Imagined Life

Absence Makes The Heart Grow.....

2010-09-08T18:01:00.003-05:00

Wow, I CANNOT believe that I have not written one single solitary post since last March. Where HAS the time gone?
I am going to try and get on here more often and post more photos, write more paragraphs, and belly ache a lot more.

Lots has happened since March.
My Mother became deathly ill.
I quit my job.
Had my first encounter with plastic surgery.
Moved a son back home WITH his cat and 2 dogs.

All of which I will try to write about when the time seems right.

For now, though, I have been trying to keep my food blog updated a bit more. Since quitting my job and my Mother's health returning a bit I have a tad more time for photography and cookery. If you have not visited my food blog visit it here Imagined Eating. Feel free to leave comments, correct my recipes, add your own recipes and make requests. I would love to see more visits and contributions.

For now, I love you all and have missed each and every one of you.
Smooches
Gewels

Santa Fe Sunset

2010-03-03T10:13:00.005-05:00

Santa Fe

Train wheels runnin’ down an open track
In my mem’ry time to take me back
Are you goin are you goin’

To santa fe
Do you need it
Can you feel it in the same old way
I can feel it from the mountain top
Runnin’ down to the foamy brine
In a rest’rant ’cross a table top
Looking into a glass of wine
Whispering in the evening breeze
Green leaves list’ning eucalyptus trees
Can you hear them
Or get near them

Oh, santa fe
Do you need it
Can you feel it in the same old way
I can feel it when it all goes down
Look around and it’s happening
Look around and see what I have found
And it’s more than a song to sing
In the night I hear you callin’
And I’m thinkin’ of you, darlin’

Santa fe
Do you need it
Can you feel it in the same old way
I can feel it when it all goes down
Look around and it’s happening
Look around and see what I have found
And it’s more than a song to sing
And it’s more, more than a song to sing

Van Morrison

Diary of a demented snow shoveler

2010-02-15T10:35:00.011-05:00

December 8, 6:00 PM

It started to snow. The first snow of the season and
the wife and I took our cocktails and sat for hours by
the window watching the huge soft flakes drift down
from heaven. It looked like a Grandma Moses print. so romantic we felt like newlyweds again. I love snow!

December 9

We woke to a beautiful blanket of crystal white snow
covering every inch of the landscape. What a fantastic sight! Can there be a more lovely place in
the whole world? Moving here was the best idea I've
ever had! Shoveled for the first time in years and felt like a boy again. I did both our driveway and the side-walks. This afternoon the snowplow came along and covered up the sidewalks and closed in the driveway, so I got to shovel again. What a perfect life!

December 12

The sun has melted all our lovely snow. Such a
disappointment! My neighbor tells me not to worry-
we'll definitely have a white Christmas. No snow on
Christmas would be awful! Bob says we'll have so much snow by the end of winter, that I'll never want to see snow again. I don't think that's possible. Bob is such a nice man, I'm glad he's our neighbor.

December 14

Snow, lovely snow! 8 inches last night. The temper-ature dropped to -20*. The cold makes everything
sparkle so. The wind took my breath away, but I warmed up by shoveling the driveway and sidewalks. This is the life! The snowplow came back this after-noon and buried everything again. I didn't realize I would have to do quite this much shoveling,but I'll certainly get back in shape this way. I wish I wouldn't huff and puff so.

December 15
20 inches forecast. Sold my van and bought a 4x4
Blazer. Bought snow tires for the wife's car and 2
extra shovels. Stocked the freezer. The wife wants
a wood stove in case the electricity goes out. I think
that's silly. We aren't in Alaska, after all.

December 16

Ice storm this morning. Fell on my ass on the ice in
the driveway putting down salt. Hurt like hell. The
wife laughed for an hour, which I think was very
cruel.

December 17

Still way below freezing. Roads are too icy to go
anywhere. Electricity was off for 5 hours. I had to
pile the blankets on to stay warm. Nothing to do but
stare at the wife and try not to irritate her. Guess I
should've bought a wood stove, but won't admit it to
her. God I hate it when she's right. I can't believe
I'm freezing to death in my own livingroom.

December 20

Electricity is back on, but had another 14 inches of
the damn stuff last night. More shoveling! Took all
day. The damn snowplow came by twice. Tried to find a neighbor kid to shovel, but they said they're too busy playing hockey. I think they're lying. Called the only hardware store around to see about buying a snow blower and they're out. Might have another shipment in March. I think they're lying. Bob says I have to shovel or the city will have it done and bill me. I think he's lying.

Bob was right about a white Christmas because 13 more inches of the white shit fell today, and it's so cold,it probably won't melt till August. Took me 45 minutes to get all dressed up to go out to shovel and then I had to pee. By the time I got undressed, pee'd and dressed again, I was too tired to shovel. Tried to
hire Bob who has a plow on his truck for the rest of
the winter, but he says he's too busy. I think the ass is lying.

December 23

Only 2 inches of snow today. And it warmed up to 0*.
The wife wanted me to decorate the front of the house this morning. What is she, nuts?!! Why didn't she tell me to do that a month ago? She says she did but I think she's lying.

December 24

6 inches- Snow packed so hard by snowplow, I broke
the shovel. Thought I was having a heart attack. If I
ever catch the son of a bitch who drives that snow
plow, I'll drag him through the snow by his balls and
beat him to death with my broken shovel. I know he
hides around the corner and waits for me to finish
shoveling and then he comes down the street at a 100 miles an hour and throws snow all over where I've just been! Tonight the wife wanted me to sing Christmas carols with her and open our presents, but I was too busy watching for the damn snowplow.

December 25

Merry Christmas! 20 more inches of the damn slop tonight - Snowed in The idea of shoveling makes my blood boil. God, I hate the snow! Then the snowplow driver came by asking for a donation and I hit him over the head with my shovel. The wife says I have a bad attitude. I think she's a fricking idiot. If I have to watch 'It's A Wonderful Life' one more time, I'm going to stuff her into the microwave.

December 26

Still snowed in. Why did I ever move here? It was all HER idea. She's really getting on my nerves.

December 27

Temperature dropped to -30* and the pipes froze;
plumber came after 14 hours of waiting for him, he
only charged me $1,400 to replace all my pipes.

December 28

Warmed up to above -20*. Still snowed in. The BITCH is driving me crazy!!!

December 29

10 more inches. Bob says I have to shovel the roof or
it could cave in. That's the silliest thing I ever heard. How dumb does he think I am?

December 30

Roof caved in. I beat up the snow plow driver, and now he is suing me for a million dollars, not only for the beating I gave him, but also for trying to shove the broken snow shovel up his ass. The wife went home to her mother. Nine more inches predicted.

December 31

I set fire to what's left of the house. No more
shoveling.

January 8

Feel so good. I just love those little white pills
they keep giving me. Why am I tied to this bed?

And on that final note here is a shot of our deck trellis, which collapsed under the weight of the snow. More white pills please!!!

And Snow it Begins.

2010-02-11T18:09:00.010-05:00

This has been a very unusually snowy winter. So far this winter we have had 79.9 inches of snow.
These are shots of the last two snowstorms that we've had which began last Friday evening. With only a 4 day break in-between.

Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village, though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.

My little horse must think it's queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there's some mistake.
The only other sound's the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.

The woods are lovely, dark, and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.

A Costa Rica Thanksgiving

2009-12-02T15:35:00.010-05:00

Not the cold fallish weather with pumpkin pie that I'm used to. But I'll take it!

WINDOWS

2009-11-17T17:53:00.010-05:00

all of us tend to put off living. We are all dreaming of some magical rose garden over the horizon - instead of enjoying the roses that are blooming outside our windows today.
Dale Carnegie

Once Upon A Midnight Dreary...

2009-11-15T17:42:00.012-05:00

Pics of our first annual Halloween Costume party. You know it's a good party when you wake up in the morning to 2 days worth of dishes, witches hats sitting askew on your dogs head and discarded clothing (and hats and machine guns) scattered among the sprayed silly string on the living room floor.

And the winner of the "Most Creative Costume award goes to" Sperm Man

Nothing on Earth so beautiful as the final haul on Halloween night.
Steve Almond

The Big 5-0

2009-11-09T11:53:00.023-05:00

Yikes! October meant another birthday. Now I've reached the "milestone" 50th year.

What a great surprise party Allen planned for me, with allot of help from some friends. It took place under a tent next to The Wine Bin on a gorgeous, gorgeous, sunny Sunday afternoon.
The recipe for such a perfect party- Beautiful florals, fabulous food (a lunch of salmon, filet and shrimp), wonderful music by a solo guitarist, Luscious cake filled with lemon mousse and raspberry, good wine (and martinis). But most importantly the love of my dear family and friends.

Loving Family

Amazing Friends

A Scrumptious Cake

Live Music and a serenade

FABULOUS FLOWERS

The longer I live the more beautiful life becomes.
Frank Lloyd Wright (1869 - 1959

CAVALIA

2009-10-13T12:10:00.006-05:00

One of the birthday gifts that I gave myself this week were front row tickets to this beautiful show- CAVALIA.

It was started by one of the founders of Cirque de Soleil. This one has a very similar feel as a cirque de soleil show with beautiful, lilting music, amazing scenery and lighting and graceful acrobatics. The thing that set this show apart is the focus on the horses. This is the most gorgeous show I have ever seen.

Here are a few images from the show. (Not taken by me however)

And Allah took a handful of southerly wind, blew His breath over it, and created the horse.... Thou shall fly without wings, and conquer without any sword. Oh, horse. ~Bedouin Legend

Ah, steeds, steeds, what steeds! Has the whirlwind a home in your manes? Is there a sensitive ear, alert as a flame, in your every fiber? Hearing the familiar song from above, all in one accord you strain your bronze chests and, hooves barely touching the ground, turn into straight lines cleaving the air, and all inspired by God it rushes on! ~Nikolai V. Gogol, Dead Souls, 1842

Go, Lassie, Go

2009-09-29T12:50:00.005-05:00

Oh the summertime is coming
And the trees are sweetly blooming
And the wild mountain thyme
Grows around the blooming heather
Will ye go, Lassie go?

And we'll all go together
To pluck wild mountain thyme
All around the blooming heather
Will ye go, Lassie go?

I will build my love a tower
Near yon' pure crystal fountain
And on it I will build
All the flowers of the mountain
Will ye go, Lassie go?

If my true love she were gone
I would surely find another
Where wild mountain thyme
Grows around the blooming heather
Will ye go, Lassie go?

IRELAND

2009-09-28T20:51:00.005-05:00

CALEDONIA

I don't know if you can see
The changes that have come over me
In these last few days I've been afraid
That I might drift away
So I've been telling old stories, singing songs
That make me think about where I came from
And that's the reason why I seem
So far away today

Oh, but let me tell you that I love you
That I think about you all the time
Caledonia you're calling me
And now I'm going home
If I should become a stranger
You know that it would make me more than sad
Caledonia's been everything
I've ever had

Now I have moved and I've kept on moving
Proved the points that I needed proving
Lost the friends that I needed losing
Found others on the way
I have kissed the ladies and left them crying
Stolen dreams, yes there's no denying
I have traveled hard with coattails flying
Somewhere in the wind

Now I'm sitting here before the fire
The empty room, the forest choir
The flames that could not get any higher
They've withered now they've gone
But I'm steady thinking my way is clear
And I know what I will do tomorrow
When the hands are shaken and the kisses flow
Then I will disappear

Roses and Death

2009-09-10T08:44:00.004-05:00

ROSES LATE SUMMER

What happens
to the leaves after
they turn red and golden and fall
away? What happens

to the singing birds
when they can't sing
any longer? What happens
to their quick wings?

Do you think there is any
personal heaven
for any of us?
Do you think anyone,

the other side of that darkness,
will call to us, meaning us?
Beyond the trees
the foxes keep teaching their children

to live in the valley.
So they never seem to vanish, they are always there
in the blossom of the light
that stands up every morning

in the dark sky.
And over one more set of hills,
along the sea,
the last roses have opened their factories of sweetness

and are giving it back to the world.
If I had another life
I would want to spend it all on some
unstinting happiness.

I would be a fox, or a tree
full of waving branches.
I wouldn't mind being a rose
in a field full of roses.

Fear has not yet occurred to them, nor ambition.
Reason they have not yet thought of.
Neither do they ask how long they must be roses, and then what.
Or any other foolish question.
Mary Oliver

Dedicated to Arthur Remanjon Feb. 3 1955 - Sep.2 2009

Thank you for all that you have given all of us who have had the privilege to have known you. Our lives have been enriched by your unbounding joy, exuberance, wit, amazing talent and endless love and compassion.
Your life will remain a fine example of a life well lived.

Rest in peace

THE VIEW FROM THE DECK ON A SUMMER EVENING

2009-07-19T07:43:00.006-05:00

Flamenco Recital

2009-07-03T07:54:00.008-05:00

Last Sunday was the Arteflamenco annual recital. Seeing as how I could not participate (due to my knee problem) I was able to take a few photos of the performance.

My classmates preparing for their "Tango"

Several of my classmates in the midst of a "Sevillana".

Our fabulous instructors.

The Advanced Class performing a classical dance inspired by Bizet's Carmen.

I will begin 2 classes this week (if the knee cooperates)so maybe next year I will be among the ranks. Who knows?

Days of Wine and Dogs and Horses

2009-06-17T13:40:00.012-05:00

This past Friday night we hosted a fabulous event at The Wine Bin- our first annual Yappy Hour.
A portion of our sales that evening was donated to Spay Maryland and the Gentle Giants Draft Horse Rescue.
What an amazing turn-out. We provided beer and wine tastings and a chocolate and dog treat tasting by Parfections Chocolates. The Rumour Mill (a local restaurant) provided goodies for the humans to chow down on. And entertainment by Crystal Sands (a wonderful up and coming country singer) rounded out the evening.
I am a huge dog (and horse) lover but people are CRAZY when it comes to their dogs. Who would have thought that a yappy hour would draw so many attendees.

Some of the crowd of our well-behaved owners (and their dogs)
Our youngest dog-loving customer
Music by a fabulous young country singer- Crystal Sands
Chloe and Louie

The Gentle Giant Draft Horses and volunteers

We're looking forward to supporting many more good causes.

I care not much for a man's religion whose dog and cat are not the better for it. ~Abraham Lincoln

SHOWERS AND FLOWERS IN GEWELS' GARDEN

2009-05-07T09:35:00.009-05:00

My pansies love this gray,cold and dreary weather....

...But my peonies don't. One bloom has managed to survive the storms.

My trusty and heady scented lilac

And how happy was I when I spotted my Scotch broom blooming. The scent is heaven!

Observe this dew-drenched rose of Tyrian gardens
A rose today. But you will ask in vain
Tomorrow what it is; and yesterday
It was the dust, the sunshine, and the rains.
- Christina Rosetti

SO BUSY!!!!

2009-04-30T09:33:00.014-05:00

The last 4 months have been incredibly busy for me. Not with anything that is making any money you see. But, with some amazing events which I have had a hand in producing.
January thru March are wedding show months. So, to entice new clients over the top vignettes must be produced. It's all about SELLING YOURSELF.
Here are a few photos of some of the displays which I've had a hand in designing.

The first is a sort of Moroccan inspired theme. This was done under a canopy of all pink, orange and lime green. I LOVE the combo of orange and hot pink.

One vignette was more contemporary in a black and red scheme.

This next photo was not my design but the linens used were mine. I adore how they put the whole tablescape together using very elegant french tulips and river rocks.

The next set of photos were from a Bridal show that we did the beginning of April. Each designer was given a separate room at The Tremont Hotel here in Baltimore. Each room was a different color-scheme or theme. My room was done in all shades of silver, purple and periwinkle blue. I was trying to create a very moody, but elegant space. The only thing missing was the smoke machine (the higher ups nixed the idea but later wished we had done it- go figure).

This last set of photos was for a fundraiser called UNCORKED- A five course wine dinner with proceeds going to the Maryland Food Bank. The theme of the affair was "A NIGHT AT THE MOVIES" and each table was designed by different florists, event planners or designers.
My movie was OUT OF AFRICA- and this is the result. I made a coffee tree for the center (since it was set on a coffee farm)surrounded by huge King Protea (the national flower of South Africa) and 3 foot tall giraffes that I was fortunate enough to find the day before the event.
I chose linens to evoke an elegant british safari feel. The base linen was a beautiful ecru lace topped with a natural burlap (much like you would find a coffee bean bag made from). Lace napkins, silver candlesticks and animal print covered bamboo chairs finished the design. Favors were bottles of South African wines wrapped in burlap and finished with raffia ties.

Other movies represented were Breakfast at Tiffanys, La Cage Au Folle, The Birds, The Dark Knight, One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest (that was wild), Saturday Night Fever and many more. The creativity constantly amazes me!!!

The world is but a canvas to the imagination.
Henry David Thoreau

Unfortunately now I'm brain dead and have not one creative thought in my mind.

MOTHER EARTH

2009-04-22T13:50:00.009-05:00

Celebrate Earth Day with me....with photos and native american poetry.

Coming onto the golden belly
of this mother the earth
where the winds talk
and the stones cast no shadows

i was dreaming
my face in the ground
belly to belly
i wept into the earth

a dreaming
but when it was there
it was a singing

my mouth as wide
as the heart of the earth
into the ground I was dreaming
all dressed in hair

Tobacco Indian

The care of the Earth is our most ancient and most worthy, and after all our most pleasing responsibility. To cherish what remains of it and to foster its renewal is our only hope.”
Wendell Berry

RECIPES

2009-04-21T14:24:00.003-05:00

With all of the recipe posting going on over at Barbara's place I was inspired to begin posting anew at Imagined Eating.

I've posted a few new dessert recipes which I recently tried, along with The Barefoot Contessa's scrumptious Espresso IceCream.

Check it out once in a while or feel free to invite yourself to post your own recipes. Let me know if you're interested and I'll add you to the page.

Happy Cooking!

A gourmet who thinks of calories is like a tart who looks at her watch.
~James Beard

GEWELS BLOOMS

2009-04-20T09:06:00.010-05:00

This dreary, dreary, rainy day calls for another installment of "What's blooming in Gewels's garden."

SONG OF THE FLOWER
I am a kind word uttered and repeated
By the voice of Nature;
I am a star fallen from the
Blue tent upon the green carpet.
I am the daughter of the elements
With whom Winter conceived;
To whom Spring gave birth; I was
Reared in the lap of Summer and I
Slept in the bed of Autumn.

At dawn I unite with the breeze
To announce the coming of light;
At eventide I join the birds
In bidding the light farewell.

The plains are decorated with
My beautiful colors, and the air
Is scented with my fragrance

As I embrace Slumber the eyes of
Night watch over me, and as I
Awaken I stare at the sun, which is
The only eye of the day.

I drink dew for wine, and hearken to
The voices of the birds, and dance
To the rhythmic swaying of the grass.

I am the lover's gift; I am the wedding wreath;
I am the memory of a moment of happiness;
I am the last gift of the living to the dead;
I am a part of joy and a part of sorrow.

But I look up high to see only the light,
And never look down to see my shadow.
This is wisdom which man must learn.

Kahlil Gibran

And finally a shot of an orchid from my indoor garden.

ARTEFLAMENCO

2009-04-15T08:37:00.006-05:00

Last night was my first class in Flamenco dance. I arrived at the studio a full 15 minutes early with long flowy skirt and flamenco shoes in hand.

There were some seasoned dancers in the class mixed in with the handful of beginners.
Because of this Natalia (our instructor) forced us to jump right in and learn some very intricate footwork. It was frustrating, exhausting and so much fun. I can't wait for the next class.

I fell in love with Flamenco while on a visit to Spain. Andalucia, to be exact. Within one week we saw three Flamenco shows. I was smitten.

The first show was in an auditorium of a church located on the town square of Rhonda.
This show was a sort of recital of a local dance troupe. Lots of beautiful women in gorgeous (mostly polka-dottted) dresses.

The second show took place in an outdoor courtyard on a tiny, winding street in the old Jewish neighborhood in Sevilla. This performance was in front of a much smaller, more intimate crowd. Several male guitarists accompanied a male singer and one pair of dancers. What surprised me most was the soulfulness of the guitar music and singer. The songs portrayed a life full of soul and angst. A truly moving performance.

The final performance took place in a cave on a hillside across the valley from the Alhambra in Granada. The music and dancing were performed by the gypsies that live in these caves. We were escorted in, seated crammed along the sides of someone's living room stone walls and given glasses of sangria. This performance was a much more raucous representation of the dance. The dancers were a bit more unrefined in their movements but you got the impression that they have been dancing this way for centuries. It seemed so much a part of their spirit. After all, it began with the gypsies in this part of the country.

This photo shows the gypsy dancer in the caves.

My son's girlfriend made the comment that I seem to choose hobbies just for the great clothes. Although that is not true I can't wait to go back to Spain to acquire a gorgeous polka-dotted dress of my own. And another pair of shoes- I'm thinking RED.

Time Flies

2009-03-27T09:28:00.006-05:00

Wow, it's already been over a month since I've posted anything (again).

I don't know where the time seems to go. It seems I do more and more and yet feel as if I fall further and further behind. Time's flying and I'm missing out.

I want to go flyfishing
I want to ride my horse 3 times a week
I want a pedicure
I want to plant my pansies
I want to take more photos
I want to take a photography class
I want to take a trip
I want to write on my blog
I want to read more books
I want to go back to life drawing class
I want to ride my bike
I want to have a dinner party for my friends
I want to see my friends
I want to build a waterfall in my pond
I want to finally get that mammogram (not really want to but have to)
I want to go to clubs to listen to more music
I want to make beaded jewelry
I want to play the piano (and guitar)
I want to exercise more
I want to learn Spanish (French,Italian)
I want to learn grammar (is it a comma, colon, hyphen or what?)
I want to see more hummingbirds

I'm sure there are more "wants" but this is getting ridiculous.

A want becomes a have with time.
Marilyn Bencosme

Time Flies and I need to try and catch it.

The Wine Bin Unveiled

2009-02-15T19:07:00.013-05:00

It's been a long busy road but we have finally managed to open up our FABULOUS new wine shop.

It's been a crazy busy several months fraught with indecisions, a few loud discussions and lots of blood, sweat, tears and money.

We opened our doors on Dec 5th. to try and grab a few of those holiday sales, but did not have our Grand Opening until January 10.
Here are a few photos of that fun-filled weekend.

The ribbon cutting as performed by our esteemed County Executive- Ken Ullman

The front room

Set for our grand opening party

Guests arriving for the party.

Getting ready to taste at our handmade copper tasting bar.

Future sight of our climate controlled walk-in wine cooler.

This is really just a retail wine shop. But, we do offer complimentary wine tastings every day. It's amazing how much more you can sell once people try it.

It's not a bad job when you can go to work and drink every day.

You've achieved success in your field when you don't know whether what you're doing is work or play.
Warren Beatty

Fingers Crossed

2008-10-28T10:47:00.007-05:00

So tonight is the big night. What- you say, Halloween isn't until Friday night?

No, tonight is the night that we go to our liquor board hearing. Hopefully this time around we will get our license to open the wine shop (that we've been working on for about 2 years now, geez!)

We've been quite confident that this will happen so we've been working on getting the space ready. Hopefully we'll open by the first week in December.

A couple of shots of the store in progress.

It's huge, it's gorgeous and way cool. We chose the colors of bright avocadoish green, deep, deep plum brown and a brighter orangish yellow for the architectural elements in the base. Hence the colors in the logo above.

If this doesn't work I guess we'll just have to turn it into a super trendy clothing boutique. No size 0's will be carried however. That size just pisses me off!

SEEING RED

2008-10-27T15:52:00.011-05:00

The theme was red- so I pulled out all the stops.

This table design was one that I did as part of a recent fundraiser. I took the "Red" theme literally. Well, with a splash of silver.

Red lamps

Red cloths
Red roses

OH- NO WONDER.......

2008-10-08T09:29:00.007-05:00

Yesterday was the 29th anniversary of my 20th birthday and you know what I found out?

It was Simon Cowell's as well- same Date and age.
I'm not quite sure how I feel about that but....I think that may explain allot regarding my behavior these days.

Thank you all for your warm wishes and emails. You have no idea how much I appreciate it all. You're the best.

BTW- my son has moved to Costa Rica. You can follow his adventures here

Rentals and Swappings

2008-09-03T07:39:00.007-05:00

As some of you may know I am fortunate enough to have a second home in Costa Rica. Up to this point we have pretty much kept it for ourselves. Now, though, my husband would like to see it rented out so that it could help pay the expenses of the property.
For his birthday present he asked that I spend some time (and money) listing the house on various web-sites. The first site I chose was Vacations Rentals By Owner. We had read good reviews of other people's experience in getting rentals so I thought I would try it.

To see the VRBO listing click here

The second site I chose was HomeExchange.com. This site lists homes which people are willing to swap to stay in your home. For example, I have a place in Costa Rica and I want to visit Mexico. I can go on the site, look up homes in Mexico and offer an exchange to that property's home owner.

To see the Homeexchange listing click here
Within 48 hours of listng our home we were offered 12 exchanges and 2 rental opportunities. Unbelievable results.

We had a request from 2 people in Australia (my husband's dream destination), 2 in Napa Valley, 1 in Brittany, France, several in Quebec, Canada, A few locations in the US (including Lake Tahoe, Tucson and upstate NY)and my personal favorite- Mexico.

You would think I would be rather pleased with the results. Actually I am...
HOWEVER, the day after I listed these and the day after I had spent over 400.00 to sign up for these sites, we got a call from a real estate agent in Costa Rica who said that they found someone who would like to rent our house for a year. A FULL YEAR!
What kind of timing is that? Couldn't he have called the day BEFORE I spent this money? I suppose I could try to put some of these interested parties off until 2010.
Oh, and if anyone would like to swap or rent let me know. Plan ahead for 2010 though.

SUNFLOWER CHILD

2008-08-14T17:00:00.013-05:00

I am watching you,
Sunflower child,
darting from friend
to acquaintance, uncertain,
searching for the goblet
from which you can drink
and be satisfied....

wanting to taste the wine which will
leave you feeling accepted,
safe… needing a person
who will speak your
love language…

I am watching you,
you who do not know that
your personality can
stop wars and your smile
can mend a thousand bridges

…that the love language you
speak can transcend race and
nationalities

It is easy to take up place
in the hearts of men, a place
they would be honoured to
give…. it is easy to love you
Sunflower Child

Pablo Loves Life

Sunflowers and Black-Eyed Susans brought to you courtesy of "Gewels's Garden"

Costa Rican Horse Parade

2008-08-02T10:33:00.009-05:00

To my utter joy we stumbled upon the Horse Parade in Liberia, Costa Rica. At least 500 horses (and riders) were in attendance. What was even better, though, were the number of Andalusians. These horses give me goosebumps.
They ranged in color from the purest white (albino, I'm assuming) to gray (most common color) to black.
I must admit the white ones took my breath away.

The riders were quite varied as well. From the old, grizzled cowboys to young cocky beer-drinking twenty-somethings to women in traditional Costa Rican dress.
I just wonder how the clean-up was done. After all this parade wound down the center of city streets.

This one almost looks like a carousel horse.
An Albino Andalusian? Or, maybe not because of the dark eyes. I don't know.

I would LOVE one of these horses. Of course, when I showed a photo of one of these to my friend,Travis, he said that no-one should ever have a pet prettier than they are. I guess I'll have to risk it.

COSTA RICAN SUNSETS

2008-08-01T16:30:00.007-05:00

When painters leave this world, we grieve
For the hand that will work no more,
But who can say that they rest alway
On that still celestial shore?
No! No! they choose from the rainbow hues,
And winging from Paradise,
They come to paint, now bold now faint,
The tones of our sunset skies.

When I see them there I can almost swear
That grey is from Whistler's brain!
That crimson flush was Turner's brush!
And the gold is Claude Lorraine.

William Percy French

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE

2008-07-15T08:15:00.002-05:00

'MAYA ANGELOU'S'

BEST POEM EVER

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE

enough money within her control to move out

and rent a place of her own,

even if she never wants to or needs to...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

something perfect to wear if the employer,

or date of her dreams wants to see her in an hour...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ..

a youth she's content to leave behind....

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ..

a past juicy enough that she's looking forward to

retelling it in her old age....

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE .....

a set of screwdrivers, a cordless drill, and a black lace bra...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

one friend who always makes her laugh... and one who lets her cry...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ....

a good piece of furniture not previously owned by anyone else in her family...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

eight matching plates, wine glasses with stems,

and a recipe for a meal,

that will make her guests feel honored...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

a feeling of control over her destiny...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

how to fall in love without losing herself..

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

how to quit a job,

break up with a lover,

and confront a friend without

ruining the friendship...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

when to try harder... and WHEN TO WALK AWAY...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

that she can't change the length of her calves,

the width of her hips, or the nature of her parents..

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

that her childhood may not have been perfect...but it's over...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

what she would and wouldn't do for love or more...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

how to live alone... even if she doesn't like it...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW.. .

whom she can trust,

whom she can't,

and why she shouldn't take it personally...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

where to go...

be it to her best friend's kitchen table...

or a charming inn in the woods ...

when her soul needs soothing...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW. ..

what she can and can't accomplish in a day...

a month...and a year...

Dedicated to all you powerful, rockin' chicks out there.

Happy 4th!!!!

2008-07-03T15:10:00.002-05:00

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY

from my house to yours

There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right with America.Bill Clinton

You have to love a nation that celebrates its independence every July 4, not with a parade of guns, tanks, and soldiers who file by the White House in a show of strength and muscle, but with family picnics where kids throw Frisbees, the potato salad gets iffy, and the flies die from happiness. You may think you have overeaten, but it is patriotism.Erma Bombeck

The Lake of the Dismal Swamp

2008-06-19T12:38:00.008-05:00

"They made her a grave too cold and damp
For a soul so warm and true;
And she's gone to the Lake of the Dismal Swamp,
Where all night long, by a firefly lamp,
She paddles her white canoe.

And her firefly lamp I soon shall see,
And her paddle I soon shall hear;
Long and moving our life shall be
And I'll hide the maid in a cypress tree,
When the footstep of death is near."

Away to the Dismal Swamp he speeds,
His path was rugged and sore,
Through tangled juniper, beds of reeds,
Through many a fen where the serpent feeds,
And man never trod before.

And when on the earth he sank to sleep,
If slumber his eyelids knew,
He lay where the deadly vine doth weep
Its venemous tear, and nightly steep
The flesh with blistering dew!

And near him the she-wolf stirr'd the brake,
And the copper-snake breathed in his ear,
Till he starting cried, from his dream awake,
"Oh when shall I see the dusky Lake,
And the white canoe of my dear?"

He saw the Lake, and a meteor bright
Quick over its surface play'd,
"Welcome," he said, "my dear one's light!"
And the dim shore echo'd for many a night
The name of the death-cold maid.

Till he hollow'd a boat of the birchen bark,
Which carried him off from the shore;
Far, far he follow'd the meteor spark,
The wind was high and the clouds were dark,
And the boat return'd no more.

But oft, from the Indian hunter's camp,
This lover and maid so true
Are seen at the hour of midnight damp
To cross the Lake by a firefly lamp,
And paddle their white canoe!

Thomas Moore

All of these photos were taken this past winter in Charleston, SC by yours truly.

Herb Garden Update

2008-06-17T08:39:00.008-05:00

And she forgot the stars, the moon, the sun,
And she forgot the blue above the trees,
And she forgot the dells,where waters run,
And she forgot the chilly autumn breeze;
She had no knowledge when day was done,
And the new morn she saw not: but in peace
Hung over her sweet Basil evermore .....
'For cruel 'tis,' said she,
'To steal my Basil-pot away from me.'
- John Keats

I plant rosemary all over the garden, so pleasant is it to
know that at every few steps one may draw the kindly
branchlets through one's hand, and have the enjoyment of
their incomparable incense; and I grow it against walls, so
that the sun may draw out its inexhaustible sweetness
to greet me as I pass ....
- Gertrude Jekyll

STORY OF THE DAY

2008-06-16T08:50:00.003-05:00

Funny World

He told me about Jesus & Arizona & the best way to make beer & I said you're a funny kind of preacher & he said it's a funny kind of world & I still remember his eyes clear as a desert morning.

for daily stories go to STORYPEOPLE

BACK IN THE SADDLE AGAIN

2008-06-09T09:31:00.003-05:00

Well I finally went back to riding.

Thursday night was my first class since May 1st. Why? You ask.
Well, because on May 1st was the day that my horse, Comet, decided to buck me off.

It was almost a relief actually. Ever since I began riding ( one year ago) I would wonder at the start of every lesson if it will be the day that I fall off. And, up until May 1st it never was.

I must make it clear, however, that I did not simply "fall off" the horse. That would imply that I was an incompetent, unbalanced or unskilled rider. I am actually all of those things but they are not the reason that this unfortunate incident had occurred.

I must start by saying that is was very clear, from the moment that I walked into Comet's stall, that she did not want to play that day. I had never ridden her before and was not familiar with her rude behavior. She immediately came at me with her lips curled back and her teeth bared, pushing her face into mine. This, I thought, was going to be the day that I had my cheek bitten off by a horse.
As it turned out she was not in the biting mood, she was just trying to intimidate me into not tacking her. Well, it worked.
She ended up getting her bridle on by an 8 year old (little brat), who had no problem with her behavior. Oh to be 8 years old again- sigh.

We actually rode together rather well. She had a pretty little canter that was quite comfortable for me. I am so used to Valentine's canter- which is very bumpy, and brtutal on my bad back. Comet was like a rocking horse in comparison.

This was the lesson that our instructor decided to have us attempt bareback riding. That, also, actually went very well. We simply walked and then trotted around the ring without our saddle. The reason is to help us learn the feel of the horse and to develop a more balanced seat.

The problem came when we were asked to sit on our horse and then to turn around so that we were facing backwards. The instructor was then going to walk us individually around the ring. As soon as I turned around and got myself settled is when Comet decided that she had had enough and began bucking. With no reins, neck or mane to hang onto I was dumped onto the ground. The fall itself was not that bad. Comet is a shorter horse than Valentine so the fall was not as bad as it may have been had I been riding him.
I did manage to get back up on Comet, still bareback but frontwards this time, and take one more walk around the ring.

I did not realize at the time that I had fractured my elbow. I was in terrible pain and finally went to the emergency room at 7 the next morning. That x-ray showed no break. The only good thing about going to the emergency room was getting the percoset. A week later it was re x-rayed and the break was found.

The worst part was having to go to my son's wedding in Vegas with my arm in a sling.

It's on the mend, although I am still in some pain and in need of a little bit of therapy to get my range of motion back.

I am back in the saddle again and loving it. My first lesson back, after more than a month off, was with Comet- AGAIN! I wavered for a second but I did get back up on that rotten mare. She was so well-behaved this time I almost thought she was a different horse.

I was very nervous going back to class but the more I stayed away the more nervous I became. I know it will happen again- and may be much worse next time. But, as my chiropractor says "if you're going to live life things like this are bound to happen".

Here's to "living life" and taking the risk.

The policy of being too cautious is the greatest risk of all.
Jawaharlal Nehru (1889 - 1964)

He Ain't No Baby Anymore

2008-05-29T16:19:00.006-05:00

DALE AND ERIN
May 15 2008 Las Vegas

My baby boy tied the knot.
Hopefully they will live happily ever after. And give me some very cute granbabies to boot.

Aren't they darling?

This last shot is everyone who attended the Vegas nuptials. Small party but tons of fun .

WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS........

2008-04-28T17:27:00.006-05:00

What does one do when their son texts them to say that he will be getting married in Las Vegas on May 15th?

Well, she runs right out and buys two dresses- that's what.

Oh yeah! And begins to plan a big blow-out party in town for all those family and friends not going to Vegas.

Am I nuts, or what?

At least the wedding isn't at the Little White Chapel!

WHERE'S THE BLUE?

2008-04-11T13:29:00.003-05:00

Several weeks ago I entered my first ever in-house horse show. The equestrian center where I take my lessons hosts several of these throughout the year.

I entered 4 divisions and received a second place, third place and two fourth place ribbons. I guess that is not so bad for someone who has only been indulging in this sport for 8 months. And at my age at that!

I rode my beloved Valentine and he and I performed quite well together. Although, he was a bit slow in the obstacle course- which resulted in the 4th place there.
These are 3 of my ribbons gracing my office.

And here is Valentine (on the left) nuzzling Mirage after one of our performances. He, too, must have been so proud.

JAKEY's SLEEP-AWAY CAMP

2008-04-07T18:03:00.008-05:00

I felt that I should post some photos of Jake- Barbara and Dave's beloved pet,who is staying with us this week. And, no Barbara, he has not run away. He did get out this morning but came when called. He knows where he's got it good.

This photo shows Jake where he spends the days- at my feet in my office. He has usurped the location from Simone who had this space all to herself prior to Jake's arrival.

And here he is with his beloved kong. Which he spends many hours attempting to bury not only in the yard but in my shoe closet as well. And, when he's not burying it I'm retrieving it from underneath every piece of furniture that he has managed to roll it under. It reminds me of the days I spent retrieving lego pieces for my kids.

He seems happy, he gets attention- much to Kayla and Simone's dismay and he's getting his exercise.

A sweeter dog there cannot be.

By the way- Kayla and Simone refused to have their picture taken with him. I'm sure I'll be punished later!

I guess here would be a good time to post the results of my dog breed quiz. How funny that I'm a lab. I guess I'm a sweet dog too!

Labrador Retriever
The Caretaker

Your family is what makes you tick, and you never "flea" from an opportunity to hang out with the whole gang. A family picnic complete with hot dogs, deviled eggs and a refreshing swim in the lake is hard for you to stray from. Your sparky temperament and dogged intelligence mean you are not only a blast to hang out with, but great to work with as well. Your close pals appreciate your patience and forgiveness, knowing you'd rather let sleeping dogs lie than dwell on the mishaps of the past. Your dashing good looks may one day lead to a modelling career, if only you can tame the unfortunate clumsiness that sometimes causes you to go flailing from the catwalk.

RIDING VALENTINE

2008-02-14T09:20:00.001-05:00

My only plan this Valentine's day is to go to my riding class. Very appropriate seeing as how the horse I ride is named Valentine.

When love is not madness, it is not love.
~Pedro Calderon de la Barca

COSTA RICAN ANIMALS

2008-02-13T09:00:00.004-05:00

Just a few shots.....

Some sort of buzzard posing.

And finally, the volcano- with a horse.

Grandma, Granny, Meemaw---ah, Gigi

2008-01-27T18:58:00.001-05:00

Welcome my new Grandson Greyson- born Jan 23rd at 5:20 pm.

Isn't he gorgeous? Of course that question is coming from the new grandma.

By the way- He will be calling me Gigi. I am way too young to be called Grandma.

Grey and new dad, Casey (my stepson)

I FALL IN LOVE MUCH TOO EASILY

2008-01-20T13:36:00.000-05:00

I attended the Horse World Expo here in Maryland yesterday.
I am totally smitten with Andalusians. I believe this will be my first horse of choice when I am ready to purchase one. After I get my gorgeous new 150 acre horse farm, that is.

I do so love living in my own little fantasy world.

Aren't they magnificent creatures?

Good places make good horses.
Anna Sewell BLACK BEAUTY

NEW BLOG ALERT

2008-01-17T18:52:00.000-05:00

Check out A Moveable Feast
My new blog devoted to food and wine- complete with recipes.

I would love for any of you to join me in posting some of your favorite recipes or food related articles. Just email me and I'll send you an invite to join in.
It should be fun...and a WAY better way of organizing my recipes than my old filing system.

Bon Appetit!

WINTER BLOOMS

2008-01-11T11:45:00.001-05:00

Back in November I took a little trip up to Longwood Gardens in Delaware. Here are some shots of their winter display. Nothing like gorgeous blooms on a dreary, drizzly day such as we are having today.

On this cold and freezing day,
The Russian sage does gently sway,
And miniature roses perfume the air,
I can see them blooming there.
Though days are short, my vision's clear.
And through the snow, the buds appear.

In my mind, clematis climbs,
And morning glories do entwine.
Woodland phlox and scarlet pinks,
Replace the frost, if I just blink.
My inner eye sees past the snow.
And in my mind, my garden grows."
- Cheryl Magic-Lady, Winter Garden

THE LETTER

2008-01-09T09:43:00.000-05:00

Several weeks ago the following hand-written letter was handed to me by a friend. It had been handed to her by another friend who received it from the letter-writer- who is incarcerated.

I don't know why this woman is in jail. Assault, drugs, prostitution? Who knows. But the fact that she felt compelled to SAY something and pass it on says allot about who she really is. This was intended to be personally handed from woman to woman- as oppposed to being sent to 5,000 of your closest email friends.

I have chosen to not only personally pass it on, but to pass it on here.

We can all read the message and know that it applies to all of us STRONG women.

click to enlarge.

The kind of beauty I want most is the hard-to-get kind that comes from within - strength, courage, dignity.
Ruby Dee

HAPPY TRAILS TO YOU

2008-01-03T10:14:00.000-05:00

I received this fabulous pop-up book from a dear friend. It is designed by David Pelham- an award-winning designer. It is reminiscent of a forested landscape which is adorned with flowers, mushrooms, nesting birds, butterflies and even an iguana. All ending in a silvery reflecting pool with resting turtles and dragonflies.

Sit back, put your feet up, grab that second cup of coffee and leaf through it at your leisure.

And Here is an Irish toast which accompanied the book.
"In the New Year may your right hand always be stretched out in friendship, never in want"

BLOGIVERSARY

2008-01-02T10:07:00.000-05:00

Oh my God- I missed my blogiversary!!!!!! How did that happen?
I know- I was running on the beach in Charleston, S.C. with my Granddog Fletch and his very pregnant Mom- Anna.

A very cleaned up Fletch. Isn't he adorable? Granddogs are THE BEST!

Actually - December 31st was my 1 year anniversary of spilling out my angst, photos and stupid observations. Will I continue down this path another year? Probably....why the hell not? I've got nothing better to do.

And, oh yes- HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYBODY!!

Happiness is too many things these days for anyone to wish it on anyone lightly. So let's just wish each other a bile-less New Year and leave it at that.Judith Crist

IS IT OVER YET?

2007-12-27T09:23:00.000-05:00

Over the span of 12 days we have either attended or hosted 9 parties. Count them 9.

It all began on December 15th with a holiday party at a friends house- 2 parties actually. One where we didn't even arrive until almost midnight.

We, ourselves, have hosted 4. Allen is such a trooper to run to the liquor store on a daily basis.

This is how the table looked prior to party number one (last Thursday)...for my ex-employees from the flowershop. This is before it was completely laden with platters of food....mozzarella pesto and pine nut tarts, crab dip, salmon tartlets and chicken chili.

This is how the kitchen table looked before we drained the champagne punch and covered it with caramel apple martinis.

Since that night I have washed and ironed the white linens (silver and white was my table theme this year) 4 times.

We then hosted a brunch for the parents from our son's soccer team (they haven't even played together in 12 years). That menu included corn mini biscuits with sliced ham and cranberry relish and a fabulous potato basil frittata (I love the Barefoot Contessa).

That was followed by a traditional Italian Seafood Feast on Christmas eve...for 18 people, no less. Oysters, Steamed shrimp, Fried calamari (Mom's)and Portuguese Seafood Stew with 5 types of seafood added.

It all ended last evening with a Christmas dinner for Allen's family. Butternut squash and apple soup, roast pork loin with fennel, sauteed cabbage. And finally finished off with gingerbread, lemon curd trifle with blackberry sauce and a champagne chaser.

I'M DONE! Except for the cleaning up- that is.

If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.
J. R. R. Tolkien

FOR NOW IS THE TIME OF CHRISTMAS

2007-12-22T11:05:00.000-05:00

Make we merry, both more and less, for now is the time of Christmas...

The final tree is standing...in the kitchen. Branches weighed down with birds, nest, gardening ornaments and various wooden santas, reindeer, boats and angels.

A Gardening Angel.

A Santa under sparkling birch branches

The mantle glowing with candlelight and crystals.

Crystal garlands, snowflakes and stars draping and dripping from the chandelier.

A crystallized wreath embellishing the mirror over the piano.

And finally- garishly wrapped packages under the boughs.

OH CHRISTMAS TREE....OH CHRISTMAS TREE

2007-12-13T15:05:00.000-05:00

Finally! The (first) tree is up...and what a job that was.

The first ornament my son ever gave me...about 15 years ago.

A memento from a trip to Ireland..

My very precious Waterford sphere.

A Renoir interpretation..

Various santas..

Diminutive heart...one of many

Crystal ball angel...in flight

Rising Sun..

Dragonflies to hover and butterflies to flit about..

And what would a Christmas tree be without shoes?

For RDG- Icicles and Roses

2007-12-11T09:47:00.000-05:00

Red Dirt Girl today posted about the Hans Christian Andersen fairytale "The Snow Queen". One of my all-time favorite fairytales.

I have posted a new photo of my Snow Queen themed fairy tale table from "An Enchanted Evening" fundraiser which I co-chaired back in October.

And for those of you lamenting that it didn't feel quite Christmasy yet- due to lack of weather-maybe the following shots will help put you in the spirit.
This is how my walk looked the other morning. Bundle up...

A NEW WORLD IS BORN

2007-12-10T10:35:00.000-05:00

"Each friend represents a world within us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born." — Anais Nin

How true is this quote?

Each and every friend that I have ever had has brought something different to my life.... As well as bringing forth something new from within myself.

As I spend this dreary morning writing out my holiday cards I think of friends- Distant and near, old and new.

I chose some beautiful handmade holiday cards this year.
Pick your favorite and know that it comes from my heart to you...to thank you for being my friend.

I love you all.

WATER LIKE A STONE: SNOW ON SNOW

2007-12-05T18:34:00.000-05:00

First snow fall of the season showed up this morning. A bit unusual so early in December. My walk this morning through the snow was a bit surreal; As I was only posting, a very short time ago, photos of the leaves beginning to change.

I love the first snow- especially when I can stay cozied up indoors and watch it drift down covering the neighborhood with a fresh, clean blanket.

It was only minutes ago, it seems, that my front yard looked like this.

This evening, it looked like this.

And not long ago the backyard was looking like this...

And this....

And this is how it looked this evening (from the front porch)

The back woods this morning

Even the dogs had a rousing good time in the snow. They seem to get so frisky when it's cool like this.

Oh, and do you think it's time to get rid of the pumpkins?

At Christmas I no more desire a rose
Than wish a snow in May's new-fangled mirth;
But like of each thing that in season grows.
William Shakespeare

How Many Are Truly Needed?

2007-12-03T14:03:00.000-05:00

How many silver shoes are too many?

I have a dressy event to attend this evening so I treated myself to a party dress.

Cute huh?

Then I decided that silver shoes would be the perfect accessory..of which I had 2 pair in my closet already. Was I happy? Apparently not. So, I took a little shopping trip to my local mega shoe emporium. There, much to my surprise, I found several pair that were simply calling my name. Only one being silver however.

But, you see, due to my rather large shoe size I feel that I must INVEST in any pair that I love and that fit me...so, that's what I did.

Did I really NEED either of these two pair? Hmmm, probably not. But, is it always really about need?

Silver pair #1, which I already owned

Silver pair #2, which I also already owned

Brand new silver pair #3- Which I just had to have.

And a very sexy pair of red ankle straps just for good measure. Hey, it has a silver platform and heel at any rate. And...it matches my mani/pedi.

Which do you think?

Now what ever am I to do about a bag?

HIDING MY TRUE SELF

2007-11-28T19:04:00.000-05:00

As I was going back looking at older posts I realized how much my posting has changed.
I actually did become aware of this several months back when Mr. Bulletholes brought it to my attention.
However, now it seems remarkable that this should have changed so dramatically in only a few short months.

I feel as if I am hiding behind superficial, shallow posts that mostly include only photos that I've taken and poems or quotes stolen from someone else; Although, the photos have become more of who I am these days. Or, maybe they are representative of how I want others to think of me without giving anything of significance away.

The early days of this blog were chock full of my thoughts, feelings and angst. Now, well, none of that is revealed here. Maybe that is actually a positive step.Maybe those deep-seated negative thoughts no longer hold me hostage. Or..........

....maybe I am no longer doing any soul-searching? Am I no longer digging deep to reveal those pent up frustrations, wants or needs? Maybe.

I think this change has come about because of my fear of revealing anything not quite right about me to casual readers. Yet, when I read what others have written many seem not to have that worry.

Almost a year ago I felt that possibly I had found the perfect medium for my "therapy". Now, I'm not so sure.

We'll see how things progress from here.

Words to live by.

RED MAPLE

2007-11-26T20:20:00.000-05:00

MAPLES

Leaves of fiery scarlet
reflect a crisp sun

rustle in a healthy mass
of autumn laughter

house an anarchy of crows
that screech at winters approach

until bare branches
balance snow

on slender
outstretched arms

Judith Pordon
C 1980

RARE INDEED

2007-11-21T08:48:00.000-05:00

Your Personality is Somewhat Rare (ENFP)

Your personality type is enthusiastic, giving, cautious, and loyal.

Only about 8% of all people have your personality, including 9% of all women and 6% of all men

You are Extroverted, Intuitive, Feeling, and Perceiving.

How Rare Is Your Personality?

Autumn Reflections

2007-11-13T09:38:00.000-05:00

I can see the tall, majestic trees
swaying in the distance,
their leaves gracefully
falling,
the ground becoming a fusion
of red, orange, yellow, and green.

the allure of the autumn day beckons me
to reflection.....

....yes, the tree will live on,
but the leaves -
while graceful in their descent -
will ultimately be
forgotten…

Adam Friedman

I took these shots last week during my morning walk - Such a pretty time of year here. It makes even these dreary, drizzly days- such as today- tolerable.

Halloween and Bittersweet

2007-11-01T14:53:00.000-05:00

Two things I love about the Autumn- HALLOWEEN and Bittersweet.

Nothing says fall to me like the hunt for Bittersweet- an invasive weed that strangles trees and crawls over shrubs. It's gorgeous. This time of year I can't drive down a road, edged with woods, without keeping an eye out for this beautiful vine. I keep a pair of clippers in my car so that I can easily hop out- once it is spyed- and cut as much down as possible before the cops stop me.
I then proceed to bedeck every available surface on my porch with this vine.I often do get rude comments about the need for a machete to get into my house. That's how much I twine around the doorway, bannisters, lightposts and bench. But look, isn't it cool?

Then there are the pumpkins- I have 5 on my doorstep now- all different varieties. They sure have come a long way since plain old orange ones from my childhood.
I have one that looks like a very large green-speckled apple, a white one, a very tall, elongated orange and - my favorite- the HUGE but squatty peach one that looks just like cinderella's carriage pre Fairy Godmother.
And then, of course, is the one that we carved for Halloween. This one was done by my son last night. He asked all of the poor souls who came Trick-or-Treating if they liked his jack-o-lantern. He's a glutton for compliments.

We also had one of those cool new fake ones that you get at Michael's Craft store. This one I carved last year. And it hasn't rotted away yet.

And the last is a ceramic one that I light everytime we have company coming- all the way up to Thanksgiving. I just thinks it's fun.

Only problem now is that I have two bags of Twizzler's and Crunch bars to get rid of. It's a dirty job but somebody has to do it.

AN ENCHANTED EVENING AND ONE BIG-ASS FAIRY

2007-10-30T13:57:00.000-05:00

AN ENCHANTED EVENING
An annual fundraiser for Meals on Wheels took place last week.
This is what I've been working on for months. I was the Design co-chair for this event that attracted over 300 guests.

It consists of a fabulous 5 course wine dinner- with local catering companies providing each course, and, local wine reps donating all of the wines.

This year we also included a design theme. ..... Fairytales.
We had 30 tables ,each designed by a different florist, event planner or caterer.

I have included a few photos of the event.

These are a couple of shots of the table which I designed. My fairy tale was the Snow Queen (I would be very surprised if any of you even knew the tale). It involved lots of snow flakes, ice crystals and snow coated red roses with icicle branches. I had menu cards printed on shimmery silver paper which I accented with 3 dimensional snowflakes and crystals. I even gave away hand-spun crystal snowflake ornaments to each guest that sat at my table.

This is a shot of one of the 2 Jack in the Beanstalk tables.

And here is The Princess and the Pea table. Very cleverly done- this one won the People's Choice Award.

This next one is the Ugly Duckling table- complete with a feather coated table cloth.

This is the Kama Sutra Table- not really a fairy tale but Enchanting at the very least- this actually won for best table. What you can't see is the fabulous canopy that the designer created over the whole table with dozens and dozens of lanterns suspended from above.

These last shots are of myself -with my co-chair Stephanie- being photographed by Baltimore InStyle magazine. Seeing as it was a fairytale theme we donned our wings.
After all, where else can a girl wear her fairy wings?

Now do you see what I mean about a big-ass fairy....And I don't mean Stephanie.

WHO TO BE...

2007-10-12T11:32:00.000-05:00

With all of this talk going around in blogger land of choosing an avatar I decided to consider mine.

It was suggested that Jane Russell and Gina Lollobridgida would be perfect representations. I do suppose that we all three have a certain attribute in common,
uh-hum.

However, I think I can more closely relate to this one. After all there is a striking resemblance to my mother. Although I do look more like my Dad.
I think she's just VERY Italian-looking...as am I.

What do you think?

TEACH A MAN TO FISH......

2007-10-03T19:30:00.000-05:00

On our last day in Alaska we decided to go on a salmon fishing trip.

Following are a few photos of the results.

Bringing the first silver in.

Me, proudly displaying my first catch!

This shot is some of the "loot" at the end of the day.

And this shot is of the same "loot" as it appeared on my doorstep.

Why do I mention this now you ask....well, because I just finished a dinner of our own caught salmon, grilled on cedar planks.

....And you feed him for a lifetime.
Chinese Proverb

5 A DAY

2007-09-19T21:14:00.000-05:00

Time to get serious here...

After a summer of too much eating and drinking I have committed to changing my gluttonous ways.
So, Today I begin my 5 a day program.

A pretty good beginning, No?

These were all taken at the Vancouver Market on Granville Island.

Jellyfish, Smellyfish

2007-09-05T20:12:00.000-05:00

What amazing creatures jellyfish can be.

These were quite artfully displayed at the Vancouver Aquarium. I tried to do them justice with my photography.

And one last shot of dancing anemones.

A CONSTANT CANVAS

2007-09-04T14:18:00.000-05:00

The sky’s a constant canvas,
For nature’s subtle art,
As clouds perform their images
Before they drift apart.

Jim Jordan

“There is one spectacle grander than the sea, that is the sky; there is one spectacle grander than the sky, that is the interior of the soul”
Victor Hugo

All of these were taken in various locations throughout Alaska.

BEAR WITH ME ONCE MORE

2007-08-27T20:45:00.000-05:00

"When all the dangerous cliffs are fenced off, all the trees that might fall on people are cut down, all of the insects that bite have been poisoned ... and all of the grizzlies are dead because they are occasionally dangerous, the wilderness will not be made safe. Rather, the safety will have destroyed the wilderness."

- R. Yorke Edwards (Canadian environmentalist)

These are some of the best photos of bears which I have been able to capture.
The grizzly bear was taken on my trip inside Denali National park.

The black bear (below) was finally able, after repeated attempts, to catch his dinner of salmon at Mendenhall Glacier in Junea, Alaska.

ON THE WINGS OF THE WINDS...

2007-08-24T20:39:00.000-05:00

But you never were made, as I,
On the wings of the winds to fly!
The eagle said.
Will Carleton

High o'er the watery uproar, silent seen,
Sailing sedate in majesty serene,
Now midst the pillared spray sublimely lost,
And now, emerging, down the rapids tossed,
Glides the Bald Eagle, gazing, calm and slow
Alexander Wilson

All of the above photos were taken in Ketchikan, Alaska

I SWAM IN CURRENTS DEEP.....

2007-08-23T16:19:00.000-05:00

Once upon a whale’s tale, I swam in currents deeper,

more solitary; fulfilling my destiny, searching

to remember who I was. Still, you swim and I am here.

Dive to depths beyond the depths we know,

Share your knowledge with those who wish to know it,

Cherish the memories you may have yet to lose.

The depths rise deeper, but still you rise to breathe.

Bubbles blown from hope spout unfathomable ideas.

Your existence, drenched in joy, seeks the perfect oblivion.

Lose the past in deep twirls of blue, and dive

towards the depths of eternity; forgetting yourself

in the depths of reflection, of ocean, of wisdom, of spirit, of dreams.

Once upon a whale’s tale, I swam in currents deeper

And dived to depths beyond the deepest depths.

I share your knowledge and cherish your memories.

Bubbles blown spout hope for tomorrow – eternity lives in the oceans of time.
F. Ceska

The photos above- as well as the glacier photos -were all taken by little ol' me on my recent trip to Alaska. I hope you like them and stay tuned for more.

STUPENDOUS GLACIERS

2007-08-21T09:55:00.000-05:00

Mendenhall Glacier- Juneau, Alaska

“Glaciers are delicate and individual things, like humans. Instability is built into them.”
Will Harrison

Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska

“Forests, lakes, and rivers, clouds and winds, stars and flowers, stupendous glaciers and crystal snowflakes - every form of animate or inanimate existence, leaves its impress upon the soul of man.”
Orison Swett Marden

PHOTOHUNTERS

2007-08-18T07:54:00.000-05:00

Today's PHOTOHUNTERS theme is TWO

Having just returned from a TWO week trip to Alaska- with a TWO of day stay in Vancouver, BC- I am including TWO shots that I took this week.
(Get it? two)

These were taken at the Vancouver aquarium in Stanley Park.

Stay tuned for more wildlife photos to come.

The Adventure Begins

2007-08-01T06:24:00.000-05:00

The Adventure Begins- Today is the day that we leave for parts Northwest.

We begin in Vancouver, B.C. with a 2-night stay. A gorgeous, gorgeous city- even the rain doesn't dampen ones mood.

Then off to Anchorage, Alaska- for a 5-day stay, where we will take a drive up to Denali to see Mt. McKinley. Possibly do some fishing (salmon, maybe?)

Then we take one of these-

Leaving from Whittier, Alaska. 7-days of cruising through the fjords of the Inside Passage- with various excursions thrown in. One tour that I am hoping to take is the flightseeing tour over 5 glaciers. In the photo at top you see a shot of Glacier Bay, one of the stops on our trip.

I say I am hoping to take it because last week one of the planes slammed into a mountain and killed all the tour passengers on board. There's a possiblity that they may be grounded.
The way I see it, though, is that I would rather take my chances and die doing something like this than on the Baltimore beltway on my way to work.

Here are some shots of the sights that I am HOPING to see.
Soaring Bald Eagles

Breaching Whales- both killer and humpback

Lumbering Moose

Bears- it is salmon spawning season- so bears should be all over the streams.

I'll try to post something here and there over the next 2 weeks.

“To the lover of wilderness, Alaska is one of the most wonderful countries in the world.”
John Muir

WELCOME TO BALMER, HON

2007-07-30T20:24:00.000-05:00

HONFEST 2007

Every year, in a neighbor called Hampden, the Honfest is held. The honfest was started by a woman who established a business in this aree of Baltimore many years back. Upon finding old photos dating back to the 50's she decided to celebrate the blue-collar, tacky roots of this neighborhood. The Honfest was born.

The local citizens go all out for this 2 day event. Beehive hairdos are created. Housecoats, fuzzy slippers, curlers and flowered swim caps are the costume of choice.

There is even a "beauty" contest to choose Miss Honfest. The winner is chosen on her attire, singing and dancing abilities and mostly her attitude. Smacking chewing gum and smoking cigarettes are also necessary costume details.

Besides watching the beauty contest- one can go to the beehive tent and have one of those beautiful beehive hairdos created on the spot. The best hairdresser this year was the most beautiful creature with an amazingly high do, bright red lipstick, eyelashes out to here and wore, I think, a size 13 stilleto pump. He was gorgeous!

Enjoy these shots of Honfest 2007- taken by my friend Chuck Ritz.
And, next year, you better plan on coming to Balmer, Hon.

ROPING THE MOON

2007-07-28T11:58:00.000-05:00

I have just completed my seventh week of riding lessons. Each week a new lesson is learned- not just about riding, or handling a horse- but about myself and my fears.

These are the most beautiful creatures on the face of the earth. Not only beautiful, but also intelligent, friendly, loving and proud. They still often scare the hell out of me. But, mostly I scare the hell out of myself.

In 7 weeks I have gone from being deathly afraid of getting near them (let alone getting up on top of one) to being still somewhat afraid- but becoming more trustful towards them and even more trustful of myself in handling them. And, most of all falling in love with each and every one of them.

The lessons have not been easy; And yet, I learn a brand new one every time I step foot into one of their stalls. Mostly I have learned that I need to be the one in control and to make them WANT to do what I ask, need,and am required to make them do.
I have also learned to try to show no fear or even apprehension. It is amazing how they pick up on that.

My worst experience was with a horse named Moon. Week three of my lesson I was assigned Moon- first time riding him. He was on the small side, seemed rather gentle, beautiful eyes with a pale-almost white- coloring. Since I was totally inept at tacking him a young staff member helped me with his bridle. I then led him out to the training ring and proceeded to mount him. He was very cooperative and quiet. That is up until the lesson actually began.

I am in a class with 4 other riders- all more experienced than myself by 3-6 months. We begin by walking the horses single file around the perimiter of the ring, work our way into a trot and begin our posting trot.(for those of you who do not ride- a posting trot is when you stand up and sit back down in the saddle in conjuction with the horse's rhythm.) This is where my trouble began.

Moon had a mind of his own- not only would he not even trot, he had no intention of staying in single file. Rather than follow the other horses, he chose to constantly cut across the ring, drop his head, or stand completely still while periodically twisting his head back to try to kick my feet out of the stirrups. That horse did not want this rider on his back.
Of course, I realize that most of the problem WAS the rider, not the horse. He just did not know what I wanted him to do. My kicks were weak, my signals were wishywashy and my fear was increasing. At one point my instructor, Ryan, handed me a crop and insisted that I use it to get Moon to move. All this to no avail. We were just not bonding.

In my frustration I asked for, no begged for, another horse. It was not to be. I was to struggle through this hour with this beast. Needless to say, by the time I slid down off of him I could not wait to be rid of him.

The following week- driving to my lesson- the thought occurred to me that Ryan would again assign me Moon. (In general he puts us on different horses each time). And, much to my dismay, there we were again- Moon and I face to face.

Actually, not face to face at first. As soon as I stepped into his stall he takes one look at me and turns his back. He completely turns around and sticks his head into the back corner. So there I am, bridle in hand, facing the wrong end of a horse. All of my efforts in turning him around were to no avail. He was not happy to see me. Once again a staff member helps me get him situated (I think this girl was only about 12, geesh!).

I led Moon back out the ring all the while throwing the nastiest looks that I can muster towards Ryan. He knew I was NOT happy.
Moon and I begin, again, our dance of power. Me, struggling to keep his head up, keep in single file, trot, post, change direction and not fall off- all at the same time, while Moon fights my every move. More frustration on my part. But, 1/2 way through the class something seems to change. My frustration turns to determination and Moon suddenly begins to relent. Am I winning? Is he just teasing me? What?

We end the lesson with a better understanding of each other, I think. I am learning the very hard lesson of becoming the one in control. Being sure of my abilities and not being afraid of trying to take the lead. Life lessons?

I could not stay angry at Ryan for putting me through that. For, If I were him, I would have done EXACTLY the same thing with one of my students. And, he explained that I will have advanced several lessons worth with those 2 lessons- because of all that I had to deal with. And he was right. My confidence is increasing, I can now step into a stall, make a horse stop eating and get the bridle on him with no problem. I am finally the one in control.

The last 2 lessons I have had Valentine. A magnificent horse- an ex racehorse and the largest one in the stable. He's huge. He likes me- he listens! It's wonderful. He knows when I want him to trot, halt, turn, speed up, slow down. And for that he gets carrots and peppermints.
Maybe I'm not so wishywashy after all.

Life lessons indeed.

And here is Moon, standing still for a different rider!

There is nothing wrong with being afraid---but there is nothing more wrong than allowing that to be your master.
Bobby Darin

Intoxicating Garden

2007-07-24T14:19:00.000-05:00

Is it your face
that adorns the garden?

Is it your fragrance
that intoxicates this garden?

Is it your spirit
that has made this brook
a river of wine?

Hundreds have looked for you
and died searching
in this garden
where you hide behind the scenes.

But this pain is not for those
who come as lovers.

You are easy to find here.

You are in the breeze
and in this river of wine.
Rumi

What is blooming in this garden of mine? Not too much- but I managed to catch a few blooms before they wither in this heat and dryness.
And here is Kayla- your tour guide as we begin on the back steps.

We begin with a few of our deck plantings.

Palest blush and softest petals.

Blowsy, voluptuos hydrangea. Pink AND blue on the same shrub- gotta love that!

Lythrum and gooseneck veronica- wild and all over the place- like me, I guess!

Scrubby, shrubby roses

And, probably my least favorite flower-Daylilies- don't ask me why, I don't know.

And my awesome Mother's Day gift- a pineapple plant.

And, as I was doing this post, I saw these out of the corner of my eye outside of my office window.

In my garden there is a large place for sentiment. My garden of flowers is also my garden of thoughts and dreams. The thoughts grow as freely as the flowers, and the dreams are as beautiful. ~Abram L. Urban

THE SHADOW OF THE SHADOWS

2007-07-14T07:23:00.000-05:00

Today's Photo Hunters theme is Shadow(s).

This photo was taken in April in Savannah, Ga. I love the shadow that the iron makes on the concrete steps. The ironwork in that city is AMAZING.

I was a bit depressed with this theme today, however. I had taken gorgeous shots of shadows while in Charleston this spring. I particularly remember a gorgeous salmon-colored house with the shadow of a nearby tree falling squarely on the facade. It was a spectacular photo. I, being so STUPID, deleted it from the camera before putting it on my computer. I had thought I had copied all of the photos from the camera. When, in fact, I only copied the crappy ones. WAAAAHHHH!!!!

So, you're stuck with an o.k. photo of shadows, rather than a spectacular one.

Time to go back to Charleston, I guess.

"The light of lights looks always on the motive, not the deed, the shadow of shadows on the deed alone."
William Butler Yeats

SOUL-SEARCHING

2007-07-12T12:31:00.000-05:00

You Are a Visionary Soul

You are a curious person, always in a state of awareness.

Connected to all things spiritual, you are very connected to your soul.

You are wise and bright: able to reason and be reasonable.

Occasionally, you get quite depressed and have dark feelings.

You have great vision and can be very insightful.

In fact, you are often profound in a way that surprises yourself.

Visionary souls like you can be the best type of friend.

You are intuitive, understanding, sympathetic, and a good healer.

Souls you are most compatible with: Old Soul and Peacemaker Soul

What Kind of Soul Are You?

I saw this on Mike's blog.

I loved reading what kind of soul he had- turns out I was the same one. NICE!

“Oh soul,
you worry too much.
You have seen your own strength.
You have seen your own beauty.
You have seen your golden wings.
Of anything less,
why do you worry?
You are in truth
the soul, of the soul, of the soul.”
Rumi

To have someone see my truest and deepest self- my soul- would be all the bliss that is needed in this lifetime.

MY GIRLS

2007-07-09T21:35:00.000-05:00

Kayla

Simone

"No man can be condemned for owning a dog. As long as he has a dog, he has a friend; and the poorer he gets, the better friend he has." - Will Rogers

Trompe L'oeil

2007-07-07T07:31:00.000-05:00

Today's Photohunter's theme is FAKE as presented by TNCHICK

The following are a couple of shots of the painting in my kitchen. These are meant to look like ceramic tile- when, in fact, they have been painted.

The large motif over the sink is a copy of a pattern common on hand-painted Italian ceramic, specifically from the town of Deruta (which is famous for it's ceramic workshops). You will notice on the back left edge of the sink a small vase with the same pattern painted on it.

My aunt and uncle own one of these workshops- therefore, I have many of these pieces

Trompe L'oeil- Fool the Eye

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY

2007-07-04T09:04:00.000-05:00

HAPPY JULY 4TH

From my house to yours.... and since nothing is really blooming in my garden, here's a shot of my front stoop flower pots.

May the sun in his course visit no land more free, more happy, more lovely, than this our own country!
Daniel Webster

BOCCE BALL WITH JULIAN STEIN

2007-07-02T20:28:00.000-05:00

This past Sunday we were invited to a FOURTH OF JULY PARTY ON THE FIRST at my bosses home. She has a lovely farm where she boards several (count that 17) horses. Every year she hosts a party for the fourth of july. This year she chose to host it on July 1st- being on the weekend.
She sets up croquet and bocce ball for all to enjoy while having cocktails.

I had the pleasure of playing with Julian Stein. A more charming man I have never met. I actually met him one other time at a dinner party at my boss's home.

Julian is 80 years old and the cousin of Gertrude Stein, American poet and writer.
At the dinner party he regaled us all with stories of his dear older cousin. Recalling times when she and Alice B. Toklas (Gertrude's lover) would pop in and turn their household upside down. For those of you who don't know- Alice was a world-class cook AND, most importantly, known for including a cannibas brownie recipe in her cookbook.

Gertrude and Alice at St. Marks in Venice

Here, I have chosen to include her brownie recipe, should you be inclined to try them

"Take 1 teaspoon black peppercorns, 1 whole nutmeg, 4 average sticks of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon coriander. These should all be pulverized in a mortar. About a handful each of stone dates, dried figs, shelled almonds and peanuts: chop these and mix them together. A bunch of canibus sativa can be pulverized. This along with the spices should be dusted over the mixed fruit and nuts, kneaded together. About a cup of sugar dissolved in a big pat of butter. Rolled into a cake and cut into pieces or made into balls about the size of a walnut, it should be eaten with care. Two pieces are quite sufficient. Obtaining the canibus may present certain difficulties.... It should be picked and dried as soon as it has gone to seed and while the plant is still green."

At the time of her parent's death Gertrude, along with two of her siblings, lived with her aunt and uncle in Baltimore. She then made her way to Paris, where she kept company with the likes of Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway, Henri Matisse and Ezra Pound.... Oh, to be living in Paris in the 20's...sigh!

Gertrude Stein by Pablo Picasso

Julian is dating a beautiful and charming woman 20-some years his junior. Some have called her a gold-digger-(He does take her on extended vacations to Mexico, Paris, Spain and even Maine). I, too, would date this man! He has more vibrancy and joie de vivre than most men I have ever met. So, he's 80- who cares!

And besides- he let me win at Bocce.

We are always the same age inside.
Gertrude Stein

LIFT UP THY HEAD

2007-06-28T07:03:00.000-05:00

Today will be a good day- in Birdland, that is.
Today is the day that the American Bald Eagle will be removed from the endangered species list.

This is quite an impressive creature.
I saw my first one (well, two actually) on a beach in Washington State, many, many years ago. A pair of gorgeous creatures glided by then came to rest on some pines edging the sand.

My last sighting of this creature was in my own backyard last summer. One morning, while sitting on my back deck, I saw a very large bird flying over the treetops. He came to rest on a power line in a field just beyond my back fence. I actually thought that perhaps it was an owl, for I had seen them in that area before. However, as I continued watching him, and wondering, he turned his magnificent head so that now I could see his profile. That sharp, curved beak and snow white head took my breath away. I was ecstatic.

I had never seen one here in Maryland before. I did know that they existed here. I had recently been told that my county had 6 nesting pair. Where? I had no idea.

So now our national bird is off of the endangered species list.
Hopefully, they will continue to be protected and some a** with a rifle decides not to bag himself one.

There is reported to be at least one nesting pair in each of the lower 48 states. Sorry Hawaii, for now you must be content with the NENE.

When thou seest an eagle, thou seest a portion of genius; lift up
thy head!
Blake, William

MY RATING

2007-06-25T17:06:00.001-05:00

My blog got only a PG rating!! I'm outraged. I was hoping for at least a mild R.

Has my life meant nothing? Am I so boring that I only warrant a PG? Even after I talked about all those orgies that I was a participant in or having dropped acid? Oh...oops....I haven't mentioned that yet, have I?

PG- all because I used the word "gay" 1 time.

Maybe I was talking about being happy. That's a possiblity isn't it? How would "THEY" know that I was using the gay word in the GAY way?

This is so bogus! The priests and nuns will be happy though.

BTW- you know I was kidding about the orgy part- don't you?

SHINE, SHINE, SHINE

2007-06-23T06:07:00.000-05:00

This week's photohunt theme is SHINY

I used a different version of this photo in my very first photohunters.

This is in Millenium Park in Chicago. I call it the Kidney Bean- but I believe there is a different name for it.

O.K.- I got off of my duff and looked it up. It is officially called the CLOUD GATE.

And here it is at night reflecting the city skyline.

When you let your own light shine, you unconsciously give others permission to do the same.
Nelson Mandela (1918 - )

Ooh, Baby I Love Your Way

2007-06-20T11:16:00.000-05:00

PETER FRAMPTON- Ram's Head Live Baltimore.

Sounding better than ever. A little less hair but it surely didn't affect his voice!

He was awesome!!

THEN

AND NOW

Waiting for your love

I could feel your soul was hurting
I could see it in your eyes
And you tried so hard to fool me
You don't live in paradise
But I, I'll try, try to find the way to show you
I will be there when you call believe what I say
I'll give you my hand should you fall please don't turn away
If you find yourself out in the cold
I'll always be here -- waiting for your love
It's the time for starting over
Hard to leave so much behind
Put your faith in all you dreamed of
Losing you would be such a crime
And I, I'll try, try to find the way to show you
Sometimes it won't always be that easy
Hold on -- together we can work it out

TAGGED AGAIN

2007-06-18T13:57:00.000-05:00

I have recently been tagged by Mike

8 Random Facts about me.

The rules are as follows:

1. I have to post these rules before I give you the facts.
2. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.
3. People who are tagged need to write their own blog about their eight things and post these rules.
4. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.
5. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.

1) I eat lemons - I not only eat anything made with lemons (icecream, sorbet, pie, cake, etc). I like to eat lemons, peel and all. I did hear that the citric acid was bad for tooth enamel so I have curbed the urge to eat them that often- all for the sake of my pearly whites.

When I was pregnant with my first child my husband and I drove all over town looking for lemon ice cream. That was my biggest craving. Not sorbet- it had to be ICE CREAM.
We finally found it at a Baskin-Robbins. It was their flavor of the month (JULY). 27 years later and I have yet to see it again.

2)My nose is pierced- 2 summers ago I dared a co-worker to go with me to get our noses pierced. She went that evening (I had a meeting to get to). She was convinced that I would not get it done. But, much to her surprise, I downed two shots of vodka as I headed out of the door from work. Boy am I glad I did- it hurt like hell!

I have been wearing a very small diamond in the crease of my left nostril. I thought it was very cute- and quite rebellious of me. I took it out a few weeks ago when I was going to get a facial and have not put it back in. I'm debating whether I should or not. I don't believe my boss would want me to. But, hey, what the heck!

3)I had my Confirmation at The Vatican - In case you didn't know by now I am VERY Italian. When it came time to have my confirmation, at 13, our family was planning on a trip back home to Italy. My parents then arranged for my sister and I to be confirmed at The Vatican. So, the summer of my 13th year there I was in a beautiful lace dress (that my Mother had made) kneeling before a Cardinal, in the Vatican, to be confirmed. Religiously, I don't think it helped me out any though.

4)I can't sing- I was 35 years old when the realization hit me that I really could NOT sing -as I was telling the story of my early glee club days in 7th grade.
I was attending Catholic school when I tried out for the new Glee Club that was being formed. I tried out and made the cut. However, they made me an alto, which was a tad upsetting. You see, I always thought boys were altos.

One day after practice one of the nuns- Sister Mary Joseph- came to me to tell me that they had a special job for me. They needed someone to play the bells for the glee club. They thought that I would be the perfect person. I was thrilled. I practiced diligently every day and on the weekends to make sure I was the best bell player they had ever seen. And, I was fabulous!

I never realized until that day in my 35th year, as I was telling this story, that the reason that I had been singled out to play the bells was because I could NOT sing. I was devastated with that realization. Damn Nuns!

5)I married my 11th grade History teacher- Now, before you all get all scandalized, it's not what you think.
We actually met up again about a year and a half AFTER I graduated. I was attending the University of Md. at the time. And he was also married at the time.

About 2 months later he phones me and asks me out on a date. I had NO idea it was him- after all, I never knew his first name. I just assumed it was a kid down the street with that same last name (I didn't know his first name either). I did not want to go out on a date with this kid. I graciously declined but he remained persistant. I relented and arranged to go out. As soon as I got off of the phone it dawned on me that it might be MR.COX. I ran upstairs to check my yearbook and his first name...oh no....it WAS him. Now I really did not want to go on this date. I called the high school to try and catch him- gone for the day. I then found his number in the phone book- disconnected. There was no way that I could cancel this date.

Anyway, he picks me up, we go out to a restaurant for drinks and I proceeded to get absolutely rip-roaring drunk. That was the only way I was going to get through this date. Needless to say we had a good time. At least that's what he says- I don't remember.

6)I've been in a movie with Josh Mostel (Zero's son)- When I was in the 8th grade movie producers came to the school to shoot a bus safety film. Josh Mostel was our bus driver. I was chosen to be one of the students on the bus as it was going over the edge of a cliff. The driver was distracted when kids on the bus started fighting and he drove us off of a cliff to our impending deaths. It was SO cool. I'm just sorry that I didn't get to be in the scene where the bus flips over and over on it's way down the hill. I so wanted to be covered in all that blood.

I moved away that summer to a different school. I was now in the 9th grade. One day we were all herded into the auditorium to watch bus safety films and there I was on the big screen. My 15 minutes of fame.

7) I've been arrested- The summer of my 14th year I went to the shore (Wildwood, N.J.) for summer vacation with my family and best friend Pauline. A friend of mine got me an ounce of pot to take with us. One morning, as my parents were out getting donuts for breakfast, Pauline and I decided to go out and "catch a buzz". we walked down to the bay and found a vacant lot right on the water where we could sit,watch the seagulls, look at the boats and get high. Unbeknownst to us those boats, that we were watching gently bob up and down in the water, were police boats. Next thing we know we see a cop pull up and walk across the lot towards us.

We grabbed our stuff and ran as Pauline begged me to throw the pot out. I refused because at that time it was the BEST pot I had ever smoked. It was just too good to get rid of.

Needless to say we were caught and put into the police cruiser (Did you know that they don't have door handles on the inside?- I didn't). We were then taken back to the station- finger prints AND mugshots were taken- to await the arrival of my parents. This was on only day 2 of a two week vacation.

8)Swam with wild dolphins - I posted this story back in January. You can read about it Here

I'm supposed to tag 8 others. However, I think most of my readers have done this.
If you haven't- please consider yourself tagged and have fun with it!

Happy Father's Day

2007-06-17T08:39:00.000-05:00

Today is the day that we remember and thank the Fathers in our lives- the one's who have raised and loved, unconditonally, our children- and the one's who raised and loved us.

Happy Father's Day to you all- My blogger friends, Steve, Dave, David, Mike and Jose.
And especially to my dear friends, Chuck, James, John and even Doug.
Now go find yourselves a hammock somewhere and make one of the kids bring you a beer.

The father of my children and the one who was and always is there for all of us.

Pop- My dear deceased Father-in-law, who passed away last year.

And, finally, my own father. The smartest man I've ever known, despite his lack of proper education. He taught me about art, books, music and the sun and the stars. I think I was the son he never had. Thanks Dad!!

There's something like a line of gold thread running through a man's words when he talks to his daughter, and gradually over the years it gets to be long enough for you to pick up in your hands and weave into a cloth that feels like love itself.

John Gregory Brown

A HAIR IN THE HEAD IS WORTH TWO IN THE BRUSH

2007-06-16T08:01:00.000-05:00

Today's photohunters theme is HAIR. Thanks to TNCHICK.

Since I am on my horse kick right now I thought I would continue with that theme even here.

This is a photo that a took at the recent Md. Hunt Cup race near Baltimore. The Hunt Cup is a rather prestige steeplechase through the gorgeous countryside. The winner of which goes to the International competition in England.

So, here you have it Hair and a horse's Ass.

Happy hunting, all.

It was brown with a golden gloss, Janette,
It was finer than silk of the floss, my pet;
'Twas a beautiful mist falling down to your wrist,
'Twas a thing to be braided, and jewelled, and kissed--
'Twas the loveliest hair in the world, my pet.
- Charles Graham Halpine (used pseudonym Miles O'Reilly),
Janette's Hair

Gay Paree!

2007-06-14T16:25:00.001-05:00

You Belong in Paris

Stylish and expressive, you were meant for Paris.

The art, the fashion, the wine!

Whether you're enjoying the cafe life or a beautiful park...

You'll love living in the most chic place on earth.

What City Do You Belong In?

I have only been to Paris once. And I fell in LOVE.

This has to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

I love the fact that you could be in such a large city, yet, as you walk down a cobblestone street in some smaller neighborhood, munching on a baguette, you feel as if you're in a small town with loads of character.

Our trip to Paris was a spontanous surprise from my husband. It was a bleak February day when he asked if we had any plans for the weekend. Not having any, he then informed me that we would be going to Paris for a long weekend.

He had gotten on the internet and arranged for our hotel-Hotel Hospital Due.
Three stars (uhum, according to the web-site).

We arrived in Paris and took the train from the airport to our destination. It was to stop at the street corner where our hotel was located- directly in front of Notre Dame Cathedral. A most beautiful location.

As we came up from the underground we looked around for our Hotel. Not finding it we asked a police officer and he pointed in a direction towards the cathedral. We headed that way and not seeing it we walked around the block. Seeing as our French is almost non-existent we assumed that we misunderstood where he was sending us. Thinking that the entrance was around the back of the building in which direction he pointed, we strolled around looking for a hotel.
Finding none we walked back around to the front of the building and entered hoping to get some information.

What we had entered was a very large hospital. Approaching the information desk we asked if they knew the location for the hotel. But of course they did! We were to take the elevator up to the third floor, go down the long hallway to the right and there we would find the entrance...to our hotel.

Yup, our very first romantic trip to Paris we stayed in a hospital.

The worst part was having to pass gurneys with patients hooked up to I.V.'s on our jaunt down the hallway.

What, was he kidding me? I imagined staying in a quaint little hotel with French Provincial furniture- possibly heavy drapings around the bed- with a little balcony with wrought iron railings and a beautiful french door that I could fling open in the morning sun.
What I got was a room on the third floor of the social hospital with only skylights for windows and paper thin walls. I must admit it was the CLEANEST room I've ever stayed in.

Our view was- if you stood on the bed and jumped up and down- of the gargoyles perched on the roof of Notre Dame. Best view in town, right?

Once we got out into the street I got over my initial disappointment at our lodgings. Allen offered to find us another hotel, but who wants to waste time running around when there was so much to see. Therefore, we stayed where we were.

Oh! the sights to behold. Our first evening we spent at the Musee d'Orsey. The collections that it houses is truly amazing to me. all of those priceless paintings in one location.

The next few days were spent at The Louvre- gazing upon the Mona Lisa and Venus de milo.
Taking a lovely train ride through the countryside to Versaille- A most impressive dwelling with extensive gardens. But, best of all was the town of Versaille with it's cobbled streets and small quaint shops and patisseries. I was in heaven.
Then taking in the sights and the steep hill in Montmarte to look at the Cathedral and the sidewalk artists.
Strolling along the Seine one evening I commented to my husband that the French were unabashed romantics. With couples often stopping to embrace and partake in long passionate kisses. That was his cue to do the same with me. He took me in his arms and planted a long, wet, passionate kiss on my mouth.
When we stopped our shameless display of public affection a lovely, sweet young couple approached us asking for directions to the Eiffel tower. The young man explained that he and his girlfriend were getting engaged that weekend and he wanted to propose at the eiffel tower. He seemed so excited and engaged us in a long conversation with ever-increasing enthusiasm. During the time of this conversation (where we were all talking and congratulating and laughing) his girlfriend was robbing me of my wallet AND passport. This, of course, I did not notice until they had to run off to catch their train.
It took me about 15 seconds to realize what had happened. But by then, of course, it was too late.

Running back to the hospital (er, hotel)-seeing as it was after 8 pm the front doors to the hospital are locked and we had to gain access to the hotel via the Emergency room.
We called all of the credit card companies and the American consulate to report the robbery. All in all it was not too much of a hassle for us to leave the country and gain access back to the states. Of course this was well before 9/11.

Believe it or not it did not ruin the rest of our trip. I was actually more relaxed when we were out and about seeing as how I had nothing left for pickpocketers. I had a new sense of freedom and behaved much more recklessly than had this not happened.

I cannot wait to go back.

La Tour Eiffel

The Louvre

Venus de Milo

Notre Dame Cathedral

La Moulin Rouge

A sidewalk artist...but of course I had to buy something.

Me sitting on the steps of Sacre Coeur cathedral in Montmarte...a beautiful, warm February day.

Stately Versaille

And finally the courtyard of our hotel.

If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man, then wherever you go for the rest of your life, it stays with you, for Paris is a movable feast.
Ernest Hemingway

IF THE SHOE FITS

2007-06-09T08:21:00.000-05:00

Today's Photohunters theme is SHOES

This has to be one of my favorite subjects. What is it about shoes? Is it that you can ALWAYS find a gorgeous pair that fits- when none of the slacks that you've been trying on do? Must be. I know that when I go shopping for clothing 9 times out of 10 I come home with nothing but shoes. And besides, they're all so pretty and make the calves look fabulous.

I've included a couple of shots of some of my shoes. These are mostly my spring/summer wardrobe. I did throw in a couple of my cowboy boots for good measure. This does not include most of my casual sandals and flip flops- I don't REALLY consider them proper shoes.

I recently read that the AVERAGE woman owns 27 pair of shoes and spends an average of $277.00 a year on shoes. Can this be right?
Imelda Marcos I'm not- but, getting there.

Geez, this is a bit embarrassing. I think I need a 12 step program.
Now on to the handbags!

If the shoe fits, it's too expensive.

HELLOOOOOO WILBUR

2007-06-08T11:11:00.000-05:00

I am finally going to do it.

Tomorrow I go for my first riding lesson. What am I thinking?

Is it all of those girl-hood fantasies I have of racing over an open meadow in Scotland, with my hair and velvet cloak flying behind me-The feeling of total freedom and abandonment, on a massive, powerful, gorgeous creature? Yes, that and more.
I do recall a Fabio type guy somewhere in this fantasy too.

I have always loved horses- ever since I kept the one in my basement. His name was Sugarfoot. He was pale brown with white hooves. I rode that thing day and night, his rusty springs squeaking beneath me, until they finally gave out. Then, sadly, he was put out to the curb for the trashmen to pick up. I miss that horse!

I am always surrounded by horse people. My boss has 17 on her farm and is a devoted fox hunter. So, I figured this was the perfect opportunity to give the sport a try.
(BTW- these are shots of a few of her horses, pretty aren't they)

I haven't been on a horse since I was about 15. And I have this terrible fear of trying to mount such a massive (hopefully gentle) creature. I envision myself putting my foot into the stirrup and hoisting myself into the saddle- only to slide completely over the other side of him and land on my back in the sand, like a Carol Burnett skit.

I mean, really, I managed to fall out of an office chair just the other day. I only fell about 2 feet but, you should see the massive bruise on my arm. And, for some reason, I think I can stay on top of a horse?
I can see it now, it will be like my yoga class where I have yet to be able to do a handstand (headstands I can do). I honestly think it has something to do with my backside.

How to ride a horse:
Step One - Mount the horse.
Step Two - Stay mounted.

Did I mention I was scared to death?
I sure hope this goes well, otherwise I'll need to return the cloak.

When God wanted to create the horse, he said to the South Wind, "I want to make a creature of you. Condense." And the Wind condensed.
- Emir Abd-el-Kader

Wish me luck!

Imagine All the People.......

2007-06-05T20:57:00.000-05:00

....Living Life in Peace

Blogbast for Peace Day.

Imagine there's no heaven
It's easy if you try
No hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people
Living for today...

Imagine there's no countries
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace...

You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will be as one

Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world...

You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one

John Lennon

TAGGED!!!!

2007-06-05T15:24:00.001-05:00

I was tagged by Akelamalu at

Everything and Nothing

for this post.
Sorry it took me a while to get around to it. She tagged me again for another one- I'll get to that one soon.

1)How did you get sucked into the blogging whirlpool?

I was told about blogging by a woman I was attending Weight Watchers with. There were 3 of us attending the meetings together. We began to discuss how we could keep ourselves motivated and encouraged. She suggested we start a team blog so that we could all post our progress and check up on each other. I, being ever up for a challenge, ran right home to look into this insanity.

2) How long ago did you start?

I began that blog last January 2006.

3) Who introduced you?

See question 1. Honestly, I do not even recall her name right now. Needless to say we do not attend Weight Watchers together. And, it's not because we don't need to.

4) Who was your first visitor and do you still visit each other?
My first visitor was another Weight Watchers team member, Kathy. And, no, she does not blog so she no longer visits me.

5)How has your blog changed from your first posts, and did you envision it developing the way it has?

It first started as a weight loss journal. Only one other team member ever contributed to it however. I deleted that particular one several months after it was begun. That one was entitled No More Junk In The Trunk

I began a second blog that next summer. That one was a place for me to experiment with a little bit of writing... Get my thoughts out. It was a bit more private so I only shared that one with a few friends. That is where I began to post some of my photographs and get a bit more creative. I deleted that after a major heartbreak, in anger and frustration.

This blog I began this past December 29th. It was therapy for me,after the above mentioned heartbreak. I needed a place to put my thoughts down so that I could analyze what was going on...and hopefully find some HEALING. This, too, has changed quite dramatically in the past few months. It is less a place to analyze my pain and fear and more a place to share my photos, my garden, and some thoughts.
Most importantly- I have been fortunate enough to find a very close-knit group of friends somehow.

I used to post as Hag in the Jag. When I began this one I felt I needed a brighter, sparklier persona- thus, Gewels.

6) Have you any other blogs and, if so, what is their purpose?

No other blogs. I can barely find enough interesting things to write about to keep one updated.

Thanks for making me think Akelamalu. If you're reading this consider yourself tagged and Let me know you've played.

Once you've played go back to Annelisa's site and let her know.

Words That Flow

WHAT IS ART?

2007-06-02T06:36:00.000-05:00

Today's theme is ART- Thanks to TNCHICK.

The following are shots that I took of glass artist- Dale Chihuly's work at the St. Louis Botanical Gardens. Most of you may be more familiar with his work on the ceiling of the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas.

I love how he combined the blown glass with the natural organic textures of the foliage and plants in the garden. This is art.

FOR SWEET MELISSA

2007-06-01T06:37:00.000-05:00

Melissa

and Steve got married!!

This is for you,girlfriend, because you so love peonies. The bouquets were lovely with the stargazer lilies added. My peonies were blooming profusely for your day. Unfortunately the lilies are waiting until later in the summer to rear their lusty heads.

Let Your Love Flow

There's a reason
for the sunshine sky
there's a reason
why I'm feelin' so high
must be the season
when that love light shines
all around us

So let that feeling
grab you deep inside
and send you reeling
where your love can't hide
and then go stealing
through the summer nights
with your lover

Let your love flow
like a mountain stream
let your love grow
with the smallest of dreams
and let your love show
and you'll know what I mean
it's the reason

Let your love fly
like a bird on a wing
let your love bind you
to all living things
let your love shine
and you'll know what I mean
that's the reason

So let the wonder
take you into space
and lay you under
it's loving embrance
feel the thunder
as it warms your face
you can't hold back

Bellamy Brothers

Sounds like a perfect day- Glad I could share it with you!!!

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY

2007-05-28T09:32:00.000-05:00

These are a few shots I took on Rt. 95 south of Baltimore this week.
Nice to know that someone honored Memorial Day with this tribute.

Love is but a song we sing
fears’ the way we die
You can make the mountains ring
or make the angels cry
Though the bird is on the wing
and you may not know why
*Come on people now
smile on your brother
everybody get together
and try to love one another right now

Some may come and some may go
He will surely pass
When the one that left us here
returns for us at last
We are but a moment’s sunlight
fading in the grass
*Come on people now
smile on your brother
everybody get together
try to love one another right now
*Come on people now
smile on your brother
everybody get together
try to love one another right now
*Come on people now
smile on your brother
everybody get together
try to love one another right now

If you hear the song I sing
you will understand…listen
You hold the key to love and fear
all in your trembling hand
Just one key unlocks them both
Its there at your command
*Come on people now
smile on your brother
Everybody get together
try to love one another right now
*Come on people now
smile on your brother
Everybody get together
try to love one another right now
I said…..
*Come on people now
smile on your brother
Everybody get together
try to love one another right now
right now
right now

Youngbloods

And finally one more shot from the kite festival mentioned in the previous post.

Happy Memorial Day everybody.

COLORFUL

2007-05-25T20:22:00.000-05:00

Today's photohunters theme is COLORFUL- thanks to TNCHICK.

This is a shot that I took this past April at the kite festival in Washington D.C.

It was the opening day of the Cherry Blossom festival. A more colorful day I have not experienced in quite a while

But whenever the roof came white
The head in the dark below
Was a shade less the color of night,
A shade more the color of snow.
Robert Frost

Color

Love's a color, mine is blue.
Choose a color, how about you?
When the paler shades go down
then you know I'll come around.

When the colors mix into,
a swell of rainbows, less the blue,
There you'll find me,
pull me through...

Love's a color,
and now yellow.
Bright and bold,
never mellow.
Happy going in between,
yellow spilling in every seam.

Love's a color, and now red.
Feeling's deeper, nothing's said.
When the red is burning through,
pull me out and into you.
Passion holding tighter still,
warmer tones in overkill.
How my colors all fulfill...

2005

Kim GGG

UNINSPIRED AND UNCREATIVE

2007-05-24T13:32:00.000-05:00

I was told by a fellow blogger that my posts these days are uninspired...compared to several months ago.

I agree....And they are definitely uncreative,in my opinion.

Maybe it's time to stop for a while-at least until my life becomes more inspiring.

After all, how many photos of my garden can one person take? And all this after I took some new ones to post, at that.

I was also told that I seem to have a morbid core. This, I'm afraid, is probably also true. I first noticed that when I was about 12. Geez, in 35 years you think I would have figured out how to take care of that. It may take me paying someone $150.00 an hour to figure that out for me. A therapist is going to cost me more than $150.00 an hour - isn't she? I may have to rethink that one.

Thanks for reading everyone. We'll see what happens next.

TAGGED

2007-05-22T12:04:00.000-05:00

For the first time ever- I have been tagged by

Not So Little Woman

4 jobs I've had
Travel agent
Sales associate at Victoria's Secret
Aerobics Instructor
Floral designer

4 movies I can watch over and over
Braveheart
Dances with Wolves
Out of Africa
Fried Green Tomatoes

4 places I've lived - This is the boring answer
Washington D.C.
Silver Spring, Md.
Beltsville, Md.
Columbia, Md.
That's it- nowhere exciting.

4 categories of TV programming I enjoy
Cooking Channel
Travel programs
Design programs
"Real Sex" - no judgements please, I am just fascinated by people's quirks.

4 places I've been on holiday
Italy
Spain
Ireland
Scotland

4 of my favorite dishes
Rack of lamb
Dilled Blanquet de Veau
French fries- with lots of salt and vinegar
Bouillabaise or other fish stew like cioppino

4 web-sites I visit daily
Bullet holes in the mailbox
Velvet Factor.blogspot.com
comcast.net
Written Inc.

4 places I would rather be right now
Costa Rica
Hawaii
Sailing around the Greek Isles
Texas

I know, I sound more boring than ever! I think I need to move out of this state.

So now I guess I have to tag somebody: Sorry y'all but I'll tag Steve, Akelamalu,
Barbara, and anyone else who wants to play!