the sparkler

Wonderful Etsy Finds

2009-01-12T18:22:00.000-08:00

Lark Sparrow
Reduction woodblock print by Marissa Buschow
Found here http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=cat3_list_8&listing_id=11403097

Free Ice Cream--FOXES ONLY
Watercolor by Etsy Artist Amber Alexander
Found here http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_1&listing_id=18815527

Extravagant Birthday Gift Ideas

2009-01-08T13:54:00.000-08:00

I would like this painting by Miranda Lake for my birthday. (It's coming right up--February 7th) The painting is titled Impractical Resplendence.

Found here http://www.melaneecoopergallery.com/artists.html

Wishing More Dancing For All the World in 2009

2009-01-04T16:56:00.000-08:00

"We're fools whether we dance or not--so we might as well dance."
--Japanese proverb from here http://www.quotationspage.com/quote/35453.html

Did you dance to ring in the New Year??

We definitely did... Go 'head girl, go 'head get down...

Need more dancing in your life in 2009??

Check out the Public Space Intervention Mobile Dance Party for some ideas for dancing in the streets. More here http://www.nowtoronto.com/issues/2006-11-23/news_story5.php

and also check out the growing international phenomenon Mobile Clubbing

Mobile Clubbing is an event where a group of people meet together in a public place, put on earphones and for a set period of time just dance to the music on their own mp3 player. Each person listens to whatever music they want to (each different) and they dance.

Video on Mobile Clubbing here http://www.youtube.com/watchv=yUJLHPqfTJU&feature=related

NEW YEARS EVE REVELRY IS IN ORDER

2008-12-31T13:23:00.000-08:00

revel
• verb (revelled, revelling; US reveled, reveling) 1 engage in lively and noisy festivities. 2 (revel in) gain great pleasure from.
• noun (revels) lively and noisy festivities.
— DERIVATIVES reveller noun revelry noun (pl. revelries).
— ORIGIN Old French reveler ‘rise up in rebellion’, from Latin rebellare ‘to rebel’.
— SEE ALSO revelry, New Orleans-style

revelry, New Orleans-style
• noun (derivative) 1 engagement in lively and noisy festivities characterized by frenzied dancing, raucous laughter, overindulgence in food and spirits and bawdy or risque behaviors. More debauched forms may include: public nudity, karaoke, "resting" in French Quarter gutters and, at worst, the purchase of light-up beads.

Happy Holidays from the Bull City!!

2008-12-30T14:58:00.000-08:00

Major--Durham's Fine Mascot in Celebration Mode

Downtown Durham on Boxing Day

The Lighting of the Lucky Strike Tower

Comfort and Joy

2008-12-14T18:04:00.000-08:00

Christmas Caroling, Eggnog, Cider, Hot Chocolate, Live Music, Nice Neighbors and a Spontaneous Parade...what more can you ask for in a Holiday Party??? I love Duke Park!

And the most fun I've ever seen at an office party was when Pilar hosted her UNC Lab Party Friday night...

ABOMINABLE

2008-12-14T17:58:00.000-08:00

This is not a seasonal entry. It is an apology--remiss does not begin to describe my neglect for this beloved blog.

My excuses are a new job and a computer on the fritz. But all will be in order by the New Year so bear with me!!

I will post some festive photos from this weekend as holiday treats.

Guglhupf Bakery and Cafe--Yet Another Reason to Love Durham

2008-11-18T19:34:00.000-08:00

Look at this Beautiful Bakery!!!

It's like being in pastry heaven.

And the cafe is not only beautiful, with a dinstinctly European look and atmosphere--but it also serves incredibly fresh and enticing foods. Their Tuna Nicoise Salad is unequaled (in my humble opinion). Today I tried their Scotch Broth and Barley Soup--perfect for today with snow flurries whirling outside the window. It was hearty and truly delicious. And for dessert, we shared a very tall Pumpkin Cheesecake that was sinfully good.

A big shout out to Kate Flanagan for taking me out to lunch to celebrate my new job.

More info on Guglhupf Bakery and Patisserie here http://www.guglhupf.com/

Amazon Promise

2008-11-16T16:52:00.000-08:00

Are you considering donating to a charity this holiday season rather than participating in the mass-consumption mayhem??

If so PLEASE let me suggest an organization that I know from firsthand experience is doing truly extraordinary and much-needed work in the Amazon.

They are called Amazon Promise, headed by my dear friend, Patricia Webster, and they've been providing desperately needed medical assistance in remote areas of the Amazon for over 15 years.

AN EXCERPT FROM THE MOST RECENT AMAZON PROMISE NEWSLETTER:

Since the beginning of 2008, the Ministry of Health in Iquitos has been on strike four out of the first eight months of the year. This has left people in the jungle and the city without access to any type of medical care. All public hospitals, medical posts and government pharmacies servicing the poor have been closed down except for emergencies. In some cases, even emergency patients have been turned away. Important government programs including those for prenatal care and the treatment of TB, leishmaniasis, and HIV have been available only sporadically or stopped completely during these strike days. During our recent July medical trip, several patients with TB, HIV, and one with leishmaniasis confided in us they were unable to get their continued care. As I write this, another strike is in effect. Based on our personal observations during the last month, I can report that the outcome of these strikes has been devastating and deadly...

To find out more call 1.800.775.5704 or go to: http://www.amazonpromise.org/

Amazon Promise is a U.S.-based, non-profit organization founded to provide desperately needed medical care to remote populations living in the Upper Amazon Basin of Northeastern Peru. Our Peruvian operations are headquartered in the jungle city of Iquitos. We provide medical services and education to residents of Iquitos and neighboring Belen. Additionally, since 1994 we have conducted routine, volunteer-based medical outreach, local training and education in 32 remote jungle villages.

Note: All photos in this posting taken by Patty Webster, President of Amazon Promise

The Kinsey Sicks are HILARIOUS!

2008-11-13T21:53:00.000-08:00

America's Favorite Dragapella Beautyshop Quartet

Finding our way on campus.

Interpretive Dance.

Waiting for the show to begin.

Pre-show at the Manor.

Me & Trampolina

Cutie Jon with Winnie

Friends--If the Kinsey Sicks come to your neck of the woods... definitely make the effort to check them out! So much bawdy fun!

Saw their show "Wake the F#@* Up America!" last night in Raleigh on the campus of N.C. State. A HUGE thank you our fabulous host Brian Green.

For more info go to their website here http://www.kinseysicks.com/

Video here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gzQkP64iCQ

Where did you spend this Incredibly Historic Election Night?

2008-11-05T05:17:00.000-08:00

This morning I am feeling like anything is possible.

I watched the election results last night outdoors in downtown Durham in the pouring rain with hundreds of other hopeful citizens. And when Obama was announced President Elect people cried and hugged strangers and chanted Yes We Can!! in empowered unison.

This is such an amazing moment in history and I am so proud of the people of our nation for turning out in record numbers to elect such a fine candidate.

North Carolina even went blue for the first time since choosing Jimmy Carter in 1976.

Shamans of Peru on US Election

2008-11-04T11:13:00.000-08:00

Today's BBC News Coverage of Shamans in Peru concerned about today's US election.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/us_elections_2008/7699066.stm

Love These Crafty Creatures

2008-10-18T13:40:00.000-07:00

I love these!!!

I want one--or several.

They were made by Lori Brown. Find them on Etsy here http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5004721

Another Reunion Pic

2008-10-16T20:45:00.000-07:00

This one is my favorite pic from the reunion so far, even if I look like a maniac. It was taken in Callaghan's Irish Social Club in the Garden District in Mobile, Alabama... definitely a great place to have a beer if you are ever in town. Info here http://www.callaghansirishsocialclub.com/main.htm

Spider Identification??

2008-10-16T20:39:00.000-07:00

So I am wondering if these are just common house or garden spiders or if they are gonna kill me in my sleep??? Anybody out there able to identify these by these pics?? The abdomen is about the size of a dime. The flash has washed them out. In reality they are brownish and furry.

Camouflage Beer

2008-10-16T20:33:00.001-07:00

I am still wondering about this camouflage beer I came across while visiting Alabama last weekend. Is it just a hunting season sales effort or a simple fashion statement? Is it invisible to the deer? I am thinking entirely too much about this marketing gimmick.

High School Reunion Weekend

2008-10-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

Photos from the Saturday Open House at my parents' house.

Wish I hadn't waited until the VERY END of the party to take photos but here are a few anyway--Enjoy!

And a big shout out to all of you for coming--it was my favorite part of the weekend because I was actually able to sit and have actual in depth conversations with some of my favorite peeps in the world.

And the DVD of the Not Nearly Band aka The Gaston Brothers, Chris Perkins and Mike Peacock was not to be missed--so hilarious!

Mike said this one should be titled "hurting."

Beautiful Baby Ella and Mama Robin

Gorgeous non-Murphy grads Asia and Evie Frey

Another gorgeous non-Murphy partygirl Katie Jackson

BTW Juliana and Cassie (and whoever else joined in the bartending effort) the Pomegranate Martinis were SO delicious!!!!!!!

Front Porch of the Week 9/27/08

2008-09-26T18:12:00.000-07:00

Wonderful, partially obscured porch on a Spanish-style house on Alabama Avenue in Watts-Hillandale...

And wonderfully fitting and attractive landscape design to make the view from that porch worth enjoying.

Jeff Koons on the Roof

2008-09-24T14:49:00.000-07:00

How I would love to jet up to Manhattan to check out jeff Koons new exhibition on the roof of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I've heard it's fabulous.

Jeff Koons' official site here: http://www.jeffkoons.com/site/index.html

Gothamist on the exhibition here: http://gothamist.com/2008/04/22/jeff_koons_atop.php

Who Knows What Geocaching Is???

2008-09-23T07:56:00.000-07:00

I do! I do!

According to the Official Worldwide Geocaching Website...

Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting game played throughout the world by adventure seekers equipped with GPS devices. The basic idea is to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, outdoors and then share your experiences online. Geocaching is enjoyed by people from all age groups, with a strong sense of community and support for the environment.

For more info go here: http://www.geocaching.com/

Scene of the Crime Rovers

2008-09-15T09:54:00.001-07:00

Yet another reason I love Durham--The Scene of the Crime Rovers Band.

They describe themselves as a community-based music group dedicated to brining music (or something like it) to the community. I describe it as a lot of contagious fun.

Check out their myspace page http://www.myspace.com/sceneofthecrimerovers

They are trying to raise funds to go to a festival--if you are intersted in donating go here http://socrovers.blogspot.com/

Front Porch of the Week 9/14/08

2008-09-14T20:13:00.000-07:00

This fascinating front porch is on Carolina Avenue. I was originally attracted to the owl painting and the multitudes of bird feeders but it won me over when I realized it even has gnomes.

Darwin's Natural Heir

2008-09-09T09:35:00.000-07:00

Edward O. Wilson grew up in my hometown of Mobile, Alabama and is by far the most brilliant person ever to hail from that beautiful city by the bay--perhaps the most brilliant person from the state or entire region. His work has aroused serious controversy--as has most significant scientific work throughout history.

Great article on his work and the controversy surrounding it from the Guardian here: http://www.guardian.co.uk/Archive/Article/0,4273,4137503,00.html

I highly recommend his book The Future of Life which presents an impassioned call for urgent action to save the Earth's biological heritage, identifying essential species that are threatened with extinction while identifying ways they can be saved and exploring the importance of conservation. Found and quoted from here: http://books.google.com/books?id=2Soam0uCArsC&q=e+o+wilson&dq=e+o+wilson&pgis=1

He also wrote a wonderful, accessible book in the form of a lettter to a Southern baptist preacher succintly described as follows:

Famed entomologist, humanist thinker, and cogent writer Wilson issues a forthright call for unity between religion and science in order to save the "creation," or living nature, which is in "deep trouble." Addressing his commonsensical yet ardent discourse to "Dear Pastor," he asks why religious leaders haven't made protecting the creation part of their mission. ( Donna Seaman Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved )

Wilson's latest project is the absolutely revolutionary

Encyclopedia of Life

which is "an ambitious project to organize and make available via the Internet virtually all information about life present on Earth. At its heart lies a series of Web sites—one for each of the approximately 1.8 million known species." from website here http://www.eol.org/index

He won a TED prize (http://www.ted.com/pages/view/id/6) and creating this encyclopedia was his wish--he was awarded 50 million dollars to make it come true.

Video about the project here: http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/e_o_wilson_on_saving_life_on_earth.html

Also see The E. O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation

The mission of the E. O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation is to preserve biological diversity in the living environment by inventing and implementing business and educational strategies in the service of conservation. http://www.eowilson.org/

More info. on E. O. Wilson and his work:

http://www.ted.com/index.php/speakers/e_o_wilson.html

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2001/americasbest/science.medicine/pro.eowilson.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/E._O._Wilson

Front Porch of the Week 9/8/08

2008-09-08T18:54:00.000-07:00

I was drawn to this porch in Trinity Park because of the beautiful modern lettering of the street numbers, bright white against the deep chocolate shingles--a favorite color combination of mine.

It has a nice porch swing.

It also has some great simple tables for outdoor meals.

It is an expansive porch and although it's fairly austere, its minimalist design and zen-like simplicity make it special.

Best Chocolate Bar in the Land

2008-09-07T20:29:00.001-07:00

My friend Meghan and I found this chocolate bar on our lunch break recently. It sounded so good, we each bought one. When we returned to work on Monday we were both singing it's praises---and then I found that not only is it sublimely delicious, it's also locally made (Beaufort, NC), all natural AND they have a chocolate shop in Raleigh (which I will likely be visiting in the near future).

More info here:
http://www.escazuchocolates.com/index.html

New Music--She & Him

2008-09-03T10:05:00.001-07:00

You may have already heard that Zooey Deschanel has started a band called She & Him, but you may not have already heard that they're actually good. She has a very soulful voice and is well-paired with M. Ward.

Great video on MTV Canada of them doing "You Really Gotta Hold On Me":

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAvnOWc5uD0

Official band website:

http://www.sheandhim.com/sheandhim.php

I'm in love with Billy Collins

2008-09-03T06:56:00.000-07:00

I have a favorite poem based on this classic haiku by Buson...

on the one ton temple bell
a moon-moth, folded into sleep,
sits still.

~Taniguchi Buson

It's by that genius of a wordsmith, Billy Collins, and it goes like this...

Japan

Today I pass the time reading
a favorite haiku,
saying the few words over and over.

It feels like eating
the same small, perfect grape
again and again.

I walk through the house reciting it
and leave its letters falling
through the air of every room.

I stand by the big silence of the piano and say it.
I say it in front of a painting of the sea.
I tap out its rhythm on an empty shelf.

I listen to myself saying it,
then I say it without listening,
then I hear it without saying it.

And when the dog looks up at me,
I kneel down on the floor
and whisper it into each of his long white ears.

It's the one about the one-ton temple bell
with the moth sleeping on its surface,

and every time I say it, I feel the excruciating
pressure of the moth
on the surface of the iron bell.

When I say it at the window,
the bell is the world
and I am the moth resting there.

When I say it at the mirror,
I am the heavy bell
and the moth is life with its papery wings.

And later, when I say it to you in the dark,
you are the bell, and I am the tongue of the bell, ringing you,

and the moth has flown
from its line
and moves like a hinge in the air above our bed.

Billy Collins

The Goat Patrol

2008-08-28T10:46:00.000-07:00

Some of my neighbors hired The Goat Patrol! I had no idea it was even possible but it seems that a service is being offered here in Durham where a herd of goats comes to your home each day and eats your weeds. No noisy leaf blowers and mowing machines. Just cute goats munching on your lawn. I love it. More info here http://www.thegoatpatrol.com/index.htm

Another Comment on Watts-Hillandale Neighborhood

2008-08-26T06:33:00.000-07:00

If I ever decided to have Back Porch of the Week, this one in Watts_hillandale would definitely be in the running...

And these folks win a prize just for hanging their clothes on the line.

Watts-Hillandale

2008-08-25T07:18:00.000-07:00

While cycling on Sunday, I noted a trend in the Watts-Hillandale neighborhood: Round things on the exterior of the houses--often representations of the sun like these...

But there were other miscellaneous round objects like these...

So I wondered if it's just an artsier version of a wreath or if, perhaps, there is a local cult worshipping the sun as a deity OR if it could be symbolic of the "circle of life" or maybe a representation of unity (I like that idea)... or if people in WH just like round things... they do have an Oval Park.

Front Porch of the Week 8/24/08

2008-08-25T06:08:00.000-07:00

My dream house has a screened porch, maybe even 2, one of them a sleeping porch. How I love to sleep on a screened porch on cooler summer nights--the most civilized form of camping.

This porch is on Alabama Avenue in Watts-Hillandale. I had a conversation with the lovely Ms. Adams, owner of this home, on Sunday morning. She was reading the paper on her great porch.

I discovered that the screening was added recently and what a wonderful job their carpenter did. They used someone from Housewright Remodeling. See http://www.hswrt.com/ Beautiful work.

The Delights of Travel

2008-08-24T06:13:00.001-07:00

I am missing my traveling days on this quiet Sunday morning--in fact I am really missing the days when I had time to sleep or go to the grocery store--but hey, I can survive this workload. I once taught 6 college-level art history classes in a single semester, several of them I had never taught before. I can handle 60-hour work weeks til November-right?

This photo was taken in Prague in front of the famous "dancing" building with my friend Nowell. I came across it this morning and it made me truly homesick for a life of travel (if that makes sense). The building was designed by Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunic, built in 1996 and promptly labeled by locals as the Fred and Ginger building after Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.

Couldn't I be dreadfully poor somewhere esle in the world like Prague, or better yet, Tuscany...??

Pangea Organic

2008-08-24T05:52:00.000-07:00

I want to share some details on this incredible company based in Boulder. I gave their products to people as holiday gifts last year. The soaps are packaged in recycled containers that contain seeds. You plant the package. I am imagining landfills sprouting wonderful plants instead of foul stenches---but even better, containers that never go to a landfill...

I love their body wash, especially the Canadian Pine with White Sage. I also love their lip balm--the Egyptian Fennel with Grapefruit and Sweet Orange is awesome.

Another sign of their integrity is a portion of profits go to buidling the Pangea Institute, a non-profit center for research on sustainable living...

I just found out Harris-Teeter stores are now carrying Pangea Organic and that makes me glad.

Director's Preview of the El Greco to Velazquez Exhibition at the Nasher

2008-08-20T06:14:00.000-07:00

The party was pretty fabulous--beautiful architectural setting, amazing Spanish food and wine, tons of interesting people watching, but the star was definitely the art. I especially enjoy this one of Fray Felix Hortensio Paravicino by El Greco...

I'm sort of in love with him. The show is fantastic, much of the work unlikely to ever be seen again in the United States.

I was hesitant to use my camera and the few photos we did take were all blurred including this one but I think it hints at the energy and festive atmosphere of the evening.

Giving Challenge Final Days and Overall Thoughts

2008-08-19T07:18:00.000-07:00

In my final week of the 29 Day Giving Challenge I mailed a letter to a teacher from high school telling her what a significant positive influence she had on me. I wrote a long letter to a former doctor who had helped me significantly as well. I gave away some nice curtains to a neighbor. I shared some fresh fruits and veggies with friends and neighbors. I wrote a note to a woman at the bank who had been very helpful to me. I gave some money to an animal rescue organization and sent a great birthday gift to my nephew in Florida.

Some Conclusions:

I've been trying to organize my thoughts about this 29 days of giving--what it means, how it has affected me--trying unsuccessfully to articulate its significance. But I have come to realize that my struggle to convey my simple but profound results has been a challenge to spiritual teachers across millennia, trying to explain how tiny alterations in thought processes and patterns can instigate enormous shifts in consciousness as well as major life changes. And I also realized that no one who is not ready for it and open to it can grasp the depth of significance that such a simple message holds.

I came across the 29 Day Giving Challenge by chance, online and watched Cami Walker tell her story on video in a direct and very personable way. Her story resonated with me, especially in regard to her illness since I was diagnosed 7 years ago with an autoimmune disease that had a dramatic and overnight onset like hers. She found physical healing through giving. I wanted to try it too, not necessarily for physical healing since my symptoms are no longer severe. I wanted to try it because of the many other positive effects that she spoke of that came into her life and because I believe that we can all be healed on many levels by incorporating consistent conscious giving into our lives.

My story of taking on the Giving Challenge is not as miraculous and dramatically obvious as some (and I imagine that there are many amongst the hundreds now taking this challenge that feel similarly about their results). But shifting your focus to others, even for just a few minutes a day, consciously, deliberately, every single day can cause a sea change in your psyche and this is what occurred for me.

There was an enormous shift in my outlook on life. I blogged the gifts I gave each day and really enjoyed coming up with special things to do for others. About halfway through I was surprised to note that it had already become habit. And, in fact, I have continued my giving since the end of my 29 days and plan to make it a permanent part of my life which is interesting because I hesitated to take the challenge on. I thought it would be a struggle to find something to give every day. I am working 2 jobs, about 70 hours a week so I had concerns that it would become another item on my to-do list that would not get done. But on the contrary, it came naturally and was enjoyable--a much-needed creative outlet from my extremely demanding work schedule.

One of the results I noticed first was that my quality of life was significantly increased. I had many instances of good happenings that individually seem coincidental but together seem unusually positive. But what stands out for me more is this feeling that came to me about midway through the 29 days that I was living in a state of grace. It was a powerful feeling but one that is difficult to prove or articulate except in contrast to its previous absence from my life. It was as though there had been constant struggle and challenges in my life and then a switch was flipped and my daily existence was suddenly so much easier, everything going my way. Plus I had an overall sense of goodness and well-being. Of course none of this is scientifically measurable or in any way obvious to anyone but me.

Most significant of all, to me, is that I feel that this practice has stimulated and furthered my spiritual evolution. It has definitely taken me away from my anxiety and near-constant focus on overcoming my daily challenges. It has had a positive ripple effect out into the community through friends and strangers alike. I believe that the energy flow that is created in our lives by conscious acts of giving has an extremely positive and far-reaching impact.

I can say without hesitation that the Giving Challenge has had an enormous positive impact on my life. I have encouraged others to try it and hope that they will find similarly positive results.

Belated Goodbye to Isaac Hayes

2008-08-18T10:46:00.000-07:00

Wonderful NPR interview w Isaac here:

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=93492967

Thought for the Day

2008-08-18T06:04:00.000-07:00

True religion is real living; living with all one's soul, with all one's goodness and righteousness.
---Albert Einstein

Front Porch Of the Week

2008-08-17T17:54:00.000-07:00

Because I accidentally deleted the post of Sandy's lovely front front porch, I am re-posting it. Sandy lives on "Little Mangum" in Duke Park.

Downtown Durham Photos

2008-08-17T17:39:00.000-07:00

So I am working about 70 hours a week these days--it's hellish I tell ya'. But I am planning some full tilt fabulous blogging in the coming weeks in any spare moment I can steal. For now I have posted some photos taken on a much-needed Sunday morning bike ride around Durham.

Hope you enjoy...

Front Porch of the Week 8/3/08

2008-08-05T17:44:00.000-07:00

I usually don't go for such pristine porches but this one looked like it was made of copper at sunset--really striking. It's in Trinity Park.

Giving Challenge Days 17-23

2008-08-04T09:46:00.000-07:00

I've been neglectful of my blogging partially because I'm working a zillion hours a week but MAINLY because my home computer is on the fritz (some discussion of that phrase here http://www.worldwidewords.org/qa/qa-ont4.htm).

However, I have continued my daily giving practice and am finding my life MUCH improved through it, although I do not find the positive effects easy to articulate. I have this sense of overall improvement, a general sense of ease and well-being that I didn't have before, a sense that I am living in a state of grace. It's not that I don't have challenges--I mean I'm working 65 hours a week, living under a mountain debt, starting life in a new city, dealing with the stresses of an autoimmune disease... I have plenty to contend with but something significant has shifted in my mindset. I am now a huge proponent of giving and gratitude as a spiritual practice. I believe it has discernable positive benefits.

Over the past week I did some creative giving and some giving that I simply would have done anyway...I mailed magazine articles to friends and family, shared some fresh herbs I bought at the market, mailed some thank you notes, made some special phone calls and shared a huge watermelon with lots of folks. I also bought some lovely bread for some friends going on a camping trip, gave a big 50 pack of blank cd's to a friend who loaned me 2 blank ones a few weeks ago and cooked dinner for another friend who's going through a rough financial time (and sent her home with a ton of leftovers).

Most of these things I would do in an average week--but I think the simple act of recognizing them, being aware of how you expend your energy and what you focus your attention on in a given day is key. And when this energy and attention is focused externally--on others in a selfless way--I think it is beneficial. And when you combine this with a practice of gratitude it can't help but alter your world in a positive way.

Thought for the Day

2008-07-31T11:55:00.000-07:00

PEACE IS AVAILABLE TO US AT ALL TIMES

Fab Fabric

2008-07-30T13:57:00.000-07:00

Found an even more fabulous fabric for my screen--love it--can't wait to have that screen finished.

El Greco to Velazquez Exhibition

2008-07-29T18:04:00.001-07:00

An article on the fairly extraordinary story behind the exhibition I am assisting with at the Nasher Museum.

http://www.dukemagazine.duke.edu/dukemag/issues/050608/elgreco1.html

Giving Challenge Days 14, 15 AND 16

2008-07-28T18:47:00.000-07:00

Falling a bit behind with my blogging whilst working 60-hour weeks, but I honestly think one of the main reasons I am handling my workload so well is this Giving Challenge. I'm not really sure I can yet articulate all the benefits I am experiencing from it but I am very happy to share that they are significant.

On my way home from work saturday I stopped at the store for provisions and bought a bottle of wine for Pilar--the fabulous Spanish hostess of the dinner party I would be attending and some of the most delicious grapes I'd had in a while. I shared the grapes with Joanne and Katherine and they gave me some incredible figs they had scavenged from the urban landscape, Robin Hood-style. Oh! How I enjoyed those fresh figs. They were like an exotic delicacy from heaven in the midst of my 3-week nutritional detox.

I can't recall what else I might have given away on Saturday but--on that subject--I forget to mention in my journaling of my gift-giving all the little things I do (and we all do) each day like spend an extra few minutes with someone we like even though we have to be somewhere, complimenting people and simply making every common interactions a sort of gift.

I also think doing nice things for pets and other animals is gift-giving--as well as doing things for the earth itself, for the planet. Heck, picking up trash around your neighborhood is like giving a gift to your community.

I bought my cat some new catnip toys the other day but honestly, she's much happier if I come home for lunch (instead of working through it). She'd much rather have my company than a catnip mousie any day although she really likes this new one...

Had to include a pic--scary eh?? lol

This week I also (anonymously) sent a bunch of Durham tourism info to people I want to come visit me--sort of gifting but more like stealth propaganda.

Yesterday was Emily's birthday and I did get her a present but I didn't deliver it until today. However, I made some good phone calls today to people I haven't caught up with in a while and that counts in my book. I also sent some virtual birthday cards and messages to people who's birthdays are this week AND I gave more of those delicious grapes to my co-workers.

In my heart of hearts, I feel compelled to do more and my excuse is that I am limited by time, but I am doing my best with this for now and already aiming to continue it past the 29 days.

Front Porch of the Week 7/27/08

2008-07-28T18:42:00.000-07:00

Would I have chosen this turquoise front porch in Trinity Park if there weren't this wonderfully handsome cat in a heraldic pose on it? Not so sure...

Hello Georgia O'Keeffe

2008-07-28T18:29:00.001-07:00

Nightblooming trumpet Flowers from Luna's lovely garden in Carrboro.

Daryn Kagan Segment on the 29 Day Giving Challenge

2008-07-25T19:30:00.000-07:00

Giving Challenge Days 12 and 13

2008-07-25T18:27:00.001-07:00

I have been so busy with work this week, working LONG hours and haven't had as much time to devote to my giving. Yesterday I did buy some little gifts for my nieces and nephew on my lunch break and tonight I FINALLY finished my Hallelujah Bluebird assemblage for Miss Andrews. It doesn't photograph very well, especially the textures on it, but I'm pretty happy with it. Both sides are shown here and I think the very industrial photograph on the back creates an interesting dichotomy--but still keeps with the uplifting theme. What do you think??

Ruby Beets

2008-07-25T18:24:00.000-07:00

Check out the spiral designs on these beets I got at the Farmer's Market. I lightly sauteed them to put in my salads this week. I am on Day 6 of a nutritional detox program.

Giving Challenge Days 10 and 11

2008-07-23T17:49:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I endured the lunchtime line at the post office in order to mail another great article to someone who I knew would enjoy it. Today I wrote a postcard to a friend listing some memories we shared at the destination pictured on the card. I also took slices of fresh watermelon from the farmer's market to Katherine and Joanne and Cheryl. I don't know if this counts as a gift but I also helped rescue an abandoned pet bunny---isn't improvement in the quality of life of a helpless animal sort of a gift??

UPDATE: Someone volunteered to adopt the bunny and that makes me so happy!

Giving Challenge Day 9

2008-07-21T18:24:00.000-07:00

Today I responded to a posting on our neighborhood listserv (excerpted below in case anyone else wants to donate to them) to help a developmentally disabled child go to art camp. It wasn't a lot of money since I am in need myself but I was trying to decide what to give today when I noticed the email--it seemed like a perfect opportunity to help, so I gave what I could.

Dear Neighbors,

As many of you know, the Carolina Outreach Foundation supports children with behavioral, emotional, and mental health disabilities in accessing positive developmental activities such as tutoring, vocational internships, sports/recreation, arts/music, etc. Last summer several of you were able to provide financial support that allowed several of our kids to go to camp. We greatly appreciate you generosity in doing so. Many of these kids have no structured activity during the summer, and camp is an extremely important avenue for their social/emotional development.

This year we have a similar need for an 8 year old girl. She would like to go to Clapping Hands Farm arts camp in Pittsboro. This family has found that she really benefits from opportunities to express difficult feelings through art. The cost of the camp is $250.00 and the family is very limited financially...

Bob Funck, MS, QPCommunity Support Specialist/Program Coordinator
Carolina Outreach, LLC/The Carolina Outreach Foundation 919-599-0621

Front Porch of the Week 7/20/08

2008-07-21T18:03:00.000-07:00

This porch is in Trinity Park on Dacian and it has many attractive and artistic features including an interesting stained glass piece hanging at one end-- it even has a gargoyle above it...

Giving Challenge Days 7 and 8

2008-07-20T19:25:00.000-07:00

Combining 2 days because I haven't been online. In the past two days I have given lots of hugs, gave groceries to a friend in need of them and sent virtual birthday greetings and gifts to 2 friends. Oh yeah, I also donated some stuff to the Scrap Exchange and to a local charity thrift store.

Passionflowers

2008-07-20T19:13:00.000-07:00

I had to devote a post to passionflowers--because they are so unearthly-looking. They are truly surreal flowers... I'm fascinated by them. I took these photos at the Garden of Earhly Delights art opening discussed in my previous post.

Garden of Earthly Delights

2008-07-20T18:50:00.000-07:00

I went to an art opening in Carrboro this weekend in the most wondrous garden. Miss Andrews had her wonderful work on display (she is pictured with me below) but unfortunately (or rather, fortunately) most of it was sold by the time I got there. It was a memorable evening in Luna's garden. It had rained briefly and the air was cool and the crickets were loud. People wandered through the garden and studio enjoying visual art of all sorts, made by human hands and otherwise.

Giving Challenge Day 6

2008-07-18T21:11:00.001-07:00

Today I brought some sweet treats to my coworkers at the museum. I also brought flowers to Joanne for her art opening in Carrboro.

Giving Challenge Day 5

2008-07-17T20:21:00.000-07:00

Just back from Craft Night which was a lot of fun but I only put about 4 stitches in my craft piece because I was so busy listening to the ladies dish and eating yummy desserts.

I baked (gluten-free) treats for craft night as my gift for the day. Wondrous neighbor Emily also needed canola oil to bake a cake this afternoon and I toted it down the hill for her, thinking it a rather strange thing to have in hand walking around the neighborhood.

The moon was a gift of a sight tonight-- so beautiful--almost full and enormous.

I Want this Fabric

2008-07-16T19:15:00.000-07:00

I have a white wooden folding screen in my bedroom with some open areas that need covering--I think this Noguchi-inspired fabric would be perfect and I love ReproDepot (http://www.reprodepot.com/ngchbn.html )

Giving Challenge Day 4

2008-07-16T19:06:00.000-07:00

Today I photocopied and mailed a wonderful magazine article to a friend that I knew would enjoy it. I sent a virtual flower to my Aunt Nancy. I called a friend I haven't been in contact with in almost a year. I also baked some sweet treats for a gathering tomorrow night and cut a few for a friend who I know cannot make it and dropped them by her house. All of these things are giftlike even though they don't come wrapped in a box.

Giving Challenge Day 3

2008-07-15T03:56:00.000-07:00

Today I received an email that asserted that sometimes we give a gift but remain emotionally attached to receiving gratitude in return...(and) that it is in the giving of the gifts--not someone else's reaction to it--that we are blessed.

This morning I treated my co-workers to coffee. They did say thank you but how would I have reacted if they did not? I am trying to practice being content with the giving, not so much with the receiving.

Giving Challenge Day 2

2008-07-14T14:43:00.000-07:00

Today I sent a long sympathy letter to a friend who lost her dad. I think personal letters are gifts. (I love getting them!) I also sent a thank you note but I'm not so sure that really counts.

Sunday Afternoon in Duke Gardens

2008-07-13T19:01:00.000-07:00

Went to Duke Gardens for the first time today with Julia Vail. It was a beautiful afternoon. I had never in my life seen a Large-Leaf Magnolia. It's an amazing thing to behold. See all the pics here http://www.flickr.com/photos/27276628@N04/sets/72157606152677905/

Giving Challenge Day 1

2008-07-13T17:26:00.000-07:00

Today I gave a bunch of hanging file folders to a nice neighbor who posted on the listserv that she needed some. I also sent some nice notes to friends via email--that counts too doesn't it?? http://www.29gifts.org/

Video of New Reigning Beaver Queen, Fishscenta Beaver

2008-07-13T16:49:00.000-07:00

The 29 Day Giving Challenge

2008-07-13T08:40:00.000-07:00

I have just joined a group that challenges people to give something away every day for 29 days as a spiritual practice and document the impact it has on your life. Their mission is to create a global giving movement that inspires more generosity on our planet. I plan to document my daily giving here on my blog. For more information or to join go here http://www.29gifts.org/

Front Porch of the Week 7/13/08

2008-07-13T04:00:00.000-07:00

So I was asked about my criteria for rating front porches. My preferences really come down down to a few basic requirements...

Visual interest

Individuality

Some artistic flair and creativity

And I generally choose porches that would be pleasant to hang out on--with plenty of comfortable seating.

This porch on West Lynch Street in Old North Durham has all of these qualities plus some added soulfulness that just makes it special in my book.

The Best Chicken in Town!!!

2008-07-12T16:43:00.000-07:00

Katherine O'Brien introduced me to a wonderful Mexican couple who live on Trinity Ave and sell grilled chicken and tamales out of their house. Blanca and her husband are from Vera Cruz and I am entirely serious when I say that they make the most delicious grilled chicken I've had in years--with a piquante salsa verde--and perfect tamales. Ai que rico!!

Video of Jacqueline Bishop's New Installation "Field Guide"

2008-07-12T08:51:00.000-07:00

Field Guide

This is a video by New Orleans art critic, Doug MacCash, of Jacqueline Bishop's new installation in Gentilly, a still-neglected, storm-ravaged area of New Orleans. This installation (discussed in previous posts while in progress) is titled Field Guide.

Free Yoga is a Sign of a Civilized Community

2008-07-12T08:11:00.000-07:00

I must climb on a soapbox for a brief moment on this glorious Saturday morning just to promote the idea of free yoga in every community, all over the world. I believe that is a sign of the evolution and sophistication of the community here in Durham that free yoga is sponsored and held anywhere much less outdoors in such a beautiful park setting overlooking the Durham Farmer's Market. It's such a gift to the local community with far-reaching benefits. I love this town!

The view from my yoga mat this morning.

Hobbit House Pics

2008-07-06T12:34:00.000-07:00

For those of you who asked how the decorating of my teensy house in Duke Park is shaping up... it's not low budget--it's NO budget--but it's coming along--keeping it simple, it's only 2 rooms after all...

Spinach, Orange, Avocado Salad

2008-07-05T16:16:00.000-07:00

I made the salad pictured above for dinner tonight. I found the photo and recipe here http://eggsonsunday.wordpress.com/2008/01/27/spinach-avocado-and-orange-salad/

I added leftover steak, sliced in chunks. It was DELICIOUS!!!!

Mornin' Glory!

2008-07-02T19:30:00.001-07:00

Aren't these delicious???

Update on Field Guide: Jacqueline Bishop

2008-06-29T07:57:00.001-07:00

Above is a work-in-progress image of Jacqueline Bishop's Installation Field Guide in the Gentilly area of New Orleans. Now this is the king of "Rebuilding New Orleans" we need--revitalization with soulful contemporary art.

Hallelujah Bluebirds Assemblage

2008-06-29T07:01:00.000-07:00

Mainly posting this for Sarah Kinney who wanted to see an art piece I was work on for my friend Joanne. I wanted to make Joanne a little something to cheer her up after she got robbed (twice).

I got inspired by a photo I took of a sign on an old hardware store called bluebird hardware--bluebirds have happy connotations (see Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/steviebrock/zipadeedoodah.html). Of course I wanted to use recycled materials and I came across a stash of vintage peel-and-stick photo sheets that go in 3-ring binders. They were yellowed and not very sticky anymore but I thought they could make an interesting display for the photo and could be a sturdy base for collaging other interesting images. I then realized that with some effort (and a good craft needle) I could embroider on the pages and not only add texture and additional layers but also adhere to the clear film on the piece without using glue. I also found some old church music sheets at the Scrap Exchange (one of the coolest places in Durham http://www.scrapexchange.org/ ) and I cut out portions of the hymns that read "hallelujah" (also uplifiting eh?) and collaged them. It ended up being a sort of modernized "country sampler" assemblage.

I am posting some work in progress pictures below. Ideas? Comments? Suggestions?

Jacqueline Bishop in Garden & Gun

2008-06-28T07:56:00.000-07:00

These pics are from an article about a friend--New Orleans artist Jacqueline Bishop in the latest issue of Garden & Gun. G & G is a fairly new magazine and the name still cracks me up but it has some terrific articles. This one is an interesting read--find it here...
http://gardenandgun.com/stories/search.html?id=124&words=taking%20flight#1

Maia's Life of Leisure

2008-06-28T07:16:00.000-07:00

I know I'm kooky about my cat but she's so cute today loungin' in the flowerbed...

You Make Me Feel Like Dancin'

2008-06-27T04:40:00.000-07:00

This video will make your day--check it out!!!
http://www.vimeo.com/1211060?pg=embed&sec=1211060

Look How Cute My Niece Sarah Is!

2008-06-23T17:38:00.001-07:00

I am LOVIN the new glasses, Sess--Great look for you.

Newly Adopted Family Members

2008-06-23T17:04:00.000-07:00

No less than 3 of my friends have adopted pets in the past few weeks. Check em out! Top is Kate Flanagan's new pup, Peanut, Center is Katie Jackson's as yet unnamed kitten (possibly Caldonia) and bottom is Shanda Beste's new boy, Zeke.

More Friends Who Make Art: Jacqueline Bishop Site-Specific Installation

2008-06-23T10:24:00.000-07:00

For all my New Orleanian readers: Volunteers are needed for a site-specific installation in Gentilly with artist Jacqueline Bishop. Photos of the site are posted above and all pertinent info is below. It would be an amazing experience to work with her--she's incredibly talented --and the site is extraordinary and is calling out for the community to breathe new life into it.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ! VOLUNTEERS NEEDED !

What: “Field Guide”, an “ArtInAction” site-specific installationArtist: Jacqueline Bishop
Where: Milne Boys Home, 5420 Franklin Avenue, Gentilly
When: Installation begins Thursday June 26th - June 30th (Formal Unveiling July 26th)

“Art In Action” is proud to sponsor “Field Guide”, a site-specific installation by contemporary artist Jacqueline Bishop at the historical Milne Boys Home in Gentilly. “Field Guide” will be initiated June 26th with a formal unveiling July 26th. In her efforts to call attention to the current global environmental crisis from a decidedly New Orleans perspective, Ms. Bishop will be painting 2500 originally designed stencils of indigenous and migratory Louisiana birds on the Milne site.Volunteers are needed to assist “ArtInAction” with this installation. The primary task will be to work with Ms. Bishop in the painting of the stencils. Hours are from 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. for 5 days. One hour shifts are available – larger time commitments will be greatly appreciated. All necessary tools and refreshments will be provided.Working intimately with an established artist on such a progressive project, interacting with the landscape to stimulate its regeneration, and connecting with the Gentilly community will be rewarding experiences on many levels. Don’t miss this opportunity to participate in the creative recovery of New Orleans! Please contact me to schedule volunteering or for further information and feel free to forward the attached press release to anyone else who might be interested in this project.!

Viva Le New Orleans !
Elizabeth Underwood, Director
504-388-9844
http://www.artinaction-nola.blogspot.com/

“Art In Action” is an on-going community-based public art project consisting of site-specific art built in areas of New Orleans fighting to recover from the levee breaks of 2005. We work in the landscape in partnership with the citizens that own/surround it. The “Art In Action” process expands the artist’s role in a post-disaster environment while connecting them with the local community in a truly intimate way. “ArtInAction” is supported in part by the Joan Mitchell Foundation.

Girls Rock!

2008-06-21T20:33:00.000-07:00

If you get a chance to check it out, I highly recommend seeing Girls Rock: The Movie. It's an extraordinary documentary about a Rock n' Roll camp for girls. As one critic describes it:

"The act of picking up a guitar and making some noise becomes a life-changing experience in "Girls Rock!," an irresistible new documentary from filmmakers Arne Johnson and Shane King...every girl between the ages of 8 and 18 should be required to check it out."-Mary Houlihan, Chicago Sun-Times

Also: "Tearjerker and rockumentary are two genres that don't generally go hand in hand. But you'll need a hanky and your Joan Jett lighter when watching "Girls Rock!"...weaving interviews with campers and counselors together with insightful feminist factoids and an amazing femme-rock score, the film paints an inspiring portrait of how camp uses musicianship to help girls bond, build self-esteem and rock out."- Errin Donahue, Bust Magazine

To find screenings in your area check here http://www.girlsrockmovie.com/special/screenings

Durham has a Girls Rock! camp run by some awesome local women. Wish I could have gone to Girls Rock! camp back in the day. Check out their website http://www.girlsrocknc.org/

FREE Yoga at the Farmer's Market

2008-06-21T20:20:00.000-07:00

Went to a free yoga class on a hilltop beside the Farmer's Market in downtown Durham this morning. It was magical having a class outside in perfect weather under the trees. There was a nice breeze and a live band playing in the pavilion with a woman singing great R&B tunes. I love a city with free yoga--very civilized--and it was a perfect way to spend the first morning of summer.

http://www.cs.duke.edu/YogaInThePark/

More Friends Who Make Art: Artist Rachel Wright's Recent Eco-Art

2008-06-20T14:54:00.000-07:00

My talented artist friend Rachel Wright is submitting work for a design challenge titled Worn Again NOLA II sponsored by Recycle for the Arts and the Green Project in New Orleans. Artists are send a bag of castoff fabrics and asked to create something in 2 weeks. The dress she created is pictured below. Awesome, eh?

BTW Rachel also has an Etsy store selling really cool one of a kind t-shirts.

Check it out here http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5055751

Piedmont Restaurant in Durham

2008-06-19T18:17:00.000-07:00

About 2 weeks ago I was invited out for a meal with some wonderful friends in celebration of the success of the Beaver Queen Pageant at a restaurant in downtown Durham called Piedmont.

The menu that night was as follows:

cheese
mimolette with pistachios, cow’s milk, france
robiola with honeycomb, sheep & cow’s milk, italy
new moon with blueberry compote, cow’s milk, nc
one for 4; two for 7; three for 10

charcuterie • 8
housemade country paté with dijon, pickled vegetables & grilled bread
pork rillettes with pickled green beans, grainy dijon & grilled bread

first
chicken fennel soup with herb pesto • 6
summer vegetable & farro minestrone • 6
glazed pork belly with chick pea salad & pickled shallots • 10
nc clams steamed with housemade ham, roasted garlic & white wine • 10
bruschetta with beets, chickpeas, goat cheese & nasturtiums • 9
crispy leg of duck confit with warm potato salad • 11

second
pappardelle with bolognese ragù & parmesan • 18
ricotta & parmesan ravioli with radicchio & lemon butter sauce • 17
local squash & tomato ragôut with crispy polenta & goat cheese • 18
pan roasted duck breast with melted baby leeks, roasted beets & jus • 19
lamb sausage with kalamata olive risotto, braised rapini & jus • 20
pan seared wahoo with warm lentil salad & citrus vinaigrette • 22

etceteras • 5
pommes frîtes with aïoli
marinated picholine olives
oxtail & tomato arancini

Sounds delicious, eh? We began with a cheese plate and a lovely dry prosecco. The cheeses were diverse in texture, taste and appearance--extremely attractive in presentation with a good balance of flavors--the addition of honeycomb to the robiola was really special and everyone enjoyed the fresh-baked breads served with it.

We skipped a first course and all 5 of us ordered main courses which we paired with a great blended white wine I have forgotten the name of, but which was impressive--light but very flavorful. Several at the table opted for the duck, which did not particularly impress me, but everyone else seemed content with it and essentially cleaned their plates. One friend ordered the wahoo with warm lentil salad and said she enjoyed it. I ordered lamb sausage and kalamata olive risotto which was a great combination, very rich and hearty, and the rapini greens paired with it were so delicious--actually my favorite taste of the meal.

We all shared a few desserts. The caramel dessert we ordered had a burnt crust and we actually sent it back but the second dessert with cream and strawberries was delicious.

Overall, the evening was wonderful, the company was excellent and the meal was very good. The service was also good--attentive but not overbearing. The atmosphere is great--spacious and urban sexy. There was a sizeable crowd for a Monday night. And I most appreciate Piedmont's focus on locally grown ingredients. That will definitely make me return again.

Gretchen Walker's Gorgeous Jewelry

2008-06-17T09:48:00.000-07:00

My very cool cousin Gretchen designs beautiful jewelry.

Check out her website here http://www.gretchenwalker.com/

She's so talented and she can also restore pieces that are damaged.

I really like these...

I think the earrings are my favorite.

Maia Says Time for a Break from the Blogging

2008-06-15T05:58:00.001-07:00

Obama Signs

2008-06-14T06:32:00.001-07:00

I counted at least 10 of these on a brief walk around Duke Park this morning--pretty high number for a 20 minute jaunt (by an oft-distracted walker). Makes me happy.

James Brown, Michael Jackson & Prince Live 1987

2008-06-13T11:37:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37psKso6ybw

My friend Katie Jackson sent this live video which will blow your mind if you're a music lover. I can't believe it ever happened. Shout out to Katie J for makin' my day.

Random Photos

2008-06-12T19:01:00.000-07:00

Some things I noticed walking around Duke Park yesterday.

Hippies vs Metalheads at Bonnaroo

2008-06-12T17:56:00.000-07:00

My beautiful friend Sadie Compton made the cover (above) of Nashville's independent weekly, The Nashville Scene. See the full article about metalheads and hippies at this year's Bonnaroo festival here... http://www.nashvillescene.com/Stories/Cover_Story/2008/06/12/Armageddaroo/

Gardenias

2008-06-09T19:36:00.001-07:00

Gardenias on my kitchen window sill before this friggin heat wave hit and I could no longer open the windows.

Beaver Queen Pageant More Pics

2008-06-09T09:04:00.000-07:00

The 4th Annual Beaver Queen Pageant of Duke Park was a huge success--raising over $2500 for the Ellerbee Creek Watershed Association. It was incredibly hot but at least 200 people turned out for some bawdy, clever and highly entertaining fun. There is TRULY nothing like a Beaver Drag Pageant...

The crowd

Impromptu dancing

The Parade

Nacho Rafa

The Beaver Coloring Book

Beaver Queen Pageant Pics

2008-06-09T08:53:00.000-07:00

The Judges

Contestant--Wetland Readywear

Contestant-Talent

Contestant-Evening Wear

Beaver Queen Pageant 2008

2008-06-08T10:39:00.000-07:00

It's the day after the Beaver Queen Pageant and I have yet to download the many HUNDREDS of photos I took. Will post a group of them soon but this one was sent to me by my friend Pilar, pictured with me above. She's a smarty scientist from Spain.

Barkley Hendricks at the Nasher Museum

2008-06-06T22:14:00.000-07:00

Saw an impressive exhibition at the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke today. Titled Barkley Hendricks: Birth of the Cool.

Link to the website here: http://nasher.duke.edu/exhibitions_hendricks.php

The Rosewood Thieves

2008-06-05T10:29:00.000-07:00

Excellent new band from New York
http://www.myspace.com/therosewoodthieves

Orlando

2008-06-05T10:19:00.000-07:00

My parents adopted a new kitten. He's pretty cute!

Friends Who Make Art

2008-06-05T09:56:00.000-07:00

These works are by Maysey Craddock. She's incredibly talented. They are sewn with silk thread and painted with gouache on paper bags. You can find her work at this gallery in Memphis (as well as in many significant collections). http://www.davidluskgallery.com/index.html

Here's an interesting profile on her eco-art http://www.sprig.com/experts/121/

4th Annual Beaver Queen Pageant of Duke Park

2008-06-04T16:44:00.000-07:00

I'm getting so excited about this annual neighborhood event. I've been helping craft costume accoutrements for the contestants. It's this Saturday evening in Duke Park Meadow. The theme this year is the musical Hair. All proceeds go to Ellerbee Creek Watershed Association.

Check out the website here: http://www.beaverlodgelocal1504.org/

and the Official Blog here: http://dependableerection.blogspot.com/search/label/Beaver%20queen%20pageant

Will be chock-full of hilarity and irreverence--my favorite combination.

Video from the 2007 pageant http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=BeaverLodge