Hello! Sorry for the long delay between postings--it has been a bit hectic as my book review work is taking off--I am landing a few more clients and constantly looking for new magazines to send reviews to. Plus, the other time consuming project has been developing my own website. I am not the most tech savvy of people, so there have been multiple attempts to get pages to look right. And I am constantly playing with the site, revising and refining it, and adding new content as I think of things that might be useful.
I am trying to figure out how to start a new blog on the website, without losing all the content here but am waiting for some tech support on this one, as it seems a bit daunting to me.
In the meantime, check out my new website and feel free to send me comments--what you like, what you don't like etc. http://www.leeecart.com
I hope everyone has a great holiday season, if for some reason I don't check back in before Christmas.
Best to you all.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Saturday, November 19, 2011
November 19, 2011-- The days roll on by...
The days grow shorter, the list of work yet to do before snow blankets the entire ground thankfully grows shorter, the time spent on personal writing grows shorter... as I struggle to make ends meet just before the holidays arrive. Fortunately I am picking up more book review work which is taking the place of the computer job I have had for the past 17 months. I'm happy about that as I'd much rather write reviews than do what I do for a steady paycheck (all hush-hush stuff that I am not allowed to discuss, which just makes it all the more ludicrous.)
And thanks to a much needed kick in the butt by my therapist of all people, I am back to writing my memoir about my childhood in Mexico. I am starting over from page one, pulling in odd bits from essays I wrote ages ago and making it swirl into a cohesive unit. I am finally excited about this project again!
And excited that I just landed a review to the Christian Science Monitor as well as another in The Writer.
I'm also working on putting together a website, a more daunting task than I first realized. Once I have more of it together, I will let you know.
Thanks for staying with me, you know who you are... I appreciate the support even when I'm not here on the page.
And thanks to a much needed kick in the butt by my therapist of all people, I am back to writing my memoir about my childhood in Mexico. I am starting over from page one, pulling in odd bits from essays I wrote ages ago and making it swirl into a cohesive unit. I am finally excited about this project again!
And excited that I just landed a review to the Christian Science Monitor as well as another in The Writer.
I'm also working on putting together a website, a more daunting task than I first realized. Once I have more of it together, I will let you know.
Thanks for staying with me, you know who you are... I appreciate the support even when I'm not here on the page.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
October 13, 2011--The new learning curve
It's been quite some time since I have blogged...too busy trying to get jobs as a book reviewer and trying to send out a number of queries to find that extra time to blog...
Today, though I wanted to say that I am finally getting a grip on some of the new technology out there. I had to buy a Kindle a couple of weeks ago in order to receive some galleys for reviews, so I have been in the process of learning how to use it. I've discovered I like the ease of ordering free or discounted books off of the Amazon store (not to mention that books arrive silently to the device, so no one but me knows I have ordered something.) Today I wanted to learn how to send things to my Kindle off of my computer. I have several files on my computer that I need to read in the next couple of weeks but won't be near my computer for part of that time. So, I knew it was possible to send files, but didn't know how to do it.
But, I am happy to report that after an hour and a half struggle, I now have three files added to my Kindle library!
I had to set up a free kindle email and allow access on my Kindle account for files to come through my gmail account before anything would stick. I don't understand how it all works; I am grateful that it did work!
So, for all those a bit leery of all the new technology, my advice is to struggle a bit, overcome the fear and frustration as the convenience in the end is worth it.
Today, though I wanted to say that I am finally getting a grip on some of the new technology out there. I had to buy a Kindle a couple of weeks ago in order to receive some galleys for reviews, so I have been in the process of learning how to use it. I've discovered I like the ease of ordering free or discounted books off of the Amazon store (not to mention that books arrive silently to the device, so no one but me knows I have ordered something.) Today I wanted to learn how to send things to my Kindle off of my computer. I have several files on my computer that I need to read in the next couple of weeks but won't be near my computer for part of that time. So, I knew it was possible to send files, but didn't know how to do it.
But, I am happy to report that after an hour and a half struggle, I now have three files added to my Kindle library!
I had to set up a free kindle email and allow access on my Kindle account for files to come through my gmail account before anything would stick. I don't understand how it all works; I am grateful that it did work!
So, for all those a bit leery of all the new technology, my advice is to struggle a bit, overcome the fear and frustration as the convenience in the end is worth it.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
September 6, 2011-- Assignment #2....Waking Up
Waking Up
I pour coffee beans into the grinder and press the button for thirty seconds. The whir of the blades sends the cats scurrying for the door and the lovely smell of coffee fills the kitchen. I put the kettle on to boil and let my mind wander back to where I purchased this coffee, at the coffee museum in Chiapas, Mexico.
I followed the smell of roasting beans down the narrow cobblestone side streets of San Cristobal de las Casas to find the museum, located on the ground floor of an old hacienda. The entrance was through the small café that sold cups of freshly brewed coffee, bags of beans, and a variety of souvenirs. I ordered a small mug of decaf, paid the twenty-five peso entrance fee, and entered the first room. A large mural on the wall depicting the history of coffee from its arrival with the Spanish conquistadors to the present day was the first thing to catch my eye. As I sipped the rich brew, I wandered slowly from room to room, reading the signs in Spanish. I looked at old photographs of coffee trees in bloom, Mayan natives bent almost double from the weight of lugging giant canvas bags full of beans on their backs, and maps of the different coffees grown in Chiapas.
The piercing whistle of the tea kettle brings me back into the kitchen and I hurry to turn the burner off. I fill the one-cup filter with the ground coffee and pour a small amount of the hot water over the grounds, just enough to cause them to swell and bloom. They turn frothy white as I wait for the water to drip into my mug. When the water is gone, I add some more and wait again.
I remember looking at displays of coffee equipment in the museum, such as a coffee bean sorter, numerous bean grinders as well as the rake-like tools used to harvest the beans. In one of the last rooms, there was a display on Fair Trade coffee. It showed how selling their coffee via the Fair Trade business has helped the local Maya people earn more money which they use to provide better food, clothing, and education for their large families.
My coffee has finished dripping into my mug and I place the filter in the compost. I inhale deeply and sigh…the bag of beans is just about empty and I have no idea when I will get back to San Cristobal to buy some more.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
September 4, 2011-- The Tastes of the Yucatan Peninsula--second attempt....
The Tastes of the Yucatan Peninsula
Located in the eastern part of Mexico, the Yucatan Peninsula is known for its sandy beaches, varied wildlife and birds, Mayan pyramids, and its regional cuisine. This cuisine developed from the ancient Maya traditional dishes made of corn, beans, tomatoes, wild turkey, seafood, and chocolate. With the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, more flavors such as pork, chicken, capers, olives, rice, and black pepper were introduced into the diet to form new complex savory blends. Modern Yucatecan restaurants now serve a wide variety of regional specialties highlighting the unusual combinations of the old and the new. So, if you think all Mexican food consists of guacamole, salsa, and white flour tortillas filled with ground beef and shredded cheese, come learn about some typical dishes found in the Yucatan Peninsula.
For those who like a hearty breakfast, try huevos motuleños. A corn tortilla is covered with refried beans and a fried egg, then chopped ham and green peas are added before the mix is covered with a tomato sauce and shredded cheese. This one will need extra napkins to eat!
If you enjoy a light lunch, try panuchos. A slightly crispy fried tortilla is covered with cooked shredded chicken, and garnished with shredded lettuce, slices of tomatoes, pickled red onion, and sliced avocado. A quick squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of salt create the perfect zesty dressing for this meal. A variation on this is the salbute which has refried beans stuffed inside the tortilla before the chicken and other toppings are added.
One of the most popular dishes found in restaurants is cochinita pibil or roast suckling pig that’s been marinated in a rich sauce made of achiote paste, sour orange juice, garlic, cumin, and salt, then wrapped in banana leaves and baked until tender.
Poc chuc is another pork dish frequently seen on menus. Slices of pork are marinated in a sour orange sauce before cooking, then served with a rich, slightly spicy tomato sauce and pickled red onions.
Sopa de lima is the Yucatan’s idea of chicken soup. A fresh chicken broth filled with shredded chicken, strips of fried corn tortillas, and lime juice. A basic fill-you-up dish that will also help settle your stomach when you’ve had too many margaritas the night before.
Tamales are a typical Yucatan dish. Wrapped in banana leaves instead of corn husks, the steamed cornmeal dumpling can be filled with just about anything from chicken to pork to rabbit with figs and green olives.
For dessert, try the flan. Every restaurant has its own variation on this dish and owners vie for the best flan in the area. A slightly browned sugar syrup is poured into custard cups, then a rich egg and milk mixture is added and baked or steamed until set. When served, the sweet sugary syrup cascades over the sides of the creamy egg custard in a delightful blend of flavors.
Or head to one of the many pastelerias or bakeries in the area where you’ll find all kinds of sweet treats from sugar cookies covered in sprinkles to slices of cheesecake to coconut macaroons.
And if you’re thirsty, be sure to try some freshly squeezed orange juice, or a licuado-a fruit puree, water, and ice drink made from the local area fruits. Try watermelon, strawberry, tamarind, hibiscus flower, or pineapple…any are sure to quench the driest mouth. And don’t worry about the water or ice—all restaurants are required to serve bottled water as the limestone in the area makes the water hard to drink even for the locals.
Regardless of where you eat, a meal in the Yucatan will certainly surprise and delight you with new flavor combinations that bring new meaning to the words “Mexican food.” Buen provecho!
Thursday, September 1, 2011
September 1, 2011--Rabbit, Rabbit...
And another month is gone, just like that. I know in essence what I did during the month of August but at odd moments, I reflect on where the time went and all the things I didn't do...more kayaking, another swim in the lake, a trip to the coast for steamers...little, summery things that got put on hold while we focused on preparing for winter, which is why our woodshed is completely full right now (an all-time first).
I also know I have worked hard at taking more time to write each day and more time on promoting myself as a writer, both of which are beginning to pay off. I have three places to write book reviews for with the potential of another site in the near future. I won't get rich by any of this work, but it does bring me one step closer to my goal of being able to support myself and my family on just my writing. And I am reading all kinds of interesting, thought-provoking books, which stir my creative juices in big ways.
So, although the days are definitely getting shorter and the early mornings and late evenings cooler, I am not really saddened by it. Long winter evenings curled in a chair by the stove, reading and writing doesn't sound like such a bad thing right now.
I also know I have worked hard at taking more time to write each day and more time on promoting myself as a writer, both of which are beginning to pay off. I have three places to write book reviews for with the potential of another site in the near future. I won't get rich by any of this work, but it does bring me one step closer to my goal of being able to support myself and my family on just my writing. And I am reading all kinds of interesting, thought-provoking books, which stir my creative juices in big ways.
So, although the days are definitely getting shorter and the early mornings and late evenings cooler, I am not really saddened by it. Long winter evenings curled in a chair by the stove, reading and writing doesn't sound like such a bad thing right now.
Monday, August 29, 2011
The Tastes of the Yucatan Peninsula
The Tastes of the Yucatan Peninsula
Located in the eastern part of Mexico, the Yucatan Peninsula is known for its sandy beaches, varied wildlife and birds, Mayan pyramids, and its regional cuisine. These Yucatecan dishes stem from ancient Maya cooking blended with the flavors of the Spanish conquistadors who arrived in the area via Cuba. So, if you think all Mexican food consists of guacamole, salsa, and white flour tortillas filled with ground beef and shredded cheese, come learn about some typical dishes found in the Yucatan Peninsula.
For those who like a hearty breakfast, try huevos motuleños. A corn tortilla is covered with refried beans and a fried egg, then chopped ham and green peas are added before the mix is covered with a tomato sauce and shredded cheese. This one will need extra napkins to eat!
If you enjoy a light lunch, try panuchos. A slightly crispy fried tortilla is covered with cooked shredded chicken, and garnished with shredded lettuce, slices of tomatoes, pickled red onion, and sliced avocado. A quick squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of salt create the perfect zesty dressing for this meal. A variation on this is the salbute which has refried beans stuffed inside the tortilla before the chicken and other toppings are added.
One of the most popular dishes found in restaurants is cochinita pibil or roast suckling pig that’s been marinated in a rich sauce made of achiote paste, sour orange juice, garlic, cumin, and salt, then wrapped in banana leaves and baked until tender.
Poc chuc is another pork dish frequently seen on menus. Slices of pork are marinated in a sour orange sauce before cooking, then served with a rich, slightly spicy tomato sauce and pickled red onions.
Sopa de lima is the Yucatan’s idea of chicken soup. A fresh chicken broth filled with shredded chicken, strips of fried corn tortillas, and lime juice. A basic fill-you-up dish that will also help settle your stomach when you’ve had too many margaritas the night before.
Tamales are a typical Yucatan dish. Wrapped in banana leaves instead of corn husks, the steamed cornmeal dumpling can be filled with just about anything from chicken to pork to rabbit with figs and green olives.
For dessert, try the flan. Every restaurant has its own variation on this dish and owners vie for the best flan in the area. A slightly browned sugar syrup is poured into custard cups, then a rich egg and milk mixture is added and baked or steamed until set. When served, the sweet sugary syrup cascades over the sides of the creamy egg custard in a delightful blend of flavors.
Or head to one of the many pastelerias or bakeries in the area where you’ll find all kinds of sweet treats from sugar cookies covered in sprinkles to slices of cheesecake to coconut macaroons.
Monday, August 22, 2011
August 22, 2011 Assignment One for MatadorU...
This particular blog is for my travel writing course on MatadorU so for those of you who aren't involved with that, this is just a heads-up as to what's going on here...
Assignment One
As I wrote this article, I realized I have no idea where something like this might get published. I know it is part of the assignment to find some spots but the only places I could think of didn't look right when I studied the websites. One place I did find was El Restaurante Mexicano, PO Box 2249, Oak Park IL 60303. It's an industry magazine and requests 800-1200 word articles, so this piece is way too short for them.
Does anyone have any suggestions of markets for food related articles that pertain to Mexico?
And my apologies for taking so long to get started on this course. I wound up having to take on a second job this summer to help pay the bills, which doesn't leave me a lot of time to write these assignments, no matter how much I would like to be doing them.
Assignment One
Yucatan Food 101
Do you think all Mexican food consists of guacamole, salsa and white flour tortillas filled with ground beef and shredded cheese? If that’s the case come learn about some typical dishes found in the Yucatan Peninsula.
One of the most popular dishes found in restaurants is cochinita pibil or roast suckling pig that’s been marinated in a rich sauce made of achiote paste, sour orange juice, garlic, cumin, and salt, then wrapped in banana leaves and baked until tender.
Sopa de lima is the Yucatan’s idea of chicken soup. A fresh chicken broth filled with shredded chicken, strips of fried corn tortillas, and lime juice. A basic fill-you-up dish that will also help settle your stomach when you’ve had too many margaritas the night before.
Poc chuc is another pork dish. Slices of pork are marinated in a sour orange sauce before cooking, then served with a rich, slightly spicy tomato sauce and pickled red onions.
For those who like a hearty breakfast, try huevos motuleños. A corn tortilla is covered with refried beans and a fried egg, then chopped ham and green peas are added before the mix is covered with a tomato sauce and shredded cheese. This one will need extra napkins to eat!
And for those looking for a light lunch or supper, try panuchos. A slight crispy fried tortilla is covered with cooked shredded chicken, and garnished with shredded lettuce, slices of tomatoes, pickled red onion, and sliced avocado. A quick squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of salt create the perfect zesty dressing for this meal. A variation on this is the salbute which has refried beans stuffed inside the tortilla before the chicken and other toppings are added.
Tamales are a typical Yucatan dish. Wrapped in banana leaves instead of corn husks, the steamed cornmeal dumpling can be filled with just about anything from chicken to pork to rabbit with figs and green olives.
As I wrote this article, I realized I have no idea where something like this might get published. I know it is part of the assignment to find some spots but the only places I could think of didn't look right when I studied the websites. One place I did find was El Restaurante Mexicano, PO Box 2249, Oak Park IL 60303. It's an industry magazine and requests 800-1200 word articles, so this piece is way too short for them.
Does anyone have any suggestions of markets for food related articles that pertain to Mexico?
And my apologies for taking so long to get started on this course. I wound up having to take on a second job this summer to help pay the bills, which doesn't leave me a lot of time to write these assignments, no matter how much I would like to be doing them.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
August 17, 2011--New book review posted...
Hello on this super nice day...I have a new book review out today on the New Maine Times website on The Wilder Life by Wendy McClure. For those of you who might have been or still are fans of the Laura Ingalls Wilder Little House on the Prairie series, you might find this memoir a fun read. I also had a review out on New Maine Times on July 27. Check them out under the "Culture" button at http://www.newmainetimes.org/.
And for those who like to read book reviews in general, make sure to read William Bushnell's reviews. He is the one who taught me and is a great reviewer and a really nice guy as well.
My first Kirkus Reviews review should be viewable by Sept. 1st, but I'm not sure if you have to be a member to see the whole review. I'll have a couple more for them coming out shortly after the first, too.
If anyone has a suggestion of a new (2011) book to review, drop me a note as New Maine Times is looking for good books to include. Thanks.
And for those who like to read book reviews in general, make sure to read William Bushnell's reviews. He is the one who taught me and is a great reviewer and a really nice guy as well.
My first Kirkus Reviews review should be viewable by Sept. 1st, but I'm not sure if you have to be a member to see the whole review. I'll have a couple more for them coming out shortly after the first, too.
If anyone has a suggestion of a new (2011) book to review, drop me a note as New Maine Times is looking for good books to include. Thanks.
Monday, August 15, 2011
August 15, 2011-- A sense of violation...
This morning, while working for the job that I am not supposed to discuss, I landed on a website that had an old virus embedded in it--a W32/ Blaster worm...yeah, I know what the hell is that? Probably the worst virus my computer has contracted, ever, period. It shut down Internet Explorer, Firefox, any access to any kind of Internet help, either through Microsoft or McAfee. I had to use my son's computer to go on-line to look up possible solutions to this issue.
I tried clicking on Systems Restore, going to a version from earlier this morning but that was unsuccessful. Now, I think, am hopeful, that by going to Systems Restore again and clicking on a version from last week, I have finally gotten rid of the hateful thing.
But, I am leery to download Firefox 5 again or to go back into my worksite as my security system doesn't seem to be compatible with their system. Ugh.
I feel violated now--my peaceful, internal space, my work zone and livelihood have been attacked. I empathize with those who have had their store fronts or homes broken into and items stolen. I am fearful of the Internet and the crazy creeps who put this crud out there. I feel physically traumatized for something that happened in cyber space. Is that a sign of how interconnected I, we, have all become with this new age of information and Internet access? I keep wondering what kinds of info they were able to access before I could get rid of their malware--identity theft, credit card numbers, etc. keep running through my mind, what do I actually have on this machine that might be of use/interest to thieves?
It's creepy and I don't like it but am forced to live with it and try to move on.
I tried clicking on Systems Restore, going to a version from earlier this morning but that was unsuccessful. Now, I think, am hopeful, that by going to Systems Restore again and clicking on a version from last week, I have finally gotten rid of the hateful thing.
But, I am leery to download Firefox 5 again or to go back into my worksite as my security system doesn't seem to be compatible with their system. Ugh.
I feel violated now--my peaceful, internal space, my work zone and livelihood have been attacked. I empathize with those who have had their store fronts or homes broken into and items stolen. I am fearful of the Internet and the crazy creeps who put this crud out there. I feel physically traumatized for something that happened in cyber space. Is that a sign of how interconnected I, we, have all become with this new age of information and Internet access? I keep wondering what kinds of info they were able to access before I could get rid of their malware--identity theft, credit card numbers, etc. keep running through my mind, what do I actually have on this machine that might be of use/interest to thieves?
It's creepy and I don't like it but am forced to live with it and try to move on.
Monday, August 1, 2011
August 1, 2011--Rabbit, Rabbit...
Happy August 1st! Wow, July just kind of disappeared in a whirlwind of work, especially firewood. But, the woodshed is half full and there's more than enough dry wood waiting to go inside that we should be all set for this winter and part of next. That is a good feeling.
The garden is cranking out the produce at this point. Plenty of cucumbers, zucchini, kale, and chard to eat with enough extra to make pickles and zucchini bread. My neighbor's raspberry patch is in hyper drive--we picked 4 quarts in about 4 minutes this morning and probably have to do the same every day this week.
I just got an email from UPS telling me another book is on the way from Kirkus Reviews, with a second book waiting for me in the wings.
I am back to writing my novel! Everyone in the house, including visiting family members, is gone for the afternoon, so I have peace and quiet for now. I've been doing a lot of thinking on my novel, of where it might be heading for the past couple of weeks, so now I am getting a chance to try it all out. I'm introducing a new, minor character--it might be a bit late in the game to do so, but the scenes were too static with only one person in them. Now I have some interaction going on again and that feels right to me.
Hope the weeks are going well for you.
The garden is cranking out the produce at this point. Plenty of cucumbers, zucchini, kale, and chard to eat with enough extra to make pickles and zucchini bread. My neighbor's raspberry patch is in hyper drive--we picked 4 quarts in about 4 minutes this morning and probably have to do the same every day this week.
I just got an email from UPS telling me another book is on the way from Kirkus Reviews, with a second book waiting for me in the wings.
I am back to writing my novel! Everyone in the house, including visiting family members, is gone for the afternoon, so I have peace and quiet for now. I've been doing a lot of thinking on my novel, of where it might be heading for the past couple of weeks, so now I am getting a chance to try it all out. I'm introducing a new, minor character--it might be a bit late in the game to do so, but the scenes were too static with only one person in them. Now I have some interaction going on again and that feels right to me.
Hope the weeks are going well for you.
Friday, July 29, 2011
July 29, 2011-- Another piece of the puzzle...
Today, another piece of my puzzle (figuring out the life of a freelance writer who has two kids living at home, a husband and numerous outside jobs to do during the summer) slipped into place. I sent my first book review off to Kirkus Reviews. I have my fingers crossed that they like it and send me another book, as I'd much rather be reading and writing reviews than doing my current day job.
Also, for those who might have missed the announcement on Facebook, my first book review for the New Maine Times came out this past Wednesday. The magazine is on-line, so check out the review under 'Culture.'
Funny how I never thought of book reviewer as a career choice and yet, doing them feels like one of the most natural fits for me. I am excited to see if I can land some more gigs with other, hopefully paying, places and really build a future in this new genre of writing. I'll keep you posted.
Also, for those who might have missed the announcement on Facebook, my first book review for the New Maine Times came out this past Wednesday. The magazine is on-line, so check out the review under 'Culture.'
Funny how I never thought of book reviewer as a career choice and yet, doing them feels like one of the most natural fits for me. I am excited to see if I can land some more gigs with other, hopefully paying, places and really build a future in this new genre of writing. I'll keep you posted.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
July 17, 2011-Like pieces of a puzzle...
My apologies for the lack of writing lately--I could blame it on the sudden heat, the sudden reappearance of my youngest son living with us for the summer, the endless stream of workmen who have been arriving on our doorstep on a regular basis lately to do the work my husband is not well enough to do this year, or just plain, I don't have much to say and would rather read or watch a movie than write some a blog destined to bore everyone...
However, I have been busy writing during all of the above said interruptions as well as attended a two-part workshop on how to write book reviews. This was held in Portland--a two+ hour drive each way for me-- and conducted by a very good instructor, William Bushnell and sponsored by the MWPA.
I have been searching for more ways to make a living by writing and may have found another niche job of writing reviews. In fact, I am confident I have an internship with the New Maine Times which will hopefully lead into a paying position sometime this fall or winter. Either way, it will be nice to have my work in print and a real byline.
Plus, I have been researching and querying other book review sites in the hopes I can write reviews for a variety of places and bring in little lumps of money for doing two things I love, reading and writing.
Writing book reviews could be yet another piece of the bigger picture for me, along with travel articles, and someday a book or two. To be a freelance writer and make a living at it, I think I will need many pieces of the puzzle, so I am excited that this latest has been found.
However, I have been busy writing during all of the above said interruptions as well as attended a two-part workshop on how to write book reviews. This was held in Portland--a two+ hour drive each way for me-- and conducted by a very good instructor, William Bushnell and sponsored by the MWPA.
I have been searching for more ways to make a living by writing and may have found another niche job of writing reviews. In fact, I am confident I have an internship with the New Maine Times which will hopefully lead into a paying position sometime this fall or winter. Either way, it will be nice to have my work in print and a real byline.
Plus, I have been researching and querying other book review sites in the hopes I can write reviews for a variety of places and bring in little lumps of money for doing two things I love, reading and writing.
Writing book reviews could be yet another piece of the bigger picture for me, along with travel articles, and someday a book or two. To be a freelance writer and make a living at it, I think I will need many pieces of the puzzle, so I am excited that this latest has been found.
Friday, July 1, 2011
July 1, 2011-- Rabbit, rabbit...
The first of July. Wow! Where did June go? Disappeared in a haze of working for money, splitting wood, tackling Mt. Washmore in the laundry/bathroom, cancer treatments and bleaching the toilet, two weekends away to visit family and friends...I am tired and summer has only really just begun.
My youngest son, Finn, has moved back into the house at 16 after leaving at 14. He seems far older than his years, which is a little unnerving as I keep thinking of him as being around 20 and am surprised when I do finally remember his actual age.
We have a new kitchen roof, more split wood in the backyard than we've ever had, a lush garden that definitely needs weeding tomorrow, and a brand new bed and mattress. So, why do I feel frustrated and frazzled and can barely hear myself think?
I feel I am missing something, caught up as I am in the whirlwind of teenage boys and their friends, my husband and his needs. I think it must be that sense of peace and quiet that I only find while driving alone for hours at a time or writing. I have not found time or space for these pleasures lately and find myself alternating between bursts of strange frustrated anger and weeping. I can do without the anger but actually like the weeping as once I am done in a few minutes time, I feel slightly refreshed, like when a quick shower passes through and lowers the temperature and humidity outside. Here's to hoping this holiday weekend will lend itself to some contemplation and writing.
My youngest son, Finn, has moved back into the house at 16 after leaving at 14. He seems far older than his years, which is a little unnerving as I keep thinking of him as being around 20 and am surprised when I do finally remember his actual age.
We have a new kitchen roof, more split wood in the backyard than we've ever had, a lush garden that definitely needs weeding tomorrow, and a brand new bed and mattress. So, why do I feel frustrated and frazzled and can barely hear myself think?
I feel I am missing something, caught up as I am in the whirlwind of teenage boys and their friends, my husband and his needs. I think it must be that sense of peace and quiet that I only find while driving alone for hours at a time or writing. I have not found time or space for these pleasures lately and find myself alternating between bursts of strange frustrated anger and weeping. I can do without the anger but actually like the weeping as once I am done in a few minutes time, I feel slightly refreshed, like when a quick shower passes through and lowers the temperature and humidity outside. Here's to hoping this holiday weekend will lend itself to some contemplation and writing.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
June 21, 2011--Happy Summer!
It's finally here, summer...which means that after tonight, it's a slow but inevitable downward slide into the darkest time of the year...a time I might actually prefer in some respects. It's so much easier to turn to a good book while tucked under a down comforter or crawl into bed and watch a movie on my computer when it is cold and pitch black outside. I feel guilty right now for wanting to stop working outside at 8 pm because it is still so light out!
The Mayans had a 360 day calendar round that they followed, with the last five days of the year considered a time of bad luck. Called the Wayeb or Uayeb depending on which interpretation you read, the opening between the Underworld and this world was much closer during those five days and all kinds of weird things could happen. The hieroglyph used to depict this time of the calendar was a picture of a stone "with a U-shaped skeletal maw on its top" (Ancient Maya World, p 253.) The Mayans believed the Gods could descend and deliver all kinds of disease, death and decay, so to prevent this, they conducted special dances and offered a variety of sacrifices.
The Mayans observed both the solstices and the equinoxes as well as the movement of planets, especially Venus. They are well-known for their accurate astronomy and various buildings like the Observatory at Chichen Itzá and another at Mayapan.
The Mayans had a 360 day calendar round that they followed, with the last five days of the year considered a time of bad luck. Called the Wayeb or Uayeb depending on which interpretation you read, the opening between the Underworld and this world was much closer during those five days and all kinds of weird things could happen. The hieroglyph used to depict this time of the calendar was a picture of a stone "with a U-shaped skeletal maw on its top" (Ancient Maya World, p 253.) The Mayans believed the Gods could descend and deliver all kinds of disease, death and decay, so to prevent this, they conducted special dances and offered a variety of sacrifices.
The Mayans observed both the solstices and the equinoxes as well as the movement of planets, especially Venus. They are well-known for their accurate astronomy and various buildings like the Observatory at Chichen Itzá and another at Mayapan.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
June 14, 2011-- Listening to the Universe...
Today is the third day in a row that my on-line job has not had work for me. Day one felt like a holiday and I went off to get my hair cut, did some necessary errands, and even went to the bookstore and bought a new book with the 40% off coupon I received via email. Being in the store, looking at all the published novels made me want to rush home and write, which I did do over the weekend, adding another 18 pages to my novel draft.
Day two with no work turned out to be annoying as it was Monday and I was ready to be at my desk. Instead, I went mattress shopping with my husband, which turned out to be a tiring and tedious task and we came home empty-handed. (Any suggestions on a good mattress for around $600-$800 will be greatly appreciated.)
Today, Day three--only a short amount of work to do this morning and then nothing. I have felt out of sorts, discombobulated, unable to focus this morning on much of anything, especially writing, so wound up stacking firewood. It felt good to move, good to see the wood pile growing ever larger inside the shed instead of out in the rain. I also came to the conclusion during this therapeutic exercise that maybe the universe was trying to say something to me these past couple of days. That maybe, this job is not where my life is really at. Sure, it is paying the bills right now, but if my true goal is to be a writer, more specifically a travel/travelling writer, then maybe instead of fretting about the lack of work, I should be working on writing about my travels.
So, on that note, I just took a leap of faith and signed up for an introductory lesson from MatadorU for their Travel Writing program. For ten dollars, I can try out the site and lesson for a week, if I like it, I pay the remaining money, if not, I cancel and I'm only out the ten bucks.
Based on what I have read so far, I think I will stick with the program. And because of that, some of my blogs in the months to come may seem strange when in fact, they will really be assignments for this on-line writing course. They recommend using the MatadorU blog site for a space, but offer the option of using your own blog site if you already have a blog started. Since this blog exists and the thought of trying to maintain two made me slightly ill, I posted this site as my MatadorU site. That means some postings will be assignments and may have feedback from other students enrolled in this program. It also means I will probably be able (finally) to focus this blog into what I had originally started it for which is to write about Maine and Mexico. So, that's the news for now, hope you come along for the ride.
Day two with no work turned out to be annoying as it was Monday and I was ready to be at my desk. Instead, I went mattress shopping with my husband, which turned out to be a tiring and tedious task and we came home empty-handed. (Any suggestions on a good mattress for around $600-$800 will be greatly appreciated.)
Today, Day three--only a short amount of work to do this morning and then nothing. I have felt out of sorts, discombobulated, unable to focus this morning on much of anything, especially writing, so wound up stacking firewood. It felt good to move, good to see the wood pile growing ever larger inside the shed instead of out in the rain. I also came to the conclusion during this therapeutic exercise that maybe the universe was trying to say something to me these past couple of days. That maybe, this job is not where my life is really at. Sure, it is paying the bills right now, but if my true goal is to be a writer, more specifically a travel/travelling writer, then maybe instead of fretting about the lack of work, I should be working on writing about my travels.
So, on that note, I just took a leap of faith and signed up for an introductory lesson from MatadorU for their Travel Writing program. For ten dollars, I can try out the site and lesson for a week, if I like it, I pay the remaining money, if not, I cancel and I'm only out the ten bucks.
Based on what I have read so far, I think I will stick with the program. And because of that, some of my blogs in the months to come may seem strange when in fact, they will really be assignments for this on-line writing course. They recommend using the MatadorU blog site for a space, but offer the option of using your own blog site if you already have a blog started. Since this blog exists and the thought of trying to maintain two made me slightly ill, I posted this site as my MatadorU site. That means some postings will be assignments and may have feedback from other students enrolled in this program. It also means I will probably be able (finally) to focus this blog into what I had originally started it for which is to write about Maine and Mexico. So, that's the news for now, hope you come along for the ride.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
June 7, 2011--Summer's rapid approach...
It's the 7th of June, summer is rapidly approaching and it feels good to know I have over 2+ cords of split wood drying in my backyard. For, here in Maine, once the spring rains cease, it is time to think of firewood and winter.
My husband always comments on how I think several steps ahead in any given situation--knowing what to purchase at the store so I can make dinner for friends three nights from now, knowing what supplies will be needed if we decide to put down the new flooring in the foyer, splitting wood now even though it is June and the beginning of summer, etc. I think it comes from having lived closely with nature for the last 25 years or so.
When one season finally arrives, it means another is just around the corner, so one must prepare for that shift while enjoying what is presently on hand. So, while I enjoy watching the garden grow, I am also splitting wood and washing and sorting winter clothes because all too soon, we will need these things in our lives again.
Plus, I hate to be cold, so knowing that I have physically done much of the wood this year will give me added pleasure this winter when I throw another stick of dry maple or birch in the stove. And as they say here in Maine, firewood warms you twice, once when you split it, another when you burn it. But, I think I counted six ways that works--once to pitch it in the truck, twice to unload it, thrice to split it, fourth to stack it, fifth to bring it into the house and sixth to fill the stove.
My husband always comments on how I think several steps ahead in any given situation--knowing what to purchase at the store so I can make dinner for friends three nights from now, knowing what supplies will be needed if we decide to put down the new flooring in the foyer, splitting wood now even though it is June and the beginning of summer, etc. I think it comes from having lived closely with nature for the last 25 years or so.
When one season finally arrives, it means another is just around the corner, so one must prepare for that shift while enjoying what is presently on hand. So, while I enjoy watching the garden grow, I am also splitting wood and washing and sorting winter clothes because all too soon, we will need these things in our lives again.
Plus, I hate to be cold, so knowing that I have physically done much of the wood this year will give me added pleasure this winter when I throw another stick of dry maple or birch in the stove. And as they say here in Maine, firewood warms you twice, once when you split it, another when you burn it. But, I think I counted six ways that works--once to pitch it in the truck, twice to unload it, thrice to split it, fourth to stack it, fifth to bring it into the house and sixth to fill the stove.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
June 2, 2011-- Tornadoes and lightning and thunder, oh my....
I had every good intention of writing at least a short blog last night. Then my son came in the house around 4:30 with the news that our area was under a tornado watch and severe thunderstorms were headed in our direction. For the next four hours or so, we stayed in the house with the radio on, listening for weather updates and watching the storm as it passed. At one point, the sky turned a creepy purplish green and the wind and clouds were swirling round and round. We were all prepared to dive under the stairs at that point, but fortunately didn't have to.
I was a bit apprehensive the whole time though. Back in 1974, when I was nine, I was in the middle of the what was then the largest series of tornadoes to touch down in Alabama. We were staying in our travel trailer at a friend's house, en route to Maine, when the storm approached. My parents were persuaded to stay that night at the friend's place instead of continuing north to the next campground, several hundred miles away. It was a nightmarish night with branches breaking and dropping on the tin roof of the camper, howling winds, heavy rain, etc. The next day, we did continue on our journey. We went past the campground where we would have stayed if not for the storm. The whole place was flattened and several people were dead.
Add to that the fact that in 1998, I was struck by lightning while inside the house-- the bolt hit me on the right foot, travelled up my right leg, crossed my chest, shot down my left arm and flew off my left index finger as a flash of blue light--and it makes sense that this kind of a storm would leave me kind of edgy.
Here's a poem I wrote several years ago about the storm in Alabama:
I was a bit apprehensive the whole time though. Back in 1974, when I was nine, I was in the middle of the what was then the largest series of tornadoes to touch down in Alabama. We were staying in our travel trailer at a friend's house, en route to Maine, when the storm approached. My parents were persuaded to stay that night at the friend's place instead of continuing north to the next campground, several hundred miles away. It was a nightmarish night with branches breaking and dropping on the tin roof of the camper, howling winds, heavy rain, etc. The next day, we did continue on our journey. We went past the campground where we would have stayed if not for the storm. The whole place was flattened and several people were dead.
Add to that the fact that in 1998, I was struck by lightning while inside the house-- the bolt hit me on the right foot, travelled up my right leg, crossed my chest, shot down my left arm and flew off my left index finger as a flash of blue light--and it makes sense that this kind of a storm would leave me kind of edgy.
Here's a poem I wrote several years ago about the storm in Alabama:
One Night in Alabama
Branches breaking
slithering and sliding
like water moccasins
on the aluminum roof.
Rain drums deafness.
My bladder aches full.
Huddled in my bunk
sticky, sweaty inside
the sleeping bag,
freight-train whistle-winds
rock, roll, lift, and lurch
the tin can camper that we’re in.
The dog whines, cowering
in the corner by the door.
Agitated whispers—dark
parental shadows crouch
over the radio. Static crackles:
funnel clouds in Marion county.
Megawatt flashes slash
the blackness cutting zigzags
in my eyes. I clamp the pillow
over my head. Smothered
into a nightmare, I startle
awake with urgent need.
Peeing sweet relief
into soft, black mud,
wet leaves stick
to my bare feet. Raindrops
on the roof spatter.
Daylight hugs the horizon.
In a campground in Tanner,
two hundred miles north,
everyone is dead.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
May 31, 2011-- Tired, bug bitten...
Yesterday was a long slog of a day--I took the day off from my paid job to catch up on a lot of the garden work that needs doing. Since it was the first sunny day in quite awhile, there was a lot to do including shoveling manure off the truck, into the wheelbarrow and dumping it on the raised garden beds. Then, the leaves which had been used for banking that still remained around two sides of the house needed removing before any more of the grass died from the weight of the wet leaves and lack of sunlight. Then, an area near the compost pile needed to be cleared of sticks and twigs so the second load of manure/compost could be unloaded in that spot. Fortunately my son came home with a friend just in time to shovel off that truck load. It's amazing how much faster two teenage boys can unload a truck than one middle-aged woman. Although my husband assures me that the second load was noticeably smaller than the first.
Lucky for me my neighbor called in the middle of the afternoon with the suggestion of cold drinks at her house at 4:30 as after all, it was Memorial Day, so the next couple of hours went by in a blur of finishing small tasks like bringing in three loads of dry laundry off the line and watering the greenhouse. A hot shower made me aware of the many bug bites on my legs as well as the sun burn I acquired on the backs of my calves, which stop in a line with the tops of my rubber boots. Drinks and snacks led to dinner and some wine, so by nightfall, I was pleasantly relaxed but also damn tired and grateful to fall into bed. And didn't wake up until 6:45 this morning!
Lucky for me my neighbor called in the middle of the afternoon with the suggestion of cold drinks at her house at 4:30 as after all, it was Memorial Day, so the next couple of hours went by in a blur of finishing small tasks like bringing in three loads of dry laundry off the line and watering the greenhouse. A hot shower made me aware of the many bug bites on my legs as well as the sun burn I acquired on the backs of my calves, which stop in a line with the tops of my rubber boots. Drinks and snacks led to dinner and some wine, so by nightfall, I was pleasantly relaxed but also damn tired and grateful to fall into bed. And didn't wake up until 6:45 this morning!
Sunday, May 29, 2011
May 29, 2011-- Things to note...
It's been too long since I wrote a blog, a page or two in my book, actually anything except grocery lists and to-do today lists that seem to stretch on and on and on. However, I am pleased to say that one, I have not had a patch over my right eye for almost two weeks now and yesterday was the first day I did not need to apply any ointment to it (which makes my vision blurry. Better than no vision, but blurry nonetheless.)
Two, my husband has small bunches of energy which he is wisely using to help me do things like set up the garden fencing-an onerous task for two and really impossible for one, so I am grateful for his help.
Three, little by little the brush and wood from the fifty-plus trees we had dropped this spring by two able-bodied men with chainsaws is slowly being beaten back off the grass and garden areas. I tackle one small spot a day and figure if I am consistent with my efforts almost every day, I should have the whole area nicely cleaned up just about in time for the first leaves to fall.
Four, today was the first day I had eaten enough black flies and done enough in the gardening department to feel like I could sit at my desk and work on my book. What a treat to get back to writing after over a month away.
Five, having been sick myself and now with my husband sick, patience and enjoying the smallest things are so very important now. Watching the hummingbirds come to the feeders is probably one of our favorite pastimes these days.
Six, Life is short and I'm learning I can't do it all. I am setting priorities for the things that must be done for physical well-being, like the garden, as well as those things I must do for emotional well-being, like my writing. Some things will fall by the way side this year but I am determined that my book is not going to wind up on that list. So, on that note, I will go back to the Mayan jungle.
Two, my husband has small bunches of energy which he is wisely using to help me do things like set up the garden fencing-an onerous task for two and really impossible for one, so I am grateful for his help.
Three, little by little the brush and wood from the fifty-plus trees we had dropped this spring by two able-bodied men with chainsaws is slowly being beaten back off the grass and garden areas. I tackle one small spot a day and figure if I am consistent with my efforts almost every day, I should have the whole area nicely cleaned up just about in time for the first leaves to fall.
Four, today was the first day I had eaten enough black flies and done enough in the gardening department to feel like I could sit at my desk and work on my book. What a treat to get back to writing after over a month away.
Five, having been sick myself and now with my husband sick, patience and enjoying the smallest things are so very important now. Watching the hummingbirds come to the feeders is probably one of our favorite pastimes these days.
Six, Life is short and I'm learning I can't do it all. I am setting priorities for the things that must be done for physical well-being, like the garden, as well as those things I must do for emotional well-being, like my writing. Some things will fall by the way side this year but I am determined that my book is not going to wind up on that list. So, on that note, I will go back to the Mayan jungle.
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