The Katzmeow

Forensic Chemistry

2010-02-18T19:32:00.000-08:00

At the moment I am taking a Forensic Chemistry course. I have to say it is interesting, although sometimes, it does give me some disturbing dreams. In one dream, some methamphetamine addicts were after me (after the lecture on clandestine meth labs and meth synthesis). Anyhow, the subject material at times can be dark, but the technology that exists for Forensic Chemistry never ceases to amaze me. Chromatography has come a long way!

Politics

2010-02-04T18:25:00.001-08:00

Here is something to think about:

Friday Cat Blogging

2010-01-29T16:14:00.000-08:00

I am reading the book about the library cat named Dewey Readmore Books. It is a delightful book.

Here is a video about him:

I think every library should have a cat. Or perhaps every cat should have a library?

Anyhow, Dewey at this point is deceased, but he brought a lot of happiness to a lot of people.

The book, in case interested, is here.

Amusement

2010-01-20T16:06:00.000-08:00

Someone pointed out to me that I have not posted in a while. Sorry. Just a lot going on.

Anyhow, hope this video makes up for it. Perhaps a bit bad, but very amusing.

Friday Cat Blogging

2009-12-18T10:45:00.000-08:00

An oldie, but goodie. The engineer's guide to cats:

And the follow up video of cat yodeling:

Friday Cat Blogging

2009-12-11T13:09:00.001-08:00

I have to admit, the 44 presidents as cats is humorous. Also available in women's sizes as well. Here is the link if interested.

Pearls before Breakfast

2009-12-10T13:27:00.000-08:00

Has our society become so apathetic with regards to classical music that they cannot recognize exceptional beauty? Has our society become so preoccupied with sports scores of millionaires pushing a piece of leather down a field that they cannot even appreciate auditory stimulation in the form of classical music played to exceptional heights?

What I mean is this story (taken directly from snopes.com):

A man sat at a metro station and started to play the violin; it was a cold January morning. He played six Bach pieces for about 45 minutes. During that time, since it was rush hour, it was calculated that thousands of people went through the station, most of them on their way to work.

Three minutes went by and a middle aged man noticed there was a musician playing. He slowed his pace and stopped for a few seconds and then hurried up to meet his schedule. A minute later, the violinist received his first dollar tip: a woman threw the money in the till and without stopping continued to walk. A few minutes later, someone leaned against the wall to listened to him, but the man looked at his watch and started to walk again.

The musician played for 45 minutes. Only six people stopped to listen. He collected $32. When he finished playing, no one applauded.

The musician was Joshua Bell and played one of the most intricate pieces of classical music on his Stradivarius violin supposedly worth 3.5 million. Two days before, he played at a sold out concert hall for seats averaging $100.

The more complete story is here.

Although most people may not recognize him as the famous violinist, one would think they would recognize a piece of music played beautifully.

This makes me sad. Very sad that our society puts so little value on talents that must be nurtured through many years of hard study and work.

Anyhow, here is a video of him playing Ave Maria:

One would think that music played to heights should be appreciated even if the musician is not recognized.

Christmas Season Already?

2009-12-02T14:47:00.000-08:00

It seems like all I did was blink and now the Christmas season is already here!

Anyhow, one thing I hate about the season is the popularity of the those inflatable yard decorations. During the day, people deflate them and it just looks like someone's rubbish has been strewn across the yard. You know, like a bad wind storm on garbage day. And I am still trying to figure out what an inflatable Spongebob has to do with Christmas.

Another thing is the inundation of Christmas songs WAY before Christmas. Radio stations were already playing Christmas songs BEFORE Thanksgiving. As a result, I tend to tire of them before Christmas even rolls around. I especially dislike the corny/lame ones. You smile and giggle when you hear them the first time. Then also again perhaps the second time. But surely not the third time you hear them.

The Christmas songs I like the best are the ones that convey the true meaning of Christmas. I really don't care to hear again how Grandma got run over by a reindeer. I also love the ones that I grew up with as a child. Growing up in a Hungarian household meant I listened to the Hungarian Christmas songs. Since I do not live in Hungary, I hear those songs rarely and when I do, always seem to tug at my heart and bring a tear to my eye.

Anyhow, here is a favorite. The song is about telling the shepherds to hurry to Bethlehem to see the newborn Jesus.

Friday Cat Blogging

2009-11-06T12:36:00.001-08:00

This is sweet. Momma Crow and Baby Kitten.

Haunting Music

2009-10-28T17:37:00.000-07:00

I am really starting to enjoy the music of Midnight Syndicate. They are actually a local group. Some people think the music is too creepy. True, it is good background for horror movies. But I think a lot of their work is just simply hauntingly beautiful.

Here is some of their music with poetry from E. A. Poe.

Expanding my musical horizons

2009-10-28T14:54:00.000-07:00

I may have missed out on getting tickets to Don Giovanni, but I will be going to a concert by Dula Kávé--a modern Hungarian group.

Anyhow, here is a video. Looks like they combine a little bit of traditional folk with modern:

Artistic Impression

2009-10-26T19:19:00.001-07:00

This video is beautiful. It depicts an artist's interpretation of Ukraine during WWII:

Friday Cat Blogging

2009-10-16T12:38:00.000-07:00

Looks like NASA has started employing cats. Wonder what is their hourly rate?

h/t to Dr. J.

Nature Photography

2009-10-13T19:15:00.001-07:00

As most know, I love doing nature photography. Mostly plants, but sometimes I expand out to the native fauna.

Took these pictures of some of the native "birds" in West Point, KY.

Musical Monday

2009-10-05T16:28:00.000-07:00

Facing my fear

Every one who performs in the musical realm has a musical piece that is dreaded from a performance perspective. For me, it is Ave Maria. Ironically, it has always been one of my favorite pieces to listen to. Just was happy I was never asked to sing the piece. Always dreaded the idea of having to perform it.

Well, it turns out that this weekend I was asked to sing this piece for a future Christmas performance. It figures. After many years of not having to sing, I have to jump in with this piece? Sort of the musical equivalent of being thrown into the deep end.

Why is it that others have more faith in my vocal abilities than I do?

Anyhow, here is an absolutely lovely rendition from Sarah Brightman. I doubt I will give as lovely as a performance as she does in this video, but at least I have about three months to prepare.

Friday Cat Blogging

2009-10-02T11:04:00.001-07:00

Another one from Simon's Cat:

Folk techno?

2009-09-23T20:56:00.000-07:00

I am really starting to like the music of the Hungarian group, NOX. I am normally not a fan of techno music, but they have combine techno with traditional folk. They have a lot of elements of traditional Hungarian folk, both in the music and the dance, which I like. It is also innovative.

Here is a video (in Hungarian):

Same video in English:

Relaxation?

2009-09-23T15:31:00.000-07:00

I came across this humorous video from the History Channel. I guess some people need more than just a bubble bath to relax. Safe and legal relaxation.

Warrior Women

2009-09-22T18:48:00.000-07:00

The Hungarian people have often bore the label of being warriors. The women were no exception to this label as history writes of various battles were the women fought along side the men.

Anyhow, Hungarian dance has come a long way, but here is an early bridal dance. I think it depicts the warrior mentality.

I suppose this may give some men second thoughts to proposing marriage to a Hungarian woman. After all, Attila the Hun did die mysteriously on his wedding night...

Modern meets traditional

2009-09-22T13:02:00.001-07:00

This year I have been very fortunate to see the Csardas Dance Company perform three times. They are a wonderful group and I enjoy watching them. It makes me proud of my Hungarian heritage.

I have to say they are a talented group with a great choreographer (Richard Graber). Here is a promo video of them when I attended their anniversary performance:

In addition to traditional Hungarian dances in traditional dress, they have also incorporated into their music the Hungarian modern techo music of Nox. I have to say, it is delightful and unexpected to see dancers performing traditional steps to Hungarian modern techno:

They got it right

2009-09-16T17:30:00.000-07:00

I have to confess I was very disappointed earlier when they introduced the "entry level Lanborghini". No, I will not go into the details. Those things are better left forgotten.

Anyhow, I am impressed with the latest introduction. In fact, excuse me while I wipe the drool off my keyboard...

Articles are here and here.

Autumn Leaves

2009-08-27T18:49:00.000-07:00

As the end of summer draws near and I see the first few autumn leaves, I am reminded of one of my favorite songs, Autumn Leaves. It was composed by the Hungarian composer Joseph Kosma. My favorite version is by Andrea Bocelli.

Friday Cat Blogging

2009-08-21T17:25:00.000-07:00

A Bleg for Cats

This is Stitch Robert (4 1/2 years old), one of my foster cats that was last week adopted into a loving home:

Those who know me know that I volunteer for Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation. It really is a wonderful organization. Although it is mostly a cat rescue, there is the occasional dog that gets rescued and becomes part of our organization. The only reason we don’t do more dog rescue is that it is very difficult finding foster homes for the dogs. Our “shelter” exists in the loving homes of volunteers.

For starters, it is a no euthanasia rescue. No animal is ever put to sleep unless it is medically warranted. Animals that come into the care of Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation are assured that they are placed in the best possible homes (potential adopters are carefully screened). Animals that cannot be adopted out due to behavior issues or medical issues are put into what we call kitty hospice. Kitty hospice exists in volunteer homes and the cats are permitted to live out the rest of their natural lives as happy and healthy as possible. Even cats with cancer are permitted to live out their lives as comfortable and pain-free for as long as possible. Periodically I supply the hospice kitties with home grown organic catnip to assure them of a little extra happiness.

I personally know the founder of Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation and can vouch for the fact what is best for the animals is always considered first. We don’t adopt out a cat just because we want the turnover and need the money. We try our very best to make sure it is a good home. Life does not have guarantees and sometimes it turns out that the home chosen is not the best and the cat gets returned. That is why we have the “lifetime guarantee” policy in which an animal, for whatever reason, can be returned any time for a full refund in order to assure that it will never have to be abandoned and homeless again.

No doubt it is difficult to maintain such an organization. An organization like this needs money. The hospice cats will always be a negative cash flow for the organization as they will need medical care throughout their natural lives. Also, since we put the animal’s best interest first, our “turnover” is slower than other organizations and while an animal is waiting for a good home, any medical needs must be taken care of. Some it may be just routine medical care such as vaccinations. Some of it maybe treating a medical condition that arises such as an ear infection.

It seems like lately the organization has been hard hit with various medical needs of the cats in our care. So, what I am going to ask my dear readers is to “donate” in a way that will not cost you any money. In fact, you donate just by doing your regular online shopping.

It is simple. You go to the Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation website and scroll down to the “I give.com” logo with the shopping bag. You click on the logo and it will take you to its website. You register and designate Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation as your cause. Then you go about your normal shopping online such as Victoria’s Secret, Amazon.com, New Egg, Barnes and Noble, Expedia.com, etc. After you have done your shopping, the vendor donates a portion of the proceeds to the charity. It is that simple and it does NOT cost you anything. Last I checked there were about 700 vendors and new ones are added every day. Let me emphasize, it does NOT cost you anything. Just a few moments of your time to register and designate your cause.

I have checked with both sides (shoppers and organization founder) and can assure you the organization does get the money and no funny business is involved.

I hope that you will consider doing this and helping out the animals that desperately need various medical care at the moment.

Think about it. Next time you are ordering books online, a new fall sweater, wonderful smelling body lotion; you are helping provide care for one of our animals in need. Certainly a rewarding action! And if you continue to go through the I give.com website each time you shop online in the future, you will continue to provide care for our animals in need. Please consider doing this.

Thank you!

Retro Mood

2009-08-17T16:39:00.000-07:00

The year was 1969 and I had not yet even started kindergarten. I remember hearing this song on the radio and absolutely loving it as a little girl. So much so that I remember singing and dancing to it in my summer bathing suit around the house. I imagine that must have been an amusing sight.

Retro Girl

2009-08-12T17:35:00.000-07:00

Slowly putting together my retro look for this weekend's Car Kulture show. I will pass on entering any contests for the retro girl look this year as I still need something more eye-catching in order for it to be contest worthy. But, I think a nice cropped swing jacket, skirt, retro hair and makeup should do the trick. Just going to stroll down Madison Avenue with my Nikon D-200 and just have fun--no pressure.

A Bleg

2009-07-29T17:44:00.000-07:00

Ok, I am looking to put together a retro look. Lakewood's Car Kulture show is coming up next month and considering doing the retro girl look. I think I have the make-up figured out. Not yet sure what to do about the hair (a wig perhaps?). But my biggest problem is trying to figure out the clothing part. Where and what. Sort of looking to do the 1940's - 1950's pinup girl look.

I like the following:

I sort of like the skirt, but it is only sort of. Also, not sure what I would pair it with.

I will also be doing photography at the show, so perhaps that need to be taken into consideration.

Suggestions anyone?

A Vintage Look

2009-07-21T14:11:00.001-07:00

This past weekend I went to Dragway 42. Yes, it is just what it sounds like, drag racing of older (pre-1976 vintage) cars.

Anyhow, I was intrigued by some of the women there doing the retro look with their clothes and hairstyles. Some of them obviously put in a lot of effort to get the look just right with the proper clothes, make-up, and hairstyles. Anyhow, I found a site that will allow you to duplicate some of the looks with minimal effort.

How to Make Vintage Hairstyles -- powered by eHow.com

Since my hairstyle is similar to the instructor in this video, I think her tips should work for me and I may just try it for the next vintage car event. Now I just have to find some nice retro clothes.

Hungarian Sundays

2009-07-05T08:27:00.000-07:00

Here is NOX, a Hungarian group performing Hungarian folk music and dance with a very distinctive modern twist.

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-04T16:03:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July everyone!

A Different Color

2009-06-04T17:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have changed my hair. What can I say? It has provided me with some stress relief. A dark deep red seems to suit my mood at the moment.

Muscle Cars

2009-06-03T16:12:00.000-07:00

I think my blogging Muse has returned from vacation and feeling inspired to post again.

Anyhow, spent the past weekend at Summit Racing track watching the muscle cars compete. It was my first time at a drag strip. Anyhow, I do have to admit that the Buick Grand Nationals do carry some serious "muscle" to them. They are notorious for beating out the Corvettes. In fact, their slogan is "We break for Corvettes". Anyhow, here is a nice video to show what they can do. Pardon the "message" at the end of the video.

Friday Cat Blogging

2009-04-24T14:16:00.000-07:00

A Bleg.

see more Lolcats and funny pictures

Once again the Shelter Challenge is up and going and Rainbow Connection (the rescue organzation for which I volunteer) is in the running to win a grant. This grant is greatly needed as it would help homeless cats (and even one dog). Also, it would help the kitties in their hospice (the kitties that cannot be adopted out but can otherwise lead happy and safe lives). You see, once an animal comes to Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation, it is assured that it will never be homeless again (the animal can be returned for any reason) and euthanasia is ONLY performed in medically warrented cases.

I am fostering three cats for them at the moment. I can assure you that their fate for various factors would not have been so favorable at a euthanasia shelter. Because I fostered them and worked with them, they are lovable and highly adoptable.

Please help me by voting for them. The site is the animal rescue site. Just type in Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation where you see the search field. You can also add Ohio for the state search field. From there hit search and it will show a field to vote. That is it! A few moments to help animals!

Please vote daily and you can vote from more than one computer!

Thank You!!!!

Friday Cat Blogging

2009-03-27T11:46:00.001-07:00

I have done the online dating thing. I have also learned that if you let the cats be a factor in the decision making process, you wind up with better people. Seriously!

see more Lolcats and funny pictures

Friday Cat Blogging

2009-03-20T17:03:00.000-07:00

In honor of Friday Cat Blogging and the fact that I am going to a Rossini Opera in the very near future, here is the famous (or infamous) "Cat Duet".

Opera Explained

2009-03-03T16:25:00.000-08:00

For those that would like a light introduction to opera, here is something to fit the bill:

Memories

2009-02-25T15:29:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the lack of blogging--but I have just been simply overwhelmed these days with my Ph.D program (I figured it stands for Persistant Harassment and Depression). Anyhow, I have not forgotten about those two memes that I have been tagged.

In the meantime, I present to you all a lovely Andrea Bocelli piece. This should bring back some memories for Dr. J.

Friday Cat Blogging

2009-02-06T10:30:00.000-08:00

Every so often I see the following scenario in my home. A solitary paw comes out from under my bed and steals a sock. It has gotten to be a habit when come laundry day, I look under the bed to see what has been stolen.

It is true, I can put my socks away in a basket and not be lazy. I can tie them up in pairs to at least keep them paired. However, the truth of the matter is that this little scenario always seems to amuse me and put a little smile on my face when I see it. Therefore, I let them have their fun knowing that come laundry day, I will be hunting under the bed for my socks.

more animals

Warrior Princess

2009-02-05T16:17:00.001-08:00

Friday evening I am going to spend some time getting in touch with my "Warrior Princess" side. Here is some music to reflect. The imagery is lovely.

Hungarian version:

English version:

A lovely trio

2009-02-03T16:26:00.000-08:00

The truth be known, I am developing a deeper appreciation for operas. The works of Mozart seem to be sheer perfection and I never seem to grow tired of listening to his various arias. The below post was obviously meant as humor. I would venture to say that even those not fond of Opera would find some of Mozart's arias enchanting.

In this case, here is an absolutely lovely trio from his Opera, Cosi fan tutte.

Musical Monday

2009-02-02T16:02:00.000-08:00

Victor Borge and "A Mozart Opera". I heard this on the radio and it is quite amusing. You don't have to be musically inclined to enjoy this one.

Artists and Animals

2009-02-02T12:34:00.000-08:00

Etsy is a marketplace that sells products made by local artists. My favorite rescue, Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation has been selected as the cause for the month of February.

I ask that you check out the this online place and look through their merchandise. Perhaps you might find something for a loved one? It is never too early to shop for a birthday or even Christmas. Yes, I admit to being one of those people that shop for holidays way before the holiday is even near. This method keeps my budget sane and I confess that I just plain enjoy picking up things for loved ones as I happen to find them. It also keeps me sane through hectic times.

I noticed that the products are reasonably priced. Therefore, even if on a budget you might be able to find something to your liking and pocketbook.

Anyhow, all you have to do is click onto the Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation link and then follow the Etsy links. The artists specifically helping Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation are noted there as well.

And for those of you that are artistically inclined? Perhaps Etsy could be a place to sell your wares. Income and help animals. What could be better?

Thanks for checking it out and happy shopping!

Friday Cat Blogging

2009-01-30T13:05:00.000-08:00

This was my favorite cartoon to watch as a little girl. It always made my day when it aired.

Job Hunting

2009-01-23T13:55:00.001-08:00

Given the fact that my contract ends this spring, I have been job hunting. Not a fun activity. Also, given today's economy, I have been job hunting for positions both in my field and out of my field. In other words, if I qualify and it is something I don't mind doing, I am applying. You know, a girl has gotta eat.

At any rate, there is one particular job I am thinking of sending in my resume. Interestingly enough, it is probably the only job in which one of my hobbies actually qualifies me for the job. Also, it is a job in which I would be required to carry a firearm.

Now, I don't have a problem with carrying a firearm, but what I want to know is do I get to pick which firearm to carry? You know, sometimes size matters...

Friday Cat Blogging

2009-01-23T11:50:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of my foster cat, Grover.

Although he looks sad in the picture, this picture was taken before he was placed in my foster home. At the moment, he is a happy, playful, and well adjusted cat waiting for his forever home.

One of his most endearing traits is that he likes to walk around the house "humming".

Death Row?

2009-01-23T11:40:00.000-08:00

I recently read this article that the Dodge Viper may be on death row. Pity. Especially considering that it is a street-race car that could outperform cars in its class costing much more. Yes, it does lack some of the creature comforts, but the car was designed for performance.

Friday Cat Blogging

2009-01-16T12:37:00.000-08:00

Kitteh Antics

At the moment I have two foster cats. Those two being Grover and Gumdrop. Sweet cats overall.

Gumdrop recently got into the habit of meowing and scratching at the bathroom door while I take a bath. Well, I quickly got tired of this nonsense and figured if I let her in, she will realize seeing a tub full of water is not fun and she will not want to be in the bathroom. But no, she came in, curled up on the bathroom throw rug and went to sleep. You see, all she wanted was to be near her foster human and did not like having a closed door between us. So, the routine continued and now every time I go to take a bath, she comes right in the bathroom and curls up on the rug or in the sink to nap and be near her foster human.

Grover somehow realized he was missing out on something and wanted in on all this. So, after some scratching at the door, I let him in as well. He decided to sit on the edge of the tub and every so often take his paw and play with the soapy water.

So, now, my bathing routine involves walking into the bathroom (two felines already walking in front of me) and taking a bath with Gumdrop snoozing in the sink (or on the rug) and Grover playing with the water. Every time without fail they stick to this routine.

So much for normalcy. But then again, there is no such thing as normalcy when you share your home with cats...

Friday Cat Blogging

2009-01-02T12:55:00.000-08:00

One of my foster cats, Boy got adopted into his new home on New Year's Eve. He started off the new year in his forever home! Boy was an awesome and sweet foster cat. I will miss him, but glad to see that he finally found his new home.

Grover and Gumdrop (my other foster cats) seem to miss him, but no doubt are glad to be out of their adoption cages and back in my foster home.

Year in Review

2009-01-02T12:07:00.000-08:00

Happy 2009 to everyone!

In case some of you may have missed some of the highlights of 2008:

H/t to Dr. J.

Chirstmas decorations gone tacky

2008-12-29T12:46:00.000-08:00

Well folks, I have managed to catch yet another cold virus before I was totally over the last one, so I admit, I have not been in the best of mood for the holiday season.

As the holiday season winds down, I have to confess I will be more than happy to see some of those tacky Christmas decorations come down.

I really hate the inflatable decorations. They annoy me. Inflatable Christmas Spongebob? Although I love the Spongebob cartoons, but when did Spongebob become a part of Christmas?

At any rate, the Christmas decorations I abhor the most is the car antlers complete with red nose. Too bad they don't allow open hunting season on those things. The only satisfaction I get from those decorations is knowing that the owners will be ruining their window seals with those things. Imagine the precious look on their faces when the car dealership/repair center tells them why their windows leak.

Good riddance to bad decorations.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T01:32:00.000-08:00

Here is my Christmas wish for all:

Friday Cat Blogging

2008-12-19T09:10:00.000-08:00

more animals

Despite being sick for the past weeks, I have managed to get all the Christmas presents bought. Thank you internet!

Yes, even the cats have presents! Although they are safely tucked away high up in the kitchen cabinets. Why? Cats pretty much can get almost anything open. Yes, they can open cabinets and doors. At least putting them up in the highest cabinets slows down their discovery of their presents.

Oh, and yes, there is catnip for them--but do not tell them and ruin the surprise!

Girly-girl

2008-12-16T15:37:00.000-08:00

I am someone who forges my own path in life, but deep down inside, I am a girly-girl. I am always looking to accessorize. This is on my wish list of accessories. The top is described as form fitting and sexy. Oh yeah!

Information on order may be found here.

Hard to Find Auto Parts

2008-12-16T09:28:00.000-08:00

Passenger Noise Reducer

Came across this handy auto part:

Certainly would have come in very handy for a few ex-boyfriends that annoyed me no end with their "back seat driving". But as you can see, the device can be used on any passenger.

Need to make a mental note to get one when it is back in stock and keep it in the glove compartment to use when needed.

Here is a helpful review on the product:

This thing is a godsend. Before this thing come along I used to have to throw my passenger(s) out of the moving vehicle,which to be honest is a bit of a road hazzard, or I just got ticked off and shot them with my pistol.Works better than duct tape. Duct tape tends to only stick once, this thing is reusable. Now I don't get as many tickets or FBI manhunts as I did in the past. This thing made me a better driver and helped to control my anger management issues...to an extent. Awesome buy!! :)

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars]

Here is the link for further information. The site is also a good source for other difficult to find auto parts.

H/T to Dr. J.

Friday Cat Blogging

2008-12-12T11:27:00.000-08:00

For this week's Friday Cat Blogging I would like to ask my readers to go and vote for Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation in the Shelter Challenge as described in this post.

They do give prizes to the top shelters in each state, so casting a vote for them may just give them that spot!

Thank you!

Food for thought

2008-12-09T08:33:00.000-08:00

Here is an article worthy of consideration.

I tend to spend a lot of time in the parks and preserves for my photography and botanical pursuits. Usually, most people do not care to tread in the areas I visit. The wetlands are not where most people want to spend a day. Let's face it, coming home with about a hundred or so bites is not what most people want to experience. A lot of times I can hike for hours without seeing another human being--both an advantage and disadvantage...

Symphony

2008-11-25T15:32:00.000-08:00

I admit to owning most of Sarah Brightman's CDs. Her latest, Symphony is no exception in my collection. I am please to see that she is incorporating more power in her pieces as it seems to suit her impressive vocal range. Fleurs du Mal is a nice example:

Friday Cat Blogging

2008-11-14T15:02:00.000-08:00

I know blogging has been light--still working on the hard drive failure. BSOD sucks. Anyhow, it is still important to go vote for Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation as described in this post. Please vote everyday!

As you may know, they give prizes to the top shelters in each state. All things considered, Rainbow Connection is not doing too bad in terms of state rank. Perhaps your vote can give them the top spot? Anyhow, go forth and vote! Please.

Thank you!

Ares I

2008-11-07T09:48:00.000-08:00

Miz Minka wrote this post about the Ares I rocket.

I have to confess that I feel somewhat privledged to know an individual working on the Ares I project. It is pretty cool to listen to him "talk shop" and I just passively sit there absorbing all the delightful information. Just last week over dinner we talked quantum mechanics. How cool is that?

NASA will be sending him down for the Ares I project--only fair since he is working on the project. Who knows, perhaps he will bring back cool footage for me to watch? At the very least, I can count on great conversation.

As I child, I have looked to the stars and let my imagination soar at the wonders beyond our world. When lost, I have used those very stars in the sky to navigate my way home. Now, I get to hear the cool stories (nothing confidental of course) behind our exploration of the stars.

Flesh is flesh...

2008-11-07T09:25:00.000-08:00

A Vent

Forgive me, for I am irked.

It has been the week from hell. It started with the hard drive failure and progressively got worse from there.

Things culminated yesterday when a "big shot" of the research institute decided to burn my hand.

To make a long story short, I was getting a nice bowl of hot soup from the cafeteria for lunch. The said "big shot" decided to bump into me scalding my hand with the hot bowl of soup.

The cafeteria staff doted on me, cleaned me up, gave me a cool wet towel for my hand, asked if I needed medical assistance, got my name for a report, and gave me a free lunch (in retrospect I should have opted for the lasagna special). The "big shot" was just slightly apologetic and high tailed out of there.

Sincere amends for the situation would have been the least he could do. Follow up to make sure I was ok is not too much to ask either.

All I can say is that flesh is flesh. It still burns whether it is attached to the president of a foundation or a graduate student just trying to make it through the week with a bit of sanity...

Diagnosis

2008-11-05T12:04:00.000-08:00

more animals

Yep, the hard drive is good and dead. Dr. J. says he will give it a final look. In the meantime, I am getting a new one.

If nothing more can be done for it, I think I have found a place for the old dead hard drive--right in the path of a borrowed .50 caliber. Somehow, I get the feeling that I will only need one bullet as my aim will be perfect in this case...

BSOD--It has happened.

2008-10-31T09:16:00.000-07:00

more animals

Yep, BSOD has afflicted my dissertation. I backed up my hard drive two months ago, and my most recent backup of my dissertation is about a month or so old. Yes, I can reconstruct, but it will take time--at least a week.

In the meantime, a friend is trying to extract what he can off the dead hard drive. If he can just extract my most recent copy of my dissertation, I will be happy. But things do look pretty grim right now for it.

In the meantime, it is light blogging ahead--in between I will be cycling between uttering "colorful metaphors" and mournful whimpering.

Computers I have concluded are also minions for Satan, erm, Basement Cat.

Hungarian Sundays

2008-10-26T14:17:00.000-07:00

Years back I attended a concert by Koncz Zsusza (Zsuzsa Koncz). She is a popular singer in Hungary. I really enjoyed the concert, her voice, and her music. This was, and always has been my favorite song by her.

Friday Cat Blogging

2008-10-24T09:02:00.000-07:00

Still Blegging

Each year, countless numbers of wonderful cats are euthanized because their only crime in life was that they could not find a good home. This really does break my heart. Kill shelters will often euthanize if a cat has been there "too long", is timid around others, or has developed a communicable, yet treatable disease (like ringworm or an upper respiratory infection). Although I don't agree with this practice, I do realize that sometimes, these shelters have no other option.

The rescue organization I volunteer for is a non-kill shelter. They only euthanize as a last resort (the animal is in pain or as a humane last act--like in the case of total paralysis). Animals that have developed a terminal illness or medical problem are put into their "kitty hospice" and permitted to live out the rest of their lives in comfort and love. Once an animal has made its way to the care of Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation, it is assured that all is done to make sure it is never again homeless and can live out its life in comfort and love. Animals that are returned are re-evaluated and put up for adoption (or put into kitty hospice). Cats, from time to time will develop an illness and that illness is treated in the volunteer's home. Just earlier this year, all the cats in my household developed an upper respiratory infection. Every one got treated (including myself at times as some of the bubblegum flavored amox got in my mouth from attempting to dose the cat). Every one of my foster cats recovered nicely and all of them were later adopted into very loving homes.

I would like to see all this needless euthanasia come to an end. Help me by voting for Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation's contest to win a grant to support them as described in this post.

Please vote every day and pass it along to a friend if possible. Thank You!

Slumbering Bumble

2008-10-23T15:44:00.001-07:00

Earlier this summer I took the opportunity to visit one of my favorite bogs. This favorite is Jackson Bog.

It had rained the previous evening and a thick morning fog developed. Even by the time I reached Jackson Bog, the air was still thick with an envelope of cool moisture. As I started to make my way through the bog, I noticed that the majority of the insects and other small creatures were seemingly motionless on all the vegetation. Some made slow and gentle movements as if to try to nudge themselves from a deep slumber. I can only say that it seemed as though a spell of sleep had been cast upon this emerald glen and all the creatures that dwelled in it.

I knew it would not be long before all its creatures would be embarking on their normal daytime activities. Therefore, I decided to take some pictures of this slumbering Bumble Bee.

…a slumbering Bumble in an enchanted place dreaming perhaps of sweet nectar finds.

(click on picture for a close-up)

Whew!

2008-10-22T13:06:00.000-07:00

When I had my committee meeting late this spring, I was given the deadline of writing a dissertation and two manuscripts in a matter of six months. I have been progressively putting myself under duress to meet this deadline. Not to mention job hunting on top of all this considering that funding for me was due to end in December. It was determined that defending in November would be a realistic goal for me. Personally, I think it was more realistic for me to end up in the morgue than end up walking on the stage to receive my Ph.D. come December.

Thankfully, due to new funding, my contract is being extended to spring. Yes, I still have an awful lot of work still to do--but at least one of those is not funeral pre-planning.

For the very first time in months, I think that just maybe I can see the light at the end of this dark tunnel. For the first time, the Ph.D. is feeling like a tangible goal.

Some days, the sun really does indeed come out.

Favorite Car

2008-10-21T16:26:00.000-07:00

Those who know me, know that my favorite car is the Ferrari F40. What can I say? What is there not to like about a fast car on smooth curves?

Below is a nice informational video on it. Sexy!

Anyhow, I am still searching/hunting for a nice Ferrari F40 to photograph. They can run, but they can't hide...at least not from me.

Star Trek Saturday

2008-10-18T13:44:00.001-07:00

Star Trek meets Star Wars. Enjoy!

Friday Cat Blogging

2008-10-17T14:29:00.000-07:00

This week's Friday Cat Blogging is a reminder to vote for Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation as I wrote in this post.

They are one of the few rescues that have a kitty hospice for cats that have a medical problem which prevents them from being adopted out, but are permitted to live out their lives in comfort and love.

Please remember to vote every day! The voting info is in the post. Thanks!

The Dark Side?

2008-10-14T09:12:00.000-07:00

Expanding my musical horizons

So Dr. D. emails me to remind me of the orchid meeting on Wednesday. I actually forgot which tells me how preoccupied I have been with this dissertation/writing. We will probably end up exchanging the CD's we loaned each other. Still have not finished studying the Malmsteen CD's. I am one of those people that have to listen to something 20-30 times before I can fully appreciate it. Some things I like and appreciate right away, others I listen to many times before I make the determination if I like it.

Although I will listen to top 40's music from time to time (when I want to put my brain in idle), I find that a lot of it tends to be a bit too insipid for my personal preference. How a piece with bad music and bad vocals make it to the top 40, I will never understand. But I digress.

I have to confess, that for the most part, I have been a simple baroque girl. Pop a Vivaldi into my CD player and I am happy. Never ventured over to the realm of metal or its "powerful" and progressive counterparts. Never cared for it. Yet, now, if the piece is well done I can fully enjoy it. I do have to confess that my progression into this realm has been slow and methodical--not for the faint of heart so to speak.

I guess I could even look the part of the "metal girl" if I wanted to. Pair the black satin corset with the black leather pants would do nicely (as Tarja (the previous lead vocalist for Nightwish) did at some of her performances). Yes, if Nightwish were to venture over to these parts, that outfit would do nicely.

At any rate, I am finding there is a lot out there that I have to listen to and see if I like it. I might just surprise myself and go to one of these concerts.

Am I venturing over to the dark side?

Saturday Conversation

2008-10-13T19:56:00.000-07:00

This is for Dr. J. It would seem that Dr. J. has a penchant for horror movies. Made me think of this Nightwish song and video.

Thanks Dr. J. for the great conversation!

Bandaids

2008-10-13T12:23:00.001-07:00

Went to the store and saw in the personal items isle Hello Kitty Bandaids. Is there no realm sacred from this annoying feline?

The sad thing is, that there was a time I actually liked Hello Kitty and had a few items of Hello Kitty (pens and an ice cube maker). But that was all before this feline went on a quest for world domination.

More adventures with kittens

2008-10-13T08:02:00.000-07:00

I have two adult cats of my own--wonderfully behaved cats. I also have two foster kittens that I am caring for as part of a rescue organization.

Those two kittens have managed to go through more cat toys in a few weeks then my own cats do in a few years!

This morning when I got out of the shower, I find what looks to be another detonation of a cat toy. Tiny little orange foam pieces in the hallway, in my bedroom, and even in the living room. I was trying to figure out what the little foam pieces used to be when I remembered Gumdrop was playing with an orange foam ball two days ago. I guess another one bites the dust.

Earlier this year, I remembered thinking that I have way too many cat toys for the cats. Looks like the foster kittens are solving that problem...

Musical Monday

2008-10-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

Here is an interesting video clip featuring Joshua Bell on his Stradivarius (I presume) playing my favorite of the Brahms Hungarian Dances (Hungarian Dance No. 1). I have a CD of Joshua Bell playing this piece and I never grow tired of listening to it. I have always felt like Hungarian music so beautifully brings out the emotion of the violin as well as the violin so beautifully brings out the emotion in Hungarian music.

Dreams

2008-10-12T20:21:00.000-07:00

Ever Dream?

They say that the eyes are the windows to the soul. However, in my opinion, dreams are the true windows to the mind. Dreams can evaporate in the morning’s routines like mist in the warmth of the sun. But some dreams stay with us, and we will find ourselves during the course of the day thinking about them and wondering as to their meaning.

Dreams, defined by psychoanalytical theory are all forms of wish fulfillment. The dreams represent the desires in our hearts (mind). Even the bad dreams are a form of wish fulfillment—it is our mind’s way of trying to change an outcome or work through an issue.

Oftentimes, in an attempt to understand dreams, people will buy “dream interpretation” books and interpret a dream based upon the definitions of the symbols in the book. Yes, some dream symbols are universal. However, it is the dreamer that holds the interpretation to the meaning of the symbols in the dream. For you see, sometimes a cigar is just a cigar and the significance and meaning of the symbols can be unique to the dreamer.

On that note, here is a video of one of my favorite songs by Nightwish, Ever Dream. Seems to fit the post, especially considering that the images are subjected to individual interpretation.

Friday Cat Blogging

2008-10-10T10:08:00.000-07:00

A Bleg

All those who know me know that I do a little rescue work with Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation. This is the best rescue organization that I know of in the area. They have no shelter in which to house the animals and as a result they are a series of foster homes. They have a no euthanasia policy and only euthanize in medically warranted cases. As a result, they run a hospice for kitties that have various medical problems that cannot be adopted out, but are allowed to live out their lives in comfort and love. They also greatly depend on the generosity of volunteers and donors. They are also at times barely financially afloat.

This rescue organization is near and dear to my heart. As a result I ask all of you to please vote for them in this contest to get a $25,000 grant. It would go a long way to rescuing and caring for more cats.

Thanks.

Instructions:

The voting site

At the search option type in:

For shelter: Rainbow Connection Animal Foundation
Location: Cleveland, Ohio (hit search button)

Then hit vote button (you will ask to confirm the vote)
And that is it!

(Remember to vote once a day during the voting period)

Music Competitions

2008-10-06T16:36:00.000-07:00

I was having a discussion today with someone regarding Puccini's La Boheme. I recalled that I used to perform this piece:

I always dreaded it when my music teacher would insist upon me singing it for competitions. Although my performance got high marks from the judges, it always left me feeling exhausted. I don't know if it was the difficulty on the vocal cords or the emotion of the piece--but I always felt exhausted afterwards. As a result, it would always have to be my concluding piece because I would have nothing left to give after this aria.

My Summer Place

2008-10-06T16:10:00.000-07:00

With a chill ever more present in the air these days, it will not be much longer before all is blanketed in a cover of snow.

I consider my "Summer Place" to be the beautiful world around me when I am out doing photography. From the Bald Eagles soaring above my head to the tiniest flowers beneath my feet.

As the plants die down in anticipation for the winter, my photography comes to an end until next year--when I once again return to my summer place.

Musical Monday

2008-10-06T05:44:00.000-07:00

A Hungarian Opera

A few years back, I was privileged to attend a concert to hear this aria from Erkel Ferenc's Bánk bán.

I heard it song by an Opera singer from Hungary who was brought into town for a special performance. The performer sung it in full custume and had a lovely powerful voice as needed for this particular Opera.

The aria moved me to the point where I just could not stop the tears from streaming down my face.

Bánk bán: Hazám, Hazám:

Classic Dame

2008-10-04T12:23:00.000-07:00

Your result for The Classic Dames Test...

Carole Lombard

You scored 24% grit, 14% wit, 38% flair, and 38% class!

You're a little bit of a fruitcake, but you always act out in style. You have a good sense of humor, are game for almost anything, but you like to have nice things about you and are attracted to the high life. You're stylish and modern, but you've got a few rough edges that keep you from attaining true sophistication. Your leading men include William Powell, Fredric March, and Clark Gable. Watch out for small planes.

Find out what kind of classic leading man you'd make by taking the
Classic Leading Man Test.

Take The Classic Dames Test at HelloQuizzy

I would say my activities of hiking in nature preserves and falling into bogs probably counts as my "few rough edges". I always did have a thing for Clark Gable though...

(h/t Miz Minka)

More Friday Cat Blogging

2008-10-03T11:31:00.000-07:00

Gumdrop has become quite the bold kitten and it has been quite some time since she has hid under my bed. However, she still uses the place under my bed to hoard things. Go figure.

She takes her favorite cat toys and puts them under the bed. For some bizarre reason, she loves to take my socks and put them under my bed. I have seen her literally dragging my socks under the bed. I figured I would just let her do this and deal with it all on laundry day. Sorry, but I just have a soft spot for her since she was an abuse case.

Laundry day arrived last night. It was an adventure to look under my bed and see all that she has hid there. Various cat toys, pencils and pens, small containers of eyeshadow, tubes of lipstick, several socks, and other clothing items.

I got everything out from under the bed (no doubt some things will all be dragged back under there while I am not at home). Even got all my socks matched up--with the exception of one lone sock. Can't find its mate anywhere.

So, I decided to confront Gumdrop as to its location. But she ain't talking...

Friday Cat Blogging

2008-10-03T03:49:00.000-07:00

This is cute:

Musical Monday

2008-09-29T13:19:00.000-07:00

Opera Notes

I attended Mozart's Marriage of Figaro as planned on Friday evening. I have to confess that it all exceeded my expectations. My only regret is that I would love to be able to go to every performance that is is scheduled here in town.

The Marriage of Figaro is actually a sequel to The Barber of Seville. But I have yet to see The Barber of Seville. So, I guess I am doing this in reverse here. Anyhow...

Mozart is known for weaving into his operas beauty, humor, tenderness, forgiveness, and enlightenment. The Marriage of Figaro is no exception to this. What can I say? I am a sucker for happy endings. Mostly, I think I enjoyed the comic aspects of the opera. There is a saying that Bach taught us to pray and that Mozart taught us to laugh. I still have the giggles from the Count referring to his servant Cherubino as "That Cherub from Hell".

Cupcakes were served to the members of audience after the opera to celebrate the marriage of Figaro. Nice touch.

Here is a video clip of perhaps the most popular aria (Porgi Amor) from The Marriage of Figaro. It brings tears to my eyes--every time:

An English translation I found:
"God above, hear my prayer. Ease my pain and grant me peace.
Oh, return the love I've cherished, or give my aching heart release.
Oh, please let this torment cease!
Tell me why his love has faded. Let me know in what way I
can win back the man I married. God of love, heed my cry.
Oh, heed my cry.
If my love is lost forever, then take pity and let me die."

What LOLCAT I am:

2008-09-27T11:13:00.001-07:00

Your result for The Which Lolcat Are You? Test...

Sad Cookie Cat

You are the classic Shakespearian tragedy of the lolcat universe. The sad story of a baking a cookie, succumbing to gluttony, and in turn consuming the very cookie that was to be offered. Bad grammar ensues.

To see all possible results, checka dis.

Take The Which Lolcat Are You? Test at HelloQuizzy

The results don't surprise me one bit. Not one bit.
(h/t Miz Minka)

Friday Cat Blogging

2008-09-26T08:52:00.000-07:00

more animals

I can so relate as I have said those very same words whenever I have fallen into a mud pool or bog. You know, you do get stuck in those!

Marriage of Figaro

2008-09-24T15:59:00.001-07:00

Come Friday evening, this labrat will set aside my labcoat and instead don red brocade and black chiffon. The occasion? A girl's night out to see a full scale production of Mozart's Marriage of Figaro.

It has been an opera I have been wanting to see for years. I do believe it is Mozart's most beloved opera. Nothing can keep me from going.

For those interested, here is Sull'Aria from the Marriage of Figaro. I would like to say it is perhaps the most beautiful duet I have ever heard:

Adventures with kittens

2008-09-22T11:31:00.000-07:00

I think I am actually starting to get used to my fingers, toes, hair, nose, and ears being nibbled on by my foster kittens--sort of. At least I am finding more creative ways to deal with "teething kittens" or kittens who like to explore the world with their mouths--just like human babies.

Anyhow, my foster kitten, Boy, came to me in the evening and started to nibble away at my fingers while I was trying to read. Not conducive to reading. Then he decided to nibble on my ears (very distracting). Then he was nuzzling into my neck (cute, but still distracting). He was very determined. I figured he wanted something, but could not figure out what. Remembering that he was a bottle fed kitten, I got an idea.

I went into the kitchen and prepared a bowl of warm kitten milk replacement. Both Gumdrop and Boy lapped it all up.

I then had two kittens fall asleep content with bellies full of warm milk.

Problem solved.

(Above picture of Boy taken by RCAF volunteer)

Musical Monday

2008-09-22T05:07:00.000-07:00

I heard this piece on the radio while driving and found it simply enchanting:

More Friday Cat Blogging

2008-09-19T06:40:00.000-07:00

Fostering two kittens has been an adventure. I had forgotten what it is like having kittens.

Here are some things I have discovered over the past week:

1. I found an entire stash of socks under my bed. Most likely culprit is Gumdrop.
2. The majority of cat toys have been shredded and chewed into pieces. Yes, cat toys are not meant to last forever and I periodically replace them. However, it looks as though there has been a simultaneous detonation of them.
3. Kittens go through a teething period like baby humans. Therefore, the kittens are fond of chewing on things—mostly my fingers and toes when I am trying to sleep.
4. Kittens like to exercise and work on their climbing abilities—especially on my legs.

Friday Cat Blogging

2008-09-19T01:47:00.000-07:00

Meet Gumdrop. She was named for her little "gumdrop nose".

I was asked to foster this kitten named Gumdrop. A sweet Calico rescued from the projects whose fate would have likely been “Pit Bull bait” for training dogs to fight.

When she came to my home for fostering, she had serious abuse issues. This was evident in her behavior. She would retreat to under my bed at the sound of any loud or unfamiliar noise. The worse part was when another cat would try to in interact with her--she would actually spontaneously crap. She would, what I would term, have “spontaneous butt explosions”. The rescue organization director told me that this behavior is a symptom of abuse that is typically seen. The cat is apparently so terrified it no longer can control its bodily functions. Anyone who has owned cats knows that they are extremely clean creatures and as a rule are very picky about when and where they eliminate. Cats prefer to be in control of their bodily functions. They have to be scared to lose that type of control.

For 3-4 days, I had a kitten living under my bed with butt explosions. Not a lot of fun. Even though the butt explosions were a solid matter, it was not fun cleaning and smelling the butt explosions whenever she got frightened. If another cat so much as hissed at her, her butt would “explode”. The only upside was that since cats usually only pass stool once a day, her butt explosions were limited to once a day. But her body rhythms dictated passing stool in the morning, so I could usually count on waking up to a butt explosion or her having one as I was in the process of getting ready in the morning. Not something I enjoyed adding to my morning routine.

However, providing her with a safe a quiet home environment has done wonders for her. She no longer has any butt explosions (it has been over a week since her last butt explosion). She has stopped living under the bed and spends her time in one of the windows or sleeping on the bed. She now actually initiates play with the adult cats and the other kitten I am fostering. She bounces around the house like a very normal happy kitten.

Whatever abuse issues she had, she has gotten over it. She is friendly, curious, playful, and sweet. She will make a really wonderful cat for whoever adopts her. She loves to play and tap my legs when I walk by—very bold considering the frightened kitten she used to be. The way she acts now, one would never guess she had a terrible past.

I believe that she has blossomed into a sweet wonderful creature because I provided for her a safe, quiet, and nurturing environment for her to recover-- this is why I choose to foster cats for a rescue organization. I can’t save and help all the abused animals in the world. But I am able to make a difference in one at a time.

(picture taken by an one of the rescue organization volunteers)

Suits my mood

2008-09-18T16:40:00.000-07:00

Let's just say I am stewing a bit. Let's just say this expresses my mood quite well.
Hmhrph.

Musical Monday

2008-09-15T06:43:00.000-07:00

Metal meets Orchestra

Dr. D. seems to be expanding my musical horizons. He has introduced me to the music of Yngwie Johann Malmsteen. Although I am not a fan of metal (I am a simple baroque girl myself), I am just wowed by Malmsteen. His own composition of Icarus Dream Fanfare from Concerto Suite for Electric Guitar and Orchestra in E Flat Minor Op. 1 is just simply amazing. His playing is flawless, precise, and clean. He is just amazing. Incredible musician and composer.

Dr. D. himself got to meet Malmsteen and have his guitar signed by him (which Dr. D. was kind enough to show me and play for me).

Note the scalloped fingerboard of the guitar. It is a favorite of Malmsteen. Interestingly enough, Malmsteen is also a great lover of baroque music and his compositions are heavily influenced by baroque music.

Who would have thought I would enjoy metal with orchestra? I also like his "baroque-esque" shirt and jacket. Nice touch.

Icarus Dream Fanfare:

Here is his Prelude to April and Toccata from the same Concerto Suite:

Star Trek Saturday

2008-09-13T09:03:00.001-07:00

Friday Cat Blogging

2008-09-12T16:10:00.001-07:00

9/11 Remembrance

2008-09-11T15:49:00.001-07:00

9/11--never forget. Never.

There's a hole in the world tonight
There's a cloud of fear and sorrow
There's a hole in the world tonight
Don't let there be a hole in the world tomorrow.

They say that anger is just love disappointed
They say that love is just a state of mind.
But all this fighting over who is anointed,
Oh, how can people be so blind?

There's a hole in the world tonight
There's a cloud of fear and sorrow
There's a hole in the world tonight
Don't let there be a hole in the world tomorrow.

Oh, they tell me there's a place over yonder
Cool water running through the burning sand
Until we learn to love one another,
We will never reach the Promised Land.

There's a hole in the world tonight,
There's a cloud of fear and sorrow
There's a hole in the world tonight
Don't let there be a hole in the world tomorrow.

(There's a hole in the world tonight)
They say that anger is just love disappointed
(There's a cloud of fear and sorrow)
They say that love is just a state of mind
(There's a hole in the world tonight)
But all this fighting over who will be anointed
(Don't let there be a hole in the world tomorrow)
Oh, how can people be so blind?

There's a hole in the world tonight
(Hole in the world)
There's a cloud of fear and sorrow
(Fear and sorrow)
There's a hole in the world tonight
(Ooooh)
Don't let there be a hole in the world tomorrow
(Repeat 4x)

Autumn Leaves

2008-09-10T14:18:00.000-07:00

There is a slight crispness to the air and the trees are just beginning to show their early fall colors. A slight melancholy fills my heart as sad memories fill my thoughts.

Here is my favorite version of Autumn Leaves. Suits my mood and I never grow tired of listening to it:

Carnivorous Plants

2008-09-07T17:21:00.001-07:00

This past summer I spent some time looking for and photographing carnivorous plants (pitcher plants, sundews, venus-fly traps, bladderworts, etc). Even managed to fall into a bog in the process of photographing one (not going to write about that).

Anyhow, found this video on carnivorous plants that I think is cool:

Sins of the Writer

2008-09-05T08:25:00.000-07:00

They say that confession is good for the soul. So here is mine for the activities of this past week:

1. The brain does indeed use glucose as its primary energy source (ketones when glucose is depleted). However, eating an entire pint of butter pecan ice cream from Honey Hut Ice Cream Shoppe in one sitting does not relieve writer’s block. Just gives me a huge sugar high and than makes me take a nap--no writing gets done.
2. When doing something mentally taxing as writing a dissertation, it is important to keep a steady glucose supply to the brain. However, eating an entire tray of cookies does not make the writing go faster or better—the brain can only use so much glucose despite the frenzied mental activity.
3. Speaking of cookies, every time I write one sentence of my dissertation does not warrant a “reward” ratio of one chocolate chip cookie. I will not even mention how many cookies one page added up to. A reward ratio of 5 pages to one small cookie is probably ok.
4. Staying up late to work on my dissertation does burn extra calories than a typical day of going to bed at a normal time. However, it does not burn enough extra calories to warrant a Big Mac on two consecutive days. Maybe running a marathon might warrant those extra calories and fat, but writing a dissertation, no.
5. Again, getting up a few hours early does not warrant the extra fat and calories in a sausage McGriddle. See confession and point number 4.
6. Eating a box of truffles is not considered proper pharmacological intervention for depression and anxiety.

I repent. I realize that “destroying” my body is not going to help the dissertation writing. Leftover cookies go in the freezer. It is back to healthy eating to make up for this week of sins.

Making my mark in the world

2008-09-04T08:34:00.000-07:00

(Picture of Porsche RS Spyder taken at the 2008 Mid-Ohio Le Mans Series)

Well, it would seem that I can't always hide behind my lens and be an introvert. It turns out that the Porsche Club of Ohio are using my photographs of the pictures I took of the Porsches. I got the following email today:

CONGRATULATIONS!
YOU ARE NOW A PUBLISHED PHOTOGRAPHER!
DR.D

So, the Porsche owners of Ohio will be seeing my photographs with my name!

Cool, just cool.

Phantom

2008-09-03T10:58:00.000-07:00

Phantom:

Last night I took Phantom, my foster cat, to PetSmart to meet his prospective adoptive parents. Turns out he got adopted by them and is in his new home. Sure do love happy endings.

Although Phantom will be missed, I ended up taking two itty bitty kitties (9 weeks) home for the evening. They needed to be taken to the vet's in the morning and I was asked if I could do that since it was along my morning route. So I just had them for the evening. They have already been pre-adopted and will be going to their new homes as soon as they are properly vetted and recovered.

Turned out to be an enjoyable evening having two little kittens all to myself for the night. One had me worried because I almost ended up rolling over on it because somehow (don't know how) one of them made it up on the bed next to me. Having to report to a prosecuting attorney, who knows most of the judges in Lake County, that I flattened one of her rescue kittens would not have been a good thing.

The Pain of a Dissertation

2008-09-02T12:57:00.000-07:00

As I am trying to write my dissertation, I reflect on how difficult the whole process can be. It is a solitary and lonely activity. It is an exercise in pain. No joke—the bottle of ibuprophen is never far from my reach. Couple that with anxiety and depression and it makes me wonder how anyone ever manages to get a Ph.D.

Each morning I wake up thinking I want to quit. Find some job, any job, and make all this pain go away. Wishing that I would be free to enjoy life and not obsess about facts and figures. Free to dream and nurture the idealist that is still somewhere deep inside of me. I want to find that part of me that was alive and vibrant before I started this difficult path.

Yet somehow, I manage to muddle through the day and push forward. Somehow, I manage to push towards that seemingly intangible goal. Somehow.

Some years back I, I met a professor who told me that her husband wrote her dissertation (they met in graduate school and were in the same field). She was pregnant at the time she was trying to finish.

I realize that pregnancy is probably no picnic. But I can’t help but find myself wishing that it would be nice if someone wrote my dissertation for me. Can’t help but find myself thinking that I would take pregnancy and giving birth over having to write this damn thing.