The man of my heart, who is a great dad and a dang good goalie to boot.
Larry spent the weekend with Nate at a lacrosse tournament that Nate's team had entered. Toting all of Nate's gear and making sure Nate was on time, at the right place with all his equipment. No mean feat considering they were far from home. Then, when is was all over, Larry went directly to his game north of Richmond .
A very busy weekend, but not an usual one, for a such a good dad on his day.
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Friday, June 15, 2012
Project MCP: Night Time
This week's Project MCP challenge was take a shot at night., which worked out pretty well for me.
The sparklers were the result of Meryl finishing for novel and wanting to celebrate the happy event. I love how this sparkler picture turned out.
By using the flash I got a nice quick shutter speed and the background turned velvety black, a nice trick considering it wasn't full dark. The spirals of smoke add a nice dimension with the bright sparks flying off the end. I did zero processing, this shot is straight out of the camera.
All in all it's a pretty nifty shot.
The sparklers were the result of Meryl finishing for novel and wanting to celebrate the happy event. I love how this sparkler picture turned out.
By using the flash I got a nice quick shutter speed and the background turned velvety black, a nice trick considering it wasn't full dark. The spirals of smoke add a nice dimension with the bright sparks flying off the end. I did zero processing, this shot is straight out of the camera.
All in all it's a pretty nifty shot.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Just One More Day
Friday is the last day of school and we are so very, very ready. We haven't broken out the sparklers, but are ready to go to the neighborhood pool party. The school bus drops the elementary school age kids off at the entrance and the parents greet them with all sorts of treats and pizza.
It's a great way to kick off the summer.
It's a great way to kick off the summer.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Artist of the Week: Novelist
This week's artist is my very good friend Meryl.
Last Saturday, as she publicly announced on her blog, she officially became a novelist. And judging by Max's reaction to her manuscript, a pretty good one at that.
She came by our house on Sunday bearing her 297 page and 85,000 word manuscript. It's a hefty stack of paper and Max ploughed through it all and declared it good. Which is high praise indeed since he is one of the pickiest readers I know. He'll ditch a book with nary a second thought if he finds it boring or just doesn't like some aspect of the subject. Easily half the books I pick out for him from the library get cast aside.
As for the sparklers in the picture, well Meryl felt like celebrating and had a bag full of sparklers in her car. It was a perfect night and we had a ton of fun lighting them up in the driveway.
Last Saturday, as she publicly announced on her blog, she officially became a novelist. And judging by Max's reaction to her manuscript, a pretty good one at that.
She came by our house on Sunday bearing her 297 page and 85,000 word manuscript. It's a hefty stack of paper and Max ploughed through it all and declared it good. Which is high praise indeed since he is one of the pickiest readers I know. He'll ditch a book with nary a second thought if he finds it boring or just doesn't like some aspect of the subject. Easily half the books I pick out for him from the library get cast aside.
As for the sparklers in the picture, well Meryl felt like celebrating and had a bag full of sparklers in her car. It was a perfect night and we had a ton of fun lighting them up in the driveway.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
A Train Near Magdeburg
I stumbled upon an article when I was looking at the 40 most powerful photographs ever taken.
I love looking at classic images and for the most port they were stunning. But one was a bit odd and stood out. Its format was different, clearly lifted out of a type written article. I pursued the link provided and learned of the fascinating story behind the image.
A Train Near Magdeburg tells part of the story of 743rd Tank Battalion and the 30th Infantry Division's liberation of 2,500 Jews that had been crammed aboard a death train and abandoned on a siding after meandering across Germany. It's a powerful story with additional links at the end that are well worth following. The article is the result of one small high school's teacher's efforts on the importance of studying history. His Web Log is Teaching History Matters.
Go and read.
I love looking at classic images and for the most port they were stunning. But one was a bit odd and stood out. Its format was different, clearly lifted out of a type written article. I pursued the link provided and learned of the fascinating story behind the image.
A Train Near Magdeburg tells part of the story of 743rd Tank Battalion and the 30th Infantry Division's liberation of 2,500 Jews that had been crammed aboard a death train and abandoned on a siding after meandering across Germany. It's a powerful story with additional links at the end that are well worth following. The article is the result of one small high school's teacher's efforts on the importance of studying history. His Web Log is Teaching History Matters.
Go and read.
Monday, June 11, 2012
TOOL INSECTS THE METAL
Yes, I'm addicted to stop motion animation. But you have to admit this one is short and sweet with a bonus stop motion making of the stop motion.
Sunday, June 10, 2012
In Praise of the B Movie
Last night I was surfing channels while chatting on the phone with Meryl about her just completed novel (and I must add a big Woot here) and I stumbled upon Mega Shark vs Crocosaurus, or as I like to think of it Mega Stupid with Crocawesome.
It is a truly awful movie.
It shamelessly reuses sets from its predecessor Mega Shark vs Giant Octopus, has endless stock footage, beyond bad dialogue, and some of the worst CGI I have seen in decades. Heck the earlier Godzillia movies had better production values. It is a classic direct to DVD release.
And yet I loved it.
Meryl and I howled over the wooden acting and bad direction. It is classified as Action/Horror, but it really is a comedy. One person in the comments in the trailer ripped into some of the many inaccuracies and my reaction was simply "Dude it's Mega Shark vs Crocosaurus, what did you expect." I love a movie that wallows in its trashiness and this movie is a prime example. Nate was appalled by the hot mess the movie is, but did ultimately see the humor. The earlier movie, Mega Shark vs Giant Octopus, is a better film, but I love this one too for all its cheesy glory. And even better, it has Urkel all grown up.
It is a truly awful movie.
It shamelessly reuses sets from its predecessor Mega Shark vs Giant Octopus, has endless stock footage, beyond bad dialogue, and some of the worst CGI I have seen in decades. Heck the earlier Godzillia movies had better production values. It is a classic direct to DVD release.
And yet I loved it.
Meryl and I howled over the wooden acting and bad direction. It is classified as Action/Horror, but it really is a comedy. One person in the comments in the trailer ripped into some of the many inaccuracies and my reaction was simply "Dude it's Mega Shark vs Crocosaurus, what did you expect." I love a movie that wallows in its trashiness and this movie is a prime example. Nate was appalled by the hot mess the movie is, but did ultimately see the humor. The earlier movie, Mega Shark vs Giant Octopus, is a better film, but I love this one too for all its cheesy glory. And even better, it has Urkel all grown up.
Friday, June 08, 2012
Strange Requests
Actual conversation with Max at bedtime tonight
"Mom, could you wake me up at 7 am tomorrow (Saturday)?"
"No."
Max is taken aback and asks why.
"Because tomorrow is Saturday and I'm not planning waking myself up a 7 much less you."
"Oh, that's right and very reasonable. Night mom."
"Night sweetie."
"Mom, could you wake me up at 7 am tomorrow (Saturday)?"
"No."
Max is taken aback and asks why.
"Because tomorrow is Saturday and I'm not planning waking myself up a 7 much less you."
"Oh, that's right and very reasonable. Night mom."
"Night sweetie."
Thursday, June 07, 2012
6 Days and Counting
Just 6 days are left in the school year.
6 more days of prodding people awake, organizing lunches, and pushing them out the door.
This also means just 6 more days of quiet and the computer all to myself.
I'm looking forward to the end of school.
Sort of.
6 more days of prodding people awake, organizing lunches, and pushing them out the door.
This also means just 6 more days of quiet and the computer all to myself.
I'm looking forward to the end of school.
Sort of.
Wednesday, June 06, 2012
Artist of the Week: Perseverance
This week's artist is Max. It is, however, not about his latest domino block creation. Instead it's about what it takes to make is creation.
Max spends a fair amount of time messing about with the dominoes. We have the jumbo sized ones which are better for building, but not by much. The tiles are still slippery to the touch and all too easily slide about. So it's not too surprising when something collapses. A dog could brush by or a sibling clomps along at the wrong moment. Occasionally Max himself triggers the fall when being a bit too eager to place something on top of his newly created tower.
Amazingly he doesn't get angry.
Oh he does get mad. I'm not trying to make him out as a saint. He just blurts out something like a quick "No (fill in the blank with the appropriate name)!", glares at the offender for the briefest of moments, and then moves on.
No drama, no demands for the wrong to be righted, just a calm acceptance.
Then he buckles down and builds something even better. Which is exactly what happened here.
He tried to place a figure on top and the tower collapsed. There was a stunned moment and that was it. Max then gathered up the dominoes and tried again. Half way through the second tower he announced that this one was a much better construction, but he still wasn't going to add the figure. He decided that maybe that wasn't the best idea.
Smart boy.
Max spends a fair amount of time messing about with the dominoes. We have the jumbo sized ones which are better for building, but not by much. The tiles are still slippery to the touch and all too easily slide about. So it's not too surprising when something collapses. A dog could brush by or a sibling clomps along at the wrong moment. Occasionally Max himself triggers the fall when being a bit too eager to place something on top of his newly created tower.
Amazingly he doesn't get angry.
Oh he does get mad. I'm not trying to make him out as a saint. He just blurts out something like a quick "No (fill in the blank with the appropriate name)!", glares at the offender for the briefest of moments, and then moves on.
No drama, no demands for the wrong to be righted, just a calm acceptance.
Then he buckles down and builds something even better. Which is exactly what happened here.
He tried to place a figure on top and the tower collapsed. There was a stunned moment and that was it. Max then gathered up the dominoes and tried again. Half way through the second tower he announced that this one was a much better construction, but he still wasn't going to add the figure. He decided that maybe that wasn't the best idea.
Smart boy.
Tuesday, June 05, 2012
Baking With Julia- Oasis Naan
This week's adventure in Baking with Julia was Oasis Naan. For a full run down on this week's recipe check out the hosts at Always Add More Butter (I love that blog's name!) and Of Cabbages and King Cakes.
I love Middle Eastern flat bread so I was very happy to see this Tuesday's recipe. Before making my naan I checked out the P & Q post to see if there were any tips and/or problems and I'm glad I did. Numerous people noted that the dough will puff out quite a bit when baking and you can not over dock (pierce the bread with a fork). I took the advice to heart and really went to town with my fork. And I'm happy to say it worked.
The bread smelled heavenly with the ground cumin. I decided to make my curried chicken as the entree with the idea of having the naan along side. Larry and thought the bread was delicious and used it to mop up the extra curry sauce on our plates. The bread chewy without being hard and was such a nice addition to the meal.
Mm, mm good.
The kids were less than thrilled. Thy did not care for the savory bread. I think next time I'll make little pizzas for them utilizing the recipe for naan sans the green ones and pepper.
I love Middle Eastern flat bread so I was very happy to see this Tuesday's recipe. Before making my naan I checked out the P & Q post to see if there were any tips and/or problems and I'm glad I did. Numerous people noted that the dough will puff out quite a bit when baking and you can not over dock (pierce the bread with a fork). I took the advice to heart and really went to town with my fork. And I'm happy to say it worked.
The bread smelled heavenly with the ground cumin. I decided to make my curried chicken as the entree with the idea of having the naan along side. Larry and thought the bread was delicious and used it to mop up the extra curry sauce on our plates. The bread chewy without being hard and was such a nice addition to the meal.
Mm, mm good.
The kids were less than thrilled. Thy did not care for the savory bread. I think next time I'll make little pizzas for them utilizing the recipe for naan sans the green ones and pepper.
Monday, June 04, 2012
Sunday, June 03, 2012
A Vermont Kind of Day
Today was just the kind of day that made me think of Vermont.
It just barely hit the low 80's with a bit of breeze and not a bit of the dreaded high humidity of the South. In a word it was Perfection.
Yes, it was a bit cool to go to the pool, but it was perfect to spend the day out on the deck reading. The allergens that are my bugaboo where done and the mosquitoes are not quite so prevalent. I love this kind of weather and it is one of the things I miss from Northern New England.
Soon enough the hammer will come down and it will be the normal hot and sticky Virginian summer. But for now I'll savor this blissfully cool weather.
It just barely hit the low 80's with a bit of breeze and not a bit of the dreaded high humidity of the South. In a word it was Perfection.
Yes, it was a bit cool to go to the pool, but it was perfect to spend the day out on the deck reading. The allergens that are my bugaboo where done and the mosquitoes are not quite so prevalent. I love this kind of weather and it is one of the things I miss from Northern New England.
Soon enough the hammer will come down and it will be the normal hot and sticky Virginian summer. But for now I'll savor this blissfully cool weather.
Friday, June 01, 2012
A Wee Bit of Weather
I found out today during my post bus morning walk with fellow stay at home parents that we were due for some weather. Fairly severe weather, along the lines of hail and strong winds. Which was news to me and a bit disconcerting since I had two events for this evening.
The first one was the informal "Becca's beirgarten" in my neighbor's backyard. If they are around and it is nice outside, neighbors are invited to stop by and visit. The second event was a bit of a cookout being held before services at my temple. So as you can see bad weather would pretty much put the kibosh on my whole evening's goal not to cook dinner.
At around 3 the first store blew in and dumped a ton of rain with an incredible clap of thunder. I was out doing errands and had just beat the rain. I was in my van when it all hit. Visibility was nil so I ended up entertaining myself by texting and calling friends until conditions improved. After about 15 minutes the rain stopped and I was able to carry on with my errands. By the time I got home Larry was already there, getting Nate together for his lacrosse tourney. I asked my husband if he had gotten caught in the storm. Not only was his answer a yes, but he went on to tell me he was in his car when it hailed..
Fortunately that seemed to mark the end of the storm.
The weather did look a bit dicey as the afternoon changed to evening, but nothing much happened. I was able to enjoy both events and, even better in my opinion, I got the night off from cooking dinner.
The first one was the informal "Becca's beirgarten" in my neighbor's backyard. If they are around and it is nice outside, neighbors are invited to stop by and visit. The second event was a bit of a cookout being held before services at my temple. So as you can see bad weather would pretty much put the kibosh on my whole evening's goal not to cook dinner.
At around 3 the first store blew in and dumped a ton of rain with an incredible clap of thunder. I was out doing errands and had just beat the rain. I was in my van when it all hit. Visibility was nil so I ended up entertaining myself by texting and calling friends until conditions improved. After about 15 minutes the rain stopped and I was able to carry on with my errands. By the time I got home Larry was already there, getting Nate together for his lacrosse tourney. I asked my husband if he had gotten caught in the storm. Not only was his answer a yes, but he went on to tell me he was in his car when it hailed..
Fortunately that seemed to mark the end of the storm.
The weather did look a bit dicey as the afternoon changed to evening, but nothing much happened. I was able to enjoy both events and, even better in my opinion, I got the night off from cooking dinner.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
20 Years Ago Yesterday
Wednesday was a very busy day.
20 years ago Larry and I said I do, so the plan was for a night out. Which got complicated when Nate's 6pm to 8pm lacrosse practice shifted to that day. Coupled with a fancy hair cut I earned by doing a spot of photography for the salon's owners, my day was spent zipping around Richmond.
Something had to give, hence the lack of post on Wednesday.
And it was a good decision. We had a lovely time at our favorite fancy restaurant, Juleps. It was nice being able to linger over an exquisitely prepared meal. The service was discrete with the nice little touch of the menu saying "Happy Anniversary" across the top (Larry told them when making the reservation).
And the fancy haircut, well it's rather rock'n'roll with a side of aubergine.
20 years ago Larry and I said I do, so the plan was for a night out. Which got complicated when Nate's 6pm to 8pm lacrosse practice shifted to that day. Coupled with a fancy hair cut I earned by doing a spot of photography for the salon's owners, my day was spent zipping around Richmond.
Something had to give, hence the lack of post on Wednesday.
And it was a good decision. We had a lovely time at our favorite fancy restaurant, Juleps. It was nice being able to linger over an exquisitely prepared meal. The service was discrete with the nice little touch of the menu saying "Happy Anniversary" across the top (Larry told them when making the reservation).
And the fancy haircut, well it's rather rock'n'roll with a side of aubergine.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
For the Police
In addition to the memorial wall I featured yesterday, there is a large block of highly polished granite in the same park.The block is a memorial to the police officers that had been killed while on duty.
It'd a beautiful creation fits in well at its location. A place that a fair number of people don't known at its existence. q found it a few years ago and just now I'm starting to take pictures. I should try to find other little parks in te Richmond area. It would be a good summer project for me and the kids.
It'd a beautiful creation fits in well at its location. A place that a fair number of people don't known at its existence. q found it a few years ago and just now I'm starting to take pictures. I should try to find other little parks in te Richmond area. It would be a good summer project for me and the kids.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Happy Birthday and Goodbye
Saturday was a good friend's 50th birthday. Saturday was also the day she lost her battle with ovarian cancer.
I don't have very many pictures of Nanci, but I have this one from almost 10 years ago with Rebecca.
This was before cancer came
and took her hair
and took her health
and took her life.
This was before her husband lost his friend.
This was before her son lost his mother, his biggest fan, and was robbed of the chance to bask in her pride at his high school graduation next month.
This was before her father's heart was broken.
This was before I lost a person that can't be replaced.
She lived her life to the fullest.
She was a doer and accomplished amazing things in her life.
When she was diagnosed three and half years ago with stage IIIc ovarian cancer she did not sit idly by. She rolled up her sleeves and fought it tooth and nail. She started a foundation, The Circle of Strength, to raise awareness, funds for research, and a place for support.
She fought so hard those three and a half years, but the cancer and the treatments took their toll and her body could take no more.
She celebrated her birthday a month early. Her friends came together and threw a huge party. She was wheelchair bound, but she had a wonderful time. Nanci was always in her element when she was at a party. That last party was the greatest gift.
I will miss my friend.
I don't have very many pictures of Nanci, but I have this one from almost 10 years ago with Rebecca.
This was before cancer came
and took her hair
and took her health
and took her life.
This was before her husband lost his friend.
This was before her son lost his mother, his biggest fan, and was robbed of the chance to bask in her pride at his high school graduation next month.
This was before her father's heart was broken.
This was before I lost a person that can't be replaced.
She lived her life to the fullest.
She was a doer and accomplished amazing things in her life.
When she was diagnosed three and half years ago with stage IIIc ovarian cancer she did not sit idly by. She rolled up her sleeves and fought it tooth and nail. She started a foundation, The Circle of Strength, to raise awareness, funds for research, and a place for support.
She fought so hard those three and a half years, but the cancer and the treatments took their toll and her body could take no more.
She celebrated her birthday a month early. Her friends came together and threw a huge party. She was wheelchair bound, but she had a wonderful time. Nanci was always in her element when she was at a party. That last party was the greatest gift.
I will miss my friend.
Friday, May 25, 2012
Project MCP: Motion Blur
This weeks challenge was to get moving, take a photo with motion blur.
I made sure to drag my camera to our last soccer game and I was completely unsuccessful in getting a blurred image in motion. I was only successful when I was at a pool party later that day and no longer trying to get any fancy dancy blurred shots.
Just as I pressed the shutter release this little blonde cutie flew by. I was initially irked, I was intent on getting a picture of Rebecca with her teams in the pool. It was her teams end of season party that was graciously hosted by the family of one of the team members. However, after a moments reflection and checking the image in the camera I realized I had my blurred shot.
And the best part, this image is straight out of the camera. No editing, no cropping, just straight from the camera to the world.
I made sure to drag my camera to our last soccer game and I was completely unsuccessful in getting a blurred image in motion. I was only successful when I was at a pool party later that day and no longer trying to get any fancy dancy blurred shots.
Just as I pressed the shutter release this little blonde cutie flew by. I was initially irked, I was intent on getting a picture of Rebecca with her teams in the pool. It was her teams end of season party that was graciously hosted by the family of one of the team members. However, after a moments reflection and checking the image in the camera I realized I had my blurred shot.
And the best part, this image is straight out of the camera. No editing, no cropping, just straight from the camera to the world.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
25?
I've got some big anniversaries coming up and one of them is my 25th college reunion.
I honestly can't believe it's been 25 years since I graduated from college. Yes I am the parent of two teenagers one of whom has a learners permit, but 25 years out? No way.
I kind of wish I could go, but the reunion weekend is at an impossible time- the first weekend in June. The kids are still in school and Nate has his first big lacrosse tourney that very same weekend. I know I'm not the only parent in my class that is stymied by the date, however we have no say in regards to the on campus festivities. It's the first weekend after graduation and it's before the campus gets handed over to various summer programs.
So I guess I have to wait until my little birdies have flow the nest (or at least a bit more self sufficient) before I can met up with the old gang.
I honestly can't believe it's been 25 years since I graduated from college. Yes I am the parent of two teenagers one of whom has a learners permit, but 25 years out? No way.
I kind of wish I could go, but the reunion weekend is at an impossible time- the first weekend in June. The kids are still in school and Nate has his first big lacrosse tourney that very same weekend. I know I'm not the only parent in my class that is stymied by the date, however we have no say in regards to the on campus festivities. It's the first weekend after graduation and it's before the campus gets handed over to various summer programs.
So I guess I have to wait until my little birdies have flow the nest (or at least a bit more self sufficient) before I can met up with the old gang.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Artist of the Week: Soloist
This year Jacob's band teacher decided to do things a bit differently for the end of the year concert. Normally she brings in a soloist from outside the school, but this year she decided to feature two seniors. One of them is a fellow trumpet player with Jacob. Cameron is a great guy and a wonderful trumpet player and was also this year's field marshal. He put up with a lot of shenanigans in the trumpet section.
I think he did an amazing job with a fairly complex piece. Jacob and I were impressed how Cam could play two notes at once. As Jacob noted, that's something the woodwinds can't do and that he finds very hard.
So I present Carnival of Venice.
I think he did an amazing job with a fairly complex piece. Jacob and I were impressed how Cam could play two notes at once. As Jacob noted, that's something the woodwinds can't do and that he finds very hard.
So I present Carnival of Venice.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Baking With Julia- Hungarian Shortbread
So, here is the promised Hungarian Shortbread. It's only three weeks late, but at least I got it done in time for third Tuesday. The recipe was hosted lo those many weeks ago at 1smallkitchen and The not so exciting adventures of a dabbler.
Like many of my fellow bakers I could not find fresh rhubarb. I ended up substituting strawberries in its stead. I had a ton of them and I needed to use them up before they all went bad. The jam smelt marvelous and I was able to cook it in advance and have it chill in the fridge for a few days.
The dough was a snap to make and with the addition of egg yolks quite different from the Scottish shortbread I know and love. It was also a bit odd to have to grate the dough, but it all made sense once I got a taste. By grating the dough the shortbread become almost fluffy and practically melted in the mouth. Rebecca, Jacob, and I loved the finished product.
This one is a keeper.
Like many of my fellow bakers I could not find fresh rhubarb. I ended up substituting strawberries in its stead. I had a ton of them and I needed to use them up before they all went bad. The jam smelt marvelous and I was able to cook it in advance and have it chill in the fridge for a few days.
The dough was a snap to make and with the addition of egg yolks quite different from the Scottish shortbread I know and love. It was also a bit odd to have to grate the dough, but it all made sense once I got a taste. By grating the dough the shortbread become almost fluffy and practically melted in the mouth. Rebecca, Jacob, and I loved the finished product.
This one is a keeper.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Pool Party
Soccer season is over, for now. We had our last game Saturday and shortly afterwards we went to Rebecca's post season team party.
I say we, but it really was just Max, Rebecca, and I. Nate was at a lacrosse tourney with Larry and Jake, who's not a big fan of pool parties, declined to attend a party for a U(nder) 10 girls soccer team.
Gee I wonder why.
The weather was perfect, bright sunshine and temps in the low 80s. The girls spent the majority of their time in the water while the parents looked on. It was warm, bot not quiet warm enough to tempt me. It was a great party and a lovely way to end the soccer season.
I say we, but it really was just Max, Rebecca, and I. Nate was at a lacrosse tourney with Larry and Jake, who's not a big fan of pool parties, declined to attend a party for a U(nder) 10 girls soccer team.
Gee I wonder why.
The weather was perfect, bright sunshine and temps in the low 80s. The girls spent the majority of their time in the water while the parents looked on. It was warm, bot not quiet warm enough to tempt me. It was a great party and a lovely way to end the soccer season.
Friday, May 18, 2012
Project MCP: Friend
This week's challenge at Project MCP was "friend." As in take a picture that demonstrates the word friend. I thought the best way to illustrate the word would be through the dogs.
Dell and John are best friends. On a daily basis they wrestle with each other, pile into the same crate, and lie side by side on the staircase. Which is remarkable since they did not grow up with each other and they are intact males. They even wait for each other before descending the deck's stairs to the backyard. It's pretty safe to say they are best friends.
So, when I saw them all curled together on the couch, I knew I had my picture. I wish I could have flipped Dell' ear down, but I knew they would get up and move off the couch if I tried. Fortunately I had my camera close by and I was able to get some pictures before the dogs scattered.
Dell and John are best friends. On a daily basis they wrestle with each other, pile into the same crate, and lie side by side on the staircase. Which is remarkable since they did not grow up with each other and they are intact males. They even wait for each other before descending the deck's stairs to the backyard. It's pretty safe to say they are best friends.
So, when I saw them all curled together on the couch, I knew I had my picture. I wish I could have flipped Dell' ear down, but I knew they would get up and move off the couch if I tried. Fortunately I had my camera close by and I was able to get some pictures before the dogs scattered.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Ow, Ow, Ow
As of yesterday I have started biking again and my legs are none too happy. I'm being sensible and not pushing too hard since it's been about a year. I need to build my self back up before tackling the long rides I used to do. At least I have been walking regularly so I'm not completely out of shape.
Why I stopped... I don't know.
I got busy and then there was the infamous poop on the helmet incident. Nate borrowed my helmet one day and somehow managed to drop it in dog poop. He felt bad and wanted to clean it up, but I decided it was time to get a new helmet. I've had it for well over a decade and it was time. So yet another reason not to bike. A few weeks later I did get a nice new helmet. But it languished in the garage, slung over the handle bars by its straps.
I figure it'll take a week to get re-acclimated (oh my poor tush) and then I'll start stretching the ride out. The good news is that I felt pretty good today, no muscle strain. Just a slightly sore bottom from the seat. I really need to get a new seat.
Why I stopped... I don't know.
I got busy and then there was the infamous poop on the helmet incident. Nate borrowed my helmet one day and somehow managed to drop it in dog poop. He felt bad and wanted to clean it up, but I decided it was time to get a new helmet. I've had it for well over a decade and it was time. So yet another reason not to bike. A few weeks later I did get a nice new helmet. But it languished in the garage, slung over the handle bars by its straps.
I figure it'll take a week to get re-acclimated (oh my poor tush) and then I'll start stretching the ride out. The good news is that I felt pretty good today, no muscle strain. Just a slightly sore bottom from the seat. I really need to get a new seat.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Artist of the Week: Rebecca Spring 2012
This week's artist is the very lovely Rebecca. She looks so grown-up in this picture. I snapped it while she was next to me at the recital. The key thing with the picture was that I waited until after she preformed. I'm not sure I would have gotten as nice a smile if I tried before hand.
As for the performance itself, it went well. Rebecca originally planned on playing with the sheet music before her. However, her teacher approached her before the start of the recital and urged Rebecca to at least considering trying with out the sheet music.
Apparently the gentle urging worked.
When it was Rebecca's turn to play she strode up to the piano sans book. She was a bit hesitant at first, but as she progressed through the piece she grew more and more confident.Rebecca did a nice job and as you can she in the picture she was a very happy girl.
As for the performance itself, it went well. Rebecca originally planned on playing with the sheet music before her. However, her teacher approached her before the start of the recital and urged Rebecca to at least considering trying with out the sheet music.
Apparently the gentle urging worked.
When it was Rebecca's turn to play she strode up to the piano sans book. She was a bit hesitant at first, but as she progressed through the piece she grew more and more confident.Rebecca did a nice job and as you can she in the picture she was a very happy girl.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Baking With Julia- Sticky buns Sans Pecans
This week's challenge on Baking with Julia was Pecan Sticky buns. To get the full recipe (What, you haven't gotten the book yet?) head on over to either Eat Drink Man Woman Dogs Cat or Cookies on Friday.
I felt kind of bad blowing off the last challenge, Hungarian Shortbread. I just plain forgot, that an the unavailability of rhubarb this time of year. I am going to make it sometime this week, but with strawberries instead of the elusive rhubarb. So I vowed to be sure to make the pecan sticky buns for this week.
Which I did, sort of.
Instead of the full on pecan sticky buns I ended up making just sticky buns. I knew the kids wouldn't like the nuts and since they would be eating the bulk of the buns I thought it would be best to just give the pecans a miss.
Despite the lack of pecan goodness, they were glorious.
I ended up freezing half of the batch, it is a very rich treat and I wanted us to be able to savor them and not be overloaded. I started the brioche Saturday night and baked the rolls Sunday morning as a nice Mother's day treat for myself.
My only major complaint was all of the time spent rising, re-rising, and rising yet again. I employed my favorite cheat and set the rising dough in a warm oven. I just set it at 150, allow to warm, and then turn off the oven. My dough ended up rising in just a quarter of the time. I learned this from growing up in a cold house in northern New England. It's a good technique and the dough was just dandy.
I think these were worth making, but just for special occasions, it was pretty labor and butter intensive.
I felt kind of bad blowing off the last challenge, Hungarian Shortbread. I just plain forgot, that an the unavailability of rhubarb this time of year. I am going to make it sometime this week, but with strawberries instead of the elusive rhubarb. So I vowed to be sure to make the pecan sticky buns for this week.
Which I did, sort of.
Instead of the full on pecan sticky buns I ended up making just sticky buns. I knew the kids wouldn't like the nuts and since they would be eating the bulk of the buns I thought it would be best to just give the pecans a miss.
Despite the lack of pecan goodness, they were glorious.
I ended up freezing half of the batch, it is a very rich treat and I wanted us to be able to savor them and not be overloaded. I started the brioche Saturday night and baked the rolls Sunday morning as a nice Mother's day treat for myself.
My only major complaint was all of the time spent rising, re-rising, and rising yet again. I employed my favorite cheat and set the rising dough in a warm oven. I just set it at 150, allow to warm, and then turn off the oven. My dough ended up rising in just a quarter of the time. I learned this from growing up in a cold house in northern New England. It's a good technique and the dough was just dandy.
I think these were worth making, but just for special occasions, it was pretty labor and butter intensive.
Monday, May 14, 2012
The silence beneath the bark / le silence sous l'écorce
A lovely little animated short from France and was apparently shortlisted for an Oscar. Either way it is a delightful movie that pulls you right in.
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Happy Mother's Day
I hope all you hard working mamas out there got to put up your feet, at least for a little bit. We elected to celebrate Thursday with dinner ans a movie. We all went to our favorite restaurant, Weezie's Kitchen, and then on to the theatrical re-release of the "Yellow Submarine."
I've long maintained that Mother's Day is the worst night to go out, all the good places get booked out early and the remainder are almost zoos. Thursday was ever so much more civilized.
As for the teal toes, well they are in honor of my sister-in-law. Teal is the color of ovarian cancer and she has been fighting a good fight. We all love her and her family and simply put she is a terrific mom and a wonderful person.
I've long maintained that Mother's Day is the worst night to go out, all the good places get booked out early and the remainder are almost zoos. Thursday was ever so much more civilized.
As for the teal toes, well they are in honor of my sister-in-law. Teal is the color of ovarian cancer and she has been fighting a good fight. We all love her and her family and simply put she is a terrific mom and a wonderful person.
Friday, May 11, 2012
Project MCP: Sunny Day
After seemingly endless cloudy days filled with rain, wind, and thunderstorms; we are finally getting some sunny days. Which is a good thing too since this week's challenge is "sun-flare."
I originally intended to take pictures of our peonies, but after all the rain they were completely shot. A large number of petals strewn about the ground and the few remaining blossoms were no longer vibrant with color. Just sad bedraggled blooms covered with brown crumpled petals. As I turned away I noticed the honeysuckle by the front door. It's blooms still reaching up towards the sun. All I had to do was crouch down and shoot towards the light.
I originally intended to take pictures of our peonies, but after all the rain they were completely shot. A large number of petals strewn about the ground and the few remaining blossoms were no longer vibrant with color. Just sad bedraggled blooms covered with brown crumpled petals. As I turned away I noticed the honeysuckle by the front door. It's blooms still reaching up towards the sun. All I had to do was crouch down and shoot towards the light.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Yellow Submarine
Sometime last week I noticed that a theater up in Richmond would have two screenings of "The Yellow Submarine." From what I gathered the film had been recently restored by hand and frame by frame. The plan by the studio is to have an extremely limited release of the film and then issue the remastered DVD.
I have heard nothing about this in any way shape or form. If I hadn't been checking on upcoming movies I never would have known. I don't think I ever got to see it on the big screen when I was little, instead I saw it on TV and fell in love with the movie. I'm not sure if I was a Beatles fan before hand, but at the very least it sealed the deal. Right now we have a very worn VHS copy that we all enjoy watching. I mentioned the movie to Larry and he was game to go. In fact he suggested that we got out to dinner before hand and have that as my mother's day treat.
Ooo Mother's day without all the fuss and bother in the restaurants that occurs on the official date.
I jumped on it with a big yes! I think Mother's day is one of the worst days to go out to eat. The crowds, the noise, and so on. By celebrating early I get to miss the worst day of the year to go out to eat. And enjoy it I did.
The only bad part was I got caught in an awful traffic jam before dinner so the meal was a bit rushed. And rush we did. We did miss the very opening of the movie, but that was not a problem. The kids know it well as do Larry and I. Nate wasn't too thrilled when Larry and I sang along in parts. I soften my voice and he got over it.
As to the movie... well most of the problems were from the theater. The first five or ten minutes where spent adjusting and readjusting the picture size along with the focus, then we lost the picture entirely. Luckily the staff at the theater was able to rectify the situation and we were able to lose ourselves in the movie.
I have heard nothing about this in any way shape or form. If I hadn't been checking on upcoming movies I never would have known. I don't think I ever got to see it on the big screen when I was little, instead I saw it on TV and fell in love with the movie. I'm not sure if I was a Beatles fan before hand, but at the very least it sealed the deal. Right now we have a very worn VHS copy that we all enjoy watching. I mentioned the movie to Larry and he was game to go. In fact he suggested that we got out to dinner before hand and have that as my mother's day treat.
Ooo Mother's day without all the fuss and bother in the restaurants that occurs on the official date.
I jumped on it with a big yes! I think Mother's day is one of the worst days to go out to eat. The crowds, the noise, and so on. By celebrating early I get to miss the worst day of the year to go out to eat. And enjoy it I did.
The only bad part was I got caught in an awful traffic jam before dinner so the meal was a bit rushed. And rush we did. We did miss the very opening of the movie, but that was not a problem. The kids know it well as do Larry and I. Nate wasn't too thrilled when Larry and I sang along in parts. I soften my voice and he got over it.
As to the movie... well most of the problems were from the theater. The first five or ten minutes where spent adjusting and readjusting the picture size along with the focus, then we lost the picture entirely. Luckily the staff at the theater was able to rectify the situation and we were able to lose ourselves in the movie.
Wednesday, May 09, 2012
Artist of the Week: Multiple Entries
This week's artist is Nate and he declined to be photographed, which just means I'll post more pictures of his artist achievement.
Every year our school district hosts a district wide art and science fair show. My kids have been featured pretty regularly for the past eight years. It is an honor to be selected since space is limited. Each school is allotted a small area and it is up to each school's art teacher to make the selections. Nate scored two slots this year for two very different projects.
The first one featured here should look familiar, you can see it on the bottom of the display.
Yes it's the big version of the collage featured last month.
It turns out the smaller picture was his mock up in his art journal. I had no idea there was a larger and more finished version until I turned the corner and saw the picture on the display board. It was quite a surprise for me! I instantly recognized it and didn't have to read the name tag.
There are differences between the two pictures and I can't decide which I like better. I think it's a very good thing that the picture had changed from the original journal entry. To me it means that Nate thought about what he was doing and how he could better convey his ideas.
As for Nate's second piece, he had described it to us so it was much easier to find. His class had made small clay houses and his was a bit different from the others. Most are a traditional boxy house, while Nate's has not just one wing but two. He wanted to make something a bit more like our house. He's a bit mistaken on the wings, but he did get the door right.
The color he glazed the house was in his opinion flat out wrong. He envisioned something very different, more grey than blue. However as he painted this little house and realized his mistake Nate decided it would work despite the addition of too much blue. I think he is right on both counts if I correctly understand what he intended.
Either way I find the house to be utterly charming. I love the details in the windows, he did a nice job in both placement and color. As to the window panes themselves it looks as though he punched out each pane of glass.Also Nate texturized the roof to create the illusion of shingles. It's lovely little house and certainly deserving in inclusion in the exhibit.
Nate did a bang up job on both of this pieces. Both are well deserving of inclusion in the school district wide art exhibition.
Every year our school district hosts a district wide art and science fair show. My kids have been featured pretty regularly for the past eight years. It is an honor to be selected since space is limited. Each school is allotted a small area and it is up to each school's art teacher to make the selections. Nate scored two slots this year for two very different projects.
The first one featured here should look familiar, you can see it on the bottom of the display.
Yes it's the big version of the collage featured last month.
It turns out the smaller picture was his mock up in his art journal. I had no idea there was a larger and more finished version until I turned the corner and saw the picture on the display board. It was quite a surprise for me! I instantly recognized it and didn't have to read the name tag.
There are differences between the two pictures and I can't decide which I like better. I think it's a very good thing that the picture had changed from the original journal entry. To me it means that Nate thought about what he was doing and how he could better convey his ideas.
As for Nate's second piece, he had described it to us so it was much easier to find. His class had made small clay houses and his was a bit different from the others. Most are a traditional boxy house, while Nate's has not just one wing but two. He wanted to make something a bit more like our house. He's a bit mistaken on the wings, but he did get the door right.
The color he glazed the house was in his opinion flat out wrong. He envisioned something very different, more grey than blue. However as he painted this little house and realized his mistake Nate decided it would work despite the addition of too much blue. I think he is right on both counts if I correctly understand what he intended.
Either way I find the house to be utterly charming. I love the details in the windows, he did a nice job in both placement and color. As to the window panes themselves it looks as though he punched out each pane of glass.Also Nate texturized the roof to create the illusion of shingles. It's lovely little house and certainly deserving in inclusion in the exhibit.
Nate did a bang up job on both of this pieces. Both are well deserving of inclusion in the school district wide art exhibition.
Tuesday, May 08, 2012
Super Bust
The whole super moon thing around here in central Virginia was a bust. It was a very wet and cloud covered evening last Saturday. The following evening was clear, but the moon itself really did not seem any closer.
I tried taking pictures, I even went so far as to drag out my tripod. However it was to no avail, my camera wasn't interested in cooperating with me. This picture was the best of the lot. I have taken far more detailed image, but alas that was my previous camera.
So for me the super moon was a super bust.
I tried taking pictures, I even went so far as to drag out my tripod. However it was to no avail, my camera wasn't interested in cooperating with me. This picture was the best of the lot. I have taken far more detailed image, but alas that was my previous camera.
So for me the super moon was a super bust.
Monday, May 07, 2012
Sunday, May 06, 2012
Lax Man
Sorry about the lack of posts, I've been a bit busy.
Of the many things going on I finally went to watch Larry play lacrosse. He is part of a masters (essentially post college age and up) level lacrosse club. They play a pick-up game pretty much every Saturday morning. He's been going for quite sometime and is one of the very few goalies in the club.
Anyhoo it was my turn to drive the car pool to Sunday school, so after I dropped off the kids I headed on over. It was a bit damp, but that did not inhibit the guys one bit. It looked like they were all having a good time. I spent just about 45 minutes watching the action and taking pictures.
If you click on the picture here it'll take you to my photostream and you can see three more lacrosse pictures.
Going to the game was a fun way to spend the morning.
Of the many things going on I finally went to watch Larry play lacrosse. He is part of a masters (essentially post college age and up) level lacrosse club. They play a pick-up game pretty much every Saturday morning. He's been going for quite sometime and is one of the very few goalies in the club.
Anyhoo it was my turn to drive the car pool to Sunday school, so after I dropped off the kids I headed on over. It was a bit damp, but that did not inhibit the guys one bit. It looked like they were all having a good time. I spent just about 45 minutes watching the action and taking pictures.
If you click on the picture here it'll take you to my photostream and you can see three more lacrosse pictures.
Going to the game was a fun way to spend the morning.
Wednesday, May 02, 2012
Artist of the Week: Kindness
This week's artist is the eternally building Max.
Larry took this picture of Max about a month ago and I think it is one of my favorites. For once Max does not have his rigid "picture smile" pasted across his face. The lighting is soft and brings out the warm tones and the relaxed and happy expression adds to the picture's overall warmth. In the picture Max is posing by a model of a catapult he had just created out of dominoes. As always, he requested a photograph and Larry was more than happy to oblige. The squarish platform in the upper right of the catapult is where the projectile would place. Obviously it's non-functional, but it was fun for him to create.
Anyhoodle, this week's art is a bit different. It's more about what Ma does, as in actions, opposed to what he did.
I have a picture of Max's lunchbox (bag really) to signify what he has been doing this school year. One of Max's classmates is a sweet girl who is deathly allergic to peanuts. We are talking instant anaphylactic shock if she encounters just the smallest bit of a peanut. She has lunch at a table separate from the class that is peanut free with the other food allergy students.
Max decided that he would forgo peanut butter at breakfast and lunch so he would not be a danger to his friend. I was mystified at first, bag lunches had become very difficult and most of the time he would just barely nibble the sandwich.. Why did he stop eating peanut butter? Max didn't really care about all of our alternate non- peanut butter options.
Well into the school year I finally asked Max what was going on and his reply utterly amazed me. He was avoiding peanut butter before an after school so that he was not a danger to her.
What an incredibly kind and thoughtful thing that Max was doing and it was completely his very own idea.
Larry took this picture of Max about a month ago and I think it is one of my favorites. For once Max does not have his rigid "picture smile" pasted across his face. The lighting is soft and brings out the warm tones and the relaxed and happy expression adds to the picture's overall warmth. In the picture Max is posing by a model of a catapult he had just created out of dominoes. As always, he requested a photograph and Larry was more than happy to oblige. The squarish platform in the upper right of the catapult is where the projectile would place. Obviously it's non-functional, but it was fun for him to create.
Anyhoodle, this week's art is a bit different. It's more about what Ma does, as in actions, opposed to what he did.
I have a picture of Max's lunchbox (bag really) to signify what he has been doing this school year. One of Max's classmates is a sweet girl who is deathly allergic to peanuts. We are talking instant anaphylactic shock if she encounters just the smallest bit of a peanut. She has lunch at a table separate from the class that is peanut free with the other food allergy students.
Max decided that he would forgo peanut butter at breakfast and lunch so he would not be a danger to his friend. I was mystified at first, bag lunches had become very difficult and most of the time he would just barely nibble the sandwich.. Why did he stop eating peanut butter? Max didn't really care about all of our alternate non- peanut butter options.
Well into the school year I finally asked Max what was going on and his reply utterly amazed me. He was avoiding peanut butter before an after school so that he was not a danger to her.
What an incredibly kind and thoughtful thing that Max was doing and it was completely his very own idea.
Tuesday, May 01, 2012
Well I Tried It
And I think I turned out okay.I saw this today and I just had to share it. A fair number of people out there are intimidated by science, which is ridiculous. Science can hard, but it can also be fun. Just observing the world around you is science. Heck, when you really look closely cooking is chemistry.Baking is an art and a science, you have to follow the recipe to get the desired result just as you would follow protocols when doing an experiment.
To do science you only have to pay attention and stay curious. As a result the world is a far more interesting place.
So I hope more people try science and get hooked on it.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Unbelievable
I uploaded this silly little video in 2006 and it has well over a million views. Yes a million, 1,318,357 views to be precise. I find it very surreal.
Most of my movies have less than a hundred views. A few make it to the 200 to 300 range and a rare handful in the thousands. My next most popular is at 88,000. I had filmed it at the Virginia Tattoo and thus had a built in audience.
Bouncey Tent is in a class of its own.
Most of my movies have less than a hundred views. A few make it to the 200 to 300 range and a rare handful in the thousands. My next most popular is at 88,000. I had filmed it at the Virginia Tattoo and thus had a built in audience.
Bouncey Tent is in a class of its own.
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Looking Up
This picture, from the bottom of the parking deck's spiral, was a contender for last week's Project MCP challenge.
It didn't come out quite as I envisioned and I was sorely disappointed when the pigeons flew up and out before I even got my camera out. And yet I still like the picture. It is very stark compared to the one of the Old City Hall's interior. The hints of color, the yellow object and the pale blue sky, save it from being too severe.
I think I will submit the picture over at Project MCP and see what happens.
It didn't come out quite as I envisioned and I was sorely disappointed when the pigeons flew up and out before I even got my camera out. And yet I still like the picture. It is very stark compared to the one of the Old City Hall's interior. The hints of color, the yellow object and the pale blue sky, save it from being too severe.
I think I will submit the picture over at Project MCP and see what happens.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Project MCP: Get Down Low and Shoot Above
The fourth and final challenge for April was "Get Down Low and Shoot Above." Which for me, meant a trip up to Richmond.
I had all sorts of ideas, my only limitation was the weather and that turned out to be a big problem this week. Wednesday was the first decent day and it was only in the afternoon, far too late for me to drive up to Richmond. Thursday was a complete wash, but today was just right with abundant sunshine and not a raincloud in sight.
My plan was to drop off a couple of bikes at Bunnyhop (best bike shop ever) and take pictures around Richmond whilst the bikes are being fixed. I would first try to take a few pictures of a parking deck (far more interesting than it sounds), duck into my favorite building in Richmond, and then down to the canals.
The parking deck was a bit tricky, I essentially sneacked in with the idea of shooting a few quick pictures at the bottom of the well formed by the exit spiral. Unfortunately my path took me right past the guard room and I knew I had to talk to security before crossing two lanes of traffic and hopping over a guard rail. They hemmed and hawed for a good five minutes over my decidedly odd request. I stood there smiling away until they relented. As I got into position two pigeons flew up and out, sadly they were gone before I could get my camera out.
I was much happier with the old city hall. The sunlight was streaming down from the skylights and I was able to get quite a few good shots. The one featured here is my favorite. I was positioned at the base of the staircase, aiming the camera up and across. It is such an interesting shot with strong diagonals and a lovely diffuse light. I knew I had a keeper when I pushed the shutter release. I good thing too since I never did get down to the canals.
I had all sorts of ideas, my only limitation was the weather and that turned out to be a big problem this week. Wednesday was the first decent day and it was only in the afternoon, far too late for me to drive up to Richmond. Thursday was a complete wash, but today was just right with abundant sunshine and not a raincloud in sight.
My plan was to drop off a couple of bikes at Bunnyhop (best bike shop ever) and take pictures around Richmond whilst the bikes are being fixed. I would first try to take a few pictures of a parking deck (far more interesting than it sounds), duck into my favorite building in Richmond, and then down to the canals.
The parking deck was a bit tricky, I essentially sneacked in with the idea of shooting a few quick pictures at the bottom of the well formed by the exit spiral. Unfortunately my path took me right past the guard room and I knew I had to talk to security before crossing two lanes of traffic and hopping over a guard rail. They hemmed and hawed for a good five minutes over my decidedly odd request. I stood there smiling away until they relented. As I got into position two pigeons flew up and out, sadly they were gone before I could get my camera out.
I was much happier with the old city hall. The sunlight was streaming down from the skylights and I was able to get quite a few good shots. The one featured here is my favorite. I was positioned at the base of the staircase, aiming the camera up and across. It is such an interesting shot with strong diagonals and a lovely diffuse light. I knew I had a keeper when I pushed the shutter release. I good thing too since I never did get down to the canals.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Something Extra With the Paper
This is the newspaper slot below our mailbox. Nothing fancy, just grey boards nailed together with the mailbox attached to the top. For the past few years we haven't gotten the paper, the local paper is not that exciting and I can never keep up. So excepting he occasional flyers promoting various lawn, home repair, and house keeping services the slot remains empty.
Although sometimes in the spring it is not.
A few days ago I saw a bird flitting about the mailbox. I didn't think much of it until I realized it was nesting season. I peered inside and could see way in the back a soft little nest of moss, down, and lawn clippings.
Our little bird tenants were back.
A few years ago a nest appeared, but sadly the chicks didn't survive. Some sort of predator got to them before they had fully fledged. From what I could see the chicks in there right now are still quite young, if you look carefully you can just make out a beak. There are at least three chicks in there, maybe four.
I'll try to keep tabs on them, but in a low key manner. I don't want to overly disturb the parents. At least they are used to our daily collecting of the mail. Hopefully this brood will do better than the previous one. It's fun having a secret nest under the mailbox.
Although sometimes in the spring it is not.
A few days ago I saw a bird flitting about the mailbox. I didn't think much of it until I realized it was nesting season. I peered inside and could see way in the back a soft little nest of moss, down, and lawn clippings.
Our little bird tenants were back.
A few years ago a nest appeared, but sadly the chicks didn't survive. Some sort of predator got to them before they had fully fledged. From what I could see the chicks in there right now are still quite young, if you look carefully you can just make out a beak. There are at least three chicks in there, maybe four.
I'll try to keep tabs on them, but in a low key manner. I don't want to overly disturb the parents. At least they are used to our daily collecting of the mail. Hopefully this brood will do better than the previous one. It's fun having a secret nest under the mailbox.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Artist of the Week: Driving
This week's artist is my not so little Jacob.
For a while his feet have been bigger than mine and that was not problem for me. Just this year he has gotten taller than me and that, well... was a bit disconcerting. The biggest milestone in his growing up, however, happened at the end of spring break.
My baby boy got his learners permit.
He breezed through the test and was issued a paper permit. A few days later his official learners permit arrived in the mail. In seven months he needs to get 45 hours of driving under his belt with a good chunk after sunset.
Then we'll have three drivers in the house.
I can't believe it's happening already. He's gone from playing with cars, to bumper cars, and now the real thing. He can't be that old.
For a while his feet have been bigger than mine and that was not problem for me. Just this year he has gotten taller than me and that, well... was a bit disconcerting. The biggest milestone in his growing up, however, happened at the end of spring break.
My baby boy got his learners permit.
He breezed through the test and was issued a paper permit. A few days later his official learners permit arrived in the mail. In seven months he needs to get 45 hours of driving under his belt with a good chunk after sunset.
Then we'll have three drivers in the house.
I can't believe it's happening already. He's gone from playing with cars, to bumper cars, and now the real thing. He can't be that old.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Goose Invader
Yesterday Dell and John successfully repelled an alien invader on our property.
The red boys were peaceably lounging about inside when they set up an almighty fuss. I initially thought it was a squirrel was cavorting on our deck and was all set to let loose the hounds when I saw the goose standing on our lawn. This was a picture worthy moment and I grabbed my camera. In that short space of time the goose settled down on our lawn. I had to take my picture through the window since I knew the second I opened the door the dogs would fly out and the goose would fly away.
In the twelve years we have lived here this was the first time a goose has shown up in our backyard. There is a pond in our development, but it's far away from our property. We have friends with lake front property and the geese are an awful nuisance, honking about and pooping everywhere. The last thing I want is another creature pooping in our yard. So I was happy that John and Dell, aka home land security, did their job with a great deal of zeal and noise. I'm not sure why the goose stopped by, but I know it will not be returning.
The red boys were peaceably lounging about inside when they set up an almighty fuss. I initially thought it was a squirrel was cavorting on our deck and was all set to let loose the hounds when I saw the goose standing on our lawn. This was a picture worthy moment and I grabbed my camera. In that short space of time the goose settled down on our lawn. I had to take my picture through the window since I knew the second I opened the door the dogs would fly out and the goose would fly away.
In the twelve years we have lived here this was the first time a goose has shown up in our backyard. There is a pond in our development, but it's far away from our property. We have friends with lake front property and the geese are an awful nuisance, honking about and pooping everywhere. The last thing I want is another creature pooping in our yard. So I was happy that John and Dell, aka home land security, did their job with a great deal of zeal and noise. I'm not sure why the goose stopped by, but I know it will not be returning.
Monday, April 23, 2012
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Box Head
Sometimes all you need is a large empty cereal box and somebody to help you cut out eye holes.
Friday, April 20, 2012
Project MCP: Blooming
This week's Project MCP challenge was "Blooming."
It's been a wild spring this year. With the repeated cycles of hot and cold weather. all of the flowering plants have ended up blooming at the same time. It's also been a horrendous spring for allergies.
As for this week's picture, I love color however the pristine white of my azaleas was calling out to me. They have just started blooming last week and the bushes, where the deer haven't nibbled down to the nub, are awash with flowers. I do have some pink azaleas, but they are nearly as riotous with blooms as the white.
This picture is straight out of the camera. I like the overexposed feel of the white, in bright sunlight these flowers are dazzling. I'm glad I was able to capture the bright white without having to enhance anything on my computer.
It's been a wild spring this year. With the repeated cycles of hot and cold weather. all of the flowering plants have ended up blooming at the same time. It's also been a horrendous spring for allergies.
As for this week's picture, I love color however the pristine white of my azaleas was calling out to me. They have just started blooming last week and the bushes, where the deer haven't nibbled down to the nub, are awash with flowers. I do have some pink azaleas, but they are nearly as riotous with blooms as the white.
This picture is straight out of the camera. I like the overexposed feel of the white, in bright sunlight these flowers are dazzling. I'm glad I was able to capture the bright white without having to enhance anything on my computer.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
That's the Ticket
Diane hit the nail on the head, the lemon loaf is just begging to be paired with strawberries.
The lemon flavor has deepened considerably since I baked it on Tuesday. However, the cake is still very dry. Strawberries and cream are a wonderful addition and nicely overcome the dryness.
The lemon flavor has deepened considerably since I baked it on Tuesday. However, the cake is still very dry. Strawberries and cream are a wonderful addition and nicely overcome the dryness.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Artist of the Week: James Town
This week's artist is Rebecca.
The picture is from way back in November when we were at a birthday party for a one year old. The birthday girl's Grandpa decided that his first grandchild would have a very memorable party. He arranged for a petting zoo and pony to ride. The toddler set wasn't overly interested in the pony, but Rebecca was more than happy to do the riding for them.
So it's an old photo, but that is appropriate since the art work is also from last year.
Just before winter break Rebecca brought home a booklet she made in school on colonial James Town. I promptly scanned it, but then stopped. I was on the fence on whether or not to post it on Flickr. On one hand it was wonderful pictures illustrating the various facts about James Town, on the other hand the spelling is rather rough.
Really rough.
Obviously I decided that the illustrations win out over the spelling. You can check out the whole series if you click on the cover picture featured here. The set is called James Town, the fourth one in the series is particularly hilarious.
The picture is from way back in November when we were at a birthday party for a one year old. The birthday girl's Grandpa decided that his first grandchild would have a very memorable party. He arranged for a petting zoo and pony to ride. The toddler set wasn't overly interested in the pony, but Rebecca was more than happy to do the riding for them.
So it's an old photo, but that is appropriate since the art work is also from last year.
Just before winter break Rebecca brought home a booklet she made in school on colonial James Town. I promptly scanned it, but then stopped. I was on the fence on whether or not to post it on Flickr. On one hand it was wonderful pictures illustrating the various facts about James Town, on the other hand the spelling is rather rough.
Really rough.
Obviously I decided that the illustrations win out over the spelling. You can check out the whole series if you click on the cover picture featured here. The set is called James Town, the fourth one in the series is particularly hilarious.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Baking With Julia- Lemon Loaf
This month's second challenge from Baking with Julia was Lemon Loaf. For details on how to bake the cake head on over to Treats (which has a nice modification) and The Beauty of Life that has a very bittersweet post.
I'm so very glad that this cake came after Passover, it made for a very nice post-Pesach treat. Though really, I was just happy neither of the challenges were scheduled then. Yes I could have baked in advance, but it would have felt all wrong to blog about chametz.
Anyhoo, the cake itself is a snap to make. It's nice to make something simple and unfussy. The lemon flvor is mild, but I expect it to deepen over time.My only complaint is that the cake was quite dry. A tall glass of milk is in order with a nice dollop of whipped cream on the slice. Diane had an excellent idea of macerated strawberries as a topping. I might just have to pick up a pint of two of strawberries.
I'm so very glad that this cake came after Passover, it made for a very nice post-Pesach treat. Though really, I was just happy neither of the challenges were scheduled then. Yes I could have baked in advance, but it would have felt all wrong to blog about chametz.
Anyhoo, the cake itself is a snap to make. It's nice to make something simple and unfussy. The lemon flvor is mild, but I expect it to deepen over time.My only complaint is that the cake was quite dry. A tall glass of milk is in order with a nice dollop of whipped cream on the slice. Diane had an excellent idea of macerated strawberries as a topping. I might just have to pick up a pint of two of strawberries.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Wild Celtic Bagpipe Piece
For Max, who really loves the bagpipes and I'm more than happy to help him out.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Mini Ninjas
I have gotten completely obsessed over a game we picked up a while ago
called Mini Ninjas. Nate had money burning a hole in his pocket and
wanted to get a couple of games for our PS3. He quickly picked out one
game, but was stuck on what to do with the few dollars he had left. I spotted this game amongst the used titles and told him to get it. A few days earlier I had stumbled upon a glowing review of the game, and was appealing for both grownups and children. He bought the game and we didn't do much with it.
This week I picked it up and decided to give it a whirl. I got completely hooked.
It relies more on puzzle solving skills and not so much on lighting reflexes. The kids are just bulling their way through the game, while I meticulously fine everything on each level before moving on. As a result I am maxing out my character to an impressive degree and unlocking all sorts of things. I'm not the best player, but I sure am having fun. Here is the game's website, it gives you a chance to play a few demo games.
This week I picked it up and decided to give it a whirl. I got completely hooked.
It relies more on puzzle solving skills and not so much on lighting reflexes. The kids are just bulling their way through the game, while I meticulously fine everything on each level before moving on. As a result I am maxing out my character to an impressive degree and unlocking all sorts of things. I'm not the best player, but I sure am having fun. Here is the game's website, it gives you a chance to play a few demo games.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Project MCP: Shallow Depth of Field
I'm back after a little two day holiday. Having everybody home for a week is draining and I got a bit obsessed with Mini Ninjas.
So amongst dental appointments and Dr. appointments I squeezed in a little time to take pictures. The assignment was shallow depth of field and I tried taking a few pictures in the backyard when I got assaulted by Dell. I was on the ground and he was all over me. Silly me, I tried being on the dog's level and expected to get anything meaningful done.
The logical solution (short of dragging the offending dog inside) was to take pictures of the dog. Dell happily milled about when I got this great shot of him with one paw lifted. He is in the shade, perfectly exposed and in focus while the rest of the lawn is overexposed and blurry. I did no processing of the photo, just cropped it down and uploaded.
So amongst dental appointments and Dr. appointments I squeezed in a little time to take pictures. The assignment was shallow depth of field and I tried taking a few pictures in the backyard when I got assaulted by Dell. I was on the ground and he was all over me. Silly me, I tried being on the dog's level and expected to get anything meaningful done.
The logical solution (short of dragging the offending dog inside) was to take pictures of the dog. Dell happily milled about when I got this great shot of him with one paw lifted. He is in the shade, perfectly exposed and in focus while the rest of the lawn is overexposed and blurry. I did no processing of the photo, just cropped it down and uploaded.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Tic Tac France - Worst Breath in the World
Sringbreak is knocking me for a loop. I honestly forgot what day of the week it is. It seems like I'm trapped in an endless weekend. So here's a very silly ad that made me smile.
Monday, April 09, 2012
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation - Adding Tomorrows
These are exciting times for families affected by CF. We are on the cusp of something big.
Sunday, April 08, 2012
Happy Passover and Happy Easter
It's been a busy weekend with the First Night Seder at Meryl's home and the Second Night at our congregation. Both were wonderful and I was utterly stuffed by the end.
Today was a nice quiet break with some wonderful weather. It felt like an actual spring day and I enjoyed it by lunching al fresco, or as I thought of it al pollen, by my pansies.
Today was a nice quiet break with some wonderful weather. It felt like an actual spring day and I enjoyed it by lunching al fresco, or as I thought of it al pollen, by my pansies.
Friday, April 06, 2012
Project MCP: Showers
The first challenge for the month was "showers / wet" which you figure for April would be a piece of cake.
Wrong.
We have gotten some rain this week, but it's either at night or of such an inconsequential amount I couldn't photograph it. I even tried sprinkling water on my pansies and discovered to my chagrin that water droplets do not stick to the velvety petals. So I had to think of another way to do showers / wet.
Then I found Nate's art journal and thought to myself I was being too concrete. I'll just photograph the collage instead. It's not the best response to the challenge, but it'll do for now.
Oh and it's Passover! So Chag Sameach y'all.
Wrong.
We have gotten some rain this week, but it's either at night or of such an inconsequential amount I couldn't photograph it. I even tried sprinkling water on my pansies and discovered to my chagrin that water droplets do not stick to the velvety petals. So I had to think of another way to do showers / wet.
Then I found Nate's art journal and thought to myself I was being too concrete. I'll just photograph the collage instead. It's not the best response to the challenge, but it'll do for now.
Oh and it's Passover! So Chag Sameach y'all.
Thursday, April 05, 2012
Another Season Starts
Sports are in full swing now so I spend about an hour a day watching my kids do a lot of running around. If I remember I'll have a book and that is the best way to while away an hour or so. For days like today, when my books ends up being left behind, I take pictures, chat with other parents, or call up Meryl.
So really, practice not such a bad thing. The only problem is figuring out when to shoe horn in dinner and homework.
So really, practice not such a bad thing. The only problem is figuring out when to shoe horn in dinner and homework.
Wednesday, April 04, 2012
Artist of the Week: Storm
This week's artist is a freshly shorn Nate.
A couple of weeks ago Nate decided that he was done with the long hair. He had been toying with the idea of short hair for some time, but wasn't ready until now. There was no given reason, he said it was time. I think one of the reasons was that he was sick and tired of my harping on hair. I had no problem per se with his long locks, I just required that he properly maintained them with daily brushing and washing. And lets face it, 13 year old boys don't want their moms bugging them about brushing. He did, however, regularly wash. Thank heavens for small favors.
Which brings us to today's art work. It is a small collage he made for last semester's art class. I found it inside his art journal while fishing about for something for this week's post. I like the large black rectangle that sets off he lightening bolts. It's a different sort of composition and I think it works very well. I'm not sure what technique the teacher was demonstrating in the lesson, but the end result is quiet good.
A couple of weeks ago Nate decided that he was done with the long hair. He had been toying with the idea of short hair for some time, but wasn't ready until now. There was no given reason, he said it was time. I think one of the reasons was that he was sick and tired of my harping on hair. I had no problem per se with his long locks, I just required that he properly maintained them with daily brushing and washing. And lets face it, 13 year old boys don't want their moms bugging them about brushing. He did, however, regularly wash. Thank heavens for small favors.
Which brings us to today's art work. It is a small collage he made for last semester's art class. I found it inside his art journal while fishing about for something for this week's post. I like the large black rectangle that sets off he lightening bolts. It's a different sort of composition and I think it works very well. I'm not sure what technique the teacher was demonstrating in the lesson, but the end result is quiet good.
Tuesday, April 03, 2012
Baking With Julia- Pizza Rustica
Today's recipe for Baking with Julia was Pizza Rustica. You can get a full run down on how to make it over at Capital Region Dining Blog and The Place They call Home. And of course you should check out Tuesdays with Dorie for the whole story.
I was a little apprehensive over the whole baking thing this month, however it all fell in place. The two Tuesdays selected very nicely bracket Passover. I know I could bake ahead if there had been a conflict, but it would have seem wrong to be promoting some sort of chametz during Passover.
Pizza Rustica is considered traditional Easter fare in Italy. It did seem similar to some of what I remember Mama Leonardi would make for Easter. She was an amazing cook and we used to go to her house all the time and were considered part of the family. I need to big up some of the family photos we had been included in. With my dark hair I blended in, but my brother with his blond hair stuck out like a beacon.
Anyhoodle, back to the backed good of the day.
The dish itself is not all what Americans would consider to be pizza, it is much more similar to a sort of dense quiche. The crust is made with sugar to provide a sweet counterpoint to the savory and salty filling. I was not a fan of the sweetness, I would probaly halve the sugar next time I make it. The filling on the other hand was great. I really enjoyed the pie. The only change I might do to the filling is throw in some onions.
I think I will make it again . It was very delicious and I ate far too much of it for lunch. By breakfast, however, I had learned my lesson!
I was a little apprehensive over the whole baking thing this month, however it all fell in place. The two Tuesdays selected very nicely bracket Passover. I know I could bake ahead if there had been a conflict, but it would have seem wrong to be promoting some sort of chametz during Passover.
Pizza Rustica is considered traditional Easter fare in Italy. It did seem similar to some of what I remember Mama Leonardi would make for Easter. She was an amazing cook and we used to go to her house all the time and were considered part of the family. I need to big up some of the family photos we had been included in. With my dark hair I blended in, but my brother with his blond hair stuck out like a beacon.
Anyhoodle, back to the backed good of the day.
The dish itself is not all what Americans would consider to be pizza, it is much more similar to a sort of dense quiche. The crust is made with sugar to provide a sweet counterpoint to the savory and salty filling. I was not a fan of the sweetness, I would probaly halve the sugar next time I make it. The filling on the other hand was great. I really enjoyed the pie. The only change I might do to the filling is throw in some onions.
I think I will make it again . It was very delicious and I ate far too much of it for lunch. By breakfast, however, I had learned my lesson!
Monday, April 02, 2012
Graffitiger (short film by Libor Pixa)
A wonderfully imaginative film from the Czech Republic. This one found me via one of my many short film festival subscriptions on YouTube.
Sunday, April 01, 2012
Unintentional Absurdity
Richmond, like a lot of cities, has quite a bit of statuary. In fact one of the main roads is called Monument Avenue and is divided by a wide swath of green that is home to numerous statues. For the most part the statues are of various Confederate notables with one very prominent exception in the form of the Richmond native Arthur Ashe.
The Arthur Ashe statue is my favorite piece of absurdist Richmond.
Don't get me wrong, I think Arthur Ashe was a wonderful human being and is totally worthy of a statue in his native city. But...
Did anyone truly LOOK at the statue while it was being made?
I know they idea is that the piece celebrates his achievements in tennis and his dedication towards education, hence the racket and the book. With the children clustered at his feet it looks like he is about to bludgeon them with both the book and the racket. The upraised arms of the children seemed to be a combination of beseeching him to stop and to ward off his blows. These are truly unfortunate choices of poses for all of the figures.
Seriously, if you ask any Richmonder where the statue is of the guy threatening children with a book and a racket is they'll direct you to this one.
I spent a good bit of time shooting pictures from all sorts of angles and none of them made the statue look good. Why on earth did the artist choose to depict Mr. Ashe with both arms raised in such a threatening manner.
Heck I could have designed a better composition.
In my version none of the figures would have raised arms. I would have the tennis racket tucked between Mr. Ashe's arm and his body while he held the book open with both hands. Certainly it wouldn't be as dynamic, but it would do a better job of celebrating the man and would be a much more peaceful.
Sheesh.
Then again it also would no longer be my favorite statue in Richmond.
The Arthur Ashe statue is my favorite piece of absurdist Richmond.
Don't get me wrong, I think Arthur Ashe was a wonderful human being and is totally worthy of a statue in his native city. But...
Did anyone truly LOOK at the statue while it was being made?
I know they idea is that the piece celebrates his achievements in tennis and his dedication towards education, hence the racket and the book. With the children clustered at his feet it looks like he is about to bludgeon them with both the book and the racket. The upraised arms of the children seemed to be a combination of beseeching him to stop and to ward off his blows. These are truly unfortunate choices of poses for all of the figures.
Seriously, if you ask any Richmonder where the statue is of the guy threatening children with a book and a racket is they'll direct you to this one.
I spent a good bit of time shooting pictures from all sorts of angles and none of them made the statue look good. Why on earth did the artist choose to depict Mr. Ashe with both arms raised in such a threatening manner.
Heck I could have designed a better composition.
In my version none of the figures would have raised arms. I would have the tennis racket tucked between Mr. Ashe's arm and his body while he held the book open with both hands. Certainly it wouldn't be as dynamic, but it would do a better job of celebrating the man and would be a much more peaceful.
Sheesh.
Then again it also would no longer be my favorite statue in Richmond.
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