeing old friends and meeting new ones. I sent Catherine her five sketches yesterday (I already know she will be giddy with delight when she opens her package).

Thank you Dayna for the invite and for making the drive to Portland many years ago to take that class from Gretchin. My life is most definitely "not the same" since meeting you! And in the meantime..........

LK Art and LA Hot Guy(s)!!!!

2011-07-06T19:38:00.000-07:00

I saw it in Dayna's Studio. It was a piece she had created in a Lisa Kaus class. I googled her and found her other works of art and schedule of classes. Wanting to take one of her classes, I would always be off on the timing until.....

.....I see one scheduled for the end of June down in LA....YES! I immediately sign up for both days - two separate days of exciting classes. A couple of weeks before the trip I email Russ Stacey "Mr NBC" to see if he can get me quick Jay Leno tickets - a day later they are sent to me (how much do I love that!). The trip is set...two days of art and another one added to see Russ (and Jay!).

Day one is spent unpacking in our very retro room filled with huge chihuahua pictures (I loved waking up looking at him each morning~NOT!)....

....and then heading down the pathways to the glorious Manhattan Beach! The air and the sand and the sun felt fantastic (I have really been missing that sun thing!)!!!!

And nasturtiums (love you Andy) along the paths.

The next day was spent with Russ. Russ Stacy has got to be one of the nicest and most musically talented guys in the world! It started with a personal tour of NBC....

Touching the exact same spot Bob Hope touched 30 years ago....

And getting to be the news anchor woman and hang out with Fritz - the HOT LA Weather Man!!

Off to attend the Leno show, followed by margarita's with Russ and then a trip to Universal CityWalk for a water tube massage and chocolate Ice Cubes!

Day one of the art class was called "Gridlock", working with graphite, drills, dremels and wax. This was my created masterpiece! Tired from the all day class, a group of us decided to meet for happy hour. There I show Gary (the "real" hot guy of LA) my creation.

Day two was called "Color My World" (learning new painting techniques) yielded this masterpiece!

After two days I am artfully exhausted. I do not know how Dayna does a five day class. I am back showing Gary my second piece asking which one he thinks is "the best" and he chooses the cake one (and then I remember one of the Sketchbook artists' up in Seattle saying that art needs to be given away). With that, Gary is now the proud owner of the cake picture!

I kid him later on that evening when I got back from seeing a show and dinner about still having it and he showed me the picture he had posted of it on his Facebook with "rave" reviews! Hot and such a heart warmer!

A wonderful first trip of 2011. Sunshine, an old friend, new art, new friends and meeting and learning from a teacher who (I found out after talking with her at the end of the last class) lives just 10 blocks away from me in Portland.

Thank you Russ for being such a gracious host and thank you Gary for being such a gracious receiver of my cake!

She's My Oprah and I'm Her Gayle

2011-06-30T23:35:00.000-07:00

When I heard the date of the final Oprah show, I knew immediately who I wanted to watch it with. Thirty eight years ago, in the Pacific NW Bell Directory Assistance office, I met Gina. We were both 18 and we both had Pinto's! It was a friendship waiting to happen and it became sanctioned one evening when we decided to drive out to the tiny town of Estacada, to find some "real" men at the Safari Club. From that night on, our friendship would be cemented with secrets and truths. She is always up to participate in my silly shenanigans and when I do things "I shouldn't do" she still loves me.

She said to come over ~ that she would make us happy hour hor d'oeuvres. She's one of the best cooks I know. I made face signs so that Tom, Gayle, Stedman and John could join us.

I arrived and true to form, she had outdone herself yet again. Hummus and Pita Bread, Veggies and Cheeses and the best Pickled Green Beans I have ever had!

We fix our yummy plates and she pours our champagne. We are set and settled in to watch Oprah's farewell.

It was the perfect way to spend the afternoon. She truly is my Oprah. She knows so much and is always the first person I call when I need to know something about anything. Her memory is impeccable. And on top of that, she has this keen sense of knowing what to ask me to get me back on my path again.

The show is over and she gives me that last part of my birthday gift. She knows that I love to receive mail and also that I love white wine. So how great is this?

The next weekend Stan and I along with Gina and Don and "Slick" Vic decide to visit Mary Olson's Airlie Winery. (She's one of the Vice President's I used to do budgets for; she is for sure one of the greatest to ever work for!).

We finish the day with a quick stop at the Dairy Queen by the winery.

It's like I spent the day with Oprah, Stedman, Tom and John. Wine, soft ice cream, french fries and great friends. Bliss!

Tiny Books From Gigantic Talent

2011-06-30T22:02:00.000-07:00

The "Tiny Book Swap" that was hosted by Lenna Andrews has come to an end.
Today I received four magnificent tiny books from four very talented women.

One came from Donna, that was beautifully wrapped with a pearl stickpin.

Each page so colorful and the last one had the famous Fortune Telling Fish tucked inside!

Next I opened the book that Kiki created. I soon learn that she lives close by in Salem and that we both have taken classes at the same place and we both know the infamous Dayna Collins! Every page of Kiki's book has a tiny pocket with a secret tag in each!

The third tiny book came from Linda in Pennsylvania. Filled with wonderful quotes - there is one secretly tucked away which has my 2011 word...."JOY" in it! The colors and art she chose and did are fabulous!

And then I open the last one. Oh my.....it's Corinne's book. She is the person that told me about the book swap. Her art is amazing; everything she creates is so unique and awe-inspiring.

Such wonderfully talented and creative woman - they are true inspirations! How lucky I am to have received theirs!

Thank you Donna, Kiki, Linda and Corinne!!!!

My FAV

2011-06-20T22:30:00.000-07:00

My Uncle Leon finished his 35 days of radiation last week. Each day from the start I would send him an envelope via snail mail with inspirational cheer leading thoughts and a lottery ticket. The idea behind the lottery tickets was that we would take our huge winnings and go to lunch at the end of the radiation treatments. Half way through I decided that I needed to beef up the # of tickets unless we wanted Burger King. His last envelope contained all of the by now "usuals" but I also included a book I had made for him about why he is the best ever.

As I sat there thinking what it is that makes him so great and special to me, the first thing that popped into my head was that he is a man of his word; if he says he'll be there-he's there, if he says he likes it-he likes it. I cherish and admire that quality in his being.

A couple of days ago I had a conversation with my "brain" professor. I was telling her how much I dislike flakes; pretty much any kind of flakes but particularly people flakes. Our conversation reminded me about my uncle who has never been a flake in my life. I have always known where he stands on issues and if he says he will be there, he's there.

He's a fantastic listener and very good-looking - we call each other "fav". He is a true inspiration and I truly do love him. It looks like lunch might just be Burger King. What's great about that is that neither one of us will care; it's the company we keep that truly matters (and even though it's Burger King, I'll know he'll still show up!).

I love you Fav!

A Serendipitous Saturday of Sketchbooks

2011-06-13T05:54:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I took the train up to Seattle to see Nikki's Sketchbook that she had submitted for the traveling Sketchbook Project.

I was suppose to meet up with a couple of people - Helen who is another participating artist from the Collage Collaborative group I am in and Jamie who was my budget work buddy twenty years ago. I had to get up at 5am (which still is not my favorite hour of the day). While on the train I read the messages that Helen was going on Sunday instead of today and Jamie had to go in to work...BLEGH! Oh well.... I would see what the day still had to offer (and what a fabulous offer it had!).

Taking off from Portland....

.... I got to Seattle and took a cab downtown to the Form/Space Atelier building. I had been told ahead of time by Helen that space was tight - that you would be sitting on a flight of stairs or outside on the sidewalk.

As serendipitous luck would have it I am standing next in line to a person named Keri. We start up an easy conversation about the books. She hands me her business card and my first glance sees "alzheimer's" in big bold letters. I tell her I am in school getting a degree in Gerontology. We are soon exchanging work ideas and art class ideas (of course I had to tell her about Dayna!).

When you first get there, you get a "library card" which allows you to check out two books at a time. They get and find the books for you (since there are over 10,000 books). They suggest I get Nikki's first and another one from her themed section "the view from up here". Keri checks out her first two and we head outside. Heaven....I get to see and touch Nikki's work (I almost felt like I was getting to spend the afternoon with her!).

Back inside for another round of check-outs, the person helping us in none other than the projects' creator Shane Zucker!

And did I tell you that Keri likes to get her picture taken as much as I do! It felt as if I was hanging out with mini-me....how great is that?!

Next up I check out Helen's wonderful book.

The rest of the afternoon is spent looking at other books and meeting a couple of their creators. The turtle by Latrice Smith was painted using tea bags and the black and white bicycle was made using duct tape.

The afternoon is over and I catch a taxi back to the train station (but first I stop at my all time favorite store in Seattle to get a wonderful bag of bibbles and bobbles to take back home!).

The train trip back to Portland gave me time to reflect on the day just spent. Always a believer in serendipity, had Jamie and Helen not cancelled out I wonder if I would have met Keri. Had I not met Nikki, I would not have known about this amazing project.

The sun was shining on the trip home and its warmth felt so good.

I ordered their Mac 'n Cheese (it's truly one of the best I have ever had) and a glass of wine and settle back in for a quiet time of reflection (and a much needed nap). From a day starting with a blegh ~ it comes to an end with an abundant feeling of gratitude.

I look forward to doing the Sketchbook Project this coming year and hopefully getting to see Keri when the project travels to Portland (it's one of their scheduled stops in 2012). Hopefully Nikki will submit another book so I can spend the afternoon with her again! Thank you Nikki Soppelsa for submitting your "the view from up here" sketchbook to be shared with new found friends ~ it was a great afternoon!

An Art Day With Ava

2011-06-12T19:05:00.000-07:00

Pitter Pat...Pitter Pat, so goes my heart when I get to watch Ava. We had breakfast and lunch and played outside and.... we did ART! Best day of the year ever.....

.....and she still has my heart!

Take My Funk Away Doughnut Man

2011-05-30T23:06:00.000-07:00

A little over a month ago I was out in my yard playing in the dirt. The sun was out for one of its first times of the year. It felt wonderful - I can't remember feeling that good in a long time. School and homework have taken precedence over digging my hands in the dirt for well over a year, in fact, I think it has taken precedence over everything in my life. While digging and pulling I realized something else. I think....I've been in a funk! Way too much focus and time on school and little else.

As a true believer in serendipity, that weekend I read about TEDx on Paul's facebook page. I sent him an email and asked what it was about and soon had tickets for Kristi and myself.

As we arrived we were given gift bags and a wide array of goodies to eat. I had my very first Sin Dog (Lord have Mercy!) and my very first Voodoo doughnut, a vegan maple bar (made with banana instead of butter)!

Mid-break we went outside to enjoy the sun rays that were trying to break through and there he was....Tres Shannon, the creator of Voodoo Doughnuts! And yes, of course I needed to talk and get my picture with him. But women, let me tell you something....that doughnut guy "knows" things, yes he does! He's very TRES-ious!

A day of true inspiration, the speakers were wonderful, delivering their powerful words and ideas on community, sustainability, the environment, simplifying your life and surrounding yourself with activities and people you are passionate about.

I've been in the dirt several times since. I think my funk...has begun to disappear!!!!

Pixie's Mom....That's Me!

2011-05-07T13:28:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is Mother's Day. I love the reason Mother's Day began (it's not a Hallmark conceived holiday which I tend to dislike because I think they are forced upon people). It actually started in the United States by a woman named Anna Jarvis who was on a mission to raise awareness of poor health conditions in her community. I love a woman on a mission!

I absolutely love being a mom. From the first moment when the doctor confirmed I was pregnant, I was so giddy with excitement. She is the best gift I have ever received ~ there is nothing in my life that I treasure more.

I love that she is Pixie and I am Dixie.
I love that she loves Flower Drum Song as much as me.
I love our talks at the kitchen counter.
I love playing order with her.
I love when she and I have inside jokes.
I love having a secret place that we go to sit and eat and no one knows about it.
I love belly laughing to tears with her.
I love that she takes control of our trips in other countries.
I love hanging out with her.
I love when she understands my sadness.
I love when she sends me random text messages saying how great I am.
I love sharing winks between us.
I love that she is not only pretty but VERY smart.
I love that she was the catalyst for finding my mojo at age 50.
I love that she is honest to tell me when I keep doing the same things over and over.
I love that she sends me emails late at night when I am upset over something.
I love that she went with me to spend my day with Beth.
I love that she understands how I feel about my Dad.
I love that she loves children and that she is kind to the elderly.
I love that she is proud of me for getting my college degree.
I love spending the night at her house.
I love dancing to Blue Moon with her in the kitchen.
I love that she makes me feel that I did a fantastically great job of raising her.
I love that she loves my art.
I love that she is my daughter.

Thank you Pix for making me such a lucky and happy and blessed Mom ~ I love you more!

My Art and Bar Code is Traveling to a City Near You!

2011-05-03T11:25:00.000-07:00

Drum roll..........

Today in the mail I received my 2012 World Tour Sketchbook.

This is a project where you receive an empty sketch book (cover, back and insides are blank). You are given a choice of themes to pick from ~ I chose "I Remember You".

I have the remainder of the year to complete my book (drawing, painting, gluing, writing); it's to be sent back by Jan. 31st, 2012. I am quite giddy to begin, having been writing down numerous ideas for its pages since I first chose my theme.

Now for the an even better part of this project......IT'S TRAVELING to a city near you!!!! My book has its very own bar code....you can check it out, you can check me out! The tour begins in April, 2012.

It will begin in Brooklyn NY and then on to the wonderful cities of Portland, ME, Boston, MA, Toronto, ON, Chicago, IL, Vancouver, BC, Portland, OR, San Francisco, CA, Los Angeles, CA, Austin, TX, Melbourne, VIC, London, UK, Atlanta, GA and Philadelphia, PA. How exciting is that? (Oh how I wish I could travel with it. I do have friends in quite a few of those cities, so maybe they will pay it a visit when it comes to their hometown!). I will be done with school when the tour begins, so just maybe I will be able to visit some of those places....hmmmm...the wheels begin to turn!

The 2011 Tour has a stop in Seattle next month which I plan to see (I am thinking of taking an early morning train trip up there). Nikki's will be there awaiting a visit from me and I hope to run into Helen from the Collage Collaborative group.

I am just in love with the possibilities of this blank book and giddy with excitement for the possibilities of the new found adventures it will lead me to ~ after all.....I do have a bar code!

Tiny + Paper = Nothing But Goodness!

2011-05-03T10:08:00.000-07:00

I love tiny things as much as I love paper. So when Corinne mentioned that there was a tiny book swap going on my ears perked up. I clicked on Lenna Andrews "Creativeswaps Blog". She coordinates several artsy swaps and I signed up for the tiny book one which has 60 participants from all over the world!

A while back Kristi and I needed a homework break and decided to take a leisure Sunday art class at Collage making tiny origami books. I thought these would be perfect for the exchange and so the folding began.

Since the books have empty pages to fill and corners to tuck things into, I decided to add an embellishment and a tiny bag of goodies to accompany each one.

And now they are ready to be sent on to Lenna.

I check her blog and see Corinne's tiny books that she has already sent in. Oh my! Hers are #3 on the blog and truly magnificent (as in everything she does!). I email and ask for instructions which she gladly shared. They are made with those itty bitty squares which I still have a closet full of ~ so I'm thinking.....

Sixty tiny books, for which I can only imagine their unique artfulness. And four will be coming back to me (fingers crossed for one of Corinne's!).

Bend-able Trace-able Paint-able Me!

2011-04-27T20:45:00.000-07:00

Last year when Dayna Collins and Destree Rudolph put on a collaborative art show, they also included self portraits of themselves (only not for sale). I immediately fell in love with them, but also fell in love with their project named Dark Heart (which was for sale). Home it (Dark Heart) went along with those self portrait images in my mind.

I was thinking that I needed a new art project to do, so I emailed Destree before our monthly Orange Dream Monkey art journaling group meet-up and asked if she would sketch me on a big canvas. So last week at ODM night after journaling a little and making a couple of origami books, it was off to another room in Dayna's studio for some serious tracing and sketching....

I love how she traced and sketched me (she's so talented at everything she does!). When I got up to see it, it reminded me of getting my first pair of boot cut jeans and my black boots...dang! I'm super excited to get started on this project, I have the eye(s) already planned. But first I need to finish that 10 Secrets in Paris book from last September (I type with a light hearted ugh!). I love my Paris book but for some reason homework always seems to take precedence. I think this self portrait is just what I need to get that book completed!

Cords & Tassels & Rings ~ Oh My!

2011-04-27T18:28:00.000-07:00

Today while on campus I walked by the booths set up for students who will be graduating this June ~ Cap & Gowns, Honor Cords & Tassels, Announcements and....and, then I saw them....Class Rings. My heart went pitter-pat full time giddy. I remember in High School coming really close to getting one my Junior year from a boyfriend from a different school (but I think I "might" have done something mean and that put the kibosh on that!). When it came time for my graduation, someone thought I needed a set of Corelle dishes instead.

Walking to my Psychology class I started to think about all of the past terms and classes I have taken in pursuit of my Gerontology Degree. From day one I had it in my mind to always wear my "lucky t-shirt" on test and finals days. I chose to wear the t-shirt I got in Kardamyli, Greece (different spellings, so I always go with David's way of spelling it).

Not sure why I chose that t-shirt, except for the fact that I was so very lucky to have been able to spend time there with such wonderfully fun and gorgeous people.

Last week sitting in class, I got a lengthy text message from Kristi which read (of course I saved it!):

It's messages and words like that that make me feel good about those long stressful eraser nights. I feel great about choosing to go after this degree ~ it was a good decision!

Seeing those booths today got me so excited for my graduation next year. Announcements, Cap & Gown, Honor Cords and Tassels, and maybe, just maybe..... that long-awaited for tiny silver ring!

A Lamp Post and Coffee with a new Art Inspiration

2011-04-17T20:15:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago I joined a group of international collagers called The Collage Collaborative. Created by Nikki Soppelsa, it is a wonderful group of people who love paper and glue and the art of collaging. Each person was to start their own personal collage and then it would be sent on, until finished, with five peoples artistic touch added. I felt excited, but very intimated.

I started mine very simple, leaving LOTS of room for others to add to. I did not like what I first sent out, but on its way it went. I would like the adds I did to others, but my initial start just bugged me.

I would be sending/forwarding my finished pieces to Michael, a wonderfully gifted and talented artist. Once again I felt very intimated even having to send him anything I had worked on (he's that good!). Sometime in-between the art forwards I got an email from him. He used the word "lamp post" and asked if I liked coffee....coffee shops. He had a CD of coffee songs that he had put together if I was interested. I replied with a big Yes!!! Weeks later and several collages sent on I received a wonderful package in the mail.

My coffee CD and other artful Michael goodies!!!!

His "roommate" would become a cheerleader of my collage work. The two of them (much like Dayna Collins) would inspire me to try, to keep on, to do with their words. They could have been art snobs, but instead chose to empower. Such a lucky person I am!

My 1st collage returned home.....the additions made it perfect! (Michael added the fish eating the etc.)

There would be the start of a second round.....and this time....I absolutely LOVE what I started with.

I don't feel as intimidated as I did in the beginning. I love the Coffee CD (let me know if you would like a copy of it ~ it's fantastically great!). And once again I am reminded just how powerful a few words can be.

Thank you Coffee Messiah!

Happy Birthday to Me ~ Que Sera Sera!

2011-04-12T08:16:00.000-07:00

Two birthday weekends of fun-ness! This last weekend was spent with family. The Mabe's called me up and said she and the Golden Gals wanted to take me to BINGO on Saturday afternoon....how could I refuse!

They had flowers and cards and even a little black pouch filled with the coveted needed BINGO quarters!

A quick trip home and then it was off to dinner with my favorite boyfriend and favorite child at Toro Bravo (my choice) for several tapas. It has quickly become a favorite of mine and now Mr. Picky Bryan loves it too!

While there we decided to plan a monthly dining outing to a new place that we have never been to before. We will take turns finding the place....and NO whining! I quickly starting singing in my Doris Day voice (well, I think it is) Que Sera Sera, whatever will be will be...... and our new monthly outing is so named "SERA"! Stan will take the lead for May.

My next birthday adventure had been kept a secret/surprise from me. Kristi knows I love new adventures and trying new things. She had purchased tickets a couple of weeks before for......

SMASHPUTT! Miniature Golf in a warehouse on West Burnside!!

Holes included Scratch 'n Sniff, Foos Ball and Infinity....

....and we three get our very much competitive clubs and balls and begin hitting the holes (sometimes literally)!

A great day and a great night. I don't know what the scores ended up being, but I do know that I won in the best family and friends category!

I Seem To Be a Sudden Outburst of Feeling

2011-04-04T23:02:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago I asked my favorite art teacher Dayna Collins if she would facilitate an afternoon of art with friends for my birthday. She was free last Saturday (she's a very busy lady!) so the invites went out.

Two of the couples invited had medical emergencies (they actually did) and couldn't make it. The rest of us headed down I-5 and were greeted by Dayna's wonderful smile.

On the road I soon discovered that if I was to ever to take an extended road trip - Blake is the one who I'd want to take it with...he's continually hilarious, his glass is definitely more than half full!!

Before we start our Collage Up a Storm art project, Dayna has a warm up exercise for all of us to do. Muse Cubes that have written words of sound and movement. Each of us rolled the dice and the dancing and laughing and bending and yelling began!

We were now ready for the project to begin. Each of us were given a canvas. Dayna has a vessel containing words of what she wanted us to do. Ink, Paint, Pastels, Sand Paper, Picture, Words....one by one she pulled one out and we only had a short time to do as she told us to.

Two hours later, we are done Collaging Up a Storm! Along with the invites, I had asked each person to bring a chopped up vegetable for Stone Soup (it was cooking while we collaged). I asked Dayna to read the Stone Soup story to us all....

....and then it was time to eat. Dayna had also picked up this wonderful bread and the most yummy cake ever!!

After eating it was time for show and tell........

Blake's turn

Kristi's turn

Dawn's turn

Stan's turn (he thought he should be voted best ~ I kinda agree since he did incorporate BABA on his!)

And Mine

A most perfect afternoon spent laughing and arting and eating with people I love.

And then to continue "pre" birthday festivities.....dancing at Clyde's with the girls and one old high school boyfriend (who somehow thinks he's one of the girls)!

I love my masterpiece! (I changed just a couple of tiny areas when I got home)

A nail in the wall, and it has been hung! Stan wants to hang his too, the wall has yet to be determined.

It's going to be tough to top my pre-birthday. But I just got a call from The Golden Girls for Saturday afternoon.........

Miss Ava Turns "1"

2011-04-04T22:18:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I got the honor of hosting Miss Ava's 1st Birthday Party!!!! Still my little boo monkey.....still has my heart!

Happy 1st Birthday Ava Miranda ~ you are loved immensely!!!!

The Wonderment of Silence and a Young Man in Switzerland

2011-04-01T00:40:00.000-07:00

Last week on Kristi's blog she wrote about how one of the kid's she use to nanny for over in Switzerland wanted to make sure that she would let everyone over here know to turn their lights off at 8:30pm for Earth Hour.

On March 26, 2011, turn off your lights at 8:30 pm for Earth Hour, a worldwide collective display of commitment to protect the one thing that unites us all - the planet.

Every year Earth Hour asks individuals, businesses and communities worldwide to show their commitment to the environment. This Earth Hour, we hope you will turn off your lights. But when the lights go back on, we want you to go beyond the hour and think about what you can change in your daily life that will benefit the planet. Let’s work together to create a better future. Our actions can add up.

I told her I would do it. So at 8:25pm I started lighting the candles in my living room; at 8:30pm the lights went out.

Stan came downstairs to join me and we marveled at the wonderment of the silence amongst the candlelight ~ no television, no lights, no computer hum; time just spent being in the moment.

And we marveled at the wonderment of one young man in another country determined to get the word out about this event. Such passion at such a young age.

We decided to make this a weekly event. Good for the Earth and good for quieting down our minds and just being in the moment.

I have to agree with Kristi - he definitely is the coolest kid she knows!

Muddy Saturday Mornings are the Best!

2011-03-21T08:27:00.000-07:00

Last Christmas I received the wonderful (best) gift of time with Rick and the island. This past Saturday I pulled out my sexy mud boots and headed off to the island.

I share with Rick his love of searching for arrowheads. And the love of doing the happy dance when we find one. This trip we came across a nest of Killdeer Bird eggs....

....and Rick explains to me what the Momma bird was doing flapping around 15 feet away (she wanted us to keep on walking!).

And so we did. Up and down the muddy rows. We each found two (well, actually Rick was 2.5 and I was 1.5) and a pocket full of pieces.

Heading back Rick takes a turn and pulls off the main road. He wants to pick some flowers for one of his favorite ladies who is currently in the hospital (does this "George" never cease to amaze me?).

I felt like I got "promoted" when Rick said I could now keep my arrowhead hunting knife and official arrowhead finding box.

A morning spent with "George", walking in the mud and talking about life and experiences. Sharing the thrill of the find and doing the happy dance. Two tiny bits of carved stone that bring that very much loved giddy feeling....

.... and watching him pick those flowers. He makes me want to be a better person.

Thank you Rick for a fantastic Muddy Saturday Morning!

And She Huffed And She Puffed....

2011-03-17T09:09:00.000-07:00

I am always looking for new art to do. So when a Groupon showed up for glass blowing, I really wanted to give it a try.

I bought two, so I asked Miss Kristi if she wanted to join me for an early Saturday morning of glass blowing.

We showed up at Elements Glass in northwest Portland. We were handed our safety goggles as Aaron heated up our poles.

I chose my colors and then it was off to heat it up....

Once it was hot enough, it was time to start blowing it into a glass ball....

They turned out spectacular. Kristi's was green and mine was blue. On pick-up day we decided to exchange glass balls - I got my favorite color with a little bit of Kristi inside!

And afterwards we spent some time looking at some of the "real" glass works!!

A very fun morning spent with my favorite girl child!

Clay Comforts

2011-03-16T23:40:00.000-07:00

In one of my beginning Gerontology classes I met another student "Annette".

She has degrees upon degrees and she quickly became a favorite. I would find myself always gravitating to wherever she was sitting. One evening she told the class that she was looking into teaching clay classes to seniors over 55. I didn't quite "qualify" then but I asked her to let me know when she was set up to offer the class.

She emailed to let me know the class was a go at The Multnomah Arts Center. I immediately signed up. I was a bit apprehensive since I have never worked with clay before, not even an ashtray in grade school. But it was something new to learn and...I would get to see Annette!

First day of class, walking into the unknown I see another familiar face from the Gerontology Program. Paul!

I am immediately feeling a lot better about this class - he has put me into a comfort zone. I am ready to build!

Five weeks of learning and building, and meeting new handbuilding clay artists. Most have worked with clay before and have lots to offer. One lady in particular was an extremely gifted lady named Gabriella who was quite proud to tell her age of 86.

She is from Switzerland who moved here when she was 24. She is quick and her clay creations are wonderful. Each class she would remind me "not to think-just do" in her heavy accent voice. I loved listening to her stories as did the other students. She is an inspiration of someone I would want to be like at that age (heck, at this age!), embracing each day and person she comes in contact with.

My creations are done. A Pinch Pot, a Coil Bowl and a Slab Box. Annette let me have her PEACE box and Linda (the lady I sat next to) let me have one of her creations.

After taking the class I received an email from Annette telling me that she was more at ease about teaching the class when she found out that I had signed up to take it. I was her comfort? Just like seeing Paul was mine. And it reminded me how important it is to let your comfort people know. So thank you Paul for being there and for making the class not too intimidating for me - you were a great comfort!

And....I've signed up for her next class. I'm still after that elusive ashtray!!

Babble, Babble...and Then I Found $5

2011-03-07T23:37:00.000-08:00

Babble, Babble...I think I "might" sometimes babble. It's important useful babble, but none the less, just babble. If it's going into a long drawn out babble, Kristi will give me "that look" and we both smile and say, "And then I found $5". We say that because whatever I am talking about is just about as life shattering as finding $5.

Today I found this article on the onion website talking about how much time is wasted listening to babble bull....

Open-Minded Man Grimly Realizes How Much Life He's Wasted Listening To Bullshit
CLEVELAND—During an unexpected moment of clarity Tuesday, open-minded man Blake Richman was suddenly struck by the grim realization that he's squandered a significant portion of his life listening to everyone's bullshit, the 38-year-old told reporters.
A visibly stunned and solemn Richman, who until this point regarded his willingness to hear out the opinions of others as a worthwhile quality, estimated that he's wasted nearly three and a half years of his existence being open to people's half-formed thoughts, asinine suggestions, and pointless, dumb stories.
"Jesus Christ," said Richman, taking in the overwhelming volume of useless crap he's actively listened to over the years. "My whole life I've made a concerted effort to give people a fair shake and understand different points of view because I felt that everyone had something valuable to offer, but it turns out most of what they had to offer was complete bullshit."
"Seriously," Richman added, "what have I gained from treating everyone's opinion with respect? Nothing. Absolutely nothing."
According to Richman, it was just now hitting him how many hours of his life he's pissed away listening intently to nonsense about celebrity couples, how good or bad certain pens are, and why a particular sports team might have a chance this year. The husband and father of two said that every time he's felt at all put out or bored by a bullshit conversation—especially a speculative one about how bad allergy season was going to be—he should have just turned around, walked away, and gone rafting or rappelling or done any of the millions of other things he's always wanted to do but never thought he had time for.
At various points throughout the day, Richman could be heard muttering to himself that he couldn't believe he was almost 40 years old.
"Twenty minutes here, 10 minutes there. It all starts to add up," said Richman, who sat down and figured out that between stupid discussions about favorite baby names and reviews of restaurants in cities he'll never visit, he'd wasted 390 hours of his life. "And you know what the worst part is? It's my fault. Here I thought being considerate to others by always listening patiently to what they had to say was the right thing to do. Well, fuck me, right?"
According to Richman, he started thinking about how much time he's flushed down the toilet being an approachable person after a work meeting in which he let a coworker, David Martin, ramble on and on with an idea everyone knew was "total shit" the moment the man opened his mouth. Richman said that a single glance at the clock made him realize he had just spent 14 minutes of his finite time on earth not playing with his kids or being with his wife, but listening to garbage.
"It was like I stepped out of my body and saw myself actually listening to this man's worthless drivel—but it wasn't him who looked like a moron, it was me," Richman said. "I was nodding my head like an asshole and saying ridiculous things like, 'Right,' and, 'I see your point, Dave,' when I should have just said, 'Dave, your idea isn't good and you are wasting our time and you need to shut up right now.'"
By his estimates, Richman's receptiveness has resulted in 160 irreplaceable hours of listening to grossly uninformed political opinions, 300 hours of carefully hearing out both sides of pointless arguments, and at least a month of listening to his parents' bullshit about how important it is to be open-minded.
Eighty days have been wasted on the inane blather of his college friend Brian alone.
"All those hours I could have been relaxing, or reading all these great books, or getting into shape, or working on side projects that I'm really excited about," Richman said. "But instead I've been listening to overrated albums recommended to me by my asshole friends."
"Did you know that in my life I've listened to five days' worth of people talking about their furniture?" he added. "It's true. That's a trip to Europe right there."
While Richman has vowed to cease being open-minded to absolute horseshit, acquaintances reflected on his approachability.
"I love Blake," coworker David Martin said. "He's such a good listener. A lot of people are closed-minded and self-absorbed, but Blake always makes an effort to hear where I'm coming from. The world could use more people like him."

Too funny....hits home both as the receiver and the giver.

On Sunday, Kristi and I decided to go for a walk over in the Alberta area. There was a new art showing at the Guardino Gallery. One of the featured artists was Mar Goman which I wanted to see since I had missed seeing her art when it was at Scrap. Along with hers were others that were just a delight to see.

Mar Goman

And others....

After leaving the gallery show we visit other art spots (some allow you to even touch!)

and of course my favorite art supply store Collage

The rest of the day is spent walking and laughing and of course me babbling.

And then, just when Kristi was about to give me "that Mom you're babbling look"......

I found a dime! ... I picked it up and the babble continued ...

An Australian Awakening

2011-03-02T22:23:00.000-08:00

About a month ago I joined The Collage Collaborative, a group of collagers. Each of us began a 5x7 piece, and then that piece is added to by 4 additional collagers. A few people dropped out and a few wanted in before the first round was completed. One of the new collagers wanting in was Lorri from Australia. I love her art and her blog. Her drawings are wonderful and I soon found out you could purchase them as cards (you know my love of cards!) at zazzle.com. I ordered several so I could part with a few.

I then discovered her other creations at her etsy shop. Once there, I found my "Joy" necklace for 2011.
What I really enjoy though is reading her blog. She is so open about herself and her life. She recently posted a piece written by Virginia Swift called "The Awakening", which I thought I would share as well.

The Awakening

A time comes in your life when you finally get it... When in the midst of all your fears and insanity you stop dead in your tracks and somewhere the voice inside your head cries out - ENOUGH!! Enough fighting and crying or struggling to hold on. And, like a child quieting down after a blind tantrum, your sobs begin to subside, you shudder once or twice, you blink back your tears and through a mantle of wet lashes you begin to look at the world through new eyes.

This is your awakening.

You realize that it's time to stop hoping and waiting for something to change or for happiness, safety and security to come galloping over the next horizon. You come to terms with the fact that he is not Prince Charming and you are not Cinderella and that in the real world there aren't always fairy tale endings (or beginnings for that matter) and that any guarantee of "happily ever after" must begin with you and in the process a sense of serenity is born of acceptance.

You awaken to the fact that you are not perfect and that not everyone will always love, appreciate, or approve of who or what you are...and that's OK. (They are entitled to their own views and opinions). And you learn the importance of loving and championing yourself and in the process a sense of new found confidence is born of self-approval.

You stop bitching and blaming other people for the things they did to you (or didn't do for you) and you learn that the only thing you can really count on is the unexpected. You learn that people don't always say what they mean or mean what they say and that not everyone will always be there for you and that it's not always about you. So you learn to stand on your own and to take care of yourself and in the process a sense of safety & security is born of self-reliance.

You stop judging and pointing fingers and you begin to accept people as they are and to overlook their shortcomings and human frailties and in the process a sense of peace & contentment is born of forgiveness.

You realize that much of the way you view yourself, and the world around you, is as a result of all the messages and opinions that have been ingrained into your psyche. And you begin to sift through all the crap you've been fed about how you should behave, how you should look and how much you should weigh, what you should wear and where you should shop and what you should drive, how and where you should live and what you should do for a living, who you should marry and what you should expect of a marriage, the importance of having and raising children of what you owe your parents. You learn to open up to new worlds and different points of view. And you begin reassessing and redefining who you are and what you really stand for. You learn the difference between wanting and needing and you begin to discard the doctrines and values you've outgrown, or should never have bought into to begin with and in the process you learn to go with your instincts.

You learn that it is truly in giving that we receive. And that there is power and glory in creating and contributing and you stop maneuvering through life merely as a "consumer" looking for your next fix.

You learn that principles such as honesty and integrity are not the outdated ideals of a by gone era but the mortar that holds together the foundation upon which you must build a life. You learn that you don't know everything: it's not your job to save the world and that you can't teach a pig to sing. You learn to distinguish between guilt and responsibility and the importance of setting boundaries and learning to say NO. You learn that the only cross to bear is the one you choose to carry and that martyrs get burned at the stake.

Then you learn about love. Romantic love and familial love. How to love, how much to give in love, when to stop giving and when to walk away. You learn not to project your needs or your feelings onto a relationship. You learn that you will not be more beautiful, more intelligent, more lovable or important because of the man on your arm or the child that bears your name. You learn to look at relationships as they really are and not as you would have them be. You stop trying to control people, situations and outcomes.

You learn that just as people grow and change so it is with love... and you learn that you don't have the right to demand love on your terms...just to make you happy.

And, you learn that alone does not mean lonely...And you look in the mirror and come to terms with the fact that you will never be a size 5 or a perfect 10 and you stop trying to compete with the image inside your head and agonizing over how you "stack up". You also stop working so hard at putting your feelings aside, smoothing things over and ignoring your needs. You learn that feelings of entitlement are perfectly OK...and that it is your right to want things and to ask for the things that you want... and that sometimes it is necessary to make demands.

You come to the realization that you deserve to be treated with love, kindness, sensitivity and respect and you won't settle for less. And, you allow only the hands of a lover who cherishes you to glorify you with his touch...and in the process you internalize the meaning of self-respect. And you learn that your body really is your temple. And you begin to care for it and treat it with respect. You begin eating a balanced diet, drinking more water and taking more time to exercise. You learn that fatigue diminishes the spirit and can create doubt and fear. So you take more time to rest.

And, just as food fuels the body, laughter fuels our soul. So you take more time to laugh and to play.

You learn, that for the most part, in life you get what you believe you deserve...and that much of life truly is a self-fulfilling prophecy. You learn that anything worth achieving is worth working for and that wishing for something to happen is different from working toward making it happen.

More importantly, you learn that in order to achieve success you need direction, discipline and perseverance. You also learn that no one can do it all alone and that it's OK to risk asking for help. You learn that the only thing you must truly fear is the great robber baron of all time. FEAR itself. You learn to step right into and through your fears because you know that whatever happens you can handle it and to give in to fear is to give away the right to live life on your terms.

And you learn to fight for your life and not to squander it living under a cloud of impending doom. You learn that life isn't always fair, you don't always get what you think you deserve and that sometimes bad things happen to unsuspecting, good people. On these occasions you learn not to personalize things. You learn that God isn't punishing you or failing to answer your prayers. It's just life happening. And you learn to deal with evil in its most primal state - the ego. You learn that negative feelings such as anger, envy and resentment must be understood and redirected or they will suffocate the life out of you and poison the universe that surrounds you.

You learn to admit when you are wrong and to build bridges instead of walls. You learn to be thankful and to take comfort in many of the simple things we take for granted, things that millions of people upon the earth can only dream about; a full refrigerator, clean running water, a soft warm bed, a long hot shower. Slowly, you begin to take responsibility for yourself by yourself and you make yourself a promise to never betray yourself and to never ever settle for less than your heart's desire. And you hang a wind chime outside your window so you can listen to the wind. And you make it a point to keep smiling, to keep trusting and to stay open to every wonderful possibility.

Finally, with courage in your heart and with God by your side you take a stand, you take a deep breath and you begin to design the life you want to live as best as you can.

by: Virginia Swift.

The words are a very much welcomed reminder and needed self reflection (well, except for maybe that darn wind chime!); they come at just the right time. I am so glad that Lorri became part of the collaborative and that I found her blog so I could read The Awakening. My "Joy" necklace is on its way here, along with some other unknown goodies (Thank you Lorri!)...I am giddy!

Postcards From A Better Time

2011-02-08T20:49:00.000-08:00

A couple months after I had retired, I was having breakfast with my gal Yina at Bertie Lou's Cafe in Sellwood. While sitting there waiting for our breakfast, I noticed a wicker basket leaning up against the window. I pulled it over and looked inside, finding it chock-full of postcards.

I loved perusing and reading each and every one. Years and years of places and places; each one sending greetings and brief delightful thoughts, some generic and some personal. It was a treat (better than breakfast) to read them all. It was a glimpse into someone's life~a better time.

When my friends and family go off to far away lands or on a fun adventure, I always try to ask them to send me a postcard. And when I receive it, my heart is giddy, because for one small brief moment....I am there with them.

Guests around my coffee table and I thank you for sharing your travels with us!

My Full of JOY Vision Board for 2011

2011-01-09T01:38:00.000-08:00

In December I was toying with the idea of creating a vision board. I had heard about them, but didn't really know how to do one. I had in mind the word I wanted to be mine for 2011. And then SERENDIPITY...Dayna sends me an invite to create a vision board in her studio along with some other ladies. She also sends a link to Christine Kane that tells how she goes about doing her vision board with some ideas of how to come up with your vision word. And the same word comes up again.

"JOY"

I find this saying which says exactly how I feel about it for the center of my board.

"Joy, to me, is those little moments.

You know the moments when you realize that you could
Just dance because of all the freedom you feel.

That moment when you don't worry about a thing, you just smile and feel wonderful.

Honestly, it comes in spurts for me, but when it does I know it's there and I never feel more blissful than in those moments.

It's joyful moments that make life worthwhile for me."

I want 2011 to be full of joy - if it doesn't bring me joy, then question why I am doing it (hence, no resentments). I will try to find the joy in all, knowing that sometimes you have to do things that will result in a joy filled ending.

I am also VERY determined to lose those pounds and to live more healthy. Hikes & Bikes, healthy cooking classes and added days at the gym. Also, traveling to new places and doing new kinds of art. A little decluttering and maybe, just maybe something new over at Buckman School.

And did I mention GREAT hair ?!!!!

2KXI and *8 Things...I Fell in Love With in 2010

2011-01-08T20:44:00.000-08:00

A brand new year....it has that new car leather smell (or in the case of this year, a new Coach purse!). I always embrace what a new year will bring, and I am always thankful for what the previous year gave me.

I wrote about the 8 things I fell in love with last year. I had read an entry on Dayna's Alley Art Studio Blog. She had discovered this little game on Rachelle Mee-Chapman's blog which went:

*8 Things is a little game I made up for myself in an attempt to quieten down my monkey mind. I tend to be a little bit bipolar when it comes to creativity. Either I have a million ideas and passions, or none at all. In the times when ideas are flowing, I rely on lists. *8 Things is a way for me to keep collections of ideas, thought, quotes and quandaries on-hand for later exploration. . . .Want to play along? Grab a button and join me for *8 Things Thursdays. Because..well…why the hell not?

I copy and paste and am ready to complete my list of:

*8 Things... I Fell in Love With in 2010

1. Ava Miranda Randolph
2. Spending an entire day in August with Beth Johnson
3. Receiving my very first Trophy
4. High five from the BEST Trainer for achieving an over a minute PLANK
5. Seeing my name on Dayna Collins Creative Inspirations List
6. Sharing a nod with a kindred soul
7. Finding and wearing the cutest French Paris top
8. Becoming a member of Phi Theta Kappa

...and 8.5 Getting to see Rick Glaser again!

My #1 Love for 2010 - Miss Ava

#2 My Wonderful Dear True Friend Beth

#3 Receiving My 1st Trophy

#4 BEST Trainer EVER (warrants two pictures - the tough nice guy!)

#5 My name on Dayna's Creative Inspirations List

#6 A Nod From a Kindred Soul (okay it actually wasn't Sidney Poitier from To Sir With Love but....)

#7 Finding the cutest top ever (the cuteness is actually in the length and pocket which the picture doesn't show, but it does show Dayna and Becky!)

#8 Member of Phi Theta Kappa

and #8.5 Mr. Rick Glaser

2010 was filled with many blessings and sadness with the loss of my friend Beth. As always, I am excited and ready to see what 2011 has in-store for me; those unknown adventures to places and meeting new people. Yes, I am giddy with anticipation about the *8 Things I'll Fall in Love With in 2011!

Pitter-Patter Mail Art & International Collages

2011-01-06T01:24:00.000-08:00

Several months ago I happened to stumble upon the "Mail Art" created by Nikki Soppelsa. Every time she creates something new, pitter-patter goes my heart. My love for mail wanted to either receive or create such glorious envelopes (and then I came across her etsy shop).

About a month ago she asked if anyone would be interested in participating in a Collage Collaborative. You would start your own on a 5x7 inch board. Would I be interested? Heck yes!! I emailed her and asked if I could be in a participant, she graciously said yes. As the month went on the collaborative grew to thirteen people, all across the globe (USA, Philippines, Belgium, Ukraine, Uruguay and Canada). She set up a facebook page for the group to post their beginning collage, and for us and our friends to see their transformations. Each collage will be artfully added to by four other people and then returned to their owner for any final (if desired) additions.

I decided to keep my initial collage simple (that way there is more room for the other four's creativeness).

I sent it off to Michael this week. From the looks of his beginning collage, I know his creative addition(s) will be spectacular!! And I eagerly await the arrival of Ma.Nimfa's (from the Philippines).

Thanks to Nikki ~ 2011 is starting out to be a fabulously fun and exciting year!

A Warm Christmas in the Zone

2011-01-03T00:06:00.000-08:00

It used to be that I could never understand how people leave their homes during the holidays for warmer climates. I totally understand now.

The two weeks prior to Christmas we were off to Waikiki. A different kind of trip this time being that I had not googled one thing to do - absolutely no plans except feeling the suns' rays!

Ten glorious days and nights of Happy Hour Edamame with Santa on the beach....

Sleeping on a submarine....

Taking long walks....

And best of all meeting Nate, my new pen pal!!

Back home dinner and get-togethers with best friends made the burr coldness more bearable.

And Christmas Eve was spent opening and receiving the best presents EVER!!

With my favorite gal....

Getting best ever T-shirts and beautifully wrapped gifts....

The feel and smell of a Coach Purse....

An autographed journal from Sabrina Ward Harrison....

And then the most Over The Top - In The Zone - All Aflutter present....

Yes, A trip back out to the island. Does Christmas and life get any better? Well, actually yes it does.....with a Christmas Eve kiss from my little Boo Monkey!

Merry Christmas Family and Friends ~ I love you!

Pretty in Pink in Paris ~ "QUATRE"

2010-11-07T12:46:00.001-08:00

Day 8 and we fly home. The sun is beginning to rise as we leave this lovely city.

I think Kristi is ready for some much needed alone time....

I read the last secret on the plane trip home. Secret #10 ~ "Wisdom Is Avoiding All Thoughts That Weaken You". A wonderful trip of beauty and insights. I miss my friend Beth as I pray with all I have for Fred. I am blessed with receiving the 10 Secrets from Yina and for this time spent with my gorgeous GPS daughter! Thank you Pix!

Pretty in Pink in Pair ~ "TROIS"

2010-11-07T12:45:00.001-08:00

Day 7 and our last day in Paris. We decide to walk to the infamous Pere Lachaise Cemetery (Jim Morrison). We leave our favorite JM quotes etched into the near by tree (I leave Bob's favorite). Walking through the cemetery, I decide to walk up to take a peek as to what are in some of the tombs. Oh Mercy Me....CHAIRS! I am in love! I can only imagine who has sat in those chairs. I want to see them all (actually I want to take each one home) - each one is so different in its design - what stories they must know! The afternoon is spent walking over to the Sacred Heart Basilica, walking up the 247 stairs and lighting one more candle for Fred (that's three so far so I'm pretty confident all is going to be okay for that man!). The evening is spent eating at a place one of Kristi's friends told us we had to go to "Cosi's". And then we took one last walk on a bridge over the Seine and came across a band playing with my future son-in-law in it :) That evening is spent packing and I read two more secrets, Secret #8 ~ "Treat Yourself As If You Already Are What You'd Like to Be and Secret #9 ~ "Treasure Your Divinity".

Pretty in Pink in Paris ~ "DEUX"

2010-11-07T12:43:00.000-08:00

Day 4 is spent at the top of the Eiffel Tower and going to my favorite sculptor's museum "Rodin". I remember having the First Kiss (miniature of course) in my condo and now I actually got to touch the original (my hand touches his). Everything there I love, I am in my own bliss. Later that day we eat at Mondrain (bliss) where I come upon my Hot Guy in Paris. He walks by twice and gives the nod that Sidney Poitier gave in To Sir With Love at the schools last dance (swoon). What is it that is so dang sexy about a proper gentleman? Tonight I read Secret #5 ~ "Give Up Your Personal History".

Day 5 and we are on a tour. We travel to Giverny to visit Monet's gardens and home. I touch the doorknob (something I learned from my Uncle Bud) because there just might be the chance that Monet touched it as well. We have lunch at The Moulin de Fourges and then finish the day at the Palace of Versailles. The day ends with Secret #6 ~ "You Can't Solve a Problem with the Same Mind That Created It".

Day 6 was a very sad day for me as I had received two phone calls from Dennis,the husband of Beth (my bestest girlfriend from Boise). Kristi and I spent the day riding the bus. We never got off except to change to a different bus or to have lunch. It was a day we both needed ~ a day to think about Beth for me and a day not having to babysit me for Kristi. At night I read Secret #7 ~ "There Are No Justified Resentments".

Pretty in Pink in Paris ~ "UN"

2010-11-07T12:42:00.001-08:00

It all began with a fortune cookie, "You will soon be travelling to a distant land." I kept it in the kitchen and read it to Kristi. Sooner than later she called and asked if I wanted to see Paris. Tickets were booked! And I had decided to wear PINK everyday while in Paris ~ oo-la-la!

In my quest to find the meaning of spirituality this year, my gal Yina had given my a book for my birthday ~ 10 Secrets for Success and Inner Peace by Dr. Wayne Dyer. It was the perfect book to take along on my trip.

Each night after the days' adventures I would read one of the secrets and journal about my day and the secret. Some days yielded several secrets, a couple of days none.

Day one we arrived very early, too early for our hotel room to be ready. So we set out walking and walking some more. Over to the Eiffel Tower, crossing the bridges over the Seine and then to my new found favorite corner restaurant "Mondrain" for a Croque Monsieur. (fyi~Ava's Birthday is 04-03-10!) That night I read Secret #1 ~ "Have a Mind That Is Open to Everything and Attached to Nothing".

Day two was a guided tour through the Louvre Museum. So many great works of art that I am dismayed when we are taken to see the Mona Lisa. Kristi and I dub it a SHAM. How many wonderful pieces are glossed over to see this piece. After the museum tour we walk over to Notre Dame and I leave two prayers there for Beth and Fred. That night I read Secret #2 ~ "Don't Die with Your Music Still in You".

Day 3 and Kristi and I walk through the Luxenberg Gardens and stop along the way to stick our hand/fingers out for the birds to feed upon (Kristi loves it and I freak getting pecked at-must be that Hitchcock Birds thingy!). That evening we have dinner at the Eiffel Tower (not knowing there was a bomb threat), followed by a boat ride down the Seine River (and meeting my mini-me!). After the river cruise we are off to the Moulin Rouge. Very packed but a reminder that I think European men love women who smile...just sayin'! Almost back to the hotel, I spot a lucky Euro. Stepping out to pick it up, Kristi grabs me back saving me from getting run over-YIKES! I did get that lucky Euro though (thank you Kristi for the pull back!). That night I read two secrets ~ Secret #3 ~ "You Can't Give Away What You Don't Have" and Secret #4 ~ "Embrace Silence".

And Away She Went

2010-11-06T17:15:00.001-07:00

Summer has ended and so has the Playing With Blocks art swap. The ladies participating ranged from very experienced to someone that hadn't done any type of art in many years. As the weeks would pass along with the blocks being swapped, the person returning to her artfullness would send me an email about how elated she was to be doing this swap and excited for just being included. During and since the swap she has begun many new creative art projects and is eager to start another kind of swap (I'm thinking maybe books instead of blocks this time). I think I know how she was feeling....it's that same feeling I had when I first started making things with Dayna Collins. Being the new kid can be a little intimidating. At the beginning she would ask what would be okay to do. I would tell her that there were no Art Block Police, just put your art on it! And away she went! I received mine back....I love them!!!! All six sides so beautiful and artistically different from the others, just like the ladies that arted them up!!

Thank you ladies for letting me have art this summer!!

Great Times, Hot Guy and an Angel in Washington DC

2010-09-07T20:28:00.000-07:00

My trip to Washington DC was a blast! At the end of the day I equate "great day" with feet and body needing a jacuzzi - this trip yielded several of those.

First off I had an epiphany for easy packing ~ Pack With A Theme! For Washington DC I decided on Sun Dresses!

(for Paris the theme will be PINK!)

The first day was spent visiting the White House (which I learned has no official front door or back door, so that there can never be any sort of shady talk of someone coming in "through the back door"!). Then it was off for a very long day of walking to see all of the memorials and monuments. The Vietnam Memorial (the third panel in was when it hit me as to how many lives where indeed lost. I also didn't realize it went from 1959-1973),

The Korean Memorial (which my Uncle is one of the 8,177 still missing and I like to think that it's him in the etching above my image),

The World War II Memorial where I found the KILROY WAS HERE,

along with the Lincoln Memorial,

and The Washington Monument.

My eyes then landed on the "Hot Guy" I wanted my picture taken with. Every trip I go on, I always try to find one hot guy who is from that city or area to meet and get my picture taken with (remember Giorgos from last year?!). While I was at the Lincoln Memorial, I meet "Richard from Washington DC" ~ he quickly became this trips' Hot Guy!!

Day 2 was a sharing day. I had originally wanted to go to Washington DC for the sights but mostly to see the Woolworth's Lunch Counter sit-in during 1960 and Judy Garland's Red Slippers, while Stan was going to see what the Restoring Honor Rally was about (and I also wanted to see what the march Al Sharpton was leading was all about). We decided to each bend and share to see what each event was about.

We first made it to the rally and then it was off to find Al's march.

and then off to the Smithsonian to see the infamous lunch counter (I look at the photo of the four men and I wonder what ever became of the 5th man behind the counter)

and of course, those ruby red slippers!

I also learned that the original Kermit the Frog had Ping-Pong balls for eyes!

The last days were spent at Arlington Cemetery and seeing the Changing of the Guard (even though you could take pictures, for some reason I just didn't think it was right), The Capitol (and an individual tour from Rep. Wu's office), Holocaust Museum, Ford's Theatre, National Cathedral and the Bureau of Engraving & Printing.

I had desperately wanted to put my toe into the Reflection Pool (Oh Forrest!), but with the daily barricades due to activities, the closest I got was sitting down under the barricade and getting my toes as close as I could get!

My trip ended with a boat ride up and down the Potomac River seeing the city from a different view point (which made me reflect upon the days just spent, with a multitude of different views and beliefs, but all having a welcoming smile back to mine!)

I leave the boat and catch the bus back to Central Station. On the bus ride back I meet a young girl from....Greece! I tell her about my trip there and my love of Kardamyli. I know I say it wrong and ask her what the correct pronunciation is; both Karda with a rolled tongue and Myli which is Meeeli. I give her my tiny silver angel that I always carry with me that was given to me by Becky (my best 6th grade girlfriend). I tell her the story behind our angels (we both always carry one) and how I left one in Greece last year. She tears up and gives me the best hug (Yes Becky, I'll be needing yet another, since I always seem to be finding a worthy recipient to give mine to).

A stop over flight in San Francisco and who is there "waiting for me" to ask for their autograph and picture? Yep, Oregon's Senator Ron Wyden!!...(and the Athletic Director for Oregon State University very own Bob DeCarolis!!

I loved my trip to Washington DC! It reaffirmed my love of traveling to new places and meeting new people....and leaving my angel with a new found smile.

The Drive to Forgiveness

2010-08-25T10:06:00.000-07:00

After talking to my best Boise girlfriend Beth and learning that she was going to be in Long Beach, Wa for a week and also being in possession of a Lincoln City beach trip I had won off of AMNW, I just knew that this was the right time to be heading off to the beach. I asked Kristi to come along with me.

Our first night was in Lincoln City. Dinner at the Rogue Room was delicious, especially since I have been on "air" sandwiches (and have lost 14 pounds!). I knew I would probably gain a few back on this trip, but every dunk and sip was worth it!

In the morning we were off to Seaside for lunch, FASCINATION and of course, photo booth shoots!!

Miss Kristi won twice!!

Then it was on to Long Beach to meet up with Beth. We were budget peers together for many years and she quickly became one of my best and truest friends.

The three of us spent the day eating and junking (which we always do REALLY great at!)

Ending the day with my kid getting to play with Beth's two kids

Kristi and I return back to the Chautauqua and awake to find......YIKES....we have no tire!! Apparently it is somewhere between Beth's place and our place.

Beth's husband Dennis comes to our rescue (he has HERO status now!). Beth and I hug goodbye once more. I know I will see her again, very soon I hope. Going back to college, my first Writing 101 paper last Fall Term was about Beth (more than a friend, she is one of the most influential people in my life).

The Drive to Forgiveness
After reading the “Reunion” by John Cheever, I was anxious to come to class to hear what others thought of it. How would they view that father? What were their feelings toward the son? My curiosity was such because it could have been me writing that story. Though the exact scenario was not the same, I felt I knew what the son was feeling on the day he met his father in Grand Central Station.
My father left when I was three. I would see him from time to time, but as the years went by I would see him less and less. As I got older those visits became more uncomfortable – not just for me, but I sensed for him as well. They were pleasant yet awkward. Neither one of us knew the other. My heart and soul craved having a father. The rest of my friends had fathers who were there every day – that’s all I wanted.
A typical adolescent year would consist of me sitting down in front of the black and white television and cutting pictures out of the holiday Christmas catalog. I would write down everything I wanted and include the complimentary pictures. I would seal the envelope and rush to the corner mailbox to send it off to him. Knowing that he was a very busy man, I wanted to make sure that he had plenty of time to do all of his shopping. I would wait anxiously for the box of presents to arrive. A check would come usually a few days after Christmas. He would come to town once a year and take my sister and me shopping. In my mind he was rich and famous; after all, he did tell us the story of selling Dean Martin a car one time. He always seemed to come to town with money. However, that was only once a year and we knew from Mom’s hushed conversations he never paid child support.
As I approached adulthood he started to want to be a part of our lives again. I believe it was somewhat forced by a woman he was with at the time. However, I also think there was a part of him that could now enjoy us as best as he knew how. By that time I had such bitterness inside that I was not going to allow him to get to know the real me. We would meet or talk but on a highly superficial level. I was not going to allow him the benefit of knowing me or my world. He had given up that right many years ago. I would accept his gifts and he would accept mine. Though we pretended that a relationship was there, we both knew there really wasn’t one. As the years went by, so did the pretense of a relationship. We went through the motions of father and daughter, but we were lacking in heart and spirit. One year I flew over to visit him for the weekend. It wasn’t so much to visit him, but I needed a short weekend away. I also had a friend that lived in a town close to his. She had just gotten home from having surgery to treat her cancer. I wanted to take her some flowers and visit with her. I also calculated that visiting her would fill my time so there was less time for me to spend with him. It was on that trip that my life turned onto a different path. This day I have no idea why I did what I did, but I asked him if he wanted to come with me to visit my friend.
“You don’t mind?” he asked.
“No, come with me.” I responded.
I do not know why I asked him if he wanted to come with me that day. Maybe I was having doubts on my ability to find my way to her house which was about an hour drive from his. I had been there before and I knew the way. We got into his car, but I insisted on driving. It was my way of being in control. Once we began our trip, he suggested a flower shop, claiming they had the best flowers. Though the shop was a bit out of the way, he was right; they offered the most beautiful aromatic and bold colored flowers I had ever seen. Our drive continued on with sporadic small talk. As we approach her house, I began to have second thoughts about visiting, and admitted this to my father. After all, she was just home from the hospital and I was unsure if she was up to having too much company. I told him that I was going to run the flowers and gift into her and he should wait in the car. I rang her doorbell and her husband greeted me. I followed him to where my friend was resting. She was lying down, but her eyes were opened as I entered the room. Our eyes met and our smiles were harmonious. I knelt down and hugged her tightly, explaining that I could only stay a minute because my Dad was waiting in the car. In a voice sounding with disbelief she says, “You go get him and bring him in.” I knew by the sound of her voice not to argue. I quickly went out to the car to tell him to come in. He seemed eager and excited to be included. The four of us spent the next two hours exchanging stories and laughs. Time passed easily. Eventually, I assumed my friend must be tired, and decided to leave. We shared our goodbyes and hugs, and my father shook her hand and thanked her for having us in.
For some unexplainable reason, at that moment all of my bitterness toward him vanished. I came to terms with our past and I allowed him into my present. We spent the remainder of the day laughing and talking as if there had not been decades of anger and resentment.
I often think about that day and what shaped his lifestyle and demeanor. At times, alcohol was a major factor. He viewed money as a god until well toward the end of his life. I think about how he was raised by a father who never allowed him a voice or any freedoms. Physical punishment was the norm. Talking was forbidden at their dinner table. Often I wonder how his childhood affected his ability to healthily embrace fatherhood.
Due to my experiences with my father, I was curious to see my classmates’ reactions to the father and son in Cheever’s story. I know there are others out there who have experienced similar relationships. I have read many self help books and listened to many experts. Their message is always that it is better to forgive. For many years I tried. What I realized that day was that there is no way for someone to force themselves into any act of forgiveness. Through my relationship with my father, I feel as though it is a gift that can only be received or given and not forced. Once it is bestowed, it can change a life forever. If not accepted, a heart remains heavy with sadness and resentment.
I talk to my friend often about that day. Her cancer is still with us; my father is not. I believe it makes her proud and enriches her life knowing that she played a pivotal part in the lives of my father and me. Before arriving at her house I had asked him to join me, something I had never done before. He was quite intent on taking me to the finest flower shop, going out of his way for someone he didn’t know. On that day, she allowed the two of us to share in her life, giving us a commonality. Though her body was so tired and sick, she still demanded that we “both” pay her a visit; she would accept nothing less. We both had to share her world and ultimately we ended up sharing our own with each other.

During my week at the beach, two of my closest loves in my life got dealt hard blows. It's hard for me to not think that life is not fair. But as I re-read this paper, I remind myself about the power of forgiveness and how it coincides with the power of love and how lucky and blessed I am every day.

Beth called when I got home to make sure we had made it okay. She also insured me that she would be coming to Portland to stay with me a while. And we ended our call the same as we have done for years, each meaning what they say and each needing to hear...."I love you".

You Say Tomato and I Say Cherry

2010-08-23T09:28:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of the year I took a visual journaling class up at the college being taught by Jill Goodell. I loved listening to her life's journey as much as learning her journaling techniques.

While working on our journal pages I started asking about what other classes she teaches. Quite a few of the other students could not say enough about her "I Can Teach You To Draw In One Day" class. I told them I could do a fantastic job at circles and squares, but all else stops there. They assured me that she could teach me.

I signed up (after seeking her out at an art store demonstration to ask again about any type of needed artful capabilities).

So much to learn from the different pencils to "stumps", shadings and perspectives.

We learned one point and two point perspectives.

The last portion of the class we were all handed a different photo of something to draw. Taking what she had shown and taught we all eagerly began.

Mine was a picture of a small group of cherries.

I drew until I finally raised my hand to ask Jill for her input on what to do next. She came over, looked at it and said "I think you should sign it" and gave me a wink.

At home their first guess was that it was a group of tomatoes....TOMATOES?

I put the picture of it on facebook and my most favorite original art teacher Dayna Collins (whose glass is neither half full or half empty, but always overflowing) commented "Awww, Cherry Tomatoes"!

MacGyver and a Brown Paper Bag

2010-08-08T00:56:00.000-07:00

I got a call a couple of weeks ago from Marsha Wocicki asking if I would like to meet she and Dale for dinner. They were visiting from Boise. Dale is one of the Directors I used to do budgets for at QWEST. He was nicknamed "MacGyver" because the guy knows how to do and fix anything, he seriously does! He's that go to guy who just happens to be married to one of the most gorgeous and generous ladies there is. They were there for me during my sad times in Boise. She has Sen-Sen and shares (how totally cool is that?)!

When we met up for dinner, Marsha was carrying a brown paper bag ~

They had been shopping in various antique, retro, vintage shops throughout Oregon all week. Are presents in brown paper bags one of life's best joys?

A definite Heck YES!!!!

And when I got home I felt so full of happiness for getting to spend time with the two of them, to get caught up and share our laughs. I feel so blessed to know those two.....and yes, I do feel fairly certain that given a cape and a nice tiara that I could save the world!

Thank you Marsha and MacGyver!!!!

3 Days - 2 Nights - Boo Monkey - Priceless!

2010-08-08T00:17:00.000-07:00

Boo Monkey (Little Miss Ava) got to spend 3 days and 2 nights with me while her Mom went down to Corvallis to register for her classes.

I got her her first walker and she loved it (but not as much as her bath!)!!

Even at 5AM....she still has my heart!

Block Bevies!

2010-08-07T23:54:00.000-07:00

The block swap continues and I received Yoga Dawn's. Her sides had been arted up....

...and then I added mine.

Next I received Destree's ....

....to which I added mine.

I'm still in love with these blocks!

Boo-Monkey Turns 3 Months!

2010-07-12T00:38:00.000-07:00

Boo-Monkey turned 3 months on July 3rd! I had a BBQ party so she could celebrate it with her family....

.... she still has my heart!!!!

With a Block Block Here and a Block Block There...

2010-07-11T22:46:00.000-07:00

When I finished the first Art-Up Block Swap, Lynda agreed with me that we wanted to do another. I sent out an email and ended up getting enough peeps that two rounds were started (and this time I took into account the right amount of people needed for each swap!).
I arted up my bottoms (I always like saying that) for the first swap and sent them on their way!

I received Helen's in the mail....

....and here is how I arted up hers.

I received Lynda's in the mail....

....that had been arted up by Helen....

....and this is how I arted up Lynda's.

For the next group, I arted up my bottoms :) (still like saying that!) and sent them on their way.

I received Gerri's in the mail....

....and arted hers up.

Then I received Kitty's in the mail (She had gone out and purchased a wood burning kit to art up her bottom)!

Gerri added her artful touch to Kitty's....

....and then I added mine.

They are now being wrapped and will be sent on this week for the next round. And I eagerly await the arrival of my new sets to be arted up!

Boo-Monkey's 1st Slumber Party!!!!

2010-06-22T00:42:00.000-07:00

I was ecstatic when Mandii called and asked me to babysit Ava "overnight" while she went to Seattle. Would I ever say no?

She quickly settled in, loved her bath, slept right next to me and was a perfect Boo-Monkey.

She has my heart!

The Poopie Bridge and Our Place~A Best Kept Secret

2010-06-16T01:20:00.000-07:00

I loved Mom's Day this year. Kristi called and asked if I wanted to walk one of our bridges. A couple of years ago I had purchased two prints of Portland's Bridges for Kristi and myself ~ with the thought of walking each one together and exploring the neighborhoods on each side of the bridge.

Last year we had kissed atop the Fremont Bridge when they did their once a year bridge closure to traffic.

When she came over to pick me up, we wrote down all the names of the bridges so that we could randomly pick one out.

Oh No-o-o!!! We drew the Burnside Bridge, aka the Poopie Bridge.

We both know what is on either side of that bridge and we both know what is sometimes "on" that bridge. Keeping true to what we had drawn, we decided first to walk west on the Hawthorne Bridge.

Share a bridge kiss~

Walk along the esplanade through the market.....

.....and then back across the Burnside Bridge to the eastside.

As we near the end of the Burnside Bridge we both are thinking the same thing. We are very close to what has become "our" place to go eat, drink and talk. I don't really remember when we first went there or when we decided that it was "our" place and that we would tell no one else about it. But it is and we quickly settle in and order some favorites to be shared between the two of us.

A day of laughs and talks, and shared eats in our secret fort. Isn't that what Mom's Day is really all about?

You've Got A Friend

2010-06-08T22:21:00.000-07:00

I don't think I know of anyone that has never listened to or owned the Tapestry album by Carole King.

Each song on that album has its' own special meaning and time. She was the first concert I took Kristi to. And this time I got to see it with one of my other "Fab 6".

This time she performed with James Taylor. Her performance was heart-warming and spectacular, and brought back a flood of memories.

My Miata is so old that it has a cassette player in it. And there is no better feeling than flipping the top down, slipping in "that" cassette and feeling The Earth Move Under My Feet as I drive down the highway!!!!

Block Crazy

2010-06-08T21:40:00.000-07:00

My 1st "Round The Block" block swap finished up a couple of weeks ago. I love everything about the block swap....I loved getting them in the mail every couple of weeks and opening the box to see what others had created and then getting my time away from homework to play with them.

Lynda asked me to finish up her last two sides, which of course I said YES to!

I received mine back awaiting me to art up their last sides. And then I found the perfect home for them!

Along with Stabilo Pencils, this is definitely going on my 8 Things I Loved in 2010 list. So much so, that Lynda and I have started two more rounds!!!!

The Glass is Always Half Full with Dayna!

2010-04-25T00:32:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year I took a class taught by Dayna Collins called Collage Up A Storm. She even named her blog post after my creation of When To Let Go.

During this class she pulls techniques out of a hat such as ink, paint, words, sand, pastels......you just do as she says!

I loved this class so much that I signed up to do it again. This time I asked Gabe (a wonderful guy Kristi met in college) if he would like to join me. He enthusiastically said yes, not quite knowing what he was signing up for. He loved the process and the class!

And my second creation!

After that class, Kristi and I signed up for her
Visual Journaling Technique class. Kristi loved the class and quickly understood why I love taking Dayna's classes.

Some of Kristi's techniques....

...and mine.

This one (the black part) was made with the bottom imprint of my shoe....

The end of this class signaled the end of this years' classes being taught by Dayna. But the glass is half full because I know she will be back offering many new classes.

And along with me, she'll have two more eager and faithful fans!

Double Nickles and a Trophy

2010-04-24T20:33:00.000-07:00

My birthday! I have never understood how some people do not like their birth day. I love mine. I love presents, I love cards, I love cupcakes! I even love Dixie-Cup ice cream!

This year was another great one thanks to my wonderful friends and family!

I received a ton of chocolate in every shape and form!

Another friend took me to lunch and had "theme" presents.

"Emotionally".....

"Spiritually" (for my quest of the meaning of the word).....

And "Physically".....

Stan and Kristi took me to Portofino's (it was wonderful!) for dinner. Kristi wanted her present to be the last I received (saving the best for last no doubt!). During one of our random life kitchen counter conversations, I had told her a while back that I had never received a trophy. I was in Blue Birds, was Four Square Champion and Most Courteous Student in the 4th grade. Still...nothing worthy of a trophy.

Until...... April 9, 2010 when I became a trophy recipient!!!!

"The #1 Mashed Potatoes Maker"!!!!

My heart skipped a beat when I unwrapped that present. I love when someone remembers some tiny little trivial thing that is huge in someones life. Life gets no better! I've made room for it so everyone can see it when they come over. Something even tells me that it just might make a great theme for a summer backyard cocktail party!!!!

Round the Block ~ Rounds Two & Three

2010-04-24T19:47:00.000-07:00

Round two of the block swap, I received Jill's in the mail. Sides had already been arted up by herself.....

.....and then by Dawn.

I arted up my three sides and then they were off in the mail to Lynda for her artsy touch.

The next day after sending those off, I received the blocks belonging to Gina for round three. She had arted up her bottoms and a set a sides.

Next to art hers up was Jill (there are now two Jill's that are doing the art ups together) .....

..... followed by Dawn.

And this is how I arted up my sides before sending them on their way.

Next to come my way will be Lynda's. Not only am I excited to do hers; but she also said I could art up her last "two" sides ~ WoooHooo!!!!

The World is Blessed with Miss Ava Miranda!

2010-04-17T09:45:00.000-07:00

What is it about the birth of a baby; that precious new life becoming a part of your life. All busyness and worryness become trivial as you hold that new baby.

Miss Ava Miranda Randolph blessed my life on April 3, 2010. AND, I got to babysit her by myself this week (only for 20 minutes, but it was the best 20 minutes of my week!). AND if it couldn't get any better, she was wearing Pink and Green that day!AND, I get to babysit her this summer before she heads on down to Oregon State University (something tells me I'll be getting to know Corvallis in the near future).

Cheeky Monkey and Where The Boys Are

2010-04-15T14:58:00.000-07:00

I had taken on way too much Winter Term. So when the opportunity came along to visit sunny Florida during spring break with an old friend I immediately started to pack. My thoughts recalled the movie Where The Boys Are (I secretly had a crush on Jim Hutton and not George Hamilton, but my favorite part will always be the question mark in the sand).

Right before leaving I got an envelope in the mail (yes, my love of mail continues). It's from Cheeky Monkey!!!

aka Miss Lynda! And she wants to go on the trip with me. We had tried this before. The first time was to Greece, but I didn't get it in time before flying off. The second time it was to South Dakota. She got as far as the Minneapolis Airport, where she was sadly left behind. This time she is definitely making the trip!

A stop along the way in Kansas City, "MISSOURI", (no wonder Dorothy wasn't there) .....

.... and I was quickly poolside with the warm breezes blowing and the best chipotle sandwiches ever (which I ate everyday..with dunky sauce!).

A day spent at Disney World and discovering another dream home.....

..... and having a bite of a found grapefruit (that I probably shouldn't have tasted!)

A wonderful week of sunny sky and warm air, great food and chilled wine, an old friend and a brought along friend, Adventure Land and It's A Small World ~ the perfect remedy to rid all stresses and to feel re-energized! Let the Spring Term begin!!!!

Around the Block ~ Round One

2010-04-15T14:14:00.000-07:00

I sent off my blocks to Lynda. The first round we were to art up our own bottoms (she types with a smile). Here is how I arted up mine .....

I received in the mail Dawn's blocks. She actually arted up her bottoms...

.... and one set of her sides.

And this is how I arted up Dawn's three sides.

I am in love with this art swap and am planning another one (thanks to Sonny who made me a ton of assorted blocks to play with).