Honda Element

Have we told you how much we actually love our Honda Element? BBC's Top Gear has their own review but as we realized, Honda was surprised when they learned their original demographic was the college grad, but it's the DINKs that can actually afford the small cost in this 'oh so strong economy' of ours.



See TopGear's review: http://youtube.com/watch?v=gnZBoqWK7kw

Hilarious!

You Tube

Have you have a chance to surf You Tube? Do you even know what it is? Don't fret, I've been so freaking busy with the CalligraphyPets and Collections, that I've been under the radar and away from techy stuff, too. Andrew found it and is absolutely addicted -I simply don't have the time. If I brought out the whip and chair, he wouldn't either.

However! This time last year, I applauded the episode of BBC's Top Gear and the episode of teaching Grannies to drive donuts. It's hiliarous.

BBC's Grannies Doing Donuts

Top Gear Sept 2005 Post: 'A Nun's Vocation'

Experiment #137

I've been meaning to post this for a while.

If you want to waste 5 minutes -and oh, you won't regret it- surround your family around the PC and watch this video. It's just way too cool. Yes, it's G rated, but you'll want to keep your Mentos away from the Diet Coke -or at the very least, away from the kids.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=0qw7ByxX0X8

Iridescent Snowflakes

Recently, I referred to an artist friend, Jeanne, who is a polymer clay maven. I wanted to showcase a piece she gave to me last year as a Christmas present.

This maven knows her medium! She creates individual snowflakes with iridescent colors painted on polymer clay. Punctuated with Swarovski crystals, this delicate design is unique to each piece she handcrafts. Individually designed, signed, and numbered by the artist.

Update: Get yours from Jeanne herself now before the flurries fly out of her studio.

Fine Art ReDiscoveries

Initially, my premise for going to Lazy Days was essentially to check out the booth the Carolina Mix Media Guild had installed. After chatting with my good friend Jeanne at the booth, I also ran into a few of the folks I hadn't seen since one of the two meetings I actually attended this past year.







Moreover, I happened upon a former instructor of mine whose work I absolutely prize: Woody Chaimongkol. His charcoal dust technique is impeccable and I was lucky enough to have taken one of his first courses at Jerry's Art-a-Rama here in Raleigh.

His Web site (woodycharcoal.com) is currently defunct, but I think I'll encourage him to get a few of his pieces up and showcased -his work is too good not to be seen.

Just Say No to Spec Work

An article by writer Mark Evanier is about out working on spec. In his
article, Evanier refers to "Unfinanced Entrepreneurs"

He is quoted,

Unfinanced Entrepreneurs exist because of a fiction about creative people, so widely believed that even some of us writers and artists accept it. The fiction is that writing and drawing are not assets...they are things we whip up out of thin air and which cost nothing to create. If someone steals your work from you, you can always bat out another for nothing.

If you believe this, it's your right, but you do our profession a grave disservice. Every time someone tramples on our work — ruins it, changes it, mauls it, damages it — it's because they have no respect for it. And, generally speaking, they have no respect for that which cost them nothing.

They think writers and artists "just knock it out" but we don't...not really. And even when it seems like we do, it's because of a lifetime of developing whatever skills we bring to each project. My best pal, Sergio Aragonés, once was selling some sketches he'd done. A browser was interested in one but blanched at the hundred-buck price tag.

"How long did it take you to draw that?" he asked.

"About a half-hour," Sergio answered.

The man was horrified: "You expect me to pay you a hundred dollars for a half-hour's work?"

Sergio showed uncommon restraint — at least for Sergio. He calmly said, "You're not paying for the half-hour it took me to do the drawing. You're paying for the forty-one years it took me to learn how to do that."

*****
The most important admonition I can offer is to steer clear of those who want to exploit you. Even when you think you have no better prospect, avoid the Unfinanced Entrepreneur. They not only steal your work...they embezzle a little bit of your soul.

Mark's Link: http://povonline.com/cols/COL210.htm

How to Stretch a Canvas

Ever wonder how to stretch a canvas… correctly? Utrecht's has posted a full-page of the "How To" on page 9 of their Art Supply Fall Catalog. I'm a big fan of diagrams and they've immediately won me over.

Utrecht.com to get on their mailing list.

Who Do You Stalk?

Last weekend Andrew and I attended (walked) a slew of tradeshows in NYC that included the Int'l Gift Fair, Directions, and the Textile Show. We've been walking various shows now for about 3 years. Other shows might include Atlanta Giftware Show (Jan), National Stationery Show (May) and the International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) that runs concurrently with NSS & Surtex -a show at which we exhibit.

The ICFF, in our minds, is just way too cool. If you want inspiration on several levels, be prepared for a surreal onslaught of some of the most talented artisans in the world. This creative collective bunch are an awesome array of industrial designers creating functional casegoods called furniture. One might also see softgoods for the home and accents.

Walking these various shows says much about the consumer. Designer egos are on the chopping block for shoppers and showroom buyers have to seek out the edgy -but not too edgy- for their clients and hope that the trickle down effect actually works. I've been in all 3 positions and I understand the sweat and fear that goes into each. In the end I ask myself -is anyone going to die because of my decision making? Probably not, so don't sweat it, just enjoy and buy what you like.

Meanwhile, I seek out the newbies of the floor. You know them because they've got the smallest booth but have packed a punch in their introductory designs they offer. I ask them how the show is going for them and they all usually reply in the same manner, "Oh, pretty well. Tired but excited to be here."

Wait a few days and return to them and ask the same question and you'll get a variety of responses. Some great, mediocre, and those who don't want to show their grave disappointment but it's clearly written all over their face - we know, we've been there (Atlanta 2005).

We are genuine when we wish them luck (because we like to see good and talented people succeed) and they can feel it -giving them a little boost in their step because we've just revealed our affinity toward their product and appreciate the lonely step in cold waters.

The following year we reintroduce ourselves and congratulate them on returning the second time. It's evident that they either had a decent turnout the last 12 months or have enough passion in their product to realize that they've got a solid winner but just need a few more years to get it out the gate and down the lane. Either way, we wish them luck again and watch their editorial submissions get print time in the popular industry mags and mention, "Hey, I remember your introduction -it was in Dwell!" Just before I leave their space, I'll confess that they're on my radar and they're one of the artists I stalk, "...but not in a bad way," I conclude. I just like to root for the little guy.

It's been my experience that artisans love to be told that they've got a following who is actually watching their career, it's gratifying. I know, I'm there.

Cross-posted from SAVANTBlog

Summer Sailing

Shew! Finally have my Summer Sailing Show Installed at EVOO as well as on Bijouxlled.



Thoughts are always welcomed.

More Venues We Enjoy

Two places we love to frequent while in the city, since it's all about the food:

Focacceria
87 Macdougal Street, Greenwich Village

See! We told you it was tiny! They always have my favorites: Chicken Ravioli in a creamy tomato sauce and a warm chocolate flourless cake with ice cream. Man, we hurt when we leave that place. Oh so good, though.

Boom
152 Spring Street

Don't know what it is about this place that we save for last. More Northern Italian Fare; just can't get enough.

Oh! And at the very end, we stuff ourselves with chocolate gelato from Rocco's Pastry Shop.

What I Enjoy

We just returned from a long weekend in NYC. Yea! We love recharging our batteries in the Big Apple -so much to see & do. Actually, we were walking the NY Gift Show & other trade shows for the biz and it's terrific to write it off.

Here's my list:
1) NYC
2) Sephora
Due to the 'no liquids' policy on airlines, I completely forgot to pack my special facial soap (DDF-Glycolic) I've found perfect for my combo skin. A Sephora location in NYC was gracious enough to give me a sample of a similiar soap (Salicylic Wash - my choice) to complete my trip. It was easy, free, and a great way to maintain a great customer relationship. Yes, I will be going back to purchase that Salicylic Wash I fell in love with.
3) A pair of shoes I purchased at Hudson-Belk that I didn't have to break in; they kept my footsies comfortable thru-out the weekend sans blisters!

Happy Anniversary to Us!

I don't know what's sweeter: Life with Andrew or our Anniversary Cake we request Jennifer to make for us each year.




See our Wedding Cake & Previous Anniversary Cakes

Summer Lesson: Knitting!

While standing at a local craft store with my MIL and needling her with a myriad of questions about knitting, I decided to just bite the bullet and learn to knit. With her guidance, I've learned to both knit and purl. I'm currently working on my first project where I've not had the sense to count my stitches; rest assured, the next project I will and also understand how to keep my tension consistent.

Meanwhile, I am gaining a better respect for knitters.

Photo Friday: Summer

: Summer


Canon Rebel XT

A Fire Under My Revolution

Last week, I was experiencing Jerry Springer's radio show on the progressive channel (XM Radio) for the first time. While Jerry's got a bit of Bill O'Reilly's "I'd like to shirk my own point" mentality, he was reminiscing over protest songs.

I learned that they're not protest songs, but song of justice -dunno if that's PC or a gov't spin for artists back in the 60s. Well, I was utterly moved by a song I had never heard before, "The Revolution Will Not Be Televised" by Gil Scott-Heron from his album 'Pieces of a Man.' Fortunately, I found it on iTunes.

A few excerpts from his lyrics:
You will not be able to plug in, turn on or cop out.
The Revolution will not be Televised
The Revolution will not give your mouth sex appeal
The Revolution will not be Televised
The Revolution will not make you look 5 lbs thinner
Because The Revolution will not be televised, brother
The Revolution will not be brought to you by Xerox.
The Revolution will not be televised.
The Revolution will not go better with Coke.
The Revolution will not be televised.
The Revolution will not give you fresh breath.
The Revolution will not be televised.
The Revolution will put you in the driver's seat
The Revolution will not be televised.
The Revolution will not be a rerun brothers,
The Revolution will be live.

That's just a portion, but immensely riveting for those of us who need a little fire under our own Revolution.

Copyright Fee Increase: July 1st!

Aspiring Artists... the gov't is increasing the fee structure for copyrighting your work. Normally, the work has been $30 per group/per piece, but now the fee structure is all over the table. You'll want to take a look to see how it pertains to you.

Direct link to structure: http://www.copyright.gov/reports/fees2006.html

Happy Birthday to Me

Andrew took a vacation day to spend the day with me. Yea!

After spending the entire weekend working on client stuff, I finally came to bed at 4am and slept for only a few hours. Can't stand sleeping my b-day away!

For dinner, he grilled tuna as a special treat. Yum.

Screaming for Ice Cream

Andrew made us a treat last night... low fat homemade ice cream in our Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker. Man, was it delish!

Recipe:
1 can Low-fat Condensed Milk
2 cups Fat-free half and half
2 oz unsweetened chocolate
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1 tsp vanilla extract

I love that man. It was so smooooooth and rich.

Churchill

Churchill said that when you're at the top, all you have to think about are policies.

When you're second in line, you have to think about what your boss is thinking, and about what your opposite number is thinking, before you can begin to think about policies.

Start your own company, then you can have control of your own destiny. It makes you number one from the start.

Have you started your company yet?

I Heart Gehry

Gehry's architecture has always fascinated me. From facets bursting out of the NY Guggenheim, the recent project of Marque de Riscal winery in Spain and now his partnership w/Tiffany. Naturally, I'm enamored with his sumptuous linework of Equus within his collection. Guess I'll have to wait many years to see that piece in my stocking.

Raleigh Networking for Women

I've been involved in a local networking group for a little over a year now. However, they've decided to formalize but unfortunately, this is isn't aligned w/my business priorities.

Are there any women in the RTP area that would like to continue a free-forum group that permits networking at it's best? I'm not saying that I want to start a grassroots organization -God knows I am absolutely swamped. Although, being able to ask for a housekeeping referral (I need one or two!) or publish reasonable self-promotions & announcements (granted, the holidays you are going to get bombarded) and refrain from flaming those whose beliefs (religious & political) differ from yours would be a great asset to my personal/professional growth.

Anyone game? Please contact me so that we can decide on a YahooGroup nomenclature (free + easy = ROI) and move forward. I'm thinking Triangle Women.

Thoughts? Please let me know.

My Virtual Life: Business Week Cover Story

Speaking of virtual real estate, has anyone read the article in Business Week: May 1:
Virtual World, Real Money? Reader Reports:
http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/06_21/c3985025.htm

Oh, now this is fascinating and can't wait to get personally involved.

Anyone else involved in Second Life? I'm thinking of making Felidae Isle a virtual isle for my frolicking pussy cats. Please let inquiring minds know what to expect because this is truly awesome -and I refrain from using that word "awesome" but it's a bitchin concept that could probably screw with my head in ways I haven't conceived.

Opinions?

Creative Goddess: My squatting rights

After 2 glasses of wine, I realize that CreativeGoddess (creativegoddess.blogspot.com) has not been squatted upon! Is no one else in this universe aligned with creativity and narcissism? Well! If this is the case, let it be me who cast the first stone into the blog squatting atmosphere and usurp this real estate.

Give me time to align my thoughts -which will probably be in June after my mind has time to gel.

Geopolitical Art

I receive Robert Genn's Twice Weekly Letter for artists and found this letter on Geopolitical Art to be particularly interesting.

Many artist's struggle with determining if their pursuits are a personal hobby or if their work is 'good enough' to sell. Rarely, have I heard an artist talk about their work being 'marketable.' Geopolitical art definitely falls into a niche barely touched by individuals seeking work for their dining rooms. Robert Genn's Geopolitical Art helps to at least define one's market if one should pursue this artistic statement.

I've got a few ideas beyond showing work to public gallery curators.

1. After creating large-scale productions, one could reduce their work and create a coffee table book for political aficionados and donate a portion of proceeds to your favorite charity.
2. Create faux stamps homage to your large scale works or allow them to become statements within themselves and affix them to your outgoing mail. I have even framed some of mine.
3. Think of other ways one could make a powerful statement in a clever way.
   

While I'm not much of a political pundit, the moons and planets were aligned just right for my last political statement. Last year, friends of ours were holding a housewarming party and we decided to bring a bottle of wine. Because it was near Halloween and he's a consultant for the Democratic party, we decided to have a bit of scary fun. The wine was purchased from the grocery store, however, the label was just a bit different than one would ordinarily find. Naturally, he and his wife loved it!

Geopolitical Quote for Artists

"If everyone would paint, political re-education would be unnecessary."
Pablo Picasso

Priceless Ad

Just saw a commerical for MasterCard to write my own lines for the 'Priceless' commercial. Unfortunately, it was for their commercial, not mine.

Thus, I've decided to write my own virtual pricessless ad and the timing couldn't be better; Andrew and I have just celebrated our 5th year anniversary of the day we met.

Subscription to match.com: $30
Coffee Date at Borders Bookstore: $2.96
Finally Meeting My Soulmate: Priceless

What's yours?

Googling & Kaboodling

I recently discovered this online tool quite by accident last week. I don't even remember how I found it, now. It's pretty sweet as it takes 'bookmarks' to a new level.

http://www.kaboodle.com/

The tutorials are quite simple and easy to follow. It allows you to snag a URL (+select a specific image as a designated avatar) into a self-made Web page and organize it with tag words. Kaboodle creates 2 *public* default lists:

-ecstewart's shoppinglist
-ecstewart's wishlist

One can also create private categories should you want to gather info for a special project. One can also *invite* friends to private pages for online collaboration.

Hope this works for you.

First Metalsmith Class

This weekend, I finally took a much desired metals class at Flame Kissed Beads that involved creating a sterling silver pendant.

The components include:
Sterling Silver
Copper
Iolite

We applied a texture (+ pickeled it), an applique (+ pickeled it), cut metal (+ pickeled it), choose a gem to fit into a pre-made bezel (+ pickeled it), sweat soldered, and finally, pickeled it. At the very end, we tumbled the piece and fitted the gem. Okay, I might have exaggerated on the pickeling.

Anyhow, I've got my piece and I can't wait to string it!

Vosges Parisenne Hot Chocolate

We found Vosges chocolate cafe in NYC last October and promised ourselves to return before departing the city. We completely forgot!

Alas, my husband brought a treat home for Valentine's Day he found at Wholefoods: Vosges Parisenne Hot Chocolate.



Wow! This is the best hot chocolate I have had during my quest for hot cocoas. While it's a bit expensive ($20 for 16oz), it's worth the sweet, quiet indulgence for just the two of you.

Character Credit

Run a red light recently? Raleigh is considering to apply a blemish to one's credit report should one employ the 'no cop, no stop' mantra.

Actually, I like that.

While I'm against the institution of big brother, I'm pondering the benefit of the character credit system. This might just deter the hypocrites who believe they're above the law and I bet you can name one or two who are either in your own family, community, or those in the public spotlight.

How would this help those who feel the morals are going to dogs these days? I think this could be an interesting start to forcing folks to account for their lack of character.

Think of the parents who tell children not to smoke or not to swear (or worse), but continue to repress any self-control. The parent gets a citation for smoking in a public place gets a mark on his credit report. Hopefully, Jr will learn from Dad's poor judgment before he makes the same mistake.

If an athlete can be forced to pay a fine for bad behavior during a game, and take a seat on the bench, why shouldn't Jr who has just run a red light? Bad behavior has consequences, but for the wealthy, it's not a big deal. Even if their credit score is questionable, they have enough cash to make large purchases that circumvent the issue.

The FCC has fined networks for unexpected illicit behavior during programming all because parents were expecting something appropriate for children. So, when Congress is in session and Cheney tells a fellow Senator to F*Off, is he above the law? I know this certainly isn't the kind of behavior I was expecting out of an elected official, so shouldn't he be fined by the FCC as well and supply a nick on his character credit? At this point, Cheney's record would be black, but that's another story.

Likewise, any good deed also gets included on the character credit report.

What are your thoughts?

English Fare - A Fair Quote

I'll bet what motivated the British to colonize so much of the world is that they were just looking for a decent meal. - Martha Harrison

I'd agree since I've been to London and have been greatly disappointed in their dishes -even the Italian was poor.

I remember eating at the house of an acquaintence who announced she and her husband were heading to England in a few days for holiday. Because the husband had never been, I insisted he eat well before he go. His wife became immediately indignant as though I had insulted her mother. Additionally, I reminded her that I, too, was English and had visited England, so insult was not intended.

She didn't have a sense of humor and neither did the shepherd's pie she was serving.

Disaster Awaits for Visual Artists - A Must Read

No thanks to our beloved Congress, we as visual artists just may kiss our careers goodbye.

Lisa Shaftel, Graphic Artists Guild National Advocacy Committee Chairperson has just alerted us to a grave possibility that Congress will add a proposed statute that is heavily slanted in favor of users.

Full report from the Copyright Office

Lisa's White Paper: http://198.173.235.195/gag_orphan_comment.pdf

Victor Perlman of the ASMP is traveling to Washington DC tomorrow to meet with the Copyright Office and members of Congress to alert them of the devastating effect this addition to our copyright law will have on the livelihoods of visual creators. Nancy Wolff of the Picture Archive Council of America has asked him to speak on the PACA's behalf, and I asked him to represent the Guild as well.

If you're a visual artist or art enthusiast, please get the letters in the mail ASAP, like this week. We will make a greater impact if the senators receive letters right away to reinforce Victor Perlman's visit. We believe Congress will push this legislation through fast, so don't wait.

Sample Letter Here
Senate Judiciary Committee Members

If you don't have the time to write to them all, write to:

The Chair, Senator Arlen Specter
Senators Hatch and Leahy

Because they ordered the Copyright Office to conduct this study, and to the senator from your home state- if one of them serves on this committee. That's 4 letters minimum.

Hard copy letters are most effective: they are tangible and impossible to ignore.
If you don't want to send snail mail, you may send a fax to each senator. Click on their names and it will take you to their homepage with their contact information.

Emails are least effective because
a) they have no tangible presence
b) a low-level staffer reads them and simply tallies a "yes" or "no" comment for a report to a higher staffer, and then deletes them, and
c) they are easy to ignore altogether.

Please, get writing!

Signs of Katrina

Graffiti and temporary signs as a result of Katrina. Paul Wood provides a photographer's collection of signage warning looters, signs begging for help, signs calmly reporting a death, and signs showing that although we lost everything else, we haven't lost our sense of humor.

Check out Katrina Graffiti

Columbia Gets Schooled

Bonnie Fuller, editorial director of such journalistic pantheons as Star, Celebrity Living and Globe (aka: Queen of Crap) was invited to Columbia'’s Graduate School of Journalism, yes folks, journalism.

Amanda Millner-Fairbanks, the person responsible for lining up speakers for the Columbia SPJ chapter was under the assumption that the Columbia SPJ chapter needed some much needed professional advice about... sensationalism.

Millner-Fairbanks has been quoted as saying, "Fuller, is sort of the mother hen of this new form that'’s taken hold and is very profitable," thus justifying the speaking engagement.

Evidently, we don't have enough snakes in the pit to stalk, mislead, or spin bold-face lies about decent citizens. After all, don't we get enough of that from the current administration?

http://www.adage.com/news.cms?newsId=47748

Perhaps There Is Hope

Alberto Gonzales spoke before law students at Georgetown today, justifying illegal, unauthorized surveilance of US citizens, but during the course of his speech the students in class did something pretty ballsy and brave. They got up from their seats and turned their backs to him.


http://insomnia.livejournal.com/652389.html

Self-Esteem: The Rite of Passage

Watching the Superbowl with my husband last night, I was reminded of a recent conversation I had with a local artist, Annelies, about young girls and self-esteem.

To my delight, Unilever, with the brand Dove, has begun just that. Watch their commercial on AdAge.

Hmm... how about Dove partnering with the National Boys & Girls Club? That would be a great start -if they haven't already.

Wake County Women's Center Art Show

Currently, I am involved in a multi-artist show benefitting Wake County's Women's Center. It's being held at the charming Percolator Lounge thru the end of February. Since my work seems to be catching some attention, my framed cats, dogs, birds, and flowers are frequently rotating.

We had our artist reception this last Thursday that included some notables like Marina Bossetti, Jeanne Rhea, Elizabeth Galecke, and Annelies that produced some decent money for the center.

While talking with Annelies about her body casts, I found it interesting that her take wasn't just about pregnant women, but women of all shapes and sizes and to highlight their individuality -not what Hollywood imposes. Falling right into my intensity, we agreed that there may be another women's movement ready to burst as in the 60's, but believing most of it will help by the support of the Indy Film makers.

Young girls and women have such pressure from advertising from even more venues than I had growing up, swirling in the eddy of hopeless dread.

What I'd like to see
I'd like to see a grassroots movement happen- specifically to benefit young girls.

Happy Birthday, Mozart!!

My favorite composer; he's very muse worthy!

http://www.mozartproject.org/

NPR did a brief, albeit enjoyable segment on him last weekend. He was so wickedly naughty and brilliant. Love that!

Favorite Local Art Supply: Askew-Taylor

Kirk of Askew-Taylor has finally placed his brick & morter online! I've been serving patronage to his charming location since I moved down to Raleigh -in 1992.

You must go and say hello for me!

What's Your Narcotic?

An interesting article by WBPark, a New York Cartoonist, who describes his acceptance in a great publication like a narcotic to cartoonists. Park's story typifies each one of us who strive to maintain that committed working relationship we have with our creative-selves.

My personal narcotic, at this point in time, is validation -and I'm getting loads of it. Moreover, my survival tactic thru the low-points is stalking other artists to examine their marketing techniques and determine if it is relavent to my own. All this as I sharpen my own selling blade -while drinking wine, of course.

What's your narcotic? More importantly, how do you survive thru the low points?

Spelling Bee & Matchmaking?

There is a new strategy in the dating scene: An Adult Spelling Bee Contest complete with a martini bar.

The Review
This offbeat mixer revives post-childhood anxiety, but to our good fortunate of being over-age, it allows us to dilute our nerves with a little sweet vermouth at the open bar. Bonding over spelling victories, the singles have spelling categories that range from the raunchy to the ridiculous, such as: Snoop Doggy Dogg, chupacabra, and chlamydia.

While I'm not a martini drinker -but think the glasses are 'oh so cool' and collect them for my outlaws, I hope they've at least created a drink called, 'The Spelling Bee.'

Note to Husband: Don't worry, this site happens to include classes in the arts and it's all done at the 92 Street Y.

Just another reason why I wished I lived in NYC.

Thought for the Day: Publicity

I've been surrounded with issues of publicity this weekend: A multi-artist show (of which I was a part); NPR issues on garnering publicity for illegal acts in the White House; and inane submissions to local newspapers for self-promotion.

Upon commenting on news submissions, my friend Jeanne had this to say:

The way I look at it---we all had better become lobbyists for ourselves---no one is going to do it for us. ;) Wouldn't it be so great if there wasn't enough bad news and they had to fill up the paper with something and they just interviewed artists?

Yeah, wouldn't it be nice to fill our days with good news? More importantly, we must become lobbyists for ourselves -no one is going to do that for us.

My recommendation is to survey a number of artists that you admire and stalk them. Read their news (from PR to blogs) to see what they're up to. You might learn something that you adapt to fit your personal agenda. That's right, you can admit that outloud. Repeat after me:

I-have-a-personal-agenda.

Excellent! Doesn't that feel good to get that out in the open? The first step to becoming a working artist is to acknowledge that you are one.

When did you experience your first acknowledgement? Let me know!

Snowflakes are Blinking

So we've got this digital thermometer in the kitchen that exhibits both indoor & outdoor temperatures as well as humidity. Upon arriving into the kitchen tonight, I see that the mostly full moon is casting a fascinating glow on our deck. Momentarily, the wind seems to have died down and I wonder what the temp is currently, so I pull the down the thermometer off the shelf to examine it.

"Oh, look Pip, the snowflakes are blinking," mindlessly I say to the cat as the temperature & humidity are prime for the white stuff. My mind wanders back to the glowing deck reminiscent of an exotic, sultry evening in the North Carolina summer. After all, the past few days have been a sweet reminder of late August.

However, noting the cruel deception by the stillness of the night, I scurry into the bathroom to empty my bladder for the last time in the evening. God how cold and frigid the nights were in the North and as a kid, refusing to do anything more than necessary before jumping into bed. Moreover, nothing is more sublime than having a toilet seat warmed by a nearby heater.

Would Kansas Deny Prince Charles Entry?

I guess my husband is right, this county is dissolving it's acceptance of other culture's rights... in this case it's to bear historic costume.

This poor kid, Nathan Warmack, was denied entrance into a school dance for donning a full-dress kilt in Jackson School District, Kansas City, MO. Young Mr. Warmack did receive an apology, but never got into the school dance.

Idiots.

A Bloody Honest Politician

This is hilarious! A vampire seeks the ballot for Minnesota governor.

Check out his disciplinary platform.

Hemingway's Landmark Razed by Fire

I dread reading about bad things happening to fabulous spots. Having never been to the Bahamas (yet!), his place was on my life's list.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20060113/en_nm/life_hemingway_dc

What Would Jesus Hang?

As Andrew and I were pondering some items to submit for publication, I asked aloud, "What would someone's grandmother want to hang in her house? Just then Andrew ask, "Well, the real question is, 'What Would Jesus Hang?'"

"That is a good question." as I snort while trying to enjoy my evening wine. "I do know he wouldn't want that damn crucifix hanging on his wall! I can imagine getting the heebie jeebies seeing myself being tortured everytime I turned the corner."

"Is this the thanks I deserve for hanging on the cross for you for 3 days?" Andrew replied as Christ.

"He's got nothing on his mother!" I said. "I carried you in my womb for 9 months!"

Then we recalled the joke recently heard that went like this:
Where would God go for vacation?
Well, he wouldn't go back to Earth, that's for sure. "I went to Earth 2000 years ago, knocked up some Jewish broad and they haven't stopped talking about it since!"

More News on Chocolate

A bit of dark chocolate may do more than just tickle your taste buds.

Eating about 3 1/2 ounces of dark chocolate helped relax people's blood vessels in a recent study, which could help protect cardiovascular health. So go ahead and indulge, but don't overdo it; dark chocolate is still high in calories and fat.
-RealAge Tip

***
Andrew and I definitely indulged in some special chocolate in our stockings this year.












From Chocolove we found

• Rich Dark (65%)
• Strong Dark (70%), and
• Extra Strong Dark (65%)

From Vosges we found

• Red Fire Bar (65%), and
• Oaxaca Bar (75%)

You know what would be exceedingly fun?
A Yoga + Chocolate Retreat in Oaxaca, Mexico!

Happy Festivus, Everyone!

A declared holiday for the rest of us announced by Frank Costanza on Seinfeld. Festivus can be celebrated any day, but December 23 is the preferred day.

Festivus Pole
The tradition begins with a bare aluminum pole, which Frank praises for its "very high strength-to-weight ratio." During Festivus, an unadorned aluminum pole is displayed, apparently in opposition to the commercialization of highly decorated Christmas trees, and because the holiday's creator, Frank Costanza, "find[s] tinsel distracting." Local customs vary and you may be able to decorate your pole with non-threatening plain decorations, or ordinary green garland

The Airing of Grievances
At the Festivus dinner, each participant tells friends and family all of the instances where they disappointed him or her that year.

The Feats of Strength
The head of the family tests his or her strength against one participant of the head's choosing. Festivus is not considered over until the head of the family has been pinned to the ground. A participant is allowed to decline to attempt to pin the head of the family only if they have something better to do instead.

Festivus Poles on Sale | History & Celebrating Festivus

If You Claim to be an Artist, Start Thinking Like One

Recently, a fellow artisan came to me upset. She conveyed that a close colleague of hers had repurposed her work. Unfortunately, this wasn't the only time this appalling act had happened to Sue by this thief, and this thief had committed this unethical act to other unwitting artists.

Have you ever heard an artist, whether in theater or fine arts state, "One day I'm afraid that someone will wake up and discover that I am a fraud?" Well, I've got news for Miss Unprincipled, it's time to wake up and smell the code -of conduct.

It's a shame that people in many walks of life make a decision to become lazy. Laziness is a choice. Sure, plagiarism saves time, but it doesn't save face. Imagine the deepest rewards one can gain by playing with materials or words, then soon discover that it becomes a product -a real product of your own play process. Only you can claim it.

If anyone needs wants a glimpse into the thought process of an artist, Milton Glaser profoundly states:

“Drawing is not about representation but about thinking. Trying to understand what you're looking at ... The brain sends a signal to the hand and the hand sends one back and there is an endless conversation between them.”

There ain't no shortcuts in creative thinking. Production is a result, a by-product of thought -and that's something to put your name on.

2005 Final Show: Carroboro, NC

Well, my portion of the show installation is complete and awaits hungry art collectors for Christmas. Oh, and I'm introducing birds!

Fur & Feathers
Carrboro Arts Center
December 15, 2005 - January 31, 2006



You can find more of my work on these sites:
CalligraphyPets
ECStewart Collections

Wizards of Winter

Last week, in the midst of the harried winter blues, my husband sent me this link. It's fabulous -guaranteed to put anyone in a good mood.

Evidently, the origination of this file is from an engineer in Mason, Ohio. I hope he gets his due credit since I cannot seem to find his name. Please send me his name if you know it.


http://youtube.com/watch.php?v=_ffvVgBm4ig

Art Show #2, 1 to go

I'm exhausted, painfully exhausted, but relieved that it didn't rain Sunday as promised during the Boylan Heights Art Walk. The first hour I could forecast that foot traffic wasn't going to be as good as the previous year; I'm going to blame that on the administration -they're easy targets.

Here's the meager kiosk my husband built for me 2 years ago that has serviced us well. It's evolved, but like anything, we forgot the camera for documentation as well as the sacks for purchases.




You can learn more about our recent revealations and specials on my CalligraphyPets site.

Mickey Sighting

While pouring coffee this morning, I stepped away from the counter with my cup and behold!



Granted he's upside down, but I'm convinced!

***
Update: My friend Jim sent me a link to another Mickey Siting. Hilarious!
http://www.mickeymeow.com/

But you can sleep at night.

I found it! I was looking for an address to send my 4 Humors of Political Horror to Jon Stewart & the Daily Show team and accidentally came across his guest appearance on Crossfire.

If you never saw the clip, it's here: http://mediamatters.org/items/200410160003
I love it. Absolutely love it.

BTW, I can't seem to find the address (snail or email) to the Daily Show. Does anyone have it or a better way than the front door thru Comedy Central?

Thanks!

4 Humors of Political Horror

A friend of Andrew's turned 40 this week and was holding a party tonight for the auspicious event. Within her list of rules, we were not to bring gifts. However, if we wanted to bring something ghoulish to eat or perhaps, dress up for the occassion, we were welcomed. I was too tired to dress, even after Andrew and I decided we needed to bring something wicked for her.

It was 3:30 in the afternoon when he realized we needed to bring a dish to pass. Yeah, right, like that's going to happen now. He then brought up the option of a bottle of wine -well, at least we'd enjoy it. Additionally, it was Halloween and it was a milestone birthday for her, so why not make it a bit frightening -afterall, we do have fodder.

After 15 minutes of doing a little brainstorming in our alchemical lab and charging our talisman, we derived this gift of a bottle of wine with a label that reads:

4 Humors of Horror


Whole Label (click to enlarge):



Well, originally, we know that the theory of the 4 humors were the origin of medical science, and later, they were linked to personality temperaments, becoming the basis of psychology. For centuries, the life's juices were:

• Red blood that flushed a person rosy, feverish, & sweaty
  
• Yellow bile that jaundiced flesh a carrot orange
  
• White mucus that originated in the nose and lungs
  
• Black formed deep within the body and indicated rotting organs
  

What are the 4 Humors of Polical Horror?

• Red Represents the Red States
• Yellow Represents Republican Cowards
• White Repesents the Official Color
• Black Represents the color of Republican Souls
  

Oral Traditions written by Andrew:
The Four Humors of Political Horror haunt the land every few millennia, stealing elections and bringing forced war and fiscal ruin wherever they rule. When attacked they respond by freezing while reading "My Pet Goat" and define an axis of evil to be their enemies (including those who "tried to kill their daddy"). In response they send inadequate forces of unprotected peasants to an insignificant land. Once in power they handsomely reward their friends with huge tax breaks and medals of freedom, defend their actions through lies and deceit and pay for it all by flaying the souls of the less fortunate (taking away their food stamps and healthcare, leaving children behind and making it almost impossible to recover from personal financial disaster).

Libby, Delay, Abramoff and Safavian - Indictments be damned for martyrdom is the price they must pay for blindingly supporting the Four Humors of Political Horror. - Hey guys, you're on your own!

***
Our friend Diana (& friends) was impressed and I was delighted as to how well it turned out. Then again, I am a sucker for aged parchment paper.

Would you buy this wine for yourself? How about for your friends?

Weird & Wacky Londoners: British Invention Show

The Invention show sounds like great fun, but not at my expense. A few of the items revealed this weekend in London were:

• The Egg (offers a full body massage + aroma therapy, music)
• A coolbag that behaves like a fridge
• A rubber hat that keeps cut cucumbers fresh
• A new take on umbrellas.
• The wackiest: A SidewaysBike
  

However, one invention that exuded much discussion was 'The Patch.' Excreeting dopamines to recharge a woman's libido is at a cost: it blocks cravings for chocolate.

I can tell you right now that this chick will not allow anyone to reduce sex and chocolate to a mere coke vs pepsi debate.

Obviously a man invented this little device; he's still pissed that Adam took the penis while Eve took the multi-o's from the grab bag.

reuters.com

An icy-cold beer chaser to the shot of whiskey

Okay, so I drink neither. However, I do drink in The Daily Show and now the new spinoff, The Colbert Report. I'm floored at how much material these guys can spin in 20 minutes, but then again, real newscasts and political speeches will keep them forever foddered.

Perhaps that's not a real word, but I'm guessing it's French, bitch.

Read the NYT article:
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/10/25/arts/television/
25watc.html?incamp=article_popular

NYC: Quiet Observations

As we rested on a bench drinking Porto Rico coffee, we spied these gents hanging infront of ironic signage.

NYC: Eats

Our favorite pasttime in NYC is the food. Man, do we love to eat so we'd like to share some of our favorite haunts with you.

Penang, SOHO - Malaysian Cuisine
Beverage: Beer
Appetiser: Roti (curry potato & chicken)
My main: Buah Mango (Shrimp or Chicken)
Andrew's main: Rice dish with Scallops, Shrimp, & Squid
Dessert: Malaysian Coffee (the secret is condensed milk on the bottom, then coffee)

Oh yum!!

ROTI

Warm, creamy, succulent.

BUAH SHRIMP

Savory, sweet and tart, with a pepper after-taste.

Butterfly Grill, Greenwich Village - Vietnamese Cuisine
Appetiser: Shrimp Summer Roll
My main: Grilled Chicken (stir fried w/lemon grass & chilly)
Andrew's main: Tamarind Shrimp (jumbo cooked in wok w/tamarind sauce)
Beverage: Organic Tea

Very savory.

Focacceria, Greenwich Village - Italian Cuisine
When you're in the mood for excellent red sauce, this place has it. Stay for the dessert -you won't be disappointed.
Appetiser: Mozzarella in Carrozza (we splurged)
My main: Chicken Ravioli (divine)
Andrew's main: Homemade Lasagna
Beverage: Merlot
Dessert: Warm Chocolate cake w/homemade ice cream (a different time)

Get there between the rush and you get great service. The food just melts in your mouth.

Unparenting: The sign of the times

Andrew & I found one hiliarious book this week in NYC: Baby Not On Board A Celebration of Life without Kids.

I knew when I was younger, about the age of a zygote, I definitely did not want children. I tried to fit in with the other girls at school who had already plans for the number of children they wanted as well as names -all without the help of their yet-to-be-snagged husband. All of this pre-planning just gave me the heebie jeebies.

My mantra has always been, "If I want to hear the patter of little feet, I'll put shoes on my cats." Actually, I have put clothes on them, just check out 3WiseCats.

Fortunately, most of my friends believe my steadfast stance but are visibly disappointed. "Oh, you must have at least one!" I've been sent guilt trips via overnight mail and announcements have been made on the 6 o'clock news about how selfish I am or how completely unreasonable I'm being. Some have tried to trick this ol girl by stating, "It seems that those who are completely well-adjusted don't want kids and those that aren't, do!"

Sorry! 'Won't be fooled again!

As a stepparent (~3 years) I didn't find the role all that rewarding or tantalizing. Moreover, we're confident that we won't be saddled with the 24/7 fear as parents.

Meanwhile, my latest concern is how to throw an unbaby shower. If you're wondering what color balloons to attach to the mailbox, it's not the color of the balloons that matter, but that they should be deflated to symbolize an empty womb.

Recently, my MIL has worn this shirt w/pride, "Let me get this straight, my grandchild is a cat." We topped that by getting a collage frame from Target that had lasered text reading, "Grandchildren make us proud."

Oh, and you know we filled it with our pussycats.

Creative Strategy: Mindmapping

Teaching old dogs new tricks is actually easier done than said -spoonerism not intended.

Using mind mapping techniques are used to effectively organize large amounts of information, combining spatial organization & dynamic hierarchical structuring. This technique allows a person to retain information and ideas than by using traditional 'linear' note taking methods. If you have several projects that you'd like to accomplish, mindmapping can be a source of creative freeflow thought that will enable you to generate ideas in a flash. Thus, one doesn't risk being stymied by the notebook ruled paper. Ack!

Some literature makes claims that it allows greater motivation to complete a task, allows one to tap the deeper levels of consciousness by using mind map techniques and these may include developing intuitive powers, combat bullying, create global harmony to working out a business plan. Mindmaps can be drawn by hand, either as 'rough notes', for example, during a lecture or meeting, or can be more sophisticated in quality.

For example, locate a large piece of paper or your wall, draw a circle in the center with the name of your theme in the center of that circle -we'll call this a lake. Begin to build on that theme with bubbles (ponds) with thoughts, ideas, and sketches that flow like tributaries to puddles.

Basic Simple Structure


Adopted Structure

I learned of this technique several years ago via Michel Gelb's Mind Mapping: How to Liberate Your Creative Genius. Additional tools to aid your mindmapping quest: FreeMind Cool Productivity Tool Post-It Notes: They allow you to reposition in accordance to importance The trick is to keep the mind fresh, free from restrictive measures. Waffling your time with fancy tools only hinders and creates a crutch out of them whilst a pocket full of index cards will do.

Creative Authenticity

Hugh MacLeod's work was one of my first posts initiating my new position within new-laden land of the blog-o-sphere.

Well, I've recently discovered his manifesto on How To Be Creative. The value of authenticity and hard work are often shoved in the closet for a shortcut and it's heartbreaking to see this happen to fellow human beings. This manifesto is a definite read for those who:

• Find themselves bitching around the watercooler (stop hanging w/crowds)
  
• Have relinquished their creative sovereignty (be true to yourself)
  
• Believe they will suddenly be discovered (your plan is already doomed)
  
• Don't understand the balance of the 'sex & cash' theory (don't quit your day job)
  
• Refuse to acknowledge the existence of their private Mt Everest (everyone has one)
  
• Use fancy props as a crutch (needing state-of-the-art _(fill in blank)_ to accomplish x)
  
• Adopted another's business plan as their own (our paths are not the same)
  
• Compare themselves to others (practice = authenticity)
  
• Insist drugs & booze make better artists (never a happy ending)
• Underestimate competition & overestimate personal chances (hardwork = reward)
• Are married to the medium for the wrong reasons (payments to Satan aren't cheap)
  
• Seek inspiration in a vacuum (the creative block needs fuel)

and need help in understanding the challenges and rewards of being creative.

Of Course, Global Warming is a Myth!

For this Halloween, Horseback Salad has created a flash video based on the perennial Halloween hit favorite "Monster Mash" called "The Climate Mash."

Enjoy.

http://www.climatemash.org/soe/

After the pedicures....

We head to Tuesday Morning so that honey can realign his manliness by collecting Maistro diecast racing cars for his office.

Tonight, we squeeled when we found, I kid you not, an Art Director Ken Doll. Truly hilarious.

Our monthly dates

Andrew and I took some time out late this afternoon to get our toes done.

Yes folks, pedicures.

I love that Andrew comes with me since the disk between L4 & L5 vertebrae is completely AWOL, his toes have needs that I could remedy. But why should I when we can both enjoy a couples pedi together? Queasy at first and now a convert after his first experience, we have monthly dates for toes.

Once, I arrived alone and the manicurists were curious and disappointed with my solo adventure. Many women customers comment about how jealous they are that their husbands won't partake in the hedonist adventure.

One day, I will take the men out who participate on my advisory board and force them to enjoy a footbath & pedicure; they will never be the same.

Inking my fingers to the bone

Occassionally, I take a hiatus from certain activity then come out with a blustery storm of news.

When I focus, as introverts often do, I bury myself quite deep until I get one project complete. In this case, it's been a deluge of contacting those manufacturers for licensing. Last week, I got a nibble and hence, had to pull together almost 75 images for review. Realizing I had only a few images of one series that wasn't quite up to par, I pulled an all-nighter to get (sketch, ink, scan, & upload to layout) the images I wanted to complete the series.

A day later, I earned the well-deserved headcold as a reward. Where's my MIL's chicken soup when we need it? Bleck. I feel like crap.

The overnight package was delivered as promised. Now, I sit and wait. Actively wait. But first, take it easy for the next couple of days to let my body catch up.

Halloween Swap

I am getting psyched about Halloween. My alter-ego, Phaedrus de la Felidae Isle is hosting our first stamp swap: Halloween!!

Bonkers for Burton

I love Gorey and I love Tim Burton. I cannot wait to see the Corpse Bride and I believe that Johnny Depp (ohhhh what a heart throb) and Helena Bonham Carter make a GREAT cinema couple.

Please don't tell me how it ends!!

Halloween Vote

My question to y'all... Since I'm the creator of CalligraphyPets and have expanded my calligraphic line art under ECStewart Collections, would you be interested in:

• Halloween Greeting Cards that include Cats, Bats, Pumpkins & Witches
• Postcards of all
• Postcards & Stamps
  
• Virtual Postcards
• Other _____________
  

Tell me your vote as this is the first time I am personally deviating from my actually CalligraphyPets line into my absolute favorite holiday.

Vote now!

Gorey Details

I don't know how I happened upon the Gorey site tonight, but I do know it's been a while since I've been able to actually indulge in personal adornments. Tonight, I am finally purchasing the silver sterling cat skating pin. I am completely thrilllllllllllllllllled.

Update: I got it! Isn't he a beauty?

Whoopsie Gras

I couldn't allow this maddness to pass without comment. However, I believe Mark Fiore did a better job than I could ever do.

It's frightening.

http://www.markfiore.com/animation/gras.html

Top Gear: A Nun's Vocation Vacation

Andrew dragged me downstairs to watch a clip from Top Gear last week -and I'm glad he did. Top Gear is an original BBC program that test drives the best and worst vehicles known to man and covers other interesting bits about the industry. With Jeremy Clarkson and his british humour, it's definitely an enjoyable hour; one doesn't waste a perfectly good hour listening. Ah, but we love CarGuys, don't we?

The two funniest back-to-back clips revealed that a Nun could pull her weight in by crawling over several cars in a monster truck!! Second, Jeremy taught a few elderly women how to drive donuts on dry pavement.

Sept 2006 Update: See the Grannies Doing Donuts

I desperately looked for video clips on their site, alas, you'll have to wait for the repeats on Discovery.

Hilarious!

Wedding Anniversary

Being married for 730 days now and 15 hours, it seems like only 2 weeks. When you've found the right partner, the world could just melt away. Commulatively, we've been together for over 4 years, thanks to match.com.

Since, I have contacted the pastry chef, Jennifer, at the NCMuseum of Art to bake us an anniversary cake each year. Because the cake we had for the wedding was so fantastically delish, I decided to make it tradition to enjoy it every year -and this year wasn't different.

Informing Jennifer that we would be requiring this cake every year, I gave her my business card to ensure that we would never lose contact.

Our cake this year:


First Anniversary Cake:


Our wedding cake:

Yewtopia

I love George Seurat. I absolutely adore his Sunday on the Island of La Grande Jatte; I always called it 'Sunday Picnic' for short.

Just recently, I have found Yewtopia. Actually, George Seurat gone 3D -in Columbus, Ohio.

If you enjoy taking virtual trips, you'll like this one.

topiarygarden.org

You're Not the Boss of Me!

There are folks who really don't like Hillary Rodham-Clinton, but I do. Hillary's a strong individual with conviction.

There are many who like Laura Bush as, "...she's got morals -and values." Frankly, I don't care for her. However, she recently tried urging her husband to name a woman or minority to replace Sandra Day O'Connor; he wouldn't listen.

W's morals are based back in the 18th century and probably still views his wife as property. Hence, his decision to nominate John Robert to the Supreme Court.

I'm afraid. I'm very afraid.

Mad as Hell

I wrote a flaming email to ABCNews on July 11. I was mortified by their incredulous act of negligence and flagrant use of hypocrisy between their articles on the video game 'Grand Theft Auto' article and the running of the bulls in Spain. After I wrote it, I realized I had to write the same damn letter to ET (Entertainment Tonight) as they were airing the same horrific footage.

After the news reporting on 9/11 regarding those poor souls who tossed their lives into the hands of the asphalt pavement, one would have thought that news reporting would have been a little more "meaningful."

I think there's a lesson about learning history and repeating it.

Arrrrrgh.

********************
I made the mistake of watching your news program tonight.

You reviewed the article about the video game 'Grand Theft Auto' regarding the violence and now open-source coding for adding pornography to one's personal software. The violence was removed and the naked animated people were pixelated so that we don't see 'graphic content.'

Fine.

Now, the very next scene is the running of the bulls. You don't tell us "Oh by the way, there is graphic content in this story, so sensitive viewers may want to avert their eyes." NOOOOO. You begin with, "There was blood shed in today's 4th day during the running of the bulls as written by Hemingway in Rising Sun..." you cut to a bull goring a guy, raising him in the air with his horn shifted right thru him -and he wasn't the only one shown.

I didn't need to see this, I don't like seeing images like this. I really didn't and it suddenly made me EXTREMELY angry.

You don't juxtapose the pixelated animated human figure and then show me some guy getting brutally impaled. I'm tired of the hypocrisy -damn tired.

As I said, I made the mistake of watching your news program tonight and I certainly won't make that mistake again. I'll be relying on the fake cable news, The Daily Show, as if you had to be reminded and the BBC for my news reporting.
********************
God I was mad.

I am Nietzsche

I scored as Friedrich Nietzsche. I am Friedrich Nietzsche. I am a sweet philosopher who belived that humans are caught up in "herds" and need to break free and be individuals. Also, there are no standards to judge against, because "God is dead." I also probably suffer from a mental illness, probably due to some form of an untreated STD, and will most likely suffer a mental collapse.

Friedrich Nietzsche 61% Martin Heidegger 50% Soren Kierkegaard 43% Jean-Paul Sartre 43% Albert Camus 39% Not An Existentialist 29%

I feel like I've just read a Brezsny's Free Will Astrology.
Which Existentialist Philosopher Are You?
created with QuizFarm.com

Inuit Legend Barbie

So, to my surprise, I discover that Mattel has release the Inuit Legend Barbie. I wonder if she comes with her own inukshuk?

Naughty Chocolate Pudding Cups

Okay, so we've been doing our best to stay away from that big cheesecake house down the street. It's tough, admittedly, especially with their chocolate mousse double layer cake. Oh yum!

Since we've been really trimming down our excesses, even though we eat pretty darn well (fish + veggies), we really do love chocolate. We made a rich and tasty substitute with very little fat, albeit a few calories: Naughty Chocolate Pudding Cups.



Recipe:
One large Jell-O Brand Sugar Free-Fat Free Chocolate Pudding Mix (2.1oz)
Follow directions
Where it says to use 3 cups cold fat free milk, use 2.5 cups milk and .5 cup of Sambrosa Coffee Liquer.
Mix and pour into 4 small ramikins or small coffee cups
Let sit for 24 hours (directions say 5 min, but we found it becomes dense & rich)

Wow!

Kahlua vs Sambrosa
We did use Kahlua, but Andrew decided one night to use more and it became bitter. The sambrosa was a happy accident and when he used more, it remained very smooth and rich.

We've also used Mint Schnapps, but too much can be overwhelming, too. We cut that back to only a couple of tablespoons rather than a full .5 cup.

Illustration Friday: Metropolitan

I feel like I'm cheating here since I didn't really sketch it, but modify it with Photoshop. I promise I won't take the easy way out, but this was the hurried effect since I really should be downstairs painting my husband's new office.


BTW, I will be moving my illustration friday & photo friday assignments to Lisa's Atelier. This space will continue to rant, rave, and highlight special events.

Take Two Viking Kittens and Call Me In the Morning

Ye-haw! I finally found it. A few years ago this crazy Brit, Joel Veitch decided to put kittens and Led Zepplin together and create one of the world's most hilarious animation. He's got more, but this by far is my most favorite.


For a bellyache: Viking Kittens
My second fav: Northern

Why is it on my site? Well, after the world linked to the Viking Kittens playing out the hammer of the Gods, the ISP couldn't handle the load. A couple years elapse and suddenly everyone has this flash animation ready for download for those who want it. I wouldn't normally do this, but Joel's got full copyright credit and this does nothing but promote his work.

To see more kittens stomping thru Europe, visit Joel's site rathergood.com

Church for the Masses

Abston Church of Christ

Time spent better than watching TV? Well, this undertaking took well over a year & a half to plan and construct; it's too bad she doesn't get some kind of commission or donations for her kitty fund.


http://www.amyhughes.org/lego/church/index.html

Maxims for the Self

I've learned a number of things in my mere first 40 years of life and wish there were more than 40 remaining. Weaving through-out my life, I've created maxims for the self.

Maxim 1 Never to make rules for oneself; they only limit your experience as a human being. You never looked good as a curmudgeon anyway.

Maxim 2 Don't become an arm-chair theorist; get out there and do something about that very thing that makes you mad. No one likes a whiner.

Maxim 3 The word "No" is a full sentence.

Maxim 4 Travel. This will make you appreciate what your home has to offer and it will also expand your life beyond your own shortsightedness. If you decide your homelife isn't meeting your expectations upon your return, then change it.

Maxim 5 Find Your Passion. If you don't know what that is, read. Reading a variety of materials and experiencing life will help you begin to develop your personal philosophy.

Maxim 6 Enjoy Risk; don't fear it. Expedite your time awfulizing about how bad things could get by asking yourself, "Could one die from this little adventure?" If the answer is no, do it!

Once in awhile I'll assess my life and count how many risks I've taken in any given time. If my life is feeling stale, I look at an area that needs to be shaken a little and give it a good throttling!

I've made great strides in the last 10 years (specially the last 5) and I certainly wouldn't change any of it. I'm definitely looking forward to the next 10 and hope to double my experiences with aplomb!

Turning 40

I've decided to do something different on this milestone occasion: celebrate my birthday with my beloved and only him. The entire weekend was a wonderful and quiet reflection without the unnecessary noise of chaos to measure my perceive popularity.

Meanwhile, I adore Chez Hayden. I requested Andrew's famous rosemary babyback ribs, fresh sweet corn to be accompanied by Joseph Phelps Vintage 1988 Merlot.

Wow! You want lip smacking goodness, Joseph Phelps never disappoints.

For dessert, my personal culinary alchemist made for me molten lava chocolate mini-cakes baked in individual ramikins. I promise to yank the recipe from his private book soon for you to enjoy.

The Extinction of Big Bird: Saving NPR & PBS

I am sick to death of watching crap like OJ travel for hours in CA inside his cozy vehicle claiming not to be the killer of his ex or Michael Jackson 'getting off' the fact that he sleeps with young boys ad nauseam.

Through continued corruption, the House is threatening to eliminate all public funding for NPR and PBS, starting with "Sesame Street" to "Rick Steve's Travels Through the Back Door." I love these shows because they're not telling me how to succumb to ridiculous peer pressure, but instead remain the free-thinking individual that I am.

Through moveon.org, I've been able to tell my reps that we need publicly-funded media that will inform the public, ask hard questions, and focus on stories that affect real people.

Fortunately, MoveOn.org has reached their 400,000 signatures and now they're pushing for 500,00.

Will yours be one of them? I know mine is!

http://www.moveon.org/publicbroadcasting/

Velvet Scents of Her

Sweet velvet scents eminated from the corner of our au natural yard. Finally, after all of the uprooting of choking english ivy, we saved most of the two huge gardenia plants reaching at great angles toward the sun.

I found several blossoms in full bloom when I decided to take 'Nay Nay outside to visit the big blue room. Two fireflies danced among the camilla bushes, giving me reason to pause and enjoy summer's night air.

Perfect Timing

While talking with Angelique, I asked her a barrage of questions about my flowers and overnight package. She simply didn't know. It seemed selfish, but I needed to know that Mrs Yalda knew she was in my thoughts and waking memories.

I decided to call the attending nurse at Riverbend. She didn't know about the flowers, so she put me on hold. As I waited, eventually, the call got dropped.

Pushing redial, I decided to talk with the receptionist at the desk because they sign for everything, including my flowers and package. The receptionist pushed my call to the 'activities' center. Mia picked up my call and assured me that she received the packaged, opened it and read everything inside. She asked me about the calligraphy, she talked about the Christmas card and the Valentines Card. She said she read the letter to her. As she opened the contents and showed them to her, Mrs Yalda acknowledged everything she saw. As Mia told me this, my eyes began to well and I began to lose composure. She told me everything I needed to hear and I thanked her for all that she did.

I'm taking a giant leap here, but I'm thinking that my sense of urgency and the sway between having the package arrive before 10:30 or in the afternoon was insightful. Moreover, I think that Mrs Yalda was waiting to hear from me before she said goodbye to the world. I'm thinking for one small brief moment, me and my art mattered.

Deadline Duo

This morning I awoke with red, puffy eyes -as though I had been crying heavily. Andrew and I had a fine evening last night as there really wasn't any overt emotional crisis -unless you count my concern for Her.

It was about 1:40 this afternoon when I decided to shower. I was at a stopping point and I was getting hungry. Thoughts of her began to swarm, so I acquiest to grabbing a protein bar from the pantry; I couldn't manage anything else.

God, I hoped someone had read my letter to Her and showed her the greeting cards I had made for her.

You know when people talk about loved ones appearing as they die? It never happened for me. But one thing that kept resonating the last 24 hours and that was to get the overnight package to her with the letter because I knew that timing issues would not allow Him to read the same note I attached to his email.

Thank God for UPS.

With a half-eaten protein bar, I turned on the water for the shower. As I showered, I thought of the ways people are told about death. I imagined feeling her leave the Earth and being cognizant of her departure. I imagined her ghostly stance among the crowd at the SURTEX booth with pride and enveloping warmth. I imagined receiving a call an hour later acknowledging her death. I imagined having to reveal this to Andrew as we stood among buyers in our booth. I imagined an overwhelming scent of roses in the booth.

Update
1 An hour after my shower, Angelique called. Mrs. Yalda passed away.
2 One day when Andrew ran an errand during our stint at Surtex, he returned with a bag full of goodies. An overwhelming scent of roses filled the air as he claimed that the Chinese women forced him to take these scented soaps as a freebie for his purchase.
3 My lucid dreaming kept taking me to the lower level (main hub of Surtex) of the Javit's Center, not upstairs where my rented space was in the sunshine. This week, I got a call to move my booth to the main hub of Surtex -we took it.

Deadlines

I awoke with the anticipation of tracking the UPS package and the flowers. They indeed arrive at 10:10 and 10:48 respectively. Deep sigh of relief. Now, I still hoped that someone at the home at the sense of urgency to open the package and reveal the contents. Further, I wanted 'the letter' read to her.

He had responded to my email I wrote last night. He was surpised that the staff was as tight lipped as they were. Surprise, surprise. I wrote him back asking him not to turn her case into another Terri Schiavo. After her issues with diabetes, being overweight, her heart attacks, the death of her dog and her husband last year, and the fact that she conceded to give her house to the kids, she had finished her work. I had asked him to be aware of that because she had no more concerns with life in general.

I continued to work feveriously on my illustrations as I was so far behind on the series and SURTEX is only next week. I still have yet to stylize them, put them into layout compositions for each page and create suggested prototypes for them. I managed to finish inking the gardening, topiaries, and patio for scanning.

The Calling of My Name

For the past several days after hearing she had been moved to an assisted care facility, I wanted to call. I didn't have the number but that was no excuse, Google works for every person. Perhaps I didn't want to hear the worst.

I called Riverbend to learn that I was not on the 'need to know' basis as I had requested long ago. I told the attending nurse that I wanted to know of her condition but she was bound by law not to divulge. Am I family? How does one define family? If anyone knew me, they would know that family is not only defined by blood, but also by choice.

Earlier yesterday, I was still snoozing as I often do for about an hour after Andrew rises each morning. I am also up later than he and require more sleep. He shuffles out of the bedroom, preventing the cats from racing in to pounce on me and routinely annoy me by scratching at my head buried under the sheets. I could hear some add'l activity but the sheets muffled my ears so my brain couldn't decipher the noise.

Clearly I heard my name. The calling of my name was crystal clear but I couldn't remember by what name I was called. Andrew and I have nicknames for each other (Punkin and Muffin thanks to Pulp Fiction) and I've grown up with several nicknames as a kid. My brain heard all of them simulatenously and clear as a bell. I still couldn't tell if the voice(s) I heard calling me was male or female, but I assumed it was Andrew. The summond sounded intense, hurried, and desperate.

I called out to respond, but no answer.

Minutes later, when I finally slipped out of bed, I found Andrew standing near the sink pouring me a cup of coffee. I asked him why he called me but he insisted he did not.

Later in the day, when I returned from the post office dropping off 120 pieces for my SURTEX mailing, there was a pull, a tug like someone was either grabbing my sternum and walking me toward my PC I have dedicated as my mail machine or pushing me toward it. I realized I was Googling the number for Riverbend so that I could finally call her.

As I spoke to the attending nurse, I understood the 'bound by law' and confidentiality for family, but I thought Steve has the sense to put me on the freakin 'need to know' list as I requested several months ago. Musta slipped his mind. The nurse encouraged me to visit as she indicated all family members do because she wasn't doing well.

Wasn't doing well?

There wasn't more she could say so I resolved to hang up because it made no sense to harrass her -she was 'bound by law.'

Within the next hour, I cried, I reminist, I pondered, and I decided to act by calling back the nurse to see if She could receive flowers. I was reminded the facility was much like a hospital except they didn't have TV or a phone and she indeed could receive flowers. I asked the nurse again about what she meant when she said the She wasn't doing well. She said it wasn't imminent, but she could go either way.

Imminent. Either way? Now that's vague and strong.

She also said that after my first call, she ran into Her room to tell her Brat called. Evidently, upon hearing that, her spirit picked up with recognition. I asked her if She was cogent and the nurse indicated that Her eyes would open when someone entered the room.

I found proflowers and bought two dozen assorted roses for her to at least smell if she couldn't see. I just didn't know her situation because I wasn't being told a damn thing. The roses were being sent overnight and anticipated arrival the next morning.

Knowing the flowers were being delivered, I quickly put an overnight package together that contained a belated Christmas Card, a St. Valentine's Day Card, a mother's day card and a letter. The letter was a quick and dirty stationery filled with most of the illustrations I was creating for SURTEX so that she could see what I've been doing with my days and inspirations as a successful artist. The letter was to remind her how much her love, guidance, patience and belief in me meant over the past 24 years. I hoped that someone in the home had the sense of urgency to open it and reveal all of the goodies to her and read the letter. I hoped the package would be received in time.

Is this where we come to recapture our youth?

A wonderful sound came streaming thru the neighborhood tonight. We had just finished a glass of red on the deck and Andrew began preparing dinner. The sun was setting later tonight, due to the benefit of Daily Saving Time occuring yesterday.

Our back screen door thwacked shut, echoing thru the wooded backyard into the peace of day that I most enjoy, as I stopped and perked my ears. "Was that...? Noooooooo." Silence. "Wait, there it is again!" I threw open the abused screen door to stroll out on to the deck to get a better listen. "Hark! I think me hears annnnn ICE CREAM TRUCK!"

The music danced among the newly budded trees as I desperately surveyed across the backyards to spot a hint of the traditional white truck. It's driving slowly but it's still in the 'hood. At the same instant, Andrew and I spied the very white truck driving thru our T-zone and down the street.

I thought it soooo cool that I beckoned Andrew to join me in stopping the truck for 'old time's sake.' We stood on our lawn for only a moment when he saw it parked in the nearby cul-de-sac. Woo-hoo! Let's go get ice cream!

There was only a small family of 3 claiming their prizes standing by the opened window of the truck. We approached the van nostalgically and asked, "Is this where we come to recapture our youth?"

Ahh, a fond memory -relived in my own neighborhood. We had to purchase two chocolate tacos (very new to me) and we promptly put them in the basement freezer to forget.

Creative Living as Luxe?

I am an artist. I believe we are all artists. I've been caught saying this before and have influenced other thinkers on this matter: No matter how one thinks of oneself, one is an artist. Even while doing dishes, the very act of doing the dishes is performance art -every act thereafter is just derivative of that act. Composing music, writing, illustrating, acting are just imitations of that act caught two-dimensionally.

So why is it after 40 years I've just confessed to myself that creating art was a luxury? I knew that year 40 would be a magical year. This year is the coming of age story of myself where I take direction with the knowledge I have experienced and acquired and put it to go use. Very good use.

I find myself frequently saying, "Thank God for Andrew." He was the one who has enabled me to focus and create art work worthy of other's adoration. As I played with paints, beads, and ink, we both found unique statement that begins a series worthy of reproduction.

I now believe creating art is not a luxury, but a mandate ordered to fulfill my promise to the world. I am liking this mandate.

What is a fate worse than death?

Having the Bush Administration decide when one lives and dies.

Today, I signed into law a bill that will allow federal courts to hear a claim by or on behalf of Terri Schiavo for violation of her rights relating to the withholding or withdrawal of food, fluids, or medical treatment necessary to sustain her life," Bush said in a statement.

Just another reason leaving the US is a good idea. Canada is too cold, although I never met a Canuk I didn't like. Perhaps Spain? Nah, then I'd really learn to hate the British -the Gibralter issue and all that. Italy? Nah, the highest appeals ruled that women wearing jeans can't be raped. Any place North of those two is just too damn cold.

My little icon to the right states that I'm in an imaginative mood. That may be, but I'm getting really very angry.

This is my public statement: Being of sound mind and body, I hereby ask anyone to pull the plug on my life support after a reasonable time of incapacitation. Allow me to define reasonable: If I am in a coma, allow 3 weeks, then pull feeding tubes and other man-made objects from my body. I cannot conceive of providing a fulfilling life to myself or to my husband if I have brain damage of any extent. I am an artist and if I cannot create, I am not living a productive life. I do not want battles over sustaining my life. Just pull the damn plugs.

Quote from The Incredibles

"Luck favors the prepared."
Edna, the designer to ElastiGirl

10 Things I Have Learned by Milton Glaser

Milton Glaser was a mentor of mine in college, although he didn't know it. Upon design class enrollment, we were to learn his name, study his philosophy, and emulate his passion. God help any of us if we could be so enlightened and talented.

Meanwhile, Professor Milton has created a collage of learned ideas influenced by artisans all over the world. Cultures include African groups to the Balinese whose approach to art is not a separate activity from daily life. I believe life is performance art, and if this is true, I'm almost always embarrassing myself onstage.

Here's a list of Milton's practice of design repackaged attractively from the past 50 years:

1 - You can only work for people that you like
2 - If you have a choice, never have a job
3 - Some people are toxic, avoid them
4 - Professionalism is not enough or The Good is the Enemy of the Great
5 - Less is not necessarily more
6 - Style is not to be trusted
7 - How you live changes your brain
8 - Doubt is better than certainty
9 - Solving the problem is more important that being right
10 - Tell the Truth

How tunes get stuck in your head

BBC NEWS | Health | How tunes get stuck in your head

Don't want that song swirling in your brain like an eddie? The key is to finish listening to the song before turning it off!

If you can't do this, we've come up with a couple of songs that will turn your brain station channel:

Karma Chameleon
Wake Me Up Before You Go Go

Do you have any to recommend?