Crocus Sighting

What fantastic weather we had this weekend.
Here are some of the lovely flowers in the yard.

Made My Day

One of the students I taught last year won the local spelling bee and was interviewed by the local paper. She said that I was her "all-time favorite teacher"!!!

That has to be the nicest compliment any teacher can get.

Do you remember your favorite teacher?

Mine was called Mrs Jana. She was hard and tough and took no crap from anyone. And she pushed and prodded and cajoled me (and everyone) to really give it my all. During report card days, other teachers would simply handout the cards and release their students. Not Mrs Jana. She had us all wait (im)patiently while she cleaned up her desk, board, etc. And then after all the other students were out, and crowded around our classroom windows, she slowly started calling each of us by name - very loudly - and discussing our report card for all to hear!

I learned that important lesson from her, and when I taught last year, I did the same on report card day. Each student heard what I had to say about everyone - where they did well, and what I believed they could improve on. I also do not believe in surprises, and every week updated each students grades on my board - so everyone knew exactly where they stood and what they needed to do to improve their grades.

I believe that everyone wants to succeed, but success can mean different things to different people. And I believe that children rise to the bar you set for them. You have to set it. Show them how they can get there. Help, cajole, prod them along the way. Reward and acknowledge hard work and success.

My style certainly created waves, and "scared" kids not in my classes. But my kids and I learned from each other and were better for it.

Naked in Death

By J.D. Robb (Nora Roberts)

"This is the novel that started it all-the first book in J. D. Robb's number-one New York Times-bestselling In Death series, featuring New York City homicide detective Lieutenant Eve Dallas and Roarke.

It is the year 2058, and technology now completely rules the world. But New York City Detective Eve Dallas knows that the irresistible impulses of the human heart are still ruled by just one thing-passion.

When a senator's daughter is killed, the secret life of prostitution she'd been leading is revealed. The high-profile case takes Lieutenant Eve Dallas into the rarefied circles of Washington politics and society. Further complicating matters is Eve's growing attraction to Roarke, who is one of the wealthiest and most influential men on the planet, devilishly handsome . . . and the leading suspect in the investigation."

Completed this audio book on my commute this morning. My first book by the author, and I was pleasantly surprised. There is more meat to this book than just your typical thriller. Parts of the book I found really disturbing. The main character gets nicely developed and I enjoyed the ride. I am requesting the next book in the series today.

Looks like there are 22 in the series.

World Happiness

Would you consider yourself happy?
What makes you happy?
How do you know you are happy?

Happiness is one of those intangibles. And yet we value it so much that it is a part of our constitution. We have the right to "pursue" happiness. How does one do that exactly?

I for one find that the feeling of happiness comes and goes - usually quite unexpectedly. Yesterday for example I was happy that a couple of books that I had bound turned out exactly as I had expected/hoped/envisioned. Is that how we define happiness - when something goes as we hoped/expected? Not so for me. I've found that I can wake up feeling happy for no apparent reason at all.

Here is some interesting data:

The 20 happiest nations in the World are:

1 - Denmark
2 - Switzerland
3 - Austria
4 - Iceland
5 - The Bahamas
6 - Finland
7 - Sweden
8 - Bhutan
9 - Brunei
10 - Canada
11 - Ireland
12 - Luxembourg
13 - Costa Rica
14 - Malta
15 - The Netherlands
16 - Antigua and Barbuda
17 - Malaysia
18 - New Zealand
19 - Norway
20 - The Seychelles

Other notable results include:
23 - USA
35 - Germany
41 - UK
62 - France
82 - China
90 - Japan
125 - India
167 - Russia

The three least happy countries were:
176 - Democratic Republic of the Congo
177 - Zimbabwe
178 - Burundi

Source: University of Leicester

The Power (and Peril) of Praise

Here is a fascinating article about how not to talk to kids.

I have so many stories I could share that prove the point of the article - buy me a drink and I'll tell you all about it.

Here is the article.

Exile

by Richard North Patterson

"Bestseller Patterson's new thriller with its focus on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been overtaken by events (there's no mention of Israel's unilateral withdrawal from the Gaza Strip in 2005 or the recent fighting across the Lebanese border), but the underlying political issues may be enough for most readers to put the real world aside and suspend disbelief. Harvard-trained attorney David Wolfe, a San Franciscan on the verge of a congressional campaign, has his plans derailed when his law school classmate (and one-time lover), Palestinian Hana Arif, asks him to defend her from charges that she led a conspiracy that assassinated dovish Israeli leader Amos Ben-Aron. Inspired by idealism and lingering passion, Wolfe jeopardizes his political future by taking the case. His suspicion that the suicide bombers who attacked Ben-Aron were aided by a security breach leads him to Israel and Lebanon. While Patterson (Conviction) attempts to portray the issues fairly, the introduction of a soap-operaish subplot undercuts his intended high purpose, and the resolution of the mystery is too predictable to surprise." - From Publishers Weekly

Finished this book last weekend, and though I agree with the review that the subplot was a little too trite, I did like the way he tried to address both POV in a fair way. There has been so much blood shed in this land holy to 3 religions. When/how does it all end? In my opinion, everyone is right, and has valid points. But unless people and their governments get off their positions and actively work for peace, I do not see how this "conflict" will end. How many dead would it require to elevate this from a "conflict"?

I heard this morning that MIT is running a contest to solicit ideas on how to bring about peace in Jerusalem by the year 2015 (? not sure if that is the right year). I for one really like the idea of so many minds trying to create peace. Hopefully it happens in our lifetime.

Happy Equinox!

It's that time of year again - the spring equinox.
The first day of spring.
Today is one of 2 days in the year when we have equal amounts of night and day.
As a person who grew up on the equator, I still find the entire seasons thing fascinating.

Some interesting facts.

Bleeding Hearts

By Ian Rankin

“First published in the U.K. in 1994 under the pseudonym Jack Harvey, this routine thriller from Edgar-winner Rankin tells the story of Michael Weston, a fastidious British assassin whose life gets complicated when Hoffer, an American PI, starts to close in on him. The novel opens with Weston's carefully choreographed hit on London TV journalist Eleanor Ricks, but Hoffer is chasing Weston for another assassination, in which the antihero mistakenly shot a young girl. The plot takes a convoluted journey to the United States, to a weapons dealer in Texas and on to a quasireligious cult near Seattle. The nonstop action, copious violence and arcane details about weaponry and forensics will please thriller junkies, but fans of Rankin's masterful John Rebus series (Fleshmarket Alley, etc.) may not find this pre-Rebus book to their taste.” – Publishers Weekly

My first novel by Ian Rankin, and was not overly impressed. I think the only reason I stayed with the audio book till the end, was because the British English (windscreen, rubbish, etc) brought back childhood memories. I know that’s not much of a recommendation, but then I would not really recommend the book.

Loss of Stardust

The world is a little less glitzy with the loss of the Stardust Hotel in Las Vegas.

While visiting Vegas in Jan, we were driving by the hotel on the strip, and I said out loud that it made me sad that the Stardust would be destroyed. This clearly perplexed by niece, who asked why it made me sad. Then, she asked if I would cry.

Well, I did not cry. But I will miss that old hotel. I loved the hotel sign - the old style - different era feel. I know the world moves on, and progress cannot be stopped, but does the world really need another new, million dollar casino? I think not.

Here is my fave video of the event.

ESL Madness

Why is it that the English language calls groups of things different names? What a nightmare for an English learner. Anyone else remember having to memorize the madness when you were in school?

What do you call a group of

cattle - herd
fish - school
geese - gaggle
whales - pod
dogs - pack
birds - flock
sheep - flock

and so on.

Anyone know what you call a group of cats?
Check out this link.

Temperamental Weather

Talk about moody weather patterns! It’s been in the high 60s the past couple of days, and today we’ll have a high of 40. Oh, and about 13” of snow expected by tomorrow night!

I feel bad for all the little critters. The robins have been back for weeks (I do not think some ever left), and there is not much food around. We’ve had swarms of blackbirds pick every berry off the holly bushes, and we go through bird feed in amazing quantities.

I’m glad I was able to leave work early yesterday and get out and enjoy the gift of a beautiful day. Delightful.

ER – Season 2

Decided to buy a treadmill recently. Yes, I have a gym membership, but find that it’s much easier to get in a couple of miles when I can watch interesting TV shows – especially when it’s as bitterly cold as it has been here lately. It is delightful not to have to bundle up and brace myself for the cold.

My current favorite is ER. I never got to watch it while it was on, and now am working my way through the library DVD collection of Season 2. Very enjoyable. And I get the added bonus of doing something healthy while watching TV.

Now don’t get me wrong – I am really looking forward to warmer weather and long, rambling walks outside. But if I’m going to watch some TV, why not log some miles along the way?

Not A Mega Millions Winner

It’s a funny thing about the lotto. I do not buy tickets, or even notice them regularly – but how can one miss the media blitz and the hoopla about a 350 Million Dollar jackpot?

So we bought our tickets. And I must say that for sheer entertainment value, it’s a bargain. I mean, on what else can you spend $1, and get really excited about future possibilities? What a rush! I got all worked up, and tried to decide whether I would go in to work and quit, or simply call in to quit. These are the paths my mind goes down ….

I am sorry to report that I did not win, and the work dilemma resolved itself.

I would however not trade a minute of the rush of planning how one could spend all that money. Think about it – what would you do if you won $350M – see what I mean?

Ammachi

My Ammachi (grandmother) passed away this past week.

She was my last living grandparent, and it is strange to have lost that physical link to the past so completely. My parents were able to arrange a flight back to India to get there in time for the funeral, and I'm glad that my Mom got to have that closure. On a call to her yesterday (the funeral was just over), she said that it was strange to be in the house without my Ammachi. I cannot even begin to imagine. Her Mom has been there in that house for as long as my Mom has been alive.

The hard part of death is not that someone dies. It's how bereft the ones who loved them feel.

Creative Cat

Been having a fun time playing with oil pastels in my visual journal.
Here is a sampling.
(click on image to enlarge)

Waiting for Spring













Lazy Morning









Outside My Window

Niece Art

I always have various journals going, and while visiting with my nieces in Jan, I had with me one of my travel journals. I think kids are fascinated by whatever it is that the adults around them are doing, and my nieces found my journal intriguing. Here is some art that the twins created.
(click on image to enlarge)

Prison Break

The wonderful thing about not watching shows on regular TV, is that I don't have to watch all the commercials. Started watching the first season of Prison Break this week - and really like it. It is different and interesting - story about a man who was framed for murder and on death row. His brother commits a crime so he can get incarcerated in the same prison, and he has a plan to bust them both out. The blue prints of the prison layout and his plan are tattooed on his body – in code (very cool concept). An interesting ride, and worth a look.

My only complaint – the women characters are really nothing more than cardboard cutouts and annoying. Oh, and did I mention that the guys have great bodies?

Jellies

Jellies @ the New England Aquarium

I Feel Bad About My Neck:

And Other Thoughts On Being A Woman, by Nora Ephron

This was my book club’s book this month, and though it was a light-hearted, slim volume, it sparked an interesting discussion.

The Book: A quick and light read – not deep or preachy. I like her movies and this is the first work by her I’ve read. I like her style of writing – the book almost felt like a conversation with an older sister over decadent chocolate. In my view her overall message was: Enjoy and appreciate what you have while you have it.

The Book Club: It was interesting to hear how the women in my group think about aging. Sample of topics discussed: how aging is different for us than our mother’s generation, how the amount of time and money spent on maintenance increases as we get older, how body parts start to hurt as you get older (and apparently a miracle pill available), etc.

Something to chew on – what is the root drive behind anti-aging products (other than the $ made by those industries). Is it to really to look younger? Or is the goal to somehow prevent aging, and in that way not get closer to death?

I love the new Dove campaign. Check it out here.

Look Forward Into Your Life

Been playing in my visual journal.
Here's a page I created this morning.
(click on image to enlarge)

The Language of Line

Here is something to try:

"Make single continuous-line marks that express each of these words: angry, joyful, confused, sad, bored, excited, silly and serious. Are your marks similar to mine?"

From "The New Creative Artist" by Nita Leland
(click on image to enlarge)

Levels of Abstraction

Page from current visual journal.
Done is 3 steps on 3 separate days:
1. Lay down an acrylic wash
2. Draw with waterproof pen
3. Color added using colored pencils


(click on image to enlarge)

"Kamleika"

Page from my current visual journal.
Had never heard of people using intestines as clothing - really a beautiful work of art.
@ PEM
(Click on pic to enlarge)



Alutig or Unangan artist
Overcoat, ca. 1825
Alutian archipelago, Alaska.
Sea lion intestine, dyed esophagus

Scrapbooking Reads

Recently read:

1. What About the Words: Creative Journaling for Scrapbookers, by Memory Makers Books
2. The Altered Book Scrapbook, by Susan Ure
3. Imperfect Lives: Scarpbooking the Reality of Your Everday, by Tara Governo

The great thing about libraries is the constant access I have to new books. Every trip to the library is like Christmas morning - yup I do get rather giddy about the whole thing. Recently found these books on scrapbooking. Since I got Adobe Photoshop for Xmas one year, have gone almost totally digital with my scrapping, and I am always in search of new ideas and inspiration.

I find that most scrapbooking books and magazines feature layouts with loads of stuff - usually too frilly or fussy for my taste. Bad photos are bad photos, and my focus is more on my photos than on all the stuff. An interesting idea while reading one of the books was the idea of scrapping the not joyous or happy moments. As a journal keeper, I certainly write about the good, the bad and the ugly, but I certainly do not capture photos of the not fun stuff. Who does? So an interesting idea: layouts that capture the breakup, the fight, the loss, etc. Certainly gives me food for thought.

Sudoku

My latest discovery - Sudoku.

I know people discovered this several years ago, but while on a trip to Vegas in Jan, my brother and his wife got me hooked. And I mean hooked. There is something strangely addictive and rewarding about this game. The game requires no math skills - if you can count from 1 to 9, you have all the math skills you'll need. It's a game of logic.

Went out and bought a beginner book the other day. There is something strangely compelling about seeing results so quickly. I mean, where else in life is the feedback and instant gratification so great? :-) Yup, I'm hooked.

Recharging Batteries

Recently felt like there was not enough color in my life. All the dry technical stuff I deal with at work was not charging my batts. I really needed some COLOR. Know what I mean?

Took myself on back to back dates to the PEM and MFA.

Aaaaah. How soothing to the soul. Felt like the jet stream changed course and brought light and color back into my life. Exactly what I needed. Got recharged, inspired, rejuvenated and creative. Been happily playing with all my supplies since.

If you’ve not taken yourself out on a play/artist date lately, what are you waiting for?
Like the Nike ad says, “Just Do It”.

Cartoon Terrorists?

Could not agree more with this article:

Boston went looney tunes

February 4, 2007

BY NEIL STEINBERG Sun-Times Columnist

So the Boston authorities panic and go crazy reacting to some dumb blinking signs scattered around the city, promoting a new cartoon. Blinking signs that didn't cause a ripple of concern in Chicago or eight other cities.

And it's supposed to be the fault of the network placing the sign?

I don't think so. If I walk through security in an airport, and a guard decides that my Moleskine notebook looks like a bomb because it is small and black and has an elastic band trailing off it, and they arrest me, evacuate O'Hare, divert all incoming flights for two hours, and shut down the whole U.S. transportation system, is that my fault?

Overreaction by the government is routine, but should not be accepted. Yes, these are scary times. But that doesn't mean we've outlawed whimsy. Terror bombs have not, to date, displayed flashing cartoon characters, and it was not irresponsible to set such signs out in public. We're still a free country, sort of, and might just continue to be, if we stand our ground.

See full article

Flossing

I know I should do it.
I know that it is good for me.
It's easy to do.
I have loads of floss lying about.
Yet, I simply cannot do it.
What gives?!

My dentist has informed me that I have lovely teeth, and cavities is not my problem. However, if I want to keep these lovely teeth in my mouth I should floss! Guess my ancestors had no problems with cavities, but hard a hard time convincing their gums to hold on to those teeth!
Reminds me of seeing my grandparents dentures in a glass on the bedside table. Was I the only one freaked out by that? What alien life form is this - that takes out their teeth when they go to bed?

Each week I start anew with my resolve to floss. I did today. One day down.
How many to my next dental cleaning? A place I go to get scolded about not flossing. Like I'm five. Sigh.

Lazy Days

Rafiki loves this spot in my study. As he gets older, lying on a heating pad feels good on his old bones. He has certainly taken over my desk. In my next life I want to come back as my cat.
(click on pics to enlarge)































Professional cat on closed course. Do not attempt!

“Next”

by Michael Crichton

“Is a loved one missing some body parts? Are blondes becoming extinct? Is everyone at your dinner table of the same species? Humans and chimpanzees differ in only 400 genes; is that why a chimp fetus resembles a human being? And should that worry us? There's a new genetic cure for drug addiction--is it worse than the disease?

We live in a time of momentous scientific leaps, a time when it's possible to sell our eggs and sperm online for thousands of dollars and to test our spouses for genetic maladies.

We live in a time when one fifth of all our genes are owned by someone else, and an unsuspecting person and his family can be pursued cross-country because they happen to have certain valuable genes within their chromosomes...

Devilishly clever, Next blends fact and fiction into a breathless tale of a new world where nothing is what it seems and a set of new possibilities can open at every turn.

Next challenges our sense of reality and notions of morality. Balancing the comic and the bizarre with the genuinely frightening and disturbing, Next shatters our assumptions and reveals shocking new choices where we least expect.

The future is closer than you think.” Quoted from book description.

I found this a fascinating read – more for the content than the writing itself. Opened up interesting questions of ethics, science, morality and faith. Though Crichton writes about interesting topics, lately his writing has deteriorated. Caused by a deadline maybe? If he would only write as he is capable of, his books would be wonderful.

Recent Audio Books

Been on a mystery kick lately, and Michael Connelly is my current favorite mystery writer. At least for audio books.

1. The Closers (Harry Bosch)
2. The Narrows
3. Lost Light (Harry Bosch)

I like the Harry Bosch series. Am listening to them out of order, but it does not seem to bother me too much. The stories are fun and great for commuting. My only complaint is that he does not seem to be a good closer. His final chapters are a bit of a let down.

Am currently listening to Bill Bryson’s “The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid: A Memoir” – a really funny book. Bryson has a great sense of humor and since he reads this book, it is a real treat. Have been laughing out loud at his stories.

Body Worlds 2

Gunther von Hagen's Bodyworlds 2: The Anatomical Exhibition of Real Human Bodies, is the most amazing exhibit I have seen in a long time.

We went to see it at the Museum of Science this past weekend, it’s last weekend in Boston. 3 hours was not enough time to take it all in. I regretted that I had not seen the show earlier and given myself time to really examine each system individually.

The bodies are preserved through a process called Plastination, and to answer a question I got repeatedly asked – no it is not gross. Far from it. An almost perfect intersection of science and art. The exhibit renewed my awe and respect for the body. We do ridiculous things to make our bodies look better – when really if we thought about all that was going on in our bodies at any moment, we would be in complete awe and wonderment.

I would have loved to spend a visit just watching the audience. Unlike usual visitors, people spoke in hushed voices, and the snatches of conversation I overheard would make interesting short stories. I hope every science class got out to see it.

I find it hard to put into words what amazed me the most. If you get a chance to see the show, I would highly recommend it.

FMI: http://www.bodyworlds.com

Gondolas

Pages for Venice book.
(Click images to enlarge)

12x24 LO:








12x12 details of left and right pages:

Campanile Views

Another set of pages for the Venice book.
(Click images to enlarge)

12x24 LO:








12x12 detail of left and right pages:

Bellini's @ the Rialto

I've decided to create a book to capture our trip to Venice.
My plan is to create the layouts, and then have them printed up into a book.
Here is the first LO of the trip.
(Click images to enlarge).

Here is the 12x24 LO:








Detail of the 12x12 left and right pages:

Read Book

These pics are from an October visit.
Click on images to enlarge.

Here is the 12x24 LO:








Details of the 12x12 left and right pages:













Digital paper and alpha downloaded from Shabby Princess (Moody Blues)

Christmas Day @ Great Brook

Here is a layout I created this morning.
(Click on images to enlarge)

I love how this turned out, especially like the color scheme.
First I created a 12x24 page:








and then cropped it into two 12x12 for the left and right pages:













All digital downloads from 2peasinabucket.com.
Background paper = papier dreams by Rhonna Farrer.

Xmas Pics

I have the cutest nieces and nephews!
(Click to enlarge)

Current Fave Video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vr3x_RRJdd4

Video Description

Sometimes, a hug is all what we need. Free hugs is a real life controversial story of Juan Mann, A man whos sole mission was to reach out and hug a stranger to brighten up their lives.

In this age of social disconnectivity and lack of human contact, the effects of the Free Hugs campaign became phenomenal.

As this symbol of human hope spread accross the city, police and officials ordered the Free Hugs campaign BANNED. What we then witness is the true spirit of humanity come together in what can only be described as awe inspiring.

Bombay Club

My book club met at Bombay Club in Harvard Square for brunch and to discuss the book, “The Battle for Christmas” by Stephen Nissenbaum.

We discussed the idea of tradition – and how many of them do not go back for more than several generations, and how the term “tradition” adds weight to a practice. It’s always interesting to hear how other families celebrate the holidays. What we keep and what we discard.

My personal opinion is that Christmas (and most other holidays for that matter), have become too commercialized. Not necessarily more so than in the past – no judgment intended. I simply wonder what all that bought stuff (mostly made in China) is covering up. I do not see people smiling as they shop. There is a desperate, angry, tense air to the entire holiday season.

Most people seem to be really upset about having to buy presents – so why do it? Why not do something that feels better and creates a deeper connection? It is tough to swim against the mainstream currents.

2007 Book Club Selections

My book club voted on the books we'll read next year, and this is our final list:

Jan: "Madame Bovary" by Gustave Flaubert
Feb: "I Feel Bad About My Neck: And Other Thoughts on Being a Woman" by Nora Ephron
March: "Saving Graces: Finding Solace and Strength from Friends and Strangers" by Elizabeth Edwards
April: "Margaret Mead Made Me Gay: Personal Essays, Public Ideas" by Esther Newton
May: "Pomegranate Soup" by Marsha Mehran
June: "Specimen Days" by Michael Cunningham
July: "Innocent Man" by John Grisham
Aug: "The Inheritance of Loss" by Kiran Desai
Sept: "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin
Oct: "Sexing the Body: Gender Politics and the Construction of Sexuality" by Anne Fausto-Sterling
Nov: "Darkness Visible: A Memoir of Madness" by William Styron
Dec: "Thoughts Without A Thinker: Psychotherapy from a Buddhist Perspective" by Mark Epstein

The DaVinci Code

I really liked the Dan Brown book and was thrilled to hear that Ron Howard was going to direct the movie version. However, the movie reviews were so bad that I opted to wait for the DVD.

Saw it this past weekend, and was really disappointed. Howard follows the story almost page by page – it worked for the book, but the movie needed serious editing. Characters like Silas did not really add any value to the movie – other than to show the murders. Tom Hanks, who I generally like, was like a cardboard cutout. I had heard interviews with both Hanks and Howard a year ago and there seemed to be a lot of nervousness – why? Because the story is about religion and faith?

Great casting, great director, great story – so how did it go so wrong?

Venice

We had an amazing trip to Venice. Beautiful and magical place.
(Click on pics to enlarge).











Only in Italy - a calendar of hot young clergy!

The Other Boleyn Girl

by Philippa Gregory

My regular book club met for Sunday brunch at Asgards, in Cambridge to discuss this historical fiction. We had an interesting discussion about the story, life in court and the idea of historical fiction. I love historical fiction. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I will certainly check out her other works.

The novel is set in the time of King Henry VIII’s court – a period of time I have been fascinated with ever since I first read about Henry’s 6 wives. The man single-handedly usurped the hold of the Catholic Church, all over the love of a woman/women not his wife. Absolutely fascinating. This story is told from the viewpoint of Mary Boleyn – an excellent choice, since we only have sketchy details of her life. Gregory depicts court life and the power struggles brilliantly. I think I read this book in less than 24 hours – it’s a fast read, and well written.

From Publishers Weekly:
"Sisterly rivalry is the basis of this fresh, wonderfully vivid retelling of the story of Anne Boleyn. Anne, her sister Mary and their brother George are all brought to the king's court at a young age, as players in their uncle's plans to advance the family's fortunes. Mary, the sweet, blond sister, wins King Henry VIII's favor when she is barely 14 and already married to one of his courtiers. Their affair lasts several years, and she gives Henry a daughter and a son. But her dark, clever, scheming sister, Anne, insinuates herself into Henry's graces, styling herself as his adviser and confidant. Soon she displaces Mary as his lover and begins her machinations to rid him of his wife, Katherine of Aragon. This is only the beginning of the intrigue that Gregory so handily chronicles, capturing beautifully the mingled hate and nearly incestuous love Anne, Mary and George ("kin and enemies all at once") feel for each other and the toll their family's ambition takes on them. Mary, the story's narrator, is the most sympathetic of the siblings, but even she is twisted by the demands of power and status; charming George, an able plotter, finally brings disaster on his own head by falling in love with a male courtier. Anne, most tormented of all, is ruthless in her drive to become queen, and then to give Henry a male heir. Rather than settling for a picturesque rendering of court life, Gregory conveys its claustrophobic, all-consuming nature with consummate skill. In the end, Anne's famous, tragic end is offset by Mary's happier fate, but the self-defeating folly of the quest for power lingers longest in the reader's mind."
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

I, Mona Lisa

by Jeanne Kalogridis

From Publishers Weekly:
“Set against a backdrop of political and religious conflicts in 15th-century Medici-ruled Florence, Kalogridis's bloody historical (after The Borgia Bride) identifies the subject of Leonardo da Vinci's painting as Lisa di Antonio Gherardini. Lisa was the daughter of Madonna Lucrezia, wife of a wealthy wool merchant who also enchanted both da Vinci and Lorenzo de' Medici's brother Giuliano, murdered by conspirators in 1478. Giuliano's assassination—and the later murder of Lucrezia—presage a reign of religious terror led by a monk known as Savonarola and the retreat of the Medicis in the face of invasion from France's King Charles. An adult Lisa attracts the romantic attentions of a young Medici scion, whom she marries for love. (His father, Lorenzo, commissions her portrait from da Vinci.) But violent events soon separate the couple and a brutal Savonarola follower tells Lisa that her husband is dead—and her father's life in danger—unless she marries him instead. Lisa survives, an avenging angel, proving herself worthy of da Vinci's immortal artistry. Kalogridis's fevered bodice ripper invents a passionate woman behind La Gioconda's enigmatic smile.”
Copyright © Reed Business Information

I finished this historical fiction this past weekend, and this is the first book I’ve read on Mona Lisa. I love the history of this time period in Florence – there is just so much going on! And the Medici’s are fascinating. Politics, religion, love, betrayal, loyalty, passion, beauty, art, power - how can it be a bad read? Lisa is Leonardo da Vinci’s daughter? Am going to have to research more about that.

This is not a bodice-ripper (if that’s what you are looking for), but a really good read. I have not read any work by this author before, and will certainly look at her other work.

2006 MCAS

In the 2006 MCAS Scores,

7^th grade students at Lowell Public ranked: 246/281 in Math (with a score of 23 out of a possible max of 100)

and 263/281 in English (with a score of 40 out of 100)

To see how your town did use the link below.
http://www.boston.com/education/mcas/scores2006/7th_grade_district_rankings.htm

Are you angry yet?

Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia

by Elizabeth Gilbert

I have thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book on CD on my daily commute.

It’s a memoir about Elizabeth, who at the age of 31 moves with her husband to the burbs and begins to try getting pregnant, only to discover that she does not want to be either pregnant or married.

After a nasty divorce, she takes off for a year of travel and recuperation to the three i’s: Italy for pleasure, India for spiritual seeking and Indonesia for learning to live in balance.

The audio book is read by the author, and I think I much preferred the audio version to the written one – am not sure that I would have made it through parts of the written book.

Gilbert describes her adventures, soul searching and healing with wit, humor and compassion.

A delightful gem of a book to listen to, and inspire us to seek pleasure, spirituality and balance in our own lives.

Get out the Vote!

The first black governor of Massachusetts and the first woman Speaker of the House! Am quite pleased with the election results.

It is now time to hold our leaders feet to the fire – let’s see the change that is needed and not blow this opportunity to really do something of value.

It has been interesting to watch the ad campaign on Ballot #1 for MA residents - the attempt to change a rather archaic rule still on the books. Should MA allow the sale of wine in grocery stores – contingent upon local town approval. For those not from this state, today, one has to go to a liquor store to get wine, beer, etc.

“The battle over wine sales, known as Question 1, was the most expensive ballot question campaign in state history, with opposing sides combining to spend more than $11.5 million.” – bostonchannel.com

No doubt as to who was funding the opposing side. The scare tactics were amazing – and what’s more interesting, nearly 56% of MA voters agreed that being able to buy your favorite bottle of red or white, while buying your groceries, was indeed going to create greater death and mayhem! Unbelievable!

Good thing we don’t have “should we pin a huge scarlet letter on bad women?” as a ballot question in this state.

Books on Venice

1. The City of Falling Angels
- by John Berendt
- from the author of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil
- not as well written as Midnight
- the setting is Venice, and is quite an enjoyable exploration of its quirky inhabitants
- read this earlier this year before we have finalized plans to go to Venice

2. Through a Glass, Darkly
- by Donna Leon
- a Commissario Guido Brunetti mystery
- my first exposure to Donna Leon
- listened to this book on my commute in September
- fun and light story; loved hearing how Italian words were pronounced
- made me hungry

3. Virgins of Venice: Broken Vows and Cloistered Lives in the Renaissance Convent
- by Mary Laven
- non fiction look at the nuns in Venice
- am reading this now and am absolutely fascinated
- most of what is know is based on reports based on state and church authorities documenting these "places of vice and indiscipline” and calling for reform
- absolutely fascinating – have I said this already?

4. The usual guide book – Fodors, Lonely Planet, etc.

Elephant Walk

Had dinner last night at Elephant Walk in Cambridge. For some reason neither of the branches in Cambridge or Waltham is as good at the Brookline location. For example, the Waltham location has no qualms about serving re-heated rolls. Maybe I just need to figure out the day when the head chef is on duty. Either way do yourself a favor and skip the house Merlot – I’ve had more potent communion wine!

This was my second dinner with the International Club – a group of 35-70 year old folks not born in the US, who meet monthly for dinner in the Boston area. Have met delightful folks from France, Algeria, China, Spain and the UK.

Our dinner topics the first night revolved around getting to know you kind of stuff – what brought you to the states, how long have you been here, etc. And you know with a group like that, we launched fairly quickly into politics.

Last night we discussed the idea of having parallel cultures and languages, and how there has been research that shows that there is no merging of the tracks. The reality that I am Indian today, Kenyan tomorrow, and Americanized yesterday is something easily understood and validated.

An evening spend discussing culture, travel, the challenges of personal space in different cultures, yoga, meditation, tai chi, Sufism……. a diverse and delightful feast of thoughts and ideas.

Dancing with the Dishes

Last night as I was doing dishes (I heard that gasp), I had the TV tuned to “Dancing with the Stars”.

Now maybe it’s just me, but I really don’t get this show. Why is it so popular?

Okay so maybe there are some thrills to watching Emmet Smith the football jock take a whirl on the dance floor.

The show I watched had a really bad singer (what is the appeal?) sing a song while several not so good dancers – not the stars – perform a routine. Then IL DIVO sang. What all this singing has to do with the show, other than pack in more commercial time, I don’t now.

I gather that there is some repressed human urge to see others get “voted off” that these shows have tapped into – and quite successfully I might add. Just look at the plethora of shows that vote someone off the island, or fire them, or …..

I don’t mean to sound judgmental at all. I really seek enlightenment. If you are a Dancing with the Stars fan, I’d love to hear what hooks you.

Views of Mt Rainier

This is the view from my sister's house in Olympia, Washington.
The most amazing sunrises and sunsets.
A little piece of heaven.

I've been told that Rainier only shows herself to those pure of heart. Been told stories of visitors who have never seen her during several visits. Well, they must have some heart cleansing to do.

(click pics to enlarge)

The Hungry Tide: A Novel

By Amitav Ghosh

I have spent the last couple of weeks being transported to the Sundarbans, a vast archipelago in the Bay of Bengal.

I listened to this book on CD. My first exposure to Amitav Ghosh.

Lunar rainbows (is this news to anyone else?), man-eating tigers, cyclones, mangrove forests, Irrawaddy dolphins, tides, and the clash between civilization and the wild.

I was captivated by the characters, their stories and struggles.

Time well spent on my daily commute.

Happy Halloween

A good day weather-wise for all the little ghosts and goblins.
High of almost 70! We’ve had snow some years.

Enjoyed a beautiful sunrise on my morning walk, and went to the local park for a picnic lunch. Trying to enjoy as much as this lovely weather window as I can.

Am still trying to get used to the fact that I’ve gained an hour with “fall back”. My internal clock has not caught up yet, and I’m reminded again of how arbitrary the concept of time really is – we can add or loose an hour at will. And we all drink the cool-aid. Except for certain states, and I believe Indiana is one such state that refuses to play along. Makes it all very confusing when you call people across time zones.

We’ve stocked up on candy – only the types I’ll eat – and look forward to the little ones tonight. I mean really, what mean person buys cheap candy of a type they themselves would not eat? There are circumstances when I understand the need to egg someone’s car or mailbox.

Trick or Treat!

Visual Journal 1

I created a journal to play in over the summer. Selected papers, and wrapped the covers with wallpaper samples (these work great!) Had the book bound at Staples.
Here's what it looks like on the outside.

(click to on pics to enlarge)

TOMB

Folks at work went on a team building adventure yesterday afternoon to TOMB on Brookline Street. Anyone else been there? If you haven’t you are not really missing much.

I think it is targeted for middle school kids – or adults with that skill level. The premise is that we are scientists who uncover an ancient Egyptian Tomb in Boston – anyone else already scratching their head? We meet up with our “guide” – boy aged about 15.

At the start of the expedition, we are told of the grave dangers, of others who have lost their lives in this quest, etc. We’re given several flashlights for the group and then have to find the way in. Guess the flashing blue button hidden behind a shrub would not have been a dead giveaway if one was 15.

Once inside the tomb, we are tested and have to pass several tests in each room – 3 or 4 rooms in total. The idea being you have to work as a team to solve the puzzles. One thing that did get my heart pounding was a test of our courage as “vipers” attacked. Those who know of my snake sagas, know that it was touch and go for a moment. Turns out that the vipers were really short puffs of air – even I was not moved.

In the end, we solved the puzzles, found the pharaohs body – so he can now rest in peace, and booked it over to the nearest bar for a stiff drink where the team building really began.

Dinner in Goa

I am always on the lookout for new Indian restaurants near me, and when Café Goa opened up in Westford this summer, we had to check it out.

I am delighted to say that as long as you know what to order off the menu, the food is quite delicious. I prefer the items on their menu as opposed to the weekend buffet – not enough variety (the only meat is the safe one – Chicken). And I am partial to Lamb.

It’s always an adventure when you order wine in an Indian Restaurant. The first time we ordered a bottle of red at Café Goa, we watched in amusement as every man that worked there came out to offer their advice on how to uncork the bottle. Just as one of us was going to walk over to the bar and offer to help, one of the guys succeeded in getting the cork out.

Am delighted to report that since our last visit, someone took the time to train our waiter on wine etiquette. Last night, he brought the bottle to our table. Showed it to us. Uncorked it and had me taste. Proceeded to fill the glasses in the correct order. Left the cork on the table. Halleluiah! His mother could not have been more proud.

Smart Cars

Anyone else seen the ads for these cars that park themselves?

While I am the first to admit that my parallel parking skills could use a little fine-tuning (Susan has shown me a foolproof method that works everytime) - what's up with cars that do it for you?

Is the goal to dumb down every thing, so that our noggins can shed our remaining cells faster?
I know people who cannot read a map. Well, they can always stop at a gas station and get directions I suppose. Now that we have cars that park for us, what else is there for us to do? Might as well talk on that phone, drink scalding hot coffee and eat a donut or two.

Happy parking.

Current Fave Video

Here's my fave video from YouTube.

Obsessive complusive cat flushing the toilet !!! Hilarious !

2 min 48 sec

Halloween Safety Tips

Thought since Halloween is approaching you may need to brush up on your Halloween Safety Tips.

1. When it appears that you have killed the monster, NEVER check to see if it's really dead.

2. Never read a book of demon summoning aloud, even just for kicks.

3. Do not search the basement, especially if the power has gone out.

4. If your children speak to you in Latin or any other language which they should not know, shoot them immediately. It will save you a lot of grief in the long run. However, it will probably take several rounds to kill them, so be prepared. This also applies to kids who speak with somebody else's voice.

5. When you have the benefit of numbers, NEVER pair off and go alone

6. As a general rule, don't solve puzzles that open portals to Hell.

7. Never stand in, on, or above a grave, tomb, or crypt. This would apply to any other house of the dead as well.

8. If you're searching for something which caused a loud noise and find out that it's just the cat, GET THE HELL OUT!

9. If appliances start operating by themselves, do not check for short circuits, just get out.

10. Do not take ANYTHING from the dead.

11. If you find a town which looks deserted, there's probably a good reason for it. Don't stop and look round.

12. Don't fool with recombinant DNA technology unless you're absolutely sure you know what you're doing.

13. If you're running from the monster, expect to trip or fall down at least twice, more if you are of the female persuasion. Also note that, despite the fact that you are running and the monster is merely shambling along, it's still moving fast enough to catch up with you.

14. If your companions suddenly begin to exhibit uncharacteristic behavior such as hissing, fascination for blood, glowing eyes, increasing hairiness, and so on, kill them off them immediately. You'll thank yourself later.

15. Stay away from certain geographical locations, some of which are listed here: Amityville, Elm Street, Transylvania, Nilbog (you're already in trouble if you recognize this one), anywhere in Texas where chainsaws are sold, the Bermuda Triangle, or any small town in Maine. Also, California and Ohio are good spots to avoid this and every other time of year. I mean, the answer's in the question.

16. If your car runs out of gas at night on a lonely road, do not go to the nearby deserted-looking house to phone for help. If you think that it is strange you ran out of gas because you thought you had most of a tank, shoot yourself instead. You are going to die anyway and most likely be eaten.

17. Beware of strangers bearing strange tools. For example: chainsaws, nail guns, hedge trimmers, electric carving knives, combines, lawnmowers, butane torches, soldering irons, band saws or any devices made from deceased companions.

18. If you find that your house is built upon a cemetery, now is the time to move in with the in-laws. (It's a toss-up. We know.) This also applies to houses that had previous inhabitants who went mad, committed suicide, died in some horrible fashion, OR had inhabitants who performed satanic practices in your house.

19. (And perhaps the most important..) Always get out as soon as the scary music starts playing.

....Thanks Philip for passing this along....

Readers

What would my life be like if I did not read? I cannot even begin to imagine it. I have read for as long as I can remember. Can not think of a time in my life when I did not have several books going. Reading gives me pleasure, joy, solace, peace, thrills, adventure .... I could go on and on.

How could I not pass along the gift to my n's. I hope to nuture the next generation of readers in my family.

Everytime Luke and Jonah come to visit, we read. (Click on pics to enlarge)

Cat Presents

Rafiki loves to bring me presents. Usually it is still alive when he lays it at my feet.

This morning, my present was a little field mouse. Do I know the difference between a field and house mouse? I do not. But since it was brown, assumed that meant it was a field mouse.

The little guy was in a state of shock. Rafiki drops it near my yoga mat while I’m in the boat pose. Well, got out of the boat in a flash. Must have startled the mouse who made a quick get-a-away dash. Yelled at Rafiki to “get him” and he obediently brought the mouse back. Frantically looked for a rag/towel/shirt to pick it up in, and then let him go outside. The little mouse fled down the stairs into the early morning darkness.

So here is my dilemma. Can one really scold a cat for showing love in the way he is programmed to show it? And to add to the confusion, I did tell him to catch it when it was trying to escape. At least this gift was living. Other gifts have not been so lucky, and then the entire saga takes on a dark tinge. The most exciting gifts are the ones that get away and hide under furniture. Ever tried to catch a chipmunk? They are darn fast.

News from North Korea

Is anyone else a little squirmy about Diane Sawyer’s dispatches from North Korea?

I think she is a very accomplished journalist, and maybe that’s the problem. Granted this is Good Morning America (GMA) – I catch about 10 mins before I run out the door in the morning.

Stories like “We’ll see what they eat for breakfast” can hardly be considered news from a country that is planning a second nuclear test. I know that she’ll probably have her visa revoked if she said anything controversial, and maybe we’ll hear the real scoop once she’s back in the US. But, I for one am disappointed at my peek into what makes “those people” tick.

Do we really need another wealthy American asking the “natives” why they hate America?

I for one want some real news – like what exactly is the problem with Madonna adopting a child from Africa?

Anniversary

Over the Columbus Day Holidays, S and I celebrated our 15 year anniversary.

I couldn’t quite believe it and actually had to do the math several times! 15 years! How did that happen?

It’s been a ride with ups, downs, thrills and spills. It’s wonderful to know that we can make things work when we’re both really busy and stressed out, and when we are both taking extended periods of time off. We’ve learned how to be together and when to take needed time apart. We continue to change, challenge each other and most importantly find each other immensely amusing.

For the blessing that we still talk for hours daily, that we often have great ideas to solve the world’s problems, that we still surprise each other, that we are still best friends, warts and all – I am incredibly grateful.

Quote of the Day

"Health is so necessary to all the duties,
as well as pleasures of life,
that the crime of squandering it is equal to folly."

 --Samuel Johnson

Charlie

I have gripped for ages about the "old school" Boston T system. Granted it is an old system, but let's catch up with the rest of the century already.

Why can I not buy a card that allows me to swipe my way through? A card that allows me to carry a balance and skip all that wasted time trying to find tokens I bought on previous trips to “save me time” later.

Well, the MBTA gods have answered my prayers.

Enter the Charlie. Now those of you, like me, who were not aware of the cultural significance of “The Wizard of Oz”, might be wondering at the name.

Charlie? Who is Charlie? Turns out the name comes from an old song about a guy who did not have a nickel to get off the trains (payment was required at exit not entry), so rode about forever – while his wife handed him sandwiches for sustenance. Why not simply hand him a nickel? All I can say is that I do not claim to understand everything of cultural significance.

Those of you (and you know who you are) who relish Big Dig sagas, know that there is a catch. And it’s a big one. Only a handful of T stops can handle the Charlie. For most of the stops you still need tokens. So now, I’ve doubled what I have to look for on every trip – tokens and that card. (much shaking of head).

Tigers

I'll be the first to admit that I'm not a huge baseball fan.
Sure, I'll watch a game if it's on in front of me, but go out of my way to catch a game? Hardly.

I have watched quite a few games in the past week or so however. How could I not when Susan has dug up the old Tigers pendant and baseball hat? The win on Saturday was super sweet for all those Detroit fans - who have been waiting since I was 2 (and knew nothing about baseball) for a moment like this. A good game that was decided in the bottom of the ninth (yup- I do have all the lingo down).

If only to make my partner happy - I say:

Go Tigers!

Commute

I spent the first week at work trying a different route to and from work each day. Found that time on the highways made me tense and I’d arrive at work with my shoulders tight. Decided to try back roads, and have found the perfect one. It takes me past farms, a river and ponds. It is windy and offers much to look at. The places where traffic back up are not too bad.

I listen to audio books on my drive. Discovered the joy of audio books several years ago, and find them perfect for books that I am not hot to actually read myself, but am interested in.

Not all books make good audio books. They must be written well. Be read by someone whose voice and reading style does not put your teeth on edge. Not require too much concentration – at least for me.

I’ve listened to both fiction and non-fiction audio books. Last week I laughed my way to and from work listening to a Jimmy Tingle CD. The guy is really funny. Am currently listening to “The Hungry Tide” by Amitav Ghosh. So far so good.

Daily Walks

When I started working in tech again, I decided that this time around, I was going to be diligent about having more balance in my life. Make the time to play, read, do things that fill my batteries. One of the commitments I made to myself was that I would take a daily walk. And I am quite proud of myself. I have only missed one day since I started work 4 weeks ago.

I usually go out first thing in the morning – cannot wake up enough to have a conversation with myself – as I talk myself out of it (too cold, too tired, etc). I’m on my walk around 5:30am, and it has quickly become one of the favorite parts of my day. Something I do just for me.

I get to greet the morning and slowly wake up outside as my heart gets pumping. I get a chance to noodle over things that happened the day before, or plan things that need to happen that day. I watch the leaves turn, the moon wax and wane, the stars twinkle, the clouds change shapes, the birds and little critters wake up.

As we head towards the Winter Solstice, the days shorten, and my entire walk is in the dark. Not really being able to see has its own rewards. I rely less on what I can see and am more tuned in to what I hear and smell.

This has become a daily ritual that sustains me.

Foot Binding

(Click on images to see larger)

This topic has been on my mind since reading the book "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan" by Lisa See. I'll write a review of the book later, wanted to comment on several things:



1. I do not think that I appreciate my feet enough. So have started to regularly slather them with lotion and give myself a good foot massage.

2. While reading the book, I was actually in tears at the time the main character has her foot bound - guess I never really thought about how it was done. And now that I know, I am not sure I am better for it.

3. A couple of women met at Laurels to discuss the book (not my regular book club) and one of the things I asked the group was "what is so appealing about helpless women in all cultures?" Okay so we don't have foot binding as the Chinese practiced it, but look at this:










Is that not a form of foot binding? Jimmy Cho is spitting on his white persian rug at the moment I'm sure. But honestly, what gives with wearing shoes that "look great, but I cannot walk in"?

One woman last night nailed it for me - "It makes my ass look higher".

"The Science of Sleep"

"Stephane Miroux (Gael García Bernal) is an eccentric young man whose dreams constantly invade his waking life. While slumbering, he is the charismatic host of Stephane TV, expounding on "The Science of Sleep" in front of cardboard cameras. In "real life," he has a boring job at a Parisian calendar publisher and pines for Stephanie (Charlotte Gainsbourg), the girl in the apartment across the hall. Unable to find the secret to Stephanie's heart while awake, Stephane searches for the answer in his dreams. A playful romantic fantasy written and directed by Michel Gondry (Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind).

Cast: Gael García Bernal, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Alain Chabat, Miou-Miou, Pierre Vaneck, Emma de Caunes, Aurélia Petit, Sacha Bourdo, Stéphane Metzger, Decourt Moyen, Inigo Lezzi, Jean-Michel Bernard, Yvette Petit, Eric Mariotto, Bertrand Delpierre"

This was probably the longest 1hr and 45mins of my life - and I did not stay 'til the end of the movie! As much as I like Gael G Bernal, this movie was too surrealistic - even for me.
If you liked it, I'd love to hear why.