Patty has been under the weather. Jamie had a great idea to bring some home made Chicken Soup for her. There is nothing like chicken soup when you don't feel well. Hope you feel better, my sister.
Ready for delivery...
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November 2011
November 20, 2011
12 Days of Christmas, Continued...LA Phil Handel's "Water Concert"
In keeping with our 12 Days of Christmas concept we decided to go to the "Phil" and see a woman named Emmanuelle Haim conduct Handel's Water Music. Since I am in water and Jamie loves water I thought this would be a perfect outing to celebrate gifts from one true love to another. More about this later...
Waiting for the train...
Taking a little nap. This actually became the theme of the day...more on this later.
The K-9 Unit on Alert!
After taking over a dozen pictures of this cute working doggie her handler said to me, "She can tell you like her", as her little doggie tail wagged...
Jamie and I have been having deep conversations about Buck Fish and Jaw Fish. He does not like how he looks. I am thinking...so what...it is hysterical!!!! I even woke up to myself laughing out of control dreaming about Jaw Fish. How bad can that be. So, as I prompted by "vain" husband to pose - he struck a pose, instead, as Buck Fish. I, in turn, posed as Jaw Fish.
I am soooooooooooo sad Jaw Fish won't come out and play.....
And finally, Jaw Fish came out to play. I LOVE JAW FISH, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA....Honestly, who makes the better Jaw Fish...Jamie or me????
And, of course, the better Buck Fish...
Earlier in the week I stayed at the Wilshire Hotel for business. When I woke up in the morning I needed coffee. So, off I went in search of coffee...
I got general directions from the front desk and began walking in search of coffee, pitch dark at 5:30 am in downtown LA. For some reason, I am not afraid in this city. It embraces me in its entirety. Since I did not have my camera on said morning, here is a recreation of the search...
And then, I spied it. The Donut King!!!
Needing coffee desperately, out from the back comes this lively Asian man. Full of joy. Bouncing. I almost did not need coffee, filled with his energy and zest.
Me: Coffee Please.
Him: What about a Donut.
Me: No thank you. I am trying to watch what I eat.
Him: You have to try a Donut hole.
He took one out of the case. Told me how to eat it. Put it in your mouth in one piece. Push the donut hole with your tongue. See how it melts in your mouth. I did as he instructed and he was right.
Me: 2 more donut holes, please.
I wanted Jamie to meet my new friend, but alas, he was already there and gone. So, instead we got a shot of his lovely wife.
Yum...
As we were getting ready to pay, in walked our new friend. We treated him to a blueberry muffin and coffee. Jamie captured this amazing shot of our weathered friend...
Just outside of the Donut King, one of the local residents battened down for a quick snooze...
Stop, revel in the beauty of nature. Here, in the heart of the cold, concrete LA Jungle. A jungle flower.
Church for Sale!
Off we go "to explore the possibilities"....
Waiting for the train...
Here it comes...
Sights along the way...
Holding hands...
Grand Central Market...
Angel's Flight...
You are the one...we are the two...
We decided to eat lunch at Clifton's Cafeteria. An institution on the LA area. Armed with a map and our Smart Phones we navigated our way to eat. But, instead, we were welcomed by a "closed for remodel" sign...
So, we decided to walk to the Disney Concert Hall to see if we could find a new "dive" to explore. If not, we would eat at the Disney cafeteria, which always has something fun to eat...
The Main Event. We usually can get at least one shot of the orchestra before we get caught...here it is...
Written for King George I of Great Britain in 1717 and first performed by 50 musicians on a barge in the River Thames, Handel’s Water Music is a collection of three suites that exemplify Baroque orchestration, minus the harpsichord and timpani, which - let’s face it - would have been difficult to maneuver onto a barge in 1717. Despite these logistically-driven choices, George I reportedly loved the piece so much that he made his exhausted, boat-bound musicians play the whole thing three times before the river cruise ended.
This is where more of the "napping" action took place. I would look over and see Jamie do the head bob. Not to the sound of music, rather the sound of silent snoring. I have to honestly say, this was not our favorite performance. It is amazing the difference the conductor makes in our appreciation of the performance. That is the genious of Gustavo Dudamel. Even novice, beginner classical musical listeners like Jamie and me are vortexed into his world. The world of passion...and appreciation of the great masters.
On our way out, we saw a wedding taking place on the steps of the concert hall...
A movie set???
Sleep walking...
And talking...our new friend is attending a make up school in LA and practices on herself...
Before getting on the train we stopped and picked up some snacks. Sodas, chips, candy. All the healthy stuff. Jamie opened up his plastic bottle of Dr. Pepper. Fizzz, fizzz, volcano of soda exploding onto the table. Jamie got up to get napkins. Taking forever. Then, a black girl with suitcase, dressed nicely handed me some napkins. Thank you! Still, Jamie taking forever. She gets up. Comes back with newspaper. Here, she says. It is absorbant. She was right. Then, she said, it is also can be used to stay warm because it holds in the heat. I laughed. I know I said. When I was in high school me and a friend said we were going to stay at each other's house, which was a fib. For some reason whatever it was we were going to do did not pan out. Instead of going to someone's house we spent the night in my friends side yard, wrapped in newspaper to stay warm. Then, a tug at my heart. I realized she was probably homeless and used this technique herself. Then, the sherriff came. Ends up she had a forged ticket. They were going to do something to her. Walking her down the stairs. I called to the Sheriff..can I pay for her ticket? No, I am sorry, he said. Jamie followed them down the stairs. Told of how she helped us. How no one else even bothered to help. She said, no it's ok. She was close to her destination. And, they booted her off the train. I am sorry I did not get a shot of my friend. But, I will always have her image burned in my mind...God Speed....
November 13, 2011
Claremont with Karen
Karen and I have been friends a long time. We don't get much time together with busy careers and family lives. But, somehow we managed a full Saturday together. The destination...the Claremont McKenna Colleges. The Ivy League type west coast college consortium. Our plans, to tour the campuses and explore the cool downtown area. This day, nothing went as planned. No, not as planned - only better. Filled with surprises, adventure and terrifice people encounters. No, not as planned...better than planned.
Our train left the Riverside station at 6:20 am. Still dark. As we get to the station I must have gone the wrong way. Security yelling at me turn around, turn around!!!! All I can see is BIG buses and a narrow strip for turning. So, I just kept going...
Got to the station found the guard and immediated explained and apologized. She was nice about it and gave me a little hug. Ok, fixed that problem. Then, on to the next problem. We were told by the security guard there was not going to be a train taking us all the way to Claremont. We were going to be taking a bus to Rancho Cucamonga station and then transfer to the train station.
Off we go...
Arriving at the Rancho station the sun had come up and wiping away the dusky morning sky. I caught this guy by accident as I was shooting the bus.
Self portrait of me and my friend...
In Claremont on of the most recommended restaurants for breakfast is Walters. So, off we went...
Karen ordered the Eggs Benedict, me the oatmeal. The potatoes that came with her eggs were fantastic. Battered french fries, thin, crispy and flavorful. Try one...
My beautiful friend. So much history, common interests, parallell lives. I love you!!!
Karen navigated us to Bonita and College our meeting point for the tour of the campuses.
So, we took a seat in front of this lovely mansion waiting for our tour guide to arrive.
We waited, and we waited and we waited. No one came. Another plan gone down the drain. So, we decided to explore the area. Our first stop was this terrific store filled with great gift ideas for XMAS. Karen really wants to go back to do some shopping in this store for Katie...shhh...don't tell!!!
Karen said, look at that squirrell. As I looked up I saw his bushy tail and cute little fact spying at me. Watching to see if I was going to mess with his food source. How cute is he???
Love this fence gate...
Navigating our way to the next destination...
Just sight seeing along the way...
As we were walking across the street I heard someone yell out...Debbie Whitney. Then again, louder, DEBBIE WHITNEY!!!!! I turned around and saw Ben Serrato, who I worked with at Altura Credit Union. The best-worst job I have ever had. The people I met were great. Some of the experiences working with the community were awesome. The corporate culture---like working for a Stepford Company. Beautiful on the surface. Dysfunctional down to its core.
The fountain...
Time for lunch...
Claremont's beautiful tree-lined streets...
Some sights along the way...
The train station. Gorgeous!
As we got on the train to get back to the buses we met these 2 gentleman. Karen accidentally kicked one as we got on. He called her out in a joking way. We retaliated and the fun began. There was a younger black girl sitting near them who they must have been teasing before we got there. Immediately, the girls ganged up on the guys. Fun, until the man on the left began to refer to "fat women". Going on and on about stories. Asking if we were best friends. Was he referring to us. I could feel Karen's tone change. I tuned out.
As we sat on the benches waiting for the bus to arrive we talked about the 2 men. Were they referring to us? Was it a cultural complement? Black men are known to prefer fat women. Were they trying to pick us up???
Then, we watched them. The dapper one. One the phone. Chatting up someone on the phone with his mush-mouth black drawl. Karen began to immitate him. "He is busy". We began laughing histerically at this. Laugh, till we cried. Karen got video of our dudes. The dapper one "getting busy" on the phone and the other one "getting busy" chatting up a fat woman. What a player!!!!
Then, we began sneaking photos of them. Then, they saw us. Hey, take a picture of us!!!! Here they are...posing with their big, toothy, gap filled smiles...After seeing this photo we decided how cute they really were. We did not think they meant any harm. Just different cultures, coming together. We decided we really did like them, afterall.
We sat down next to a group of 3 young, black girls. One of them began to hold her breasts. Complained about how the pregnancy was bothering her boobs. Letting it all hang out. We began to chat them up. I then made a reference to the "baby daddy". Their response, that is so "ghetto". I could tell by the tone, this was NOT a good thing. They then educated me on the difference between a baby father and a baby daddy. This was a baby daddy. This was a relationship. Not someone she just "layed" with and got pregnant. I apologized. Then, she opened up. She was in a relationship. They broke up. She is 6 months pregnant. No job. Living with her mom. Feeling bad. She has been on her own for so long. Feeling like she is taking advantage. Wanting to be more secure than she is. Karen said, can we pray for you. The answer yes. We all held hands. Bowed our heads. Prayed, out loud for our new friend. God bless you dear Andrea (pictured on the right)~~~~
Yes, none of it went as we planned, but according to God's plan....
November 12, 2011
Eistein's Thoughts on Religion...
One of my personal heroes. I love the wild hair. The fun spirit. His ability not to take himself too seriously. The self-deprecating humor of arguably one of the greatest minds in human history. A man of God. But, not of religion. An interesting view point on the realm of God.
Credit: Internet website
- Before God we are all equally wise - and equally foolish.
- Do you believe in immortality? No, and one life is enough for me.
- God always takes the simplest way.
- I do not believe in the God of theology who rewards good and punishes evil.
- God does not care about our mathematical difficulties. He integrates empirically.
- God does not play dice.
- God may be subtle, but he isn't malicious.
- I cannot imagine a God who rewards and punishes the objects of his creation and is but a reflection of human frailty.
- I want to know God's thoughts... the rest are details.
- It was the experience of mystery - even if mixed with fear - that engendered religion.
- Morality is of the highest importance - but for us, not for God.
- My religion consists of a humble admiration of the illimitable superior spirit who reveals himself in the slight details we are able to perceive with our frail and feeble mind.
- One strength of the communist system of the East is that it has some of the character of a religion and inspires the emotions of a religion.
- When the solution is simple, God is answering.
- Whoever undertakes to set himself up as a judge of Truth and Knowledge is shipwrecked by the laughter of the Gods.
- That deep emotional conviction of the presence of a superior reasoning power, which is revealed in the incomprehensible universe, forms my idea of God.
- True religion is real living; living with all one's soul, with all one's goodness and righteousness.
- Science without religion is lame, religion without science is blind.
- All religions, arts and sciences are branches of the same tree
Christmas, Continued...
So, today we went for our massages and facials. I really love that Jamie and I enjoy the same activities. We can share so much in our life. It's what makes us closer and creates so many memories. Here we are in the waiting room...
Afterwards, we chatted about the Ipad Jamie bought. We both decided we should wait on the purchase. Right now we still have our TVs and bed to pay off. I think it is the right thing to do. Right present, wrong timing. But, I know we will eventually get one each. I can see us moving towards the Mac world. So, bye bye for now Ipad. Until we meet again...
November 11, 2011
Christmas Our Way
Yes, we still call it Christmas. So don't get your panties in a bunch about it! I am really getting annoyed that people are actually "sensitive" because we call it Christmas. Or we say God Bless you when someone sneezes. Yet, the same sensitivities do not apply when I am forced to listen to blasting rap music promising to kill, beat some "ho", women being referred to as bitches, or cursing up a storm next to some car that booms so loudly that I can actually feel the vibrations. I'm just saying...I will tolerate your music so please toleterate my reference to Christmas. Thank you!!!
Jamie and I initially were planning a 2-day trip to Disneyland. But, the forecast looked like rain. So, we decided to do a couples spa day with facials, massages and a dinner at one of our fav restaurants called Sevilla.
Last night was part one of our present. Dinner at Sevilla. It is funny, I still am excited to get ready for date night and spending time with my honey.
Gettin' ready to go...
Holding hands along the way. We still hold hands. We are still in love...
Here we are...
This is Jose our waiter. Jamie immediately went to the Jose-b joke. Ai yi yi!!!!
Waiting for the Sangria...
Cheers!!!
Waiting for the dinner...
Bon Appetito!!!!
Then, during our meal Jamie said he had to go to the bathroom. He got up. Turned and walked back down the stairs. Hmm...I noticed the big BATHROOM sign just right behind me. Ok, I knew something was up. Then he comes back. Takes out this lovely rose from our garden in one of my special vases. This would have been enough...
But then, out came the card and bag of gifts. He said, what do you think it is? She said, and IPAD, not really thinking it would be that. But then, it was!!!!
A little dessert...
And then, our old friends showed up to surprise us...
Jawfish...
Buckfish...
Love...our way. I can't wait for our spa day tomorrow...
Me. This moment. This time. A face with expressions and not filled with Botox. Natural, no make up. Wrinkles, skin tags, age spots...peace...
After dinner, we were escorted down the service elevator since I am still wearing my Franken Foot. To our surprise we dropped into a "scene". A hipster, young, youth fest. An art show where new talent were showing their wares for competiton. Hair, make up, clothes, accessories, art. It was not like being in Riverside, it was soooo trendy. Loud music, cool space, and beautiful young people. Fantastic. Jamie went around and took photos. His focus...the beautiful young women. Certainly, a good subject. As I was waiting I was viewing the room from a photographers eye. I would have focused more on the grunge, the tatoos, the coolness and energy of the space. We are different in our view of the world. What catches our eye. Phototgraphy for me is a mirror into our soul and what we choose to view in the world. None-the-less here is the view from Jamie's perspective...
I bought this peace sign from one of the artists...
This generation is very exciting to me. Gen Y, Echo, Milleniums. Tech savvy, ready to make change. Everytime I see and Occupy Wall Street campaign it is highly populated by young people. Finally, a revolutionary generation ready to take up the Boomer gauntlet. I have so much respect for this generation. I feel relieved these are the kids who will take on the issues we have handed down to them. Hope for our world. Moving through the room with these kids I did not feel old. Respectful of the diversity in the room. Comfortable in the diversity. Young, old, cool, hip,gay, straight, racially diverse all navigating the same space. Respectful and inclusive...
As opposed to Generation X, sometimes referred to as the “lost” generation, this was the first generation of “latchkey” kids, exposed to lots of daycare and divorce. Known as the generation with the lowest voting participation rate of any generation, Gen Xers were quoted by Newsweek as “the generation that dropped out without ever turning on the news or tuning in to the social issues around them.” Gen X is often characterized by high levels of skepticism, “what’s in it for me” attitudes and a reputation for some of the worst music to ever gain popularity. I don't have much in common with the philosophy with the generation. It made the generational divide seem wider for me. Older than I really am.
Generation Z coming up. Too soon to know how they will impact our world. Gen Z kids will grow up with a highly sophisticated media and computer environment and will be more Internet savvy and expert than their Gen Y forerunners. Stay tuned...
November 08, 2011
Girls Night Out
My mom is some sort of "high roller". She has gotten bitten by the gambling bug for sure. So, she can get free rooms at Pechanga and comped food. Mary Ann and I met up with her for a girls night out. Such fun catching up. Two women who have known me most of my life. I have known Mary Ann since I was 17 years old.
After dinner and gambling mom and me went to the room. Slumber party with my mom. Laughing histerically about "all" the men who want to marry her. She is 84 years young and still has "it".
I love you mommy...thanks for everything.
November 06, 2011
The Umbrella
I got to LA a lot for work on the Metrolink. On my normal route home I have noticed a fence just outside of a small park area with a long line of clothes and other items. Of course, this always stimulates my "homeless" radar. God has tasked me with a street ministry where I am blessed to be able to bless others. Randon acts of kindness. Paying it forward. I like this because I can directly see the impact of my giving and get to somewhat know the people I help. It is funny, I forget so much of my life, but I never forget the people I encounter along the way. For me, putting money in a dish in a church setting does not give me the same satisfaction. It is not that I am greedy, I just like feeling of knowing who I am helping. Different strokes for different folks.
On my way home on Friday...it was raining. At first, I noticed the long line of clothes. And then, the owner. A black man standing in front of all the possesions he owns. Except, no umbrella. I pulled over. Reached into the back seat. Pulled out my umbrella. Open the window. Called out. He comes. I give it to him. He says, "well I could sure use this".
The next time I go to LA I will be sure to pack a food goodie bag in hopes of seeing my new friend. I hope I get a chance to know his story.
Date Nite "In"
Busy work weeks. Rainy day Saturday. Perfect for a date nite "in". Jamie worked the media center at church. I stayed home and made my man a prime rib dinner. Then, Lion King in 3-D, snuggled in our fuzzy bed. Perfect date nite!
We are trying to eat more veggies. I was at Trader Joe's and saw these brussell sprouts. Jamie and I both don't like them. However, they looked so cute on the stalk so I bought them.
I cooked them in olive oil, butter, garlic, added green onionsk, bacon and sauteed them together. A little chicken stock so they could steam.
Prime Rib...
The prime rib was tasty. Although, I think I would make it a little more rare next time. Harley got in on the action and got the bone. But, the brussell sprouts, NO GOOD. I tried to like them, really I did. So, if you have an amazing brussell sprout recipe to share please let me know.
