My First Published Photo!

Here's the calendar etc. Very exciting stuff!

The best laid plans of mice and men--one of my mom's favorite sayings. This morning when there was a break in the rain, I took Baxter for a walk. Let's just say he was having some trouble relieving himself which took some intervention on my part. It resulted in an unintended bath for Baxter. He is nice and fluffy now.

When I was done with that I heard this noise--I thought it was the air conditioner but, no, it was the hall toilet running. Weird--it just started on its own. I took the lid off and lifted stuff to no avail. I was trying hard not to call Bruce as he has so many problems he has to deal with on all his jobs but it became necessary. He instructed me to turn off the water. I'm sure it is something simple and he'll be able to fix it when he gets home. We have had our share of house troubles lately. Last week we replaced the pool pump for $420. The air conditioner was leaking on the carpet but that fix was simple--I'd neglected to change the filter for too long.

Halloween is over for another year. I had so few children that it was weird. Baxter barked his little head off at the ones who came. In years past the same children would come to the side door (our driveway is there) and then the front door. I was always amazed that they seemed to not realize it was the same house as both doors are painted a light terra cotta color--not just some brown door. Nonetheless, I used to say--you just visited me at the other door! They feigned innocence. None of that tonight.

I put a link on my blog to Last.fm--I highly recommend it if you like music. You put in someone you like and then they play music for you of the same ilk. You get to hear people you would have never heard of--I've got mine going right now. I put Nick Drake in and I've heard some great tunes--I just listened to a Danish guy--Teitur that was marvelous.

So Bruce called, as you know he's working in the DC area. It took him FOUR hours to go 45 miles--and we thought Orlando's traffic was bad. Can you imagine?

Wisdom is Better Than Strength

This photo is from inside Knowles Chapel on the Rollins College campus. As some of you know, Bill and Dave graduated Rollins with Economic degrees. It is a beautiful campus; one of the prettiest places in Central Florida. It was my intention to continue on at Rollins in the night school (it's way too expensive in the day) but, at this point, I think I may take a semester off to evaluate my next move.

I'm drowning in school work. I spent most of my museum time reading about Middle Ages and Renaissance music today. Consequently, I was prepared to take the online quiz which I did after I ate dinner. I have to watch the film Breathless and read several criticisms before the response is due on Friday. As well, I'm working on my informative speech. I am going to demonstrate how to make a vegan chocolate cake. Now I'm assuming that I can do the demonstration and speak at the same time, as I certainly have had practice doing two things as once as a mother, but we'll see. I'm mulling over the script at present. My plan is to take a glass bowl and the ingredients--mix them there and pour into pan. Prior to class I will be making mini-cupcakes to hand out. That will be Thursday's job.

I just noticed while looking at my bulletin board that a Radiology continuing education seminar is scheduled for Saturday morning. I need to keep going to those to keep up my license. I'll have to work out something with Karen at the museum so I can attend. I'm glad I saw it as I'd forgotten all about it. I am terrible with dates anymore. I do know what day it is, but usually I forget the date. As such, I forgot to mention that October 27th was my sister Nancy's 50th birthday--Happy belated Nancy.

Here's what I can keep straight:
Monday--little market
Tuesday--museum
Wednesday--film class
Thursday--NOTHING/online music class is what I should schedule here
Friday--clean house, laundry and speech class--usually date with Bruce
Saturday--museum
Sunday--downtown market

Of course, I have to have time to take,edit and order pictures. I am just thrilled that I can do this stuff--last year at this time it would have been impossible. It is 9 o'clock and pouring. We have been having unseasonable rains which is getting old. Please go alleviate a drought somewhere, will you?

Rain Out

Watch the City Council

City Council Meetings - Decisions 2007 gives you gavel to gavel coverage of the City of Orlando Council meetings. Meetings are broadcast the day of the meeting at 2 p.m. on Orange TV channel 9, and repeated Wednesday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. See Orange TV's broadcast sc

We certainly have some catching up to do.

The picture--terrible of course, but you get the idea. The Halloween party was a smash. The decorations were amazing, as was the food and guests. People came in an array of fun costumes. I didn't tell you that Bruce went as a witch doctor. The boys were so shocked Bill hardly knew it was his dad. I've put together a Picasa web album with the pictures; possibly I'll figure out how to make a link to it in the next few days. Unfortunately we didn't get home until about 1:30AM, about four hours past our bedtime. The market beckoned...

Another slow day at the market. Our neighbors, the plant vendors, joked that they had hit the bottom at the market--they just bought a new van hoping for an upswing. Nevertheless, I did sell something and the gentleman asked if I had more on the subject. Naturally, because I am camera crazy I had plenty more to share. I sent him a web album and hopefully he will order something else. If not tomorrow, maybe in the future.

We were so exhausted that as soon as I'd finished my homework and a meal of leftover party food, we hit the sack. Bruce had to leave before 5 AM today and won't return until Friday night. Ick!

Today was eventful. I had the other market at 9 where I duly set up. It was raining all night long and you guessed it--a rain out. Fortunately we did not close up before a family took three prints back to New Hampshire. It was fine by me. It rained steadily on my way home, but the traffic was fine, and I sailed along.

When I got home I checked my e-mail to see if the woman from the city had responded to one I sent before I left. No new e-mail. You see, this is the day that I allegedly was to get the money for having a winning entry to the city calendar photo contest. Here's the bottom line. The mayor presented certificates and a check for $100 at the city council meeting! I did not dress for the television camera. I looked fine, but had I known it was going to be on TV, I might have done better. Apparently, the council meetings are broadcast live, with the link above I should be able to see it for myself. However, I'm not able to open it. At any rate, it was interesting. What most interested me was the way that the mayor lifted his chin purposely with this goofy fake smile each time they took his picture. I suppose that I shouldn't even mention it because Lord knows, I can't take a decent picture to save my life, but I feel I must. I can just imagine how there are consultants coaching him on how to reduce his double chin in photographs, and how many teeth to show etc. That is the thing that I like so much about Patty Sheehan, the commissioner I showed in last week or so. Her smile seems so genuine that you cannot help being charmed by her. It turns out her aide won an award for being an outstanding employee; we walked out together. He was charming as well, professing his love for her, and her tireless work for the downtown district. I totally believed him.

Speaking of consultants--I have my own. Matthew called this afternoon and boy did we chat up the phone lines. Two hours or so. He is in management consulting--it is no wonder they pay him a ton. We discussed the market, writing argument papers for college, he gave me a tutorial on how to think critically about art (he reads the blog so knows my frustration with the film class), Glasgow, and Manchester (he was there last week), the cost of living in London (he's probably the only person you will ever hear of that is saving tons of money while living there), my upcoming speech (he's the inspiration), computer stuff, his visit to Orlando at Christmas, some ideas I had about future photography products, and more. Now you know what I'm talking about... I so miss it when we go two weeks without a phone call, I end up monopolizing the conversation which is sorta crazy. Typically, at this stage of my life I wouldn't be doing so much, and he'd be doing tons. He is doing tons, but, so am I. He thinks critically about everything, so when I propose an idea he has an answer for what is either good or bad about it. It's really invaluable advice and to think I get it for free. I can't wait to see him in less than two months.

Too add to the happiness of the day both Bill and Dave called. I'm a lucky mom.

Finally, A Makeup Session

I told you that Michelle and Dave were having a Halloween party--well, this is the night. Michelle has been my costume consultant and now she has done my makeup. Here she is with the magic tools.

I personally have never seen such an array of makeup products except at the department store. I suspect this is only a sampling of what she has. She always looks amazingly polished; Maureen and I have been dying for her to do that to us. I got my chance and I was all over it.

I lost track of all the stuff that went on my face, but I do remember that there were two undercoats, primers if you will, BEFORE the concealer went on! She asked me if I liked eye liner on the bottom, I had to confess that I'd never tried it. I looked up, looked down, and she made it happen. Because the time was getting late we opted out of the false eyelashes. She gave me a little lesson on how to use an eyelash curler, which, although I own, and even attempt to use, I am never successful.

She also worked magic on my lips. They look like I'm almost 54. She did some pencil stuff, then some stain. She quickly applied this stuff and said it might sting. I said, "I don't feel a thing." Well, that was immediately after application. Soon enough, the tingle began. Turns out, it was a lip plumper! Indeed, it was even more than a tingle, but I was totally game. It was amazingly sweet of her to do it because the party was only hours away, yet, she worked like a craftsman--which indeed she is! Bruce says I look beautiful, more so than he's seen in awhile! Maureen will be very sorry she didn't answer the phone so she could come over and watch the transformation!

I missed my darling Matthew's call yet again today as I was working very hard (for a change) at the museum. We'll talk more about that later.

Consistency

A friend of mine said I was so consistent about blogging. She's right. When I say I will do something, I usually do. She is about twenty five years younger than me and that may be why she feels she is less consistent than I. Probably when you become a mother, as I did when I was 23, you begin to develop consistent habits. You really have no choice in the matter as your child needs feeding, bathing, rocking, and loving. Mind you, those are not necessarily in order. I'd really put loving in the top position.

As well, I've been in love with the same man forever. For those of you who don't know the story--I met Bruce when we were about 10, started going steady when I was 13, and here I am, two months shy of my 54th birthday, and he's still the one.

So, I hit the publish button only to realize I didn't explain the picture. Bruce used this gel for a few years only to have it disappear from shelves. This very week I looked online for it. A quick stop at Marshalls for tea and there it was. The great part is that not only did I find it, but it was on sale + another 25% off. He will have hair gel for two years after this find.

Consistent habits help when you take an online class. The assignments are there, you must do them in a specified time. I'm really enjoying the music class, much more than I thought I would. There's no excuse for not getting an A in that class as the quizzes are naturally all open book. I have a listening exercise that I've listened to once that I have to make assessments about. I'll need another session or two before I want to respond.

Remember that dreadful frog that I pictured some months ago. The windowsill is still occupied by the amphibian--he stays in the exact spot, day after day. I wonder what he's thinking, or what the purpose of his perch is.

Since I've gone camera crazy I feel like I've missed a lot about the world. I always considered myself someone who notices details. I must confess that I notice them tenfold these days.

David and Michelle are having a Halloween party. Fortunately for me, Michelle has dreamed up the idea that I will be a cat. Her intention is to apply false eyelashes and makeup Saturday afternoon before the big event. I am not a costume girl. When I worked a co-worker had an annual Halloween party and I was consistently challenged coming up with a costume. There's that consistency word again.

Maureen is working with Gus to change some bad habits--like doing his business in the house after a long walk. I'm hoping she will be successful. Do you think it is easier for dogs to change bad habits than humans?

Jonathan called and is doing beautifully at his position. He's still a temp there but the plan is to hire him after they sort out the temp agency situation. I always knew he would be successful.

I had a delightful surprise yesterday afternoon. I almost never use my cellphone--when it rings, I'm flustered. Can I find it at the bottom of my purse before it goes to missed call? While eating lunch I heard it ring, fortunately I retrieved it before it quit ringing. Wait--is that really ringing? I think it is gonging or some such thing. At any rate, it was Jennifer. You may remember that she was in my Historical Geology class in the Spring semester.By the way, for those of you who have wondered where that silly Bioclastic flickr name came from, now you know. It was a real joy to chat with her. She transfered to University of Florida (yes, the dreaded Gators if you are a Seminole fan) and things are going perfectly for her. She turned 21 recently. My children probably think it is plain crazy that young people like their old mom, but, it happens.

Singin' in the Rain

Is this one of the most adorable little girls you have ever seen, or what? I literally had to stop a conversation I was having with someone at the market to shoot this. Those little shoes, and that dress just make me smile.

I felt much better today, I think the slight temperature drop helped. But then again, who knows?

Tonight we watched Singin' in the Rain and I loved it. I could not believe how smiley all the characters were,in particular, Gene Kelly. Wow, the dancing and singing were just incredible. Lately I've been nostalgic for our mom and this added to it. She used to be a tap dancer when she was young; even still had her tap shoes until I wore them some years ago as part of a Halloween costume. Times like these when I would love to ask her about it....

You will be happy to know that I got a 100 on the midterm in that class. As well, the responses that I bitched about were 100s. I imagine you are thinking how couldn't you get a good grade in that class, apparently there were those who didn't. He is trying to be creative and come up with a way for students to earn points to add to their grade.

No word from Mr. Roger yet on their son.

It is so challenging for Bruce right now; I feel just terrible for him. Typically he calls me nightly at 9 to chat when he is on the road. These days I can't even keep his whereabouts straight, nor his schedule. He is up weird hours and sleeping when he can. Sad.

I've just completed The Power of One. I saw it at the library and thought for sure my sister-in-law Judy recommended it. You may know that she is a venerable high school English teacher in town. Anyway, it is a good story about a persecuted young boy who aspires to be the welter-weight champion of the world. The setting is South Africa, beginning in the late 1930s. 500 pages later, give or take a few, I'm torn. Africa is a big continent-- it was just a little too pat for me, with him re-meeting his persecutor years later etc. You may like it.

I always need something to read because I don't watch television--on our bookshelf I found a book of short stories by the wonderful Canadian writer, Carol Shields. The first two stories were remarkable. I believe she died of breast cancer several years ago.

Speaking of which--Pink October. It's importance has gotten way out of hand in my book. It started years ago quietly and has grown to gargantuan proportions. I know I sound like a cynic, but the media, and marketplace have turned it into a circus. No amount of money raised will solve the riddle. What happens is some research is done, people jump on that bandwagon because they don't want to sound like dissenters. Eventually that theory is proven to be hogwash, another replaces it, and the cycle continues. What isn't said is that MOST women will never get breast cancer!!!!!!!
I can't say that often enough. Another fact is that most of the breast cancers that are discovered via mammograms are tiny, tiny, and probably would never threaten a woman's life. It is just that they don't know for certain (although some researchers are working on this) if you left it alone what would happen. Most women are not willing to be guinea pigs, so the minutest cancers are treated aggressively. I'm even hearing of young woman opting for double mastectomies. This is pure craziness.
I liken it to skin cancer. There are three kinds, basal, squamous, and melanoma. Only melanoma kills, the others are a dermatologists bread and butter.

For those of you who have known someone who died from breast cancer, I sympathize. I do as well. It's just that the industry has taken on a life of its' own way out of proportion to the actual problem. I read an article a few years ago in the New York Times about how much is actually donated and it's not much. It has just become a big marketing campaign. Alright, I'm done ranting on this subject.

Two Versions

So there is lots I didn't tell you about my crane encounter. I met a friendly woman walking three dogs on the trail in this forest off SR46 last Thursday morning. She was from the area and told me about Wilson's Landing just across the main highway. She described a nice view of the Wekiwa River, so I was all over that idea. What I didn't expect was to see Sandhill Cranes. Mind you, I had never seen these cool birds before. As it turns out they are a relative of the endangered Whooping Crane, sometimes acting as surrogate parents to baby WCs. They are somewhat endangered in their own right. In reality, during my encounter I had no idea what they were, and certainly nothing of their habits.

I pull into a lovely spot--I share the entire area with only what looked to be a grandfather and grandchild resting in a shelter with their bikes nearby. I saw the two long-legged birds in a field, immediately heading their way. Did I tell you I got some special shooting shoes? I hate traditional tennis shoes for everyday, and found these cute slip on things that keep my feet dry when I'm tramping by lakes etc.
Forgive me, I digress.

I begin my stalk and of all things they come towards me. As I draw closer they begin this bizarre dance with me shooting like mad--you see I was unsuccessful as the camera had no idea where to focus. I still wanted to post one of them so you get the idea that these birds may look graceful walking but are capable of wild, and crazy things!

I decide to leave them alone and head down to the riverfront. Although the river was quite wide there it wasn't that scenic because there was some crud floating on the top of a good bit of it. It wasn't trash--I really don't know how to describe it. By now I shared the park with about forty vultures that were on the rooftop of a house and all in the trees--they give me the creeps. You won't have to suffer through pictures of them I can assure you. I also saw a Pileated Woodpecker in a Magnolia tree. If you are unfamiliar with them they are at least twice the size of a normal one. No decent shots of the woodpecker were obtained.

I was getting tired, but decided one last try with the cranes. I found them near the tree line and started following them. In an effort to get them to dance again I started making weird noises. Mind you, I had no idea if it would work, but hey, why not? What did happen is that they started making weird noises themselves; I mean VERY LOUD noises. Since then I've read they can be heard miles away. I missed my chance, no repeat of the dancing display.

In my previous post I called them Mr. and Mrs. because apparently they mate for life; You will always see them in pairs. Of all things yesterday morning I decided to get creative going out to that other market. I took a different exit off the interstate and ended up at Disney's Wide World of Sports. As it was only 7ish in the morning there were no folks around except for one man I found sitting in his truck. I asked directions, and he pointed me where I needed to go. I'm on this winding, foggy road and what should I see, but two huge birds flying in for a landing. You are clever, that's right two Sand Hill Cranes landed in a field. Lovely in flight.

Monday, Monday

I am very lucky I don't have to make a living selling photographs as I'd surely be out on the streets by now! Yesterday the canvas sold, which was super--today nothing. Unfortunately, our produce people at the market need to sell all that they bring to market as they have SIX children, one with Downs Syndrome. We heard from our neighbor vendor that they had been at a festival the day before where they brought a trailer full of pumpkins that did not sell. It wasn't their fault, but the organizers who had called them several times urging them to bring scads. The bad news is that there was another group (?) giving them away at that same festival. Needless to say Jonathan and Amy had tons left over which you see here artfully arranged. I felt so terrible for them we bought two which, with this heat, will probably be rotten before Halloween.

It is 90 degrees today and I felt every degree of it this morning--probably adding to my not feeling very good right now. I have had some problems over the weekend, but have just kept going.

I was watching the FSU--Miami game Saturday evening when we left to meet with Michael and Jane for dinner. The game was close all the way through; we finally got it on the radio. There was a huge play when FSU stopped the Hurricanes on the two inch line and then the radio station cut out! It was just as well that I didn't see the last five minutes as our quarterback made some very costly mistakes which essentially gave the game away. Painful.

Bruce left this morning at 5 again for another very long week. I miss him terribly, but this spell will not last forever. I feel awful he has to work such long hours--some days it was 19!! Those of you who know Bruce know that he is capable of doing so and doing it well.

Pat and Ruth were kind enough to bring a crate over to Maureen this weekend for the dog. I think she has settled on the name "Gusto" which seems to suit him perfectly. In one week he has nearly driven her crazy with his boundless energy and curiosity. Of course she wouldn't want a dull dog but she would like to have a little peace back in her home. He apparently went in the crate willingly and she could finally relax.

TGIF

Typically I don't feel like the title suggests, but this week is an exception. I've completed my mid-terms, my paper, my speech, and the gallery thing. I hope I did well on them all.

Naturally, when you want to take a decent picture, you can't. My wonderful neighbor Regina took my picture twice, both had motion, not to mention goofy looks on my face. Thank goodness for friends and family coming because the crowd never materialized. I was one of about ten artists that were featured. Wait a minute--I've never used that term to describe myself--I take it back. I was the pretender in the group.

Maureen and Lynn came by on their way to Maureen's birthday dinner which was a welcome surprise. Lisa came early and stayed late. It was such a blessing to have my sisters there. It is in an out of the way spot, so I feel grateful for those who found it. Oh yes, Olga, our CPA, and her husband came on their way out to dinner. What a charming couple they are with two of the most darling children you can imagine. Last quarter she helped me fill out my state sales tax form--I told her this time I'll have some sales to report!

I just got off the phone with Mr. Roger. You, of course, know who I mean. The man that has transformed my business--yes, that Mr. Roger. At any rate, their son (can't remember exact age--early 20's) was to have had surgery yesterday morning for what seemed to be benign masses in his sinuses. Now they are not so sure they are benign. He's in the hospital right now recovering from a spinal tap, surgery is scheduled for next Tuesday. My heart goes out to him and his wonderful wife Trish--not to mention their son. It is a parent's worst nightmare--something wrong with one of their children. Pray for them please.

Additionally, he told me about a woman who started a website called INOD.org. It is for people who KNOW something is wrong with them, but the medical community has been anything but helpful. Hmmmmmm.......I'll have to check it out.

My darling Bruce did not arrive home until around 8 last night. When I returned after 9 he was dead to the world. This is going to be a VERY long six weeks for him.
For him there is usually no such thing as TGIF--he just keeps going, and going, and going.

I'm Getting Nervous

http://www.mymetrocity.com/gallery
Maureen called to tell me that my name is listed on the site. It's 4PM and I'm getting nervous. As fate would have it Bruce has worked so many hours this week he is completely exhausted so won't be able to attend. What's worse is that his flight has been delayed causing him to get home even later. I envisioned him having the beef stew I made with a nice glass of red wine, kicking back and watching a little TV. No telling how long this little scenario will be cut short.

Today is Maureen's birthday--my darling older sister. Love her.BTW--these are sandhill cranes--Mr. & Mrs. to you.

I'm Over It

Forgive me for sounding like a baby--I went out and took some pictures--when you see scenery like this close to home it melts your troubles away.

I didn't tell you that I watched the film a week ago and read the ten pages online to answer that question on Saturday afternoon. Needless to say, I remembered little of the stupid article.

After an hour taking pictures I stopped by the grocery store for a few things. As I was pulling out of my parking space I saw two women with a child in a stroller. One of the women was in a wheelchair--the blanket covering her feet no longer did so. She had malformed swollen feet; now she has something to complain about. It reminded me of one of my former patients who only wanted me every time. Trouble is she has spina bifida and is in a wheelchair only about three feet off the ground. Compounding the problem for the mammographer is that her breasts are the size of small watermelons. In addition, she had a very tiny cancer which necessitated her coming back every six months for three years. Yours truly used to have to get down on my knees, hoist the giant breast onto the plate while working the best I could around the wheelchair--now that was difficult. Imagine being in her seat--she'd had 34 surgeries, as I recall she was like 37 years old.

So, the whining has stopped on this end. Off to class to take the midterm--that means I'm half way there doesn't it?

Grumpy

Vertigo: Projection of Our Own Desires?

Dr. Holland argues in his essay on "Vertigo" that the "unreality" of the movie is deliberate on Hitchcock's part and is meant to allow viewers to "project" their own desires/wishes into the film. He cites one example in the scene in which Scotty kisses Judy after re-creating her as Madeleine and the camera circles them with the backgrounds showing past settings, like the stables. Explain how Dr. Holland thinks these unrealistic scenes suck us in as viewers and tell whether you agree with his assessment (it's okay to agree or disagree; just explain why). What other instances of "unreality" (we might call it formalistic shots) appear in the movie, and how did you react to them as a viewer?

So, I answered this question and now I have to do it again if I don't want a 0.
You remember how my response did not go through on The Maltese Falcon? You guessed it--I just read an e-mail from my professor stating there is no response although he can see I spent 35 minutes writing it. It is hard enough to answer these ridiculous questions once, two time is pure torture.

Donation

I'm sure you've not seen this one before. This is a picture of a picture. Mr. Roger knew of an event in a hip part of town called "A Taste of Thornton Park"; he suggested I donate a piece for the silent auction end of it to promote my business with the proceeds going to the local Humane Society. He took it upon himself to print this abstract on a 30 X40 canvas. He called one of the organizers to come over to meet me while I was over there signing it--she was nice. I was so excited I went to the car to get my camera to take this before it was gone. It turns out the event is a few blocks away from the gallery on the same night. At any rate, I was adjusting my camera while walking up their stairs and took a tumble--my first thought was--I hope my camera is alright! I scraped my knee like a kid. Roger's wife is a nurse and I jokingly went back in--"I need a nurse." She did the first aid stuff covering it with a clear bandage. A little battle scar. I asked her what happens if it doesn't sell to which she replied they've never had something not sell. Let's hope my piece doesn't break tradition.

Straight from there to the museum. There were a few more guest today which broke the time up. The rest I filled with homework and reading. At the moment I'm reading The Power of One, the review so far is fantastic.
Moving right along I delivered a framed print to a lady from the Baldwin Park show, and then on to deliver two other prints to my sister-in-law Ruth. She, and Pat,(my brother) work in the same office for the Florida Environmental Protection Agency. I'd never been there before, it was fun to see their offices and meet a few of their co-workers.

Got to get working on my film class study guide for the mid-term tomorrow night. I always type all my hand written notes before an exam. I find that the interaction with the keys somehow makes the info stick a little better than just re-reading it. Maureen just called and having a dog in her life is going to be a big adjustment.

Exuberance II

Talk about fun--it was a joy to see this group perform. I loved their costumes, particularly the orange number.

Whew--Bruce and I got up at 4:30 this morning. As it turns out the alarm went off and instead of sleeping right through it I awoke. Good thing because then I could chat with Bruce before he took off until Thursday night. He just called and is driving from a restaurant in Virginia to one about 60 miles away in Maryland. He said I would never believe the traffic on the Washington DC beltway and he's probably right. I'm sure I wouldn't want to drive there.

Off to the little market early. Again the easy set up--the people are just great. The weather was a bit cloudy and I've not been able to get a good picture of the balloons soaring, but I will. It was fairly slow but aside from getting drowsy around 10 I did fine. I brought my school work writing my paper in longhand in between trying to lure customers. Honestly I'm no salesman--I just say hello. At the market yesterday Brad (gallery guy) said to me, "you probably thank people when they say your work is nice don't you?" Naturally I said yes. He says, "wrong answer!"

My, Oh My!

Remember when I had to photograph the city commissioner and was not too happy with the result--well, here she is at the Gay Days Parade today. I didn't sell even one piece today, but it was eventful nonetheless.

We took Maureen out last night for dinner and had a marvelous time. We decided to call it a birthday dinner as Thursday is her big day. She mentioned that she was meeting her son Rich and his wonderful girlfriend Jen at the market in the morning. Well...while we were setting up Rich and Jen arrived with a birthday surprise for Maureen. Over on flickr I've posted two pictures of the happy event. They brought her a puggle--if you've not heard of those before it is a cross between a beagle and a pug. Needless to say she was nearly speechless. They had been trying to convince her that a dog would keep her company (she lives alone), but Maureen had not gone through with it. He is a very handsome dog that came from the pound which is astonishing because they are very expensive. They included pet training lessons, along with a dvd on becoming a dog owner. It was very exciting!

As well, it was the Sunday of the Gay Pride parade on the side street of the market. Talk about a front row seat--fantastic. I left my booth as there were no customers anyway and shot away. In fact, I took so many that I filled my memory card! It was my first chance to see a Pride parade and it was exuberant.

Bruce has to leave super early in the morning so we're off to bed--he never has to convince me no matter how early it is--I need my sleep! Goodnight friends.

It's Friday

Here's a shot of the living room. The truth is I hardly ever sit on these couches, however, they did come in handy when I was terribly sick. I never turn the TV on but I did then because I could do little else. At the time Maureen told me about a television station called Ovation. It's a great channel with arts programming. That said, they have gazillions of commercials for The Cancer Treatment Center of America or something like that. As you know, we were told that is what I had, so that was not so much fun. People give these testimonials about how great the place is, and how it was their last chance etc. I tuned those ads out. Hurray, the doctors were wrong.

I did watch Florida State lose to Wake Forest last night, something unthinkable when Matt was at FSU. WF used to be the dregs of the ACC but no longer.

Today I woke up puny gaining strength as the morning wore on. No clue about yesterday--whatever.

I finally heard from my speech professor that class was canceled for today. I was happy about that, but it now means that the mid-term, and historical speech are both next Friday. As well, I have to write a paper for film class,and take the mid-term on Wednesday. Normally I would have a start on the paper by now, but that class is so miserable that I'm not as motivated. I just completed my writing quiz on Vertigo.

Bruce got home last night and was kind enough to do the framing on the pictures for the gallery. Delivery is tomorrow.

My friend Dean, the newspaper columnist extraordinaire, gave me a little shout-out in the paper today, stating that he visited the art show and my excellent photography--whoa! He is on the board of the Maitland Art Center and bought a photograph from their gardens--an unexpected occurrence on both accounts.

New term for the weekend--"chillaxing."

Silliness

My gmail account is not working right now--bummer. I've composed an e-mail to a department chair at Valencia asking for help finding a graphics arts student to design a website for me. Unfortunately it has just sat there for about two hours. I suspected it was some other computer problem on my end, but I discovered it was Google's issue. Thank goodness, a reprieve from calling Apple yet again. Speaking of which I wrote to an Apple representative regarding my poor customer service the other night and they have yet to respond.

I was getting very comfortable not feeling so poorly, but lo and behold, this morning I've been struck with violent retching again. The pain in my side has intensified much to my chagrin. I need to be doing homework.

I spotted this bit of silliness yesterday on my way home from a campus visit. I had originally hoped I could get away without the book for my music appreciation class, but alas, he tests on the content. It was $120 which includes five CDs for listening exercises. We watched Vertigo last night -- I'll have to write some stupid response about the psychological implications, blah, blah, blah. I anticipated that this class might be about some of the history of film, the innovations, the mechanics...anything but what it is. I suppose because he is an English professor I should have known that he would analyze them to death. It's entertainment already.

That's all for now folks.

Something to Think About

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A Girl's Best Friend

Oh yes, GWPs. Our mom used to work in a department store and she taught us the lingo. GWP, of course, means gift with purchase. What a concept! Naturally we aren't really getting something totally free, but it always feels that way. Recently I got a sample of this Clinique mascara and it is fantastic. I had to have more! Thus, you see some of the goodies that came with my purchase of two mascaras today.

Some random thoughts and observations:

I wonder how many people don't use change. Bruce empties his pockets every day preferring not to carry change--it accumulates. I love this because when I need toll money it is always handy. I, on the other hand, use change. Is it because I carry a wallet in my purse?

Do movies perpetuate stereotypes, or, do they merely portray them?

I just completed Bloodletting & Miraculous Cures, a fine book of stories about what it takes to become a doctor and the pitfalls that await once that profession is secured. There is a particularly chilling chapter on SARS. I've just begun The Power of One which is set in South Africa during WWII.

I learned a new term today from the newspaper that I'd just as soon never heard. "Siblicide" is when one sibling kills another--in this case a 13 year old boy killed his 8 year old brother for eating dessert when he shouldn't have. Bad stuff.

My historical speech this Friday will be William Faulkner's acceptance speech for the Nobel Prize in Literature. I wonder what will happen about the test we were to have taken last week; to date I've received no e-mail from the professor.

Bruce is starting three remodels that happen after the restaurant closes each night. The next six weeks will prove to be some of the hardest he's faced. As I type this he is stuck in Reagan National Airport in Washington, DC with a three hour flight delay. Not a good start to the week as he was up most of last night with the construction crew. Adding insult to injury, as my mother would say, his phone is nearly dead.

Bill has a deal with Dean Guitars whereby he promotes them and they give him free ones. In fact, they are custom made to his liking. He took advantage of the bank holiday yesterday to go to Tampa to pick them up. Needless to say, he is excited.

Lastly, I took the two prints for the gallery to the museum today to ask Karen (the curator) about what type of frame she would choose. I was mighty pleased when she offered compliments,saying she has no art from the museum in her house because she lives with it all day. However, she went on to say, she was enticed by one of the pictures--I'll post it soon.

Up, Up, and Away

Big rain out yesterday at the market which was actually fine by us. Aside from the fact that the garage is filled with the tent etc. drying out we were glad to have the rest after Saturday. We had barely set it all up when the first raindrops fell, by the time we got it all torn back down and home it was pouring. Bruce took a two and a half hour nap and I started in on some homework.

Good news--Jonathan got all of Matt's things out of storage in Chicago! Consequently they finally slept in a real bed last night. They are going to have a darling place because as you already know Matt is a decorating genius. He has the most amazing things and now Jonathan and Alissa get to use them. How awesome is that?

Bad news--I missed Matt's call yesterday. He has some deal whereby he calls me using his computer for free. We can chat as long as we want. Apparently we were outside dealing with our stuff. I miss him.

More good news--I was approached about going to a new market on Monday mornings at a golf resort out by Disney. It turns out there are 1,000 villas there. Because there was no cost to me, and I don't have class on Monday, I thought what the heck. Well, it was super great. It was only 2 1/2 hours long but they did almost everything for us. I brought just two baskets of prints, my tabletop easel, another easel that holds prints, and there you go. They not only put up a tent for the vendors but provided tables, cloths, water, and food. There were not a lot of customers but I did sell seven prints which would have still been in the basket had I not gone. Amazing how easy they made it for me.

I met with Mr. Roger tonight about replenishing my supply of prints tonight,and the rest of the week I can think about school. Oh yeah, I've got to get frames for those prints for the gallery by Friday. That seems doable.

I left super early this morning because I was unsure about the traffic-- no worries there. Good thing though because I was able to see hot air balloons going up on the other side of the resort. You are seeing what I saw at 7:40 this morning. Hope you've had a good weekend and this week you will soar.

Baldwin Park

I am way tired tonight, but it is a good tired. What a good day we had today at Baldwin Park. I am very grateful for friends and family that came out. As well, Bruce and David manned the booth together while I was doing my museum duty. Apparently they turned on the charm with the visitors in my absence. It is super exciting because today I sold more than I would in about six weeks at the market. We began the day thinking we would keep track of what we sold in my little book. I did record the first sale which actually came about a half hour before it officially opened. That's all there is in the book. In fact, I've almost no idea what sold, but lots. It is easy to get discouraged when you are not selling but this should encourage me for quite a while to come.

BTW--the weather was great. There were massive thunderstorms all week including over night last night but after a very gray start this morning there were only a few sprinkles which were welcome when it was hot.

I'm off to bed now because the market comes early. I wish I could stay up and watch the football game, but I think I've about worn myself out. I'm grateful for those of you who have encouraged me along this crazy journey.

Irony....Or Not

Do you think this was an intentional lead-in or coincidence? Say it ain't so.

Sparkle

I managed to do my presentation last night in film class. You would think that would be an easy class but the professor is tough. He is in charge of Brain Bowl which is a team of students from Valencia that compete in National smart championships. That is a crazy description but I will tell you that they have won the Nationals against huge prestigious schools. So now you understand. I got points taken off for going a little too long yet he wrote on my outline I could have developed ideas more fully. Go figure!
I practiced at school before class with a few classmates and we thought I was good to go but..oh well.

I left the house at 3:30 to meet with a restaurant manager about displaying a gingerbread house at the museum in December. After that I had time to kill so I walked along the street with camera in tow. I went into another little bistro/gourmet shop and I ran into one of my former classmates. She is now one of the managers there and she also took the info. The life of an intern... This photo is from the latter. I think when you are a young person who has an older student in their class they tend to remember you. It probably doesn't hurt that I'm just a tad outspoken in class, do you suppose?

I am afraid it is going to rain on my parade so to speak. It has already rained this morning and the humidity is enough to make a person crazy. It is NOT supposed to rain like this in October. It is hot in Florida from May to October, the exact opposite of the north where it is cold from October to May. I am so hoping the rain will go away by Saturday.

The hand in question from yesterday is one of the museum's largest sculptures. Mr. Polasek made it in 1914, and it was installed outside the Art Institute of Chicago in 1916. People expressed outrage over the huge male nude, asking for it's removal from public view. Consequently, it became even more famous. He was the head of the sculpture department at the Art Institute for thirty years. He retired to Winter Park and began building the house and studio in the early 1960's. Shortly thereafter he suffered a stroke and one side of his body was totally paralyzed. He did go on to sculpt again after a number of years completing many works into his 80's.

School work today--yeah Bruce gets home early today. I've bought some black fabric for new cloths for the display tables; I have not touched my sewing machine in years--let's hope I remember how to thread it.

The Week at a Glance

Here's what's happening in my part of the world:

1. New online class starts today--Music Appreciation. Although I thought this would be a good class, and maybe it will be, the syllabus looks brutal. 10 quizzes with tons of assignments. This will require lots of discipline to do it right. As well, the first quiz is on melody, and harmony; I've had a mental block on music components since I was in elementary school. Maybe it will unlock itself with this class, but I'm nervous.

2. A gallery owner visited the booth on Sunday leaving me his card. I was happily chatting with one of my hospital friends who had come to the market to see me. It is super great for a familiar face to show up unexpectedly. At any rate, he asked me to call him which I did on Monday. His gallery participates in what is called Third Thursdays downtown. Galleries and restaurants have openings with special food deals. He said he liked my stuff and would like me to provide two 18X24 pieces. I questioned him on the subject matter etc. which he was vague about. Yesterday when I got home from the museum, plus visiting the lady for the festival on Saturday, I went through my stuff searching. I sent him about ten different images letting him know there were plenty more where those came from. He chose this one, as well as a very similar one in sepia. I'm ordering this morning for the market when I finish this and those two will be among them. I barely have time for this and he's probably starving for people to show but I suppose if it gets my stuff out to a different audience it will be good. His cut is 20%.

3. Speaking of having plenty of photos I spent two hours on the phone with Apple again last night as the computer froze up on me. The first helper got me frustrated because his instructions resulted in the loss of my 6,900 photos again. I was crazy as you can well imagine. He was annoyed that I was annoyed and put me on hold for another helper allegedly transferring me. After a twenty minute wait on hold I dialed the number again getting a helper within about two minutes. You can be sure I will be writing Apple a letter soon. Finally after searching all through stuff they were once again restored. I explained that I had no time for this foolishness--the second guy was much more sympathetic!

4. And so we are getting closer to the Art Festival. It is hard to know for sure but I expect there will be a big turn-out, let's hope it translates into more than networking! I met yesterday with the festival chair and she is indeed enthusiastic. Here background is in marketing so she seems to know what she is doing. I had not received my assigned spot yet and thought maybe I had misread the e-mails regarding my participation. Apparently two people had to back out of the committee leaving her overwhelmed.

5. Off to prepare my order than the outline and presentation of a scene from The Maltese Falcon. BTW, it's been raining cats and dogs for days now which is the forecast for all week, fortunately it started after we had returned from the market on Sunday. Let's hope this unseasonable weather departs prior to Saturday.