To a T

I used to think Oregon's state motto: "She Flies With Her Own Wings" was silly. Seemed to me it should be: "Live and Let Live" for that is truly the way Oregonians conduct their lives.

"Do your own thing, I'll do mine and leave me the hell alone." ha.

Well, not quite but for the most part, yes, Oregonians don't like to be told what to do, how to do it or when.

So I got to thinking about the state motto again. And the more I did, the more it made sense.

Oregonians are known mavericks; trail blazers; the first to forge ahead on many fronts.

We go our own way and make no apologies. In light of that, I came to see how our state motto fits us to a t.

We may fly by the seat of our pants, at times, but we definitely fly with our own wings!

Party Schmarty!

Maybe it's because I'm an artist. (love my solitude!)

Maybe it's because I'm over 50. (been there, done that!)

Maybe it's because in my line of work, teaching adults, I get to interact with so many different people. And lecturing is exhausting.

Or maybe it's because I have better things to do.

Truth is, I don't care for parties anymore! Crowded social events filled with people I don't know or want to, making small talk, just does not appeal to me.

I'd much rather listen to music, sipping liqueur at an intimate venue or stay home curled up with a good book and a warm cupppa tea.

Ahhhhmen!

"So what!?"

It's a sad day for America when a national ad (Dunkin' Donuts) gets pulled because the popular TV spokeswoman (Rachel Ray) is wearing a scarf with fringe (that looks) similar to what Arabs wear.

In the eternal words of Dick Cheney, 'So what!?' For goodness sake's, it's just a scarf that an unwitting stylist provided.

Have Americans become so paranoid as to read into a piece of cloth more than the fashion statement it was intended to be?

Sad, indeed!

Cheap or Frugal?

There's a difference between being cheap and frugal. Cheap brags about being cheap while frugal is a quiet knowing of how to stretch a buck without having to tell everyone.

Cheap never splurges or allows niceties. Frugal is a balance between good budgeting and periodic indulgence, knowing a treat is the reward for smart spending.

Cheap is repeatedly buying something of lesser value and wondering why it doesn't last. Frugal is knowing that to spend a little bit more now will save a lot more later.

Cheap is charging friends to go to your party. Frugal is saving up for it all year so loved ones can celebrate YOU without footing the bill.

Cheap never sleeps; frugal rests well.

Memorial Day

Ah, holidays...when most people leave town making Portland even quieter than usual. Since those with children take advantage of long weekends to hit the beach or the mountains, we choose not to.

Life goes on in the city but at a slower, more leisurely pace; it's so easy to get around. Even with exhorbitant fuel prices, vacationers are still doing what they do every year: they go away.

Hooray for us who stay!

North, South, East, West!

In one week, we went from woolens to linens to woolens. Oh, my!

That's Oregon...unseasonably cool or hot but mostly unpredictable.

I actually like it. For one thing, our weather is never boring. It's not unusual to experience extreme temperature fluctuations like last week--from 60's to 90's--which makes living here very interesting.

Truth is, I wouldn't live where the weather was perpetually the same and the seasons, indistinguishable.

Like everything else in life, I suppose it's because we are all creatures of habit and products of our environment. Having lived north of the 45th parallel my whole life probably explains why a change of seasons and temperatures is so vital to me.

I need variety.

I love the rain on my face, sun on my back and wind in my hair. I need the cold as much as I need the warmth.

But had I grown up in the South, I'd probably love seeing the Big Yellow Orb, day in and day out, living in lightweight clothing twelve months of the year.

For my skin's sake, I'm glad I was born a Northerner. And for my soul's sake,

I'm glad I live Out West!

If You Could...

There's a question many interviewers ask their subjects that I find very intriguing. Posed mostly to famous people, older celebrities who claim to know a thing or two as they look back in retrospect, that question is:

"If you could, what would you tell your Younger Self?"

If I could, I'd tell my Younger Self,

"It's okay not to know who you are in your twenties. It is the rare few who do.

Whatever you do, go and see as much as you can while you are young and unattached. Travel the world for it is in those adventures, your Authentic Self will emerge.

While it's true the world will always be there (or so we hope!) to explore, it is infinitely easier to travel freely and unencumbered by responsibilities and kid$.

And for goodness sake, quit worrying about finding The One...and marriage. You have the rest of your life to be married...if that's what you ultimately want.

Life will unfold accordingly, the good, bad and ugly. But all of it will serve you well and you will survive to become who you are today."

With all its bumps and travails, life did unfold and I'm all the better for having wondered and wandered.

Do Not Discuss!

He likes her and she likes him. I'm not talking about Boy Meets Girl.

Or.

He likes him and she likes her. No, not about homosexuals either.

So, what am I talking about?

I'm talking about spouses who can't discuss the upcoming election because it evokes too much passion and sometimes erupts into nastiness. That so many couples are at odds with each other over this primary speaks to the level of intensity amongst voters unlike any other time within recent political history.

After all, for the last eight years almost everyone agrees: the current administration has been a total train wreck. That's why this election is so important and why the tension, so palpable.

Not just between the nominees, but in households across America, there is a Great Divide this year.

And the candidates think they're exhausted!

Couldn't Have Said It Better

A creative life is one unlike the norm. Most people who write or sing or paint for a living do not inhabit the usual 9 to 5 world. Theirs is a full-time endeavor stretching beyond the confines of a designated time frame.

To be sure, being creative for a living is one of uncertainty, insecurity and some may say, insanity; definitely not for the faint of heart. It requires both a strong faith and belief in oneself beyond what it takes to fulfill the eight hours of day most people work.

No clock to punch or daily assignment from a superior, it is a life of self-discipline and motivation. Without it, nothing gets accomplished.

The life of an artist is difficult to categorize. Often dependent on inspiration, an intangible concept, one cannot make beautiful 'anything' without being inspired whether by muses or visuals.

To stifle the negative self-talk and nay-sayers requires a steely dedication and determination, one that runs non-stop.

The great grandfather of Portland's art scene, Harry Wentz, once said:

"Art is not a profession; it is a way of life."

I couldn't have said it better!

A Woman's Prerogative

Never have I been a flip-flopper especially where the subject of politics is concerned. But never before have I been so unsure of who to vote for in Oregon's upcoming presidential primary, May 20.

One day, I am confidant my vote will go to Obama whose voice I find to be honest and forthright. The next day, I'm reminded of the experience and lifetime of hard work Hillary has whereas Obama is a relative newcomer.

Most importantly, for the first time in forty years, OREGON WILL MATTER.

If Barack Obama takes Oregon, he may go so far as to claim the Democrat's nomination victory right here on Oregon soil.

That. Is. Huge.

That's why my own vote is so important. I have less than 6 days--and counting--to figure it out.

Not a word I'd ever use as a personal description, but this time it fits to a t: Undecided. That's me!

How very sad!

Myanmar. China. Thailand. Indonesia. Bali.

Whenever a major natural disaster occurs anywhere in the world, the USA is quick to offer aid but when our own needed immediate rescue [Hurricane Katrina], where was the relief?

The same is true of other crises. We are so quick to offer help to some (mortgage bankers) while letting others (homeowners) languish.

Now we have an undeniable war-without-end on our hands, unless we elect someone who is willing and able to 'pull the plug'.

If all the revenue we send world-wide annually, including to Israel, were actually u$ed here, to $pend on infrastructure (bridges, roads, schools, alternative energy, etc) perhaps our economy wouldn't be in such dire $trait$.

If Uncle Sam helped American citizens as readily as he helps others, just think what a better America this could be!

Naive`? Perhaps! Idealistic? You bet!

That. I. am.

Win, Lose or Draw

When I look back on my childhood, I can honestly say it was a happy one with two parents at the helm who loved each other; a home devoid of abuse of any kind, physical or emotional; no alcoholism, incest, gambling or adultery.

At the time, I never knew how lucky I was. Though that's not to say I felt lucky. On the contrary, I always felt deprived because my parents never caved in to giving us whatever we wanted.

Instead, they focused all their attention and income on giving us other "things"; that which they knew was more important: good food, a warm, clean bed, a private school education and LOVE, lots of unconditional LOVE.

That's not to say I grew up in la-la-land. Ha-ha-hardly!

My mom was a screamer. Ach! Now, looking back, I can see why. She had four teenagers during the 60's and 70's. There was a revolution going on but not just in the music industry. The era of 'Drugs, Sex and Rock 'n' Roll' definitely took its toll.

That my parents survived those years and stayed together is nothing short of a miracle but not unlike all my friends' parents who were dealt the same cards.

Deal or fold? My parents dealt with us, head on and we were better off because of it.

Something only time and wisdom could impart.

More Pedal, Less Metal

It turns out there are some positive, unintended consequences to the constantly-rising gas prices.

Say what?

The $urge in fuel oil, coupled with Americans' gas-guzzling automobiles, are getting commuters to consider alternate modes of transport, sending lots onto public transportation--many for the first-time, into carpools and onto bicycles.

This bodes well.

I'm not in favor of sky-rocketing gas prices, but if it gets more people off the roads, perhaps it is...

...Not. All. Bad.

Got Spring?

A rose here, an iris there, clematis and honeysuckle both bursting with buds ready to explode...

...but here in the Pacific Northwest, Mother Nature has not been kind this Spring!

Tulips came in on time but relentless rains and snows(!) in April withered their edges prematurely. Instead of stately, they looked sad so I cut most from my garden to bring them in where they might find a more favorable climate.

But mostly I cut them for sheer enjoyment of their vivid colors; in the kitchen window to cheer me and remind me, it IS in fact, Spring despite the gloomy, grey skies overhead.

I know Spring will eventually arrive but She will not come in with a purr. Instead, She will be extreme just like weather all over the country has been this year.

Weatherman is predicting 92 degrees by next Friday. This, after months of temperatures hovering in the 50's!

To think, some people are still skeptical of global warming!

$timulu$ Package

So, that $1200. dollars "W" promised, showed up in our checking account a couple days ago.

Initially, I laughed at the notion of Bush's $olution to the rece$$ion... to hand out revenue. But shortly thereafter, I realized we were going to get a four-digit check...soon.

Hhhmmm, how nice!

At the urging of our economically-challenged President (to go buy--something frivolous--in order to stimulate the economy)just like that, I let myself gooooo...

...to the clog shop

...where my friend works

...to get that pair I've always wanted.

Without flinching, I bought a pair of 3-digit clogs I'd had my eyes on for a l-o-n-g time.

You see, I've never bought a pair of shoes for over 100 dollar$. Unlike Carrie Bradshaw, I cannot fathom the idea of forking over, say $400, for a pair of "designer" footwear.

Tres unconscionable to moi!

But this one-time phenomenom seemed like the right time to do something totally outside my normal behavior. Afterwards, I wondered if I might not actually like them, knowing they were borne of ill-begotten mean$.

Nah!

I came to see they were the perfect metaphor. Every time I'm stomping and clomping around on the pavement, it is a physical renouncement of Bush.

Thanks, W!

Analyze This!

Do you know anyone who studied or got a degree in psychology?

Two acquaintances from my past did and as I got to know them better, I came to believe they studied psychology because each one was "quite a case".

Others with whom I've discussed this agreed. They, too, knew psych majors, only to arrive at the same conclusion: those who studied the subject were, indeed, in need of analyzing.

I'm not knocking therapy for I understand it has done volumes of good for many who have sought help or relief from what ails them. But imagine telling your troubles to someone who may be even more troubled.

Notice the root word of analyze is "anal".

Air, Earth, Fire & Water

I have a theory about people which some may find too "woo-woo" but I think there's a lot of weight to it.

Though I recognize a person's being is more a result of DNA than anything else, still, I believe the position of stars and planets at the time of one's birth has an uncanny influence on one's personality.

Each astrological sign, ruled by certain planets, is one of four elements: air, earth, fire or water.

And it makes all the difference!

For example, as an Aquarian, an air sign ruled by Uranus, planet of unpredictability, I need lots of AIR! Space. Freedom. Independence.

Ditto, for the two other air signs: Libra and Gemini.

Fire signs, Leo, Sagittarius and Aries are known for their intensity. You do not want to invoke the wrath of a fire sign!

Earth signs, Virgo, Capricorn and Taurus, are the workhorses of the zodiac. Stubborn as the day is long, those born under an Earth sign are usually dogged in their determination. Get out of their way!

And then there's the Water signs: Pisces, Scorpio and Cancer. Aahhhh, how to say this nicely? Wishy-washy, overly-sensitive and moody, those born under a water sign usually have the most drama in life but, not sure why, seem to revel in their travails. Sigh!

Looking around at the people in my life, it's easy to see their "element" fits them to a tee. So, it's not lost on me how strongly the planets influence our yins, yangs and yearnings.

Encore!

Oh, the Dogma!

Growing up Catholic, I learned a litany of jargon. Tis a testament to the myriad reasons young children are simultaneously frightened and skeptical about religion.

Let us review:

GOD -- Our Great Creator, Infallible, Omnipresent and Supreme; given male persona, also referred to as He or Him.

Sins -- Venial and Mortal. Venial sins, like Life Infractions, are redeemed by serving "penance". Mortal sins, like taking someone's life, are a serious matter for which greater penance is required.

Penance -- as consequence of actions, it is required compensation; usually consists of praying 5 Hail Mary's and 10 Our Father's after making confession to a priest.

Priest -- purveyor of all things Catholic; he who serves God by ad'ministering' to the poor and rich alike while also serving Mass and other duties like presiding over marriages and funerals.

Mass -- the ritual or liturgy of turning wine into the blood and bread into the Body of Christ in order to give Communion to the people.

Communion -- the ingesting of wafer bread and wine for healing and redemption.

Confession -- one of the Sacraments enabling a parishioner to purge missteps (aka sins) in order to clean spiritual plate, by revealing 'sins' in private.

Heaven -- a place of eternal peace, happiness and joy bestowed upon those who live a righteous earthly life determined by God at The Pearly Gates on Judgement Day.

HELL -- a VERY HOT place where all evil-doers are damned forever.

Purgatory -- a middle sphere between heaven and hell where a soul goes to do penance for sins not deemed serious enough for HELL.

Limbo -- an ether world where babies go if they die before being baptized.

So, you see, that's a lot for kids to understand. Nowadays, I have a more androgonous view of God. I prefer to believe G.O.D is an acronym:

General Omnipotent Deity.

Genderless and Autonomous.

Has anyone come back to report Otherwise?

Amen!

"And so it came to pass..."

Growing up in the Catholic Church, I heard those words often as the opening lines of the "gospel according to whomever": Paul, Luke, Mark, or one of the other Apostles.

Called a parable, there was always a lesson to be learned or a moral to the story.

But as a fidgety child forced to sit through hours of sermons, I could only wonder how any of it would tie into my adult life. I was just too young to understand.

So, once grown, I did as many others: left organized religion and never looked back.

It strikes me as no coincidence that I came to live in Oregon, a place known as one of the most "unchurched". An interesting dichotomy is that, back east, Oregon is called "God's Country."

Why?

Because it is so damn beautiful where ever you look, only a Supreme Being could have created such a Paradise. And we, its "parishioners" know, His/Her presence and handiwork are everywhere here.

So, it seems redundant to go within four walls to seek peace and meditation when it can be found in so many places out-of-doors. But I understand many people join churches to be part of a flock or a community; to hear a message that may resonate throughout their week ahead.

Fine for them.

As for me, I'll take a walk through a quiet garden or The Grotto, where I feel the hand of the Great Creator just as surely as I would if I were sitting in a church pew.

Amen!

"It"

It means as many different things to as many different people. Though it's fleeting and indescribable, we pursue it with the veracity of a devout fan. It is, after all, our inalienable right and we may go to the ends of the earth to seek and find.

It. Is. Happiness.

Depending on one's definition, Happiness can "be" or "do".

Many people would describe their happiest day as one being quiet, reading or meditating. Instead of seeking it, their happiness can be found in solitude.

But many others find happiness by doing. A restless soul needs travel and adventure for which wanderlust is the only cure.

Still others have a simpler definition; happiness may just mean a warm bed at the end of a hard day's work.

On the other hand, kids find happiness everywhere, some by simply rustling around in a pile of autumn leaves. If something captures their curiosity, kids are quick to investigate. Since they're too young to restrain their impulses, they act on them; instant gratification!

Once we become adults, we learn to temper our impulses...sometimes to the very detriment of our own happiness.

Quel damage!

Driving While Flying

I am one of those types who gets attached to cars. I've only owned a handful in my life and of those vehicles, I'm most sentimental about my ol' 1987 Honda Accord LXi...that's still with me...165,000 miles and goin' strong.

Knock. On. Wood.

She's been a sweet, faithful mobile and for that I've kept her around. Now that she's over 20 years old, I won't be getting rid of her. Instead, I'm embellishing her exterior with shards.

Shards of what, you ask?

Mostly winged-things like butterflies and fairies because Old Faithful still flies. She is the mode of transport that brings me closest to that feeling without actually leaving terra firma. You see, I like to be grounded when I fly.

Once in a while on the open (dry!) road (to the beach) I find myself driving almost 80 miles an hour! Whoa! I don't even notice, until it appears other cars are standing still.

Not that I fly alone!

No matter the posted limit, others speed too though I know that doesn't make it right or legal. In my defense, at least I'm not talking on a cell phone, putting on make-up, eating a Big Mac or texting while driving.

When I'm flying in my car, I hold on tight with both hands...for dear life...because despite that fleeting feeling of flight while driving, I get it:

Speed kills!

Ga$ $uck$!

Boy, do I feel old! When I first started driving in 1971 the cost of gas was twenty-five cents a gallon.

That's right! A quarter a gallon!

Back then, I had a Volkswagon beetle which filled up on $2.50. That's right, two dollars and fifty cents!

The latest consumer reports indicate that Americans are flocking to buy smaller vehicles. No surprise! Since we all rely on fuel to feed our cars, we are stuck! With the cost of a barrel of oil continuously ri$ing, there's no chance we will ever see a return to prices of yore.

So, suck it up, people! We are the product of our environment! Until we get angry enough and mobilize, we will continue to be Patsies to the Powers-that-Be!

Got Hope?

As an artist, being thrifty is a way of life for me. The daily juggle of needs versus wants is an ongoing struggle.

Our country's current economic downtown has many people who previously spent wantonly scrambling to learn how to be frugal as gas prices nudge towards $4 a gal.

Who knew that being thrifty would become so nifty?!

Nothing new for me, learning to live within one's income is, I believe, a good lesson for everyone especially Americans who have become so accustomed to "buying things" just because we can.

But in this new world order, more people are hyper-aware of conserving every energy source. If that's an unfortunate result of current world politics, it's a worthy outcome for we have become a bloated nation.

Not used to waiting for any thing, we are bloated on consumption of fast food, fast cars and fast results. Perhaps the belt tightening on every one's part will make for a 'greener', more aware populace.

One can hope.