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Patience vs Violence
December 4, 2015
— 3 Comments
Doc, Me, Wyatt
I recently gave thought to the question “What is the opposite of gratitude?” I decided it is entitlement. This exercise works well for all kinds of grand concepts and world events. Our violent world is punctuated with opinions and some bravery, but the violence itself looks more powerful all the time. I am a believer in Chinese medicine and the power of understanding opposite forces. I go to acupuncture every week for my health to balance the chi in my body. There are macro and microcosms of chi as well, like the environment, social order, etc. Energy balances energy and life continuously flows. Balance depends on constant movement and exchange, like inhale and exhale.
With the bigger picture in mind I wonder what is the opposite energy to contradict and balance violence. I don’t own weapons or use them. My life is easy, comfortable, and fun. I don’t think about encountering violence even though there is plenty of it right in my neighborhood as well as across the globe. I agree with the sentiment of the Parisians who believe that fear to go out and live it up is what terrorists want to see in their victims. Caving in to fear may be the worst reaction, but what is the best one? I live in Tucson where we were shaken by mass shooting early in the game. Our city is plenty violent all the time with the full time smuggling at work here. Most people go about our business without any thought of the crime and violence we know happens. I have started to wonder if this is unrealistic or healthy.
As long as I stay aware of the shadow of violence I think it is healthy to be happy and free of fear. The only thing that has worked in my life as a cure for big and little violence is patience. Patience must be the opposite of violence. Patience develops into empathy if practiced for a long enough time. When you restrain your emotions long enough to see the bigger overview you always find ignorance was the cause of all problems. Ignorance continues to cause trouble, but if I sincerely practice patience I can stop myself from adding my own portion of violence to the boiling pot of trouble. What do you think, gentle reader? Have you found any new truths by observing all the horror lately?
Ikebana in the Garden
November 29, 2015
— 1 Comment
Ohara School
outdoor exhibit
outdoor exhibit
outdoor exhibit
indoor exhibit
Tomorrow is the last day of the annual Ikebana event at Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson. This delightful addition to the garden’s peaceful atmosphere is wonderfully worth a visit. The works are displayed in all parts of the gardens as well as in two interior galleries. There are well defined spaces that allow contemplation or mindfulness practice at Yume any time you visit. To see these adorned with Ikebana is a real invitation to deep meditation. The work itself is done as a meditative practice, finding the best way to use the plant materials to express art. The relatively short life of the materials is an element of the contemplative experience for me. Like sand mandala they will be discarded in the future, with less ceremony.
I was very lucky to be invited to the arranging pre party where I met artists and teachers working on the show. The universe of Ikebana was unknown to me, but it took a very enjoyable guided tour. It was clear to me that in the group situation some found it more difficult than others to be immersed in the creative process. I asked questions but did not want to get carried away and become a big distraction. Once I tuned in to what was happening it reminded me of yoga. The teacher comes around and gives assistance and guidance to to student while the work is in progress. There is a reverent attitude toward the plant materials, and quiet concentration. When I saw all the finished pieces in the show I was impressed with the work in all of them. They caught a seasonal natural harvest in whimsical harmony with the moment in which it was created. The curation of the show is done so that every piece looks natural and harmonious with the surroundings. For this Thanksgiving weekend Yume, which means dream, is one big flower arrangement containing many arrangements. It is the perfect place to be one with nature right in the center of the city of Tucson.
Ikebana in the garden
Ikebana in the garden
Make sure you take a look around all the corners because there are arrangements tucked into the gardens like a treasure hunt. The indoor galleries are also very well curated to show a range of styles. I am a happy newcomer to this exciting form of art and meditation.
indoor gallery
indoor gallery
indoor gallery
Ikebana Sneak Preview
November 26, 2015
— 1 Comment
I was lucky to catch up with Patricia Deridder at the Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson as she prepares for this weekend’s big Ikebana exhibit. She is the founder of the gardens, a teacher, and still a student, of Ikebana. She has organized a group of masters who will show their work over the weekend in the gardens. This very special treat will give the public an idea of the different schools of Ikebana and the individuals who live here and practice these special arts. There are monks in Japan who do this practice as meditation. Anyone involved in this way of looking at flower arranging will discover elements of mediation or merging with nature.
I am thrilled to have this artful peaceful alternative to Black Friday shopping offered in my neighborhood. If you happen to be in Tucson this event is offered with the regular entry fee, or to members as part of our membership. This is a wonderful opportunity to be immersed in nature carefully and beautifully crafted by artists. I am excited to learn more and enjoy the show. The three pieces I watched in progress all came out beautifully.
flower show in progress
freestyle
formal arrangement
flower show in progress
flower show in progress
Patricia does a final edit
freestyle
flower show in progress
Ermanos for Gourmet Tasting
November 22, 2015
— 2 Comments
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- bar
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- skylight
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- fun space
We tried a new brunch place yesterday and have found a new favorite business in Tucson. Ermanos on 4th Avenue serves brunch on the weekend, which is when we like to go out to eat. We arrived early before the crowds which was lucky because I convinced the chef to make me an off the menu food sampler. She created a wonderful cauliflower creamed soup that had butter but no cream in the ingredients. This rich and luscious starter was accented with an herbal oil, green and brightly basil scented. I was really surprised when she told me there were no potatoes or cream in the smooth rich dish. She happily shared her recipe so I can knock it off at home. This is one main reason I dine in restaurants (finding new recipes to make), so I am especially pleased when there is no resistance to sharing recipes. Chef Claire was gracious s well as creative in her approach. She took very good care of me and my tastebuds.
cauliflower soup
My tasting board included black eyed pea hummus to die for, some perfect home style corn tortilla chips adorned with fresh pico de gallo, a seasoned cubed pear, and some fried avocado with sauce. The flavors were very exciting, each bite a contrasting taste sensation. I enjoyed this flight of food while sipping my flight of wine. It was an explosion of tasty thrills.
vegetarian ceviche
bites with flights
The hip, cool setting and the vast selection of wine, beer and fresh food on the menu attracted us in the first place. They feature local musicians often, and hold special events for beer releases, etc. They run the kind of local business we like to support. The reason we have instantly become loyal customers is the exceptional service. Our server Alberto Noeggerath is knowledgeable and very helpful. Since I rarely drink wine these days I was happy to put myself in his capable hands when selecting three reds to taste in my flight. I also tasted a cava sparkling that rounded out the flavor party at my place setting. All the wines were to my liking, but the zinfandel from Wilcox that came highly recommended was the star of the flight. I would almost order a glass of that next time if it were not for the fun of flighting. The option of tasting and trying new gastronomy with attentive, happy help from the staff makes Ermanos a great dining destination for us. We plan to return often in the future.
Regular customers were arriving as we finished, and we spoke to a couple who were as enthusiastic as we are about the place. We are big fans who recommend Ermanos for party time, gourmet time, or homestyle, homegrown down home downtown Tucson time. This place is perfect for everyone who likes eating and drinking.
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- excellent menu
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- Bob and the beer menu
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- to go
Bob loves beer, and I love dining. We both love fabulous service.
chef Claire Ferguson
server Alberto Noeggerath
Bob ate biscuits and gravy and four beers in a flight.
biscuits and gravy
beer and wine flights
We had to try the beer float for dessert. Loved it!
beer float
Avengers Square Off on the Digital Battlefield, #OpParis
November 18, 2015
— 1 Comment
Strange alliances are being formed after the Paris attacks. An interesting turn of events is the war declared on twitter by Anonymous.
https://twitter.com/OpIceISIS/status/666407791708368898
Three days later Anonymous is teaching people how to hack ISIS and has published guides on how to do it. This is a new phase in avenging strategy. Not too long ago wars were declared by heads of state and fought by nations. ISIS initiated war in order to create a nation, and recognizes no borders or boundaries in their avenging. The avenger archetype has always existed in history. I sometimes feel a bit of avenger at work in my personality because I am highly sensitive to injustice. I do indulge in both self righteousness and indignant feelings on behalf of all mistreated sentient beings.
The new world of avenging made available through hacking, retweeting, and blogging has opened up many healthy avenging options that do not involve violence or terrorism. Now it is possible to use hashtags like #OpParis to openly attack enemies. Digital trash talk and taunting will continue. I wonder how much effect this digital line of attack will cause. Since social media has been used so well to radicalize new fighters it makes a lot of sense to me to work to shut down those propaganda opportunities. Since both groups are avengers without borders they are well pitted against each other. It is a heavyweight fight. I plan to hide, watch and retweet for the side of justice because I am more of a poet than an avenger. Perhaps I will dedicate some poetry to #OpParis to show my support. How do you view this new style of warfare, gentle reader? It has the feel of a video game, but it is completely real.
https://twitter.com/OpIceISIS/status/667044942271746048
Transformation Time, New Moon
November 11, 2015
— 1 Comment
Tucson Racquet Club
Today there is a new moon. When the moon is obscured each month the heavens create a new canvass on which to paint, a new field in which to plant. I like to notice and honor each new moon because it allows me to recommit to goals on which I have slacked and create new ones. Now I am working on a new routine for my fitness and creative life. I am going to classes at my health club in order to develop a habit for the future. I have found enough excellent classes taught by highly competent teachers to keep me busy, but have to manage to create a new schedule for myself. Although I am a big fan of the classes I am also a bigger fan of a liberated life. There is a little struggle going on between the sensible analysis that clearly appreciates and supports the value of movement classes and the free spirit who is challenged by any organized regime. This is not my inner child per se putting up objections, but my inner slacker. I am reminded of a phrase one of my favorite yoga teachers always used. He says, “Practice is the root of transformation.” I have been freewheeling for years, moving when and where I felt like doing it. I mix weights, yoga, Pilates, walking, dancing, and water work as my heart desires. It is a fine way to be, but now I will shape a new pattern and make it my continuous practice.
Looking back on skills I have learned I see it does take practice to work talents into strengths. I also notice I am drawn to creative and unseen projects and people. Invisible is my favorite way to exist. I like to maintain a certain woman of mystery status. This new moon falls in the sign of Scorpio, a ruler of transformation as well as mystery. I went to postural fitness class this morning and met a new teacher I think is grand. The time of day suits me and her personality is exactly what I like. I plan to harness this intention this month to get completely into the practice of taking at least 4 classes a week in different disciplines. There is no demerit for failure, but I plan to succeed in this effort. Everything is working in my favor, so I need to apply some attention.
Between now and the next new moon I dedicate my concentration to:
- Patience- there is no rush
- Gratitude- it is fortunate to have so many excellent choices
- Beginner’s Mind- I may be jaded from having spent too much time in spa universe
This new habit will serve me well for years to come, and is worth the investment to establish it. Do you have any transformational plans for this special month, gentle reader? It is a most propitious time to go for something new. By the time January rolls around I plan to be firmly established in my new routine.
Nuts for November
November 6, 2015
— 2 Comments
I had a fire in the wood stove last night, officially welcoming the winter to our house. This week we welcomed the nutcracker and some mixed nuts to the kitchen. I am not sure why I feel so much satisfaction in nut cracking, but I do. It slows down the process and makes me appreciate the taste of my nutty prize when I manage to crack the shell and extract it. This time of year we start to eat nuts more often because they are featured in seasonal fall dishes as part of a healthy harvest. Arizona grows wonderful pecans and pistachios, two of my favorite crops. Both are healthy and add rich flavor to all kinds of dishes.
We are big fans of cheese and pear combinations, so this month I will make us a pear pecan roquefort cheesecake. That has to be a winner with those ingredients. Brussels sprouts have arrived on the stalk as a favorite vegetable, so we will try the pistachio cranberry sprouts as a savory treat as well. Nuts always make appearances in cookies and sweets, but this year I want to try the extravagant pumpkin pecan cobbler. This will be right up our alley for dessert, and a new way to use both November favorites, pumpkin and pecans.
This weekend we have a neighborhood potluck party. I plan to take some soup, but this pineapple cream cheese spread covered with pecans is so cute I think I will make one of those for the party too. It is simple, but looks really festive.
Trader Joe’s brings out small cans of exotic nut oils this time of year which I enjoy using to add rich flavor to all kinds of dishes. Using walnut or pistachio oils for roasting vegetables delivers fabulous punch. Gravy based in nut oil is lovely and mysteriously rich. I still like butter, but like to variations that nut oils can bring to the fall table. Evidence keeps piling in about the benefits of including nuts in the diet. While I do believe the research I am nuts for nuts because they taste so great. Do you have a favorite nut, gentle reader?
fall harvest
Tucson’s Japanese Garden
November 4, 2015
— 1 Comment
family crests
family crests
lotus and koi
architectural accent
lotus and koi
Yume Japanese Gardens
architectural accent
water garden
gravel
gravel
Yume Japanese Gardens
gravel
gravel
tea house
architectural accents
lotus and koi
koi
color
bamboo
I recently joined Yume Japanese Garden in my neighborhood. This choice little private garden space provides peaceful surroundings and privacy in the center of the city. When I visit I enjoy sitting for meditative times in the little tea house shelter. I plan to bring tea and art supplies with me in the future because the space is energetically serene and beautiful. The artful surroundings invite creativity. I think it would be a great setting for composition of poetry or drawing. I plan to make it my picnic spot/ art studio this winter.
There is a gift shop, an art gallery, and a small display for education in Japanese culture. Currently the museum space is showing examples of Japanese versions of coats of arms. The tightly packed show informs and enlightens the viewer about families and history. Special events are planned to share cultural experiences. I plan to attend the tea ceremony this month, and am very excited about the big flower show over Thanksgiving weekend. Classes in Japanese language and flower arranging are offered as well. I am curious about the flower arranging, which sounds like fun.
I have been a member of Tucson Botanical Garden for many years, but my new membership is an different and welcome way to enjoy gardens. Yume is located just south of Tucson Botanical Gardens, in the same block. I had been curious in the past, but was inspired to join when the TBG thew out the members for 3 months. I am really savoring this opportunity to continue my garden visits with a new twist. There are sometimes concerts of Japanese music held in the evenings. I am both learning and feeling lucky to have this great opportunity so close to my home. If you live in Tucson or visit I highly recommend spending time at Yume Japanese Gardens.
Chile, Spice, and Everything Nice
October 29, 2015
— 1 Comment
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- Santa Cruz Chile and Spice
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- Santa Cruz Chile and Spice
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- antique equipment
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- Santa Cruz Chile and Spice
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- Santa Cruz Chile and Spice
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- Santa Cruz Chile and Spice
No visit to Santa Cruz County, Arizona would be complete without a stop at the Santa Cruz Chile and Spice Company. In the old days the products were more limited to the local chile powder and paste. Now that hot sauce and chile in general is a huge trend the store stocks hot sauce and spices from around the world. The selection includes jellies, sauces and a large number of dried spices. I had always used the old fashioned red chile paste from this company to make my enchiladas. Now they make several kinds of chile paste. I picked up a jar of green chile and garlic paste for our holiday enchiladas this season. The sample was delicious and who doesn’t need to shake things up with tried and true recipes like sour cream enchiladas? The chile makes all the difference.
Outside the store there are displays of many of the old pieces of equipment used in the past to process chiles. Even those who don’t care for spicy food will enjoy a visit to this tasty and tasteful historic business.
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- large selection
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- Santa Cruz Chile and Spice
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- antique equipment
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- antique equipment
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- antique equipment
chile ristras
chile ristras
Stay Calm, Restore Balance
October 26, 2015
— 2 Comments
look up
Life can throw challenging circumstances and people into the mix at any time. Our own composure and resilience is our biggest investment because the quality of our time is tied to it. The sayings on tee shirts about keeping calm then doing something are not only comical but are also practical. We can hardly accomplish our best work if we are flipping out about something. Remaining calm in the face of tense situations is an accomplishment. We need personal tool boxes ready to employ when stress becomes hard to handle. Although many practices work, the tools must be tailored to the individual. What lifts my mood might not be fun for you, so this takes some discernment. Packing the right tools for the job requires concentration as well as honesty. You need to know not only what will work for you but also what you will actually practice.
Meditation takes many forms, not all of which require sitting still. Walking meditation and mindfulness training are both active ways to keep moving while training the mind to focus and stay clear. Mantras, chanting and other sounds are excellent tools to anchor the mind. Formal training is wonderful, but we don’t need to wait to start a practice. Artistic expression provides simple straightforward access to the unconscious. Making art requires a special sensibility, a focus on creativity that is strong. Tapping into the inner artist is a way to train the mind and liberate the soul.
look up
Here are a few ways I find inner peace and concentration through art:
- Visits to museums and gardens
- Photography
- Digital drawing and art
- Freestyle freehand doodling on paper
- Dancing at home by myself
- Singing while dancing at home by myself
- Poetry writing
- Cooking
- Gardening
look up
I have no professional aspirations as an artist, yet I consider myself artistic. I am not meditative 100% of the time I engage in the above activities, but frequently they lead to a calmer happier state of mind. I believe each of us has essential creative gifts to offer which we have the option to develop. Finding time to immerse ourselves in our own creative juices can be a path to peace and happiness.
look up
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