Happy 2012

Untitled, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

Lots to rant and rave about with the closing of 2011 & the beginning of 2012. Naysayers spell doom (financial or otherwise) for 2012 but I am always optimistic that His light will be the beacon even in our darkest hours. The past few years have been like walking in a fog at times blinded by mistrust, miscommunication & misconceptions. One word that comes to mind for me and my hope for 2012 is CLARITY. Clarity in the path I walk along. Happy New Year to your and yours.

Christmas love

Christmas love, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

Merry Christmas to your and yours. Enjoyed a wonderful Christmas eve with the family in Katy. My dad loved his Christmas gift hat. He wore it to church last night with his new sweater mom gave him. I am blessed to have such a dear family. As for my sister-in-law, we missed you and hope you get better from the flu soon.

Anima

Anima, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

...soul life on this the shortest day of the year and the longest night of the year-Winter Solstice. Anima "refers to the belief that non-human entities are spiritual beings, or at least embody some kind of life-principle".

Winter bloom

Winter bloom, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

Winter Beauty
Winter Song
Winter Vacation
Winter Thank You
for grace, beauty, family & friends and
Winter blessings to you and yours.

Camelia

Camelia, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

Sometimes

Happy 80th Birthday to my dear dad, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

Happy 80th Birthday to my dear dad

Sometimes, not often enough
We reflect upon the good things
and those thoughts always center
around those we love and
I think about those people
who mean so much to me
and for so many years have made me
so very happy and I count the times
I have forgotten to say thank you
and just how much I love them.

music from the Carpenters

Solanaceae

Solanaceae, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

just because and a post for 1-11-11

De Repente

Words and music the late Soraya. Such a great talent who died so young!

Mil ojos mirando hacia mí
De los tuyos no puedo huir
Tu mirada me tiene encantada
Si te dejo entrar, estaré equivocada
Otras manos lo han intentado
Sólo las tuyas me ha encontrado
Ya no puedo esconder
El querer sentirte al amanecer

De repente en mí vida
Hay algo que me tiene confundida
No lo puedo evitar, puedo intentar
Conservar el asombro hasta el final

Mil palabras ya he oído
Solo las tuyas no han desvanecido
No puedo escapar de sus sonidos
Estoy hipnotizada en un sueño contínuo
Otros corazones no han tenido miedo
Solo el tuyo es el que quiero
Haré todo para cuidar tu amor
Quizás será una tontería, no tengo temor

De repente en mí vida
Hay algo que me tiene confundida
No lo puedo evitar, puedo intentar
Conservar el asombro hasta el final

Mil veces quise estar sola
Vivir sin tu amor aunque sea una hora
Cada vez vuelve el llanto
Regreso a tí, es que te quiero tanto
Mil pensamientos giran a mi alrededor
Hacen que se sienta paz interior
Al pensar el porque de esta situación
En tus besos encuentro la solución

De repente en mi vida
Hay algo que me tiene confundida
No lo puedo evitar, puedo intentar
Conservar el asombro hasta el final

I want, I want...

bear with me as my long list of I wants is typed here.

I want...

Chinese food

I want...

it to rain all day

I want...

to feel cold air

I want...

to stomp around gleefully on acorns

I want...

to know his name

I want...

passionate kisses

I want...

the Texas Rangers to win the World Series

I want...

to devour another green chile cheeseburger in Santa Fe

I want ...

my new iPhone to get here

I want...

it to rain all day

I want...

a convertible car

I want...

and need a great workout in the days & months to come

I want...

a cup of Illy coffee in the finest Italian cafe

I want...

to pay off all my bills

I want...

too much but it doesn't hurt to dream

Rumor Has It

I so love Adele. She rocks and sad to hear of her having to cancel her U.S. tour. Godspeed and here's to a speedy recovery.

Doorbell ringing!

Early this morning around 6ish, I heard a doorbell & wondered if someone was at the front door but I didn't hear Chulo barking so I went back to sleep. Just a dream that means....

Sharpstown Shopping Center: 50 years later

Sharpstown Shopping Center: 50 years later Bayou City History a Chron.com blog

Nice article with photos about a once very popular mall here in town and where I spent a good portion of my childhood. It was some kind of place and I do remember the History clock and for the longest I thought it was whimsically magical. I don't remember the grocery store mentioned in the article but I do remember the eating place at the Walgreens and seeing fireworks over the 4th of July.

Another funny story, when my brother & I were very young, I used to convince him to hide from my parents all the time until one night they decided to get us back by conveniently getting lost themselves. Of course they had talked to the security guard and he was in cahoots with their idea of teaching us a lesson. He was saying that if they didn't come and get us by the time he finished locking up the place he would have to take us downtown. Naturally, the panic mode kicked in and then my brother started bawling and told the cop it was my stupid idea in the first place to play hide & seek with my parents. The smarty pants in me though grabbed my brother by the hand and walked out to see if the car was still there to which it was and so they got busted or rather we got busted and I learned my lesson.

Forward now to the present and I cannot tell you the last time I went to that mall. Of course, sadly the area has changed and has become downtroadden. Still, there are many wonderful memories.

Grand Central Station

a wonderful tribute

of a true story and worth reflection

on the 10th anniversary of the tragic day.

Beautifuly written by Mary Chapin Carpenter.

My Point of View-Part 2

Unofficially tagged by Desert Diva and my take-revised from original post 8-31-2008


What is your favorite word?

• 
  
  Unbelieveable!

What is your least favorite word?

• 
  
  Overdraft!

What turns you on (creatively, spiritually or emotionally)?

• 
  
  The first north wind of the Fall season!

What turns you off? (creatively, spiritually or emotionally)

• 
  
  Ignorance! My mom always says, "it's ok to be poor but don't be ignorant"

What sound or noise do you love?

• 
  
  Music, water, cardinals chirping, acorns falling and then crunching under my shoes.

What sound or noise do you hate?

• 
  
  People smacking gum!

What's your favorite curse word?

• 
  
  Gotta love the F-word!

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?

• 
  
  Professional photographer!

What profession would you not like to do?

• 
  
  Plummer!

What is your favorite color?

• 
  
  Blue

What is your favorite food?

• 
  
  Anything he wants to cook for me!

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?

• 
  
  "No, you're eyes are not deceiving you, yes you made it" .

AMEN!

POP

POP, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

Petals
on the
Plant

...Crepe Myrtle petals fallen onto plant below

title inspired by

Petals
on the
Path

from of course Ottmar Liebert of whom most of you all well know I am a die hard fan of and who is performing tonight at Dosey Doe in the Woodlands. Yes, a bit of a chuckle because one wouldn't normally associate flamenco fusion with country but this is a nouveau cafe/concert venue if you will! ;-) Frankly, I've lost count of the many times I've seen him perfrom from Houston to Austin, to New Mexico, to Portland, Oregon and to Seattle. There are many more places I would love to travel and catch one of his performances across the country and globe for that matter.

With this endless, scortching heat & humidity, I really haven't ventured out much other than to work, visiting the family and such but looking forward to a lovely evening out and some wonderful music.

You can find more about POP ...music and the inspiration for the CD title.

...here it is Sunday morning having just gotten back from the Woodlands and I am tired but not sleepy. Still in a dreamy state of mind after seeing the Snakecharmer perform. A magical night of music. I was transported into another dimension and lost track of time. Seeing Ottmar brought back memories from Seattle and Santa Fe and meeting some of the other "fanmencos" for the first time and seeing Ottmar perform. Kym & I immediately bonded and became sisters! I fully believe that in another lifetime we were! Right, sis! ;-)

Boom!

Boom!, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

Maná

Maná, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

from their Drama & Luz tour and the second of two performances in Houston.

Astrodome

Astrodome, a photo by mrp1001 on Flickr.

The old Astrodome was once nicknamed the "Eighth Wonder of the World" and back in the late 80's, I started working part-time. At that time I was working in a bank and heard they needed some extra help for the upcoming rodeo. That first year I was sent to work in the Souvenir room some 3 or 4 floors below ground. I called it the dungeon then as it was always hot, dark and damp and there I was counting the money coming in from souvenir sales. It was hard work and lasted into the wee hours of the morning but towards the end of the night there was always Tony coming to ask, "how's my gal" doing? Thankfully, he'd lend a helping hand--otherwise I would've been there all night. I ended working some 10+ years off and on through college but thankfully got moved up a few floors to the other money room and Tony was my boss all those years. After I graduated from college, I was glad to say goodbye to that part-time job but over the years Tony & I remained friends. He was from New York & my roomate at the time was also from NY so there was a common bond there. Plus, he had no family here in Houston and so we'd meet once a month for breakfast and did so up until about two years ago when he became ill & ended up finally moving back to New York. This morning I got an email telling me of his passing at the age of 76. He had a series of strokes & other ailments and died Saturday morning. This morning as I was driving into work, I passed the old Astrodome & thought of Tony with tears welling up but as my friend said, "he's in a better place". This photo of the scoreboard brought back some fond memories & of an enduring friendship. Rest in Peace Tony. Thanks to mrp1001 for use of his photo.

BTW, one of the last events I worked at the Astrodome was the 1992 Republican convention. Tony chose me because he knew I was clean-meaning I would pass FBI clearance and was off that summer from college. I remember there were three checkpoints we had to go through with our work badges and such. It was something indeed to work and witness--despite political differences Tony and I had.

Rock-A-Hula

Rock-A-Hula, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

because this lil flower is rocking with so much explosion of color!

Amarillo

Untitled, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

Because we can always use some extra color in lives! From my neighbors garden. Amarillo is my new fav color these days.

Borrasca

Borrasca, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

Borrowed from the CD I am listening to by Ottmar Liebert and means tempest or storm. Photo is a reprint from June 4, 2005 taken at the apartment complex I used to live. I took the photo then as it was always one of my favorite flowers and told myself that whenever I got my own garden I would be sure to add this beauty. I was smiling as I was watering the plant today. I'll have to get some photos up soon.

Trekkie

Trekkie, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

So today was "Bike to Work" day here in Houston after after some 2+ years of riding my bike and saying I was "gonna ride my bike to work one day"...I finally did it! My drive into work is about a 12 mile ride in by freeway & without traffic can be done in about 20 minutes. My trek by bike took about an hour each way and there was a steady wind blowing that I was fighting but at least I can say I did it! Don't know that it's something I would do everyday like my co-worker Gail does--especially in the brutal heat of the summer.




I had to pack light and bring a change of clothes, soap & washcloth in which to make myself presentable for the workday. Thank goodness, I had washed my hair that morn, & moused it while wet & rewet it again before walking into the office.




There were a few points that had me nervous--especially getting past the very busy Medical Center but overall the ride was o.k. I didn't wear my usual padded bike pants so to say the least my behind is a bit sore and my knee is getting ready to be iced before calling it a night. Maybe sometime in the fall I will make the trek again but for now, I'm back to commuting by car.

#50

#50, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

another golden milestone in our family. First my parent's 50th Wedding anniversary in 2007, then my 50th Birthday in 2009 and now my brother Arnold's birthday today. We just had a small gathering at my parent's house to celebrate. Our family is truly blessed!

Good Eatin'...

Untitled, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

in the neighborhood-of Hardin, Texas that is-which is about an hour outside of Houston. A friend of a friend hosts the yearly crawfish boil out on their property in the country, which makes for a wonderful day to sit outside on some lawn chairs, enjoy some fresh country air drinking, eating and mixing & mingling. This batch was the first and each one thereafter gets spicier and spicier but ohhhh sooooo tasty and yes messy! Thanks Jane for the invite and to Stacy & Robert for the hospitality.

Easter buffett

Easter buffett, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

They've come back again! Hadn't seen these guys in a while. Have heard them around the area but they finally landed on the feeder and even went to the other yard of my neighbor. Sadly, when riding my bike a few weeks back I saw some folks trapping the birds. :-(

Mr. Blue

Indigo Bunting, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

This beautiful Indigo Bunting graced my backyard with his presence the other day.

Dime Luna

Dime Luna, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

Reason for the photo is really the frog on the right! It's been soooo dry here and we've had little rain. In the evening when I water my garden, I hear the happy tune he sings as he takes off but I never knew from where he came. Until, I moved the moon to the other side and there he was! Not sure who was more startled-him or me? He stayed long enough for me to take this photo and off he went into the garden. We crossed paths again earlier this evening.

Ahí esta, la luna, Como se podría quitar del cielo,la luna,

Como se podría arrancar pa siempre del cielo,

Y así librarme yo, de este anhelo ...

translation...

There is the moon.

How can it be taken from the sky

How can it be plucked forever from the sky

And in this way to free myself from this yearning desire...

You can see a nice video of the song I am listening to by the Mexican rock band Manà.

Rumor Has It

Rumor Has It, a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

Just another photo of one of my favorite plants.

A ride with Octavio Orduno at 103

I just had to share this. Thanks Michael and yes Octavio should inspire us all!!!
Makes me want to go down to Long Beach and ride with Octavio.

Into the harbor

into the harbor a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

I'd like to be back out by the bay tomorrow, Saturday for the special full moon happening on the 19th. Here you see my ship is coming in! I was out sailing for Spring Break vacation this past week! Ok, yeah in my dreams! My big project for Spring Break was getting my meditation garden done. New landscaping completed, weeds pulled, new flowers planted and finished adding mulch today. Who needs a man?! ;-)

New neighbors!

Reposted photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

Wait, that's my car in MY driveway-I am the new neighbor! From three years ago! ;-) Each and every night I thank the Lord for HIS blessings and joy of owning my own home.

Lost in the Sun

IMG00073-20100326-1641.jpg a photo by Nieve44/La Luz on Flickr.

Photo from a year ago. What a difference a year makes!

TO REALIZE...

•To realize the value of one year:
Ask a student who has failed a final exam.
•To realize the value of one month:
Ask a mother who has given birth to a premature baby.
•To realize the value of one week:
Ask an editor of a weekly newspaper.
•To realize the value of one hour:
Ask the lovers who are waiting to meet.
•To realize the value of one minute:
Ask a person who has missed the train, bus or plane.
•To realize the value of one second:
Ask a person who has survived an accident.
•To realize the value of one millisecond:
Ask the person who has won a silver medal in the Olympics.

Time waits for no one.
Treasure every moment you have.

Con Te Partiro

Con Te Partiro
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Time to Say Goodbye, inspired by Andrea Bocelli. BTW, I rememeber the song was made famous by the Bellagio Fountains commercial when the hotel first opened. I loved that commercial then about a year later I got a chance to actually see the fountains while listening to his song. Simply Breathtaking! Found this video on YouTube.

...and time to say goodbye it is. Con Te Partiro. My past is my past and my future begins today for a new horizon awaits.

St. John Church

St. John Church
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

a beautiful church in the heart of downtown at Sam Houston Park restored and cared for by the Heritage Society. Seems like a nice little church to get married in by candleight but I don't think it's available for such events.

Mr. Handsome

Mr. Handsome
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

with all his beautiful colors and a slight reflection on the water. This little Wood Duck was so graceful in his floating.

Illusions of Bliss

Illusions of Bliss
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

"Oh I know I shouldn't stay
I should be on my way
Back to the place I know is real
But the lines are getting blurred
My conscience won't be heard
Awash in the illusions of bliss..."

inspired by Sarah McLachlan

Breakfast tacos

Breakfast (day 3) (7/7)
Originally uploaded by Kym.

from my kitchen to yours!

Thanks Kym for such great photos

and making my food look amazing.

I will say breakfast is one of my favorite meals to make.

Olives, cheese & crackers

Olives, cheese & crackers
Originally uploaded by Kym.

another nice photo by Kym.

I must say, that she makes

the ordinary look extradinary.

Somebody Else's Kitchen!

Breakfast (day 2)
Originally uploaded by Kym.

but wait, that's my kitchen she's referring too!

A "Wowie" bowl at that! ;-)

"Somewhere Down in Texas"

"Somewhere Down in Texas"
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

photo by my niece-Erika. On this Sunday night, I'm saying goodnight but not goodbye to my dear friend/sis/fanmenca Kym...hope we meet someday again but till then...safe travel back home to Amsterdam, some five thousand, eleven miles and 11 hours. See you on the other side but hopefully not another five years from now like last time. ;-)

(A Place to) Hide Away

(A Place to) Hide Away
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

I've got to find a place to hide away
far from the shadows of my mind
sunlight and laughter, love ever after
Oh how I long for a place to hide away....
For tomorrow brings only sorrow...
The night and the music remind me
that the world once was mine.
I'll save my pennies for a rainy day
but where can I buy another you
Dreams are for sleeping
Love is for weeping
oh, how I long to find a place to hide away.

Listening to the voice of Karen Carpenter. Such a tragic loss.

Two Sisters

Two Sisters
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Hope and Sorrow, but as I left the beach, I left my other half behind and brought back Hope for the new year.