American Visionary Art Museum

Come take a trip with me to a land of no boundaries, and no rigid pre-conceived ideas about art. I promise you will have fun!

You are going on a great googly-moogly trip to funky fun-town!

Let's ride down the river of free imagination. Let's get surprised, 
and fill our heads full of wonder and awe. Play, play, play!

Allow the shiny happy things in life to shimmer and shine their way into your heart. Watch and run through the sparkles and rainbows that scatter in all directions from this 'Universal Tree Of Life.' This is just like the Queen's own room of natural rainbows, gotten from stringing all manner of crystals in every window. The sun and earth together can make magic happen! So can you! Feel your lightness!

Yes just let your mind go. Be free to think silly thoughts and smile loudly! Now how often do you see a nest full of people? We are in a wonderland of ideas made manifest. We are happy like wax lips!

Yes, there are real peeps in that nest.

Where in the mad hatters world are we my dear? We are at the American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore Hon! There are no rules here...no boxes...and no formally trained artists.

Since they don't allow cameras inside the buildings my photos are taken in their outside spaces, which happen to have a few funtastical sculptures that I can share with you. I do wish I could have shown you the beautiful blue bottle covered hearse in the Jim Rouse Visionary Building. Elvis would have adored it!

Feast your eyes on this eight foot mosaic egg! The Queen loves eggs... and sparkly things...so I really wish for this sculpture to be in my castle! I just want to hug it! Gorgeous from every angle and when the sunbeams hit it look out! The mosaic design is based on the photos taken with the Hubble Telescope of our beautiful galaxy.

The museum sits next to Federal Hill where crowds come to watch movies on this wall with the giant hand over the big movie screen. Imagine that the hand is going to reach down and pluck someone right out of a movie scene. Bwah-hahahaha

It's time to go and see the crazy funkyfide art that lives inside The American Visionary Art Museum. Oh there is that egg again! Can't get enough of it!    Speaking of Galaxies, the show inside AVAM right now is called  'All Things Round - Galaxies, Eyeballs, and Karma!'  You have to visit the AVAM website as it is a wonderment in itself, plus you will get a peek at some of the things going on in the museum.

After going through all the levels of the museum we were hungry! So we went to 'Mr. Rain's Fun House' for lunch located on the top floor of the museum. Since it was a very warm October day we decided to eat outside on the patio over looking Federal Hill and the giant whirligig kinetic sculpture that constantly spins and moves in the breeze.

Oh My! The food is just as fantastic as the exhibitions of AVAM! Let's eat! While we waited our server brought us some soft pretzel bites and honey mustard. This Philly girl was extra happy when they brought us a second round of these fun little delights!

Wowie Zowie the food here was soooooo good! This is no museum cafe folks, 'Mr Rain's Fun House' is a really awesome restaurant!
Our first course was Butternut Squash Soup. Mmmm a fall favorite!

Then came one the best sandwiches I have ever eaten! I am getting hungry just looking at this salmon fillet sandwich again! Look at that bread all full of holes. So good!

Ben had an Asian salad and veggie sandwich combo.

Of course the art work does not stop at the restaurant door. They have big funky bottle cap n' pearled animal-like heads hanging out on the walls of the patio Fun House for your viewing pleasure.

Ben and I usually share a dessert and this was a yummy work of art!

As we stare deeply into all the mosaic walls covering the AVAM's exterior walls, we think we are so glad to have taken this trip through time and space and arrived at such a place of artistic freedom. I may love the 'old masters,'  but I also know when it's time to indulge my inner child! This museum is the perfect outlet for a zany zippy toothy grin-fest! You certainly will remember the pieces of art that immediately made you say, "How cool is that!"

If you are ever in Baltimore a trip to AVAM funky fun town should be a priority. The museum is filled with all kinds of inventive pieces from tramp art to phantasmagorical paintings. It is located between the Inner Harbor and the Federal Hill area at 800 Key Highway. There is also a fun spirited museum shop called Sideshow that will keep you busy looking at all the loony and kitschy gifts.

Just watch that Egg... there may be other worldly beings transporting through this galaxy gateway to check out the joint during your visit!

PQ found this universal message in the parking area. Spread the Love!

Reclaiming My Health : Part One "The Unknown"

Writing about my own medical issues and personal situations is subject matter I did not plan on speaking about on this blog.  Since now I have a positive outcome, I feel I can share with others my own life lessons on how to handle chronic medical issues. It is my hope that this series may be of use to someone. I will break the subject matter into parts and post in between my other blog posts.

First let me say that I am grateful for my current good health, and 
I do not put what I have gone through in any way equal to the life changing situation that a friend of ours endures, which is the result of brain surgery due to a ruptured aneurysm.  My own journey may have been difficult, and even still have it's ups and downs, but 
I always try to remember that no matter your situation in life, someone else is having a more difficult time.  I try to be grateful 
for what I can do in life, even when it has only been breathing.

My reemergence into feeling healthy took about three years to materialize. Now the light has begun to be visible in my life once again, and even to others. I feel I have regained the strength to look back on some dark days and pull out the lessons. We never lost hope, but there were times it seemed like it was going to become "the never ending story of medical world." For two and a half years I had medical appointments every single week. I am not kidding about that fact at all. That was our reality. I had to keep a chart of where to be and what medication to be taking. Quite a boring subject to talk about to someone when they ask casually "how you are doing?" 
For a long time I said nothing to anyone. Who wants to hear about this stuff?  When I did not attend my husbands events, he would just say that I did not feel well. Perhaps interpreted as if I had a passing cold. Ben certainly did not want to go into details about our current lifestyle of constant doctor visits and procedures. After awhile  
I realized people may be thinking that I am not attending Ben's gigs because I am disinterested. Not so. The truth is I could not walk across my own living room. Running my organs and just breathing was all my body could handle. Well thank goodness for that!

I have no insurance and have for years avoided medical visits completely unless it was my last resort. I might call a doctor friend once a year to get a prescription. My physical life radically changed shortly after I got married to the soul mate that I had been waiting for all my life. I thought, "this is not happening during my happily ever after!" Well It was happening, and I cannot deny how it took over our lives. Eventually after you have spent every night lying in bed vibrating like an old lawn mower, and hoping your are not having a heart attack, you change your mind about contacting a doctor. 
If you really want to live...you have to call on someone to help you. What happened then is a story to be told in a later series post.

The frustrations of things not getting any better, then more body systems going out of whack would be overwhelming. All one could do was take it one day at a time...for real. I often wondered if it would all ever stop and I could one day again live my life as I had envisioned. I saw myself as a healthy vibrant woman enjoying her loved ones as well as having something to contribute to the world. 
So I would chant to myself over and over, "I am not my body... 
I am not my body...I am spirit having a human experience"

I also needed to recognize while I live in this world, I did have a body, and I would have to deal with my broken systems. I just could not get lost in the body issues or the mental game of ever feeling sorry for myself. One of the hardest lessons I had to learn was just letting other people do things for me. After all I was the eldest child and mother figure to five siblings, a single working mom to my own children, and eventually was a woman who started her own business. I was tough and could do it all myself. Being unable to clean my house, work in the garden, and take care of other normal everyday chores was downright weird. I was too young to feel like ninety! Truth is I did feel that old, and I kept asking "why?" Where did the "me" that I knew and loved go? Why doesn't it stop? Why are more things getting added to my list of things wrong with my body? When will this end...if ever? Year after year. I was supposed to be better by now.

I lived on our sofa for months at a time and stared at the world passing me by. When we would leave for a doctor or lab appointment. My husband had to hold onto me, and carefully walk me down the few steps to the car. I shuffled along to wherever I needed to be hoping someone would give me good news. It just got to be more of the same...just a different day. Really? When will this stop happening? What do I need to do? How can I approach this differently? Is this my new life? How can I get the most out of where I am at now? My medical issues had combined into a cocktail that put my body systems out of balance. One by one they would need to be addressed to lighten the load on my messed up vehicle. I will write about what my personal medical issues are in future posts. Right now I want to speak to that feeling of frustration with the unknown. You cannot live in fear of anything. You must understand the Universe loves you and remind yourself of this fact often. Yes you will whimper and cry, and yes you will get sad about your situation. You cannot live that everyday though. You must look for the good. My blessing is having a husband who is like no other man I have known. No one else in my life would have taken care of me the way this man has done. Thank goodness I am with him at this time in my life!

After listening to friends speak about the various health concerns that start to creep up on us at our age, I found that many take their doctor's word about everything and do not think to question this authority figure. Since I was over-run with a plethora of ailments 
and had to see numerous medical personnel I can say 60% of those medical personnel or systems I encountered made mistakes. Those mistakes affected my quality of life every time. So it is with a strong recommendation that my first "tip" is to keep a personal medical log book of all lab tests, including your own records of blood pressure and weight from any doctor visit. You need to know your own history and body. This also gives you the real information from which to look up what everything means on the internet. You become better informed and ask important questions of your doctors. So please start keeping a medical log notebook now if you have any medical concerns with your health. Get a notebook and a three hole punch. Put section tabs for your basic info such as weight and blood pressure readings, 
a section for those papers that come from the pharmacy explaining your prescriptions, another section for lab tests, notes, and a section for the medical bills as well. Your doctors will be happy you did this as it helps them be current with your information. Bring it to every doctor and lab visit. You will have a clear record to catch and correct mistakes. I will talk about those errors in another post.

During your personal trials of life just try to be grateful for anything positive you can find, and concentrate on those things, however little. The mind is a powerful tool and will multiply what you think about, and manifest it in your life. This is because the Universe reflects your thoughts. So I kept visualizing perfect health. 

While unable to walk around and participate in my own life, I still could sit and watch my grand daughter playing and growing before my eyes. That is a treasure. So while you are in the thick of it, just keep the light near and remember who you really are.

Disclaimer:I am not a doctor and this series is not to be taken as medical advice, so please consult with your medical professional about any medical issues you may be experiencing.

Top Illustration and photo, "The Continuing Storm" by Crystal Visions Art   
Textures: Shadowhouse Creations    
Bottom Illustration by Crystal Visions Art: Frame: Shadowhouse Creations, 
Elements and Textures: Crystal Visions Art and Studio Gypsy (retired)

Attack Of The Santas! and Snowmen! and Elves!

It was a dark and chilly night like any other night in this small country town. I was sitting at a teensy-tiney table at a cozy little bar on the east side of town, watching my hubby play acoustic guitar. Suddenly a large band of ruffians entered the room hooting and hollering. They were pushing forward and filling the small bar in all directions including the outside porch. Dressed in red Santa suits, Santa dresses, Santa mini-skirts. elf gear, Santa hats, and glowing lights, the space filled fast. There was even a giant abominable snowman!

Accompanied by a pair of polite Marines carrying a donation bucket, this sudden invasion was the 3rd annual Santa Pub crawl organized to raise money for the 'Toys For Tots' program in our area.

Ben continued to play classic rock tunes rallying the crowd into sing-a-longs! They gladly participated, singing and dancing with their merry little selves...or elves. Song requests were made and played. The donation bucket was passed around in the ensuing frenzy.
"Santa Is In The Building!" a large Elvis Santa exclaimed! And so he was, and quite a jolly ole' fellow. Since I only had my teensy-tiny phone camera with me this past weekend, I did my best to capture the magnitude of the massive Santa attack on this venue. The Santa people just kept streaming into the bar. It was red Chaos! So how often do you see "Frosty" drinking a beer? Or Santa? Or a gaggle of Santa's drinking for that matter?

Unfortunately the Queen had to quickly vacate her teensy-tiny table due to a flock of young chickies who started to fill the Queens table with their drinks as if the Queen was not present. They were so busy squawking, texting, and taking photos of each other, they were obviously unaware of their rudeness. The Queen's Guardian Angels whispered to "get out now!" "Something is going to happen!" I quickly scooped up my belongings from the table and shoved them into my precious fairy bag. As I stood and turned to leave the area, the foreign drinks on my table began falling over and spilling in all directions. I was thankful I heeded the message to vacate the area, other wise my notepad, me, and my bag would be a sticky wet mess. 

Then the rude girls who caused this minor incident, turned their backs, and ignored my requests to pass, so that I could go sit by my hubby up front. Since I have encountered this behavior in other venues with young women before, I wonder if parents teach their children kindness and consideration anymore. Not the first time my dining table in a club has been used as a trash bin for young adults drinks. I say get your nose out of your phone, come down from your "me, me, me cloud" and notice what's actually happening around you, in the now, little teensy-tiny girls! I also notice they will often ignore each other, to text someone else, that they are having a wonderful time...doing what?....texting?

Eventually the Queen was able to take refuge from the claustrophobic red velvet crowd on a bench near the hubby. Safe from the invasion at last! No it is not the first time I had to save myself from over zealous young people. Once a girl decided to do a cheer-leading flip onto some guy and kicked me in the side. Never a dull moment on the road! Even on a teensy-tiny one!

The crowd was having a great time singing with Ben and that was fun to watch. Even the owner was dancing with the Santa girls. He then thanked Ben for doing a great job of uplifting the crowd, and making great music for everyone to enjoy. The long line of Santa's trailed out and into their yellow school bus, a bit happier than when they came to this bar...and the Queen let out a teeny-tiny sigh of relief. 
Ho! Ho! Ho!

A New Baby To Love!

Welcome Liam Patrick! It's been a whirlwind of a week! This little guy came a few days earlier than my daughter expected and everyone was scrambling to take care of baby biz.  Liam weighed 9 pounds, just like his big sister Aowyn! He is officially the family's Christmas present this year! How cool is that!!!???!!!

When Aowyn first saw her little brother Liam she exclaimed "Baby!"  The following day when Aowyn saw him she said, "Another Baby!"   
Of course Grandpa is thrilled to be experiencing a little boy too.

Aowyn was so gentle and just wanted to constantly pet Liam's little head. She spontaneously and gently kissed his forehead too. At two and a half Aowyn still has to learn not to lean her weight on him, and to be calm and careful. Tapping on Liam's clear bassinet in the hospital and calling out to him was a fun game for our girl!

When Liam would make any crying sounds Aowyn would say, "You okay Baby?" "It's alright baby." Then she would look around and make sure the adults were noticing the baby needed something.

Our little guy Liam is so alert and constantly looking around, even though we know his vision is limited to up close faces. Which is why 
I just love this photo of him concentrating on Grandpa Ben!

 

While my daughter and Aowyn's daddy stayed at the hospital with their new baby. Aowyn stayed with us. Grandpa and Grandmum got 
full days and nights of Aowynisms and her non-stop energy. Watching Grandpa read her bedtime stories was so precious! Took me back to when I read books every-night to my two babies. Good times.

I hope your holidays are filled with good surprises and awesome presents! We are feeling thankful and blessed that everyone is doing so well. Life is good at the Castle. It's easy to see why Grandmum and Grandpa will be having more years of adventures in toddler land!

Frames and some backgrounds: Coffee Shop Blog, Textures: Shadowhouse Creations, Other Backgrounds: Eledhwen, Manu Designs, Bottle caps: Paula Kesselring

A Rustic Family Tradition

For the past couple of years we have been attending an old fashioned celebration of Thanksgiving in a cabin. The charm of this situation totally suits the gathering of friends and family associated with the Thanksgiving holiday. The beautiful drive in the country to get to the secluded location is down long winding roads, past old farms, and through small towns. We feel grateful and fortunate to have been invited to share in this unique tradition created by the generous family of one of Ben's relatives. I just love this cabin, and the love that goes into making this communal event something special for 

so many people! Truly a day of thanks and giving.

The feeling of warmth you get from this old camp located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge mountains is absolute perfection. A central stone fireplace with a hearth on both sides, fills the room with heat and a relaxing place to sit and enjoy being in an old rocker. Certainly a great place to catch up with the relatives and warm our toes.

It is a large and friendly group that comes together to share the great outdoors and the cozy cabin atmosphere. There were about 37 people sharing Thanksgiving together in this space. The only thing that would make it more perfect for me, is to have my children drive out one year and share in this experience. Not to worry though, I did visit with my babies after Ben and my glorious afternoon in the country.

It is my guess that this private fishing and hunting club has been in existence since the late 1800's. The rustic main cabin is filled with the kind of old memorabilia you would expect to see in such a time honored place. It is living breathing vintage that's still being used to it's fullest potential today. Surely that is the way it should be.

The cabin sits on the edge of a large creek that after three days of rain had over run its banks.  The water was just feet from the cabin and caused road closures in the area just one day before Thanksgiving. Lucky for us that rushing water receded, and we had 
a warm, sunny, and wonderful autumn day. Everybody was happy, 
and all was right with the world. You can feel the goodness in those moments and be grateful. Being in nature gives you a chance to meditate on those thoughts in the ultimate peaceful surroundings.

There are many old group photos of the members of the club from over the years on the cabin walls. Old fashioned scenes of camping, and men standing in front of the very same cabin wearing the patina of time. This camp is still used by it's members all year long, weather permitting. The main cabin and surrounding land reminds you of a time when there was no television, people enjoyed the outdoors, each others company, and reading. How refreshing not to be assaulted by football and obnoxious commercials, and live the true spirit of Thanksgiving... Family, friends and great food.

Sitting on this stunning property is an expansive field next to a pond, just right for the sporty types to get their game on for real. For those who would like to relax while they enjoy nature there are many weathered picnic tables in the shade of various venerable old trees.

Families that are associated with this club have had their private cabins for generations. It's a fantastic tradition of sharing with your family and friends something other than a TV screen and a hand held device. You have to love that these days! Needless to say there is no need to replace that authentically aged sign either.

Everywhere I turn I find treasures and time worn items. Even the 
new addition to the cabin porch is done with that natural cabin style. But something was missing... Off I went looking for the old dinner bell that used to sit where this railing is today. I found that the old iron bell was currently resting on the ground beyond the porch.

You can see the creek runs right along side of the cabin. Pretty cool! So picturesque! Oh I was talking about the hubby! Well I think it's time to get back inside and see whats cooking! Hmmm I could have sworn that clock said ten of two before we walked outside... Most fishing and hunting cabins have their fair share of the ubiquitous stuffed animals on the walls, and this old place is no different. 
Saw a moose...saw a moose...did he do the fandango?

All the family members and guests bring a dish to contribute to the bounty of the many overflowing Thanksgiving bowls and platters that are set out on a table on the far side of the fireplace. The dessert table is up front by the entrance, I suppose so you can make a quick escape with your pumpkin muffin! Two very long wooden tables flank the room with rows of comfortably worn old wooden chairs on each side. I can smell ye olde' Turkey. So it's time to choose our seats, hold hands for a few kind words, and say grace.

Dinner was delicious, and I did a fair job of not overdoing it this year. Even with all the yummy dessert temptations, I only had a teaspoon taste each, of a pumpkin casserole, and an apple bake. Outside the sun is getting low on the creeks freshly made mud flats, and the girls are counting raffle tickets on the porch steps. I think we need to walk off dinner and stare into the calming effect of nature.

You can certainly see why I took so many pictures at this charming little camp. As I look at this photo of these branches from the woods next to me, something about it reminds me of the old John Lennon 'Imagine' album cover. Cool.... and hey, dig that 'Wizard of Oz' fighting tree with it's gnarled arms just below!

Our drive home during sunset was lovely and I was snapping photos out the car window! Silly me, a bit obsessed. I wish my eyes were a camera! Anyway, now we were off to round two of turkey time at my daughters home. My son was visiting and that is a rare treat! Oh, and I can't believe I had more to eat, but it was so gosh darn good!

You can view all of my images from this Rustic Cabin blog much larger in a slide-show format by clicking on the first photo. Even an image in the middle will do fine. A new larger view will open with a black background and then you can then click on each small thumbnail to scroll through the entire series. Images look much better that way!

Textures: Shadowhouse Creations, Frames: The Coffeeshop Blog