gather

Lemon As Medicine

2012-01-30T14:12:00.006-06:00

Some of my lemons for this past year. Meyer is what I grow the most of, but I also grow softball-sized Ponderosa and football-sized Etrog (the nubby one in the bottom right picture). I recently happened across a spot on tv where a man who makes healthy juice concoctions on the streets of Jerusalem said the most important juice of all was that of the Etrog so I researched it. Appears that the Etrog, aka the Persian Apple, is prized in the mid-east for its medicinal qualities. With over 70 medicinal chemicals, it is used for its juice and zest in cooking. Cultivated back in 4000 BC, it was also known as the Paradise Apple as it was believed to be the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden. Today, it is used in the Jewish festival of Sukkot. I know very little about keeping kosher, but in reading about Etrog (pronounced atrog) the fruit has to be unblemished, grown from actual tree, not a seed or cutting, and in fields that are watched over under strict observation by rabbis. The lemon therefore must be used from a tree called/considered Hadar, named in the Torah from the days of Moses. Wow!

Known for an antidote for snakebite, a cure for seasickness, and used as an antibiotic in times past, some other lemon remedies are used for:

Constipation

Reduction of body fat

mouth ulcers and throat infections

stomach upsets

cold relief

Lemons have also proved to be a blessing for mountaineers. In the case of insufficient oxygen or difficulty in breathing, lemon comes to the rescue. Sir Edmund Hillary has admitted that his victory over Mount Everest was greatly due to lemon.

I think I'll grow more Etrogs this year.

Keith Jarrett - I Loves You Porgy

2012-01-28T13:11:00.006-06:00

Keith Jarrett is a living legend. No one does improvisation like he does. You gotta watch Keith, not only for this tune but also to watch how he plays. From slow and low (like this piece) to something akin to musical chaos, Keith can't sit still; he becomes the instrument, becomes the music, levitates and cries out at times in ecstacy. I saw the movie Porgy and Bess when I was young and never forgot this song. The piece was from his 100th performance in Tokyo. His Sun Bear concert recorded in Japan is where I first heard of him in the 1970's. Also heard him on Pacifica radio then saw a PBS piece that used his music. His Koln concert would be a good CD to start out with. My music was never the same after hearing Keith...

Chevre

2012-01-25T21:43:00.001-06:00

When you have a greenhouse full of lemons (nearly 175lbs. of the golden gems), what do you do? Make everything lemony you can think of. This year, I will be freezing most of the juice, but I am trying something new - goat cheese, or as they say in France, chevre. It is easy to make and delicious I might add. I used Meyer lemons in this recipe and zest shavings. It doesn't have quite the bite or tang that some chevre has. Though I tried it atop crackers with a savory pepper jelly, I think it would also be good on toast points with a delicious sweet jam or marmalade and of course atop salads. I believe in France, they eat it for the dessert course. There are so many recipes on the web to choose from, and many call for rennet (you can purchase at Whole Foods) or Junket which can be purchased at most grocery stores near the pudding section. These are what give the cheese more tang and help it set up. I used buttermilk since I had neither of the aforementioned. I'll be trying feta next.

CHEVRE

1 quart goat milk (I used the pasteurized since I don't have a goat)

1/3 cup fresh lemon juice

2 Tbs. buttermilk

In a large non-reactive pot (stainless), slowly warm the goat milk to 180 degrees. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Let the milk cool for 20 minutes, then add lemon juice and buttermilk. Stir, then let the milk sit for 2 hours.

Line a colander with several layers of cheese cloth. Place the colander over a large bowl and pour the milk into cloth. Let it sit for 2 hours (I actually let mine drain for 6 hours) or until the liquid whey has drained leaving the curds. Now is the time to season with a small amount of sea salt (approx. 1/8 to 1/4 tsp). The curds will then be placed in a mold or tin and covered with plastic wrap. Keep chevre in refrigerator for several days, if it lasts that long.

My Day of Days

2012-01-17T00:40:00.002-06:00

I reached a new decade back in December. One that didn't really bother me all that much as I am not very vain. What are you gonna do? Nevertheless, it was the best birthday ever. I went to lunch with my daughters and friends, got the nicest gifts and had the best time. And, nobody said a word about my surprise birthday party that night at Wolfgang Puck's restaurant, sneaky little devils. They were all there having fun, grinning like Cheshire cats and no one had even let it slip. I've never had a surprise party before. It was wonderful. All my children, husband, sister and her significant other, friends and their children were there. I love them all. My cake was a beautiful cake/mousse concoction covered in cherry blossoms ( this because my daughter knew how much I was moved by the movie) and I got a copy of the movie too. My daughter had even sent out printed invitations with cherry blossoms inscribed and on the back a picture of me in the field and a line from the poem THE ROAD NOT TAKEN by Robert Frost that I quote from time to time. My friends and family are so thoughtful, so wonderful. I adore them. It was the best day and night. "someday I shall be telling this tale ages and ages hence, two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference." I, I took the one less traveled by and now I'm lost on the farm.

It's Chili Time

2012-01-13T12:26:00.002-06:00

It was a balmy 61 degrees yesterday and a winter killing 18 degrees this morning. So, it is chili time. Not just another bowl of chili, mind you. This chili recipe is the best chili ever. But, don't just take my word. Capital Punishment Chili won the 1980 world championship chili. Bill Pfeiffer, a native Texan, won a $20,000 first prize at the International Chili Society's 14th annual cook-off in LA. As all of you serious cooks know, your riffs on recipes is what makes them sensational. A word of caution here - for the first time you cook this, I suggest you use the original recipe so you know what it is supposed to taste like.

Texans don't mess around with their chili. I have heard of ashes, cocoa and other exotic ingredients in their chili recipes. If memory serves me well, I believe beans and even tomatoes are banned ingredients in Texas chili. Having said that, beans are in mine and tomatoes. I also love it topped with fritos, cheese and a dollop of sour cream. My riff on Capital Punishment Chili is cornbread dumplings cooked on top during the last 20 minutes of cooking. I think that back in 1980, the meats used were very inexpensive. Imagine my surprise when I made this recently. Enjoy!

Capital Punishment Chili

4 lbs. extra lean chuck, flank or round steak, coarsely ground (chili grind)

1 lb. extra lean sirloin, cut into 1/4 inch cubes

2 lbs. pork loin, cut into 1/4 inch cubes

2 large onions, finely chopped

8 to 10 cloves garlic, finely chopped

7 heaping tablespoons chili powder (new bottle as spices only last 6 months)

4 tablespoons ground cumin

1 tablespoon ground oregano

2 tablespoons paprika (Yes, I bought all new jars of spices and herbs)

2 tablespoons flavor enhancer

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon mole powder (I omit this)

1 or 2 tablespoons flaked chili peppers

1 6oz. can tomatoe sauce (I used a 28oz can of crushed tomatoes)

2 cans beef broth

2 cans beer

1 tablespoon masa harina (corn flour)

Brown meat and onions in large stock pot. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, flavor enhancer, sugar, mole powder, and pepper flakes. Mix well. Add tomato sauce, broth and beer. Mix well and simmer 2 hours. Mix masa with enough hot water to make a light paste and add to chili 30 minutes before serving to thicken. At this point, I also added a tablespoon of salt, but you can add as much as you want. I also added canned beans. This really is the best chili ever.

Just Thinking

2012-01-01T23:31:00.001-06:00

Birdie and I are sitting in front of the monitor, drinking orange juice, just thinking about life and nearly everything else under the sun. I've told my family that my epitaph should read, she thought too much - perfect for me. I think maybe the old saying, ignorance is bliss, would be a preferable one.

Happy New Year to all my friends out there. I have so enjoyed your thoughts and dreams in 2011 and look forward to another year of reading your blogs.

This photo was taken at the rear of the Rodin Museum in Paris.

Dragees

2011-12-12T23:41:00.000-06:00

I've posted about dragees before, so type in dragees in the upper corner to find out more about them. Once, I could only find the silver ones of my childhood, but now I think they make all sizes and colors. I love them during cookie baking and decorating, but they really aren't so toothsome to bite into. Anyway, you'll find my recipe for sugar cookies by digging into my past blogs. Again, upper corner. Hey, I'm still recovering so I'm borrowing from the old stash.

Flu Who?

2011-12-11T21:05:00.000-06:00

Here's a story. There is this lady who hardly ever gets sick - never even gotten a flu shot. A friend developed Guillaume Barre Syndrome after a flu shot, so she decides never to get one. Then she gets bit by a flu bug and 15 days later is still having symptoms (mouth is raw, can't hear). She was so sick in fact, twice, she thought she was minutes away from death. She watched the news, certain they would come across the screen with an announcement that an epidemic had begun with a new terrible strain of flu. No such pronouncements. Ebola or Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever thrown in with this new strain... Moral of this story, she will be getting an annual flu shot from now on.

Rosebud

2011-11-13T15:35:00.002-06:00

You know those things from ages past, tucked away, like these tiny gloves. Brings to mind one of my favorite passages from Wordsworth's ODE. It's not verbatim - I don't want to go look it up.

"what though the radiance which was once so bright, be taken now forever from my sight. And though nothing can bring back the hour of splendor in the grass, of glory in the flower, we will grieve not, rather, find strength in what remains behind. In the primal sympathy, what having been must ever be. In the soothing thoughts that spring forth out of human suffering. In faith that looks through death, and in the years that bring the philosophic mind."

The Last Hurrah

2011-11-08T22:23:00.003-06:00

I make no bones about it. I don't like winter and a cold wind is howling tonight. Winters in Oklahoma are hard and frigid. Last winter, Oklahoma recorded its coldest temperature ever at 29 degrees below zero. I'd much rather be at the beach. Okay, the summers are hotter than you know where; our temperatures were the highest on record this summer at over 115 degrees. There were terrible wildfires and we are still in extreme drought conditions. In fact, our state has had crazy weather of late. Just yesterday, Oklahoma had tornadoes, flooding rains, snow and earthquakes. Yes, we are having quite a lot of earthquakes. We've had small ones before; usually they aren't even noticeable. Three in the last three days have been noticeable. I never hope to be an earthquake stronger than the 5.7 one Saturday night. It took me a minute to figure out what it was. The roar was the first thing I noticed. I thought a jet was going to crash into my house. I never knew an earthquake made noise. I heard today that the roaring was sound waves emanating from the earth. Who knew? Then the house started shaking. I could even hear and feel it as it moved away. Weirdest thing I've ever encountered. Made the hair stand on end. I don't know how anyone could make it outside during an earthquake. I sat there mesmerized; an earthquake was the last thing I could have imagined. I'm not superstitious, don't believe in the messianic end times soothsayers, but something strange is going on.

You Can't Take Me Anywhere

2011-10-30T12:40:00.003-05:00

Well, it's almost all Hallows Eve, or Halloween as we like to call it. This is the scariest thing I could come up with (or it could be my parrot Birdie trying to pluck my eye out as I work on this blog). During our 10 day trip to Paris this spring, we forayed two hours east of Paris, in the Loire Valley, and went to Chartres and Chambourg. I really enjoyed this and heartily recommend spending a day or two around there to see how they live outside of Paris. Tiny towns, or villages, dot the countryside in a patchwork mosaic of planted fields. Many of the homeowners also had large gardens. I will show more of Chartres later, though I can't remember whether many of the pics are Chartres or Chambourg, but this old window was definitely in Chambourg. Of course, you're not supposed to open the windows, so what did I do, yes, as my friends scattered, I had to lift the beautiful old latch and open the window. Just inches away, on the sill, was this little bat. It looked up at me and followed me with its eyes. I looked up to see if it had fallen from the roof line, but saw no others. Since bats aren't out during the daylight hours, I surmised it must be sick. Rabies?!! Sorry little bat, I wish I could help you but I'm outta here. I took my photo, then gently closed the window. See what you miss when you always follow the rules. BOO!

Ryuichi Sakamoto - The Wuthering Heights(Trio World Tour 96)

2011-10-30T00:40:00.000-05:00

A Small Gift

2011-10-24T00:46:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite songs from one of my favorite pianist/composers.

Oldest Paris Church

2011-10-16T18:08:00.002-05:00

This large silver-rimmed shell holds holy water in the oldest church in Paris, St-Germain-des-Pres. Originating in 542 when most of Paris was still swampy, it was mostly burned down during the French Revolution by the mobs. Remarkably, it was heavily restored in the 19 century and looks beautiful today. A powerful Benedictine Abbey in its day, it was built by the Merovingian ruler, King Childebert, to house holy relics. You can tell it is a much older church; beautiful original painted columns and walls retain original symbols painted in wonderful colors. I love this photo. St-Germain-des-Pres, given its age, has seen many great and horrific moments in Parisian history, but is worth a visit. One famous tomb includes that of Rene Descartes.

Cipher This!

2011-10-10T13:10:00.003-05:00

As is often the case, I have to figure how to do things myself. Frustrating, yes. Knitting, painting, sculpting, sewing, carving, writing, cooking/baking...I would much rather have someone show me how. It would save much trial and error, research, etc. I want to make my own cipher to use on my prints/artworks. After several hours of attempting the smallest of workings and carvings, I had to drive to the city/crafts store yet again, for more supplies and another third attempt. I am the poster child for learning from mistakes. I know I'll finally get one, but this journey is not more fun than the destination.

And Then There Were Two

2011-10-02T15:07:00.001-05:00

Can you believe it? Another huge mouth to feed! This brown girl showed up last month. She left her pastures and crossed a fence and eighty acres to get here. Guess she was lonely and hungry too by the look of her ribs. I expect this animal cruelty from our neighbors, but not from her owner, who is a school superintendent of a rural school system.

Hosannah no likey brown girl - has to share her feed now.

You better not bite my knee!

Hosannah thinks that's hilarious.

She finally decides to lie down though when I moved an inch, she popped right back up just in case I might have hidden some graham crackers from her.

To all my dear blog friends that haven't had comments from me, I am still not able to comment on some of your blogs, but am reading and enjoying them.

Times Gone By

2011-09-20T15:33:00.000-05:00

I found this old cookbook in the cabinet recently and looked through it. Printed in 1932, some of the recipes are more than 100 years old. I loved the recipes, two of which are Dimples and Nun's Sigh. The author, Mary Moore Bremer, states in her forward, "The negro woman, who reigned in the kitchen, had inherited from her ancestors in Africa, as well as in America, a knowledge of cookery and herbs that made her skill look like magic." In another section, she writes, "Many of these recipes were written before calorie counting became a world sport, but when a little colored delivery boy asked," "Missus, is dis reducin' or increasin' bread?" " I knew it was time to put in some whole wheat recipes for those who do reduce." It is amazing to me that back in the early days of the 20th century, and in New Orleans, no less, people were dieting and counting calories.

Another part of the book gives recipes for cocktails and spirits. Seems drinking alcoholic beverages in New Orleans had rules which were to be strictly followed at mealtimes. Even the size and shape of glassware had to be correct for measuring amounts and just because (a pony is one ounce and a gill is four ounces.) "Delmonico's chef, Charles Ranhoffer, believed wine was to be the intellectual part of the meal, which must be served in correct order and at the proper temperatures, though preference must be given to taste and the effect on health as he believes that certain tastes go with certain temperaments: The sanguine natures feel the want of light wines such as Champagne; the phlegmatic love the warm wines from Languedoc and Fontignon; gloomy dispositions crave sweet Spanish, Italian and Burgundy; while the billious require something stimplating like Bordeaux which is easily digested and leaves the mouth clear and the head free." The rule for formal dinners was observed thusly:
Sauterne or other white wine with the oysters.
Dry sherry with clear soup.
Sherry or Madeira with turtle soup.
Champagne with entrees.
Claret with salads.
Bordeau with game.
Claret with roast.
Burgundy with dessert.
Brandy, Liqueurs, Cognac or Pousse Cafe followed the coffee.

This book is charming and I wish I could have visited the New Orleans of long ago. My mother left home at fifteen, and without shoes, walked to New Orleans, where she worked and lived until she met my father who was stationed there and in the Navy. We never knew this story until after her death at forty when her sister told me.

After seven weeks, my new knee is healing and I am finally able to get back to normal. Glad to be back!

Vespers

2011-07-31T23:08:00.002-05:00

In times long past, I used to go to summer camp. Every evening we'd go up the mountain and sit around a camp fire. Upon our descent, we would sing vespers. "Day is done. Gone the sun...." I have great memories (but mostly about how homesick I was). Nevertheless, here is a sunset at our Peaceable Hill Farm.

I won't be posting for a couple of weeks, but I will be reading all your blogs. I am having my knee replaced this week. At seventeen, I had knee surgery and I've needed a new one for nearly twenty years. So, hope all of you get rain and cooler temps. This week, it is supposed to climb to 110 degrees around here.

And may I mention, I have been having trouble commenting on some of your blogs and have no idea how to correct the problem. Any info will be appreciated. Stay cool and well.

California Dreamin'

2011-07-18T00:17:00.000-05:00

We grow em big here at our Peaceable Hill Farm. Actually, without rain since April and 105 degrees for the past several weeks, not much is growing. I spend my days and nights watering; vegetables, fruit trees, flowers, shrubs, potted plants and on and on... I fear I will be losing many plantings due to this hellish heat. I think my 15 year old hydrangeas are dead. And, back to the berries. They dried up before we could pick the wild ones. Next time La Nina and her damn weather pattern is coming our way for the summer, I will be packing it up and heading to the California coast.

Sculpture at the Louvre

2011-06-30T23:52:00.006-05:00

This was such a monumental and beautiful piece. Ancient of days. Something mythological.

Green Mansions

2011-06-30T13:09:00.002-05:00

Growing up, my father had a radio station and as a courtesy, we had a movie pass. I saw nearly every movie that came out. This movie, starring Audrey Hepburn and Anthony Perkins was one of the stinkers. Imagine my young mind watching Butterfield 8, etc. and going "Huh?" Nonetheless, Audrey's husband, Mel Ferrer, directed this movie, which was considered a huge flop. Released in 1959, Audrey played Rima, the jungle girl. The movie was adapted from a very sucessful book by WH Hudson and though the book sounds interesting, the movie was not.

Berry Odd

2011-06-28T01:02:00.000-05:00

This is a fallow year on the farm for berries. We usually get tens of gallons of blackberries by July 4th. This year, we got nothin'! We had a record freeze this winter and our thornless berries were killed back to the ground. Even the wild blackberries are slim and none. Our early heat (102 degrees today) coupled with no rain since April have left us with tiny berries not worth the effort to pick. So, to market, to market, here we come. I posted this dessert once before. It has a buttery cookie bottom with a cream cheese layer on top of that. The berries finish it and of course, a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Mile High Apple Pie

2011-06-23T22:54:00.002-05:00

Since it is much too hot to bake, I'll share this apple pie I made last fall. Secrets to a good apple pie? Granny Smith apples, lemon juice, dotted with butter and light brown sugar gives it the most flavor.

Breathtaking Sculpture At The Louvre

2011-06-12T23:55:00.002-05:00

Though I love the two dimension art at the Louvre, I was especially drawn to the 3D sculpture hall. Just walked around, awed by the works in marble. When you sculpt with clay, you can mold it by adding the clay or taking it away. After drying the clay, you can then carve into it. I can not imagine working with stone and a chisel and making this look so beautiful. Don't remember her name nor the artist's name, but she was stunning, and hardly anyone was around.

Do You Know The Way?

2011-06-06T00:04:00.013-05:00

Parlez vous Francais you crow? Just a little? Um, mon French is non bien. Okay. Ou est how to get to the original Chanel shop? The one with Madame Coco's apartment upstairs?
That far? Taxi...

The original Chanel store was quite the shopping experience. Upon entering, I thought maybe I had stepped into an 80's Devo video. Two dapper guards stood on either side of the door. Gorgeous gray suits, white shirt and black ties with mirrored shades. Are you looking at me monsieur? In fact, double guards were posted in hallways and all rooms throughout the store. Very clean lines and spaces. I didn't see anyone trying on the size 0 clothes; they must have been spirited off to the hinterlands by the sales associates. No matter. It was more fun watching the other buyers than looking at the merchandise. I knew the prices without bothering to look. Oh well, perhaps I would go ogle a pair of flats. What the heck? 750euros? A thousand bucks for a pair of flats? Not in this lifetime bebe. We went on to the joailliere room. While waiting my turn for a look, I surreptitiously watched a twenty-something, spiky haired Asian girl in feathered boots, hotpants and a polar bear coat. She was piling her loot on the counter. A giant black purse, (more than 12000 euros) some scarves and shoes, and scads of necklaces were all I could see. Hummmp...

After being taken to a small, private, inner room where payments were made, I left the Chanel flagship store with earrings for my daughters. Nothing to crow about and, nothing for me! As we left the store, the Asian girl in the fur walked past with nothing in her hands. What? Where were all of her bags? "Oh," said our friend, "they have it all sent over to their hotel."
Hint for the day while shopping the designer stores in gay Paris ~ il est good to be Asian as they seemed to be the only ones doing all the power shopping.

Fruits de Paris

2011-05-28T12:49:00.006-05:00

The Antiques and Ham Fair in Paris had these beautiful candied and dried fruits just sitting out in baskets. Didn't try them but they looked wonderful. I came upon these meringues while window shopping in St. Germain des Pres. I cannot get meringues like these anywhere I know of, but I've always wanted to try a Pavlova. A new trend in restaurants is to 'deconstruct' food, (originally called playing with your food?). Methinks an Eton Mess is just a deconstructed Pavlova. I think I would rather have the Pavlova for the aesthetics with a sprinkling of these various fruits to gild the lily.

Parisian Poulet

2011-05-27T12:17:00.005-05:00

Grilling out for the holidays? Mmmmm! Chicken. Don't know about you, but I think I would pass on fowl if this is what I had to choose from at the market. There were feathers, legs, faces and feet, not to mention the head, like it was sleeping with its comb still on. Small birds, ducks and geese and rabbit too. Everything was not wrapped in plastic like our pre-packaged meats from the store. Some birds wore stamps or decals of some kind; my guess is it was to tell you where they came from. I am sure they were more flavorful than what we get at Wal Mart, but I just can't do the whole animal thing. I've never eaten one of my chickens (nor bunnies, turkeys or animals, oh my). They have names and as it is, I can barely choke down one of the eggs.

Over Paris

2011-05-25T23:06:00.001-05:00

Here's the zeppelin we parachuted out of somewhere over Paris. Okay, just kidding...

Les Deux Magots

2011-05-21T00:58:00.006-05:00

Croque Monsieur?

Open faced sandwich?

Fois Grahahaas with shaved jambone?

Dessert? But of course!

In Paris, we stayed in the 6th arrondisement, St. Germain-des-Pres. There, we drank and dined with ghosts of the great writers, surrealists, existentialists and artists of the time. Les Deux Magots opened in 1813 and was named after a popular play of the day, The Two Magots of China. Not only was LDM the headquarters of the surrealist and existentialist movements, Max Ernst and Picasso and other greats painted and talked and wrote etc. John Paul Satre, along with Simone de Beauvoir, took their tea there each morning and he would write for hours. Hemingway was another regular. The two large Magots still grace the cafe walls. ( And, it is after 1:30 am and a bird is out my back door singing a plaintiff song and my peacock is honking his head off out somewhere in the night. Go figure.)

1970, When we were young...

2011-05-20T00:25:00.002-05:00

The Louvre Visit

2011-05-10T22:40:00.006-05:00

Went to the Louvre. Breathtaking art. Happened upon this large, gorgeous canvas. What was the lady doing to the doves? Pulling them apart or instigating copulation? ??? Adjusted my glasses and saw the wooden plaque, Venus, from the 1500's. Frames are art at the Louvre. Unbelievable works. While we did see lots of paintings, this time I got to see more sculpture. I will share more of it later.

Parisian Street Fair

2011-05-08T23:52:00.015-05:00

I love monkeys and this big one wanted to come home with me. I couldn't afford him anyway and feared I'd have to buy him an extra seat.

We happened along a sidestreet full of tents with antiques and decided to stop and shop. Loved all these old toys. The prices were only slightly better than the Ham Fair, but great stuff.

I loved these wooden painted animals and made home with a few of them. At 7 euros apiece, they seemed like a deal considering almost every other thing we had seen in Paris.

I love old molds but have many so I passed these up.

And what , pray tell, was this old sign lying in the street outside of the tent? "Is it for sale," I ask. I love old signs and she said, "Oui, 70euros." Oh but of course I had to have it. Pretty heavy and big but I was absolutely sure it would fit in my luggage.

My new find, my sign with the trefoil corners, was going to fit perfectly - until the night before I left Paris. I had brought two large hard sided suitcases. But, the sign wouldn't fit. I was about to go looking for a sledge hammer, but I finally got the 4 corners wedged/bent upwards. The security people left a note in my bag that they had checked it out. Nevertheless, it hangs in my kitchen and I am very happy with my Paris cafe sign.

Antiques and Ham Fair in Paris

2011-05-07T11:17:00.009-05:00

What do you imagine this could be?

Well, it was the largest brioche in the world, I think. At least 2 and a half feet across and 6 inches high, they pulled off chunks of it and sold it by weight.

The toys were great at this fair; very old and unique. The prices were also great - as in very high.

I loved the Guignol puppet stage and the little metal table.

Old wall coverings.

Great chair.

Paris Antique and Ham Fair Pics

2011-05-04T23:20:00.006-05:00

Just a few more random photos from the antique show. By the time I started shopping, I forgot about all the things I was going to look for while I was there. So, just pics of my ogling everything.

Paris Ritz Cooking Class

2011-05-03T11:53:00.005-05:00

One reason we went to the Paris Ritz Hotel was to attend a cooking class. It was fun to see the otherwise unseen parts of the hotel. Though the dish was uninspired - stir fry - it was tasty. I guess they didn't know what level of cooks we were and I had hoped to make bread or a dessert of some kind.

Chef began with how to use the utensils. She spoke mostly in English.

Going over the ingredients.

My sister and the assistant chef listening to Chef's instructions.

After the preparation, we lunched in the kitchen library where all of the cookbooks lined the walled shelves behind lock and key. It was fun and though not very challenging, I did learn one thing. If you cry over onions (I am literally blinded when preparing them) slide the knife forward in a slicing fashion. Don't chop or push down on the onion. Another little tidbit.... There is a law in France forbidding the use of corn meal in bread. Who knew?

The Paris Antiques and Ham Fair

2011-04-27T22:30:00.008-05:00

While at the Jambone Antiques Fair this spring, my heart quickened as I hurried over to this beautiful miniature staircase. I've always wanted one; love all things old and architectural. That is until I saw the price. 2000euros or about $3000. USD! I didn't even look at the price of this next one as I couldn't have gotten it home anyway. But, it was a fine staircase too.

Just a few more things I spied. I did make a couple of purchases which I will have to photograph soon. Loved the faux bois table and fairy aierie. There were lots of things to die for - that is die when you saw the prices. Paris was extremely expensive. The dollar was valued around 63cents and the euro was fluctuating around 1.45. I don't know how anyone affords to go there right now, much less live there. I'm still smarting over the little staircase. I spent 400euros that day on two purchases. Guess what they were?

Puttin' On The Ritz

2011-04-20T13:36:00.012-05:00

Sorry, this was next door to the Ritz. Nevertheless, we attended a function at the Ritz Hotel in Paris (more about that later). Here are a few shots I took from inside. It was beautiful. I think this patio area was my favorite place in the hotel.

One of my partners in crime, Mary Kay, in a large seating area.

Le Jules Verne

2011-04-10T14:35:00.023-05:00

Want to see what $375.oo per person looks like in a famous Paris restaurant? Le Jules Verne has its own entry into the Eiffel Tower. It is modern, Michelin starred, the famed Alain Ducasse for a chef and beautiful. The wait time for reservations is weeks to months. But $375.oo per person? Was it worth the price? You'll have to wait till the bottom to find out.

We never did use the thin silver fork and knife. Guess it was just for looks. We didn't use half the serve ware before it was all removed and replaced with new pieces. Someone said they have to weigh all the silverware etc. so they will know how much weight is added to the Eiffel Tower.

This fabulous plate was puzzling until they flipped it over to the front.

Did I say that wine, water and other beverages were not included in the prix fix? We did get many different courses. In fact, I don't remember what everything was, or remembered to take pictures of all the courses, but it all tasted wonderful; the presentations exquisite. Except, for the... you'll find out later.

I think my camera overexposed this little dish. I believe it was a tan colored chestnut soup. Of course, the champagne could also have made me forget which dish it was. Good though. Very silky consistancy.

I must say I have no memory of this little thing. Nut, tiny pastry? I'm sure I put it in my mouth.

I do remember this dish was grilled endive but can't remember the rest. Only, that it was good.

Oh no. Someone hold my nose.

Very good.

Two kinds of fish with sauce, though I'm not a big fan of the foam fad that has passed its heyday. Sorry chef.

Beef fillet over a bed of spinach.

Some kind of flan with a fresh fruit confit and caramel sauce.

Cannelle of ice cream with candied hazelnuts. There was also another ice cream cannelle served after this. It was white so maybe limon?

Chocolate truffles, marshmallow, macarons, cookies; we could hardly eat by then.

This chocolate confection was the same size as the nuts or is it bolts, used on the Eiffel Tower. It was very good but by then, we were stuffed.

So, what was it that I did not like? The eighth picture from the top. You guessed it. The quintessential French favorite. Fois Graaas. Though not as pungent nor dirty tasting as beef and chicken liver, the foie was delicately flavored then the gras liver whang hits the taste buds. Okay. Maybe not a whang, but my mouth said liver. Blech! Okay, I hate liver, but I'm sure it was wonderful for the liver lovers.

So, it was a once in a life time meal. Le Jules Verne was gorgeous and you need to go just to see the futuristic bathroom. It is in the Eiffel Tower. The view was spectacular. I did get to taste freshly shaved truffles (loved them). And, the tower didn't tip over as we left.

Paris Trip

2011-04-08T22:32:00.007-05:00

Just now looking at the photos I took during my Paris trip this spring. I'll put up different ones from time to time. Did I mention that we flew first class? Yes, we did. It was the first time and probably the last time. But oh good Lord, it will be hard to ever fly coach again. We boarded and were promptly served champagne and orange juice; mimosas anyone? After warm nuts and marinated cheese, appetizers were served. More wine? Okay. Homemade wheat rolls or French bread. Piped butter? Of course. Grilled shrimp with horseradish dipping sauce and smoked salmon with fresh dill? Mais oui! Couldn't find the salad picture, but it was perfect baby greens with Roquefort cheese dressing of course.

Did I mention that the meal was served on tablecloths with no plastic containers anywhere? Here is a baked cheesy tortellini dish which was very good. Notice the glass on the right for shredded parmasean cheese. Don't know where they stored all the tablewares.

The beef fillet was thick and medium rare with another creamy horseradish topping. Mashed potatoes and grilled tomato made this plate pretty incredible. Could you eat another bite? You could after seeing the dessert cart roll past.

The vanilla ice cream was flecked with vanilla beans, the pecans fresh and the fudge topping hot. Yes, whipped cream too. Best sundae I've had. Don't know how they pulled that off. Believe it or not, they also served snacks later on. Two famous Texas chefs, Dean Fearing and Stephen Pyles, came up with the menu. Yea Texas. They did a great job considering it was airline food.

Each seat back had a screen for new movie releases or television shows. When time for sleep, the seats lay back to 90 degrees. Just so you know, I couldn't sleep anyway.

Morning, you were fed again. Each seat had a travel bag with toothpaste, brush, eye cover thingys, socks and more. Now you know how the other half travels and may I say, it was such a treat.

excerpt from "Cherry Blossoms" (2008)

2011-04-05T23:37:00.003-05:00

One of the final scenes from CHERRY BLOSSOMS. (You must read previous post to make sense of this post). On the last morning of Rudi's life, in his wife's kimono, he readies himself and walks to the lake near Mr Fuji. Here, he begins his butoh dance to honor his dead wife, who then joins him for this last dance. There are a few more scenes, but the last two are so diverse; say so much about life - one's own life as opposed to how others' view it. I want you to watch this film so I won't tell more except that CHERRY BLOSSOMS is about the interplay between fulfillment and regret; happiness and sorrow. The use of the cherry blossoms symbolized beauty, impermanence and new beginnings. You just have to see this beautiful film.

CHERRY BLOSSOMS (or Hanami)

2011-04-01T23:52:00.006-05:00

I saw this movie the other night. Though not for everyone, I thought it profound... and beautiful... and heartbreaking: I think my life has been changed by it. CHERRY BLOSSOMS is a German film by Doris Dorrie from 2008. I saw it on the Sundance Channel. Set in Japan, it is about the end of life journey of an aging German couple. At the wife Trudi's prompting, they decide to take the trip she's always wanted, to Japan. Unbeknownst to her husband Rudi, the wife keeps his terminal diagnosis from him. Trudi had always loved Japan and her people, its culture; she had longed to travel there and study butoh dancing and see Mt. Fuji, but life, family, the rearing of their children got in the way. Her husband had always dismissed her dancing dreams and made a life for himself through his work. During a beautiful scene at the Baltic Sea on their journey to Japan, Trudi suddenly dies. Rudi is left alone, bereft and after burying her, heads to Japan to stay with his youngest son, who is not too happy having him there nor does he understand his father. Wearing his wife's clothing, her pearls; Rudi wonders around Tokyo trying to make sense of their loss; wants to somehow make it all up to his wife. One day he comes upon a young butoh dancer performing under cherry blossoms in a park. Though he is dressed in his wife's clothes, Yu, the dancer, doesn't respond; understands why he wears them. They journey together to find meaning. Watch the above video, THE DANCE OF SHADOWS. I'll talk more of butoh later. And the rest of this beautiful movie.

A JOURNEY

2011-03-05T22:32:00.003-06:00

"Second star on the right, and straight on till morning." Peter Pan

See you when I return from my Paris trip....

Ooh La La

2011-02-26T00:59:00.010-06:00

I"ll soon be off to Paris for a ten day trip. I have been before and saw all of the touristy things, but this time, I will be on a quest to see the things only the locals know about - stores, restaurants, cafes, interiors, art and architecture. The Foire Nationale a la Brocante et Aux Jambones, or the Ham Fair, is a twice annual antiques fair, and I'll be there digging for old textiles, calligraphy/letters, prints and art and anything animal related. I am also going to look for American antiques as they are very desirable back here. I know lots of American Indian stuff went to Europe in the 19th and 20th centuries. Who knows what fate will bring my way. I am spoiled by American prices though (prices in London and Paris are more than double the cost back here) so I doubt I'll make any large purchases. Plus, I don't need one more thing. For four of those days, Toma Haines, aka the Antiques Diva, will be leading the way. Toma has lived in Europe for the past decade and resided for several years in Paris. She knows dealers, stores, etc. and I can't wait to follow her around Paris. Look on my sidebar and click on her site to find out more about the Diva. We'll be dining at the Michelin starred Jules Verne restaurant in the Eiffel Tower. We'll be shopping at the original Chanel store, but it doesn't seem very likely that we'll be able to tour Coco's apartment upstairs as that is the hardest ticket to come by in Paris. I won't be buying anything Chanel though, as my chickens wouldn't appreciate how chic I'd look. We will also attend a cooking class from the chef at the Ritz Hotel.

Now, if you've been to Paris before or know of some fabulous places or restaurants, please let me know! Soon! If I can figure out how to post pictures from my camera to my ipad, I'll share some of them with you. Otherwise, see you later mes amis...

LOL ON A SATURDAY NIGHT

2011-02-20T00:18:00.002-06:00

I've been watching a new show on the Science Channel that is absolutely hilarious. Now, I don't suffer fools gladly nor do I like slapstick humor or heehaw humor, i.e., I don't usually laugh at the same things most people do. But, after watching AN IDIOT ABROAD for the last few episodes, I have found myself laughing so loudly, my weenies come jump in my lap to see what's wrong with me. Ricky Gervais sends his friend, Karl Pilkington, around the world to see the seven wonders and the journey... well, you'll just have to watch.

ORANGE YOU GLAD?

2011-02-14T14:53:00.003-06:00

After the record breaking cold and snow of last week, it is 70 degrees today. I am walking around with a smile on my face, certain that spring has come. Hiding in the back of my greenhouse, I found that my naval oranges were ripe, (really almost too ripe). Nonetheless, I juiced them and drank the sweetest orange elixir I have ever tasted. Oh, and you can get precious doggie and kitty juice glasses at ANTHROPOLOGIE. And, did I say that I'm smiling? Life is sweet.

Colder Than A Witch's Tit

2011-02-05T12:34:00.010-06:00

Oh! How I do hate winter. Temperatures below zero, blizzards, ice and snow and more snow... It is the work of a demon methinks. Does anyone have a shack on a warm beach someplace, where I can wait out the rest of winter? We have to winter somewhere warm from now on. I just can't stand it. If you watch House Hunters International, it would only cost a mere half-million or so. Maybe, they would let me cook for room and board. Or, I could paint (oils not houses).

Here's Hosannah, the neighbor's horse. They don't shelter her, nor feed her, so I am feeding her through the winter once again. She had icicles on her the other day.

Buzzy, the kitten, and I are reduced to watching the birds feeding. After being housebound for the week, I drove my 4 x 4 truck to town for horse feed and birdseed? My priorities are not the same as most folks.

At least all the creatures around my Peaceable Hill Farm are well cared for. I fully expect the raccoons to come knocking any minute.

Laura Nyro - Midnite Blue

2011-01-29T16:03:00.003-06:00

I miss Laura Nyro - a musical genius/muse - truly the voice of an angel. Only Joni Mitchell can compare as lyricist and musician. While Laura was living with David Geffen, he said that he had never met a more talented person in his lifetime. She could walk to the window and start singing a song, just like that. Effortless. I think I have all the albums she ever made. Laura started singing DooWop on the streets of New York City and her career ended many years ago when she died from ovarian cancer. Listen to the lyrics of this song. It might take a few seconds to get started so keep listening. It's not her best song, but then again, I haven't ever heard one of her songs that I didn't like.

THE ART OF THREE

2011-01-03T12:31:00.006-06:00

You know how much I love Ryuichi Sakamoto, and his new double CD (Out of Noise and Playing The Piano) dropped in late 2010. He is just incredible. While reading about him, I serendipitously found that he composed the music for BABEL starring Cate Blanchett, Brad Pitt and one of my favorite actors and directors, Gael Garcia Bernal. Gael has starred in numerous movies, including Y Tu Mama Tambien. BABEL, directed by Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, is going on my must see list. Gael, Brad and Ryuichi; you can't get any better. But, most important, is the song from BABEL by Sakamoto, Biba No Aozora, which is one of the most beautiful songs I've heard.

TO BE...OR NOT TO BE

2011-01-02T13:13:00.003-06:00

I've been reading about all the resolutions being made out there in blogland for the new year. I have made them before myself - sometimes keeping them and sometimes not. I have decided for this coming year, my mantra is to just be - no expectations or living for something in the future, but merely accepting each day as it is; grateful for whatever comes my way.

Lemony New Year

2010-12-31T14:25:00.006-06:00

My lemon harvest this year has been the largest yet. Literally. I've been growing lemons for several years now. Mostly Meyer lemons, but this year I also harvested Etrog and Ponderosa lemons. The small lemon is about the size you'll find in grocery stores, the next size up is the baseball sized Meyer lemon. The Ponderosa lemon is soft ball sized. And, just look at the football sized Etrog. Hard to believe isn't it.

So, now you know what I'll be doing New Year's Eve. Juicing lemons. I've run out of things to do with them. Curds, strudels, limoncello and juice... Last year, I tried preserving them like they do in Morocco, but I never did use them. Ditto, the limoncello tastes good if you are a heavy drinker as it is about 1000 proof and will grow hair on your chest. And, I still have juice in the freezer from last year. Wish I could share them with all of you.

Felted Dogs

2010-12-21T12:08:00.002-06:00

Here is a last minute gift idea for those of you (like me) that are still looking for gifts. ANTHROPOLIGIE has these little felted dog ornaments. I watched this season of MAN SHOPS GLOBE, a show on the Sundance channel, that follows the head buyer for ANTHROPOLIGIE around the world looking for the unique. An artist in Ireland makes felted dogs (larger) and they auctioned off some for charity, that went for thousands. Dog lover that I am, I had to get these. Of course, I have to keep them, so I am still shopping...

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL

2010-12-20T23:39:00.002-06:00

To all my new and old friends, I wish you a very merry Christmas holiday season. I haven't been in the loop lately, and like many of you, I'm tap dancing just as fast as I can. I don't have much time, so I'm re-posting this picture of my oft requested peanut butter balls. These chocolaty goodness morsels will melt in your mouth. The best part, they require no cooking. Yes, even the kitchenophobics will be able to make these. Type in peanut butter truffles in the upper left hand corner and get the recipe. As your friends and family gather together another year, give them some of these. They'll love you for it. And again, have a blessed time with your loved ones this season.

Christmas Sugar Cookies

2010-12-13T20:34:00.002-06:00

I've been sick. But, I am better. I didn't even feel like going near the computer. I am so behind on Christmas preparations, I probably won't get everything done this year. My priority is to get all the gifts purchased and wrapped. So, I will give you the gift of the recipe for these sugar cookies. I love re-using old posts.
My children and I used to ice sugar cookies for every holiday and woefully, I just about burned them out. I still have a little granddaughter and grandson to pass on the tradition to. I made these for a tea room for a year or so and that was too much as they take a lot of time when you are making them a hundred at a time. Nonetheless, I have quite a following and still get many requests for these - which I refuse. We used to make great works of art out of them even using paint brushes. These look like hell, but I just wasn't in the zone today, not to mention I burned an entire batch while trying to upload pics to this blog. Oh well, my sweet little grand babies enjoyed one.

Sugar Cookies

2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1 cup butter
1 cup shortening
4 TBS. milk (I use half and half)
2 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. salt
5 cups flour

Combine butter and shortening. Add the sugar and cream until well mixed. Next, add eggs, milk and vanilla. With a hand-held mixer, mix until all ingredients are combined. Add flour and salt and mix. Dough will be fairly stiff but sticky. Roll out dough on a heavily floured surface. Cut out designs with desired cookie cutters and transfer to an ungreased cookie sheet with sides. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 - 15 minutes (depending on how thick and large your cookies are). Continue to roll and cut out designs until all the dough is gone.
Tip: the secret to my success in baking is that I always slightly undercook my baked goods. These cookies will melt in your mouth. Also, I roll them out to about 1/4 inch thickness. I guarantee you will get raves for these.

Sugar Cookie Icing:
In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons butter with a bag of confectioners sugar. Add enough cream to get a spreadable consistency. You can use any method you want for application. In our family, we use butter knives and toothpicks. If you want to make different colors of icing, split the batch into smaller bowls and add a few drops of food coloring to each bowl. If icing starts to become too thick, add a few drops of cream to thin. You can also use the various icing implements and flood the cookies etc. Also, you can use meringue powder if you want a stiffer icing. Royal icing works well too. These really aren't difficult to make just time consuming.

As an aside, I must tell you you can make your own cookie cutters. I used to make large cookies and couldn't find large cookie cutters. You can go to the hardware store and buy galvanized tin and/or copper and a pair of aviation snips that will cut out the strips to form cutters into whatever shape you can imagine.

Merry Christmas, every one...

Pecan Pie recipe

2010-11-15T02:37:00.001-06:00

This recipe is different than the usual pecan pie recipes. Generally, pecan pie is caramel colored or slightly dark with a gooey, tooth cracking sweet center. Good, though a little too sweet for my tastes. In my recipe the center is lighter colored, a rich buttery yellow that looks more like a filling for a chess pie. You'll have to trust me on this one - it's really a beautiful and delectable pie.

Pastry

11/3 c. all purpose flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2c. vegetable shortening
4 - 6 TBS water
Add salt to flour, then cut in shortening with a pastry cutter until pieces are pea sized. Add water 4 TBS. first, more if you need it. Don't overwork the dough or pastry will be tough. Roll out on a floured surface. Makes one 9" single crust. TIP - you can certainly use a pate brisee for the crust. I find the shortening makes a flakier crust. (I've read that lard is even better). Tip - prick the bottom of the pie shell with a fork so it won't rise up and spill filling over the side of the pie.

Filling

4 slightly beaten eggs
1 c. Karo syrup
1/3c. sugar
pinch of salt
1 TBS white vinegar
4 TBS butter
2 tsp. vanilla
1 heaping cup (approx.) pecans

Combine eggs, sugar, syrup, salt, vinegar, butter (melted) and vanilla. Mix together thoroughly. Pour mixture into unbaked pie shell. Arrange the pecans on top of the filling beginning at the outside edge of the crust and working in a circular pattern toward the center. Bake 35 - 40 min. in 350 degree oven. Don't overbake. Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla ice cream. Guaranteed delicious.

This is how it will look when it's done. The edges will be puffed up and the center won't shake. It will fall back down flat as it cools. Sometimes it's hard to tell when the pie is done, you just don't want it to be shaking in the center like it is still liquid.

Swingin' On A Star

2010-11-03T11:30:00.005-05:00

For those of us of a certain age, we didn't have so many toys as they do today. Skates, jacks, bicycles, jump ropes and swings were the mainstays of a little girl. Okay, dolls, mainly Barbie. I, myself, loved to swing. The swings I loved back then were so long that you could climb to great heights. I am sure they would be banned today. The fearless child that I was, I would even bail, landing on my feet and occasionally, my poor tailbone. We also spent many an hour reading books, never even having imagined reading them on electronic gadgets. I used to love A CHILD'S GARDEN OF VERSES and the following Robert Louis Stevenson poem.

THE SWING

How do you like to go up in a swing,
Up in the air so blue?
Oh, I do think it the pleasantest thing
Ever a child can do!
Up in the air and over the wall,
Till I can see so wide,
Rivers and trees and cattle and all
Over the countryside -
Till I look down on the garden green,
Down on the roof so brown -
Up in the air I go flying again,
Up in the air and down!

"Is it all that we see or seem, but a dream within a dream." Edgar Allan Poe

2010-10-28T11:26:00.007-05:00

Here is an early Ouija board. These were actually played with long ago when they still played parlor games. Look for it at my etsy store if you are so inclined. The rest of the post is from an earlier one, apropos for this spooky time of year. And, to all my friends and family out there, BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

"From the gillies and the ghosties and long-legged beasties and things that go bump in the night," an old Irish saying

First of all, let me preface this story with a disclaimer. I have never seen a ghost as far as I know, so I can not say with any certainty that they exist.

Over many, many years, I had recurrent dreams of a grand old house. It was three floors with lots of rooms and staircases. The wallpapers were faded and the furnishings were expensive yet from another century. The living room/entry had a 'ghost' that was unseen - a masculine voice and presence that hovered near the ceiling. Up the grand staircase at the landing, was an angry ghost lady in a long dress. Down the hallways were various bedrooms with hidden doorways and staircases, each of which were inhabited by different visible ghosts. These 'house dreams' are supposedly common - Carl Jung, the famous psychoanalyst, had a theory about them. You can google it, but I don't have the room nor time here to explain Jung, nevermind that he has been disproven and/or not referred to very much in modern medicine - whatever.

Now, for the rest of the ghost story. Prince Michael of Greece believes in ghosts and has written a book about them titled THE WOMEN FROM BEYOND. Though he writes about ghosts that he and his family have encountered throughout Europe's great castles, he also writes about other encounters as well. He said that not all ghostly phenomena are confined to the great and famous.

In the 1960's, an Englishwoman dreamed each night the same dream. In her dream, she saw a large, distinctive country mansion in an unmistakable landscape, though she knew of neither the house nor the landscape. She often wondered why both returned to her regularly in her dreams.

One day, while traveling through Scotland with her husband, they rounded a corner and she saw plainly in front of her the house she had dreamed of for so long. Determined to solve the enigma, she stopped and rang the doorbell.

A man, whom she decided must have been the caretaker, answered the door with a gasp and stood staring at her with open horror. She asked him who lived in the house. The man replied that it had been empty for many years, the owners not caring to share it with the white lady. "So, is the house haunted," she asked. "You should know," he replied. "You are the ghost."

EPILOGUE

One night, several years ago, I dreamt of coming upon that old house I had dreamed about for so many years and it was gone. A bulldozer was moving the freshly dug earth across the lot; nothing was left of the house. I called out to the equipment operator. But what about the ghosts, I asked anxiously. "They're gone," was his reply.

I never dreamed about the house or the ghosts within again.

And one more thing, one of my favorite movies and a great one for this time of year, is THE LADY IN WHITE. I just love so many things about this movie. You gotta see it Halloween night.

Who's This?

2010-10-13T22:58:00.004-05:00

If you've been following my blog for awhile, you'll know that about 4 years ago, my farm became overrun with feral cats. I could not spay or neuter enough of them fast enough. And, did I say that I love every one of them, mean and not. So, after much money, time etc., I started my herd on birth control. I mix it into soft food once a week. Three times this year, a mother cat didn't come feed that day, and here is a result. I asked the vet about this and she said, "how many litters would you have had if you weren't giving them birth control?" My answer is many more. This little kitten was the only one left in the most recent litter after the raccoons found them. I could not just leave it there to be eaten that night. So... Did I mention besides the barn cats, I have four up at the house that go in and out the doggie door? They have all been fixed.

I hope this one will go to a new home at my granddaughter's house. Isobel loves it so and in fact, has named it Jasmine. I don't know if her father is going to let her have it though. Meanwhile, I am feeding it kitten formula and soft cat food and trying not to get too attached. Does anyone out there want a kitten?

Chairy And Her Footy Stool

2010-10-05T00:19:00.002-05:00

Have you seen the new Chanel bags with patchwork and bric a brac? Kind of like Chairy and her footy stool.

I just love this chair and stool. I saw it at the Tulsa Flea Market years ago and fell in love with it. While some of the patches are upholstery fabric, some of them are from old suits. We bought a house in Tulsa a few years back so we could see more of our girls and grandchildren. Plus, my husband works in Tulsa a couple of days a week. In this house, I try to furnish it with everything old as it was built in the 1930's. Chairy and her footy stool just make me smile.

She's Still Here

2010-09-25T12:31:00.004-05:00

Well, she is still here, hanging by a thread. It is still hot here so she has been busy. I thought you might like to see what my garden spider has been up to these last three weeks. She's just about given everything she has and senses the cold days approaching before her inevitable, final bow. What a spider!

Deep Thoughts For Your Morning Cafe

2010-09-25T00:55:00.003-05:00

Maybe in order to understand mankind we have to look at that word itself. MANKIND. Basically, it 's made up of two separate words, "mank" and "ind." What do these words mean? It's a mystery and so is mankind.

Okay. If that didn't do it for ya, here is one more.

To me, it's a good idea to always carry two sacks of something when you walk around. That way, if anybody says, "hey, can you give me a hand," you can say, "sorry, got these sacks."

Our Home In The Sky

2010-09-17T23:11:00.006-05:00

My son called me today and told me that a UFO was reported last night over Beggs, a town about 60 miles away. He also believes in bigfoot. I try not to feed that beast, but UFO's? Possibly. I'll go along with that. I would dearly love to see one. Remember what Muldar said, "the truth is out there." Anyway, my weenies and I went out around midnight, to the darkest part of our field and waited. It was light enough to see my hand as the moon was a waxing gibbous at 77% full. Except for the bugs trilling and crickets clicking and a few bird songs, we waited quietly, listening for an odd sound or footfall. That is until a bunch of coyotes came close, howling and yipping. I was beginning to get nervous as they were coming our way, but they veered off across the field away from us. An owl hooted to another close by. I turned halfway around and startled as a large black form moved slightly a few feet away. It was a red cedar tree. There were glowing lights beyond some trees; I wondered if it might be a large UFO coming over the treetops, but it was only the far off lights from a town. I turned back around and jumped again at the dark form aka cedar tree. We have had black bears in our area migrating from Arkansas. I'm quite sure I could give the bear a good run for its money on the 4 wheeler. Same for the feral hogs. So, after some time, no old Indian ghosts nor Cherokee shapeshifters appeared. Neither did panthers, feral hogs, coyotes, bears, snakes, coons or skunks or bobcats. No, not even a UFO. The thing that finally ran me off, was the lowly mosquito.

PS ~ The picture above is the Milky Way - Our solar system sits at the edge of the Milky Way. Jupiter was visible tonight and extremely bright. It won't be this bright again until 2022. Look east after sunset and it will rise high in the sky by midnight. It will be the brightest light in the sky next to the moon.

2010-09-17T23:01:00.001-05:00

TARGET

2010-09-15T23:35:00.005-05:00

Target has been at it again. Incredibly, they have enlisted many superstars in their different fields, to design products for them. Zac Posen recently designed a clothing line, Temple St. Clair, a very expensive jewelry designer has a jewelry collection out this month, and now, John Derrian has done a collection for them. Being the earth mother that I am, I had to have this dragonfly platter. And, the storage containers, well, I had to get some of those too. They are lined inside with the most beautiful lettering. There were many more designs; containers, dishes, mugs, frames... Very cool Target.

My Garden Spider

2010-09-02T11:56:00.007-05:00

Every spring I look for argiope aurantia, commonly know as the Black and Yellow Garden Spider. If you don't like spiders, this variety is considered harmless to humans. With the elaborate web she weaves, I've come to enjoy watching these year after year. They start out each spring finding a spot where she will spend the rest of her days; tiny webs at first growing up to two feet across in late summer.
These Garden Spiders mate once a year, then lay their eggs at night and form a ball of silk around them. She guards her sack as long as she is able. As the fall nights cool, she becomes more frail and dies around the first hard frost. Her hatchlings, the size of a speck of dust, will exit the pod in the spring. The teenies then exude a strand of silk that gets caught by a breeze, and fly away...

The Last Emperor

2010-08-28T20:09:00.003-05:00

I watched this movie again today and was just blown away by it. Bernardo Bertolucci's rendition of Pu Yi, the last emperor of China to the Dragon Throne, is just an incredible film. One of the best films of all time in my book. Ryuichi Sakamoto also wrote the score and won an Academy Award for best music. He also played a part in the movie. The following clip with the Chinese musicians is hauntingly beautiful.

Deep Friday Thoughts

2010-08-27T00:31:00.003-05:00

Consider the daffodil. And, while you're doing that, I'll be over here, looking through your stuff.

Dog Days

2010-08-24T22:17:00.002-05:00

Not much happening at the farm.

Deep Friday Thoughts

2010-08-20T12:44:00.001-05:00

Before criticizing someone, walk a mile in their shoes. Then, when you do criticize them, you will be a mile away and have their shoes.

The Mirror

2010-08-12T09:44:00.001-05:00

Here is the aforementioned French mirror from the previous post. The palest of blue with white; the old mirror inside in pretty good condition. I walked away, but I still covet.

I am getting all new computer equipment installed today. Don't know if and when I'll be able to figure it all out. I am such a technophobe. So, I'll see ya if and when I do.

Wandering Around My Favorite Store

2010-08-12T08:48:00.007-05:00

I went to my favorite store last week in Tulsa to find they had a sale going on. Only, it was the last day (had been going on the month of July). I found a mirror, but left without it and couldn't get it out of my head. More later. I found these French linen panels that had to be at least 14 feet long and loved them. Now, I live on a fifty acre hilltop farm wreathed in oak trees, and don't have one curtain in my house.

But, I am such a nature girl, I just loved these panels; the flora and fauna; the caterpillars and beetles, ferns and fronds.

I dunno.

There were many more things, like this old painted chest with the red japanning inside. But, I still want my mirror. It had been 40% off during the sale. She now would take 20% off. So I walked. It will be one of those things I'll remember.

wuthering heights-Ryuichi sakamoto

2010-08-07T00:06:00.000-05:00

wuthering heights-Ryuichi sakamoto

2010-08-06T23:46:00.001-05:00

I am feeling somewhat guilty for that previous post, so here is a serendipitous find. I think you know I'm a huge fan of Ryuichi Sakamoto and I was happy to come across this score he did for one version of Wuthering Heights. Nevermind that one of my favorite actresses, Juliette Binoche, played Catherine. Ralph Fiennes as Heathcliff wasn't too bad either. I can't wait to watch this version. Of course, the score by Sakamoto will make this movie and soundtrack a must have.

How some artists suffer for their work.

2010-08-06T01:10:00.003-05:00

Flylashes from Jessica Harrison on Vimeo.

I know, it's ghastly, but I just couldn't look away. If she only knew where those flies have been walking.

This Man Has the Best Job Ever

2010-08-04T12:10:00.004-05:00

Keith Johnson does have the best job ever. He is the head buyer for Anthropologie and travels the world for iconic pieces of art, furniture, textiles and on and on. His show, MAN SHOPS GLOBE, is on Wednesday nights on the Sundance Channel at 9 central time. The things he finds are really incredible, but oftentimes, he shrugs them off (he says he's jaded) till he finds the thing that speaks to him. I love this show. If this clip won't play straight through, you can watch others at youtube. Meanwhile, don't miss tonight's show. It is that good. By the way, just heard Tulsa is getting a new Antropologie store at Utica Square. Yes!

The Scent of Heaven

2010-08-01T21:39:00.003-05:00

I'll admit it. I love perfume. I wear it everyday. I put in on my bedding (hoping for sweet dreams to come). I must have been a French woman in another life. Yes, I know some people don't like to smell perfume, so they can plug their noses and hurry by. That is, unless I smell a certain scent on someone else and then ugggggg! Nerve gas must smell the same. Nevertheless, I used to wear Chanel 5 in junior high school. Then Shalimar in high school and no, I'm not proud that I wore these, there just weren't very many options in my town. I have tried so many different kinds - read about different essences and perfumers. Alas, the same thing always happens. I shell out the money for a bottle, get home and gag. I can't even let my daughters have it because I don't ever want to smell it again. Then, so many years ago that I can't remember when, I read about Antonia's Flowers in a magazine. A few years passed and I found it in a Texas store. It is my all time favorite. It comes in absoluto, parfum, shower gel, lotion and the most beautiful soap I have ever seen. When I place my yearly order, I have to call the Hampton's store (factory?) and they always say, Oklahoma? Antonia Bellannca (I can't remember how to spell her last name) has been making it and selling it from the Hampton's for a long time. The top note is freesia. She also makes two or three other scents now. One, Tiempe Passatt, is a love song her grandfather wrote for her grandmother. She appears regularly on the Barefoot Contessa, with Ina Garten, on the Food Network. Ina has even showcased her products in her own home. I wish you could smell it. Perfume Nirvana. Oh, yes, the other scent I wear, is a lotion. Every time I wear it, men and women stop me and ask what fragrance I am wearing. It is Clinique's Aromatics lotion. The perfume is much too strong.

EVENING STAR

2010-07-28T23:38:00.005-05:00

Though not really a star, the evening star is usually a planet, visible just before dark, during the gloaming or in the east just before sunrise. This is Venus watching the Moon. When I was a young Camp Fire Girl, we used to sit around a summer campfire and sing this song.

Tell me why

the stars do shine.

Tell me why

the ivy twines.

Tell me why

the ocean's blue.

And I will tell you

just why I love you...

Photo by NASA

WHITE PEACHES

2010-07-25T23:27:00.006-05:00

Peaches are peaches say ye who've only tried the common yellow ones. For those of you lucky enough to sink your teeth into a white fleshed peach, well, no other peach compares. Sweet, sublime, peachy perfume fills the senses and once you try a ripe white peach, you can never go back.
Possibly descended from a wild cultivar in Afghanistan, the Europeans believed peaches were native of Persia. They are really from China though and were cultivated as far back as the 10th century BCE. Favored by Chinese royalty, they believed peaches conferred immortality to those who ate them. Many Chinese and Japanese artisans paint peach blossoms and branches in their works. Peaches made their way from Asia to Europe. The Spanish brought them later to the Americas in the 17th century and the native Americans spread their seeds across America. Though Asians prefer the white, delicate fleshed peach, Americans and Europeans prefer the yellow fleshed ones.

I have two white peach trees and this year have been blessed with many fruits. The past two years, the trees remained fallow because of late spring freezes. Imagine my surprise when this year, both trees were loaded; many branches split because of the weight. I have frozen bags of peaches, made jam...............and have two five gallon buckets left.............. Bellinis anyone?

Who Me?

2010-07-24T23:40:00.005-05:00

I received an award today from Gaye. She has the most sumptuous, interesting blog - it is really incomparable. Go give her blog a look at Little Augury - littleaugury.blogspot.com. Thank you so much Little a. From time to time, I wonder who or what these friends and acquaintances we meet in cyberspace are really like. Do we gravitate toward the ones we share common interests with; maybe we are voyeurs delving into lives we wish we lived. Whatever, I am just glad to meet so many incredible and interesting people out there.

Little Augury said I should pass this award along to 6 other bloggers whose blogs I enjoy.

AUREA mary-laure.blogspot.com- Mary-Laure has a wonderful blog; reminds me of seeing life through a child's eyes.

THE ANTIQUES DIVA http://antiquesdiva.blogspot.com/- Toma is an Oklahoma girl; lives the life I want, and is becoming famous. I'm meeting her in Paris in March. Yippee!

IT'S ABOUT TIME http//bjws.blogspot.com- All I can say is Wow. (I refer to her as the Professor).

LIFE AT WILLOW MANORwillowmanor.blogspot.com - Willow has taught me so much and is great at what she does; always enjoy her posts.

SWEET REPOSE thefabricofsweetrepose.blogspot.com- Sista Sharon is a long lost twin in a parallel universe.

TALES FROM THE COOP KEEPER talefromthecoopkeeper.blogspot.com- Jayme makes me laugh.

Now, I will reveal 7 random things about moi...

Uhh, I'm not afraid of anything - (except large sharks).

When I was in my younger days, I wanted to be an internist or a volcanologist.

Sometimes, (though totally at random times) I am psychic or should I say intuitive.

I love to read encyclopedias, or did, before the computer age.

My parrot, Birdie, is trying, as I type this, to pluck my eye out. He likes to blog with me.

OMG, 2 more things. This is hard. Must be psychological. (I am married to a neuropsychologist).

I like sunny skies.

I have to tell you a little story here. The day I read that Little Augury gave this award to me in the comfort category, I had to laugh. The previous night, I couldn't fall asleep until 6AM. At 6:45, my cat came running into my bedroom with a squeaking field rat in his mouth and promptly dropped it. At that instance, my little weeny who had emergency spinal surgery in December and isn't supposed to jump off anything, flew off the bed to chase the rat around. She was screaming too, till she caught it. My husband jumped up about the same time and said "one of your dogs just peed on me." Oh yes, and I ruined a painting I had been working on for two weeks, and all that happened before noon. So, Little Augury, thank you and all of my favorite (and there are many) bloggers. You comfort me.

Postscript ~ I will figure out how to link these blogs so you can click on them asap. I am also technically challenged.

Antique Heaven

2010-07-20T14:36:00.003-05:00

Many of you remember how not long ago, I visited my good friend Maggie's Mom. I had wanted to see her collection of antiques for some time and when it came, I ran out of space on my camera. Sue sent me a few pics, which I have tried to scan (for the first time) to show you some of the beautiful things I didn't get. Her collection of majolica is exquisite.

This big oil painting was my favorite of the antique collections. It is large and so beautiful. When Sue purchased it, she put it in the trunk of her car and when she arrived home, it had a large tear in it. She had it repaired and it is Divine.

One of her many samplers; of course I love the dog in it. I found out from Sue that if the sampler is unfinished, it means the girl that made it didn't make it (sad, but true). I will go to see these collections again and I promise next time I won't run out of memory.

The Consort- The Virgin Queen

2010-07-19T02:45:00.002-05:00

I went to see a movie tonight called Inception. I don't know how to give it a review other than it is extremely convoluted; much like a jigsaw puzzle. I believe the germ for the movie came from a quote from Edgar Allen Poe that I read years ago. I don't know what story or poem it was from but it goes "is it all that we see or seen, but a dream within a dream." Nevertheless, one of the highlights for me was Tom Hardy. A wonderful English actor, I have seen him in several Brit movies and thought I'd show you a little of his work. This first one is one of my favorites and I recommend you rent or purchase it. It is that good. He play Robert Dudley, the lifelong love of Queen Elizabeth (played by the wonderful Anne Marie Duff).

Wuthering heights 2009-take me with you

2010-07-19T02:28:00.004-05:00

Another Tom Hardy starring role, playing Heathcliff from Wuthering Heights. He is such a versatile actor. PS ~ I don't know why this clip keeps stopping and starting, so just slide the button to the end and at the bottom of the clip some other clips will come up. You can watch those without the stopping and starting.

INCEPTION - Tom Hardy Interview

2010-07-19T02:06:00.001-05:00

I was glad to see Tom Hardy in a big budget American film since I think we'd get to see more of his acting. As I said, I can't really critique INCEPTION, but Tom Hardy answers some questions about the film here.

WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU CRABAPPLES

2010-07-13T11:56:00.012-05:00

A beautiful, fast-growing, flowering tree, the crab apple also gives you a bounty of crab apples come summer. The fruit is about quarter-sized with a crispy clean tartness, but it is definitely appley. So what do you do with a tree full of crab apples? Well, for starters, jelly.

Gather the fruit; I had about 2 1/2 gallons.

Crab apples are hard and you can't just slice them. So, how to chop? I dug out these two old kitchen tools. Notice the acorns carved on the handle on the left. The tool on the right is older, like maybe colonial days old with its kidney bean shape. Each tool has been shaped and hammered or forged. The tool on the left worked better for this job.

Well, here is the result of all that chopping, now ready to cook down to a sauce. You will have to drain the mash in a cheesecloth to get the juice, but any jam or jelly making book will instruct you how to make the jelly.

Voila! It only took several hours . . . but here is the result. I need to make some scones now to try it.

But, if that wasn't enough and you like the occasional drinky winky, I chopped some more and am making crab apple liqueur. These recipes are all over the web. The one on the left is straight vodka and the one on the right has vodka and a little brandy in it. It is fun to play around with the flavors. When I look out to the tree that is still loaded, I am thinking juice for drink concoctions or pickled crab apples, but I don't think any in my family will eat them. Oh well, it's on to the white peaches.

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD

2010-07-11T00:24:00.009-05:00

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, Harper Lee's magnum opus, turns fifty today. I have fond memories of my young son and I, taking turns reading chapters to each other every evening one summer. We loved it, like legions before us. I have a theory about why she never wrote another tome. When you write a novel, you put most everything you have seen, heard, smelled, experienced into that first novel. While some writers like Joyce Carol Oates are prolific, for others, that's all she wrote; one has to live and experience more: she may have said all she wanted.
Nevertheless, Mockingbirds play a large part in American culture. Early in American history, Mockingbirds were once popular and kept as pets. President T. Jefferson had one named Dick. The American lullaby, Hush little baby don't say a word, mamma's gonna buy you a mockingbird... was part of the Mockingbird craze. Called the American Nightingale, Mimus polyglottos prefers to nest in maple, sweet gum and sycamore trees. As an observation, the birds are out after midnight practicing their songs. I can tell the city mockers from the farm ones. The city ones make police car and emergency vehicle calls. I think they are my favorite bird, today anyway. Postscript ~ Harper Lee's sister was on the CBS Sunday Morning show, and said the aforementioned reason I postulated, was correct.

Sakamoto Ryuichi - Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence (Live)

2010-07-09T01:13:00.001-05:00

This is a wonderful live performance of Ryuichi Sakamoto performing Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence. I think it is from the movie of the same name starring David Bowie. Nevertheless, I believe the concert was in Rome at the Coliseum and I wish I could have been there.

Energy flow, Ryuichi Sakamoto

2010-07-03T23:01:00.001-05:00

A small gift to all my wonderful followers and friends whom drop by to visit sometimes.

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE

2010-06-28T23:12:00.009-05:00

Every evening, I go to the pond to feed the creatures. It started out feeding the geese. Before I knew it, I was feeding the entire pond. Zillions of fingerlings come to the edge of the pond to eat the leftovers. They even beat the geese there now. The larger fish stay back a few feet, but make sure and get their share too. Then the turtles became bolder. There are many different species and all have distinct personalities. Who knew? This one is the boldest now. Covered in pond sediment, it swims mostly around the geese feet and the geese trip all over it. I thought the turtles might bite the geese, but it is the other way around.

Mmmmm. Fish pellets or chili relleno?

These are the fingerlings. Now, start the Jaws theme song...
Here comes trouble. This Snapping turtle doesn't want bread or fish food. It only likes live fish - creeps closer with its long alligator tail and waits, then - SNAP. These really are ugly creatures.

Oh well, this one is too cute and decides to go back and bother the goose.
This is what I do for fun on the farm.

THEY'RE HERE

2010-06-21T22:55:00.005-05:00

The aliens have been here all along - we just didn't know what to look for. The tops of my tomato plants were sticks today and some of the green tomatoes were half eaten. Squirrels! Had to be. So I started looking at my plants and found this big guy munching away. It is bigger than my thumb. Needless to say, I removed it to a sunflower and it immediately tucked its head down and played opossum. Unlike Great Grandma Merriot, who used to pinch them, I released this Tomato Horn worm into a patch of volunteer tomatoes. It will grow up to be a Sphinx Moth.

In the moment of roses...

2010-06-18T02:33:00.003-05:00

White roses, tiny and old, hover
among thorns by the barn door.
For a hundred years under the
June elm, under the gaze of
seven generations, they floated
briefly like this, in the moment
of roses.

Unknown

Psst ~ I really don't think I have a romantic bone left...so this is for you.

THINGS THAT GO BOOMP IN THE NIGHT

2010-06-05T00:30:00.013-05:00

This Cecropia Moth (Hyalophora Cecropia) fluttered down to my farm in May. A giant silk moth, it is the largest moth in North America. She has a full 6 inch wingspan and is a beauty. Or, was. They have no mouth parts and can not eat: they are here for only 7 - 10 days; their raison d'etre is to mate and lay eggs before they go where moths go to die (it is in my drawer in this instance, that is, post mortem). The offspring, huge green caterpillars, spend all their time eating, I suspect, on hickory leaves, before spinning a cocoon then waiting out the winter to repeat the life cycle.

This is a close up of Cecropia. The males have larger antennae and the females, larger bodies. I painted her in gouache and am going to sell prints in my etsy shop. This life sized print is the first in a series of flora and fauna paintings I will be doing - and of course insects too. It measures 9 x 12 and is printed on ivory colored card stock paper. The print will be signed and numbered and sell for $18.00. PS ~ as an aside, may I comment that this print looks so much better than I have been able to photograph. I have tried every setting on my camera and not been able to get a decent reproduction of this print. Does anyone have suggestions? I have a Nikon Coolpix S630.

SHARING THE LOVE

2010-06-03T23:42:00.003-05:00

I am really very impressed by my fellow bloggers. It takes a lot of time and effort to make the posts interesting and hopefully pretty; some of them so well done and professional looking. I, on the other hand, can only do the basics. Oh yes, I would love to have little falling stars across the written word and borders to die for. I just don't want to take the time to learn plus I fear what I have done will go poof. Also, this time of year, I am too busy gardening. Sooooo, have a look at the flower/seed pod of a leek. I planted a stand of them last year and they didn't get as large as the ones in the store, so I just left them in the ground. Voila! This year they have huge purple heads on long stems - like something out of a Dr. Seuss garden.

And, these daisies have been coming back like old friends year after year for the past 27 summers. So what pray tell, do these specimens have to do with bloggers and blogging? Well, I get to share them with you...

Antique Heaven

2010-06-01T23:51:00.009-05:00

I have finally found Eldorado; was invited to the home which embodies the epitome of collecting and displaying treasures. My friend had been telling about her mother's home and collections for years. Sue has been collecting the world over for decades and I must say I covet everything she owns. From beautifully patinated early American furniture to early baskets, samplers, clocks and Quimper pottery, and did I say early American samplers? Ooooh!

Every nook and cranny has a beautiful arrangement; a tableau to linger over. More baskets, a dog lamp and a beautiful old oil painting of a girl.

Old wooden bowls full of chocolate molds and butter molds, so many in fact, many are packed away.

A main theme in her collections are animals. Dogs, cats, cows, horses, chickens are but a few, but repeated all over the house.

Sue collects majolica and has different displays in different areas of the house, not to mention cupboards full of it.

This is the smallest cobbler's table I have ever seen. I thought it must be a salesman's sample. The tole ware trays show up throughout the house.

I was just getting going, my head swimming and eyes glazing over when I ran out of camera space. Just like that. It has never happened to me before. I could not believe it as I was just getting started. Luckily, my Maggie, Sue's daughter, used her iphone camera so as soon as I get the pics and figure out how to load them on my blog, you're in for a treat. Till later...

THE GOOD EARTH

2010-05-27T13:10:00.006-05:00

These photographs are from the film THE GOOD EARTH adapted from the novel by Pearl S. Buck. The book, published in 1931, was considered a masterpiece and won the Nobel Prize for Buck. Themes of earth, God and women were explored as well as family life in a pre-revolution Chinese village. O-Lan, (in these pics) was the quiet, long-suffering wife and mother and Wang Lung her husband and patriarch of the family. Supposedly, this novel helped pre-war Americans to consider the Chinese as allies in the coming war with Japan, though I find this a stretch. They were desperate times in China with drought, famine, poverty - themes I guess Americans understood at the time. I'd have to read the book and watch the movie and research Buck's reason for writing this tome before commenting more on the subject. Nevertheless, you can find these photographs and others from the 1937 movie in my etsy shop.

PSST!

2010-05-24T23:25:00.006-05:00

Did you ever want to peek in a drawer? I'm always scrounging through drawers in old houses in my dreams. Don't know what that means, but this drawer is full of old locks, thimbles, dog tags, buttons, marbles and the velvet bag is very old. It has a lock of red hair inside it as a remembrance.

The monkey used to have more hair. It is Victorian and moves. The green frog is a snapper toy and there are the various war toys and covered wagons. Some, still in their original packaging: I am always surprised no child played with them. The silver zeppelin lies beside the skull of an egret with a shotgun pellet lodged in it.

There is this and that... an old hygrometer?

Here are some old books and ephemera, namely concert tickets from the seventies to Joni Mitchell and the Rolling Stones and Madonna in the 80's. Look at the oldest wallet I've ever seen. I'll have to open it and show you what's inside at a later date. Now wasn't that fun?

Blue and White Dishes

2010-05-18T14:20:00.004-05:00

Bloggers love dishes and blue and white ones seem to be favorites. I too have collected many blue and white wares and thought I'd show you what I've done with some of mine. No dishes were purposely broken in the making of this border.

DOG ART

2010-05-11T14:55:00.007-05:00

Some of you might have noticed the red dog on the right side of my blog and wondered, what in the world? Well, he is one of my mixed-media life-sized paper art sculptures. This dog's name is Picasso Can't Have A Dog. The text in the spiral is where he got his name. I wrote around the spiral like the 'Beats' did in a stream of consciousness style. The text says "Picasso can't have a dog, no Siddhartha he. Manipulator, manipulated, whatever..." Hence the name.

Some of you might have heard that recently, a painting by Picasso sold for a million billion dollars. Picasso was a prodigy/genius, but could be cruel (and kind too, I know). His vanity knew no bounds. Don't get me wrong, I love Picasso, but I don't think he deserved a dog. When I was almost finished with this piece, a book came out about him and his beloved dachshund. Who knew?

This piece has a goldfish, feather, clock, a sundial, an eye, a vulva...and so much more. And, its tail wiggles. This was no small fete for me. I am interested in automatons, but after some research, I couldn't get past the basic physics (pulleys and levers). You have to be an engineer to figure it out and I am too old, er, young to start a new career. I will have to take a pic of his rear end. There is a cameo painted in blue and white, of an elderly Picasso, seated and looking in a mirror...

A million billion anyone?

IRIS

2010-05-07T12:51:00.005-05:00

I've photographed some of my iris, which are stunning, but fade much too fast. The second one is strongly scented. Iris comes from the Greek word for rainbow and is grown on many continents mainly in northern temperate zones. There are about 300 species of iris. The fleur-de-lis is a stylized iris. Orris root comes from irides and its essential oils are used in perfumes and medicines. Bombay gin contains orris root and flavoring from species of bearded iris. Like an old friend, the plants come back year after year and spread through rhizomes and though mine are on the wane, I'll see them again next year. The still life painting of lemons and iris came from a flea market. I heard this story once about seeing stands of iris in fields and roadsides. Supposedly, they mark where old homesteads once stood. Sure enough, I found rock foundations of two old homesteads in the mountains, and where the front of the house would have been, were beds of iris.

Go Green

2010-05-03T23:58:00.003-05:00

Do you have a stack or two of old painted shelves lying about? I've got a million projects I'll finish someday. One of those projects was to recycle one of said painted shelves. I simply did a reverse scratching on the paint and came up with different countries and continents. This shelf is above my bed and hopefully fills my head with exotic locales and dreams that rarely come.

Just Desserts

2010-04-26T15:31:00.004-05:00

I saw this recipe the other day and decided to try them. I call them Gobbits as in just gob it on your thighs. They are easy to make. Simply get a box of your favorite brownie mix (I get Duncan Hines Dark Fudge) and mix according to directions. Butter the muffin tin and place some of the mixture in each one. It will make twelve . Push the batter up the sides of the tin and leave an indention in the middle of each. Make your favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe and place a tablespoon of dough into the brownie and press down slightly. Bake approx. 30 minutes. Serve warm with whipped cream or Blue Belle Homemade Vanilla ice cream.

Next time I make these, I will add more cookie dough to it. The brownie sort of overwhelmed the cookie part. I am also going to try a cream cheese filling for a cheesecake brownie. Super Gobbits!

When Whippoorwills Call

2010-04-24T00:59:00.006-05:00

I heard a whippoorwill this eve. The first this year. I don't know where they go in winter. I love to hear them with their three distinct whistles. Many songs laud the whippoorwill's call - too many in fact to list here. There are also many early native American legends about the whippoorwill. The Omaha's believed its song was an omen of death while the Ute's thought the whippoorwill was a god of the night. There were also early American legends surrounding the bird. Washington Irving mentions it in THE LEGEND OF SLEEPY HOLLOW. One New England legend says the Whippoorwill can sense a soul departing and can capture it as it flees. Who knew? For Earth Day, we should know that this bird is becoming endangered and/or threatened by habitat destruction, predation by feral cat and dog populations and insecticides. They are ground dwellers; build their nests on the ground and you rarely see them - just hear that lonesome whippoorwill...

photo by J.W. Dingel