Chicken Blog

Welcome to My Bunny Casa

2012-02-10T11:18:00.000-08:00

Hello, my name is Sankanator. You may recognize me from many of the Rabbit posts published here, at Chickenblog. I was named after a 4H pig who, like me, had one blue eye and one brown eye. Olivia is the girl who raised me, for her 4H project, and then she let me come home and be Maria's bunny.

Last week, when Geoff and Natalie were putting the finishing touches on my marvelous Bunny Casa, a reader asked for more pictures of my new digs, because her daughter is planning a 4H project.

Well, Stephanie, come on in!

I used to live in a standard hutch, and come out for lawn visits, so I could hop and stretch. The weather here is mild, and life was okay, but fortunately, my family saw some interesting options for my comfort and well being. So, I started spending weekends and vacations in an empty, raised garden bed. And I loved it! They covered the top with a trellis, and weighed that down with stuff, and I got to dig and tunnel and run around. Good stuff.

These are the other raised beds. They are on the tall side, and four feet by four feet square. The bottoms are lined with wire fabric, to keep gophers and moles from entering. I guess this is helpful for keeping me digging out, too, but I never dig all the way down, anyway.

So. Basically, what Natalie did, was take her old chicken coop and set it on top of the raised bed. The coop was an Ikea picnic table that she and Geoff modified with additional framing, a door, and chicken wire. It has served them well, but now all the chickens are together in the shark cage, and the coop was sitting around waiting for a new purpose.

Since the table is about six feet by three feet, there were open gaps, and an overhang. With scraps from around the yard, Natalie covered the gap, and the overhang. Geoff used wood screws to attach the wood pieces to the bottom framing of the chicken coop. This should help keep out unwanted visitors, and will make it easier to raise the whole top off when they want to move it, clean things... etc
Outside of the Bunny Casa, the scrap wood makes a nice shelf, where things can sit. The painted, blue shelf makes a ledge that I can hop up to, and enjoy a stretch in the sun. Sometimes I find treats there, like Timothy hay, carrots, and even a little popcorn. I love my lookout ledge.

I hope these pictures are helping. It's easy to see that this was pieced together, and not actually engineered with a design. Everything was convenient and on-hand, which is nice, and of course it has room for improvements. The table is slatted, and lets in light and air. When it rains a tarp is brought out, and I don't have to get soaked and muddy.

Inside, I have lots of room to hop, run a bit, and dig. I love the digging. It feels so good. I have special corners, and clever tunnels, and sometimes I fill in my tunnels and make new ones. It's pretty much awesome. I am happy.

The raised bed is very accessible, and makes it easy to welcome guests. I get plenty of visitors, and attention. I like that.

I imagine when summer is here, I will be cool and comfortable, too. And later, they can pop off the top and switch me to another bed, and plant new things in this bed. And then I will find roots and leftovers in my next home.

Rumor has it that tomorrow they are planting spinach between the strawberry rows. They have been busy devising ways of keep those neighbors of mine, the chicas, out of the garden beds.

Thanks for dropping by. If you have any questions, I am happy to let Natalie answer them. I have some questions... what are you doing for your garden? Turning the soil, shopping the seed catalogs? Starting seedlings? Enjoy!

{this moment}

2012-02-10T03:22:00.000-08:00

A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.
:: Inspired by Soule Mama ::

If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Put A Brownie On It

2012-02-09T03:24:00.000-08:00

I was about to go see my friend, and I realized this would be a nice opportunity to share one of my crocheted kitchen towels with someone really special. But then I thought: this looks a bit lonesome... like it wants a purpose.

So I put a brownie on it.

That's better.

And if you are looking for something indulgent, tasty, easy, and slightly tweaked for the health(ier)... then try this:

Get a box of Trader Joe's Brownie Truffle mix... it's an additive free, no dyes mix, and makes really luscious dessert. I prepare it with a light cooking oil (4 ounces,) but this time I finely grated half of a medium zucchini into my measuring cup, and then added oil to make it 4 ounces of zukes and oil. The rest was as directed on the box... they came out as yummy as ever, less greasy, slightly more cake-like, and definitely moist. Just good, you know? One advantage of having seven in the house, frequent visitors, and special friends: baked goods get divided up, and disappear fast!

Matt, Asa... this one's for you

2012-02-08T19:00:00.000-08:00

It seems we are long over due to check in on our favorite FRC team, FIRST 2102 Team Paradox. They've been designing and building since kick-off, January 7, and now, according to Bill's Blog there is less than two weeks before the end of build.

Matt and Asa are team founders, and since they are studying way out east, they miss the smell of the metal shop, the sound of the machines grinding aluminum, music blaring, and the sight of a robot coming together. For them, I popped over to the metal shop... the truth is, I missed the smell, too. Here is what I found, enjoy!

Kyla and Andy, and dinnertime.

A chassis. Real descriptive, I know. Actually, I don't know, but Asa and Matt will have fun figuring this all out, and so, I don't have to!

Hey, it's a chassis and a Rebound Rumble Ball.

This. This is gorgeous. It's El Gabe Box.

I think this means a serious upgrade to wiring and electronics.
Go Paradox!

Andy, Gabe, Maria, and Geoff.

Let's see... new guy, and Chester, and Alex J., Andy, Kyle's shoulder, and Greg, and Tots. Plus, part of Darrahl's handsome head.

Guy I don't know, yet. (*update: nice to *meet* you, Alex D.) Greg, Andy, Gabe, Victoria, Kyle, and Tots, and some wood, and the big shop door that rolls up. I love this place. I love these people.

Well, guys. This is either going to satisfy your appetites for robotics, or it's gonna make you hungry for more. Either way, I hope you like what you see.

Chicken Stitch

2012-02-06T03:03:00.000-08:00

Hello,
Little Debbie,
Kamen,
Betty,
Shebot.
Come to see what I have in my basket?
Sorry, it's not treats.
Well, not for you.

I am still working on my sewing basket. It has to be purse-like, too. Keys, camera, phone, id, first aid, provisions, flashlight, carabiners, sonic screwdriver... I need all of this handy + the supplies I like for embroidery, mending, and crochet. I did not give up on my idea of making a sewing roll, though I still kind of slacked on the planning stage. Still, I like my flannel soft carrying case.

Recognize Anna Maria's Folksy Flannel? I don't have the entire collection, but I feel really good about finally having the nerve to cut into this one piece I have been ~~hoarding~~ safely stowing for something special. It's pretty and soft, and it makes me happy just looking at the colors and print.

And the kitty? Well. That is Maria's portrait of Benjamin Franklin Thunder Cat. Do you see the soft and woolly resemblance? She and I are learning how to needle felt. He is our second or third attempt. Are we ever hooked! Needle felting is easy, fun, easy, fun, meditative, and fun. She drew the kitty, and got started felting his cheeks, and then she asked for help, and then I couldn't stop... she helped, but I helped a lot. The next project she assured me she could do all by herself. And she did.

Since I had no idea what to do with a small felted portrait of our cat, I decided to use it as the backing for the pin cushion... some extra security against needles poking through from the inside. He is also a pocket. And naturally I added blanket stitching, and crocheted the outer edge.

Inside is a small, felted heart for needles and pins, and a heavy pocket for the little scissors. When I realized I had nothing to secure the scissors, and keep them from flying out, I added a button and catch loop. All is secure, and pretty.

This pouch, cut with pinking shears from a scrap of wool, holds my smallest crochet hooks. Another button and thread loop keep the hooks safely stowed.

Four tiny hooks, and plenty of room for more. I guess I can bring along bigger hooks, too, for days when I am making hats, and blankets. The pretty embroidery is on a vintage apron I picked up from the thrift store... I am getting to the point where I wear my aprons most days, and I may just give up taking them off before leaving the house.

More cotton Perle, ready to play with. I love that they are tangle-proof and easy to carry, and after I secure their label, and wrap the Perle on the clothes pin, I can be sure I will not lose track of what color I am working with.

For no particular reason at all, I am looking forward to adding more features and details to my sewing case. It feels like a soft and enticing invitation to enjoy myself, and that's kind of nice. A treat, for me.

Betty would sew. I'm sure of it. She has an eye for detail. I think she would wear aprons, too, if they came in her size. Happily, I am not the only one around here who fancies a bit of chicken whimsy. The other day, Maria was illustrating chicken weddings, with extra drawings of the hen bride's dress, and all the flower girls' pinafores.

Sunday Light

2012-02-05T09:09:00.000-08:00

A little art from Maria.

Our friends have returned from Australia. Michael and Patricia will be our neighbors, again, for a few more days, before they are off on their next adventure. Practically the minute they were in their driveway, Maria and I were over there to hear their sweet voices and enjoy warm hugs. Last night we popped over to keep Michael company around the campfire, and soon there will be a Biergarten Party, where we can catch up with even more friends, and celebrate life's rites of passage.

Sitting around the fire last night, Geoff played a hand-carved flute, and Maria practiced dancing, in the moonlight. She counted twenty days to rehearse before the next garden party. And, I think I need to see about purchasing one of Odell's flutes for Geoff. Seems my husband is a natural... no surprise. He flatters me by suggesting we can duet, together... him on the flute, and me on ukulele! (Jess, if you see this: can we book some more lessons, please?)

Do you know what is a truly wonderful gift? Music in the home is a truly wonderful gift. I miss my brother's piano playing. My own skills were always a bit pedestrian, but I did like playing. I most definitely miss hearing Max play piano. He has a gift. Tamsyn's recent summer visit was a dear reminder of how much I missed hearing her singing in the TreeHouse.

Seems like ever since we've known Eli, we have enjoyed a musical resurgence around here, and happily, it keeps growing. Eli would come by with his ocarina, a funny looking instrument, which he plays beautifully. Then Suki took up the ukulele, and we have had many occasions to listen to her sweet voice and playing. Just hearing her practice, the sounds filling the Bird House, makes me feel lucky, and happy. I think Eli has adopted at least half of the world's known string instruments, and new concerts spring up, with our talented friends keeping the beat... it's fantastic.

If music be the food of love, play on...
~Shakespeare

Sunday Light?

I sat here, in the pale Sunday morning light, and started thinking about all the good things, like Michael and Patricia, then last night, then music, and how live music has become this lovely tune that keeps recurring in my life... and it seems I just let my wandering thoughts play out in this post...

Well, the sun is full up now. The sky is blue, and the happy notes are still playing in my head, so I will go on...

Anna Banana sings. Cristina plays violin. My friends, up north, enjoyed a warm and hearty kitchen concert this week. Caia started ukulele, and I bet she's good, too. Ukuleles, and making music... I keep seeing and hearing this message, this gift, everywhere. I think my friend, Suzie, has a great handle on how easy it can be to embrace something new, like unschooling ukulele lessons!

You know what? We got something really, really beautiful for Christmas. I haven't mentioned it, yet, because it still has me in its magic-grip-of-awestruckedness. Remember the auction for Guitars in The Classroom, and all my talk about Jack Johnson's ukulele, and Tom Petty's signed guitar, and the good we can do by supporting organizations, like Jess', that keep music in our schools? Do yeah? Well. Sometimes we don't even know our own wishes, but someone else can figure it out and make it come true... and that is what happened to me. (I know you can't tell, but I am almost whispering, and my cheeks are rosing up and warm... it's because of the awestruckedness)

This.

Our very own mighty uke. A gift from Ruth, Tutu. She coordinated with Jess during the auction, and with Holly and Rich, too. Holly and Rich gave us the good case, and Ruth bought us the Koa wood, Hawaiian ukulele, signed by Jack Johnson. Thank you Ruth. Thank you Holly and Rich. I still feel Upside Down! (I know you can't tell, but I am crying... it's because of love, and light, and the way music just stirs my tear ducts, and makes me want to be a better person.)

It's tuned, and it sounds lovely. You can strum a ukulele, and it sounds beautiful, even without fancy moves. Easy. You can learn to tune it so you just run your thumb across the strings and it plays a C chord. Suki is teaching me, and Jess gave me a lesson. And I play often. Maria plays our other uke, too.

Jess and Ron, sharing music

Blessed! I know so many talented, generous, kind, thoughtful, warm, funny, creative, inventive, courageous people. Some of them share music, some of them appreciate music, some of them build a bonfire and invite us to join them in the moonlight. I love these people. I love all the notes we play, and learn. I love the light friends and music bring into my days, and nights.

Mom, when you come here in March... bring your uke. Let's strum together.

Saturdayness and Finishing Touches

2012-02-04T10:52:00.000-08:00

When I made Sanka's new and improved bunny loft, it was less a matter of 'new construction,' and more a case of strategic alignment. I placed a small chicken coop, constructed from an old Ikea picnic table, on top of a four foot by four foot raised garden bed. Then I found scraps of lumber to cover the gaps, where the coop didn't cover the bed.

Have you ever heard the word cattywampus? How about wonky? Yeah, those are applicable to a lot of things I do. But it was, no doubt, an improvement, and all it really needed to make it a whole lot better-safer-prettier were a few thoughtfully placed wood screws...

Hello, Betty.
Hello, Zelda.

No one was happy about the noise of the power drill, least of all Sanka. But I did thank Geoff for helping me get the finishing touches complete on the bunny casa. And now everyone is happier, and safer.

Sanka sat close, and we chatted together. Well, I chatted, and pet her, and she listened attentively, and her nerves settled.

And then she had to dash... something about burrowing, tunneling, digging, hopping, and other bunnyness.

And your Saturday morning, what's hoppin-ing?

{this moment}

2012-02-02T20:36:00.000-08:00

A single photo - ~~no words~~* - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.
:: Inspired by Soule Mama ::

If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

*Thank you for the positive feedback. Alex's painting and collage was hung in the student gallery, last semester, and I managed to get a shot of it, with my not very great camera. It's hard to photograph. I am looking for posts that demonstrate its origins, and progression.

Scroll through this post, and you can see it began as an ink drawing on butcher paper.

I am happy to have this photograph of the ink drawing, finished. He does not use any tools, other than his imagination, hand, paper and pen. I love his mind, and his art.

This is Winter!

2012-02-02T09:16:00.000-08:00

Happy Groundhog day!
Feliz Día de Land Beaver!
Merry Whistle-Pig Day!
Good Imbolc, to you and all of your kin.

Last night, Groundhog Eve, if you will, we had an unexpected and welcome encounter with nature, when there was a neighborhood power outage.

Sudden darkness. What a thrill! We scrambled around, opening our smart phones, which was not very natural, but it was seriously very dark and we needed a bit of help to find matches and candles. Once we had enough candle power going, the fun began in earnest. We wanted it to last all night. We wanted it to be widespread. We wanted school to be canceled! What we got was a little less than an hour of being in the same room, enjoying the same amusements, and time to reflect on our anti-zombie fortifications.

So, it seems we are in for six more weeks of winter. Well. Not much to complain about, here. Goodness. We've hardly had any winter to speak of. It's been all blue skies, and cool nights, breezes, beach side burritos, and flowers blooming. Personally, I would welcome the break from yard maintenance provided by a nice deep snowfall, but the most we can hope for is rainfall. Rain would be nice.

Not for Zleda, though. She looks frightful in the rain, when all her fluff gets muddy, and droops. But, rain or shine, she loves to be afield.

Here comes Puff, with her daughter, Kamen, a step behind. All the chicas are out, and loving our barely winter weather.

Photographing chickens? Not really very easy. They are on the move. So even though this is a bit out of focus, I love the poultry in motion, of She-Bot, the mini bot, dashing across the green.

Well, Chango. What do you think? Spring won't be here for quite some time. And you will have to endure these days as best you can. Nights, well... those will pass with you sleeping between my feet, curled 'round yourself, snoring.

And you, Benjamin Franklin Thunder Cat, Cowboy and Explorer? How much more of this can one kitty take?

No more bobcat attacks, thank goodness. Hopefully, this is the result of our new security measures, and the effects will be lasting. Bobcats and coyotes are more nature than I want at the Bird House Farm.

The chicas are happy, and calmer, too, now that Son of Zoltar has been relocated. I was very sad to let go of our last little rooster. He was nice enough to us people, but he was getting really abusive with Betty. She was becoming a battered and fretful hen.

These days, our most exciting chica events are about finding their eggs. They do lay in their box, but they also find new crannies and spaces where they like to nest. So, some days we get to enjoy an egg hunt. Even the youngest chicas are laying, now. The three baby hens are called Penny, and Little Debbie, and Little Debbie. The Debbies look just exactly alike. The sweeties-pies.

Little Debbie, is that your tiny, brown egg?

Today we will bake something in honor of the long winter ahead.
Does anyone, please, have a chocolate-beet cake recipe?
Or zucchini-chocolate cake, please?

This sweetie pie is Penny, as shiny, coppery, and small as a lucky penny. She is the chic-petite daughter of Zoltar and Zelda.

Still filling in her feathers, but her limp is almost imperceptible. I need to find the picture Maria drew of Kamen battling the bobcat, and all the other chicas cheering for their fearless sister.

Puff, with stuff in her fluff. She seems to kind of take after me, and is never quite as tidy as her sister hens.

Weazie Ratty-Rat doesn't mind winter, as long as her house can stay in the garage, where she is warmer. In summer she will enjoy cooler nights sleeping on the porch. Sanka's new bunny loft is still the best in luxury lodging. She is as happy as ever.

Many of our trees are blooming, and we planted a guacamole tree. I don't know how long it will be before we are picking avocados, but I know it will be worth the wait. My copy of Free-Range Chicken Gardens arrived, and I have been enjoying it, very much. I'll share my thoughts soon. And hey, you still have time to enter the Timber Press contest, and win a book, seeds, and chicas of your own.

What have you done lately, today, to enjoy nature, to relish your own climate, season, and local weather? After school today, we will enjoy some more of this Groundhog Day, and our delight in making something of nothing. I hope you find reasons to celebrate, too.

The Bird House, On the Corner of...

2012-02-01T01:23:00.000-08:00

We've moved around a lot.
Some would say, Too much.
Guess it was just as many times as it took,
To come home.
And it's starting to feel like home, here.
Right where we are.

Familiar.
I don't mind waiting, as much as I used to.
Feels like there's time to settle into our selves, our space.
Every time we make something the way we want it, fill it, cover it, embrace it as our own, I smile and think home.
However long it takes.
I don't mind the wait, like I used to.

And to settle in, to grow in one place, sometimes you water your roots.
And sometimes it requires concrete.
It cannot last forever, but I am loving it right now.

Needles Pulling Threads

2012-01-31T03:34:00.000-08:00

A tisket, a tasket, a happy gingham basket...
I am forever trying to be a good bag lady... to have a properly stocked, well-organized purse, handbag, carry-all. My latest obsession has been edging everything in sight with simple rows of crochet, so my latest bag is geared toward sewing and crochet.

I fiddled around with the idea of sewing a fabric roll to secure tiny scissors, needles and pins. I thought the wool scraps I have on hand and some folksy embroidery could combine nicely for something compact and convenient. But the muses would not join me, and it started to become one of those spontaneous sessions of senseless frustration. It's not a bad idea, but I wasn't giving it the planning and thought it deserved. Maybe some other time...

So. Sew. I pulled Maria's little felt heart out of the jumble, and tacked it onto the lid of my thrifty basket. Instant needle station. The sturdy basket is small enough to keep things from getting lost, and sturdy enough to keep me from stabbing myself with scissors. I can just fit my essentials... lipstick, id, and camera + supplies to play with, like cotton Perle, crochet hooks, my strawberry needle sharpener, and a bit of fabric.

I blanket stitched this napkin, from the clearance bin. Next came a row of single stitched crochet, and now I am going around once more with a double stitch. But. I am out of DMC 5 cotton Perle #502. Last time I shopped I got the last skein from their inventory. I wonder if they've restocked, yet.

What do you think of my clever thread bobbin? The clothes pin is a nice weight and size for this purpose. I can slip the informative sleeve over the handle, so I know what color number I am using when I need to refill, and the loose end of the thread keeps from unraveling when I slip it into the clamped end of the clothes pin. I may forever struggle with being an organized bag lady, but I think this solution for embroidery floss and Perle, is my forever plan.

When Maria found the heart she stitched in my basket she was tickled.
Hmmmmm... maybe my budding seamstress needs a sewing basket of her own. Wouldn't that make a happy Valentine gift? Or, better still, a great project for her to assemble and make?

Groundhog Day is Nigh

2012-01-30T11:03:00.000-08:00

We take liberties, and we build from from many traditions. We make stuff up, and we make do. We celebrate this day with squirrely abandon, and hardly any sense of what real winter is. It is our Groundhog Festival of Frivolity and Spring Anticipation.

It is possible that we will never have this holiday or our purpose clearly defined, or that it will ever make sense. But senseless measures, and whistle-pig whimsy go well together, I think. And so, we are happily preparing for Groundhog Day, and making something of nothing.

Please, join us. What are you doing or thinking of, in anticipation of spring?

Come West, Friends

2012-01-30T04:40:00.000-08:00

We are getting very excited about April, and the friends who will be coming then, all the way from the East Coast. It will be a first time meeting, and I am thrilled.

Today we were on a relaxing families hike with Patrick and Mashid, their boys, and other acquaintances. Since I know that Jennifer, Ken, and Dean will be deciding what to see on their visit, I took lots of pictures today... okay, I always take lots of pictures, but on this occasion I especially had them in mind.

Welcome to Torrey Pines State Park! From this trail, we are looking north toward Old Del Mar, and the furthest point on the coast is Carlsbad. An exceptionally beautiful day. Probably very much appreciated by all the golfing spectators at the Farmer's Insurance Open

Gazing south, we see the bluffs where the golfers are playing, the airship, and the curving coastline of Scripps, and La Jolla.

And up close, the Ceanothus is in bloom. We could smell the coastal sage, too. I wonder what we will find in the spring? We've always had good experiences here.

Easy trails, and beautiful sights. All you need are sneakers and some water. Maybe a snack.

This was about midway from the bluff's edge, and we stopped to take in the ocean view. This is the time of year when it pays to look out for the migrating Gray Whales... they are on their way to Baja, where they will calve.

Deep canyons. Intricate formations in the sandstone. Keep to the trail! The cliffs are not stable, and people often underestimate their position and abilities when over exploring the area.

I picked up a brochure to send off, along with a guide book I found. I think I'll browse through those tonight. There is still a lot I want to learn about our backyard!

There is more to Torrey Pines State Park than the rarest pine species in the United States. The plants, the views, the bluffs and sandstone formations... there are beautiful sights around every turn. We watched para-gliders, a paddle boarder, and a pod of dolphins sharing waves. There are trails I have yet to explore there... and actually, I like the idea of saving those adventures, to share with our friends, in April.

Can You Give a Lady Some Help?

2012-01-29T10:03:00.000-08:00

I'm looking you in the eyes, and asking for your help.

Recently a couple of readers have brought some things to my attention about ~~Chcike~~ Chickenblog: #1. They cannot comment, and #2. They have trouble loading pages, seeing content.

I have been to the Google help page, and to Blogger's page about known problems, and I have tinkered around with settings, but I cannot seem to make any headway, or even see the issues for myself. From here, everything seems to be okay, but that's not helpful, is it? And of course the very people having troubles with ~~Chcike~~ Chcieknblog... oy with C h i c k e n b l o g have probably given up and flown the coop.

Figuring out the core of the issue, whether it's Google/Blogger, or the way I have things set up, or ______________... this is not easy.

Calling all blogging pros, and Google Masters, calling all Geeks: what can be wrong? How can I make Chickenblog accessible, convenient, shiny, good, tasty?

Thank you. Have a beautiful day.

Sincerely,

Lady Betty Orpington, and her beleaguered assistant, Natalie, the ~~Chcikenblogger~~ Chickenblogger

F~U~N

2012-01-29T03:00:00.000-08:00

Filmed on location, here at Bikini Bottom, the music video we've all been waiting for:

SpongeSuki Square Dance and her masked chum, Alexton, the single-celled lovable curmudgeon. Tatiana would like everyone to know that orange screens are a music video editor's nightmare.

When "Pocket Stimson," the suspense film, and the Western film are uploaded, I am making popcorn and hosting a film festival! It will be the best day ever.

Culture Day Save

2012-01-28T07:21:00.000-08:00

I realize: sometimes I really am a mommy blogger. And Chickenblog is my compulsive collection of scrapbook memories, highlights of my children's journeys. And. It's kind of cool. I mean really cool. Because if there is one thing I've learned about these journeys it's that they move very, very fast, and good stuff and key moments can get buried and lost, so it's good to have some notes and pictures to look back on, so you can say, We did that. You went there. She said this. Yeah. This is good.

Maria made a culture box, for a school theme about culture, heritage, and emigration. I love how much initiative she will take for these kind of projects. She gathers her supplies, and dives right in to create her vision.

And may I congratulate myself? I confess: I had ideas, suggestions, tips, obsessive compulsive controlling impulses, and I kept them all to myself. Thank you very much. (Please, nod approvingly, thank you.)

Inside her box she collected things she could share from places she's been, from places her ancestors traveled, from her own local culture, too. Let's see...

Her wool bracelet, that she made at the Atwood Street Festival, in Wisconsin...

Postcards from Spain and Holland...

My own tiny kitchen toys from México, and clay beads...

The chicken toy Aunt Becky brought us from Guadalajara...

The woven hat, handmade, from El Valle....

And the paper craft surfer's car, a woody, from Ruby's Diner...

Alright, so there was a parenting lapse on my part. No biggie. I just completely spaced on the Culture Day Class Party. The end of the semester for Max, and Alex, all the projects, and late nights, was intense... by Friday there were still things to wrap up, support, and I was more than ready for school to give us all a break! Mentally crossing off my accomplishments, and trying to breath, I pulled into Maria's school, when she said, "Mommy, today is culture day, and I need to dress in something from Mexico and bring food to share." As in, right now.

¡Aye, Mamá!

Never give up! Never surrender!

(Walk Maria to class. Confirm with teacher. Party starts at ten. Go back home. Collect Alex's paintings, which were too many to bring earlier, never mind. Get Max. Take Max to school. Take paintings to Alex. Go back home. Meet service person to work on that thing that was broken. Leave to my culture day salvation and buy guacamole and chips. Go to Maria's school with my proud contribution. Two hours. Done!)

So, yes, in my Other Mother Blog I would probably go into great detail about my very obviously store bought contribution sitting on the table next to amazing, amazing! homemade tamales, pupusas, chilaquiles, gnocchi, jamón de España, even Belgian chocolates! Each of the three first grade classes had tables overflowing with foods from Japan, Korea, South Africa, Spain, Italy, Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, Belgium... and more. And the children's desks had all of their adorable and fascinating culture boxes, each unique and dear.

Speaking of dear... oh, dear, I am in love with pupusas, and curtido, the light and crispy slaw you see on top of what looks like a corn tortilla. The corn torilla-like dish is the pupusa and it is from El Salvador. It is filled with something delicious. I love Rosie, Charlotte's mother, the wonderful woman who made these savory delicacies. It is something like a tamale, but lighter, and the lightly dressed cabbage salad gives the whole dish a refreshing finish.

Gee. I sure do love Culture Day!

Maria and I walked from desk to desk admiring all the different boxes her classmates made. Maria's favorite: Emma's box with the African beads for wearing in your hair, and the collection of shells, too. We were not allowed to touch people's treasures, but Emma gave Maria permission to touch the beaded medallion... I loved the look of reverence on Maria's face as she explained how special Emma's things were.

There were about forty-two more stop and go errands to make before the day was through, and at times I wasn't sure how it would all get done, but this was an hour I was very thankful to have shared with Maria.

The Other Mother Blog

2012-01-27T09:46:00.000-08:00

Since about six-thirty this morning, I have been thinking about my other blog. This theoretical blog is where I could really let it all hang out. I am talking about colorfuller language, rants, snarkiness, trollitudes, whiney-b!tchy-hormonal wisdom, and butter recipes.

You see, believe it or not, I am on a quest to be a respectable, gracious, magazine-cover worthy persona. I want to create an ambiance of grace and respectability, with light humor, tasteful decor, some frank moments, but mostly serenity and ennobling sentiment. But this is an upward battle, and anyone familiar with my history, with the deeper recesses of these 2,000 + posts, knows I have had frequent occasion to miss the mark, considerably. Oh, and the magazine-cover worthy persona is figurative. I just want to be shiny and good.

But I get so cranky!

And now. Now I gotta get my butt to the market to buy chips and guacamole. Yeah. Mexican food, because in the school parking lot, as the bell is ringing, Maria said, "Mommy, today is culture day, and I need to dress in something from Mexico and bring food to share." She's wearing her WORT Radio shirt, with a Do The Funky Chicken illustration by Lynda Barry... if that ain't "culture..."

My bad. I should have known about this. I believe there are school newsletters, or something. My other blog might be called Thirty-One Flavors of Failure, and in it I would write about bringing chips and guacamole for the kids, and a six pack of Corona for the teacher, as a token of my remorse for being so flaky, but I wouldn't mention that here, because I am pretty sure that would dull the shiny goodness.

{this moment}

2012-01-27T03:34:00.000-08:00

Love Maria

2012-01-26T04:21:00.000-08:00

Her little hands, and her big heart, always in motion.

She's moved into book four of the five first grade reading books.
Her front tooth, on top, is loose.
She, rather solemnly, asked me to assure her that she will be able to join Team Paradox, and not any other robotics team.
She likes to run laps, do yoga, and try karate.
She is sewing Valentine hearts as gifts... so far, for Izzy, for me, for Geoff, and for Janice.
She wants to stay home from school to help me decorate for Groundhog Day.
Last night, while I showered, she made our bed... bedsheets to quilt, pillows fluffed and everything.
She loves Tasha Tudor, Nikola Tesla, and Temple Grandin.
She teaches me how to play Little Big Planet 2.
She learned how to swim last summer.
She doesn't like sandwiches, having her hair brushed, some Picasso paintings, or itchy tights.
She gets horrible cramps in her legs and feet. They wake her in the night and leave her crying for an hour or more.
She wants to run the most laps in her school's jog-a-thon, so she can have lunch with her principal.
She asks God to keep us all together after we die, and assures me that she will always keep me in her heart, no matter what.
She tells us her feet stink. And she's right.
She says Missconsin for Wisconsin, and curlerpurler for caterpillar.
She makes love notes, and declarations of her affection for us, frequently, everyday.
She is a farmer, cook, scientist, dancer, runner, gardener, photographer, and girl. She is a joy.

One more thing: Thank you.

I wrote this post last night, before story time with Maria. On the way upstairs I grabbed a stack of new mail, and made a wonderful discovery: real letters and cards, all for Maria. I wish you could have seen the look on her face. She was amazed and delighted, she got wiggly and giggly. She held them to her frame like they were... well, like they were love notes.

They were. Love notes. One from her Grandma and Grandpa in Oregon, overflowing with support and encouragement, and all the sweet sentiments that make Maria sigh and melt. One was from her best friend, Amira... a loving reminder that no matter what else is happening she will always have her Anagram Sister to lift her spirits. And there was one more, from her Tutu, who got directly to the matter, and added a special, little gift to ease Maria's worries.

Thank you. These love notes were read multiple times, and made the best bedtime stories possible.

This Post Needs A Title Love and Stitches

2012-01-25T12:18:00.000-08:00

Another fat quarter... ironed, squared, hemmed, blanket stitched, and trimmed with crochet. And I love it. I am smitten. I like how fun it is to choose a print, and to play with the stitches, and I like that I can start it and play with it in minutes throughout the day, and complete it without breaking a sweat. This one I, bravely, released into the world, as a hostess gift. I say "bravely," because I may have a minor (read: totally obsessive) fabric attachment.

Do you find yourself thinking about the person you are making a gift for? I do. It's a kind of tender intimacy I feel whenever I am creating something for a particular person, because my mind sort of meditates on how I feel about them, and my wishes for them, what a great person they are...

(off topic, but how does one grammatically make the "they" and the "are" and the "them" and the "is" jibe? Because I suspect I am messing with my plural/singular/English/proper language skills. *Embarrassed.*)

My point is: handmade gifts get a lot of love put into them. I like to think about the person I am making the gift for, and it makes me happy, feel blessed, feel connected, and the process becomes a gift for myself, to be reminded how I feel about this individual.

Would you like to see something?

This!

Yes, a pillowcase, with a sheep stack.

I don't know how to describe how I feel about this. It's weirdly adorable.
I saw it on Etsy*, and sent the link to Geoff, like a month ago. I so completely and totally forgot that I did this, and then a few days ago Geoff handed this package to me... I was blank, in love, but blank, and he had to remind me that I sent him the link!

It took me about thirty years to figure out that he really does not know what-how-when-where to shop for me, and that there is no correlation between this fact and his love for me, so every now and then I email him suggestive material... so to speak. Clues. Hints. Something that figuratively grabs him by the shoulders and says: Think man! Her birthday is in twelve months, and she thinks a pillow case would be really great! Buy this. He actually loves me more for doing this for him, and now that I see how well it works, well... yeah, lucky me!

Nothing is safe! Because weirdly adorable is even better with a crocheted edge, I totally went to town on my pillowcase. Oh, and pardon the wrinkles, but my head mushed it all up, when I was counting sheep last night.

*Holy Farm Critters! They have chicken towels!!?!

James, Don't Leave Us!

2012-01-24T03:49:00.000-08:00

Don't leave us, James. We make party for you. College is overrated. It's cold out east, and they got no burritos like the burritos we got. Sure. We're proud of you, young prodigy boy-man, in college at sixteen, but you gotta come home, 'cause you're a homey, a Bird, a robo-disco-STEAM-inventor, and we aren't the same without you. Go, see what they know, then come back, and we will make more party for you.

In the meantime, we just cry, waiting, thinking of you in snowland.

The Good-bye For Now and Good Luck in Kawledge party we had for James was a working party, 'cause some of us are still in regular skool, and there are movie projects to complete. The Bird House has been the scene of movie making for a couple of weeks now, and our big screen has become a big green screen. How cool is that? Okay, it's also messy, haphazard, and slightly inconvenient, but really, mostly just cool.

Lighting is probably the most challenging obstacle to filming in our living room. Did I mention that this film has been somewhat plagued with setbacks and blood? Yes, it's actually been a very tough assignment to complete, due to scheduling conflicts, technical difficulties, and a very nasty stunt accident to McRae's brow. Working title of this film: There Will Be Blood.

If they can get credit for rehearsing, for taking precautions, for planning, for rolling with the punches, for working around the setbacks and obstacles, for not giving up... well, then they're in good shape. After all, learning is the objective, and I think they learn a lot more when things don't go smoothly.

Where would we be without our friends?

I tell you, all the posts for the next six months are going to be mushy and sentimental, as I look at the faces of these dear people and think about them growing up, and growing away, and doing all the things we have been hoping for, for themselves... it's just so hard. I am not ready, I tell you. Not ready at all to let them go, to miss seeing them play and hear them laugh, and follow their stories from the front row. We have been so blessed with our family, and our circle of friends, who are like family, and these days and activities... and I am not ready to let any of it go.

We won't be totally abandoned, not just yet, not all at once. But it is going to be a lot quieter here, in the Fall. Of all the phases in my life, this one is the most confounding to me.

Oh, dear.
It's the curse of blessings.
Makes me greedy, attached.

After feeding the cast and crew three dinners in a row, it occurred to me to ask for film credit. Tatiana, just a mention of "Lady Betty Oprington... 'Foundation,' or 'Productions,' even 'Catering,' and I have a logo if you want to add that too. Thank you.

Chocolate cupcakes and chocolate-peppermint buttercream frosting. If you get into college, we make cupcakes for you and decorate them with fancy, coordinated doodads. That's how we roll.

Claire came by, too. She and Maria shared magic tricks, and talked about the fashion show, last spring. Claire is already hard at work preparing for this year's fashion show.

Outside of his brothers, James is William's best friend. They are working on some pretty neat things together. After filming, and sitting in the ER with McRae, James and William stayed up all night, for one last creative-inventive-planning session, before summer break. When I hear their ideas, listen to their plans... I just want to open doors for them, give them room, watch them build.

A green screen is a bit of magic. You can project any place or object onto the screen, and create a whole world. It's something like these young people... they just need a wide open space where they can project the amazing things, ideas, and places they imagine and believe in, and with some work, and play, it all comes together, and becomes real. I like watching behind the scenes, and seeing the finished project... of course, when is a great work of art ever really finished?

Quiet On The Set

2012-01-23T03:53:00.000-08:00

The final project, for the video film class Alex is taking, is a Western. Tatiana is editing the movie, and James was a stuntman, until he left for college. Grant made an appearance, and his brother, Clark, stepped in to finish some fight scenes. William advises, and has also developed terrific computer generated animations for the green screen shots. Have I mentioned that our living room has become a green-screened sound stage? Suki has been helping with costumes and make-up. Eli has been helping with costumes, and about everything else, as well. Alex wrote the script, and he's been organizing everyone and everything, which has proven to be a monumental responsibility. Maria and I have been ready for anything... feeding the cast and crew, standing in, transportation, first aid, acting as extras.

Oh, golly. I am going about this all backwards. Does it matter? The green screen shots were taken first, and then we went on location. These were taken when we went to a local park, for some real life-outdoor-westerny scenery. Later I will share some of the fun of making our home a movie studio, and also saying ~so long, and farewell until you return~ to James.

Some days I cannot help being overly wordy, and explanatory. The intention is to clarify all points and be understood, but I muddle it so. I think I must be more obtuse than I mean to be.
Doing it again.
And.
Stop.

This.

Too beautiful for words. In my whole life I have never seen as many peacocks, at once, ever. In fact on this day I saw more peacocks than I've seen collectively in my entire life. I make this statement with absolute certainty. Maria and were completely awestruck and enchanted with these wild birds... they were everywhere. They are not tame, but not particularly shy either, so we were able to get quite close to some.

Alex, Eli, and McRae had to get straight to work filming, because they only had one hour of sunlight. Maria and I were free to explore, and that is exactly what we did. We explored and delighted. We agreed that someday, when we finally do celebrate her seventh birthday, the cowgirl birthday, that this would be the ideal place to wear bandannas and ride hobby horses, share cupcakes, and kick our boots.

Howdy, Eli.

When Alex made arrangements for them to film here, the park managers were really nice, and supportive. They went over some rules and expectations, then just stepped back and let the movie makers do their thing.

The film will be sepia toned, and they are going to dub their voices. I'm still not sure what the story is, exactly, but I do know it has fight scenes, and an airship, bad guys, and good guys. And mustaches. It must be good.

Not familiar with the trees of California ranchos? Those tall, spindly ones are eucalyptus... brought to southern California by someone hoping the fast growing trees would make good lumber for railroad ties. They do grow fast, but they don't make good rail road ties. They smell good. The shorter, fuller trees are pepper trees... Schinus molle. Not a true pepper, but still used in spices. It can be poisonous. Unfortunately, the pepper tree, though somewhat pretty from a distance, has become an invasive species around the world. Ah, I hate to malign an innocent tree, but honestly, I am not a fan. When planted in the wrong environment, they quickly become an irritant, and they suppress other plants and native species.

Okay, but never mind, because it's a really pretty scene, right?

Still using my pocket camera. The charger for the big beautiful black camera will not show itself. Can you see the four peacocks on the rooftops? Pretty.

I'll be saying pretty a lot in this post, because well. You know. This place has a lot of pretty.

This is all a city park, but the history is more interesting than that. I don't know that it's usually this quite, because it seems like the kind of place that would fill up quickly, regularly. I feel fortunate to have enjoyed this first (successful) visit in such a private and intimate way. We were practically the only ones there. It was kind of nostalgic and sentimental, imagining the Carillo family working on their out buildings, hosting friends and family, keeping their Rancho de Los Kiotes in working order.

The land and the buildings were acquired through the acting work of Leo Carillo, and though the land today is worth many millions of dollars, none of it feels particularly opulent or ostentatious. It feels like the home and working ranch of a family that was blessed and generous. It still feels welcoming, personable, warm.

It makes me happy that the city, and other thoughtful people, have thought to protect and preserve this place, and to make it available for everyone to share.

Maria and I found lots of big peacock feathers, and some very tiny and pretty ones. The large tail feathers, with the iridescent eye, were too scarce to be found.

They finished a lot of filming in one hour. A few more scenes need to be filmed here, next week. They have had a rough run, with many setbacks, delays, and even a run to the ER. Not ideal circumstances for getting a final project completed, but of course some of the best film makers out there have fantastic tales of sandstorms, and other disasters. These guys aren't giving up.

I guess I am still feeling sentimental and nostalgic, seeing these boys at work. I think how amazing it is when the make-believe and play of childhood becomes something bigger... all the pretending, well, it becomes as real as they imagined. I've been behind the scenes all along, and I am still enchanted and enthralled by the magic of seeing my children grow.

Speaking of Gardens

2012-01-22T07:26:00.000-08:00

With chickens and gardens on my mind, I decided to visit some favorite inspiration gardens.

I feel compelled to remind myself: This is January, the winter month. This is when frost and heavy rain can dampen a gardener's spirit. Beware the false impression that spring has arrived. The weather has many sketchy, foggy, rainy, cold days in store, yet.

But who would believe it? Under a blue sky, with fuschias seductively displaying their petals and finery? Who would ever know...

Light on her feet, with only a knit cap and winter's long shadows to hint at the season, Maria leads the way to a secret garden.

Silent and lovely garden ladies... no one told Maria the way.

We've been visiting this garden for seventeen years. Our friend, Candice, introduced us to many of the area nurseries, back before William was in kindergarten, and Alex was a baby. This is where we found Joe, our dear old bunny. They used to have all kinds of birds, and rabbits here. This is where we first learned about rabbitats... cozier, earthier, roomier rabbit habitats.

Even with all these temptations, with all the pleasures offered, I don't come here as often as I used to. Easily, happily, remedied, I think. Maria played in the little house, like her brothers before her. Her game was sweet... imagining everyone was together, and we were making our plans to build a tree house.

Thinking of outwitting our hens, and revitalizing our garden beds really did encourage my gardening aspirations. Maria and I exercised much discipline and restraint, limiting the number of seeds we carried home. She continued exploring the play house, testing it for all its possibilities, while I finished blanket stitching a napkin, and thinking of sprouting other possibilities.

This was a moment.
Window boxes, and sunshine, play.
Memories, and hopes.
It's no secret,
gardens give way
to wonder
and goodness.

Chickens and Gardens :: Giveaway!

2012-01-19T04:54:00.000-08:00

Free-Range Chicken Gardens, from Timber Press

I need this book! At first I was simply attracted to the beautiful cover, because when isn't a Buff Orpington, in a garden, beautiful? Then I was intrigued by the title, because I love my chickens and I love to garden, but lately I have struggled to enjoy both my chickens and a thriving garden. I guess I am admitting I am ready to seek professional help, and I think this book, Free-Range Chicken Gardens, may hold the key to practical solutions for our Bird House Farm.

Also, it all looks so pretty! And inspiring! And pretty!

Timber Press, a publisher in Portland, Oregon, is celebrating the release of their book, Free Range Chicken Gardens, by Jessi Bloom, with a fun contest, where a lucky person will win a complete chicken garden start up kit, including:
~ $50 gift card for chicken feed or supplies from McMurray Hatchery
~ One chicken coop plan from The Garden Coop
~ One lb of organic chicken forage blend and seeds for chicken friendly plants from Peaceful Valley Farm & Garden Supply
~ A copy of Free-Range Chicken Gardens

It looks like an easy, worthwhile contest to enter, and all you have to do is follow this link, to leave your email address on their contest page.

Uh... maybe a chicken in the garden isn't always beautiful! I really do need this book.

I am happy to share this contest information with all of you, and in the interest of being completely honest... Timber Press is sending me a copy of Free-Range Chicken Gardens as a thank you for sharing about the book and contest. I really am looking forward to reading the book and applying what I learn to our own (neglected and hen-pecked garden)... in fact I got so excited about the prospect of reviving the veggie beds, Maria and I bought carrot and spinach seeds! With any luck, by spring, we'll find more than just feathers in our garden beds.

SOPA~PIPPA Blackout

2012-01-18T07:42:00.000-08:00

In allegiance with Google, and O'Reilly Media of Make Magazine, the free encyclopedia~ Wikipedia, bloggers, and millions of intelligent, expressive, free Americans, Chickenblog is on Blackout mode. Self-censored, to bring light to the rights and freedoms we are at risk of losing if Congress imposes SOPA~PIPPA on us.

No chickens.
No cats.
No embroidery.
No recipes.
No FIRST.
No play.
No fun.

Please tell Congress: Don't Censor the Web

Chicken Pics, Duck Lips, and Kid Tips

2012-01-17T10:01:00.000-08:00

The good news: Kamen continues to mend. Under her wing, feathers are sprouting like mad. Even the open wound, where we could see right into her chest cavity, has sealed and looks no worse than a kid's healing skinned knee. She is still skinny, and she limps, and gets the shakes. But she can jump high, and flap her wings, and she enjoys her dust baths... and what more could a chicken ask of life than that?

She follows me. In the morning I set her cage in the garden, and give her reign to forage beneath the guava shrubs. Lately though, rather than scratch for worms or spread out in the sun, she follows me back into the garage, down the hall, into the next room, her feet skidding around on the wood floors. I turn around and she halts, looks up at me, and murmurs softly in her clucky-chatty way. Last night she flew up to the back of the chair, looking over Suki's shoulder, inquiring about the paintings, the weather, winter formal. She enjoys sitting with me, while Maria reads. She settles in, ready for a good story, pictures.

Last night, I asked her to make duck lips with me.
But chickens don't have lips, so all we got was this picture of me looking ridiculous. But, she's still my friend. She doesn't let my silliness hamper our friendship.

So. That's it for chicken pictures, and duck lips, and now I need some tips about seven year old children and their friends. I am stumped. And though I am not sure there is a solution to the issues I am going to raise, I am hoping somebody can give me insight, constructive feedback, a miracle, sympathy, something.

Maria does not want to go to school. This started back in November. She is distressed and fretful. She gets anxious. She chants, and rants: "I don't want to go to school." And the thing is, she likes school. She likes homework, and class time, and yoga in the morning, and hot lunch, and science, and bringing home library books, and her teacher... and, and, and. But she doesn't want to go any more.

So. Geoff and I figured that she's simply picked up on the usual, public school rallying cry against school; a cultural-school rite of passage. But one thing that she did elaborate on has us more concerned: she says, "I can't play with friends, because the children don't want to just play. If someone makes a mistake, and says 'sorry' the other kid say, 'you did it on purpose, and you're not my friend.'"

I will spare you the lengthy descriptions of who is not friends with whom, but Maria goes to great lengths to describe these politics, and to explain that she is trying really hard to bring one outsider girl into the friendship circle, but that the repercussions have been more than she can bear. At least once a day, Maria explains that recess is no fun any more, that she wants to play, but spends all of her time trying to deflect all the he said-she said drama and intrigue.

I know. Playgrounds and first grade relations are volatile, and there is no need to jump in and rescue her. She needs to negotiate and navigate some of this for herself. It's life, right?

Maybe. I have strong views on what we consider "natural" in the world and what we create and foster in our culture. But let me get to the issue I am most concerned about...

This morning, after waking uttering the phrase I don't want to go to school and declaring it again, and again, and again, I said, "Maria, you don't want to go to school. I hear you. Maybe you can let your friends know that you want to play. That you do not want to bicker, and pick sides." And she started crying. In the car, walking onto campus, in front of her classroom. She looked defeated and sad, and desperate. She looked resigned to a really uncomfortable day, life. She said, I can't help _______ any more, because it makes everyone say mean things, and ________ is mad at me if I don't play with her, and everyone else is mad if I do play with her... and then she was crying too much to really be intelligible, but I got the message.

I have experience, and I know that this will ~~quite possibly get worse before it gets better~~ get easier, that people ~~get better at hiding their insecurities and pettiness~~ mature. I can leave this issue to time, teachers, and the toughening rites of passages that forge our little tikes into independent troopers, but she does not want to go to school and I think this is a problem. She is distressed, and distracted. She is feeling disengaged from a place that, by the hours, is like her second home, and at this young and impressionable age, I really, really want to preserve her comfort and love of school, of learning.

What can I do?

How do I maintain Maria's healthy interest in being at school and feeling good about her day? Without being an over worried-meddlesome-hover mother, what can I do to redirect some of the stress, because however minor or "normal" this may appear, I know for Maria the suffering is genuine and significant, and she really wants help. Are there skills, affirmations, vitamins, defensive maneuvers we can offer her?

Friendships are important, and feeling comfortable matters. Even Kamen knows this; rejected in friendship by her zombie paranoid chica family, she has found her way into my friendship circle, and it seems to make her very happy. I mean just look at her happy face, cutting-up with me. She's feeling good, and life is better this way.

A Starry Night

2012-01-16T11:17:00.000-08:00

It was a starry night.
A night to get away, but not faraway.
A night for camping.

And we were not alone.
We had our books and lanterns, the comfiest pillows, the coziest blankets, some courage, some daring. We had the song of the owls, the chill of coyotes bantering and taunting.

Maria, Max, and Natalie, the bravest adventurers, alone together, under the stars. The moon rose and arced across the night, and the clouds moved in. We slept close to one another, peeking out from our blankets. We could not find the tent-fly, so we had a wide view of the sky above.

Which was nice, until dawn, when it began to lightly mist, then drizzle. So in the faint, blue light, we made multiple dashes into the house, bringing all the coziness we could carry. And one owl, the big horned owl, from his perch on the roof, watched us scurry, like mice. And then the night was gone, and he flew home.

{this moment}

2012-01-13T03:54:00.000-08:00

Kitchen Cloths

2012-01-12T10:55:00.000-08:00

Back in November, I got carried away with edging fabric with dainty Perle cotton crocheting. I was blown onto this course by all the temptations and inspiration I was finding on Pinterest. It felt like a huge creative relief to jump right in and see what I could do. And so I grabbed a fat quarter and got started, making stuff up as I went, making mistakes, discovering solutions, and thoroughly enjoying the gratification of making something simply pretty.

It took two months to get blown back on course, to finish what I started. In my haste to crochet an edge of the 1/4 yard rectangular fabric (a "fat quarter"), I pressed and hemmed only one edge. The rest I could hem later; a conceivable, but lazy choice that eventually cost me more labor and some small frustration in the end.

My first cloth squared-up fairly easily. It's not too wonky, but this one was kind of embarrassing. I should have known better when working with striped fabric... it would be less forgiving with those obviously horizontal lines, if I didn't straighten everything out.

The fabric was far from square, and one end was so off course I did not have enough fabric to turn the hem.

What to do? What to do?

Twill Tape! I even happened to have some in my massive accumulation of stuff! So, that was awesome. This light weight trim would edge the fabric, securing and hiding my hastily conceived shortcoming. Plus, I decided to add this useful loop to the corner.

Lesson learned: square, cut, press, and hem, and then blanket stitch and crochet.

The other three cloths were easier to finish, but each one presented a different issue for squaring and hemming. And each of them is sporting a different crocheted trim. This Kitty cloth has a small scalloped edge. I don't read crochet patterns, so I always make these things up as I go. Working on such small pieces, makes it easy, and fun, to experiment.

These sea foam scallops are bigger, and the trim came out fuller, too. Ruffled.

I like the simple ladder pattern on the red ticking fabric. It nicely mirrors the simple and clean lines of the print. I'm not sure how I did it, but I think I could mess around and do it again...

The first trim was made using a very delicate Perle cotton. I like it, but I thought it was a bit too dainty, and my skills with crocheting made the wonky parts more obvious. So, I switched to a heavier, Mercerized cotton, size 3.

What does "Mercerized" mean? Is it some horrible factory chemical thing that will make me ashamed and squeamish? Oh dear. I'll have to Google this, someday.

So, you may be thinking, what are you going to do with these, exactly?

And I reply: Uh. Well. I guess. Well, they're pretty, you see. And fun. To make. And I. Uh.

Maybe for the warm-from-the-oven loaf of bread brought to the table at dinner?
Or keeping a stack of tortillas snug before serving?
Also nice to cover a bowl of rising dough, or to keep flies off the picnic fair?
As a hostess gift, wrapping a bottle of wine?
Lining a bowl of just washed grapes?
Thrown on a pile of junk, a quick clean-up, when a friend pops in?
Or simply, a quarter yard of pretty byproduct from creative therapy.

Between Seasons

2012-01-11T10:16:00.000-08:00

Has anyone seen winter?
Not that we ever see the kind of winter that blankets the world in drifting crystalline sparkle, or includes the words: sleet, windchill, flurries, subfreezing, black ice, snowplow, storm windows, or long johns.

Still... where has winter gone? Our days have been warmer than late spring, as clear as summer, as breezy as fall, but not a bit like winter. I know a lot of people are settling into this dry, blue skied spree, with tremendous satisfaction. Certainly haven't heard any complaints... not like the bemoaning we hear when it is raining for more than a day, when the gray skies of June linger into July. No, I cannot say I've heard anyone say, I miss winter. When will it rain? Where are the clouds?

I do. I miss winter. When will it rain? Where are the clouds? Oh, I do like these beautiful days. There isn't really anything to complain about, except I do worry. We need rain. Rain is free water, a commodity in short supply in this region. I like the change in the pace, the cycle and rhythm of a new season, like winter. It'd be kind of nice to bring out sweaters and scarves, to acclimate for a reasonable duration to one climate, one season... and not have to switch back and forth between almost like summer warmth one day, then almost like winter cold the next.

And snow! Not that we ski, or snowboard, but I know there has been little or no snow, and this deepens the water crisis. We need deep, water holding, snow to accumulate and mound in great heaps in our Sierras. It's our long term deposit for the drier months ahead.

Golly, what a tangent! I thought my reflections would be a brief and passing sentiment about the lack of rain, and then I was going to sashay into a poem about all the loveliness we have been enjoying recently. Well, maybe not an actual poem, but the loveliness of late is poetic and lyrical, and worthy of fanciful forays into linguistic form.

The owls, are they in love? Are they hunting? Every night, all night, and at sunrise, they call. From tree tops, across the stars, around our rooftop, they call, and answer, and call. I listen to them from my office, from bed, in the kitchen, when I go out to tuck the chickens in, and pat Sanka's head. Sometimes I call, too, then wait, and they answer... I pretend they understand me. I love to hear those owls.

And the moon! It's astonished me every night this week. It's been so... so much like a moon, all round and glowing, luminous, celestial, a gravitating force that pulls me out into the night and makes me feel connected, and very small, all at once.

We want to pitch our canopy, and sleep under the stars, near the moon. We talked about taking the outdoor screen outdoors. Maybe the mosquitoes have left... maybe they don't know it's like summer here. I won't say we've made actual plans. I guess I am superstitious enough to believe that nothing would change this weather faster than us making plans!

One apple tree is hanging on to two tiny apples, and the other is blooming like it's spring. Who can say what this season is?... but I intend to make the most of it, until something new comes along.

Bunny Casa

2012-01-10T13:24:00.000-08:00

Available: Open floor plan, studio with loft. View. Room for basement. High ceilings. Garden. Charming. Mindful landlord. Reasonable rates.

Occupied!

Sanka moved right in, after I upgraded one of the garden beds into a luxury studio with loft. She is a happy bunny tenant.

The original chicken coop, that I made from our old Ikea picnic table, was not being used since the chicks have joined the other chicas in the shark cage. So, I set it on top of one of the four by four raised veggie beds... the fit is not exact, but boards are nicely and securely making shade and acting as a covering for the gaps. Now Sanka has a soft and earthy place where she can dig her caves and tunnels. She can jump and frolic. She has patches to nap in the sun, and shady shelters, too. I wonder if she'll make it up to her loft, where she can catch a fresh breeze and have a look around. With the taller ceilings I can easily access her dish, stroke her ears, and pull up a chair to sit beside her and enjoy her activities.

She. is. so. happy!

William and I watched her do those funny bunny leaps, the ones that look like pure exuberance and bliss. Then she began her tunneling, and exploring. She makes marvelous tunnels, and Hobbit holes. We realize my arrangement is decidedly cattywampus, but as a prototype it is both effective and inspiring.

And when a bunny looks this cozy and content, you know you are doing something right.

Kamen Mends

2012-01-10T09:24:00.000-08:00

She's feeling plucky, she's sounding clucky, and we know she's lucky. It's Kamen, the bobcat smiting, robot chicken: able to survive, heal, and overcome against improbable odds. And we would like to thank everyone that expressed their care and compassion for this dear and remarkable little hen.

Thank you! We are continuing to monitor our security improvements, and make all the safeguards we can reasonably manage. We have even procured a live trap, thanks to our friends, Corina and Chris. Chris will build a preserve for Bob El Gato and use him as a mascot for his metal shop company... just kidding. We are going to make Bob El Gato Tamales, sell them, and use the profits to open the Kamen Chicken Clinic. Seriously, just kidding.

It's not easy photographing a shy and traumatized, black chicken. And if you cannot tell: she is beautiful... except when she lifts her wings and you see the truly gnarly scars and wounds she is still bearing, but then she looks even more beautiful, because overcoming injury and living with those scars is beautiful.

We figure there is nerve damage. Her leg, beneath all the worst damage, shakes. A lot. She gets spooked by things we cannot detect and runs into things, in a seemingly random fashion. She visits the other chicas, but... this is sad to admit: they are really mean to her. We think they believe she has returned from the dead, and is in fact a zombie. And that may explain why they jumped her and pulled out more of her feathers. Geez, "henpecked" is seriously scary. She is not going back to the coop, until we get a handle on this.

I, of course, hoped that with all the tender loving care I was administering, she would turn her gaze on me and think, in her wee hen brain, "This is the nicest person ever, and I trust her, and I want to be her friend, and hang out with her, and tell her secrets, and sit on her shoulder when we ride around town... "

(No. No, I am not chica-co-dependent. Why do you ask?)

Last week, she pretty much was as freaked out and disinterested in me as she ever was. Oh well, I thought.

But in the last few days... well, she kind of does like me.

Grin.

Yeah. She doesn't run from me. She lets me scoop her up, without squawking and flailing, like all those other chicken-heads. And last night I decided to sit with her, not too hopeful that she would appreciate my attention. She sat with me, then Alex, for about two hours! She roosted on my arm. She listened to Maria read. She preened. She cooed. She clucked contentedly. She dozed. She was mellow, inquisitive, sweet. When Alex held her, they both looked so comfortable and distinguished... well, it was wonderful.

Max did his homework, Maria did hers. Alex and I talked about all the best inventions of 2011. Suki painted. Geoff and William were at welding class. The cats snoozed on the clean and folded laundry. And Kamen, our miracle chica, basked in the glow of a night, safe and home, in the Bird House.

Support the Arts

2012-01-09T05:47:00.000-08:00

New Arts Alive banners will be hanging from posts around town, soon. Suki's robot (number 63) already sold at auction. This year's banner is not of a robot, but it's just as imaginative.

I think whichever schools are vying for the favor of her attending, they should definitely be offering full scholarships. Have I mentioned she composes and sings? I've been listening to her CD all week. She is a writer, musician, and a knowledgeable oceanographer. She dazzles me with her sweet skills and perseverance.

Yeah. Geoff and I really do want the best for these college bound residents, but we are strongly considering hacking their grades, so they fail high school, and stay here... we aren't ready to let go. We have a problem.

FIRST Family

2012-01-08T09:42:00.000-08:00

Welcome, to a FIRST Family Reunion

This is Kick-Off, the opening day of the new season for 2102 Team Paradox participating in the 2012 FIRST Robotics Competition. Andrea, Eli, Tatiana, Maria, Alex, and all of FIRST 2102 Team Paradox invite you to see the first day of the new season of inspiring dedication to designing, manufacturing, building, wiring, and programming a robot, while organizing seventy students, finding sponsors, building community, leading outreach programs, mentoring FRC and FLL teams, marketing our own team, and promoting the mission and vision of FIRST.

F: For
I: Inspiration
R: and Recognition
S: of Science
T: and Technology

Igniting young minds. Nurturing Passions. Practicing Gracious Professionalism.™

Dean Kamen gave the teams his homework assignment:

We were up early; supportive of each other, and eager to see Dean Kamen reveal our homework and this year's game: Rebound Rumble!

Maria and Annie are accessorized and ready for 2102 in 2012!

Dean Kamen's homework: FIRST.
The man has a mission: he wants inspiration for science and technology to be more than just an idea or concept, a robotics event. Dean Kamen wants us to change the culture, to change what we value and promote and get excited about. He wants students, and corporations, celebrities, politicians, parents, young people, everyone, to value and recognize science and technology... to appreciate and understand the significance and power of invention, creativity, education, learning, passion, and inspiration. And so he is asking the robotics teams to unite under the FIRST banner. To represent FIRST, to promote FIRST. To say FIRST, often, out loud, in print, with pride.

Homework: Done!

FIRST 2102 Team Paradox has been at it since last season!
And in this Rebound Rumble year, they are ready to suit up their freshmen in yellow on top, red on the bottom, and Paradox splendor, with the FIRST logo emblazoned on the back alongside our illustrious sponsors!

In honor of our FIRST team parent Bobbie's birthday, all FRC teams were addressed by two former presidents, the always gracious and professional, Woody Flowers, the ever young and full of potential, Stephen Colbert, and many more who support and believe in FIRST. At least, that's how we saw it. Maybe FIRST 359, The Hawaiian Kids, and NASA Administrator, Charlie Bolden were inspiring all FRC teams in science and technology but we thought it was particularly inspiring to be celebrating Kick-Off with our own celebrities, too!

FIRST smiles in fresh, new FIRST 2102 Team Paradox shirts.

2102 is our team number... the two thousand one hundred and first robotics team to register as an FRC team. Paradox: noun. 1. a statement or proposition that seems self-contradictory or absurd, but in reality expresses a possible truth, because what might seem "impossible" might actually be "probable." Parrot-Ox, because who doesn't like an epic and cool mascot!?

FIRST Alumni. Asa is an original. A founding member of Team Paradox robotics, now a team mentor.

FIRST Alumnus: Tom, Nicholas, Andy, Matt, Nick. They are all on break, from schools across the country. And they are here. Because they are awesome. Because robots are cool. Because they are inspired and passionate by, for, and about FIRST 2102 Team Paradox.

FIRST President, Elise. She keeps the team on the ball.

FIRST Parents. New recruits, and the tried and true. We are all touring around campus and checking out where we'll be hanging out for the next ~~six weeks~~ four months.

These guys. FIRST Guys.

FIRST Talk. Now we have the rule book and game manuals, it's time to break it down and talk it out. The team breaks up into groups to tackle the different aspects of the game, from the play rules, to the lay of the field, to the robot specs. Students take it all apart, and process it to share with the whole team. Veteran team members lead these discussions while involving new members. It's all about continuing to inspire, and grow as a team.

These Gals. FIRST Gals. They have marketing, outreach, and corporate wired.

FIRST Thinkers. Kick-Off is a great day. I'm sure Darrahl, Wayne, and Nathan agree. The room is alive and buzzing, great discussions are happening everywhere, as we discuss, debate, dissect, and delight in the newest challenge from FIRST.

FIRST Diagrams. Before you can design the robot, you have to know the parameters, understand the game, learn the rules. It helps to have the experience of the prior years, and it also simply takes time... to learn the new rules, to digest the material, to envision what is a Paradox, what is possible, what is probable, and what is not an option: no projectiles!

FIRST Notes. Like any good music conductor, a FIRST team needs to bring everyone and everything together, harmoniously. And this is a team with a lot of notes, a lot of points of view, talents, ideas, approaches, so it's a challenge... a worthwhile challenge, to give everyone a chance, a voice, an opportunity to play for and with the team. Sometimes I have heard people say they 'couldn't be on a robotics team, because they lack _________ ': some skill they perceive as necessary for being Paradox. The truth is FIRST 2102 Team Paradox is an open robotics club with very many opportunities to share skills and especially to learn skills. It's about being passionate... passionate to try new things. It's about curiosity, and spirit, and a willingness to step into the mix.

FIRST Fun.
Yeah, robotics is a whole lot of fun.

FIRST Team Work. Ideas, strategy, understanding, sharing... everyone has something to contribute.

Victoria and Gabe, breaking down the manual, getting ready to play Rebound Rumble.

FIRST History. Where the team is going is important, but it has to launch from a good foundation. Alumni and mentor, Andrea is talking to new alumni and mentor, Willie, about the history of the FIRST Team Paradox executive branch. Andrea is documenting who the leaders have been, and what their contributions were. Understanding the team's story, appreciating the vision and inspiration that has been building over the years keeps the team together, inspired.

FIRST Lunch! Working (some since six in the morning) all day, a team gets hungry, and there was a collective and resounding cheer for Jess and Linda when they arrived with lunch for everyone.

And there was an equally grateful second round of cheers when Myron and Sandy came in with pizzas, too.

Yes, we feed the team, every day of the six week build. And on the road, and between FRC events, and at FRC events, and while building parade floats, and when doing marketing projects, in the metal shop... so much food! That's why we are gratefully accepting contributions from all of our families and the community. Please, help our team stay nourished and healthy, so they can build robots!

Thumbs up for FIRST families, for friends, for playing and laughing, and sharing. Thumbs up for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math, and Music.

FIRST Friends. If you are with FIRST 2102 Team Paradox, after a little time you'll find that team members become friends, and friends become family.

FIRST Celebration. Families celebrate together.

Happy Birthday, Bobbie!

And a great shout and spirited cheer for 2102 in 2012!

We've got spirit, yes we do!
We've got spirit!
How 'bout you?

This is going to be another beautiful FIRST year for Team Paradox.

The Year is Actually 2102!!!

2012-01-06T04:35:00.000-08:00

No, not 2012.
This is the year of 2102! FIRST 2102 Team Paradox Robotics!
And everyone is getting ready for Kick-off!!

Welcome to the eve of a new season of FIRST robotics!

{this moment}

2012-01-06T04:24:00.000-08:00

Braver Than Ever Before!

2012-01-05T08:52:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, while I was circling my regular traffic route around my domestic perils, some interesting things happened.

The first things was, Flartus, my Flartopian Fairy Godmother, bestowed merciful wisdom on my thick head. I know many of you, and my mom, have tried to do the same, and I listen, and I try to mature, wise-up, get smart, make a plan, delegate, crack a whip... but I always seem to try to find my way out of trouble by the same old roads, and no surprise: getting out of the same traffic by taking the same route rarely does any good. It is a constant battle and I do have some particularly difficult circumstances, but Flartus kind of cleared a path for me to see an alternate way.

I have been overwhelmed by those particularly difficult circumstances, and during my pity party, things have gotten out of control. So, what I was struggling with was, where to begin?! This is how I put it in my sidebar: "how can I get the upper hand on a home that is pretty much a disorganized and chaotic tornado alley? I think my biggest obstacle (after laziness) is feeling defeated at the start. Seems like no matter how much I accomplish, the setbacks are greater than my actual progress."

So. I began to think backwards, or inside out. I tried to take a whole new approach. And thus began the second thing: instead of washing dishes, and starting laundry, I told William to keep doing loads, and then I reminded him throughout the day, but I did not worry or stress about that. Instead of cleaning their bathroom, or tidying the living room, I went to the single most neglected room of all: my office. My office, and the master bedroom always come in last place. I run out of time. I run out of pep. I close the door, and my eyes, and those two rooms suffer. Not this time, I decided.

The third occurrence to shake things up, and get me out of my traffic pattern, was the sudden and unexpected arrival of Sir Robin of Cramalot. Just when I decided: hey, why not start with Me? Why not begin where I normally stop? What if I made my space tidy, organized, decontaminated, and happy? Maybe the best route is backwards... And then Sir Robin, tripping over debris, came forward and gave me this look of utter dismay. He was appalled, yet kindly sympathetic, because he knows what it is to face our fears and weaknesses, and it really made me open my eyes. His expression confirmed that my space was too sorely neglected to come in last any more.

Oh, Sir Robin! Arriving here, to my office, this may be your single greatest act of bravery yet. (And I should add it was brave of my mom and dad to sit in here, too: sorry, guys!) Brave, brave Sir Robin, thank you for helping me see that things have gotten out of hand, and that I must not surrender. I cannot run away!

Sir Robin found himself a perch overlooking my desk, and while I was under the desk digging through the layers, I felt his knightly eyes on me, and knew he was ~~disgusted~~ pleased to see me taking this brave new route. My office is much improved. The children foraged for dinner, I found enough reserve energy to attend to other matters, and I still have sufficient confidence to carry on today, in my backwards is the new forward approach.

Yes, Sir Robin.
I know.
I'm sort of stalling, sitting here blogging.
Right.
Time to carry on with my quest.
Thank you.

Rush Hour

2012-01-04T09:11:00.000-08:00

Here it is, rush hour.

Alex and Suki are in school. Maria ran her laps, and now she is settling into her desk. Geoff is on his way to work, and soon I will be taking Max into his school. But, right now I am stuck in traffic.

Just kidding.

Instead of jockeying for space and playing bumper cars with all the other moms and dads doing the parking lot shuffle, I sit for six minutes and add a few rows to a blanket I started knitting. From my sun warmed seat, I can glance at the long line of cars: stop go, stop go, stop go. Before, when I jumped into the fray, all I got was stress and tedium. Now, I get a little meditation, some progress on a relaxing project, and in the end zero traffic! I am no later, than if I rushed, and I am far happier.

I wish I could conjure an equally satisfying and effective plan for restoring order in this house. Should I start at the front and work my way back? Should I work from top to bottom? I could clean from the center, and continue to the four walls. Whichever way I go, I fear the traffic, stress, and tedium of my domestic perils are unavoidable.

Picture Us

2012-01-03T10:32:00.000-08:00

I love it when lessons, cosmic messages, replay. When there is something the universe insists I figure out, and I find reminders incessantly tapping at my shoulder, vying for my full attention. It amuses me. It surprises me.

A month ago, Gretchen insisted the only gift she wanted from us was a family portrait. The last picture she had from our family was one taken in her backyard, when Maria was an infant. Uh, that would be seven years ago. I found one that seemed more up to date, until I realized that December 2008 is hardly up-to-date.

So, yes. Gretchen is right. It's time for us to get family pictures taken. I kept thinking about it during the break too... family picture, real portrait, everyone, clean, shiny, family picture, do it, do it! But we did not do it.

Last night, the eve of back to school, Maria brought me her homework packet and showed me how diligently and dutifully she had completed her assignments... all but one: she had to include a photograph of her family! I was dressed as mother frump, Geoff was not home from work, Alex was immersed in AP Studio art, Max, was reading, William was saving the world through PS3... a family photograph seemed impossible. Then Geoff came through the front door, Maria and I rallied the brothers, Suki took my pocket camera, because I cannot find the battery charger for my big-black-beautiful Canon... and tada!

It is us!

Gretchen, I am sorry. I promise: we will brush our teeth, coordinate our colors, find natural light and a lovely backdrop, and then we will sit, or stand together, and be photographed. And I will muster all of my (sorely lacking) initiative and actually have prints made, and I will give you the pick of the litter, so to speak. Furthermore, this shall transpire before... uh... before next Christmas. Promising anything, any sooner, would be a lie, but I hope to surprise both of us by doing this before February. I hope.

In fact, I am even inspired to make a regular habit of taking family portraits, like they do at fourteen thousand days. Yes...

Paper Whites and Seven Nights

2012-01-02T10:53:00.000-08:00

The paper whites bloomed! Bulbs are such a simple joy. Simply a joy? Paper whites are good. The day Maria, Weazie, and I planted them was lovely, and I really enjoyed the time we spent together. The little collection of pots stayed on the table outside. I watered them, some times. I thought of them, now and then, as the busy December days zipped by. There were a couple of times when I scrutinized them, thinking, maybe these are duds.

But, lo! Here they are. Pretty. Delicate. Cheering.

It's a nice reminder that sometimes, when we follow steps, take some care, and wait... things will turn out, a happy outcome is possible.

Maybe you read Bird House Bits... the sidebar post with my random notes, headlines, announcements, and tidbits. Seven nights ago we had a scary and sad attack on the shark cage...

"It's been a long, dramatic night. The boys heard the chicas panicking... went to investigate and saw them all a flutter. Nothing else. Then it happened again. This time Alex saw a bobcat fishing its paw into the shark cage. The damn thing got Kamen. It's horrible. Even after we chased it, then secured everything and were making our presence strongly known, the frackin cat returned. Believe me, we retaliated. But the cat is still stalking... so all critters are in the garage. Tomorrow we beef up security. Thank goodness for my swift and determined boys, Geoff too. I need a shower, and a cry.
December 27, 2011
1:53 am"

"Three hours sleep, on top of grief and stress, plus installing more shark cage safe guards all day = a tired, filthy, weary, sleepy, voraciously hungry, too wiped-out to cook... Me. And wouldn't you know it? With all my energy and focus shifted to the farm part of the Bird House, the interior has really *gone to the birds!*
Mary Poppins?
Nanny Mc Phee?
Mr Clean?
Somebody!?
December 27, 2011
5:16 am"

Kamen was very badly injured. The bobcat had her in its claws and was fishing her through the cage. When we arrived all we saw were feathers, lots of them. Her poor body was a dark pile, limp. I was actually dismayed to pick her up and find her still breathing... I did not want to have her linger, suffer. It was almost midnight, Alex shone a light on her, and he looked away. I wanted to look away, too. Under her wing there was no skin, a tennis ball size membrane was inflated from a puncture wound. It was bloody, translucent. She struggled, to get away, to breath.

I should have snapped her neck. Swiftly. Mercifully. I asked Geoff to bring me a sharp knife. I was determined to be a good farmer. But she got away from me. She ran across the yard, hunkered down between the fence and the food bin. And I lost my resolve. I felt like a terrible farmer, because I was not being merciful.

I brought her inside, wrapped in a towel, and held her for two hours. In that time the bobcat returned; even with Geoff and William and Max and Alex armed and patrolling. Even when it ran off, they could hear it in the alley shrubs. Fearless predator. Our other chicas were traumatized and ruffled. Geoff held Kamen, while William and I transferred all the chickens into the garage. We double secured Sanka-bunny, who was deep down in her rabbit warren.

I settled Kamen in the garage too, and felt ashamed. I expected to bury her in the morning.

Seven nights have passed, and here is Kamen, this morning. I call her Robot Chicken. Yes, she is alive. I tell Geoff, watching all those episodes of Grey's Anatomy have really paid off. He reminds me, Kamen is a chicken. And I say, well, maybe it was experience I gained from watching Food Network, which is kind of sick humor, but sick humor is a specialty of mine.

Every night I tucked her in, near the space heater, and said good-night. Every morning I expected I would be burying her. Sometimes being too optimistic feels foolish, naive. Her neck was torn, she had claw marks all over. The injury beneath her wing is still quite gnarly. She is missing a lot of feathers, and her weight has plummeted.

But... as long as she seemed willing to try, I was too, so I went into the Internet in search of remedies. I am sorry... I read too many pages and articles to site all of my sources, but this is what I did:

1. five regular aspirin crushed and added to a gallon of water... Geoff worried about the blood thinning properties of aspirin, but the article said this solution would give her pain relief, and she did not seem to be actively bleeding, which is weird. Her chest puncture went clear through her chest cavity.

2. Pedialyte... someone mentioned a pet specific electrolyte drink, but I could not find it and had no time to visit every pet/feed store in the county.

I filled a bowl with equal parts aspirin water and plain Pedialyte.

3. I kept her warm and isolated.

4. People's Paste.
I first learned about this homeopathic remedy when my cousin Gabe used it on his hand. He shredded his palm in a skate boarding incident. It was gruesome, but people paste had it healing and restored in days. It was astonishing. I cannot believe I hadn't thought of this stuff in thirteen years, but the words popped into my head that first morning when I decided to do what I could to help Kamen live.

I found links on the Internet, of course, and the recipe at Frugal Granola.

People's Paste
"People’s paste is a mixture of equal parts myrrh powder, slippery elm bark powder, and golden seal powder. The powders are thoroughly mixed, and brought to a paste form by stirring in raw honey. The paste is spread over cuts and punctures and let to dry to form a “scab” (the slippery elm bark can create its own “bandage”). Apply a band-aid or gauze over the injury, if desired, to prevent the dried the dried paste from falling off, or from getting wet & turning back into goo!

The dried people’s paste on your wound should be carefully reconstituted and dabbed off with a small amount of warm water and replaced with a clean application of paste at least once a day. Because people’s paste is so effective at drawing infection out of a wound, it’s important to remove the old “contaminated” paste regularly.

All of the components of people’s paste contain potent antimicrobial properties, while the raw honey also aids in tissue repair.

People’s paste may be made as needed, or a larger batch may be stored for future emergencies. People’s paste may become hard if stored for any length of time. This can be remedied by either mixing in more raw honey, or filtered water."

5. Hydrogen peroxide... I diluted this with warm water, because I felt horrible about how much it was going to hurt if I poured anything over her open wounds. So, after washing away dirt and muck with the hydrogen peroxide... (she fainted, actually... and Alex and I watched as the solution bubbled up from her chest cavity with each breath, and then we about fainted, too).

I applied the People's Paste to every sore and cut I could find, and wrapped gauze around her neck and under her wing. She was limp. I wrapped her in a towel and held her. And though it wasn't in any chicken care article, I talked to her. I painted a chicken world of grassy fields, and sandy banks at the edge of shallow, clear streams, where only fluffy clouds made shadows, and the starry nights were warm and safe. She slept in my arms.

I have been changing her dressing. I have been talking to her, and feeding her. Maria wants everyone to know that Kamen ate the cherry tomato Maria found for her in the yard. And today she is enjoying some time in the sunshine, picking at the grass. I am still uncertain. We think of Mike the headless chicken, and Alex reminds us of the blessings of rudimentary design. Every morning, we look at her and marvel, and say, "Looks like she is going to be with us one more day."

I will wait another week before returning her to her sisters, and Son of Zoltar. When we weren't nursing Kamen, we were securing the shark cage and making over-all improvements out there. I think Betty and Shebot like the safer set up.

We moved the shark cage out of the flood plain, and set it on top of pavers. The bobcat had been digging under the cage. With a look of semi-maniacal glee, Maria described how the bobcat would dig, and dig, and dig, and then he would bump his head real hard! And she laughed at her vengeful vision.

We also wired the shark cage... no more paws fishing into the chica's home.

The bobcat has returned.
I smoothed the dirt around the cage, so I could see any tracks. It's a big cat, if those paw prints are any indication. But our improvements seem to have secured the chicas, and we haven't heard any squawking from the poor dears. Soon, I will bring Kamen back to her mother, Puff.

Between my shame, and my doubts... I couldn't bring myself to post about the wounded chicken sheltering in our bathroom, but it's been seven nights, and sometimes with care and time, good things do happen.

Backwards and Forwards, and In The Middle

2012-01-01T10:25:00.000-08:00

We stayed up, and welcomed the New Year.
Ron and Delia shared Captain America with us... and about an hour of campaigning for which movie eight people could decide to watch together! "Which" movie doesn't even matter. The main thing was all of us in the same room, together. Action, explosions, super-heroic feats got us through to ten o'clock, and then Malcolm In The Middle had us laughing until one in the morning.

I don't know why I am lingering in The Valley of Superficial Details, except that maybe the truly deep thoughts and other musings of these last few days are hard to articulate, hard to carry, harder to release, and even a bit fascinating to examine.

I don't suppose it is an exceptional experience to be looking backwards and forwards when at the start of a new year, but I find this to be a particularly emotional and poignant time of reflection, as I have had strange and wonderful reunions with the past, with a long time ago, and familiar stories, with family, beliefs, and this new day. Yes, strange, and wonderful, and quite sad and funny. Parts of me have been quiet for a long time, and I had almost forgotten where I've been.

Michael, Natalie, Mark, Hans, Bill :: Familia :: Por Siempre

Okay. So. I admit. I am being obtuse, vague, confusing, but sometimes there are stories that are not ours, alone, to share. This is one of those stories with deep, personal layers, and complicated subplots, and even irreverent colorful language, a story of functioning dysfunction, and family.

For a long time we all took vacations together, and spent weekends sharing bunk beds and sibling squabbles. We were not "The Brady Bunch." We were tag football in the street, student housing, Star Wars, VW van trips, Calexico, Olvera Street, Alhambra, Alpine, Ensenada, Barrio Logan, Chicano Park, dirt bikes, chicken dinners, VCR rentals, brothers and sister. And more. So much more. Seven moves, one cat, two Pintos...

It can be so maddening... so *&$!in' heartbreaking to realize that time has slipped by and some things, some people, haven't been around, or that too late I learn how much those memories are tied to real people, real events, and how much I miss them. Apparently, Al, our dad, spent his last months saying, "No regrets." I want to have no regrets, but those things that I recall, the things left unsaid, keep sneaking up on me, and leaving a terrible ache...

Family is everything.
Live life fully.
Stay connected.
Figure out what hurts and why, and then if at all possible let it go.
Laugh.
Be true, and be open to other truths, to new truths.

It's complicated, and bittersweet.
Life.

I know what Al, Fred, would have said. He spoke colorfully.

This is a new year. I am immersed in this family, and the present, but the last few days have brought back my own childhood, in pictures I have not seen in twenty years, or more, in people that were giants, whose voices live in elusive memory fragments. And maybe it is necessary to compartmentalize our memories and the people we relate with those memories, just to function... to be able to manage all of it... our busy lives. But I've opened a door, rediscovered a world, and am finding not only the past, but the present, too...

We are not little kids, step-siblings, sharing bedrooms, bickering over the front seat, getting busted, watching Bruce Lee, ditching school to watch Return of the Jedi, rehearsing for battle of the air bands, shooting air rifles, tearing down walls, gathering for dinner... what a trip. Remembering, hearing about it from other points of view, laughing, together, again. What a trip.

It's all backwards, and forwards, and in the middle. We have our own families, and new roles, and obligations, plans. And we have a yearning to hold on to something that for a time, got away from us... being together, sharing our past, and getting to know each other today.

There is a new generation. We have to be sure Riddick and Marissa, Dominic, Maria, see Star Wars in the right order, that they can speak at least a few words of caló. I think my sister-in-law, Maria, and I will be making plans soon.

Cousin Julie and Billy.

It's so good to be connected, to know people that can recall a story and share it, and we know the story too. It's so good to have brothers, or a cousin that remind me of something stupid, or embarrassing, or ridiculous I've done, or who can recall a pain that we all felt and survived. I think, maybe we don't even have to heal from every hurt, but if we can share the memory, know we are not alone... it feels better. And that applies to the good stuff too. All of those crazy stories are even better when we laugh together.

I spent my birthday with my family. With my strange and wonderful family. It's complicated, and bittersweet. Family is not a noun. Family is a verb... it moves and changes, it evolves, falls to pieces, forms again, it can be to an outsider seemingly dysfunctional, but who are we to say what works, what does not work? Here we are. Something worked. We keep moving forward, even as we look back, and live in the middle.

Sharon, Delia, Vicki

Recently I told someone, "We cannot know where love will come from, or when, and I think it is a waste to deny it. So if you find love, good. I am happy for you." The same may be true for healing. You never know where you will find healing, or when... but it would be a waste to deny it. My mommy says, "We are each works of art in progress." How true.

Some of us... a family. Our family.

Life is good.
No regrets.

Rest in peace, Fred.

See You Next Year

2011-12-31T09:49:00.000-08:00

Maria's Sunrise, December 2011

iPhone Album II

2011-12-29T20:50:00.000-08:00

The year is nearly over. This is a time when many of us look back, and recall what kept us busy, engaged, distracted, what was noteworthy, or possibly regrettable. I love my iPhone, because it can capture moments, ideas, inspiration, notes to myself, and even simply snap a picture. My most recent iPhone download yields an interesting collection of memorable, forgettable, and deletable pictures... hmmm... could be ideal fodder for a Chickenblog.

Not edited. Not photoshopped. Not destined for anyone's coffee table.
I present: iDownload :: Moments From Fall 2011

iHalloween.
(It's me. In case you couldn't tell.)

iSquirrel.

I had just finished reading about the discovery of a squirrel fossil. A saber-toothed squirrel! Instant inspiration to add ears, whiskers and teeth to the hat I was crocheting.

iRun.

Maria runs. She also tried karate, and yoga. Every morning before school, she and her classmates can earn tickets for participating in fitness programs. Getting there early is a feat in itself! Maria's dedication inspires me.

iHike.

Our picnic and rain hike! This was that great day with all the beautiful fall color, and we managed to stay dry until the very end. We should go back there.

iPond.

Same day, stopping by the pond before we head home. The camera even managed to capture the rain drops hitting the pond. Maria loved that the ducks were indifferent to the rainfall.

iParadox.

See? A camera-phone is such a help. This image went directly to FB, where I alerted FIRST 2102 Team Paradox to the news that red pants were on sale! Yellow on top, red on the bottom, and Paradox all over! And by the way: FIRST FRC Kick-Off 2012 is in less than ten days!!!

iWAMMO

My four children, camping. We got rained out, which was a bummer, but before that happened, we had a whole lot fun, including: visitors, nature encounters, and a campfire. It was a quick trip, but worthwhile.

iSony.

This. This picture brings up all kinds of good stuff.
#1. Geoff. I love him.
#2. We are waiting to see about getting my transmission replaced. Nine months with a failing transmission is about to come to a glorious end!
#3. Sony's campaign en español. Me Gusta.

iIndian.

Alex and I, stopping for dinner, on our calledge tour of institutes for higher learning. I learned not to order "spicy," and to check very, very carefully where you park in downtown Santa Barbara. I also confirmed that I love traveling with my children. It is a delight.

iGingerbread.

A barn! Had to get a picture of this gingerbread barn, in Solvang. The bakery was bustling. Alex and I were making good time in our mission to be home for Thanksgiving. This is where we tried our first macarons and... well... yuck! Sorry. And maybe ours were not good ones. But a "good" macaron would have to taste so far superior to what I tried, and I cannot be sure anyone could convince me to ever try another. But. Hey! I love the gingerbread barn!

iManCave.

Women and boys, girls, cats, even chickens, are welcome, but this is Geoff's domain. This is where he tinkers, and plots. This is where he makes stuff, and keeps things organized, and stays up late repairing tools and machines. It is a cool place.

iWilliam.

William and I working on a project for next Christmas. Yes, that is correct: we have an early jump on holidays 2012. Seriously, these wooden cutouts, from patterns Holly made, are going to be awesome, and charming, and really cool. And fortunately, we have twelve months to complete them!

iLavender.

All the work, and all the fun, really paid off in a big way for FIRST 2102 Team Paradox! They won first place in the category "Most Unusual Float." This is great. A perfect fit. An ideal win!

iFriends.

Camera phones keep friendly faces close at hand. This was the end of a long and emotional day, but I wouldn't have missed it! The holiday parade is special because of the time spent with friends.

iMarissa.

My niece. The baby-doll-acrobat-athlete-cutie pie!

iGrandma.

As lovely as ever, my Mommy, enjoying time with her youngest grandchildren. Dominic, Maria, and Marissa. Their visit was brief, but the fun was intensely super-concentrated.

iBath.

Okay. This is the guest bathroom, and also the general purpose boy bathroom. In other words this is a busy room. And I keep trying to learn how to make it nice. Do you know what I mean? I go into family's bathrooms, friends' bathrooms... and they are nice. Things match, and stuff looks thoughtful and pleasant, planned, coordinated, purty. I have dragged my inferior decorating self to plenty of shops (Target, Target, all area thrift stores, and also Target). But I would always become anxious and disoriented, and soon convince myself that assorted matchy towels and stuff was simply unnecessary. And then I would see yet another lovely bathroom, and again return to the idea that our very busy bathroom was missing vital, essential, tasteful elements... like tiny towels and coordinated accessories. Now I have some. And, good, bad, tasteful, or conventional... I am committed to keeping the very busy bathroom nice. So, you should have heard my banshee wail the first time someone had the audacity to use one of those towels! ~Is this paragraph too long?~ Okay, so after two years of fretting and fussing over whether-or-not-and-how-to make the bathroom nice, you better believe I expect them to leave everything untouched. In fact, I may have this room sealed off, and open only for special occasions... all due to six coordinated towels, and two matching baskets, in an otherwise inferiorly decorated guest bathroom.

iBake.

We made so many different cookies for our cookie and movie party. This is one of the recipes I used. It's a recipe for pressed cookies that I developed for Maria's fifth birthday. We were new to our Bird House that year, and I used the lemons from our very own tree. Now I've made those same cookies three times, and so I can officially call them traditional. What difference does it make? None. Yet... I am still moved, emotional, about this being our home, about finding routines and familiar touchstones. My recipe, my lemons, my kitchen, and sharing with our friends and family... it all feels lovely, and worth reflecting on.

iMe.

I'm in the car a lot. Five children, three... sometimes four or five schools, marketing, errands... you get the idea. If I'm not crocheting or doing a bit of embroidery, then I am playing with my phone. Maybe checking my calendar, or making calls. Sometimes taking pictures. After stopping for groceries, I pulled up in front of Maria's school and caught my reflection in the rear view mirror: holy crapoli! It was too classic me. I had to document my disaster. I do not mean to leave the house without brushing my hair, removing my apron, taming my eyebrows. Egads. My poor mother... she tried to teach me. She still tries. Am I hopeless? I was in public for goodness sake.

iBrush.

I do listen to my Momma. I found a brush. Put on some lipstick.

Tomorrow I turn forty-five. If it's not too late, I would like to start making some changes. I've promised myself real grown-up yoga classes, maybe Tai-chi, or something. Even hula hooping and basketball... just some kind of exercise, and movement. And I want to commit to using my hairbrush, lipstick, and tweezers... real fancy, I know. The iPictures don't lie. I need a little something-something. But, it's kind of like decorating the bathroom... I don't know what I am doing, and most times I find it kind of hard to care. And what if I do bother? What about maintenance, and all that upkeep? It's all so confusing... and also amusing.

Dear iPhone,

Thank you. You reflect my days, my ups and downs, my blessings, and the oversights. What a clever little tool you are.

iPhone Album I

At Home With Living Lights Project

2011-12-29T08:12:00.000-08:00

Yesterday's post, Holiday Snap-shots, included a home, lit up like the ultimate holiday wonderland. A true extravaganza! You cannot hear the music, or see the lights moving, pulsing, on and off in time to the tunes. You cannot see the double barreled fog machine, or the laser display. And one more thing you might be missing from this picture: this is not our house.

I am flattered, thank you very much. Our house is the one with a burnt out porch light. This is the home where the Living Lights Project lit up the town with ingenious ingenuity and industry, for a cause of gracious generosity. (I have a weakness for alliteration)

Please, visit Kevin's website for Living Lights Project, and watch the videos. The grand finale is spectacular.

You may recall, Kevin is a member, and former build president, of FIRST 2102 Team Paradox. Now he's a full time engineering major, running his own business, and putting this charity event together in his free time. It takes help, and he gets a lot of volunteers, many from the team, and of course from his own family... which, in the nature of robotics, is one and the same.

Maria and Andrea

It's so much fun seeing the light show. I should have gone twice. Once to see it, and one more time to believe what I saw! Kevin's work, what they all accomplish, is so slick and innovative, so dazzling... it is truly top notch. An added bonus is meeting up with familiar faces, dear friends, fellow teammates. Andrea, home from school, and pitching in, helped Maria to some hot chocolate. Our former marketing president is always spirited, and eager to contribute to a good cause.

Well, Living Lights Project made an excellent show, and for a good cause. And now you know the truth... it's not our house, but it is dear to our hearts. Maybe next year you can go and see it, too!

Holiday Snap-Shots

2011-12-28T08:13:00.000-08:00

:: Speculoos! ::
:: Cousins ::
:: Wrapping ::
::Living Lights Project::
:: Cold mornings, warm smiles ::
:: Laughing ::
:: Sharing ::
:: Family ::
:: Benjamin Franklin ::
:: Perfect gifts ::
:: Bouncing ::
:: Gratitude ::

A very small sampling of what made our holidays memorable.

The Light and The Smiles

2011-12-26T10:10:00.000-08:00

There is so much building up, so much anticipation in the days that lead up to Christmas. There was a time when I let it build, and build, like I was staging for a one time only event. Ahead of the main event, there were a lot of moments and opportunities that I was sort of failing to fully recognize, and appreciate. Trying to juggle and balance it all, to hold my celebrating in check for the big day, left me feeling exhausted-frazzled, and inevitably super-deflated the very next day. I remember thinking: all that? And now it's over?

Some mistakes, and misguided notions, I seem doomed to live with forever, but I like what I've learned about holidays. I no longer separate the hustle and bustle, the anticipation and planning from The Day. I no longer try to micro-manage and orchestrate (as much?) and I let packages go without bows, and the tree sit awkwardly on the front porch, or middle of the room. Christmas dinner? Oops... I didn't think of it, so we had meatloaf (frozen from a month ago,) and I made Iron Man Pasta, Trader Joe's spanakopita, salad, spaghetti, and we roasted chestnuts. (Are chestnuts supposed to taste like that?) Dinner was weird, random, and filling. Instead of matching individual gifts with every friend, I opened the doors and shared time, and space. And like I said before, I felt ready, and engaged all along, and far less anxious, worried, fretful, worn-out.

Yeah. So just thinking on all that, today. The day after. Guess what? The house looks imploded! We forgot batteries. Geoff is on his way to work. Chango barfed, again. Maria's hair has a huge snarl that is sure to bring her to tears when I brush it out. My birthday plans are tanked. The laundry never did succumb to my will, and we have had an awesome Christmas. Amazing. Full, delightful, spiritually filling, and blessed. And it does not feel "all over," or "anticlimactic." And I don't feel in the least, "eager to be done with it." For the light and the smiles, it's all so dearly worthwhile.

I attribute some of this energy reserve and gratitude to...
1. Knowing how to pace myself, finally!
2. Four children who enjoy the moments, who share, who love laughter above all else
3. A high tolerance for messes and chaos... let's face it, it really helps!
4. Unbelievably sweet friends and family, who have made the most amazing gestures of kindness and generosity possible... words, sincerest reflections of thoughts and sentiments, gifts, embraces, time, companionship, art, creativity, warmth.

I am bursting with gratitude, and astonishment, and a wondrous sensation of awakening to more love than I had known was there... and like I shared with James, I do not want to say anything... I might break the spell.

I am speechless.

Isn't it funny when people say "I'm speechless," and then they go on, and say more?

Truly, I am speechless. Almost, wordless too.

Merry December 26th, and thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you.

Creativity and Sir Ken Robinson!

2011-12-25T00:01:00.000-08:00

We've waited. We've worried. We've chuckled warmly.
Maria's searched, the yard, the house, everywhere... looking for "Sir Robinson."

And believe me, if I thought Sir Ken Robinson was bravely questing to make his way to our Christmas stocking, I would be right by Maria's side, helping her in her quest. Alas, it is Sir Robin, the knight, who is braving the elements and foul beasties, and he has, at last, found our stockings!

Welcome Brave Sir Robin! Welcome to the Bird House, to play and make, to music and laughter, welcome to our home!

And I Heard Him Exclaim...

2011-12-24T10:04:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good knight!

Ready

2011-12-24T07:25:00.000-08:00

Maria, Delia, Max and Benji, William, Geoff, Alex, Suki :: Bird House Thanksgiving

"Are you ready?"
That's what people ask, more often, the closer we get to Christmas Day.
And I say "Yes."
I think of my children, and Geoff, all residents of the Bird House. I think of our home, and the comforts we have here. I think of my extended family, my friends. I smile. I think of the dirty laundry which has blocked the door to the laundry closet and refuses to submit to my will, and I grin knowingly. I think of the special gifts I have stashed away, and the gifts that will be sent late, and the gifts I'll never track down. I think of the tamales I have not made, and the cards I won't send. It only takes a moment to assess all of this, and still I smile and say "Yes."

James, Maria, Sammay, Suki, Alex :: Mission to Mars

I don't need a parking space at the mall, or bows and perfect wrapping. I've had my fill of delicious cookies! And every time we have gathered with family and friends, I have thought: This is my Christmas, this is my peace and joy.

Natalie, Geoff, Alex, Suki :: Slightly Twisted*

It may be messy, and incomplete, it may tempt me to bite my lip, or feel a bit frazzled... but I know where my blessings come from, and they are plentiful and good. I am already having a Merry Christmas... sometimes easily... sometimes defiantly!

William :: Gingerbread engineer

Thank you, all. For comments, for reflections, for gifts, for cards, for encouragement.

Max :: Tree Walker

Maria :: Fearless Leaper

Face to face friends, blog friends, anonymous friends, cousins and brothers, sisters, familia, all of you... my wish for you is peace and laughter, joy in the midst of the setbacks and messes, light, your favorite traditions, companionship, wonder, warmth, healing comfort, and a Happy New Year!

Now that I feel all warm and fuzzy inside, I am going to shove my way into the laundry room and smite some foes! God bless us, everyone.

*Update... for Max's sake: These are not real ~~cigarretttes cigerettes cigarehettes~~ smokey sticks. Heck, I don't even know how to spell "cigarettes." They are candy. We will rot our teeth before we tarnish our lungs. This image is meant to be humorous and not an endorsement of tabacky. When I was five years old I would walk to the Rexall on Main Street, in Ramona, and buy candy. I liked the wax bottles with colored sugar water, the Chick-o-Sticks, and the bubble gum cigarettes. When you blew through them, cornstarch smoked out the end, and I found that endlessly fascinating. It did not tempt me to pick up real smokey sticks. It did not lure me down a path of hard drinking, gambling, or cussing. Okay. I ~~did~~ do cuss a bit, but I can quit anytime! Anyway. That's about it. Smoking is harmful. Don't do it. Candy cigarettes are hilarious. Thank you. Sorry. Amen.

Midnight In The Bird House

2011-12-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

Lisa, Maria, Erika, Darrahl

Matt was still in Pennsylvania when we had last week's movie night. So, in his honor, we let Matt make a movie choice for this week's movie night. And that, dear friends, is how the Bird House came to have a double feature of Midnight in Paris, and Men In Black.

The other detail to make the evening special?
Isaac cooked!
Who remembers last year and Isaac's handmade ramen?

It was about an hour before guests were due to arrive, when William and I were talking about food, about how I completely forgot to make dinner plans. The Santa Ana winds were blowing biting cold air, and I suddenly craved soup. I said, "Darn. I wish I had thought to make some of that minestrone soup. A blustery day like this calls for soup!" And then. The phone rang. Even without caller id, I'd know that sweet voice anywhere. It was Isaac, calling to ask of he could try a new soup recipe out, in the Bird House kitchen?

Cook? Food? In our kitchen? Feed us?

Yes! Yes, please, Isaac!

He made himself very busy, enlisting help as he went, and before long we were all favored with big bowls of vibrant green broccoli soup, with walnuts, and honeyed goat cheese. Yes, honey infused goat cheese! <--- that was my favorite part.
Hey, Nick! Hey, Matt!

Check me out: I baked croissants, and made extra rich European style hot chocolate. Get it? Midnight in Paris? I thought it was very thematic and hostess-y of me.

Lisa, Maria, Annie, Erika, and the dreidel.

I knew about "Nun, Gimmel, Hei, and Shin," but I did not know they form an acronym for Nes Gadol Hayah Sham – "a great miracle happened there."

Maybe Erika knows who the big winner was? I think everyone came out ahead... happy!

Nick was noting Hazel's fierce and natural, realistic features. Matt told us about the Pennsylvania Screaming Squirrel. Apparently they wake unsuspecting Californians with a sudden, wicked scream, staring menacingly at their victim. Intense.

Bonsoir, Maria!

She even has a classy French manicure, thanks to a birthday gift from Aunt Gretchen.

On ukulele-drum, we have James!

Now this. This is inspiring me to host a whole new party theme: Band Night. An early Christmas present arrived for Suki, and to welcome her banjolele into the fold, James, Grant, Eli, and Lisa brought out musical instruments, and a concert in the Bird House entry took form.

On kalimba, we are happy to introduce Grant!

Warming up and tuning her banjolele, Suki!

The newest member of the house band, on recorder, Lisa!

Eli alternated between autoharp, and a Chinese gourd flute!

I love movie night. I love our friends. I love the hum and the buzz of warm company and laughter. I love this holiday season with old traditions, and new traditions taking shape. I love that Matt went all over town, did not give up or surrender, and finally successfully procured a copy of Men in Black! I love that Geoff came home in time to see the best parts of Midnight in Paris, and that without having to go to work today, he could stay up late for the second feature. I love hot chocolate and croissants. I love that someone arrived this morning, and offered to clean up...

Brave, brave!
Brave Sir Robin!
Thank you.
Just start with those dishes, and when you're done, I'll show you the laundry room.

"What? Behind the rabbit?"

2011-12-23T09:21:00.000-08:00

"It is the rabbit!"

Lady Betty Orpington of Bird House Castle

2011-12-23T05:03:00.000-08:00

Well, it looks like Sir Robin has met the Lady Betty Orpington.
He looks a bit shocked.
Perhaps he was not expecting a chicken.
Take care Sir Robin... chickens like shiny things!

He's Not Chicken!

2011-12-22T19:50:00.000-08:00

Oh dear!

This proves it. Sir Robin is very near indeed. In fact he must be somewhere in the yard, but how to get passed the felines of unusual size? Sir Robin, draw your sword, stand tall! Sir Benjamin only wants a good joust, but I am sure he is a chivalrous fellow.

And... uh... Sir Robin, you may encounter other beasties if you continue around outside. I don't know if anyone has ever warned you... the entrance to our home is guarded by a creature so foul, so cruel that no man yet has fought with it and lived. I suggest you carry a carrot. Your sword will not avail you.

Sir Robin Reaching New Heights and Hanging On!

2011-12-22T12:44:00.000-08:00

I think he must be close.

A journey all the way from Camelot, is a journey of many days and obstacles, particularly when traveling without a horse, or airline tickets.

On behalf of Sir Robin, I am wishing all travelers a safe and easy journey... may you reach your destination in comfort, and find yourself amidst family, friends, and good cheer.

Sir Robin What is Your Quest?

2011-12-22T04:30:00.000-08:00

Brave Sir Robin, what are you doing up in that tree?
Is the Bird House in sight?
Did you enjoy the beautiful lights and music at the Living Lights Project?

Well. Did you spend the whole night in the tree? Goodness.

We had a very comfortable night, thank you. Dinner was filling, and good. The lights in the tree were bright.

Are you staying the course? I'll listen for you... in case you knock. Someone was saying, "Everyone knows that when danger reared its ugly head, he bravely turned his tail and fled." We hope you can remain steadfast, earnest, and true.

Sir Robin Sends Word...

2011-12-21T17:36:00.000-08:00

Bravely, Sir Robin sent word that before coming here, to the Bird House, he is stopping by to see the Living Lights Project! He wants everyone to know about the fun and creative endeavor SDA students and alumni have undertaken in order to raise money for The Community Resource Center. This is a musical light show, well worth the visit, and worthy of our charitable contributions...

"Living Lights Project is a holiday light show raising money for our charity, The Community Resource Center of Encinitas. We take holiday lighting to the next year by synchronizing thousands of holiday lights and decorations to the beat of both classic holiday tunes, and modern music. Our first year was the 2010 holiday season, and we intend for our show to continue every year, and to continue to grow.

The show is run by converting standard Christmas lights to a computerized flashing and changing lighting sequence. We use hardware made by Light-O-Rama, controlling 96 channels of lights. In addition we also use DMX interfaces for some of our more impressive effects including strobe lights, and new this year...fire effects.

December 18th - 24th
6:00PM, 6:30PM, 7:00PM, 7:30PM"

Thank you, Sir Robin. And please, be careful out there! Avoid bridges near volcanoes, and outdoor fire rings.

The Ballad of Brave Sir Robin

2011-12-21T16:32:00.000-08:00

Bravely bold Sir Robin rode forth from Camelot.
He was not afraid to die, O brave Sir Robin!
He was not at all afraid to be killed in nasty ways,
Brave, brave, brave, brave Sir Robin!

Bravely, bold Sir Robin strolled forth without a horse.
He was not afraid to go, though he does not know the way!
O brave Sir Robin will ye find the road? He's a bold man, not a mouse.
On his way to the big blue house for a Merry Christmas Day!

Stay tuned for regular updates on Brave Sir Robin's progress.
Will he arrive in time for Christmas morning?
Will he encounter foul beasties?
Will he know the capital of Assyria?

No Ungulates Were Harmed In The Making of This Post

2011-12-19T09:54:00.000-08:00

Alternate titles:

Dough!
So Many Cookies!
Friends, Films, and Food!
Sandy, Hand Over Your Family's Secret Cookie Recipe!

What I wanted: A movie night with friends, an excuse to bake favorite cookies, an opportunity to spread holiday cheer.

What I got: The best gifts of the season... laughter, companionship, good food and sharing (sharing is a key component of "good food",) a lot of happy memories, and a beautiful reminder of how rich our lives are, because of our friends.

James has been accepted to the school of his choice. He leaves in January. Massachusetts is lucky to have him. James, congratulations!

*Please note that I did not discourage him, or beg him not to leave us. I am practicing maturity and selflessness. We're going to miss him. A lot.

Suki and Alex have been accepted to schools too, but I am not letting them leave. No. They are better off here. We need them. They can't leave us! It's too much! It's too soon! Noooo!

**Please note: I need more practice.

These people. I love these people.

I made ~~five six~~ seven different cookies!
So much dough!
The chickens gave their all to keep the bakery operating on full power!
So many eggs!

Chocolate Sugar, with cinnamon and cayenne pepper
Maria's Lemon Garden cookies
Chocolate chip cookies, with oats, please
Jammie Dodgers
Oatmeal Raisin
Vanilla Sugar cookies
Peppermint cookies

James came early to get his hands on some dough. They started with one plan, but quickly moved on to a less conventional approach. Cookies were Incepted... cookies within cookies, within cookies. At times they were like four cookies down.

I wonder what Crumpet thought of all this activity? Suki's little fish is always there. Quietly observing. Almost stalking us, in her stealthy, murderous way. She will nibble you. She's done unspeakable things.

**shudders**

Where was I... ?

So much attention to detail. All this focus and work for a cookie. Imagine what they could do with metal, paint, gears, wire...

Squirrel and Moose-tache

They could build a robot squirrel... with a thing... a hand? It would be a robot nut cracker... picking, and cracking nuts.

Nick arrives in time to lend his cookie wisdom and genius. They invited him to cut cookies, and he knew right away what to do. "A bell makes a good Darth Vader head," he shared with his receptive friends. And so the fun kept rollin'

Enchiladas are in the oven. William and I made five trays of cheesy-saucy goodness. Diana is on her way with Charles, Eric, Lucas, and Max, and they have pizza, and tickets to the Badger game. Okay, they shared the pizza, but the Rose Bowl tickets are too good to share. We understand.

Nick and Maria

Nick is showing Maria the ways of The Force, and chocolate, and rolling dough. They have gone to the dark chocolate side.

I love it when William smiles.
I love it when I make my goofy jokes, ridiculous puns, geek references, and he still smiles.
Thank you, William.
I love you.

Not cookies. Geekies. Warm, delicious, homemade geekies.

The Bird House filled up. Guests kept arriving, departing, returning... until the midnight hour. There was so much good, so much happy, so much sharing, and mirth.

mirth/mərTH/
Noun:
Amusement, esp. as expressed in laughter: "his six-foot frame shook with mirth".

I wanted to make sure that was the word. Yeah, definitely: Mirth.

Andy, Nick, Tots, and Eli

Four engineers, four FIRST 2102 Team Paradox engineers, on hand to oversee the construction of Darth Vader's cookie mask. Passion FIRST is everywhere.

James demonstrates heat transference with Me Gusta.
I like it.

Our friends are so generous, and full of surprises. Belinda came with cookies and a cookie jar! She made her delicious ginger snaps and shared the recipe.
The recipe. The recipe I vow to strictly follow the next time I attempt to make B's delicious cookies!

Also, please note the white plate with powdered cookies. Those came with Andy, sent by Olivia and Sandy. I tried to hide them, to scurry away with them, unseen, but I failed. And now they are gone. Everybody fortunate enough to have one of these cookies asked me about them, raved about them. Sandy. give. us. your. secret. recipe! Or better yet, keep 'em coming. Make it a tradition. You bake, and we will rave, and thank you.

And now, a joke:

Darth Vader: Luke, this is your father. I know what you're getting for Christmas... a cookie of my head.

Luke: That's impossible!

Darth Vader: I felt your presents.

"Just for once, let me look at your face with my own eyes."

"Perhaps I can find new ways to motivate them."

Nick, "Obi-Wan has taught you well."

"You are unwise to lower your defenses!"

Whoa, a talking cookie. But we ate him anyway.

Lining up for choco-milk, Andy, Nate, Sammay, and Maria.
I see Annie behind the Rosemary.

I want to say Hi to everyone who came, and thank them for making it such an amazing night. The trouble is, I know I will leave someone out, like Stan, or Bobbie, or Sharon. Or what if I forgot Kyle and Emma, or Kiley, or Claire? I would feel real bad. So. If you came, or tried to come, or wanted to but couldn't, or came then left early, or arrived late: Thank you! Thank you so much! You made my holidays really special, and good.

Darrahl and Nathan and A Grand Day Out

Dim the lights, pass the popcorn. Shhhhhh... the movie is starting.

We'll remember this night for a long time...

I Grant you... friends, films, food, and ungulate towers of holiday joy.

Joyful Focus

2011-12-17T05:53:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was not easy... the first wave of grief, the sad reality. I found myself at church, but it was locked tight, and so then I sat in the Trader Joe's parking lot and had my cry there. I didn't want to go home. I wanted a warm, good smelling place where I could anonymously soak tissues, and let it all out. I thought it was odd too, but I realized that in a church, or a parking lot, I would not have the indulgent luxury of wallowing and lingering for too long... eventually I would have to move forward. I don't know how effective my strategy was. I did return home, and I washed dishes, retrieved children, made dinner, but it was all in a daze, without focus, and punctuated by more tears.

Probably my best move was calling Anna Banana. She's my bestest friend. She helped me see that my sadness and confusion, my dysfunctional functioning, were normal enough. I am still sad, and confused, but I don't feel quite so alone. It also helped to share some exchanges with my brother, Bill. He knows me. We joked. We grieved a bit, with an honesty and understanding that I think is fitting, and right.

I know that life is rarely ever as idyllic, or glossy, as we would like. I know that most of us have good days and bad days, and long runs of happy times that get abruptly interjected with sorrow, challenges. Sometimes it's many days of sorrow, interjected with happiness...

I try to balance it out. I try to find a joyful focus. It isn't always easy. We've had two losses in our family, both following long and painful illness. Even the cruel passing of my Zoltar adds to the heartache and strain...

Do you know what today is? It's the first day of winter break... the first day of all the children home! My free labor! My elves! My devoted minions! Just kidding. I'll let them sleep in. I'll feed them a full breakfast.... and then I will crack the whip! Bwahahaha!

Having the children home is easily the very most joyful thing I can focus on. We already have a movie night event set in motion. We are baking cookies to share, and having an open house-all night movie marathon.

Alex and I need to write up a schedule for his movie shoot with Tatiana. Their last assignment in video-film is to choose a genre, write a script and story board, and make the movie. Alex was running his ideas by William, for feedback on the Western drama they are filming during break. I keep trying to audition for him, but I think they are looking to cast someone much older and less gorgeous. It's not easy to play against my natural qualities. Then again, Suki has been offered the role of the sinister sheriff... talk about playing against type!

So far, Maria is the only one to have presents wrapped and under the tree. Throughout the day, she points this out to me and her brothers... reminding us that she made us gifts, that they are for us, that they are right there, under the tree. And she asks me if I need help wrapping anything. Anything at all. And you know, I should let her wrap, all except her gifts, of course. I am silly not to accept her offer. One glance around this Bird House and anyone could see a mother's helper would be a most welcome addition. Also, a maid, laundress, tailor, plumber, and a repair person.

This is our squirrel, Hazel. She said she could crack nuts, so I let her move in with us. But. She lied. She can hold a pecan, but she can't get it open. With some help and a lot of straining she can sort of crush a nut, but then again so can a hammer, and with less effort.

The resident engineers have diagnosed Hazel with inferior palate syndrome. Without a roof to her mouth there isn't enough downward force to hold and break the nut... something like that.

I'm waiting for William and Geoff to hone their sweet TIG welding skills, so Hazel can undergo some reconstructive realignment. Hazel shouldn't have to wait long. They are getting better, and enjoying their class more and more.

Max was ice skating on his last day of school. It was his first time, and I am delighted to say that he was good at ice skating, and he enjoyed himself. In fact, I can report that Max is good with all of his school days. Sure, he wouldn't mind if it snowed for three months and school was canceled altogether, but he likes it there well enough, and he is making the most of his time.

If Geoff takes Maria shopping (a risky proposition given their generous natures) then I may get some gift wrapping accomplished. William and I also have a date with tortillas, sauce, and cheese... we are making enchiladas sometime this weekend.

It's still dark out, and two owls are outside my office window. I love those owls and their resonant calls.

Out for an explore. Weazie would like me to thank everyone for their sweet comments. I think she would very much like to be the subject of a book. She has a lot of stories to share. Anyone know much about desktop publishing?

The owls are still calling. Soon the sun will be up. A new day. I'm ready to embrace it.

May The Force Be With You

2011-12-16T02:30:00.000-08:00

There are places where I go, where I think of people I have known.
There are stories we repeat, that we've heard a hundred times, and we tell them one more time. There are memories I share with a few, or more. There are memories that are my own. Sometimes everything I remember about a person comes rushing forward... happy, sad, conflicted, funny, painful, irreverent, tender.

Rest in peace Alfredo. Al. Fred. I think of all the places and times where I am tied to memories of you, and it feels unbelievably sad that you are gone.

Unbelievable.

Thank you for taking us out of school to see the opening days of Empire and Jedi. Thank you for camping at Dos Picos, your Boy Scout tent, all those VW bus trips. Thank you for making dinners... "What's for dinner?" and you answered "Food." Thank you for teaching me the difference between speaking colorfully and being a pinche ass. Thank you for lending me your books, for introducing me to life long friends... Steinbeck, Twain, Kipling, Goodall, Meade. Thank you for Olvera Street, Heber Avenue, Esquintla, and sleeping in a Ford Pinto. Thank you for Mark. Thank you for Michael. Thank you for all those movies, and Chicanismos. Thank you for reaching out to me... you know when, and giving me that gift of closure... the hard part is, now it all feels wide open, and I realize I am missing you.

Sing Star Wars, Al! Sing Star Wars.

Update: Maria V., my sister-in-law, is posting old pictures on FB. I have not seen these in a long time...

Al, Bill, Natalie, and in front: Michael, Hans, and Mark.
UCSD student housing, June 1982

About to head out on a family vacation, and already on shaky ground!

I think Mom must have reminded us to smile, and I see Michael's adorable toothless gap. In spite of how we tormented him, Michael was an irrepressibly joyful and loving child.

The first stop was unscheduled: Visalia, where our faithful VW broke down, and we stayed in a motel room, two nights, waiting for a part to come in. We made it to King's Canyon, through SF, and back to Alhambra for the Fourth of July. It was on this trip that Al was compelled to pull over and say: !#&* Damn it! This is our vacation. And we are going to have fun! @$% $^&! My brothers will recall the colorful urban characters we encountered in San Francisco.

Our Tree

2011-12-15T08:44:00.000-08:00

Our very own.

It came a bit later in the season this year than in years past. Then again, last year it never came at all. But we now have a Christmas tree. It's tall and piney, and lit up. It is full of decorations. Full! Max and Maria made sure the best and the prettiest ornaments were hung from every branch. Maria even made some new ones to add to the assortment.

Alex and William worked together on writing a movie script for Alex's film class. Suki had another job to work on too. Geoff made it home to enjoy the last of the spaghetti dinner, and to help decorate the higher branches of the tree. A Christmas Carol played on the big screen, and the house felt a bit warmer with everyone under one roof.

Once the tree was complete, we opened the Advent, or Christmas, pyramid... something we haven't ventured into in many years. Max and Geoff assembled our two tiered wooden Nativity, lit the candles, adjusted parts. This, and the peppermint Joe-Joes, brought all of us to the dining table, and then we oohed and ahhed at the sight. Candle light, reflections dancing on the ceiling, tiny figures turning backwards (oops... ), and I may as well add: dirty dishes in the sink, and candle wax all over the dining table. No matter. This is not a movie set, or a magazine spread. This is our Christmas, and as along as we are together, I am thankful.

Like others, I am letting go, and embracing the simple and the special. I do tend to struggle, and I am still trying to be "better," but a friend shared her own insights and reflections, and I am grabbing hold of some of that wisdom: "Wanting to be someone you are not is a waste of the person you are."

Our Christmas. Your Christmas. Holidays. Solstice. Light. Music. May we all keep our health, and sanity. May our blessings be self evident, plentiful enough, and quite satisfactory.

Gatos. Cats. Popoki. Chat. Gat.

2011-12-14T06:16:00.000-08:00

Chango.

Good morning, Chango Kitty. Chango Biddy-Bongo.

Chango had a brother named Bongo. And I would call him Bongo Biddy-Chango. Chango loved Bongo. And Bongo loved Chango.

Goodmorning, Benjamin. Franklin. Thundercat. Cowboy and Explorer.

Your name is as long as your whiskers.

Be good kitties. I love you.

A Prima Ballerina

2011-12-13T09:25:00.000-08:00

For many years I have wanted to see The Nutcracker. When William was a little boy, he and I stayed up very late watching a Great Performances production of the classic ballet. We were totally engrossed with all of it. We play Tchaikovsky's music, and enjoy the artistic interpretations of the score seen in the 1940 Disney film, Fantasia. And so year after year I have been tempted to take us all to see any of the annual performances of this Christmas time fantasy ballet.

I'm glad I waited.

It was more special, and so worth the wait, because we got to see Olivia dance. And she dances with all the poise and grace of a prima ballerina. Truly. I feel so fortunate to have seen her strength, her maturity and composure, the simple pleasure of her lovely dancing.

We were all impressed. Maria was wide eyed and enchanted. Alex gave awestruck praise. William and Max agreed, seeing this production was a good choice.

As an added bonus, our traditional Christmas-season-outing with all of us and Tutu, too, got to include some time with our dear friends, Myron and Sandy. Seeing the ballet, supporting local arts and theater, dressing up, dinner out... all a sweet success.

***By the way, if you think I can't combine classical ballet and Paradox Robotics, you'd be mistaken!***

I have to mention that besides being a talented and dedicated dancer, Olivia is in 4H, she can whip up a gorgeous napkin flower, she raises bunnies and pigs, and she is the treasurer for FIRST 2102 Team Paradox, a real celebrity! Team Paradox has the most talented, busy, and skilled students around. Just sayin'.

Good Eggs... No Yolk

2011-12-12T12:05:00.000-08:00

Of the eleven birds in our shark cage, four are laying hens. Three are juvenile hens, and three are cocky-little-dudes. And one is our dear Lady Betty Orpington, retired layer.

We get good eggs.

We get interesting eggs.

That's no peanut by the way. I am not sure who is responsible for that little thumb-size egg. Maybe it came from one of the little hens?

For comparison: The brown one is a "Large" from Trader Joe's, and all the others are our own medium's from the resident chicas. Now you can see the peanut egg is adorably-silly small.

It had no yolk. Just egg white. Imagine if I could breed hens for this... teeny tiny egg white eggs for all the teeny-tiny dieters running around and subsisting on hot lemon juice and breath mints. Actually, I won't be surprised when industry eggs come out with just such a mutation. Oh, woe our obsessions.

Lillian Virginia Mountweazel :: Garden and Tea

2011-12-10T08:12:00.000-08:00

As noted, it's high time Lillian Virginia Mountweazel, Weazie Ratty-Rat, has a post of her own. And so I bring you Weazie in the Garden, with Tea.

On a blue sky November day, I gathered empty pots, and a bag of bulbs, and decided to share planting paper whites with Maria. From her cozy home, we saw Weazie, watching us with an expression that clearly read, Oh, do please let me help.

Out came Weazie, and she went straight to work, helping to gently tamp down the soil, and count bulbs. "Don't nibble, Weazie," we gently reminded. She never nibbles anything but carrots and other suitable ingestibles, but we wanted to be sure she did not sample the bulbs.

Maria was enthralled... brown, papery clumps were sprouting? They will become dainty, white flowers on long graceful stems? Weazie was delighted too, with her work, and the perfect sunlit day. She scurried about sniffing, counting, tending each pot.

We brought her dish, with something for refreshment. She selected a favored tidbit.

Nibble, nibble, nibble.
Weazie is dainty. She eats slowly, mindfully. Perhaps she is French? She does seem to dine with a Parisian's air of refinement, and savoir faire.

In the meantime, Maria was tucking in the bulbs with some moss. She and I talked about the eager bulbs that had already begun to sprout, and how happy they would be to straighten up, now that they could reach the light.

Pardon me for interrupting, Weazie interjected. Is this something I may try?

In all the busyness of planting and conversing, my tea had gone cold. Pity, but I wasn't thirsty either, so...

Weazie helped herself. She takes chai with a bit of milk, and lightly sweetened, thank you.

The Mountweazels, purveyors of fine teas and exotic spices, came to this land aboard great sea vessels, where in the cargo hold they would brew a great many cups of tea to sustain themselves on the long voyage, and she licked her lip contentedly.

A bit more.

And now a cleaning. No cream on the whiskers, please.

Weazie tidied herself.

Right, and left... until she was suitably clean.

Yes, Weazie?

Oh, I was just thinking, she seems to reply, How lovely it is to garden with friends, to share diversions, and nourishment, and to reflect on the joys of anticipation. Flowers and Christmas, holidays and friends. It makes my heart glad.

Me too, Weazie. Me too.

All the bulbs in pots, snug in the earth, facing the sun.

Our work and play are done.

{this moment}

2011-12-09T05:00:00.000-08:00

Dear Santa...

2011-12-08T09:11:00.000-08:00

For the record: It should more or less read...
Dear Santa, I know you are one of the helpers, not the real Santa. The real Santa was St. Nicholas, and he lived a very long time ago, and did nice things for children, that we have embraced and carry on to this day, because charity and love are good, and we like to believe in things we cannot see, and keep our faith in peace, sharing, and good will toward all. I know my mommy and daddy are believers and keep Christmas, the magic and faith, alive in our home. Now that I know the *secret,* I can do the same. Of course knowing the truth does nothing to dampen my love of Christmas, and all the traditions and fun that comes in this season of light. And so, please do note my wish list, and thank you for the crayons.

Maria's drawing of the wooden dolls we painted together; our own dear Nativity.

She figured it out all by herself. The whole Santa gig is up, but she isn't crushed and dismayed. She thinks it's funny. And she also seems perfectly content to carry on believing, in a new fashion, and immersing herself in the pleasure of knowing the truth and keeping the faith.

So. I guess it should come as no surprise that at the top of her list is, "science stuff... anything science-y!" She asked for a squishy brain for her birthday, and a science encyclopedia, and those have been embraced and adored very much. Rounding out her list, dear Santa, please: An American Girl doll. That catalog found its way into our home and is covered in stars... "and this one! And this one! And I like this one too!" Stars all over every page.

She has been a very good girl.

She asked Santa, but she winked at me.

All I Want For Christmas

2011-12-07T09:58:00.000-08:00

Marissa, and furry friend, Georgie

This week I had two very quick visits with my brothers and their families, and Mom and Dad. And I do mean quick! We were squeezing in our time together, between events and obligations, and stuff, and other stuff. Times when my brothers and I are with Mom are very few, very far between. (Not gonna cry. No. Nope. Not gonna.)

It's kinda cliche to call a little girl a "doll," but I think it every time I am with Marissa. She is adorable and petite and has these golden ringlets and a darling kewpie doll face. Of course she doesn't sit like a doll. The girl must have athletic parent genes... actually, she really does! She is a daring, moving, go! go! go! girl! She leads the pack.

Here at home, besides the frosty temperatures in the house, you would hardly know it's nearly Christmas. I have done very little to get that ball rolling. I brought early gifts for Dom and Marissa. It's purely selfish, because I hate missing seeing them enjoy their new toys.

The hotel where they stayed was decorated, the kids looked shiny and bright, family was gathered... it's all the Christmas I need.

Hans and Gretchen joined everyone for breakfast, and Maria and I met up too. It was lovely and casual, with time to catch up and share some laughs. In my ideal world, there is more time for lovely, casual meetings with laughter. I miss these times.

Bill, Natalie, Delia, and Hans

Oh. Dear. This makes no less than forty-two emotions and anecdotes come to heart and mind. (Not gonna cry. No. Nope. Not gonna.)

I can always count on Bill for some comic relief.
I need some comic relief.

Bill and I were enthralling Alison with nostalgic memories of our youth spent crisscrossing empty lots and open fields. From the hotel we could see all the new construction and developments that have popped up where we once played.

I wonder what they will remember about these days. What memories will they return to again and again, to laugh about and recall fondly? Cousins make the best friends. These three were at play within minutes of getting together.

Maria chose the kitty for Marissa, and the doggy for Dominic. Dom named his dog Snoopy.

Okay... how's this for a plan... Alex goes to school on the Central Coast, and we all move there? Good one, right? I know. Crazy. But I do think about it.

It would bring us eight hours closer to Grandma BooBoo, too!

I never regret taking pictures. This was a tiny whirlwind visit, before everyone had to head in four or five different directions. I have these to hold on to and enjoy. And though I am not ready for Christmas, have not decorated, or wrapped, or mailed, or baked... these pictures are a lovely reminder of what I want most for Christmas... time with loved ones, laughing, playing and making happy memories.

I Love a Parade!

2011-12-06T09:57:00.000-08:00

Our community's Holiday Parade was the longest, coldest, most fun night of the year! Everyone goes... everyone is in the parade, or knows someone in the parade. Anyone not in this category is missing out, and should come next year! And possibly the best represented bunch there? FIRST 2102 Team Paradox!

No. No, I am not biased. This is scientifically, statistaclly, emotionally, instinctively proven and true. Amen.

I shared one tiny fraction of the planning and work that goes into getting Lavender updated and spruced for her big night. Now you can see the final results, 'cause *surprise!* I took some pictures! If I had a maid, driver, personal trainer, and decorator I would take the time to make a video, and I would compose songs about how incredible these students and mentors are. I would write epic poems expounding the merits of young people reveling in the delights of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math, and Music... full STEAMM ahead!

Back: Kiley, Eli, Alex, Nate, Blake, Sam, Eric, Steve, Chester
Front: Sammay, Suki, Sarah, Erika, Lauren, Andy, Maria

Friends, old and new! The Robotics Club of SDA, FIRST 2102 Team Paradox. Spirited and Inspiring, an award winning, competitive, high school robotics team that designs, manufactures, builds, wires, programs and drives robots. A team that writes grants, volunteers and serves its community, mentors, and dances. A team that says, "Passion FIRST," and then acts on their convictions. A team that knows how to have a lot of fun!

Seriously. A. lot. of. fun.

But you gotta do the work, and take care of business time for the fun to be solid. Suki is business time.

Yellow on top, red on the bottom, blue capes, and Paradox all over.
All the colors play for Team Paradox.

Rick, our greatest distance traveling mentor, has made helping at the Holiday Parade his traditional contribution. We are lucky to have him. Eli, please thank your dad for his team spirit!

hahaha... here's where the light fades, and my photography gets ~~wonky~~ artistic. These wind up being my favorite shots, because they represent the electric charge, the energy and motion of the night! Erika and Victoria are energy and motion!

Annie and Maria are energy and motion!

These are taken on the side street where all the entrants are lining up, staging, preparing to hit the main street. The wait is hours long, but quite entertaining. We fix the float, and scrounge for snacks, we jump, cheer, laugh, visit, and enjoy the vibe.

Andrea and Suki

Friends and family come by, and we get to see many of the entrants rehearsing and getting their business together. All the schools, churches, Y-Clubs, youth groups, charities, local businesses, bands, organizations... the whole town! shows up with skateboards, bicycles, instruments, cool cars, contraptions, creations, smiles, and lights. Our float was #75... that's a lot of entrants!

Some families have children in two, three, even four different groups. Since our float was near last, we get more and more kids that join us when they have covered the route. It's like a dynamic conveyor belt, looping, and evolving as the parade goes.

Maria and her buddy, Myron

I have to add a personal note here. Thank you, Diana, Corina, Chris, Myron, Kiley, Kyle, and Sandy. I was telling Geoff how blessed I feel to be at home in this community, to have friends that think of us and help us, who we can turn to for support. In our town, and in our robotics family, I am frequently reminded that we have exceptionally kind and generous networks... it is an incalculable wealth. This night I was extra especially appreciative of these good friends.

Sammay, Geoff, Darrahl, Myron, Rick

Of course, now I am thinking: Thank them all! Everyone on this team, the families too, make being involved such a wonderful gift.

Darrahl and Bobbie

Yes! Thank you Team Paradox. You give our family countless blessings.

Grant. Grant, you came back!

Last year Grant gave blood along the parade route, when he fell while dazzling the crowds in his robotic costume. This is definitely more than we expect of our team members, so we are glad he honored us by fearlessly returning to the scene of his sacrifice.

Our friends, Chris and Corina, came by to see the float in action. Alex was happy to show them Lavender's new skills. She can rise and bow, chomp her jaws, and turn at the base. Lights aplenty, and our fog machine flowing. Parade regulations prohibit flames, and projectiles (not even chocolates *insert face of befuddlement!*)

Okay... we got there at four, and we are still waiting for our turn down 101. The night is long, but never dull. It's basically a street party, where we can enjoy a little civil disobedience, like riding in truck beds, and dancing in the streets.

Bobby is meeting Henry!

Maria wanted to dance, but her next choice was to ride in the pick up bed and wave to everyone. And her wish came true!

Check out the mini-bot tower, transformed into a tree of lights!
Check out all of those bright and dedicated Paradoxians!
Check out Lavender's sexy pose... she really is shiny!

Engineers are cool.
Enough said.

Here we go!
Suki reminded everyone where to place themselves, led us in a cheer, and we moved out! And she's keeping Grant safe too. She's so business.

Not yet on the official route, but Maria and I are already waving and cheering!
Hi Corina! Hi Chris! Hi Henry!
I love it when this city feels like a small town.

We turn the corner. Alex oversees the arm. Sammay has the drill ready. Eli has the control. Let's do this thing!

2102 on the 101!

Lavender turning and shining and thrilling the crowds! Up front our team dancing and cheering Paradox fashion... with spirit!

We found friends all up and down the street.

Play "I Spy Karen and Tom."

Maria saw her teacher, and I saw Adriana! Hi Adriana! Hi Paul! Hola Araiya!

Love.

Rotating love.

I could hear the crowd cheer when Lavender turned to face them!

She has sweet moves!

And the kids started lining up for Paradox tags!

We've got spirit!
Yes, we do!
We've got spirit, how 'bout you?!

After riding with 4H, Olivia jumped aboard the Paradox float.

Then Kyle joined us, and Sandy rode alongside.
By now the parade was "over," but the fun was far from over. Going trolling speed we went back to the staging area, picking up friends along the way, making sure everyone had rides. Lavender's base was secured to the trailer, boxes were moved to the truck bed, a giant pizza was ordered, and we made our way safely and happily back to the Bird House.

As soon as things get cleaned up, and Lavender comes down from the trailer, I want to convince Geoff and Alex to set her up in the front yard. We never get holiday lights set up, and I cannot think of a better display than Lavender and the mini-bot tower lighting up our winter nights!

One last picture, because Kyle's smile lights up a winter night quite nicely, too!

Last Night in Busy Town

2011-12-02T06:19:00.000-08:00

Fresh faces

Everything is just about set for this year's Holiday Parade! There have been many work parties, though it has definitely been less intense than last year, when FIRST 2102 Team Paradox was a freshmen team in the realm of parade floats and giant robot arms.

Engineers, artists, crafts people, dancers, painters, builders... !

Last year, Lavender had to be designed and constructed, then wired, from the ground up. She was so shiny! The arm rose up and down and the claw could open and close. Well, this year Lavender is new and improved and extra shiny! Her base is being updated to turn degrees, and notice her team colors face lift.

Remember the mini-bot element of last year's *FRC game, LogoMotion? Now our practice tower is enjoying a new purpose as the lit up tower-tree at the front of the float.

*Hey! Bill's Blog just posted hint #1 for FRC 2012... there are clues in the new components list. So excited for Team 2102 in 2012!!

The many branches of FIRST 2102 Team Paradox have been busier than ever before... since ~~September~~ ~~over summer~~ ~~since last spring~~ every single day! They have built new machines, learned new machine shop skills, mentored FIRST LEGO League teams, organized community service events, brought a whole new class of fresh faces up to speed, represented at the Street Fair, and they are preparing to host a FLL Food Factor event in their high school.

I think last night we had the most new team members show up, and they went straight to work... cutting foam and cardboard for giant batteries and gears, painting, and tossing glitter. Our float is representing the spirit and tools of our community's busy and dedicated student engineers.

Maria brought out our cupcake papers, which make a good material for snowflakes, right Sam?

When seventy high school students organize themselves to build robots, learn programming, design parade floats, raise funds for cancer research, mentor grade school students in FLL, mentor fellow FRC rookie teams, clean beaches and parks, write grant proposals, make videos, embrace science, technology, engineering, art, music, and math... I gotta say, they represent their community in a magnificent way.

Whew! That's Busy Town. Go robotics! Go Team Paradox!

And one more new element for this year's parade entry... Team Paradox Robo Dancers! Lonnie choreographed a techno-jingle routine, and last night was the first rehearsal...

Checklist:

trailer ✓
truck and driver ✓
robotic arm ✓
dancers ✓
lights ✓
decorations ✓
Team Spirit ✓
Passion FIRST ✓
Engineering Inspiration ✓
sturdy shoes ✓
a winning robotics team ✓

Go!

Just Call Me SuperChicken!

2011-12-01T08:50:00.000-08:00

In, or out, of my super suit, I am basically super chicken.
Better than chicken supper, but still lacking in higher than average self-motivation, career skills, wherewithal, stamina, time management sense.

My train of thought frequently derails, and or has head-on collisions with ideas like these:
"The house is such a mess; I should get a baby goat."

"After this lasagna, I am going to learn yoga, and only eat celery. With peanut butter. And more lasagna."

"I should go on a walk, but not alone on the nature trail, which feels unsafe, so at the mall, but then I'll be in public and visible in my invisible way, which makes me feel insecure and self-aware, and besides I should really just go home and clean the entire house, which is impossible, because we are not tidy people. Hey, who ate all the lasagna?"

"If it snows, where will I put the chickens? Or the goat? It never snows here. I think I really could get a goat."

"Wasn't there something really important I needed to do today?"

Panics.

Risky Business

2011-11-30T12:06:00.000-08:00

Max and Alex brought out a board game, studied the rules, set out their players, and proceeded to divide the world into their personal domains. Strategy and diligence were their tools. Superpowers rose, and fell. Borders were crossed.

But sometimes we cannot foresee what fate has in store for us...

All your base are belong to us; and in one strategic swoop, Chango overtook the Western Hemisphere. Game over.

A Happy Story

2011-11-29T21:59:00.000-08:00

Tonight, for a bedtime story, I read Maria all of the dear messages from family and friends wishing her a happy birthday. Some things about social media are undeniably marvelous... like the people who use it to send their love and affection.

Thank you... for kindness, endearments, warmth, and support. Your words and sentiments brought Maria's happy day to a happy end. No doubt, she will have sweet dreams.

My Dear, Brave Rooster

2011-11-28T09:26:00.000-08:00

May 2010 ~ November 27, 2011. Every farm needs a brave and good cocky-little-dude.

He defended his family to the end.
My dear Zoltar.
My funny, dear little Zoltar.

No matter how he kicked and fussed, no matter how he strutted around, I always knew he was just doing his job. And he was the only one who would peck my boots, then hop on my lap for affection and attention. I love him. I loved him. We liked to hold him, to admire his beauty, and his bold demeanor. He watched over his flock, protecting and providing... he gave everything.

I'm so sad it hurts everywhere, and I don't know what to do.

Blog, I guess... and cry, but what else?
What do you do when faced with heartache mounted atop daily stress, and other domestic perils swirled with the minor and stumbling woes of life? I feel... qwehqlwjeqewkrh... know what I mean? And also, I hate coyotes quite a bit, but that doesn't help.

Today on The Chicken Channel

2011-11-26T08:14:00.000-08:00

For your viewing pleasure, today on The Chicken Channel we have The Great Escape, a heartwarming tale of twelve cooped up birds reaching great heights to escape their 'hood...
Repeats daily. No animals were harmed in the documenting of this story.

Today I stood the tripod outside the shark cage, in hopes of capturing the daily exodus. Even without a remote, or a timer, I still managed to get some shots of the height and distance the chicks can achieve when they fly the coop. I opened the cage and stepped back to the camera... and look at my crazy birds!

I need to ask Tatiana to show me how to get my video to work.
Yes, Alex and Tots know my camera better than I do.

These are the chicks... almost three months old. In flight you are looking at Son of Zoltar. Unfortunately, there are three Sons of Zoltar. They are just beginning to leave their awkward phase and entering into their freak-hoodlum phase.

I cannot even begin to describe the absurd "crowing" attempts they've been making. If a rooster says "Cock-a-doodle-doo," then juvenile roosters say, "Crack-ahem-ca-ca-ca-blech," and their tiny frames look like they might burst.

So, we have three hen chicks, and three men chicks. Guess I will be taking a country ride soon. It's never a happy prospect, but then neither is a yard full of cocky-little-dudes.

The Chicken Channel, always on, always good.

{this moment}

2011-11-25T08:25:00.000-08:00

So Much Thank You

2011-11-22T07:09:00.000-08:00

I know I got it good. I know it.

The morning is already a bit crazy-busy, but I wanted to get my foot in the door ~so to speak~ and reflect on gratitude. And this could be, and should be an essay, a long and detailed story full of thankfulness, but instead it is a picture of pie.

I got it good. We have pie, and friends to share pie with, and lots of other things I love.

And now I gotta go!

Have a good day. Have pie.

Hit Delete

2011-11-21T08:01:00.000-08:00

Wouldn't it be a comfort if you could hit delete when you needed a do-over, or when you find yourself overwhelmed?
Publicly humiliated? Delete.
Vulnerable and insecure? Delete.
Not shiny? Delete.

The risk of making public displays of anything, in social media, is that there are no virtual rocks big enough to crawl under.

It rained heavily yesterday and last night. I made weather proofing adjustments to the shark cage, that funny thing we call a chicken coop. Time to see if the chicas survived the storm and flooding. Wouldn't they look a sight in Wellies?

I think this is a good time to make other adjustments as well.

Duty calls.

I Won't Back Down

2011-11-19T10:24:00.000-08:00

Tom Petty.
Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers.

I had a best friend growing up, and for about as long as I can remember she was over the moon for Tom Petty. All through junior high, and high school she would regale us with the life and times of Tom Petty... his looks, his talents, his latest album, her favorite singles. She would call me when the Heartbreakers were on the radio. She labored over his portrait in art class. And no matter what anyone had to say against him, she jumped to his defense.

She kept this up through college. She got an autograph, "To Jill ~Tom Petty." She went to concerts. Lots of 'em. And she has not backed down. She was at a concert just weeks ago. The cover photo for Damn The Torpedoes has been her FB profile picture. She is still a fan.

And I guess this is not surprising, not for teenagers. Being a fan, loving a band or a musician, or a Hollywood star is pretty typical stuff, but I think Jill took it to a whole other level and just short of craZy ObesSion! She is not the same person she was as a teenager, but she has the same true devotion to her convictions, to what she loves. From a very young age, she recognized what she liked, she declared it, and she stood her ground, and her sincerity has remained, unwavering. I have always admired Jill for this. Despite distances in time and space, she is a lasting friend, a dedicated person, a true fan. She is honest about what she likes, or does not like, and those lucky Heartbreakers have had one of the most enthusiastic and steadfast supporters you can imagine.

It's sweet, I think. I love that when I hear "I Won't Back Down," The Waiting," "Here Comes My Girl"... I think of Jill. I think of all those days in school together, slam books and stickers, Licorice Pizza, and sleepovers. I think of her first car, Jenny. I think of nights we laughed over the most senseless things, Hmmmmm... smells like popcorn. There are so many things about my teen years, and college days that have sort of faded into the background, and I can see how easy it could be to let those memories slip away for good. But Jill has had the endearing charm of making me remember, making me grin knowingly, and making me appreciate what it means to stand your ground, to not back down.

Jill, thank you.
For still popping-up in my life and making me laugh at senseless things. For instilling in me an appreciation for Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers, and for being a model for me of how to feel like a giddy teenage fan when I get to do the things I love. You are, and always have been, an example of living passionately and honestly, and how to stand my ground.

When I went to photograph Ron Blair, the guitars, and Jessica Baron, it was with a knowing grin, and happy memories of my friend, Jill. I kept thinking how much she would enjoy the full circle nature of this moment... new friends, new circumstances, common threads, and a cause that supports bringing music to young people.

I can be kind of shy and reclusive, and I have a tendency to feel defeated, discouraged... maybe this is not obvious, coming from a person who journals for the whole wide world, but nonetheless. The thing is, Jill was always good at bringing me out of my shell. Thank you for that too, Jill.

Inspired by Jill and her steadfast devotion to her convictions, I am suppressing my inclination to retreat, to back down from talking again about Guitars In The Classroom, and pointing out that a really marvelous event is happening that can raise money to keep music programs in our schools.

The auction is open now! You can bid on some really cool things, and opportunities. There are bargains, and there are unique and special items that are truly one of a kind.

My photographs are published. *blush* And, I am owning the truth that I feel pretty darn giddy about photography and being published, and yeah... so, you know... just a little showing off.

There are so many creative, talented, and generous people out there! They are sharing for the auction, they are bidding at the auction. They are in music studios, and art studios. They are at kitchen tables, and out in our communities. They are fans of music and art, of science and education. And it's because they give time, or make time, and show their interest that we can hope to keep education meaningful and alive.

We need people who are true fans, who won't back down. We need tireless people, like Jessica Baron. We need superstars, like Ron Blair, and Tom Petty. We need volunteers, and teachers, and people like you and me... to take action, get involved, make a stand, lend a hand, "Like" on FB... be a true and lasting fan, for the sake of children everywhere. I hope, in even a small way, I can influence support for Guitars In The Classroom. I hope I can continue to be as true a friend to the things I love, not retreating or giving into doubt, just as my friend Jill has been teaching me.

{this moment}... for Guitars In The Classroom

2011-11-18T04:28:00.000-08:00

A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. :: Inspired by Soule Mama ::

My friend Jessica runs an important and special nonprofit organization called
Guitars In The Classroom, and starting today you can help support the efforts of this organization to bring music into schools. Support musical education by bidding at this online charity auction to benefit Guitars In The Classroom. There is a really impressive and tempting selection of items to bid on, including jewelry, musical instruments, and travel opportunities... whitewater rafting in Maine, anyone? Okay. Seriously... the starting bids are low, the cause is fantastic, and all kinds of nice gifts are waiting to go to good homes.

Please visit Guitars In The Classroom, and see the wonderful things they are accomplishing. Like they say, "Together we can make a difference. Reach a teacher... inspire a generation." With Guitars In The Classroom offering their free program in 30 states and reaching over a half million students each year, I would say they are inspiring generations! The website is loaded with useful links for aspiring and inspired musicians alike.

I had the honor of photographing a friend, with two specially autographed guitars for the auction. Any Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers fans out there? How about Switchfoot? My moment this week was the pleasure of connecting dots, and friends, and seeing the great things that can happen when inspiring and creative people extend themselves for a good cause! It's music to my soul.

*Update~
It will be fun to add updates to this wonderful event.

Visit Jack Johnson's web page, where you can read about the beautiful ukulele he donated and signed for Guitars In The Classroom. Take a look! You are bound to find something wonderful as a gift for someone you love, including yourself.

Jess, say the word, and I will travel to Hawaii to photograph Jack Johnson... anytime!

Lady Betty Orpington Foundation... ahem

2011-11-16T06:15:00.000-08:00

"Lady Betty Orpington Foundation..." sounds so auspicious, so legit. It conjures, for me, a benevolent dowager. A kindly woman who goes to tea, and keeps her hands busy with needle work, while overseeing her philanthropic empire. Naturally, she gardens, bakes occasionally, and likes to attend a concert now and then.

Lady Betty Orpington, the chicken, is my feathered dream come true. Our very first chickens were with us when we lived on an acre or two, and when we moved, then moved again, I missed my chickens. I missed those two-legged-freaky-feathered creatures, and I missed the liberty of being home and being free to do the things I wanted to do, like garden and build, and play (without answering to a landlord). I went for several years trying to contain my obsession for chickens, but all the while feeling deprived of my liberty and desire to fulfill my dreams.

So. I rebelled.
"Where chickens are outlawed, outlaws will have chickens."

Without a coop, without the landlord's permission, in a very city lot kind of home, with a teeny yard... I brought home chicks, including a yellow downy peep I named Lady Betty Orpington.

Betty represents my freedom of will. She reminds me to take matters into my own hands, to invent, and if necessary reinvent. I made our Ikea picnic table into a coop. Bringing Betty into my life was a joyful liberation of my happiness, even with the difficulties and challenges. She made me feel like I could make things happen... like she was my muse.

She is. She is my muse and my amusement. And I find I can express my dreams and ideals through her. I can make believe that I am a farmer, a philanthropist, a patron of the arts, a cowgirl artist. And the more I live my life as though I am who and what I dream, the closer I come to really fulfilling those dreams. Lady Betty Orpington somehow puts me in touch with that space where imagination and reality meet. I may have a sink full of dirty dishes and a car that still needs a new transmission. Maybe I never actually graduated from college, or overcame my fear of higher math... but Betty can do it all, and she reminds me to keep moving forward, even putting the cart before the horse.

The Lady Betty Orpington Foundation is as real as I can imagine. It is a foundation to build dreams on, to affirm my own beliefs and hopes, and to inspire others to do the same. The Lady Betty Orpington Foundation is a name for my aspirations and beliefs, for the direction I hope to move, for the causes I believe in, for the people I want to encourage and support. Don't look for a trust fund, or a dowager with a beehive hairdo. Look for a golden hen, who makes messes and smiles, who is one dream come true, inspiring more dreams to come true.

She has a FB page.

"Welcome engineers, artists, poets, cooks, and farmers, scientists, inventors, musicians, and robots...

Biography
Born yellow and downy, Lady Betty Orpington is a golden, radiant being. Troubled in her youth by the unkind reproaches of her peers, Lady Betty Orpington overcame hardships and persecution, by looking for safe havens where she was free to express her creative tendencies. Inspired by her mentors, and by the dedication and brilliance of many individuals in her community and the world at large, Lady Betty Orpington aspires to celebrate and promote education, science, technology, math, and art. Lady Betty Orpington believes all people, young and experienced, deserve to be safe, respected, and provided with the tools and support they need to learn, to explore, to be their brightest selves.

Lady Betty Orpington and The Lady Betty Orpington Foundation support and encourage creativity, math, science, engineering, art, play, equality, justice, poetry, music, dance, theater, popcorn, gardening.

Personal Interests
Maker Faire, Make Club, Robotics, Team San Diego, SDA Robotics, FIRST 2102 Team Paradox, TED, Chickenblog, FIRST, FTC, FLL, 812 Midnight Mechanics, art, science, math, engineering, poetry, music, Gever Tulley, Tinkering School, Love and Rockets Young Makers Club, Kree Woods, Guitars in the Classroom..."

Easy Peasy Bleach Squeezey

2011-11-15T07:11:00.000-08:00

Supplies:
A bleach pen... found ours at Tar-jay
Wax paper
Chalk
A dark shirt

Sunday was sunny, and my children voluntarily cleaned the living room and the kitchen, and I fainted. Then I came to, and thanked them. Their industry was inspiring, and it got me in the laundry room sorting out worn and outgrown clothing... am I meandering to my point? Yes. Yes, I think I am. Sorry. It might be this frackin' cold I picked up. It's making me all meandery and snuffy, and last night I felt absolutely super meh.

Uh.
Wha?

Oh, yeah. I found a clean sweatshirt that Max has out grown, and is probably much too big for Maria. I was about to add it to the donate pile when I remembered the artsy-craftsy project I'd been wanting to try for about a year. I even had the supplies on hand, and cleared space to jump in and go for it.

The wax paper is to put between the layers of the sweatshirt. The idea being to protect the back of the shirt in case the bleach seeps through. Protecting surfaces from wayward bleach is an important aspect of this project. One tutorial I read even suggested wearing gloves. I did not wear gloves, but I did put on an apron. Also, I did this outside and on a bleach safe surface.

The bleach pen has two tips, and I used the fine point. I wish it were finer. Remember to shake the pen, and be aware: there will be bubbles and clumps, and every drop will leave its mark. This may not be the ideal project for a perfectionist, or anyone, young or mature, who freaks out about "mistakes."

And now some thoughts about Control. I am not a control freak. (Yes, I am.) I am not selfish, and I do not horde my crafty supplies all for myself, to use on a magical artsy-craftsy day, when all of my sweet skills and marvelous visions will come to life. (I am, and I do.) Okay, so honestly, it's not the easiest thing in the world to be approached by a perky six year old who wants to intercept my artsy-craftsy plans and make them her own, but some six year olds are hard to deny, so I relinquished the chalk and let her draw her pictures, on what is now her custom and personalized sweatshirt.

She drew, and then I traced. The clumps get a bit frustrating, and I think big and simple images is definitely the way to go. I have seen some very sophisticated results, which could be fun to try. I am also thinking that a certain robotics team may want to employ this technique to label and personalize their team jackets... FIRST 2102 Team Paradox... names across the shoulders, gears, details? Could be fun!

Maria's pictures have lightened to a pale-pale pink. Next up we wash it separately and then Ta-Da! Her easy peasy bleach squeezy jacket will be ready to wear!

Country Day

2011-11-13T11:35:00.000-08:00

It's a home coming. A very brief camp out, under the oaks. We don't have to go far to get away. And being there never fails to make me feel like I am home.

I am making a point of ignoring the muddy-wet tent waiting to be cleaned and put away, and never mind that I left a messy house, so I could make a camping mess to bring home. Right. So. That is the last mention of all that.

Max's cold did not get any worse. In fact, I propose that the fresh air and restful day gave him the upper hand. It was a good choice not sleeping in the tent, which was like a nylon lake the next morning. Happily we slept all together, snug and blissful inside our Green Goose.

Acorns. If there was a single force motivating and inspiring this little getaway, it was acorns. Maria said she didn't know what an acorn was! I could have brought out a book, or turned to Google, but no. No, I wanted to bring her to the acorns, to put one in her hand. So, even with a sick child, a slow leaking tire, and about forty-two pressing demands that really needed our attention, I packed us up and away we went!

She knows about acorns now. I feel good.

She collected acorns, and acorn caps. She counted acorns... one hundred and six. She sorted them, and carried them. She plied some apart, inspecting their insides, contemplating their structure.

Holly and Ruth drove up for the day, to join our sojourn. Cousins, Nick and Izzy came, and two of Nick's buddies. We trekked down to the pond, across to the picnic grove, back to the dam, under the owl boxes, over to the ranger station. All over.

We followed the ducks and the coots. We looked for feathers and other natural collectibles for Izzy's science project. Mateo found an owl pellet. How cool is that?

Also cool... table leaping, and looking into oak hollows, and holding jarred specimens in the ranger's collection, and eating a good lunch after lots and lots of exploring.

Alex and Tutu-Ruth

Izzy and Maria

I think Izzy found good things for her nature collection.

Izzy, next time, let's remember to ask about holding the rosy boa. The ranger brings him out for children to pet.

He is a very pretty snake, with lovely brown and periwinkle colors.
He'd just finished eating his lunch too... a mouse.

Maria asked about the snake and the ranger asked her if she would like to hold him. Maria was very excited about this prospect.

She sat down and listened to the ranger's instructions. And then Maria held the rosy boa. "It was so smoooooth."

He was also curious.

So. Yeah. No matter the domestic perils, the brutal realities and obstacles... escaping the routine, even if for twenty-fours, is worthwhile. Holding a snake is a dream come true. Hopping table tops, and searching for owl feathers is fun. And seeing, touching and collecting acorns out in the country is good.

Thank You

2011-11-11T11:11:00.000-08:00

Oh! you who sleep in Flanders Fields,
Sleep sweet - to rise anew!
We caught the torch you threw
And holding high, we keep the Faith
With All who died.

We cherish, too, the poppy red
That grows on fields where valor led;
It seems to signal to the skies
That blood of heroes never dies,
But lends a lustre to the red
Of the flower that blooms above the dead
In Flanders Fields.

And now the Torch and Poppy Red
We wear in honor of our dead.
Fear not that ye have died for naught;
We'll teach the lesson that ye wrought
In Flanders Fields.
In Flanders Fields we fought

~"We Shall Keep The Faith"
Moina Michael

Thank you veterans, and families. Thank you, all of you that sacrifice and serve for the betterment of your community, and country.

{this moment}

2011-11-11T05:06:00.000-08:00

A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.
:: Inspired by Soule Mama ::

If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

A November Day

2011-11-08T20:03:00.000-08:00

Between rain showers, we went on a small explore. Alex and Max were in search of trails to run, obstacles to scramble over. Maria and I came along to see what we could see. One thing we shared: a picnic. We ate sandwiches and fruit, under a shelter, and then we made for the trail.

A drop or two on my lens... but I could not put the camera away!

Finally I was seeing real Fall color, and in a park, out in the open. Up until now, I knew of three trees in color, and they were adjacent to the taco-drive-thru. I laughed over this, thinking of all the great articles and blogs about the changing season, the beauty of Autumn, and all I could come up with were three strip-mall curbside trees.

The sight of these trees made me feel so alive and connected to this amazing time of year, I wanted to capture it all. I was breathing deeply, and pointing my lens in every direction.

Still learning about photography, and too eager to *click,* I knew I wasn't exactly capturing the greatest examples of Fall photography. But I was content to make these simple memories... lovely memories.

Of course, when I got home and happened upon another blog... well, let's just say Kevin and Amanda's results are far more awe inspiring!

No regrets... some day I will be in Maine, or Georgia, Vermont, or Wisconsin, and I will have a bounty of Fall to inhale, and digitally preserve.

In the meantime, even a handful of trees and a whole lot of fallen leaves, is enough to give me a thrill.

The boys left on their hike, and Maria and I followed the trees.

Dashing between raindrops.

Swinging and climbing.

Maria thought the trail was too steep for her, but we decided to be brave, to take it easy, to see how far we could go... so we made our way to a trail head.

And we made it all the way to the top. Even through the scarier parts.

Autumn is yarn season. I made Maria an acorn inspired cap.

Maria and I traveled all over the Torrey sandstone bluffs. The trails are in disrepair, yet still inviting. We talked about getting lost, and not getting lost. We talked about clues. She found this nopal heart, and it became our trail marker, a clue.

Up and down the bluffs we made our way, and enjoyed the air and views. When we caught up with Max and Alex, it began to gently sprinkle. And by the time we were reaching the car the rain was coming down in earnest... and I finally did put the camera away. But in my heart, I still have the pictures... of the boys talking to each other, crossing the wide grassy field, and Maria, lingering by the duck pond, indifferent to the rain, breathing deeply the season.

All The Colors Around

2011-11-07T20:01:00.000-08:00

Sometimes a story begins a long time ago, in the midst of another story, like a Barcelona adventure. When I was a Chicken Abroad and very out of sorts about jet lag, Euros, and being so far, far away... Delia and I stumbled upon a little shop that introduced me to the sensory delights of colored, carded wool batting. Mom and I could not get enough, and we bought enough wool to stuff into every gap and nook of our carry on bags.

We had no idea what for. All that wool. But we share a passion for colors. Beads, fabric, flowers, and wool.

It took more than two years, but Maria and I finally figured out one thing we could do with wool: make bracelets. So we made a couple of woolly bracelets. And we made more bracelets with Amira and Janice, and Suki made some dreads for her hair. I even rolled some felted balls, which was amusing, and then sort of addictive, then slightly obsessive... hahaha

Anyway. I love looking at Maria's creations, and this collection of woolen orbs of color, which feel really neat. And no, by the way, I have no idea what their higher purpose is, but I am ok with this. I love thinking about where this stuff came from, about my adventure with my Mom, and looking at what's come of this part of the journey, and marveling at the paths, the twists in turns in life, and where they bring us. Mom, we should go back, and get more wool. I now know what to do with it.

And now Soap. And S.U.D.S.
Gretchen, are you and Joanne still making soaps? I found one last bar of great smelling Apple Jack soap, and decided to add one more woolly tutorial to my skill set... felting a bar of soap. Still, have no idea what the ultimate and/or higher purpose of this activity is, but I can confirm that felting wool over luxurious, good smelling soap is quite pleasant. Maria and I were both delighting in the sudsy joy of wool and soap together.

Ta-Da!
It's woolly-groovy-wavy, colors all around soap.
I think it's going to feel nice while in the tub, on the feet, and elbows.

Questions: will the wool continue to shrink with the dwindling soap. After many uses will I have a funky little wool glob?

No tutorial addresses this practical line of questioning...

Of course, after rolling fifty little spherical wool confections, I can hardly be the sort who is too concerned with practical answers, now can I?

Got Eggs

2011-11-05T14:56:00.000-07:00

Quiche. Made it up. Just in case they like it, I did think about what I was doing, so maybe I can replicate it or tweak it. I figure, baking with enough cheese and eggs, anything will taste good, right? I sauteed leeks, and added spinach too. It's cold. It's November. It's Saturday. It's quiche time.

Four hens are laying these days. Every day is an egg hunt. One in the empty flower pot. Two in the enamel basin where the chicks sleep. One or two in the bedraggled remains of the tomato bed.

Hello, Zelda.
Thank you for the eggs. I baked a quiche. It's delicious.

Hello, Zoltar.
Thank you for the... for... thank you for being handsome, and a protector.

Yes, very handsome.

Of the six chicas hatched in August, I think at least three of them will be hens. Maybe? Hopefully.

And how many of them love me and trust me, and recognize me?
Answer: Not a stinkin' one. Ingrates. Dodos. Knuckleheads. Chickens.

But I love them.

Homer loves them too. Roasted, broiled, bbq'd. Homer loves c.h.i.c.k.e.n. And he even understands when you spell it out loud.

Back to the quiche. Geoff says "Write the recipe down." We have a winner.

{this moment}

2011-11-04T04:12:00.000-07:00

Carried Away

2011-11-02T09:58:00.000-07:00

I may not be here tomorrow.
I may get blown off course.
Or perhaps
on course.

I am carried away by the wind, and a mood
and a terribly
attractive thing called...

From East
that Wind has returned.
The leaves drop,
crackle
blow.
I Pin snow covered barns, cozy nooks, crochet edged pillowcases.
All dreamy
all order and ideal.

My nightcap: blanket stitching a fat quarter.
Red
Cotton
Perle

Then slipping thread over hook...

I am carried away
by the wind
to Pinterest.
To daydreaming, blog hopping.
To wishful thinking and sighing deeply over glimpses of alternate realities, and other seemingly endless possibilities.

And until I can build my tree house, and make a laundry room look like a four star hotel suite, I will be teaching myself how to crochet edge a fat quarter with red cotton perle.

Lifted from NorCal Katie's Pinterest Board:

Source: 28.media.tumblr.com via Katie on Pinterest

I am, always, adjusting my sails.

October 32nd... The Second Day of Halloween

2011-11-01T10:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween II!

Actually, I hadn't counted on posting all five days of The Five Days of Halloween. I am so ready to shift gears and embrace the new month, and a new focus. I love OctoberNovemberDecember... it is my favorite time of the year, and I am all excited for the days ahead.

But first, a little reflection, because our Halloween has been too creepy and creative and full to skip over.

The fashion blogs always detail ensembles, top to bottom.

Hat: St. Vinnie's, Willy Street, Madison Wisconsin
Dress: Passed to us by Aunt Holly
Boots: Target
Wool bracelets: home made
Crows: craft store
Fangs: dime store

As soon as our Bird House was decorated with The Birds, for Halloween, Maria decided every last detail of her Halloween costume. And she loved to breathlessly describe it to anyone. Fast, and lilting, with her hands motioning, she would explain, "I'm going to have a fancy white hat, fancy white dress and crows all over. And scary teeth." And if you did not pay very close attention you would not understand a bit of it. But she understood exactly what she had in mind.

It was actually rather sophisticated, and truly unique. And, creepy... until she smiled, or spoke with those silly fangs in her mouth.

Before trick-or-treating, before closing the doors, or leaving the house... if you have kitties, especially black kitties it is a good idea to get them safely inside. None of us could have any peace of mind until all of our family was safely accounted for. And naturally a kitty pursued and begged, is a kitty aloof and uncooperative.

Chango turned his back on the crow ghost and the plague doctor.

And he led them all over the yard. Sun setting, fog rolling in, and precious trick-or-treat minutes ticking away...

In the end, it was a Happy Halloween after all, and everyone made it home safe and happy. Treats were shared, and memories recounted.

The First Day of Halloween

2011-10-31T10:45:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

And in honor of The Five Days of Halloween, we have five festive personas to share with you... and a warning: Some of these images may be disturbing, particularly if you are not a fan of Clive Barker, or the book series Abarat. You may also find some of this objectionable if you firmly believe "beauty is skin deep."

Maria came downstairs this morning about as dejected and crushed as can be. "No costumes on Halloween" is her school's policy. Which in my mind begs the question: Can she wear a costume after Halloween? She announced, forlornly, "School on Halloween makes no sense." Then she yawned, and dragged her feet to the dining table, sitting down next to Miss Utah. Seeing Suki, strange as it may seem, was not the least bit disturbing to Maria, who perked up and said, "You look great, Suki."

Geoff and I took Maria to a party at Patrick and Mashid's yesterday. Geoff was a welder, Maria was a party cat, and she wore the mask she painted. I donned my top hat and mask. We had a good time, especially enjoying Maria's delight in being at "a real Halloween party!"

And, this morning...

Max is a plague doctor. I like how it sounds in Dutch... pestmeester. Interesting history those pestmeesters have. With the black cloak Lucas lent him, and his beaked mask, I think Max looks great, and he was quite pleased to achieve this effective ensemble.

We have all read Clive Barker's books from the Abarat series. They are brilliantly disturbing, both literally and visually, as they are illustrated as well as written by Mr. Barker. One character of a certain appeal is Christopher Carrion... seen in this link. Alex is a young Christopher Carrion today.

Writhing and wriggling in the fluid circulating through and around Carrion's head, are his own nightmares. Goodness, I know.

And, brace yourselves... Suki as Miss Utah a beauty queen whose beauty, unfortunately, really is only skin deep.

"If I win, I will work tirelessly until Land Sharks are declared an endangered species!" I think she has her campaign zipped-up and in the bag.

Shudders.

Well. If anyone is still reading Chickenblog, I can give you a peek into how these special effects were created. I am nothing less than awestruck and delighted by homemade costumes and creativity.

All of us were painting masks this weekend, which yielded some really great creations, and was a lot of fun. I found sprinkling that much glitter to be quite therapeutic. And my Día de los Muertos mascara looked dandy with my top hat and rebozo.

The cat's meow.
And without even planning this, she and Amira are both kitties for Halloween!
Maria completed her ensemble with a magenta tulle skirt, and a black, witch's hat.

Alex woke Suki around five in the morning, with a text message, and she replied "Ungghh uhhhggrr," but she made it downstairs to begin applying a regular zipper to her face.

Patience, a steady hand, and spirit gum. That does the trick.

It probably helps to have a sense of humor too.

William was helping Alex assemble the double layer of plastic to create the face aquarium that is Christopher Carrion's head. Tubing, epoxy, and lots and lots of sealant were used, as well as clamps to keep everything together while parts were drying. At five in the morning Alex was doing the first leak test.

It leaked. Big time. So more sealant was applied.

And while the mask dried, Alex applied his make-up.

And a flowing, ragged, black cloak.

Suki's face is all made up, and she is ready for the talent show part of the pageant!

Even without the fluid, I think the effect is remarkable.

Suki and Alex make a third leak check... and this time it's close. Really, really close.

So determined! We got some pictures, but there is still one, pesky, little leak. Have no fear! Alex went to school, without swimming nightmares, but he has a plan, and will make it work today, after school...

Yes, we have a nail biting cliffhanger!

Picked-Off One by One...

2011-10-30T10:04:00.000-07:00

Happy confections, made yesterday. We had a day with friends dropping by, mask painting, pumpkin carving, chili cooking... good, stay at home, seasonal stuff. One by one, the caramel apples disappeared...

Until... to our amusement, we noticed there were only two left.
"Uh... where's everyone going?"

Bwa-hahahaha-haha!

All Hallow's Art and Play

2011-10-29T10:51:00.000-07:00

Alex decided to create an event at school: The Five Days of Halloween. He and Suki put it up on FB. The idea is to wear a different costume, every day, from October 31st through November 4th! Challenging... but who doesn't appreciate a good challenge, right?

Halloween :: What I Like
Creativity, the transition from summer into Autumn, harvest and natural cycles, gathering, dressing up, alter-egos, fantasies, getting a harmless thrill or chill, the look, smell, feel, taste, and sound of pumpkins, the smell of cold air and spices, and Tootie, "the most horrible!"

Skip the gruesome, slasher, mean, ugly, absurdly commercialized, over s.e.x.e.d., too scary for small children to play, mega-merchandising stuff that is taking over the aisles... meh.

I like Maria's refrigerator industry... she taught herself how to make the chain of ghosts. And talk about creepy... Sponge Bob cupcake paper snowflakes!? She cracks me up!

Maria also designed this pumpkin... fun-kin. We went to MNO together, and in Vera's gorgeous home, B had a project for all of us to craft with: painting and decoupaging on foam pumpkins. As soon as Maria saw the leaf print, she wanted to make a tree covered in Fall color. I penciled a trunk, she painted, and together we glued on the leaves we tore and cut. Then she thought a bird should sit in the tree, and more could fly above. It was fun being partners. It was wonderful spending an evening out with generous, supportive, funny, creative women.

Then last night Holly and Ruth brought Nick and Izzy over. They also brought dinner. This makes two nights in a row when I did not cook... kind of a treat! The plan was to carve pumpkins. The reality was... relaxing, laughing, catching up, enjoying good wine, and playing office with Izzy and Maria. It got too late for carving, but I don't think anyone was too disappointed. It's nice to just go with the flow.

Nick stayed for a sleepover, and while the boys watched a favorite suspense series, Geoff, Maria and I brought out paints, glitter, brushes, and paper masks. This morning the activity is carrying over, and Alex has joined us.

I think Geoff's mask is strongly influenced by his metal shop class. It looks really cool. I'll show Maria's when it's finished and dry.

Día de los Muertos. I found skeletal masks at the craft store, and was inspired to let my brush and paint just go with the flow! I have to say, glitter and flowers are an interesting, expressive therapy.

Geoff just walked in to show me his Threepio Flirts With the Dark Side mask.
It. is. epic. I think we are going to have to open a gallery. Alex has been making all kinds of masks. Who remembers The Marvelous Wax Museum? I think a Máscara Museum would be a marvelous finish to this Five Days of Halloween season.

Autumn School and Unschool Days

2011-10-29T08:43:00.000-07:00

Our Fall Break has been a blessing. It has been fun, and busy, and full. It's had its bumps, and the usual chores, but I think we've managed gracefully enough. I am really, really trying to put Monday morning out of my mind, because I am not ready for back to school.

However! I am thrilled to say: All the childrens and scholars, artists, and engineers living in this here Bird House have wonderful schools, with wonderful opportunities. Thank you.

Big. Big. BIG Thank you!

William, and Geoff are enjoying their welding and metals class. William brought home a sample for me to admire. And he's been explaining to me the differences between electric -arc welding, gas -oxy acetylene welding, and tig welding -tungsten inert gas welding! Each type has its challenges and purposes. It's interesting... Alex prefers gas welding, William leans toward arc welding, and Geoff is figuring out TIG. TIG is for aluminum. He's asked me if I would like an aluminum framed chicken coop. Answer: yes, please! And a stall for my goat too, please. I love seeing William get more and more comfortable with this new venture, and knowing that he is already imagining the possibilities.

Max is in an old new school. He attended Montessori for a bit, back in second grade, part of third. Now he has returned to finish junior high. The best part: he is happy. He's happy! This happiness he is experiencing is a blessing, a relief, a joy, a gift. He talks about classes, and what he is enjoying. He seems comfortable, and at ease. Not to overstate this, but seeing him feel comfortable, and interested, engaged, it is truly a marvelous pleasure.

The senior. Alex. Art is ever more his passion, and he continues to branch out, making friends, and participating in activities. He is in a school that makes people wish they were back in high school. I never wished such a thing, until I got to know this school. Alex has great friends, and great teachers, and plenty of opportunities to explore his interests... all of which makes it bitter sweet in my mind, because this is his last year there, with those great people. And... and will this be our last year with him, here, in our home? He is in college app mode, and the reality is setting in. Oh my.

And what about Suki? She's a senior too! And what if Suki and Alex both go far, far away to kawledge? (Time to implement Operation Hover Mother: get them in the same school, move to that town, and enroll with them. OHM is top secret. Shhhh)

Maria is happy too. So, really, sending her back isn't all so bad. I love our days together, and I have a very good handle on just how fleeting this time is. So, with this in mind... I am off to the kitchen where we have a breakfast to whip up, and some masks to finish painting. The mask in these pictures we saw in a second-hand store, and now we are painting our own masks, adding glitter too, of course.

{this moment}

2011-10-28T06:48:00.000-07:00

Some Pumpkins

2011-10-26T07:01:00.000-07:00

Let's see now... we left off our story with banjo playing, and chile rellenos for dessert... and we were about to commence with some pumpkin carving!

So many pumpkins! I am weak for pumpkins. Pumpkins should have its own category and label in ~~Chcikenblg~~ Chickenblog. Trader Joe's makes it so easy, so affordable. But this year, we will plant seeds, and tend them, and protect them! And grow our very own pumpkin patch, then probably buy just a few more at Trader Joe's because they make it so easy, so affordable.

Maria's pumpkin came from school, where she colored a face, so she was all set to carve her Jack-o-Lantern. Could she look more happy and eager? Now, there's a pumpkin face!

Alex stepped in to cut off the pumpkin's lid. This year I skipped the tools flooding the market for this activity. They always junk out on us. I bought wood carving tools from our local craft store, and it made all the difference.

Good Tools = Better Results

After an entire summer of carving, William felt right at home with tools in his hands and a specimen to cut away at. His thorough knowledge of the history of tombstones came in handy as well.

We kept calling the kitties in, because the coyotes were out. Those haunting coyote calls gave us the chills. Plus, Chango was missing his chance to sample all those delicious pumpkin guts that he loves.

Homer stayed close by, though the bunnies skampering across the lawn were vexing him. When we weren't tempted by rellenos, we all remained very industrious in our pumpkin carving.

Very intent in our pursuit.

Maria's Pumpkin Moonshine!
She is so delighted by the book "Pumpkin Moonshine." In fact, she is utterly enchanted by all things from from and about Tasha Tudor.

I call this profit. I salt them and roast them, then eat them. Dirty. All the pumpkinness adds flavor. Roasted pumpkins seeds are scrumptious.

Here swims Suki's angler fish. Nom-nom-nom-nom... she is looking for something scrumptious to bite!

Maria, happy to assist her daddy in his artistic pursuit of pumpkin majesty.

Yes, the wood carving tools were a wise move. Good for cutting, good for carving, and gouging. We still used knives for the initial deep cuts, and spoons to scoop and thin the interior.

There's Homer! And the kitties all made it safely home, and we did our best to disregard the chilling call of those coyotes.

When I told Eli how cute his Jack-o-Lantern's smile was, he went directly back to the carving table, stating: "He's supposed to be deranged.

Well done, Eli. He is deranged, in a cute way!

William's winged skull, and my kitty. I seem to be on an impish kitty spree! All the Pumpkin Moonshines lit from within and looking splendid... what fun!

And with still more pumpkins on hand, we are ready and willing to play again!

So Many Topics!

2011-10-24T08:18:00.000-07:00

I will never have a successful blog.

The End.

It's true. Every article on blogging success leads with the same suggestion: maintain a focus, keep it to a particular, or few, subjects matters. Do not wander off course. The second bit of advice they should offer: include animals... cats, kittens, puppies, dolphins saving puppies etc.

A handsome kitty picture may be the salvation of this blog.

In other news, yesterday we combed the city looking for caramels, lost our apples, made chile rellenos, had a double blind root beer tasting, carved pumpkins, stuffed ourselves silly with rellenos, listened to banjo playing, and washed some dishes. And, so if a successful blog relies on focus, then *phttttttttt* I embrace my epic atypical blog.

Besides all the hub-bub and activity, the day was punctuated with Maria asking, "When do we bring out the beer?" "Is it time to taste the beer?" "Are we all drinking beer?" "There is so much beer. "Will I have some beer too?" And somebody, everybody, saying Root! Root. Root beer!

Do you like root beer?
Do you call it beer, or soda, or pop, soda pop, or fizzy water, or sugar juice, or battery acid, or old-timey bubble liquor?
Do you see a favorite in our line-up? There are two varieties missing: Barq's, and Hansens.*

*Regretfully, no one is paying me for promotion of any of this here old-timey bubble liquor. All selections were randomly, unceremoniously, yet respectfully, grabbed at our favorite market in the whole wide world: Major Market.**

**Regretfully, no one is paying me for promotion of Major Market, our favorite market in the whole wide world.

Focus, Chickenblogger. Focus!

Right. Okay. Where was I?

Double Blind Root Beer Taste Test. Almost. I sort of did know which sodas were which, but honestly my memory is flaky, and by the time we had the bottles wrapped, and dinner in the oven, I had no idea we were even holding a Double Blind Root Beer Taste Test, so it was pretty authentic as far as objective, scientific testing goes.

Folks, this was serious business.

Solemn. Science is not for the weak. The soda labels were hidden from everyone's view, the cups were numbered. We took notes. We nibbled saltines to cleanse our ~~taste buds~~ palettes.

Tasters:
Suki: artist, homecoming queen, musician, part-time sign flipper, ~~likes~~ loves chile rellenos.

William: artist, foamologist, welding student, sous chef, philosopher, can musically recant all the words to Albi the Racist Dragon, loves and prepares chile rellenos.

Alex: man of many faces, artist, can musically recant all the words to Albi the Racist Dragon, cook, tailor, robot designer.

Max: mathematician, cat whisperer, swimmer, reader, movie projectionist, artist, loves crispy tacos.

Maria: robot designer, fashion designer, pumpkin carver, member of FIRST 2102 Team Paradox, ballerina, song writer, sword fighter, artist, super taster.

Jessica: musician, grant writer, board member: Guitars In The Classroom, teacher, dog lover, procurer of one more root beer variety.

Geoff: programmer, artist, loves chile rellenos a lot-bunch-mucho, welding student, whistler, gamer, engineer, tennis player.

Natalie: Chickenblogger, cook, gardener, chicken wrangler, loves to laugh, easily amused, tends to lose her focus, dedicated... to all sorts of stuff.

Music provided by:

Eli: banjo player, ocarina player, guitar player, mandolin player, ukulele player, president of the ukulele club, robot designer, artist, not a soda drinker.

Shall we begin?

We sampled ten different root beers. We nibbled a lot of crackers.

By the time we got to root beer number ten, the bubbles were going to our heads. I was a bit worried that they would basically all start to taste the same, but we were noting distinctions, and detecting subtleties.

Utterances included: "I taste vanilla," "this one is soapy," "are those hints of spice?" Some varieties also inspired: "Chemically aftertaste," "I'd buy this," "super fizzy," and "blech!"

I don't usually hand over my camera. I can't believe I handed over my camera.

"Hey, you, guy with my camera, careful there."

I can't believe she let him use the camera.

Okay. So. I could tell you the results of our Double Blind Root Beer Taste Test, but then you might be biased by our tastes and preferences. Maybe you are thinking of hosting your own scientific-super-terrific Double Blind Root Beer Taste Test and you don't want our results to color your opinion. So. For now, we will withhold our analysis and statistics, until we hear from you.

And, while we are waiting to hear from you, we will eat chile rellenos, and we will carve pumpkins, and we will play our music, sing our songs.

Suki may compose a song for us, something about lost apples, a quest for caramels, and how delicious chile rellenos are for dessert.

Thank you. And happy Monday!

Fun By The Handful

2011-10-22T13:10:00.000-07:00

I broke into my secret reservoir of Clever and Crafty Stuff. On hand: fabric markers, and ready to color hand puppets... everything necessary for a quiet evening at home, while watching a family favorite, Arsenic and Old Lace. We hadn't seen the funny, classic since last Halloween.

While Max and Benjamin snuggled, and ate fresh, buttered popcorn, William, Maria and I began developing characters for a Halloween Puppet Show. We haven't written our play, yet, but it will feature a girl, a witch, a cat, Sir and Lady Bones, and possible the Headless Horseman.

Sir Bones. I say, you are looking dapper. William was the clever one who showed us our puppets could combine two characters in one...

Lady Bones. Mistress, what have you done with Sir Bones?
She is not saying.

Maria went straight to work on her happy witch's alter ego, Angry Witch! We were adding accessories with felt and hot glue.

Salutations, Señor Mouser.

Now, I am off to the craft store for more supplies. Can I bring you anything? Glitter, glue, cheese?

Falling For Starry Night Hollow

2011-10-21T16:43:00.000-07:00

Maria and I still like to visit our favorite quilt shop, Starry Night Hollow. It is a dear place, a creative sanctuary, tucked away in an area home. Truthfully, my own fabric stash is so ~~over~~ appropriately well stocked, that maybe I have no business visiting fabric stores. But the Hollow is more than a great fabric store. They sell patterns, offer classes, they have unique notions and supplies, and there are always incredible quilt samples and other sewing projects for inspiration. Friendly people gather and work there, and I always come away feeling imbued with new spirit.

And this weekend the Halloween Spirit is upon the Hollow. Maria and I went for an infusion of seasonal creativity and camaraderie. And we got just what we hoped for... fun, crafts, company and a good time. I can hardly believe it's been three Halloweens since I brewed up a witching tale to go along with Kim's decor and theme. The pumpkin patch this year is just as charming, and Maria was just as eager to see all the sights.

After saying hi to all the ladies, we made our way to the backyard, to the caramel apples and crafting supplies. Then we got down to business, but in a relaxed, mellow fashion. I kind of had to remind myself about "relaxing." But, a few minutes in the garden, breathing in the lavender and ocean breeze, and I was feeling okay about slowing down.

Kim is always so generous with her crafting supplies, and the refreshments. Their Fall Festival continues tomorrow. Maria and I were immersing ourselves in this cute project... turning wooden beads into Halloween necklaces.

Glitter. Glue. Paint. Tinsel. All the good stuff.

Maria tore napkin corners to make ears for her kitty. Looks a bit like Chango, I think.

Oops! We didn't see this notice until we came inside. Maria and I were so engrossed in the Make and Take we sort of Made and Took two, each. Sorry about that, generous Hollow friends.

If you cannot make it to Starry Night Hollow, maybe you will see Kim Rado at Market. She will have a booth at the International Quilt Market in Houston, October 29-31. I see Anna Maria will be there. I wish I could be there too... all those amazing talents, wonderful people gathered together... what a treat! Anyway, it makes me happy to see Kim being recognized for her original creations, and hard work.

I thought our visit was over, and it was, but we actually returned minutes later! I was picking up Alex and Tatiana from school, and Maria was so buzzed and giddy about her afternoon, she wanted Alex and Tots to share in the fun. And so. Back we went!

Alex and Tots agree: Claire needs to visit the Hollow, and meet Kim. Claire is their classmate, and the president of the fashion and design club at their school. I agree with them. It's fun to bring creative people and good resources together, and I think this is an inspired match.

Alex and Tots settled in the backyard, only slightly prodded by Maria's enthusiasm and insistence. Her fall on Wednesday left her very badly bruised, but no less perky.

Alex, the beret and chic coiffure is out of this world, as is her alien complexion.

And, of course, a visit to a Fall Festival would not be complete without a suitably seasonal confection.

Kim, and all at Starry Night Hollow, thank you for another happy and memorable day of fun!