tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85305176200207906562024-03-10T03:21:20.209-05:00Free-Spirited Ruminations“Random commentaries on writing, current events, health, exercise, vegetarianism, fashion, and reading recommendations...as well as other thoughts and ideas that come up.”Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.comBlogger286125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-60541414092267531832017-05-17T23:53:00.000-05:002017-05-17T23:53:31.741-05:00A Colorful Life - Lived in the Dark<span style="font-size: large;">This article came out in <a href="http://www.srperspective.com/2017/05/a-colorful-life-lived-in-the-dark/">Sr. Perspective</a> at the beginning of May. I was so pleased to interview this wonderful lady. What an inspiration!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span"></span><span style="font-size: large;">Genuine, caring and
courageous, with a great sense of humor mixed in. That would be a good
way to describe Carol Alperin, 69, of Maple Grove. Alperin’s life has
been full of challenges that make her both interesting and
inspirational. Navigating through life is difficult for most people.
Alperin has been navigating through most of her 69 years without sight.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>Alperin doesn’t let
herself be limited by her disability. Her spirit and her laugh are
contagious – she is genuinely happy and content, loves her family, and
enjoys her friends and neighbors. She has some tools she uses, like a
Braille machine and an Amazon Echo, but she mostly relies on her other
senses and strong sense of herself.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>Alperin’s brother,
Roger, was born blind, but Carol could see until she was 12 years old.
Surgery wasn’t an option in 1959 – the medical procedures were costly
and not as advanced as they are now. But, both Alperin and her brother
had gifts to share, and they didn’t let the lack of sight stop them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>“Roger had the gift of music,” said Alperin. “He could sing! You want me to sing <i>Long Ago and Far Away.</i> I’m not a singer.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>Alperin has many
accomplishments of her own. She went to school, taught sixth-grade for a
while, played the piano, and was involved in swimming and gymnastics.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>“I was an active
enough child to maintain a distance judgment. I biked on country roads
so my balance was always good, and I loved swimming and gymnastics –
especially the trampoline.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>Alperin even passed
the junior lifesaving test in swimming after she lost her sight, but the
teacher wouldn’t give her the certificate. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“She had a question about my
blindness,” said Alperin. “But, I know I passed.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>Even though she lost
her sight at 12, Alperin didn’t have “cane use” until she was 16. It was
then, at 16 or 17, that she had one of her fondest volunteer memories:
Working with babies. “That was such a delight,” said Alperin.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>One of the things
Alperin learned from her mother prior to losing her sight, which she
still really enjoys and excels at, is knitting. She knits beautiful
sweaters, ponchos, capes, hats and purses. She even makes the buttons
herself. The details in her knitting projects are beautiful – roses,
fringe, hand-knit and clay buttons, and bags that are fully lined with
fun embellishments.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>“My mom started
teaching me knitting before I went totally blind, the summer before I
lost my vision. I like to find a pattern and modify it a bit. I started
making baby sweaters as gifts and a lot of women had their baby’s first
pictures done in them.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Currently she is
working on dishclothes and washcloths for babies and for an organization
she loves working with, Vision Loss Resources. Alperin loves to share
her talent in helping and teaching others. It’s there that she makes the
“sculpey clay buttons…you just roll and mold it, poke holes in it, and
then bake it,” she says.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“We do lots of
projects at Vision Loss Resources,” she said. “It’s a wonderful place.
They even have adaptive quilting and make soaps with scents mixed in.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Alperin enjoys
interacting with others and has shown many people how to knit, crochet,
and work with different crafts. She’s inspired by motivating others in
being creative, especially other people who are blind. She wants them to
know there are not as many limitations as they think there are. She
also loves animals, reading, sewing, writing, plants, and enjoys music.
But, she has a genuine helping spirit. She really feels truly rewarded
in challenging others to be creative and make their lives better.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>Alperin was just about to enter seventh-grade when her sight issues started. She described it as a “slow shutter.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>“It was the beginning
of the school year,” says Alperin. “I could still see light and vibrant
colors, and the sun shining off of bright colors. <span class="Apple-tab-span"></span><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>The
loss of vision would come on suddenly and could happen at any time. For
a time, my eyes would open back up. It would take a couple days and
still be blurry or seem cloudy.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just being in school,
or anywhere, was hard. You have to go up and down stairs, or walk on ice
in the winter, or deal with uneven pavement. The types of things most
people just take for granted they’ll see ahead of time. When your sight
is suddenly changed, it makes everything more difficult. Since it came
without warning, it was also scary, and hard for the other kids to
understand.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“In school, I was the
one who was different. The kids were not unkind, just thoughtless. Once
they found out, they were right there for me.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Eventually, her sight
left her completely, but she never let that stop her. She always kept a
light in her spirit, and she never let it make her feel like she wasn’t
good enough. When asked how she knew her sight wasn’t going to return
that last time, she said she could just tell.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“It was like frosted
glass. The depth was whiter. There was a difference in the depth of the
fog,” said Alperin. “I was sewing, of all things, when it happened. I
just knew the vision wasn’t going to come back that time. I sensed it.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Alperin wasn’t able to
graduate from Brooten High School because of her disability, but she
still attends high school reunions with the class of 1965. Even though
she had to move, and still ended up getting a teaching degree, Brooten
High School will always be a part of her. She has lifelong friends from
high school that have never forgotten her.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“I’m grateful for not
being isolated in a school for the blind,” said Alperin. “But they did
learn better coping skills. I wasn’t around any other blind kids, except
for my brother. And blind women have more insecurities, especially in
big schools.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Alperin may have her
own issues, but she happily helps her husband of 46 years, Stan, as his
caregiver. She likes to joke that they met on a “blind date” all those
years ago, and they support each other and have a friendship that only
comes with many years of being together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">They
also raised three children together, two daughters and a son, and have
five grandchildren. She became a stay-at-home mom after she had
children. She’s very devoted to her family. She also has her cat,
Cinnamon, who she adores.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-tab-span"><img alt="" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-20984" height="200" src="http://www.srperspective.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Carol-Alperin-002-240x300.jpg" width="160" /> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-tab-span">Cinnamon </span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It’s true that your other senses are stronger when you
lose your sight, but it’s still very difficult in a world that operates
for people who can see.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>“I do use sound a lot,” said Alperin. “The television, music, an open window, can help me navigate better.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>Moving from their
house in Brooklyn Park to an assisted living building in Maple Grove in
the last few months has had Alperin learning new surroundings.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>“We had to make a
choice for Stan. He has intense OCD, and other physical problems. Maple
Grove is nice, and has more of a town feeling, but transportation is
harder because we’re farther out. But, we get some housekeeping, and
help with laundry and medications. I like that it’s very woodsy and
lodge-like, but navigating in a new apartment with an angled kitchen has
been hard. But, the love and community feeling here…the people are
amazing. We help each other.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>She’s glad to help
Stan, but when she gets overtired, it’s harder. To try and rejuvenate
when she needs it, she does take time off occasionally.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“I do go to a support group, and I try to take a long
weekend every three months or so at a Christian retreat. It’s all blind
people there or partially sighted people.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>Alperin has never let her loss of sight define her. She’s happy and is both confident and humble.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>“I don’t have to
impress people,” Alperin said. “I don’t need to make a big deal out in
public. It isn’t that we go out to set an example. We choose other
adaptations to be the person we are. To stay the person we are. The way I
start every day is to think of three positive things. It gets my day
going.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Everyone has their
obstacles and challenges in life, but Alperin has faced each challenge
and kept a positive attitude throughout.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“You have to go
through the fire sometimes to get to the glory,” said Alperin. “You’re a
person first. When people lose their vision, they lose touch with
themselves. They get so upset with their vision loss. They don’t realize
what they can do.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>While most of us can
see things unfolding before our eyes, Alperin has had to do it in the
dark. The funny thing though is that in some ways, she actually sees
things more clearly than those of us who can physically see.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span>“The one thing I want
people to see is that life doesn’t stop when you have a disability,”
said Alperin. “Everyone has strengths. There are so many people who are
so awesome.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-20987" height="300" src="http://www.srperspective.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Carol-Alperin-007-172x300.jpg" width="172" /> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Carol with some of her projects. </span></div>
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Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-32673429975402434402017-02-21T18:55:00.001-06:002017-02-21T19:01:16.860-06:00Piccadilly Prairie Hosts Paris Flea Market in New Location<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Paris Flea Market at <a href="http://piccadillyprairie.com/">Piccadilly Prairie</a> is a
fantastic event. It really does bring the lights of Paris to gloomy, winter Minneapolis skies. This article came out in the <a href="http://www.southwestjournal.com/focus/2017/01/piccadilly-prairie-hosts-paris-flea-market-in-new-location/">Southwest Journal</a> at the end of January,
just in time for the flea market. I'm honored to be able to write and photograph about such a great place. It's so unique and so much fun.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl2EGCx5G6tm1XPqKYo1cfTHnKNcV2WH6eFA4caowIOxjvOC06T9UJLsPaaYyRq5hV8KJuB5Ka_N2UT5FGFgKQ9GaYI6TMFNINHDka1A53aogi1g6hwVzNvlcjBAvb4ONw_KXVaclSTps/s1600/Piccadilly+Prairie+1-29-16+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl2EGCx5G6tm1XPqKYo1cfTHnKNcV2WH6eFA4caowIOxjvOC06T9UJLsPaaYyRq5hV8KJuB5Ka_N2UT5FGFgKQ9GaYI6TMFNINHDka1A53aogi1g6hwVzNvlcjBAvb4ONw_KXVaclSTps/s400/Piccadilly+Prairie+1-29-16+001.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo by CY Hunter</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once a year at the end of January, </span><span style="font-size: large;">Piccadilly Prairie brings the lights of Paris to the gray, winter skies of Minneapolis.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">The store’s Paris Flea Market, in its fourth year in 2016, had over 1,000 people buy tickets online for opening night.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">“Something really clicked, and it exploded,” said Lacey Brooker, the store’s owner.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">Now the Paris Flea Market is an anticipated annual event that takes
place the last weekend in January. The next Paris Flea Market is Jan. 27–29.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">This year’s Paris Flea Market will be an even bigger event thanks to
the store’s new location, which opened in November. The store relocated
from the Fulton neighborhood to Southdale Center, just a couple miles
away.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">“We have the same rustic, boho vibe as we did in our previous
location but with more space and better parking,” said Brooker. “And
when you’re done shopping there’s always dinner and a movie.”</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">Piccadilly Prairie’s new space has little vignettes, with sections
dedicated to kids, Minnesota and local artists, as well as other fun
areas to discover.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">“We have more artisan gifts, like apple jams and honey sticks,”
Brooker said. “And we added more local artists that craft everything
from pillows to candles.”</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">The vibe is cool, creative and modern mixed with history. Piccadilly
Prairie’s commitment to authenticity is mixed in throughout the store in
refurbished pieces that keep the original hardware, always maintaining
the unique nature of each piece.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">The same workmanship and history are also in the new store’s design.
From the 100-year-old Minnehaha Avenue bricks in the front windows to
hand-laid, repurposed wood designs on the walls throughout the store,
Piccadilly Prairie has a warm and cozy atmosphere that’s truly unique.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The store is a fun place to shop all year round, but the Paris Flea
Market is a special event. It mimics a European flea market with many
pieces brought in from Europe.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">“For the Paris Flea we source as much as we can from France,” Brooker
said. “We have pickers that live abroad and some that travel back and
forth. The rest of our selection during the Paris Flea is
French-inspired.”</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">Brooker’s eye for unique, authentic pieces is evident everywhere in
the store. Beautiful linens, clothing, furniture, hand-poured candles
and jewelry hang everywhere, mixed in with other great treasures. It
makes the store’s Parisian atmosphere shine like Paris itself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">On opening night last January, people were lined up outside in the
cold, waiting for the doors to open. They walked in to great finds, fun
conversation and wine to enjoy while shopping (it is French, after all).</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">The always-warm atmosphere of Piccadilly Prairie is particularly
radiant with the Paris Flea Market. The little store that started near
the corner of 50th & Xerxes transforms itself into a magical Paris
shop each January. They even greet everyone with a friendly “Bonjour”
upon arrival.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">Piccadilly Prairie stylishly displays pieces as you would actually
use them in your own home. Linens and beautiful dishware are displayed
on a gorgeous shabby-chic table in the corner, drawings and photos are
hanging high up on the walls and tapestries, clothing and chairs are set
up in a way to help you visualize them in your own space.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">“Along with the French country pieces, which are mainly shabby-chic
whites, we added Victorian pieces last year. And many of the French
pieces are handmade,” Brooker said.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">Brooker is also never lacking a fun sense of humor. A French
porcelain pig holds a small chalkboard with “Oui, oui, oui” written on
it, making you think of the classic fairy tale with a French flair. It’s
the stories and the subtle, whimsical touches that make the Paris Flea
Market a truly extraordinary event.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><img alt="A display at Piccadilly Prairie's Paris Flea Market event. Photo by Caryl Yvonne Hunter" class="attachment-large-thumb wp-post-image" src="http://www.southwestjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Piccadilly-Prairie-1-29-16-039-web.jpg" height="320" width="220" /></div>
<div class="image-caption" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">A display at Piccadilly Prairie's Paris Flea Market. Photo by CY Hunter</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">January is always pretty cold in Minnesota, and it can make winter a
little too gloomy for a little too long. But the warmth and beauty of
the Paris Flea Market definitely brings a bright spot amid the dreary
winter.</span></blockquote>
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">Minneapolis may be a long way from Paris, but thanks to Piccadilly Prairie, it seems like it’s right around the corner.</span></blockquote>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-27094988357666810272017-01-09T01:09:00.001-06:002017-01-09T01:18:53.141-06:00Sharing Art in Unique Ways<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">This was published in <a href="http://www.srperspective.com/2017/01/sharing-art-in-unique-ways/">Sr. Perspectives</a> on January 1st. I love this artist. She has a wonderful shop on 46th and Grand in South Minneapolis that is full of unique pieces from local artists, as well as her own artwork which is really fun and colorful. She also has a lot of pieces she has done for <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prince_(musician)">Prince</a> that are really a great tribute to him and his music.<i> </i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Minneapolis artist spreads joy through her murals.</i></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">There
are a few murals around Minneapolis, but Tammy Ortegon’s paintings have
a personality to them that makes them quite inviting and unique. When
you first meet the artist, you just know she was one of those passionate
kids who could always paint. Her creative spirit shines through in
everything she does. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Besides owning a shop in South Minneapolis, Ortegon is known for the
murals she has painted around the Twin Cities. “I love public art. It’s
accessible to everyone,” she said. “I love driving by and seeing art –
it isn’t expected.”</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">One of the things Ortegon is most proud of is that the murals were
actually group projects completed with the kids in the community. The
first mural she was commissioned to do is on the corner of Cedar Avenue
and 34th Street in Minneapolis, on the side of the Corcoran Neighborhood
Center. Ortegon taught six weeks of classes to the kids prior to
working on the mural with them. The collaboration with the kids made it
special – and the mural reflects what’s important to the kids in their
community. Favorite things from their area, along with the kids
themselves, are incorporated into the mural, giving it a personalized
connection to the families who live there. The mural in the Corcoran
neighborhood has a particularly sweet meaning for Ortegon. “In that
neighborhood, the kids have more obstacles, and they have to be stronger
to resist temptations,” said Ortegon. “We talked about those struggles
and being true to yourself. The kids would always hang out in the park.
It’s a resource for them.”</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When Ortegon painted the
mural on Peter Pan Cleaners on the corner of Grand Avenue and 38th
Street, she noticed a contrast in the two neighborhoods. “The kids had
more comforts and support in the Grand area,” Ortegon said. The
enthusiasm was the same, however, and the final product was just as
beautiful. It’s obvious it isn’t about the money for the artist – there
is little money in doing these works of art, and it’s very
time-consuming. On top of working a full-time job, and taking care of
her own family, it truly is about working with the kids for Ortegon, and
leaving a lasting impression in the neighborhood.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="One of the unique murals from artist, Tammy Ortegon. Photo by Caryl Hunter" class="size-full wp-image-20454" src="http://www.srperspective.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Mural-Peter-Pan-Cleaners-2.jpg" height="234" width="432" /> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Mural on Peter Pan Cleaners</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">Working
on murals includes a lot of painting high up on ladders, and being able
to paint to a scale most of us wouldn’t have any idea how to do. In the
end, beautiful art covers a once plain wall with a rich and bright
heritage. “I always want to do art that affects the local community. We
are all connected. When you live as an artist – and I live art –
everything we do makes a difference. My art should uplift everyone,”
said Ortegon.</span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Ortegon’s murals not only
beautify buildings and leave art for people to see publicly, they tell a
tale of the neighborhood where they were created: the kids and their
smiles, their input, and the places and activities they enjoy. In this,
Ortegon’s murals are truly special. It not only engages the youth of the
area, it adds color and art to the neighborhood.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>In
the Twin Cities, a lot of people know Ortegon’s artwork by her colorful
paints and signature faces. Different cultures and places, as well as
the influence of her own city, inspires her art, and makes it rich and
interesting. As with many artists, it took a long time for Ortegon to be
confident in her work. Artists usually don’t earn the title of “artist”
until they are successful on society’s terms.“Until you make money,
you’re not an artist,” she said. “It took me years to know I was an
artist and like my art.”</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>She
attributes a lot of what she does to her mother and her grandmother.
“They didn’t have the privilege to be an artist. My grandma would put
her drawings in a box under her bed,” said Ortegon. “I have privilege
now because of the women who went before me. Women just did things to
help their family then – or their art was considered to be ‘crafts.’”</span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">“The
most important part of the murals was working with the community,” said
Ortegon. “It stays there when I’m gone.” And in that, it’s indeed very
public art, whether you’re driving by or you live in the area. The
murals are left to be enjoyed by each generation in remembrance of the
artist…and the kids who inspired her. When all’s said and done, the
buildings are beautifully covered with a story that can be read for
years. </span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="Tammy Ortegon is an artist from Minneapolis who is known for the murals she has painted throughout the Twin Cities area. Photo by Caryl Hunter" class="size-medium wp-image-20453" src="http://www.srperspective.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Colorwheel-Tammy2-Aug2016-198x300.jpg" height="300" width="198" /> </span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Tammy Ortegon</span></div>
</div>
Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-1838180730192153162016-08-04T18:04:00.001-05:002016-08-07T19:19:45.702-05:00The Little Guy of Lake Harriet<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This story was published in <a href="http://www.srperspective.com/2016/08/legend-of-little-guy-growing/">Sr. Perspective</a> at the beginning of the month. The little girl was so adorable - and what this guy has done for years is so amazing and fun. I'm honored it was published! </span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Bw1AdLjz0968RPcO4xBudlJezF434k7f-s8ix__0oTy_y3RK8_QCKHy7QjfOlg_07g9D80hb-7wEsjepbFLDWLpOSDDy9yYuvN8yZkbjdXbKFwvtc5WNmCehBLKeMrCE2XcqAFmbyAU/s1600/Little+Guy+of+Lake+Harriet-Watermarked.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Bw1AdLjz0968RPcO4xBudlJezF434k7f-s8ix__0oTy_y3RK8_QCKHy7QjfOlg_07g9D80hb-7wEsjepbFLDWLpOSDDy9yYuvN8yZkbjdXbKFwvtc5WNmCehBLKeMrCE2XcqAFmbyAU/s320/Little+Guy+of+Lake+Harriet-Watermarked.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">S</span>tories often begin in the most unexpected
places. In a small opening at the bottom of an oak tree growing on the edge of
Lake Harriet, a tale was born. I had never noticed the tiny door with the brass
door knocker and hinges – and certainly didn’t know anything about the fantasy
elf who wrote letters to children on little pieces of shiny silver paper. As
the years went by, a few letters grew into over a thousand a year, each
personally answered and each ending with “I believe in you.”</span></span></div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When I first actually saw the tiny door, I
was taken aback. Only about six inches tall, it opened to reveal a tall stack
of letters. Around the bottom of the tree were carefully planted pink and white
impatiens, a tiny sign that said “Gone Fishing,” and a small plastic doll in a
toy lawn chair. As I stood and marveled at the little entrance, noticing the
intricate care and detail put into it, I watched as children scurried up to the
door to see if a note they had left had been answered yet.</span></span></div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A jogger who stopped by told me the history
of the little guy. She said he had “moved in” several years ago and had become
a child’s ultimate imaginary friend. She told me how a real man who lived
nearby had been collecting and answering the letters since the mid 1990’s when
the little door appeared. His wife had originally noticed the opening in the
tree and suggested they put a door in it. What began as a fun idea for their
family grew into a treat for all the families who walked the lake. With Lake
Harriet’s paved walking and biking paths, canoes and sailboats, and concerts at
the band shell, it is no surprise that this lake was picked to place a little
elf and watch a story develop.</span></span></div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Addie, a nine-year-old from northern Minnesota, gave me my first opportunity to
personally deliver a letter to the little guy. Children are so in touch with
that magical realm that adults dismiss for reality, and she was quite taken
with the little guy. In the note, she described herself and drew a colorful
picture of the lake and the little guy’s house, as she saw it. Her letter -
written in different colors of gel pens - contained several questions and
suggestions for him:</span></span></div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“How do people find out about you at first? Do kids try
to give you things in the winter? What did you make your door out of? Do you
put a lock on your door in the winter? Do you know everything - like the Easter
Bunny and Santa Claus? Do you have a family? Do you have a little town? If you
do, what do you call it? Where do you go for the winter? Who planted the
flowers around your house - you or someone else? You should have a little
bonfire ring that is not lit up next time you decorate your house. Who
decorates your
house - you or someone else?” I grinned as I read the letter and carefully
placed it in the growing stack inside the door.</span></span></div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A couple of weeks later a letter was written
back to Addie on his famous silver paper carefully placed in a sealed plastic
bag in case it rained before it was received:</span></span></div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Dear Addie, who wrote the huge long letter in different
colored inks: How nice of you to write. Sorry I missed you. Boy do you ask a
lot of questions. Are you a detective? You should be when you grow up. The door
is made of pine and copper. People found out about me when they saw the door. Kids
give me all kinds of things. In the winter we move to our castle to the east. It
has marble walls inside and a copper door. My name is Thom and I live with my
wife, Martha, a great elf, and our daughter Alta Lucia, age seven. She is a princess
elf. I am taller than my younger brother and shorter than my older brother. Enjoy
the summer. I believe in you.” - Mr.
Little Guy</span></span></div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">On a long walk around the lake a couple of
weeks later, I saw a man ride his mountain bike up to the tree, collect the
letters, and ride away. He had windblown gray hair and wore long khaki shorts
and a white t-shirt, and was - surprisingly - just a normal-sized man. I
thought of how he must visit on a regular basis, collecting the letters and
touching the hearts of all those children. How he probably worked a regular job
and had a regular life, yet he took the time to read and answer each letter
sent to him. He was keeping a fantasy alive that everyone delighted in.</span></span></div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It always makes me smile when I walk by the
little door in the tree now, and I always stop to take a peek behind it. Often
times there are children and adults crowded around it. Usually I have my camera
or journal in tow. As I cross the little footbridge and approach
the next set of stairs near Queen Avenue, I know the tree I had walked by
unknowingly for so long is right there. And there is always a new treasure a
child has left there, a new set of flowers, and a fresh stack of letters
carefully placed behind the hinged door. In the
winter, the only difference is a small sign posted on the tree telling everyone
that the little guy has moved into his winter castle for the season. Notes can
still be sent to a post office box.</span></span></div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Today was a beautiful June day in Minneapolis. As I finished
my regular weekend errand running for the day, I treated myself to a leisurely
walk around the lake. When I walked by the tree today there was a small plastic
bag of popcorn propped up against the little door. On top of the bag sat a
small scribbled note written in blue crayon that simply said, “I love you,
Little Guy of Lake Harriet.” I smiled as I turned to leave, and thought how
that child really spoke for everyone.</span></span></div>
</blockquote>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyKczkolFw6yb3QlEOdTBQdPpg083gFMs-gI4NrrkDlyB6F0RdaTWN2hlH-pc9kouN6vpDg3F-H-9LlG-b-wECXkQPO0GH7UNGcox9QQDcnL4QhjK4WaT5g_UCNTrEBmwwXNlieGtnulQ/s1600/Little+Girl+at+Tree-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyKczkolFw6yb3QlEOdTBQdPpg083gFMs-gI4NrrkDlyB6F0RdaTWN2hlH-pc9kouN6vpDg3F-H-9LlG-b-wECXkQPO0GH7UNGcox9QQDcnL4QhjK4WaT5g_UCNTrEBmwwXNlieGtnulQ/s320/Little+Girl+at+Tree-2.jpg" width="262" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> A young girl looks in the door of the tree.</span></div>
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<![endif]-->Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-47002822970731891332016-07-13T12:05:00.002-05:002016-07-13T12:28:45.487-05:00On Getting Older...And Not Accumulating Too Many Things<span style="font-size: large;">In a great piece in <a href="http://be-bolder.com/post/147297700911/j%C3%B6rmundur-ingi-hansen-76-j%C3%B6rmundur-runs-a-popular">be-bolder</a>,
Jörmundur Ingi Hansen has a great way of looking at growing older and
living simply.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I've
always been someone who likes living in smaller spaces in the city,
collects less things, and lives pretty simply. My family has always
thought I was poor, when I think the opposite is true. I'm by no means
rich either, but that isn't what it's about. I always say "what's the
point of money if you don't share it?" I like to help people out and
travel when I can. There are some things you need, of course, like
clothes...and books, but I have a tendency to give things away as fast
as I buy them because it just reminds me
of someone else or "it had their name on it." (I apparently say that a
lot, according to friends.)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">In the article, I especially love Hansen's comment on what is truly important: </span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">"The most important lesson I’ve learned is that you have to be content
with what you have. We are too prone in modern society to collect goods
and money – although I shouldn’t be advising this given that I am trying
to sell people expensive suits every day! But people who think they can
fulfill their lives by having more ‘stuff’ are missing the point. The
best things you can collect are experiences and good memories." </span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">As
far as growing older...well that's a whole other story. In my last
corporate job, I was looked down on because I was a little older than
the Millenials (and not even THAT much older), even though my technical
skills are very current. I have nothing against Millenials - I have
some friends in that age group. It's the focus being only on them,
especially in a marketing field that was supposed to reach all
ages. When I was really young, I always looked up to people that were older. And when I worked in social services, I loved my elderly clients - they
were interesting and I could learn so much from them. Their stories and experiences were amazing. The Native
American culture, and people in other countries, respect and appreciate
older people. I've always thought all ages are good - just like I have
always thought all races and backgrounds are good. Isn't a mix of people
more diverse and more interesting? Why not learn from each other?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In America, the focus is always too much on youth. We are all going to - hopefully - get older. Why not embrace it? Hansen lives in Iceland, so they do have a more open view on age there: </span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">"I don’t think anyone treats me differently because of my age but maybe I
just don’t notice it! Possibly young people think older people are
obsolete but it’s not so bad here in Iceland, lots of people keep on
working. My grandmother was still working until she was well over 90.
She was a herbalist and would run up to the mountains to get
ingredients. Even when I was 16 I had difficulty keeping up with her." </span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">I
myself plan to keep on working well into my nineties too, if I'm fortunate. After all,
you should only get better with age, and writing is definitely a field
that is more interesting as you have lived more. And I predict I will
keep living my life with less and less things...and keep giving them away. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS687U6qUnydB_ygYnPNEWQQIm6mZHR3Bwplo_i5XhmkgToNpLR3_zVIEZ0TPjUG-31eeoQhuOvEE-yiN3JNAL9jmn4KacpvbIOOZ-aF9SVp-ZZdiUUzVgJ-PWmGcy5VVcUa5-2OjV5pc/s1600/ThoreauQuote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS687U6qUnydB_ygYnPNEWQQIm6mZHR3Bwplo_i5XhmkgToNpLR3_zVIEZ0TPjUG-31eeoQhuOvEE-yiN3JNAL9jmn4KacpvbIOOZ-aF9SVp-ZZdiUUzVgJ-PWmGcy5VVcUa5-2OjV5pc/s320/ThoreauQuote.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span>Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-52601961930298049392016-06-15T02:24:00.002-05:002016-07-13T12:06:27.811-05:00Don't Fear Diversity - Embrace It!<span style="font-size: large;"> In her last commencement speech at City College on June 3, 2016 - and her last as First Lady - <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michelle_Obama">Michelle Obama</a> talked about the power of diversity. Without mentioning him by name, she did allude to a certain person running for president who is not open to diversity - but her message was more powerful and meaningful than that.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I
happen to be a white woman, but I grew up all over the country - from
the South to the Northeast to the Midwest. I've had a few different
accents and often been the only white person in the room. My significant other,
my friends - since the time I was very small to now - come from all
walks of life. It wasn't just the moving around, it was also my parents,
thankfully, who taught me to have an open mind. I've also always had an interest in traveling, in learning about different cultures, in learning other languages. Why would I want everyone else to be or look like me? How boring!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A candidate in the current election
continually makes racist comments and has a mind that is so narrow and
so egotistical, I doubt anything could permeate it. But, it's my hope that the people who follow him will learn to see that it's so wrong and so limiting. Because, unless you are Native American (who we also don't have enough respect for), we all come from families that originally came from somewhere else. My grandfather was from England. That isn't that far back.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In an article in <a href="http://www.elle.com/culture/career-politics/news/a36849/michelle-obama-ccny-commencement-speech/?mag=elm&list=nl_elm_news&src=nl&date=060716">Elle</a>, and from her speech, Michelle Obama said that
"Every single day I wake up in a house that was built by slaves, and I
watch my daughters - two beautiful, black young women - head off to
school." How powerful is that? That we have come full circle from a
horrible time in our history - one we should be so ashamed of - yet as
far as we have come, we still have way too far to go. There is still so much hatred, racism, and uncalled for fear. It is just something I have never understood, and never want to.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The First Lady went on to say:</span><br />
<blockquote>
<blockquote class="body-el-blockquote standard-body-el-blockquote tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"But
unfortunately, graduates, despite the lessons of our history and the
truth of your experience here at City College, some folks out there
today seem to have a very different perspective. They seem to view our
diversity as a threat to be contained rather than as a resource to be
tapped. They tell us to be afraid of those who are different, to be
suspicious of those with whom we disagree. They act as if name-calling
is an acceptable substitute for thoughtful debate, as if anger and
intolerance should be our default state rather than the optimism and
openness that have always been the engine of our progress.</span></span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="body-el-blockquote standard-body-el-blockquote">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But,
graduates, I can tell you, as First Lady, I have had the privilege of
traveling around the world and visiting dozens of different countries,
and I have seen what happens when ideas like these take hold. I have
seen how leaders who rule by intimidation – leaders who demonize and
dehumanize entire groups of people–often do so because they have nothing
else to offer. And I have seen how places that stifle the voices and
dismiss the potential of their citizens are diminished; how they are
less vital, less hopeful, less free.</span></span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="body-el-blockquote standard-body-el-blockquote">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Graduates,
that is not who we are. That is not what this country stands for. No,
here in America, we don't let our differences tear us apart. Not
here. Because we know that our greatness comes when we appreciate each
other's strengths, when we learn from each other, when we lean on each
other. Because in this country, it's never been each person for
themselves. No, we're all in this together. We always have been.</span></span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="body-el-blockquote standard-body-el-blockquote">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And
here in America, we don't give in to our fears. We don't build up
walls to keep people out because we know that our greatness has always
depended on contributions from people who were born elsewhere but sought
out this country and made it their home — from innovations like Google
and eBay to inventions like the artificial heart, the telephone, even
blue jeans; to beloved patriotic songs like 'God Bless America,'
like national landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and, yes, the White
House–both of which were designed by architects who were immigrants." </span></span></blockquote>
</blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Isn't
it time we moved beyond such fear and hatred? Isn't it time
we had a natural yearning to learn from different people and grow
together as a country? I saw a sign in a store today that sums it up
pretty well:</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Curiosity will conquer fear more than bravery will." <a href="https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/James_Stephens_%28author%29">(James Stephens)</a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Be curious. Be interested. Be open. Don't play into the fear of what you don't know - try to learn and try to understand that different cultures, different people, and different experiences can make life a lot more interesting in a land full of people from somewhere else. It isn't about walling people out or keeping things segregated...it's about mixing it all together. Isn't that what makes America interesting? Don't fear diversity - embrace it! </span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjseWqC-hlXlhTAigaGtU5XhIxshKKEzJpz6XOgXnlN5lD13dVPPm81cRaJjKhbRtDxCkToFY0vkXd1fFMBR2IJHTFJRKGX4tDGXBmd6G8XLn8NFPEpIKzlXvm_7uFNIMrMU4nilhtXFIw/s1600/Diversity-Pixabay.com.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjseWqC-hlXlhTAigaGtU5XhIxshKKEzJpz6XOgXnlN5lD13dVPPm81cRaJjKhbRtDxCkToFY0vkXd1fFMBR2IJHTFJRKGX4tDGXBmd6G8XLn8NFPEpIKzlXvm_7uFNIMrMU4nilhtXFIw/s200/Diversity-Pixabay.com.jpg" width="200" /></a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Graphic From <a href="http://pixabay.com/">Pixabay.com</a></span></div>
Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-5375815374345454772016-06-02T18:48:00.000-05:002016-06-02T19:46:40.902-05:00Walking & Writing<span style="font-size: large;">There is something about walking that fuels the writing soul. It generates ideas and helps you come to conclusions with others. Living by a city lake, and running into people and their pets, only makes it better.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">When I got home today, I took a long walk to Linden Hills. It's a bit of a stretch, but it's near the lake and there are people walking their dogs everywhere - from German Shepherds to small Shih Tzus. Dogs are always so happy when they're being walked, their tails wag in a constant rhythm with their paws, and subsequently the people walking them are usually happy...and pretty proud of their pets when you mention how cute they are.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">With the sun shining, and summer finally arriving, everyone was especially friendly today. There were smiles and hellos with everyone I passed. I walked to the nearest mailbox and mailed a bill payment, then I crossed the street to find more of the wonderful <a href="https://littlefreelibrary.org/">Little Free Library</a> boxes which are all over the city. This one was grouped with four other boxes, the most I've ever seen in a row, by the local hardware store. I ended up having a nice chat with a lady who had also stopped to leisurely look through each box and see the books they had to offer. We talked about what a wonderful idea it was, how we had both contributed books, and taken a couple home as well. The conversation turned to me also being a writer and she was quite interested in what I liked to read and what I wrote. We chatted about mutual favorites and each made some recommendations. I wish I would have gotten her name. I will hopefully run into her again sometime.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The last thing I did before heading home was to cross the street to <a href="https://lindenhills.dunnbrothers.com/about/">Dunn Brothers Coffee</a> and grab a bottle of water. A very friendly redhead sold me the water and I mentioned that it was always nice to meet a fellow redhead. "Tell people that you're a majestic unicorn," she said. I thought, cool, I'll do that. The best was when I told her that only 2% of the population were natural redheads and asked her if she was too. "Ya," she said, "I grew it myself." With that we high-fived, and I walked back out into the sun heading back home...with a big smile and my long, red ponytail held high.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4gowx4wSwd7_xyn3-zNe8YlQO3-ppp4WZoC9BoxaSra1rIBpGTg303iGFQ1pOowYehG34SEo2kgRcrRpFU0_ZVyl6Iw-0tjvP8bSIcT_2AvKOyMvdSUxGUN3FjoSNIc3VunOmBYIk2zI/s1600/Little+Free+Library-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4gowx4wSwd7_xyn3-zNe8YlQO3-ppp4WZoC9BoxaSra1rIBpGTg303iGFQ1pOowYehG34SEo2kgRcrRpFU0_ZVyl6Iw-0tjvP8bSIcT_2AvKOyMvdSUxGUN3FjoSNIc3VunOmBYIk2zI/s320/Little+Free+Library-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">One of the many Little Free Libraries Around Town</span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a class="_9uvb2" href="https://www.instagram.com/littlefreelibrary/">@littlefreelibrary</a> <a class="_qvlpq" href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/littlefreelibrary/">#littlefreelibrary</a></span></div>
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<br />Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-21454592831068162352015-09-23T11:33:00.004-05:002015-09-23T11:59:31.126-05:00Kancamagus Colors<span style="font-size: large;">In honor of fall, my favorite time of year, I thought I would put up a little memory post in honor of the season. In autumn, the air is crisper, the breezes a bit cooler, and the leaves are starting to change.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">While I think Minnesota can be quite pretty in the fall with the bright oranges, reds, and yellows creating a beautiful backdrop by the city lakes, it does bring me back to the memory of the prettiest place I've ever seen in the fall: <a href="http://kancamagushighway.info/index.html">The Kancamagus Highway</a>. Winding through the White Mountains in New Hampshire, the colors are so vibrant, so polished, they look more like a New England painting than a real New England road.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
So, as fall and its beautiful colors come to the Twin Cities, I will take my camera and my notebook and record some of the beautiful shades and moments around the area. But, I will always hold that memory of living in New England in my heart...because people still think the photos look fake because the scenes are just that beautiful - and all the winding roads through the history, the mountains, and along the ocean all resemble a painting of nature's best.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSil8DWpLNILmZsa8Wewxj-fA7D4QSvn0g40EHuGvJf-8hxB_DIi4iBxtKRJFGThKMif0DDuB3jC9ZaIgMfX4xnXwEJbPM9vkR7cZr30hqhVd299Sy3rCulxHpVZEKQzyhhRp7wjQNJeA/s1600/kancamagus+Highway+Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSil8DWpLNILmZsa8Wewxj-fA7D4QSvn0g40EHuGvJf-8hxB_DIi4iBxtKRJFGThKMif0DDuB3jC9ZaIgMfX4xnXwEJbPM9vkR7cZr30hqhVd299Sy3rCulxHpVZEKQzyhhRp7wjQNJeA/s320/kancamagus+Highway+Photo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Kancamagus Highway</div>
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<br />Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-8758984129249792762015-05-01T15:18:00.001-05:002015-05-01T15:20:49.840-05:00Free People & MOA<span style="font-size: large;">One of my best friends is as much of a <a href="http://www.freepeople.com/">Free People</a> fan as I am. We love their flowing styles, comfortable fabrics, and free-spirited attitude...not a real big surprise with the blog name. I've gotten many great pieces over the years that I wear every time they're clean and hanging in the closet again.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">When we were out and about a few weeks ago, we decided to head to the Mall of America. Many local people don't actually go to the mall to shop all that often, or if they do they hit the end they like for their favorite stores - or just enjoy a happy hour in one of their great restaurants.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We had heard there's an actual <a href="http://www.freepeople.com/store-locations/free-people-mall-of-america/">Free People - Mall of America Store</a> - not just the apparel available in department stores. On a rather dreary day that still resembled winter a little too much in Minnesota, we finally made it over there to look around. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">When we got to the front of the store it felt, quite frankly, like we had arrived at our mothership.</span><span style="font-size: large;">We were not surprised by the layout of the store. It had all their great clothing, jewelry, and other cool accessories decorated in their famous Bohemian way...just as we expected. And t</span><span style="font-size: large;">he atmosphere of the place totally fits their apparel - open, fun, and adventurous. </span><span style="font-size: large;">We lingered for quite some time. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">So, yes, we fit the profile - right down to the long, messy hair. But, we do it with style and attitude. </span><span style="font-size: large;">The staff of the store had the same vibe - and even the dressing room had a fun, boho feel (I snapped a photo when my friend was trying on some skirts). When we go back, as I'm sure we will, I'm sure we'll find some other cool things we just have to have...and I'm sure there will be additional lingering.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEkEmVMKLuGOOB5z0i4bt9EG_ApzLYb_RAmwMokb4_rpppAbYZt_2YxQBUUbbcFgnXT6_-XK499TMQlmMPm_AGnmtlON3f3JvNDjaOKo2V4eYBQ7ZY32ODZHVBOuXiCQ3krwEkFONj74/s1600/FP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEkEmVMKLuGOOB5z0i4bt9EG_ApzLYb_RAmwMokb4_rpppAbYZt_2YxQBUUbbcFgnXT6_-XK499TMQlmMPm_AGnmtlON3f3JvNDjaOKo2V4eYBQ7ZY32ODZHVBOuXiCQ3krwEkFONj74/s1600/FP.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Dressing Room at the Mall of America Store</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-15358504522401689872015-03-01T11:32:00.000-06:002015-03-01T12:10:42.750-06:00Springing Forward with the Full-Time Writing Gig<span style="font-size: large;">This full-time writing gig is pretty cool. I feel so fortunate. I have neglected the blog and other writing I usually do...but, no
complaints. I love being a full-time writer. There's lots of
variety...one day I'm writing about computers and technology, the next
day I'm writing about fashion. It's pretty great. In the meantime, I'll
touch base here and there on the blog until I can get caught up on
everything else.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As winter drudges on and we barely get above zero degrees
and rarely see the sun, I'm so glad that it's the first of March and not the end of November. Being this cold is much worse in November because you could have months ahead of you - of often brutally cold weather.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But today is the first of March! I can see spring coming...and for the first winter in as long as I can remember,
the huge storms hitting the east coast seem to just keep
passing us by.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I don't mind snow, but it's actually nice that this year
we aren't so completely overwhelmed by it. For friends and family on the
east coast, I know you're all very overwhelmed by one storm after
another. But, by this time next year, it might very well be our turn again. For now, though, let's just look forward to a long awaited spring.</span>Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-66827238488050873182014-11-10T20:47:00.001-06:002014-11-16T22:22:36.114-06:00The Coolest Thing Happened...<span style="font-size: large;">Over the years, I've done a few different jobs that I've liked, but they were always to support the one thing I've wanted to do since I was very young: Write. I actually have a small card I carry around in my wallet: "Support your art, don't expect it to support you." But, I always hoped that one day I'd get that job that allowed me to write full-time, and that card would be gone.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Over the years since college, freelance work was there, but for full-time work, it was another story. I've been the writer who worked as an accountant, or the writer who worked as an organic chemistry manager, or the writer who worked as a social worker (great book material). Then the coolest thing happened a couple weeks ago: I became just the writer - except it isn't <i><b>just</b> </i>anything. It's actually rather amazing.</span> <br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">My official title is Creative/Content Writer. I feel honored, and frankly, quite blessed. I get to write, edit, work on webpages, do some photography, work with some great people - and all at an innovative, tech savvy company. One word: <b>Yay!</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">There's also the matter of appreciation. Things changed a lot and got pretty tough over the last couple of years - there were back surgeries for him, job changes for me, the loss of a couple good friends and family members. Plenty of time to be humbled a bit, and I learned a lot - making me all the more excited to do well. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But, who knew? And isn't that exactly one of the reasons it's interesting being a writer in the first place?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">My original plans may have taken a few turns here and there, and I guess it just wasn't supposed to happen when I was twenty-five. But, it's funny that even with all the twists, I've still reached the right place going in the right direction. </span> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This one is, quite simply put, a keeper. It must be time to throw that card away.</span>Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-65623051750293450042014-09-14T18:08:00.002-05:002014-09-14T19:41:06.671-05:00Scarf Season<span style="font-size: large;">Let's face it, for scarf lovers, it's always scarf season. But, sometimes it's a little too warm to pull it off in the summer months - even in Minnesota. I prefer to wear mostly solid colors in shirts, dresses, and skirts, which usually means black or jewel tones, and the occasional crisp white. The patterns and textures are most often in the scarves and the other accessories I choose to put with my outfits. That usually means long necklaces, big hoop earrings, and lots of bracelets in silver, wood, or leather. I've always had that bit of a boho vibe.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I've lost count of how many scarves I have. There's the section on the front of my closet door that are my favorites - super long and easy to wrap around while still leaving some length in the front. Then there is the inside closet wall which has an IKEA <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/70108912/">Komplement</a> hanger with scarves looped through all the spots, and then there is the collection of smaller silk scarves that have their own special drawer. To me it's the scarves that add the bright colors, shiny beads...and always lots of fringe.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I may not like what follows autumn as much, at least not after too many months of winter, but I love fall and I love pulling out my scarves and wrapping them around my neck, leaving them hanging long, or braiding them in my hair. But, there is just something so <i>merveilleux et chic</i> about scarves that makes me feel like I've really put an outfit together. Besides, they're warm, soft, and comfortable - and just plain fun to wear. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So, as autumn approaches us and turns into colder weather, one of the best parts of it is having my favorite accessory to add to any outfit. Because whether it's a great little black dress or a t-shirt and jeans, a scarf adds that extra layer of chic that just pulls it all together like nothing else does. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikT-gsvM7vvTsfzteouhST45f-I_nwYXFfsBuGoa7JgMzcJyXhhDozgTaq94br8nvfrxrLr29Pf-P57Vq0vJZZ8yFcwqk8MkFu2vcJKSXIG00xst4jaXrffuC3J9sqahelklZPsv2qNKs/s1600/Scarf-Silk+Green-May2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikT-gsvM7vvTsfzteouhST45f-I_nwYXFfsBuGoa7JgMzcJyXhhDozgTaq94br8nvfrxrLr29Pf-P57Vq0vJZZ8yFcwqk8MkFu2vcJKSXIG00xst4jaXrffuC3J9sqahelklZPsv2qNKs/s1600/Scarf-Silk+Green-May2012.jpg" height="128" width="200" /></a></div>
Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-65610792255195865762014-08-09T16:55:00.001-05:002016-03-23T14:18:20.729-05:00Piccadilly Prairie<div class="bodytext" style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">A couple of days ago my twentieth publication came out, and it just so happened to be a really fun interview at one of my favorite shops in Minneapolis. I was also fortunate to do the photography on this assignment, and the owner of the shop is so talented and unique. As stated in my article in the <a href="http://www.southwestjournal.com/">Southwest Journal</a>:</span></span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">When you walk by Piccadilly Prairie at 50th & Xerxes, a charming
feeling invites you to come inside. Nestled on a corner that is filled
with antique shops, this store stands out as a unique place with its own
distinct vibe.</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">Opened three years ago, it has built a customer base that loves to
see what has found its way to the shop. Store owner Lacey Brooker is
proud her shop is different from everything else in the area. She
considers it to be more of a vintage or occasional store, but it’s
actually much more than that. </span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">Besides all the vintage finds offered in the store - everything from
furniture to jewelry - Brooker also does custom work. She works on
sewing and painting projects for customers, as well as building
furniture with her father-in-law, Art. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">“I do the designing, he does the building,” says Brooker. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">They use reclaimed materials and buy very little new. They find old
wood to use, and even repurpose old hardware to put a design together. It gives even newly designed furniture a very unique, vintage feel that
ensures that you have bought a truly one-of-a-kind piece. Says Brooker, </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">“</span>When we build things, we want to keep their authenticity, right down
to the chains and hinges. It keeps that history to it.”</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Her creations have a real richness to them that make them truly
exceptional. Whether it’s an old piece or a designed one, there’s a
story behind it that makes the furniture not just beautiful, but very
intriguing as well. It can make decorating a home that much more
interesting by mixing in vintage pieces with your current or new
furniture - adding a touch of history and soul to an already established
room. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">“I try really hard to show people how to incorporate vintage pieces in with what they already have of their own,” says Brooker.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Traveling around the world in her twenties probably helped give Brooker
her sharp eye for great merchandise. She’s always looking for fun
pieces, often taking trips out of town to find them. Perhaps that is
why Piccadilly Prairie almost makes you forget you’re in the middle of
South Minneapolis. It’s very reminiscent of a New England or European
flea market, complete with a comfy couch and pillows right inside the
front door. The fresh scent of soaps and candles, with Frank Sinatra
singing in the background, adds to the atmosphere of a different era,
complementing the unique pieces. Everything about the store is very
intentional, adding to the overall experience. Brooker wants it to feel
comfortable, homey, and quaint.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The store also hosts different events throughout the year, including a
Paris Flea Market that lets people mingle, shop, and socialize while
they sip wine. The next event coming up will be the Piccadilly Paint
Party in late August. Brooker will have paint stations set up so
customers can do a little creating themselves. Using the Cottage Paint
she now sells, it will allow people to try out the special paint that
gives furniture a vintage look with minimal preparation time. </span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">Piccadilly Prairie is also another great way to shop locally, and to
shop small. Instead of buying at a large conglomerate, the money spent
at a small local shop goes back into the community. The customer also
purchases something that not only has that history to it, but a
sturdiness and personality that goes along with it. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">“I really love vintage,” says Brooker. “Pieces are made better with
more character. They’re made to last a long time. Now things are made
to be disposable. We also like redesign and upcycling, taking really
classic lines and updating them into a modern vintage look.” </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Piccadilly Prairie has a very fitting motto that fits the feel of the
store quite well: “Yesterday's Materials. Today's Designs.”</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">“Vintage stores and occasional stores are basically the new antique store,” says Brooker. “It’s where antiques are headed.” </span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">For some great little pieces of history, a feeling like you're in a different place and time, and interesting character, this store is just the best shopping experience!</span> <br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGfqa4rGgSX_KjXtxGhENP-he6Bsc2C70RM_ApUyMhyaHXEXB0bGCjFefL2neQIHhB1PHEzJ4Xl6ykWXnQIFtENdeWUtYbKodBGg5Cm3DjEV80_8gQkSRI5wMKuDBFX1HahrS1JirId_U/s1600/Lacey-StoreWindow-3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGfqa4rGgSX_KjXtxGhENP-he6Bsc2C70RM_ApUyMhyaHXEXB0bGCjFefL2neQIHhB1PHEzJ4Xl6ykWXnQIFtENdeWUtYbKodBGg5Cm3DjEV80_8gQkSRI5wMKuDBFX1HahrS1JirId_U/s1600/Lacey-StoreWindow-3.jpg" width="161" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Brooker Sits in the Front Window of the Store. (Photograph by CY Hunter) </span></span></span></span></span></div>
Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-87460455294899094262014-06-16T23:39:00.002-05:002014-07-13T19:28:56.847-05:00She Will Always Be Missed...<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLqDNEfhSqoXo_tYGlLBgy7974KCC1TPUkYuYII778dr1d5dHZEWGhHk_aTIrxG23ZtK-KOkqGg8RRLVtXxmKRquyvMF5diGkJeou1CJjpnjLM8s_6BB7fIUIbtTcBxjXzK7AJNoeaUAw/s1600/MomCandle-June16-2014.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLqDNEfhSqoXo_tYGlLBgy7974KCC1TPUkYuYII778dr1d5dHZEWGhHk_aTIrxG23ZtK-KOkqGg8RRLVtXxmKRquyvMF5diGkJeou1CJjpnjLM8s_6BB7fIUIbtTcBxjXzK7AJNoeaUAw/s1600/MomCandle-June16-2014.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">One of the things about losing someone close to you is that you really never stop thinking about them or wanting to share things with them.<span style="font-size: large;"> When my big sister called on what would have been our mother's 85th Birthday, it made a sad day better. And we talked about the things we just
had to tell Mom. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I wish my mother could have lived to see today, and many years beyond. I wish she would have been healthy. I wish I would have seen her before she died. Those thoughts will always be there, but they're there along with the memories of a remarkable woman that I got to call Mom.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My sister and I have matching silver glass candle holders. We get them out and light a candle for special occasions in memory of our mother. As my sister and I hung up the phone tonight, I pulled my holder out of its little drawstring pouch, placed a new tealight candle inside of it, and lit the candle.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Lighting the candle produced a large flame that blazed above the candle holder, framed by a circle of dark smoke. A strange picture, but it needed to be captured. Besides, it might be that Mom just wanted to be a part of the conversation - and maybe even have the last word. </span>Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-65069025471147549432014-05-14T16:03:00.000-05:002014-05-14T16:08:08.438-05:00Being Really Young Doesn't Last Forever<span style="font-size: large;">I have friends of all ages, and when I worked in social services in the past, I had clients in their nineties. I see age as nothing more than a number. I'm no longer twenty, but I'm not old either. I find that for the most part, if you are an intelligent person and keep learning, you'll get smarter as you get older - and hopefully wiser too - which is a whole other matter. But in America, we are obsessed with youth. In film, in magazines, in fashion...even more so if you're a woman. It's actually all quite silly because why does it matter?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Once you get into your forties, there's a peace that comes with it. You get to know yourself better. You are more outspoken where you used to be more shy. You drive your life less by what other people think. You know your style and what works for you. You know what your strengths and talents are. And your friendships become stronger and deeper. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I am consistently guessed to be many years younger than I am. It might be my long hair, it might be because I was lucky to get my mother's skin, it might be my free-spirited attitude, it might be because I have a passion for life and an upbeat attitude. It might be a combination of all of the above. I don't hide my age and I'm glad I am where I am now. I make a point of being open-minded and staying current with music, with fashion, with computers - not because I want to stay young forever, but because I'm naturally curious and interested and want to keep learning. I know people in their sixties who seem younger and people in their twenties who seem older. So much of it's about the attitude.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I loved Europe when I was there a few years ago, and plan to go back again sometime soon. </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">The history, the beauty, and the architecture in Europe is wonderful...but, France, in particular, is a huge draw for me. </span>Since I used to speak fluent French as well, the idea of someday living in Paris or outside the city is something I plan to do when I'm older. One of the many cool things about the French: They think women of all ages are beautiful. They always have. They don't fight to stay young, they celebrate the age they are at. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">In an introduction to her short essay in <i>Marie Claire</i>, "<a href="http://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/garance-dore-french-style">Boiling Down That French Sense of Je Ne Sais Quoi,</a>" Garance Dor</span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">é</span> has a great quote that I just love: "<i>Beauty comes from living an interesting life, not trying to freeze time</i>." </span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">"The 40s are when we grow into our real beauty, which is what we've
earned by allowing ourselves to not worry too much about our appearance.
In fact, I would say knowing herself is the biggest strength of the
French woman. These are also the years when we become more precise with
our beauty routines—perhaps a richer lotion, a visit to the
dermatologist, a few Pilates classes or brisk walks. Next come the
decades of being fully yourself, and your most desirable.</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">And maybe that's the ultimate French beauty secret: We don't freak
out too much about age. Wrinkles and little shadows under our eyes don't
really count. Of course, if anything bothers us, we'll take care of it,
but never within the fantasy of getting back to an age of innocence and
naïveté—we just enjoy what we have without questioning it too much. As
long as each day is lived to the fullest, we have nothing to regret—only
to be thankful for the beautiful women we've become, inside and out."</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
</blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">How can you not appreciate that? Who cares if you have some wrinkles or don't look exactly like you did when you were twenty. I love my friends and family that are younger - and older - but, the obsession with youth is both limiting and boring. Just as diversity in race and culture makes things more interesting, so does diversity in age.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The truth of the matter is that youth is fun and free - and it seems like it will go on forever. But, it doesn't. And to fight to stay young forever doesn't offer up much for growth either. If you chase after youth like many Hollywood actresses do, it really limits your potential to grow into the person you are meant to become.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Maybe if we all accepted the fact that we'll age right along with everyone else and follow France's example a bit more, we'd be happier and more content - and much less worried about society's idea of what the ideal woman looks like. It just isn't reality. And I, for one, am quite thankful for that.</span>Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-39978005082624461082014-03-18T22:49:00.000-05:002014-03-24T15:30:26.222-05:00A Book About Being Saved by Gracie...<span style="font-size: large;">As a writer, I'm always thrilled to support other writers. Standing behind another writer and cheering them on is just the way it should be done. When Jan Dunlap asked me to read her new book, <a href="http://jandunlap.com/saved-by-gracie-2/">Saved by Gracie</a>, which will be released in April, I was excited to get an advanced copy. When I read what it was about, it interested me even more.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I've always been an animal lover and was raised with dogs, so I'm particularly fond of them. I had the opportunity in my former career in social services to work with service dogs as well, so I know the difference they can make in people's lives. When a housekeeper who worked with a former client of mine refused to enter the house when she saw the client's little Miniature Pinscher, we worked with her gradually to help her to see the dog was actually very sweet. I admired her for her courage because people have fears for a reason.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">After a short time, the housekeeper and the dog were the best of friends - and her entire attitude changed. She was so proud to overcome her fear, make a new furry friend, and work with a great client in the process.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When I saw Jan's book was about not only getting over her fear of dogs, but beating an anxiety she had, I was even more intrigued to read it. As she states on her <a href="http://jandunlap.com/">website</a>: </span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">"My first humorous memoir, <b><i>Saved by Gracie</i></b>, will be
published in April 2014 by Authentic Publishers. It’s the story of how
our adopted rescued dog helped me overcome a growing anxiety disorder,
which was really quite a surprise, since my fear of dogs was one of my
biggest anxieties to begin with. I wanted my publisher to subtitle it
“How an unwanted dog dragged me kicking and screaming back to health,
happiness, and God, and why I blame my husband and daughter for making
me one of those people who talks for their dog,” but he said we could
probably shorten that up a bit."</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">So, here's to Jan, her new book, her new outlook, and dealing with anxiety on top of it...and doing it all with a great deal of humor. After writing several murder mysteries that involved birds and now writing about a dog that changed her she said: "So now you might say that while my mysteries are for the birds, my
career has gone to the dogs. Life is just full of surprises, isn’t it?"</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieF-mB4dStWMBZQwTY0i5zUug2n3V7sZwrAdCtdQwxSEcM5rtHqcsQPjJS2o9TQsyp9ao6eIO3kTPJFXhu4WifZcFQRqLh9SYMc0uKPe8MVXQXaP7KqneorCIhbpeDwO957Pj1ioM1_sQ/s1600/SavedbyGracie.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieF-mB4dStWMBZQwTY0i5zUug2n3V7sZwrAdCtdQwxSEcM5rtHqcsQPjJS2o9TQsyp9ao6eIO3kTPJFXhu4WifZcFQRqLh9SYMc0uKPe8MVXQXaP7KqneorCIhbpeDwO957Pj1ioM1_sQ/s1600/SavedbyGracie.jpg" height="200" width="130" /></a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo of Book Cover Courtesy of Jan Dunlap.</span></span></div>
Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-90513346249861625642014-02-15T14:37:00.001-06:002014-02-15T14:37:12.510-06:00Getting that Novel Out of Your Head<span style="font-size: large;">One of my favorite writers, <a href="http://jennablum.com/">Jenna Blum</a>, had a great blog post I looked at today about writing and getting that book out of your head. A lot of writers definitely do this - we walk around with a book in our head pretty much all the time. It seems it has to get out, but it won't come out, for whatever reason. It can be blamed in part on the distractions of life, but it doesn't go away.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I've started two books that are sitting in a drawer, and although I've written a lot of smaller pieces, I know someday those books will have to be completed - along with the newer one that is constantly running in my mind. I have characters, plots, the ending, the city. But, often when I sit down at my desk to write, I end up checking my e-mail, reading, surfing - having fun, but wasting time and not getting done what's really important to me.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Jenna's advice in her blog post, <a href="http://jennablum.com/2014/02/motivation-time-come/">Motivation Time</a>, is solid. Because we truly do bring our fears to the writing chair every time we sit down. A book is a huge task and can be very daunting. The old advice of sitting down and just doing it - well, that's nothing new, but it's still good to hear again from a successful author. And, I like her additional suggestions of getting the worries out in her post:</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">"So
here’s what I suggest: Make yourself sit in the writing chair, for x
amount of minutes a day. Start with an hour (or, if that seems too
threatening, 25 minutes). Then maybe change the medium! If you’re used
to writing on a laptop, write on paper. If you’re used to writing on
paper, write on the laptop. I do find that when I’m writing by hand–my
original, beloved way to write, all the way from childhood–there are
whole scenes that knit themselves together out of one scrap of a
sentence. So again, the work is there. We just have to figure out a way
to get out of our own way. </span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">My agent suggested something else: buy a box (she knows I like to
shop, so any suggestion with “buy” in it will get my attention) and each
day, before you write, write your fears and obstacles about whatever it
is you're writing about on slips of paper. Put them in the box. Close
the box. Then set yourself a daily word count and hit it."</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">After all, sitting down in the chair is half the battle. The other half is just getting started and putting words down...and doing it every day that you can. It is a commitment to yourself as a creative artist that needs to be expressed - and, seriously, it's the only way it's ever going to get out of your head.</span>Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-13431897774678609862014-02-07T17:44:00.002-06:002014-02-07T17:44:53.404-06:00Fashion as Art<span style="font-size: large;">Fashion can be art too, especially when it's something so unique made with luxurious fabrics and an inspired idea. To hang it in the closet seems to be hiding something away that just needs to be seen. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This wonderful piece of artwork designed by one of my favorites, Kotomi Yoshida (some of her work can be found at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/studioyoshida?">Studio Yoshida</a>), needed a place on a pretty, ribbon hanger on the front of the door. Not only is it too beautiful to keep in the closet, it is hung up for inspiration to keep up with the workouts and lose those extra pounds from last year.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It is a one-of-a-kind work of art...and she's a sweetheart on top of it. I am fortunate to have a few of her wonderful pieces, but this one is one of the most treasured.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks, Kotomi. This is one of the first photographs I took with my new camera - and, whether it's with my writing, photography, or just exercising, you continue to inspire me in so many ways...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK1H7aYtS0t7sw3a0gpADLz57URRYqnHfYvrrA1nWRzXe2VXKsoRBSVhUvfnep2fBTv7MaJin3MjXIborR4EtJQFNFzvqrDFmW2UsZ4Z8G7420E8ewqDQtJzfedA3chx_Ek_QXKCHorKI/s1600/KotomiDress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK1H7aYtS0t7sw3a0gpADLz57URRYqnHfYvrrA1nWRzXe2VXKsoRBSVhUvfnep2fBTv7MaJin3MjXIborR4EtJQFNFzvqrDFmW2UsZ4Z8G7420E8ewqDQtJzfedA3chx_Ek_QXKCHorKI/s1600/KotomiDress.jpg" height="320" width="144" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-81940606317295961252014-01-25T16:00:00.000-06:002014-01-25T16:26:37.481-06:00New Visions<span style="font-size: large;">I'm not very materialistic, never have been. I prefer
to live simply, have some quality things that I use, live in a cozy
house that puts a roof over my head, avoid clutter
and added junk I don't need, and travel as much as I can. I've been
known many times to buy things and then give them away to someone who
needs it - or to a friend who it just suits better.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But,
I received a gift this morning that blew me away. It was a belated
birthday gift from my partner. His generosity made me tear up, but it
didn't make it any less appreciated. In fact, the gift is one of those
gifts that will not only support a passion that has been with me since I was a teenager,
but it will help me expand into it even more as I do freelance work.
Because, you see, he bought me a beautiful, professional, digital
camera. A Nikon D3200. One I've wanted for a very long time.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I've
been writing since I was three, but I've always liked taking pictures
too, and I started seriously getting into photography when I was in high
school. My father bought me an Olympus OM-1 film camera, which I paid
off for $20 a week while I worked part-time at a grocery store. It was a
manual camera because my photography teacher at the time said I had
talent, and needed the flexibility of a manual camera to use my own
creativity.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My
father, ever the wonderful woodworker who can build anything, also
built me a little darkroom in the basement. We bought a used enlarger,
trays, chemicals - all the old-fashioned things you needed at the time
to develop photographs. I bought a few filters as I needed them -
different types like colored filters that made clouds stand out, a starlight filter that made candlelight burst,
and spent time with slow exposures and sepia-toned images to experiment
and grow in the art. And it always complimented and meshed with my
writing.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Then digital photography
came around. And I bought a small digital camera that I take with me
everywhere. I've always had to carry a bigger bag to be able to carry
both a writing journal and a camera...and I'm known for just having to
write a line down or whip out the camera whenever the mood strikes or I
see a visual picture in my head. I often just stop and say: "That would make a cool picture!"</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I've
done quite well with the small camera, and my old camera (which is now
displayed on a shelf), but this new one opens up so many more
possibilities for me. Since Photoshop came out a few years back, I've
seen it as a digital darkroom and have enjoyed perfecting my skills and
playing around with it as well. Although I'm proud to say that the
majority of my photography doesn't take much other than occasional cropping, it's still fun to experiment, be creative, and work a different effect with images.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As
much as I love writing, my other big passion has always been
photography. So, my tasks this weekend are fun ones. Read the manual.
Check out the new camera. And start playing around with it on an even more
creative level, and see what it can do. Because this is a gift that
truly keeps on giving. And I love my guy not only for who he is and
what a great person he is, but for his generosity, and enthusiasm in
what I love to do. And, as much as I believe in him and his talents and
abilities, it makes me think of my mother and how she always believed in
my writing...and I love him even more for his own belief in me.</span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnUdq8HDPxuQ7JmqzTHKhO26nvc-vJR2db7f7ezW8caB-PPkmJyKas-q-YPlR-0Bs5jRKxjAqEo_YhPZOcNnYxG4iiVuR_ZbCkevP_5lIO7K_wC1hM3W_yXhbJfjQnN3Qs7RyKGc-Z4RA/s1600/Camera-Olympus-2-Oct2012.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnUdq8HDPxuQ7JmqzTHKhO26nvc-vJR2db7f7ezW8caB-PPkmJyKas-q-YPlR-0Bs5jRKxjAqEo_YhPZOcNnYxG4iiVuR_ZbCkevP_5lIO7K_wC1hM3W_yXhbJfjQnN3Qs7RyKGc-Z4RA/s1600/Camera-Olympus-2-Oct2012.jpg" height="140" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The old camera as decor.</span></div>
Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-21015280090821881472013-12-15T16:10:00.003-06:002013-12-15T17:02:02.649-06:00Size is Relative<span style="font-size: large;">I came across a post today on <a href="http://www.alreadypretty.com/2013/11/gracey-on-tights.html">Already Pretty</a> about style and wearing tights. This is a fun blog and I like that she not only knows her stuff, but promotes other bloggers who know their stuff too. I am a fan of tights, usually black, but sometimes colorful. Surprisingly, I am already doing what she advises in wearing them, so I guess I'm not that far off in the style department.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But, seriously, tights are warm too. When I see all the photos of women with bare legs or open toe boots or shoes in the middle of winter, I know I don't see that in the northern region where I live. When you're dealing with twenty below zero temperatures and snow and ice, it really doesn't make a lot of sense. But, I'm also a huge fan of tall boots as well, so it's an excuse to wear more of them with the tights.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">In the aforementioned post, the guest blogger was Gracey, from <a href="http://fashionforgiants.blogspot.com/">Fashion for Giants</a>. Not only is Gracey informative, she is also very funny, and I enjoyed some of her other posts as well. </span><span style="font-size: large;">However, although I think her blog title is clever, I can't see her as a giant or plus-sized. Perhaps it is because at a little over 5'9" I not only almost always wear heels, making me even taller, but I'm actually shorter than anyone else in my family. So, tall is clearly relative to me. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But, for her to be a Size 14 at over six feet tall, does not equal plus-size to me. A Size 14 at that height is actually quite healthy. It's the stick skinny models who are her height and starving themselves to be a Size 0 that are NOT healthy (and I'm not talking about people who are naturally really thin here). At my height, I naturally fall somewhere in between the Size 0 and the Size 14.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In the real world, there are many different types of beauty and they should all be celebrated. After all, the goal should be to be healthy, feel good about ourselves, and embrace our individuality. I've always been one to see the best in people - their eyes, their hair, their skin color...their unique thing that makes them stand out from everyone else. To me, Gracey looks great as she is. Because no matter what we wear or what size it's in, we're all beautiful in our own way.</span>Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-42995321567535448822013-11-24T22:47:00.001-06:002013-12-01T19:53:23.825-06:00On Reading<span style="font-size: large;">I just finished a book today that I really enjoyed. It's one of those books that pulled my interest so much that as I got about halfway through it, I just had to finish it. So, after a leisurely breakfast at a local restaurant, I settled in on a cold Sunday afternoon, wrapped a blanket around myself, and just continued to read.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I was so absorbed in the characters and the situations they were in, I forgot it was cold and dreary outside. The book was "<a href="http://www.corinegantz.com/home/welcome.html">Hidden in Paris</a>," by Corine Gantz. Granted, I love anything to do with Paris, but it's more than that. Ms Gantz is a wonderful writer and her characters were interesting and complex - and the way their lives intertwined with each other made it an engaging story. Her characters developed and grew, and the ending was satisfying without being too predictable. I enjoyed it and it was definitely one I had folded a few pages back on for quotes I like to write down in my journal later - which I always do upon finishing a book.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">After I put it down, it made me think of someone I once worked with. She would quite often say she didn't read and that no one does anymore. She was actually proud of this. Perhaps people read differently than they did before (there are millions of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Kindle">Kindles</a> and other electronic readers sold each year, as well as people reading on their computers and Smartphones), but people are still reading. We also still have many crowded bookstores for the people who still love paper books. I am generally around intelligent people of all ages who love to read, and when I have mentioned this comment people have generally been as puzzled by it as I was. I am also a writer, and any good writer should be reading to fuel their creative juices, as well as for inspiration. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But reading is more than that. Reading is a way to learn about other lifestyles, other cultures, other places. It is a way to continue learning, to be drawn into a story, to be in a different country, understand different backgrounds, and to be pulled out of your own life and into an entirely different one. I find it sad to not do that. Although I love movies, it isn't the same as the imagination and education you get by reading a good book. To never have that escape or intellectual stimulation closes you off to so much.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">To each his or her own, of course, but I've been reading since I was a little kid, and I can't imagine not doing it at all. Even in the busy lives we all lead now, there are just too many things you miss out on by not pulling out a good book. Besides, it keeps your mind sharp and young. Why limit yourself that way?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This weekend I was in my favorite bookstore, <a href="http://www.magersandquinn.com/">Magers and Quinn</a>, which was busy, as usual. One of the fun things about bookstores is not only checking out books, but observing the people who are in there. As I looked for my next book to read, I observed two teenagers going through the stacks and marveling at the titles. There was a lot of: "But, have you read this one? It's so awesome," and "I can't wait to get to that one." </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I smiled to myself as I headed toward the counter with my next book, where the salesclerk assured me that I had made a great choice. Yes, people most definitely still read - old and young alike. And, although there might be some that don't, it's ignorant to say no one does. Because, no matter what the medium of choice is, there's just as much excitement and joy in it as there always has been. </span>Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-16513669063694673622013-11-02T16:23:00.001-05:002013-11-03T16:38:30.006-06:00A Young Woman's Courage to Fight for Education<span style="font-size: large;">When I was growing up, it was just understood that I would go to college. With the exception of my mother, everyone in my family got a college education. As a kid, you don't often realize how fortunate you are to have that kind of support - especially as a woman. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My mother was born in a different time. She still had regret in her eighties about not going to college. She is gone now, but I always wished she would have gone later in her life. Her father told her no woman needed to go to college. I'm so glad times have changed...at least for the most part. And we just don't have the same obstacles here that women face in other parts of the world.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When I first read about <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malala_Yousafzai">Malala</a></span><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malala_Yousafzai"> Yousafzai</a> several months ago, I realized what a shining example she is of someone who not only had a father who believed in her, but he did it in a country where that just isn't done. His courage was clearly passed on to his daughter. Although they had made some strides with education in her country, it was taken away. When she fought for it publicly, she was almost killed.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In an article in the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-24379018">BBC News</a> Magazine, it is obvious the support she had from her father contributed to her own bravery: </span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">By the time Malala was born, her father had realized his dream of
founding his own school, which began with just a few pupils and
mushroomed into an establishment educating more than 1,000 girls and
boys. </span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">This was Malala's world - not one of wealth or privilege but
an atmosphere dominated by learning. And she flourished. "She was
precocious, confident, assertive," says Adnan Aurangzeb. "A young person
with the drive to achieve something in life."</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">"For my brothers it was easy to think about the future," Malala tells me
when we meet in Birmingham. "They can be anything they want. But for me
it was hard and for that reason I wanted to become educated and empower
myself with knowledge."</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">She is an extraordinary young woman, wise beyond her years,
sensible, sensitive and focused. She has experienced the worst of
humanity, and the best of humanity - both from the medics who cared for
her and the messages from many thousands of well-wishers.</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Women need to continue their fight for their rights to an education everywhere. There are even difficulties in the United States when it comes to poverty or obstacles being thrown in by people who are threatened by women who are more educated, outspoken, and powerful in business and politics. But, in the case of Malala, it is even more important. Because she is fighting as a very young woman who is also in real danger. She is wise, tough, and knows the fight ahead of her. For that she should not only be admired, but be honored as well. </span>Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-57813970550326088582013-09-11T17:57:00.002-05:002013-09-11T20:22:44.916-05:00In Memory of an Attack We'll Never Forget<span style="font-size: large;">I write this in memory of all those who lost their lives twelve years ago, and all those who lost someone they loved. I will never forget where I was, watching it unfold on television right outside of Boston. I was acutely aware that two of the four airplanes that crashed that day flew out of Logan Airport. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A year prior to 9/11, I had flown to New York with a friend who worked for United Airlines. The plane flew right over lower Manhattan. The World Trade Center was majestic, the view was clear, and the day was sunny and bright. That was the last time I ever saw the towers. I remember what a beautiful view it was of New York City.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">One year after the attack I was in Europe visiting several countries with some friends. In a small bar in a tiny town in Germany, a niece of a friend we were visiting cried softly as she told me that her father had died in one of those buildings. It reminded me that the impact was felt throughout the world...and that it's truly a much smaller world than we realize.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A couple years later, on another visit to New York, I walked around lower Manhattan, circling the still empty hole where the buildings had been. All around the fenced off area were signs and written memorials posted by friends and family that had lost loved ones in the attack. The Statue of Liberty sat nearby out in the water, seemingly lonely and quiet - especially in a place as great as New York City. The day brought drizzling rain, along with colder temperatures and strong winds. It seemed rather appropriate for a very somber fall afternoon.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I remember how I had planned to relocate to Boston three months before the terrorist attack. Of all the states I had lived in growing up, Massachusetts was my favorite. But, as 9/11 took lives, it also instilled fear and trepidation at the time. The jobs that had been offered were pulled back, and a solid job offer back in the Midwest - where most of my belongings were still being stored - regrettably drew me back. Driving west, with such disappointment and hesitation, made me want to take the fork in the road to the right toward New York City, instead of continuing west. When I got as far as
Chicago a couple days later, I looked up at the then Sear's Tower as the highway wrapped around it - realizing its height compared to the
two fallen buildings in New York City.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Twelve years later, after way too much delay, the tallest
building of the new World Trade Center is taking shape where the rest
will follow. It isn't the same, nor will it ever be the same. But, at
least there is something there again signifying the country's strength and
perseverance. Because despite all the loss, </span>all the disappointments, and all the pain, it did not destroy our spirit. And it did not destroy our resolve or fight to move forward. And, most importantly, it did not even begin to destroy our hope.</span><br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgley9k7pKuoXYSf9ZxXd_TCMptal8nqsDOwNC9ymTuNQqJraSMRZhSgcKLAe1ujeTY_NI6arh5eLSMz8sh25kvg-5LqntbAMAF6iFo12t68_55AnrWJOh3-kwGer_96EDijaqHeMhMDUQ/s1600/NewWorldTradeCenter-2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgley9k7pKuoXYSf9ZxXd_TCMptal8nqsDOwNC9ymTuNQqJraSMRZhSgcKLAe1ujeTY_NI6arh5eLSMz8sh25kvg-5LqntbAMAF6iFo12t68_55AnrWJOh3-kwGer_96EDijaqHeMhMDUQ/s1600/NewWorldTradeCenter-2013.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">A picture of what the new
World Trade Center Site will look like when everything is finished by 2015.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Almost completed is One World Trade Center (left). It's the tallest structure in the United States.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> (courtesy of <a href="http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/9-11-anniversary-new-wtc-finally-shaping-article-1.1451531">nydailynews.com</a>)</span></div>
Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-11586290241020009812013-08-24T18:38:00.003-05:002013-08-30T00:11:03.977-05:00Mermaid Hair<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="252" src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/016/0/6045758/il_340x270.427117646_agov.jpg" width="320" /> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I've been told more than once that I have mermaid hair. As an avid swimmer since I was really young, I guess I always take it as a compliment. I'm not blonde - in fact, I'm quite happy to be a natural redhead - so, it's not like it's referring to the old joke of blonde hair looking green from too much chlorine. Besides, mermaid hair is actually much more about "beachy" hair. It's a bit wavy like ocean waves, very natural, and pretty long. Guess that's me. And I love the quote on the mermaid necklace pictured above (it's from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91159932/mermaid-fear-of-shallow-living-necklace?ref=col_view">Crafting4Cause</a>) with the quote by </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ana%C3%AFs_Nin">Anais Nin</a> </span>on it. I agree with that philosophy as well.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I always have to laugh when women tell me they would have long hair if it wasn't so much work. In reality, I put very little effort into my hair. Most days I don't even dry it. When I do, I dry the top slightly, and leave the back wet to dry naturally during the day. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">On the <a href="http://blog.freepeople.com/">Free People Blog</a>, they go into more detail about styling more elaborate <a href="http://blog.freepeople.com/2013/08/video-create-mermaid-waves/">Mermaid Hair</a>. In their version, it does take more work to create the long curls that flow down your back, along with using varying colors. It looks really beautiful and fun. But, at least for me, part of the attitude of having the long mermaid hair is that it isn't a lot of work. It's down, or in a long braid, or pulled back into a ponytail. It's easy and simple to change for the weather or what I am doing at the time.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">And, by the way, I plan on doing this until I'm old and gray. Who cares what people say about it being inappropriate to have long hair when you're older anyway. Never tell a redhead she can't do something... </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In the real scheme of things, I admire women who put more effort into their hairstyles, and I appreciate the work that Free People demonstrates on their blog. But, let's be honest, I am - and will always be - a very low maintenance kind of girl, with a definite dislike of shallow living. I'll take the deep end that you can dive into...and the long, natural, and often wet, hair any day.</span>Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8530517620020790656.post-62207385342877628862013-08-10T17:27:00.002-05:002013-08-10T17:44:12.568-05:00Forever Missing Mom<span style="font-size: large;">My mother told me once that you never stop missing your mother. My grandmother died when I was fourteen. My mother never stopped wanting to call her, wanting to hear her voice, and thought about her all the time.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">In June, my mother would have turned 85. She has been gone for almost three years now. I have never stopped wanting to call her, wanting to hear her voice, and I think about her all the time. This morning I woke up thinking I wanted to give her a call. But the phone doesn't reach that far. If only it did.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">She was right. I will never stop missing her. She was one of the sweetest souls I have ever known. She was warm and friendly with everyone, always supported me, and always believed in me - even when no one else did. I miss her laugh most of all, and I remember that even in the hardest of times, her sense of humor carried her through.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">She would have loved the job I started in June - in fact, not only is it a direction she wanted me to go in, I think she somehow had a hand in it. And she knew I wanted to write since I was three years old, and she never let that dream die.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">It's funny how we always want just a little more time with people we have lost. We love them so much and think if we could just have that extra time...But, we know deep down, no matter how much time we were granted, it would still never be enough.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1YxaaOo_J39U92QkdnhQK8o246o8U9JO7USVcVjix8BBlUWjB4oE-OXsElIoPwcPdaEr5mOqqMdWOxDELdligfhBaansBHiB44CAxEA2qxSM-iTRBvRXKiO-VtUHFRn9NXOY4Ii8XjCo/s1600/MomsDaisy-Sept2011.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1YxaaOo_J39U92QkdnhQK8o246o8U9JO7USVcVjix8BBlUWjB4oE-OXsElIoPwcPdaEr5mOqqMdWOxDELdligfhBaansBHiB44CAxEA2qxSM-iTRBvRXKiO-VtUHFRn9NXOY4Ii8XjCo/s1600/MomsDaisy-Sept2011.jpg.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />Free-Spirited Ruminationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367063844047811049noreply@blogger.com0