Torrential rain on Friday and early Saturday morning, July 16th caused a small lake to form in my basement. I discovered it Saturday morning when Tillie, the younger cat, placed her wet paws on my arm. The cats sleep in the basement at night. I went downstairs to discover about three-quarters inch of water covering about half the basement. It had seeped in overnight. The non-joy of a nearly 100 year old house. This Old House leaks!
Squeegee to the rescue. I pushed the water towards the floor drain and mopped up the rest. I set the three fans and the dehumidifier timers to 24 hours, 6 on and two off, to make certain that at least two were running at all times. Usually, this works well. The basement dries out in a day and I keep the fans running for an extra couple days just to get out any residual moisture. Alas, that is no the case this year. Water keeps seeping via the floor and bottom of the walls.
The ground is so profoundly saturated that the water is seeking any route. The Twin Cities had a lot of rain in the fall, higher than average amount of snow during the winter, and a fairly wet spring. The basement is a bog. Not enough to squeegee but the mop doesn’t pick up all the moisture. The fans and dehumidifier are humming but they don’t seem to make much of a dent. Everything feels wet. Mold has begun to grow on the walls. I hate to use bleach but I’ve had to spray the growth.
I moved the cat food upstairs and they don’t have to go into the basement at night. I have a large fan in the window on the second floor, which I turn on at night to bring air to cool the house. This may not be wise when the humidity is above 70 degrees because I think that I may have pulled in some moisture by mistake. I keep a couple windows open a bit on first floor so that the air will cycle through the basement and up the dirty clothes shaft that runs from the second floor into the basement. Hopefully, I have drawn out more moisture that I have brought in.
I need the fan on to sleep. I don’t have air conditioning and the fan is essential with ice packs. I don’t like temperatures about 80 degrees with humidity. I am miserable right now because the heat index has been near or over 100 degrees for the past three days and will continue for several more. I have been seeking reasons to retreat to air conditioning, going out for lunch, visiting the library or watching a movie. I would not do well in a jungle.
When I bought the house nine years ago the previous owner stated that the basement leaked after a hard rain. The next summer I learned that was the truth. The following years I landscaped the front yard to have higher soil near the house and slope it away, installed new gutters, and sealed the cracks in the backyard sidewalk that was adjacent to the house. There has been very little seepage since that time, and generally it was only after a torrential rainfall of four or more inches.
I need to install a trench drain with a septic pump to draw out moisture and then seal the walls and floor against the damp. I do not have the funds for such activities right now. Unemployment is really quite a pain when one’s home needs repair. I have several tasks, which need fixing, as well as the car, but I can’t afford the cost. Very disheartening.
Dry out the basement and get me a job.
© 2011
Monday, July 18, 2011
Friday, July 15, 2011
BITTER TEA
I like to drink tea (with the exception of American-grade Lipton and Earl Grey). However, the Tea Party appalls me. Tea Party members view compromise as a “bad word.” They see inflexibility and intractability as strength. They distain government so it’s ironic that they sought elected office. They are elected anarchists. Several have stated that they wish to dismantle government, which is libertarianism-anarchy. They have demonstrated themselves to be piranhas that feed on anyone deemed “unpure.” Does any relationship work without compromise, flexibility, and the ability to change one's mind?
“Ignorance and arrogance is a dangerous combination,” Governor Mark Dayton stated on July 14th, 2011 at the Humphrey Forum when he announced willingness to compromise on the budget and end the State of Minnesota Shutdown. He had to swallow bitter tea to make progress to end the shutdown. This crisis isn’t over until the bills are signed. I place at least two-thirds of the blame with the ignorant and arrogant Tea Party strangling the moderate Republicans and manipulating everyone into a horrible position. No one wins; all the citizens of the State of Minnesota lose because of a few Tea-pots.
Democracy is of, by, and for the people. Government is designed to represent the people against the corrupt, rich, and violent. An unfair tax system that favors the financially blessed only lines the pockets of the uber wealthy. The proposed budget for the State of Minnesota continues this unfair system. I wish that Governor Dayton’s approach would have been adopted but the Tea Party poisoned the negotiations. Too many innocent Minnesotans in the lower 98% of income will have to pay an awful price to benefit the upper 2%. Note: I know some folks in the upper 2% and they donate a lot but not all their peers do.
Pat Buchanan orchestrated the takeover and ruination of the Reform Party, which had been formed by Ross Perot. I was a member of that party because I don’t quite fit in the other two. The Independence Party tried to rise out of the ashes of the Reform Party but it never caught hold. This is most unfortunate because the Reform-Independence Party was moderate. I wish that it had become a viable third party instead of the Tea-idiots.
On the national level, the Tea Party is manipulating the Debt Limit Ceiling discussion. They have backed the Republican Party into an untenable position. The consequences could be catastrophic. I urge all American citizens to contact their Congressional Senators and Representative to tell them to get the ceiling raised ASAP.
Stop the Shutdown, but Smartly!
© 2011
“Ignorance and arrogance is a dangerous combination,” Governor Mark Dayton stated on July 14th, 2011 at the Humphrey Forum when he announced willingness to compromise on the budget and end the State of Minnesota Shutdown. He had to swallow bitter tea to make progress to end the shutdown. This crisis isn’t over until the bills are signed. I place at least two-thirds of the blame with the ignorant and arrogant Tea Party strangling the moderate Republicans and manipulating everyone into a horrible position. No one wins; all the citizens of the State of Minnesota lose because of a few Tea-pots.
Democracy is of, by, and for the people. Government is designed to represent the people against the corrupt, rich, and violent. An unfair tax system that favors the financially blessed only lines the pockets of the uber wealthy. The proposed budget for the State of Minnesota continues this unfair system. I wish that Governor Dayton’s approach would have been adopted but the Tea Party poisoned the negotiations. Too many innocent Minnesotans in the lower 98% of income will have to pay an awful price to benefit the upper 2%. Note: I know some folks in the upper 2% and they donate a lot but not all their peers do.
Pat Buchanan orchestrated the takeover and ruination of the Reform Party, which had been formed by Ross Perot. I was a member of that party because I don’t quite fit in the other two. The Independence Party tried to rise out of the ashes of the Reform Party but it never caught hold. This is most unfortunate because the Reform-Independence Party was moderate. I wish that it had become a viable third party instead of the Tea-idiots.
On the national level, the Tea Party is manipulating the Debt Limit Ceiling discussion. They have backed the Republican Party into an untenable position. The consequences could be catastrophic. I urge all American citizens to contact their Congressional Senators and Representative to tell them to get the ceiling raised ASAP.
Stop the Shutdown, but Smartly!
© 2011
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
BOOKWORM REVIEW ISSUE VI
Books that have the characters travel, should include a map. Rating of five worms is perfection!
Under Fishbone Clouds by Sam Meekings Four and a half worms
Beautiful language and an interesting perspective. Story begins rather convolutedly and I almost stopped reading it. Exquisitely descriptive of the landscape and very insightful regarding the internal journey of the characters. Needed to continue the saga to the female lead’s end. Women are systematically oppressed and harsh political change is the only way their status is elevated. I wish that I knew more about Chinese mythology, history and geography, it would have added to understanding this complicated book and it needed a map because modern maps are useless.
To Say Nothing of the Dog by Connie Willis Three worms
You have to pay attention or you will get confused. The story line is logical but a bit complex. Unfortunately, the vernacular is Americanized. Very fun read, when attentive. States the title too frequently. Could use a map to show the area discussed.
Midnight and the Meaning of Love by Sister Souljah Two and a half worms
Well written but can be viewed two ways. It could be a love story about passion and commitment. Alternatively, it could be an egotistical misogynistic sex-driven teenager with paranoia and a hero complex. Oppression of women with power, control and polygamy is never about protection or demographics.
Freedom by Jonathan Franzen Two and a half worms
Starts well and the chapter regarding road rage is exceptional. Cumbersome at times interspersed with bits of brilliance. Too much emphasis on the son’s bodily secretions and a disgusting description of retrieving a ring. Equal time was needed with the daughter but her story was mostly ignored. The ending was a bit too tidy.
Busy Body by M.C. Beaton Two worms
A few funny bits drowned by boring bits. Story is shorthanded with lots of time gaps and not enough information. This is the umpteenth book written about the character. Alas, a formulistic writer who seems to have lost interest in the characters. Maybe some of the earlier books are livelier.
Personal Notes:
I strive to keep these reviews brief. I don’t want to give away too much of the plot line if you choose to read the book. I despise it when reviewers ruin the ending of a book. I try to point out the strengths of the book as well as areas of improvement. It takes a lot of moxie to get published and I hope that they all keep writing.
Peruse previous reviews posted on June 6th, May 9th, April 10th, February 17th, 2011 and September 14th, 2010. Please join the followers of this blog, link on Facebook and Twitter. I welcome suggestions of books to read which are available in the library system (MELSA in the Twin Cities, MN area). I try to post a new review every month or so.
Read to a child every day (or to another adult).
© 2011
Under Fishbone Clouds by Sam Meekings Four and a half worms
Beautiful language and an interesting perspective. Story begins rather convolutedly and I almost stopped reading it. Exquisitely descriptive of the landscape and very insightful regarding the internal journey of the characters. Needed to continue the saga to the female lead’s end. Women are systematically oppressed and harsh political change is the only way their status is elevated. I wish that I knew more about Chinese mythology, history and geography, it would have added to understanding this complicated book and it needed a map because modern maps are useless.
To Say Nothing of the Dog by Connie Willis Three worms
You have to pay attention or you will get confused. The story line is logical but a bit complex. Unfortunately, the vernacular is Americanized. Very fun read, when attentive. States the title too frequently. Could use a map to show the area discussed.
Midnight and the Meaning of Love by Sister Souljah Two and a half worms
Well written but can be viewed two ways. It could be a love story about passion and commitment. Alternatively, it could be an egotistical misogynistic sex-driven teenager with paranoia and a hero complex. Oppression of women with power, control and polygamy is never about protection or demographics.
Freedom by Jonathan Franzen Two and a half worms
Starts well and the chapter regarding road rage is exceptional. Cumbersome at times interspersed with bits of brilliance. Too much emphasis on the son’s bodily secretions and a disgusting description of retrieving a ring. Equal time was needed with the daughter but her story was mostly ignored. The ending was a bit too tidy.
Busy Body by M.C. Beaton Two worms
A few funny bits drowned by boring bits. Story is shorthanded with lots of time gaps and not enough information. This is the umpteenth book written about the character. Alas, a formulistic writer who seems to have lost interest in the characters. Maybe some of the earlier books are livelier.
Personal Notes:
I strive to keep these reviews brief. I don’t want to give away too much of the plot line if you choose to read the book. I despise it when reviewers ruin the ending of a book. I try to point out the strengths of the book as well as areas of improvement. It takes a lot of moxie to get published and I hope that they all keep writing.
Peruse previous reviews posted on June 6th, May 9th, April 10th, February 17th, 2011 and September 14th, 2010. Please join the followers of this blog, link on Facebook and Twitter. I welcome suggestions of books to read which are available in the library system (MELSA in the Twin Cities, MN area). I try to post a new review every month or so.
Read to a child every day (or to another adult).
© 2011
Monday, July 4, 2011
FIREWORKS & PARADES, BAH HUMBUG!
Lighting up the sky with lovely hues. I adore watching the beautiful forms float aloft. However, I despise the violent percussive boom of the explosion. It always makes me jump. I wear earplugs but the shock wave still hits me. The choking smell of the gunpowder smoke isn’t pleasant when you sit downwind. I feel exhausted after watching a fireworks show and my neck hurts.
I really hate it when civilians (my neighbors) blow off fireworks in their yard or on the street. One year the fools set fire to my boulevard grass because the weather was so dry. I had just turned onto our road when I saw the fire sweep across the boulevard and my neighbor run to stomp on it. I drove into my garage, yelled at him and used the hose to wash down the grass. It took several weeks for the grass to grow back. Little firecrackers blast off at all hours of the night for several days before the 4th of July and afterwards. Wakes me up when I am sleeping and my fan sucks in the smoke. When I was a kid the only fireworks I liked were the sparklers because they made a sizzling sound. Little did I know that they burn at 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
Not a fan of watching parades. Perhaps I’ve marched in too many. The only exception is the nighttime Minneapolis Aquatennial Parade. I arrive early and sit with my back to the sun or in a shady location. Parades can be enjoyable when you go with someone or a group and pack a meal. The temperatures cool down and it’s interesting to watch the floats with lights. I have marched in all types of weather and been silly enough to attend evening parades during the winter (St. Paul Winter Carnival and Minneapolis Holidazzle). Watching a parade on tv is torture.
I’d much rather celebrate Independence Day by attending a barbeque with friends. It is blissful when the weather is 75-80 degrees with low humidity and a slight breeze. Few or no bugs make the event even better. I just want to chat with people I like, relax and watch nature. Summer is brief in Minnesota, so it’s important to enjoy every day.
Happy 4th!
© 2011
I really hate it when civilians (my neighbors) blow off fireworks in their yard or on the street. One year the fools set fire to my boulevard grass because the weather was so dry. I had just turned onto our road when I saw the fire sweep across the boulevard and my neighbor run to stomp on it. I drove into my garage, yelled at him and used the hose to wash down the grass. It took several weeks for the grass to grow back. Little firecrackers blast off at all hours of the night for several days before the 4th of July and afterwards. Wakes me up when I am sleeping and my fan sucks in the smoke. When I was a kid the only fireworks I liked were the sparklers because they made a sizzling sound. Little did I know that they burn at 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
Not a fan of watching parades. Perhaps I’ve marched in too many. The only exception is the nighttime Minneapolis Aquatennial Parade. I arrive early and sit with my back to the sun or in a shady location. Parades can be enjoyable when you go with someone or a group and pack a meal. The temperatures cool down and it’s interesting to watch the floats with lights. I have marched in all types of weather and been silly enough to attend evening parades during the winter (St. Paul Winter Carnival and Minneapolis Holidazzle). Watching a parade on tv is torture.
I’d much rather celebrate Independence Day by attending a barbeque with friends. It is blissful when the weather is 75-80 degrees with low humidity and a slight breeze. Few or no bugs make the event even better. I just want to chat with people I like, relax and watch nature. Summer is brief in Minnesota, so it’s important to enjoy every day.
Happy 4th!
© 2011
Friday, July 1, 2011
THE A-WORD
Sex happens and sometimes the result is pregnancy. Happiness for the people who want a baby. What occurs when the woman or family can’t raise the child?
Adoption is a loving option. It is difficult but courageous when the woman can place the child with an individual or couple who is able to provide as a parent(s). Ideally, the father of the child will be involved in this decision, too. Open adoptions are wonderful. A family member of mine matched her child with an open arrangement (when she was 16) and is still in communication with him. She is informed of his status, visits on occasion, and he knows that she cares about him. His biological dad is completely out of the picture. She married someone else and has other children. They know their older half-brother lives with another family but he is a part of their life.
Abortions have been occurring for thousands of years. For myriad reasons, the woman was not able to have the child. Sometimes the abortion is forced upon her, which is a crime. Illegal abortions are not good for anyone. Tragically, too many women have died or been sterilized in the process of seeking an illegal abortion.
Sometimes abortion is the only option. There can be medical reasons why the pregnancy cannot continue. No woman should die because she isn’t able to obtain an abortion. Rape and incest are other valid reasons for an abortion. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) could haunt her for years or the rest of her life. The PTSD would be significantly increased if she has to carry a child that was not conceived out of love. The child could be harmed after it’s born because it was not wanted. She could inadvertently take out her anger on other children in the family.
There are many other reasons why a child cannot be born. Maybe there are already several children and the family cannot handle one more. It is a personal decision. Who has the right to say what is correct and what isn’t? I have never met anyone who blissfully decided to obtain an abortion. It is a heart-wrenching decision. It is absurd to think that abortions occur out of vanity.
What will occur if abortion becomes illegal again in the United States? Women will die seeking an illegal abortion; children will join a family and not be loved or wanted; families will have more financial problems because they have more children; etc, etc, etc. There are consequences for every action. Meanwhile, cutting pregnancy prevention services to the poor (such as slashing Planned Parenthood’s budget), sex education and ending federally funded abortion will only drive the US into more dire straits.
The people who want to end abortion (aka pro-life or anti-choice) need to:
* prevent pregnancies (abstinence does not work) by providing free/low cost birth control to both genders, starting at puberty;
* provide factual sex education to all pre-puberty kids, emphasizing birth control and “safer” sex practices;
* researchers need to find more options for both genders to use easy and cheap birth control;
* streamline the process for adoption, especially older children;
* aid all the children who will be abused and neglected because they are not wanted;
* improve education for all children and make sure that all adults have at least a GED; and,
* provide services for poor families with children (welfare, food, medical care, housing, etc).
BE PRO-PREVENTION, provide free birth control!
© 2011
Adoption is a loving option. It is difficult but courageous when the woman can place the child with an individual or couple who is able to provide as a parent(s). Ideally, the father of the child will be involved in this decision, too. Open adoptions are wonderful. A family member of mine matched her child with an open arrangement (when she was 16) and is still in communication with him. She is informed of his status, visits on occasion, and he knows that she cares about him. His biological dad is completely out of the picture. She married someone else and has other children. They know their older half-brother lives with another family but he is a part of their life.
Abortions have been occurring for thousands of years. For myriad reasons, the woman was not able to have the child. Sometimes the abortion is forced upon her, which is a crime. Illegal abortions are not good for anyone. Tragically, too many women have died or been sterilized in the process of seeking an illegal abortion.
Sometimes abortion is the only option. There can be medical reasons why the pregnancy cannot continue. No woman should die because she isn’t able to obtain an abortion. Rape and incest are other valid reasons for an abortion. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) could haunt her for years or the rest of her life. The PTSD would be significantly increased if she has to carry a child that was not conceived out of love. The child could be harmed after it’s born because it was not wanted. She could inadvertently take out her anger on other children in the family.
There are many other reasons why a child cannot be born. Maybe there are already several children and the family cannot handle one more. It is a personal decision. Who has the right to say what is correct and what isn’t? I have never met anyone who blissfully decided to obtain an abortion. It is a heart-wrenching decision. It is absurd to think that abortions occur out of vanity.
What will occur if abortion becomes illegal again in the United States? Women will die seeking an illegal abortion; children will join a family and not be loved or wanted; families will have more financial problems because they have more children; etc, etc, etc. There are consequences for every action. Meanwhile, cutting pregnancy prevention services to the poor (such as slashing Planned Parenthood’s budget), sex education and ending federally funded abortion will only drive the US into more dire straits.
The people who want to end abortion (aka pro-life or anti-choice) need to:
* prevent pregnancies (abstinence does not work) by providing free/low cost birth control to both genders, starting at puberty;
* provide factual sex education to all pre-puberty kids, emphasizing birth control and “safer” sex practices;
* researchers need to find more options for both genders to use easy and cheap birth control;
* streamline the process for adoption, especially older children;
* aid all the children who will be abused and neglected because they are not wanted;
* improve education for all children and make sure that all adults have at least a GED; and,
* provide services for poor families with children (welfare, food, medical care, housing, etc).
BE PRO-PREVENTION, provide free birth control!
© 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
WHEN DOES HUMAN LIFE BEGIN?
Is the moment that the egg and sperm unite and it divides into to two cells? Is it when the cells form a body that can live on its own outside the womb? I don’t think that we will ever completely agree upon the moment when human life starts. Medical advances permit premature babies to survive that would have perished only a few years ago. Nine months may not be needed for gestation and survival of a new human life.
Abstinence is an illusion. Humans are sexual creatures and “just say no” isn’t logical. Sexual intercourse happens, pregnancy can be the result. I wish that every dividing egg would be born as a healthy child. Reality can be harsh. Many pregnancies end in a spontaneous miscarriage. For whatever reason, the pregnancy was not viable and the womb empties itself to prepare for another pregnancy. The woman may not be aware that she was pregnant. I had just learned that I was pregnant when my body rejected the baby. I was devastated emotionally when this occured but was a physically healthy 21 year old.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, the old saying states. Pro-life and pro-choice people can agree on this issue. I am PRO-PREVENTION. Birth control should be free/low cost and easy to use for everyone engaging in heterosexual intercourse. When a male wants to mate, they must wear a condom. Men can’t rely on The Pill or any other birth control mechanism to thwart the sperm’s journey. Women are responsible to take The Pill, use a diaphragm or some mechanism to stop the matching of the egg with sperm. Females can’t rely on the condom working 100% of the time. When BOTH partners use some form of birth control, the chance of an unwanted pregnancy is reduced.
Controlling hormones can be a challenge with passion rises and clouds judgment. Practice Prevention Every Time That You Have Sex! Period. End of Discussion.
Be Pro-Prevention, provide free/low cost birth control!
© 2011
Abstinence is an illusion. Humans are sexual creatures and “just say no” isn’t logical. Sexual intercourse happens, pregnancy can be the result. I wish that every dividing egg would be born as a healthy child. Reality can be harsh. Many pregnancies end in a spontaneous miscarriage. For whatever reason, the pregnancy was not viable and the womb empties itself to prepare for another pregnancy. The woman may not be aware that she was pregnant. I had just learned that I was pregnant when my body rejected the baby. I was devastated emotionally when this occured but was a physically healthy 21 year old.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, the old saying states. Pro-life and pro-choice people can agree on this issue. I am PRO-PREVENTION. Birth control should be free/low cost and easy to use for everyone engaging in heterosexual intercourse. When a male wants to mate, they must wear a condom. Men can’t rely on The Pill or any other birth control mechanism to thwart the sperm’s journey. Women are responsible to take The Pill, use a diaphragm or some mechanism to stop the matching of the egg with sperm. Females can’t rely on the condom working 100% of the time. When BOTH partners use some form of birth control, the chance of an unwanted pregnancy is reduced.
Controlling hormones can be a challenge with passion rises and clouds judgment. Practice Prevention Every Time That You Have Sex! Period. End of Discussion.
Be Pro-Prevention, provide free/low cost birth control!
© 2011
Thursday, June 23, 2011
ARTISTS OF THE WHIRL
I enjoyed the visceral experience walking through dusty buildings smelling of musk, art processes and damp human bodies. The thunder and torrential rainstorms added to the ambiance of Art-A-Whirl but the North Minneapolis Tornado was frightening. The cool of the rain gave way to humidity. I wish that I had worn shorts. At least I tread around in comfy tennis shoes; some fools teetered on heels or slid on wet flip-flops.
Hummus with pita chips and salsa with tortilla chips were the standard treats offered by hospitable folks. Some artists served refreshments and it was very nice when they offered coffee/tea or wine. Interestingly enough, artists who utilized vegetables in their artwork usually served veggies. Strawberries were the favorite fruit. Oddly, no one was burning incense or had out perfume sticks. Very few incorporated music (live or recorded) in their studios.
Lots of naked females and clitoris were featured in artwork. Very few male nudes and nary a penis to be had. Nothing wrong with the naked human body but balance is needed. We need more nude males and their bits to even things out. Also, what about using normal sized people? One artist only photographed anorexic females, ugh. Big is beautiful too.
Disappointed by the lack of ethnic diversity. Very few artists of color were represented in the buildings that I called upon. The patrons were not very diverse either. There must be some way to better represent the real demographics of the core city. Perhaps I was visiting the wrong buildings. I was irritated by artists who were dismissive of the visitors. If they really do not care, why did they bother to open their studio? It would be better to close the doors than be rude to fans and potential patrons or hire a friendly host to welcome people to the studio space.
Here is a list of wonderful artists from the 2011 Art-A-Whirl in Minneapolis, MN. I was greatly impressed with many but only have space to highlight a few. Exclusion does not mean that I didn’t like their work; I just can’t include fifty artists. These are not listed in any specific order. Please contact these talented folks for more information perchance to buy! Let them know that you read about them on my blog.
* Alison Price’s paintings explode off the wall. They are neon bright with swooping movements. Definitely a WOW! www.alisonpricestudios.com
* Mill City Makery featured cheerful working girl aprons and stitched goods. millcitymakery@gmail.com
* Hannah Albert’s Japanese woodblock inspired series is fabulous. She blends the outline of a photo with color. Amazing flow. www.mantrart.typepad.com
* Joseph Greco makes certain that his mixed media is interpreted correctly with their individual story. Folkartist almost child-like quality though he is an experienced artist. 612-760-2768.
* Susan Elnora captures skulls and bones with her jewelry. susanfrerichs@yahoo.com
* Andrea Martin creates intricate hand cut paper art. Bugs can be beautiful. www.andrearmartin.com
* Laura Hallen paints hyper flowers. They hum from the canvas. www.laurahallen.com
* Andree Tracey makes collages. Her fifties fashionista series is quite delightful. www.andreecollages.com
* Brian VanVoorst’s exquisite watercolors look like batik over photographs. artbybrian@secretthirdoption.com
* Sarah Thornton’s paint-by-number approach to animal portraits is charming. www.lintuart.com
* S.A. Roman haunting ghostly images of the veiled prairie. www.saromanstudios.com
* Marisa Martinez incorporates cool beads and mini glass sculptures into jewelry. www.meztizadesigns.com
* Karen Gustafson works in many forms but the sonographic prints are eerie. www.karengustafsonstudios.com
* Nancy Reyner’s waves feel like they are about to crash upon you. www.nancyreyner.com
* Ochen K features bright starburst quality art. Looks like Hubble photos. www.ochenk.com
Though it wasn’t for sale it was neat to visit the 100,000+ cranes on view at the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota. Each crane represents one person affected by brain injury in Minnesota; the effect was powerful since the cranes cascaded throughout the entry hall. www.braininjurymn.org for more information.
Note: I also wrote about the Whirl on May 25th and the tornado on May 23rd.
Looking forward to Art A Whirl 2012!
www.nemaa.org
©2011
Hummus with pita chips and salsa with tortilla chips were the standard treats offered by hospitable folks. Some artists served refreshments and it was very nice when they offered coffee/tea or wine. Interestingly enough, artists who utilized vegetables in their artwork usually served veggies. Strawberries were the favorite fruit. Oddly, no one was burning incense or had out perfume sticks. Very few incorporated music (live or recorded) in their studios.
Lots of naked females and clitoris were featured in artwork. Very few male nudes and nary a penis to be had. Nothing wrong with the naked human body but balance is needed. We need more nude males and their bits to even things out. Also, what about using normal sized people? One artist only photographed anorexic females, ugh. Big is beautiful too.
Disappointed by the lack of ethnic diversity. Very few artists of color were represented in the buildings that I called upon. The patrons were not very diverse either. There must be some way to better represent the real demographics of the core city. Perhaps I was visiting the wrong buildings. I was irritated by artists who were dismissive of the visitors. If they really do not care, why did they bother to open their studio? It would be better to close the doors than be rude to fans and potential patrons or hire a friendly host to welcome people to the studio space.
Here is a list of wonderful artists from the 2011 Art-A-Whirl in Minneapolis, MN. I was greatly impressed with many but only have space to highlight a few. Exclusion does not mean that I didn’t like their work; I just can’t include fifty artists. These are not listed in any specific order. Please contact these talented folks for more information perchance to buy! Let them know that you read about them on my blog.
* Alison Price’s paintings explode off the wall. They are neon bright with swooping movements. Definitely a WOW! www.alisonpricestudios.com
* Mill City Makery featured cheerful working girl aprons and stitched goods. millcitymakery@gmail.com
* Hannah Albert’s Japanese woodblock inspired series is fabulous. She blends the outline of a photo with color. Amazing flow. www.mantrart.typepad.com
* Joseph Greco makes certain that his mixed media is interpreted correctly with their individual story. Folkartist almost child-like quality though he is an experienced artist. 612-760-2768.
* Susan Elnora captures skulls and bones with her jewelry. susanfrerichs@yahoo.com
* Andrea Martin creates intricate hand cut paper art. Bugs can be beautiful. www.andrearmartin.com
* Laura Hallen paints hyper flowers. They hum from the canvas. www.laurahallen.com
* Andree Tracey makes collages. Her fifties fashionista series is quite delightful. www.andreecollages.com
* Brian VanVoorst’s exquisite watercolors look like batik over photographs. artbybrian@secretthirdoption.com
* Sarah Thornton’s paint-by-number approach to animal portraits is charming. www.lintuart.com
* S.A. Roman haunting ghostly images of the veiled prairie. www.saromanstudios.com
* Marisa Martinez incorporates cool beads and mini glass sculptures into jewelry. www.meztizadesigns.com
* Karen Gustafson works in many forms but the sonographic prints are eerie. www.karengustafsonstudios.com
* Nancy Reyner’s waves feel like they are about to crash upon you. www.nancyreyner.com
* Ochen K features bright starburst quality art. Looks like Hubble photos. www.ochenk.com
Though it wasn’t for sale it was neat to visit the 100,000+ cranes on view at the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota. Each crane represents one person affected by brain injury in Minnesota; the effect was powerful since the cranes cascaded throughout the entry hall. www.braininjurymn.org for more information.
Note: I also wrote about the Whirl on May 25th and the tornado on May 23rd.
Looking forward to Art A Whirl 2012!
www.nemaa.org
©2011
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
FADING AWAY
She didn’t recognize me. The party was in a stranger’s house mostly filled with people that we didn’t know. I arrived late and sat across the room. She smiled but did not make conversation. I had just cut my hair. She asked, “Who are you?” when I sat next to her. Those three words sliced into my heart. My own mother didn’t know her child. I told her that I was her daughter Ima. No light of understanding came into her eyes. She wasn’t able to make the connection.
My throat burned, it felt like someone hit me in the chest, and my eyes got moist. The party ended. I managed to make it to the car before I began sobbing. I couldn’t drive away for almost fifteen minutes. Feeling profound pity that her personality was fading away and anger at the damn disease of Alzheimer’s. Most of her great-grandchildren reside in different states and they will never know her benign troublemaking humor, wonderful desserts, and compassion. Unfortunately, my siblings are rather mean to her; they have always discounted her since my dad is dominant (which is probably why I despise misogynists).
Alzheimer’s is an insidious illness; it steals away the personality before the body dies. It heartbreaking to watch my mother get more confused and repeat herself. She has lot many items, including her wedding ring. I don’t live in the same community so every time that I visit she is a bit worse. We got the diagnosis two years ago from an expert (don’t rely on general practitioner but see a specialist, aka memory care medical doctor).
Mom can still hold a conversation and be home alone. However, the day is approaching when she will have to be moved into a nursing home. I’ve urged my dad to take her around to visit the various memory-care facilities. She can choose the one she wants and we can get her placed there. I wish that they would move into an assisted living facility now so that more people could help watch her. However, would the new environment speed her decline? Expense is an issue since they did not save for retirement. My dad is horrible with money. They are near 80 years old but could easily live for another fifteen years or so.
I fear for myself, too. My mom and her sister suffer from Alzheimer’s. What will be my fate? Will other members of the family come down with this disease? When will medical research be able to stop or vaccinate against the illness? Since I don’t have a spouse, who will watch out for me? My family can’t be relied upon and I don’t want to become a ward of the state. I have a Last Will but will my friend follow my wishes, will she even be alive when I reach the age of 75? I don’t have much saved for retirement due to unemployment and bad paying jobs. So many unknowns, it is overwhelming and frightening.
I need to attend some Alzheimer’s Association meetings. Perhaps that will reduce my anxiety. I want to be involved but family interactions are so painful that I avoid them. I have to give myself some time before calling because I know that will cry. I’ve accepted it but the pain is too recent. I feel too vulnerable.
It’s time to halt the Alz!
© 2011
My throat burned, it felt like someone hit me in the chest, and my eyes got moist. The party ended. I managed to make it to the car before I began sobbing. I couldn’t drive away for almost fifteen minutes. Feeling profound pity that her personality was fading away and anger at the damn disease of Alzheimer’s. Most of her great-grandchildren reside in different states and they will never know her benign troublemaking humor, wonderful desserts, and compassion. Unfortunately, my siblings are rather mean to her; they have always discounted her since my dad is dominant (which is probably why I despise misogynists).
Alzheimer’s is an insidious illness; it steals away the personality before the body dies. It heartbreaking to watch my mother get more confused and repeat herself. She has lot many items, including her wedding ring. I don’t live in the same community so every time that I visit she is a bit worse. We got the diagnosis two years ago from an expert (don’t rely on general practitioner but see a specialist, aka memory care medical doctor).
Mom can still hold a conversation and be home alone. However, the day is approaching when she will have to be moved into a nursing home. I’ve urged my dad to take her around to visit the various memory-care facilities. She can choose the one she wants and we can get her placed there. I wish that they would move into an assisted living facility now so that more people could help watch her. However, would the new environment speed her decline? Expense is an issue since they did not save for retirement. My dad is horrible with money. They are near 80 years old but could easily live for another fifteen years or so.
I fear for myself, too. My mom and her sister suffer from Alzheimer’s. What will be my fate? Will other members of the family come down with this disease? When will medical research be able to stop or vaccinate against the illness? Since I don’t have a spouse, who will watch out for me? My family can’t be relied upon and I don’t want to become a ward of the state. I have a Last Will but will my friend follow my wishes, will she even be alive when I reach the age of 75? I don’t have much saved for retirement due to unemployment and bad paying jobs. So many unknowns, it is overwhelming and frightening.
I need to attend some Alzheimer’s Association meetings. Perhaps that will reduce my anxiety. I want to be involved but family interactions are so painful that I avoid them. I have to give myself some time before calling because I know that will cry. I’ve accepted it but the pain is too recent. I feel too vulnerable.
It’s time to halt the Alz!
© 2011
Thursday, June 16, 2011
TOO GREAT OF PAIN
The pain was too much. Options were exhausted. He chose to leap into the icy water from a bridge. What remained of the body was discovered nearly two weeks later nearly ten miles downstream. It is with great sadness that I write of Joshua who committed suicide a couple months ago. He was an intelligent, funny and nice person. We had been acquainted for several years since we had mutual friends. I would chat with him at parties and give him a hug. I was always happy to bump into him while out and about since he was so very personable.
I never knew of his depression or anxieties. He only informed a few people in our group of friends. I worked for several years with people who have SPMI serious and persistent mental illness. Joshua was interested in my work but never told me of his own challenges. I wish that he had reached out to someone during his last hour of life. Perhaps they could have gotten him to a hospital for help. Suicide is final. I fear that he changed his mind as he neared the water but it was too late. If he did survive the fall, the cold water would have rendered him unconscious within ten minutes or so. I hope he was at least knocked out from the fall and did not suffer physical pain on top of the mental anguish.
Some people consider suicide as selfish. I think that is rarely the case. I have contemplated ceasing existence many times. I didn’t think that my life was worth the bother. No one would miss me if I were dead. I was in fact a burden upon the planet. Thankfully, I was able to quell those negative thoughts with the assistance of a talented therapist. I haven’t felt that bad for years but occasionally the fleeting idea of suicide enters my mind. It is not a viable option anymore. If anything, my cats need me.
Most people with mental illness are highly intelligent and profoundly sensitive. Unfortunately, our society still attaches stigma to this medical condition. Mental health is a biological genetic disposition, the person neither weak of personal will nor did they choose to feel differently. We need to accept mental illness like any other treatable malady. People with SPMI are contributing members of our society and you probably aren’t aware of who has mental health issues and who doesn’t. Very very few people fall into the stereotypical “crazy” behavior. www.nami.org has a lot of great information.
If you have suicidal thoughts contact the Helpline at 1-800-273-8255 and visit www.save.org for other resources. Suicide Awareness – Voices of Education is a wonderful organization and also offers support for people who have lost a loved one to suicide. Just reach out, we need you to stay on this planet. I wish I could have told that to Joshua.
Choose to Live.
© 2011
I never knew of his depression or anxieties. He only informed a few people in our group of friends. I worked for several years with people who have SPMI serious and persistent mental illness. Joshua was interested in my work but never told me of his own challenges. I wish that he had reached out to someone during his last hour of life. Perhaps they could have gotten him to a hospital for help. Suicide is final. I fear that he changed his mind as he neared the water but it was too late. If he did survive the fall, the cold water would have rendered him unconscious within ten minutes or so. I hope he was at least knocked out from the fall and did not suffer physical pain on top of the mental anguish.
Some people consider suicide as selfish. I think that is rarely the case. I have contemplated ceasing existence many times. I didn’t think that my life was worth the bother. No one would miss me if I were dead. I was in fact a burden upon the planet. Thankfully, I was able to quell those negative thoughts with the assistance of a talented therapist. I haven’t felt that bad for years but occasionally the fleeting idea of suicide enters my mind. It is not a viable option anymore. If anything, my cats need me.
Most people with mental illness are highly intelligent and profoundly sensitive. Unfortunately, our society still attaches stigma to this medical condition. Mental health is a biological genetic disposition, the person neither weak of personal will nor did they choose to feel differently. We need to accept mental illness like any other treatable malady. People with SPMI are contributing members of our society and you probably aren’t aware of who has mental health issues and who doesn’t. Very very few people fall into the stereotypical “crazy” behavior. www.nami.org has a lot of great information.
If you have suicidal thoughts contact the Helpline at 1-800-273-8255 and visit www.save.org for other resources. Suicide Awareness – Voices of Education is a wonderful organization and also offers support for people who have lost a loved one to suicide. Just reach out, we need you to stay on this planet. I wish I could have told that to Joshua.
Choose to Live.
© 2011
Monday, June 13, 2011
UNEMPLOYMENT ANGST
Nearly one year of unemployment. I have sent out almost 250 resumes and have an interview #8 scheduled. I just want to scream, "I have skills, hire me!" I need enough money to pay the bills since the lazy cats refuse to work. I want a job that isn't mind numbingly boring nor morally reprehensible. Is that too much to ask? Thankfully, I still receive unemployment but I continue to draw down my savings account. I fear the day when my unemployment benefits are exhausted.
It irks me that posh corporate administrators get paid millions if not billions of dollars per year and most don’t even pay their custodians enough to survive. There are some wonderfully socially conscious financially blessed people but too many are selfish bastards. Lower middle class and financially stressed people give a higher percentage of their income to charity and are more likely to volunteer. They also pay a higher percentage of taxes to the government than people who are in the upper income bracket. Those are the facts, it’s published.
If you know of a job for a sassy opinionated person in the Twin Cities, MN, please contact me.
©2011
©2011
It irks me that posh corporate administrators get paid millions if not billions of dollars per year and most don’t even pay their custodians enough to survive. There are some wonderfully socially conscious financially blessed people but too many are selfish bastards. Lower middle class and financially stressed people give a higher percentage of their income to charity and are more likely to volunteer. They also pay a higher percentage of taxes to the government than people who are in the upper income bracket. Those are the facts, it’s published.
If you know of a job for a sassy opinionated person in the Twin Cities, MN, please contact me.
©2011
©2011
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