Play off the Page

Dare to Start

2012-01-26T20:51:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: Be daring, be different, be impractical, be anything that will assert integrity of purpose and imaginative vision against the play-it-safers, the creatures of the commonplace, the slaves of the ordinary. ~ Cecil Beaton

Introducing the cast of Coffee Shop Confessions, my first full-length play. We will be performing it at the Coco Moon in downtown Brainerd on March 2 & 3, at 6:30 p.m. These adorable people all said Yes to my script and Yes to my request to be in the show. We started rehearsals this week. And, YES, I was giddy. I have a terrible head cold, which kept me from bouncing off the ceiling, but I was still extremely excited. And, they're all wonderful. Here's the List:

CAST OF CHARACTERS

SAM David Allan Pundt

LOLLY Joey Halvorson

LAURA Laura Oldham

AUBREY Mary Aalgaard

ROXY Katie Maine

JEWELL Abbey Olmsted

MICKI Kate Hauble

NICK GuyKelm

Yep, that's my name as one of the characters. I asked several people who would have been great in the role of Aubrey. They considered it, but the timing wasn't right for any of them. So, I guess it's meant to be that I take a role. Aubrey is the best choice for me. She's a hair-stylist, single, looking for Mr. Wonderful, online and otherwise. She's a bit outspoken and cares deeply for her friends. I played a beauty shop owner once before in a community theatre production of Steel Magnolias. I was Truvy. It's my biggest role so far, and I loved it. Now, I get to act again.

My hair-stylist, Aubrey, inspired the role, so I told her to make me look like a trendy stylist. Aren't the purple highlights fun?

So, we're off and running. We rehearsed the songs tonight, and I had a blast. Each step of the process is a thrill for me. My dream is becoming a reality. Thank you to the cast for bringing these characters to life.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What is your vision to bring your art form and dreams to life?

Review of Harold and the Purple Crayon at The Children's Theatre in Minneapolis

2012-01-24T11:25:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: exerpts from Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson

One evening, after thinking it over for some time, Harold decided to go for a walk in the moonlight.

And he set off on his walk, taking his big purple crayon with him.

The sandy beach reminded Harold of picnics. And the thought of picnics made him hungry. So he laid out a nice simple picnic lunch...But there were all nine kinds of pie that Harold liked best.
Harold left a hungry moose and a deserving procupine to finish it up.

Harold kept his wits and his purple crayon.

He remembered where his bedroom window was, when there was a moon. It was always right around the moon. And then Harold made his bed. He got in it and he drew up the covers.

Don Darryl Rivera wrote and stars in this musical version of Harold and the Purple Crayon. I was thrilled to be invited to attend and review this show. This is one of my favorite children's books. I read it over and over as a child. Well, I suppose my mom had to read it over and over. Then, I did. And, I shared it with my own kids. I loved that purple crayon. I wanted to take my big box of crayons and have as many grand adventures as Harold.

The Children's Theatre Company in Minneapolis partners with the Seattle Children's Theatre to bring their shows to a wide range of audiences. Harold and the Purple Crayon comes to us from Seattle and the creative team; lyrics by Rob Burgess, music by Auston James, text by Don Darryl Rivera, and directed by Rita Giomi. Also in the cast are Khanh Doan and Caety Sagoian as the Storytellers, or crayons. Zach thought they were Harold's crayons. They help bring the story to life.

I was amazed at the brilliant and colorful set. The purple in the lines is just like the colors on the original book. They used light and ribbon to represent the lines that Harold draws.

The moon really does grow and follow Harold.

He has adventures in space and under the sea.

The use of puppetry was remarkable. Harold would draw his lines which would turn into projected or light images. They'd move around, then start to come off the "screen" and become real objects, like the tree, the moon, a butterfly, and stars.

During this scene, I heard a kid exclaim, "Ooo. That's his shadow." There were many exclamations of delight and wonder, and so many adorable giggles.

I was so glad to see they made puppets of the hungry moose and the deserving porcupine. Plus, they gave them a giant pie, and while they were eating it, they sang about love. I was pretty sure they were singing about their love for pie. I know I would.

Harold and the Purple Crayon is a delightful, colorful, musical adaptation of the beloved children's book. There's a tenderness in this story that brings tears to my eyes. Maybe it's because I'm reminded of myself as a little girl, dreaming of creating magical things. Maybe it's because my boys are growing up. One is heading off to college next year, and Zach, who accompanied me to this show, is already 14, and was probably the only teenagers at this performance. And, my babies are in 6th grade. (I'm going to read them Harold tonight anyway.)

Zach and I both enjoyed the interaction with the actors after the show. They came out on stage and talked to us. They invited us to help them tell a story. I'll underline the details that were provided by the audience.

Once upon a time in New York, there lived a monster named Dorothy. Everyday, Dorothy would play until one day, someone wouldn't share. So, she ate him. And, then, she got eaten. Until, she spit him back out. And, now, they're friends.

It was a little like playing Mad Libs!

Go to The Children's Theatre Company for showtimes and tickets, and to see what's coming up. I saw a poster of Pippi Longstocking. Won't that be fun!

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Fill in the blanks from the above prompts and create your own story. Ask a kid to help if you get stuck.

Photos used by permission from The Children's Theatre Company. Taken by Dan Norman.

Review of Julius Caesar by the Acting Company at the Guthrie theater

2012-01-23T11:16:00.001-06:00

Quote of the Day: Some memorable ones from Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare, playing at the Guthrie through Feb. 5, with a stop in Brainerd on Feb. 8, at the Chalberg Theatre.

Beware the Ides of March

Et tu Brute

Friends, Romans, Countrymen, lend me your ears.

But, for my part, it was Greek to me.

Cry, Havoc, and let slip the hounds of war!

Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more.

As he was valiant, I honour him; But, as he was ambitious, I slew him.

Cowards die many times before their deaths; the valiant never taste of death but once. Of all the wonders that I yet have heard, it seems to me that men should fear; That seeing death, a necessary end, will come when it will come.

The Acting Company from New York partnered for the fourth year with the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis to launch the tour of Julius Caesar and The Comedy of Errors. The same company and actors put on both shows and tour them around the country. If they're coming anywhere near you, go. This is not your high school experience of this classic play. It is moderized. As we wait for the show to start, we watch a panel of about 24 tv screens of various news casts, but we don't hear what they say. Instead, eerie music is playing and we get a sense of doom. The actors are dressed in dark color, black is the dominant color, with sometimes grey and deep, blood red. The screens change and we are shown the monuments in Washington, D.C. The actors wear suits of today's politicians. It is no accident that Julius Caesar and his wife bear a striking resemblance to President Barack and Michelle Obama. In fact, my son and I had a discussion about whose silhouette was in the screen, our current president, or the actor who portrayed Caesar. Zach noticed that they picked an actor who looks like a leader, tall, long face, strong jaw.

I enjoyed seeing some women playing traditionally men's parts in a Shakespeare play that originally would have had men playing the few women's roles. With this modern setting, movable set, contemporary props, and inner city music, it made the play relevant to today's world. And, through their amazing talent and training, these actors rattle off original Shakespeare dialogue like it's their regular, everyday language. They know how to emphasize the right words to help us understand the meaning and enhance it with their actions.

This is a violent show, about assassination, conspiracy, power, and ultimate destruction of the leaders of the Coup d'etat. Power gained by violence is doomed for failure.

Zach, who is 14, seemed to understand the entire play. We talked about it for a while afterwards. He remembered scenes, asked me a few questions, and cleared up some that I had. Because it is so well acted and staged, it is accessible to teens on up. Check out the links above for showtimes near you. This is one of the most unique theater productions that I've ever experienced.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Did you study Julius Caesar in school? How did it go? Have you ever seen a professional company perform Shakespeare? Do you have a favorite Shakespeare play?

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Guthrie theater Review

2012-01-21T23:22:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: some favorite and famous lines from Cat on a Hot Tin Roof by Tennessee Williams, playing now at The Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis.

I can smell the mendacity in this room, and it smells like death. Big Daddy and Brick discuss the meaning of mendacity, the lies that people tell others and themselves, the system that they live in. When their wives tell them, during separate dramatic moments in the play, that they really do love them, they both reply with the same line, Wouldn't it be funny if that were true?

I always thought drinking men lost their looks, but I was plainly mistaken. Maggie remarking on the lasting attraction she feels for her husband, Brick, despite his constant rejection of her.

I feel all the time like a cat on a hot tin roof. Maggie speaking about her life, how she's caught in it, but unable to jump off. This title line is repeated several times throughout the play.

Why is it so damn hard for people to talk? Big Daddy, trying, desperately to have a real conversation with his son.

I'm not living with you. We occupy the same cage. Maggie

My friend and publicist, Krista Rolfzen Soukup, and I attended Cat on a Hot Tin Roof together. It was her first time to the new Guthrie Theater and what a fantastic show to introduce her to this amazing place. We ate at the Level Five Cafe' where the mood was set for an evening in the South. We both had Big Mama's Southern Supper, mmm-hmm, it was good. Pork chops with pepper jelly and sweet corn spoon bread, mixed greens salad with walnuts and cranberries, and hot tin roof sundaes for dessert.

I showed her the best sights that I've discovered. We walked out onto the Endless Bridge and took a picture. Look, it's so cold, she turned blue!

Things heated up once we entered the Wurtele Thrust Theater. An older couple was ahead of us and the woman had dropped her ticket, so Krista picked it up for her. We ended up sitting right next to them, sweet seats right behind the railing, with an unobstructed view of the stage and all the steamy action. Krista picked up a fallen glove for the woman as we found our seats.

As the show begins, Brick is in the shower (off stage), and Maggie enters. She is on and speaking for most of the first act. It is through her stories and perspective that we meet the family, hear of their past, and discover the complicated and tense relationships. She is a woman longing for more, longing for relationship with her husband, longing for a family and children of her own.

Brick seems to have given up. He spends the evening sipping on drinks and avoiding real discussion and his wife's advances. He has shut the world out, waiting and hoping for the click to go off in his head, numbed by booze, so he can feel peaceful.

All of the action takes place in Brick and Maggie's bedroom, but not the kind that Maggie craves. Gooper and Mae's five "no neck" children run in and out. Family members barge in. Ghosts and hurts of the past make their appearance through words both spoken and avoided. We see the characters' pain, both the outward physical cringes, clutches and crutches, as well as the inward pain in their eyes and actions. We, as the audience, quickly forgot that we were at a play. The characters became real people and it was like we were watching them through those large French doors and windows off the balcony of their bedroom. I saw people leaning forward to take it in. I saw men wipe their eyes from the intensity of the scene and the tears they brought forth.

During intermission, the women on the other side of that older couple in our row, asked if they were enjoying the show. The woman said, "Yes. I was in it, you know, in 1975, the last time they performed it at the Guthrie." Krista turned to me with wide eyes. After the performance I asked her name. We were sitting next to Barbara Bryne, a famous stage and film actor. She's been in over 60 productions at the Guthrie. She had a light British accent and when she thanked Krista for picking up her ticket and some other pleasantries, I said, "She could be in Mary Poppins." She played Big Mama in 1975. I asked her if she was reliving it and remembering lines as she watched. She said, "Oh, no, you can't try to remember it all. You'd go crazy." I can only imagine after so many shows and theatrical experiences.

Everything works so well together in this production, the staging, the set, the costumes, the colors, the music, and the backdrop scrim that changes colors as the evening progresses. It lights up for the fireworks, and gets dark for the storm. Some actors are dressed to blend in, like Big Daddy, or shine, like Maggie, or clash, like Mae. I can still hear the bangos, the singing in the distance, and the harmonies amidst the discord of this family.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Have you ever rubbed elbows with a celebrity? Have you ever dared to strike up a conversation with a stranger and found out something remarkable? Have you ever seen a production of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof?

Life in the White Spaces

2012-01-17T22:24:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself. George Bernard Shaw

My niece Holly wrote that quote in my journal. Many of my family members participated in this journal exchange. We all got a journal, passed it from person to person during the Fall, and at Christmas we got our journals back filled with so many wonderful things like quotes and recipes, heartfelt messages, memories, photos. I love mine so much that I sleep with it tucked under the pillow next to me. Here's what my son wrote to me. I added the picture from when he was small.

The last journal I had was my sister Joy's. She made it at my house when she was visiting last summer, then brought it back to her place in Oregon, passed it from state to state, until I finally wrote in it and mailed it back to her. Here she is at my house in August.

Here's the end of the message I sent her after I mailed her journal.

Have a great week, and enjoy all the fun stuff in your journal. Not every inch of white space is filled. You even have a couple blank pages. That's to say that life is lived in the white spaces, in the margins, and extra room we leave each other.

You can visit Joy on her blog, It's a Joy! She's a new kid on the blog.

Go. Create. Inspire!
And, leave a little room in the margins of your day.

Journaling Prompt: What do you do with your extra white space?

Building Community

2012-01-15T15:19:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: What should young people do with their lives today? Many things, obviously. But the most daring thing is to create stable communities in which the terrible disease of loneliness can be cured. ~ Kurt Vonnegut
The world is so empty if one thinks only of mountains, rivers & cities; but to know someone who thinks & feels with us, & who, though distant, is close to us in spirit, this makes the earth for us an inhabited garden. ~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
quotes found at Goodreads quotes. They had many great ones on community.

Here's how some of the creative folks are working together to build community here in the Brainerd lakes area of Minnesota. Matt Taylor (in the white) and Phil Holbrook (not pictured) opened The Sunshine Kitchen & Moonshine Lounge. (love the name)

Seth Doud, local singer-songwriter performed last weekend. He invited his friend, Suzy Cavalier, to open for him.

The bonus was that it was her birthday, so we all got to celebrate.

She did not share her cake with us. But, she did give us the gift of her music, and it was wonderful. I mentioned these two on my blogspot on The Brainerd Dispatch. I also alerted readers to all the wonderful entertainment offerings in the area in the coming month and mentioned that my friend Jim Olsen and his band, the Stardust Trio, would be at the Moonshine Lounge this weekend. Jim wrote on his facebook status: It's been a GREAT NIGHT! The Stardust Trio had it's first gig at Sunshine Kitchen / Moonshine Lounge, and, if I must say so myself, it went very well. My friend, Dick, is, without a doubt, the best guitarist I've ever had the honor to share a stage with. He was more than outstanding tonite!....and I was very pleased the crowd, which was a younger audience, really appreciated his playing.

This is just one of many ways that I've seen artists in the area singing each other's praises. If we all go out and support each other, what a fine creative community we will enjoy.

The Sunshine Kitchen & Moonshine Lounge tells us to:

And, as I always say: Go. Create. Inspire!

And, support your local artists!

Journaling Prompt: What are some of your favorite local hangouts? What local groups or artists do you like to see and hear in your area?

2012-01-12T20:46:00.000-06:00

Favorite Photos Friday - Band Concert Week!

Quote of the Day: Music is your own experience, your thoughts, your wisdom. If you don't live it, it won't come out of your horn. ~Charlie Parker

Music is what life sounds like. ~ Eric Olson

8th grade Band

During The Temple of Ka Uka, the band used their hands and voices to add rhythm and sound.

It's a song inspired by the sights and sounds of Hawai'i.

I didn't get any good close-ups of the 6th grade band,

so my guys gave me a home concert.

Being in the band is a metaphor for life. The individual members need to work on their own instrument, carefully honing their craft. They can mark improvement in themselves while being part of a larger group. When they are all working in harmony, they are a powerful force. Each member contributes in his own way. Everyone working toward a common goal. You might be a leader, filled with melody, like the trumpets. You might be the strong bass, offering a foundation for the chords. You might be a specialized instrument like the piccolo or the French Horn, or you might be one of the varied pieces in the percussion section, offering a unique way to keep the rhythm.

Go. Create. Inpsire!

Journaling Prompt: What instrument are you most like? How do you and your craft fit into the big band of life?

Holy Smokes!

2012-01-08T17:50:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex, overwhelming tasks into small, manageable tasks, and then starting on that first one. Mark Twain

This seems like a fitting quote for the beginning of the year. How are you doing with your resolutions? Mine is to make one change, and write one scene per week for 52 weeks. Last week, I walked a little bit more than usual, and I wrote scene #1 for my play writing, and I scheduled rehearsals and set the date to have my first full-length play, Coffee Shop Confessions, performed at The Coco Moon. I still need to confirm with two of the actors, then I'll officially annouce the dates. Very exciting. I didn't know if I was shaking more from the caffeine or the adrenaline from taking that big step.

Lately, when I cook, I set off the smoke alarms. They were going crazy yesterday. I opened windows, ran around and checked to make sure there wasn't smoke coming from another area of the house, stood outside a minute, but saw nothing to alarm, except for the blaring alarm. I turned off the oven and stove and turned on the fans, and left the windows and doors open. Then, the phone rang. (I thought the neighbors might be calling to check if I was okay.) It was my friend, Krista, from across town. She didn't hear the alarms. But, about that time, they finally quit. We discussed a good change. I've been invited to more shows at the Guthrie, and just this week, to attend a performance at the Children's Theatre in Minneapolis. Very exciting. Krista called to tell me she could accompany me to one of the shows.

Another good change stemmed from the smoke alarms. They sounded again today as I was frying up a salmon patty. It wasn't that oily! So, I decided to clean the stove and oven. But first, I pulled out the stove to clean behind and under it. Amongst the usual dirt and greasy dust bunnies, I found a Starburst, a Nerf bullet, my spaghetti server, and sand. I can't for the life of me remember a single recipe that called for sand, but there it was, piled along the edge where the counter met the stove.

I'm also experiencing a change in my own backyard that I'm not as excited about. I know, it could be good, but right now it just feels sad. I live on the edge of town, and had a lovely wooded view, see family photo, here.

Last Wednesday, the work crew pulled in. The backhoe chomped up the trees like a hungry dionsaur, piling the larger ones off to the side, and setting the rest to burn.

View from the back.

Well, you can't stand in the way of progress, especially when it's cold outside. You might as well embrace change, because it's always there. And, you never know, something really positive could come from this new view. I've already noticed that my kitchen is much sunnier.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What changes are happening in your world? What one new thing, or creative effort, did you make last week?

A Long Winter's Nap

2012-01-06T02:00:00.001-06:00

Favorite Photo Friday (might be my favorite photo - ever.)

Quote of the Day:
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.
And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.from Twas the Night Before Christmas by Clement Moore

Leo, the napping cat

All the gifts have been handed out, opened, admired, and the wrappings and trimming have been put away. As we're saying good-bye to the holidays and hello to the New Year, let us all take a few moments to rest, reflect, and enjoy.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What are your reflections on the holidays, the New Year, napping?

Insecure and afraid of Getting the Hook

2012-01-04T07:29:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: Real Vaudeville shows would Drop The Cow on bad or overly long acts with "the hook", a shepherd's crook extended from offstage to pull away the performer. But in cartoons, you don't even need to be on a stage to get the hook. Any bad performance can get the hook, even if you're performing on top of a fence - it just reaches out from Behind the Black and drags you offscreen. Wearing a red-and-white vertically striped shirt and a straw boater makes you especially susceptible to this, as does dancing while holding a cane. Spending a while dodging the hook, continuing to perform all the while, before eventually getting snared is a common feature.

Though he didn't originate it, the hook is forever associated with "Sandman" Sims, a tap dancer who would use the hook on bad acts at the Apollo Theatre.
from www.tvropes.org

It's the first Wednesday of the month and year and another round of the Insecure Writer's Group. Alex J. Cavanaugh is the host and many, many of us bloggers have signed up. My hope is that acknowledging the insecurites, naming them and facing them, will be like staring down our dragon and slaying him.

I was out the other evening with these lovely ladies for a pre-New Year's celebration and some collaboration. My best writer-mama-pal Roxane B. Salonen was visiting from Fargo, and we had dinner with my friend and publicist Krista Rolfzen Soukup. Sure, we talked a little business, but our main event was the delicious food and time to talk, minus our collective 13 children!

During our discussion, I confessed that I felt like I was playing a part in a play (one that I wrote?), where I'm being thrust onto center stage, given all the great lines, then sent home to write about it. I keep expecting the curtain to close, or that I'll get that proverbial hook and yanked off the stage. Who am I to be invited to shows and restaurants, meet and review the performers and performances?

I had this note by my desk before I moved that said, "Sometimes, you look out at the audience waiting for the applause and all you see are empty seats." (I just went upstairs to look for it and couldn't find it. Maybe it got lost in the move, or maybe it's no longer something to hang onto.)

Krista keeps telling me that people want me to come to their shows, clubs, or restaurants. She told me that the owner of a newly opened establishement said, "It's about time someone wrote reviews for us." And, "I hope she likes it." I also heard from some friends when I told them that my reviews were now on the Brainerd Dispatch website. They said, "That's great that someone is writing reviews for us for places like the Guthrie theater and local shows."

Dare I say it? They need me.

Since my word for the year is Dare!, I do need to say it. I'm needed, and I will be invited, and I'll do my best to describe the food, the atmosphere, the performance, the location, anything that people would want to know before they go. Bring on the invites! I've been dared!

We did small plates to share.

Delicious Fare

We flirted with the fine, young waiter (who indicated that he & Krista weren't supposed to be photographed together *wink),

and chatted it up with Jim Olsen, the guitarist for the evening.

(He'll be playing at the newly opened Moonshine Lounge on Jan. 14.)

Go. Create. Inspire!

And, dare to be the one invited, attending, and reviewing.

Journaling Prompt: Have you ever felt like you might get "the hook?" What have you dared to do lately?

52 Weeks

2012-01-01T02:00:00.001-06:00

Quote of the Day: We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day. - Edith Lovejoy Pierce

That's what it feels like to start a new journal, and is symbolic of all the new starts we have throughout a year and a lifetime. Think of a new school year, a new job, a move, a new relationship, even eating at a new restaurant. The image of the New Year being a blank journal appeals to me and my new-found sense of adventure. My word for 2012 is Dare!

Dare! is such a strong word. I kept trying to tone it down. I thought, well, maybe daring, but no, Dare! kept resurfacing. It is bold and challenging. So, I thought, maybe my word could be bold. Nope. Dare! still took the stage. Something in the universe is challenging me.

In 2012 we have 52 weeks plus a day, a leap year. What can you accomplish in 52 weeks? I was talking this over with my massage therapist Darcy Peterson Walkowiak. She does both massage and myofascial release. I am wound up pretty tight. I've had some back and shoulder trauma from hitting two deer with my van. I am hunched over keyboards all day (piano and computer), and I'm a divorced mother of four boys. Needless to say, my back and shoulders are tight. Darcy was able to release some of that tension. I told her that during the session, I was in a state of half-sleep. I had visions of sailing out into the fjords of Norway, beautiful and exciting at the same time. I also had images of tiny butterflies being released from my body, like little spirits of energy and light. She said that butterflies symbolize transformation. We also talked about those 52 weeks. If we make just one change a week towards better health, by the end of the year we will see and feel a difference. Plus, one change a week is not overwhelming. I told her my goal as a playwright is to write one new scene a week. I can't even image what great stories might unfold in 52 scenes!

With a challenging word like Dare! and 52 weeks plus one day ahead of me, my heart pumps a little stronger wondering what will be on those pages by 2013.

Cheers to you as you celebrate a New Year.
Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What would you like to work on for 52 weeks? What's your word for the year? Do you know anyone who has a birthday on Feb. 29?

Happy Holidays

2011-12-21T02:00:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: I wonder as I wander out under the sky, how Jesus the savior did come for to die. For poor orn'ry people like you and like I. I wonder as I wander...
(I plan to sing this song on Christmas Eve during the prelude at my church's service. The tune and the words set me to pondering.)

Photo by Laura Radniecki Images

Happy Holidays from me and the boys!

The song, I Wonder as I Wander, has an interesting story. You can read about it in a beautiful picture book by Gwenyth Swain and illustrated by Ronald Himler. John Jacob Niles, who is credited for this song, was a wanderer himself, traveling about collecting folksongs. This one was sung to him by a young girl in Murphy, North Carolina. In the story that Swain describes, the girl and her father are traveling from place to place, telling their story, singing their songs, gathering just enough from the locals to be able to move on. I think they're trying to keep ahead of their pain because the mama in the story has passed, and they're grieving.

We all wander, don't we? And, I wonder...how can we make this a more beautiful stop on the Earth for each other? Here we are celebrating Christmas and other holidays, buying, baking, wrapping, sending. But, are we pausing? Are we living in the moment and cherishing our relationships? It's not all cheer and eggnog just because it's the holidays. Many people feel melancholy from recent changes in their lives. Someone might be missing who usually joins them around the table. And, while we cling to traditions, they can be cause for not being able to move on and make new memories.

We put up an artificial tree this year, for the first time. Bobby commented on it. I said I didn't think I'd ever go fake, but now that I have, I don't plan to go back. I said, "I am kind of a traditionalist." He said, "I wouldn't say that." That gave me pause. Maybe I am someone who can embrace change and do something a new way. (Embrace was my word for the year.)

"Christmas is a state of mind." I believe that quote comes from Kris Kringle in Miracle on 34th Street, one of the many holiday movies I've watched while baking and wrapping and preparing my home for the holidays.

When the tree goes dark, the wrapping tossed, and the meal cleaned up, what lingers are the words shared, the love felt, and the senses filled with the sights, sounds, smells, and memories of time together with friends and family.

I'll see you back here in the New Year!

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What do you wonder as you wander?

Love is the Gift of Christmas

2011-12-18T15:36:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: First verse of Love Has Come to the tune of Bring a Torch, Jeannete, Isabella
Love has come - a light in the darkness!
Love shines forth in the Bethlehem skies.
See, all heaven has come to proclaim it;
Hear how their song of joy arises;
Love! Love! Born unto you, a Savior!
Love! Love! Glory to God on high!
(final line)
Love is the gift of Christmas,
Love! Love! Praise to you, God on high.

Mary Aalgaard, Andy Miller, Krista Rolfzen Soukup

I am all aglow with feelings of love this holiday season. (Don't get all excited. I'm not referring to romantic love. I'm still happily single.) I am basking in the warmth of friendship, the gift of local talents, and offers of generosity.

Andy's brother Nick manages Prairie Bay the best local restaurant in the Brainerd lakes area, where Krista and I had dinner on Saturday night. Andy stopped in for a quick bite of bruscetta (their specialty), and said hello to us before scooting back to warm up for the From Age to Age concert. The music was pure bliss. Andy's dad, George Miller, was a guest conductor for one of the songs. He turned to the audience and said that he was so proud of both his sons, one who feeds the body, the other who feeds the soul. After the song, Andy said that was one of the top three special moments of his life, to be conducted by his dad.

This professional choir invited the local 9th grade and high school kids to sing one song with them. What a beautiful sound and image they created together. From Age to Age currently has three sopranos, three altos, four tenors, and four bases, including the conductor and artistic director Andy Miller. Those 14 voices sound like a whole host of angels. The rafters were simply bursting. Patricia Lundeen was a guest accompanist for the songs that weren't done acapella. Their pitchman gives them one note, and they all come in perfect harmony. It is breath-taking. They sang many classics, including parts of Handel's Messiah, but the song that moved me to tears was a new choral version of O Holy Night by Andy's friend and composer Karissa Dennis. It was her gift to From Age to Age to perform it, and their gift back to her to hear it in all its glory. This is the kind of encouragement and support in and for each other in the arts that I love to see, and hear.

Andy and I chatted afterwards. We thanked each other for our gifts, him for his talents and music, me for my articles and support of their group. He said that my words reminded him why they do what they do because artists can get bogged down in the daily grind, too. We rehearse and rework, and schedule, and meet with delays and frustrations, and wonder "Is it worth it?" I shared with him the best words I've heard from a musician/teacher, Kay Hoffland. She has been performing and accompanying musicians for years. She helped my sister and me with a show. After rehearsal she said, "You've worked hard. You've made it the best you can, now, enjoy." I saw the enjoyment in the eyes of the performers at this show. Andy was most definitely in his bliss.

Ah, and enjoy we did on Saturday night, the food, the company, the music, the Love of Christmas. And, today, as I was rehearsing our "Little Drummer Boy" number with my boys and a couple others from church, I felt the joy. We got our tree up, not a real one, we sort of missed the deadline on that, but an artificial tree that my ex-husband dropped off because he felt badly about not getting a real one here, yet. See, he still helps us make the holidays bright. Before the boys went shopping with him, they gave me hugs and kisses and said to wait to decorate until they got home.

Like I said, I am all aglow with Christmas Love.

Peace to you as you prepare for time with family and friends. Let love be your theme as well.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What surprises have happend already in your holiday prep? What are you most looking forward to with the holidays and new year?

Time to Wrap it Up and Relax

2011-12-15T20:45:00.002-06:00

Quote of the Day: Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat. Please leave a penny in the old man's hat. from the Nursery rhyme and Christmas Carol.

I start to sing that about this time in December. (I do like the Muppets with John Denver version.) I got my packages off in the mail today. I did a bit more shopping, and have just a few more things to purchase, then it's wrapping day for me. It is my own personal tradition to watch It's a Wonderful Life while wrapping gifts. I've been doing this ever since I was in high school.

Other favorites of the season:

Children's books:
Christmas Trolls by Jan Brett - favorite line, "Well, you can't just take Christmas...if you want Christmas, you must be generous with each other."

Kids' movies:
Dr. Seuss's HowThe Grinch Stole Christmas the 1966 animated version narrated by Boris Karloff. LOVE the songs!

The kids like Unaccompanied Minors. They'll watch that any time of the year.

We all love Elf.

Song:
That's too hard. I'll name a few.
Christmas Carols sung in church - What Child is This? and Go Tell it on the Mountain. My favorite to play is Angels we have Heard on High. Love all those glorias in excelsis deos!

Pop culture holiday songs:
Hey, Baby it's cold outside. (But, it has been overdone lately.)
Let it Snow! (Our theme song for Minnesota. I'm dreaming of a white Christmas!)

Choir song:
Ding Dong Merrily on High
Blow, Blow thou Winter Wind
And, anything by my favorite choir From Age to Age, directed by my favorite choir director Andy Miller.

promo photo of From Age to Age, used by permission

I will be pausing in the midst of holiday preparations to relax and enjoy their concert on Saturday night. If you're in the Brainerd area, here is their schedule:

Friday, St. Francis Catholic Church in Little Falls, 7:30.

Saturday, Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Brainerd, 7:30, with the 9th grade and high school choirs.

Sunday, 1:00, Union Congregational Church in Hackensack.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What are some of your personal holiday traditions or favorites?

Pilgrims Trail

2011-12-13T21:59:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: We are all pilgrims on the same journey...but some pilgrims have better road maps. - Nelson De Mille, American Writer

I'm always thinking about the journey. I am a journey girl. One of my students once described me that way. We are pilgrims, setting off on our own adventures, finding the path that is right for us, hitting snags and washed out roadways, needing to find new direction when the place we thought we were heading doesn't exist anymore. I believe that some of us are spiritually connected to another time. Some people have visions of the future. They are the scientists and science fiction writers. What some have dreamed, others have invented or discovered.

Some people are connected to a time in history. They can't get enough of the stories, pictures, images, and culture. For me, that's the 1940's, the stories of World War II, not the battles, but the people trying to survive on the homefront here in America, and the people who were driven out of their homes, especially the Jewish people. I have written a couple of stories, had strong images of characters from that time, and had dreams of being a held prisoner and fearing for my life. Another character came to me this past weekend. Her name is Zelda Christine Blum Anderson. She wants me to tell her story.

Candace Simar seems to be filled with spirits of the settlers and native people in Minnesota and the Dakota territories of the 1800's. She has three books in her Abercrombie Trail Series, and told me she had dreams and visions of what will be a fourth installment. Candace has lived in this time through her research, writing, and speaking. She makes this time come alive through characters who are as real as any of your own neighbors. Candace has a way of using all those details of pioneer life, the Sioux uprising, and survival in the early years of settlement in this area, and yet, her books never read like a history text. The details are natural, the dialogue realistic, and the characters are lively and interesting.

Candace is a local author. I bought her books are our local, independent bookstore, Turtle Town Books in Nisswa. I chatted with the owners. I picked up some items that a friend had called in and had set aside. I felt a sense of community. My mission this holiday season has been to support the arts and shop local and independent as much as possible. The interactions I've had with the owners and artists have been part of the spirit of giving.

Go. Create. Inspire!

And, support the arts and shop local and independent!

Journaling Prompt: Do you feel a connection to another time and place? What is it? When is it? If it's the here and now, what is it that makes you glad to be alive in this particular moment in time?

Holiday Cheer

2011-12-11T16:26:00.001-06:00

Quote of the Day: from We Need a Little Christmas
Haul out the holly;
Put up the tree before my spirit falls again.
Fill up the stocking,
I may be rushing things, but deck the halls again now.
For we need a little Christmas
Right this very minute,
Candles in the window,
Carols at the spinet.
Yes, we need a little Christmas
Right this very minute.
It hasn't snowed a single flurry,
But Santa, dear, we're in a hurry;
So climb down the chimney;
.....
For we need a little music,
Need a little laughter,
Need a little singing
Ringing through the rafter,
And we need a little snappy
"Happy ever after,"
Need a little Christmas now.

My students and I brought some comfort and joy to the folks at an assisted living center in town. We're here in the memory care unit bringing back some childhood memories. All these students played a few numbers, then we sang a few favorites. What a way to lift holiday spirits.

That's all you need to do, folks. The perfect gift doesn't exist. The best made travel plans can be grounded by a snowstorm or unexpected emergency. The impossible moment will never be achieved. All you really need to do is show up. Be present. Share your gifts and talents. Pay attention to those around you who need you. Then, you'll have Christmas in your heart all year.

From A Christmas Carol at The Guthrie to our small gift of music today, I know where the true spirit of Christmas lies. Next weekend, I'll be sitting back and enjoying the gorgeous music of my favorite regional choir, From Age to Age.

Go. Create. Inpsire!
And, don't get caught up in the crazy.

Journaling Prompt: What does the true sense of giving mean to you?

With a Name Like Love, book review

2011-12-09T02:00:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: Courting new patrons is like licking honey off a thorn - you have to go real slow and be extra gentle. Tess Hilmo, author of With a Name Like Love, published by Margaret Ferguson Books, an imprint of Farrar Straus Giroux, August 2011. (It's still warm off the presses.)

I won my copy of With a Name Like Love by reading and commenting on Tess Hilmo's blog. I connected with her early on when I started blogging. She left an interesting comment on another blog, I clicked over to her, saw that we both love A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly, and the rest is history. Shortly after I joined her blog, she announced that her book had been accepted for publication - her first middle grade novel, and a historical mystery at that. I knew it was one that I'd want to read.

From the opening lines, I was emotionally involved with Olivene (Ollie) Love and her traveling family. I knew her longings. I felt the anguish of the small town they had just pulled into. Her father, the Reverend Everlasting Love, comes from a long line of tent preachers whose mission it is to bring the love of God to rural communities throughout the south. It doesn't hurt that the good reverend has been blessed with a deep and soulful singing voice that melts even the iciest of hearts. The story takes place in 1957, post World War II, yet, a sense of the lingering Depression. Times are hard. People are damaged and hurt. Families are in distress.

Ollie has made her first friend, a boy who is in a world of hurt. His father is dead and his mama in in jail. The mystery behind his death is tearing the community apart. What's a 13-year-old girl and her family of traveling ministers supposed to do?

Reading this book evoked similar feelings and images from when I read Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo, and a lovely picture book, I Wonder as I Wander, by Minnesota author Gwenyth Swain. Tears of tenderness sprang to my eyes during a scene about birthdays and cake, and I felt fear and anxiety wondering what would happen to Jimmy.

I've already recommended this book to a mother-daughter reading group. I'd give it to any preteen girl who likes history and mystery, and I hope my traveling friends, The Anderson's, at Hair in the Air blog, will get a copy. They will definitely relate to the life on the road and the longing for friendship.

The best place to order the books is either at your local bookstore, or go to Tess Hilmo's blog, watch her amazing book trailer, and order it from her independent bookstore for an autographed copy.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Do you have longings to sell all your possessions and hit the road? What would it take to unburden yourself and be adventurous?

Behind the Scenes at The Guthrie

2011-12-07T02:00:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being. - Oscar Wilde

The window you are looking at with the blue light and the beautiful woman is in the main floor lobby of The Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. My friend Denise and I had a backstage tour before we watched Charley's Aunt on Sunday evening. Carrie Monroe, who works in the Wardrobe Department, offered to show us where she works. Carrie and I met during the A-Z blog challenge last April. We have been cyber friends, enjoying each other's blogs, and met in person on Sunday.

Today, in the blogosphere, Alex J. Cavanaugh is hosting his monthly Insecure Writer's Support Group. I am part of that group and I am participating, but I'll have to admit that my insecurities are starting to fade. I wrote about that overwhelming feeling I get when I'm in a large bookstore and think my book, if I ever publish one, will be lost in these rows and rows of books. You can read Friday's post, How Books Stack up against Kids. It probably fits better with the insecure theme.

Still, I'll have to admit that never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that I'd be invited to the Guthrie Theater to watch and review plays, that people would want to read my reviews and respect my opinion and be drawn into my descriptions. My friend and publicist, Krista Rolfzen Soukup at Blue Cottage Agency, tells me, "You are a great blogger. People want you to write reviews for them. People love reading your writing." And, I start to believe it. I start to see how my writing is expanding, that this is what I was born to do. That it is connecting people and drawing them in and encouraging them to live out their dreams, too.

Which is how I got behind the closed doors of The Guthrie for a private tour. (The Guthrie offers guided tours at specified times. Check their website for details.)

We peeked into the remarkably clean workroom where they build the sets. The walls open up into huge doors so they can transport whole sets down the hall and onto the stages.

We saw the costume shop where they build costumes.

This board of costume sketches fascinated me. Carrie told us that the artist who designed the costumes for A Christmas Carol draws in the faces of the actual actors, making them so realistic.

Here's the one from A Christmas Carol that looked like one of the Whos down in Whoville.

The sketches for Charley's Aunt.

Here's Carrie showing us the sort of rough draft version of a costume. It starts out as a muslin mock-up, measured and fitted, before they ever cut into the fabric.

Denise asked where the fabric came from (she's a great question-asker and knows a few things about sewing). Carrie said they come from all over, some in the twin cities. This designer is from New York, so the fabric came from stores in New York City.

We saw hats and wigs and rows of neatly labeled fabric and costume pieces.

(Denise was particularly impressed with the organization.)

Head gear from previous shows.

Forms of heads!

Here's where Denise drooled.

Thanks, Carrie, for the great tour! We learned so much and had a great time. Denise also asked where all the shoes were. Carrie said that whatever is being worn for the shows are in the dressing rooms. Otherwise, they are stored off-site along with costumes and props that can be rented out, which is particularly helpful to schools and kids doing reports who need costumes.

Meet Carrie over at Kiwi's Life. Dare to do something new. Believe that you are capable and worthy of success in your art. You never know what doors will open for you.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Have you ever done something that felt so right, yet, never thought possible?

Charley's Aunt at the Guthrie, review

2011-12-05T08:30:00.001-06:00

Quote of the Day: 'Charley's Aunt'...brought Brandon Thomas fame and fortune, and I have been told that when the evergreen farce was first produced on tour, the author and Penley had been so frightened by a friend, who declared that a man playing a woman's part would never be accepted by any audience, that the author played one of the characters himself in order to save a salary in case of a dire failure. Jessie Millward, from her memoir Myself and Others, 1923. Printed in the program about the show from The Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. "After the play opened in December 1892, it ran for a record-breaking 1,466 performances."

(And, men dressed in drag, portraying women, have had numerous successful shows ever since. Two of my favorites: Tootsie and Mrs. Doubtfire.)

Nothing cracks us up like a man in a dress.

My guest for blogger night for Charley's Aunt, friend Denise,

a theater fan and one of the readers for the table reading of my play

Coffee Shop Confession.

Charley's Aunt by Brandon Thomas, directed by John Miller-Stephany, is a good, old-fashioned British farce. It's full of color, quirky characters, mistaken identities, ridiculous situations, and plenty of sight gags and physical humor. While the need for chaperones and guardians when courting young ladies is long gone from our American society, the desperation of young men trying to woe women never will be out of style.

This is a period piece. The set is elaborate and stylish, like we're looking into a classic doll's house. The costumes were colorful and detailed, reminding me of Mary Poppins. The colors on the girls' dresses were like cotton candy. Again, images of gazing into the doll's house.

Then, the scene changes and after we come back from intermission, a new set has dropped down and we see the back of the building. The actors are running in and out of the gardens. Some are trying to steal a moment together, while others are running to avoid too close of contact. This show is a feast for the eyes.

As the plot rises to hilarity and major confusion in act three, the outdoor set rises, the inside of the Drawing room glides forward, and the pressure is on to make things right. The forward and rear views of the set and the actors, the ins and outs of the plot, the total physical show, brought memories of Noises Off. The way the young men plot to get the girl, dupe the old lady, and ward off the guardian were similar to watching The Importance of Being Ernest several years ago at the original Guthrie Theater.

Besides the rascally antics of John Skelly as Lord Fancourt Babberly, also disguised as Donna Lucia d'Alvadorez, I loved watching the college attendant Brassett, played by Charles Hubbell. He truly embraced his role. His looks to the audience, action behind the boys' backs, and the quips of his asides, were delightful. His eyebrows and facial expressions said it all.

One thing that did feel out-dated in this script was the portrayal of the young ladies. They were gorgeous to look at, but had few lines, and none of the jokes. They were eye-candy, pretty paper dolls. Denise and I had ideas for rewriting the ending, wanting the young woman to have plans of her own once she broke free from her guardian.

Come back later this week to see what's behind this door!

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Have you ever watched a show where you wanted to rewrite the ending? How do you feel about the portrayal of women in plays?

How Books Stack up Against Kids

2011-12-02T02:00:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: Outside of a dog, a book is a man's best friend. Inside of a dog it's too dark to read. Groucho Marx

Favorite Photos Friday
(I had fun planning and setting the scene for this photo. I also had help from my two youngest readers.)

I've been thinking about books and the stacks and stacks upon rows and rows of them in big bookstores, like Powell's in Portland, OR. It's overwhelming. And, when you're a writer and think you might like to see your very own book on those shelves, you can feel a bit intimidated by all those books. I look at them and think, "Look at all these books. How could you ever find my book in all these shelves? And, who could ever read all these books?" I've even wondered, "Aren't there enough books already?"

I know, it's crazy. Then, I look at my kids and measure how books stack up with them. They read and read and read (they have more time than us grown-ups), and then they go get more books and read them, too. And, when they're done with that series, they look for the next great one, and I think if you asked them, they'd say, "There aren't enough books." Because I've watched it happen. They devour books the way my almost 14-year-old polishes off a pan of lasagna. As soon as it's gone, he's looking for more.

Those same young readers were less helpful after the stack fell.

"Hey, guys, come back!

We need to put them all back, now."

*sigh*

So, keep this in mind as you gaze at the shelves, view the movies, or watch the plays. Once you've experienced a great story, you start looking for the next one, and the next one might be yours!

Also, I'll put in a plug for smaller independent bookstores. Their shelves are far less daunting. The staff is friendlier, and they support local authors.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What do you think a teen or preteen boy goes through faster - a shelf-full of books or a cupboard full of food?

Explore. Dream. Discover.

2011-11-30T08:17:00.001-06:00

Quote of the Day: Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. - Mark Twain

Happy Birthday to the great American writer, Mark Twain!
Thank you, Google, for your Google doodle and link to Twain quotes. The above quote is my favorite from their top ten list.

When self-doubts start to creep in,

When the mountain of "real life" work clouds your dreams,

When you aren't sure why you're even here,

Remember, you might be the one to shed light on the world today.

Your words, your art, your voice might be the one that people cling to.

The path is calling you to...

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What does your ideal day look like?

Go to The Writer's Almanac today to hear more about Mark Twain and other authors who share his birthday.

Happiness is...

2011-11-28T07:34:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: lyrics from the musical You're a Good Man Charlie Brown, the Happiness Song:

Happiness is finding a pencil

Pizza with sausage

telling the time

Happiness is learning to whistle

tying your shoe for the very first time

Happiness is playing the drum in your own school band

And Happiness is walking hand in hand

Happiness is two kinds of ice cream

Knowing a secret

Climbing a tree

Happiness is five different crayons

Catching a firefly

Setting him free

Happiness is being alone every now and then

And, happiness is coming home again

Happiness is morning and evening

Daytime and nighttime too

For happiness is anyone and anything at all

that's loved by you

How was your Thanksgiving weekend? Mine left me singing this song. Here are a few things that I'd add to that list:

Happiness is dinner with family

Bobby and Zachary,

Charlie and Eric, too.

Happiness is Leo on my lap

A long winter's nap

A hot cup of brew!

Happiness is a brand new drum

A song to hum

Sharing them with you!

Happiness is being at home

Being an artist

Living the dream!

I started this blog post at 6:00 a.m.

Then, I had an idea for the photo.

I had to wait for the sun to rise.

Tried a few shots indoors.

Didn't turn out.

I had three takes outside.

This one is the winner.

The slightly pinkish glow is from the the sunrise.

Happiness is waiting for the sunrise,

pausing to enjoy it,

and capturing a great photo.

If I had shopped at all this weekend, it would have been on Small Business Saturday. All I got that day was a cup of coffee at a locally owned shop. Mint mocha....mmm. Love the owners there! I bought the drum, a djembe, from the downtown music store last week. I need it for music at my church. Love chatting about music with Don at Bridge of Harmony! Then, I slipped over to Downtown Art & Frame where I bought paint and drooled over the fancy fibrous and textured paper. I used some of the paper I already had for my nieces' Christmas journal. Our family is passing journals around this fall, writing in them, or making an art page as in my case, then, the last person to have the journal wraps it up and gives it to the owner at Christmas. It's the best gift ever!

How's your shopping going?

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What's on your 'Happiness' list?

Reflections

2011-11-25T02:06:00.001-06:00

Favorite Photos Friday

Quote of the Day: Let's do a "Ferris Bueller" pose. Said by my boys as they stood at the window on the 9th floor of The Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. We had a few minutes to look around, and found this view to be spectacular.

Shot with flash

Tried again and turned off the flash.

Even though Charlie looks a little distorted, I like this shot better.

More reflection and color.

I took these two while standing out on the deck of the 4th floor with the boys. I think we're looking at the "Endless Bridge."

We didn't quite understand the "endless" part, but it was dark and a little cold, so they didn't explore very far.

This shot is pretty, in a mystical kind of way.

I think the blues are beautiful.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Hope you had a great Thanksgiving (in the USA), and a great weekend with friends or family, wherever you are!

Journaling Prompt: What's your favorite part of a big feast like Thanksgiving?

Article on Alzheimer's

2011-11-22T18:47:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: A friend knows the song in my heart and sings it to me when my memory fails. - Donna Roberts

Photos from the Walk to End Alzheimer's

I write for our local women's magazine, Her Voice. Click over there to read my most recent article on Alzheimer's disease and a mother-daughter relationship, starts on p. 20. Another article by Deb Cranny, Being the Daughter, describes how she is moving through the aging process with her own mother.

This is an excellent edition of Her Voice with so many stories that feature local residents, but have global appeal.

As the holidays approach, be aware that you might see changes in your loved one or their home which may raise concern. Always approach the subject with respect and express your love for that person.

Click over to the LAMAA blog for more info on the Lakes Area Memory Advocates.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving and be sure to share your memories.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What songs remind you of your parents, grandparents, or other family members?

A Christmas Carol at The Guthrie Theater Review

2011-11-21T08:50:00.001-06:00

Quote of the Day: I promise to keep Christmas in my heart, year round. I promise to remember the lessons the Spirits have taught me. spoken by Ebenezer Scrooge from Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, heard last night on the Wurtele Thrust Stage at The Guthrie Theater.

Two thumbs up for the Guthrie and we hadn't even seen the show, yet!

It was a mighty fine hamburger at the "fancy" restuarant -

The Level Five Cafe'

I had a date with four handsome young men for this year's production of A Christmas Carol.

A production of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol is a tradition at The Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. This was the first year that I've gone to the show. I brought my four sons with me, and I'm so glad that I did. I can understand why families make this part of their holiday tradition as well. The night was truly magical.

We entered the Wurtele Thrust Stage and our eyes were immediately drawn to the set. It was like looking at a painting of Dickensian London with the street lamps, the cobbled street, the buildings with their windows lit up, and what looked like snow on the edges of buildings and the stage. Charlie leaned over and asked, "I wonder how they made that snow," and "What do you think the buildings are made out of?" The boys tapped me on the shoulder and said, "Look up. I see props up there in the cat walk."

"I wonder when they'll come down and what else is up there," I said.

Then, the music started and the house lights went down. Tiny Tim was on the stage, leaning on his crutch. The snow falling on him glowed from the spotlight, and he sang, "Lul-lay thou little tiny child. By, by lul-ly lul-lay." Oh, my heart was already pulled into the show for "This poor youngling for whom we sing. By by Lul-ly, lul-lay." The townspeople entered from the aisles and behind the set. The stage filled with light and sound and I was transported to another time and place.

Like a colorfully wrapped Christmas present, many surprises await you during this performance. The Wurtele Stage has many hiding places, above and below, behind and within. We oohed and ahhed at the dramatic entrances of the ghosts. They are a bit scary, though, and I would not recommend this show for preschoolers. My 11-year-old sons said they think you should be in at least first grade.

My oldest son, Bobby, pointed out the political statements that were made. I already knew that the themes of A Christmas Carol are just as true today as they were in Dickens' times. Power and greed rule the day. The rich hoard their wealth and blame the poor for their own predicament. Old Scrooge isn't the only one to say, "If they can't work, they don't need to eat." Bobby noted the large prop and scene of the London Stock Exchange - a giant abacus - and how Scrooges' business acquaintance (remember, he had no friends) said they were going to ban the word "rich" at his office and replace it, instead, with "job creators."

Notice, too, that we're in the scenes of the Ghost of Christmas Past the longest. We see Scrooge as a lonely and abused boy. We meet his funny Uncle Fezziwig (this scene is so colorful, like one of Dr. Seuss' stories with bright colors and crazy hair which reminded me of the Who's down in Whoville), and we meet his fiance'. He never marries her, though, as she sees that his true love is money.

I felt drawn to the character of Bob Cratchet even more than usual during this performance. I've always had a soft spot for him, as most people do. He works hard, endures a cold office - both physically and emotionally, and he loves his family, and more than anything he wants to protect his young son, Tiny Tim, from his aweful fate. Kris L. Nelson plays the part with such tenderness that I found myself getting teary during the scene of Tiny Tim's funeral, and again, at the end when they all wish us a Merry Christmas.

One more surprise, before I go, Angela Timberman, who played Scrooge's housekeeper Merriweather, was fantastic. Such great comic relief in this play. Amidst themes of greed, despair, death, and loneliness, we have Merriweather's quips and actions, dreary, yet comical, words to songs like "We wish you a horrible Christmas" or something like that.

Alright, enough raving for now. But, check back this week. I hope to post a few photos from The Guthrie's collection of the show, and tell you more about my Christmas gift with my boys. I do hope that a visit to the Guthrie and Dickens' London and all his colorful characters becomes our holiday tradition, too.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Describe a time when you were surprised by a performance, or art experience.

Holding onto Beauty

2011-11-18T07:33:00.000-06:00

Favorite Friday Photos

Quote of the Day: Two quotes by Robert Frost
Like a piece of ice on a hot stove the poem must ride on its own melting.

I never write except with a writing board. I've never had a table in my life. And I use all sorts of things. Write on the sole of my shoe.

The sole of my shoe, now THAT'S a unique place to journal! Here are a few more shots from my trip up North, beauty along the Pembina Gorge.

A Path

Lingering beauty as the Earth goes dormant.

Preparing for Winter

Stark Beauty

Watching the sun set.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Take some time this weekend to examine the simple beauty in your world. Take photos, write notes or a poem, create a setting, reflect, breath, paint, enjoy.

Journal where you are

2011-11-16T09:00:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: Writing is an escape from a world that crowds me. I like being alone in a room. It's almost always a form of meditation - an investigation of my own life. Neil Simon

I write to bring back what is gone, to relive what is lost, to make a mosaic of fragments. - Minfong Ho

Journal where you are.

Make your mark.

Archive your life.

Live, Record, Remember

Do you journal with paper and pen or pencil? Do you type your journals and keep a file on your computer? Is your blog your personal archive? Do you, like me, have scraps and bits of paper scattered throughout the house, car, and your purse, full of notes and ideas? Where is the most unique place that you've written something down? I once used a church bulletin (yes, during the sermon). My Uncle David appears to be journaling on the inside of his walls. I love it. I journeyed far and wide to see his home. It's a process for me to get there, and with my family, it is an idea that keeps building.

It all started with my sister Nancy saying that she had Friday off of work so she thought she'd bring Mom up North to visit her brother. (He lives about seven miles from the Canadian border in North Dakota. I'm in central Minnesota.) Mom said, "I don't suppose Mary can get away." (It wasn't easy, but I did. I was glad to be invited along and I hadn't visited my uncle's home before.) By Thursday, Nancy called to say that our oldest brother Nathan wanted to go, too. By the time we met up at 2nd brother Phil's house, Mom and Dad got into the van. Nathan drives a modified van because he's in a wheelchair, with a lift where the middle seats are. We were quite cozy in the back seat.

The process was worth it. It was a cool and sunny November day. Dry roads, good company, a thermos of coffee, donut holes, homemade granola (by me), and great family stories. Not to mention my Aunt Sharon's delicious food and creative connection with church music.

If I hadn't gone, I wouldn't have known about the journaling on the walls, or seen my uncle's great craftsmanship at the place, nor experienced the sun setting over the Pembina Gorge with a cool November sky.

And, the full moon kept me company all the way back.

Journaling Prompt: Where do you leave your mark on the world? What kind of journaling do you do?

1940's Radio Hour Review

2011-11-13T21:03:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: Radio can be like that - people adopt you - and he became friend and family to so many people. from the obituary of Tom Keith in the Minneapolis Star Tribune, a quote by his friend and co-worker Dale Connelly

C.J. Anderson playing Lou Cohn in the GLAPA production of

1940's Radio Hour.

He dedicated his performance to Tom Keith, sound guy extraordinaire for Garrison Keillor's A Prairie Home Companion, a man he met and admired.

I admired and marveled at the sound effects table, and artist, in this show.

That toilet plunger was too much.

I was cackling at this scene!

I think he's making a storm.

Doesn't this look like fun?!

I want to be the sound "guy" some day.

The 1940's Radio Hour was community theatre at its finest up in Pequot Lakes this weekend. I attended the Sunday afternoon show, which can be more subdued than an evening performance, but it wasn't. It was full of life and energy, beautiful costumes, and interesting scenery. I love it when the band is on stage, as in this show, so that they are part of the effect. They are cast members. Three cheers and a hand massage for the pianist. I know how hard you had to work! The music and musicians were phenomenal.

I don't care how old you are or what era you grew up in, this show has something for everyone from sentimental songs to ridiculous sight gags that the "radio" audience couldn't see. It felt like we got a behind the scenes look at live radio, with the wit and whimsey like in Noises Off, and the lively pace of A Prairie Home Companion. You might blush as Ginger Brooks (Wendy DeGeest) delivers her ad for Eskimo Pies, oh my. One of the band members is playing his last show before going off to war (the setting is WWII). When he's about to exit, the stage manager asks if he wants to take his guitar. He says, "You take care of it for me until I get back." This, after songs like Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, and I'll Be Seeing You. (Goodness, I'm wiping a tear even as I type this.) Those were highly emotional times, portrayed accurately by this talented cast.

Some of these set pieces are real, some are made with styrofoam, by the talented "Mr. Syrofoam" Tim Leagjeld. Can you tell which is which?

Don't miss your chance to support your local community theatre and watch your friends and neighbors in a new role. When they aren't on stage, they're filling important roles in our community as teachers, students, business owners, employees, parents, and grandparents. They do all this work (and, it IS work, I burned calories just watching them) for the love of the art. The younger actors who played Connie Miller and B.J. Gibson were so cute. They danced together like Bobby and Sissy on the old Lawrence Welk Shows (grandparents, please explain this to the youngsters).

The best part about community theatre is that people are out there having a good time. They get to do their art for a while and leave those other roles at the stage door. They're escape is our entertainment. Thank you, GLAPA, and all the people behind the scenes. I had a lovely afternoon in your company.

Click here for more info on GLAPA and next week's performance schedule of The 1940's Radio Hour. You'll be glad you went.

I'd love to get my fingers on this typewriter and start clacking away.

My grandma had one like this.

I loved the sound of it and how the keys would stick together if you pushed more than one at a time.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Plan out the sound effects to something you're writing or creating. Look around your house. What could you use? Make a sound effect recording, just for fun.

Close the Screen and Live in Real Time!

2011-11-10T08:07:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day: Live life fully while you're here. Experience everything. Take care of yourself and your friends. Have fun, be crazy, be weird. Go out and screw up! You're going to anyway, so you might as well enjoy the process. Take the opportunity to learn from your mistakes: find the cause of your problem and eliminate it. Don't try to be perfect; just be an excellent example of being human. Anthony Robbins

Inspiration is all around us. We need to wake up to the life we're intended to live. I love that Toyota commercial (above). I'm not trying to sell you a car, here. What I love about that ad is the young woman thinks that she's "living" since she has so many facebook "friends". She tried to get her parents to "live a little." When, in fact, they're already out there experiencing life. They're active and adventurous. They're meeting new people and exploring the world.

Many of the great artists and writers of the world lived interesting and complex lives. They got out there and explored new territory like Stephen Crane. They picked apples on farms like John Steinbeck. Mary Higgins Clark was a flight attendant and a mother of five, widowed while they were all still young. The brilliant playwright Oscar Wilde traveled, studied the classics, and spent time in prison for "indecent relations" with men. Mark Twain worked various jobs and traveled extensively. The great poet Mary Oliver, survivor of childhood sexual abuse, worked on a farm. Clara Wieck Schumann started touring as a concert pianist when she was 11-years-old. She toured with her husband Robert Schumann, who was supportive during their courtship, but later begrudged her success. The couple had eight children, one died in infancy, had a life filled with tragedy, and yet, she continued to perform and compose music. All this in the 1800's when it wasn't proper for a married woman to be pursuing her own talents and career.

We humans were not meant to live in isolation. Go out this weekend and find adventure. Do something that takes courage. Take pictures of something that looks interesting to you. Attend a live performance. Talk to the artists. See all that your community has to offer. My plan is to visit relatives I haven't seen in a while and attend the 1940's Radio Hour up in Pequot Lakes, presented by the Greater Lakes Area Performing Arts (GLAPA). What's on your agenda?

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Give yourself an adventure, take a vaction from who you usually are, and live. Afterwards, write about the experience. (Looking forward to hearing back from you on Monday. *grins*)

Turn on the Faucet

2011-11-09T06:54:00.000-06:00

Quote of the Day:

If you're going to be a writer, the first essential

is just to write. Do not wait for an idea. Start

writing something and the ideas will come. You have

to turn the faucet on before the water starts to flow.

~ Louis L'Amour

My cat, Leo, likes to drink that little bit of water at the bottom of the bathtub. The boys thought that was funny, so when he's climbing around the edge of the tub, they turn on the water so there's enough for him to drink. Yesterday, he was in the tub, so I started just a trickle. He thought that was fun to play with. I finished getting ready and left. When I came back, hours later, the slow trickle had filled the tub half-full (versus half-empty, cause that's the way I am). I was embarrassed about leaving the water running, apologized to the Earth for wasting water, but saw the grand metaphor in my error. Even a slow trickle will eventually produce enough water to fill a tub.

That slow trickle can be the few minutes you carve out of each day to work on your art, your projects, and your dreams. Open the faucet and let the ideas flow out. Believe that you are the only person who can bring that art to life. It's you, your unique experiences and collection of gifts and talents.

Your daily goals might need to be small - one page or poem a day, one new contact a week, one new color on a painting, or one block for your quilt.

Go. Create. Inspire!

And, fill your tub of creativity, no matter how slow the flow.

Journaling Prompt: Keep track of all that you DID accomplish this week.

It's all G(r)eek to me.

2011-11-07T06:56:00.001-06:00

Quote of the Day: Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid. ~Einstein

Someone had this on their facebook status yesterday. It illustrates beautifully my college visit with my son. We don't necessarily speak the same language in academics. As we toured the electrical engineering department, I listened to only about a third of what the professor said, the third I understood. The rest was "all G(r)eek to me." (I had fun with that phrase in my head most of the day.)

We were on the tour with one other boy and his dad, "a recovering electronic engineer" as he put it. Professor Green laughed and said, "You never fully recover." And, he hadn't. (I had fun with that name, too. "It was Professor Green in the hall with the soddering gun.") Those two talked RFs (radio frequency) and connectors and gizmos and gadgets (see they lost me early) the whole tour. I was admiring the old-fashioned power board they had displayed in the hallway, made of wood, with the dial knobs. It was cool. Made me think of the old-time telephone switchboards. Professor Green was excited about his department. He showed us the labs, introduced us to his students who were in the study space just for engineers. He pointed out that the cooperation between students and personal interest from instructors (that impressed me.) When he brought us into one lab, a grad student was soddering some wires and boxes. The other dad asked about the equipment. I said that I noticed someone had wired up an old etcha-sketch. I wondered what they had it do. It's red frame really stood out in a room full of black and grey.

The grad student in the next room was working on a way to read corrosion on military vehicles, ships, etc., so that they won't have to repaint them so often. Thus, saving money. I complimented him on having such healthy plants at his desk, especially since there aren't any windows in that room. In fact, the electrical engineering department is rather dark, shades drawn, notes to turn off the lights when you leave the room. They're filled with wires and connectors and boxes and lots and lots of computers. I felt like a fish out of water.

I had to keep reminding myself that we were all made differently. We all have our own unique sets of gifts and talents. We don't all speak the same language around the world or in what we do. We are all creative, seeking ways to make the world a better place in our own way.

Thank God.

What a grand plan that was, to make us all so different, yet able to work together. We come with our varied gifts, offering what we do best to build up our community, honoring each other, thanking each other, and living the life we were intended to live.

Go. Create. Inspire! (In your own unique way)

Journaling Prompt: List all your gifts and talents. Then, list those of someone who seems quite different from you.

College Visit

2011-11-04T09:01:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: For the pathway that lies before me, my Heavenly Father knows - I'll trust Him to unfold the moments just as He unfolds the rose. Unknown, found in a travel journal.

Favorite Photo Friday:

First college visit with first-born son.

We had a great day together. He talked to me the whole way home about his career, school, my education, education in general, teaching, life. It was great. A moment I treasure.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Describe a time where you stood at the crossroads. Which way did you go?

Cure for the Insecure Writer

2011-11-02T08:46:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: Hebrews 12:1

Today's New International Version (TNIV)

¹ Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,

This is a great verse to tuck into your back pocket as you persevere through life. The images lift me up. I feel myself moving into that cloud of witnesses and being surrounded by people who love and support me. They are there for you, too.

On the first Wednesday of every month, Alex J. Cavannaugh is hosting the Insecure Writer's Support Group. I joined right in. Last month, I wrote about feeling like I didn't really belong in the world of playwrights. You can read about it here. Last week, I wrote about feeling afraid to meet the National Players and participate in their improv workshop, but I did it anyway. I describe the experience here.

And, you could have heard the voices in my head screaming ridicule and excuses to convince me not to go to The Guthrie. I mean, who I am to be invited to Blogger Night at The Guthrie?

But, here I am, standing in front of the theatre, all my insecurities rolling on the highway that lead me here.

Here's the thing. People feel insecure. They're afraid of taking risks, looking imperfect, being vulnerable. Yet, they are longing for new experiences, to live into their authentic lives, and to be a positive force in the world. You can "What if" yourself into isolation and depression, or you can surround yourself with that cloud of witnesses, the people who give you light and love, and go forth with confidence.

Last month, after I posted my insecurities, I went on Facebook and tagged some of the people who had offered encouragement. When I started making that list, I realized that I was surrounded by a cloud of witnesses. I paused. Said a prayer of thanks, and said "Yes!" to the next new opportunity - despite my insecurities.

Go. Create. Inspire!

And, someday soon, Dare!

Journaling Prompt: Make a list of people who are part of your cloud of witnesses, those who give you strength, support, love and light.

Halloween Highlights

2011-11-01T09:15:00.001-05:00

Quote of the Day:

The Dragons are Singing Tonight.

by Jack Prelutsky

Tonight is the night all the dragons
Awake in their lairs underground,

To sing in cacophonous chorus

And fill the whole world with their sound.

They sing of the days of their glory,

They sing of their exploits of old,

Of maidens and Knights, and of fiery fights,

And guarding vast caches gold.

Some of their voices are treble,

And some of their voices are deep,

But all of their voices are thunderous,

And no one can get any sleep.

I lie in my bed and I listen,

Enchanted and filled with delight,

To songs I can hear only one night a year--

The dragons are singing tonight.

That Jack Prelutsky poem is my favorite to read on Halloween. I used it last year on my blog, too. Now, it's tradition. Last week, I picked up my kids and a piano student from school. He had his lesson and needed to hang out with us a little while until he got picked up by his dad, so I seized the opportunity and called my kids up to carve pumpkins.

Come for piano lessons, stay for the pumpkin carving!

Charlie made one for Leo, the wonder cat.

I thought he was clever (or cleaver) using paper clips.

The next day, a couple more students had their own festive moment!

A few more highlights

The best disguise costume from my ghoulish night at The Turn.

We weren't sure if this was a man dressed as a woman,

or a woman dressed as a man, dressed as an old woman

My neighbor's creative re-use of milk cartons

Boo!

Sunday evening, I was sitting at my kitchen table, my cat Leo was on the rug.

The doorway darkened. I looked up and saw a huge wingspan and thought it was a hawk.

I got up for a closer look and grabbed my camera.

He looks, to me, like a Northern Hawk Owl. They hunt more in the daylight and like lightly wooded areas. I live on the edge of town, lots of woods. He's a little south for this time of year, but maybe food is scarce up north, or the fires near the Boundary Waters sent him this way. Or, I could be wrong about the variety.

Either way, it was cool to see an owl on the eve of All Hallow's Eve. Although, I kept Leo in. That owl had his eye on a delicious dinner, I think.

My favorite treat from the day came after my noon workout at the Y. A friend had been serving a lunch for the Silver Sneakers - those folks really know how to exercise and eat - and she had a few pumpkin bars left in her pan. She offered, and I accepted. It's the only polite thing to do. Plus, I was wearing my festive orange and black socks.

Go. Create. Inspire!

And, don't eat all your kids' candy.

Journaling Prompt: What are your favorite Halloween treats, sightings, or fall festivities?

Seth Doud at The Last Turn

2011-10-30T19:35:00.001-05:00

Quote of the Day: Thriller by Michael Jackson
It's close to midnight
Something evil's lurkin'in the dark
Under the moonlight
You see a sight that almost stops your heart
You try to scream
But terror takes the sound before you make it
You start to freeze
As horror looks you right between the eyes
You're paralyzed

'Cause this is thriller
Thriller night
And no one's gonna save you
From the beast about to strike
You know it's thriller
Thriller night
You're fighting for your life
Inside a killer
Thriller tonight, yeah
You're singing it in your head, now, aren't you?

The gal with the blue hat is dressed as a golf bag - hilarious!

My vote for best costume of the night

I was out with the ghosts, ghouls, guys and gals on Saturday night. I went to hear local talent, Seth Doud. The interesting costumed customers were the bonus.

I first heard Seth at the Dreams concert this spring. A completely different venue, the bands were on the biggest stage in our town, each one doing two numbers. Seth was at the end of the show. I sat up from my sleepy seat and paid attention. He came on with such energy that I woke up. His rendition of America gave me chills. He had the same energy at The Last Turn on Saturday, but it was harder to hear him, and concentrate on the music. I think the sound system distorts the vocals - something they could work on.

I was with a nice group in a booth. Here I am with Krista. I grabbed a couple hats on my way out the door and said we were going as Royal Wedding rejects. We tried to listen to the music and listen for songs that were originals vs. cover songs. In the end, we learned that Seth does mostly his own stuff, and when he sings cover songs, he puts his own style into it so much that it seems like his own.

Like I said, the bar atmosphere doesn't really work for just listening to a performer. It also hinders conversation, so we resorted to old-fashioned texting.

Texting - the old-school way, with paper and pens.

Since we're all middle-aged and hearing and vision challenged, we resorted to writing notes and yelling at each other to communicate. To make it even more difficult, none of us brought our "cheaters" (reading glasses). Naturally, the writer at the table (me) provided the notecards and pen.

They say that The Turn is haunted.

Here's proof of a phantom fan.

Seth's style is soulful. His voice is gravely, at times, and his guitar playing is bold. He has a talent for making it sound like more than one instrument - steel, accoustic, even some rock beats are in there. He said that he loves so many kinds of music and artists and uses parts of all of them in his work. I had one minute to talk to him and off the top of his head he named Bob Dylan and Martin Sexton -R&B, Blues, Rock, as favorites. Oh, ya, I can hear it all. I asked if he had CDs to sell. He did, but I didn't get back to him to see if he had any with him. But, Seth, I'd really like to buy a couple. I love listening to your voice, your guitar, and your style. Click here to read more about Seth Doud and have a listen.

Thanks for the fun night, Seth, Amy (owner of the Last Turn), all you creepy customers, and the spirits that float through the rooms.

He somehow reminded me of Edgar Allen Poe

Every good party needs a pirate.

Outside the Turn

Queen Elizabeth?

Go. Create. Inspire!

And, beware the creepy caped kiddos invading your neighborhoods!

Journaling Prompt: What's your favorite Halloween costume?

The Edge of Our Bodies Review

2011-10-28T09:42:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: No play, not even a classic text that has been performed for centuries, is a static work of art...Theatre is an ephemeral art, and it can only be conjured in a moment of witness....we have created a place to focus on new work, a signature space of risk and discovery...By joining us tonight, you are a companion in the development of the next generation of stories. Benjamin McGovern, Associate Director of Studio Programming and director of The Edge of Our Bodies, writing about the Dowling Studio at The Guthrie theatre in Minneapolis, where I watched The Edge of Our Bodies last night.

The correct answer is "Yes!" That's what I learned from The National Players on Monday during our improv workshop. Whatever your scene partner throws at you, the answer is, "Yes!" Then, you go for it. To be succussful in your art, the correct answer to opportunities and requests is always, "Yes!"

I "Like" The Guthrie on facebook, because I like the The Guthrie, and I'm embarassed to say that I hadn't been there in so long, I didn't even know where they built the new theatre - five years ago! (Among other excuses, I thought I lived too far away.) One day last August, they posted via facebook that they were "Calling all Bloggers" to come watch shows at The Guthrie then write a review on their blogs. Without hesitation, I said, "Yes!" clicked on over and signed up. Low and behold, they invited me and a guest to attend first, The Burial at Thebes, which I had to turn down, then The Edge of Our Bodies, which I was determined to go see. If I lived in the cities, I would have gone to it, easily, even without the invitation. So, I started asking around for a travel/theatre companion. Dawn, singer-songwriter-theatre major-writer-friend, said, "Yes!"

Cheers, Dawn, to a daring, new adventure!

A quick dinner at The Level 5 Cafe'

Cheeseburger, fish cakes, fresh bread, and wine.

The Edge of Our Bodies by Adam Rapp is a one character play, with a brief appearance of a maintenance man. Bernadette sits on the set of The Maids as we enter and take our seats. When the play starts, she holds her journal and reads to us her journey. I didn't realize that the set was for the play within a play until a little ways into the show. Bernadette tells us that she needs to talk to her boyfriend. We learn of her feelings of isolation and abandonment, and her fears and frustrations. Her parents are so wrapped up in their own coping lifestyle, that they leave her to stumble around, a teen thrust into an adult world. Ali Rose Dachis plays the part superbly. She comes to life when she describes conversations she has along her journey, her boyfriend's dying father, her mixed-up mother, a bartender, and a lonely man. She also acts out bits of The Maids, a show she auditioned for in her prep school. At one point the Maintenance Man says, "Tomorrow, this will all be gone." It was fascinating to watch a single actor bring the story to life in an hour and 20 minutes, non-stop. I feel like I need to watch it again to catch more of the details. Did she take her journal with her as she exits the final scene?

The use of lighting kept us focused. They threw us a few surprises, and told the story in raw, graphic language. I would not bring my young sons to this show. It has adult themes about someone who isn't quite ready to be an adult. It brings to light the darkness of life, the difficult choices, and the way people get trapped inside their own lives. The Edge of Our Bodies are those moments when we step outside ourselves and take a hard look. Who is that person, and how could she (he) be me?

If you look closely, you can see the edge of my body in this photo.

The lighting in the lobby was tricky.

Beautiful, but hard to photograph.

Next time I go to The Guthrie, I'll plan to get there earlier so I can look around. It is an amazing place. Huge. They have three stages and shows going on at the same time. The Dowling Studio is on the 9th floor. The windows along the wall offer a fabulous view of the Mississippi River, the city lights, and - watch your step! - a window in the floor where you can look all the way down to the bottom floor. I didn't dare stand on it.

Dawn and I were funny "farm" girls. We were exploring and discovering the theatre with wide-eyed wonder. We laughed as we went the wrong direction, rode the longest escalator, and found our way in and out of the theatre, and in and out of the city, which was somehow easier to get in to that out of. I-94 in, 394 to north 494 out! We live over two hours away from The Guthrie, Blogger Night invitations are for week nights, I have four busy boys at home, and I don't drive in the city. And, yet, I said, "Yes!" to the invitation to be a guest at The Guthrie and write this review for you today...And, it was worth it.

Look how happy I am to be saying, "Yes!"

All I need is a hat to throw into the air, and I could do my Mary Tyler Moore impression.

Go. Create. Inspire!

And, say "Yes!" to the next artistic opportunity.

I think I'll check out Adam Rapp's movie, Winter Passing, this weekend, a 2005 drama starring Zoey Deschanel, Will Ferrell, and Ed Harris.

Journaling Prompt: When is the last time you said, "Yes!" to an opportunity? Any regrets from a no?

Of Mice and Men Review

2011-10-26T09:59:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: John Steinbeck was born in Salinas, California, in 1902. His first three books were financial failures, and he worked at various kinds of jobs to surive, including fruit picking. - from the "About the Author" at the back of my yellowed copy of Of Mice and Men, which was in its 72nd printing when I bought my copy for a college course 25 years ago. The story is still powerful and relevant today. With three failed books, and who knows how many rejections, and working at hard labor, unfulfilling jobs, do you think he ever felt like his dreams were as hopeless and unattainable and George and Lenny's?

I watched the show with my 13-year-old son, Zach. I had a ticket for my oldest son Bobby, but he wasn't feeling well so didn't attend. He was the first one I thought of bringing when I saw the advertisement. He's a senior in high school. He's read the book. He's ready for these heavy themes and dark look at life. I decided my 11-year-old twins weren't ready. When I told them a little about the play, that it ends sad, that it's a tragedy, they said, "We like shows where the good guys win."

So, I found myself sitting next to my 8th grader, wondering how he was handling the content and emotional impact of this story. He told me afterwards that watching a play is way more intense than watching a movie. You're right there. When the actors' voices get louder, you can hear that. When they get emotional, you can feel that. While the movie makers might try to manipulate the volume, it's not the same as being in the same room with the actors.

Wow. My work here is done. That's exactly what I want him to know about live performances. I want my sons to know that there is life beyond the screen. That to be in the presence of gifted and emotional performers is more powerful than anything they'll experience. Zach and I agreed, the screen creates a barrier. We have an easier time telling ourselves that it's not real. Even though the set is representative of the time and place and the actors are playing parts, it becomes real through their words, actions, reactions, their very breath...and ours, the audience. The actors I spoke with on Monday said that each show is different. It takes on a life of its own. Each time they perform, it's a little different. The audience has a different chemistry. A Tuesday night performance in Brainerd, MN is going to feel different from a Friday night performance in Nothern California. I wonder how the folks in California react to this play?

Marcus, who played Crooks with amazing depth, told me that their director Jason King Jones wanted their performance of Of Mice and Men to be unlike any the audience has seen before. And it was. I believe it's because he allowed himself as a director to interpret the play, to bring it to life as he sees it. Then, he got out of the way and allowed the actors to create their characters. I felt like the actors and their characters were one.

As Eryn O'Sullivan, Curley's Wife, was talking about leaving this place and joining the traveling show, I couldn't help but think of how all these young actors did just that. They left the comfort of home, of a "regular" life and hit the road in a traveling show. Aren't they also beating it from one town to the next, looking for work, seeking connection, discovering more and more about themselves, and wondering if they dare to dream of something more?

And, that is the theme of the play. Zach asked me what I thought the theme was. I hesitated. I thought I'd lost my English teacher eye for literary elements. But, when he asked me, I was still in shock over the ending. Of course, I knew what was coming. I've seen this play done a couple time, read the book, studied the story, but I couldn't answer that the theme was the death of a dream. I wanted it to be more hopeful than that.

I asked Zach, "Why do you think John Steinbeck wrote this story?" He said, "Because he wanted to show how hard some people had it, especially during those times."

I have such a smart son.

I am feeling grateful for the experience of the theatre, the improv class, the emotional and powerful performance by The National Players, and a great night out with my son, who sheds light on life and literature for me.

(Brian Vaughan who played Slim, and Patrick Hogan, as Carlson)

Go ahead, Play off the Page!

I dare you!

Go. Create. Inspire!

Close the screens, and experience life and art in real time. It's waiting for you to show up with your own creative energy.

Journaling Prompt: What do you think is the theme of 'Of Mice and Men'? Why do you think John Steinbeck wrote this story? Where would we be if he gave up on his writing life and accepted the death of his dream? Where would you be if you gave up on your dreams?

Improv with The National Players

2011-10-25T10:09:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: Our mission is to tell the story. Marcus Salley, 2010-2011 member of The National Players

Marcus and Brian

showing us the "two heads are better than one" improv technique

(photos a little blurry because I didn't want to use my flash)

I'm doing it. I'm stepping out of my comfort zone and taking the time to embrace (remember my word for the year) new experiences, and my authentic self.

The National Players are in town to perform the Steinbeck classic, Of Mice and Men, one of my favorite stories, despite it's tragic ending. Maybe it is the tragedy, that we feel so deeply, that connects me to this story. Maybe it's something more, but I'll reflect on that tomorrow, after I've seen the show, which is tonight at 7:30 at Central Lakes College.

I am on the emailing list for the CLC theatre, and last week, Patrick Spradlin offered a one-hour improv workshop with The National Players. I said yes, then got nervous. What if I don't know what to do? What if they ask me to do something that makes me feel like a freak? What if I'm the only person over 20? What if I look like a foolish middle-aged mom trying to recapture her youth?

What if I don't go, then regret it?

So, I went, middle-aged insecurities and all. I've been wanting to do more with improv, drama, theatre, and coaching kids, so I knew this was my invitation. Plus, it was free. And, not only free, but in attending, I also got a 60% discount on my tickets for the show. Bonus on top of the bonus.

It was fun.

Player Alex and some of my classmates

I learned some great warm-ups and theatre games to do with kids when I start my Play off the Page theatre workshop next summer. (There, I've announced it, now it has to happen.)

We practiced greeting strangers by pretending they were long lost friends.

We partnered up for the "Two-headed" storytelling game.

My partner, Cody, was great. He looks a little scared here, but when he started the dialogue, he came to life. For our "Two-headed" story, we broke into dialogue from the start. He played along great, threw me a couple curve-balls, and in the end we hit a "home-run." Seriously, it was about a scary bat in the corner, that we hit with a baseball bat, and scored. The teachers told us we were "advanced." (giggles and grins) And, I thought I wouldn't fit in.

I asked Cody if he was at CLC for the theatre program. He said, "No, I'm here for the computer classes." I asked if he was a writer since he came up with the story line so well. He said, "No, but my sister is." So, we played the part of older sister/younger brother and a controvesial operation.

Afterwards, I chatted with a couple cast members, Marcus Salley and Patrick Hogan. They said that being in The National Players is like being in the "military of acting" because they have to learn all the rolls in theatre, from the parts they play on stage to how to set up and run their own lights and sound, haul in the props and set, construct it in a short amount of time, and be ready to strike it as soon as the curtain closes, pack it up, and move onto the next venue.

Hey, diddly dee, the actor's life for me... They must be humming that tune as they travel from state to state, performing in large and small communities and trying to meet their creature comforts all along the way. I have to admire, and envy ever so slightly, the freedom of the young actor, to be able to live on the road and have adventures.

I asked Marcus and Patrick what their goals are as actors. Patrick said he'd like to get back into film. He'd done a bit before he got this job, so once the year is up, he's back to Hollywood, I suppose. I hope I see him up on the big screen, or on my television some day. Marcus has his teaching degree. I asked if it was theatre or English. He said, "No, history." That's great. We have a huge need to bring history to life through theatre. He'd like to work with middle school. I applaud him and wish him well. I asked if he has done any writing. He said that he has. Oh, ya, another connection. Then, I let it slip that I'm a playwright. I said that I feel sad that there are almost no rolls for middle-aged women, and only a few for older women, where they only play the aging mother. All the rolls are for the beautiful young woman coming of age and falling in love. I said I was tired of that, so I sat down and wrote a play that I'd like to see or be in, or that my friends could do. And, those young guys encouraged me.

See what happens when you step out of your comfort zone and are willing to "Play off the Page?" Creative energy, new friends and experiences, and courage to do the next thing that makes you sweat.

Go. Create. Inspire! And, step out of your comfort zone today!

Learn more about The National Players here, or The CLC Theatre, here.

Thanks Patrick and National Players for a great afternoon! I'm looking forward to your performance tonight.

Journaling Prompt: Describe a time where you pushed yourself to try something new and step out of your comfort zone. What happened? How were you changed?

James Keelaghan

2011-10-22T13:10:00.001-05:00

Quote of the Day: I have a dream, and I gave it a name, and the name that I gave it was your name. - James Keelaghan, lyrics from the song he used for the audience participation part of his concert. It set me to dreaming.

James Keelaghan is a singer/songwriter from Winnipeg, Canada, with roots in Calgary. His folk songs are often historical ballads, rich in story, soothing in tone. His guitar is part of him, which he plays masterfully and musically. I'm pulled into the song with the first chord. He kept tweaking and tuning it throughout the concert and explained that with his extensive travel, his guitar was suffering from "tune-lag."

In fact, Keelaghan sprinkled humor throughout the show, which is good because many of the subjects of his songs are dark - death, tragedy, loss. He shared stories of people and places he's been. And, that's what I love - the stories. He has a story about where he got his inpiration for a song. The song itself is a story, and how the song goes out into the world and takes on a life of its own, is a story. Hillcrest Mine is a tribute to 189 men and boys who died in a mining accident near his hometown, long before he was born. (I don't remember what year he said it happened.) One of his most famous songs, Kiri's Piano, is about the Japanese internment camps in Canada during WWII. (I thought it was just us paranoid Americans who did that. But, our neighbors to the North were just as afraid.) This song then became part of a family's story and they shared it with him - about a young man, a miniature guitar, Pearl Harbor, 1941, a sunken ship, a dead serviceman, and a gift. You'll need to attend one of Keelaghan's concert to get the full details. I wouldn't be able to do the story justice from a one time hearing.

Which brings me to the main reason I was at this concert in the first place. It took place in a new kind of church building called Live Well, also a Nightclub and Coffee Bar. My friend and I were up for some local entertainment. We'd walked into a bar that smelled like beer and popcorn with way too many guys oogling us. So, we went to the town's best pizza place then headed over to the concert. We left our dollar in the basket and helped ourselves to a sparkling water, lime flavored, and settled into the rocking chairs. Yep, this church has a variety of seating, including loveseats, couches, and soft chairs. I sat down, kicked off my clogs, put my feet up on the automan and commensed to giggling. What a hoot! I've never been so relaxed at a concert.

I'd spent the previous day baking a variety of goodies to bring to a funeral, which I'd worked at all morning. It was good fellowship, a celebration of the life of a wonderful woman who was dearly loved by her family and communities where she lived, taught, and worked to make this a better world. Evelyn was 93.

So, when I got to the concert, I was tired. I felt relaxed in my rocking chair and soothed by the music.

Thanks, James Keelaghan, for coming to little Nisswa, MN for their Grassroots concert series. Thanks for your gift of music, writing, and storytelling. As he said, "That's why I write. Because we need to share our stories." I gave an "Amen." He certainly made a connection with me.

Mary relaxing at a folk concert

Photo by Joey Halvorson who didn't have her nice camera with her, but happened to be sitting behind me at the concert. (I thought I felt a nudge from back there.)

So, she took the pic from Wadeen's phone, who sent it to Joey, who emailed it to me, where I saved it to my computer, and pasted it onto my blog, so that you could see what a wonderful and relaxing time I had on Friday night.

I think this shot captures the mystical feel of the evening.

Go. Create. Inspire! And, attend live shows. They are so worth it!!

For more shows at the Grassroots Concert series in Nisswa, MN, click here.

Next stop for James Keelaghan, the United Kingdom. Perhaps, he's bringing a bit of our Minnesota spirit with him. Seems like his guitar is handling the "tune-lag" just fine.

Journaling Prompt: What is the story behind a song, or group, that you like?

Brand New Smile

2011-10-21T02:00:00.001-05:00

Favorite Photos Friday

Quote of the Day: You make me dance like a fool, forget how to breathe, shine like gold, buzz like a bee...oh, you make me smile. lyrics from Smile by Uncle Kracker

When his young lad was 13 and a half years old and just about to enter the 8th grade, he got his braces on.

Four year, two months, 20 days, and a few major life changes later, he got them off.

Now, he's a senior in high school, 17 and a half years old, and applying to colleges for Engineering.

Next up, Senior Pictures.

(*confession* When I listened to that Uncle Kracker song and started writing, I shed a few mom tears. What can I say, my first-born, my right-hand man, is growing up and moving on. Send Kleenex, graduation day will come way too soon!)

Journaling Prompt: Did you ever have to wait a really long time for something to change? And, even though it was for the better, you had to go through some discomfort to get there? If any of your chicks have left the nest, please send advice. Thanks.

Go. Create. Inspire! and Smile!!

Sundays

2011-10-18T12:01:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: Good Hope owes its culture and progress in religion and education to the Scandinavians, who flocked into the community. Fond of music and deeply loyal to the Lutheran doctrine and practice, they established parochial and public schools and trained the children in the elementary teachings of the Christian faith. In the "History of the Church" section of the Bethany Lutheran Church Centennial Celebration book.

This is an aerial photo of the little country church and school house in Good Hope Township, Norman County, Minnesota, where I grew up. My family's farm is about a mile south of the church. Going to church on Sunday mornings was part of our weekly routine. I was Baptized here, attended Sunday School, and started playing piano for worship services when I was 13 years old. I remember sitting next to my Grandma Ida during services when I was young. She wore a knitted shawl with long fringes. I would spend the quiet sermon time braiding the strands together. I didn't think she really noticed until one time, I didn't start braiding right away, and she nudged me and whispered that I could braid her shawl.

Now, she's buried in the cemetary behind the church along with other relatives.

Our Faithful Moms group watched a short video by Rob Bell titled Sunday. It got us thinking, and talking, about what Sundays are like for us. I came up with the journaling topic: What were Sundays like for you when you were young? What are they like now? And, how would you like them to look in the future?

Whether you're a church goer, or not, how do you spend your Sundays? Are they a day of rest? If not, do you set aside time to rest and renew?

Sunday mornings have felt hectic to me most of my life. The beginning of the day has people trying to get ready at the same time. Some don't want to get up and go. Others have jobs to do. I am still a church pianist and will be playing nearly every Sunday now that the pastor and his wife are leaving. So, really Sunday mornings are a day of work. But, Sunday afternoons have usually been very relaxing, including two of my favorite "activities" - reading and napping. Also, we have some sort of delicious food. Mom usually made escalloped potatoes with ham or meatballs. We often make brunch.

Go. Create. Inspire! And, find a way to have at least a half day of rest.

Journaling Prompt: Write about Sudays, resting, and family time.

The Miracle Worker

2011-10-13T22:32:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: Keep on beginning and failing. Each time you fail, start all over again, and you will grow stronger until you have accomplished a purpose - not the one you began with perhaps, but one you'll be glad to remember.

My heart is singing for joy this morning! A miracle has happened! The light of understanding has shone upon my little pupil's mind, and behold, all things are changed!
Anne Sullivan, The Miracle Worker

photo source: http://www.anniesullivan.org/

Our local college theatre department has produced a fantastic performance of William Gibson's The Miracle Worker. The 10-year-old girl who played Helen was amazing, so true, so believable, and Annie Sullivan couldn't have been played better. The production crew did interesting things with light and sound, keeping our attention during action scenes with dramatic music, and using changes in light to show flashbacks and Annie's painful memories. I shed a few tears as Annie makes her break-throughs with Helen, and felt inspired all over again by the power of loving and determined teachers.

The production runs at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 14 & 15, and at 2 p.m. Oct. 16.
Tickets are $6 and may be purchased with a credit card by calling 855-8199 or online at www.clctickets.com. Tickets for CLC students are a quarter. Oct. 16 is an American Sign Language signed performance.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Write about a teacher who made a break-through with you.

Journaling Genes

2011-10-12T11:15:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: Years are like milestones that tell us the distance we have traveled. And while each passing year robs us of something, we can always recapture it in memory. Strange to say, even those things that are hard to endure are pleasant to remember.

Through the medium of our written chronicles, we can turn back the pages of Time and review the events of yesteryear as they apply to our own lives...a lasting record of our activities, our experiences and our viewpoints...a living memoir of things attempted and things done... a vivid story that is ever new and ever refreshing to us in hours of recollection. This diary is designed for just such a purpose. It can be started on any day of the year and record the events of any five years on your journey through Life.
From the Foreward in my Aunt Millie's Five Year Diary, spanning 1936-1944. It looks like she wrote in it in 1936, 37, 38 (set it aside?), then picked it up again in 1944. Here's the entry from June 1, 1944:
It was 8 below and New Year's day, All of (name?)'s here and Wayne and Beatrice here for their first dinner. Junice & Joe went to Grygla. We have suffered a setback in Germany, but have regained some.

Journaling is in my blood, folks. Here are journals from my paternal grandparents and Aunt Millie, my dad's older sister. Back in the day, they used the Five Year Diary, and in about 2 cm, or less than one inch, they recorded the happenings of each day. The above writing is a typical entry: the weather, who came to visit, or where you might have gone on a Sunday afternoon, who had a cold, the farm. I like this entry because Millie mentions the war in Germany. I grabbed my Grandma's from the year that her oldest daughter died. And, while my relatives weren't much for recording, or showing, emotions, there is an entry where she writes that she visited her sister Nettie, "And the tears flowed freely." Her oldest daughter, my dad's other sister, Thelma, died that year after giving birth to her first-born son. It was a pain that never went away for my family. An entry later that year said, "Little Steven came to visit, but no Thelma" no mama. I teared up as I read that.

My grandpa Arne was born and raised in Norway, then came to the USA in 1921. Most of his entries are in Norwegian, with an occassional word or phrase in English.

What a grand legacy I carry on through my journal writing, and now, blog - the Web Log, a glimpse of life in the years that I occupy this Earth.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Do you have heirlooms? What are they? What is the story behind them? Do you find value in journaling, writing, or other art forms?

Brainerd Buddy Walk 2011

2011-10-10T11:45:00.001-05:00

Quote of the Day: Walking Together...So no one walks alone. Mary Aalgard, from my article in Her Voice on our local Buddy Walk and the families who are involved. They honored me by using my words on their t-shirts this year.

The weather was gorgeous in the Brainerd lakes area on Sunday, Oct. 9, 2011, for the fourth annual Buddy Walk and Roll. This year, they held it at the Confidence Learning Center.

They renamed it the Buddy Walk and Roll to include people with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities. This camp was started as a place to service the needs of people and families with these conditions. Read their mission statement here.

Dave and Becky Meyer were key organizers this year. Their sons Luke and Noah lead the walk.

Luke and Noah are twins. Noah has Down syndrome. Their older brother Caleb was on a church trip and missed the walk.

This was the first group to use the new trail.

It started with a Ribbon "Cutting" ceremony.

I was so glad to see that not all the leaves blew off the trees from our recent wind storm. The road was paved and smooth. The scenery a feast for the eyes, and the mood of the day was joy and celebration.

This is the other Meyer family that I featured in the Her Voice article. I also interviewed Beth. I walked part of the path with her and her little daughter, Lauren, ran most of the way. I think she just turned four. I smiled at her, and she held my hand for a short bit. That made me smile even more!

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What have you recently celebrated? What did you do? Who has reached out to hold your hand?

What is that thing?

2011-10-07T13:56:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: Of all my inventions, I liked the phonograph best. - Thomas Edison

For my Favorite Friday Photos, I'll show you the treasure I brought home from my parents' house. This belonged to my mom's parents.

My kids and my piano students look at this odd piece of furniture, slide open the top, peer in, and say, "What is this thing?"

I hear they're all the rage, now, with young people who want vintage stereos.

I show them the large black disc and explain, "This is a record." I show them how to put it on the player. I taught them that in the olden days, we sometimes had to put a penny on the arm so it wouldn't skip so much. I needed a quarter for this one, must be inflation.

I thought it was a nice addition to my music room, and now, I can play my old vinyl records, like Billy Joel, Michael Jackson, and Pat Benatar.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Do you have some vintage pieces in your home? What music did you like in your younger years?

Insecure as a Playwright

2011-10-05T02:00:00.002-05:00

Quote of the Day: I am profoundly uncertain about how to write. I know what I love or what I like, because it's a direct, passionate response. But when I write I'm very uncertain whether it's good enough. That is, of course, the writer's agony. - Susan Sontag

I have joined the Insecure Writer's Support Group started by the super Ninja writer, Alex J. Cavanaugh. (Click the badge on the right to learn more and read about other writers and their insecurities.) It started in September, but it was during my birthday week, and I was feeling less insecure at the time, due to all the celebrating, so I'm starting today. I searched my photos for something to depict the insecurities I feel.

It's not a great shot. I was taking a walk in the neighborhood and brought my camera because we are at peak fall colors. A car drove by, kicking up dust and creating a haze. The gravel road, the haze, the dust in my eyes, the thickness in the air as I take a breath - that's what my insecurities feel like. I'm not sure if I'm even on the right path.

I went to the children's writers conference in Grand Forks, but thought maybe I don't really belong there because I haven't had any books for kids or teens published. I've been working on a play that is for adults, although I do have an 18-year-old girl in it.

As I was writing my first full-length play, Coffee Shop Confessions, I'd go to the Coco Moon where I imagined it would be performed. As I walked through the door, I could picture the "real" theater people standing outside, banging on the windows, heckling me, saying "Who are you to write a play?" ha ha ha ha. "You don't have any training or theater credentials." pfftt. They'd stick out their tongues and make rude gestures. "You don't belong!" They'd shout.

So, I brought along a friend, at first, to help quiet the voices. She actually laughed at them. That shut them right up. I learned. I gained confidence. I heard her always encouraging voice saying, "Of course, you can." Then, I shut off my inner critic. Snapped her mouth shut and zipped her lip. I closed the shades on those hecklers, and got down to business. You see, I had other voices in my head, the voices of my characters, and they wanted to get out. They had stories to tell, lives to share, and relationships to be formed.

And, now, it's done. I'm ready to cast the show and watch it come to life. Right here, in my local coffee shop.

Here I am explaining my play to this young woman. She's not acting here, she was truly interested. In fact, she inspired the character Micki. Also, the photographer is Joey Halvorson who was doing a photo shoot for my article in Her Voice. Joey's voice offered encouragement that day. She also used it to bring my character Lolly to life at a table reading of the script, and will be Lolly when it's finally performed.

Now, all I can hear in my head is I get by with a little help from my friends! Thanks, Beatles! (JeMA, Joey, Roxane, and all my friends who kept saying, "Of course, you can!")

Journaling Prompt: Who are your cheerleaders? Who tells you that you can do it? Who quiets those insecure voices in your head?

Children's Writers Conference at UND

2011-10-02T22:10:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: When I want to take a vacation from myself, I eat something different, read something I wouldn't normally read. Kurtis Scaletta, author and speaker at the 32nd Annual Writing for Children and Young Adults Conference in Grand Forks, ND.

Here he is with Janet Spaeth, conference coordinator extraordinaire.

The conference panel:

Elizabeth Law, Vice President and Publisher of Egmont Publishing. She's been in the business for over 25 years. She knows good writing, trends, and common sense of writing and publishing. She has a fun sense of humor and great intuition about the world of books.

Jennifer Arena, Senior Editor at Random House. She explained what "Write what you know" really means. It means writing from your experiences, your emotional core, and what makes you unique. Don't try to write someone else's story, write your story, the one that comes from all the experiences and history that only you know. Although you might be writing historical or fantasy or murder mystery, and you haven't lived in those times or done those actions, you do have personal experiences to draw from, as well as the research, to make the story come alive from you.

Brian Farrey, acquiring editor for Flux, and also a writer. He gave us an entertaining talk about online presence. All of the presenters promoted having a Twitter account. (I plan to start one this week.) He gave us some practical do's and don't's for what to write on blogs, facebook, and Twitter. To sum it up, don't post in anger, don't reveal too much personal information, and act like a professional. That doesn't mean you can't write about your family and post pictures of your new baby, cat, or beautiful surroundings. It means, don't rant and criticize, and don't go on and on about yourself. Be socialable, interact, and promote others besides yourself. It will attract readers and real friends and build your reputation.

Elizabeth Law, Janet, and Ursula whom I've known since my college days at UND (University of ND).

Thank you all for another great conference!

Oh, and here's the secret to getting your work accepted by editors, agents, and traditional publishers: write an interesting story with characters that they fall in love with, in a style they can't resist.

Got it?

Good.

Go. Create. Inspire!

(I also visited family and brought home some treasures, but more on that another day.)

Journaling Prompt: (This was something Jennifer Arena suggested we do.) Write down what makes you unique. (She was suggesting we write three things as she was speaking, but I think making a list would be good. I started mine. Mother of four boys - including twins - came to the top!)

Fall Color

2011-09-29T22:03:00.000-05:00

Friday Favorite Photo

Quote of the Day: Our summer made her light escape, into the beautiful. - final line from Emily Dickenson's poem, As Imperceptibly as Grief

I pass this gorgeous Red Maple on my way to the YMCA where I work out. It's extra motivation to go to Group Power while this tree is in full color. We had gale-force winds in the Brainerd lakes area today, so I made a special trip over to this side of town to capture the colorful leaves before they all fall away.

Close-up of another tree where I parked my van.

Love that shade of red!

I'm looking forward to my drive west and north this weekend for the children's writers conference in Grand Forks, ND. It's always inspirational, and the colors will be like watching a rainbow of trees slide by on the highway.

Journaling Prompt: Where do you go to enjoy the change of seasons?

Generations of New Faces

2011-09-28T10:58:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: Meeting someone for the first time is like going on a treasure hunt What wonderful worlds we can find in others! - Edward E. Ford

As I entered the Kiwanis Park for the Walk to End Alzheimer's on Saturday morning, I was struck immediately by the mix of generations that gathered. From newborn babies to great-grandparents, we all came together. This disease affects all generations. We had various mobility aids from strollers to walkers to wheelchairs to helping hands.

Photo by Joey Halvorson

Some people might have been meeting for the first time. While others have known each other for years. You never know when a new friend might be waiting on the other side of a "Hello."

As we journey through life, we might be side by side, in tandem, or walking parallel paths that maybe someday will cross. At some point, we'll need a little push. At another, we'll be the one who lends a hand.

May the hills and valleys of life lead you to new adventures, deeper relationships, and inspirational moments.

Journaling Prompt: Describe how you met one of your best friends.

We Walk for Memory

2011-09-25T17:09:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: Alzheimer's is like a thief. It comes in and steals away parts of a person. First it's memories, then driving ability, then self-care. You can never catch this theif. But, our Walk to End Alzheimer's is taking a step in the right direction. Summary of the speech by Ken Thomas, honorary family at the Brainerd area Walk to End Alzheimer's. Ken is a local radio personality. He and his sisters, and family, walked together to honor their father who passed away earlier this year from Alzheimer's.

Here they are celebrating after the walk.

His granddaughter is stealing the show!

The Brainerd area of Minnesota raised over $72,000.00 for Alzheimer's research and to provide current needs of today's patients and caregivers.

I was happy to be walking with all these generous people. It was a glorious morning, cool and crisp and sunny. People wrapped their arms around each other to show that they care.

Walk Chair Person, Pam, and her mom.

From the tiniest of citizens

She won this prayer shawl, made by Pam's mom, for being the youngest "walker".

To those who have been around a few more years.

For more photos and story click over to our LAMAA blog. (Lakes Area Memory Awareness Advocates.)

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Do you know someone who has suffered from Alzheimer's or dementia? What have you done to help?

Gratitude

2011-09-23T02:00:00.001-05:00

Quote of the Day: I feel grateful to be a woman. Ginny, from our Women's Retreat last weekend.

We were gathered in a circle on Sunday morning for our exit session. We went around and reflected on meaningful moments of the retreat and how we were feeling. When Ginny said that, I said, "Halleluiah!" We are most at peace when we embrace who we are, feel whatever we need to feel, and show our love for one another.

I'm feeling grateful for my journey, for my four sons who are a delight and an inspiration. I love watching and listening to them interact. I smile everytime I hear the twins snap off their reading lights and wish each other a "Good night." I'm happy when my bigger boys hang out together and enjoy each other's company. I'm feeling grateful to be a woman and a mom.

And, for my Friday Favorite Photo: I'm grateful that Leo, the Great White Hunter, came to live with us. He's already left us several gifts from his recent hunting quests. Thanks, Leo, Keep up the good work!

Journaling Prompt: What are you feeling grateful for today?

Where's God?

2011-09-19T15:13:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: Is God on Facebook, yet? Jim Gaffigan

I checked, and I'd say that God is not on facebook. You can "like" God. You can sign up for Messages from God, but I'm not exactly sure who does the typing for those. I've asked my pastor friends several times to share God's email, but they say they don't have it. So, I've come to the conclusion that God doesn't send messages via social networking websites. I was asked this weekend, "How do you hear God's voice?" God speaks to me through the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Cousin Angie at the piano, me leading the song, Siri on flute

In Songs

In voices and conversations

In peaceful settings like Mount Carmel

on Lake Carlos

In art

and writing

In the community of women, gathered at a spiritual retreat on the topic of Depression.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Where do you go to find answers for life's difficult questions and circumstances? Where do you hear or sense the Holy Spirit?

Creatively Filled

2011-09-15T20:58:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: Think of whatever you are doing as an adventure and watch your life change for the better. - Wilfred A. Peterson

I went on an Artist Date with my artist friend, JeMA. It had all the best ingredients: coffee, two art galleries, a book store, a music store, and this deliciousness.

P. F. Change's Lettuce Wraps

And, My Favorite Photo Friday pick:

This one really cracks me up!

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Do you buy original art?

POC

2011-09-14T02:00:00.001-05:00

Quote of the Day: Music's the medicine of the mind. - John A. Logan

Also, Laughter is the best medicine. I don't know if anyone gets credit for that one. It's one of the consistent humor columns in Reader's Digest. Here's my own bit of humor for the day. It's all good medicine.

I am a member of LAMAA (see sidebar for our blog). It stands for Lakes Area Memory Awareness Advocates. I am strictly a volunteer member. I joined because I want to learn more about Alzheimer's disease and Dementia awareness, and well, get involved. I noticed that on our agenda for today's meeting that I am the POC of the website/blog. Here was my response to that:

Good Morning, Corrie,

So, I see that I am a POC regarding the website/blog. Not being active in the business world, I started to think what POC might stand for:

POC - Person of Concern (like in a crime investigation)

POC - Parent on Call (Me 24/7)

POC - Patient of Corrie, Licensed Therapist (currently, not me, there's always tomorrow)

POC - Princess of Camelot (again, not me, but now I have some ideas for Halloween)

POC - Princess of Chocolate (Strong contender)

POC - Person on Chocolate (me, totally)

POC - Pickle or Cucumber (matter of taste)

POC - Pill or Capsule (pharmacist's question)

POC - Play or Coach (depends on skill and age)

POC - Pissed off Customer (while calling your phone service and kept waiting and waiting, pushing buttons, and waiting and waiting)

POC - Picture of Christ (seen on burnt doorframes and frosted windows)

POC - Piece of Cake (yes, please)

POC - Passed Out Cold (hmmm)

POC - Police on Campus (often, for reason listed above)

POC - Petty old Coot (hopefully, not your next door neighbor)

POC - Plethora of Color (Fall, can you feel it coming?)

This is how my mind works. Enjoy your day. See you tomorrow!

Mary

Go. Create. Inspire! And, have a little fun!

Journaling Prompt: Have you ever been a POC? What might it stand for? Do you ever get confused by cryptic text messages?

A Matter of Minutes

2011-09-11T22:55:00.002-05:00

Quote of the Day: May the Lord make your love for one another and for all people grow and overflow, just as our love for you overflows. 1 Thessalonians 3:12

We cannot begin to make sense of man's inhumanity to man. What happened in the United States of America ten years ago shattered our sense of security. We were reminded just how vulnerable and fragile we are. I was home with three small children, watching and crying over the news. I turned on the tv in time to see the firefighters rush into the towers, and then get crushed in their collapse. My seven-year-old came home from school worrying about tall buildings. I assured him that the tallest "building" in our tiny town of Parkers Prairie was the water tower, but he was afraid.

The short play, THE MIRACULOUS DAY QUARTET (under 10 min.), written by a "sister" member of International Centre for Women Playwrights, shows us what a difference of a few minutes makes.

Thank you, Mary Steelsmith, for sharing this with me and my blog readers. Click over to the Youtube link. (I had problems embedding it. Maybe it was the length.)

Go. Create. Inspire! And, may your love conquer evil.

Journaling Prompt: What were you doing on Sept. 11, 2001? What details of that event left strong images in your heart and mind?

Wishful Thinking

2011-09-09T08:34:00.000-05:00

Favorite Photo Fridays

Quote of the Day: At every crossroad, follow your dream. It is courageous to let your heart lead the way. - Thomas Leland

A Dream is a wish your heart makes. from Cinderella

"What was your wish, Mary?"

"I don't know, exactly. It was just wishful thinking."

Perhaps, the heart knows best.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What are you wishing for today?

Fall is My New Year

2011-09-07T09:17:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: Though I have seen the oceans and mountains, though I have read great books and seen great works of art...there is nothing greater or more beautiful than those people I love. - Christopher De Vinck

Our Second First Day of School

Bobby, the senior, stayed home on the official first day of school (district policy).

Our last First Day of School with Bobby, the senior.

Sigh, you can't stop the river of life from flowing.

The Fall of the year is my New Year. It is the start of a new school year. I have a senior, an 8th grader, and two 6th graders. Marking the growth of children is an excellent way to prove that nothing stays the same. I don't want them to grow up and leave me, and yet, I can't help but celebrate with them as they reach new heights, learn and grow, and seek their own adventures.

The Fall of the year is also my birthday, Sept. 6, this year, the first day of school. What a celebration it is! I started celebrating last Thurs. by going to the movies with a friend and watching The Help. It's an excellent movie. It translates well from book to silver screen, and so well cast, acted, and filmed.

Over the weekend, I saw family. My mom baked my favorite birthday cake, German chocolate with the coconut/nutty frosting, and I stayed overnight at my sister's house. Monday, I had lunch with my best writer-mama-pal, Roxane, in Fargo. Tuesday, I sent the younger boys off to school then joined many mothers and others at the coffee shop.

Erika, Mary, Lisa, JeMA

I had lunch with my big boy, the senior. The food was delicious, and the company was delightful. My big boy wants to be some kind of engineer. He's a techie, creative, and kind. We had a great conversation. He even asked me what I thought I might do once all the kids graduate. (I don't even like thinking about it, but I know I have lots of options.)

The boys had a great first day of school. We went out for supper (no kitchen duties for this birthday girl), and hit sack early.

Today, my group power class will enjoy my "Birthday Track" and later in the week, one more birthday lunch with a friend. I think everyone needs a week-long birthday celebration, don't you?

Go. Create. Inspire! And, fill your days with those people you love.

Journaling Prompt: If you were free from social and family obligations, where would you go? What would you do?

Inviting You In

2011-09-02T08:44:00.000-05:00

Favorite Photo Friday

Quote of the day: I type in one place, but I write all over the house. - Toni Morrison

This is an inviting space that I created.

Well, the former owners of my home built the deck, but I added the ingredients that invite me in, help me relax to create and dream.

I'm out here often in the summer and early fall.

I have about a month left before it gets too cold in this northern state.

I'm like Toni Morrison in that I write all over the house. I have tiny scraps of paper lying around to prove it. Also, with the ease of laptops, I'm in several locations, including the kitchen table, my room, and coffee shops.

Go. Create. Inspire! and create an inviting space for your creative soul.

Journaling Prompt: What does an inviting space look like to you?

Dementia Awareness

2011-09-01T11:33:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day:

Walk to End Alzheimer's is the nation's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support and research. Since 1989, this all age, all-ability walk has mobilized millions to join the fight against Alzheimer's disease, raising more than $347 million for the cause. Events are held annually in the fall in nearly 600 communities nationwide. from www.alz.org.

I have become involved in a local group called Lakes Area Memory Awareness Advocates (LAMAA). I have always been interested in the brain, how it works, how we learn, why some things seem to "click" while others never soak in. I wonder why some people have a strong ability in maths and sciences, while others of us are strong in the arts. Ever since Ronad Reagan announced his diagnosis with Alzheimer's in 1994, I've had an interest in this disease.

The LAMAA group was formed in our area through Alzheimer's Association and some people directly affected by the disease. Their goal is to be a place where people can go for information on Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. They are a local resource for what we have to offer in our area for care and diagnosis, support groups and education. A few of them were speaking at the library earlier this year. I attended their presentation and asked if I could do a story on this topic for our local women's magazine, Her Voice.

I ended up joining this group and have started a blog for them. The story I wrote on Alzheimer's will be in the November issue of Her Voice. I'll be sharing the link when it's available.

If you or someone you know is experiencing the difficult diagnosis of Alzheimer's or dementia, this blog is here for you. If you live in the Brainerd lakes area of Minnesota, we offer some resources for you, and the LAMAA group would love to speak to your group or organization. This disease affects everyone in a community.

LAMAA blog and email.

Brainerd area Walk to End Alzheimer's link. The walk will be Saturday, Sept. 24, starting at 9:00 at the Kiwanis Park in Brainerd.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Do you ever struggle with how much to volunteer or give away of your time and talents? What causes get you up and walking?

What do you Control?

2011-08-29T08:05:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.~ Jimmy Dean

This is a famous quote that you've probably heard before. It speaks to what we can control in our lives and what we can't. For the most part, we control nothing but our own reaction to the situation or person or outcome. We can keep adjusting our "sails" by thinking of new ways to do something to feel successful.

I was trying to take a picture of Eric and our cat Leo. You can pick Leo up, but you can't make him look in the right direction.

Switch directions

Okay, that didn't work either.

Moved in closer, tried to snap faster (quick, he's looking my way!), and got a fur face.

Finally, Eric set Leo on the ground where he calmly laid down.

Eric adjusted his "sails" to fit Leo's comfort.

I adjusted my "sails" of what would make a great picture,

and viola!

Here's the thing. In our lives, especially in our creative endeavors, we can't control who will show up or how they will respond to what we've created. All we can do is create what is in us and wants to come out. We'll build up our inventory, polish our skills, and eventually we'll shine. More than one of us has walked away from an event that felt less than successful. But, is that all perspective? So, only a few people were there, not much money was earned, but what did you gain from the experience. I think of writers who sit at book signings all afternoon and sell only a copy or two. Was it a waste of time? I don't know. Maybe the joy was in sitting in a bookstore for an afternoon chatting with the workers, browsing the shelves, drinking coffee, connecting with that one buyer who really wanted to read your book.

Or, maybe that feeling of "this just isn't working" is your call to try a new perspective. What preconceived notion do you need to let go in order to find just the right fit?

Go. Create. Inspire! and look for success in new ways.

Journaling Prompt: When have you felt blue about your art? How did you adjust your sails?

What Could This Be?

2011-08-26T02:00:00.000-05:00

Favorite Photo Friday

Quote of the Day: Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand. - Albert Einstein

What could this be?

Go. Create. Inspire!

And, use your imagination.

Journaling Prompt: Describe an object, like the clouds, in a way that is new and original.

Clandestine Collecting

2011-08-24T08:25:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day: I woke up this morning with this song running through my mind. Oh, who are the people in your neighborhood, in your neighborhood, in your neighborhood? Oh, who are the people in your neighborhood? The people that you meet each day. from Sesame Street

I was in on a great conversation last Saturday at that wedding reception. (No eavesdropping needed, I was legitimately there.) A woman was talking about her mother-in-law (MIL), how well they get along, actually, yet, she has some quirky habits. As they were planning her wedding, the MIL suggested they have fresh-cut flowers, from the garden.
DIL: But, we don't have much for flowers in our garden this year.
MIL: Oh, that doesn't matter. We'll just go night picking around the neighborhood.

(eyesbrows up - laughter all around)

You never know where you'll gather up good dialogue, hear a great story, collect bits of humor that you can later use in your written work. As you go about your daily life, doing mundane things like buying meat, you might strike up a conversation with the butcher and discover new ingredients to add to your lasagna. Now, I've gotta be a little careful here. If you're a mystery writer, you might already have some dark thoughts on that statement. To clarify, I was buying both ground beef and chicken & swiss brats (they really are great), and he suggested I put some of the brat meat in the lasagna. So, I'm going to try it on my guests for Thursday night. (Stop thinking like Agatha Christie!)

Go. Create. Inspire! (and do a bit of clandestine collecting, you might gather a bouquet of ideas)

Journaling Prompt: Write about a time/place/person who gave you great ideas for your project.