Potters

Up Date

2010-03-07T10:30:00.001-08:00

Some ideas are just not good ones. Like this one. But Brett spent a good chunk of his time helping to photograph it so I felt it should at least be recognized. Even my photoshop efforts did nothing to help. The key is how to communicate without spelling it out or making an illustration. Does this look a little too LDS Ensign article to you? Yep, me too. Oh well. Thanks to all who contribute to my efforts even if all I learn is what not to do.

Snow snow snow, we keep getting more snow and I am so tired of dealing with chains, on off on off.

Yesterday the girls had their honor orchestra performances in Redlands. MaCall was made c0-principal of the 2nd violins this year - but out of the two cos was chosen for the main solo. I hear she did very well. She also found out that she really likes being a principal - said "it's great, everyone has to follow me, so I just get to play loud and do what I want". It seems to have put a spark under her. Eloise also did very well on viola in the Elementary orchestra. We have not sorted out lessons yet - as our teacher moved and the new one is in Big Bear - too far to drive!

Franz is working hard on many different projects - recently attended a conference in Salt Lake - South Central Society for Eighteenth Century Studies - organized a panel and gave a presentation.

I finally have the go ahead from my advisor on two paintings so am painting like crazy trying to get ready for mid term review this Thursday. I am so sick of driving, but once I get there, enjoy my friends and learning. I've been listening to Ruth, by Elizabeth Gaskell on the zune for my drives. It is pretty good. Before that I did Wilkie Collins Haunted Hotel.

I have discovered as of late that the world is populated with good people and bad people. I have encountered both. Bad - the person who created the virus that attacked my computer. Good - my friend's boy friend - Andy - who spent an entire day getting rid of it - for free. Bad - the neighbour who would not offer help to my girls and I when stranded in the snow needing help in getting the chains on. Good - the two men from our Crestline ward, who came out in the snow and put the chains on under the supervision of the police officer who wanted to give me a ticket for being stuck, but would not offer any assistance. Bad - public servants who do not serve. Good - the boy who likes MaCall who also drove out in the snow to save us - but was waved on by the public servant. (same boy spent most of the day with Franz, MaCall and Eloise yesterday so he could hear MaCall play that evening).

Any goods and bads in your life lately?

So, what is up with all of you?

Landscape

2010-02-13T18:41:00.001-08:00

Today Douglas, Addy, Elias and Mason came up to play. Poor Addy and Mason became violently car sick before reaching our house - this seems to be part of any trip to our house. I hope we can think of some way to make future trips easier.

Elias and Mason spent an hour digging through the snow on the porch with some kitchen spoons, while Addy and Eloise went ice skating.

Later, Franz and MaCall joined the kids out front for sledding while Doug and I hiked back to the forest property behind the house to take photos for a potential painting. It was so beautiful back there! What a strange stark landscape with burned out trees, snow, dark, wet soil, streams and red robins pecking for worms. We also found a tire swing behind a hill that we had missed before.

Tomorrow the Jackman's come up. I will take Heidi back there. I think she will enjoy the surroundings and her camera.

Happy Valentines day!

Howad Zinn on Obama

2010-01-28T08:36:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a sad day as we learned of the death of historian and activist Howard Zinn. I am even more sad that I only discovered his work earlier last year.

His last article was published last week in The Nation. He was trying to sum up President Obama's first year. He said he was looking for a highlight but was not disappointed because he never expected much. Now hearing this might hurt to one who has been such a supporter of Obama - as myself. But there is truth in his statement; "I think people are dazzled by Obama's rhetoric, and that people ought to begin to understand that Obama is going to be a mediocre President - which means ,in our time, a dangerous President - unless there is some national movement to push him in a better direction."

It hurts. Yes it does, and I wonder what he would have made of last night's speech - which I don't think could have been made much better - but I too am so disgusted by both the Democrats who are like a cowardly dog always rolling over to have their stomachs rubbed and Republicans who are only out to win the "moral high ground" - which really means boosting big business and lining their pockets, never thinking of what our country really needs. In this Obama is correct, unless both sides can stop acting like every year is an election year - and actually come together to get things done, nothing will be done and that will be the greatest failure of all.

Bon Voyage Howard Zinn. I look forward to sharing "A Peoples History of America" with my girls.

Serena

Ah yes, there's the road

2010-01-25T10:19:00.001-08:00

"At the end of the storm there's a golden sky..." That hillside is the burn area from when we first moved to the mountain. We look at if from our back porch.

Proof that we did get the driveway cleared - though two people are needed to navigate the maneuvering between the two stacks of snow.

Looking out of our drive to the street...

This is the view from the landing - half way up to our bedroom/loft. I love sitting on stairs and looking at the old oak. The raccoons like this oak as well.

The girls are back in school today. There is a small chance of snow tonight, but I will be going down to school tomorrow. I'll take an over night bag - just in case.

More Snow - and it is still snowing!

2010-01-22T15:11:00.000-08:00

Okay Heidi, why is it that when I take photos on M or P they turn out blue? This just started yesterday and I have no idea what I have done!

Serious Snow

2010-01-22T08:53:00.001-08:00

Bet my snow is bigger than yours!

This is really putting a hamper on my going to school today. I also need to get my scholarship application into the mail! I don't see a post office run happening either!

New Website

2010-01-18T10:10:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

Just want to post a plug for my new website. It is easy to remember and easy for me to update - just go to serenapotter.com

Hope you are all having a good January. We are in the midst of storms and dripping from the ceiling.

2010-01-11T15:39:00.000-08:00

Charlie Chaplin's studios in West Hollywood. Clancy had just read a book about him.
Found the small oasis of a cemetery in Westwood - where Marilyn Monroe and many other famous folks are interred.

Hard to see, but says "Jack Lemmon in"

There goes the Neighbourhood

Franz and Clancy searching names.

Our purpose for coming here was so Eloise could see Marilyn's grave.

This was one of the newer sites. We also saw Truman Capote, Carol O'Conner, Merv Griffeth, and many more. I know, weird folks who like cemeteries.

The old Fox theater in Westwood.

Megan, at Stans in Westwood. I had the orange old fashioned with chocolate glaze. Is that why I feel terrible today? Probably not, but was worth it.

We have enjoyed Clancy and Megan's visit and were sorry to pass them off to Heidi and Darin. Oh well, just learn to share.

Random Christmas photos

2009-12-30T20:17:00.000-08:00

Christmas Jammies - thanks Grandma Shirley.

John enjoys conversation at the table - good to see his head is back!

Not sure what I am looking at or who has my camera!

Josh took this photo of Mom - nice one!

This is what Mom is good at - setting a beautiful table.

Christmas eve we met Jake, Jeni, Johnny, Amanda and girls at the Cottonwood Heights Skating rink (next to my old jr. high). It was great fun. Thanks Eloise for suggesting it! Here Johnny shows off for his girls.

Franz and Jake have a rip roaring great time at the rink.

Who's that kid trying to break in on our photo shoot?

Christmas Eve meal and nativity reading was at Mom and Steve's house. Christmas Day was at John and April's - who's Vegan Minestrone was tasty! Eloise says "April is pretty". Yes, she is. Thanks to all who made our season bright.

Now, trying to rest up, get work done, catch some last minute holiday spirit.

Happy Christmas Eve!

2009-12-24T09:05:00.000-08:00

It is snowy and cold in Utah! I've not had a warm night's rest since we got here. Last night we had dinner up at The Porcupine with Mom, Steve, John and April. As you can see from the photo, John wasn't himself that day. Where did his head go?! Then Franz and the girls and I drove down town to see the lights and ended up at Trolley Square where we wandered through shops and bought salt water taffy. Tonight is the big night. Mom is a major stress case. I swear I'm not that bad, though my kids say I am. I refuse to believe it or I might as well just cash in now. We are planning to go skating before the festivities - a source of more contention. Then all the family over at Mom's for reading of the nativity and eats.

We wish you all peace and joy tonight. Happy Birthday to Clancy as well! Wish us peace back! We will need it.

Love to you all!

the Potters

A Movie to Warm the Heart

2009-12-19T19:15:00.000-08:00

The semester is over. I have much work to do before school starts again - repairs, new concepts, drawings and photos. I have a commission that will need to be started and finished in January. These are all good things though.

Now, trying to pack, and get the house ready for my friend from school who is coming to take care of rabbits and write her thesis in peace. I'll not relax until we get on the road.

No word on the house. The agent was in a panic yesterday - the buyer's loan docs made it in, but could the money get to where it needed to go in time to close on Monday. Silence today. We will see.

Trying to get into the spirit of things. I'm watching Little Women, doing laundry, making samosas - filling is yummy, dough not so good. Franz and Brett are down the mountain at a concert - hopefully not getting stabbed or stepped on.

MaCall goes to Los Angeles tomorrow evening with a group of youth to deliver gifts to skidrow. It will be interesting to hear about their experience. Eloise spent the night at a friends last night and is amazingly not grumpy -after staying up too late.

Well we all hope that you will have a very Happy Christmas.

2009-12-16T09:28:00.000-08:00

I admit I began this month feeling very much like Scrooge. After three long days at school I stood out in the cold with Franz and Eloise to watch MaCall escort Mrs. Bass's young violin students in the Blue Jay Christmas parade. It was cute, but cold! Then Eloise was acting as Mary in the church nativity. I had to go to that. I walked into the cultural hall, was hit in the face with all of the decorations and lost it. I was overwhelmed with the need to cry and run away. NO! I thought, I CAN'T DO THIS! I AM NOT READY! I tried to escape to the bathroom but was confronted by Mrs. Santa putting on her makeup - forced to smile and make small talk. I thought I would die. I managed to sit at the table, make nice, and push back tears, staring at my empty plate as there was not one thing there I could eat- not even a celery stick. Franz sent me to bed for several day and since then things have slowly improved. The ice is cracking and I am starting to feel a little more cheerful. We have some decorations up. Franz chopped down a little Charlie Brown tree - which looks quite pretty. I have stayed home for the most part - trying to get painting done for my finals on Friday. The girls performed a duet of Away in the Manger at the community strings concert and also at the Stake Christmas Concert. They pulled it off and it sounded lovely. I have managed to have some cards printed - but as of yet have not filled any out. The storms have ended. The sun is out and the snow melting quickly. This is good, we needed a break between storms.

We are still waiting for banks to fight out the short sale. When it is all done I will be writing to the better business bureau again - this time to complain about a manager at Greentree - who has been very nasty and condescending to our realtor. We need to close by Friday and there are still so many lose ends. It is not a done deal. I want this behind us by Christmas.

We will spend Christmas with family in Utah - and are looking forward to time away. I have a friend from school who will be house sitting - and writing her thesis in the quiet.

Time for old movies, hot cocoa - with soy and stevia. Actually, I need to paint - but can have the afore mentioned along with the painting.

Hope you are all well and feeling light hearted!

First Snow

2009-11-28T09:58:00.001-08:00

We had the most amazing storm last night. The rain started all at once, just a down pour, followed by hail, then the lightening so bright I had to put on my sleep mask to protect my eyes. The thunder that followed shook the whole house. The girls ended up running upstairs and climbing into bed (been a while since that happened). Some time in all of this it turned to snow - about eight or nine inches.

The bunnies love it! I have not seen Hamish this excited since before we took away his manhood. They are building tunnels under the chairs and into the big burm created by the snow that slid off of the metal roof - landing with another house shuddering thud.

I'm not sure I understand Franz's need to shovel the street. Who knows? So, guess we will not be going anywhere. Of course I am craving Thai noodles and we don't have the fixns. Oh well.

I hope this is not the start to a long winter. I know we need it, but I'm not excited to drive in it and I understand the good tires we bought five months ago are ready to be replaced. Always something.

Happy post Thanksgiving.

A Full Thanksgiving!

2009-11-27T17:47:00.000-08:00

Mason de-cloves Addy's orange.

Cassie gives me the look.

Huh, Eloise also gives me the look.

Does MaCall look a little green? She lost her stuffing later last night.

Hunters take time to wii.

Lori and Martin spend some time with Elias.

Heidi, Darin, Luke, Franz and Mason watch the gaming - and playing.

Michele and Heidi put together the pieces, Lori takes time to put her feet up.

All in all it was a very nice Thanksgiving and birthday. I love being able to entertain. I have had a request from Nikki to post the vegan menu. I made cranberry sauce that was yummy! I made an olive oil and oregano potato cake and roasted root vegetables with thyme and marjoram vinaigrette. Both were very tasty. I also sauteed asparagus in margarine and lemon. Michele brought rolls, green salad and cheese cake (not vegan). Heidi brought a small ham and turkey breast, potatoes gratin and raspberry jello salad for the non vegans. We had pumpkin pie, apple cranberry something or other and a chocolate almond torte (vegan) with raspberries. It would seem that everyone really enjoyed themselves.

I took a break to take a bag of empty bottles out the the recycling bin and as I turned back to the house and saw the lights and heard the laughter from inside I suddenly remembered a prayer I made last year asking that someday we would have a house big enough to have people come for holidays. My prayer was answered - not in a process I would have considered, but we were blessed none the less.

Thank you to all who helped us on our journey this year. Thank you for my improved health, Franz and the girls. The health is top right now, as it has really helped to give me life again and to be a better wife and mother.

Hope you all had a good day!

A Day in the Studio

2009-11-23T10:29:00.001-08:00

Kate, Kate, and Mike on bagel break.

The model.

Bagel Break - Carrie actually brought a toaster!

Leanne makes the model work for his money.

Here we have Nate, Kate U, Kate S, and Mike. We have a final project that involved a portrait mainly from life - we need to put in at least 12 hours, have a hand in there somewhere - so we decided to hire a model and put in five hours on Saturday. The rest will have to be done with photos at home. I'll post the final results when I have them. The great thing is that we all get along so well and really have a good time.

No school this week! For me that is. I have lots of painting to do but am looking forward to family coming and doing some holiday prep.

I am Thankful for increased health, a husband who supports me in all my endeavors, girls who make me smile, family who love me, a nice home to live in, new friends and new thoughts!

A Little Update

2009-11-17T10:42:00.000-08:00

MaCall with the Redland's University Symphony.

My big furry boy - one of them...

Snickers and Hamish enjoy radish tops.

I know it has been ages and I really don't have time to be doing this. Homework is never done!
That is the thing with painting. It never ends. A painting always seems to need tweaking and there is always another three to work on. I am making good progress though.

MaCall has enjoyed playing with the Redland's University Symphony this semester. They had a concert the other night - played Quiet City by Aaron Copland - the trumpet and oboe were fantastic - Concerto for Two Horns and Orchestra by Bohrnstedt and Leonore Overture No. 3 op 72 by Beethoven. There was one other that was not on the program and I don't recall what it was. Ask MaCall. All in all it sounded great and MaCall felt good about her performance.

Fall has been lovely here. The bunnies are getting fat. Last night Franz and I were up at 1.10 in the morning to watch the Leonis Meteor Shower. I saw three meteors and went back to bed. The best one was viewed through the living room window. Fantastic.

Thanksgiving and my birthday are around to corner. I confess I have not had anytime to do preparation, but look forward to spending the day with family. I supposed it will go well, prepared for or not. We are though in need of a good jigsaw puzzle. Which makes Thanksgiving for me.

Hope you are all having a good autumn. I understand that we can no longer call it fall, as research now shows that leaves to not fall, they are pushed. So happy Pushed!

Our House in the middle of our street

2009-10-03T12:58:00.001-07:00

Okay, finally, a few pictures of our new place. I had put if off thinking eventually it would be tidier, but today decided that would not happen. I took some very incriminating photos of the girl's bedrooms but am hoping by the end of day I can take before and afters. We are settling in and are very grateful to have such a nifty place to live - complete with vintage 1950's flying saucer lamp shade.

Question? How can I keep the area rugs from walking on the carpet? Would those rubber mat things work when it is carpet on carpet?

School is going well. I am really enjoying meeting new people - have made good friends and am making great progress on concepts and drawings for my project. I am tired and need to recovery days in between.

School is going well for the girls. MaCall seems to be enjoying Redlands University Symphony though not so sure about AP History. Eloise continues to be tormented by Zac - the know it all show off in her class - who just got 999 extra points for putting his report on a shower curtain.

Franz is always working in one way or another -but did go to a zombie movie last night.

Now we are off to Pasadena where the closest Dick Blick Art Supply is and the Hunters.

Happy Autumn!

Talk about Quinoa

2009-09-30T09:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went swimming with a friend who owns a time share in Arrowhead - for the express purpose of having year round access to the pool. In the locker room I met a woman from Venezuela who told me about a quinoa soup her mother used to make and how wonderful it was. She was going to go home and try to remember how to make it. I did some searching online and found several recipes for Ecuadorian quinoa soup - perhaps the same sort of thing? Sounds good - though I personally would leave out the guinea pig for guests - I am vegan after all.

Quinoa is actually a seed, not a grain, but cooks much the same as a grain and can be used in place of other grains, like rice. Not only is quinoa high in protein, but the protein it supplies is complete protein, meaning that it includes all nine essential amino acids. Not only is quinoa’s amino acid profile well balanced, making it a good choice for vegans concerned about adequate protein intake, but quinoa is especially well-endowed with the amino acid lysine, which is essential for tissue growth and repair. In addition to protein, quinoa features a host of other health-building nutrients. Because quinoa is a very good source of manganese as well as a good source of magnesium, iron, copper and phosphorus, this “grain” may be especially valuable for persons with migraine headaches, diabetes and atherosclerosis.

In comparison with wheat, barley and yellow corn, quinoa was found to be higher in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, iron, copper, manganese and, zinc and was lower in sodium than the other grains.

Here is the link to the soup http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200211/kummer

I understand there is a red quinoa, though I have only found the white. Do you have any good quinoa recipes? Yesterday I topped mine with a corn and green pepper salsa, home made tomato salsa and greens. It was yummy!

New Routines

2009-09-20T21:08:00.001-07:00

So, life for the Potter is anything but dull. We have moved into our new house - in Lake Arrowhead - but are still trickling over things from the other house and we wait for the bank to finalize the sale. We are trying to keep up on watering and general maintenance while we wait as we have a very nice lady who is anxious to move in, work in the garden and spend her retirement years there. It still makes me sad to be there, but this is all for the best and our new house meets our needs so much better. In time Franz will have new gardening beds in. Now I have lots of room for painting projects. The girls have their own rooms and bathroom and we have a Finnish Helo sauna which I have to say feels really good.

Things have been crazy though. I now go down to Laguna on Thursday mornings and Friday afternoons, however there was also an MFA critique last Wednesday night, so I was home by ten thirty then turned around and drove back at eight the next morning. I was brain dead for that class. I will need to sort out a place to sleep down there for the next one - if I have hopes of being alert the next day. I really enjoy my classes. My Thursday class is really a critical look at figuration vrs. Modernism. We are reading some tough essays but I enjoy the discussion in class. The Friday class is a six hour figure painting course with Joseph Todorovich - who is an amazing painter (his painting at the top). We are working on the Zorn palette this week - you use four colors, cadmium red, black, white and yellow ochre. The second painting above is by Zorn - all those greens, everything you see is created with those four colors. It is really amazing. I will upload my figure painting done last week tomorrow. My home work is to copy a master painting using this palette. I think I am settled on a painting by Sargent. I'll let you know.

This is all great and love being at school. I am making good friends and thriving on the dialogue. However, when at home I am finding it difficult to balance school and home life - girl's schedules. We have been working on getting MaCall and her two friends down to Redland's twice a week for Redland's Symphony practice www.redlandssymphony.com and I confess Eloise is missing out so far as I have not arranged for her lessons yet - trying to sort out when we have a car etc. Health wise I have had some tough days with all of the driving then having to study and paint on my days at home. I get overwhelmed and cry, then Franz works hard to make everything okay. He did drive me down the Friday before last and then he and the girls picked me up at seven and went to dinner at the beach. That was nice. We will do what it takes to make things work.

School seems to be going well for the girls and for Franz. We will settle in. It takes time, new place, new routine. I think I have finally stopped looking up to the ceiling for the pots and pans - now in a drawer instead of in the hanging rack.

The raccoons are another story...

Bodega Bay with Cottey Girls

2009-09-14T09:15:00.000-07:00

Above, Serena, Kristin, Anna, Pauli, Wendi, Joyce and Shelly in the middle.

Kristin and Serena

Bodega

Serena, Anna, Shelley, Joyce, Kristin, Anna and Wendy

Serena and Shelley

So, Thursday last, I sat in the Oakland airport for two hours when my flight was delayed, but finally made it to Sacramento, where I was met by Bill and Brandon. Brandon had to go to work early the next day, but Bill and I shared a nice morning and lunch at a yummy place - whose name I can't recall. Later we met up with friend Joyce. She and I drove a Dodge Caravan to San Francisco airport where we picked up the other five girls (Anna, Shelley, Wendy, Kristin, and Pauli). We then drove into San Fran and by luck found parking in front of the Fog City Diner - so cute and vintage feeling - and had a nice meal before continuing our drive to Bodega Bay. Our house was perfect and close enough to the water to hear the seals barking. We enjoyed lots of beautiful weather and views, drove to Fort Ross, various darling towns, down to Point Reyes Light House. We watched The Birds and saw some of the filming locations. Most of the restaurants had their own gardens with fresh veggies on the menu. It was a great time. Can't wait for the next one!

Utah

2009-08-19T09:49:00.000-07:00

Love this photo of Amanda and Tami - with her beautiful big bump!
We enjoyed a walk around Silver Lake at Brighton.
We enjoyed the fish at Thanksgiving Point.
Here the girls, with friend Cole, relax in the shade.
This is how Lucy travels in the car.

It was a nice week. So good to spend time away from the stress - be with family and loved ones.

We signed a lease today

2009-08-18T18:29:00.000-07:00

We signed a lease today. The house is near Eloise's school - also closer to the junior high where she will probably go next year. We will be in a new ward - which I know nothing about so far, aside from their early morning seminary is held at the high school so will save on morning commuting.
Here is the link if you want to see pictures.
http://tedcalder.myphotoalbum.com/view_album.php?set_albumName=album48

You will see it is nothing like our little cottage, which can be a fun thing. There are more bathrooms, another bedroom and a sauna for those chilly nights. Trying to be positive. This will be a good place for us and saves us money.

Major moving will take place between the 1st and the 5th. Boxes and help will be appreciated!

Nigerian rental scams

2009-08-03T10:08:00.000-07:00

I want to share this amazing story. What is even more amazing is I have received three other stories almost exactly the same from other home owners who have listed their homes for rent. Isn't anyone monitoring these scams on craigslist?

Hi,

I did get your response concerning the AD I posted on craigslist.The house is still available but presently I'm not around.. I did bid for a portion of petroleum land sometimes ago in West Africa and fortunately I won the bidding so I have to move quickly down to Africa to have my company set up because I will still have to rebid for it in the next 10 years. I came over here with my wife, we both owned the house when we got married. As soon as we settled down here I had a thought of selling the house so I have to look for an agent, after getting one, we got a deal but later my wife advised against that. She said we may not be able to win the bidding next time, in other to keep our head when we return that we have to keep the house. I reasoned with her and accepted her advise. So I contacted the agent back and requested for my keys and documents. Later we decided to have the house rent out because of maintainance, we would have give the same agent this job also but the truth of the matter is that the agent would want to handle it professionally and the occupant may not be able to reason along with me later if I let him or her know that I'm letting it out because of maintainance.. If you notice, you will discovered that the price we are offering is far below standard price, this is enough for you to know that we are not after the rental fee but the maintainance.. I know there is no way I can be sure that you are the right person to live in the house because we won't be able to see physical before sending you the keys and the documents to

occupy the space. But I just had a feeling that anyone who knows what it takes to put the kind of structure down should know that maintaining a building is mandatory, so if you belief you can take good care of the house and handle it like yours then I will be more than happy to let you rent the house.Please if you are ready now to occupy the house and believe you can assist us in

maintaining the house, kindly provide the information below for record purpose..

PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF

Full Name__________________________________________________
Home Phone ( ) ________________________
Date of Birth_________________________________
Other Phone ( ) ___________________
Current Address_______________________________Apt#________ City__________________ State______ Zip________
Reasons for Leaving____________________________Rent $__________Phone ( ) ____________________________
Are you married____________________________
How many people will be living in the house____________________________
Do you have a pet____________________________
Do you have a car____________________________
Occupation____________________________
Your Exact move in date____________________________
How soon can you make the deposit payment________________________
How soon do you want to receive the keys and documents of the house________________________

House Address
24301 Briones Drive Laguna Niguel, California, US - 92677

CAPONE, NICHOLAS

House Rent $900
Security deposit $500

For more inquiries, please feel free to reach me on any of the numbers below
( +234-702-963-2643 or 011-234-805-803-9541 )

Best Regards

Happy Birthday Eloise

2009-08-01T16:02:00.000-07:00

Elias and Mason loved playing in the water!

Franz made a super cake!

My baby turned eleven this week! Franz made the cake. We celebrated at Little Corona with friend Julia and the Hunters. Later cousin John met us at Ruby's cafe for early dinner. It was a fun day.

Eloise Sibella is one amazing kid. She says the funniest things. She finds joy in simple past times - paper dolls, reading, plastic food. She loves her electronics - is enjoying her Nintendo DS from Grandpa C. and Meagan. She loves putting together snazzy outfits with clothes from Grandma Shirley's grab bags. She is an ambitious student, a lovely violist, and is nearly done with her Faith in God award. She is a fantastic kid and we love having her in our family. She did miss her sister on her birthday. Next year we need to be together! We love Eloise.

Camp Days

2009-07-26T17:24:00.000-07:00

So, we had one letter from MaCall this week. It came just in time as I was getting ready to go get her. I miss her. So, Sundays are parents day and we are allowed to check out our child in the morning and check them back in at 3.00. MaCall was convinced that no one elses parents would be doing this, but lo and behold there were quite a number of parents picking up their kids and others who just came up to visit for the day. MaCall is having a great time. She is sleeping in a covered porch that has open windows and door - so in the open air. No bugs have attacked her yet. They do lots of hiking to the large rocks - Happy Gap? The music is very difficult and she is finding that the older kids know techniques she has not yet learned so this is good. She is working hard. The orchestra leader, Stephen Tucker, is Jamaican and is very scary according to MaCall. He has one of those sense of humors that is hard to read- is he kidding or not...

Above she is depicted with friends Charlotte and Gabbi. The boy is Antonio aka Shorty, a clarinette player from Dana Point. "We are just friends Mom" she says, but hey, he has that hair she likes, is "adorable" in her words and is Italian. I always fell for Italians. My little girl is growing up.

So, big quandries. Do we stay on the mountain, keeping our kids in their schools, with their friends etc. or do we move closer to my new school - in Laguna Canyon- thus cutting down on commuting - as Franz is rarely at his campus, and being near better schools - possibly even the Orange county performing arts high school...I am finding that there are great prices out there for rentals. We could get into a nice house now that we could not have afforded two years ago. What to do, what to do? The mountain is beautiful, but the roads are treacherous, though the stars are amazing, but the houses are on the weird side and I want a garage! Oh what to do? What would you do? Were you moved during high school? Were you scarred for life?

Nick Arber joins the floppy hat club!

2009-07-18T19:38:00.000-07:00

How we wish we could have been in Norwich to celebrate Nick's big day. He has joined the elite club of floppy hat wearing PhD's! Well done!

Strange Happenings

2009-07-17T17:35:00.000-07:00

So, we officially said goodbye to the Subaru today. Eloise cried as we left the parking lot (the new owners waiting for their tow truck to arrive). Being very hot and emotional we went to lunch and then bought some new T-shirts at Old Navy. As we made our way toward home on the I15 low and behold there was our car! It was on an AAA tow truck on it's way to Murrietta - it's new home. The buyer was a professional diesel mechanic - would have no problem fixing it up. We wish him well. That is one chapter closed. On to the next one.

Yesterday I registered for my fall classes and am so excited! I will have history of figuration in modern art, Painting from the figure and then 35 hours a week of studio time (at home). The painting class is 6 hours! That will be a doozy. It is on a Friday afternoon though, so I can take my time heading home. I have been filling out scholarship applications like crazy, though most would not come in until next term so need to look over the FAFSA offerings this weekend and decide what to do with that.

Oh and many thanks to the Frankes who gave us their 2004 Nissan Sentra - the price was right! It drives great but has a few oddities - due to an accident when in Mike's possession - like the windshield washer fluid container is missing...wonder where that is? We repaired the broken air conditioner pipe and had it recharged - nice and cool now - just a bit noisy but only on the outside of the car. Again, no idea why. Cars are like big puzzles. I just wish we knew how to put the peices together.

We are still in need of a second car. Something snow and ice worthy - so keep us in mind if you find any great deals. Hey you Utah folks! We will be there in August so could possibly buy something there and drive it home...

Okay, next chapter. We have accpeted a short sale on our house (as we have lost half the value and the modification that was offered after eight months of waiting, was only 5% interest only for three years, no good). The bank is moving forward, we are told to expect appraisers this week to set the fair market value. I feel confident though that our agent priced it right, so we should be in the ball park on the offer. If not and this buyer falls through there were two other interested parties - we have a cute house. I am okay with all of this. Three months ago, would not have been, but now see clearly how stupid it would be to conitue paying what we do for this house and not be earning any equity for who knows how many years to come. So, once we have a clearer closing date will find a house to lease - prices are great - we can get more room, another bathroom and possibly even a garage! Oh, and importantly, studio space. We will stay on the mountian as the schools are still rating higher up here than down the mountain, but may end up in Arrowhead or Twin Peaks - depending on where the right house is.

So, nothing really going on this summer. HA.

MaCall goes to Arrowbear this Sunday and will be there for three weeks. She can though expect a vist from us on Sundays and from her music teacher(Pavel Farkas) who just happens to be good friends with the director of the advanced session (Stephen Tucker from the UCI music department).

So, going to go move the water and rest. It has been a long day - and I have no plans to drive through Barstow in the near future. It is hot and ugly. The only things going for it are possibly the Old Woman Metiorite and the choo choo train by the gas station.

We are dealing with stress by walking around the lake and eating watermellon.

If you need to escape the heat you are welcome to visit!

Life as we know it

2009-07-14T11:25:00.000-07:00

See that photo of Lucy at the top of the post? That is what I was thinking about when our timing belt broke on the way home from Vegas, "I just want to be home on my bed with Lucy and the air conditioning!". So yes, Franz decided that life had been very stressful so he surprised me with a night in Vegas and a show - previous post. Then the car broke down between Baker and Barstow. The car is still in Barstow. We are seeking a buyer. Lori and Martin came to rescue by giving us their Nissan which was sitting unused in their drive- after Mike wrecked it. It still seems to run very well, just needed new tires, hub caps, a good clean, air conditioning service and a few other things. We are just grateful to have transportation and really appreciated Martin driving it down to us. Still wondering where the spoiler is, which Mike claims to have left at a friends house - as one does...

Through all of this Eloise was at Arrowbear Music Camp. Which was fortunate for her as she would never have lasted the heat in the desert. She had a good time - evident by the grime on her feet! She was placed in the advanced group and performed very well in the end of camp concert. The above photo is with her friend Ahalani, who was plagued by ants and was stung by a bee - a memorable year for this poor girl. This Sunday we take MaCall for her turn.

So, any buyers for a dead Subaru? Accepting best offer!

Human Nature - dancing in the street

2009-07-08T12:25:00.001-07:00

Seriously, a good show. Franz wanted the topless Jubilee but I felt I'd been accosted with enough breasts just by walking down the strip.

Human Nature - baby i need your loving

2009-07-08T12:19:00.001-07:00

$20 room and a free show. These guys were great - totally worth a free show!

I was accpeted!

2009-07-03T15:05:00.000-07:00

I have been accepted to the Laguna College of Art and Design MFA Program, http://www.lagunacollege.edu/ and have to say I am pretty excited about it. Yes, it is an hour away, but I will only have to go down twice a week - spending 35 hours a week working in my at home studio (YIKES). Now I seek funding! I have been online searching the government site for grants and fellowships. They have a pretty cool search engine - you put in all sorts of details and they match you with scholarships. One was from a sleep foundation - requirements are that you submit a photo of a person or animal sleeping. I can do that.

Summer Days

2009-07-01T18:58:00.000-07:00

I love simple summer days. Who needs theme parks and expensive toys when you have a couple packs of cards and a trip to the Mexican bakery?

So, yes, Cardenas is our favorite store now. The produce prices are fantastic - today 10 pounds of oranges for a $1! Then we decided to try out their deli (what do you call that in Spanish?). I asked if they could do a veggie burrito - beans, rice, lettuce, tomato, onion, cilantro and pico de gallo. Oh ya, it was good. The price...99 cents. You heard me and that came with the salsa bar.

One of my favorite aspects of going to Cardenas is the security guard. Now, this is not a small rustic place, it is a fancy new full service store, complete with insurance sales, juice stand, bakery and deli/cafe. The security guard reminds me of Barney Fife. He takes his job very seriously. His uniform is pressed and perfect, he wears his aviator glasses with style - in the store, has his gun and holster on the hip with just a touch of swagger. He keeps his hands at a constant hover over his gun, in case he has to make a quick draw. Some people may be put off by this, but I have complete confidence in this man and am sure that any prospective thug will change his intentions when looking at Barney. I think I will have to call him that from now on. Barney.

Other than bakeries and cards, MaCall had a violin lesson today with Pavel. He has been in Europe and we have not seen him in ages. It was so good to see him again. Just entering the music building at Redland's University gives me a thrill - I love the smell of old wood and learning. He brought her a cute little doll from Slovakia and was very happy with her playing today.

Eloise leaves for Arrowbear Music camp on Sunday afternoon. She will be gone for a week. This is a family tradition. Both of Franz's parents attended Arrowbear Music Camp. So, this is our Arrowbear year. Both girls have scholarships. Eloise will be gone for one week with the elementary session and MaCall for THREE WEEKS at the advanced session. I'm a little worried about the length of time - not for her, for me - but she is very excited. She has many friends from school and quartet attending with her. This weekend her quartet will play at the community picnic and at the 4th of July parade.

Oh, and update, her grades arrived. She completed her Freshman year with all A's and one B+ in PE. PE! She says but Mom, it isn't like when you were in High School, they expect us to work in PE. Uh huh. Pretty good though. We are proud of her.

Saturday

2009-06-27T17:58:00.000-07:00

We had plans to go to the beach today to meet up with friends from church, but before we could leave something important came up and instead stayed home. We were all pretty grumpy so dragged the girls to the arboretum for an afternoon walk then drove to Cedar Glen (south side of Lake Arrowhead) to find The Malt Shop - which we had heard of but never found. We found it - quite off the beaten path, but never the less fairly busy. It was just what the girls needed. Old fashioned malts - the kind that you can suck through a straw and come with the extras in the frosty metal cup. The fries were fresh cut and onion rings pretty tasty. I splurged and had a orange freeze which I had full intentions of suffering for - head ache wise, but did not do too bad. Sometimes you just need to get out and have some fun. So, when you visit next time, we will take you to the Malt Shop - established 1945. Right when I took these photos people had left and the next crowd was shortly to come in. Good timing.

I hope you are having a good weekend.

Our thoughts and prayers go to all the jobless, homeless and to Steve who is really suffering with five broken ribs and other complications.

June with the Potters

2009-06-23T09:38:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have been procrastinating on this. I meant to write wonderful things about Franz for his birthday. I meant to do the same for Father's Day. I didn't. Not that he didn't deserve them. He is wonderful and we appreciate all he is and does.

Saturday was the big party. We planted flowers, cleaned carpets and rugs, touched up paint on the house and bought a new shower curtain. We borrowed a table and chairs, birthday banner and cupcake stands (from Heidi). That morning it was beautiful. We set up the back yard as a vision of plein air dining. Then the fog rolled in and the temperature dropped. By the time the party started all of the seating and eating was outside, but all of the people were inside huddled in our living room, refusing to come out! We even had MaCall's quartet set up where our dining table usually is. They sounded great and all in all everyone seemed to enjoy themselves anyhow. These things happen. Franz made great pizzas on his new grill. I hope 40 won't be too bad for him!

Of course, I had the camera out to take pictures and the only pictures taken were of me, Addison, Elias and Michele and MaCall (Addy was there!) decorating the cupcakes. I failed again!

This week I interview at the Laguna College of Art and Design for their MFA program. It is a good program but things have been so stressful here that my attitude at this point is whatever. They either like me or they don't. I won't worry one way or the other. If they do like me then I will worry about the funding, transport and weather a forty year old woman can cut grad school - one who has been chronically ill for seven years. I think I can though...

School is out and the girls seem pretty happy about that. Eloise received award after award at her end of school ceremony. Highest grade point average, no assignments missed, over two million words read, fastest typist, Silver Presidential award .. it goes on and after a while a parent starts to feel a big sheepish - "we are sorry they missed out on your kid...". It is great though to have such a responsible, hard working girl. We are still waiting to see how MaCall finished the year. Finals were the last week of school so we wait...

Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the family members who are currently without jobs or who have taken big cuts. It is tough out there!

Weekend

2009-06-15T18:01:00.000-07:00

Friday was open house at Eloise's school. She presented her NY report and dressed up as...either Hillary or Elenore Roosevelt. It was a busy week and we all needed a break and that is just what we got.

Saturday we drove down to Heidi and Darin's then together drove to San Diego to pick up Franz's sister Marian from the airport - she was here for a convention. Franz had not seen her in something like 18 years. The girls and I had never met her, so were very excited. Marian was great, so easy to talk to and fun. We went to Old Town San Diego (the birth place of California) and had lunch, walked along the colorful shops and enjoyed the sun (which we had not seen for many days). Then we went back to the Jackman's to rest. Franz and Darin took MaCall and Hunter to a church dance - saw a movie while waiting for them. Marian, Heidi, Eloise and I hung out, talked and put on a chick flick. All in all a nice day.

Sunday was back up the mountain so Franz could teach his class. This is finals week for MaCall. We have loads of activities for school and Eloise has a spring dance recital - dress rehearsal Friday, three performances Saturday and Sunday - also Franz's birthay in there somewhere...

Stress levels are high and as we keep hearing of more family members being laid off work, are feeling the job losses are pandemic. I sure hope things start to turn around soon.

Life in 1950's television

2009-06-09T18:27:00.001-07:00

Do you ever wonder why life doesn't work out like an episode of Father Knows Best? Everything looked so much cleaner in Black and White. I don't think they had crumbs on the kitchen floor, or dust in the corners, lint on the bathroom floor. I don't think they worried about home values or jobs lost, just family values and new twin set sweaters. I don't think they did nearly as much driving as we do. I seem to think black and white kids (TV kids) walked to school, violin lessons and primary activities. I know the girls on 1950's TV let their mothers brush their hair. Look at those perfect dos! Dad's always had big no stress smiles on their faces. Mom's always looked dressed for luncheon with the girls - never an ounce of fat on their thighs...What a life. I think I'd better check netflix for some Father Knows Best.

Eloise survives Yosemite

2009-05-30T19:28:00.000-07:00

Eloise survived Yosemite! They encountered a bear in the camp ground, saw lots of dear, magnificent water falls, and big trees. They hiked in the rain, swam when it was dry, saw an Indian Hotel, ate at In-n-Out and Hodels. They did mani and pedi's in their tents and over all had a good time. We are glad to have her home!

Memorial Day

2009-05-26T08:39:00.000-07:00

This photo was found in today's OC Register - taken during the National Anthem at the Race. Eloise, Me, Dylan, Luke and Darin.

Heidi and Dylan enjoy the ocean...

Eloise, Luke, Dylan and Franz build castles...

Following the running events we made our way to Crystal Cove State Beach.
It was beautiful and not crowded! Here MaCall sports new swim suit with cousins Luke and Delany.

Apparently our kids do not get out enough. You can't take them anywhere!
FYI Woody's Diner has a great veggie burger!

Franz beat his own time on his second 5K - the Laguna Hills Memorial Day Marathon. Heidi ran her first 1/2 marathon and came in under 3 hours! Hunter ran the 1/2 marathon and came in just JUST over 2 hours! Well done to all the athletes!

All in all it was a lovely weekend. Saturday we enjoyed the many yard sales on the mountain. Franz found a great set of golf clubs -complete with glove - for only $10! Eloise found a skate board for a school project - a float of NY for a class state parade - I found tomato cages for my growing tomato plants. No cool bench or iron chair for my yard though...

MaCall had a day out on Saturday with her quartet friends - practiced for a wedding gig coming up, went down to Old Navy to get $1 flip flops (sold out), hiked down to a creek and swam, then went bowling.

Sunday Franz gave another masterful lesson in Gospel Doctrine. We walked at the lake somewhere in there....

Sunday night we drove down to Laguna Hills - found a nice hotel room - cheap on Hotwire. That way we were ready to go early Monday morning to register for the race.

All in all it was a fun day and being at the race, with the flags, National Anthem sung - it felt appropriate for Memorial Day. We were also right near Leisure World - new name now - which had me thinking of Grandma and George.

Hope you all had good weekends. Now we are back to school. Tomorrow Eloise is off on a school trip to Yosemite. We will miss her. She is so much fun to have around - most of the time.

Farewell to Sam Maloof

2009-05-23T12:05:00.000-07:00

Sam Maloof dies at 93; designer and builder of simple, beautiful furniture

Sam Maloof, a designer and woodworker whose furniture was initially prized for its simplicity and practicality by Southern Californian homeowners in the 1950s and later valued for its beauty and timelessness by collectors, museum curators and U.S. presidents, has died. He was 93.

Maloof, whose career began six decades ago just as the American modernism movement was becoming popular, put usefulness before artistry and turned down multimillion-dollar offers to mass-produce his original designs. He worked out of his home workshop, shaping hardwood, one part at a time, into rocking chairs, cradles and hutches that were shorn of unnecessary adornments.

His hi-fi cabinets, cork-top coffee tables and other modern pieces were instantly praised by home magazine editors and trend-setting interior designers. His walnut chairs and bar stools were installed in several of the so-called Case Study Houses -- the modernist, experimental homes in the Los Angeles area built between 1945 and 1966 by Richard Neutra, Charles Eames, Eero Saarinen and other progressive architects.

Even after Maloof was recognized as an influential pioneer of contemporary California decor, and even as his furniture was reselling for 100 times its original price, Maloof referred to himself simply as a "woodworker."

"He was trying to make other people appreciate what it was like to live with a handcrafted object in which there was a kind of union between maker, object and owner," said Jeremy Adamson, who wrote "The Furniture of Sam Maloof," published in 2001 to coincide with a retrospective exhibition of Maloof's work at the Smithsonian American Art Museum's Renwick Gallery in Washington, D.C.

President Carter, a woodwork hobbyist and friend who visited Maloof's home, signed a photograph "to my woodworking hero."

Carter and subsequent presidents used Maloof's signature rocking chairs in the White House. Elongated rockers on the chairs look sculptural, like an archer's bow, but they were made for a very practical reason: to keep the chairs from tipping over.

"Ray Charles couldn't see my furniture," Maloof told a reporter. "But he said he could feel that it had soul. When he asked about my rocker [at a friend's house], his host told him, 'That's a chair made by Sam Maloof.' Ray ran his hands over the wood shouting, 'I know this man! I know this man!' On his next visit, the first thing Ray Charles said was, 'I'd like to touch that furniture again that Sam Maloof made.' "

He was described by the Smithsonian Institution as "America's most renowned contemporary furniture craftsman" and People magazine dubbed him "The Hemingway of Hardwood." But his business card always said "woodworker."

"I like the word," he once said, his eyes brightening behind large, owl-eyed glass frames. "It's an honest word."

I am so glad that I had the opportunity to meet him. He was a lovely person.

Painting in the mountains

2009-05-21T18:01:00.001-07:00

I have spent a couple of mornings painting at the Heaps Peak Arboretum this week. It is about 15 minutes further up the mountain from us and has a really nice trail - maybe a little over a mile - with a variety of terrain and wild life. This little guy was crossing my path as I came lumbering along with my Radio Flyer. I admit I am not a fan of snakes, but with the sun shining on those bright colours I was very impressed. I did a little research and learned that he is a California Mountain King Snake - not venemous. Several other artists from PAAR (Plein Air Artists of Riverside) joined me on each day. It has been very enjoyable and I am happy with the work produced (which you can view on my daily painting blog).

Sunny Days

2009-05-20T16:45:00.000-07:00

Dog Woods

Mason enjoying cake.

Two cute boys busy al fresco.

Flowers from my garden.

MaCall and Addy take Elias and Mason for a ride.

ELOISE SAYS

2009-05-13T13:56:00.000-07:00

This morning Eloise says "Mother, I am nearly a sixth grader and sixth graders do not "play" we "hang out". Then a few minutes later tells me "I am going to be a very moody sixth grader". I said "Really? Are you really going to be moody?". She says "Yes, I can feel it starting all ready". (playing with cousin Luke and Lake Gregory, above)

MaCall attended her first church dance on Friday - at a ward near the Redland's Temple. She danced six times. One boy had terribly sweaty hands. Another refused to talk in spite of her attempts to start conversation "so are you into sports?" "ya". Another went on and on about how amazingly short she is. All in all she chalked it up as a sucessful evening. (dance preparations above)

I am feeling old. I just purchased some potion off of skinplanet.com to combat my age spots.

Good Book

2009-05-12T09:55:00.000-07:00

I would love to discuss this book with someone who has read it. It totally sucks you in and spits you out. I would have left off the last chapter, but aside from that loved it. Not for those who can't deal with gritty reality, but so well written and a great message.

Pride and Predjudice and Zombies

2009-05-08T09:03:00.000-07:00

As this book makes public attention I thought I would point out that Franz is guest blogger at the University of Stirling in Scotland. This week's post is on Pride and Prejudice and Zombies. You can go to this link to see the blog. http://www.gothic.stir.ac.uk/guests/viewblog.php?id=59

Which one is better?

2009-05-07T17:55:00.000-07:00

Okay, the rabbits are now buddies. It is very cute and we no longer have bunny fur flying around the house! Yay!

So, Eloise needs a photo of the two of us for a school project - could it be mother's day? Anyhow, we disagree on which one is better. Do you prefer the black and white one or the colour?

Dogwood in bloom

2009-05-05T08:20:00.000-07:00

The weather has been so nice as of late that we have been making good use of the trails around the lake. The dogwood is in bloom and the bunnies are enjoying the fresh air.

Hamish spent his first night in the hutch with Snickers. He immediately started thumping and sulking - it is after all not his house as far as he is concerned. Snickers started nibbling on his face as if to say, it is okay, you are welcome here. How cute.

Today we go down the mountain to see the orthopedist specialist for an up date on my foot. I am doing much better, but it still gets sore and at times swells.

We hope all is well with you and yours.

Run Day

2009-04-28T11:43:00.000-07:00

Well Done Franz, Heidi and Hunter! Franz ran his first 5k in under 36 minutes. Heidi ran her first 10k and did very well even if she does not think so! Hunter ran the 10k and won first place in his age division. Above he is with the boy who took second (sorry it is so dark, my computer crashed as I was starting to edit, it is very finicky right now). It was a fun day with the cousins and the weather was cool for the runners (a bit too cool for us normal folk).

Sunday the Hunters came up the mountain for some food and fun. It was so nice to see them again - after a long hiatus. All the kids got along so well and it was really a nice afternoon, though again, rather chilly.

Today, trying not to molt (foul mood), trying to be productive and hopeful. Trying.

Great Book

2009-04-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

This is a really good book. Perhaps it just suited my mood, but I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to a sequel. Yes, it does play on a similar idea to Harry Potter - family murdered, baby escapes and I'm sure there are other correlations, but instead of Hogwarts, Bod's safe place is the grave yard and all of it's inhabitants. These inhabitants span thousands of years and each have their own history to tell.

Aside from the good book I'm feeling rather pissy (this is becoming a habit) because I really need to start driving again - it has been since September. I am feeling better. I am more active. I want to be involved in my painting groups, want to get out and paint on location, but have to rely on others for rides. My painting ride, is ill and will not be available to go to paint outs for the next couple of months - even then she often wants to leave just as I'm getting started - another annoyance. Franz is not interested in driving to Riverside, or Joshua Tree or other such spots to sit and watch me paint (I make suggestions for hikes, picnics etc, but it does not work, besides, if the girls are there I will want to hike too). So, what is stopping me? The fact that to put me back on our insurance will raise our rates from $350 a term to $789. Does anyone else think that is rediculous?! All because I had one accident - was not even ticketed for it! It isn't like I killed anyone! This is with Geico and they are usually the cheapest. I am really angry.

Elbowroom2009

2009-04-20T15:36:00.001-07:00

Eloise impressed us all with her solo of Elbow Room at the Grandview Gate Club's production of School House Rock. She also received a Gold Honor Roll award the same day and a special award for being a responsible student. Well done Eloise! You are a wonderful child. We love you!

Congratulations Dr Nicholas Arber!

2009-04-16T11:52:00.001-07:00

Our friend Nick Arber passed his viva today and is now Dr Nicholas Arber! He will received his diploma from the University of East Anglia, famous for it's ziggurats and it's other illustrious graduates including, Dr Franz Potter, and authors; Ian McEwan, Kazuo Ishiguro, Rose Tremain, Clive Sinclair . Above we see Nick looking somewhat bemused - the English understated show of emotion...

I'll Never Be French

2009-04-15T10:38:00.000-07:00

I loved this book. I found myself reading it out loud to whom ever would listen. I was chuckling in bed, in the car, at the kitchen table. This man is living our dream.

Watch the short video...http://www.amazon.com/gp/mpd/permalink/m38XHWX0KGEKRA

Easter

2009-04-13T09:20:00.000-07:00

Friday evening Lori, Mike and Cassie arrived. We enjoyed hanging out and watching North and South. Saturday we went down to Redlands to meet Heidi and Luke for dinner - though poor Luke, fine when they arrived, suddenly spiraled into fever and flu. We let them go home and took MaCall to the Stake church building to warm up for the Easter Cantata. We arrived later for the event. It was quite nice, one particular violin being the best part...

Yesterday we attended church, had an egg hunt, finished watching North and South, then had a lovely meal - if I do say so myself. I made the best green leaf, fennel, asparagus, orange salad. I cut the oil in the dressing by more than half and used an orange rice vinegar. Everyone loved it. I also made these fabulous French potatoes. Franz cooked the ham, which looked pretty good even if it was cooked pork flesh. For desert we had sorbet napoleons. I used fresh strawberries and both raspberry and lemon sorbet. Very tasty!

Episode three of Little Dorrit was still quite good. The director has done a wonderful job of portraying Dickens exaggerated characters. Worth a watch!

Day out to Long Beach

2009-04-09T11:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was one of those days where we all needed to get away. You know the sort of days where you know that if you spend one more day doing the same old same old you will end up terribly depressed or at each other's throats. So, Franz being the good guy that he is, went online and bought tickets to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. Hamish had his appointment in Fountain Valley to be fixed, so we dropped him off at nine and made it to the aquarium by ten. I will say that Long Beach was much nicer than I thought it would be. It was beautiful. The aquarium was a little on the busy side, but the wharf near by was deserted. It was great. We did far too much walking for my foot's desire, but it was so beautiful that I kept going. Everyone was in such good spirits.

We later met Craig and Carly and Elliot for dinner at the Veggie Grill in Irvine. I loved my salad, but Franz and MaCall were not so keen on their meat substitute hamburger. They should have listened to me - don't eat food that is trying to be something it's not! The sweet potato fries were good.

All in all it was a nice day and for some unknown reason I'm feeling quite pissy today. Sometimes you just wake up that way and don't have any reason for it. I hate that.

Sunflower Forts

2009-04-07T15:34:00.000-07:00

They tell us that rain is on it's way, so today we decided to plant some sunflowers. I had a brilliant idea - to go into the empty lot and plant sunflower walls for the girl's "fort" which is just a clearing in the shrubs. Franz and MaCall cleared and hoed, Eloise planted. We then decided to beautify the lot by planting seeds randomly in sunny spots. We planted them along the base of our terraces and scattered them in the wind. This summer might just find our surrounding area a sea of sunflowers! We still have thousands more to plant. But have done enough for today.

I have always wanted to plant a sunflower house. You just map out a square, leave a spot for a door, plant giant sunflowers. When they get about four feet tall you plant morning glory between the sunflowers to climb up the stocks decorating the walls of your house. When they get to six feet tall you use twine to close in your roof.

Our sunflowers did so well last year, that I am hoping this will be the year of the sunflower fort.

I am also celebrating spring with new sandals - my broken foot required something sturdy - so found a really cute pair of Born sandals (only slightly used, can't tell at all) on E-bay for a really good deal! They came today and I am very happy with them. I just wish my left foot would get back to normal size - it is still on the puffy side.

Dreaming of a Family Home in France

2009-04-05T17:08:00.000-07:00

So, I've been reading about France again and now that I am feeling so much better, I have the energy to dream about moving to France again. Nothing wrong with wanting a house large enough for family to visit and not have to all sleep in the living room and share one bathroom. Not to mention - it is in France and was built in the 16th century! Anyone want to make donations?

Lehon Cotes D'Armor
169,600 Euros
(approx. £154,531)
Detached stone and slate property(140 sqm;south-east facing), from the 16th century, with a lot of character(fireplace, exposed stone and beams, doors), situated in a hamlet, 15 miles from the sea and 10 minutes from Lamballe, with an enclosed hilly garden area of 1.43 acres(5 795 sqm) including a pond. Septic tank. Some renovation eneded for the roof. Oil central heating. Taxe habitation : 340 euros/year. Taxe fonciere : 246 euros/year.
Ground floor : entrance, fitted kitchen(18 sqm), shower room, toilet, lounge(50 sqm) with fireplace. First floor : 4 bedrooms(10;15;15;12 sqm), toilet, bathroom. Second floor : loft.

Perfect Days

2009-04-01T14:22:00.001-07:00

The weather has been so beautiful! The past few days I have eaten my lunch in our sunken patio - perfectly protected from any chilly breezes - the sun warming the gravel and stone walls. From here I survey the pansies in bloom, the grape hyacinths, the soon to open tulips. I have a perfect view of Hamish playing in his run and "new bunny" in her hutch. I watch the blue birds and black cap chickadees in their annual battle over the hole in the hollow tree. Scrub jays are building a nest in our eaves.

My salad of the week is so good - thanks to friend Paula who first made it for me. It consists of the leafy green base (spring mix, spinach, cilantro and parsley), chopped green apple, garbanzo beans, chopped green onion, and walnuts, topped by a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, fresh ground pepper and a smattering of Kosher salt. Yum!

The missionaries came by Tuesday to say good bye - the one in the photo is being transferred. Beau (cool name huh?) is a good kid and has been fun to talk with as he is an avid reader of all sorts of things, watches the same sorts of movies that Franz watches and was thrilled when Franz sent him home with some Gothic publications to read. His companion who is still here seems to produce silly smiles on MaCall's face.

Hamish meets Fifi!

2009-03-30T15:38:00.001-07:00

We have a new bunny! This is Fifi - the real thing! A while back I put an ad in Craigslist looking for a sturdy outdoor rabbit hutch. No one answered and I really forgot about it. Then last week a woman wrote who had a hutch she needed to sell as they were moving to Texas and could only take their two adult rabbits and their larger hutch. It seemed she also had the last of the litter to find a home for as well - they kept this one behind because she was so sweet. So, I haggled the price of the hutch down to a very reasonable rate and the bunny came with it. Hamish has an appointment at the Lo Cost Animal Clinic next week to be fixed. Once he is shooting blanks the two of them can cuddle in their hutch outside - not in my living room making my eyes water and nose run!

Little Dorrit - Charles Dickens - TONIGHT!

2009-03-29T08:51:00.000-07:00

Just what I need! A new Masterpiece Theater production. I have not read Charles Dickens's Little Dorrit, but the cast is very good and the preview - can view on the MPT website - looks very good. Ah, Sunday evening, a cup of steaming herbal tea, curled up on the couch with Master Piece Theater - the only thing missing is Alastair Cook...

Party in Progress - will we survive?

2009-03-24T18:35:00.000-07:00

Party in Progress! Will we survive? I have to say that the conversation among freshman girls is quite different than last year... so far we have discussed "hotties"and which girls at school are pregnant and by whom, who's on drugs and I have learned what a "hooch" is. Do you know? Eloise says "mom, they giggle way too much. I'm getting a head ache. My friends and I have serious discussions". Franz has retreated to the back yard - is weeding and spreading mulch. We have had pizza and salad, are now watching Twilight and will later have angel food cake with strawberries and cream. I'll let you know if we survive 14!

Weekend

2009-03-22T17:29:00.000-07:00

Finally, an afternoon to read, relax, be together as a family. It seems that life for the Potter family is on overdrive. Yesterday I went with friends Helga and Wilma to White Water Nature Preserve to paint with PAAR. It is a lovely place, pretty lodge, trout ponds, river, set between canyon walls. We settled into our painting and within five minutes the wind attacked. We had canvas, paint, paper towels and brushes flying down the parking lot. In spite of this we managed to get some very fast little paintings done, and had an enjoyable picnic lunch. On our way home Helga took us to her favorite German grocery store. I bought pickles, Rye bread, marzipan and Haribo bears.

During this time Franz and the girls went down to Redlands to pick up some painting for me, and to buy MaCall's birthday gift. We all met up at the house, then turned around and drove back down the mountain with friend Brett, where MaCall had a violin practice for Stake conference. We then went out to dinner - a vintage type Mexican place down town San Bernardino - Brett is courageous - 0r dumb. There was a lively 25th anniversary party going on, but they seated us in the back. It was fun and the food was good.

Today we braved the storm - the one the wind was bringing in - and made it back down for Stake Conference - the music was very good. Afterward we were making our way through the building to get to the rear entrance, when we lost MaCall. Franz and I looked into the cultural hall and found her surrounded by a group of boys from the Lake Arrowhead Ward - complimenting her on her performance - one was the lead in music man - so I had to tease her about actually being spoken to by THE Music Man! She seemed pleased with the attention.

Now we are home and have enjoyed the afternoon. There was a concert to go to today, but Franz has had enough with driving so we stayed home.

Above is the old Arrowhead Hotel after the storm - I think Southern Cal is actually pretty when it storms. It is because the water saturates the ground, making more contrast and color. The inky clouds also provide shadows on the mountains, light coming through in patches - making it far more visually interesting than the usual washed out browns and ochres.

Also, above are the two Lucy's. Perfect Sunday afternoon!

Too Sad!

2009-03-18T21:02:00.000-07:00

It is far too soon to say goodbye to Natasha Richardson! I have always been a fan of hers. I loved her in Widow's Peak and The White Countess. I confess I even liked her in the remake of parent trap. She had a quality I wanted to emulate - sexy, classic, style. Only 45 and such a freak accident. It really makes one realize how short life might be.

In the Act

2009-03-16T15:59:00.000-07:00

Here are MaCall and her quartet friends - all were in the San Bernardino High School Honor Orchestra, which performed this past weekend. Eloise performed for the first time with the Elementary Honor Orchestra - on viola. She disappeared into a throng of humanity before I could get her picture. All three orchestras (Jr. High included) did very well and were a joy to listen to.
It's Hamish time! Here our little furry guy is caught in his favorite act. No, that is not a ball, it is Fifi, his girl friend.
How could anyone resist the look on his face. What a cute guy!

By the way, Franz and I have our 15th wedding anniversary to celebrate on the 19th, so if you have not had a chance to send cards with cash, you still have time to do so!

Taxes. The Truth.

2009-03-13T17:46:00.000-07:00

Lodger

2009-03-12T13:44:00.000-07:00

Franz and I returned home today to find this little guy enjoying the sun and warm gravel in front of our man cave, studio, shed. We have known he was there for some time, but have only had chance encounters after dark. I had never seen him during the day before. Do you think he or she has a family under there?After sniffing around he actually settled down for what looked like a nap - till a trash pick up truck made a loud screeching noise and sent him back under.

Weekend

2009-03-09T15:35:00.000-07:00

This is what happens to MaCall when she has had too much violin!

Here are Franz and I at the Stake Sweet Heart Dance. I managed to pivot on one foot to our song - Linger by the Cranberries.

Jam and Jerusalem aka Clatterford

2009-03-06T22:09:00.000-08:00

I finished watching season 2 of Jam and Jerusalem tonight (Clatterford in the US). It did not let me down - second season was great. I don't want to give it away, but suggest you get watching - you can see it on Youtube as it is not available here yet. Here is the link to the first episode... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s4_SzRzXMak

The Ethics of Dressing for the day, the night before continued

2009-03-06T08:22:00.000-08:00

I have looked up the definition of Ethics:

Ethics is a word for a philosophy that encompasses proper conduct and good living. It is significantly broader than the common conception of ethics as the analyzing of right and wrong. A central aspect of ethics is "the good life", the life worth living or that is simply satisfying, which is held by many philosophers to be more important than moral conduct.^[1]

In so doing I have determined that dressing for the day, the night ahead is not ethical. I base that on several points. The first being the physical discomfort of wearing street clothes to bed. This would certainly impede the person from getting a thoroughly good night's sleep. The bedding would get tangled, the person too hot, bed sores etc. Second, the psychological implications.

When a person removes the day's clothes to go to bed - whether they put on night clothes or sleep in their underwear - they are sending a signal to the brain that the day is over, I can now put aside the cares of the day, I can put off the cares of tomorrow, and rest, rejuvenate, go to that place in the imagination where anything can happen. By dressing for the day ahead you are not allowing this to take place. You are signaling to the body that the next day is coming far too soon and too fast for you to take a break, you have to be ready, on the run, no time for relaxation, rejuvenation. I see this person as having the potential for ending up with serious sleep disorders.

I find it interesting that some of you are not able to separate the philosophical discussion from the personal interest of the child. This wasn't really about that particular family and their habits - they can do as they like - it was rather a discussion of the implications of our dressing habits for bed.

I was after a philosophical discussion.

Importance of night clothes or jammies or PJ's

2009-03-05T18:58:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I've been contemplating night clothes. You see, Eloise told me some time back about a friend who gets dressed for school the night before and sleeps in her school clothes. I thought this was just a passing oddity of this particular friend - she can be odd. Well, last night we had this friend and her 8 year old sister for the night. When it was time for bed I told this little girl she should get her jammies on and get ready for bed. She looked a bit concerned and explained to me that they did not wear pajamas. They sleep in their school clothes. I looked at her and smiled and told her that was weird. She being a serious child, explained that it cut down on laundry and saved time in the morning.

Now this may seem very logical to some people but for me it was plain wrong! Wrong I tell you! For one, how can you be comfortable sleeping in jeans? But it is more than that. It has to do with propriety. It is important for one to dress appropriately for the occasion. It seems to me that not dressing for bed indicates poor breeding, lack of class. Yes, I am a snob. But I just can't get over the feeling of wrongness here.

What do you think?

What a week!

2009-03-02T16:03:00.000-08:00

This past week was very long! I swear Franz does nothing but drive all day, here and there, transporting kids to school, practices, hip hop, down the mountain Honor Orchestra, me to my painting events. Somehow he still manages to get some work done.

We had mom and Steve here last week. That was interesting as Steve determined on getting to their condo in Arrowhead that he would never find his way back to our house unless we could point out a straight wide street to get him there. Nope, not on the mountain, so Franz had to go pick them up, but then Steve found he got car sick if he was not driving, so we ended up going to them - which was additional driving time etc. It was good to see them, but did wear me out. I managed to do the paint out with PAAR on Saturday, which involved a timed painting from 9 to 11.30 - subject the Riverside Art Museum in honor of it's 80th anniversary. I did very well, so I thought, but did not get any recognition from the judge - though did from many a passer by. The painting along with the Coffee Depot painting will be on display Thursday through some time in April - not sure of the date. I did manage to hobble down to the Mission Inn for lunch with Mom, Steve and his daughter Cindy. The mission has a beautiful courtyard, with fountain, red umbrellas and bougainvillea. After lunch I had to hang out in front of the museum where we showed our work till 4. By the time Franz and MaCall found me, my foot felt like it was going to explode and I had several times of feeling like passing out. Not good. I spent yesterday in a horizontal position with my book (Mary Barton by Elizabeth Gaskell) and a pre code movie (Night Nurse, with Barbara Stanwyck and Clark Gable). Today I had to deliver work to the museum, then came home and got back in the horizontal.

MaCall has Music Man practices every day this week, Honor Orchestra for both girls on Saturday. The performace for MM run the 12th through the 15th. Honor Orchestra is the same weekend - on the 14th - time to be announced. Too many things and not everything is on the calendar.

I am babbling. It is raining and I think I'll go back to my book.

Above are the courtyard at Mission Inn in Riverside and Mom having lunch. If ever in Riverside that is the place to go.

Sick Day

2009-02-23T14:28:00.001-08:00

Here is a recent painting that I am really happy with. I call it Sick Day.

Survived another snow day

2009-02-18T19:37:00.000-08:00

Okay, so the girls had another day off. This sun was out and it was a beautiful day, though drippy with melting snow. Eloise had a viola lesson with Mrs. Bass and then the quartet girls had their rehearsal. It was good to get out, though a bit precarious, trying to navigate the snow, slush, ice, stairs and slippery sidewalks in crutches. We also made it to the library where I had five books that had come in and were on hold - had been for some time but with snow and foot issues have not been able to get there.

Happily I learned that I had three out of three paintings accepted for a juried show in Redlands - with the Redland's Art Association. They had 380 submissions and accepted 120, so that is pretty good. I did something I never do, I looked up the juror. It turns out he was the curator for the Riverside Art Museum - recently moved on to another job. I had noticed in the past what sort of work he chose for exhibits and what sorts of things he gave prizes to - always more urban in style and theme - so went that way with my submissions. Sunday afternoon we will go to the reception. If you are in the area please join us in Redlands at 1.00 to 3.00

Okay, time to put the foot up. It just does not work to do that near the computer.

Yes indeed I have broken my foot

2009-02-16T08:45:00.000-08:00

Strawberries that Franz made for Valentine's Day

So, last week I was doing yoga on the wii and while balancing on one leg lost my balance and landed wrong on my foot. It hurt all week, but I could walk on it so thought I just pulled something. Then Friday night I was helping Franz shovel snow and decided to make a snow angel for Eloise - who had been indoors for several days with a fever and sore throat. So I did it by the sliding door so she could watch. Upon trying to get up from the reclined position - and trying not to damage the angel- I put too much weight on the foot and it snapped - pain shooting through my foot. I knew then it was broken. I could not stand on it at all. Of course we were snowed in so we could not get me to a doctor till the next day, when we risked going down the mountain with our tyre chains on. There is a hospital up here, but I did not want to spend the copay to go to the hospital (and read online that it was very crowded with broken bones) so we went to an urgent care in Highland.

I have a Jones Fracture - or dancer break - on the outside of my foot. It is a clean break and is still slightly attached at one end of the bone, so if I am careful and do not finish the break it should heal smoothly. Tomorrow I phone the specialist (today is a holiday) and they will tell me how many weeks to wait before coming in for more x -rays. The doctor at the urgent care said probably 3 to 4 weeks.

40 seems to be a year of firsts. This is my first broken bone. I am not enjoying it and I really miss the wii! I know the little computer lady is wondering where I am and is disappointed in me. I think I might just sit on the game board so she knows I am alive...NO more Yoga trees for me though! My foot is much prettier than the one in the photo.

It is a blizzard today! They kept predicting rain, but we knew that did not add up with the predicted temperatures of below 25 F

That means no school tomorrow and possibly no school on Wednesday either. I predict our girls will be going to school an extra week at the end of the school year.

Okay, what to do today. Of course I have not been to the library to pick up the books that I had ordered - because of the earlier snows and broken foot. I want my books!

I suppose I will watch another episode of Lark Rise to Candleford on Youtube. I am on episode 8! It is very good!

Happy Valentine's Day to the Man I Love

2009-02-14T06:06:00.000-08:00

As I lie here in bed - foot killing me because I think I broke it - making a snow angel for Eloise, then stood on it wrong - I have decided to write to my husband and let him know how much I love him. Franz is the best husband ever. He is always concerned about my needs. He always gives in when we argue - he says he won't do whatever it is, but he always does. He gives the best head massages around! He works hard to make our home nice. He has given me lots of adventures. The only thing he does not do is write poetry to me anymore, but he is terribly busy...

So here goes:

Franz

Strong and Gentle

Humble and Kind

Working hard for his dreams and mine.

Husband, Father

Friend and Brother

Teacher, writer and excellent Lover.

Sometimes stubborn,

often funny

but always a man who serves his family.

He's never jealous.

He likes my size,

whatever it is at any given time.

Whoever I am

whatever I do

he's there to encourage

to help see it through.

I made a great choice.

I'll never regret

that he is my man,

my Gothic Poet.

Weekend

2009-02-11T13:43:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Lori (mother in law) who was awarded Educator of the Year by the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce - she even received a letter from Diane Finestein! She looked lovely on the evening and really was the star. Her sister Susie and long friend Bevan were also there to celebrate. It was fun to check out all the outfits at the banquet. The chef prepared a wonderful vegan poleta Milanese for me.

Franz and I were also treated to a night in a cute B&B - thanks to the Franke house being over crowded!
The girls had a fun, silly time with Cassie, and Delany - visiting for the week. I bet you have never seen this side of MaCall...
I call this one of Cassie and MaCall "The Eyes Have It".
Here, Elosie gets a good smooch from Cassie. Nice to see they all get along so well.

The drive home was an adventure! I had never seen the grapevine so covered in snow. When we arrived to our mountain we made it half way up, before CHP turned us around insisting all vehicles had to have chains, no exceptions. So, we drove back down to the auto store, bought those chains we have been procrastinating in buying, drove back up the mountain, stopped on the side of the highway, in the dark, a foot of slush, and attempted to put them on. What on earth does it mean soft side in? There is no soft side on tyre chains!

We arrived home fine, but there was no place to park, so Franz had to shovel a spot for the car at the bottom of the drive, and we hiked through the two feet of snow with all our stuff, and Lucy the cat. It felt very good to finally be in our warm beds. The girls have had the past two days off school - for snow, Monday being an inservice day, so it has been a long five days of no school. It is sunny and nice now but another storm is predicted to hit in a day or two.

Lark Rise to Candleford

2009-02-04T15:45:00.000-08:00

Dawn French plays a saucy widdow? who likes to drink too much. Brendan Coyle plays a farmer in Lark Rise - a man who feels the need to fight for justice - much like his character in North and South. You will recognize many a Dibley actor here and others from your favorite BBC shows.
I have been waiting impatiently for Lark Rise to Candleford to come out on DVD, but alas it is only available in the UK. So today I found that some of season one is on Youtube and watched the first episode. I loved it! I can't wait to see the rest. In the UK they are now watching season 2. The same with Clatterford aka Jam and Jerusalem. It isn't fair!

Saturday

2009-02-01T19:08:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we went down the mountain early to get some chores done and for MaCall to audition for the San Bernardino County Honor Orchestra. She felt good about two parts but the third part - cold sight seeing - she did not feel as good about. I tell her the more you audition the easier it will get! Proud of her for trying. We will see...

Heidi and the kids met us in Redlands for some park time and dinner. Of course I forgot to charge my camera battery, so these are some of the few pictures I could get. I like them though.

Today of course Super Bowl day - Heidi and the kids came up here. The kids were in an out of doors. Heidi brought all the fabric etc. to make Valentines banners, only to find that the foot on her sewing machine was missing - so had to pack it all up. The Super Bowl is still going - the missionaries just happened to come by (ha ha) and are still on the futon with Franz watching. They like Franz and his "relaxed" rules. No TV for missionaries.

Anyhow, that is about it for now. Oh, MaCall got 100% on her Biology final and Eloise was awarded Gold Honor Roll. Good kids!

Later,

Serena

Dear Fatty Dawn French Online Exclusive

2009-01-23T19:57:00.001-08:00

I want this book!

LDS Leaders attend Inaugural events

2009-01-22T11:32:00.001-08:00

I was so happy to find these comments in today's Deseret News. There are so many members of our church that need to take heed.

After the National Prayer Service President's Uchtdorf and Ballard said:

"We could feel the deep emotion around us — we were surrounded by people of all colors, of all creeds and of all languages," said President Uchtdorf in a phone interview with the Deseret News before catching a return flight to Utah. "It was a great experience we had — to see a unity there that I hope will last on and continue throughout the years of this administration."

"I left with a feeling that the people of America are going to unite behind this new president and his administration and that we need to pray for him," Elder Ballard said. "We need to exercise our prayers and help him accomplish the great objectives that he has set."

Saying "it was wonderful to feel that unity of different faiths" as they joined Muslims, Jews and others of different Christian denominations at the prayer service, President Uchtdorf added: "We felt we were in the right place with all these whom we call brothers and sisters, to pray for this presidency, for this administration, and with them to pray for all the governments around the world to bring again peace and prosperity and unity to all countries."

Yo-Yo Ma and Itzhak Perlman Perform at Barack Obama's Inauguration Celebration

2009-01-20T12:09:00.001-08:00

Loved this! Did you know Yo Yo was playing a new cold resistant cello made from carbon fibers?

Today We Make History!

2009-01-20T07:47:00.000-08:00

Grab the tissue! Today we watch history. I am crying already. I really feel like President Obama is my President. I have never felt that way before.

Martin Luther King

2009-01-19T13:01:00.001-08:00

Happy Martin Luther King Day! Franz went over to Brett's and helped load up his scrap wood etc. and made a trip to the tip, then Brett came over here and helped us load all of our scrap stuff onto his truck and take it to the tip. Who would have thought we had this much? And you know, we still have more.

I woke up all phsyched to make orange juice - see all of those oranges? Well, my braun citromatic decided to bite the dust! Very sad. Yes, it was over 20 years old and had lived a good life, but why today? I guess it saw all of those oranges and stressed out. I'm thinking of replacing it with one of the manual press types. Do any of you have experience with these? I thought that way they would work in the event of an emergency - you know, power is out and you must have fresh orange juice...

So yesterday the Hunters came over. We had fun socialising, eating Moroccan food - I was in a mood. All was good.

Ice Hockey

2009-01-17T18:28:00.000-08:00

Last night we went with friends to an ice hockey game. I know! The Potters took their girls to a sporting event! I have to say it was pretty fun. We would never have gone if the Godown"s had not invited us. It was fast paced, violent and quite exciting as they ended in a tie, had to go into over time, which only lasted a minute or two till the Grizzlies made the winning shot. We also went out to dinner with our gift cards to Olive Garden - thanks Lori and Martin. It taught us one thing - we need to get out more as a family and do different things. Life can't be all arts and literature. I find that I stay in too much and become reclusive. I was really nervous about the night - worried that I would be too cold, could not stick it out that long, get too tired etc. But I was okay.

Today we went down to Redland's for MaCall's violin lesson. It went really well and again we had a chance to learn more about Pavel. He was telling us about his childhood in Slovakia - how at the age of 16 he was supporting his family by playing saxophone in bars from ten at night till four int he morning. After work he would have to go stand in meat lines or bread lines till his mother could come change places with him. I think it is so important to collect different experiences and perspectives on life. It teaches me that there is no one right way and wrong way to do things. We all develop our ideologies based on our experiences.

We also had a chance to buy two large bags of oranges, some cherries and strawberries from some Latinos in the Home Depot parking lot. They are yummy and saved us money. Like that.

Okay, off to make dinner.

Next on Potter Paraphernalia:

MaCall excels at wii hoolahoop.
Franz explains his proposal.
Eloise sings solo in school play.
Serena gets to work (I hope).

Emma Thompson Exclusive

2009-01-16T08:27:00.001-08:00

Yea! I'm getting Brideshead Revisited from Netflix tomorrow. Great weekend watching. I am a devote of Emma!

Ghost Walk

2009-01-14T17:18:00.000-08:00

I am several chapters away from the completion of this book - Ghost Walk, by Rebecca Stott. I've really enjoyed it so far. It is a modern day murder mystery, entangled with the 17th century, that involves Newton and his quest as an alchemist. It brings up some really fun theories. For instance, one of the characters is a scientist who believes that the mind is not restricted to our brain or skull, that it hovers outside of the skull, which explains the phrase "eyes in the back of his head". Our mind can see when someone is staring at us, which is why we feel the need to look. I'm going to experiment with that one - especially at church.

It also gives wonderful descriptions of East Anglia and the fens, now and what it would have been like in the 17th century. I love finding a good book.

January

2009-01-10T21:44:00.000-08:00

Better late than never. We did not get around to our usual grand gingerbread house this year, so when the girls found this kit on sale at Trader Joe's for 2.99 we thought, what the heck. It is cute and we can have it up till Valentines Day.

New Years Day we took a long walk at the LA Arboretum. It was lovely.

MaCall had a good lesson with Pavel this week. Here he talks to her about posture, relaxing her hand for better vibrato. She also had an appointment with the chiropractor. We are going to see if he can help with her allergies and Raynods disease - purple toes. It seems that babies who are born with the use of forceps can have all sorts of strange issues - from all the twisting and yanking on their spine. These issues are often dramatically improved with adjustments. We shall see...

Eloise has some make up classes for ballet to do this month so is going to try some hip hop. I taught an art project with her class on Friday - we were learning about Paul Klee - from Der Blau Reiter. It was fun.

Today we did yard clean up. Franz put a new layer of paint on the porch railing. The weather has been sunny and clear - windy and chilly. No snow in the forecast. That is okay with me. I have bulbs coming up already! We will need more water though.

So, off to read my book. It is a good one so far - Ghost Walk. It is a modern mystery that involves the past - particularly Newton and his quest in alchemy. The descriptions of Cambridge during the 17th century, the newly drained fens and Kings Lynn are all very interesting. I can really see it all.

Off to read!

Smoothies and such

2009-01-07T15:57:00.001-08:00

Day three of the girls being back in school. My house is pretty clean now, but not yet perfect. I have yet to get to the outdoors. There is much sweeping needing to be done. I continue on my vegan diet, trying different combinations of fruit in my smoothies. I am lamenting my diminished supply of greens today and will need to talk Franz into a trek to the store for more.

As I have more energy and more hours in the day, I find I hover and annoy people. Who knew a day could be so long! Eloise has been going to school with her hair done - by mom. Franz has a shadow behind him at the computer saying "are you done yet?". Unfortunately I need the computer and it's space to paint so will have to wait till he gets this book proposal off and papers graded. The proposal is nearly there. I have edited several sections of that today and have started reading a new book which is starting out pretty good - Ghostwalk by Rebecca Stott.

I have been playing customer service for our publishing and am ready to put more time into that. In fact, I'd like a project of my own, have a title in mind, if I can get Franz to procure a copy of the text.

I think I shall get on the wii fit before the girls come in...

Next on Potter Paraphernalia:

What to do with cracked wheat.
The hornets at the hummingbird feeder.
Franz starts to lose interest in zombies.

Thanks Heidi for the Great Photos!

2009-01-06T11:12:00.000-08:00

Our girls have been blessed with great eyes!

Here are a few random pics from our holiday

2008-12-29T22:57:00.001-08:00

Here are Franz and Heidi with their Aunt Susie - at the family reunion in Tempe.

Here are Franz and the girls with Heidi and Hunter at an outdoor mall in Tempe.

Christie and Lucy enjoy the warmth of the fire and the lights on the tree Christmas eve at our house.

Here I am sporting the new Jane Austen night gown made for me by Jeni Shirley.
She is amazing!

MaCall and Eloise are showing off their new Christmas nightgowns from Grandma Shirley.

We drove through a storm in Arizona - the sky was like nothing I had ever seen before.

This cactus just seemed to call to me - it was near a truck stop in Quartsite sp?

More photos later. Bed time now.

Happy Christmas to all and to all a Good Night!

2008-12-24T12:48:00.000-08:00

We wish you all Joy and Happiness this Holiday Season!

Ready or not, here it comes!

2008-12-22T13:26:00.000-08:00

Like it or not, ready or not, Christmas is nearly here. It does not matter if your house is clean, if your gifts are purchased, menus planned, sleeping arrangements made, it will come just the same. I suppose that is the way it has to be and is really for the best. Franz and the girls are down the mountain today. I stayed home in hopes that the UPS truck will arrive. I hate Christmas shopping! I mean I really get ugly. I can not handle the pressure to purchase things simply because I am on a deadline. Without a doubt unnecessary items go into the basket just because it is Christmas. So, Saturday I threw a little tantrum, left all the items on the end of an aisle (don't you hate those people) and decided no, I will not be forced to buy stuff just because it is Christmas. Bah Humbug! Franz will be getting a card that says "after Christmas I will buy you this...".

Here is a poem to cheer me up. I love poetry. This one is from a collection published by the BBC given to me too many years ago by our friends Nick and Annette - the title of the book being "The Nation's Favourite Poems of Celebration".

Ice On the Highway by Thomas Hardy1840 - 1928

Seven buxom women abreast, and arm in arm,
Trudge down the hill, tip-toed,
And breathing warm;
They must perforce trudge thus, to keep upright
On the glassy ice-bound road,
and they must get to market whether or no,
Provisions running low
With the nearing Saturday night,
While the lumbering van wherein they mostly ride
Can nowise go:
Yet loud their laughter as they stagger and slide!

Merry merry Christmas! I don't think he'll mind my lack of shopping - Christ that is.

Break in the storm!

2008-12-18T13:17:00.000-08:00

Finally, a break in the storm. It was wonderful getting out and walking today. The lake looks so pretty.

This is the top end of our street. People were out shoveling, all saying hello. They get friendlier after being shut in for five days!

Here is our lovely drive way. I had a great time sliding down it on a cookie sheet last night!

Eloise takes a break from playing. Franz spent all morning digging out the car. We delivered Christmas bread to the lucky neighbours - seeing as there is little chance ward members or favorite teachers will get it. Happy happy!

Snow update Day three Part two

2008-12-17T18:25:00.000-08:00

We have had at least 12-18 inches so far today and it is expected to continue till morning. School is cancelled for Thursday and we can only hope for UPS deliveries. We are hoping for sunshine tomorrow and look forward to travelling down the hill this weekend...we can only hope!

Snow Day Number Three

2008-12-17T09:56:00.000-08:00

Here we are, day three, no school and the snow is still falling. The greatest concern on the rim of the world blog is "when will the UPS trucks get through?!!". Eloise is back down with the stomach flu. I have been hit with a cold/intestine thing as well - just when I was feeling so good. Drat. Franz and his friend Brett will be doing a lap around the lake in the falling snow - in a few minutes. Weirdos. Actually, I wish I could join them. I bet it is beautiful.

Above are a photo of the front porch railing and beyond, and our side yard. Wishing you all a good day!

More Snow

2008-12-16T09:39:00.000-08:00

And yet another snow day! It snowed more last night and another storm is expected this afternoon/night. I wonder if they will get back to school before January? I am just hoping we can get down to the post office today. I hate feeling so cut off.

SNOW DAY!

2008-12-15T14:02:00.001-08:00

Snow Day today! The wind and snow were fierce last night. Today the winds have died down, it is still snowing though. We were all quite excited about a day off from school. We canceled the ortho appointment, the chiro appointment and the Winter strings concert. So, nothing to do but shovel snow, play guitar hero, shop online and take naps. Tough. This photo is the one that did not work - Eloise didn't quite get in the frame, but dang I look good!

Here is a wet girl after having fun - stomach is much better now.
The path to the man cave is completely gone now. I'd say we have a good foot and a half, aside from the drifts that are much deeper.

The e-mail is back up. Please return to using the zittaw mail.

E-Mail Down

2008-12-14T10:46:00.000-08:00

For some indeterminable reason our zittaw e-mail is not sending or receiving. If you need me you can try Serenamuse@gmail.com

Our first snow is on the ground - not much- but looks pretty. I am still trying to sort out the humming bird situation. Each time I reason that it is safe to remove the feeder (which now has a layer of ice on top) I find a bird using it. Today there was a lovely humming bird - different than our usual summer variety. It's red throat was much deeper in color - an iridescent maroon. There were also interesting large animal tracks going across our porch. Not sure if it is coyote or Raccoon. The coons are big up here.

Eloise spent the night throwing up. Franz spent the night cleaning up. What a trooper! He really is the best of men.

Before this Franz and I attended our ward Adult Christmas party. It was very nice. They really went all out for the decorating, had catered food - of which I ate the green salad, sans cheese or croutons, and a small amount of baked potato and some apple pie. Not really worth the splurge on the pie. It made me feel sick. Today I am making up for it by drinking an oat groat, almond milk and strawberry smoothie. I actually found myself craving this in the night. Strange times.

The next of the storm is predicted for tonight. I am hoping it will melt enough today to put Hamish out in his run. I don't like keeping him cooped up (pun intended) in the house.

Best to all!

Serena

P.S. Santa, I'd love that tea kettle! It's by Martha Stewart, available at Macy's or Amazon.

The Tree in our Living Room

2008-12-12T15:14:00.000-08:00

Here is it is. The tree. It is by far the largest we have ever had. It required moving the futon to a new location so the tree could take up the centre of the room. It smells lovely. I scrubbed the hearth yesterday, have everything ready to go for fire building - aside from the chimney sweep that is scheduled for Wednesday.

Yesterday our dead bolt on the front door decided to jam shut, so we were required to go in through a front window - far too easy. I will remember to lock those in the future. So, Franz is now putting in the new lock. If you have keys - toss them. We will have new ones now.

Along with the door lock breaking, the printer has died again. We had revived it, but it gave up once more. What a pain! One can not live without a printer when school projects are due! This is something we really did not want to invest in right now.

Well, the big snow is still predicted. We have the cooler covered, have moved the radial saw, suitcases and other yard things next to the house. The new door shoe is on and has lots of suction so hopefully no water will blow in under the door this year. I had hoped for new front windows, and a new slider - double glazed, but that too will have to wait till more cash is in the anty.

Tonight we will bake goodies to take to the neighbors, read Christmas in Noisy Village and sing the Twelve Days of Christmas. Thanks to Michele for this great idea of activities in the advent. Ours are hanging in little cloth bags on our garland - each day an activity, reading and song and little prize - lip gloss today!

Happy Holidays!

Season Frenzy

2008-12-10T09:27:00.001-08:00

The Nutcracker run has finished. Eloise did a brilliant job. She really learned that it is not about just dancing, but acting as well. As a young guest she walked on stage with another girl, admired the shop windows then, after being pummeled with snow balls by unruly orphan boys, she pulled a ball out from under her cloak and threw it back at them. Great fun. She was on stage for all of the party fun, they did their own dance, and admired the dancing dolls etc.
Franz was another star of the Nutcracker. He was the fog man - broke up the dry ice, placed it in the water at just the right time and blew it onto the stage. Well done!
I was particularly pleased with Eloise's hair. I am certain though that we have placed a new hole in the ozone.

MaCall made $50 at her gig on Friday night. Well done! Her quartet performed for a private party in a big house in Twin Peaks. Thanks to Mrs. Bass who books their performances. This week we have the High School Winter Program, then next week we have one for Mrs. Bass's groups - Eloise as well on her viola. Busy busy.

So, the icky diet. While in Utah I went to see my nephew's "South African Witch Doctor" his fond name for a woman who does cleansing, healing and nutrition. She does use interesting methods - reads your eyes, tongue, fingernails. She also was able to see an uncanny amount of things - very detailed - "I see scar tissue here, have y0u been in a lot of pain". Yes, that was the exact spot where I had had a head ache for three months early this year. So, who knows. Anyhow, she put me on an uber healthy diet - 80% raw. Start the day with a powdered green super food in warm water - not bad, looks terrible, but not bad. Then a half a cup of Dees Cereal - which is like a fancy musilie sp?, soaked in hemp milk. Yep, you can get milk from a rope and no you do not get a buzz. Then for lunch a large green salad, the same for dinner - no lettuce, just dark greens, chard, kale, spinach, with grated carrots, shredded red cabbage, etc. No creamy dressing to hide the taste, just lemon juice, herbs and good oils, I use omega oils. All this can be supplemented by whole grains, raw fruit, nuts, seeds and legumes, preferably soaked not cooked. I have not had a lot of success with the soaking. My family is also doing the greens and are taking it well - aside from Eloise who has never liked salad anyhow. No soda, no chemicals, all organic, no dairy, no meat. I have switched to stevia for when I need a sweetener. I do allow organic dark chocolate - Trader Joe's has a good one.

I have had more energy and have lost weight - though that was not my aim. It makes sense and I'll keep with it.

Today I see a chiropractor. Not sure what they have to offer, but my insurance covers them and my doctors have nothing to offer.

Elizabeth - the W.D. wants me to have my amalgam fillings replaced - can't afford it, but did look into it and they are frightening. Here in California they do make us sign wavers now saying we accept the risk of mercury poisoning. She does not claim that it is the cause of my problems, but says you can not fully detox while the fillings are sending off poison vapors. Why then is it four times as expensive - with insurance to get the porcelain fillings?

Next time on Potter Paraphernalia:

The Tree that lives in our living room.

Possible snow for the weekend.

How great was that last episode of Boston Legal?! Sad that I just started watching it!

Totally Random

2008-12-04T12:00:00.000-08:00

Franz, sporting Steve's tie and white shirt...
April and John (who had just sliced his finger with the electric knife and was holding out side the photo frame).
Steve and Mom dig in!
Mason prepares for blast off!
Amber and Patrick sharing a good joke.
Nikki, Me and Michele doing the TG clean up.
MaCall and Eloise stuffing in Pastries - the back seat was covered with flaky bits!
Johnny and Amanda being dang cute.

Brother Bill talking with his hands, ensconced by admirers, Addi and Grace.

Okay, I am behind in my posting and now there is just too much to cover! I'll try to make it short. Last week we were in Salt Lake for the Holiday. Franz did an amazing job of throwing a surprise party for my 40th. I truly had no clue. I understand he had help from Michele and my Mom. On arriving back at my mom's, after going out to eat, I discovered a pack of people hiding in the dark dining room - family and good friends, Heather and Glen Fuller, and Krista Cullimore. The table was set with two lovely cakes, and the cheese cake Michele and I made earlier. It was great. Franz and his mom also gave me a gift cert. to a local spa for a Swedish massage and European Facial. I had never had either and they were fantastic! I too could look like Nicole Kidman if I could have those once a week. Good job Franz.

Thanks Giving Day the guys and a few gals met for a soccer meet. Most of us girls and kids walked over to Johnny and Amanda's to hang out, and see the remodeled house. Unfortunately my kids left there very dissatisfied with our own house. Eloise says "Grace's house is futuristic" and that is really cool. Ah well. They will just have to be happy with our old fashioned cottage!

Later that day we did a dinner at mom's - each family sort of doing their own thing. We were having an okay dinner, good ham and funeral potatoes, but a bit quiet and stiff. Then Amanda and Johnny came with the girls and all that changed. It was great fun from there on out - and we started a puzzle.

Thanksgiving was spent at April and John's church building. We needed room for all 40 people. The dinner was great. Nikki and Julio blessed Sylvie. We played games and the kids gave us a talent show. Kudos to Eloise who played Simple Gifts on the viola - she had not performed for quite some time and did a great job. MaCall gave an encore performance - though was a little shy in her playing - family can be intimidating. We also took time for each person to tell something they were grateful for that year. It seems out family has been blessed.

Oh, and well done Julio for passing the California State Bar the first time around!

Next time on the Potter Paraphernalia:

The uber healthy diet I am on - ick. Six pounds down since Monday though, and have more energy.

A report on the Nutcracker and Eloise's performance.

A report on MaCall's Christmas gigs - including the Blue Jay Parade and a private party (paid, woo hoo!).

Busy Days

2008-11-20T20:26:00.000-08:00

Turning 40 in a week means trying new potions. Honey enzyme mask. Worth the mess? No.
Here we have Ponce de Leon and Christopher Columbus sock puppets (thank you mom).
And for the best, the October cookie of the month in Martha Stewart Living. They turned out pretty and tasty - a maple sugar cookie. Easy except you have to keep putting the dough in the freezer between rolling, cutting and baking.

Yesterday we went down the mountain for violin and lab work. Eloise chose to stay with me while I got my lab work done. We were the last ones there after closing, so she sat the in the chair opposite watching the phleobotomist suck ten vials out of my arm. Funny kid, if it had been an animal wincing in pain she would be in tears, but watching a human just leaves her fascinated. She told the phleobotomist that the blood was only blue in the veins and did not turn red till it made contact with oxygen. Then she wanted to know how they test the blood to see what is in there, asked about medical school, related internships to student teaching, and then confirmed that tuberculosis is the disease where you cough up blood - we were looking at the old hospital across the street in Redlands while waiting for Franz to pick us up. I need to find some good books for kids who are interested in medicine.

While sitting there waiting we saw three large raccoons cross under the street lamp and lumber down the side walk near the hedges. We did not know they would be down in Redlands. All in all it was eventful.