tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131828832012-01-25T20:16:19.287-08:00Serious whimsy by Kristen (Baumgardner) CavenKrs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.comBlogger851100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-32212573966918862202011-12-29T15:08:00.000-08:002012-01-25T20:15:33.491-08:00

The Reason She Left by Kristen Caven My rating: 5 of 5 stars What I love about graphic novels and cartoons is the way you can distill ideas and pack emotion into the theater of the page. This was a thrilling project to work on, as I attempted to pack years of learning into thirty pages. I wrote this story over twenty years ago, and was pleased to find how well it's held up. As a matter of fact,

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-5248727731943707552011-12-07T07:01:00.001-08:002011-12-07T08:41:49.548-08:00

Good morning, KFOG. I tried to call in during the song that woke me up this morning, but there was no answer. "All the other kids better run, better run... faster than my bullet." This is an upbeat song about a kid shooting other kids. I like the catchy tune, but the song is morally twisted, and not in a good way; it's sociopathic and horrible. There is no frame of reference for the evil

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-39540324727309335332011-11-04T22:30:00.000-07:002011-11-04T22:32:44.145-07:00

Occu-pie! Photo by Howard Dyckoff/Oakland Local The sweet side of the movement! Photo by Howard Dyckoff/Oakland Local

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-38602705361428466392011-10-24T20:28:00.000-07:002011-10-24T20:30:09.020-07:00

Here's my Letter to the Editor on 10/21... (read all of them here). Like individuals, banks and corporations must take responsibility for their mistakes and failures. Like individuals, they need to contribute taxes to the greater good and do their part to keep our schools, hospitals, and roads open.  Unlike other recent political movements -- funded by the superrich to serve their own

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-87983914467717224262011-09-28T15:18:00.000-07:002011-09-28T15:21:23.450-07:00

Michele, I don’t want to say goodbye to you.  I don’t want this world to be without you — baby fanatic, mother motherer, visionary, compassionate soul. I’m very angry at this cancer thing! I never wanted to believe it was real. YOU, of all people, so passionate about creating a healthy life and healthy lives! But I am so grateful that you shared the adventure with me. I am so grateful to have

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-16880141989167885592011-09-11T07:58:00.000-07:002011-09-28T15:05:05.556-07:00

This is a reprint of Innocent Perspective: A Mother's Reflections on September 11, 2001, an essay I wrote for Child-Friendly Initiative.On Tuesday, September 11th, my four-year old vehicle expert told people very importantly that "an airplane had crashed into a building." The next day he wanted to "watch New York" on TV - all the rescue and construction equipment was much more

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-17441814425310762122011-08-09T16:28:00.000-07:002011-08-09T16:28:33.490-07:00

Bossypants by Tina Fey My rating: 4 of 5 stars This is a memoir after my own heart. I love being under Tina Fey's* spell, the way she can be self-deprecating and righteous in the same breath, ridiculing and loving at the same time. I kept having to read passages out loud to Dave so I could say, "Look! She's one of us!" Inapproporiate places I burst out laughing: - on a city bus - giving my

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-78668860122759270452011-07-27T16:39:00.001-07:002011-09-28T15:19:20.939-07:00

Okay, so Joe died. We knew he would. Everyone does, right? But we’re sad, we’re disappointed, since we really didn’t want him to die of ALS. We wanted him to be the one (or one of the few) who figured out how to turn this disease around on its path, show it the door, pull himself back together cell by cell, get up out of that wheelchair, and start walking again. Up to podiums to talk about

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-32638382126797319402011-07-22T14:25:00.000-07:002011-09-22T14:31:22.569-07:00

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-61035605261858183922011-07-11T14:19:00.000-07:002011-09-22T14:41:27.123-07:00

In this issue I crow about my interview in The Monthly and the book trailer I finally made for Perfectly Revolting. There's also a picture of me snuggling up to founding father George Mason. What happened after? I must keep masonic...

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-15839474763851529552011-05-03T09:20:00.000-07:002011-05-04T12:59:06.484-07:00

In the weeks following 9/11, I wished death to Osama bin Laden. But I am against death penalties and war as much as I am against murder, so I struggled with my feelings. I lay awake at night pondering capital punishment. How can victims express their hurt and anger without becoming killers themselves? Having a government do the dirty work seems like a good solution until you realize governments

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-71498362885366359762011-04-03T10:32:00.000-07:002011-04-03T10:32:08.893-07:00

I remember reading Richard Scarry's Cars and Trucks and Things that Go on my dad's lap with my brother. Dad would point to a word and if we guessed it right we'd get a sooper smooch. If we guessed it wrong he'd squeeze our feet 'til it hurt. Just a little. I got to watch the first season of Sesame Street before I started kindergarten. I also loved the Electric Company, which came on after school

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-64559239762503104042011-03-25T17:14:00.001-07:002011-05-04T12:29:39.264-07:00

California spends an average of $47,000 per year on its prison inmates,[1] and about $9,000 per year on public school students.[2]  Meanwhile, over 30% of California's students do not graduate from high school. Dropouts from the class of 2008 will cost California almost $42.1 billion in lost taxable wages over their lifetime.[3] Poverty is a factor in both dropout rates and crime rates in every

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-1167371352723109692011-02-26T21:21:00.000-08:002011-03-01T19:17:57.975-08:00

I once had an art car A mighty Foubavole When driving was for pleasure... And art my only goal. If you remember my art car and want to remember it some more, check out my art car page!

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-1355345157708259462011-02-13T18:48:00.000-08:002011-02-27T19:04:56.206-08:00

I used to be so tormented by this holiday and all its expectations. Valentine's Day seemed engineered to point out the fact that I was the only one who did not have one. Except I wasn't the only one. My best VDs were days that I hung out with other 'losers'. My friend Dave and I would go out in search of Mr. and Mrs. Right...so we could introduce them to each other. Read more...

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-78264020177899906832010-12-26T18:56:00.000-08:002011-02-27T19:02:39.990-08:00

As the year (and the decade, again,) dwindles to a close, our mailbox fills up with holiday letters from friends far and wide. I love reading these letters. This year people died, people were born, people lost and found jobs, and traveled to places I can only dream of. My favorite this year was a page of family photos with a short note that said, “Santa brought Matt a new colon for

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-83821095079322421482010-12-25T17:47:00.000-08:002011-05-04T12:30:23.154-07:00

We didn't answer this question properly when we made our 30-second video after the test-drive, so here it is... From right to left: Donald deserves one because, even though he really loves Lamborghinis, he's put a Tesla Roadster higher on his wish list because he knows how important it is to create a new fast-car universe that doesn't rely on fossil fuels. Felix deserves one because he is a

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-65152592539149369542010-11-26T10:50:00.000-08:002011-03-02T10:52:59.155-08:00

Last month I wrote about Lederhosen (and 350). Speaking of German words... it's time to segue into the next holiday! A year ago this time, my son was wandering around on Thanksgiving, quoting a cartoon of mine he'd found in a pile of rough drafts. Then he and a few awesome friends did a "dramatic cartoon reading" of it at my book launch. Here 'tis... Read more

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-16755890892478413902010-11-05T13:45:00.000-07:002011-02-26T15:19:35.395-08:00

Press 'play' on both tracks at once... close your eyes and listen...   When you're done, scroll down and click the cartoon....  1. Goddess of Parking and Traffic by and courtesy of David Garner 2. Hymn to Asphaltia read by Kristen Caven at Heart of the Muse, 11/4/10 I sing to thee, Asphaltia! To thy hard and pulsing veinsribbons of desire and direction thatconnect our home driveways,one to

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-68821425962489779332010-10-28T14:48:00.001-07:002011-05-04T12:30:47.101-07:00

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-70477446325701642722010-10-27T17:17:00.000-07:002011-02-26T21:23:23.815-08:00

Meet Pumpkin Pie, partner of Jack-O-Lantern, who was dreamed up in the Mini-Maker Faire's Comics Class taught by The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay author Michael Chabon and Marvel Comics artist Nick Dragotta. Jack is a master pumpkin carver and superhero who got his superpowers when he ate a radioactive GMO pumpkin seed. Pumpkin Pie was a mathematician at Monsanto who ate one, too.

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-90488211512149647922010-10-10T11:01:00.000-07:002011-03-02T14:50:02.158-08:00

It's 10-10-10...and I'm sending this ten seconds into 10:10 a.m.... and gosh, it would be just magical  if you read it before 10:10 p.m., since I have something important to tell you. Today's Cobbler is brought to you by the number ten. Ten is a great number for lists of all kinds—from commandments to comedy—and on a scale of one to ten, ten is the perfect number for rating things. So by all

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-31664116121339214242010-10-08T08:41:00.000-07:002011-05-04T12:31:13.264-07:00

Calculate your carbon footprint if you haven't already. Find 10 appliances that use electricity in your house and find ways to keep them off. (Here's a good helper.) Get a good bike, find a good route, or make some friends to carpool with to your regular places. Learn the 10-second rule of idling and cut your car's carbon 10% or more. Find 10 ways to make better food choices. Start

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-68066173793495157452010-09-01T19:40:00.000-07:002011-05-04T12:32:16.175-07:00

I just sent my two Planet of Slow Learners cartoons in to an art show at my old alma mater. This one's about MEAT. (The other one is about Earth Day.) Sorry, it's kind of a crappy photo. The black & white version is in my book. In which I wonder: has anything changed in the last twenty years?

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-21156629421171700802010-06-01T11:19:00.000-07:002011-03-02T11:22:30.547-08:00

I am really appreciating and enjoying all the congrats on top of the sheer satisfaction of completion. My friend Rhonda just said, "I'm so glad you are 'getting out there.' 'There' seemed so far away for so many years and now 'there' is ... 'here'!" Last week I got my first Amazon review and there was a nice article about me in the local paper. The week before, there was another feature in

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-39564024313343933152010-05-04T21:39:00.000-07:002011-02-26T20:44:15.729-08:00

Sold! Twenty-one books! Gave some away, signed them all too.... Put that to the tune of 21 Guns and you'll get an idea of how I feel right now. Rockin' Out! Open heart! White light! Camp high! The final book sales count was the icing on the cake. The cake, and the nourishing meal that preceded it, was the completion of a year of dreaming and scheming. Tonight I launched my book to the audience

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-34317986434715479412010-03-08T11:07:00.000-08:002011-05-04T12:31:38.979-07:00

(caution: contains spoilers) Love Tim Burton. Love Johnny Depp. Love Helena Bonham Carter and Anne Hathaway. LOVE Disney! But as it turns out, I love Lewis Carroll even more. I couldn’t have been more excited to see Burton’s interpretation of Alice in Wonderland. I couldn’t wait to see what sense he would make of the caucus race, the caterpillar, the enigmatic oysters, the meandering logic of

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-24734308893821863852010-02-15T11:22:00.000-08:002011-03-02T11:25:00.436-08:00

I keep saying to myself, "I'm an author... I'm an author..." but it doesn't feel real yet....Everyone had fun at the great unveiling ("soft opening" in business terms). I got in free to Wondercon as a "professional creative." Last Sunday I sold my first book online. I've done my first media interview. I've got three booksignings scheduled in Oakland. And everything is set for the big launch ("

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-6207559778725631862009-12-20T20:31:00.001-08:002010-07-07T08:24:26.183-07:00

Highlights of 2009 included, but were not limited to a new first family in January (and a new tone for the country), a trip to the blizzardy Sierras with friends in February, another reading of my musical in March, a Green Day concert in April, a trip to Disneyland and to see friends in June, an astonishingly random convergence of all my brothers AND my cousins in July, a birthday mud bath in

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-49350965130146476512009-11-28T11:53:00.000-08:002011-02-26T20:45:26.083-08:00

Bumblebee! Donald IN THE DRIVER'S SEAT of BUMBLEBEE the famous Transformer's Camaro. Here's the logo on the car (the flash made it not yellow.) Donald swooning over his dream car, the new Lamborghini Murcielago. ($400,000) Meanwhile, Dave and I were interviewed about "our next car": the Nissan Leaf (click on the clip with the car picture) - http://www.ktsf.com/en/ - it's mostly Chinese... At

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-53378401589738267162009-11-23T17:13:00.000-08:002009-11-23T21:53:34.204-08:00

I haven't blogged in ages. I haven't sent out an email to my fans since the reading of my musical in March. (Shortly after that, progress screeched to a halt.)My day job has been keeping me busy. My incredible, enterprising mother, Louise Hart, started a new career (at age 70, mind you!) as a publisher, and I'm her graphics department. She's brought her friend Pat Palmer's books back into

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-71471244360479023212009-09-04T13:30:00.000-07:002011-02-26T20:45:54.563-08:00

Ode to a Perfect Breakfast by Donald Max Caven and his Mom in the waning days of summer August 17, 2009 Oh, Challah, you wait for me As my fingers fiddle with plastic parts. A dry gooey-ness awaits me, Twisty, mouth-watering, sweet, buttery, My mouth will explode when I fill it with you. Your yellow air-pockets pull away in layers, Each to dissolve between my teeth Like night fading into Don. I

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-39962846471059253062009-08-15T20:41:00.000-07:002011-02-26T20:46:29.681-08:00

Wish I'd thought of it myself...

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-86705860543170763852009-06-22T23:57:00.000-07:002011-05-04T12:35:08.554-07:00

Today we got a chance to ride "it’s a small world" in Disneyland, and experience the results of the long awaited—and debated—remodel. I am sorry to report they didn’t update it my way, adding lasers á la Buzz Lightyear’s AstroBlasters. The lasers could be in the shapes of wands, conductor’s batons, whatever—they wouldn’t have to be guns. And every time you hit a singing doll, it would fall silent

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-31613834738265111062009-06-07T00:38:00.000-07:002009-06-23T00:41:57.699-07:00

I am now embarking on a new phase of writing a musical: the fundraising part! Would you like to patronize me? It's all tax-deductible!Click here to donate!

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-58715218793319555132009-04-22T20:13:00.000-07:002011-02-26T20:48:50.965-08:00

Eighteen years ago I wished Earth Day could actually be a holiday for the Earth. Today I felt both sad and satisfied that April 22nd now verges on that reality, and has at least become a mainstream day of awareness and reflection. I started the day with the best intentions. I remembered to take a cup to fill with fair-trade coffee. I walked my son to school, rode my bike to pick him up (felt

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-43606465851266142362009-01-29T11:25:00.000-08:002011-03-02T11:28:41.271-08:00

On 1/21, an important person sat down at an important desk for the first time: my new intern, Caitlin "I've always wanted to be a minion" Ayers. Welcome, Caitlin! Can you schedule me a neck massage? I've got whiplash from this sports-car of a new president. He went from zero to OH MY GOD, DOUBLING THE EDUCATION BUDGET? In just seven days! Read more...

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-31731654339573813162009-01-25T16:43:00.000-08:002011-02-26T20:49:20.770-08:00

It was impossible to watch the inauguration aftermath alone. I called my mother-in-law Barbara for a gush-and-elate session. It just made me miss Dave. After watching so many Daily Shows, sharing so many tears, buying our first O'Bama t-shirts and then becoming progressivly involved, impressed, and excited, how could we not share this moment? On impulse I drove down to his school with the burning

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-59472248123812933092009-01-20T12:33:00.000-08:002011-02-26T20:49:54.609-08:00

At 9:01 PST, I was sitting in a crowded auditorium full of enthusiastic urban middle-schoolers. The teachers and students had managed to project live feed of the day's events onto a large screen, but all the traffic had crashed the school district's servers, so everyone had to squint to focus on the two old-fashioned (rabbit-ears) televisions that flanked the stage. A giant boom-box broadcasted

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-75562121886806777142009-01-19T09:41:00.000-08:002011-02-26T20:52:23.391-08:00

from my friend Rhonda.... ---------------- My DVR has been working overtime to record the pre-inauguration celebrations and all the pomp and parties. Please come mark this historic occasion as we open our house to you, the survivors of the 2008 election! Enough with the partisan ugliness… let’s party! Tuesday January 20th 10:00 -2:30 and again starting at 5:30-8:00 Please come any time your

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-21987290566438885402009-01-18T20:07:00.000-08:002009-01-29T14:42:05.823-08:00

I've been going to Wheelworks for years, mostly for the free rotations, comfy couches and tv. I purchased some Kumon tires last spring because my old ones were worn down to the nubs (way too soon, I thought), and LOUD. I made sure to purchase a set with a good warranty this time, 50,000 miles, on sale, $312. But they were loud, too. I finally called yesterday and whined, "I haate my tiires!" The

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-80819193993009356012009-01-04T16:12:00.000-08:002011-02-26T20:51:07.259-08:00

...I'd want to be stuck with Madame DeStael. Madame de Stael by Maria Fairweather My review rating: 5 of 5 stars I'm rating this book (that Leah loaned me last year -- thank you!) so highly because of the subject matter: a politically influential genius of France's troubled revolutionary times, thought by all to be one of the time's most brilliant minds, but maligned by history as

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-23383141842894337312009-01-01T18:30:00.000-08:002011-02-26T21:46:47.760-08:00

This recipe is from my pal Rhonda, who is a second generation southern belle. I didn't make it this year, but writing it down makes my mouth water! Put one hamhock (left over from Christmas) in a pot with black-eyed peas (soaked overnight - or out of the can). Add a little vinegar, salt & pepper. Let stew a few hours. Wash and chop a bunch of kale, a bunch of mustard greens, a bunch of collard

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-58386141287408896322008-12-29T22:37:00.002-08:002008-12-29T22:46:17.232-08:00

One country:Isralestine. Palsrael!With monthly mandatory potlucks and peace education for all citizens.They would lead the world.

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-40995002522443654662008-12-29T21:17:00.000-08:002011-02-26T20:53:27.508-08:00

"With my freeze ray I will find the time to find the words to Tell you how How you make Make me feel What’s the phrase? Like a fool Kinda sick Special needs Anyways With my freeze ray I will stop the pain It’s not a death ray or an ice beam That’s all Johnny Snow" Highly recommended.

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-67232162728752385752008-11-28T11:28:00.000-08:002011-03-02T11:31:36.702-08:00

As the country breathes a collective sigh of relief at the end of eight very stressful years, it can now turn its attention to meaningful and affordable holiday merchandise. I am happy to announce the opening of our new online store! My RELAX poster is now available again, as well as t-shirts, postcards, and even postage stamps. Read More...

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-88936110138349884012008-11-26T17:54:00.000-08:002011-02-26T20:54:03.094-08:00

Here's my lazy Thanksgiving break brainstorm: Mix one part Oregon Chai (concentrate) with three parts apple cider in a cooking pot. Turn heat on low and walk away. When the house starts smelling nice, get yourself a cup and enjoy!

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-17621683035968868922008-11-06T11:00:00.000-08:002008-11-26T18:00:20.438-08:00

This is so coool!found online at www.old-print.com

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-33552193702272002462008-11-05T20:50:00.000-08:002011-02-26T20:54:49.291-08:00

It's Wednesday, November 5th, 2008. For months now, I've been wondering how I'd feel today. I've had hope. I've worked hard. But I haven't had anything like confidence. No, I felt pre-election confidence for the last time in 2000, and feeling dead inside served me well on November 5th, 2004. This year, I really did believe that things were different. This Obama guy was a nobody, like that

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-27311530926651561532008-11-05T16:45:00.000-08:002011-02-26T20:55:34.816-08:00

Donald, establishing his pre-teen lifestyle, has begun frequenting Starbucks. No, he's not drinking coffee, thank goodness; Starbucks has invented a modern milkshake for the next generation. A Double Chocolaty Chip Frappuccino® Blended Crème is basically a bunch of ice blended up with milk and a bar of dark chocolate, served with whipped cream on top. Yesterday when we heard Starbucks was giving

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-82398845477262603602008-10-09T20:11:00.000-07:002008-11-04T11:55:34.447-08:00

Big news! Little Pig Productions has just opened up a real online store, where anyone with a dollar can purchase whimsical cartoon merchandise! The first line features posters, cards, and t-shirts proclaiming “Relax,” a message for our time that conveys the utter serenity… or unconsciousness… that we all need to incorporate, these days, into our stressful (and fully clothed) 21st century lives.

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-9687892861057842842008-09-28T17:05:00.000-07:002008-09-29T09:29:39.828-07:00

*columnblognewsletter Back to School: Special! Moms everywhere experience a curious reverse-whiplash when school starts and the house empties out. As the sudden silence settles over our “support staff” routines, feelings swing from relief at our regained freedom...to keen loneliness. Partners of teachers must feel the same way at the end summer break. So I get it double. I've filled the vaccum

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-64145767306204685402008-09-27T21:37:00.001-07:002008-11-20T16:17:32.531-08:00

This is so coool!found online at www.old-print.com

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-69613377525590437582008-09-27T21:20:00.000-07:002008-09-28T18:57:13.425-07:00

Donald started middle school this year, at a VERY large school that draws students from the hills and the flats, with a student body as diverse and urban as Oakland. I've been worrying about it since he was in fourth grade. I mean, those eighth graders are HUGE! Fortunately, the school was "re-modernized" this summer, and looks more cheerful than institutional.Donald showed up for his first day

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-51581149337233864452008-09-25T14:21:00.000-07:002011-02-26T20:56:19.650-08:00

Last night both the guys came home and wrinkled their noses: What's that SMELL? It was an oven full of stinky cheese and potatoes, but stinky cheese with a story! I can't remember the book where I read about Raclette, but my mind is full of vivid images of peasants at the harvest campfire, roasting potatoes after a long day's work. Someone rolls in a huge wheel of cheese and lets it melt in the

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-23358224705776917792008-09-24T17:06:00.000-07:002011-02-26T20:57:07.797-08:00

Having worked school bakesales for 8 years now, it felt "easy as pie" to pitch in for a bakesale that will help children in ALL American schools: an Obama fundraiser. (Here is a good education plan comparison; Obama stresses investment in schools, whereas McCain stresses parental choice.) My bakesale bud (and Obama bud) Claudia and I worked the crowd at a street fair. "Get your fresh, hot,

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-53874415475278440612008-09-24T12:37:00.001-07:002011-02-26T20:57:41.920-08:00

We lost a relative in this war: my brother-in-law's wife has not spoken to us since it started. She threw herself into peace activism as a Code Pink organizer, and her commitment has kept her busy. We miss her, but we know she is out there fighting for our country. It was an exciting moment for us when we got a glimpse of Aunt Nancy on TV. She "delivered a pink slip" to the Republican party

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-90040232958707613752008-09-23T17:57:00.000-07:002011-02-26T20:58:23.739-08:00

353,800! I used to take issue with all the guns in my son's world. But the first time I rode Buzz Lightyear's Astro Blasters, he had to pry the laser weapon from my trembling hands after the ride... and I immediately had to go stand in line again. Here's the highlight from this summer's excursion to Disneyland... Why do we go to Disneyland? Y? Because We Like It! (Read Dave's blog!)

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-90708005843728589832008-09-17T10:50:00.001-07:002011-02-26T20:59:22.347-08:00

Didn't get to New York? That's okay, because I brought the show home with me. It's about 45 minutes long. It's really rough. It's not as good as the REWRITE will be. :) And it's not REALLY like being there since it's only 2" wide. But that all being said... you can certainly get a good taste of "our glorious beginning!" (And only slightly embarassing!) Don't have 45 minutes? Check out

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-82209268231663345912008-09-17T10:26:00.000-07:002008-09-28T17:05:15.287-07:00

*columnblognewsletter Ready for another slice of cobbler? Or, as some readers are calling it, my "pie-thing," "cobletter," "co-blabber?" Well get out your spoons and dig in. I have some exciting news to share. It's exciting enough that I'm finally getting a chance to visit New York City this summer. (Thank you, Jenny!) But by coincidence, my composer (who now lives in Florida), will be there

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-45993296133244704842008-09-01T11:32:00.000-07:002011-03-02T11:36:53.994-08:00

A small serving of stories from my life; guaranteed moist and fruity, with layers of luscious links for your browsing pleasure. Back to School? Special! Moms everywhere share a curious reverse-whiplash when school starts and the house empties out. As the sudden silence settles over our “support staff” routines, feelings swing from relief at our regained freedom...to keen loneliness.

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-27998167853522506842008-07-15T11:36:00.000-07:002011-03-02T16:04:53.014-08:00

I have some exciting news to share. It’s exciting enough that I’m finally getting a chance to visit New York City this summer. (Thank you, Jenny!) But by coincidence, my composer (who now lives in Florida), will be there at the same time...creating a serendipitous opportunity for...a staged reading! Also known as a “park and bark,” this is the first step in test-drive a new

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-57054811260473189482008-07-09T09:36:00.000-07:002011-02-26T21:00:15.315-08:00

Dear Gary, EFT is amazing. Who would think that tapping on certain pressure points with a mental focus could actually relieve pain, release stress, and cure everything from PMS to PTSD? But I have a problem. Whenever I try to explain EFT to other people, their eyes either glaze over or roll. I don't feel like "Emotional Freedom Technique" gives the right impression. It's so serious, but EFT is

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-70074752049020090782008-06-05T21:09:00.000-07:002011-02-26T21:00:54.442-08:00

As you may or may not know about me, I am plagued with a glorious chorus of clamoring muses. I've always wanted to offer them a regular pulpit, but seem to be too lazy, or too shy, or too busy, or just too distracted to submit my writing for a regular column somewhere. I blog irregularly (sorry, that sounds like T.M.I.) and randomly, but I never tell anyone about it. Until now! I’m putting

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-71064866621210189052008-05-24T11:16:00.000-07:002011-02-26T21:03:10.720-08:00

Our big project this spring was preparing Donald for his first trip away from home. He's not a big overnight guy (he can actually get homesick in his own bed), so it was a rather huge deal. Now I'm the editor of the 5th grade yearbook, and get to stitch together the memories of the entire class. Donald's cracks me up: "During cabin time, everyone but me liked wrestling. That's the only thing

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-86540240794612178122008-05-15T11:41:00.000-07:002011-03-02T16:10:25.915-08:00

As you may or may not know about me, I am plagued with a glorious chorus of clamoring muses. I've always wanted to offer them a regular pulpit, but seem to be too lazy, or too shy, or too busy, or just too distracted to submit my writing for a regular column somewhere. I blog irregularly (sorry, that sounds like T.M.I.) and randomly, but I never tell anyone about it.  Read More...

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-55178281549775312092008-05-01T16:06:00.000-07:002011-02-26T21:05:10.790-08:00

This spring, I became a fashion writer when the editor of The Sophisticate invited me to do the feature piece on local Deco designers and vintage stores. It was fun to write. Every dress tells a story, and if you can't wear them all, at least you can read about them. Click here to read the article... The huz was very enouraging, sending me the "Lady in Red" Bouquet for Valentine's day, and

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-56598814009251221002008-03-30T15:58:00.000-07:002011-02-26T21:05:51.935-08:00

My favorite websites these days: and my 'read' shelf:

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-75295484088943604472008-02-26T14:55:00.000-08:002011-02-26T21:16:57.616-08:00

On the list of things I am proud of: Helping Oakland School Teachers with their vision for a truly great public school system. At a time when teachers are being asked to produce miracles with less and less support, I am impressed that the union has switched from a defensive and pugnacious stance to a clear, positive vision of what is proven to work. I wish them ALL the success in the world,

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-3520760536227426442007-07-24T16:29:00.000-07:002011-02-26T21:16:15.223-08:00

While preparing my Deco Diet lecture for the Art Deco Society (what a hoot! Now everyone knows how to make Larded Grouse!), I prepared a slide about Victory Gardens and rationing. I was moved by how hard Americans worked together to win WWII, for all its fiascos (have you seen Flags of our Fathers?). God, there are so many great ideas out there about Peace - I mean, we really know what it is now

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-88417134096138689642007-04-15T08:38:00.000-07:002011-02-26T21:17:59.755-08:00

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-56973391297051747372007-03-28T12:03:00.000-07:002011-02-26T21:18:51.787-08:00

(from my latest newsletter...) What if I told you there was an easy and free way for car-drivers to instantly reduce their personal carbon emissions by 10-20%? Well, I'm about to. Last year (on or around Earth Day), I decided to do something. I kicked my idling habit. To my amazement, I started getting 30 more miles on every tank of gas by turning my car into a "homemade hybrid." So, my latest

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-47791516049411564182007-01-12T11:05:00.000-08:002011-02-26T21:19:51.453-08:00

In honor of my dad on his 70th birthday, here are 70 things that remind us of him. Happy Birthday, daddy! 1. ‘snot 2. 10¢ whiskers 3. 1937 Tiffin St. 4. 7-11 coffee 5. agua sin hielo 6. Ballreich’s 7. barbershop music 8. beards 9. beauty queens with train wheels 10. bedside manners 11. Big Boy 12. binks 13. BNSF Diesels 14. bobbers 15. boxcars 16. Cheyenne 17. chicken feet 18. cookbooks, esp.

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-1165039495552123842006-12-01T22:03:00.001-08:002006-12-01T22:04:55.566-08:00

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-1164996667477029082006-12-01T10:07:00.000-08:002011-02-26T21:23:56.837-08:00

I'm just so excited for Michael right now, composer of my musical, who's seeing 20 shows in 2 weeks in New York City. What a lark! What a mind-boggling oddysey of theatrical displays! What a study! I'm waiting, meanwhile, to hear all the music from the second story. Via email--what a world! Feeling very lucky to have found the right person. Crossing my fingers to keep meeting all the right

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-1163722927819394492006-11-16T10:53:00.000-08:002011-02-26T21:26:40.709-08:00

It's true I like to make fun food, but I found a way to make fun of it, as well. One night I popped a frozen pizza in the oven and sat down to read an old cookbook. Next thing I knew, I was writing about the old musty thing for The Sophisticate, the journal of the Art Deco Society of California. Well, someone in Miami Beach, (a.k.a. Mecca) liked it so much he invited me to speak to the Miami

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-1162243567641354682006-10-30T12:55:00.000-08:002011-02-26T21:27:40.022-08:00

Just last weekend, I invented the MOST disgusting use of Jell-o, EVER. And the kids loved it. The story is truly one of collaboration and community. It started in the planning for the Harvest Festival at my son's school. I got the idea from PTO Today to do a toilet-paper toss as a booth -- gross, but kids love it. Another mom wanted to do a "gooey/gross toss" with knox blocks. We combined the

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-1160780427553973972006-10-13T15:58:00.000-07:002011-02-26T21:38:36.663-08:00

This is a test to see if you can put MUSIC in a blog. Presenting, "The Big Bitch"--think Cinderella.... Want to see more? Go to the Shoes, a Mirror, and a Big, Pink Rose website!

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-44454206130109073442006-06-23T00:16:00.000-07:002011-02-26T21:37:54.052-08:00

A memorable day about family and community. Dave was the Emcee, Kristen performed the opening act with members of Donald's class. Nancy Peterson la Guitarrista! Mr. Nichols performed "Oakland Roads," written by students. Student performers included Dagmawi, Simone, Larisa, Nomi, Kenny and Johnathan. The store is gorgeous~food delicious & healthy~a turning point for our neighborhood. Good

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-1141679630411331102006-03-06T12:37:00.000-08:002011-02-26T21:36:42.391-08:00

I was as amused as Jon Stewart at this year's Oscar theme: "A Return to Glamour." "What a relief," he said. "After last year's theme of 'sweatpants and jeans' it will be a real treat." And of course, everyone looked properly gorgeous and well-groomed. If there was a hair out of place, it was put there deliberately by a high-paid stylist who was aware all the other stylists were doing it in the

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-1141239233041754632006-03-01T10:47:00.000-08:002011-02-26T21:31:28.194-08:00

A photographer approached me at a ball and asked if he could photograph me in my home, wearing my gown. He was German, doing a book on Americans and our whimsical ways of costuming. I wish I could remember his name! Just before the shoot, I decided there should be cherry blossoms in the picture. I went out to pluck a branch from the trees blooming on the street, my high heels giving me the

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-1140067654825633092006-02-15T21:26:00.000-08:002011-02-26T21:30:30.112-08:00

This was my Valentine's poem from Dave today: Wonder Woman Wonder where her glasses are Wonder where her keys are Wonder what's for dinner Wonder when she'll be ready Wonder if she's got her phone on Wonder why she puts up with me Wonder where she shops Wonder if she'll like this poem Wonder what I did to deserve this Wonder what I did to deserve her - Dave 2/14/06 Answer to the 8th line: I

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-1139533775337170192006-02-09T16:55:00.000-08:002011-02-26T21:29:46.652-08:00

Everyone knows that if you're going to be idling your car for a while, you should turn off the engine to save gas. But how long or short, I've always wondered, is that "while?" I'd heard 3 minutes, I'd heard 30 seconds, but most often I'd heard "leave your engine on. You don't want to wear out the starter." I decided to do some research. It was harder to find an answer online than I

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-1121553619907464072005-07-16T15:37:00.000-07:002011-02-26T21:28:33.162-08:00

I just found this poem, written by Clare Boothe Luce (creator of "The Women") at age ten: "Thou madest man perfect Then Thine alone is the blame If Thou leftest in womankind The flaw that bought him shame. I couldn't have said it better. Women can't HELP but try new foods sometimes! Insert "homokind" for "womankind" and you've got a whole new reading of it.

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13182883.post-1119332491923868832005-06-20T22:20:00.001-07:002011-02-26T21:22:56.775-08:00

In retelling the story of "Batman Begins" to my son (couldn't let him SEE it fer gawdsake!), he stopped me at the part where young Bruce's parents get killed. "If I were him, I woulda..." and described a valiant fight and triumphant defeat of Joe Chill. "Nope," I stopped him, "In every Batman story this happens to him. The pearls go flying. It wouldn't be Batman otherwise." Then I realized

Krs10http://www.blogger.com/profile/10999837105204056577noreply@blogger.com1