on This American Life and geraniums

Every year- just before things freeze, I dig up some geraniums and bring them inside. I love the color and cheerfulness they bring inside when just outside the window the world is blanketed in snow and about 15 degrees. They were looking especially good today in the bright sunshine we haven't seen much of lately. That's not a complaint, the more snow the better in my opinion. If it's going to be winter anyway... bring it on.

And so I continue with the media month theme on this last day of January, although it could very well spill over into February, I must mention another of my favorites. This American Life on NPR (KUER 90.1 in Utah) is one of the best radio shows around. I love everything about NPR, but This American Life is by far my favorite program. It plays on Sunday night at 6 of 7 pm which is extremely inconvenient, so the only time I can ever catch it is in a podcast or stored away on CD. The very first time we ever hear it was a program called The House on Loon Lake (2004) a mesmerizing, fascinatingly eerie story- we were making pizza for dinner- all conversation ceased and we hung on every word. Here are a few other favorites of mine: babysitting and American in Paris with David Sedaris to name a few. I'm not a faithful every every week listener- I wish I was. Unfortunately my life's too crazy (and apparently disorganized) for that. But, every show I've ever heard in deeply moving and thought provoking.
TAL shows are perfect to keep handy for drives- long and short, sewing, cooking, or any other quiet moment you might find yourself enjoying. I suppose I write this post for myself as much as anyone, to get busy downloading. My lovely spouse, Steve O keeps coming home from being on the road relaying second hand TAL stories, but I want to hear them first hand too- from Ira Glass. (I love his voice)

A couple of years ago Steve O was looking for a gift for his parents, after much deliberation he gave them a case full of TAL shows on CD because they spend so much driving back and forth between California and Utah. Now that's a handmade gift to make a lady proud. I think that was perhaps one of the best gift ideas ever, and I must admit I was a little jealous. (maybe I can borrow their batch for awhile)

relief

I am feeling such a sense of relief this evening. We just finished our taxes, (I love getting this taken care of in January) but- holy crap- what a push, no matter what month you do it in. I am the lucky one in the house, chosen to be the family and business accountant. And yes, I know, it is my own fault for not working at it a little bit here and there all year and leaving the majority of the work until the last minute. I can't help it- accounting is tedious and boring. (so sorry to offend if you are an accountant and love it)
AND we somehow managed to help the two oldest children complete not one but TWO Science Fair Projects this week, Q's project "What Effect Does Missing Ingredients Have on Cookies?" is even going on to the District Science Fair. Now, this may not seem like that big a deal, but let me tell you- I feel like a new woman. I am so excited to get back into my studio/workspace and make something. I have got a bunch of ideas, and now finally time to make them. But before I do that, I think I'll cuddle up in my bed and watch a few movies.

best of fest

It's always a treat to go to a Best of Fest screening after the film festival is over. Last night a bunch of us went up to Sundance to watch the World Cinema Jury Prize winning film, The King of Ping Pong. It's a Swedish film about a large, fat sixteen year old boy dealing with the troubles of youth- a broken home, bullies, girls etc. Slow at times, and occasionally leaving you happily musing... "why are foreign films so foreign?" I enjoyed listening to Swedish, watching the desolate Nordic landscape (I stayed bundled in my coat throughout the whole movie) the universal awkwardness of adolescence. All the characters from the chubby 'warm-blooded' mother to the prim and proper explicit scene sketching girlfriend -were endearing in one way or another. Overall, I more or less came to appreciate this film and great wintry night out. Thanks Wendy, kind ticket giver.

ski day

Saturday was one of those beautiful winter days that don't come along very often. It was sunny and just the right temperature for a picnic on the top of the mountain for the whole family.
I look at this picture and think- when did my kids get so big? It makes me feel a little panicky. I need to remember to soak up every single moment with my little shavers, because the next time I turn around they could be graduating from high school! Skiing on Saturday was the kind of day memories are made of, lots of laughs, looking for jumps and skiing tree trails.

Speaking of growing up too fast... just the other day C (3 years old) said as we were pulling into the driveway, "Mom, I need to check my email on your computer." That sent a wave of giggle through the car. What kind of crazy world are we living in?

book group

This was the book group book for December and January, Cristy's pick. I must say, I really enjoyed the journey that reading this novel took me on, and yes- it was quite a journey (700 pages). I was really looking forward to a good discussion but apparently no other book group members took 'hibernating' for the month of January with a stack of books and movies as seriously as I did. :)
The story behind the book: the author, Sena Jeter Naslund takes a small reference to Captain Ahab's young wife from Herman Melville's ''Moby-Dick'' and creates an amazing woman, Una Spencer and her story. Una was a inspiring character, my kind of gal- strong, independent, free spirited and open minded.
But, once again, in my backwards way of doing things, I wish I had read Moby Dick first. Hopefully, I can get around to it someday. Unfortunately, I really don't know anything about Moby Dick or Herman Melville. But I just found this interesting little fact when reading a review of the book. Apparently, Melville could barely tolerate the thought of women reading his books. Of ''Moby-Dick'' he wrote to a female acquaintance, ''Don't you buy it -- don't you read it when it does come out, because it is by no means a sort of book for you.'' Isn't it interesting that from less than a paragraphs reference to a wife in his book such an epic novel would come forth... and all about a woman? (and now I really want to read Moby Dick.)
Here is summing it all up from the Times review: "This book insists on happiness, sometimes to the exclusion of even the most generous reading of history. But why not? Men have got rich from their big harpoons and mythic beasts and improbable heroics. Don't women deserve their own fantastic voyages? " Amen to that ladies... and gentlemen.

Book Group February: The Mole People by Jennifer Toth

a night out

Wow, I finally left the house other than to go to the grocery story or to drop kids off at one lesson or another. It felt good to get out into the freezing cold world again, and work on my social skills for an evening, although I am definitely not anywhere near done hibernating.
My ladies took me out for my birthday- we went up to Park City, meandered around the Sundance Film Festival, dined at El Chubasco, and made fellow diners jealous when we revealed, then enjoyed my scrumptious 'Stephanie-made' chocolate cake.
We were way too disorganized to get into any films, oh well... I think we'll try and make it to a screening or two of the winning films on Monday, the day after the festival finishes, a local bonus. Thanks ladies for all the fabulous gifts, you guys always treat me right!

holiday weekend

It has been a most relaxing weekend. We did some skiing, indoor soccer, making and decorating loads of sugar cookies, and the clever little children (when they weren't working away on cookies) occupied themselves playing legos for almost two days straight...I love it when they all play happily and peacefully together and leave me in peace to watch 5 hour movies.
I finally watched the A&E version of Pride and Prejudice with Colin Firth. I gotta tell you- it's still not my favorite. I'll tell you why: It's the two finals scenes in the Kiera Knightley version that I love so much. The scene where Mr. Darcy (I know, I know- the actor has a name, but I don't want to know it- he's Mr. Darcy to me) is walking across the misty field in the early dawn hours is so beautiful, and the final scene where they are together as man and wife and he's calling her Mrs. Darcy... ahhh. I suppose I'm just a silly and hopeless romantic but, I was so disappointed when the movie ended with just a kiss in the carriage. And so folks, I'm willing to call it a satisfactory film. I may have to watch the A&E version a few more times to truly love and appreciate it. And yes, Colin Firth did get more dreamy as the film progressed.
Embarassed, I admit- I'm going about things completely out of order. I am just now reading Pride and Prejudice for the first time. I guess I soon will find out how adapted both movies are- and the book's ending... that's the ending that really matters right?

beautiful film week- friday

I've saved the best for last. My absolute favorite, most beautiful film ever is Pride and Prejudice. I love the newest version, but I must admit I haven't seen the Colin Firth version. I've been reluctant to watch it because I don't find Colin Firth very dreamy. But, I think in celebration of my birthday today I think I'll curl up with a blanket and a cup of hot chocolate and give it a try.


I can't finish up the week without mentioning a documentary or two. Devil's Playground is a thought provoking documentary that follows a handful of Amish teens as they go through the adolescent rite of passage called 'rumspringa'. Before I saw this movie I had no idea that this rite of passage took place in the Amish faith. I found this movie very interesting, insightful and thank goodness I never have to be a teenager again. It is kind of funny to watch the kids in their traditional Amish garb drinking and smoking it up.

Other noteworthy documentaries:
God Grew Tired of Us
Born Into Brothels
NY Doll

beautiful film week-thursday

My pick today is A Town Like Alice. It is an Australian mini-series from 1981, based on a book of the same name by Nevil Shute. I cannot say enough about this 5 hour masterpiece, beautiful, touching, romantic- a truly brilliant story. The silly thing is I don't think it is available on DVD- only VHS, occasionally it plays on TV, that is how I caught it the first time (on a tip from my sister-in-law). I think your best bet getting your hands on a copy might be your local library. Whatever it takes to find it... it's worth it.

Here are a few beautiful but disturbing film suggestions. I was moved and haunted by both of these films.
Munich
City of God

beautiful film week-wednesday

The films of Baz Lurhmann are eye candy to me, I watch them over and over again and never tire of them.
The costumes, set design, characters are super-funky, crazy/beautiful, over-the-top wacky, and I love it.
Moulin Rogue Trailer
Review of Strictly Ballroom

beautiful film week

It seems I have found some fellow film junkies all united in beautiful film week, I'm happily joining in! In reading the other participants recommendations and I have renewed my devotion to 'media month', but now I will pursue my film viewing in a more organized, inspired fashion. So, to start here are a few of my all time favorite international films:

Babette's Feast is an delicious piece of cinematography. I first saw it (all of these films actually) in college, many years ago (yikes!), at the International Cinema, and a few times since then. This is one of those movies you will never forget, the story, setting, characters, and ahhh- the meal... do not watch this movie hungry, it will be torture.
And, I just discovered, Babette's Feast is on the NY Times list as one of the 1000 best movies ever made.


Jean de Florette This film is the first in the two part series, Manon of the Spring is the sequel. It is set in rural France in the 50's, it is the tragic story of a little girl whose family is ruined by a neighbors desire to own her family's land. Beautiful images and excellent story.


Manon of the Spring A tale of revenge, and love. It is not a cheerful film, but if you're in a mood for tragedy at its best, it's well worth watching. Although Manon of the Spring can stand alone as it's own separate story, you will definitely gain a deeper understanding if you watch Jean de Florette first. Both films, masterpieces of modern French cinema.


Cinema Paradiso My filmmaking spouse turned me onto this movie years ago, I think we still have the tattered up VHS copy he brought into the marriage. A celebration of film, Cinema Paradiso is set in Italy. It's sentimental, funny and nostalgic- such a great, truly beautiful film.

media month

I think the way things are shaping up around here, I need to dub the month of January 'media month'. I haven't really been making anything worth mentioning, all of my creativity has gone into hibernation. I have been doing lots of reading and catching up on movies, and highly mentionable- getting more sleep.
If you haven't caught the series Flight of the Chonchords on HBO, Youtube, or at the video store- you need to put it on your list. You will not be disappointed. It is good entertainment, right up my alley as far as funny goes. Check it out so you can be ready for Eagle vs. Shark. We just added it to our netflix, can't wait to watch it.

in honor of my muffin top

While looking around the world wide web today I stumbled across the short animated film works of Amy Winfrey. She has some very silly, funny stuff. We especially appreciated the Muffin series. These short films are dedicated to my lovely spouse and all of us who have done some overeating over the holidays and now have a "muffin-top" hanging over their belts. Click HERE to watch the muffin series.
Some of our personal favorites: #1, 2, 4 and 6.
Let me recommend #11 if you often find yourself pondering the question, 'why are foreign films so foreign?'

getting old

I was cleaning up my email when I stumbled into this silly list a friend forwarded to my last year, and in another email- some pictures from the 1977 JC Penney catalog. This list made me laugh, (and gasp- like someone had been stalking me throughout my growing up years) so I pass it on and hopefully- if you're old enough it will make you giggle.

IF YOU WERE A LITTLE GIRL IN THE 70'S......

You had that Fisher Price Doctor's Kit with a stethoscope that actually worked.

You owned a bicycle with a banana seat and a plastic basket with flowers on it.

You learned to skate with actual skates (not roller blades) that had metal wheels.

You thought Gopher from Love Boat was cute (admit it!)

You had nightmares after watching Fantasy Island.

You had either a 'bowl cut' or 'pixie', not to mention the 'Dorothy Hamill'. People sometimes thought you were a boy.

You had rubber boots for rainy days and Moon boots for snowy days.

You owned a 'Slip-n-Slide', on which you injured yourself on a sprinkler head more than once.

You owned 'Klick-Klacks' and smacked yourself in the face more than once!

Your Holly Hobbie sleeping bag was your most prized possession.

You wore a poncho, gauchos, and knickers.

You begged Santa for the electronic game, Simon.

You had the Donnie and Marie dolls with those pink and purple satiny shredded outfits, or The Sunshine Family.

You spent hours in your backyard on your metal swing set with the trapeze. The swing set tipped over at least once.

You had homemade ribbon barrettes in every imaginable color. (Oh yeah!)

You had a pair of Doctor Scholl's sandals (the ones with hard sole & the buckle). You also had a pair of salt-water sandals.

You wanted to be Laura Ingalls Wilder really bad; you wore that Little House on the Prairie-inspired plaid, ruffle shirt with the high neck in at least one school picture; and you despised Nellie Oleson!

You wanted your first kiss to be at a roller rink!

PONG! ('video tennis') was the most remarkable futuristic game you've ever heard of!

Your hairstyle was described as having 'wings' or 'feathers' and you kept it 'pretty' with the comb you kept in your back pocket. When you walked, the 'wings' flapped up and down, looked like you were gonna 'take off'.

You know who Strawberry Shortcake is, as well as her friends, Blueberry Muffin and Huckleberry Pie.

You carried a Muppets lunch box with a thermos inside, to school and it was metal, not plastic.

You and your girlfriends would fight over which of the Dukes of Hazzard was your boyfriend.

YOU had Star Wars action figures, too!

It was a big event in your household each year when the 'Wizard of Oz' would come on TV. Your mom would break out the popcorn and sleeping bags!

You often asked your Magic-8 ball the question:
'Who will I marry. Shaun Cassidy, Leif Garrett, or David Cassidy?'

You completely wore out your Grease, Saturday Night Fever, and Fame soundtrack record album.

You tried to do lots of arts and crafts, like yarn and Popsicle-stick God's eyes, decoupage, or those weird potholders made on a plastic loom.

You made Shrinky-Dinks and put iron-on kittens on your t-shirts!

You used to tape record songs off the radio by holding your portable tape player up to the speaker.

You learned everything you needed to know about girl issues from Judy Blume books. (Are You There God, It's Me, Margaret.)

You thought Olivia Newton John's song 'Physical' was about aerobics. (?? It’s not??)

You wore friendship pins on your tennis shoes, or shoelaces with heart or rainbow designs.

You wanted to be a Solid Gold dancer.

You drowned yourself in Love's Baby Soft -which was the first 'real' perfume you ever owned.

You glopped your lips in Strawberry Roll-on lip-gloss till it almost dripped off.

new snow

Today it snowed most of the day, and I couldn't have been happier about it. There is about 12 inches blanketing everything, and I think more expected tomorrow. I should be skiing it all, but I'm busy being a mommy/accountant. On the weekend when I head up to Sundance again perhaps there will be some powder left for me.

the clipboard

My list of New Years resolutions really includes just one thing and that is the job chart, and I'll tell ya why. I dread just about every weekday afternoon of the school year. I spent most the hours between 3 and 6 pm asking nicely, reminding, asking again, then begging and pleading my kids to get their homework and practicing done. It makes me crazy. I have tried for years to get on top of this aspect of life, but it seems bad habits prevail, this includes me. We make the charts, then they never get filled in by me and allowance never gets paid. The job chart meant nothing, constantly abandoned before it was really even started it's no wonder they never cared.
So, I have modified a few things and I am going to give it 110% and see if we can all change some habits around here.
First of all: The clipboard, magnetic and portable, enabling easy removal from the refrigerator to do a job check, or find me to "pass something off". This was a major part of the problem before, all of the responsibility fell on me to keep up with duties done, now it is the kids responsibility to get the chart filled in.
Then, my part again: to actually pay the kids their allowance. They each got an ATM bank for Christmas that keeps track of deposits and withdrawls. They are very excited to use them, but lack any income. (Of course I would prefer all the money earned to go into the real bank, but I hop this will replace the piggy bank (or misplaced plastic bag, pants pocket) and help teach them the value of money earned/ saved etc.)
Bottom line: Building good habits to last a lifetime. We'll see if this family can pull it off.

do you have the time?

I just saw these funky watches by Clare Crespo while pouring over the NY Times Style magazine, from December. With a little research I found Clare is mostly an author of some very cool cupcake and other cookbooks. Since I don't need to make cupcakes but just stick close to Stephanie of Confectionary and her most scrumptious cakes and cupcakes found in the whole world, (her delicious cupcakes can be found at Dear Lizzie if you live in Utah and are now craving one), I turn my focus back to the knit timing devices.
Ok folks, this is how I want January to feel in my life. What time is it? Oh I don't know, let me just check my cute knit watch... I really want to be one of those people who don't really need to know the time... for at least one month. I think I need one of these watches for my birthday. (hint, hint)
Recently I've been thinking about picking up the knitting needles (I hope I can still remember how to knit), I think I now have a reason to try again.

2008 Polar Bear Plunge

"Brave swimmers frolic in the water after jumping off the pier during the 10th annual Polar Bear Plunge at the home of artist Gary Price in Springville on Tuesday. At left, 9-year-old Fischer Olpin steams in the cold air after a swim. Participants start off the new year with a winter dip at the Springville pond, fondly called the Price Family Peace and Meditation Garden, on the Price family property. Price's tradition holds that plunging oneself into the New Year's waters signals a new beginning."

Here is the blurb from yesterday's Deseret News. The kids and Steve O did the Polar Bear Plunge for the 9th year running. I was skiing and missed the fun. The fun of watching and cheering but not jumping in, cold water, especially freezing cold water, is not my thing. The kids are amazing, I can't believe they want to jump in too. Wow. Following in their father's crazy footsteps.



And...on the front cover of the Daily Herald yesterday- just under the "Mob Burns Kenyan Church" headline is this picture of Steve O, crazy cold water swimming father and husband- exiting the water. Here is the link to the full article.