As winter turned into almost-spring, I removed the artificial parts of the floral arrangements from outside my home.  All wrapped up, they’d be ready to use again next year.  The mini-Boxwood at the center had been protected through the winter and looked healthy and green, ready to contrast against Pussy Willow and Forsythia branches inserted around them.  The new additions cost $20 total for two planters.  It’s important to shop around for branches like these.  Prices do vary and better to calculate in advance.  Only get as many as you need and avoid wastage by buying ones that are already the right height, no pruning required.  I was lucky to find exactly what I was looking for at the florists on Avenue Road and Davenport (Toronto) and went from store to store, back and forth, to maximize on value and quality.

For context, please look back at the two other posts in this series:
• Staying Green: Fake, Recyclable, and Decorative Winter Florals, Year 2
(January 11, 2009)
• Fake, Recyclable, and Decorative Winter Florals (March 14, 2008)

The Saugeen Shores (Bruce Peninsula)

Straight after Labor Day, the Bruce Peninsula is very peaceful.  Also, it’s still warm enough to enjoy the beach—that’s if you don’t have a bicycle or dog. Reminders are everywhere:  Port Elgin, Southampton, Sauble Park.

At Sauble Park, this is the longest parking lot I’ve ever seen on a shoreline. Do all the cars that fill it, in season, do less damage than bicycles and dogs, out-of-season?

As summertime approaches, better not to make the drive with dog(s) or bicycle(s) unless you’re sure they’ll be welcome at the destination you’re visiting.  If traveling in Ontario, please realize that options may be limited if cycling and dogs are essential to your enjoyment for a day-trip or vacation.

Earlier blogs posts about Ontario/Toronto travel destinations (and limitations) include:

• Art Gallery of Ontario’s Short-Falls. Blaming Recession is Easy, Reaching Back to Local Artists Isn’t. “Massive Party” Might Not Help Solve Massive Problem (March 20, 2009)
• Green P Parking Peril: Have Your Car Vandalized in Downtown Toronto Then Pay to Exit the Lot! Bloor/Yorkville and Museum Goers Beware, City of Toronto Parking Authority Wants Your Money, Regardless! (February 28, 2009)
• What to See and/or Do in 2009. Photos, Memories, Ideas, and Surprises from 2008. PART 3 (January 31, 2009)
• Reacquainting with Toronto (September 17, 2008)
• Drinking Problems in Ontario, Canada: Ironies, Causes, and Comparisons (July 31, 2008)
• Summertime Can Divide Canadians (July 7, 2008)

For more fun (and positive) perspectives on Ontario/Toronto travel and Canada in general, please check out Lucy Izon’s Canada Cool website, or follow her links and commentaries on Twitter.

Stuffed peppers don’t have to be baked.  Dinner guests on their way, I turned crunchy orange ones into attractvie finger-food, while making good use of leftover egg and artichoke salad.  Cut into halves and topped with baby orange tomatoes, garnished with basil leaves, these "pepper boats" brightened up a winter table.  I am sure they would ehnance sunlight on a summer one too! For those on wheat-free or low carb diets, these are a fun alternative to sandwiches.

Other DocSusan recipe creations on this blog can be found in the following posts:

I’m on a nut-free diet for a while, following medical recommendations.  This means having to give up many familiar snack-foods and create new alternatives. (Nuts are/were my chocolate!)  Please be advised that this is another recipe that might only appeal to those who are into health food.

Ingredients

2 cups of oats
2 cups of flax flour
2 cups of rice flour
1 stick of butter
half cup of maple syrup
3 eggs
pinch of salt
2 teaspoons of baking powder
2 teaspoons of baking soda
1 quarter to half a cup of dried cherries
1 bar of (bashed) carob

Method

Mix all ingredients together.  Pat down and cut. I used a small heart-shaped cutter.  (Makes approximately 5 dozen).  Lay on greased tray and bake for 10 minutes at 375 degrees farenheit till slightly golden brown, in a pre-heated oven.

Other DocSusan recipe creations on this blog can be found in the following posts:

• Don’t Love Chocolate! What Happened to Carob? Carob Clusters Satisfy the Craving—and Help Keep You Regular! (April 3, 2009)
• Overnight Weather Changes: Snowed In and Cooking Up (Against) a Storm: Probiotic Banana Cherry Oat Muffins (February 22, 2009)
• Jazzing Up Traditional Recipes: Mixed Root Vegetable Latkes with Pineapple/Pear/Raspberry Compote and Crème Fraîche (January 24, 2009)
• New Year’s Scones: 30 Minutes to Homemade, From Idea to Tabletop (January 3, 2009)
• Comfort Food, Comfort Mood:   Self-Care and Cooking for One that’s Nutritious, Delicious, and Easy (December 15,2008)
• Homemade Dog Food: Synchronicity, Health, Quality (November 22, 2008)
• The Cooking Gene—No Exact Recipes, Wholesome Cuisine 2: Cookies and Scones (September 25, 2008)
• The Cooking Gene—No Exact Recipes, Wholesome Cuisine 1: Soups (September22, 2008)   

I don’t love chocolate.  Hmmmm, you say.  Well, it’s true… and I’m not the only one!

Years ago, I discovered carob. Not something I have to have every day.  Occasionally, it’s a nice treat, but hard to find these days— in England, Canada, and the US. Why?

In Toronto there’s still Goldies, and I used a bar of it to create Carob Cluster Treats (before nuts* were removed from my diet).

Ingredients  (approximate quantities, substitutions possible)

• *Cup of ground almonds (these provide the fat, so you don’t need to add any extra)
• Three quarters of a cup of oat flour
• Three quarters of a cup of quinoa flour
• Half cup of flax meal
• Bar of carob bashed up into chunks (you can do this by putting it in a plastic bag and bashing with a hammer)
• Half cup of dried cherries
• 4 eggs
• Cup of maple syrup

Baking Instructions

Mix everything together then form small (two teaspoon size) balls and space apart on a greased baking tray.  Bake till light golden brown (20 - 25 minutes at 375 degrees in a preheated oven).  Check that there’s no sog in the middle, with a testing needle or prong. Remove from tray as soon as possible, to cool.

For those who live alone, or like to cook in bulk, please note that this product freezes well, and doesn’t crumble apart. Ideal for packed lunches and on-the-go snacks!

p.s.  As I’ve indicated in earlier blog posts, writing up recipes isn’t my forté.  Making things up while going along, I don’t usually record details in time, and recollections aren’t always accurate.  Apologies!

Other DocSusan recipe creations on this blog can be found in the following posts:

• Overnight Weather Changes: Snowed In and Cooking Up (Against) a Storm: Probiotic Banana Cherry Oat Muffins (February 22, 2009)
• Jazzing Up Traditional Recipes: Mixed Root Vegetable Latkes with Pineapple/Pear/Raspberry Compote and Crème Fraîche (January 24, 2009)
• New Year’s Scones: 30 Minutes to Homemade, From Idea to Tabletop (January 3, 2009)
• Comfort Food, Comfort Mood:   Self-Care and Cooking for One that’s Nutritious, Delicious, and Easy (December 15,2008)
• Homemade Dog Food: Synchronicity, Health, Quality (November 22, 2008)
• The Cooking Gene—No Exact Recipes, Wholesome Cuisine 2: Cookies and Scones (September 25, 2008)
• The Cooking Gene—No Exact Recipes, Wholesome Cuisine 1: Soups (September22, 2008)  

This week, the Hebrew version of my book, Therapeutic Art Directives and Resources.  Activities and Initiatives for Individuals and Groups (with commentaries by mentor/friend, Cathy Malchiodi) was delivered to me.  A nice surprise and a lot fun to see it in another font!  This edition was published in 2006, and I knew it was out there, but hadn’t yet received an author copy.  In Hebrew, the text reads from right to left, and the book, itself, has a more compact format. However, the cover is identical to the English version. The Hebrew edition publishers are Ach Publishing, Ltd. 

For the Korean version, the look (and feel) has been changed: the black and yellow/greens are now white and yellow/oranges. 

For more about the Korean version, please see earlier blog posts:  Found in Translation—Korean (July 23, 2007) and All Good Things Come to Those Who Wait! From Ordinary to Exotic:  Breathing New Life Into an Old Book with Korean Font and Formatting (March 2, 2009). 

Check out the Magnolia Bakery on New York’s Upper West Side.  What’s old is new again.  Not  everyone is on a diet!  Fun to watch the baking process…

My favorite foods include nuts, soya/tofu, berries, and leafy greens!  I know that may seem strange to some.  But, as they say, "chacun à son goût!"  (everyone has their own taste).

When these basics were cut from my diet a few months ago (for medical reasons), I found it very hard to adjust. Now, as I start to feel better, the benefits of self-discipline have been confirmed.  And, with the resulting weight loss, I’ve been happy to indulge with special treats, like cheesecake for breakfast…

Thinking a little more about soy, perhaps it was a fortunate coincidence that this got removed from my diet.  I think I might actually have had soy poisoning!  All those soy lattés…  Googling around, I’ve now found a number of articles that support that theory.  For others interested in finding out more about soy and its potential health hazards, here are some interesting links:  

• Shirley’s Wellness Café
• HealingDaily.com
• About.com
• ReliableAnswers.com
• CNN

Earlier blog posts about my soya milk latté habit include:   Take-Out: Best Soya Latte and Burgers in Toronto (August 15, 2008) and An Unscientific Study of COFFEE Drinking—and What Others Are Saying and Doing (July 19, 2007).

Last Friday, a Globe and Mail headline announced "Art Gallery of Ontario Workers Face Layoffs."  There’s a substantial revenue short-fall and too few visitors and memberships.  The flagging economy gets ample blame.  But, obviously, that’s not the only reason…  November 14, 2008, my blog post, The AGO Reopens and ARTISTS Do MATTER was optimistic. But, soon after, impressions shifted.  Personal follow-up demonstrated how things aren’t always as projected: to be more skeptical about what’s put out when there’s lights, cameras, action. The design and layout of the gallery have been altered, but layers of "ice" still visible. Financial assistance and p.r. bestowed by outsiders aren’t always enough, especially if not able to be sustained in a challenging economy.  When consumers are forced to limit choices, feeling welcome, wanted, or involved is all the more significant, influencing  decisions as to where personal resources might be allocated for memberships and donations.  What didn’t count previously does now.  

Eagerness to trust and believe, perhaps, had caused me to take Director Matthew Teitelbaum’s message that "artists matter" too literally, at the AGO’s pre-opening day party.  Afterwards, I contacted him, as he’d advised, to be added to his "artists’ list."  It was my understanding, at the time, that there’d be (regular, local) artist-friendly happenings and mailings, and an openness to suggestions/meeting. Maybe, it was a mistake to put energy into follow-up when the thought-to-be-approachable (and open) weren’t really. A brief meeting with a tardy and distracted Dr. David Moos (Curator of Contemporary Art), who appeared comfortably so, didn’t justify weathering the cold and paying for down-town parking. But, hoping this was just an "off day" for him, and because of the work gone into my preparation, I followed up with a traditional "Thank you for the meeting note," daring to continue a truncated presentation. No response. I tried again. No response. I tried one more time. Still no response…

Probability:  If it’s happening to you, it could be happening to others.  The "Three Rs" still matter:  Respect, Reciprocity, Replies.  (A future blog post will look at this topic further.)

Principle:  Everyone matters, and those you think might matter least (now), could matter more (later).

The AGO’s annual "Massive Party" event April 2, 09, to collect more funds for the gallery, is $125 per participant. Not to be forgotten:  raising spirits and fostering good will, can also help boost funds (and visitor/membership appeal), no party (or extra expense) necessary.

You might not be aware, it’s World Kidney Day, and March is "National Kidney Month" in the US.  Please visit the website Kidney.org for more information. The Kidney Foundation is on Facebook too! (You can become a fan.)  There are free kidney screenings all over the US today. Many of us take our kidneys fore granted, and don’t drink enough (water, that is)—me included. It wasn’t until I ended up in Emergency last October (for completely unrelated reasons) that I discovered this… Stone disease is on the rise, and you can help prevent it by drinking more (water), and with a change of diet and supplements.  If not, the alternatives aren’t fun, and might take you by surprise! 

Thursday night’s Portrait Society Show opening was a happy and successful happening.  The speeches were short and purposeful, and the curation and way the artwork was displayed very effective.  A steady crowd flowed through, and the ambiance remained warm and animated (like the musical accompaniment), from start to finish.  Kudos to Veronica Tsyglan, Mistress of Ceremonies, guiding light, and Chairwoman.  She thanked all involved and announced the 2010 show theme:  Canadian olympic athletes, past and present.

For more details about this event, please see the earlier blog post:  March 5, 09, Art Events in Toronto, Invitation Reminder: Portrait Society of Canada’s Annual Juried Show, Opening Reception Tomorrow Night. Please Join Us! (March 4, 2009)

The Portrait Society of Canada’s annual show includes the work of 42 member-artists.  One piece was chosen from each. I was at the host gallery (John B. Aird) on the weekend, for delivery, and got a preview.  What a wonderfully varied exhibition!  No two paintings are the same in any way:  size, media, scale, theme…  There truly is something for every taste and interest, and some of the pieces are for sale.  For those who love portrait painting, and are curious to meet the artists behind the paintings, this is a great opportunity. For those who are unfamiliar with portrait painting, this is also a great opportunity—to learn more about it, and get involved with fundraising efforts for a contemporary Canadian portrait gallery in Toronto.

Possible schedule conflicts:  Toronto Art Expo and the The Artist’s Project (Toronto) open the same night (March 5). Having participated in both of these shows last year (The Artist’s Project as part of Artropolis in Chicago), I am happy with my decision to not be involved with them this year.

Artists are repeatedly approached to submit applications and pay big bucks to display their work. Once their money is down, there can be multiple organizational disappointments (not of their creation). Unfortunately, usually, those who gain the most (financially, especially) are those who own and/or manage shows and/or run competitions, or offer to represent artists and/or sell their artwork, in person, on location, or on-line.

Artists, please beware!  General public, please be aware!  What really happens behind the scenes matters, and not just at the time, subsequently. Another blog post will be coming shortly, about scams and advantage-taking of artists, particularly those who are just emerging.  In the meantime, please look back to earlier art show blog posts.  These include:  

• Art Shows: Business Priorities Versus Exhibitor Satisfaction (July 23, 2008)
• Change of Date, Change of Fate: Toronto Art Expo 08 Snowed Under (March 16, 2008)

Numerous unreturned e-mails and phone messages later, the organizer of Toronto Art Expo still hasn’t provided me with receipts from last year.

To see examples of my portraiture (recent and past) please check out the Figurative Gallery on the DocSusan site.

My user-friendly book, Therapeutic Art Directives and Resources.  Activities and Initiatives for Individuals and Groups (with commentaries by mentor/friend, Cathy Malchiodi) was published in Korean last year.  I just received copies!  It’s amazing the difference a change of font can make.  Also, the care and attention to detail the foreign publishers have given to every page is obvious.  This week I’ll be meeting up with the once-little girl who did the cover art.  She’s now 22 years-old!  For an earlier blog post about this book’s translation, please see:  Found in Translation—Korean (July 23, 2007).

Across from the Royal Ontario Museum, there’s a Green P Parking Lot at 9 Bedford Street. It’s one of the few places you can be guaranteed a spot when there’s no on-street parking, It’s also handy if you don’t want to walk very far because of the cold.  I don’t park there often.  Last night was one of those rare occasions—perhaps the last occasion.

There’s underground spaces and above ground spaces.  Above ground was full, so I parked in the underground.  "Clever!" I thought:  close to the door, which led to the stairway to Bloor Street.  The talk I attended at the ROM was given by Lauren Fix, the "Car Coach," TV expert, and author (of Lauren Fix’s Guide to Loving Your Car).

Lauren really brightened up an otherwise very ho-hum event. The Connecting Singles Program, for which she spoke, you’d think would do well because of the venue.  But, it doesn’t.  Price, stigma, or ambiance, something’s not working in it’s favor!  However, the good news is that they are open to feedback, and looking to make improvements!  A program that’s been running for 22 years, even though it’s in a museum, still merits a make-over!

Crossing back to the parking lot, I was excited to have had the opportunity for a one-to-one chat with Lauren, and meet the person behind the performance.  Sometimes, when an event isn’t working for you, you have to seize the moment and see what can… I considered that the evening hadn’t been a complete waste of time because of the simple ideas this very practical, engaging, and approachable speaker had shared about car owning and loving.

A smile on my face, I returned to the parking lot and my lovely car, and started the engine—all automatic movements.  Then I looked up, in order to reverse.  A beam of light shone down on a shattered windscreen. Investigation by lot security confirmed that it must have been a pellet gun or like, for the assault, my car alarm preventing break-in.

Apparently, there’s been a wave of random acts of vandalism and theft in this particular lot lately.  So, the incident wasn’t surprising.  What was surprising was being asked to pay to exit the lot.  I did this without fuss, while waiting for security to arrive.  After all, lot attendees were only doing their job, so why take things out on them?  It’s those who operate the lot, and set the protocols (but aren’t present) who need suggest appropriate flexibility (and social conscience), especially if they’re aware of the extra risk using their facilities might entail.

This evening’s Facebook Garage started with presenters sharing some Facebook facts:

Basic Statistics
• 150 million users, worldwide (as of January 09).
• The average user has 120 friends.
• 70% of users are outside the US.
• More than 50% of users are beyond college age.
• 3 billion minutes every day are spent on FB.  
• FB is the 6th largest "web property" in the world.
• FB’s intention:  to help make the world more open and and connected (a better place).
• 6000 developers are involved with platform-building.

Facebook and Canadians
• Canadians use social networks more than any country in the world and spend the most minutes on FB (300 a month, per user).
• 50% of Canadians are on FB and half of these people are on every day.
• Over 70% of Torontonians are on FB.

Three Uniquely Facebook Features
One click log-in, and then:
1. Identity: FB is the first site where people gave their real world identity
2. Friends:  FB connects peoples’ real world friends (friends that users already have, not random friendships). Most users bring friends with them…and then there’s "social filtering."  Whatever your friends have contributed will come to you, and you’ll be more interested in it because of who is involved.
3. Distribution: FB information is shared between friends. All links go back and around, and conversations start…

Facebook is Evolving 
• FB’s 2006 (old) look recently got a makeover.  
• "Facebook Connect" has been introduced. "Facebook Connect" goes beyond FB into the wider Web. 6,000 sites have adopted "Facebook Connect," so far, and the number of registered users to those Websites has been seen to increase 20 - 100% in one day with it.

Hot Topics
• Check out "Facebook Connect" (http://developers.facebook.com/fbconnect.php)
• Facebook is hiring!

This morning, birds were singing:  a rare treat in Toronto in the wintertime.  This afternoon, walking the dogs, it was getting colder again.  But, my thoughts stayed cheerful:  memories milder weather can bring had already been stirred.  I was thinking about the garden and its coming back to life, once the snow melts completely and finally… 

I planted two miniature pear trees 11 years ago.  However, it was only last year that I tasted their fruit for the first time. The crop looked abundant in the late spring.  Then, by summer’s end, only three samples were left. This year I’m going to have to beat the squirrels to it, and pick whatever is produced before it ripens. There’s nothing like homegrown fare, if you get the opportunity to enjoy it…

Family Day, a holiday that’s unique to Ontario, Canada, and in its second year, proves challenging to some who live solo. Local decision-makers might not have realized and/or taken into account all the variables and ramifications. This province-wide holiday comes just two days after Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day might have felt awkward for individuals without a “special someone” in their life with whom to celebrate. The next day, they recuperate:  move on from worries about having been unable to identify.  Then, another blow: a similar holiday in rapid succession that seems to have even less relevance to their status, experience, and/or interests.

That the number of singles (never married, divorced, widowed, or separated) is growing, in Canada and elsewhere, is not just a fact.  It’s a reality! Unfortunately, most events scheduled in and around Toronto (as listed in the Toronto Star for Family Day) don’t appear to take this into consideration.  A lot of Torontonians can’t but help feel left out.  However, it’s embarrassing for them to complain out loud. So, what can they do, and how might legislators show greater sensitivity in future years?  Should a “Solo Day” be inserted into the calendar too?

Even if  “Family Day” alienates with a name that’s not every-citizen-inclusive, it’s still important to make the most of the opportunity for a day off, and find alternative purpose for festivity. Better not to lament over what the day might be supposed to represent if you are without family and/or have unhappy familial associations. More advisable to try and make the effort to do something worthwhile, memorable, productive, or relaxing, how ever possible.

Here are some suggestions (in random order) to assist solos who might feel disconnected and/or blue on, or due to, Family Day.  Though each person might have different priorities (needs, limitations, capacities, and capabilities), staying optimistic and being open to doing, thinking, and believing differently is important:

1.   Focus on other personal positives and accomplishments.
2.   Stay active (and distracted) with work projects and/or hobbies.
3.   Avoid situations and venues that cause discomfort.
4.   Hang out with others in similar circumstances.
5.   Volunteer and help those less fortunate.
6.   Welcome invitations that are feel-good opportunities, for self or others.
7.   Relax and rest at home if going out doesn’t seem like it will be fun.
8.   Enjoy pets and focus on spending quality time with them.
9.   Catch up with administrivia (bills) and housekeeping (clean up).
10. Smile! (even if you don’t want to)—perhaps the simplest way to start feeling better.
11. Self-Indulge:  read a good book, go for a run, have a glass of wine or massage…
12. Host a get-together or pot-luck: invite other solos and/or families.

Hats off to families (and friends) who are able to reach out to solos and include and/or make a fuss of them, on Family Day especially!  

Earlier related bog posts include:

Bravo! The 2009 "Best In Show" Westminster Kennel Club trophy was awarded to "Ch Clussexx Three D Grinchy Glee," aka "Stump,"  a Sussex Spaniel.

Yes!  It’s thrilling that this handsome and calm old boy is the 133rd “Best in Show.”  What a great outcome (and encouragement) for everyone who loves, cherishes and lives with old and/or ailing dogs!

In 2004, Stump had a mystery illness that lasted 19 days and from which he nearly died.  Fortunately, he wasn’t given up on and able to rally, miraculously.  Four years later he’s still going strong, napping and lounging always acceptable—and now, especially.

Perhaps, it helps that Stump sleeps with a previous Westminster Kennel Club winner, JR (a white Bichon Frise).  In fact, JR accompanied Stump to NYC for this year’s competition (as moral support). Is it time for an important message to be put out there?  Please be more sensitive to and embrace older dogs.  They have a lot to offer.  Puppies are fun, but dogs in their golden years are extra special, and there are many out there to take care of and/or adopt.

Stump, already "retired," did no specific training for the competition.  He just rose to the occasion, literally, and seemed a "natural."  As a finale, he surprised and excited the crowd by standing on his hind legs after receiving the award.  Then, at the press conference, directly following his victory, he was a little tired.  But, anyone would have been—(wo)man or dog.  What a whirlwind experience he had had, and the night was still young.  His social calendar for the next 24 hours would be packed!

Best in Show judge, Sari Brewster Tietjen, said that Stump represents so much for a breed that’s hard to find.  She was clearly delighted to have been able to choose him.

Scott Sommer, Stump’s co-owner/handler suggested that Stump’s travel and event schedule during his year as champ would be significantly less than Uno’s (last year’s winner).  Stump would definitely try to do what he could, but within reason.  After all, age, geography, and logistics are significant factors to consider.

Amercan Kennel Club Details:

• Ch Clussexx Three D Grinchy Glee
• Breed: Spaniel (Sussex)
• Sex: Dog
• AKC: SN 61688903
• Date of Birth: December 01, 1998
• Breeder: Douglas Horn & Douglas Johnson & Dee Duffy
• Sire: Ch Three D Genghis Khan
• Dam: Ch Clussexx Sprinkled With Dew
• Owner: Cecilia Ruggles & Beth Dowd & Scott Sommer

Greetings from New York City, where I’m thrilled to be attending the Westminster Dog Show and related festivities.  Many more pictures and "wagging tails" to share in future blog posts.  But, for now, it’s a fond farewell to Uno, 2008’s  “Best in Show.”  His reign is nearly over…

Yesterday, David Frei hosted this champion’s last big press conference (image above) with owner Caroline Dowell (image below).  Uno’s stepping down is bitter sweet.  He has had a wonderful year and been a model example—participant with and spokesdog for many great and caring organizations, like Angel on a Leash. 

Afterwards, I the seized the opportunity to get to know Uno a little (image below).  This Beagle who loves bagels was winding down from all the excitement…and doughy human treats.

In Toronto, attire for dogs isn’t just ornamental.  It needs to be practical too. 

The best stay-on boots we’ve found were a no-name brand that came from DogFather about 4 years ago.  However, we’ve concluded that there really are no great boots to be had.  Even these caused pain to the paws after wearing.  Cut off balloons actually work better than anything else!

The best ski-jacket  came from the Rosedale Valley Road Gang.  Complete coverage and durability. These outfits are about 8 years-old, wash well, and are still going strong! 

On extreme days, the dogs stay home.  We’re luck to have a backyard!

December - January, Sage got a penis infection (the preliminary diagnosis we were given).  I’m not sure that I noticed he was unwell right away… This new health challenge may have followed his grooming or coming off antibiotics.  It’s hard to be certain.  But, when I track back, it’s clear that Lev knew something was happening before I did, and alerted me. For more about the "second-dog advantage," please check out an earlier blog piece, Home for the Holidays! Sick Puppy Alert: When Two Dogs are Better than One (December 25, 2008).

This time around, the two dogs adopted some cute positions together (hence the photos). Then, suddenly, they didn’t look cute anymore. Please see beneath Lev’s paw in the image below.

While I am open to homeopathy and alternatives, I still value conventional medicine, especially when time is of the essence.  In certain cases, antibiotics and other meds may need to be prescribed without delay, proper attention being given to potential side-effects. Also, a regular vet may not, always, be able to provide all the answers.  So, if the opportunity presents, don’t be afraid to ask a specialist (human) physician, like a urologist, (as I did).  Acess what’s feasible for another species…then proceed with caution.

Speaking with the urologist confirmed to me that dogs (male and female) can get yeast infections too, especially following treatment with antibiotics (not discussed on several investigatory vet visits). In addition,  Probiotic yogurt, which I’d thought to administer, just in case, might not have been a cure-all.  At the height of Sage’s discomfort, a combination of yeast infection and anti-inflammatory creams (in very small quantities) seemed to help a lot more than the advice to just lubricate…

Since Sage’s condition, ultimately diagnosed as paraphimosis, has been so concerning and prolonged, an information meeting with Dr. Craig Miller at VEC was recommended to discuss possible surgical options.  This occured yesterday. The main solutions he suggested weren’t too pleasant:  extenstion, reduction, or amputation!  Then, after paying another $173.25 (for a 15-minute consult, without examination), we weren’t inclined to ask for an estimate for how much such surgical procedures might cost…  Alternatively, there’s on-going "behavior management," which seems to be working for now: preventing licking (after lubrication and reinsertion) by keeping the area protected.

For more on-line details about canine paraphimosis, treatment options, and causes, PetPlace.com is a good place to start looking.

Earlier blog posts about Lev and Sage and canine health and safety concerns include:

•  “The Sneeze”: Lev Makin (Blog Editor in Chief) Post Oral Surgery—Older Dog, Longer Recovery and Greater Concern (January 14, 2009)
• Lessons from 2008: Canine Confidence and Coincidence Cure (January 1, 2009)
• Home for the Holidays! Sick Puppy Alert: When Two Dogs are Better than One (December 25, 2008)
• Homemade Dog Food: Synchronicity, Health, Quality (November 22, 2008)
• 48-Hours of Caring for Sick and Elderly. Sage Makin, Little Wonder-Dog’s Recovery in Images (November 10, 2008)
• Sick Pets and Veterinary Waiting Rooms (November 6, 2008)
• Older Dogs’ Health Watch (July 10, 2008)
• Veterinary Emergencies (April 2, 2008)
• Holistic Dental Hygiene: For Dogs and Their Humans (March 4, 2008)
• Always a Puppy, Never a Dog (August 23, 2007)
• Dog WEIGHT LOSS and WELL-BEING (June 2, 2007)
• Animal Rescue: DOG-Neglect/SELF-Neglect (May 5, 2007)
• Rescue Dog, “Joey” (May 5, 2007)
• DOG FOOD that’s Safe and Delicious (March 20, 2007)
• DOG-Sitter Caution (January 21, 2007)

Usually, pictures say more than words.  And, in the age of digital photography, it’s hard to resist the urge to snap most everything in sight.  Here’s a small sampling of favorite photographic memories from last year.  

BOSTON

City improvement:  Copley Square restoration

Farmer’s Market, Copley Square

Painter’s Statue:  John Singleton Copley, Copley Square

Peaches:  Copley Square Farmers’ Market

Peppers:  Copley Square Farmers’ Market

Wildflowers explained (Old South Church)

Wildflowers in the city (Old South Church)

CHICAGO

Friendly Policeman:  River North

Fun way to see a city:  Chicago by Segway

Picture postcard waterfront

Pretty pink sail boat at sunset, Lake Michigan

Smile-provoking city-wildlife: ducklings on Lake Michigan

Unexpected skyscape at sunset, Grant Park

Other favorite photographic memories from 2008 are included in:   What to See and/or Do in 2009. Photos, Memories, Ideas, and Surprises from 2008. PART 2 (January 29, 2009) and What to See and/or Do in 2009. Photos, Memories, Ideas, and Surprises from 2008. PART 3 (January 31, 2009).

Chanukah’s well behind us, but sometimes it takes a while to type things up.  Also, this dish is a fun “side” year-round. Usually, latkes are made from potatoes, and served with apple sauce and sour cream.  My version is a little different.  I use mixed root vegetables, with pineapple/pear/raspberry compote, and probiotic yogurt for toppings…

In Toronto, we’re fortunate to have a year-round local supplier of organic vegetables —a little more expensive, but worth it for quality, taste, and longevity.  Cookstown Greens has been around since 1988, and has growing clientele and fresh produce selections.  I enjoy the root vegetable combinations, cooked as are, or as the chief ingredient for recipes like Latkes.

 

 

 

Others might not like to admit to creativity lulls or feelings of let-down.  But, as my blog evinces, throughout, I think it’s important to be real and not sugar-coat.  Information sharings can be helpful all round:  affirm we are not alone and others have been there too (and got through).  If we don’t acknowledge all our mood-shades (blacks, as well as whites and grays), appearances risk being deceptive.  Life is seldom as perfect as it might be thought for anyone, and authenticity matters.

I am still on a hiatus from painting.  By the close of 2008, I’d participated in three big shows and series (07 - 08), directly after art school graduation (06). Also, as is familiar to most other "emerging artists," the cumulative run-around from a variety of solicitors (galleries, dealers, agents, businesses, and organizations) who’d proved less reputable and reliable than hoped and assumed, was straining.  End result:  a loss in momentum— the need to take time for the "Three Rs," Rethink, Relax, Reboot.

My slow-down really began when I was too sick (medically/physically) to paint. Until I’m properly well, it’s not wise to resume. That said, it’s not something I’m rushing to do…  A dear artist friend recently shared details of her own time-out.  Her example and perspective were inspirational. A wonderfully talented individual, I was in awe of her insight and understanding (journey and recovery) and lack of competitiveness. 

There is always light at the end of the tunnel, but we need to be kind to ourselves (and have others be kind to us), and not push.  At least that’s the advice I tend to share in other contexts…

My studio isn’t empty.  The last painting that I finished (in October 08) jumps out on entry.  It’s a 60 x 40 inch oil on canvas abstract that became a horse:  a beautiful, calming soothing creature who looks like she’s confident and peaceful.  This piece was different in style than what’s been typical for me, over the past few years.

Thinking back to when I painted this last piece, I realize I sensed that something was going on. (The art therapist in me kicked in.) What I was trying to paint wasn’t coming out as I’d planned.  But, when does it ever, really?  I gave in and let happen whatever wanted to manifest on the canvas. 

This Horse piece followed on from a Duck, a Bird, and a Deer/Fox.  All four paintings will appear in the DocSusan artwork galleries, eventually… with stories about them.  In the meantime, please be patient—with me, yourself, and othewise.  Though we seem to live in a "quick-fix society," real life doesnt work that way.  All good things are worth the wait!

Earlier blog posts on artistic challenges include:

▪ Torrit Grey and Regenerating Creativity (October 11, 2008)
▪ Art Shows: Business Priorities Versus Exhibitor Satisfaction (July 23, 2008)
▪ #20. PRECIOUSNESS/VALUE (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (November 30, 2007)
▪ #19. SHARING (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (November 29, 2007)
▪ #18. LIMITATIONS (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (November 28, 2007)
▪ #17. MESSAGE(S) (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (November 27, 2007)
▪ #16. (SPECIAL) GIFT(S) (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (November 26, 2007)
▪ #15. ARTIST PLUS (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (November 25, 2007)
▪ #14. TIME (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (November 24, 2007)
▪ #13. THE PUZZLE (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (November 23, 2007)
▪ #12. SERENDIPITY (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (November 22, 2007)
▪ #11. ORGANIZATION (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (November 21, 2007
▪ #10. PRICES (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (November 18, 2007)
▪ #9. SUPPORT, PATRONAGE, GRANTS (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) 
(November 16, 2007)
▪ #8. “JK ROWLING SYNDROME” (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (November 14, 2007)
▪ #7. PAINTER’S FATIGUE (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!") (November 12, 2007)
▪ #6. NOTICING THE DETAILS (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (November 10, 2007)
▪ #5. STRATEGIC/CONSCIOUS PAINTING (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) 
(November 8, 2007)
▪ #4. CREATIVE PRESSURE/RELEASE (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (November 4, 2007)
▪ #3. SACRIFICE (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (November 1, 2007)
▪ #2. STAMINA (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (October 28, 2007)
▪ #1. ENDURANCE (Reflection While Painting “Buon Appetito!”) (October 24, 2007)
▪ Candid Artistic Ramblings: Reflections While Painting “Buon Appetito!”—Preparing for the Florence Biennale (October 19, 2007)
▪ INSTINCT, EXPRESSION, and CREATIVITY—in WRITING, PAINTING, and MUSIC (July 31, 2007)
▪  PAINTING and PERSEVERANCE (July 27, 2007)
▪  Entering PAINTING COMPETITIONS Can Be Disheartening (July 16, 2007)
▪  Stages of My PAINTING PROCESS (July 5, 2007)
▪  PAINTERS and WRITERS: Survival Tips, Cautions, and Experiences (March 30, 2007)
▪  PAINTING: Getting to the heART of why we do it (January 5, 2007)

This is an exciting day and land-mark occasion world-wide—the swearing in of President Barack Hussein Obama as 44th President of the United States!

For those of us not in the US, some ways to connect and/or participate:

• Television:  BBC live Coverage will begin at 4:00 pm Greenwich Mean Time
• Social Networking:  CNN on Facebook, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Eastern Standard Time (US)
• E-Bulletins and Links: CBS’s Couric and Co’s Inside Scoop
• On-Line Newspaper: TimesOnLine
• On-Line Broadcast Links:  CBC.ca

Question:  A New Media Inauguration?  The BBC asks who will triumph on the day, new or old media?

Watching the Clock…  Obama’s Inauguration Schedule Highlights (Eastern Standard Time, US)

• 11:30 a.m. Obama announced at West Front of Capitol
• 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Inauguration Ceremony
• 12:35 p.m. Departure ceremony for outgoing President George W. Bush and Vice-President Dick Cheney
• 12:45 p.m. Signing ceremony in the President’s Room in the Capitol
• 1:05 p.m. Inaugural luncheon at Statuary Hall
• 2:20 p.m. Review of troops on East Front
• 2:25 to 6 p.m. The 56th Inaugural Parade travels down Pennsylvania Avenue from the Capitol to the White House
• 8 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. Obama to appear at 10 inaugural balls

Connect how and whenever you can—and enjoy in the moment!

For a very quick reminder of election night 08, please see: A Night to Remember: US Elections From Canadian Side of the Border—Best, Worst, and Unsurprising Details (November 6, 2008).

I took the flag-shot at the start of this post in Fort Williams Park by Portland Head Light, Cape Elizabeth, Portland, Maine.  Well worth a visit!

Thanks to a News Alert e-mail landing in my in-box at 3:57 p.m. (eastern standard time), 8:57 p.m., UK time, I found out about US Airways Flight 1549’s crash almost right away.  After clicking on the link in the e-mail, live-at-the-time MSNBC video footage appeared.

Today’s plane crash was, allegedly, due to a double bird-strike by Canada Geese. Perhaps, as a result, more attention will be given to city birds and how man and nature can often end up as unfortunate accidental obstacles for each other.

Ironically, fighting jet lag (after an overnight transatlantic flight), I was in the midst of resizing imagery of Canadian migrating birds for a future blog post. Birds are too often taken for granted, and I was planning to show a wonderful personal in-city (Toronto) sighting.  The shots that follow were taken from my bathroom window one late fall/early winter morning:

Birds collecting in the trees

Birds moving between trees

Birds close up

Birds taking off

It’s a shame there’s no audio with these photos. It was the sound the readying-to-depart birds made that alerted me, and was the most memorable.

MORE IMPORTANT NOW:  Thankfully all passengers and crew from the downed US Airways plane were rescued swiftly and efficiently, with medical experts close by almost immediately.  What an impressive operation!  A true Manhattan miracle.  Kudos to all involved, especially the pilot! A "good news" story!

Every moment with my dogs is special.  And, as they age, I realize, all the more, what a gift it is that they’ve had reasonably healthy lives, so far.   When they do get sick, which seems to be more frequently of late, it’s very distressing…  Old age and health challenges come to us all, no matter our species or status.  It’s all in how they’re handled:  our own attitude as well as that of those who stick around and how they help see us through.  Earlier blog posts about this include:  Hat-Tricks and Hospital Waiting Rooms (November 5, 2008), Sick Pets and Veterinary Waiting Rooms (November 6, 2008) Home for the Holidays! Sick Puppy Alert: When Two Dogs are Better than One. (December 25, 2008).

Not to outdo Sage and myself, Lev had emergency surgery yesterday.  I’d noticed “the sneeze” for a couple of weeks.  It was intermittent and not like Sage’s—more like a human’s (she’s a bigger dog). It came in series, usually earlier in the day or later at night.  Her playing, eating, barking, walking/running, and bossing were unchanged, but her eyelids, especially over the last few days, started to look swollen (patches of flesh evident between her hairs)…

Sage and I had taken attention away from Lev, over recent months, with our own surgeries, and she had been our “rock.”  This gave me a niggling fear that Lev might not be indestructible herself.  Sometimes you just know…  Once Sage and I were more alert and able to resume semi-normal activities, I observed Lev more closely, taking her straight to the operating theater.  Something wasn’t quite right! “The Sneeze” was the signal…

Please be aware that vets who aren’t certified in animal dentistry can’t always be sure where sneezing can come from.  But, that said, and after-the-fact, even as a lay person, I’ve come to find this hard to comprehend…  In Sage’s case, Dr. Mason jumped to do an elaborate (and expensive) battery of general tests that could have been avoided.  If he’d followed Dr. Kneebone’s referral note’s suggestion to do dental XRays, we could have been saved a lot of grief.  After all, Dr. Kneebone’s deduction came as a result of numerous visits to her office, and homeopathic remedies (again, all at a price—financially and emotionally).  In retrospect, I fear that the “dance” may have continued, had I not screamed for conventional emergency help…  

After an unnecessarily drawn out and frustrating experience like the one Sage endured, you do not forget easily.  We paid Dr. Mason (heftily), but Pet Care did not reimburse us.  This had something do with the way in which Dr. Mason filled out the insurance claim form. It also had something to do with Pet Care’s policies and practices. (There will be more about this in a future blog post.)  We canceled our pet insurance and we won’t go back to Dr. Mason…

This time around, because of the Sage-experience, I bypassed "referring vets" (and related expenses) and went straight to Dr. Sharon French.  She is as kind as she is professional and considerate.  She understands how vet bills can mount up, unnecessarily, delaying appropriate and expedient treatment, and only did the essential.  Once Lev had had the dental Xrays, confirmation was given of what was wrong.  And, when the surgery began, it was even clearer what needed to be done.  Six abscessed teeth were extracted!

 

Yesterday afternoon, I made another batch of home-made dog food in anticipation of Lev’s homecoming.  She wasn’t ready till nine last night, and a very sad and sore little girl…  Sage is still wearing his lampshade.  (His post-surgery health issue will be discussed in a later blog post.)  He  came with me to get her, wagging his tail, a mile a minute, after a very mellow day.  He greeted her lampshade to lampshade, but she wasn’t interested.

Lev’s nose bled and her tail was down. I held her in my arms and she couldn’t look at me.  Just whimpered.  The drive home, I had her on my lap, lifeless.  Only when we turned into our street did her head pop up and she started to cry.  I lifted her from the car and she walked into the house.  Remarkably, she made it to her favorite spot, climbing tentatively onto the kitchen table, from where she didn’t move.  And, as for the homemade dog food, she wasn’t even interested in that…. With difficulty, I let her be.  

Taking her to bed with me, I held and stroked her through the night.  Her breathing was congested and the snoring kept me up.  Finally, she managed to pee this morning.  And, when I shed a tear, she licked my face.  Sage has backed off in the attention-seeking department.  He’s stable, for now.  Lev needs all our love, and she’s going to get it!

Other blog posts about Lev and Sage, and the canine-human bond and health matters, include:

• Lessons from 2008: Canine Confidence and Coincidence Cure (January 1, 2009)
• Home for the Holidays! Sick Puppy Alert: When Two Dogs are Better than One. (December 25, 2008)
• Homemade Dog Food: Synchronicity, Health, Quality (November 22, 2008)
• 48-Hours of Caring for Sick and Elderly. Sage Makin, Little Wonder-Dog’s Recovery in Images (November 10, 2008)
• One to One at Apple: Customer Satisfaction and Doggies Included (July 26, 2008)
• Older Dogs’ Health Watch (July 10, 2008)
• Artists Need Moral Support—and Caninekind Offers the Best (May 5, 2008)
• Veterinary Emergencies (April 2, 2008)
• Every Art Studio Needs a Watch-Dog (April 10, 2008)
• Sunbathing DOGS (March 12, 2008)

Under the weather and housebound can have pluses!  At the end of 2008, I gave myself permission to indulge and rediscover old (but not sufficiently explored hobbies, like cooking and sewing. Usually, with a rigorous work schedule there’d be no time…

Lev and Sage agreed to assist me with projects—new designs for their dog clothes and matching beds:

Getting going with sewing, I found out that Toronto is quite a hub for those looking to learn more about this craft.  There’s a bunch of facilities and teachers to suit all interests and budgets!  Here’s what I came across, more or less accidentally, not far from home:

• The Sewing Studio
• Sew Be It, Studio Workshop
• The Workroom
• Creative Sewing School (Barbara Hobbs, 416 483 6102, Avenue and Lawrence)

Denise, from the Sewing Studio, provided motivation with easy assignments, like the beds above!

Also, for supplies and equipment, I discovered a variety of options:

• For equipment and accessories, there’s the Sewing Centre (416 487 4438, 2144 Yonge Street).  Great customer service and lessons from Joe Murphy!

• For fabrics, Designer Fabrics on Queen is recommended by the trade, with the best prices, and most interesting offerings, off sale.

• For the best one-stop shop and discounts (with membership) Fabricland seems to dominate—though shopping there might be a fun experience.

• The Dollerama on Queen (close to Designer Fabrics) has some interesting accessories and tools.

For those who don’t live in snow-habituated climates, clean-up coordination and machinery might be considered an unusual sight. 

Just before New Year’s, Toronto’s snow-cleaning team did a fine (and surprise) job on neighborhood streets.  Here is some of their equipment in action.  

THANK YOU to the city for making it easier for locals to get out of the house, and navigate streets and sidewalks safely, before the next snow fall comes (and builds up)!

In as much time as it takes to run to the corner and pick up a scone (with latté), it’s possible to produce a baking tray full that can be enjoyed all week. New Year’s morning, I gathered together left-overs from Christmas-week: some crème fraîche, the last two over-ripe bananas, and a small basket of softened blueberries. These proved interesting additions to ever-versatile scone ingredient options, enhancing a moist, buttery texture and taste.

Ingredients (alternatives, as well as the ones I used)

• 3 cups of four (I.5 mixed all purpose unbleached, 1.5 oat)
• 2 - 3 tablespoons of flax seed
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 cup of crème fraîche, sour cream, yogurt, or milk
• 2 bananas or a half a dozen dates (minus pits)
• 1 small container of blueberries or a cup of dried cherries
• Few pinches of salt (ok if you forget them—I do)

Baking Instructions

Mix ingredients and firm together. Roll on floured board. (Also remember to flour your baking tray.)  Cut out to size required (3 - 4 inches diameter).  Preheat oven to 425 degrees, and bake touching each other for 12 - 15 minutes, till lightly browned and cooked through.  Separate and remove from tray and leave to cool on wire rack. (yield:  24, depending on size).

For more of DocSusan’s spontaneous recipe creations, please see earlier posts:

• Comfort Food, Comfort Mood:   Self-Care and Cooking for One that’s Nutritious, Delicious, and Easy (December 15, 2008)
• Homemade Dog Food: Synchronicity, Health, Quality (November 22, 2008)
• The Cooking Gene—No Exact Recipes, Wholesome Cuisine 2: Cookies and Scones (September 25, 2008)
• The Cooking Gene—No Exact Recipes, Wholesome Cuisine 1: Soups (September 22, 2008)

As fate would have it, my little dog, Sage, (Editor in Chief of the DocSusan website) fell ill around the same time as I did. His fight for survival and bounce-back over the last few months was inspiring, when making sure I was well enough to take him to veterinary appointments became an interesting dance.  On the many days of bed rest between hospital procedures, we cuddled and snuggled and helped each other through.

Please check out my poetry about hospital waiting rooms and veterinary waiting rooms.  It shares experiences that most people will go through at one time or another—for which there is usually no preparation or easy way to cope.  Then there’s the waiting for the surgery to be over, and anticipation…

I am sincerely grateful to those who have been there for both Sage and myself through our challenging days, especially Lev (Editor in Chief of this blog)!  A happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year to everyone. Look forward, not back!  Better times ahead…

Sick doggies may hide in safe places.  At first, I thought this image was cute.  Later, I realized it was a warning sign…

When illness strikes, the other dog often knows first.  Lev alerted me to Sage’s condition, once more, last weekend.  Thanks to her, I took quick action, and got him veterinary care without delay.  Due to Drs Dawne Martin’s and Sharon French’s prompt and careful treatment (at VEC), Sage was able to come home for the holidays, and recuperate. In a matter of days, he’s doing much better. A precious gift—and the only one I needed this holiday season!

Tuesday, surgery day, was a little stressful, as the following poem shows.   

Surgery Day:  Two Dogs, One Heart

She shivered and shook
A fear driven look
Tail down

At the veterinary office we were
Heavy care

Whites of eyes
Painful stare

Another procedure for Sage
Lev recognized every stage

And now, waiting for the call
The call that will let us know the procedure’s done
That the surgeon’s won

Waiting, not easy to do
Hoping, praying, distracting

A limbo land
A place that only those who’ve been there can understand.

Christmas Eve, Wednesday morning, Lev was taking care of Sage in bed.

Today, Christmas Day, both dogs have been basking together, in the sun, on an armchair.

Happy, HEALTHY holidays from Susan, Lev, and Sage!

For other blog posts related to canine health and wellbeing (and Sage’s history), please check out:  

• Homemade Dog Food: Synchronicity, Health, Quality (November 22, 2008)
• Older Dogs’ Health Watch (July 10, 2008)
• Veterinary Emergencies (April 2, 2008)
• Holistic Dental Hygiene: For Dogs and Their Humans (March 4, 2008)
• Always a Puppy, Never a Dog (August 23, 2007)

At home sick, over recent weeks, there’s been an opportunity to get back to basics.  Though always a "health-conscious eater," I am all the more so now.  No one else around to nurture me on a daily basis, and the dogs unable to cook (only supervise), I’ve not just come up with some interesting concoctions, but ones that are easily portionable, freezable, reheatable, and digestible.

As a "one," it’s great to have something tasty pre-prepared for zero energy days, especially before and after medical procedures.  And, when you’re able to advance-cook in bulk, time and wastage are saved.  Also, efforts can be enjoyed over a series of days or weeks.  

A "secret weapon" in making (swelling) grain-based recipes is a microwave rice-cooker.  While that’s doing its job, I bake and/or chop the other ingredients, ready to be added later.

Brown Rice Rissotto—Kind Of

• Baby bok choy (6 medium-size)
• Celery (bunch)
• Cranberries (1 small container)
• Squash (1 or 2 large)
• Short grain brown rice (1 bag)
• Arugala pesto sauce (1 small container)
• Pine nuts (a couple of ounces, lightly grilled to brown)

Once the rice is cooked, the rest of the ingredients can be added.  The bok choy, celery, and cranberries will soften with the heat from the rice and squash.  The squash has been baked for 45 mins to an hour at 450 degrees, before being extracted from its skin and cut into small pieces. The final dish, with all ingredients combined, can be microwaved for a couple of minutes before serving and/or freezing.

A nice piece of fresh fish, like Tilapia, served on top, makes for a more complete meal.  Vegetarians can add a goat cheesed topping, grilling or baking to melt.

Quinoa and Sweet Potato (image above)

• Quinoa (1 bag of mixed, red and white)
• Sweet potatoes (4 large)
• Celery (bunch)
• Green tomatoes (6)
• Mache (one packet)
• Slivered almonds (1 container)
• Salad dressing, with garlic and sundried tomatoes

Once the quinoa is cooked (in the rice cooker) and the sweet potatoes have been baked and cut up, all ingredients can be mixed together.  The tomatoes, celery, and mache will soften with the heat from the quinoa and sweet potatoes.  The final dish, with all ingredients combined, can be microwaved for a couple of minutes before serving and/or freezing.

Again, a nice piece of fresh fish, like Tilapia, served on top, makes for a more complete meal.  Vegetarians can make a goat cheesed topping, grilling or baking to melt. And, if company is coming, why not get fancy:  stuff peppers with it, and bake in the oven till the peppers are slightly softened. Large red, yellow, or orange peppers makenice color contrasts.

Non-Freezable fresh foods are important too.  Best not to let these last beyond three days.  Therefore, keep recipe quantities in mind.

The Best Egg Salad

(3 portions:  day of making, the next day, and the next)

• Eggs (6)
• Nayanaise with Dijon
• Feta (4 ounces, or thereabouts)
• Giant green olives (small container)
• Baby carrots (a handful, before chopping) or fennel (a handful, afer chopping)
• Salt and pepper to season

Serve on a bed of romaine lettuce and/or with rice crackers to make a more complete meal.

Not-Quite Guacamole

(3 portions:  day of making, the next day, and the next)

• Avocado (extra large)
• Juice of one lemon
• Sundried tomatoes (6 chopped small)
• Regular tomato (1 large)
• Spring onions (a few)
• Probioitic yogurt (but don’t drown the avocado)
• Salt and pepper to season

• Optional add in:  roasted artichokes with olive oil

Serve with crackers as a snack.  Kashi’s 7 Grain are an interesting choice. For the yogurt, Liberté’s Svelte Bio works well.

Fruit Cup and/or Smoothy

(3 portions of fruit cup:  day of making, the next day, and the next.  On day three, any remainders can be used for a fruit smoothy mix.)

• Lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
• Banana
• Blueberries (1 container)
• Pineapple chunks (fresh)
• Dates (fresh)
• Mango
• Mint (homegrown, in season)

(Probiotic Yogurt for the fruit smoothy, and ice, also a tablespoon of flax seeds—if you want to stay "regular".  Again, Liberté’s Svelte Bio is particularly good for the yogurt.)

For other recipes on this blog, please check out the following posts:

• Homemade Dog Food: Synchronicity, Health, Quality (November 22, 2008)
• The Cooking Gene—No Exact Recipes, Wholesome Cuisine 2: Cookies and Scones (September 25, 2008)
• The Cooking Gene—No Exact Recipes, Wholesome Cuisine 1: Soups (September 22, 2008)

Apologies for the paucity of blog posts over the last—and next—little while.  I’ve been spending more time at Toronto’s University Health Network facilities than imagined.  This past weekend’s expedient and careful treatment by staff at the Toronto General site, as well as by Toronto’s EMS personnel, was encouraging and impressive.  Also, my "room with a view" in the General’s new Clinical Services Building had more of a hotel-feeling than a hospital. I am thankful to be home, and feeling much better!

By chance, on Thanksgiving eve, I received notification that two more Boston charities were to be given my artwork for display.  I greatly appreciate how The Art Connection makes artist donorship possible, even for those who no longer live in the area.  I became involved with the Art Connection in 2006, and feel proud and honored to have had several dozen works chosen by 15 of their local charities in the last two years.  My artwork is now enjoyed by:

• Andrew Peabody School (A Rigorous Academic Approach with a Commitment to the Arts), Cambridge, MA
• Boston Public Health Commission (protecting, promoting, and preserverving the health and well-being of all Boston residents, particularly the most vunerable, Boston, MA
• Boston Rescue Mission (Transforming Lives at Risk Since 1899), Boston, MA
• Casa Esperanza (a bilingual bicultural Latino community sanctuary for those overcoming homelessness and/or addictions), Boston, MA
• CFCS_TLC (Cambridge Family and Children’s Sevice—Teens Learning Choices Programme), Cambridge, MA
• Community Work Services (promoting independence through employment, for challenged indivduals), Boston, MA
• Goddard House (Serving Elders Since 1849), Jamaica Plain, MA
• HAWC (Help for Abused Women and their Children), Salem, MA
• Health Care for All (providing comprehensive, affordable, accessible, culturally competent, high quality care for everyone, especially the most vulenerable), Boston, MA
• Malden Senior Community Center (a newly developed property providing services to Malden area seniors who previously utilized a center in a windowless basement), Malden, MA
• MAP for Health (health link for MA Asian and Pacific Islanders), Boston, MA
• Sherrill House, (a not-for proflt skilled nursing and rehabiliation Center), Jamaica Plain, MA
• St. Francis House (largest day shelter for the poor and homeless in New England), Boston, MA
• Triangle Inc (helping people with disabiliites), Malden, MA
• Year Up Inc (helping urban young adults), Boston, MA

In keeping with today’s food/Thanksgiving theme, the image at the start of this post is called "Ripe," and comes from the trilogy, "Ripe, Sweet, and Lonely," at St. Francis House (each image: 24 x 24, oil on canvas, 2005).  "Sweet" is inserted above this note, and "Lonely" below it. Thanksgiving is a great time to send kind wishes to, and care for, the "ripe," the "sweet," and the "lonely" —in the environment where this artwork is now on display, and beyond.  What a suitable home these paintings have found! 

Interestingly, The Art Connection is working on a "pilot project" at St. Francis House.  Accordingly, they asked me to write about the the pieces I have hanging there, including the "Ripe, Sweet, and Lonely" trilogy. In an effort to make art placements a bit more educational for clients, a statement from the artist, it’s hoped, can help give the viewer a better understanding of the work. This is what I wrote:

 "Ripe," "Sweet," and "Lonely":  three things I thought about while painting this trilogy.  Even though I’m ripe (all grown-up) and sweet (kind), I’m often lonely (as a single adult), just like so many others out there.  People might be compared to fruit, with outside (skin) and inside (taste) provoking different responses  Also, fruit cut up into pieces (like for a salad), can be arranged on the plate in a variety of ways.  Some fruits are placed close together and/or touch.  Others end up further apart.  Each of the three paintings focus on one description—the" ripe," the "sweet," or the "lonely"—and they are intended to be arranged in that order, from left to right.  I am quite comfortable painting food, as well as writing about it.  As an art therapist, I had a book published called, More Than Just a Meal:  The Art of Eating Disorders. (2000).  Also, when I didn’t get into a conventional landscape painting class at SMFA (the Museum of Fine Arts School, Boston) I decided to create my own landscapes in other ways.  Food offers many possibilities and gives much cause for thought.  There is not only the selecting and arranging of it, but the eating (to celebrate) that comes afterwards.  In my earlier work (to which these paintings belong) I came to like using pale blue backgrounds.  They show reflections and shadows well, especially when objects are not crowded together.  I also like the softness (and restfulness) of this color, and the contrasts it can encourage.  All the fruits painted in the "ripe, " sweet," and "lonely" set are among my favorites.  Their shapes, colors, textures, and flavors each have their own significance, as well as work well together.  As with most of the artwork I create, I don’t  like to create one-off single pieces.  I also prefer to work on several pieces simultaneously, going from one to the next, consistently.

To view more of my "food art," please check out the Snack Happy! and Buon Appetito! collections as well as the Representational Gallery, all on the DocSusan website.

THIS BLOG ENTRY IS A FOLLOW-UP TO 48-Hours of Caring for Sick and Elderly.Sage Makin, Little Wonder-Dog’s Recovery in Images - November 10, 2008.) 

Synchronicity is interesting!  A Today Show segment, November 8, 08, discussed the healthiest food choices for dogs, and what to avoid.  The interviewee, pet expert, Andrea Arden raved about Wellness.  (Please check out an earlier blog entry of mine, Dog Food that’s Safe and Delicious, March 20, 2007.)

Wellness is likely one the best commercial brands on the market, for now, and Lev and Sage have been enjoying two of their more recent products, "Just For Puppy Treats" and" Small Breed Supermix 5."  Though both dogs are really out of the age range for these, they seem to thrive on them. The one packet of their "Just for Seniors" that we tried had a funny smell and texture.  After Lev and Sage struggled to finish it, I decided the product wasn’t for us.  Also, some of the canned (soft) food seemed to upset both dogs’ stomachs and give them bad breath…

Following Sage’s oral surgery, I had little choice but to try making dog food myself, something that would give the little chap essential nutrients for a speedy recovery and not have to be crunched.  As you’ll know from other blog entries, I don’t tend to record exact ingredients or instructions (The Cooking Gene—No Exact Recipes, Wholesome Cuisine 2: Cookies and Scones, September 25, 2008;  The Cooking Gene—No Exact Recipes, Wholesome Cuisine 1: Soups, September 22, 2008)  Here is what I used (roughly) for the dog food: 

Ingredients for Dog Food, with Chicken or Beef as Primary Protein
(all fresh, not frozen)

• 2 large heads of broccoli
• 4 large sweet potatoes
• 1 pack of baby carrots
• 1 pack of Lundberg Short Grain Brown Rice
• 2 cups of flaxmeal
• 4 packs of minced chicken
• 2 packs of minced beef
• Extra virgin olive oil (to cook the meat)
• A couple of cups of water, for cooking and blending ingredients

Cooking

Microwave all ingredients (separately) except the meat and poultry, which are cooked on the stove (also separately) in a large frying pan with a dash of olive oil.

Semi-Purée

All ingredients are blended except the rice, which remains whole and is added in last.  

Portioning

Two thirds of the vegetables and starches are mixed with the chicken and one third with the beef.  

32 (snack-food size) containers of freezable food are made in total—5 - 6 meal helpings in each, depending on the pet’s size and whether anything else is added at mealtime. There are 12 containers with beef and 20 with chicken.

I decided to start Sage off with the beef, since there’d be more iron with that (and he’d lost quite a bit of blood).

Food Toppers

To make the food more nutritious and interesting, I bought the following food toppers to sprinkle before serving:

• The Missing Link Canine Formula
• Liver Sprinkle
• Salmon Flakes

Preparation Time

Approximately two hours (+ shopping time).

Supply

Approximately 6 weeks’ worth of food (that freezes and defrosts well).

Please Note

I am not an expert in pet nutrition, but relied on common sense, enthusiasm and creativity for this project.  Even if these recipes aren’t perfect, likely they’re a lot better than most store-bought options.

Some Important Considerations for My Home-Cooking, Whether for Caninekind or Humans:

1.  Choose unprocessed ingredients.
2.  Prepare with love and care.
3.  Remember that what goes in must come out (hopefully, with good consistency and color, no stink).
4.  Be aware how breath smells after eating:  bad isn’t good.
5.  Note that less equals more.  A little can go a long way.
6.  Don’t forget the "yum" factor.  Food that’s eaten eagerly, must be tasty.

FOR OTHER BLOG ENTRIES RELATED TO HEALTH AND WELLBEING (and Sage’s history), please check out:  

• Older Dogs’ Health Watch (July 10, 2008)

• Veterinary Emergencies (April 2, 2008)

• Holistic Dental Hygiene: For Dogs and Their Humans (March 4, 2008)

• Always a Puppy, Never a Dog (August 23, 2007) 

Two weeks ago, I was at Wholefoods (Hazelton Lanes) and discovered Pom’s new line of lighter tea drinks.  They were $3.99 each.  A little pricey, I thought.  Last week, I was at Loblaws (Bathurst and St. Clair) and found the same drinks for $2.99 each—one dollar less. Not a small amount!  Last night, back at Wholefoods, I noticed a display of Pom Teas close to the cash, obviously for last-minute/impulse purchases. This prompted me to ask a Wholefoods team member if they "price-matched."  Instead of simply saying, "No," she volunteered three reasons whey they don’t:  (1) They are good to their employees, and start them off at $2.50 more an hour than anywhere else. (2) They offer food samples. (3) Customers can bring food back after tasting it if they don’t like it.  She then told me to wait a minute while she checked with team leaders. Naively, I wondered if a one-time goodwill discount was being arranged. On the contrary!  Another fact was transmitted as to why Loblaws is more price-smart.  Apparently, they have 1200 stores…and Wholefoods is unique in Yorkville.  Exiting Wholefoods, a little perplexed by the justifications, I looked back over my shoulder and witnessed sniggering team members. I’d like to hope that the price issue, and my raising it, wasn’t cause for their amusement.

Puppyhood gets hits!  The attention six Shibu Inu pups have brought Ustream has been impressive.  Overnight, a breed and website have created a buzz.  Cuteness and technology capture attention…and are good for business!

Today is the official grand opening of the Art Gallery of Ontario.  Last night, a special celebration that embraced local living artists was a great success.  The warmth of Director Matthew Teitelbaum’s welcome set the tone.  Apart from his introduction of the Frank Gehry team and museum staff and curators, he shared personal memories of childhood visits to the old AGO and his own father’s financial struggles as an artist.

Artists’ successful involvement with the (new) institution, Teitelbaum made clear, is essential, and was stressed by the handing out of badges to invitees on entry.  These announced, "Artists Matter."

It was a treat to be able to wander through the exhibits, few others around, and construction workers still adding finishing touches.  Hopefully, the excitement of the AGO’s reopening can be maintained, and help evaporate feelings of aloofness and alienation for which Toronto’s too often been known. 

As discussed earlier in this blog, everyone seems to have time for a new puppy.  It’s also important to make a fuss of older dogs—recognize when they might be ailing and see to their every need. Checking they’re as comfortable as possible takes effort and requires greater responsiblity than some owners are prepared (or able to) assume.

Earlier blog entries (listed at the bottom of this entry), show that Sage’s health has been troubling for a while. And, this week, it was time for his big op.  We needed to make a spontaneous decision that will, hopefully, add many years to his precious little life.  He had 19 teeth removed!  

Beware! If your small dog is sneezing a lot and has stinky breath, no matter how well you supervise their  oral health, the problem may be beyond your control.  Size, genetic predisposition, and (previous) misdiagnosis, as well as insufficient attention to detail, can factor in and effect (appropriate) treatment options (and outcomes).  

When I picked Sage up from VEC, last Thursday night, he was still blood-stained and had a bleeding nose and low blood sugar.  He was a heap in my arms:  glazed eyes, tearful, whimpering, and a shadow of his regular self.  Dr. Sharon French’s surgery had been careful and kind (like her), but significant inconsistency among other employees at the clinic is obvious (perhaps why feedback forms are now offered at the counter).  The animal care attendant’s hand-over of a post-op animal felt abrupt and disconcerting—quite unlike the receptionist’s check-in pre-op. 

The photos included below tell the tale of 48 hours in the life a little dog, pre- and post-op.  

• The last bone (the night before surgery).

• Big Yawn (full set of teeth).

• Carried home, and nestled in a bag, tinged with pink (blood stained) and sleepy (the evening following the surgery).

•  A little walk and sniff on a nice autumn day (the day after the surgery), with a new outfit to stay warm (pink bandage from intravenous).

• First proper meal. Homemade dog food!  (Dog food recipes will follow in another blog entry.)

• Big sister Lev, finished her meal, oversees Sage.

• Lev ready to finish off Sage’s meal should he not pay attention.

• Homemade dog food, the first vat.

• Containers of homemade dog food for freezer.

Little animals, like young children, can get sick very quickly, unable to tell us till their conditions are critical  But, the good news is that they can also get better quickly, when cared for properly and expediently.  

For other blog entries relating to Pet Health and Well-being (and Sage’s history), please check out: 

• Older Dogs’ Health Watch (July 10, 2008)
• Veterinary Emergencies (April 2, 2008)
• Holistic Dental Hygiene: For Dogs and Their Humans (March 4, 2008)
• Always a Puppy, Never a Dog (August 23, 2007)

I’ve been a little "fuzzy" lately, making writing (and concentrating) more difficult than usual.  Despite this, there’s always ways to be creative if you can give in to becoming a "Mad-Hatter." When not up for much else, crochet did the "trick" for me.  Sitting in hospital waiting rooms, over recent weeks, I’ve managed to produce three hats (as displayed above).

The first two are made from Cashsoft and the the third from Noro yarn.  Hat one, I’ve called the "Playful;" hat two, the "Sophisticate;" and hat three, the "Fun" (from left to right, above).  The first was just to use up yarn and keep my mind occupied.  The second involved more planning and design.  The third provoked excitement and a dash of spunk.

The nice thing about making hats is that patterns aren’t necessary.  They’re easy to try on as you go, and undoing them, to readjust for sizing or look, doesn’t involve too much lost labor.  Hat one involved "uncertainty;" hat two, "awareness;" and hat three, "boldness."  A crochet hook and yarn can sometimes help boost confidence (and self-esteem), even when real life has its challenges.

Previous blog entries about crochet include:

• Wearable Art: Crochet and Canvases Match at Toronto Art Expo
(March 23, 2008)

• Crochet for Stress Reduction, Fashion, and Fun
(December 25, 2006)

Reflections on "hospital waiting rooms" are shared in this poem:

Hospital Waiting Rooms

Hospital waiting rooms
Interesting places
Expressions on faces

Old, young, rich, poor
Illness can descend at anyone’s door

Homeless or not
Bedecked in jewels or poorly clad

Side by side they sit
And wait, and wait, and wait

Time to hesitate
And reflect

Thankful for what’s not
Regretful about what is

A loss of control
Soul next to soul

Good health not a given
Recovery a game of chance

Some rally
Others dally

Support helps
Not being there alone

Some speak
Others too weak

There are those who make it
And those who fake it

A humbling experience
And wake-up

Something that effects all
Short or tall

Take a number
And wait till you’re called.
 

Halloween seems to be celebrated most everywhere these days, including Papeete (Tahiti), as shown above.  Halloween costume displays contrast with regular (tourist) souvenir displays, shown below.

Just a few hours from downtown Toronto, bear spotting isn’t hard to do. Check out the wildlife at a creative sign shop, on the road to Killarney. Wonder if a few bears in the backyard, downtown, might help scare off squirrels, raccoons, and skunks? That said, there didn’t seem to be as many of them around this year.  A cause for concern, maybe?

On October 16 (today), the Portrait Society of Canada has a studio day at Toronto Arts and Letters Club.  This will be a nice chance to reconnect through art-making, before its "The Miracle of the Portrait" Portrait Arts Festival and Competition (December 4 - 7, 09).  Recently, another of my "sharings" was included on the Artists Talk page of the Portait Society’s website. It is pasted below:

When I saw people for therapy, I had a sliding scale.  Different individuals had different needs (emotionally and financially). I tried to accommodate as far as possible, understanding circumstances and limitations.  Artwork, not surprisingly, seems to have sliding scales too.  That said, you can’t please all of the people (and yourself) all of the time. There is a point when too low is too low.  For instance, should a $2000 painting be reduced to $750 if it is a commission and you have a "soft spot" for the clients involved?  If you know they don’t have the means this is easier. (If they do have the means, it’s another matter.)  Then there’s those who like to spend more on the frame than the piece.  Again, a whole other story… Priorities, pressures, and obstacles are case specific, of course.  

What about the time, energy, and materials you have put in, as a professional (not for a hobby)? Are you worth a couple of cents an hour or more?  Is what you’ve created a "labor of love," or "slave labor"? Is a work of $2000 being sought for $750 as a bargain?  Or, should you create another piece that ’s more price-adjustable—a $750 work that really has a  $750 value?  Will it still be as pleasing and purchasable?  

Who and what really determines worth and appropriateness?  And, what about fairness, honesty, and trust?  Artwork has a sentimental, as well as investment/ commercial value. Also, instinct can blend with business savvy, or remain distinct.  We all (should) have our price points, as well as integrity and pride. And, of course, there’s experience too.  Capacities and expectations, however, may vary, for buyer as well as seller. And, cliché as it sounds, pride shouldn’t come before a fall.  Hardly surprising the term "starving artist" is so well known and a common reality.  Do others have hard and fast rules for how to deal with those who try to price adjust and bargain down? When does reasonable haggling become insulting?  When do you prefer to hold onto a piece rather than sell it at any price?

For more on related subject matter, please check out my "Candid Artistic Ramblings"  on the DocSusan website in the artist’s galleries section.

I managed to catch the last day of the Toronto International Fine Art Fair, a week ago, Monday. An enervating experience!  This had little to do with (many) gallery representatives being tired and inattentive.  Quite simply, the atmosphere seemed flat and nothing stood out as different or exceptional.  Having shown at Toronto Art Expo in March (at the Toronto Convention Center as well), this previous disappointing experience sprung to mind.  Also, I hear from others that Toronto’s Nuit Blanche (which coincided on the Saturday night of the Fine Art Fair) was even worse this year than last.  Despite the organizational PR and swish website, I understand that people appeared to be wandering the streets aimlessly, seeking something that might impress them, but going home tired and deflated.

Having just returned from the Liverpool Biennale, which was hopping, it’s hard not to make comparisons.  I think there’s a lot Toronto’s arts community (and sponsors) can learn from what’s happening across the Atlantic—not just from how artwork is exhibited, but to how ambiance is induced.  User-friendliness, approachability/accessibility, and interactive involvement (at all levels) help create a more fun environment that keeps you engaged. 

From the Walker Art Gallery’s (first photo in this blog entry) John Moores’ and Ben Johnson’s exhibits, to the Conservation Center (second photo in this blog entry), to the Tate Gallery, to Bloomberg’s New Contemporaries, I was surprised and delighted to see the range of possibilities—something for all tastes, attention spans, and budgets.

What’s nice about the British approach is that everyone can get involved somehow, and keep passion alive. (Please see the photo of the interactive display, above, at the Conservation Center.)  Also, most museums and galleries are free (and government/trust supported), with lots of helpers around to explain and motivate.  You can even try things out for yourself, with projects like The Big Draw, which reminds that "drawing is for life, not just for children!"  (Please see the the photo below, also check out www.campaignfordrawing.org.)

Canada-based artists, currently on exhibit in Liverpool, include, David Altmedj, at the Tate, with his piece, The Holes, and Paul Ygartua, in Bar Four at the Hard Days’ Night Hotel.  And, then there’s street art, from all parts and in all parts, that’s catching a lot of attention—like the spider behind Liverpool’s Town Hall. (Anthony Gormley’s spectacular installation "Another Place" exhibit in the Mersey Estuary ended up staying more permanently.  Be fun if this one could too!) That’s my photo of the spider, but the Telegraph has a better night-time shot.

The point is that art excites and motivates. The more of it that’s around, the more people get interested, causing new opportunities/creativity (of all types) to emerge, as well as interesting juxtapositions of old and new—like with Liverpool Town Hall, behind which the spider dazzles, by night. 

Gamblin are my favorite oil paints.  In August, I discovered that they have an annual competition.  This year’s was number 15.  Robert Gamblin invites painters to experiment with "value," and see how light and dark can have as much impact as color.  For me, as a "colorist," this would have been an interesting challenge. Unfortunately, I found out about the competition a little too late.  The folks at Above Ground gave me a tube, after I commented on all the other shades of Gamblin’s grey I was buying that day (but the competition deadline date was too tight).  

Torrit Grey is made up from pigments collected from Gamblin’s air filtration system that are mixed and recycled to form a unique color.  There is no charge for this product.  

We all have our creativity slumps, and sometimes don’t know how to move beyond them.  A couple of months on from receiving the Torrit Grey tube I still hadn’t used it.  Now, the timing was right and better.  Perhaps this little tube could help restore creativity—kindle an element of surprise and wonder and motivate me to get back into a "flow."

You may view the DocSusan website and blog and think that my creativity comes easily.  Nothing comes easily, even if it may look that way.  Common "creativity blockers" and "enhancers" are listed below.  Perhaps you can identify?  Perhaps you have you own special solutions for navigating between them?
 
Creativity Blockers

• Emotional upsets
• Rejection/lack of appreciation
• Physical illness
• Burn-out
• Isolation
• Lack of motivation/goals

Creativity Enhancers

• Emotional stability and calm
• Appreciation
• Good health
• Rest
• Connection and belonging
• Surprises

p.s. I used the Torrit Grey in a a small work entitled, Love = Poodle for Me.  Love = ? for You? This was for the Love Show, an 8 x 8 fundraiser organized by the Londsdale Gallery, to be held at Toronto’s Gallery 1313 (October 30 - November 9, 08 Auction November 9), to benefit "Nomads" (street youth).

About this piece: Love hides in many places. Some never find it.  Others see it peeping through clouds—dream, wish, hope.  Love, for me, masquerades (and dances)  in "Poodle-form." Wherever I go, there they are!  I don’t hide behind my poodles, but we take care of each other —every step of the way. (This piece can hang in four different directions. Please hang it according to what you see in it—and enjoy!)

Guilt hovers for all types of reasons.  Some manage to feel guilty without cause. Others don’t (appear to) feel guilty, but should.  Conscience is a determining factor.  Even if we deceive others, we still have to live with ourselves! 

G U I L T

Got away with it before

If not this situation
The next?

Those who hurt us (seem to) get away with what they’ve done too often. Or, do they? The high of duping others can, ultimately, be followed by the low of them being able to offer no more excuses—followed by a lack of leniency from those able to invoke retribution.  

It looks like there may be no way out for OJ Simpson this time around.  He may have "got away with murder" 13 years ago, but can’t seem to get away with "kidnapping and armed robbery" now.  A "lesser crime," a greater sentence…

It’s wrong to wish ill on somebody else.  But, it’s hard not to feel relief when obvious (and repeat) offenders push their luck and things don’t pan out for them.  In business, dating, or en famille, certain individuals have a way of taking advantage of others.  If discovered, they may attempt to convince that their ruses are out of character, or provoked.  Also, when people get away with something once, they often try to get away with it again…and again.  No matter how good their stores get, where’s the glory?!

The energy in this historic city is very positive right now!  At a time of worldwide slump, Liverpool wraps up its year as European Capital of Culture on a high note.  The opening of Phase Two of Liverpool One by HRH Princess Anne, last Wednesday, has been a boost for the city, country, and beyond.  Looking through guest comments for Liverpool One, it seems a lot of other expat. Liverpudlians, including a bunch of Canadians, have already given rave reviews.

Liverpool, it’s clear, is back on the map—a pedestrian delight, encompassing the (once again) aptly named Paradise Street!  It will be interesting to see what happens when the newness and excitement from Liverpool One’s completion wear off.  But, noticing how proud Liverpudlians appear to have been made to feel, let’s stay optimistic!

Many European travelers have quickly discovered this jewel of shopping/entertainment venues (photo above). Added to the culture and history Liverpool, itself, already provides, there’s now a sophisticated urban do-it-all get-away destination that won’t disappoint locals or tourists.  Don’t worry about the weather.  "Scousers" with their down-to-earth and fun ways can make up for that!  Time to provide more direct routings from North America to Liverpool, without the need to detour via Manchester or London!  (British Midland, Air Canada, Continental listen up!)

Stopping over in New York on the way to Liverpool, I spent last Sunday at MOMA (The Museum of Modern Art).  My photos from that visit were on the same disc as those from Liverpool One.  Walkways and views, it’s clear, create interesting parallels between the two very distinct locations (as the MOMA photo, above, shows).  Liverpool One is not only a great place to shop and eat, but an interesting architectural feat, a treat for photographers and design enthusiasts of all levels.

More on Liverpool One:  Please check out my June 11 blog entry, "Liverpool One Wins—Helps Make a Once-Great City Great Again."

Earlier this month, I paid renewals for my my driver’s license and vehicle plate.  Funny, the envelope that was mailed to me with the forms for these didn’t include anything about a new $60 Toronto resident’s tax.  Since I’d been out-of-town a lot over the summer, I thought I might have missed news coverage of it.  Apparently not.  Most agree this one got snuck in without hoopla. Astonishing?  Or, Perhaps we’re all paying too much attention to US politics?

At College Park’s (long-lined) Ontario Service Counter, there was no explanatory literature, or prominent signage.  The only thing necessary to know, it seemed, was that if you didn’t pay up there and then you couldn’t make the other renewals.  Employees working at the counter weren’t afraid to mention that they didn’t agree with the tax (they’d be paying it too).  When I got home, I pulled up a September 1 (08) Globe ad Mail article which offered more details. Then, when speaking to friends and acquaintances who drive in Toronto but live in the suburbs, their snigger wasn’t surprising.  This extra charge didn’t apply to them!

From Sarah Palin’s lipstick to John McCain serenely placing his rose on the September 11 memorial at Ground Zero, while Barack Obama appeared to toss his, most of us (myself included) have been more engaged with what’s been happening on the other side of the border than with local politics and consequences. (Please check out the drinks menu at the Gladstone’s Melody Bar, in the photo above.)

Let’s remember that Canada has its own (40th) Federal Election October 14, 08. Americans might not know about this, but many Canadians don’t either…  On its eve, it seems, the Conservatives have been chopping arts funding right, left, and center. This fact may influence artists’ votes!

p.s. Regular readers might remember my Potty Pots in Rosedale (three-entry) series, from last year. Elections in Canada, it appears, can coincide with interesting displays of how tax payers’ money is allocated, locally as well as nationally. (For more links, please check out the third entry in the series: Potty Post in Rosedale, Part Three—As Elections Near, September 15, 2007).

There’s no better way to get to know your own city than by having visitors in town—a chance to do things you wouldn’t usually, and become more aware of what’s on offer. This past weekend was a good one, event- and weather-wise, to check out places and happenings I hadn’t before:

• The Beach Celtic Festival
Organizers made a point of stating this was a "Beach" activity (not a Toronto one), clarifying, to friends from New York and Boston how the Beaches are a distinct community (from Toronto) and proud to be one. There was a fun atmosphere and a variety of performers.  Fathers as well as daughters had a chance to display their community spirit and dance routines!  (Please see photo at the start of this blog entry.)

• Queen West Art Crawl
Knowing the amount of work and expense that goes into putting up individual displays, I’m not sure how participants might have felt or how the jurying and set-up processes went.  The overall impression/quality appeared mediocre and disappointing to those from other parts.

• Paws Way
This is a "pet discovery" center that appeals to all, non-pet-lovers included, with its animal heroism exhibits and themed lecture series.  The hours and information services are also user-friendly, especially for later on a rainy Saturday afternoon.  (Not clear who the creators/sponsors of this venture are, but the Purina logo is included.)

• The Drake Hotel
Yes, they do make the best afternoon tea scones in town (apart from my own), and the comfort food at the bar isn’t bad either.  Edamame followed by grilled cheese, with champagne, proved an interesting combination!

• Gladstone Hotel
Their Saturday night Karaoke is a lot of fun, for participants and listeners!

• Chippy’s on Queen
If you’ve not tasted the "real thing," these may be as good as it gets in the ‘hood. We didn’t like the cooks touching money and (?), and then the food, without washing their hands in between.  But, a line was building, and maybe they were short-staffed. Can’t really go wrong with chips when they’re home-cut. However, the batter on the fish was a tad crunchy/heavy…  That said, it’s a nice concept and there’s a good menu and price range. The $7.99 (cod) can be enough for two!

Last Friday evening, passing through Yorkville, I noticed a bunch of empty tables:  at Sassafraz, Café Nervosa, Dimmi, Remy’s, Lettieri—all the usual hangout corners.  At  6:30 - 7:00 pm you could take your pick.  So, spontaneously, I decided to stick around:  choose a restaurant where I’d not been before—Flow.  Since the dogs were with me, this worked out well. They could perch on the perimeter hedge of the patio in the comfort of their travel bag, with a view out onto the Hazleton Hotel and One.  The waiters were attentive and kind.  A large bowl of iced water was served to them, and a sliver of duck from a complimentary amuse gueule.  My own dinner of blackened cod and root fries, followed by meringue, was also nicely presented and delicious.  It’s very easy to (be made to) feel uncomfortable when dining solo. But, for some reason, I had the contrary experience here.  By 8ish the Ronnie Hawkins Band was heating up on the roof of an adjacent parking lot and the rain had started to come down.  The night was just beginning, and the opening weekend of the Toronto International Film Festival underway…

Last weekend, on an overcast Saturday afternoon, the restaurant at Debenham’s in the new Liverpool One was bustling.  There was a menu card on every table advertising chocolate soups.  But, from what we saw, we were the only customers ordering one.  The "hubble bubble" looked good in the photo (and as above), but, according to my niece, a chocolate aficionado, it was a little disappointing.  So, off to the plush new two-storey Costa Coffee on the corner of Lord Street we went, and found a triple chocolate muffin.  This got a five star rating, and satiated her craving!  They also have soya milk latté there—and it rivals Canada’s Lettieri’s.

By chance, not choice, I find myself becoming a bit of a "consumer watchdog" on this site—in the arts, animalcare, home maintenance, and beyond. Therefore I’ve just added a new sub-section to the Well-Being category:  Consumer-Care.  There are so many ways customers and clients can get fooled.  And, it’s only through sharing experiences that we learn of possible injustices, games, and scams.  Regulations are lacking in many industries, and certain individuals/businesses will, too often, try their luck, and break rules.  Unsuspecting, or vulnerable consumers are duped over and again.  Awareness is power, and power is a privilege—one that can, hopefully, be put to good use here, with information, lessons, and cautions.

With my constantly changing routines and busy travel schedule, I usually find it hard to commit to extra-curricula classes.  Also, I am not a "gym person".  But, this past week, a neighborhood offering met my needs and interests admirably.  Roots’ flagship store in Rosedale has free one-class passes for their yoga studio.  Stimulated by the first class, I decided to take advantage of a "summer special"—unlimited classes for a week for $20. Though classes are reduced in number for the season, there were enough to meet my needs, and four out of five were enjoyable—especially the pilates. The studio is low-key, no mirrors or fancy accessories, and appears to have a regular clientele (all female).  Positioned at the back of the building (away from Yonge Street) the view of tree-tops through the window is well-planned and soothing.  And, eventually, you stop noticing the rattles of the subway line down below.  Definitely a positive experience!

Boston and New England are craft-enthusiast-friendly.  Each time I’m there, I want to start working on a new project.  For basics, Windsor Button (open since 1936), close to Boston Common, has every supply you can possibly need.  This includes a vat of buttions at the entrance, from which I display a selection in my 2004 painting, "Memories."

Then, on Newbury Street, the more recent 1154 Lill Studio offers a few short cuts—assisting with the assembly of custom designer bags and accessories.  I checked it out, packed with clients the day before Mother’s Day.  Such a neat concept—for a personal visit, group party, or special gift!  Their prices range from $26 - $185, and there’s something to suit almost everyone’s taste. 1154 Lill came into being in Chicago in 1999 (where its headquarters are), and a local boutique in Lincoln Park.  Additional boutiques are located in Philadelphia and Kansas, and there’s in-home party opportunities as well!  Congratulations to founder Jennifer Velarde!

Earlier this week, I was excited to be part of a quartet that attended Dirty Dancing, at the Royal Alex Theatre in Toronto.  We took advantage of a mid-week special (four tickets for the price of three), making a spontaneous same-day purchase.  Sometimes, the best night’s entertainment happens when you don’t have long-term plans for it, but break routine.

Not only were the sets and costumes superb, but the cast was consistent and well-chosen.  This wasn’t the kind of show that had you wondering when the interval was going to happen. And beyond the actual performance, we were also struck by deeper story-lines, like that of a nuclear family with two adult-children.  

Siblings often have distinct personalities (and outcomes), and the daughters, Frances and Lisa, were excellent examples of this.  Sometimes, one child can be seen to do no wrong, and the other child, no right.  One has "higher goals" and she is misunderstood. The other ’s behavior is less commendable, but she’s more likely to get away with it (though not grow from her mistakes).  Also, parents often seem to forget their own pasts when making suppositions and demonstrating differential treatment.  Not knowing (or attempting to learn) all the facts, and making judgments for the wrong reasons can be problematic, unless non-family members have a chance to intervene.

Though much of the music was familiar, and there was a strong urge to want to go home and get dancing lessons, this staging of Dirty Dancing, it was clear, offered more than the immediately obvious.  Seeing the movie years ago, I’d been more focused on visual and auditory effects.  This time around (perhaps helped by the stellar performances of the leads) it was refreshing to be able to consider deeper messages and meanings. Lively afer-show discussion ensued!

It’s like Liverpool hit the fast-forward button all of a sudden!  As somebody who hasn’t lived there for more than a quarter of century, its a lot easier for me to see this.  First came the Albert Dock complex, then the Capital of Culture, and now Liverpool One. 

Though there’s still hard hats, cranes, and construction everywhere, on a beautiful sunny day, this week, I was thrilled to see my hometown revived and bustling.

Please check out some of the posters inserted below that tell a little more about this new landmark.

Better still, go visit Liverpool.  You will be surprised, delighted, and entertained.  The shopping isn’t bad either…

When more carefully manicured cities, like Toronto, feel bereft of ambiance and energy in comparison, it’s clear something is working right in Liverpool.  The graphic design for its construction posters (inserted above), also helps with mood.  I couldn’t think of a city where the heart symbol fits better. You can say a lot else about Liverpudlians, but you can’t deny their friendliness, directness, humor, spirit and heart.  HeArTs off to them!  

Christopher Hart (no heart-typo) made this interesting comment in a Times Culture supplement after Paul McCartney’s recent Liverpool concert, "It’s a battered and bleeding heavyweight of a city, struggling to haul itsel off the canvas.  But it has an astonishing charisma—and I can still hear the sound of 35,000 voices ringing in my ears, singing about "times of trouble" and "all the lonely people" and "take a sad song and make it better."

A comment on the Liverpool 08 home page by Alexei Sayle states, "I’ve been all over the world looking for excitement, and it turns out that the most thrilling town I’ve ever visited is the one I was born in."  Right now, many non-resident Liverpudlians will find it hard not to agree!

During Lev’s 11 years, and Sage’s 8, we’ve tested many different toys. The only one we’ve decided to replace several times has been a large floppy Duck, a member of the Duckworthy Family, produced by Multipet.  Even though it comes apart like most others (and we wonder about its safety and how environmentally friendly it is), it’s still the one chosen over and again by both dogs.  Also, recently, we came across a smaller version for Sage.

The National Confectioners’ All Candy Expo is the most fun trade show I’ve attended. Since I enjoy painting candy, it was a great way to view (and sample) new still-life possibilities. Therapy and writing conferences might be stimulating, but they can’t compete. Held in Chicago at McCormick Place, May 20 - 23, 08, ACE also gave me a chance to spend more time in the US’s friendliest city. (A blog entry, "Chicago, My Kind of Town," coming next!)

All types of goodies were represented at ACE, and my favorite exhibitors (in no specific order) included:

Jelly Belly (beans)

Necco (hearts)

Pure Fun (candies)

Mama Mellace’s Naturals (nuts)

Black Opal Licorice

Melville Candy (lollipops)

Choclatique (organic hand-painted chocolate)

MarebluNaturals (crunch cubes)

Little i (mints)

Jelly Belly’s 110th Anniversary Party, hosted by Herm Rowland (Chairman of the Board), topped the list of most unusual entertainments and show hightlight. David Garibaldi, whose father happens to work for the company, put on an outstanding performance.

Garibaldi paints, dances, delights and amazes with his stunning portraiture. He’s also fun to talk to! At the end of the evening, guests went home with a Waterford Crystal commemorative Jelly Bean (that I’ll treasure)!

Despite ACE’s festive atmosphere, more serious political divides still weighed on some attendees’ minds…

Good news!  The Second Cup at Yonge and St.Clair is displaying my artwork from tonight on, in support of the Florence Biennale exhibit. This particular franchise is standing up for Canada by providing neighborhood exposure for a local artist representing her country—giving publicity to issues such an endeavor has come to reveal (as touched on in this blog’s March 07 entry). 

Canada can’t be seen on the world stage as a nation that’s preoccupied with playtime.  Her visual artists and their art events need as much reognition and endorsement as her athletes and their sports events.  Culture and intellect count, as do the individuals who work hard to show this.

The painting included in this blog entry (and already hanging at Second Cup) is "Pansies…Again," 24in x 36in, oil on canvas. 

p.s.  Please remember to click on the images to see them more clearly.  Also, please note, the actual artwork is crisper and more vibrant than a photo of it might suggest.

What happened to those unique/charming little coffee shops and restaurants we used to love so much—even in Europe?  They were taken overtaken by Starbucks and McDonald’s! In picturesque Lausanne, Switzerland, they face each other, on opposite street corners, in the very small pedestrianized downtown area. (Click on the image for a better view.)

What else will follow?  In North America, giant chain bookstores have also put one-of-a-kind enterprises (and those who made a living from them) out of business.  Likely this is happening in Europe too.  Less individuality, more homogeneity!  But, for now, old town Geneva is still able to display its charm (and creativity) with curiosity shops like this one. 

Lev, Sage, and I visited Woofstock this past weekend. The St. Lawrence Market area of Toronto is a wonderful venue for street fairs and the warm sunny weather added to this event’s success.  Then there were all the dog-lover attendees and their very well-kept pets.  Not a bad-looking or neglected canine in sight. On the contrary!  

As for the vendors and their products, there were the more familiar and classic, and the newer and flourishing.  Some of the displays that we perused or patronized included:

• Animal Wellness (magazine)
• Buddy Belts (harness alternatives)
• Four-Legged Style (pet carriers)
• Modern Dog (magazine)
• Pet Plan (insurance)
• Puppy and Dog Basics (magazine)
• Sadie’s Choice (natural potions)
• Wellness (nutrition)

It was an expensive weekend:

• Lev and Sage each got new buddy-belts, pastel blue for Sage and deep pink for Lev—with the idea that strangers may be more likely to guess correctly who’s the girl and who’s the boy.  It’s terrific to see how much this one-woman company has grown in the last five years.  (They had a seconds/outlet store to sell off their a-little-less-than-perfect belts at half-price—$40, which we appreciated.  The belts sold in retail outlets are completely perfect, of course!)

• Sadie’s Choice natural products, something we were unfamiliar with, caught our eye, and we went for their $25 two-item special—choosing their Outdoor Repellant and Solar Shield.

• Modern Dog was selling $5 gift bags, which included a new doggy treat called Barking Mad.  Lev and Sage thoroughly enjoyed sampling this on the way home—so much so that Lev dived into my bag to grab seconds.

• Four-Legged Style’s portable kennel, at $40, was a little bit of an impulse purchase, but I know we’ll get good use out of it.

• Still thinking of Joey, our "rescue dog," Wellness had the solution—its weight management food.  We got him a pack ($13)!

Finally, just for fun, Lev and Sage participated in a photo-shoot contest for Puppy and Dog Basics (looking for a cover-dog, for an upcoming magazine).  Lev didn’t strike her best pose, but Sage stuck out his little pink tongue for the camera. The competition was hot!

At the end of Saturday afternoon, as day one of the festival was closing, there was a black-tie event happening on the other side of the street.  Canada’s Walk of Fame was right there, alongside, and their annual awards ceremony was taking place, filmed by CTV!

It’s been quite a while since I’ve been able to take any time to play tennis.  Finally, for this summer, I joined a local city club, Sir Winston Churchill.  I found it offers very reasonable rates for membership and lessons—no fancy club house or exorbitant initiation fee for imagined access to the "right people" and "fine dining."  Also, more important, old gear isn’t a problem.  Nobody notices, or so I thought. Then, right away, the tennis pro teacher did. In his early 20s, he was drawn to my shoes:  "Wow!" he said.  "They’re so cool!"  "What do you mean?" I asked.  "Well they’re really ‘retro,’ and I’ve never seen anything like them…"  I was astonished—made to feel very old (I’d had them for about 15 years). 

Looking down, I wondered what made my Prince tennis shoes appear so yesteryear, and couldn’t figure it out.  Maybe you’ll take a look and let me know…

Europeans love their dogs, and make them a big part of their lives, in public as well as at home.

When out for drinks (at a restaurant) dogs can come too.

Shopping for food, dogs are part of the family, no problem.

Cycling about town, some dogs have their own special trailers.

Then there are all the dog specialty shops.  There’s even one for doggy antiques in old-town Geneva!

Finally, many cities make a stroll in the park or street easier—providing clean-up bags and bins, free of charge.

 

 

 

Pictures speak louder than words where shoddy workmanship is concerned.  When you complain about a job and are told that you’re "crazy," you know things are really wrong.  "Details" do matter, and defficiencies and damages to exisiting structures in your home can’t be covered up by poorly installed trims… 

 

 

 

Most contractors can catch you out (intentionally or not) wherever and whenever they possible, especially if you pay cash, and don’t have supportive paperwork.  Then, even if you do have paperwork and have paid by credit card, any dispute you might instigate could be viewed to be about quality not delivery or completion. In other words, you are unlikely to be refunded.

 

Expectations lead to disappointments, so don’t be surprised if:

1.  The job’s not completed according to schedule:  it could take two to three times longer.

2.  Additional unforeseen expenses arise:  you could end up having to pay two or three times the amount budgeted.

3.  Certain jobs need to be redone, along with repairs to (fresh) damages made by renovators, themselves.

4.  Replacement workers and materials end up being worse than the ones being replaced and corrected—regardless of reassurances to the contrary.

Trying to recuperate payments with the assistance of others can be as much fun as having to deal with incompetent/money nabbing workmen directly. Solutions (and officials), however sensible/appropriate they seem, might be less than ideal:

1.  Better Business Bureaus:  They collect complaints and black-list companies.  However, don’t count on them following up in ways that assist specific customers with specific problems directly.  Besides, businessmen/workmen you’re complaining about usually aren’t members anyway.

2.  Small Claims Court:  Even if you do win, and devote a lot of time and energy to doing so, who’s going to collect the money you’re awarded (and how difficult will that be)?

3.  Visa, Mastercard, American Express:  Paying by credit card is advantageous, but contesting unauthorized phone orders made by merchants isn’t always favorable to the customer. Customer service protocols and card security vary from card to card.

Exercise common sense.  Even if you’re on site/at home while work is being done, you can’t catch everything that might happen, and need to take precautions:

1.  Put possessions away that you don’t want to be broken or have disappear (from anywhere in your home—not just the area worked in).

2.  Lock doors and cupboards, wherever possible, to prevent snooping, wandering, and theft.

3.  Know that your toilet(s) and sink(s) will need a good clean later.  If you have more than one washroom, make sure only one is accessible.  Also, stay on top of garbage, and don’t let it pile up. (Reasonable contractors should be taking it away with them, as well as their cigarette ends and coffee and soda containers.)

4.  Damages will be of all types, and more than expected.  Check your paint work, floors, doors, appliances, and more.  No one will tell you they’ve broken anything, unless you ask.  And, even then, they might deny that possibility or explain things couldn’t have been done any other way.

SWA (Single Woman Alertness) matters! Even strong independent women with the means to do home improvements run into difficulties, and need to be prepared:

1.  Invite a guy friend or relative to be there when confronting workmen who’ve done an unsatisfactory job.

2.  Don’t get too personal/friendly with unfamiliar workmen, who can turn "niceness" against you when complaining about shoddy workmanship later.

3.  Don’t become a coffee shop/luncheonette for your workmen, or offer waitress service.  Good workmen will still do a good job without "extras." Bad workmen will just get you upset—make you feel they’ve taken advantage of you (which they probably have).

4.  Gain technical savvy wherever you can so as not to be blinded by whatever you’re told.  And, more important, stand up to "bullying."  The police can be called in if necessary.

(The last three points apply to everyone—not just single women—though single women do seem to have greater need to be aware of them.)

"Details" might be less important later—what really matters isn’t forgotten:
 
1.  "Word of mouth" is the best recommendation (or not).  Speak up and tell everyone you know about a job done badly, and have as many other renovation experts as possible know what’s happened(ing).

2.  "This too will pass!" Enjoy whatever you can whenever you can. (When your home is disrupted, nothing else might feel right, and it’s hard to keep things in perspective.)

3.  Circumstances aren’t always perfect and you might be less than happy with the final results.  But, nothing has to be forever.

4.  Once the chaos is over, it’s amazing how quickly you can forget about the ups and downs along the way.

The old adage, "Act in haste repent at leisure" doesn’t always work where renovations are concerned. Even when the customer has taken her time and made the right choices, unscrupulous/incompetent installers destroy quality materials.  Then, instead of accepting responsibility, they disappear. Or, they make your extended time with them so uncomfortable, you let things go—unfinished.

p.s.  Home remodelling (and its pitfalls) is obviously a hot topic, as the Today Show’s feature, "Got the Post-Remodelling Blues," (Friday March 9, 2007) demonstrates.  You can find this segment on their impressive new website (made in partnership with ivillage). Search the "features videos" on the home page (for as long as this topic is current) or send an e-mail to WT@NBC.com for further information.

The colors we use in our home are truly a matter of personal taste.  Some people deliberate for weeks to find the perfect shade and tone.  Then, once it’s up, don’t like how it looks and start again.  What looks good on a small paper color swatch might not look good on your wall. After trying out a variety of colors with tester cans, I finally settled on four to suit my home and personality.  What works for me might not work for you, but you never know!

Here are my recommendations, using Benjamin Moore and Pittsburgh Paints:

• White, CC40, by Benjamin Moore:  for garage and laundry room—areas than need to look clean and fresh, not stark and dazzling.

• Natural Wicker, 1B OC-1 by Benjamin Moore:  For office, kitchen, and studio—this is a little more interesting than white, as well as neutral, non-distracting, thoughtful and tasteful.

• Stratosphere, 348-2, by Pittsburgh:  For bedroom and bathroom—this gives a restful, relaxing, and magical feel; no need for pictures on the wall.

• Belgian Waffle, 215-3, by Pittsburgh:  For living room/dining room, hallway and stairs—this looks different in every light, warm and cheerful without taking over the room and a great back-drop for all kinds of artwork and furniture; not just a catchy name.

• Oxford White, by Benjamin Moore:  For trims that will look crisp and distinctive.

(Please note:  the colored letters typed in here are not the colors of the actual paints, they just brighten up this blog!)

When trying out paint colors, please remember:

• The color on the swatch will look lighter there than on the wall.

•  The color on the wall will be effected by lighting (day/night and hourly) as well as other colors and objects in the room.

•  Colors that work in my home might not work in yours.  Finding colors that suit you and the feeling you’d like your home to have is personal (even if you get a little help from an interior designer along the way).

As you’ll learn in this dog-blog, we might not be human, but we know what humans get up to—especially those our mum has had dog-sit us, previously. Looking for the perfect dog-sitter is like looking for a super nanny:  not an easy task. Many start off well, and then…

Susan found an ad. for a sitter of ours posted on a neighborhood tree. This young woman, without a clear business track record (doggy or otherwise) was too convenient, available, and reasonably priced to be true. And what’s too good to be true usually is. Anyone, these days, seems to be able to say they’re a "dog-sitter."

Humans, frequently short on time and energy, don’t investigate properly and base their selections on superficialities. We caution them not to! There are rogues in every field, and just because you might think someone loves animals, that doesn’t preclude them. Besides, when you allow someone in your home to pick-up your pet, it’s not only canine kind that’s at risk. Half of all crimes are carried out by those we know/trust, as US government reports confirm.
    
Also, take the time to read the small print of any care-giving agreements carefully, and understand the context of the terms "bonded and insured."  Otherwise, you might not have a paw to stand on if anything happens to your precious pooch—or home.  

Toronto Dog Daycare Recommendation: Central Bark

The grass is always greener.
I really miss some of Boston’s many unique places, entertainments, organizations, and activities. These include:

• A Good Yarn knitting store
• AMC Fenway movie theaters
• Apple Store at the Galleria Mall, Cambridgeside
• Art New England magazine
• Atlantic Fish Company restaurant
• Bed Bath and Beyond, Landmark Center
• Bertram Inn, Brookline
• Bloomingdales, Chestnut Hill Mall
• Boston Center for Adult Education
• Boston Center for the Arts
• Boston Duck Tours
• Boston Marathon
• Boston Public Gardens and Common
• Boston Public Library
• Brigham and Womens Hospital 
• Brookline (town)
• Brookline Booksmiths
• Brookline Grooming pet store
• Cambridge Art Association
• Cambridge Center for Adult Education
• Charles Hotel, Cambridge
• Charles River
• Coolidge Corner, Brookline
• Coolidge Theater, Brookline
• Copley Place mall
• Copley Square
• DeCordova Museum and Sculpture Park
• Dick Blick art supplies
• Fairmont Hotel, Copley Plaza
• Fenway Park
• Finagle a Bagel
• Finale dessert company
• Gardner Museum
• Grub Street, writers’ group
• Harvard Club
• Harvard Medical School Continuing Education Programs
• Harvard Square
• Harvard University Art Museums
• James Mitchell’s Boston Convivium Parties (singles-friendly events)
• Jae’s Asian restaurants
• Jasmine Sola’s fashion boutiques
• Kao Sahn Thai restaurant
• Knitsmiths’ Sunday afternoon group, Brookline Booksmiths
• Legal Seafoods fish restaurants
• Matt Murphy’s pub with fish and chips
• Mint Julep fashion boutique
• Museum of Science
• Newton Center
• Paper Source’s paper boutiques and workshops
• Museum of Fine Arts
• National Writers’ Union, Boston Chapter
• New England Aquarium
• Newton Wellsley Hospital
• Newbury Street (downtown finer shopping and dining)
• Park Plaza Hotel
• Peet’s Coffee and Tea, Brookline
• Pho Lemon Grass Vietnamese restaurant
• Prudential Center mall
• Provincetown Ferry
• REI, Landmark Center, outdoor wear and fitness supplies
• Ritz-Carlton Hotel
• Royal Sonesta Hotel
• South End Galleries
• Stephanie’s American restaurant
• The Art Connection for artist donors, charities, and volunteers
• The Boston Globe newspaper
• The Improper Bostonian magazine
• The Studio fashion boutique
• Trader Joe’s grocery store, Coolidge Corner
• The Vilna Shul cultural/heritage center
• Walgreens, Brookline

(Please note:  Boston’s landmark Ritz-Carlton has been sold, becoming the Taj Boston, January 11, 2007.)
 
The grass isn’t always greener.
There are also some things I don’t miss about Boston.  These include:

• big dig tunnels
• broken traffic meters
• Comcast’s service interruptions
• construction problems
• feeling unsafe and heavy/obvious police presence
• getting lost, due to one-way streets, incorrect signage, and construction
• heavy traffic and bad drivers
• having to buy in bulk for better value
• junk food
• line-ups
• parking lot fees
• power outages (Nstar)
• rats and mice (and traps), visible day and night in all types of neighborhood
• sirens, noise, and dirt
• stormy weather:  rain and damp
• telephone repair delays (Verizon)
• the T’s inefficiency, cramming in of passengers, and filth

There’s only one thing worse than marrieds who don’t understand singles, it’s businesses intent on taking advantage of singles’ vulnerabilities and wallets.  An increasing number of ex Match.com members are getting fed up with constant unsolicited e-mails that suggest "someone wants to meet" them. In order to see if this is true or not (and it usually isn’t), they have to sign back onto the site, giving credit card information.  Regardless of how many customer service calls or complaint e-mails made, nothing changes. In fact, a marked increase in Match.com spam-mail has been noticed since Dr. Phil’s been on board.  Interesting coincidence!