As Is

Let the bargaining begin!

2011-04-23T18:09:00.001-07:00

So there's a new Jeanine Payer necklace I want. I want it bad, people. So I'm saving money in a special account. A small amount each month. I have calculated that it will take me six months to have enough money to buy it. I would like to expedite that if at all possible.

So tell me.

What do I have that you want? Let's make a deal. :-)

What do I do?

2011-03-03T18:26:00.000-08:00

I have no excuse for not blogging. Seriously. I just seem to use the free time I find to lay in my bed. Or watch X-files. Or give my husband a hard time. Or maybe it's because there isn't anything new in this little microcosm.

School remains stressful and exhausting. I take heart in the fact that the last trimester of the year has begun. I always think about pregnant women when I talk about the trimesters of the year--it's about the same thing--nine months of three months at a time. Some are so, so, terribly long.

I'm about to have a spring break. I haven't had a serous spring break in a few years. I'm not going anywhere because, well, who do I think I'm kidding? I am going to DRIVE with my mother to my brother's place in Omaha. I haven't seen him for...um...an obscene amount of time. I'm looking forward to the visit because he's been struggling emotionally and it'll be good to see him face-to-face. Maybe we'll do some shopping? With someone else's money? Bwhahaha.

Oh! We're getting a PUPPY!!!! We're getting her this summer. A labradoodle--the female black kind. She'll be the more curly type of coat. Her name is going to be Clementine. We're so excited. A kittie will come at the same time and hopefully they'll be friends. What fun!

I am glad I have more to detail than the disappointments of student pregnancies, drop outs, drug deals, and awkward dealings. If ou drop in on me, let me know what you're up to!

M.I.A.

2011-02-05T14:48:00.001-08:00

It appears some of you are still checking in on me--months and months in silence. Forgive me. I can only chalk up the absence from the lack of desire to share what's been going on. I find it hard to believe anyone would find the sagas of my life interesting, but I suppose I could regale you with a few details (ha).

I've been teaching at the alternative school for about two trimesters now (24 weeks, I guess). It's been quite the roller coaster. I think I am uncannily cut out to deal with the misfits, villains, criminals and unloved in the world. I want to always take them home and make them hot chocolate. What's that say about me? There have been some tiny moments of triumph so far, but many, many moments of pause and despair. When you deal with kids ages 16-20 who are still in high school, but have barely cleared enough credits to be considered sophomores, you're at a disadvantage. Not to mention the drugs, the babies, the law, the mental illness. Oy--the mental illness.

I've been in a position to take stock of things in the world through the eyes of these kids. I heard a quote that I remind myself of sometimes when I ask myself why I'm doing what I'm doing: "I'm here because injustice is here." I feel that these kids have been failed. People fucking failed them. And people failed their parents. There's injustice. I can be a small cog in the whole machine, but maybe at one point something will run better because of me.

Beyond that, things have been pretty much the same. We just survived the blizzard of 2011. I have never seen so much snow that I was responsible for eradicating. It was daunting, but thank goodness for husbands and snow blowers. I'm still taking courses to get my English as a second language endorsement. I still tutor two nights per week. I still...apparently do too much!

I am really looking forward to spring. Something in me longs for the moment when the temperature is just a hint warm and we can open the windows. That'll be the day! This winter is long and nowhere near over, but it's nice to look forward to something a bit sunnier.

I promise to be around a bit more often. If you're interested in the weird comings and goings of my strange and desperate days, I'll give you the details.

A Big Year!

2010-06-17T09:02:00.000-07:00

Hi! I'm in summer-mode, but I'm also working pretty darn hard! In my downtime, I like to look at all the things I would put on my birthday wish list for this year. My birthday is August 19th, and usually goes uncelebrated because it's also the first day of school. As a teacher, you can imagine that the birthday takes a back seat to the craziness of that day! So I like to dream! I usually don't receive a lot presents for my birthday either. Mike and I likely will do a dinner at a favorite restaurant, and that will be my present. My mom and dad have already given me a lot of help this year, so I won't accept a gift from them. Friends are encouraged NOT to give me gifts because the majority of my friends are teachers who are dropping hundreds on bulletin board sets, pens, pencils, markers, hall passes, construction paper, trade books, awards, treasure box items--oh my, the list goes on and on! So here you have a list of things I dream about getting for my birthday--maybe you'll find a little something you love too :-)! You'll find, I fear, that I'm not a cheap date :-).

The Scooterbag by Retrofied

Medallion by Gasoline Glamour

Summerville Jenkins in black by Kate Spade

Electric Aztec Necklace in green blue by Tarina Tarantino

Despres Necklace by Jeanine Payer

Those who teach...

2010-05-25T12:48:00.001-07:00

I guess I wasn't quite sure where to send all my pent up anger about students and their poor decisions; I turn to the blog. I know I've been gone again--out on a walkabout, I suppose. I have been teaching, watching a lot of movies, and escaping from the craziness that IS the life I lead. I am pretty irritated with the day, so I'll send my vibes out there via this little portal.

I've accepted a new teaching job. The job that I currently have isn't horrible, but it's not ideal either. I think if I would have kept the migrant students all year, I might feel differently. I've been hired as a full-time English teacher at a local alternative school. I've applied at said school every year for the past five. I've been rather desperate to teach there. I think this is the opportunity I've been waiting for and it affords me the opportunity to make more money. Hoorah! And my commute, which once was an hour and now is 20 minutes, will be less than seven minutes. Even better!

The big deciding factor was that I'm going to make a difference. I'm going to be back giving my heart to something that matters.

About damn time.

Tarina Tarantino, I Love You

2010-04-17T08:28:00.000-07:00

The way of the world

2010-03-04T16:22:00.001-08:00

Tonight is the second night of parent-teacher conferences. We teach full days and then have conferences until 8:00pm. Two nights in a row. Ugh. Because I teach in a high achieving district of students, there are often very few parents who take advantage of the teachers who spend their evenings waiting, and waiting, and waiting. Between the two nights I have seen seven families. That's seven over a span of eight hours. Seriously. I guess it could be worse and I could be back at the one-hour length conferences I had at the private school. Double ugh.

I've been out of the blogosphere again and I apologize for that. I wish I could say there have been awesome, fun, and brilliant things happening that have stolen my time and attention. This, unfortunately, is not true. In fact, however, I have simply been overwhelmed with my schedule and exhausted ALL the time. I'm also desperate for spring, so the funk of all funks needs to disappear with a slightly warm wind. Soon!

I just thought I'd check in with you all while I'm here at conferences waiting and waiting to tell parents about their kids. Really? Really.

So I'll check in again soon when I know something new. Maybe I'll have a fun post after my Saturday night of sushi with friends. One can hope!

The ease

2010-02-08T18:30:00.001-08:00

It is in the last of last moments
That an image
Of a small dog
Walking with a stick
Crosswise in his mouth
Comes tumbling out of my memory
Smuggled in a tiny pouch of velvet
Waiting for you.
It is in the giving away,
That the mundane becomes beautiful.
Your acceptance of my silly story
Allows me to fly,
To become a glowing light in the corner
Of today
And tomorrow
And on and on.
I shall never,
So long as you are mine,
See a small dog
With a stick
Crosswise in his mouth
as anything
But a miracle.

We Know Love

2010-01-23T13:50:00.001-08:00

Because it is too ridiculous for words
we will simply laugh
and let the joy take us.
The clouds of goodness
will surround our heads
in halos of smoke rings
and I will dance with your hand
tightly in mine.
The only song for us will be
our enchanted voices
and exhaling breaths.
As we wander aimlessly,
faces to the sky,
mouths full of beauty--
the two of us,
twins in marvel of life
and the rare magic
that brought us together.
Our hands entwined
(We)
for fear this helium balloon
(Know)
will carry us away.
(Love)
We know love.

First

2010-01-23T08:43:00.000-08:00

Standing amid exploding shoots
of green and amber
it is becoming
the here and now
growing deeply into earth
and devouring
the musty, perfection of it.
Enveloped in the sweet deliciousness
of the infinite goodness
all has grown together
in a magical second
like unformed clay
and it is
as it always
should be.

2010

2010-01-09T13:58:00.000-08:00

Two thousand ten/twenty ten. It almost seems like an ancient title for a futuristic little tale. However, here we are. Many people have been posting all their year-end reviews, their new year's predictions, resolutions which will resolve to dissolve, among other things. I fancied the idea of doing the same. Now I fancy another thought entirely. I thought I'd just write what's on my mind as it comes (for once) without having an exact aim or purpose or thought or agenda to my words. This is my new MO for 2010: take down the fences.

2009 wasn't the best year for me, nor my family. I guess it was a sight better than 2008 where my father lost his 20+ year old business to the economy and depression, the loss of my father's two siblings to cancer and illness, the firing of my mom after a 30 year stint at the same job (law suit has been filed), and the loss of my own job. 2009 was a year where I had to find a new job and make something of myself. I have never been so terrified. Mike and I moved into a duplex thinking I might open my own teaching business--a small home-school operation. That was thrilling for a minute, but after the research proved it to be too lofty a goal, I was back to sending resumes and cover letters over and over again. The interviews almost killed me. However, I landed this special and interesting position teaching at Williamsburg. I love it and I love the kids. I love being able to teach ONLY English courses again. And I love teaching high school. Don't believe anyone when they say they love teaching junior high.

I feel like the world has me on a roller coaster most of the time. I'm always worrying and dealing with odd, awful thoughts. What if. What when. What why. What how. Mike and I really have been struggling financially since I was only able to get five years of my teaching experience recognized for salary this year. That means I am making about $13,000 less than I could. Teaching salaries are dismal at best, but to not have seven years of experience count toward my salary has been difficult. We've downsized to one car. I carpool most days. I tutor four times a week. Mike takes as much overtime as he can. I'm entering a formal plan to consolidate and reduce my personal debt. It's been harrowing.

I think the worst blow, and I'd never tell this to Mike, is that I've lost my entire Jeanine Payer collection. It was the only thing I had of value to help us in some really tight spots. I no longer have very many pieces (two: a wedding gift from Mike (the Emily) and a recent piece I had made with Mike's picture). Many family members have been gifted the pieces from me (the ones with my own poetry, that is). I had numerous lovely pieces that were unique and acquired by heavy overtime and work in other places (I used to freelance as a copywriter for Target and that was the way I bought most of my collection). It's devastating. I purchased a few beautiful shadow boxes from Pottery Barn back in the day that housed the pieces that had my words, others' words, and such. I never took a picture of that display and I deeply regret it. I can honestly say that I wore at least one JP piece daily when I had such a varied collection. Now I have nothing. I have rent that was covered or a car payment covered or a credit card bill covered. I know I should never love anything that cannot love me back, but those jewelry pieces were so dear to me. I can't even write about it anymore.

So here are we are for 2010. I have had a good year so far (all nine days of it). I've learned to simplify and get down to bare bones. Our home is very sparsely covered and I am learning to love it. The open spaces help me breathe. I have made a promise to myself to start writing more diligently again. If I can sort through the muck of my greyness when it comes to my emotions, I think I can produce some good stuff. The year here in Iowa has been white! We have feet of snow and Mike is outside shoveling as I type this. I'm hoping for good things this year, but I'm afraid, again, about the state budget cuts and the security of my teaching job. I promised myself not to worry, as worry doesn't make anything better.

I suppose what I've learned here is that if I just "let myself go" a lot comes out and I doubt anyone is even reading this. And if they are, they're likely bored of my waxing on and on by now :-). In my hope of beautiful things I will leave the post with a gorgeous piece of Jeanine Payer's, the one I would buy now if I could (and likely never will have the opportunity to buy again). Thoreau is one of my favorite poets and this quote gives me the reminder that I'm a part of something larger than myself. I can integrate myself within the world around me and become something beautiful and worthwhile. It is within my grasp. The magnifying glass on this piece is also a good symbol for what I want out of 2010--I want to notice the tiny things--the tiny details, worlds and feelings--because everything else is apparent, and it's up to me to be conscious and aware. Its quote is thus:

This is a delicious evening, when the whole body is one sense, and imbibes delight through every pore. I go and come with a strange liberty in Nature, a part of herself.
-Henry David Thoreau

All honor to Ms. Payer and the beauty she creates--I've never felt more in love with her jewelry than I do this year. Perhaps it's now knowing I am less likely to be given the honor to own it again, but for whatever reason, it's given me a 2010 hope and mantra. "This is a delicious evening" indeed.

The Evolution of Self

2010-01-02T10:56:00.000-08:00

I am one of those "born to be a teacher" types. I scoured the public library book sales and bought old text books in order to play school with my friends. I gave math assignments, put stickers on papers, and practiced the flourish of "great work!" over and over. The first nine years of my teaching career are very memorable with fantastically beautiful memories of specific students. I worked with students who really NEEDED me and what I could offer them. It was tremendous.

The past two years of my career I worked at a small, private school that had a philosophy of extremes. They advertise as a school that appreciates every child for their individual differences. This is somewhat true, but can never be wholly true. We served families that were gifted academically and financially. We served children who had specific dietary needs. It was a unique and curious place. At the end of 2008, I had begun having problems there. I began seeing problems in the way the school was offering materials, etc. It was being mismanaged. I was subsequently told (maybe unrelatedly, maybe not) that the program I was leading was being eliminated at the end of the school year. I needed to look for a new job.

In the quest for a new job, it became apparent that this little change of teaching venue may prove to be a blessing in disguise. I was terrified. I was worried about money (incessantly and still am). I was devastated by the loss of my co-workers who were good friends. I was, have I said, terrified! I'm lucky to be working in a fantastic school right now. I love my job and hope I get to stay--but as always, the economic climate and state cut-backs may have a say in that. We'll see.

I was reading the newspaper the other day for our local 10 to watch in 2010. I see on the list a former teacher from my previous school. He also was dismissed from the school (the year before I started there). He's doing AMAZING things and I am so impressed by his work. I think that being given these veiled "new chances" may be a way to become the self we're meant to become. Please check out his website:

Something about finding this former teacher's website and experience outlined here, has given me a lot to think about in regards to the nature of our evolutions of self. I may be writing more about this as the days go by, but Taproots is a great example of how the tables can turn. And boy, how they turn!

What are you doing, New Year's...New Year's Eve?

2009-12-28T16:10:00.000-08:00

In blogland I've completely skipped over Christmas. I spent the majority of the holiday at my parents' home. The Iowa weather was finicky and Mike and I were the only guests. While I was disappointed at first, I ended up having one of the best and coziest Christmas holidays in recent memory. I am concerned however that the holiday at home rotation assures my brother and I will never again have a Christmas together. Sigh.

Now I'm on to the lounging of the vacation until New Year's. I always have a great romantic vision of New Year's and it hardly ever turns out the way I anticipate. I envision a sparkling evening in which I look devastatingly gorgeous (bah!) and the food is divine and wine is flowing. We usually don't have tons of money, and it might even be an ice storm, and I won't have the right clothes, etc., etc. I have no idea what we'll do this year, but I'm keeping my romantic notions in check. That way I won't be disappointed :-).

Just wanted to pop my head in to say hello! Take care of yourself during the final days of this 2009. May your New Year's Eve be all you hope it to be. I'm wishing you sparkles and warm conversation. Love all around!

She reappears!

2009-12-12T09:12:00.000-08:00

And just like that, in a blink of an eye I was gone. Never you fear, I'm back for the time being. See, I have this day job that sort of takes up a lot of my time. It also gave me the H1N1, and bronchitis, but mostly it takes up my time. Also, it's very routine so I end up not having a lot to post about on a blog. I mean, how often can I lament the foolishness of teenagers? Really.

All in all, the past handful of months have been rather dull. We've been struggling to get by--just like everyone else. That's been consuming because I end up having to read the store ads in order to make my shopping lists. It becomes so much more effort-driven when one has to actually THINK about what to put on a grocery list. Ha.

Holiday preparations have been made. Gifts have been purchased (only one per loved one this year). We are lucky to be able to spend Christmas at my parents' house this year. We only do that every other year, so I cherish the times I get to be at my own home for the holiday. I have a lot of nostalgia and sentimentality about my own family's traditions. I miss them immensely when we're away.

I hope the New Year brings something wonderful for all of us. I am still, again, unsure about my job. The governor and state has demanded many cut-backs and my district is adhering to them. That means last hired first fired. I hope I can find ways to make myself valuable to the district, but when it comes to dollars...well, there's no fighting that. I have, however, been accepted to a program here at the University of Iowa called Relevance Program. I am one of two students accepted and the tuition is covered completely by the University. I will, at the end of the program, have an ESL/ELL/TESOL endorsement. If I'm lucky enough to stay at Williamsburg, that will make my work with the migrant students so much easier and so much more rewarding.

Well...I just thought I'd check in and see if anyone is even still reading this darned thing. I wish I had a fun picture to post, but alas, I haven't even had my camera out since leaving Willowwind. Such a difference as I was taking pictures there daily for the newsletter. Wow! How things change.

Happy Holidays to one and all!

For my migrants--those beautiful birds

2009-09-04T21:36:00.001-07:00

The birds.
The birds.
They rest for their work,
Their sorrowful work
To be done
And then migrate
Against the painfully blue
open sky.
Their wings, clipped
Yet driven by a wind
So deep
That their homeland echoes
And speaks to them
Guiding them home.
Home.
Home.
And the seasons change,
The greenery turns to burnt emptiness
And the heart
Of the place
Is gone.
The birds
Have migrated.
Flapping and moving forward
With no want or will
But only home
Driving them
And behind
The shadows stretch long
And tall
While an empty branch
Hangs lonesome
Against the clouds.
A voice remains and twirls the wind
Reminding the trees
Of the temporary nature of life.
We will be back.
Home.
Home.
But the birds,
They migrate
And their wings
Beautifully black in the sun
Take every care
To find
Their way
Home.

The new love of my life

2009-08-25T18:15:00.001-07:00

The history of my teaching career is not that sordid, nor that interesting. I am one of those quirky folks who "always wanted to be a teacher." That being said, I truly DID think that I could make a difference and impact the world of the youth in some way. In the past eleven years I have come to understand what my friend Stacy, a fellow English teacher, told me one day. She said, "You know, I'm a good English teacher, but I am a damn good teacher."

We either teach people or we teach content. Those of us lucky to do both gain immortality.

For the first nine years of my teaching career I taught at a small, rural school. It was cornered in on all sides by cornfields. The school was rampant with mice during harvest and crickets around September. The students were poor, racist, rough and bound (for the most part) for the factories in our little river town. I loved connecting with those kids. In fact, the most profound moments of my teaching career occurred in that school. I had a student die in a car crash suddenly on a normal, typical Friday. I was cussed at and told I was going to be killed. I had pregnant students cry in my classroom. I counseled a few from dropping out. I rarely won that battle.

But it was a little too much for me. I had to find my way out.

I found myself teaching at a small, private school. By small I mean I had three students in 7/8th grade the first year and seven the next. I was charged with teaching science, social studies and humanities. The students were wildly gifted. They were strange and didn't watch TV. They didn't know pop culture and their parents were horrible. I have never felt so defeated as an individual in my entire life. Looking back, I should have gotten out after the first year, but the kids were the thing that kept me sane. The parents were vultures and never in my life have I had a job quite like that one. I singlehandedly finished a bottle of Pepcid within the first nine weeks. It was soul crushing.

Just the other day, August 19th to be exact, I walked into a new teaching position. I am teaching an ELL guided English course, sophomore English and community college credit composition. That first day I walked into that ELL class and was faced with a chaotic class of migrant, primarily Spanish speaking, students.

I was a fish out of water.

Granted my husband is half-Mexican, but I speak little to no Spanish. These kids were sizing me up and I was failing the test. I have had only a few moments in my life where I felt like running and ducking for cover, but this was one of them. I wasn't sure how I was going to connect with these kids. I didn't know their stories. I felt shame for fearing them. I needed to be more prepared.

Now, a few days later I'm in love with my migrant students. I spend close one-on-one time with them. I know them. I can't wait to get to know them better. But here's where you come in. Research Monsanto, the company that brings them from Texas to Iowa for work. See if you can understand them and see if you can help me push for better schooling, housing, pay, etc. for migrant families.

I found out that there are two work camps for the kids I teach. It's outside of town and neglected. The west camp is an old motel. The top floor doesn't have bathrooms in the "apartments." The people have to go outside to a portable to shower and use the toilet. They don't have any modern conveniences provided like T.V., air conditioning or transportation. Sure, they're paid for their work and their day care is provided, and their "apartments" are paid for, but I ask if you'd live in those conditions and trust your children to those people. Would you work in the fields of corn for 16+ hours a day?

Probably not.

I know that these kids are likely leaving to go back to Texas in October or December, but I'm falling in love with them and who they are. Let me introduce a few:

Rafael: A gorgeous, Hispanic 17 year old. Due to migrant working schedules he's only completed six high school credits at the age of 17. He is tempted by gangs back in Texas. His high school is a school for youth in need of discipline. He was recently arrested for a drive-by with a paint gun. He used to sell drugs, do drugs and fight daily. He skips school in Texas and no one cares. In Iowa he attends school everyday and is enjoyable. He cries when talks about leaving.

Reyna: So, so beautiful! Her family lost their home and truck in the spring due to bills that went unpaid. They moved to Iowa as migrants to work for the first time. The entire family spent the summer in the fields. She has to wake her father up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom outside their apartment because being alone at night isn't safe in the camps. She's 15. She might not finish high school.

Jackie: Wants to be a dentist. She speaks the BEST English of all the students. She's gorgeous as well--hair down to her waist and flowery glasses. She's a beauty. She says her father is "better" because he works with the Americanos. She doesn't know if she'll get her AP credits in Texas because of her migrant status. She is worried about the fights at her Valley school. She will probably make it.

Miguel: He migrates all across the US. He barely stays in one school for more than a few months. He's shy, but wants to make connections. He has worked in orange groves, watermelon fields and the corn/bean fields of Iowa. He speaks half Spanish and half English almost all the time. When he smiles it's almost painful for him. I hope he can make it to graduation. He always says, "Miss, I just want to graduate." I hope I can help him. He plans on leaving in October.

These are a few of my kids. If you have ideas on how to help them and how we can help form a system to mold the work to their educational benefit, please let me know. I'll post their pictures soon.

All my best to you all.

This time of year...

2009-08-13T15:45:00.000-07:00

Iowa City suffers/enjoys such a large influx of population in these busy weeks. The University starts to come alive and there are tons of people walking the hot, late night streets. Many people don't know what to envision when you say, "I'm from Iowa!" Experience has shown me that they often see outstretched cornfields, farmers, tractors and nothingness for as far as the eye can see. Nothing could be further from the truth. Just take a look above at a collection of some of my favorite things! Iowa City is a bustling little place of writers and jazz and great shops and amazing local food! It's the best place on Earth in my book (today).

This is the time of year that everything starts going in fast motion. Mornings are early again and weekends are safe harbors. Books are constantly piling up on my desk and there's never enough time for all the reading. It's a great time of year. A time of year that I look forward to no matter what chaos my life brings. This is a new school year in Iowa City. Ain't it grand?

Today was my first workday at the new gig. It was lonesome and tiring and confusing. I was nervous and jittery and full of the charm I have to lay on to make friends. I think it's going to be harder than I anticipated. I miss my friends. I miss them coming to me to make them laugh. I miss being a part of a "them." I'll give it time, but god damnit does it hurt.

This weekend is the early celebration of my birthday (the 19th) and Mike's (the 25th). I'll be in school for my first student day on my birthday (boo!). Mike generally doesn't get hyped up about birthdays, but I like to do a little something. Sadly, none of our friends are in town for the weekend, so we had to cancel a little party we were planning. My parents are coming instead and taking us out for a delicious, fancy steak dinner. This will be quite the treat as we've been eating Ramen, peanut butter and mac and cheese for a while now. Yay for Iowa City's restaurants!

Roam around those pictures in the mosaic and get to know Iowa City. She's a good old sweater that just gets better and better with age.

And this is how I find myself...

2009-08-03T12:06:00.000-07:00

There are officially a minimal amount of days before the adventure of my new teaching position begins. I find myself full of anxiety and nerves and excitement. All these things are contributing to a flurry of work and then flurries of absolute paralysis. My teaching post includes a few new courses that are going to be somewhat demanding. I'm going to be working with the school's migrant student population and designing a new resource course to supplement their existing English courses. I will also be teaching the community college composition course for advanced seniors. I've been pouring over the text book which seems great and gloomy all at the same time (just about perfect, actually). Then there's the soul-saving sophomore English. I taught sophomore English for years, but I think I may have to teach The Crucible. And. Well. Ugh.

So, I'm just rambling here.

I've been wallowing in romantic puddles lately. I am enamored in the most ridiculous way with the movie Shopgirl. It's quirky and sad and full of expectation and somewhat unexpected reality. I think it's lovely. It's thrown me for a loop.

Please don't even ask about my writing. I have failed this week (which, as a writer, means I failed numerous times prior to getting to this week). I'm feeling low about it and don't know what I'm going to do. I am no longer able to work with more than one jewelry designer and therefore this limits me right now. I'll figure it out in time.

Well, and so as I said, there are just a few days prior to the start of school. And this is how I find myself...listless and anxious with no end in sight.

Down the rabbit hole she goes!

2009-07-19T10:47:00.000-07:00

Let me put to rest your fears that I had disappeared for good. I have been basking in the glory of our new home! It's so spacious and wonderful. I haven't really had a lot of energy to spend on blogging, but...I'm BACK, baby! There are so many things to say and not enough things to say and saying things that are about so many things and not enough things is ridiculous. So I'm simply going to do some highlights and carry on!

THE NEW PLACE
•We're all moved into our place. See photos for evidence:

I've been running around on the internet because we don't have cable/t.v. and I've begun coveting some items (that's right, coveting--the Ten Commandments be damned!). Take a look:

THE BLACK APPLE
Everyone knows I love The Black Apple. Well, she's done it this time! She's made these amazing lovelies that a Kate must have!

WALL PRETTY
I'm just about head over heels in love with this cabinet. This just might have to be a part of my office/dressing room wall vignette.

THE ANNIVERSARY HEART
Oh, oh, AND, July 17th was DH's and my wedding anniversary. My beloved knew that I loved that Tarina Tarantino black heart necklace and it happened to be delivered to our house on our anniversary. I wore it yesterday and felt quite lovely! What a thoughtful man I married!

THE NEW JOB
The new teaching position I accept for the fall has become more and more interesting! I have heard from the principal and I'll be teaching 10th grade English, a resource class within the English dept. for migrant students, and the community college composition course (taught on site, but through the local comm. college). I think this is going to be a really great opportunity and year. I can't wait!

Well...that might be enough to leave this post. Let me know how you're doin' and how it's all going! I'll be checking in!

The to do list of a thousand miles!

2009-06-28T14:45:00.000-07:00

Welly, well well. Let's see how this list shaped up!

To do:
1. ~~Pack the game closet~~
2. ~~Get all bags and coats packed~~
3. ~~Pack the remaining things in Kate's closet~~
4. ~~Be prepared and make every session that's scheduled~~
5. ~~Collect newspapers to pack glasses in kitchen~~
6. ~~Pack the glasses and dishes~~
7. ~~Drop off physical form to the doctor~~
8. ~~Mail package to Jill~~

UPDATES:

1. Clean up the little crap that's left with no rhyme or reason
2. Take out the junk and garbage to the dumpster (Mike will be crucial for this one)
3. Pack the food in cupboards and fridge (half done already)
4. Put a few things in the car for tomorrow.

Zip-e-dee-do-dah!

I found my perfect heart!

2009-06-28T14:36:00.000-07:00

So I've been searching high and low for a particular necklace by Tarina Tarantino ever since I saw Miss Franky wearing it. Franky is the gorgeous blond featured here with the designer, Tarina at the big gala event to open Tarina's newest collection. The newest collection revolves around the 70th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz.

(picture courtesy of Gabriella Lucretia)

Regardless--I've found the necklace. It's in my cart. Now all I need is a little cash :-). I think I deserve it after this long and arduous move. So...feast your eyes on this beauty:

(photo courtesy of www.tarinatarantino.com)

Now who wants to help out the black heart necklace for Kate fund?

PS: Tomorrow's the big day--we're moving into our whole new life! Now...anybody have advice on how to tame an out of control lawn without doing anything permanent? Who is a container gardener?

Getting there...

2009-06-25T06:59:00.001-07:00

All right--so I've done about HALF of my closet. It's just depressing in there. MOST of the bags and coats are packed. I'm going to tackle the game closet today. Then we're in spectacular shape!

To do:
1. Pack the game closet
2. Get all bags and coats packed
3. Pack the remaining things in Kate's closet
4. ~~Be prepared and make every session that's scheduled~~
5. ~~Collect newspapers to pack glasses in kitchen~~
6. ~~Pack the glasses and dishes~~
7. ~~Drop off physical form to the doctor~~
8. ~~Mail package to Jill~~

Just got word today that the people in our new place are moving today. Therefore we might be able to move in AND out on Monday! I guess sometimes things work out. Keep positive thoughts that we'll be able to move it all in and out on Monday! Hoorah!

I even managed to sneak in a doctor's appointment yesterday. All I have to say about that is that they should give people handheld GPS at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in order to find their way. I'm serious about that.

My poor withered attempt

2009-06-23T15:02:00.000-07:00

To do:
1. Pack the game closet
2. Get all bags and coats packed
3. Pack the remaining things in Kate's closet
4. Be prepared and make every session that's scheduled
5. ~~Collect newspapers to pack glasses in kitchen~~
6. Pack the glasses and dishes
7. ~~Drop off physical form to the doctor~~
8. ~~Mail package to Jill~~

Please note: nothing which really deals with packing is crossed off the list. I'm pathetic. Haha.

Losing it and getting it together

2009-06-23T08:26:00.001-07:00

As I type this I'm sitting in my living room surrounded by boxes. This is compounded by the fact that I know not everything is packed yet. This is compounded by the fact that we won't be able to move into our new place until Wednesday although we're moving out of this place on Monday.

I feel adrift.

I'm feeling, as well, like I'm out of control. Not enough money. Not enough time. Or if I do have enough time, I'm not motivated to use it. I can't get to bed on time and can't get up on time. In fact, one mother discontinued my tutoring services today because I was late.

Shit.

I just wish I had a magic wand to wave over all this and get it in order. "It," whatever that is. I have this overwhelming urge to be organized and have a beautiful home in our new space, but I can't seem to get myself together enough to get out of this space.

So here's my to-do list for the next few days. Maybe if I know this list is out there in the blogosphere waiting to be checked off, I'll get some things going.

To do:
1. Pack the game closet
2. Get all bags and coats packed
3. Pack the remaining things in Kate's closet
4. Be prepared and make every session that's scheduled
5. Collect newspapers to pack glasses in kitchen
6. Pack the glasses and dishes
7. Drop off physical form to the doctor
8. Mail package to Jill

I think that's all I can take right now.

Did someone say, "Obsession?"

2009-06-20T11:05:00.001-07:00

As a writer, I think it's natural to think of a lovely, little reclusive spot to hide away and work. I have tried this in apartments we've lived in, etc. It never works for me. However, I'm newly obsessed with tiny little houses. I have loved seeing the tiny little house on this blog . That led me to this blog. That led me to Tumbleweed Tiny Houses.

I just think it would be amazing to steal away in one of these tiny houses and write. I can't imagine anything sweeter or more fantastic. I keep thinking about where I'd put one, how I'd save the money, who could help me build it, etc., etc. I just think they're so extremely perfect. Check out a few of my favorites:

A few new obsessions

2009-06-20T10:55:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned that I like looking for ways to distract myself from packing. Well, one of my most favorite past times is to look online and find my newest obsessions. One of my favorite shops and blogs to follow is Something's Hiding in Here, they have featured a new hotel that's open in New York. The Ace Hotel. Be still my withering, slowly beating heart. Check out these photos (photos taken from somethingshidinginhere.typepad.com):

It's so unique and so wonderful! They even have a great conference area called "Liberty Hall." I think I'm in love. Anybody want to go to The Ace with me?

Rearranging

2009-06-14T14:39:00.000-07:00

What's a better distraction from packing than rearranging my blog? Ha. So I found this great blog template and I'm in love with it. I'm working out the bugs and making it the way I want it, so it may be a little bit longer until it's perfect. We'll see how it goes!

So I began with packing the living room yesterday. I packed until I ran out of tape, and that wasn't that much packing. I only have one tutoring session tomorrow that's a half-and-half brother and sister. It will go by really fast I think. Then I'll pick up my new packing tape and we'll reestablish the packing routine.

Just wanted to check in and let you know that the new layout is here for a while! I hope you like it! While you're at it, check out some of the great new jewelry at www.tarinatarantino.com. Her stuff is so fun!

All my best!

Give it a whirl

2009-06-12T09:39:00.001-07:00

A Step in the Right Direction

2009-06-11T13:27:00.000-07:00

Last night I had the most delightful dinner with my friends. I had been feeling pretty out of it with the actual end of my job coming to fruition. Looking back now, I realize that the school I spent the last two years at wasn't the best fit for me. I romanticized it because I loved the people I worked with everyday. It was the most close-knit group of ladies that I've ever worked alongside. It was wonderful to be with them. Therefore, as you can imagine, I loved getting together with them last night. They surprised me with beautiful flowers (white hydrangeas with red berries and greens) and a gift card for the dinner we had together!

So it appears things are looking up! I have accepted a wonderful teaching position for the fall. I will be teaching upper grades in high school, and I love that! I'm really looking forward to getting back to the high school scene. I love the material and content as well as the kids. I will use this blog to keep you posted! I began tutoring for the summer this week. It's been fun, and great because I can plan and spend an hour at a time with my kiddos. It's a lot more fulfilling and still leaves me with time to take care of things at home and have fun with other things.

I've ordered our boxes to start packing up our apartment for our move. I'm starting to get really excited about decorating a new place. However, now that we're not going to be using our lower level for a tutoring/teaching space, I realize we don't have enough furniture for this bigger spot. While I think this is pretty funny, I'm still embracing it. I do know the packing is going to be the worst part. I'm not looking forward to that!

Because my parents are mostly going to have stay out of their house while they're trying to sell their house (open houses and all that). They're going to come for a day trip this weekend. I get to pick what to do in order to celebrate my new job! Any suggestions?

Banny

2009-06-07T06:57:00.000-07:00

When I was in college my dad decided to become a "hunter." I think he secretly was looking for reasons to get into the woods and contemplate life, but I digress. Part of becoming a hunter is picking out a faithful four-legged companion. That's what he did. My dad was hesitant because he had a dog when my parents were first married, and when my brother was born the dog had to go. Dad said it was devastating to him and that he'd never gotten over the loss.

So Banny entered our lives. She was a clumsy little black Lab when we first saw her behind the farm fence. She was part of a large litter, but she was easily, hands down, the cutest one of the bunch. She came to live with my parents when she was eight months old. She was terrified of stairs, unable to walk on linoleum, and wouldn't eat out of her dog bowl. Her quirky little self became a part of our family. She was the most perfect dog. She only barked when she sensed my dad's car was driving down the lane. She didn't demand much, just a toss of the frisbe. She didn't ruin things in the house. She just was Banny.

Two days ago Banny died. She was 15 years old, which is quite something for a family dog. I'm having a hard time accepting it, and keep telling myself she was just a dog. But I know she wasn't just a dog, she was a part of our family. Much like my dad, I think I'll never get over the loss of Banny, but I'm very glad I knew her.

The ebb and flow continues

2009-05-17T10:52:00.000-07:00

My parents just announced today that they're putting their house up for sale. While I knew this day was coming, it makes me a little sad and nostalgic. I was sent an email from my mom with all the things they're getting rid of in their first "sorting" round. I thought some things were intriguing, but have decided I don't really need the objects around in order to have the memory. Besides, Mike and I are moving in June as well, so the last thing we need is another this-or-that to pack up.

It just seems like things are constantly changing. I suppose this isn't all bad, but it makes it hard for the heart to settle sometimes. Sigh.

The Undercurrent

2009-05-16T16:00:00.001-07:00

This is the time of year I love and hate equally. It's a strange time in my profession, but it allows me the opportunity to think about indulging all my extra-curricular hobbies. I'm in the process of writing new pieces of poetry to submit to Jeanine Payer. I haven't written more than one piece at a sitting for a long time, so this is a lot of fun.

Inspiration for new writing has come from a load of places. I used to be so wholly consumed by love that I would see it in every little motion and emotion. While that's still mostly true, I find myself sandwiched between the most melancholy of moods and the most wild joy. I don't know what I'll do with myself (or what others will do with me) but I suppose it's time for prime writing.

Here's a sneak preview of the work I'm submitting. This is my new favorite poem entitled You.

All of a sudden
Summer was in full spotlight
And I felt the whole of it
Settled like a nest of forgotten eggs
Upon the softest spot of my heart.
With one glimpse of your face
Beneath the most perfect and honest sun
I became a poet
Filled with words never assembled before--
Beauty underpinning beauty
In that emerald moment of abandon
Because there was only you
And the most beautiful of everything.

Under pressure

2009-04-11T07:56:00.001-07:00

A great little picture I took in the kiln room of my school. I sort of feel like I'm beneath the big turning wheel.

I've had a terrible string of luck lately. I had a coveted interview for a job--yay! I was second runner up--boo! I got to get out of the school for a field trip--yay! I slammed my foot in the car door and broke my toe--boo! I had begun making amends for my youthful mistakes--yay! A dreaded phone call from the past occurred the other day--boo! I love my cute little baby car--yay! I had a car accident that cost me more money than I have--boo!

Anyway, what I'm trying to say is that sometimes things really feel like hell. I try to remain a positive person looking for the light at the end of the tunnel, but damn did that broken toe push me over the edge (ha). If you read this and you have some thoughts of what might make me look up, please leave it in a comment. I'm on the lookout for great pick-me-ups. But please, let them be cheap, I have zero dollars.

I suppose one thing that's gaining momentum in the "positive" department is that it's starting to look more like spring. The 10 inches of snow that occurred in Iowa last week are now a distant memory. I woke up this morning to sunshine and birds chirping. Granted there's still a chill in the air, but I'm hopeful that by one-o-clock it will be a little warmer.

Well, super perfundo to all of you on this Easter weekend. I'm sure there are some egg hunts, chocolate bunnies, and synthetic green, blue and pink grasses out there! I am not religious at all and therefore don't celebrate Easter, but my mom's birthday is the same day. I'll be traveling with my betrothed to a delightful restaurant of Mom's choosing for her birthday celebration tomorrow. If you are traveling, be safe and watch your toes around those car doors! Just trust me on that.

To Pour

2009-04-07T15:28:00.000-07:00

Click here for a fantastic giveaway: Rae Dunn

Rae Dunn's work is being featured on Give Away Today's blog. Take a look and enter to win. Her work is gorgeous and so fun! Enter now!

Friends

2009-03-21T21:44:00.001-07:00

I just arrived home--half drunk and in love with the world. My friends are getting married and we threw them a couples' shower. How fun can two people be when they're new and fresh with the dew of love? I just trip over their every action and reaction to each other. It's bliss in its truest form.

This was a "stock the bar" party and we found that all the members of our community (drinkers and non-drinkers alike) found the most sublime gifts. I wish, in a small way, to be getting married again and getting showered with these fantastic gifts. I love them and I know I haven't told them as much. Life moves too quickly.

Perhaps their perfect moments of love will remain with me as they escape the midwest and move south. I doubt I will miss them less with memories of them so fresh and vivid. Isn't it a shame that love for friends becomes so apparent when its the most fleeting?

Spring Break!

2009-03-15T09:55:00.000-07:00

I generally loathe Sunday evenings because it means the end of the weekend. This is something I've done since I was in grade school. I would mysteriously get a stomach ache every Sunday night. Now that I'm an adult you'd think that would go away, but no such luck. However, today is different. I don't have school tomorrow. It's Spring Break, baby!

Although I have very few plans for Spring Break week (no money for a Florida trip or something equally as fun) I'm going to try to relax and enjoy myself. I might hibernate and stay away from everyone I know. I was going to go into school and start packing up my stuff, but I think I'm going to stay away. It's more appealing to disappear into obscurity for a week.

I do have to deal with the fact that we banged up a bit of my car the other day. It's particularly annoying because DH and I share a car. So we'll be zipping around town in a rental car next week while the baby beetle is getting fixed up. What a pain in the rump.

Anyway, I'm super excited to have the week to do whatever I want--among a couple obligations. The weather is supposed to creep into the sixties. Yippeee. There's a couples shower for a good friend the final weekend of break. That's something to look forward to. How fun! This is the time of year that's full of awesomeness.

Oh...and...

2009-02-28T10:45:00.000-08:00

We're moving. I guess as July begins to come around we'll be moving to a larger place. It's equipped with a great area for my new classroom. I hope that all works out. I'll be teaching summer school (because, why not just continue to be stressed and without an extra moment?), so I hope we can get the move done efficiently and completely around our schedules. Didn't someone say that a teacher's summer is "time off"? Ugh.

Also, if you're in my area and you're in need of tutoring for a child ages 5-college, I'm qualified and looking to add students to my roster! Get in touch!

(Shamless plug over!)

Deliciousness

2009-02-28T10:23:00.000-08:00

As the months begin to wind down in my current job, I start enjoying the small and sentimental times with my students. Spring has always been a time where I feel motivated to do fun things with the kids. I am proud of their ambitions and preparation for the next step, but I'm going to miss their quirky and sweet beings.

Here's the latest in the fun endeavors we're trying. I'm wanting to teach them about cooking and baking. I suppose it's not every day that an English teacher decides to foster the beings of her students in such a way. All in all, we've had a blast! We've created some delicious food fare so far. Cookies and focaccia bread. Next week we're onto making spaghetti all carbonara and cheesecake. (note: I generally despise blog posts with pictures of food that people are making, but these are 10-14 year olds. That alone makes it more interesting :-).)

I wasn't quite ure what we'd gotten into, but they were eager and ready to work!

The snickerdoodle group in action! Check out that clean area they kept up with--fastidious!

Snickerdoodles that the most "proficient" group created from scratch.

Monster Cookies! These puppies were dropped on the tray by 1/4 cups full!

The lovely sweet finished product!

Middle schoolers with knives--brave, brave, Kate.

Our beautiful focaccia bread topping--it smelled so good with the garlic, basil and olive oil!

The focaccia bread right out of the oven--we made the dough from scratch as well!

The delicious close-up of the bread--so, so, good!

Wowee, wow, wow!

2009-02-09T18:06:00.000-08:00

Sorry I've been invisible as of late. I guess among the chores of everyday life, planning baby showers, engagement showers and bridal showers I've left you all in the lurch! How could I do it?!? Well...here's my update.

The business venture I mentioned prior to this post is a wonderful one. I am going to be running my own private teaching and tutoring business. I currently teach a full-time (plus some) gig and tutor two students on the side. I'm about to take on my third student on Wednesdays. I began thinking that with the elimination of the program I work at my private school, there are few alternative/private options for upper grade students. This is where I come in. I'm going to take on a handful of privately taught students (either dual enrolled at local schools or fully homeschooled by me--allbeit secular homeschool). I will also take on about 12 privately tutored students who range from the "need help and remediation" to the strongly gifted and talented. I have an MA in English education and will focus my energies on the humanities. I also have a reading endorsement and will work with the kids that need specialized reading. It's going to be exciting.

So...DH and I are going to stop by the landlords' place and sign a lease on a new duplex on Wednesday. This place has a finished basement, office and separate entrance for me to use as my "classroom". It's going to be fun and interesting and quite the adventure. DH is going to take care of the business side of things. He's more than able to handle it.

So that's that.

Beyond that I've started writing for another jewelry designer who features words on her pieces. I'll keep you posted on that as it becomes more and more apparent. The AIDS pendant is in the works for the AIDS run in Minneapolis--designed by Sarah Sitarz and featuring a bit of a poem that I wrote for a dear friend whose brother died of AIDS. Busy, busy!

Anyway--I think I'm back to posting here and there. Don't forget to check in on me. The guilt that surrounds knowing you're all lurking keeps me writing!

Home Sweet Home!

2008-12-29T12:10:00.000-08:00

After some excruciating weather delays on the Iowa side of our trip, and a long layover in Ohio, we're home sweet home! What a trip to Utah we had. It's always an adventure to be in the same house as all the in-law siblings--we manage to create havoc somehow. There were numerous homemade Mexican feasts (early and late in the day). I couldn't have eaten better if I'd been in the King's castle all week!

However, I'm delighted to be home. Being greeted at the door by the smell of my own home, the glow of the Christmas tree, and the comfort of my own bed were simple pleasures. Home again, home again.

I've been treating myself to visions of other Christmas celebrations in my mind. What the kids I know looked like opening gifts, what my favorite people received, and how the treats stretched on and on and on... So indulge me, if you will, with reports of your own Christmases. I'd love to hear about your gifts, you delights, and the best parts of it all. I have my immediate family's Christmas on New Year's Eve (without my brother this year, sad). There will be an indepth report on that one as well.

Let the stories begin!

Little by little

2008-12-16T16:43:00.001-08:00

My mom accepted a fantastic job today!

AND

I am planning on starting my own business.

Details to come...

You think it can't get worse

2008-12-13T09:18:00.000-08:00

And then it does.

On Wednesday I was informed that the school where I currently teach is eliminating their 7/8th grade program. I happen to be the 7/8th grade teacher. That means I'm on a job search. I am lucky to be teaching for the remainder of the year, and perhaps directing the summer school program, but after that, I will need a new job.

This year, 2008, has been the worst year of my life thus far. My dad has become depressed and under a black cloud due to the deaths of his brother and sister. His business, which he built after a long period of craziness, is closing at the end of this month. As of right now, he has no job to go to. My mom, was fired after 30 years of working for the same clinic. She has no job as of right now. My brother moved to Omaha--too far away for my liking. And now my job situation.

Ridiculous.

Here's hoping that 2009 is all we're hoping for, and more.

Sigh.

Christmas Countdown

2008-12-07T14:34:00.001-08:00

So...this is what Christmas looks like in the tiny corner of our apartment. I love this time of year. I'm excited to wrap presents and get everything ready for the big day. We'll be spending the holiday out west with my in-laws. I love getting together with them because DH's siblings are wildly hilarious. We always have a great time. Besides, my mother-in-law is Mexican and she cooks the most amazing feast for us while we're there: empanadas, chimichangas, homemade refried beans and tortillas, chorizo and eggs, taquitos. The list goes on and on. We're really looking forward to it. Mike and I are very thankful to be able to fly this year.

What does your Christmas look like?

Click

2008-12-03T17:40:00.000-08:00

What barrier is there that love cannot break?--Ghandi

I guess we're starting over

2008-12-01T17:57:00.000-08:00

Here is an article that appeared in my hometown newspaper regarding my dad closing his business. I have no words..no words to describe the bittersweet sadness.

Monday, December 1, 2008 12:01 PM CST
High-profile local ad agency Ad-Fax closing

By PAT KINNEY, Courier News Editor

WATERLOO --- An advertising agency executive who has been involved in a number of high-profile community projects over the past 20 years is closing up shop.

Chris Harshbarger, chief executive officer of Ad-Fax Inc., said a drop-off in automotive and other advertising business, coupled with personal health issues within his immediate family are prompting him to close the agency at the end of December.

"2008 had been a difficult year for us personally, our family as well as a downturn in business, and the difficulty in moving forward in a tight economy forced the decision to close the business rather than go further into debt," Harshbarger said.

"After 20 years in this particular business, and so many community projects, it's a very sad time, and it is particularly stressful for those staff who have been with our company throughout the life of it," he said.

Harshbarger had been cutting staff through the year. He had 11 at the beginning of 2008; now there are six. The agency employed as many as 23, during the mid-1990s.

"We know as a work family there are many, many other people who have more difficult things to face," Harshbarger said. "I look to the community to help all unemployed find a place to land, and pray the employees who leave our company will find employment that takes advantage of their tremendous talent."

Harshbarger, the former executive director of the Hawkeye Valley Area Agency on Aging, founded Ad-Fax in 1989. Over that time the company had been involved in a number of community endeavors, including a campaign for a skate park in the late 1980s; development of the MidPort America industrial park near the Waterloo Regional Airport in the early 1990s; and work with Jamco Inc., a group of road construction contractors which unsuccessfully bid to buy out the then-bankrupt National Cattle Congress in the mid-1990s.

Harshbarger and his firm also mounted a successful referendum campaign for Cedar Falls Utilities to establish a metropolitan communications utility in 1994. His firm also has published CFU's quarterly newsletter, which Harshbarger said will now have to be taken on by other parties. His agency clients have ranged from those in the automotive industry to Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Dubuque.

Harshbarger and his firm also helped prepare the Cedar Valley's proposal to bring a Micron, Inc. computer chip plant here in 1994, after Waterloo was named a national finalist for that facility. He also helped successfully oppose a 2002 referendum to re-direct local option sales tax money away from street repairs toward some Vision Iowa projects. Harshbarger and his firm also did a considerable amount of work with Covenant Health System and Peoples Community Health Clinic.

In 2006, Harshbarger was one of the first community leaders who helped make public the financial problems of the Boys and Girls Club of Black Hawk County and helped that agency to reorganize. In the 1980s he also served on committees which recommended successful mergers of the city of Waterloo and Black Hawk County health departments; as well as the city and county assessors offices. He also served on a county committee looking at county employee health insurance.

His company also worked on a number of political campaigns, including the successful 1993 election campaign of Waterloo Mayor John Rooff.

Harshbarger also is a past chairman of the Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.

"One thing I believe we developed a clear ability to do is to solve problems. We've proven that through this company and through my other endeavors in the market," he said. "I don't know what my future holds, but I think I can bring value to whatever I find myself invited to do.

"The natural inclination is to look at the business closure as a failure. I can't look at this as a failure, if I'm honestly considering all the things our company has been able to involve itself with," he said. "The kindness and overwhelming gestures from our vendors and our customers just leaves us without words to express our appreciation."

Thanksgiving Anticipation

2008-11-23T16:18:00.001-08:00

This is one of my favorite times of the year: holiday season. I love the gift giving, the food preparation, the hustle and bustle at the stores. I'm in love with the holidays. I love filling my apartment with cinnamon scents and the glittery glow of candles. Well, I'm on the countdown to Thanksgiving. It will be a small crowd this year, but it will be lovely and joyful all the same. I am looking forward to home cooking and sangria with my mom. I think it will be fun and a good respite for all of us.

I want to take a moment to thank all of those who continue to read this blog, whether you know me or not. Also, thank you for encouraging my words, blog or poetry, and for being wonderful people. The world is bleak and dark as it is, so people like you illuminate the dusty attic corners of the undiscovered.

With Love and Gratitude--
Kate

Weather of Reminisicing

2008-11-09T10:36:00.000-08:00

My grandmother's wedding photo

I suppose there are always these sliding doors of life. The ones that allow loved ones in and loved ones out, strangers to become lovers and lovers to become strangers. Sometimes it's hard to accept that you're always moving in and among, through and behind, infront of and around these doors of change.

I have found myself thinking of my grandmother now that the weather has evaporated into a grey pallet. Transporting myself ten or fifteen years backward on a Sunday just like this I find myself in her house, the soft glorious smell of pot roast nestled among carrots and onions stewing away in her oven. One thing I loved about her house was that nothing ever changed. Even the change of the seasons brought out the same lovely decorations over and over. I could count on that green house on 8th Avenue. I could count on her.

Sometimes I wonder if my relationship with my grandma has become trumped-up in my mind since her death. Maybe she didn't love me as much as I remember. Maybe her food wasn't always that amazing. Maybe those sugar cookies in the shape of turkeys with raisins as eyes weren't her own little secret. But probably not.

On days the opposite of the one outside my sliding glass door, up in the northern reaches of Minnesota, she and I would be the early risers on the front porch of the cabin. She would emerge with a steaming cup of coffee, wearing her housecoat with lime green, yellow, orange and pink flowers (1970 all over again). We'd admire the rolling mist on the lake, thick as fog, and the hoot of the loons hidden somewhere within. She was mine. I was hers. We shared silence so beautifully.

I wish it didn't take so long to mourn the loss of someone we love. It takes for god damned ever sometimes. That's the worst part of it all. The best part is forgetting her cancer, forgetting the nights of horrendous scenes, forgetting the forgetting. That's the blessing in disguise that allows today to be the day that oncoming winter means the warmth of a grandmother.

The old haunts

2008-11-02T16:32:00.001-08:00

Halloween is one of my favorite holidays. I love all the gothic, dark and macabre details of the holiday. I think I may love Dia de los Muertos even more. I know that I would decorate all in black and red, shimmery silver and glitter with skulls and dried roses everywhere if I could do it without getting committed! I think that's why I love Frida Kahlo so much. She put all the celebratory parts of death around her at all times and never apologized. Frida rules.

What also comes with Halloween are the cutest little cuties in their costumes. I'm lucky enough to work in a building with young kids so I can ooh and ahh at their cuteness every Halloween. Take a peek for yourself:

James Dean incarnate!

This litte one came in to the school flapping her unicorn wings and being proud of the fact that she had arrived!

One of the most beautiful Dorothies I've ever seen!

All in all, it was a fun holiday. I'm hoping that my students aren't experiencing too much of a sugar hangover on Monday.

Enjoying Autumn

2008-10-20T16:44:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was one of the best I've had in a long time! The beautiful autumn weather is lingering perfectly in Iowa, and it inspired a trip to the pumpkin farm. DH and I took a short fifteen minute drive down the highway and stopped at a lovely little spot to find the Great Pumpkin. We may not have seen the wonderful wonder of the patch, but we did find our favorite pumpkins for Halloween.

You can't really escape from an Iowa pumpkin farm without seeing some goats, sheep, etc. DH and I admired the Billy Goat Cross with the pygmy goats. That's right. Pygmy goats.

This little cutie kept finding the largest opening in the fence to get a good pet on the head. There were many little ones around and every time this guy's head came shooting through the fence, there was a collective squeal! Just as it should be.

And here's DH with the lovely Iowa background, the setting sun and his new Halloween pumpkin. We'll carve these babies up nice right :-). I can't wait to get the candles in the jack-o-lanterns and get that distinct smokey tea light, pumpkin candle smell against a cold Hallow's Eve.

Here I am--waving Happy Autumn to all of you out there! Here's hoping you get your best, greatest pumpkin somewhere nearby.

To Appear...

2008-10-11T16:35:00.000-07:00

Just the other day I received an email from Erin, the business director at Girls Academie (www.girlsacademie.com). She mentioned that she'd admired my poetry work through Jeanine Payer. I was flattered enough at that. She extended a warm invitation for me to appear in front of a group of the Girls Acadamie students in order to discuss my poetry and maybe run a workshop for one of their Extraordinary Events. She said the mission of Girls Academie is to encourage girls to live lives of passion and dreams, and that my work with writing may be an inspiration. Fun!

It was amazing to be asked, as a poet, to do something fantastic like this. I don't know if I'll be able to make the appearance due to the distance to one of the Girls Academies (maybe I'll go to Paris for the appearance!). I hope I can make it!

UPDATE: I have received an email stating that they will fly me out to one of their established chapters in spring or summer for my appearance. It will be somewhere like Boston, Sun Valley, Beverly Hills, Seattle. I'm very excited! Maybe I can even go to San Francisco and tour the Jeanine Payer studios as well :-).

Other than that, life is status quo and busy, busy. I've sent the AIDS project quotes to Sarah Sitarz and the director of the St. Paul project. I'll keep you posted on the progress.

Hope all is well with all of you!

Artifact of Neither Fact, nor Art

2008-10-02T18:26:00.000-07:00

As a middle school teacher (and a high school teacher) I've had to answer questions of the most bizarre quality. Most of said questions are hilarious and provide a great deal of hilarity to my Friday and Saturday evenings with friends.

I submit for your perusal the following note I was given by an eighth grade student yesterday.

How would you have answered? Hahahaha.

My Sweet Mom

2008-09-28T14:22:00.000-07:00

Just a request for thoughts for my mom. She has recently been terminated from a job she had for thirty years. THIRTY YEARS! Argh. I truly believe that this circumstance is no different and she will prevail. However, she's consumed with worry and stress and huge decisions. She still teaches me it means EVERYTHING to stand up for what you believe is right--even if you pay the price for it.

She's a strong lady who has been through two rounds of cancer and kicked its ass. She's had major surgeries related to her cancer treatments, two of which we were certain brought her inches away from death. I hope to only be half as strong as she has been. So in these moments where she's not as strong as I know she can be, we need to rally and help her out. If you think of it, put some energy out there for my mom, Kathy. She could use a little!

I love this picture of my mom on Pont Neuf looking out on the Seine in Paris. She and I took a fabulous trip to Europe together last year. She's spectacular!

Sick

2008-09-17T16:25:00.000-07:00

I generally accept being sick. It's a part of being a teacher. You get those germy little hands on you, on your lunch, on your doorknobs. It's a part of the deal. For the past two days I have been at home with something akin to the bubonic plague. I look like this:Which is the expression of, "Why me? Seriously...why me?" Donna, of Gabriella Lucretia told me that sometimes we get sick as a way to tell us to slow down, lay down and go with it. Well, consider it noted and me to be my body's number one student. Now that I've progressed from a sore throat, to overall aches and sneezing, to a painful cough, I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Although, I'm going to school tomorrow. YOU HEAR ME? This will all be over tomorrow. I'll be back to school.

Cough and all.

Bringing the fun back to being a girl!

2008-09-15T18:53:00.001-07:00

Such is the slogan for my friend Erin's etsy shop. She sells magnificent felted treasures. Now, you've probably seen felted pins or felted clips, but you haven't seen Erin's felting! Her magnolia felted flowers are gorgeous. She often will pop into the scene wearing one or two and the flowers just take over. Really. They're beautiful.

Erin is truly creative and gloriously generous. Her passion for beauty shows through in everything she does. I admire her talent and her verve. She's a mom, an artist, a volunteer, and a spectacular person. These, among many other reasons is why you should shop fufukitty.etsy.com.

Take another peek:

So for all of you who are out there craving a little more "girl" in your life, this is the spot! I know one or more of you readers have young girls at home who would be beautiful wearing these felted fancies.

I'm just saying...

Well...hm...

2008-09-11T17:24:00.000-07:00

I have this overwhelming feeling that I should post something of significance. My sources tell me some of you have been checking in on me and hoping to see something lovely, interesting, or at least worthwhile on the blog. Well, because I aim to please...

What a true beauty! Jeanine Payer has released her new collection for August 2008. It certainly doesn't disappoint. With new and inspiring poetry the pieces are timeless and beg to be owned. I love so many of the new releases that I will put them on my wish list. I did purchase one piece to have and to hold 'til death do us part. What a romance it will be!

There's something about poetry and jewelry. Jeanine Payer got it right, I tell you. I hope I can meet her someday and tour the studio. I think that would be a minor dream come true. A girl can dream, right?

All in all, I've been plugging away at some writing projects and continuously looking for more. I might take on a few tutoring assignments to bring in a little extra holiday cash. We'll see (exhaustion will be the major factor here). I'll keep you posted on my newest endeavor with Sarah Sitarz. I will be writing poetry for a dog-tag style pendant that will be given to all who participate in an AIDS benefit in St. Paul. I have a dear friend whose brother died of AIDS and I'm dedicating my work to him. Seems like a worthy enough cause, eh?

Quote #1

2008-09-03T17:50:00.000-07:00

As you all know, I teach middle school. This is a hard gig to love, but when you're a superstar teacher like me, it's a piece of cake. However, there are those awkward, hilarious 13 year old moments that provide amazing quotes and fodder for stories. I hope to share a lot of these with you as the year progresses. Here, in fact, is a conversation between one of my eighth grade girls and me:

Me: What's going on?
Student: Sean asked me to the movies.
Me: What did you say?
Student: I don't know. Do you think he likes me?
Me: Well. Yeah. I guess so.
Student: Hm.
Me: Why, you don't like him?
Student: No. Well. I don't know. I REALLY like Cort.
Me: ...
Student: I mean, listen, if I had a picture of Cort I'd definitely put it on my computer as the wallpaper.
Me: ...

Pretty good, huh?

Eaten alive!

2008-09-01T15:12:00.001-07:00

So did you think I'd been eaten alive by the middle schoolers? No such luck. I've been plugging away at the teaching schedule and projects I've planned. I keep looking for more things to do--why, I'll never know. Regardless--I've been busy and THINKING a lot about blogging, but never really getting in the mood to update.

But here I am. All for you! :-)

So, here's one of the fun things I've been drooling over as of late:

This is a really fun tote from Lori Marie. Her blog and etsy shop are so much fun! You should definitely check her out!

I look forward to hearing more about what you all have been up to! I hope you're still checking in on me!

Birthday and Friday

2008-08-21T17:18:00.000-07:00

So this week was the first week of school with students. What a whirlwind! I've been working non-stop on planning my curriculum--especially since I'm a trained secondary English teacher and am teaching a little bit of science and social studies as well. Ahhhh! It's been challenging for sure.

The highlight of the week? MY BIRTHDAY. I had a birthday on Tuesday. It was the first school-day birthday I've ever had. I'm rarely in school this early in the year. It was nice, though, to get to see so many of my friends and have them give me happy wishes all day long.

I'm so glad tomorrow is Friday. I'm looking forward to having a chance to sleep in and maybe have a few adult beverages with DH. We'll also be celebrating DH's birthday on Saturday with a delicious steak dinner. I'm definitely looking forward to it.

So, since I've been gone, what have you been up to?

Vienna

2008-08-17T16:25:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to update my legions of fans (haha...hilarious) that a small section of one of my recent submissions was chosen to appear on a new necklace for Jeanine Payer. The necklace is entitled Vienna. It's in the August 2008 collection which will show up in stores late August or early September. I haven't received a picture of the piece as of yet, but am sure it will be divine. Here's the quote:

This will be a place to begin

And together

We will wander.

Great, huh? A small light in the midst of a long tunnel for sure.

The last weekend

2008-08-15T20:50:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been MIA for a little while. I've started back to the teaching routine (meetings, inservices, teacher preparation, etc.). To be honest, it's been grueling. I teach at a small, private school where parents pay a good amount of money for what I can offer. I am left at the end of this week feeling drained, mined, and spent. My feet hurt. My back aches. I am back to only having one break in the day to use the bathroom. Welcome to teaching. I love what I do, but I don't love the fringe feelings of mayhem that come along with the career. And sometimes, frankly, I don't love the parents who drop off backpacks, hover in morning meetings, and question my abilities.

I truly believe you will not find a better English teacher than me.

Regardless, I am back to the grind and working hard on putting the umph back into my routine. I will still make As Is a priority of mine. If you've been checking in on me, keep it up as I need your support. I hope to hear from YOU all soon.

Go for gold (my only nod to the obsessive quality with which I've been watching the Olympics)!

And they're off!

2008-08-06T20:11:00.001-07:00

Bright and early tomorrow morning, DH and I will head out the door on a vacation. We've been busy today getting our cooler ready for the car ride, laundry done and ironed, maps printed and such. So exciting. We'll only be gone for a few short days in order to return just in time for the teacher inservice work-week prior to the big beginning! I'm back to work on August 12th and begin with kids on August 18th. Then on August 19th, it's the day to celebrate the birth of yours truly. I can honestly say I've never been in school on my birthday--I will make the best of it.

Anyway, we're off to Canada! I'll post a few memories when we return on Monday. Have a good basketfull of days!

Where I'm Headed

2008-08-02T11:14:00.000-07:00

So the school year is about to begin. Take a look at what I'm heading back to in a few weeks. I'd better get to work on my plans!

Valentino Ink Jewelry

2008-08-02T10:07:00.000-07:00

She doesn't like mean people, bad energy, or bell peppers--of course her jewery is full of subtleties and light beauty. I encountered Francesca's (owner and designer of Valentino Ink Jewelry) jewelry through Donna's store. What a surprise to find jewelry that was elegant, feminine and beautifully crafted. At Valentino Ink I found this lovely little rose necklace. I've never seen anything like it and that's only PART of its appeal. It would be spectacular paired with a white t-shirt and jeans, or a little black dress for the evening. Don't you NEED to have it?

Francesca recently graduated with her Graphic Design Degree from FIDM L.A. She decided to continue on at FIDM for her Jewelry certificate. I can't imagine what she'll design with the added jewelry study under her belt--everything is already dazzling!

It's not every jewelry designer who can make such varied pieces. Check out this little ring that Francesca has listed in her shop (on sale I might add). It reminds me of a designer piece I saw a few years ago in Colorado. The beads like bubbles on the metal. It screams fun and beauty for the owner! Everyone will ask where they can get one, too!

As everyone knows, I love unique necklaces. I was not at a loss to find one, two or four that I would love to have at Franky's shop. I love this necklace entitled, "I'm not perfect". It features a single opalescent lavender biwa freshwater pearl with a beautiful "random" blister. It's highlighted with sterling silver. I think I love this piece the most because it's so unique and requires a second look. In fact, the description that Franky has on the piece made me smile: "She's not perfect...but she is very pretty at being just that. Hehe..". What woman can't identify with that?

So, because I know you don't want to miss the good stuff, run over to Valentino Ink Jewelry and scoop up something lovely. Not only is the shop full of fabulous jewelry, at Franky's prices, you can afford a few lovely things. Happy shopping at Valentino Ink!

Stay Tuned

2008-08-01T20:21:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow, Saturday, I'll be doing another Etsy feature on a good connection of Gabriella Lucretia's.

You won't be disappointed.

Rejection

2008-07-31T19:09:00.000-07:00

Yeah. So I suffered some serious rejection today. I wonder if these things go in streaks, patterns or parallels. I just really have had this ridiculous time of it lately. I hate rejection. Rejection can consider itself rejected.

Anybody have some rejection stories for me?

Grr.

Audience Participation!

2008-07-28T22:25:00.000-07:00

Because I'm a romantic at heart--a hopeless one (yes, I'll text a friend in Kentucky and ask her if she's seeing the absolutely wrong guy for her beasue I think he's special and worth her while). That's me.

I want to know your proposal stories.

I want to know how you were asked to be married. To give up your singlehood and be a couple for good. I want to know it.

Please post it.

Please.

The undoing

2008-07-26T19:31:00.000-07:00

Recently I've been needing to sell off some of my Jeanine Payer collection. It's been a bit devastating to this old heart of mine. I do, in the process of selling the pieces, meet some incredible Jeanine Payer collectors. We connect over email and wax poetic about our favorite pieces.

For example, that I wear the Jolene necklace with Peony pendant daily.

I will not be selling pieces anymore for reasons I should have heeded earlier. However, just this evening a piece of mine sold to a wonderful young lady in Canada. We happen to have a few of the same pieces in our collections. What a great reaching into the interweb and shaking of hands. Lovely.

I am anxiously awaiting the new JP collection to go up online at the end of August or the beginning of September. I don't know if I'll be buying a piece or not, due to my lack of funds or my reception by the tiny jewelry box.

I get committed to pieces of jewelry and end up loving them like pieces of myself. I recently gave a piece of my jewelry away to a friend who had completed her MA degree. It was a small pendant by Pam Kehoe Petersen which read "never be ordinary". I get a little joy everytime I see this friend wearing the necklace. It's more perfect for her than it is for me. Maybe I was meant to break it in for her. Who knows.

I'm still wishing for that Richard piece. Anyone out there willing to add to the Richard necklace account? :-)

Gabriella Lucretia

2008-07-26T09:28:00.000-07:00

A month or more ago I was diving into Etsy and looking for unique necklaces. There's something about finding an interesting piece and knowing no one in my entire town will have one like it. As I was on my Etsy-dition I came across a newish shop entitled Gabriella Lucretia. If the name itself wasn't enough to lure me in, the Parisian header clinched it.

What I found in this shop were steampunk jewelry pieces. I had been an admirer of this emerging style for quite some time. The steampunk pieces I had found mostly incorporated old watch parts and some Victorian nods here and there. What Gabriella Lucretia's pieces offered were something deeper and more exciting. There were hands and religious artifacts. Each piece was a new story.

The first piece I purchased from Gabriella Lucretia's owner and designer, Donna, was a really cool Red Cross medal with a sacred heart icon on it. I wear it all the time and get compliments and questions constantly! But here's the thing, when I bought the piece I connected in conversations with Donna. She was fun and superbly kind and intensely interested in communicating. I spoke with her about making me another piece and she vividly put details together quickly. I purchased my second piece from her a few weeks later--story short, I'm hooked.

Here are a few pieces from her store that I think are spectacular right now. If you like them, though, you'd better hurry over and take a look before they're gone!

Don't miss the good stuff!

The Black Apple

2008-07-26T08:57:00.000-07:00

I stroll online through a lot of blogs and shops and stores to find beautiful things I need to own. I lust after a few things on a daily basis and am constantly awaiting the arrival of a new post, a new product, or the new line to be released. I instantly fell in love with Emily Martin's work as The Black Apple. I have a host of her prints in my own home and wish I could just collect dozens to fill an entire wall. I think her characters are so full of whimsy (like me) and a little life of their own. I just think they're so cute and fun.

The above photo was copied from Emily's blog (see the link to the right). One of the most recent items she's created, I think the idea of painting on a book is divine. I also love that she has a romantic heart and gave this spectacular piece to her sweetheart. I really hope you browse through her blog and her etsy store to enjoy the art and characters she's created. It's like a whole new world!

Tell us about you...

2008-07-22T19:26:00.000-07:00

I have been interviewing a lot lately. I've been interviewing partially to find that perfect new job, and partially to keep my skills talon sharp. I interviewed today at a huge school in a nearby city. I got lost walking from the parking lot, past the gym, on my way to the main office. Finally I had to stop a kid in the hallway and ask where the hell I needed to go. Hilarious. The real topper on this one is that I was escorted out of the interview office and down a short hallway which spit me out at the exact parking lot where I had parked. How did that happen? Gah.

I find the interviewing process interesting, but tedious. What I've loved from the process recently is the myriad of questions I've encountered. It's been a riot. Some of the questions, admittedly, have been very difficult. Others have been more informal and conversational. The common thread among all the interviews is that every committee has been running approximately twenty minutes behind schedule. It's lovely having to wait, isn't it?

All in all I may come out of this with a new position for the fall. I guess that's not such a bad thing, right? Right.

and so it begins...

2008-07-19T09:24:00.001-07:00

On Thursday, DH and I celebrated our fourth wedding anniversary. The past four years have flown by and while it's been difficult here and there, our journey has mostly been lovely. We met almost six and a half years ago. I remember telling people (after having known him for mere weeks) that he was going to marry me, he just didn't know it yet. And it took him much longer than me to figure it out. Here we are, six and a half years later, four wedded years later. I still think it's hilarious that DH might saunter in the bedroom as I'm just waking up (usually lots later than him) and say something crazy and top it off by mooning me as he walks out the door. I still think it's wonderful to know that he's in the apartment even if we're not in the same room. I still worry that someday he'll realize I'm much less than him and take his full moon somewhere else. But for now, I am deeply thankful for our love and life together.

DH's parents are coming to spend a few days with us for the first time (I know, after six years--they live on the other side of the country). The stress is unbelievable. I want to be sure everything is clean and tidy, cute and interesting. A person's home can tell you so much about him/her. And let's face it--the home will reflect more on me (as the wife) than it will on their son. To make matters even more interesting, MY parents are joining us for an upscale steakhouse dinner. Fingers crossed no one mentions religion (which is like hoping the sun will rise in the west). Anyway, I just tried to make the blow-up bed on which the in-laws have insisted on sleeping, cute and inviting. A blow-up bed. Come on. All in all, it will be so nice to see them--we haven't seen them for two years. But the stress of making a home presentable to the in-laws. Ugh.

I'm off to finish up a late breakfast and find something else to scrub or vacuum. Have a great day--don't miss the good stuff.

You're so vain...

2008-07-15T19:10:00.000-07:00

I know it will be hard to believe, but DH and I are sitting here (well, actually I'm laying here and he's sitting) searching on our respective computers for my name online. I've come to the conclusion that DH is a wicked-good online sleuth. We've come across quite a few sites that highlight a quote or two of mine. There's one blog that has five of my quotes scrolling there. How strange! I guess I forget that people may be wearing my words on rings, necklaces and bracelets somewhere out there.

I've been asked by people if I have a website or something where "fans" can be directed. That's just absurd. Just sort of surreal. Don't get me wrong, it's fantastic that people are loving my work and searching for me, but in reality, I'm not that big of a deal. It's just so strange. I love reading the stories about how something I wrote inspired courage, passion or joy. So very interesting!

New Poetry

2008-07-14T12:05:00.000-07:00

I don't write as much poetry as I used to. I hate that fact. I partially have just become rather lazy about it. I love writing poetry, but have lost my usual audience and forum where I used to post a lot of my work. However, I continue to write for three distinct jewelry designers. I am in the process of writing some poetry for Sarah Sitarz (www.sarahmichaeladesigns.com) which will be lovely and wonderful. I also just submitted some new work to Jeanine Payer. No idea whether or not Jeanine Payer will find something usable in the work I sent her, but I thought I'd share one of my newest poems here. If you come across this poem, please let me know what you think! I hope Ms. Payer finds something she likes in the Kate Richey files.

Immortality

I write to you
To give your forever skin
The tumbling truth of words.
To pay homage to the beauty
Of your ever-changing face--
In this way
To give you breath beyond breath.

I write to you
Because within your being
Is the ocean, the land, the mountains
And there
I rest all my starving lions
And stalking midnights--
Your half-closed eyes
Simply bring me peace.

I write to you
Forgetting the impermanence of self
Tripping devotions from my fingers
To worship the trail of your wanderings
To catch the lilt of your song.
You give me more in silence
Than I give in utterance.
I claim you as mine above all.

I write to you
Love for everything that breathes
And grows in your landscape--
An uncharted territory
In which I gladly set sail
With passion and gentility
So as to avoid a finality to your beauty
And your perfection
Because you will last.
You will last.

copyright Kate Richey

Lovely

2008-07-13T07:45:00.001-07:00

So I thought as part of the interesting elements to As Is, I would post some of the beautiful things I pine after on a daily basis. I am a bit of a necklaceaholic and scroll site after site of amazing things over and over. As many of you know, I love Jeanine Payer and am lucky enough to be a featured poet on a handful of pieces. Here's the newest piece that I really, really feel I must have. It reads:

Sky doesn't age or remember,
carries neither grudges nor hope.
Every morning is new as the last one,
uncreased as the not quite imaginable first.
-Jane Hirshfield

So I think this piece is lovely and a picture of perfection. I love the round barrel with the small knot of leather at the bottom. Who am I kidding, I don't need to convince you of the beauty of this piece. Right? I mean, right? So, if any of you out there feel the need to increase my happiness, feel free to send this lovely right over!

Starting Over

2008-07-12T11:28:00.000-07:00

As the song goes, "I've got no delusions about you." Let it be said, I've got no delusions about myself. Therefore, I'm certain I will not blog as much as I want. I'm certain you will not visit as often as I'd like. However, the shot is going to be given. Consider yourself warned.

For those of you who might desperately be seeking me in the old place, this blog is going to replace that old, tired beauty that moves. I promise to dazzle my masses with much more interesting content over here. Trust me. Or is that an delusion?