Laurentia Does 365

Day Three Hundred Sixty Five: This End is A New Beginning

2010-12-31T23:42:00.000-08:00

I guess this has been a winding down to this day rather than gathering to a crescendo. Like a watch that needs to be wound runs slower and slower, my attention nudging away.

Here it is then, New Years Eve. In terms of my original agreement with myself, I am finished with tonight’s submission. And was it worth it? I guess so. But as of today, I am relieved.

And a little disappointed.

I know I will see fruits from the seeds planted this year in the art to come, but my ego says I should have done more. Grander, more imaginative work showing more experimentation with materials and raw ideas. And better writing. Perhaps more about my life using less obtuse references. Maybe so many things could have been different. But they weren’t. This is what I did in a year of daily production, amid work and family and lots of cycling.

Which brings me back to New Years Eve, and by extension the new year.

I will not make pronouncements this year as to specific actions, save for the 5000 or more glorious miles of cycling I hope to ride this next year. I renewed my life with cycling this last year. Somehow I had forgotten what I have lived by most of my life: riding my bike alters the fabric of my existence. My body of course is spry, fit, handsome from the exercise; but better yet, my mind has time to clear, to quiet, to ponder. I remember to be happy.

So this I will say, good love is in the air, I can feel it. This is going to be a banner year for all. New ideas are brewing. The freefall of the last few years is over. The attitudes have come full circle. Innovation and independence are surging . I feel it in the energy around me. I can’t help but breathe it in. I am excited to drop the ball at midnight and begin fresh, full of expectation. Until next year, and the next urge, I am off riding into the next scene, the next project , the next fleeting bit of form that I can conjure. See you there, I love you.

Friday, December 31: Pastel, Old Art, Bikes (Thanks Mom!), a wink, a prayer and an Auld Lang Syne.

Day Three Hundred Sixty Four: This Too Shall Pass

2010-12-30T23:19:00.000-08:00

You were expecting something more?

Thursday, December 30: Sharpie on paper

Day Three Hundred Sixty Three: Apathy and Excitement

2010-12-29T23:51:00.000-08:00

Strange bedfellows.
I am glad to be coming to the end of the year and yet I will miss this.
And then, there is the next project.
What is that you say?
I have a couple days to decide how to start.
Then I will let you know.

Wednesday, December 29: Sharpie on paper

Day Three Hundred Sixty Two: Oblivion

2010-12-28T23:44:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Oblivion.
What is a black hole? Where does it begin and if it never ends, does anything else exist?
I look forward to more happiness, love, awareness, clarity, guidance, creativity, bike riding, sex and joy.
At the same time I long for solitude. I think most things on the list above can also be accomplished alone.
Perhaps not as well, And perhaps, at least where sex is concerned, technically, it is called something else if there is no one else participating with you.

Tuesday, December 28: wishes

Day Three Hundred Sixty One: Blow Off Earth

2010-12-27T23:43:00.000-08:00

I was driving today. If you have ever driven the Palouse you know how the terrain can change as the fields roll. Well, a couple of times today, vertigo hit and I felt like a mere fluff that could just blow right off the Earth and into oblivion.

Monday, December 27: Sharpie on Paper

Day Three Hundred Sixty: !

2010-12-26T23:58:00.000-08:00

Holy Cow.

Sunday, December 26: farewell seasonal light overload

Day Three Hundred Fifty Nine: Merry Christmas to All

2010-12-25T20:34:00.000-08:00

Peace on Earth.

Saturday, December 25: acrylic paint on paper

Day Three Hundred Fifty Eight: Winding Down

2010-12-24T23:16:00.000-08:00

Why does it take the end of the calendar year to reflect and learn and move forward with new plans. Technically, everyday, every minute is the start of a new year and can be treated with the same wide-eyed wonder and excitement that the calendar celebration brings. But, I will take any chance to start fresh.

Friday, December 24: photo of eagle grounds and fog.

Day Three Hundred Fifty Seven: Lather, Rinse, Repeat

2010-12-23T23:47:00.000-08:00

it looks the same, but its different.
it looks different, but its the same.

Thursday, December 23: sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Three Hundred Fifty Six: What Scale Are You Using?

2010-12-22T23:57:00.000-08:00

What is your measure? How are you defining that? So much of communication is learning what terms we share. Even so, there are so many nuances. Goodness. I have said too much already. There is less to be misunderstood in silence.

Meanwhile organic notions continue to play.They need a larger playground.

Wednesday, December 22: Pastel and Sharpie on paper

Day Three Hundred Fifty Five: Forward Motion, Pushed or Pulled?

2010-12-21T22:08:00.000-08:00

Oh man, 10 days left of the year.
I generally don't like to dwell on the success or failure of the last year. I don't have time, the new one is near, all fresh and ready for debauching.
Ideas, possibilities, time.... all ready to be used, abused, invested, squandered, spent and enjoyed.
God, what do you think I should do? I know you allow for days of rest. And for joy and love. I bet you like adventures and biking and music and the wind in your hair. And mountain vistas and a good book. Probably even know what I like.
I am certain a good plan is already in motion.

Tuesday, December 21: Sharpie on paper.

Day Three Hundred Fifty Four: My Eclipsed Eclipse

2010-12-20T23:21:00.001-08:00

In lieu of a photo of an eclipsed moon, I will give you a photo of a major star in my world rotation:

Monday, December 20: Photo of new teeth

Day Three Hundred Fifty Three: The Wild Returns

2010-12-19T23:59:00.000-08:00

Into the wild and back again. It was a quiet revolution. I enjoyed my day and the company without once reverting to the childhood patterns. Are we more mature? I hope so. Relatively so.

Sunday, December 19: Montana light

Day Three Hundred Fifty Two: Oddly Montana

2010-12-18T22:05:00.000-08:00

At the spur of the moment I find myself in Montana, a seasonal tree ready to adorn. Seasonal spirits at the ready. I could surely do with less treats and more cycling. Now is not the day for that. More banana cream pie please. And brownies, wink, wink.
And strings of lights
Weeeee

Saturday, December 18: sharpie on paper

Day Three Hundred Fifty One: ReCycle

2010-12-17T23:25:00.001-08:00

While I was cycling today I pulled over to pick up some trash. It turned out to be yet another of the plastic shopping bags that are everywhere. I picked it up with the idea somewhere in my head that I would collect some good points. And then my ego jumped up and wanted to know whom I could tell, how to get the message out that I stop to pick up trash, even when no one is looking.
Silly ego. You know you can't keep a secret. And by telling you negate the good that the deed did. You can't be selfishly selfless.
Can You? Perhaps it is the only way?

Friday, December 17: sharpie on paper

Day Three Hundred Fifty: Leaf Me Alone

2010-12-16T23:48:00.000-08:00

A single leaf. Alone on the page.

Thursday, December 16: Pen, Sharpie on Pastel on Paper.

Day Three Hundred Forty Nine: I Slink Towards Year End

2010-12-15T23:30:00.000-08:00

As year end nears I feel relief. Not planning a big finale. I am enervated.

Wednesday, December 15: Sharpie on Pastel on paper.

Day Three Hundred Forty Eight: One Step Closer

2010-12-14T23:56:00.000-08:00

More papers to sort, more revelations to make.
And burdens fly and I make new paths. I am open to new thoughts.
I am waiting!

Tuesday, December 14: Sharpie on Paper

Day Three Hundred Forty Seven: I Swaggered

2010-12-13T23:38:00.000-08:00

I finally got out and rode today. It was mid-forties at eleven so I found some path and took off. It had been a number of days and I was feeling grouchy about it. It was ten miles of beautiful, amazing, invigorating, mind quieting and fun. All the things I expect and rejoice in. Afterwards, I had an errand to run and I found myself in a full on swagger as I walked across the parking lot and through the store. I caught myself and laughed, then continued. Hells yeah, I kick ass.

Monday, December 13: Sharpie on Pastel on Paper, 9x12

Day Three Hundred Forty Six: I Saw Something

2010-12-12T23:41:00.000-08:00

It was like a vision of a large, complex painting. It was a painting I am going to do I suppose, it incorporated elements of all the things I played with this year. It went on and on. It is going to be a steady handed bitch to complete but it sure made sense of the last year. All the elements explored for days to weeks: ready to mix? Aw crap, more projects.

Or maybe it was cat dander confusing my brain.

Meanwhile, my armchair pursuit of the bike lead me to Stumble all day off and on, on my phone, only to Bicycling related websites. And that lead me to this:

Sunday, December 12: Sharpie on Pastel on Paper. 11x15

Meanwhile, I am learning that there are lots of my kind out there. Artists, cyclists. Perhaps I should mingle.

Day Three Hundred Forty Five: Two Paw Smack Down

2010-12-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

Move over, New personality of influence.

Saturday, December 11: Sharpie, watercolor on paper

Day Three Hundred Forty Four: Shameless, Poor Imitation of Myself

2010-12-10T23:44:00.000-08:00

I take to little time some days for art. And it rebels and shows poorly. My apathy is peeking out.

Friday, December 10: sharpie on paper

Day Three Hundred Forty Three: Heartbeats

2010-12-09T23:12:00.000-08:00

I am ready. Really. Let's do it. Thank-you.

Thursday, December 9: sharpie on paper

Day Three Hundred Forty Two: Building A Tree

2010-12-08T23:40:00.000-08:00

One Leaf at a Time.

Wednesday, December 8: Sharpie on Pastel on Paper.

Day Three Hundred Forty One: Expanding Possibilities

2010-12-08T07:33:00.000-08:00

Simple action on a simple plan will take me further than the most complex, completely drawn out plan with all possibilities accounted for but no action.
Time to move and shake.

Tuesday, December 7: Pastel and sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Three Hundred Forty: Reflected Reflection

2010-12-06T23:46:00.000-08:00

Whew:
By now I should be all full of wisdom learned by this project. But I never talked about it.
I think that is the problem. I never talk about anything that is going on in my life. Not really. I am horribly closed and non-forthcoming. Perhaps my story is interesting. Perhaps not. I am loathe to tell it. Instead I thrash about looking for another tale to tell. Something I can use, but its not me, not at all.
Sigh.
This is what I know. While I did this every day, I would not say I was faithful. But I did learn something about the materials daily. And I gained a whole new ease working around other people. When something has to happen, you have to work in a lot of surroundings or never go anywhere at all. And I did play with friends.
I feel like I developed a lot of small images that are going to all contribute to a large, slow to produce, intricate piece this next year. That is all I can say about beyond the yoke of this imagining.

Monday, December 6: sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Three Hundred Thirty Nine: Leaf it to me

2010-12-05T22:31:00.001-08:00

And that was a stupid pun.

So many decisions to be made and action to be taken. Just keep moving and deciding.

Emerson said: An ounce of action is worth a ton of theory.

I can see that.

Sunday, December 5: pastel, paint on paper, 9x12

Day Three Hundred Thirty Eight: Innocence is hard to capture

2010-12-04T23:31:00.000-08:00

I need to practice your face. I need to see you more.

Saturday, December 4: pastel on paper

Day Three Hundred Thirty Seven: Too Little

2010-12-04T00:25:00.000-08:00

All my incubation period, sometimes it bubbles up into something.

I think I am going to take a class. I need to know how to do something.

Friday, December 3: paint and sharpie on paper.

Day Three Hundred Thirty Six: Bicycle Advocacy

2010-12-02T23:00:00.000-08:00

I like the sound of that. I found a job posting for a job in Austin. I am moving there soon and this job jumped at me today. I got truly excited about a job for the first time in a long time. I need to find out more. I don't want to just push paper, I want to ride all the bike paths and do research in other cities... say Copenhagen.

Oh, a girl can dream.

For today, I am doing this here and Facebook. These are two bike paths that I rode all summer and fall long. The top one I rode at least four times a week for months. The second one I hit on the weekends or early mornings. I like them both in the summer, but as you can see, the Washington side has no regard for cycling in the winter. The Idaho paths are plowed and accessible. In Copenhagen they have little bike path snow plows. Now that is awesome. But here, we have variances:

Thursday, December 2: photos of places I love to ride.

Day Three Hundred Thirty Five: Snowbirds Fly South

2010-12-01T23:05:00.000-08:00

Of course I am getting winterized here. I am putting on a layer of warming fat, lazing around, ready to hibernate until spring. What I need is a man to laze around all winter with. Perhaps I would have something else to do besides eat more ice cream and draw this from my rear view mirror:

Wednesday, December 1: pencil on paper.

Good to see you me!

Day Three Hundred Thirty Four: Is South The Right Direction?

2010-11-30T23:33:00.000-08:00

I don't know. I just pick a direction and head that way until I bump into an obstacle and veer in another direction.

Tuesday, November 30: Sharpie on paper.

Day Three Hundred Thirty Three: 333 is Half Way.

2010-11-29T23:16:00.000-08:00

And the devil is in the details. Small but noticeable when missing:

Monday, November 29: sharpie on paper

Day Three Hundred Thirty Two: Peaceful Plenty

2010-11-28T21:29:00.000-08:00

Yeah, symbolism rocks.

Sunday, November 28: Paint, sharpie on paper, 11x15

Day Three Hundred Thirty One: I Have Wings

2010-11-27T20:15:00.000-08:00

Oh yeah, I ate more turkey, and watched snow come down.

Saturday, November 27: Paint, paint on canvasboard

Day Three Hundred Thirty: Misty Haze

2010-11-26T23:38:00.000-08:00

Quietude. Yes Please.

Friday, November 26: Paint, paint on foam board.

Day Three Hundred Twenty Nine: Fast Feast

2010-11-25T22:40:00.000-08:00

Like locusts they descend and consume all in the path. And thanksgiving is over. At least the cleanup crew has time to talk and hang out.

And there is some time to dream of above freezing climates and riding fast and far.

Thursday, November 25: Paint, sharpie on canvas board. 18x24

Day Three Hundred Twenty Eight: Turkey Eve...

2010-11-24T23:17:00.000-08:00

Jonesing for a ride, I give you this as I contemplate eating enough to power me through miles and miles and miles....

Wednesday, November 24: self photo with my lover.

Day Three Hundred Twenty Seven: Ice, Brrr, Fire Warm

2010-11-23T23:38:00.000-08:00

Frigid cold weather somehow brings out the warmth is people.

Tuesday, November 23: sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Three Hundred Twenty Six: Thank You Snow Escape Friends

2010-11-23T00:59:00.000-08:00

My drive was reduced tonight due to inclement weather. I am staying with a friend. Snow blowing fast on the prairie makes for super hazard. It is good day to see the kindness of the people around me. And the excellent spaghetti skills.

Monday, November 22: Sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Three Hundred Twenty Five: I am blessed

2010-11-21T23:39:00.000-08:00

My family is amazing. We sometimes grumble to or about each other, but we always step up to support each other. I am blessed. Thank you. And here again is the newest member. His skill set is still fairly limited but he has mastered smiling, looking cute and bringing out the smiles in us.

Sunday, November 21: Photo of Mr. Moo

Day Three Hundred Twenty Four: Change is finding me

2010-11-20T23:15:00.000-08:00

Some days I hear the universe screaming at me clearly. Time for change. Time to change. Times are changing... don't get left behind. Today was a big day for wake up calls. Time to change. That means a move. A fresh start. A new perspective.
This time I pick Austin, Texas. All I have to do is store everything, tie up loose ends, rearrange my life and my finances, clear my head, stand up straight and get it done.

Saturday, November 20: sharpie on paper, 6x9

Day Three Hundred Twenty Three: The Write Way

2010-11-19T23:53:00.000-08:00

Writing is beginning to capture my attention. More of that please. I just wish I had more to share. And of course, the fact I that I writing about writing, I have even less to day.

Friday, November 19: sharpie on paper, 6x9

Day Three Hundred Twenty Two: The Family Way

2010-11-18T23:04:00.000-08:00

Today I can't help but see the beauty in my own gene pool. A pool I swim in.

Thursday, November 18: A photo of my favorite boy.

Day Three Hundred Twenty One: Bad Questions, Bad Answers

2010-11-17T23:51:00.000-08:00

Some days I feel like the questions are not the right ones. I might as well be asking the magic 8. To get better answers, I need better questions. Or to just shut up and get to work and let the answers work themselves out.

Wednesday, November 17: sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Three Hundred Twenty: I'm Special

2010-11-16T23:10:00.000-08:00

Or so I heard today. I had to wonder though: is that like short bus special or I kind of like you special. I will go with the later until the former makes itself clear.

Tuesday, November 16: Sharpie on paper, 11x15

Day Three Hundred Nineteen: In the Pit of my Stomach

2010-11-15T23:49:00.000-08:00

I walked into work today and for the first time in a while I was unhappy to be there. I have generally made it a point to be happy no matter where I am. But there it was. I want to do more, something else, something creative and inspiring and thoughtful. I was in mid walk to a mindless task when it hit me. Is this all there is?

Somehow my ego jumped up and told me that I am not using my talents. All the talents that god gave me, not being used. What should I be doing was my immediate question to the ill at ease feeling that ruffled my hair as it blew cold into my heart. I want more.

Damn ego. Just when I had this place wired. Just when I had befriended everyone here. Just when I thought I was here for the right reasons. Turns out my lessons here might be nearly learned and it is time to move on. Just like that, it hit me. It is time to move on. I do not know to where, but the time is nigh.

Now comes the time to search. As I hear it progress always involves risk. You can’t steal second base with a foot stuck on first. So. Today I clear the decks in my head and in my home and pray. What do you want me to do next?

Monday, November 15: sharpie on paper, 11x15

Day Three Hundred Eighteen: Evolve or Die.

2010-11-14T21:49:00.000-08:00

Choose or don't choose; that is a choice too.

Sunday, November 14: pastel, pen, sharpie on paper. 9x12

Day Three Hundred Seventeen: I went to a movie

2010-11-13T23:38:00.000-08:00

A true chick flick. Eat Pray Love. The boy I went with was laughing about all the estrogen in the room and then fell asleep. I cried a bunch through it, as is the plan when you see a movie like that. The scenery was awesome.

Saturday, November 13: sharpie and pencil on paper

Day Three Hundred Sixteen: I miss Anonymous

2010-11-12T23:43:00.000-08:00

Remember back in the day when you could go somewhere without having facebook check you in and 300 of of your closest know about it. When you could get a coffee, look right and left a duck into a Disney film all alone and no one would ever know.

Remember when you had nothing to live up to or live down to because there was no one to care unless you make a point of it.

Well. No one really does. And even if they do, why do I care. And I don't really, but I do miss knowing that no one knows me as I try on new versions of me.
Laurentia v. 52.11.12.11.43

Friday, November 12: Paint, pencil, sharpie, spit. on paper.

Day Three Hundred Fifteen: Tall boys are my weak knees

2010-11-11T22:13:00.000-08:00

So, there's this boy. Tall, yeah, very tall. Just the way I like 'em.

I love to love them before it gets more than imagination and play. Goofing around, all innocent. More than that and I usually run. I have a hard time putting someone in the picture of my life as more than a ancillary role. I am not opposed to it, I just don't see it, or haven't with anyone I have met recently.

All that said, I would like to change that. I guess its just a decision. A willingness to compromise and share. And to fuck like bunnies.

Thursday, November 11: Tempera, pencil, sharpie on paper

Day Three Hundred Fourteen: Mingling Molecules

2010-11-10T23:29:00.000-08:00

I ride daily in nearly the same location during the work week. As time goes by you start to recognize people on the same schedule.

There is a gentleman on a recumbent bicycle that I see nearly every day. Sometimes he is departing as I arrive and sometimes I am departing. Some days we just pass on the ride somewhere. We have waved and smiled over the months. Today I pulled in and there he was unloading his bike from his white Prius and the only logical place to park was right next to him. After all summer it would be weird to not say hello which we did and exchange pleasantries about the weather. And once I was ready, I turned to roll by him and introduced myself.

As I was speaking he was removing a glove to shake hands.

I was wearing a pair of red knit gloves myself; even the warmest November day is brisk. They are a pain to get off quickly unless you want to turn them inside out. While contemplating the five single finger pulls, a host of thoughts passed through my brain in the few seconds before we shook:

More refined ladies used to wear gloves all the time. I pictured a bustle wearing woman delicately extending a soft white leather gloved hand. How long ago was that? The fine lady in my vision sported a bun in her hair. Perhaps when proper women wore gloves in public it was to avoid the connection that skin on skin reminds us of. Since then gloves have gone out of vogue for much beyond protection from inclement weather. Would it now be considered rude not to remove my glove in this age to shake his hand? Or are we beyond that and I can call it fashion or affectation?

I then thought briefly of quantum physics and the theory that when we touch, molecules and energy are exchanged and at least at that level we would be connected. But then we are all of the same oneness and energy and connected at all times anyway. Perhaps the close exchange just reminds us of that making this connection take on more significance.

As those thoughts passed I felt I was too late to do anything other than shake my gloved hand with his bare hand. Even so, I could feel that connection of soul to soul to everlasting; even through the membrane of cheap synthetic knit. (Am I also connected thusly with the Chinese factory worker whose hands fashioned, created and packaged these red gloves? Their energy certainly is infused in them.)

With all that history and metaphysics dancing it suddenly seemed very weird so we bid each other good ride and I rolled out. Some how I could feel him nearby all ride. On my return trip, I stopped to fiddle with the tunes for a while and he passed me. I could feel the what ever it is and I felt awkward so I dawdled behind him. I had to pass him again on the next hill and from there my workout ramped up to complete the ride fast. (Of course I speed up every time I pass someone, I hate a re-pass!) When I saw him again there was more expectation. Are we now more connected because of that small exchange? Like smelling a flower on a hike and having it linger with you far into the day.

Alan, welcome to my world.

Wednesday, November 10: Tempera, pencil, sharpie, fingers on paper.

Day Three Hundred Thirteen: Everyone has a part to play

2010-11-09T23:10:00.001-08:00

Mine is all I can do. And I am drawn to others and them to me so that our combined thoughts will bring what we need or expect as a group to happen for our worlds to seem correct. There are no mistakes. Everyone grows.

Tuesday, November 9: Sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Three Hundred Twelve: Bumps and Starts

2010-11-08T23:26:00.000-08:00

I know, I advance. I think, I fear, I retreat.

Time for full speed ahead. Starting now.

Monday, November 8: Sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Three Hundred Eleven: Beginning

2010-11-07T23:23:00.000-08:00

Start from here. Today. It is always fresh in infinite possibility.
No more crying over things I have no control over. I just need to get control of that spontaneous emotion springing from my eyes.

Sunday, November 7: Sharpie on Paper. 9x12

Day Three Hundred Ten: Arrival?

2010-11-07T00:44:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I think I am so full in my head of finding peace in my thoughts that the words overrun the silence I seek. It is time to stop pursuing and just be.
It is hard to give up the learning, but it is time for knowing.
How many of the ideas I use are someone else's and just another place to cling because it seems right. Knowledge is not wisdom. When can I move from striving to remove judgments to being one with all that is and never having the thoughts occur at all. Of moving with the flow of the source with perfect knowing and love.
Even these questions and this writing, they are distractions from allowing my mind to quiet and silence the wild monkey thoughts that run rampant in my head. Constant presence is a gift, but training the mind... whew.

On the flip side, in my material world I went to a snowboarding, nay, shredding event tonight with a couple of videos. While I loved the videos, and the badass riders they featured, there is probably no chance in hell that I am going to jump off a tree, a swing set or cliff on a snowboard with the risk of face plant o pavement or a Sonny Bono on the mountain. My back will not bend the way the chicks seemed to do. I would rather ride my bike for 20 miles as fast as I can till I puke than do that. I do think I will look into some yoga classes though. But that said, I can totally see me in the hip shred outfit, sliding down the runs with sunglasses and a smile on; destined for fun and apres ski.

Saturday, November 6: A day closer to winter photo.

Day Three Hundred Nine: Joy to Billions

2010-11-05T23:12:00.000-07:00

This is my aspiration. I have no idea how to accomplish it but I can see the results in my head and I will hold on to it. It is a simple idea. And in my conception we ride bikes. And we smile and laugh, a lot. And no one is fearful.

I started with myself.

Friday, October 5: Sharpie and dreams on paper, 9x12

Day Three Hundred Eight: Joy Cometh

2010-11-04T23:05:00.001-07:00

Today was yet another gorgeous fall day. It belied the fact that it is so late in the year. Fifty five degrees, not a cloud in the sky and no wind. I enjoyed it completely knowing that perhaps soon I will not be able to ride so fast or so freely.
Thank goodness I found that the trails I love are to be plowed all winter. Perhaps I will not retire to the couch for the snow season. Perhaps I will get stronger and more badass than I am now. Perhaps.

Perhaps my ego needs to fly south for the winter and just allow me to ride for the sheer joy of the time on the bike, the time outside and the moments I see god.

Thursday, November 4: Sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Three Hundred Seven: So Much to Manifest!

2010-11-03T22:57:00.000-07:00

Change of seasons, it is beautiful. The clouds here are so recognizable. Years ago I was given a golf game for my laptop. It was the Coeur 'd Alene Resort version of the game. I was living in NYC at the time but the graphics showed the clouds so well that it made me miss this area so much. Up until that moment I had not realized how distinctive they are. Or perhaps for the six years that I lived in Manhattan, I never really looked at the sky.

Now I get to experience that sky daily. And the writing of this has just aroused a melancholy for NYC. Sigh. Always so much to see, so many places to love.

Wednesday, November 3: Photo of my river.

Day Three Hundred Six: Choose Kindness

2010-11-02T23:35:00.000-07:00

Remembering or learning is a continuing task. I try and see something new everyday. Some days have more "ah ha" than others. For today I bring more kindness to myself and my world. My need to prove I am right goes out the window when I also give myself freedom from the good opinion of other people.

While I listen for the voice of God, my art is where I go to quiet my mind. I am looking for the grandeur of silence.

Tuesday, November 2: Sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Three Hundred Five: Shift of Focus

2010-11-01T23:36:00.000-07:00

Its a new month. And I need a new focus. Something more peaceful, quiet, joyful.
I don't know what that means, but I trust the universe to let me know. Until then, I will play in the weather, straighten up papers, make plans and smile.

Monday, November 1: Sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Three Hundred Four: The Tribe

2010-10-31T17:33:00.000-07:00

In the midst of Halloween, I am costumeless... no mask to cover my face, no place to hide.

Sunday, October 31: Sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Three Hundred Three: Oh Shit

2010-10-31T05:26:00.000-07:00

yeah, I need a new idea.

Saturday, October 30: Sharpie on paper

Day Three Hundred Two: So, Synchronicity...

2010-10-30T02:04:00.000-07:00

I am seeing it all around me. Stuff that tells me stuff.

I am thinking about something and the next thing I see has an answer, if I look. Strange stuff, like the next person you talk to has the same name as someone you where worried about and has something to say that answers your dilemma as you wonder about the perfection of the timing.

I see it and it makes me laugh. Ah Ha, you caught me. I get it, so easy. Signposts in neon when I begin to look for them. Come this way, say this thing, love this person, ride this direction. Hang on honey, the ride is going to be a thriller.

Friday, October 29: sharpie and tempera on paper.

Day Three Hundred One: Voices in the Mayhem

2010-10-28T23:21:00.000-07:00

I had the strangest coincidence today. I was going to send a message to a friend. He had failed to send me birthday wishes and I was going to joke with him about it. However, even as I contemplated it, I was leaning toward a message that might seem to me to be a bit snotty. And just as I was in that reverie, at work, a call came in that requested that we place them on the Do Not Call list. To do that for them, I inquired their name. I had to ponder the odds when it happened to be the same name as my friend... do not call.

Small sign for sure, but I heeded it. No need to add a negative edge to any relationship. Thank you universe.

Thursday, October 28: Sharpie and Tempera on Paper, 11x15

Day Three Hundred: Holy Crap... 300

2010-10-27T23:55:00.000-07:00

I am resilient and I persevere. At least with things that interest me. I am not so good at others. Actually, I might be downright apathetic to things that I am not focused on, interested in, or creating with. For now, art, biking, writing and talking seem to hold my interest. Talk to me, I love it when you call and tell me everything.

For now, tangled webs seem to need to be spun, and undone.

Wednesday, October 27: Sharpie on paper 9x12

Day Two Hundred Ninety Nine: Its My Birthday

2010-10-26T23:22:00.000-07:00

And I am alone. by choice. Comtemplation needs solitude.

Tuesday, October 26: Sharpie on Paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Ninety Eight: Oh Crap

2010-10-25T23:56:00.000-07:00

Today is one of those days that I will not miss when I am no longer under my own tyrannical rules about posting something daily. One of those days where I have to question my dedication, my conception of art. What the fuck is this piece anyway.
On the other hand, I never know when something I have thought nothing recurs in another form, grander, its fleeting birth under the guise of the mundane.
So I will appreciate the action if not the form. I will quiet my mind.

Monday: October 25: Sharpie on paper. 9x12

Day Two Hundred Ninety Seven: I got to babysit

2010-10-24T23:43:00.000-07:00

Babysitting might not sound like something so grand except that no one has ever asked me to babysit since I was a kid and had two younger brothers under my wing at all times.
I was the adult today with my two great nephews: Dante 11 and Brandon 6 months. It was a good couple hours and we had fun. Thank goodness Dante is so good at this brother baby thing. He changed a diaper, made a bottle and arranged pillows for his little brother. I was just there watching and on stand by in case a fire spontaneously flared... or something.
I enjoyed it. I really did.
When little kids smile at me, it makes me feel sort of normal.

Sunday, October 24: Sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Ninety Six: Transformers? Really? NO!

2010-10-23T23:12:00.000-07:00

My knowledge of pop culture failed me today. Or perhaps it was damn Google provides answers so fast that my own better story was dashed when the truth of something provocative.
On the back of the car in front of me: "To Punish and Enslave"
Who puts that on their car? Why? Perhaps it is sexual... woooo.

No. Google tells me it is from the Transformers movie. Damn. My imagination was just beginning fun dance with the possibilities. And Google blew it. Damn.

For today, my focus reshaped my vision:

Saturday, October 23: Sharpie, tempera paint on canvas panel, 16x20

Day Two Hundred Ninety Five: Be Prepared

2010-10-23T01:20:00.000-07:00

Excitement can be found everywhere, my mundane is not helping me. I need to get out there where I can be struck by something new and weird. For instance, today, oddly, I found comfort and insight from Dominos.

Friday, October 22: photo in the mist

Day Two Hundred Ninety Four: Hearts are Thumping

2010-10-21T23:48:00.000-07:00

Every day is an opportunity to learn forbearance. And happiness is the way. I pull out my happy thoughts whenever patience, forbearance or tolerance seems to be needed. Then I go to myself to find what in me is causing the need. What judgement am I holding that is causing the stress. I do not necessarily need to change the situation, merely my perception.
Yes, every day brings an opportunity to learn.

Thursday, October 21: Sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Ninety Three: Bark and Howl

2010-10-20T23:43:00.000-07:00

Listen to your words. I tell myself that all the time. What are you saying versus what you really want and really mean. Spiteful utterances only bring more spite. So I tell myself all the time. Getting the noise out of my mouth is helping me to get the noise out of my head.

Just like moms always say: If you can't say anything nice, then don't say anything at all.

So, I just make something with my hands, use my happy imagination and give my ego a rest. Leggo my ego!

Wednesday, October 20: Sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Ninety Two: Time For Change

2010-10-19T23:26:00.000-07:00

Not that the present is not perfection in itself, it is what it is. But change happens and it is welcome.

Tuesday, October 19: Sharpie on Paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Ninety One: Thoughts Creating Now.

2010-10-18T23:33:00.002-07:00

Things are bubbling up. I have a feeling that the white cars are leading me to somewhere I want to be. I am paying attention and doing what I can.
I write, I ride, I roll, I rock.

Monday, October 18: Sharpie on Paper

Day Two Hundred Ninety: Contrast

2010-10-17T23:51:00.000-07:00

I am nearly asleep. I think I will continue down that path. Sleep. Sleep.

Sunday, October 17: Sharpie on paper, 11x15

Day Two Hundred Eighty Nine: The Piper

2010-10-17T01:58:00.000-07:00

I expected more.

I enjoyed the day, but I expected more people. But those in attendance represent such a diverse group. All eager for approval, laughs, accolades. But all looking for connection. My little foursome, my driving companions, all single, all bright, but all like me searching. Very sweet, very genuine, a little bit kooky and truthfully, I would know none of them where it not for TMI.

On an even brighter side, it was a gorgeous day. I got to walk in a historic neighborhood. The mighty Columbia river was as mighty as ever. I could not have asked for better walk from where I left from. From the conference site to the bike/hike trail was a few blocks. I did not know it was there, I was outside and was drawn that direction. I just walked and there was the river, the path and some sunshine. I missed my bike.

And finally I am home. Sigh. And the piper nears.

Saturday, October 16: Sharpie on Paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Eighty Eight: White Cars

2010-10-15T23:42:00.000-07:00

Mind bending perfection. And a sense of humor. That is what I saw today. White cars.

Thank you.

Friday, October 15: sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Eighty Seven: I Believe

2010-10-14T23:56:00.000-07:00

Some days out in the world, I can feel it more than others. By it, I mean IT. The connection thing. The oneness, the love connection, the within that keeps you from going without. I know it is always there, but some times I feel more tuned in. My channel is coming in clear. Today was a particularly nice day.

I mean Nice. And from there, all things flow. Welcome to my dream.

Thursday, October 14: Sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Eighty Six: The Universe has a sense of humor.

2010-10-13T23:54:00.000-07:00

This morning I had a little coffee and gossip session with my niece, the usual. I was telling her about the cute, tall boy I had met at the party. How particularly striking he was and his effect on the women in the room. The glancing encounter we had. As I was getting rather animated with my description of my favored archetype, something odd happened. The music player on my phone began to play a song.

Now, I do not know how it happened to come on, it was sitting on the coffee table. And I don't know how it made its selection of music to play because I had not played that particular artist for perhaps a year and not at all on my new phone. But there in the midst of my ephemeral longing for tall, strong and sexy, the deep, throaty voice sings: "I'm Your Man". That is one of the sexiest songs I know (thank you Leonard Cohen) and kind of makes me weak in the knees.

I paused it, though I was curious still. I had to go. I finished up the coffee, said good bye and headed out to go biking where I turned it back on. Turns out there was a really strange threesome of random tracks lined up to speak to me.

The incredible voice of Leonard reminding me that some tall, strong and sexy could be really, really fine.

I'm Your Man! Leonard Cohen

Next in my awakening today, came a song by my good friend Matthew Winters: "Vast and Charming". It is a song I love and ask often if he will play it for me and he seldom does, claiming that it is too old and he barely remembers. It begins with "I go out to find my myself, I wander through the vast and charming world, meandering a life without a purpose..." and ending with a line in it that screamed to me again: "I went out to find myself and I was in your vast and charming eyes". Oh shit! I heard dancing in my thoughts as randoms on my phone played on.

Then, I nearly fell over when the third and what turned out to be final selection played for me. (Mind, I have no idea how random works on the droid music player) It was a spoken piece by Dr Wayne Dyer: "The Seventy Second Verse of the Tao Te Ching". That verse advises me to remain in awe, and total acceptance, preferring what is within to what is without. It tells me to avoid self limits, accept my body as a perfect creation and allow my life to unfold in accordance with its own nature.

Heavy stuff. Fun and sexy is my nature and I am a perfect creation... Enjoy? Unfold? I'm your man!

Sure, coincidence, my own interpretation, random... I don't really care, it seemed divine to me. I am rolling with it. If the universe wants to bowl me over, I am listening. Then silence returned. I rode and rode, humming a happy tune.

So, I am in awe:

Wednesday, October 13: Sharpie on paper, 9x12

P.S. I know he will appear in his own good time. I prepare now though. Who knows from what direction we might intersect. I am thankful I was reminded to be open. It could happen at any Now. So much else is happening, why not.

Day Two Hundred Eighty Five: I am Strong! I am Invincible.

2010-10-12T23:43:00.001-07:00

This drawing looks like my pillow is getting ready to get laid.
My real pillow is just smashed in a ball under my head. And I am ready to sleep. Lots of things to manifest tomorrow.

Tuesday, October 12: sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Eighty Four: Columbus is Dead.

2010-10-11T23:46:00.000-07:00

I am astounded by the gorgeous weather today. If I had not had to go see the Verizon store this morning, I would have easily gone another ten beyond the fourteen I managed to squeeze out. But I have learned to rely heavily on my device and it shorted out yesterday. Seems as though while I love riding in the rain, the phone is not so happy with that situation. It needs a raincoat. I just need a fire when I am done. Or a hot shower. I do like a hot body.

So, a hard ride, a blazing fire, hot pulsing water... whatever it takes. The phone will just have to toughen up.

Monday, October 11: Sharpie on paper 9x12

Day Two Hundred Eighty Three: Pardon me while I stalk you

2010-10-10T21:03:00.000-07:00

So, I met the hottest guy last night. By that I mean, when he appeared in the room all the single girls turned to ask "who is that?", while thinking "Mine!". Tall, 6'5" it turns out is my favorite height. I got all confused for a bit as I felt myself become feral, in heat, purring while on the hunt. I wasn't alone and it was hard to cut him from the herd to determine whether in fact there was more to him than wow, you are a big one.
Then I had the thought that this must happen to him everywhere he goes. Whether or not he was arrogant about it, I could not tell either, I suspect it was just what it was for him. I wondered briefly if he could smell it in the air, the ready and moist women. But perhaps he didn't notice, that smell is everywhere he goes.
So, I stepped out. Perhaps he is even shy. After all, he never has to pursue, perhaps being demure serves him better. Perhaps being a chick magnet is a burden if you are not out to just get laid as often as possible. Which I would.

Perhaps I should just stick to riding my bike and making art.

Sunday, October 10: Sharpie on paper, 11x15

Day Two Hundred Eighty Two: I give you one shot

2010-10-10T01:44:00.000-07:00

Then I get confused and run away. I don't mean to be a mean girl, I just don't have time. But at least I got to see the best of Corbin's Ditch.

Saturday, October 9: photo of strange things.

Day Two Hundred Eighty One: Damn Flies

2010-10-08T23:50:00.000-07:00

I know that winter approaches when all the flies move inside. Inside the car, the bedroom, the kitchen. My natural inclination to let them be and to scoot them outside is tested when they hover about my head and hands. And they are so slow. So easy to swat as they move towards death. I can see a carcass on the floor and it gives me pause for small regret.

And on the bike path they swarm, in my eyes and mouth and ears. Not everywhere, but in clouds just far enough apart that I forget and smile and sing to myself again. And there when my mouth is open, they appear. Fresh protein is okay, but they taste like bugs and I imagine them fresh off the poop on the side of the path.

Damn flies.

Friday, October 8: Sharpie on paper, 11x15

Day Two Hundred Eighty: I Am Enthusiastic

2010-10-07T23:28:00.000-07:00

And yet, sleep calls, chocolate sustains, legs ache. More of that please.

Thursday, October 7: Sharpie on paper

P.S. I gave the following as a talk at Toastmasters this morning:

**Laugh out loud for a sustained time**

Now my blood pressure lower, my stress is reduced, my abs got a work out and I am better looking.

Not only is laughter and smiling an expression of joy and playfulness, but it has a long list of health benefits, a rich spiritual history and provides a wealth of social benefits.

Victor Hugo says that “laughter is the sun that drives the winter from the human face”. And a sunny face is much more attractive! Increasingly hospitals are using laughter formally in healing therapy. In addition to the lower blood pressure, regular hearty laughter reduces stress hormones and boosts the immune system. A good guffaw triggers the release of endorphins that are natural painkillers and produce a general sense of well-being. Aids and cancer patients have attested to its use - it is hard to be depressed when you are laughing and many have reported that ten minutes of laughter can alleviate pain for up to two hours.

It also enhances oxygen intake, stimulates the heart and lungs and improves sleep. Finally, it has been shown to improve mental function with increased alertness, better memory and enhanced creativity. I heard a story of patients diagnosed with acute depression. Some even claimed that they were depressed in their sleep. For one month they were placed in front of a mirror for 30 minutes a day and instructed to smile and laugh. At the end of that time, nearly all of them were off their medication and cured. Now that is power.

On the spirituality front, the laughing exercise I did is a reproduction of a famous speech by a Zen monk. He ended it with “This is true spirituality”. Mother Theresa said that peace begins with a smile. Buddhists have said that laughter can lead to a state of elevation, leading to enlightenment. If you Google it, you can find numerous instructions on laughter meditation. Laughter is one of the easiest ways to free you from the mind's constant thought process and find inner peace. It will make you more alive, more healthy, more creative, and more silent. Simply relax into the enjoyment. You will discover in yourself a tremendous natural talent for rejoicing in life. You may even laugh your way to enlightenment. Yes, it's that good.

In Genesis it says “God has given me laughter and everyone who hears about it will laugh with me.” In Proverbs: “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Laughter is a gift from god. If I can laugh my way to awareness, I will giggle my way to heaven.

But while I am here, I love the social benefits. Laughing and smiling speaks straight to the heart, bypassing the intellect and ego. Joseph Addison said: “What sunshine is to flowers, smiles are to humanity.” Laughter increases your face value. I know I am better looking when I smile! Laughter is sexy even as laughter burns more calories than sex. Laughter is a universal language. When you smile you draw people to you and laughter and playfulness can strengthen your relationships. Time and again I have had people tell me what a great laugh I have. When I worked in NYC there was a man across the aisle from me that transferred to another department after a year. One day I saw him and he remarked that people asked him what happened to the laughing lady they used to hear in the background on his phone. I used to get embarrassed but now, I laugh more. Because of that some of my friends come and ask me to laugh so they can. Perhaps it is my gift.

Laughter can snap us out of melancholy and put things back into perspective. I know that just an upturn of my lips boosts my spirits instantly. Yes, I can fake it, but only for a minute, then it takes over, and viola, I am smiling, laughing and happier.

The study of laughter and its effects on the human body is called gelotology. I don’t know about all that. I just love the fact that it’s free and there are no know side effects even if it is addicting. I give a smile or a laugh whenever I can, even if it’s just to me. And when I get a smile or giggle out of my infant nephew, I know that the universe likes me. So, I will smirk, smile, grin, snicker, titter, chortle, cackle, giggle, snort, guffaw, howl or roar my way to health, good looks and enlightenment.

Day Two Hundred Seventy Nine: In a Fog

2010-10-06T23:49:00.000-07:00

When I think about things the words just flow in my head. When I am talking to friends, words just flow out of my mouth like crazy. When I sit down to write, there is nothing. Except of course, occasionally here, because I am just babbling to myself not expecting to say anything either.

I have great ideas for speechifying when I am nowhere near giving one. But when I sit down to write one, I become dead in the head.

From here on, I vow to write only to myself. Perhaps I will listen.

Wednesday, October 6: Photo I took in the wee hours.

Day Two Hundred Seventy Eight: Smile, Laugh Out Loud

2010-10-05T23:52:00.000-07:00

Some days it is so easy to smirk, smile, grin, giggle, guffaw or laugh. I am working on making all days that easy. Sometimes it starts with a grimace and works its way upward to a chortle, to twitter, to snicker, to snort to chuckle to giggle to laughter to a howl. No matter where it starts, a laugh is good for me. And you come to think of it.

Tuesday, October 5: sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Seventy Seven: Velvet and Miracles

2010-10-04T23:51:00.001-07:00

I had a Starbucks this morning. Not impressive as far as flavor goes. But then I never like their coffee except for my addiction to the frappuccino that I can get at any grocery store. I did have quite the caffeine hit though. And it fired me through a bike ride and a couple hours of work. YeeHaw!

Then the bonk happened and I was ready to snooze. Some grapes provided enough sugar to stave off a nap.

But not enough to inspire me. I continue to imitate myself.

Monday, October 4: sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Seventy Six: Major turning point

2010-10-03T23:50:00.000-07:00

I love thrift shops. I love Nordstroms too, don't get me wrong, but I love the thrill of a really good find. I have to be in the mood for the hunt, in either place. But today was a rainy day, and I had a feeling that I would find something good. And I did. I wish you could see my red dress. I can totally ride in it. The suit, not so much, but the coat is a dream for my style.

And then I rode. Hills. I can barely move. Sigh. Happy thighs now were crying earlier. I need more hills. Yes, hills will move me to the next level. Happy when cruising down after the climb and happy when eating ice cream later.

Ahhh... good deals, good legs, good treats.

Sunday, October 3: Sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Seventy Five: Off The Top Of My Head

2010-10-02T23:52:00.000-07:00

I love to spread my day out into different things, new things specifically. However, old memories thrown it are nice too. I got to drive today, two hours each way to Pullman via Moscow. In Moscow I got my bike out and cruised up through campus to the Arts & Letters Building. Vague memories of college and insecurity and sweaty nights with fraternity boys danced through the back of my brain. Once in Pullman, I had a small competition to extemporaneously speak for two minutes on a question presented at that moment. I won with the question: "If you could change the ages or sex or your siblings or be an only child, what would you choose and why." That was a fun time. Then I got to take my bike out in the October sun, blazing like summer was still in its bikini and aching to beat some rays into my black biking dress. The bike path between the two towns is seven miles of smooth asphalt and charming waysides. After that I got to visit with some girls that think differently than I, have lived on different hopes than I and will continue to manifest different dreams than I. And we enjoyed each others company until I got to drive two hours home to make this:

Saturday, October 2: Sharpie on paper, 11x15

Day Two Hundred Seventy Four: Its Hip To Be Square

2010-10-01T23:55:00.000-07:00

Yeah, apologies to Huey but I am going to bed early tonight so that I can get up early on a Saturday.

Not only is there bike riding to be done, but speech-ifying as well. Thats right, another competition. Out of town this time. and better this time as I am only in the impromptu section. Get up and get the question and think up a two minute talk, on the spot.

Just like the Miss America pageant. Except without the gowns and tiaras.

Not that if I had a tiara, I wouldn't wear it...

Because I totally would rock a tiara... I am a princess. A bike and art princess. Wait, let me upgrade to Queen. No wait.. Empress. Empress of Bike and Art... Yeah, I do like the sound of that.

Off with their heads!

Friday, October 1: Sharpie on Paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Seventy Three: Nine Months, I could have had a kid

2010-09-30T23:45:00.000-07:00

Today completes nine months of this daily blog. I could be birthing a kid today in that same length of time. Except I would actually have to have sex to get pregnant and that isn't happening. I am unfuckable.

Perhaps it is my bad attitude. Not towards men in general, I love them. I think it is just the idea of a specific one. I don't couple well apparently. At least I have not met one yet that can stick. I don't even have a clue where to find one, and truth be told, I don't look. I will be as shocked as anyone if one finds me.

Not opposed to the idea, just incredulous. But excited none the less by even the idea of the possibility.

As for the art, I have learned a lot about myself, about the discipline of daily art, the definition of said art and the futility of discussion of visual subjects.

Thursday, September 30: sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Seventy Two: I need better balance

2010-09-29T23:49:00.000-07:00

I was stopped beside the way today futzing with my camera. A small move forward was necessary and I accidentally clipped in to my pedal. When I went to put my foot down it did not go and in slow motion I tipped over into the tall grass. I managed to bloody up a finger and wipe it on my skirt. No big deal, but I was torn between: thank god I no one was around to see that, and: Shit, I should have gotten that on film, so everyone can see it.

Ah well, artistic differences. With myself.

Wednesday, September 29: Sharpie on paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Seventy One: Gracious Gratitude

2010-09-28T23:33:00.000-07:00

Here today I am having fun. Not that I did anything particularly different. I woke up late as I please. I lazed in bed for a while before I actually got out of it. Then I rode my bike. It was gorgeous out and while I promised myself 12, I ended up with 22 miles. And happily so. I went to work and washed the salt off and had a fine day with people that I enjoy and love watching on their chosen journeys.

Nothing particularly unusual at all. Except that I was giddy happy. I realized again how blessed I am. To do all that with a smile. Ride fast and hard and grin in the headwinds. I have work that allows my mind to drift to what it pleases. I am able to play with art in endless varieties of ways every day. And I am healthy, ridiculously so. And I have friends and family that I love. I eat well and play at will.

Gad, I am having a good time on the path of my dreams. A bike path at that.

Thank you.

Tuesday, September 28: Sharpie and paint on paper, 11x15

Day Two Hundred Seventy: Wolf calls.

2010-09-27T23:53:00.000-07:00

I love my new phone. It is every tool I wanted in one. I almost don't care about the phone capacity. I have a camera, camcorder, voice recorder, notepad, google, music, fm radio, timer, calculator, flashlight, clock, weather updates, mobile hotspot, calendar. And it does Facebook and email and text messaging.

I downloaded a driver and now it functions as an external data drive for moving photos, music and video around. While it is doing that, it charges through the computer.

I am all geeked out about a tool/toy. I know this is old hat for the early adapters. But I am excited about the videos. I like the quality I have seen so far, for a phone. I need video editing software and off I go.

See you in the funnies!

Monday, September 27: Tempera paint and Sharpie on paper 11x15

Day Two Hundred Sixty Nine: Star Lake City

2010-09-26T20:46:00.000-07:00

A wonderful weekend day to chat, make art and ride a bike. Twists and turns add texture to my day. And so do the people that I meet.

Sunday, September 26: Acrylic paint, Sharpie on Paper 11"x15"

Day Two Hundred Sixty Eight: It's Relative

2010-09-25T22:34:00.000-07:00

I am remarkably well preserved.

Or so I was told today. I appreciate that. I had just ridden 14 miles in the dusk. It was glare in the eye sun setting on the horizon on my way west and fast waning light on the return. At any rate, I felt good and that settled it.

I am remarkably well preserved. Indeed.

Saturday, September 25: Sharpie on Paper, 11"x14"

Day Two Hundred Sixty Seven: New Technology

2010-09-24T23:22:00.000-07:00

I know that new stuff is totally learnable, it is not that I can't figure it out, it is only frustrating because my fingers aren't so agile. I can't just do what I want immediately. I will figure it out, and my fingers will so do what I want, effortlessly. Its just today, I am figuring it out and the learning curve is aggravating. Come back tomorrow and I will know more. I swear.

Friday, September 24: Sharpie on Paper, 9x12

Day Two Hundred Sixty Six: The Need for Speed

2010-09-23T23:19:00.000-07:00

On my ride this morning I wanted to at least get 11.5 miles... That is the average number of miles that I needed at that point per remaining days to reach my goal. And I had time for just that. So I thought.

On my outbound trip I passed a couple of boys riding the opposite direction. We smiled and exchanged nods. I had a more than a mile to go before the turn around point. On my return I forgot about them in lieu of a headwind. But, I had just passed the marker for the final mile back to the car when I saw them again up ahead. My need for speed kicked things up a bit and I continued to close the gap. Now, as I neared the parking lot, I was going to overtake them. It seemed a shame to blow by with a smile, only to turn off and stop. So, some distance was added on so I could dust them. And I did. I went out another mile only to meet them again on my return.

More smiles were exchanged as I pushed past. Cute boys.

I couldn't help but wonder though, how far they had come and how much further was planned. Perhaps if they were in the middle of a, say, 50 mile ride, they would probably pace themselves slower. I would.

And with that thought, the puff went out of my blow hard and I while I was still happy with my ride, the day and my speed, I became less supercilious about my 'accomplishment'. Of course in my heart of hearts, I know I am faster than them, but, maybe, just maybe... I should keep that to myself.

Thursday, September 23: Sharpie on paper, 9x12