Today I learned of the passing of Jonathan Frid. Mr. Frid, who gained tremendous fame as the vampire Barnabas Collins on Dark Shadows, was one of those amazing creatures who helped shape the way I look at the world.
At the young age of a decade (or so), I was introduced to Barnabas and his world and learned to appreciate the shadows that are not always readily visible to those in Reality. I admit that I was a bit too young to appreciate all the levels of wisdom that were part of the stories, but I appreciated the stories.
A few years ago I got to wondering what had happened to Mr. Frid, and lo and behold - I found his presence on his website. My every visit brought a smile. The thespian was still among us striving to entertain and share his talents.
The world of Dark Shadows may not have been as huge a formative force as other shows I watched, but in some ways it stuck with me on a deeper level.
Barnabas Collins, my very first vampire, showed me a world that was not stereotypical in any way -- even though it would be come such in later years. Mr. Frid's work would make that happen.
I find myself not really sure what I'm feeling right now. Sad, yes, but also a bit wistful. I think of that old mansion on the hill, the one almost always surrounded by fog. Where there would almost always be a candle of some sort in the window to guide you to the front door. The Old House with its beautiful decoration and charm. Where the occupant was 175 years old and not always the monster some thought he was. And occasionally was.
Inspiration. Perhaps that is what it all boils down to. Jonathan Frid inspired people. He made them think about attempting possibly impossible things. He gave them dreams.
Jonathan, thank you for all the years and all the smiles. Thanks, too, for the memories and the sense of home. Your presence will be greatly missed.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Friday, April 6, 2012
Friday Ponderings
I took an Honest To Gosh Vacation Day today. Much to the shock/surprise of my coworkers.
I don't take time off as a rule...exactly. Usually my vacation time is spent either as Snow Days (those days when any sane person stays home and off the roads) or Sick Days (when common sense dictates I don't spread the germs that someone else was kind enough to give to me.).
Since I have a friend who isn't afraid to drive in bad weather, I haven't spent a lot of time at home during bad weather this year. I also haven't had a bad run of the nasties this year, either. As a result, I have vacation time to spend any way I would like. Mostly.
Today I entertained the cat, who was Very Happy Mom was Home! And we had a visit from the local Heating & A/C folks who checked our system and got it ready for Summer.
Now, when you consider that I really didn't plan for a lot of things to do, and I managed to accomplish a few odd jobs anyway, it wasn't a bad day. One thing I discovered after the A/C guy had gone was that a lot of folks were getting ready for (a) the weekend and/or (b) the holiday. Not a good day to be out and about if you really wanted to just ... stroll and take it slowly.
A quick trip to the Neighborhood Market to fill the freezer and I was home. Spent the rest of the afternoon catching up with Matt & Shari. PBS is rerunning their new "Around the House" series. I'm so glad to have them back on TV!
This first episode of Season One taught how to make some pretty nifty window coverings without the use of a sewing machine. In light of some recent decorating inclination, I'm glad to say I have some new ideas. I've added a link to their website under my Favorite Places. Spend some time browsing - you'll find some great ideas for your next project.
Saturday may be a laze around the house day, or perhaps I'll live dangerously and venture out again. I do have things on my shopping list, after all.
Here's hoping you have a Great Weekend, too!
I don't take time off as a rule...exactly. Usually my vacation time is spent either as Snow Days (those days when any sane person stays home and off the roads) or Sick Days (when common sense dictates I don't spread the germs that someone else was kind enough to give to me.).
Since I have a friend who isn't afraid to drive in bad weather, I haven't spent a lot of time at home during bad weather this year. I also haven't had a bad run of the nasties this year, either. As a result, I have vacation time to spend any way I would like. Mostly.
Today I entertained the cat, who was Very Happy Mom was Home! And we had a visit from the local Heating & A/C folks who checked our system and got it ready for Summer.
Now, when you consider that I really didn't plan for a lot of things to do, and I managed to accomplish a few odd jobs anyway, it wasn't a bad day. One thing I discovered after the A/C guy had gone was that a lot of folks were getting ready for (a) the weekend and/or (b) the holiday. Not a good day to be out and about if you really wanted to just ... stroll and take it slowly.
A quick trip to the Neighborhood Market to fill the freezer and I was home. Spent the rest of the afternoon catching up with Matt & Shari. PBS is rerunning their new "Around the House" series. I'm so glad to have them back on TV!
This first episode of Season One taught how to make some pretty nifty window coverings without the use of a sewing machine. In light of some recent decorating inclination, I'm glad to say I have some new ideas. I've added a link to their website under my Favorite Places. Spend some time browsing - you'll find some great ideas for your next project.
Saturday may be a laze around the house day, or perhaps I'll live dangerously and venture out again. I do have things on my shopping list, after all.
Here's hoping you have a Great Weekend, too!
Sunday, April 1, 2012
It's April Already?
FWIW, I'm still contemplating growing something - have no idea what. Did a run to Lowe's yesterday that was both amazing, inspiring and frustrating. Lots of beautiful plants that won't work in my yard - they require Full Sun. My yard has quite a few trees which counters that Full Sun requirement. Darn it!
I'm also in need of new pots for my indoor plants. What I want and what I can find... <Sigh> Reminds me very much of the issues I have decorating. My house is mostly jewel tones. I tend towards earth tones. The two do not mix. Trust me.
This is why I bought a sewing machine, after all.
***
We are in mid Early Spring heat wave. Have no clue what Mom Nature is up to and frankly, it scares me. April and temps are in low 80's when it shouldn't even be in the 70's. Summer isn't looking to be comfortable.
***
Jane Krutz in Memoriam 1925-2012 I was saddened to learn of the death of Jane Krutz last Sunday. Miss Jane was a powerhouse of a woman who gave tirelessly of herself. Passionate about her work and her causes, she was one of those people who made you want to reach out and take part. I first encountered Miss Jane during one of the first AETN pledge runs after I moved to Arkansas. She was a regular fixture, appearing at every pledge run reminding viewers that they, too, had an obligation to support the station.
Miss Jane was a beloved fixture and a fine lady. I won't be alone missing her presence.
***
Miss Annie is enjoying Mom being home. She'll be in Kitty Thrilled Heaven on Friday, when I take a vacation day that is intended to be mostly r&r. I did call for the A/C to be serviced, other than that...
It occurred to me the other day that I need to plan some time off. If for no other reason that to recharge. It isn't that I don't have the time...not that there's a Lot of it, but enough to take a few days now and again.
***
I'm looking for draperies and new curtain rods for the house. I want double rods so I can put up shears in addition to drapes. I found some really nice ones over at BryantHome (via ebates.com) -- drapes, shears and rods! You know those jewel tones I mentioned above? Well, BryantHome carries a wide assortment of colors that should fit just about any decorating scheme.
***
Well, That's all I can think of for the moment. If you like what you've read and want to keep up, check out the items on the right. There are several options that might make it easier than remembering to stop by now and again.
Have a great week...or month depending on how fast I return!
I'm also in need of new pots for my indoor plants. What I want and what I can find... <Sigh> Reminds me very much of the issues I have decorating. My house is mostly jewel tones. I tend towards earth tones. The two do not mix. Trust me.
This is why I bought a sewing machine, after all.
***
We are in mid Early Spring heat wave. Have no clue what Mom Nature is up to and frankly, it scares me. April and temps are in low 80's when it shouldn't even be in the 70's. Summer isn't looking to be comfortable.
***
Jane Krutz in Memoriam 1925-2012 I was saddened to learn of the death of Jane Krutz last Sunday. Miss Jane was a powerhouse of a woman who gave tirelessly of herself. Passionate about her work and her causes, she was one of those people who made you want to reach out and take part. I first encountered Miss Jane during one of the first AETN pledge runs after I moved to Arkansas. She was a regular fixture, appearing at every pledge run reminding viewers that they, too, had an obligation to support the station.
Miss Jane was a beloved fixture and a fine lady. I won't be alone missing her presence.
***
Miss Annie is enjoying Mom being home. She'll be in Kitty Thrilled Heaven on Friday, when I take a vacation day that is intended to be mostly r&r. I did call for the A/C to be serviced, other than that...
It occurred to me the other day that I need to plan some time off. If for no other reason that to recharge. It isn't that I don't have the time...not that there's a Lot of it, but enough to take a few days now and again.
***
I'm looking for draperies and new curtain rods for the house. I want double rods so I can put up shears in addition to drapes. I found some really nice ones over at BryantHome (via ebates.com) -- drapes, shears and rods! You know those jewel tones I mentioned above? Well, BryantHome carries a wide assortment of colors that should fit just about any decorating scheme.
***
Well, That's all I can think of for the moment. If you like what you've read and want to keep up, check out the items on the right. There are several options that might make it easier than remembering to stop by now and again.
Have a great week...or month depending on how fast I return!
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Let's Just Say
Time got away from me.
A bit.
Okay, a whole lot!
I spent a good portion of my afternoon piecing rows of the quilt I am making. 6 of the 8 are done, ready to be pressed and stitched together. 2 more rows will finish the ends then I get the fun (?) of piecing the edging. Still haven't found a backing fabric.
During the process I listened (yes, not watched) to several Disney movies. Started out with Aristocats, then on to Sleeping Beauty and finished with Cinderella. Haven't done that in a Long Time! The majority of my Disney collection is on VHS, so it was nice to have the machine and the tapes available and ready to go.
Had a lovely chat with the eventual recipient of the sewing project. We indulge our need for human conversation about every 2 weeks. I am blessed she springs for the Long Distance (I don't have the option on my phone). Our conversations run the gamut from what is happening, what we are reading, what we are watching and what is going on in the world. Email is great for quick notes and comments, but real conversation requires the participants to be able to hear one another.
Spent some time browsing around ebates.com I am amazed at what they offer!
Contemplating a garden this year. Small, but full of possibilities.
All in all, a relatively busy weekend and anticipating the arrival of Spring. I suppose it would be great if I had lots to talk about, but...I don't.
Here's to a great week!
A bit.
Okay, a whole lot!
I spent a good portion of my afternoon piecing rows of the quilt I am making. 6 of the 8 are done, ready to be pressed and stitched together. 2 more rows will finish the ends then I get the fun (?) of piecing the edging. Still haven't found a backing fabric.
During the process I listened (yes, not watched) to several Disney movies. Started out with Aristocats, then on to Sleeping Beauty and finished with Cinderella. Haven't done that in a Long Time! The majority of my Disney collection is on VHS, so it was nice to have the machine and the tapes available and ready to go.
Had a lovely chat with the eventual recipient of the sewing project. We indulge our need for human conversation about every 2 weeks. I am blessed she springs for the Long Distance (I don't have the option on my phone). Our conversations run the gamut from what is happening, what we are reading, what we are watching and what is going on in the world. Email is great for quick notes and comments, but real conversation requires the participants to be able to hear one another.
Spent some time browsing around ebates.com I am amazed at what they offer!
Contemplating a garden this year. Small, but full of possibilities.
All in all, a relatively busy weekend and anticipating the arrival of Spring. I suppose it would be great if I had lots to talk about, but...I don't.
Here's to a great week!
Monday, January 2, 2012
A Brand New Year!
Happy New Year!
Like a bright, shiny new penny, New Year's is ripe with promise. We don't have a clue what is in store - some of us only have a slight glimpse of what Might Be or What They Want. Most, however, haven't given much thought forward.
I look at the New Year as a blank canvass. What colors would be best? Any particular sounds or motions? How about some scents and flavors? What feels good?
That canvass is more than a place to put things, it is the opportunity to build a new environment complete with sights, sounds, tastes and whatever else tickles the senses.
We also get two, count 'em!, two New Years - One Traditionally on the first day of the year and the second for Chinese New Year - January 23, 2012. The Year of the Dragon.
I often think of this as a second chance to start fresh.
Looking back is often useful, a way to see what happened and what can be improved upon. Sadly, I think, too many folks live in the past or dwell on what might have been or why something didn't happen. They'd rather be somewhere other than where they are and don't realize that maybe, just maybe, they are where they are most needed right now and the gift of their presence is more valuable and more important than they can possibly imagine.
Garth Brooks' song, Unanswered Prayers, is to me a gift - a reminder that we do get answers to our prayers every day - just not always the ones we want.
Reality is, bread is no longer 10 cents a loaf, a stamp will most likely never again be one penny and The Simple Life is the way you define it now, not the way it may have been (imagined to have been) then. Too often the fantasy we have about the way things used to be is a lot less...authentic to what was. Let's be honest, it took a lot more work to do a lot less in the Good Old Days. It was often uncomfortable, unhygienic and lot harder than we like to believe.
On the other hand, it was a lot quieter, a lot less polluted, less congested and, maybe, a lot more appreciated.
At least that is my interpretation of history. ;)
Now is the time to dream - pick some colors, choose new flavors, play with ideas. What is possible? What is Probable? What would be Most Fun to Try? Gather your courage, take that first step.
On to a Brand New Shiny New Year!
Like a bright, shiny new penny, New Year's is ripe with promise. We don't have a clue what is in store - some of us only have a slight glimpse of what Might Be or What They Want. Most, however, haven't given much thought forward.
I look at the New Year as a blank canvass. What colors would be best? Any particular sounds or motions? How about some scents and flavors? What feels good?
That canvass is more than a place to put things, it is the opportunity to build a new environment complete with sights, sounds, tastes and whatever else tickles the senses.
We also get two, count 'em!, two New Years - One Traditionally on the first day of the year and the second for Chinese New Year - January 23, 2012. The Year of the Dragon.
I often think of this as a second chance to start fresh.
Looking back is often useful, a way to see what happened and what can be improved upon. Sadly, I think, too many folks live in the past or dwell on what might have been or why something didn't happen. They'd rather be somewhere other than where they are and don't realize that maybe, just maybe, they are where they are most needed right now and the gift of their presence is more valuable and more important than they can possibly imagine.
Garth Brooks' song, Unanswered Prayers, is to me a gift - a reminder that we do get answers to our prayers every day - just not always the ones we want.
Reality is, bread is no longer 10 cents a loaf, a stamp will most likely never again be one penny and The Simple Life is the way you define it now, not the way it may have been (imagined to have been) then. Too often the fantasy we have about the way things used to be is a lot less...authentic to what was. Let's be honest, it took a lot more work to do a lot less in the Good Old Days. It was often uncomfortable, unhygienic and lot harder than we like to believe.
On the other hand, it was a lot quieter, a lot less polluted, less congested and, maybe, a lot more appreciated.
At least that is my interpretation of history. ;)
Now is the time to dream - pick some colors, choose new flavors, play with ideas. What is possible? What is Probable? What would be Most Fun to Try? Gather your courage, take that first step.
On to a Brand New Shiny New Year!
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Quilting, Holidays, Books
A little bit of everything it seems.
I finally figured out what was "wrong" with the design of the quilt I'm working on and - thankfully - have the means to fix the problem. There's a reason we have stashes, obviously. <VBG> One thing I'm going to have to move to the top of my To Do List is to fix my design wall - The table just isn't big enough to lay out the pieces.
I've finally turned on the radio this morning - much to the cat's relief. The station I'm listening to has been playing holiday music since the day after Thanksgiving. I admit that this year it has been a pleasure, rather than a pain.
Catching up with the mail, etc., I read a great review of "The Scottish Prisoner" on Outlandish Observations. I'm in the midst of reading the book myself and admit that I'm making it last as long as possible. I truly love both Lord John and Jamie Fraser, and having the 2 of them together in this book is a treasure and a pleasure.
Drug out the fruit cake paraphernalia and discovered that the fruit needs to soak in the rum overnight. Rats! Guess I'll have to set it up to bake tomorrow when I get home from work. I'm really looking forward to baking this treasure. It is truly a great fruitcake.
Vacation - such as it is/was - has been wonderful. I've slept a lot. Listened to a lot of OTR. Played with the cat and managed to do a lot of nothing. I did get the recycling over to the center and I managed to take my coin stash to the bank and deposit it into my account. Almost $100 in less than a year by simply emptying the coins from my bill fold every Friday after work.
I'm looking at the PBS schedule and planning my viewing for the month. Looks like a lot of great shows and the opportunity to sign up as a member (or re-sign if you're already a member). The Most Important Christmas Present I'll buy this year.
May snow a bit tomorrow. May not. I know it will be a short week, since once again I have Friday off.
Here's to a Wonderful Week.
I finally figured out what was "wrong" with the design of the quilt I'm working on and - thankfully - have the means to fix the problem. There's a reason we have stashes, obviously. <VBG> One thing I'm going to have to move to the top of my To Do List is to fix my design wall - The table just isn't big enough to lay out the pieces.
I've finally turned on the radio this morning - much to the cat's relief. The station I'm listening to has been playing holiday music since the day after Thanksgiving. I admit that this year it has been a pleasure, rather than a pain.
Catching up with the mail, etc., I read a great review of "The Scottish Prisoner" on Outlandish Observations. I'm in the midst of reading the book myself and admit that I'm making it last as long as possible. I truly love both Lord John and Jamie Fraser, and having the 2 of them together in this book is a treasure and a pleasure.
Drug out the fruit cake paraphernalia and discovered that the fruit needs to soak in the rum overnight. Rats! Guess I'll have to set it up to bake tomorrow when I get home from work. I'm really looking forward to baking this treasure. It is truly a great fruitcake.
Vacation - such as it is/was - has been wonderful. I've slept a lot. Listened to a lot of OTR. Played with the cat and managed to do a lot of nothing. I did get the recycling over to the center and I managed to take my coin stash to the bank and deposit it into my account. Almost $100 in less than a year by simply emptying the coins from my bill fold every Friday after work.
I'm looking at the PBS schedule and planning my viewing for the month. Looks like a lot of great shows and the opportunity to sign up as a member (or re-sign if you're already a member). The Most Important Christmas Present I'll buy this year.
May snow a bit tomorrow. May not. I know it will be a short week, since once again I have Friday off.
Here's to a Wonderful Week.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
December First
aka: Vacation Day Eve
AkA: Insanity Reigns as we Gather Decorating Stuff and have a Team Field Trip
Re the first line; I'm taking a well deserved vacation day tomorrow. I have intentions on delivering a truck full of recyclables -- and the center is open only between 6:30 and 8:30 am. Since this is Company sponsored, I'm taking advantage of the service and looking forward to getting (what seems like) a ton of junk out of my house and truck. And not going to work afterwards!
Re the second line: Our team has made plans on how we are decorating our pods/section at work and we needed to gather some materials. Each of us brought what we had and could possibly use in the creation of our masterpiece, but it was clear we needed a trip to Hobby Lobby to complete the items necessary.
Now, you need to understand that the 4 of us are pretty outrageous and rowdy when we're on our own. Set us loose in a store and look out! Garland, card stock, tree ornaments, tree (little one), construction paper, and a few other items I can't recall off hand all made it back to the vehicle...and, yes, we really did try to use someone else's vehicle...I tried to tell the QB that the Ford she was aiming the key controller at wasn't the one we came in.
A stop at Zaxby's and McDonald's on the way back to the office collected lunch and Mint Chocolates.
It is any wonder we were all a bit fried once we carted all the goodies to our corner of the building?
Charlaine Harris Blog - Christmas Preparations has some sensible ideas for preparing for the Holidays. Including the Wink and Nod.
Here's hoping the rest of the week / end is a great one for you!
AkA: Insanity Reigns as we Gather Decorating Stuff and have a Team Field Trip
Re the first line; I'm taking a well deserved vacation day tomorrow. I have intentions on delivering a truck full of recyclables -- and the center is open only between 6:30 and 8:30 am. Since this is Company sponsored, I'm taking advantage of the service and looking forward to getting (what seems like) a ton of junk out of my house and truck. And not going to work afterwards!
Re the second line: Our team has made plans on how we are decorating our pods/section at work and we needed to gather some materials. Each of us brought what we had and could possibly use in the creation of our masterpiece, but it was clear we needed a trip to Hobby Lobby to complete the items necessary.
Now, you need to understand that the 4 of us are pretty outrageous and rowdy when we're on our own. Set us loose in a store and look out! Garland, card stock, tree ornaments, tree (little one), construction paper, and a few other items I can't recall off hand all made it back to the vehicle...and, yes, we really did try to use someone else's vehicle...I tried to tell the QB that the Ford she was aiming the key controller at wasn't the one we came in.
A stop at Zaxby's and McDonald's on the way back to the office collected lunch and Mint Chocolates.
It is any wonder we were all a bit fried once we carted all the goodies to our corner of the building?
Charlaine Harris Blog - Christmas Preparations has some sensible ideas for preparing for the Holidays. Including the Wink and Nod.
Here's hoping the rest of the week / end is a great one for you!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)