DocSusan's Blog

ART Fills My HEART! O’Keefe, Kandinsky, Turner, Kapoor, Beatles to Bowie, The Age of the Marvellous, and Frieze—All In Less Than a Week

Administrator — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 06:36:24 +0000

Mid-October, amid busy and brief trips to New York and London, respectively, I had the incredible opportunity to attend special art exhibits:

• Vasily Kandinsky, the Guggenheim

A great museum to visit, for Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture as well as the artwork on display. Kandinsky’s images, en masse, help set it off to best advantage—and not surprisingly so. Being a significant part of the the permanent collection, they actually helped inspire the building’s design.

October 21st (soon after my visit) marked the Guggenheim’s 50th anniversary!

• Georgia O’Keefe, The Whitney

O’Keefe’s abstractions are less well known than her paintings of flowers and landscapes. That said, the 130 plus paintings, drawings, watercolors, and sculptures, on exhibit here, herald O’Keefe as one of America’s first and boldest abstract artists.

I went from the O’Keefe to the Kandinsky, the Whitney and Guggenheim not being far from each other. What a double-header, and great day!

• JMW Turner and The Masters, the Tate Britain

Some of Turner’s most dramatic paintings are juxtaposed with masterpieces created by artists whom he revered and was obsessed with becoming “just as good as”: Canaletto, Rubens, Rembrandt, and Titian.

Over-crowded and somewhat predictable, this exhibit didn’t excite me as much as Kandinsky or O’Keefe had.

• Anish Kapoor, The Royal Academy

Kapoor was the winner of the 1991 Turner Prize, and this exhibit overviews his sculpture to date.

From the gasps and sighs made by others passing through at the same time, I realized I wasn’t alone in not loving most of what I saw! It felt almost sacriligious to see the fine walls, ceilings, and floors of five of the Royal Academy’s galleries smeared with crimson wax and stain…

In another section of the Academy, only a few of us seemed to chance upon the John Madejski Fine Rooms and the Council and Reynolds Rooms. A real treat! Wonder what the Academy’s original esteemed artist-members might of thought of the Kapoor exhibit? Gazing at W.P. Frith’s work, “Private View at the Royal Academy (1881), I don’t think it would be hard to guess.

The most magnificent piece from Kapoor’s exhibit is outside in the courtyard, with a close-up included at the beginning of this post.

• Beatles to Bowie, The National Portrait Gallery

The sub-title of this exhibit is “the 60s exposed.” Over 150 photos, together with a variety of memorabilia show “swinging London’s” icons, while giving historical overviews of pop music and culture.

Even if you don’t recognize all the personalities displayed, there’s a sense of wow over the attention to detail and passage of time. A popular exhibit with others who’d grown up in the 60s too—last Sunday, at least! Afterwards, as bonus, there’s the National Portrait Gallery’s café: a unique setting and delicious food.

• The Age of the Marvellous, One Marylebone (former Holy Trinity Church)

This exhibit is an exquisite “experiment” in the art world. All Visual Arts (AVA ) brings two master-minds together: Joe La Placa (art world insider) and Mike Platt (multi-millionaire CEO of Blue Crest). Their alliance leads to the unique creation of a major collection of contemporary art produced in collaboration with a select stable of hand-picked artists. Ambitious shows, like The Age of the Marvellous, are scheduled to be viewed over the next five years. These will introduce AVA artwork to a wider public.

Naturally, my favorite piece was a painting: Jonathan Wateridge’s splendid depiction, The Architect’s House (2009).

• Frieze Art Fair, Regents Park

After stepping out of The Age of the Marvellous, in awe, it was hard not to adjust to some of what we saw when visiting Frieze…

Why did Gagosian Gallery’s Notebook Page by Tom Friedman have a $35,000 price tag?

Why did Kukje Gallery’s $50,000 black dog sculpture by Gimhongsok, Canine Construction (2009), in cast resin, raise my spirits? There I am, right behind it:-)

Let’s not forget that art means different things to different people at different times, often with shock appeal challenging personal taste and questions pertaining to technique and talent…

As a student in London, I lived at International Students’ House, York Terrace East. Ironically, the room that I had there then overlooks where the Frieze Art Fair is held now! This was, indeed, a sentimental journey. Though I hate to admit it, 29 years have passed since that time! As dusk fell, I noticed a single light left on in the students’ residence. Could it have been mine?!

These You Tube Videos give interesting feedback: Cher’s classic "if I Could Turn Back Time," and this stumbled upon piece, If You Could Turn Back Time posted by WingzOFaDove.

FLOWER POWER at Southport’s North West in Bloom 46th Award Ceremony. Merseyside Wins Twice! Best Big Village, Woolton, Best Small Village, Gateacre

Administrator — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 10:37:44 +0000

My visit to the UK, this week, happened to coincided with North West in Bloom Award Ceremonies. A luncheon was held at Southport’s Floral Hall Complex. Southport brings back memories of childhood day trips, so I was pleased for the opportunity to revisit the area. Although much has changed, a lot of the architecture and topography the same. As an earlier post on this blog tells, the North West of Britatin is well worth exploring: England Isn’t Just London. Travel North West For Authentic Local Experiences (June 25, 2008).

The North West in Bloom is part of the Britain in Bloom family. The intention is, as Britain in Bloom’s brochure cover states: “A cleaner and greener Britain through community action.”

p.s. My mother, Shirley, was part of the Woolton team, (front, center of image).

Earlier Posts About Merseyside (Liverpool), On This Blog, Include:

• Art Matters: Liverpool and Toronto Art Scenes, Quick Impressions (October 13, 2008)
• The Beat Goes On and Up in Liverpool—Thanks to Liverpool One (October 4, 2008)
• Memories: The Mersey Ferry, An Interesting Ride (August 18, 2008)
• KLIMT at the TATE in Liverpool (June 16, 2008)
• “Liverpool One” Wins—Helps Make A Once-Great City Great Again (June 11, 2008)
• Anniversaries, Celebrations, History, and Change: Liverpool and Beyond (September 23, 2007)
• UK: Liverpool—Travel Hot Spot (November 1, 2006)

Long-Distance Relationships (LDRs)

Administrator — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 05:37:08 +0000

Long Distance Relationships are more common than ever today, Internet dating being a norm rather than exception. But, meeting someone on-line (in town, or out of it) demands additional care and caution, while being careful not to obliterate spontaneity, romance, and excitement.

LDRs necessitate extra skills, resources (emotional and financial), and commitment. They can also push connections to new places prematurely, but unavoidably. Later, things, usually, calm down and routines form.

Additional and unfamiliar efforts can be taxing, but also fun. Thinking of the "destination," as well as the "journey," enhances purpose—"happy endings" making everything worthwhile. If you’ve not risked, you might not have tried. Lost dreams can get reinvented, and what hasn’t happened locally may elsewhere.

Both parties need to work hard in their own unique, as well as more expected, ways to help keep things afloat—have the other person trust, feel secure, excited, and adored—consistently. This helps build confidence in, as well as beyond, the relationship. Communication and equal effort are key, but without behaviors that are obsessive, compulsive, or unreasonable (or that can be perceived as such) especially if individuals don’t know each other well, initially.

It might seem like the fast-forward button has been hit. But, sometimes, that’s the only way. Better to find out sooner than later if there’s "quirks in the works." Who calls, who doesn’t, who writes, who doesn’t, all become significant in one way or another: show degree of interest/caring, potential for sacrifice, and willingness to make trade-offs, until routines fall into place.

How much is shared and how much is allowed to remain a mystery also effect outcome. Planning (short and long-range), and a willingness to do so together, is important. Looking forward to the next face-to-face encounter matters, and preparing for that, as well as time apart. Rigidity may need to yield to out-of-the-ordinary behaviors, especially since life can be short. And, of course, there’s little space for "shy."

Travel to the other’s space if you can. Get their perspective on the world, not just your own. Many people like their personal "safe places" and prefer not to explore another’s. But, it’s all part of the getting-to-know you process. Taking chances, not prejudging, and visits in both directions.

Not everyone is up for doing things "out of the box." But, those who can, may find the rewards worth it. What’s a better alternative? To sit home alone, no special other to focus on? Long-distance doesn’t last forever. Ultimately, things work out or they don’t. Somebody moves, and/or somebody doesn’t. Long distance provides opportunities that in-town ho-hum might not. It involves risk and chance and a stretching of the imagination, as well as a loss of control and certainty.

Long-distance can have advantages that at-home relationships don’t. There’s more time and ways to talk, question, and check-in. It can also record a story. Words, thoughts, and feelings get a chance to be aired and translated from afar, as well as face-to-face. Most important, the essential transition from "me-" to "we-" thinking gets activated early, if things are healthy. Reciprocity shines! Though individuals may bask in separate worlds, they also recognize the power and glow that opportunities to "give and take," with someone else, can prompt.

As Aimee Mann sings, "One is the loneliest number." But, never get into a relationship just for the sake of it… Go for gain, not pain!

THIS BLOG’S EARLIER RELATIONSHIP-RELATED POSTS INCLUDE:

• R-E-S-P-E-C-T Respect Revisited (May 7, 2009)
• Strategies to Help Minimize "UID," or Under-Identification Discomfort: Surviving Solo on Family Day in Ontairo (February 16, 2009)
• Second-Hand Stress: Breaking-Up and Making-Up, "Frienemies," and Used-to-be-Friend" Types (November 16, 2008)
• Reliability, Vulnerabllity, Fear (October 8, 2008)
• GUILT(Y) Verdict for OJ Simpson, and/or Others… (October 7, 2008)
• Mixed Messages and Contradictions (September 29, 2008)
• Relationships that Work, No Communication-Glitches: Mazal Tov to Ellen and Portia on Their August 16, 08 Wedding (August 29, 2008)
• Airport News Stands: Jennifer Aniston, "Straggler Single": Uncommon Attention, Common Problems. (Poetry about ating and Related Blog Entry Links Included) (August 22, 2008)
• PLAY NICE—Near and Far! (John Edwards too…) (August 13, 2008)
• MANIPULATION (August 9, 2008)
• Single Because, Just Single, or (Im)Perfectly Single: Unscientific Findings (April 13, 2008)
• In Anticipation of VALENTINE’S DAY, Singles Included (February 13, 2008)
• RECIPROCITY (February 8, 2008)
• CONFIDENCE (February 1, 2008)
• RELATIONSHIP “Uppers” and “Downers” (January 29, 2008)
• Dating Games and Disappointments, On- and Off-Line: Bravo’s Millionaire Matchmaker Helps Identify Obstacles to Relationship-Making (January 25, 2008)
• GIVING: Give to Give (September 5, 2007)
• SINGLES Who Don’t Want to STAY SINGLE and "SINGLES’ BUSINESSES" (July 31, 2007)
• Keep Your Word (July 25, 2007)
• ABUSE Checklists (May 26, 2007)
• TRUTH Matters (May 8, 2007)
• Make Things CLEAR—Avoid MISUNDERSTANDINGS (April 17, 2007)
• Handle with CARE—IDENTIFY, EXPOSE, and GET HELP for Those Who Can Do Harm (like at Virginia Tech) (April 17, 2007)
• A “NO” REPLY is Better than NO REPLY (April 13, 2007)
• REJECTION Protection (February 25, 2007)
• Notes on a Scandal: Single and Living Vicariously (February 7, 2007)
• Single Woman Syndrome (SWS) (January 30, 2007)
• BAD DATE indicators (January 22, 2007)
• SINGLE and Not Settling (December 29, 2006)
• TIME is Precious (December 15, 2006)
• Dating Know-How—For Serious Daters (December 4, 2006)

Back Garden Safari

Administrator — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 22:19:46 +0000

Sometimes you don’t have to go far from home to be on Safari—just look out of the window, even in mid-town Toronto.

As last winter was coming to end there was a lot of squarking outside my window. I grabbed a camera and zoomed in. A bird of prey was just about to have brunch!

Irony: Canadian Thanksgiving, but Reflecting on Initiatives for Artists in the US. Congratulations Create Boston!

Administrator — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 18:13:07 +0000

Last week, I had the privilege of being at the launch party for a new company in Boston. Artaic, housed in the Marine Industrial Park, was given a cheque for $50,000, and a lot of encouragement and applause.

Mayor Thomas Menino and John F. Palmieri , Director of the Boston Redevelopment Authority, told how Create Boston can help turn new business dreams into realities, for those engaged in the arts and technology.

Mayor Menino, stressing that his administration “cherishes creative expressions,” commented that Artaic is the kind of business they wish to have in Boston. He also announced: “If you have a (creative) business that wants to relocate, contact us.” The $50,000 is more than just a business loan: a lot of services, advantages, and connections come with it.

In this image, from right to left: Dr. Ted Acworth (Artaic), Director John F. Palmieri (Boston Redevelopment Authority), Mayor Thomas Menino (Boston).

Dr. Ted Acworth, Founder and CEO of Artaic, expressed sincere thanks to his team, and declared: “We’re here to stay, and to cover the city wall to wall with beautiful mosaics.”

The City of Boston’s commitment to supporting the “creative class,” in efforts to rebuild and/or reinvent the local economy sets a terrific example. No wonder Boston tops many a top 10 list for creative types!

Sexy Cookies. Seeds Allowed:-)

Administrator — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 09:51:10 +0000

Ingredients

• 1 and a half cups of oats
• Half a cup of oat flour
• 1 cup of flax meal
• Half a cup of quinoa flour
• 1 cup of unbleached all purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• Half a cup of maple syrup
• Half a cup of honey
• Cup of dried cherries
• Cup of sunflower seeds (or carob chips)
• Cup of pumpkin seeds (or carob chips)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

There’s quite a lot of leverage here to play around with ingredients and quantities. So long as you balance grain, sweet, and fat and can mold into cookie forms (almost flat mini balls), it’s hard to go wrong. Add the ingredients that you like and/or remove what you are not allowed to have or don’t want.

Enjoy!

• Yield: About 6 dozen
• Freeze well in snack bags
• Depending on size, 4 cookies make a good snack, or partial meal replacement for when on the road, or at work
• Easy to eat and nutritious, but fun and different
• Not to forget: Pumpkin seeds are good for healthy sexual function and fertility!

RECIPES ALREADY PUBLISHED ON THIS BLOG

MAIN COURSES
• Rice Noodle Bake, with Eggs, Cheese and Veg. Can’t Make Mistakes with This Simple Recipe (May 17, 2009)
• Allergic to Wheat? Easy-Prep Meals for One: Freeze, Heat Up, and Enjoy! Rice Pasta and Leftovers, with Cooked Avocado (May 11, 2009)
• Comfort Food, Comfort Mood: Self-Care and Cooking for One that’s Nutritious, Delicious, and Easy (December 15, 2008)

SIDE-DISHES AND STARTERS
• Getting Creative, and Healthy, with Pretty Food—Wheat-Free Too! (April 13, 2009)
• Jazzing Up Traditional Recipes: Mixed Root Vegetable Latkes with Pineapple/Pear/Raspberry Compote and Crème Fraîche (January 24, 2009)
• The Cooking Gene—No Exact Recipes, Wholesome Cuisine 1: Soups (September22, 2008)

BAKING AND MEAL REPLACEMENTS
• Chewy Maple and Honey Balls with Sunflower and Pumpkin (Not Quite Rice Krispy Squares) (September 20, 2009)
• Healthy Baking: Not-Quite-Oatmeal-Raisin-Cookies (Use Flax and Rice Flour, Cherries, and Carob) (April 5, 2009)
• 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)
• New Year’s Scones: 30 Minutes to Homemade, From Idea to Tabletop (January 3, 2009)
• The Cooking Gene—No Exact Recipes, Wholesome Cuisine 2: Cookies and Scones (September 25, 2008)

DOGGY-DELIGHTS
• Homemade Dog Food: Synchronicity, Health, Quality (November 22, 2008)

Loving and Giving, Organically and Creatively

Administrator — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 09:17:07 +0000

This fall, my nine-piece oil on canvas work, "Loving," exhibited first in Toronto (at Toronto Art Expo ), and then in Chicago (at the Artist’s Project), will have a new home and resting place. My association with Boston’s Art Connection enabled it to be discovered by Brockton Neighborhood Health Center, MA, a facility that provides high quality comprehensive health care that is linguistically, culturally, and financially accessible.

About "Loving" 9 x (18 x 18 in), oil on canvas, 2008

To be able to love and be loved is essential to human survival (and quality of life). However, many of us don’t have opportunities to find the love we long for, or don’t feel loved in the right way by the right other(s) at the right times. That acknowledged, longings still churn. What do we do with them? One option is to transfer them to canvas. The title for this nine-piece series didn’t come right away. Once I was mid-way processing and painting, I started to realize what I was creating—as well as why and how. The more I got into what I was representing, the more influenced I became by the imagery being revealed (or channeled). Each time I walked into my studio and saw it, I felt a lift (and gift). Love was out there on the canvas, transmitting full-force back: love that can be so elusive in real life. Creating "happy art," I realized, as I have done before, can keep me going in ways little else manages to, consistently and unconditionally. It helps turn up the volume (and mood) when essential. What needs immediate attention is identified and underscored in colors and brush strokes—like how important it is to take proper care of oneself, no matter whatever else preoccupies.

About My Organic Art

"Organic art" is the name I’ve given to a personal brand of abstraction. It describes a way of working, and style, that seems to have developed from a natural pension for doodling, or "doodlemania." In retrospect, my original "doodlemania" doodles may be considered somewhat one dimensional and contrived: I work on a specific piece (drawing then coloring) until it’s finished. The more evolved organic depictions (using paint, not drawing media) challenge rigidity and take me out of a comfort zone. They also offer surprises, even magical moments. I tend to develop a number of pieces simultaneously, in multiple layers and following no particular plan (limiting control and deliberateness). The artwork feels more alive, a dynamic organism leading the way.

Please see the artist’s section of the DocSusan website for more information about my artwork, as well as previous artist donor pieces (and recipients). An earlier blog entry, Summer 09, Community Giving Through Art, in the Boston Area (August 20, 09), shows this summer’s contributions.

About Upcoming Mosaic Murals

For those interested in acquiring original wall-size mosaic murals, using imagery from my artwork and photos, please look out for an announcement on or about October 8, 09. As a “feature artist” with a new design/manufacture company, fresh possibilities for my artistic creations are on the horizon:-)

Love London? London Revisted: New Attractions Excite and Delight! Thirsty for Culture? So Much More to See and Do There! An Unofficial Two-Day Guide

Administrator — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 08:03:44 +0000

As summer turns to fall—the so-called “quiet season”—there’s usually a gap period between major exhibitions. In Britain, many seem to close mid-September, new ones opening later in the month. Last week, on a two-day trip to London, I made the most of what was available, and there was still an abundance. When I lived in this city, as a student (late 70‘s - early 80‘s), many of these venues, exhibits, and activities didn’t exist (or weren’t open to the public)! Wow! Nor, did the traffic…

Here are some of the high- (and low-) lights—and recommendations—from my whistle stop tour:

DAY ONE

• Tate Modern
No feature exhibit, but great to experience the building, ambiance, and other collections. Would have liked to have taken the bridge connecting to the other side of the Thames, or the boat to the Tate Britain. Maybe next time!

• Garden Museum, Lambeth
Quaint, but not as remarkable as anticipated from write-ups. Likely, nicer to coincide a visit with their events and lectures. Pleasant surprise: vegetarian restaurant’s pineapple and banana cake is yummy! Also, from here, I made a little detour towards and along the Thames, noticing newer attractions like the London Eye Ferris Wheel.

• Churchill Museum and Cabinet War Rooms
An absolute must-see! Even for those not interested in war, the history, memorabilia and presentation are excellent. Lots to think about, marvel over, and learn from! Also, note the "green" lunch delivery service at an adjacent government building:-)

• Thames Circular Cruise
Disappointing. Supposed to be an hour, but little more than 40 minutes. And, with no commentary, it was hard to know what all the sites and details were. Would have been nice to hear some local tales and history. Too bad the driver was busy texting…and not always looking! Maybe during off-season efforts wain?

• Big Ben
Always there. Ever powerful, from every angle. Wonderfully restored and in its 150th anniversary year (1859 - 2009)!

• Trafalgar Square Exhibits
Anthony Gormely’s One and Other was unimpressive. Participants are not as high off the ground as imagined, if you walk the perimeter of the square. I arrived at a “changing of the guard.” Travel to the North of England (Mersey River’s Crosby Beach) to see a much more remarkable work by Gormley, the Another Place Figures.

The London Design Festival’s Centrepiece Chess Board was drawing a healthy crowd.

• Noel Coward Theatre, Calendar Girls
Lovely theater and easy to buy a last-minute upper balcony ticket at the door, prior to performance, then have a seat upgrade to the stalls! Poor attendance for what, to me, seemed to work better as a movie then a play. Jerry Hall being in the cast was a plus, but not enough to keep me from dozing off. Long day!

DAY TWO

• Natural History Museum and Darwin Centre
The new Darwin Centre is incredible. Next time, hope to make it into the Cocoon! Just caught the end of the Butterfly Jungle exhibit. Love the architecture and design of the original historic buildings. Just seeing and being in them is a great experience in itself. Same goes for the V and A (next paragraph, below).

• Victoria and Albert Museum, London Design Festival, Sackler Centre
A great collaboration. Two (or three) for the price of one—in fact, no price. Each were free (and easy)! Please check the heart artifact I had the opportunity to make during a London Design Festival activity, the Shape of My Heart (close up image at the start of this post can be found on the official Heart site as well). The Sackler Centre is a wonderful addition and resource—helps bring the museum (and beyond) to life! As an undergrad, I spent many hours in the V and A library. No Sackler Centre then! Also managed to catch the Telling Tales exhibit!

• Saatchi Gallery
Being a Saatchi on-line Gallery artist, I was very curious to see this new beyond cyber space venue. What an accomplishment! It’s also interesting to note the setting, close to Sloane Square: a luxe and lovely part of town! Then there’s the school playing field and track just in front of it, full of little people enjoying gym classes.

• Kensington Palace and Gardens… and The Last Debutantes
1958, the year focused on by the palace’s feature exhibit was a significant time for me. I was about to come into being, but not as a debutante:-) An interesting era with a lot of attention to detail, etiquette, couture, and culture. Precious and lacking today! Lucky with the weather. A glorious season to be outside there: the swans and geese were plump and abundant, preening in the glow of an autumn dusk.

• Hyde Park and Princess Diana Fountain
You can get lost here. But on a beautiful autumn evening, and if you’ve got the time, that’s okay… The signage isn’t evident everywhere. To find the Diana Fountain, down by the Serpentine, far from the Diana Playground, wasn’t easy (at least for me). The Fountain, itself, I thought, was disappointing—looked to me like a series of drain outlets: some flowing well, others not. No adornment and nothing remarkable. I could, of course, have been missing something?

Royal park dog poop bins were neat and official looking. Could do with similar around Toronto:-)

CITY TRANSPORTATION

Wondering how I got around? Via the Oyster travel card. Worth the investment, but please be advised to take the tube for speed, buses if you’ve got all the time in the world… The Number 10 bus (from Hyde Park to Euston) took 1 hour and 15 mins! Oxford Street is particularly slow and congested (especially at rush hour) and there are easier ways to cross it… Missed my train! Nice that Euston Station now has such an amazing selection of take-out eateries! Prête à Manger won out for me. Delicious advocado wrap!

A beautiful visit, like a beautiful butterfly (from the Natural History Exhibit): too short-lived but very memorable.

Earlier posts about London on this blog include:

• LONDON Landmarks Change (March 2, 2008)
• Green LONDON: from Pink Cabs to Green Attitude (February 27, 2008)
• Taxi, Taxi! LONDON’S Colorful Cabbies (February 25, 2008)
• Sentimental and Historical London—A Quick Guide (October 7, 2007)

Chewy Maple and Honey Rice Balls with Sunflower and Pumpkin (Not Quite Rice Krispy Squares)

Administrator — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 08:47:27 +0000

A sweet New Year, and year-round, treat!

Ingredients

• 2 X 170 gram bags of rice puffs
• Half cup of honey
• Half cup of maple syrup
• 2 and a half sticks of butter, melted
• 3 packs of vegetarian gelatin, added to melted butter (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• 4 tablespoons of sunflower seed butter
• 4 tablespoons of pumpkin seed butter
• 8 - 12 dates, cut up in small pieces (optional)

Instructions

• Mix ingredients thoroughly.
• Dampen hands with warm water to help form mixture into balls.
• Bake spaced out on cookie sheets for 12 minutes at 375 degrees, in preheated oven

Enjoy!

• Yield: About 6 dozen

RECIPES ALREADY PUBLISHED ON THIS BLOG

BAKING AND MEAL REPLACEMENTS
• Healthy Baking: Not-Quite-Oatmeal-Raisin-Cookies (Use Flax and Rice Flour, Cherries, and Carob) (April 5, 2009)
• 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)
• New Year’s Scones: 30 Minutes to Homemade, From Idea to Tabletop (January 3, 2009)
• The Cooking Gene—No Exact Recipes, Wholesome Cuisine 2: Cookies and Scones (September 25, 2008)

DOGGY-DELIGHTS
• Homemade Dog Food: Synchronicity, Health, Quality (November 22, 2008)

Pet Insurance: Is It Really Worth It? PetCare Insurance Prompts Discussion (and Disappointment)

Administrator — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 11:23:03 +0000

We switched to PetCare Insurance in 2000, when seeking a provider that could cover claims in the US as well as Canada. But, is pet insurance really worth it? Do you ever get back what you pay with ceilings on illness categories? And, the older your dog, the higher the deductible, no matter his/her claim record! Then there’s the "small print" and "exemptions" and "exceptions" as well as "specials."

You need to be bold and ask in order to receive a "discount" because charges can vary. When I questioned an increase in monthly premiums (for 2008) for each of my dogs, a customer care representative responded by offering a 15% reduction for us to stay with their program. We became "eligible for discounts," it seemed, only when making a fuss, not automatically.

For Sage’s urogenital illness in February (08) the bill was $591.32, for which we received $381.39. The co-payment was $59.03 and the deductible $150!

A typical "Mastercare" (90% coverage) policy for a toy poodle (when we were enrolled) broke down like this:

Payplan fee: $1.50 monthly
Premium: $49.35 monthly (including discount)
Taxes: $3.95 monthly
Total: $54.80

Is insurance like this really worth it at the end of the day? Perhaps creating a personal bank account, strictly kept as a monthly pet security fund, to be drawn from only for veterinary emergencies, is a better option. A growing number of pet owners prefer to do this—especially those who have encountered vets who don’t show extra care and attention in filling out clients’ claim forms. Let’s not forget that these professionals will get paid anyway, no matter the source for the funds.

Fall 2008, we terminated our PetCare policies. Unfortunately, as is often the case, we felt that "might over right" was wearing us out. Regardless of whether PetCare’s practices were questionable, there seemed little effective recourse, even after approaching the ombudsman and other insurance industry overseers. An earlier blog entry, Older Dogs’ Healthwatch, points to where some of our woes began. Vets, it seems, can perform multiple investigations/suggest alternative (potential) diagnoses when not sure what’s wrong, maximizing fee, procedure, and treatment possibilities. An insurance company, it seems, can easily deny all other (unrelated) charges, just by finding one that can attach to a condition category that’s not "covered."

Even though more than a year has gone by, we still have not forgotten the pain, anguish, and loss caused by our investment in PetCare policies. Bad enough to have a sick pet. Worse to be with an insurance company that, in our experience, seemed to help add stress (and expense), not take it away.

Lev and Sage are now nearly 13 and 10 years old, respectively—hopefully with many more good times ahead. Here’s a look back at some of our already blogged about adventures (photos included):

• It’s a Dog’s Life: Editors in Chief and Studio Assistants, Lev and Sage, Took a Bit of Time Off, at the Cape, August Long Weekend (June 7, 2009)
• Yes, We Did—And We Made the News! (June 9, 2009)
• Exchanging Vows, With Poetry At Woofstock Wedding—Today. Lev and Sage Are the Happy Bride and Groom (June 7, 2009)
• Woofstock’s Weddings for Dogs—Today! (June 7, 2009)
• Wedding Announcement! A Later in Life Marriage for Older Woman, Younger Man, and It’s Dog-Friendly (May 28, 2009)
• 12 Years-Old Today—Lev Makin, Editor-in-Chief, DocSusan’s Blog. From Puppy to Pensioner! (February 5, 2009)
• Winter Fashion and Practicality for Dogs (February 7, 09)
• Paraphimosis: Little Penis, Big Swelling and Extrusion from the Prepuce—Sage’s Health Saga Continues (February 4, 2009)
• Dog-Shots by Lev and Sage Makin: Some of the Best Poses of 2008 (February 2, 2009)
• “The Sneeze”: Lev Makin (Blog Editor in Chief) Post Oral Surgery—Older Dog, Longer Recovery and Greater Concern (January 14, 2009)
• Sew Nice! Homemade as Tonic and Treasure (January 9, 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)
• One to One at Apple: Customer Satisfaction and Doggies Included (July 26, 2008)
• Older Dogs’ Health Watch (July 10, 2008)
• Favorite Dog Toy is a Duck (June 8, 2008)
• Artists Need Moral Support—and Caninekind Offers the Best (May 5, 2008)
• Artwork Approval: Animalkind like Animal Magic! (April 15, 2008)
• Every Art Studio Needs a Watch-Dog (April 10, 2008)
• Veterinary Emergencies (April 2, 2008)
• Sunbathing DOGS (March 12, 2008)
• “Happy Birthday!” Editor-in-Chief and Studio Assistant, Lev (February 5, 2008)
• Always a Puppy, Never a Dog (August 23, 2007)
• ART STUDIO Assistants and Poodle Pals (April 1, 2007)
• DOG-Sitter Caution (January 21, 2007)
• PUPPY (Baby) Pictures (December 22, 2006)
• CAPE COD in Fall/Winter (November 6, 2006)

It’s a Dog’s Life: Editors in Chief and Studio Assistants, Lev and Sage, took a Bit of Time Off at the Cape, August Long Weekend

Administrator — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 14:06:29 +0000

Two’s company, three may be a crowd (Lev and Sage with host, Archie)

Nothing like a lazy day on the deck… for weary travelers (Lev and Sage)

You never know when you’re going to meet a Maxi-Me (Sage and Archie)

The Cape is a fun place for dogs to be, especially after Labor Day!

A FOODIE by Chance, Choice, and Challenge. Healthy Recipes for Special Needs: No Matter the Reasons or Restrictions, a Pinch of Loving Care and Consideration Goes a Long Way! (In Life Too…)

Administrator — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 10:42:31 +0000

Food for Thought

Without plan or intention, I realize I might be perceived as a bit of a FOODIE. My food interests, as depicted in my artwork, are more general and junky (all-inclusive and whimsical). But, in my recipe-making, they are more specific and health conscious (nutrition-oriented and exclusive). Then, there’s the book I wrote about eating disorders (More Than Just A Meal: The Art of Eating Disorders).

As we journey through life, our interactions and foci evolve, as do our relationships, including those with food. FOOD is either central to your way of being and doing or not (for better and for worse). Seldom are there any in betweens. No matter what I’ve been doing, food interests always seem to manage to be a significant part of my life, in one way or another.

Growing up, I didn’t have any major food fads, and was lucky enough to have a mother who was (and still is) a great cook and kitchen mentor. For work, I morphed into a profession where jobs were hard to come by (art therapy) and my best opportunity happened to be on an eating disorders unit. There, I learned about food foibles and follies and how the healing power of art and wise psychotherapeutic intervention could mesh, resolve, explain, and soothe.

During the years when the bulk of my time was focused on seeing and/or studying and writing about patients, I stopped art-making. There are only so many emotions to go around, and it’s hard to do everything well, all at the same time. Something has to go. My creative energy, connected to visual-arts making, felt stumped and drained. An extended sabbatical at art school (School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston) helped reheat the oven.

Once I was painting again, it wasn’t long before I fell into attaching myself to subject matter that was familiar and (could be) fun: FOOD. Exclusion from a landscape class caused me to devise my own scenes with interesting edibles. Traditional still-life arrangements were never my forté. But, just focusing on the food itself, no backgrounds or ornamentation necessary, was exciting and motivating. I loved giving the food personality and making it appear more delicious and vibrant than in actuality. Viewers smiling at it were (and are) the best rewards, gave (and give) raison d’être. An earlier post about my Florence Biennale exhibit tells more, as does this YouTube video.

Next, on my food journey, I confronted personal health issues. Certain illnesses and conditions put us on diets that are appropriate for our health-needs, but not morale. Fortunately, a little creativity and perseverance has enabled me to work around such restrictions. My recipes, even if they appear a little odd, or don’t entice, definitely do the trick—or so I, and brave food-tester friends, have found. Others, whose food choices have been limited too may be equally able to relate and enjoy. That said, I still hope everyone, food-restricted or not, might find something to their taste. Nothing that I’ve come up with is difficult to make. And, most ingredients can be found, eventually.

Cliché as it sounds, “necessity” proves itself again as “the mother of invention.” For those with a “sweet tooth,” you’ll see that there’s plenty of baking/snack food/meal replacement treats. These are the hardest to find to buy when you’re out and about. That’s why it’s all the more important to have your own supply, when and where ever possible.

If you find my recipes hard to follow because of inconsistent formatting and instructions, I do apologize. These sharings have emerged spontaneously, jotted down during or after creation. This could lead to inaccuracy or explanations that mightn’t be entirely clear. More seasoned chefs may be able to fill in the blanks, as well as those who like to tinker. Should the need/opportunity arise to to put together a proper recipe book, I will then be able to take the time to get things absolutely right. For now, a little understanding and flexibility will be much appreciated. These recipes are just jumping off points that, hopefully, provide encouragement—let it be known that there can be ways to work around special diets and make them a tad more interesting.

Happy experimenting and taste-testing! More recipes coming soon:-)

Thought for Food

RECIPES ALREADY PUBLISHED ON THIS BLOG

BAKING AND MEAL REPLACEMENTS
• Healthy Baking: Not-Quite-Oatmeal-Raisin-Cookies (Use Flax and Rice Flour, Cherries, and Carob) (April 5, 2009)
• 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)
• 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)
• The Cooking Gene—No Exact Recipes, Wholesome Cuisine 2: Cookies and Scones (September 25, 2008)

DOGGY-DELIGHTS
• Homemade Dog Food: Synchronicity, Health, Quality (November 22, 2008)

Slow Communication and Playing Catch-Up: What If you Don’t Go On-Line for a Day, Week, or Month?

Administrator — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 11:44:56 +0000

On BBC radio last Sunday morning, I caught the end of a commentary. The gist was that social networks are transforming culture into a cacophony where everyone’s talking and no one’s listening. Hmmm…

Many of us have to be on-line every day. Or, do we really? This summer, I didn’t expect not to post on my blog for nearly two months (June - August). It just happened. Had I planned this in advance, I would have worried and weighed pros and cons. Because I didn’t I couldn’t. Did I miss not being there? Not especially. Did anyone else miss me not being there? I doubt it… Am I glad to be back to feeling the digital draw and roar/obligation. I’m not sure… I know I’m fighting it, unconsciously, if not consciously.

Time spent in the real world in real time has greater significance. However, it is too easy to be caught up with what most everyone else seems to be doing (or feeling obligated to do), even when it’s not entirely comfortable personally. Websites, blogging, Facebook, Twitter, we didn’t grow up with them. Now, my blog posts, since the spontaneous summer break, will be less abundant. Nothing wrong with that! Cliché as it might sound, less is usually more.

A Wall Street Journal Article, right on time, also from last weekend, explains what’s been swirling in my head. The article is by John Freeman and entitled, Not So Fast: Sending and receiving at breakneck speed can make life queasy; a manifesto for slow communication.

Summer 09, Community Giving Through Art, in the Boston Area

Administrator — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:27:17 +0000

My latest (Summer 2009) Art Connection donor artist gifts went to Roxbury YouthWorks (which inspires young men and women to recognize and develop their strengths), Dorchester, and Winter Valley Residences (a nonprofit elderly housing organization), Milton. Between 2006 and 2009, 28 works have been chosen by 17 different charitable organizations, located throughout the greater Boston area and beyond. For a more complete listing, please see the DocSusan website.

DocSusan Blog Is Still Here, Just Less Frequently, for Now

Administrator — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 11:58:08 +0000

We have been on a "summer break" of sorts, but still working day and night. Please see Twitter (http://twitter.com/DocSusan) for current updates when the posts here are less frequent. A completely revised/new-look DocSusan website will be appearing mid-to-late fall. Thank you for your patience, and enjoy what’s left of summer, when and how ever you can.

p.s. A hint of some of what is to come is in this blueberry image (photo taken from the small bush in my garden). Please check out Nancy O’Mallon’s new About Blueberries website to learn more about this wonder-fruit.

The Wall. Beware of Winter Blues and Winter Weather in Summer

Administrator — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 18:55:58 +0000

Having spent this past weekend in Boston, where summer doesn’t seem to have broken yet, many folks were complaining. Sometimes, mood is set by what is going on (or not) in our lives. Other times, the weather doesn’t help. We can hit a wall. Be conscious of and sensitive to others’ states. You don’t always know how someone else might really be feeling. Small kindnesses can help in big ways. (Small kindnesses include: a smile, a phone call, a coffee, an errand, being reliable, keeping a plan.)

THE WALL

No it’s not a place on Facebook
It’s real and raw

When the body and mind have had enough
When the going gets tough
When everything feels rough

When bed is the only place to be
Can’t move
Can’t think
Can’t anything

Some know that place better than others

Not a place that you go by choice
Or for attention

Not something that’s discussed or planned

If you’ve not been there
Harder to understand

Tweeting Versus Blogging: Is Less More on Twitter?

Administrator — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 11:59:37 +0000

This is an interesting process for me. Still evolving!

Since starting to tweet (about 6 weeks ago), I haven’t been making as many blog posts. While (my) blog posts take a while to compose, the tweets are (relatively) spontaneous and instantaneous.

Addressing or commenting on immediate issues seems to have been made easy: maybe one of the reasons Twitter has become so popular. Also, in the "quick-fix society" in which we live, Tweeting seems to pull ahead by attracting all types of folk—writers and bloggers or not, and the famous, as well as the not-so. Personal and technical resources needed are limited. And, of course, it’s free!

What do my Tweets of the last few days reveal?

A quick look at my Tweets from the last few days is pasted below (as a list). If you add groups of them together, mini-stories and/or messages emerge. Others are one-off comments or responses to what others may have said—simply ways to connect back or respond.

1. A caution re. vets in Toronto and options: who to see and who to avoid.
2. A caution re. small dog illnesses and symptoms, like blocked anal glands.
3. Thanks to those who have retweeted what I have had to say.
4. Thanks to those who have recommended me/what I’ve had to say.
5. Quotes and insights re. life and happenings.
6. Responses to celebrities.

Actual Tweets

• Thanks for the RT re. #Vets about 1 hour ago from web in reply to @Looking4God

• Thanks Jilly for the rec and interesting info! about 1 hour ago from web in reply to @JillyWisdom

• Not all #vets are pet-sensitive. #Toronto now has alternatives to VEC, also available 24 hours. Rec Downtown Vet Church Street for Sundays about 1 hour ago from web

• Small dogs need quick attention when something is wrong. Decline is fast. Don’t listen 2 vets you don’t trust. B safe. Go elsewhere + push about 1 hour ago from web

• Rough night with Sage post surgery. Toronto VEC vet intern had told us 2 c regular vet tomorrow. Thankfully we didn’t. Went to Downtown vet! about 1 hour ago from web

• Once may be a mistake. Twice, you’re not certain what’s happening. Three times is a pattern. Now you know with whom you’re dealing. Caution! about 10 hours ago from web

• Sandals = Most innovative product at Woofstock sold by http://doggieq.com Don’t damage dog’s toenails and protect from hot sidewalks $15 about 11 hours ago from web

• @melissagrelo VEC (Vet Emergency) needs to b better represented+more dog friendly if they plan to be there. Interesting stories to tell! about 11 hours ago from web in reply to melissagrelo

• The more expensive the brand the smaller the number sizes on the labels:-) about 11 hours ago from web in reply to @SherriEShepherd

• Blue skies and a sunny day in Toronto—and it’s the weekend. Finally a hint of summer in the air! Seize the moment and enjoy:-) 7:20 AM Jun 13th from web

• Hard work doesn’t always bring rewards externally, but feeling good inside is worth a whole lot more—knowing that your tried and never lied 7:16 AM Jun 13th from web

• Growing ego may lead 2 shrinking heart. The quicker the fix, the greater the expectation—and disappointment:-) 7:08 AM Jun 13th from web in reply to @JillyWisdom

• And the more you put yourself out there, the more you have to be prepared for what might come back at you:-) 7:04 AM Jun 13th from web in reply to @JillyWisdom

• #Canada, shame on you for selling #asbestos to #developing countries, like #India. Thx #CBC for drawing attention to this today on the news 6:59 AM Jun 13th from web

• @hashsocial Thanks for sharing:-) 6:49 AM Jun 13th from web in reply to @hashsocial

• @DocSarah Thanks for sharing:-) 6:48 AM Jun 13th from web in reply to @DocSarah

• #quote: Those who don’t have the courage to reply say more about themselves and their own inadequacies than they do about you and yours:-) 6:47 AM Jun 13th from web

• @aplusk Reading what others have to say is more important than saying what doesn’t need to be said:-) 4:42 AM Jun 13th from web in reply to @aplusk

• #Facebook name: Susan.R.Makin 4:37 AM Jun 13th from web

• @DocSarah and acceptance that no matter how hard you try, others may pull ahead, without trying 4:35 AM Jun 13th from web in reply to @DocSarah

The image at the top of this post is my current Twitter Wallpaper, one of my paintings, 18 x 18 in, oil on canvas.

Yes, We Did—And We Made the News!

Administrator — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 17:30:28 +0000

It’s never too late to get married! Lev and Sage, art studio assistants and editors-in-chief of the DocSusan sites, helped set an example, Sunday June 7, 2009. They participated in a special high-tea happening at the Méridien King Edward Hotel to herald Woofstock, while helping raise funds for canine cancer research, via the Ontario Veterinary College’s Pet Trust. In the evening, following the cermeony, the happy couple’s TV news interviews appeared on City and Global. Also, additional video footage and photos, of them and the event, were posted by the Toronto Sun, the Torontoist, and the Globe and Mail.

Once the party was over, mother of both bride and groom (DocSusan), and bride (Lev) and groom (Sage) took a moment to relax. This photo, from a friend’s iphone, was the most relaxed of the day!

For more about Lev and Sage, and their wedding details, please check out earlier blog posts. These include:

• Exchanging Vows, With Poetry At Woofstock Wedding—Today. Lev and Sage Are the Happy Bride and Groom (June 7, 2009)
• Woofstock’s Weddings for Dogs—Today! (June 7, 2009)
• Wedding Announcement! A Later in Life Marriage for Older Woman, Younger Man, and It’s Dog-Friendly (May 28, 2009)
• 12 Years-Old Today—Lev Makin, Editor-in-Chief, DocSusan’s Blog. From Puppy to Pensioner! (February 5, 2009)
• Winter Fashion and Practicality for Dogs (February 7, 09)
• Paraphimosis: Little Penis, Big Swelling and Extrusion from the Prepuce—Sage’s Health Saga Continues (February 4, 2009)
• Dog-Shots by Lev and Sage Makin: Some of the Best Poses of 2008 (February 2, 2009)
• “The Sneeze”: Lev Makin (Blog Editor in Chief) Post Oral Surgery—Older Dog, Longer Recovery and Greater Concern (January 14, 2009)
• Sew Nice! Homemade as Tonic and Treasure (January 9, 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)
• One to One at Apple: Customer Satisfaction and Doggies Included (July 26, 2008)
• Older Dogs’ Health Watch (July 10, 2008)
• Favorite Dog Toy is a Duck (June 8, 2008)
• Artists Need Moral Support—and Caninekind Offers the Best (May 5, 2008)
• Artwork Approval: Animalkind like Animal Magic! (April 15, 2008)
• Every Art Studio Needs a Watch-Dog (April 10, 2008)
• Veterinary Emergencies (April 2, 2008)
• Sunbathing DOGS (March 12, 2008)
• “Happy Birthday!” Editor-in-Chief and Studio Assistant, Lev (February 5, 2008)
• Always a Puppy, Never a Dog (August 23, 2007)
• ART STUDIO Assistants and Poodle Pals (April 1, 2007)
• DOG-Sitter Caution (January 21, 2007)
• PUPPY (Baby) Pictures (December 22, 2006)
• CAPE COD in Fall/Winter (November 6, 2006)

Exchanging Vows, With Poetry At Woofstock Wedding—Today. Lev and Sage Are the Happy Bride and Groom

Administrator — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 13:03:57 +0000

LEV to SAGE

Dearest Sage,

Fell for you at first sight
Though we did start with a little fight

Very soon the boss you knew I’d be
Ever since, complete harmony

Younger man, older woman

You let me win, think I’m cool
Toy boys rule!

All those emotions of mine you let ride
Always by my side

A shadow and a live spark
Great for a snuggle or run in the park

A flirt and attention seeker
But, no humans around, my best company-keeper

Even if there’s a difference in attitude and age
Who cares at this stage

You’re still my dog-love, I cherish you Sage!

SAGE to LEV

Dearest Lev,

I’m a tiny man
But, never without a plan

You’re a woman with special ways
Not for everyone, just perfect for me

To keep you happy
My ideas are very snappy

Your bark is worse than your bite
Even when we fight

Humans like me, dogs too
I make up for what you cannot do

Personable and bold, seldom shy
I’m your kind of a guy

As we age, more shared adventures we know
Through most things, together we comfort each other, and grow

The vet’s or the groomer’s, we’re side by side
No secrets to hide

Lev, you’re a spectacular bride!

For more about Lev and Sage, please check out earlier blog posts. These include:

• Wedding Announcement! A Later in Life Marriage for Older Woman, Younger Man, and It’s Dog-Friendly (May 28, 2009)
• 12 Years-Old Today—Lev Makin, Editor-in-Chief, DocSusan’s Blog. From Puppy to Pensioner! (February 5, 2009)
• Winter Fashion and Practicality for Dogs (February 7, 09)
• Paraphimosis: Little Penis, Big Swelling and Extrusion from the Prepuce—Sage’s Health Saga Continues (February 4, 2009)
• Dog-Shots by Lev and Sage Makin: Some of the Best Poses of 2008 (February 2, 2009)
• “The Sneeze”: Lev Makin (Blog Editor in Chief) Post Oral Surgery—Older Dog, Longer Recovery and Greater Concern (January 14, 2009)
• Sew Nice! Homemade as Tonic and Treasure (January 9, 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)
• One to One at Apple: Customer Satisfaction and Doggies Included (July 26, 2008)
• Older Dogs’ Health Watch (July 10, 2008)
• Favorite Dog Toy is a Duck (June 8, 2008)
• Artists Need Moral Support—and Caninekind Offers the Best (May 5, 2008)
• Artwork Approval: Animalkind like Animal Magic! (April 15, 2008)
• Every Art Studio Needs a Watch-Dog (April 10, 2008)
• Veterinary Emergencies (April 2, 2008)
• Sunbathing DOGS (March 12, 2008)
• “Happy Birthday!” Editor-in-Chief and Studio Assistant, Lev (February 5, 2008)
• Always a Puppy, Never a Dog (August 23, 2007)
• ART STUDIO Assistants and Poodle Pals (April 1, 2007)
• DOG-Sitter Caution (January 21, 2007)
• PUPPY (Baby) Pictures (December 22, 2006)
• CAPE COD in Fall/Winter (November 6, 2006)

Woofstock’s Weddings for Dogs—Today!

Administrator — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 12:42:49 +0000

Lev’s and Sage’s big day is finally here. Yes, they are getting married after 9.5 years of cohabitation! And, here they are—the happy couple at their "dress rehearsal" on a sunnier day earlier this week. Of course, it’s raining today—but they’ll have a great time anyway.

For more about Lev and Sage, please check out earlier blog posts. These include:

Wedding Announcement! A Later in Life Marriage for Older Woman, Younger Man, and It’s Dog-Friendly

Administrator — Thu, 28 May 2009 15:18:42 +0000

It’s never too late to get married! Lev and Sage, studio assistants and editors-in-chief of the DocSusan sites, are setting an example! Younger man (9.5 years), older woman (12.5 years), and he lets her win every time:-) Please celebrate this good news with us, as a prelude to Woofstock, and to help raise funds for canine cancer research (via the Ontario Veterinary College’s Pet Trust). Your background cheers will help them win the "best costume" award! Skinny Sage has just had his ensemble refitted, and Lev will be beautiful in ivory. Since they’ve been living together for a while, already, Lev decided against white, and that’s all we can tell you for now. Just know they’ll look doglightful under their pet-friendly Chuppah, and we’re hoping for a few other surprises… The cameras will be rolling for those who can’t attend—lots of pictures and mementos to share with you, at Woofstock, as well as on-line, later. Ceremony (with canine High Tea) at Le Méridien King Edward Hotel, Sunday June 7, 2009.

Rice Noodle Bake, with Eggs, Cheese and Veg. Can’t Make Mistakes with This Simple Recipe

Administrator — Sun, 17 May 2009 12:06:40 +0000

6 eggs
500grms of rice noodles
500grms of cottage cheese
1 large 225grms (or more) container of marinated and roasted artichokes
4 tomatoes, sliced
Bunch of green onions
225gtms of cheddar or mozarella (goat versions of these cheeses work well too)
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook and drain the noodles. Let cool. Mix together with all other ingredients, except for 125grms of the hard (grated) cheese, which can be sprinkled over the top before putting into the oven. Bake in a large (family size) greased glass/Pyrex dish for one hour at 350 degrees fahrenheit, till set and lightly browned.

Freezes and portions well—for single-serving amounts too. Easy preparation. Reheats without tasting like it’s been reheated.

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

• Allergic to Wheat? Easy-Prep Meals for One: Freeze, Heat Up, and Enjoy! Rice Pasta and Leftovers, with Cooked Avocado (May 11, 2009)
• Getting Creative, and Healthy, with Pretty Food—Wheat-Free Too! (April 13, 2009)
• Healthy Baking: Not-Quite-Oatmeal-Raisin-Cookies (Use Flax and Rice Flour, Cherries, and Carob) (April 5, 2009)
• 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)

Allergic to Wheat? Easy-Prep Meals for One : Freeze, Heat Up, and Enjoy! Rice Pasta and Leftovers, with Cooked Avocado

Administrator — Mon, 11 May 2009 12:42:41 +0000

Pasta dishes are easy to freeze then heat up in the microwave. They also make good use of leftovers.

I love rice pasta, which is a nice alternative for those on wheat-free diets. Also, those who can eat regular (wheat) pasta usually can’t tell the difference, if they’re not informed in advance. Tinkyada is an easy-to-cook brand, with a variety of shapes (like penne) and it doesn’t seem to go mushy.

After entertaining over the Christmas break, I was left with some interesting almost-near-expiry uncooked fresh ingredients. These helped make a delicious sauce.

Sauce ingredients

• Basic pesto basil sauce (one container, store bought, and kept in freezer for back-up)
• 4 medium size sweet potatoes
• 1 avocado (yes you can cook it)
• A clump of fresh basil leaves
• 4 oz of goat’s cheese or chèvre
• 1 bunch of celery hearts
• A third of a bag of baby carrots
• 1 container of baby tomatoes (in a variety of colors and shapes)

Preparation

• Microwave the sweet potatoes and allow to cool, then cut up into bite size pieces (to be added once the other ingredients have been cooked).

• Microwave the celery, cut up into bite size pieces, with the carrots (not cut up), then add the basil and defrosted pesto sauce

• Next, add the avocado (cut up) and baby tomatoes (not cut up). (These will soften and cook from the heat of the other ingredients.

• Finally, add the goats cheese, sprinkling it over top.

When the pasta is cooked (in about 12 minutes), drain and add it to the sauce ingredients. Stir all together gently, so as not to squish softened vegetables, then microwave for 30 seconds.

If you live alone, you can get six healthy portions out of a batch like this (frozen individually). Nicer than store bought fast food refrigerator take-outs.

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

• Getting Creative, and Healthy, with Pretty Food—Wheat-Free Too! (April 13, 2009)
• Healthy Baking: Not-Quite-Oatmeal-Raisin-Cookies (Use Flax and Rice Flour, Cherries, and Carob) (April 5, 2009)
• 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)

R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Respect Revisited

Administrator — Thu, 07 May 2009 11:18:56 +0000

RESPECT is one of the "Three Rs": Respect, Reciprocity, Replies. For more details about the two others, please see earlier blog posts (listed below) that have been highlighted in bold.

Back to basics: showing respect for others

1. Arrive on time.
2. Listen with interest and focus.
3. Follow up on and stick to what’s been planned or discussed.
4. Give a “please,” “thank you,” “sorry,” without prompt.
5. Show that we all matter equally, regardless of position.
6. Put yourself in the other’s shoes: value and acknowledge their effort.
7. Be prepared in advance, and present on the spot: don’t waste anyone else’s time or energy.
8. Offer compensation or alternatives when/if things go wrong.
9. Don’t let your cell phone interrupt or take over.
10. Check self-importance at the door.

It’s surprising when (and where) there’s a need to point out “basics.” Sadly, those in positions of the greatest authority may show the least consideration. Expectations of them can lead to disappointments, and disappointments may be justified. The only “higher-ups” that deserve RESPECT are the ones who are able to give it. In a world, and an economy, where anything can happen, being able to get back to basics helps us know (not just feel) what might be right and/or wrong.

How do you confirm you’ve not been respected?

1. If 5 or more items on the ten-point list (above) appear to have been ignored, intentionally or not.
2. If you have a stress response later, like IFS (Instant Fatigue Syndrome)

IFS (Instant Fatigue Syndrome)

Fatigue seems to come from nowhere. One minute you were fine. The next, you feel drained. Stress can do this! A feeling of powerlessness and disappointment take over, and nothing (not even the kind words of those who understand) appears able to lift your spirits or energy.

To go with the fatigue or not? Sometimes you don’t have a choice. Being able to sleep things off is a luxury and necessity. Dragging yourself around in pain (without gain) can often make things worse. Take the time out that you need to regroup, and know better for next time, that no else has the power to drain your essential energies, hopes, and inspiration. You are weren’t problem! They were… Let this be an isolated experience and learning opportunity…

Too polite, or awkward, to let it be known how you feel?

You are not alone! Most of us would have a similar reaction. If we were to speak up, we might not be heard anyway. So, what would be the point? No one likes to be criticized, and complaints often fall on deaf ears. No wonder there’s so much glumness around! Fight glumness by moving on. When it’s clear that another can’t show you the respect you’re due, step back and away. But, don’t be silent about what occurred, indefinitely. Help make sure that no one else be unnecessarily upset in the same way. “Forewarned is forearmed,” or so it’s said.

Earlier respect-related Blog Posts include:

• Relationship Watch: Don’t Know What to Do? Do Something! Doing (and Thinking) Differently in 2009 (January 18, 2009)
• New Year’s Resolutions for 2009: Forgiveness Tops Many a List (December 30, 2008)
• Reflections on “The Season of Giving”: Who Cares? Doers, Takers, Nosey-Pokes, Nothingers (December 28, 2008)
• Veterans Day and SHARING (November 11, 2008)
• Secondhand Stress: Breaking-Up and Making-Up, “Frienemies,” and “Used-to-be-Friend” Types (November 16, 2008)
• MANIPULATION (August 9, 2008)
• No “PLEASE,” No “THANK-YOU,” No HAPPY (May 30, 2008)
• RECIPROCITY (February 8, 2008)
• CONFIDENCE (Februrary 1,2008)
• DEPRESSION ALERT! and Heath Ledger’s Unfortunate Death (January 24, 2008)
• GIVING: Give to Give (September 5, 2007)
• Keep Your Word (July 25, 2007)
• The COURAGE to Speak Up—Use POETRY (July 10, 2007)
• “A” and “B” List FRIENDS (July 8, 2007)
• COMPARISON-MAKING, ENVY, JEALOUSY (June 23, 2007)
• ABUSE Checklists (May 26, 2007)
• TRUTH Matters (May 8, 2007)
• Make Things CLEAR—Avoid MISUNDERSTANDINGS (April 17, 2007)
• A “NO” REPLY is Better than NO REPLY (April 13, 2007)
• REJECTION Protection (February 25, 2007)
• TIME is Precious (December 15, 2006)
• FRIENDS Help Friends (December 7, 2006)

Goat’s Milk Icecream: Yum!

Administrator — Sun, 03 May 2009 11:40:08 +0000

Hewitt’s Maple Walnut Goat Milk Icecream is quite a discovery! Manufactured by a family owned and run dairy in Ontario it comes in portion-size 150ml tubs (270 calories each). Please look for more information about where to find it on the Hewitt site—and enjoy!

Hospital Health Care: Observations and Cautions. Don’t Get Lost, Neglected, or Overlooked in the OHIP System

Administrator — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 11:40:30 +0000

In Canada, we are fortunate to have socialized medicine. However, anyone who has experienced OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) can tell you about possible limitations. It’s important to be aware and pro-active, as patient). Of course, this can be all the more difficult when you’re under the weather.

Considerations:

• Secretaries can make all the difference by getting you an appointment and transmitting information in ways that are timely, fair, and sensible. Their conduct may influence whether treatment and recovery are prompt (and appropriate) or not. Don’t be afraid to keep calling them to see if there are any cancellations: this is often the best way to get an appointment.

• Medical students, residents, and fellows vary: some are more competent than others. Often it’s their interviews and notes that determine how much time you’ll actually get with the doctor you’re supposed to be seeing. Beware of those who: (a.) just do and say, don’t ask (b.) claim they know, but can’t answer questions (c.) go back over information that’s not relevant, and miss what is (d.) present as more aloof (and self-important) than kind, concerned, competent, and ready to learn.

• The doctor you’re supposed to be seeing might have very little time to give, and delegate to students (first). Make sure you insist to see the doctor too (not just the student delegate).

• Have questions listed for your doctor’s appointment, and a follow-up organized before you leave. If not, you’ll be fielded by the secretary later, and treatment can get delayed. The doctor might not find out about your calls, or be able to get back to you.

• Emergency departments can help fast-track treatment and referrals, they can also miss things… If something doesn’t feel right, it usually isn’t. Don’t ignore it. Seek further examinations and treatment—at the same establishment, or elsewhere.

• Patient advocacy matters: if you can have a friend or family member with you for appointments, it can really help. When you’re sick, or upset, you don’t always take everything in that’s said, and there are questions you may forget to ask.

• Case coordination counts: Sometimes you go to a medical appointment with one condition and come out with two or three more. Family doctors are supposed to be on top of things, but that doesn’t always happen. They are usually sent reports, but it’s up to the patient to follow up and inform: something that’s not always feasible or practical, (especially when treatments are hospital-based). Sometimes you have to be "case manager," as well as patient, which can be challenging.

• Hospital resources and case management: A family doctor can become detached from a patient when all (specialist) treatments (even if out patient) are hospital-based. This is when the patient needs to be assertive and see what extra institutional/hospital assistance can be provided. Coordination and follow-up matter. Delays and misdirection can be hazardous to your health and well-being (emotional as well as physical).

Every patient is special. But, does it always feel that way, when you’re kept waiting, or there’s a human-error slip-up? Agreed, resources are limited and staff tired. However, each life, and diagnosis, matter. One or more mistakes—and lack of attention to detail, or customer service—can be life-threatening.

Wider Context: Please be aware that five million Canadians don’t have a family doctor, according to a CBC News Sunday segment (March 22, 09). There’s a doctor shortage in Ontario, something you’ll realize isn’t a secret internationally. If delayed at LaGuardia Airport (New York City), it’s hard not to miss the doctor search advertisement posted on the wall at the gate! (A photo showing this is included at the start of this post).

Spanish Lessons: The Best and Worst of The Costa Del Sol in April. About Exercise, the Disabled, Inclement Weather, James Hewitt’s Bar, Cab Drivers, For Sale Signs, Spanish Film Festival, Fun Food, and Air Europa

Administrator — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 10:22:53 +0000

We never know what’s going to strike us when traveling. Last week, in Spain, I was aware of the following (in random order, photos provided where possible):

• Spaniards like to encourage fitness. Along their many seaside promenades there’s exercise equipment that is both child and adult friendly—easy to use and fun.

• Spanish antiquities have led to the creation of interesting museum-settings, like for Picasso’s works, in Malaga. An unusual and unique collection! Just one problem, it’s not disabled-friendly. The only way in is by foot (through a pedestrian zone). For those who need to be dropped off at the door (to access a wheelchair from there) it’s complicated!

• Grey skies make for beautiful snapshots. Have a rain jacket and woolens with you, it can get a little chilly before May.

• James Hewitt (ex beau of Princess Di) has opened a "Polo Bar" where fruit juices cost 10 Euros… Having seen him in person there, I agree, he does look a tad like Prince Harry!

• Cabs are expensive enough, and a book is provided with rates that are supposed to be followed. But, you still need to pay extra attention, especially as public transportation is scarce.

• Apart from the numerous apartments and villas with For Sale Signs, a trip to Puerto Banus shows many luxury yachts are on the market too!

• Malaga’s Spanish Film Festival started April 17th and runs through April 25 (09). A red carpet there revealed the city’s bid to be European Capital of Culture in 2016.

• Churros are often described as spaghetti-like Mexican donuts. These treats can be found in old-town Marbella and are a fun breakfast treat, especially for children—with hot chocolate!

• Beware Air Europa (an Air France connector). Refreshments and reliability not included, and baggage does get lost!

“Business Opportunities” for Artists. Clever Solicitations: Flattery, Foolery, False Hope, Fees

Administrator — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 10:14:43 +0000

It’s nice for artists to think their artwork could have been noticed. But, as many learn, it’s better not to be fooled by e-solicitations. These may be to join on-line sites (seeking to sell or rep artwork), to participate in off-line shows or competitions (with hefty submission or registration fees) or to sign up with agents and representatives (who offer unusual promises or take high commissions). At the end of the day, it’s those making the requests who appear to profit most (through fee collection or resulting development opportunities for themselves).

Requests for participation or membership have gone from monthly to weekly to daily. From business managers in India to awards in Germany, to artist-specific social-networking sites, it’s astonishing how many "opportunities" can arrive in an artist’s website in-box. There’s the shows and organizations that have clever "personalized" letters, designed to make recipients feel special. There’s also the form e-mails that are cc’d from “unknown senders” to “unknown domains.” Below, you’ll find a variety of examples (in random order).

Please click on the links to try and determine which could lead to more costs (financial and emotional) than benefits (professional and income-wise):

• Who Is in Visual Art
• (Solo) Be Discovered (International Art Expo, New York)
• Art Expo, Montreal
• PooL Art Fair, Miami
• Chris Braken ("art dealer")
• Art Hamptons
• Premier Gallery
• World Art Media and Picks NY Arts Magazine
• My Artspace.com competitions
• Palm Award
• The Artist Project, Toronto
• DiscoveredArtists.com
• Gallery Gora, Montreal
• ModernPainters: The Artist’s Studio
• Balaark Overseas, New Dehli
• Amsterdam Whitney Gallery

One way to find out if something isn’t a good idea for follow-up is to do a Google search. Put the key words "scam" and "scams artists" in front of or after suspicious and/or unknown contacts or groups. Almost instantaneously, you can learn of others’ experiences (and cautions). I did this for the Amsterdam Whitney Gallery (listed above) and discovered relevant postings on a CAN page (Contemporarly Art Network). Also, when I searched Chris Braken (listed above, as well) I found a very useful page on the aristsspace.org site dedicated to listing individual scam artists’ e-mail addresses.

As for shows and organizers that you’d like to hope could (have) be(en) more reliable, still proceed with caution. As indicated elsewhere on this blog, I never did receive receipts from Toronto Art Expo, despite numerous reminder e-mails and phone calls to its organizer, Mr. Peter Maguire. The Florence Biennale (07) and the Artist’s Project (Chicago, 08) also had some financial and organizational suprises (and disappointments). Interesting to note that the 09 Artist Project (Chicago) was canceled.

Participants who have had a negative experience the first time around are unlikely to want to sign up again. The same applies to membership of fee-paying artist support organizations, like Visual Arts Ontario and CARFAC Ontario. If you feel you’ve been given inaccurate or misleading information by them, or they can’t answer fundamental questions appropriately (while still charging for services) where’s the benefit? Interestingly, CARFAC recently did a phone survey to help them better understand (ex)members’ perspectives. An outside agency called to find out what might have been discouraging… After answering honestly, I heard no more—from the outside agency, or CARFAC.

For earlier blog posts about art business and/or show concerns, as well as other (unexpected) art world disappointments, please see:

• Art Shows: Business Priorities Versus Exhibitor Satisfaction (July 23, 2008)

• 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)

• 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)

On a more positive note, a (US) organization that helps artists as well as the community at large, is The Art Connection. Artists can’t go wrong by becoming donors through them! Their initiative has now spread to New York and Washington D.C., with LA following soon! Earlier posts on this blog that mention The Art Connection include:

• Thanksgiving Thanks to The Art Connection, Boston. Effort and Possibility in Everyone’s Reach (November 27, 2008)

• Giving Back, Creatively (August 26, 2008)

• Creating a MAGIC POT: Artists and Community-Giving (May 8, 2008)

• BOSTON Recommendations—An Insider’s Guide (January 10, 2007)

Those who have donated their artwork through other organizations (myself included) may have regrets. But, with The Art Connection, that’s never the case. You always know your work is going to a good home where it will be well taken care of, your time and effort truly appreciated. "Thank yous" are not forgotten, and there’s a sense of encouragement to give more and give often. Also, The Art Connection’s annual gatherings and frequent mailings to forward links to exhibition opportunities for donor members help nurture community caring and atmosphere.

Recycling Florals (Part Three): Striving to Be Economical and Earth-Friendly in Whichever Ways We Can

Administrator — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 08:11:08 +0000

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)

Bicycles and Dogs Not Allowed, In Season or Off Season, Ontario, Canada

Administrator — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 06:21:42 +0000

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.

Getting Creative, and Healthy, with Pretty Food—Wheat-Free Too!

Administrator — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 06:44:54 +0000

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:

• Healthy Baking: Not-Quite-Oatmeal-Raisin-Cookies (Use Flax and Rice Flour, Cherries, and Carob) (April 5, 2009)
• 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)

Healthy Baking: Not-Quite-Oatmeal-Raisin-Cookies (Use Flax and Rice Flour, Cherries, and Carob)

Administrator — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:01:52 +0000

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)

Don’t Love Chocolate! What Happened to Carob? Carob Clusters Satisfy the Craving—and Help Regularity!

Administrator — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 19:13:04 +0000

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)

From Font to Font: English to Korean to Hebrew. The Author Isn’t Always the First to See the Published Book

Administrator — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 11:23:29 +0000

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).

Cupcake Kingdom: Fun and Comfort Food is In

Administrator — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 10:17:48 +0000

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…

Cheesecake for Breakfast: So-Called Healthy Foods (Like Soy) May be Hazardous to Your Health!

Administrator — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 10:49:28 +0000

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).

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

Administrator — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:11:49 +0000

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.

About the images in this post: January/February 09, Toronto was a city of icicles. Some hazarded the view. Others fell and caused damage. March being a gentler month, for now (anyway), spring fever is rising: a time to embrace fresh ideas, options, and attitudes.

For an earlier post about Toronto winter weather (and mood) challenges, please check out T oronto Snow-Clean-up in Time for 2009 (January 4, 2009).

Kidney Awareness: It’s World Kidney Day Today, March 12, 2009

Administrator — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 13:10:36 +0000

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!

“Susan Central” A New Group on Facebook, Started Today

Administrator — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 17:09:52 +0000

Today, I started my first Facebook Group, Susan Central. March 8, an auspicious day, hopefully! Not being a Facebook expert, it’s been another learning curve and adventure!

Susan Central Invitation

By chance, I seem to have been meeting a lot of interesting Susans lately, on- and off-line—nice people, and the reason I decided to start a "Susan group." Whether you are a Susan, have a Susan in your life, or want to get to know one, please consider joining "Susan Central." This group will be a fun way to see where, and to whom, a simple name might lead. Let’s embrace coincidence and serendipity and keep things positive! Many thanks for your participation.
In anticipation,
Susan
p.s Please feel free to forward this invitation to others. The more the merrier!
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=56222883703
http://profile.to/docsusan
http://www.docsusan.com/
http://docsusan.blogsome.com/

For more about Facebook, please see another recent blog post: Getting to Understand and Appreciate Facebook: in Toronto Tonight, Live and in Person, Not Cyberspace (Facebook Garage 5) February 24, 2009.

Canadian Portrait Show Success

Administrator — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 12:07:34 +0000

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)

March 5, 09, Art Events in Toronto, Invitation Reminder: Portrait Society of Canada’s Annual Juried Show, Opening Reception Tomorrow Night. Please Join Us!

Administrator — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 18:22:05 +0000

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.

All Good Things Come to Those Who Wait! From Ordinary to Exotic: Breathing New Life Into an Old Book with Korean Font and Formatting

Administrator — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 12:02:34 +0000

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).

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!

Administrator — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 17:35:37 +0000

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.

Getting Positive: Spring Clean-Up Strategies, Year Round (Especially When Spring Isn’t Yet in the Air and Winter Blues Keep Us Indoors)

Administrator — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:07:56 +0000

Before there were digital alternatives, it was easy to accumulate stacks of paper (filed or unfiled). This year’s spring clean-up, I’ve been able to be a little more ruthless than usual, but probably not ruthless enough… I know I’m not the only one!

Some Spring-Clean Strategies

1. If you haven’t looked at, or used, something in a couple of years, likely you’re not going to again. Get rid of it!
2. Save the extremely sentimental stuff, or one of everything, but more than that isn’t necessary. Less is more!
3. Out goes the negative: rejections, sad letters, photographs of unhappy memories. Looking forward, it’s preferable not to have reminders of what wasn’t or can’t be!
4. With every year that goes by, it can get easier to part with what we no longer use. Take advantage of that! Don’t hoard for the sake of it.
5. Don’t pressure yourself to do it all at once. Bit by bit, day by day, systematically, work your way from cupboard to cupboard, drawer to drawer. Don’t just tip everything out on the floor, all together. Being tidy, and working in stages means you can leave off at anytime without feeling you’re in a total mess.
6. Have background music or TV to help you along. Sometimes chatting on the phone (multi-tasking) can help too.
7. Be prepared with garbage and recycling bags that nothing lies around. Then, go to the trash as soon as possible so you don’t change your mind about what you are discarding.
8. Recycle! Likely there’ll be many folders and files that can be emptied of content, instead of thrown out with them… Then there’s all the paperclips and elastics. White sticky labels will cover what was there before. And, if it old names and labels show through, don’t worry. It’s trendy to be “green.”
9. Pets can be welcome spectators (though they might sleep on the job). Human buddies might give you a helping hand, if they can.
10. Don’t give up! Take a break, then start again in a day or two.

Cleaning up makes us feel lighter and brighter—helps remove weight and worries. Even if we make a concerted effort to clean up/throw out annually, and don’t think there could be that much to do, there always is. Celebrate what you’ve been able to do. Don’t dwell on what seems impossible!

Getting to Understand and Appreciate Facebook: in Toronto Tonight, Live and in Person, Not Cyberspace (Facebook Garage 5)

Administrator — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 01:25:07 +0000

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!

p.s. Please note: An official account (with details and links) was posted on February 26 by Refresh Partners

Overnight Weather Changes: Snowed In and Cooking Up (Against) a Storm: Probiotic Banana Cherry Oat Muffins

Administrator — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 18:30:54 +0000

Alas, Canadian winters are seldom mild for sustained periods. February is when most of us start to get really tired of living in a cold weather climate: need survival strategies.

Snow storms have me wanting to get cozy, using whatever ingredients happen to be in the kitchen to create interesting sustenance. Here’s an unusual recipe conjured up under such circumstances.

Probiotic Banana Cherry Oat Muffins
These may not be for everyone, perhaps just those who like healthier fare, or have wheat sensitivities.

• 3 cups of oat flour
• 1 cup flax meal
• 4 eggs
• 2 cups probiotic yogurt
• 2 quarter of an ounce packets of cherries
• 3 large bananas
• 4 tablespoons of baking powder
• 1.5 sticks of butter
• 2 teaspoons of salt
• 1 cup brown sugar

Preparation

Mix all ingredients together, adding the eggs last, and bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes.

Yield: 2 dozen large muffins, or a combination of mini-muffins and regular muffins. Bake the mini-muffins on a lower shelf and the larger muffins on a higher shelf, and they’ll take the same amount of time.

For a special treat, top with creamcheese icing, or glaze, made from creamcheese, icing sugar, and Amaretto. Freeze to set.

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

• 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 (September 22, 2008)

Birds Singing in Winter, Homegrown Pears in Summer

Administrator — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 23:13:09 +0000

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…

Strategies to Help Minimize “UID,” or Under-Identification Discomfort: Surviving Solo on “Family Day” in Ontario

Administrator — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 21:35:29 +0000

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:

• Beat the February Blahs: Connect and Reconnect in Positive Ways (February 14, 2009)
• In Anticipation of VALENTINE’S DAY, Singles Included (February 13, 2008)
• “MOTHER’S Day” for the Disconnected (May 16, 2007)
• Notes on a Scandal: SINGLE and Living Vicariously (February 12, 2007)

Beat the February Blahs: Connect and Reconnect in Positive Ways

Administrator — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 20:10:42 +0000

Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance, it’s about friendship too—caring, sharing and expressing thanks.

In a Today Show segment, (January 3rd 08), Shannon Ethridge, author of The Sexually Confident Wife, told how healthy relationships fuel our lives. Lesley Rotchford, Deputy Editor of Cosmopolitan told how a new year can offer the push you need to move on. The following poem highlights the importance of (good) friends…

Friends Need Friends

Friends are there
When you need them to care

Friends do
No need to ask

Friends are strangers
And strangers are friends

Those about whom we know less
May give more

Those whom we least expect
Hang in and on, don’t reject
Feelings protect

Farewell to friends who aren’t really
Farewell to friends who thought they were, nearly

Friends are there
When you need them to care

We treasure them dearly

True friends know who they are
As well as who they can be

Less is more
And more may be less

Small stuff no big deal
Loyalty real.

Take time to treasure friends old, new, and in between—and show them you do! Never too late to be (back) in touch with those (once) held dear… Facebook and other social networking sites are helping a lot of us do this!

Earlier FRIENDSHIP-related blog posts include:

• Relationship Watch: Don’t Know What to Do? Do Something! Doing (and Thinking) Differently in 2009 (January 18, 2009)
• New Year’s Resolutions for 2009: Forgiveness Tops Many a List (December 30, 2008)
• Reflections on “The Season of Giving”: Who Cares? Doers, Takers, Nosey-Pokes, Nothingers (December 28, 2008)
• Veterans Day and SHARING (November 11, 2008)
• Secondhand Stress: Breaking-Up and Making-Up, “Frienemies,” and “Used-to-be-Friend” Types (November 16, 2008)
• MANIPULATION (August 9, 2008)
• No “PLEASE,” No “THANK-YOU,” No HAPPY (May 30, 2008)
• RECIPROCITY (February 8, 2008)
• CONFIDENCE (Februrary 1,2008)
• DEPRESSION ALERT! and Heath Ledger’s Unfortunate Death (January 24, 2008)
• GIVING: Give to Give (September 5, 2007)
• Keep Your Word (July 25, 2007)
• The COURAGE to Speak Up—Use POETRY (July 10, 2007)
• “A” and “B” List FRIENDS (July 8, 2007)
• COMPARISON-MAKING, ENVY, JEALOUSY (June 23, 2007)
• ABUSE Checklists (May 26, 2007)
• TRUTH Matters (May 8, 2007)
• Make Things CLEAR—Avoid MISUNDERSTANDINGS (April 17, 2007)
• A “NO” REPLY is Better than NO REPLY (April 13, 2007)
• REJECTION Protection (February 25, 2007)
• TIME is Precious (December 15, 2006)
• FRIENDS Help Friends (December 7, 2006)

Best First Photos of “Best in Show.” Old Dogs Rule! Congratulations Stump, Winner of Westminster Kennel Club’s 133rd Show

Administrator — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 11:53:10 +0000

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 the 133 Westminster Dog Show! “Best in Show,” Uno, at his Last Press Conference, then with DocSusan

Administrator — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 15:44:33 +0000

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.

Winter Fashion (and Practicality) For Dogs

Administrator — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 12:01:47 +0000

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!

12 Years-Old Today—Lev Makin, Editor-in-Chief, DocSusan’s Blog. From Puppy to Pensioner!

Administrator — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 20:07:25 +0000

Happy Birthday Lev!

Loving
Emotional
Vital

and lots lots more…

Photos of Lev from February 4th, VEC waiting room (with Sage), just prior to getting a clean bill of health after recent oral surgery. For more about Lev’s oral surgery, please see an earlier blog post: “The Sneeze”: Lev Makin (Blog Editor in Chief) Post Oral Surgery—Older Dog, Longer Recovery and Greater Concern (January 14, 2009).

Paraphimosis: Little Penis, Big Swelling and Extrusion from the Prepuce—Sage’s Health Saga Continues

Administrator — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 12:43:12 +0000

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)

Dog-Shots by Lev and Sage Makin: Some of the Best Poses of 2008

Administrator — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 12:23:04 +0000

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 are even more of our favorite photographic memories from the year just gone by.

Bravest dog: Sage in lampshade collar, post oral surgery

Sea of fleece: Matching dog beds and outfit (by Susan), Lev modeling

Sunbathers: Lev and Sage enjoying winter sun-time, from indoors

Best travel Companions: Dogs (Lev and Sage) on the road, in car crate

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 1 (January 26, 2009), What to See and/or Do in 2009. Photos, Memories, Ideas, and Surprises from 2008. PART 2 and What to See and/or Do in 2009. Photos, Memories, Ideas, and Surprises from 2008. PART 3 (January 31, 2009).

What to See and/or Do in 2009. Photos, Memories, Ideas, and Surprises from 2008. PART 3

Administrator — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 15:08:45 +0000

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 are yet more favorite photographic memories from last year.

ONTARIO, CANADA

After Labor-Day beach-goers, Saugeen Shores

Early fall, Algonquin Park

Chainsaw Carvings, en route to Algonqin Park

In-town fishing, Gravenhurst

Not-Quite-Picadillly Circus: Dundas Square, Toronto

Pollution in paradise: steamboat, Muskoka

Striking juxtaposition: satellite dish and barn/house, Southampton

Typical Northern Ontario lakescape: Killarney

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 1 (January 26, 2009) and What to See and/or Do in 2009. Photos, Memories, Ideas, and Surprises from 2008. PART 2.

What to See and/or Do in 2009. Photos, Memories, Ideas, and Surprises from 2008. PART 2

Administrator — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 11:56:09 +0000

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 are some more favorite photographic memories from last year.

NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND

Fish-like kites, Ocean Drive

Man-made coastal walk: The Cliff Walk

Quaint architecture: Castle Hill Inn

Beautiful blue: Hydrangeas

Evening sail with golden glow

NEW YORK, NEW YORK

Clever Pigeons, Central Park

Joan Miro self-portrait (MOMA)

Memorial: To John Lennon, in Strawberry Fields, Central Park

Today Show Set after-hours

What to See and/or Do in 2009. Photos, Memories, Ideas, and Surprises from 2008. PART 1

Administrator — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 10:06:51 +0000

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).

Jazzing Up Traditional Recipes: Mixed Root Vegetable Latkes with Pineapple/Pear/Raspberry Compote and Crème Fraîche

Administrator — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 12:00:00 +0000

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.

LATKES

Ingredients

• 3 bags of Cookstown’s Mixed Root Vegetables, peeled and grated (or shredded)
• 6 large white onions, peeled and shredded
• 6 eggs
• 3 level teaspoons of salt
• 3 dashes of of white pepper
• 12 level tablespoons of flax meal
• 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder
• Extra virgin oil for frying (1.5 bottles, approx)

Method

A food processor is helpful for preparing this recipe—and will save time and energy.

• Cut the root vegetables and onions to fit through the feeder tube of the processor, then grate through the grating disc.
• Turn the grated ingredients into a metal sieve and press down firmly with a spoon to remove as much moisture as possible. Then leave to drain further while seeing to other ingredients.
• Mix the flax meal, baking powder, and seasonings in a bowl, then add the eggs (which should be beaten), gradually stirring them to form a batter.
• Add the drained potato and onions and mix thoroughly.
• Form the final mixture into tablespoon-size patties.
• Fry in half inch deep hot oil until the underside is brown then turn over and cook the other side. (Please be careful, and have a fan going, or vent open, on the oven, if possible).
• Drain on several layers of kitchen paper, before serving.
• If freezing, make sure everything is completely cooled down.

COMPOTE

Ingredients

• 1 whole pineapple (minus the center and the skin)
• 1 small container of raspberries
• 2 - 3 pears

Method

• Yes, you can cook pineapple, and it’s delicious that way!
Stew the pineapple, then pear, and mush up when soft.
• Finally, stir in the raspberries. (These don’t need to be cooked. They’ll break up and look more like mush than polka dots!)
• Compote freezes nicely too!

NOTES

Caution: Make in bulk, because you will stink out the kitchen for a few days (with the after-smell of frying). Might as well make it worthwhile! (Yield: 5 - 8 dozen.)

These latkes freeze nicely, and can be heated up in the oven, till crisp. Serve with a dollop of chilled or room temperature compote and a blob of crème fraiche. ENJOY!

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

• 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 (September 22, 2008)

An Artistic Lull—The Last Painting. Real Life: No Quick-Fixes, Worth the Wait! The “Three Rs” (Rethink, Relax, Reboot)

Administrator — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 11:15:08 +0000

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:

Be Prepared—Big Day Finally Here! Sources for Live and Almost-Live Coverage of Barak Obama Inauguration: New Media and Old, a Personal Potpourri of Links

Administrator — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 07:39:12 +0000

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!

Sitting on Memories: Simple and Significant Tributes to and Reminders of Those Who Have Been

Administrator — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 08:06:12 +0000

There’s a beautiful walled garden, in Reynolds Park, Woolton (a Liverpool suburb). Yesterday, perhaps because there weren’t any flowers in bloom, we were struck by the number of benches there. Benches given in memory of those who’d enjoyed the garden previously. Soon, it seemed, there might not be room left for any more. Sad, satisfying, sweet, and significant…

Earlier “in memoriam” blog posts include:

• IN MEMORY of Tim Russert, and Others Less Easily Remembered (June 14, 2008)
• DEPRESSION ALERT! and Heath Ledger’s Unfortunate Death (January 24, 2008)

An interesting coincidence: BBC News Morning News has just advised it’s Blue Monday today, the gloomiest day of the year. However, the benches in Reynolds Park look anything but!

Relationship Watch: Don’t Know What to Do? Do Something! Doing (and Thinking) Differently in 2009

Administrator — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 11:08:40 +0000

The Today Show, January 2nd, discussed Relationships, and their significance for 2009. 2008 having been a difficult year for most of us, psychiatrist, Gail Saltz, in a "New Year, New You" segment, stressed how important is is to be able to focus on the positive, for oneself, and with others. Her main points (and advice) included:

1. The number one source of happiness is relationships, not material stuff.
2. When you think negative thoughts you’ll think more negative thoughts.
3. Jot down the small things that made you happy today to help shift you towards a more positive attitude.
4. The more spiritual you can be, the better you’ll cope.
5. Give to others (think outside of yourself).
6. Just changing perspective can make things easier for you.

Most human beings thrive on love, affection, and connection but are afraid to ask for it, especially if they’re alone or isolated (by chance or choice). Not matter how much someone protests that they don’t need help or consideration, they usually do. Awkwardness and pride get in the way. Real friends ignore protestations and act anyway:

TO DO

1. Don’t know what to say to those experiencing loss? You don’t have to. Call/visit anyway. Better that than to do nothing at all. "Being there" is the greatest gift and doesn’t cost.

2. Don’t know if those who are sick need help? Don’t ask, just do. When we’re weak it’s not always possible to speak. Everything’s an extra effort, and no one likes complainers. Those surrounded by loving and kind others (close relatives, or strangers) make speedier recoveries. Phone calls, food packages, rides to the hospital, and get-well cards all count. There are a variety of ways to "be there" even if you’re far away, emotionally or geographically.

3. Celebrate others year-round, not just occasion-round. Don’t overlook those who don’t reach typical milestones (births, marriages, engagements, anniversaries). Birthdays, new jobs, new homes, and "just because" acknowledgments are important too. It’s not only the attention received at extra special times that counts, it’s the attention that’s shown day-to-day. Everyone likes to feel worthwhile, no matter how little fuss they make!

4. Transition from "me-" to "we-" thinking. Self-absorption is a disease of the 21st century. Don’t fall victim to it! Most relationships seem to happen (and last) on a needs basis, but they don’t have to. Just because you’ve married/had kids and your friend hasn’t, don’t desert him. Just because you’re a girl seeking a guy, don’t be jealous/angry when a girl pal meets a guy before you do. Sticking around for someone else, and/or being happy for them, even if your circumstances aren’t as favorable are point-scorers. Walking or fading away, and silences damage once-good bonds and histories beyond repair, and the collateral damage (depression, hurt, and beyond), whether it’s recognized or not, after-the-fact, can be devastating.

TO THINK ABOUT

1. Savoir-faire matters (know-how, or knowing what to do) Health, connections, happiness, and good fortune are all gifts. Some of us have more opportunity for, and access to, them than others. Even if we are not in control of the bigger picture, we may have the ability to influence smaller happenings: help make difficult situations easier for those with whom our life intersects. Knowledge is power, and denying what you know, when you could do something to help make things easier (for someone else), is unfortunate. Good Intentions, even if they backfire, reflect well. For those who are responsible and upfront (show good intent), no games/guises equals no regrets!

2. Sad, but true, circumstances change in moments. Life can be humbling, emotionally as well as physically and materially/financially. Some can’t relate to negative circumstances. Others know little else. Cliché as it might seem, seeing the cup half-full and putting yourself in another’s shoes are important.

Earlier related blog posts include:

• New Year’s Resolutions for 2009: Forgiveness Tops Many a List (December 30, 2008)
• Reflections on “The Season of Giving”: Who Cares? Doers, Takers, Nosey-Pokes, Nothingers (December 28, 2008)
• Veterans Day and SHARING (November 11, 2008)
• Secondhand Stress: Breaking-Up and Making-Up, “Frienemies,” and “Used-to-be-Friend” Types (November 16, 2008)
• MANIPULATION (August 9, 2008)
• No “PLEASE,” No “THANK-YOU,” No HAPPY (May 30, 2008)
• RECIPROCITY (February 8, 2008)
• CONFIDENCE (Februrary 1,2008)
• DEPRESSION ALERT! and Heath Ledger’s Unfortunate Death (January 24, 2008)
• GIVING: Give to Give (September 5, 2007)
• Keep Your Word (July 25, 2007)
• The COURAGE to Speak Up—Use POETRY (July 10, 2007)
• “A” and “B” List FRIENDS (July 8, 2007)
• COMPARISON-MAKING, ENVY, JEALOUSY (June 23, 2007)
• ABUSE Checklists (May 26, 2007)
• TRUTH Matters (May 8, 2007)
• Make Things CLEAR—Avoid MISUNDERSTANDINGS (April 17, 2007)
• A “NO” REPLY is Better than NO REPLY (April 13, 2007)
• REJECTION Protection (February 25, 2007)
• TIME is Precious (December 15, 2006)
• FRIENDS Help Friends (December 7, 2006)

Out of Town, But Not Out of Touch Thanks to New York Times News Alert and MSNBC.com Live. Coverage of Hudson River Plane Crash Instantly Viewable

Administrator — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 01:46:39 +0000

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!

“The Sneeze”: Lev Makin (Blog Editor in Chief) Post Oral Surgery—Older Dog, Longer Recovery and Greater Concern

Administrator — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 13:55:17 +0000

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)

Staying Green: Fake, Recyclable, and Decorative Winter Florals, Year 2

Administrator — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 15:39:31 +0000

Last winter season, I posted a blog piece, Fake, Recyclable, and Decorative Winter Florals (March 14, 2008). This winter season, I reused the recyclable parts from that arrangement, achieving a quite different look. The new version will, likely, be 100% recyclable. The mini-Boxwood, acquired for the center, can be planted in the garden in the spring, and the Eucapyptus branches (which had been coated) will, probably be intact for next year, even if they don’t smell as potent as they do now. (Lovely aroma after a snow or rain storm!) This year’s arrangement is posted above, last year’s below.

Sew Nice! Homemade as Tonic and Treasure

Administrator — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 11:30:17 +0000

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.

Finding Beauty in Toronto

Administrator — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 11:37:03 +0000

Toronto isn’t known to be the most aesthetic of places. But occasionally, there are surprises.

Recently, a beautiful morning sky followed an all-night winter storm.

Toronto Snow Clean-Up, in Time for 2009

Administrator — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 21:25:18 +0000

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)!

New Year’s Scones: 30 Minutes to Homemade, From Idea to Tabletop

Administrator — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 10:28:53 +0000

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)

Lessons from 2008: Canine Confidence and Coincidence Cure

Administrator — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 12:49:57 +0000

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…

New Year’s Resolutions for 2009: Forgiveness Tops Many a List

Administrator — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 19:56:33 +0000

Forgiveness
A state of mind
More about you than me

Forgiveness
Nothing to do with stuff you may say I’ve done
That about which others, more savvy, might not have thought

Silences alienate
Anger bursts annihilate

Reason, too often not there
Do you really care?

You, not me

You, the one holding the grudge
You, the one whom it’s impossible to nudge

How upset you are is not what things are really about
Or your pout

Forgiveness
A state of mind
Distinguishes the difficult from the kind

Let another live, calmly, their life
Evaporate strife

Realize no one is perfect

We all make mistakes
And we all need breaks

Distance and time
Willingness and compensation
Altruism and imagination

Sometimes matters repair
Sometimes they induce heavier care

"Forgiveness," an 11-letter word
From word to action…

Reflections on “The Season of Giving”: Who Cares? Doers, Takers, Nosey-Pokes, Nothingers

Administrator — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 15:18:23 +0000

Kind gestures finally seem to matter more than material gifts, in part because of the economy, in part because there’s no substitute for healthful human connection. This holiday season, I baked cookies for friends, neighbors, and neighborhood businesses. These were genuinely appreciated. Home-made—no matter how basic, like chocolate chip cookies—shows you care, and that you’ve put precious time aside to do so, beyond the actual gift-giving act or purchase. During the planning and creation process, it just feels good to know that there can be simpler ways to make others happy. The more impersonal and alienating/lonely the world becomes, the harder we have to try…

Who cares, and who doesn’t? You might be surprised and disappointed to find out, especially at peak moments.

Peak moments are special circumstances (like holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations). Peak moments can also be times of difficulty: sickness, loss, disappointment—not health, gain, and happiness.

As we exit the "season of giving" it’s good timing to reflect on our own behavior, as well as others’. "Do unto others as we would wish to have done unto us" is a familiar cliché," one that may seem increasingly hard to have ring true. Until something happens to us, ourselves, we might not get that jolt—the jolt that is humbling. As we stumble, we want another to help catch our fall. But, there’s not always anyone there—anyone we can count on that is.

Four main personality types appear obvious: Doers, Talkers, Nosey-Pokes, and Nothingers:

• Doers do, no need to talk about it, in advance or afterwards. They surprise and delight, excuses not necessary. Doers might owe us nothing. We can owe them everything.

• Talkers talk, but seldom come through—do or give to anyone else except themselves.

• Nosey-Pokes like to know what’s happening. "Talking" and "doing" are not really their concerns. Information check-ins help keep them in the loop—provide scoop/fuel for gossip, but little more.

• Nothingers don’t do, talk, or nose. They simply aren’t interested in any way—unless it’s about them.

Friends you thought were friends might prove they’re not. Strangers fill in the blanks, and beyond. Expectations lead to disappointments. Disappointments lead to expectations. At peak moments, we’re likely to realize all of this, and more…

Good caring others may be found once we stop pursuing and/or grieving for those who aren’t.

Earlier related blog posts include:

• Veterans Day and SHARING (November 11, 2008)
• Secondhand Stress: Breaking-Up and Making-Up, “Frienemies,” and “Used-to-be-Friend” Types (November 16, 2008)
• MANIPULATION (August 9, 2008)
• RECIPROCITY (February 8, 2008)
• CONFIDENCE (Februrary 1,2008)
• GIVING: Give to Give (September 5, 2007)
• Keep Your Word (July 25, 2007)
• The COURAGE to Speak Up—Use POETRY (July 10, 2007)
• “A” and “B” List FRIENDS (July 8, 2007)
• COMPARISON-MAKING, ENVY, JEALOUSY (June 23, 2007)
• REJECTION Protection (February 25, 2007)
• FRIENDS Help Friends (December 7, 2006)

Home for the Holidays! Sick Puppy Alert: When Two Dogs are Better than One

Administrator — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 19:19:56 +0000

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)

Tips for House Guests: Dos and Don’ts When a Home’s Not a Hotel

Administrator — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 13:28:31 +0000

Thanksgiving already a memory, the Christmas holidays are almost upon us. No matter the holiday, house guests are usually involved. How they behave (or don’t) can help make or break a happy home.

Some guests are house-trained. Others are not, but can be coaxed. Here’s a checklist of some essentials:

1. Bring a gift (no matter how small, or homemade). Tokens of a appriectiation count.
2. "Thank you" matters. Call or write within a couple of days.
3. Strip/change the bed and gather up linens and towels for laundry, and/or replace with fresh ones before leaving (if not using your own).
4. Clean the bathroom that you have been using (especially if it’s one that’s been for your exclusive use).
5. Eat, drink, and enjoy without taking advantage. If you know your needs are greater/different than what the host(s) can provide, come prepared or assist with filling the fridge, as necessary.
6. Tidy up after yourself. Even if you’re messy at home, try harder not to be elsewhere.
7. Know the "rules of the house." If shoes are supposed to be taken off inside, they are supposed to be taken off inside. If lights don’t need to be on in every room, lights don’t need to be on in every room…
8. Be helpful. Better than asking what you can do to help, take initiative, and do what’s needed to help. If it’s garbage day, make sure that’s not overlooked. If the host has a headache and might need a cup of tea, make one.

If you are not invited to stay again, perhaps check the list given above to help determine why.

Other blog posts about consideration and/or social etiquette include:

• Secondhand Stress: Breaking-Up and Making-Up, “Frienemies,” and “Used-to-be-Friend” Types (November 16, 2008)
• Reliability, Vulnerability, Fear (October 8, 2008)
• Mixed Messages and Contradictions (September 29, 2008)
• PLAY NICE—Near and Far! (John Edwards too… (August 13, 2008)
• MANIPULATION (August 9, 2008)
• RECIPROCITY (February 8, 2008)
• CONFIDENCE (February 1, 2008)
• DEPRESSION ALERT! and Heath Ledger’s Unfortunate Death (January 24, 2008)
• GIVING: Give to Give (September 5, 2007)
• Keep Your Word (July 25, 2007)
• “A” and “B” List FRIENDS (July 8, 2007)
• ABUSE Checklists (May 26, 2007)
• TRUTH Matters (May 8, 2007)
• Make Things CLEAR—Avoid MISUNDERSTANDINGS (April 17, 2007)
• A “NO” REPLY is Better than NO REPLY (April 13, 2007)
• REJECTION Protection (February 25, 2007)
• TIME is Precious (December 15, 2006)

p.s. Reader feedback on this post has been interesting. One suggestion has been to add a "point number 9"—"If the host gets upset with you for any reason, react calmly and don’t engage their frustration." Let’s also wonder why a host might get upset, and if certain hosts can be too hard to please!

Comfort Food, Comfort Mood: Self-Care and Cooking for One that’s Nutritious, Delicious, and Easy

Administrator — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 02:43:21 +0000

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)

Room with A View/DocSusan Recovering from “Sick-Leave”

Administrator — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:07:53 +0000

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!

From “Traveler’s Poem” to “Anatomy of a Vacation”

Administrator — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 11:53:04 +0000

My blog entry, Traveler’s Poem: From Airport to Destination (May 18, 2008) has been quite popular in Google searches. Another travel-related poem follows:

ANATOMY OF A VACATION

Day one
Adventure just begun
Mind shifting, spirits lifting

Day two
Experience still new
Transitioning through

Day three
Rhythms change
More oriented, less strange

Days four and five
Starting to feel alive

Enjoyment finding

Day six, getting your fix
Wanting more

Savoring the moment while it lasts

Then there’s day seven
Almost homeward bound

Just started to relax and it’s time to pack
To reality, get back

Fresher you feel
Another few days would have been ideal.

Thanksgiving Thanks to The Art Connection, Boston. Effort and Possibility in Everyone’s Reach

Administrator — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 17:54:43 +0000

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.

Handling Disappointment Together, or Alone

Administrator — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 14:34:54 +0000

Some face disappointments better than others, especially when they’re not alone. Last week, Anne Curry spoke graciously about the Today Show team’s decision to discontinue their climb up Kilimanjaro. Disappointing as it was, she appeared heartened by the experience. Taking into account the well-being of everyone in the group of five had clearly been bonding, rewarding, and energizing. Out of negativity can come positivity, especially if peers help cope with, share, and determine consequences. Having to act, think, and feel by oneself (no support, discussion, or empathy) is a lot more challenging.

With respect to the Today Show’s Kilimanjaro ascent, it is not unusual that the group might not have made it to the top. Regardless of poor weather conditions, and the extra responsibilities covering a story gave, statistics show that only 50% of those who set out do finish the climb.

If facing disappointment alone, what might help?

1. Follow-up—having something else to which it’s possible to look forward
2. Being prepared in advance—knowing (available) options, possibilities, and alternatives
3. Aftercare—the ability to focus on other interests and distractions
4. Knowing the odds—realistic expectations and keeping things in perspective
5. Strangers making (helpful) approaches out-of -the-blue
6. Family and friends not adding to letdowns
7. Time—for healing, reflection, and reconnection
8. Surprises—being open to coincidences and outcomes that might help lead to fresh opportunities

Earlier blog entries about other life-challenges (and stress-reaction-generators and -protectors), include:

• Veterans Day and SHARING (November 11, 2008)
• Secondhand Stress: Breaking-Up and Making-Up, “Frienemies,” and “Used-to-be-Friend” Types (November 16, 2008)
• Solo Travel (October 22, 2008)
• Reliability, Vulnerability, Fear (October 8, 2008)
• Airport News Stands: Jennifer Aniston, “Straggler Single”: Uncommon Attention, Common Problems. (Poetry about Dating and Related Blog Entry Links Included) (August 22, 2008)
• MANIPULATION (August 9, 2008)
• No “PLEASE,” No “THANK-YOU,” No HAPPY (May 30, 2008)
• 24/7 (April 19, 2008)
• In Anticipation of VALENTINE’S DAY, Singles Included (February 13, 2008)
• RECIPROCITY (February 8, 2008)
• February FUNK (February 3, 2008)
• CONFIDENCE (Februrary 1,2008)
• Dating Games and Disappointments, On- and Off-Line: Bravo’s Millionaire Matchmaker Helps Identify Obstacles to Relationship-Making (January 25, 2008)
• DEPRESSION ALERT! and Heath Ledger’s Unfortunate Death (January 24, 2008)
• GIVING: Give to Give (September 5, 2007)
• Keep Your Word (July 25, 2007)
• The COURAGE to Speak Up—Use POETRY (July 10, 2007)
• “A” and “B” List FRIENDS (July 8, 2007)
• COMPARISON-MAKING, ENVY, JEALOUSY (June 23, 2007)
• ABUSE Checklists (May 26, 2007)
• SLEEP Issues (May 20, 2007)
• “MOTHER’S Day” for the Disconnected (May 16, 2007)
• TRUTH Matters (May 8, 2007)
• Make Things CLEAR—Avoid MISUNDERSTANDINGS (April 17, 2007)
• A “NO” REPLY is Better than NO REPLY (April 13, 2007)
• FAMILIARITY (March 12, 2007)
• REJECTION Protection (February 25, 2007)
• No-Partum Depression (NPD)—Not “Celebrity Gossip” Worthy (February 18, 2007)
• Notes on a Scandal: SINGLE and Living Vicariously (February 12, 2007)
• SINGLE Woman Syndrome (SWS) (January 30, 2007)
• Bad DATE Indicators (January 22, 2007)
• SINGLES’ Health: Eating Alone (January 14, 2007)
• SINGLE and Not Settling (December 29, 2006)
• TIME is Precious (December 15, 2006)
• FRIENDS Help Friends (December 7, 2006)
• Loss (November 19, 2006)

Earlier blog entries about the Today Show’s Kilimanjaro climb:

• Will "Today Show’s” Anne Curry Reach the Summit? No Live Camera Footage on Day Two of Reporting from Kilimanjaro, Just Inspiration and Conservation
(November 18, 2008)
• Tricks And Secrets For Making It To The Top: The Truth About Ascending Kilimanjaro By Someone Who’s Done It. “Today Show’s Anne Curry Struggling”—Dramatic Headline Tops Google Searches Yesterday (November 18, 2008)
• Anne Curry Climbs Kilimanjaro: Today Show Goes to the Ends of the Earth to Examine Life-Sustaining Sources of Water and Threats to Them. Preparing to Climb Kilimanjaro? Check DocSusan’s Blog (November 17, 2008)

Homemade Dog Food: Synchronicity, Health, Quality

Administrator — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 12:58:29 +0000

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)

Will “Today Show’s” Anne Curry Reach the Summit? No Live Camera Footage on Day Two of Reporting from Kilimanjaro, Just Inspiration and Conservation

Administrator — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:22:10 +0000

Anne Curry spoke by phone (live) from Kilimanjaro, today. Yes, breathing might be difficult, but wireless connections do work almost all the way to the top. Many guides have cell phones, and chat and text frequently, while taking breaks!

How is Anne really doing? Something viewers, and the other presenters, are clearly wondering. Her voice definitely sounds like she’s experiencing altitude sickness. Also, she must be fatigued from the climb, and the thinner air makes it difficult to speak normally. Despite this, it’s obvious her spirits are high, as she confirmed. What an accomplishment—not only to participate on the ascent, but to work as hard as she has done by bringing us such insightful, unique, and careful reporting, regardless of obstacles!*

The MSNBC crew are now at 15,700 feet, where, we’re told, they will have several days to adjust and relax. Rest, perseverance, and teamwork, will, hopefully, see them through! In my experience, the last 4,000 feet come more easily, thanks to the added benefits of Diamox, hand-warmers, adrenaline, warm clothes and water, and lots of faith. Also, very important to know, Tanzanian guides and porters are incredible!

Be assured, each climber will be assisted and/or encouraged every step of the way from here on in—and checked with a pulse oximeter, frequently! Also, please know that when I made it to the top on my own climb, I wasn’t able to take any photos or video footage. The agony—and ecstasy—were simply too great!

All the best to Anne and her team. Even if the Today Show climbers don’t make it all the way, they’ve still given us a wonderful gift. * The focus on water conservation—the real purpose of the trip—has been inspiring! Most people who climb Kilimanjaro return home with life-changing/saving ideas, that hopefully will translate into actions, big or small. I made a personal list, shared in a blog piece entitled, Lessons from Kilimanjaro (January 11, 2008).

For further information on climbing Kilimanjaro, and firsthand accounting, please check out other earlier blog entries, listed in yesterday’s (November 17, 08) blog piece: Anne Curry Climbs Kilimanjaro: “Today Show” Goes to the Ends of the Earth to Examine Life-Sustaining Sources of Water and Threats to Them.

For further details on how to become more "green," please check out NBC Universal’s Green Your Routine links.

Tricks And Secrets For Making It To The Top: The Truth About Ascending Kilimanjaro By Someone Who’s Done It. “Today Show’s Anne Curry Struggling”—Dramatic Headline Tops Google Searches Yesterday

Administrator — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 10:49:06 +0000

There are many interesting aspects to the Today Show’s Anne Curry climb up Mount Kilimanjaro, beyond the notion that she might not make it to the top. But, if Google rankings indicate popularity, David Bauder’s Associated Press article (which suggests that possibility) appears to be dominating search pages.

Readers and writers who haven’t had the privilege of ascending this great peak might not realize the daunting task this very talented and (usually) incredibly fearless journalist was given (at short notice). They also might not know that mountain sickness (like weather condition changes) can come in waves. Some days and hours are better than others. Those who have initial difficulties might do well later. Those who do well earlier might do poorly later. Luck, predictability, certainty, and confidence aren’t quite the same above the clouds as below them.

As I’ve revealed in recollections of my own climb, from last year, training doesn’t always matter as much as three other factors: Here are some personal tricks/secrets I discovered along the way, in an excerpt from from my December 2, 2007 Blog Entry: Climbing KILIMANJARO—Making it to the Top

I wasn’t the fittest person in the group, I also hadn’t done enough (almost any) training. So, how did I make it to the top (be in the 50% who do, and the only woman among peers)? I think three factors helped:

1. I had the proper clothing (and wore it)—really took time to organize packing and followed all formal instructions from guidebooks and informal instructions from travelers who’d succeeded previously.

2. I didn’t try to be clever or take chances in any way—used poles, ate and hydrated well, listened to the guides in going "pole, pole" (slowly, slowly), and took the necessary meds. Thank you Diamox (altitude sickness inhibitor)! Even though this drug made my hands and feet tingle relentlessly, it was a very good friend and support.

3. I didn’t go on the climb with the idea that I had to make it all the way. I was aware that I might not have the capacity to do so, and could forgive myself weaknesses. Competition was not what this journey was about for me. It was more of a spiritual quest about being there and experiencing whatever was meant to be—and accepting it, while still fit and young enough to get myself over there.

The lead-up days to the final ascent were a honeymoon of sorts. The final ascent was a whole different story—nothing similar—the most challenging physical endeavor I have ever faced (and no one had informed me about properly). What kept me going on the final ascent? Three gifts:

1. The camaraderie of those with whom I was climbing and our attentive guides.

2. The not knowing what was coming next and not having been prepared for the worst—being in a situation I could do nothing about and just getting on with it.

3. The not-giving up factor, once I was so close, and because there was no real reason to. How could I go down (in still bad weather conditions) if I hadn’t made it up? We’d been climbing for six days and, at the 11th hour, I couldn’t justify turning back. It was the same way down if you made it up or not, and I couldn’t find a good enough reason to turn around. Not thinking about what I was actually doing or the discomfort of continuing also helped. Automatic movements and focusing on other thoughts—and struggles—became a lot more meaningful and empowering. I acknowledged that I never really give up, no matter how awful the task is, making the climb a metaphor for so much more.

For the last hour I wept my way up, partly out of pain, partly out of emotion—maybe more out of emotion. I couldn’t turn off my tears or howls. The tears froze and the howls got absorbed by the wind. The feelings were intensely private. But, as discussed later with climbing peers, appropriately universal. These guys had had their own emotional releases too! Reaching the top, we all embraced. It was a magical moment in a glacial wonderland where we were too cold and tired to take photos or stick around.

Preparing to Climb Kilimanjaro? For more details about the Kilimanjaro climbing experience, as well as links to ealier blog entries, please see my posting from yesterday (November 17, 08): Anne Curry Climbs Kilimanjaro: “Today Show” Goes to the Ends of the Earth to Examine Life-Sustaining Sources of Water and Threats to Them.

Anne Curry Climbs Kilimanjaro: “Today Show” Goes to the Ends of the Earth to Examine Life-Sustaining Sources of Water and Threats to Them. Preparing to Climb Kilimanjaro? Check DocSusan’s Blog

Administrator — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 14:15:40 +0000

The Today Show, Monday November 17, 08: An Anniversary Gift!

A year ago, I summited Mount Kilimanjaro (the largest free-standing mountain in the world), and I remain deeply emotional about the experience. That the Today Show is able to share some of the sights, concerns, and feelings I have been privileged to know first-hand maked me excited, curious, and senimental. What will viewers responses be? How will Anne Curry and her crew make the climb with all the physical and health challenges it entails, beyond the demands of producing pre-recorded and live television segments?

Did Anne Curry and MSNBC check DocSusan’s Blog as part of their research before climbing Kilimanjaro? DocSusan’s poetry and advice about the Kilimanjaro climbing experience gets lots of hits due to its on-the-spot reflections, recollections, and reasonings.

Please check out these popular Kilimanjaro-related blog entries:

• Kilimanjaro Imax Video (April 22, 2008)
• Lessons from KILIMANJARO (January 11, 2008)
• KILIMANJARO POETRY Continued (5): Poems 8 and 9 (of 9) (December 12, 2007)
• KILIMANJARO POETRY Continued (4): Poems 6 and 7 (of 9) (December 10, 2007)
• KILIMANJARO POETRY Continued (3): Poems 4 and 5 (of 9) (December 9, 2007)
• KILIMANJARO POETRY Continued (2): Poems 2 and 3 (of 9) (December 7, 2007)
• Climbing KILIMANJARO: A Life Changing Experience and Poetic Opportunity (Kilimanjaro Poem 1 of 9) (December 4, 2007)
• Climbing KILIMANJARO—Making it to the Top (December 2, 2007)

The Associated Press’s David Bauder reported on Anne’s (actual) climbing progress (shortly after setting out) on the weekend, in his piece, "Today" show’s Ann Curry struggling up Kilimanjaro. After seeing today’s live reporting from Anne, I wondered about timing. Was this really the optimum week for a safe, sure, and healthy summiting of the mountain?

Other "ends of the earth" explored by the Today Show Team:

• Matt Lauer: The Blue Hole off the Coast of Belize

• Meredith Vieira: Sydney Harbour, Australia

• Al Roker: Iceland

Poetry about other African safari experiences is included in the following blog entries:

• AFRICA Odyssey: Poetry on Safari—3 (May 10, 2007)
• AFRICA Odyssey: Poetry on Safari—2 (April 22, 2007)
• AFRICA Odyssey: Poetry on Safari—1 (February 6, 2007)

Price-Conscious in Toronto: A One Dollar Price-Difference between Wholefoods and Loblaws

Administrator — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 09:34:46 +0000

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.