Tuesday, December 29, 2009

2010 Year of The Tiger


2010 Year of The Tiger, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Japanese son and wife sent me the new symbol of 2010, it is a Tiger.
This little Tiger is made from paper and painted. Every year I am sent
a new Animal. I am so lucky !

The Tiger symbolizes:
Bravery
Courageous
Sensitive
Powerful
Honest
Values family and friendship
fun fact. . .
My daughter is a Tiger and my new Grandchild will be one too. Awwwww
sweet !

powerful . . . parsnip
music. . . . The Eye Of The Tiger . . Survivor
OMG ! have been playing Rock Band2 for the Wii and this is one of the
songs I know and can really rock out on ! I do a mean drum solo !

Monday, December 28, 2009

O-shogatsu Chopsticks


O-shogatsu Chopsticks, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Japanese son and wife sent me some O-shogatsu chopsticks, to use for
my New Years food. Iwaibashi, have no handle, they are tapered on both
ends; one side is for God and the other is for a human. The Osechi
meal is one to be shared with God.

New Year Day Cuisine is traditionally 41 different kinds of preserved
foods. Needless to say I will not be having such a meal but I will use
my chopsticks with my New Year's Day meal.
They sent me these very cute ones, not sure of what the Sumo
Wrestlers on the cover mean, other that they are fun ! and I happen to
like Sumo wrestling

Happy New Year . . . parsnip
music. . . . Every Ship Must Sail Away. . . Blue Merle

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Christmas Card


Christmas Card, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Many years ago I started a series of the 12 Days of Christmas card, it
was the traditional verse, one verse for each year.
It helped as for 12 years I knew what my Christmas card idea was for
that year.

Now that I live in Arizona I thought I would start the series all over
again, only with a Tucson slant and a small reworking of the verse.
The inside reads. . . A Northern Cardinal in a Paloverde Tree. The
back has my Logo that is on top of my blog with the series name "
Arizona Christmas "

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy Hanukah to all my readers.
Since starting this blog I have enjoyed reading many blogs from all
over the world. You are all Wonderful !

It has been FABULOUS, Thank You All . . . parsnip

music. . . Just because it is a most Beautiful song. . . Breath Of
Heaven ( Mary's Song ) Vince Gill

Friday, December 18, 2009

Tucson Christmas Tree


Tucson Christmas Tree, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

 

Christmas Tree


Christmas Tree, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

This year's Christmas Tree. . .

It use to take 2 days for me to decorate my tree and I loved it. It
was fun for me and that was my Christmas Present.
I enjoyed the cookie making, baking and wrapping of gifts. When there
are children around everything is more fun.

Now that everyone is older ( ME ) the tree is as big as what I can fit
in the back of my VW convertible ( the tree lot people remember me )
The tree is balanced in a pot of water inside of a bigger pot and no
fighting with tree stands that never work. Instead of lots of
ornaments it is a few strands of lights, and the origami birds that my
daughter folded one year. Simple easy and I rather like it very much.
In fact I love it. Thank You Lovely Daughter !
I have done this for several years now and it takes me 2 hours to put
up. Soon colorful presents will appear around the tree and it will be
so more festive. Did I mention I love wrapping presents ?

Merry Christmas . . . parsnip
music. . . OST, A Charlie Brown Christmas

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Osaka Christmas Card


Osaka Christmas Card, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Osaka Christmas Card with tourist sites and 60 count them 60 Santas
they are everywhere. One of the smallest cards 1 1/2 x 5 x 6 inches,
non musical but so much fun.
I have been to many of the tourist sites, the huge moving crab is a
favorite, and the best Takoyaki I ever had was from a street vendor in
front of the Osaka Tower.

I really love this card so many wonderful memories and the art work is
great.

happy. . . parsnip
music. . . White Christmas. .. The Drifters

Monday, December 14, 2009

Japanese Santa and Woodland Friends

Awwwwwww . . . this is my favorite card, Santa and 17 Woodland
Friends. Plus any card that has a Hedgehog is perfect for me.
The card is 4 1/2 inches high, 5 inches by 2 inches. In front of a
Christmas Tree are 23 sparkling blue filaments that blink to the
music. The medley of song are Jingle Bells, Santa Clause Is Coming To
Town and We Wish You A Merry Christmas.

melting heart . . . parsnip
music. . . Christmas Medley. . . George Fenton

Saturday, December 12, 2009

15 Santas


15 Santas, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Another Japanese Christmas Card

15 Santas playing 12 songs with Snowman and Reindeer ! The lights
flash in time with the music. When you open it up the 3 Santas in
front spin till completely unfolded.
4 1/2 inches tall and 12 inches unfolded.

The card is from 2007 and my son mentioned that I should be thankful I
didn't have a crazy kid around pushing the play button non-stop. . .
like him !

After two years it is still sparkling and playing music !

singing. . . parsnip
music. . . Santa Baby. . . Eartha Kit

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Japanese Christmas Card


Japanese Christmas Card, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

This is the newest Japanese Christmas Card that my son and wife just
sent me. The card stand 5 1/2 inches high, 6 deep and 5 inches wide.
It also folds flat for easy mailing.
You press the top button by the 4 Santas and Jingle Bells plays and
the stars flash.
The Santa in the house is holding a flashing star and filling
stockings while another Santa, hidden behind the Reindeer is
delivering gifts.

While the song is playing you can push the buttons on the front of
the card, red button is drums, yellow is the horn and the blue has
several children singing.

How utterly wonderfully insane ! I LOVE IT !

merry. . . parsnip
music. . . you know it. . . Jingle Bells ! pick you favorite and sing
out loud !

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Tangelos


Tangelos, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Here are some of the Tangelo's that I am fighting the cheeky little
Cactus Wrens for. With their long beaks they poke a hole in the fruit
then all the other birds come and eat too. I really don't mind too
much after all it is starting to be winter, even here in sunny
Tucson, Arizona.

Tangelos are a cross between a Tangerine and a Grapefruit, they taste
like a Tangerine but are very juicy like a Grapefruit. They have loose
skin and are easier to peel than an Orange and have a cute little knob
on top where they attach to the branch.

When the Cactus Wrens let me have one, I am always amazed by how
sweet, juicy and tasty they are.

happy. . . parsnip
music. . .ost, Totoro. . .
just because it is happy music

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Grapefruit Tree


Grapefruit Tree, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

This is one branch of one Grapefruit Tree. I have two Grapefruit
Trees loaded with fruit plus a Lemon, Valencia Orange and a Tangelo.

Thank goodness I have a daughter who will be home for Christmas and
will be spending time in the kitchen making juice and Candied Citrus
Peel.

The winter storm of rain, snow and cold weather is gone, leaving sun
and bright blue sky, high around 65 low tonight at 45... lovely.

sunny. . . parsnip
music. . . Nice Day, Persephone's Bees

Sunday, November 29, 2009

snow, rain and a rainbow


snow, rain and a rainbow, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Sunday evening snow, rain and a rainbow. . . weather zooms in and out
of this valley. Same view to the east as the earlier post today toward
the Rincon Mountains.

frozen. . . parsnip

Winter


Winter, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

We knew this winter storm was coming and Saturday late afternoon it
blew in, rain in the valley and snow in the mountains.
This view is East from my home towards the Rincon Mountains.... it is
snowing, Fabulous !

chilly. . . parsnip
music. . . Over The Sky, Hitomi

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Adoption of Bubba


Adoption of Bubba, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

In my post of a few weeks ago... " Hurt Javelina" I talked about the
" Tucson Wildlife Center " and my Adoption of Bubba the Great Horned
Owl.

When Bubba was a fledgling he came into the center with a broken wing.
The wing healed and he was released back into the wild. Sometime
later Bubba returned on his own to the Wildlife Center starving. When
he was healthy again they found out that the scaring on his wing
caused him to be no longer silent, even though he could maneuver and
fly flawlessly. Silent flying is necessary for Great Horned Owls to
hunt.

Bubba is now a permanent resident of the Wildlife Center and as a
senior statesman for the center he frequently travels to schools as
part of the education team.

Isn't he sweet ? I just love him !
He looks just like my wonderful Bernard, who sits on my chimney and hoots.
Bernard is also getting rid of my destructive pack rat population !

joyful. . . . parsnip
music. . . Enchantment. . . Corinne Bailey Rae

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Bunny


Bunny, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

When I first moved to Tucson, I was at the Hardware store and saw this
Bunny. She was sitting there all alone and as I rather love Bunnies I
picked her up along with some nails, glue, pails, paint and brushes.

I unpacked the car and carried all the bags in, Bunny landed on my
Kitchen counter and has stayed there ever since. I know this is an
outdoor statue but I rather like her here and I put seasonal items in
her shell that she is holding. Today it is a Pomegranate one of my all
time favorite fruits.

When I was growing up in Tucson my Parents asked me what kind of tree
would I like to be planted in our back yard , I picked out a
Pomegranate tree. I think my parents expected some kind of citrus
tree. They were surprised but found one and I helped with the
planting. Thanks Mum.

This Spring I will be planting a Pomegranate along with a Kumquat
tree in my yard. Good times and great memories.

American Holiday or not, Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. . .

Dancing. . . parsnip
Music. . . Nice Day. . . Persephone's Bees

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Night photo


Night photo, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

My camera works for me just point and click. It is a Kodak Easy Share
and for most of my needs it is fine. Small and light enough for me to
carry around quick and easy to use .

At certain times I do wish for a better camera and this is one of
those times . . . the evening sky.
Tucson, Arizona has worked hard to keep light pollution down, because
of Kitt Peak Observatory, so the evening sky is filled with stars.
Fabulous !

Early Tuesday Morning I was able to see some of the Leonid Meteor Shower and
wishing I could take some pictures of our starry sky. It was a truly a
wonderful morning and the mood was helped by the crisp cold
temperature. Perfect !

This photo is from early this month. The moon was huge and the sky so
clear, but alas this photo is not anywhere near how wonderful it really looked.

starry . . . parsnip
Music. . . Last Exile. . . O.S.T.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Persimmon


Persimmon, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

This is a Fall Postcard from Japan, and that means Persimmons ! ! !

I love Fuyu Persimmons you can eat them right away and they are crisp
and crunchy and so very tasty.
I don't like the Hachiya Persimmons you have to wait for them to
ripen, too soft and mushy. If you bite into an unripe one they are
bitter and astringent.

The Bottle of Sparkling Sake is my latest find. Not a big fan of Sake,
rather have a beer with my sushi but I love the label and bottle
shape. Not too sure about the "Sparkling" but who knows might be good ?

The little card holder is from one of my trips to Japan.

Autumn . . . parsnip
music . . Happiness . . . Goldfrapp

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Good Square Dog Watson !


Good Square Dog Watson !, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

This is Watson, he is a Brindled Scottish Terrier, he is ten years
old. He is also the sweetest dog, super smart, very loving and tries
to take care of everyone. He is just like a Mum !
He has always been very healthy, only saw the vet for yearly check-ups
and shots. Good dog, Watson.

All of a sudden he lost a lot of weight, and started a small cough at
night. Took him to the vet, 104 temperature, tons of tests and x-
rays, several days to wait for results. . . He has Valley Fever.

This is not good, I got Valley Fever when I was 18 years old . . . it
is a terrible illness. Fatigue, swollen joints, rashes, lesions,
weakened immune system, symptoms similar to tuberculosis.
I have been doing more research on it and find a study that links
Valley Fever to Arthritis, Fibromyalgia and then Lupus. So far this
has been true for me.

Now my Watson has this illness. So for the next 9 to 10 months I have
to make sure he eats, unlike me he really doesn't like to eat, watch
his temperature, give him lots of meds and just spoil him.
I have my work cut out for me but thats OK he has been a good friend
and I love him.

Between us we each are now taking so many pills, I think we now
jingle when we walk, just in time for Christmas !

relieved . . . parsnip
music. . . Ordinary Day, Vanessa Carlton

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Hurt Javelina


Hurt Javelina, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Today when I came home I found two Javelinas sleeping in the well of
my Grapefruit tree. Or so I thought . . . .

The big Leader was laying near the smaller female and she was not
moving. For over 4 hours I kept watch, from my studio windows looking
to see if she was breathing. She was breathing but not moving much.
The Leader of the herd stayed and kept watch.
Then something heartbreaking sad, sweet, kind and wonderful happened,
as the big male got up other Javelinas from the herd came over to
snuggle next to her. Several babies even squeezed in. Then they got
up after a few minutes and several other came to snuggle. After about
30 minutes they moved and the leader came back. She seemed to perk up.
See above picture, the female is on the right and the leader is resting on the
left. I know it is not the best photo but I didn't want to upset the
sick/injured Javelina.

I called the wonderful Tucson Wildlife Center and they sent two
volunteer staff members over to check on her and if needed try to
capture her. By the time they came she had gotten up and wobbled over
to the bushes. The two staff members checked out the herd for the
injured Javelina but all looked fine and with all the babies around
the herd is very protective and dangerous.
So I am to keep watch and to keep checking on her condition and call
them if I see any change.

The other problem is the herd has lots of really tiny, young babies
( so really cute ) and one is coughing. That is a really bad sign as
babies born in winter months are very prone to pneumonia. I am now
watching for sick little ones too. If need the Tucson Wildlife Center
will come out and catch them and get medical attention to them and
when better release them back to the wild.

I love living with all the wildlife but sometimes it is hard for me to
understand Nature. I know that the animals have survived for hundred
of years on their own but I still can't help but feel powerless some days.
The animals were here first and I have intruded on their land so I try
to minimize my impact on the land and the wildlife living on it.


I am sending a donation to The Wildlife Center and adopting an animal
who cannot be released back into the wild. I think it will be Bubba
the Owl. I have always loved Owls and there is one who sits on my
fireplace chimney and hoots ( and eats the pesky and destructive pack
rats ) Love that Owl, I have named him Bernard.

pensive . . . parsnip
music. . . How To Save A Life. . . The Fray
L

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Morning nap


Morning nap, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

This morning my older Scotty Watson really wanted to go out, sitting
by the studio door and looking at me. He rarely does this so I looked
out my windows towards the citrus trees and who was taking a nap in
one of the watering wells ? but the Leader of the Pack.
Needless to say Watson and Hamish did not get to go out and bark at
the Javelinas. Bad bad puppies !
Off to the side the rest of the herd were just walking around
quacking. . .

Side note:
This looks like a new young leader, I don't know what happened to the
older leader over the summer when they were up in the mountains where
it was cooler. I need to watch the herd over the next few weeks to see
who is who. Maybe it is the same leader but he is acting not as laid-
back as last year.

The white paint is to keep the anti-fungus medicine on the bark of the
citrus trees.

smiling . . . parsnip
music. . . Nice Day . . . Persephone's Bees

Saturday, October 31, 2009

BOO !


BOO !, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Happy Halloween !

This little hot cup comes from the 7 Eleven Store. They have been
running a promotion as Target did last year. The only problem for
some reason both stores just call him Domo instead of his true name
Domo Kun. I guess saying his whole name is too hard for Americans ?

I think he is/was the mascot for NHK Television. I heard his name came
about by an announcer saying Domo Konnichiwa, a greeting ( well hello
there ) or Hello Domo a fun pun Domo Kun. The station ran short
announcements with him, and a Star was born.

He is so cute and I am a big fan !

scary. . . parsnip
music. . . Monster Mash. . . The Mistfits

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Miso soup


Miso soup, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

I spent a week in Laguna Beach, California. It was time to see . . .

Financial advisers , Thank goodness there are people in the world who
love numbers and I have wonderful advisers.

Friends, Oh my goodness I miss my Laguna friends. Thank you Debbie
for the week I spent at your lovely home, sleeping with the windows
open and the sounds of the Ocean, such a treat.

Laguna Beach, I miss the Ocean and the Pelicans. When I lived in my
home by the beach my favorite thing to do was watch the Pelicans fly
by always in formation, riding the thermals .

Going to Miitsuwa, Japanese market, and stocking up on supplies to
take home, and have lunch at the food court.
The above picture of Miso Soup with Special Pork is from one of the
restaurants. There is always so may choices but this is the one for
me. The Pork is so tender it almost melts into the Miso soup you get
to add the pickled plums, seaweed, green onions, bamboo shoots and
fish cake. It is so wonderful.

On the way home to Tucson I was driving through the huge windstorm
that came right before the cold front that hit all of us in the West.
The windstorm was so bad around Picacho Peak, Arizona that the dust
blew across the road in waves, you could barely see the white lines on
the road and the car lights in front of you. It was very scary for
several miles and I was so happy to get through it in one piece.

Now I am home and the really cold weather will only last for a few
days and by the weekend it will be back to normal. Yahoo !

freezing . . . parsnip
music. . . Ride Like The Wind, Christopher Cross. Cafe Carlyle Sessions

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Fall


Fall, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Saturday Evening, Tucson, Arizona

Sometimes it is just wonderful to be alive.

happy. . . . parsnip
music. . . . Breathe, Alexi Murdoch

Thursday, October 15, 2009

I am a kid again !


I am a kid again !, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Look what I found. . . Cactus Cooler ! I remember drinking this when
I was growing up in Tucson, Arizona. Good Times, Good Times !

Yea Hawwwwww ! I am a kid again. . . .

baby . . . parsnip
music. . .Kids In America. . . The Donnas

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

October sunset


October sunset, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Todays sunset. Fall in Tucson really Fabulous !

cheers. . . parsnip
music. . . Under The Milky Way. . . The Church

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Last of summer


Last of summer, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Last of summer pool photo !

It is Indian Summer !
Fall in Tucson is just wonderful. Crisp cool mornings, warm
afternoons, cool breezes, lovely evenings to sit outside to enjoy the
sunsets. Wonderful !

The one thing I don't enjoy about Fall is the end of October I have to
turn off the pool heater. . . Boooooooooooooo !
I am looking into solar heating for the pool but until then it is
goodbye to pool for a few months.

lazy . . . parsnip
music. . . Nice Day. . . Persephone's Bees

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

台風の夜明け Typhoon dawn


台風の夜明け Typhoon dawn, originally uploaded by kamoda.

My son who lives in Nishonomiya Japan, near Osaka, was blogging, e-mailing and talking to me as the typhoon hit Japan. If you want to see more photos please check his blog to the right.

Where he lives they had lots of rain and downed trees all over the roads but all is well and his school started class in the afternoon. The Typhoon veered off and thank goodness missed his town.

This picture was uploaded by " kamoda" . . .Thank You for allowing me to share this amazing picture.

amazed. . . parsnip
music. . . Rainy Day. . Tatsuro Yamashita

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Fall Sunset


Fall Sunset, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

An early morning rain left Tucson with a lovely crisp fall day and a
fabulous sunset.

This is why I love living in Tucson, everyday something wonderful to see.

happy. . . parsnip
music. . . Open Your Eyes. . . Snow Patrol

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Tsubosaka Temple


Tsubosake Temple, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Another view of Tsubosaka Temple grounds. Everywhere you looked there
was something wonderful to see.

contemplative. . . parsnip
music. . . ost, Princess Mononoke

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Morning Vistors


Morning Vistors, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

This morning several Doves took an early morning break on
the fence by my bedroom window.

I have seen Cactus Wrens ( the clowns of the bird world ) Cardinals,
Quail, Woodpeckers, Cowbirds and several Hawks.
Living in Tucson is a real treat to be able to see such a wide range
of wild animals and birds . . . not so much with the scorpions and
Rattle-snakes ! I can do without those.

happy. . . parsnip



Fall Evening in Tucson


Fall Evening in Tucson, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

A lovely Fall evening in Tucson, Arizona, looking North towards the
Catalina Foothills from my backyard.

quiet. . . parsnip
music. . . Two Star. . . Everything But The Girl

Monday, September 28, 2009

Tsubosake Temple


Tsubosake Temple, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Juichmen Kanzeon Bosatsu, the Eleven Faced Goddess of Mercy, is
enshrined in Tsubosake Temple and is worshipped as the Goddess
responsive to eye diseases. Many famous people have prayed at this
temple for recovery from their eye diseases including three Emperors
and me !

This is one of the lovely side temples leading up to the main temple
area.

A winding road leads to the Temple that is set in a tree filled
mountain area. The grounds are very beautiful and the red painted
wood balances nicely against the gray stone and green plants.

tourist . . . parsnip
music. . . ost. . . Princess Mononoke

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Utility access cover


Utility access cover, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Another utility access cover ( see post below ) this time it is from
the city of Sanda, the Azalea is the city flower.
Sanda is 25 kilometers from Kobe beyond the Rokko Mountains and 35
kilometers from Osaka.

cheers. . . parsnip

Utility access cover


Utility access cover, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Japan has the best utility access covers . . .

While everyone is looking up at the sights I am also looking down and
look what I found. Is this not Fabulous !
Every area has its own design. As you can tell this is from the Kobe.

The utility box by my home in Tucson has " utility " on it, how
useful but very boring ! Think of all the plants or animals of Tucson
they could have put on it.

Since I knew that there was no way I could walk off with a cover, I
had to be happy with a picture "le sigh "

sightseeing . . . parsnip
music. . . Sky . . . Takuya Ohashi

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Fall


Fall, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

It is the start of Fall in Tucson. Fabulous !

Fall in Tucson is very different from other areas. . . Leaves don't
drop from the trees leaving carpets of red, orange and brown. Fields
of corn and pumpkins don't magical appear just down the road inviting
you in for a hay ride. . .
Don't get me wrong we do have some of these things just not such
prevalent clues a-bit more understated. Most of our Fall color is
from the fruit that has set on Citrus trees that are slowly changing
from green to orange and yellow.

What we also have is a magical change in the air. The days get
cooler and after such hot, dry, monsoonal wet, then hot again
weather, the change in the air is the hint to Fall. From the hot,
sharp, in your face heat of summer air filled with dust, sage and
ozone, the mornings are now clear, the sky a brilliant blue and air
so soft that it envelops you like a whisper.

In the spirit of Fall, I am posting a photo of one of my ceramic
wreaths that I used to make in the Fall when I lived in Laguna Beach
California.

magical . . . parsnip
music. . . Enchantment . . . Corinne Bailey Rae

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Japanese Crackers


Japanese Crackers, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

My son just sent me some of my favorite Japanese crackers. Color me
very very HAPPY !

Talk about Presentation Packaging ! Each of these little crispy,
airy, bite sizes morsels of goodness have different Nigiri Sushi
photograph on each small cellophane bag. There are octopus, shrimp,
snapper, tuna and eel. The two cracker flavors are Wasabi and
Shoyu. . . love at first bite.

I so love these small bags ( 3 inch by 1 1/2 ) I have been saving
them all ! Not sure what I will do with the bags but they are
photograph so beautifully. . . I just can't throw them away.
I might glue one of each bag on a board and frame it, maybe that will
help me so I can throw the rest away. . . wahahahahahahah !

delirious . . . parsnip
music . . . . . Nice Day. . . Persephone's Bees

Friday, September 18, 2009

Signs


Signs, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

I remember many fabulous signs while growing up in Tucson, Arizona.
Interesting signs with plants, animals, people and quite a few neon
ones that would have made Las Vegas of the 50's and 60's very proud.
Hey ! I was a kid . . . I loved all the colors and lights and had
many favorites. Still do !

Many have been destroyed for various reasons. This great one was torn
down the week I took this picture. Yes it is in terrible shape but I
liked it and the new one that took it's place is safe, secure and
extremely boring !

So. . . now the new or old project for me is to finish what I
started when I first moved back to Tucson 2 years ago and take
pictures of the signs that I remember from my childhood. It has been
40 years and I am not sure how many are still standing but I put new
batteries in the camera, the car will be back from the collision
repair next week and so . . . off I go.

More signs to come ! Yea Haaaa !

Dreaming. . . parsnip
Music. . . You Get What You Give. . . The New Radicals

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Presentation Packaging


Presentation Packaging, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Several blogs ago I was talking about Japanese Paper Art, especially
the Fabulous 3-dimensional cards that my son and his wife send me.
In the comments on this post, Anna of the wonderful " My Only Photo
Blog " ( check out her bird photos ). . . wrote about her love of
Japanese cookies and how she saves all the presentation packaging. . .
me too, me too, me too !

I save all the packaging from all sorts Japanese products... food,
restaurant-postcards, napkins, hashi (chopsticks) and my all time
favorite Eki-Ben, made to go food bought at train stations to enjoy on
your ride.
Check out the Eki-ben on David's Blog. He wrote
about his latest train trip and posted about the wonderful train food.
I must tell you this is not your everyday McDonalds . . . it usually
has food of what region your in, filled with tasty octopus, chicken,
fish, beef, rice, spices, local produce. . . so good !

What does one do with all the artwork ? if your me you frame them and
put them up on your pantry wall along with the shopping bags.
I really love the green package to the right it was " Persimmon leaf
wrapped pushed sushi " one of my favorite... seeing all the artwork on
my wall brings back so many wonderful and yummy memories !

Nishinomiya here I come ! Go Hanshin Tigers. . . . Go Go Go Tigers !

Very hungry. . . parsnip
music. . . OST, My Neighbor Totoro, Studio Ghibli

Monday, September 14, 2009

Failure !


Failure !, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

File Failure !

This is one of several pictures I took on Sunday to enter "The Boys"
in a contest that ran in my local paper. Needless to say, my lack of
computer skills got the better of me and my computer and I couldn't
transfer the right file to the paper. Bummer !

Oh Well there is always next year and I hope by then I will have
" transferring files correctly " learned by then.

This was not a photo of Hamish I was going to use but I had to post
it. . . . because it looks like the cheeky little devil is winking !
He loves all the attention he can get so this really fits his
personality ! huba hubaaa !

The picture was taken on one of my work tables looking out on the
Citrus Trees, where the Javelinas like to mosey around. They haven't
been around much this Summer ( check out earlier post ) the weather has
been too hot they are enjoying vacation time in the cooler mountains.

bumbling. . . . parsnip
music . . . The Love Parade. . . The Dream Academy

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Two Square Dogs


Two Square Dogs, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Woof !

OK, these are spoiled bad bad boys. . . . but I love them.

Watson in the back is a Brindled Scottish Terrier. . . smart, loyal,
charming, courtly, and most of all loving. A big sweetheart. He has
to be to put up with "The Hamish"
Hamish in front is a Westie/Scottie mix and is always in conflict. . .
the good-side, white is in battle with the dark-side. . . much like
"Darth Vader"

As you can see by the photo Mr. Watson was taking a nap in the crate
and Hamish just crushes in.
We only have several pillows, baskets and a very cool basket crate for
their sleeping and napping enjoyment. Hamish always finds Watson and
this is what happens ! See earlier " Two Headed Dog" post on
this blog. . .

Little brothers can be such a Big pain !

sympathetic . . . . parsnip
music. . . . So Sorry. . . Feist

Friday, September 11, 2009

Early Morning


Early Morning, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

I awoke very early this morning !
The sky was a starting blue with the morning sun leaving long soft
shadows all over the foothills where I live. The air smelled so fresh
and crisp with the hint of rain to come. It was utterly amazing !

I saw the reflection of the sky on the copper sheeting of the
fountain, as the water dripped down. . . I had to try to take a picture.
The rocks shimmered in the basin with the dripping water leaving
little swirls and bubbles. Most of the rocks came from my land and
some that I have schlepped around from home to home... when they get
wet the colors just pop, with range of the color going from dark red
to green-blue. Lovely !

I loved the way this photo came out and how the shot is cropped
tight, even the water droplets reflect the blue sky, Fabulous !

contented. . .parsnip
music . . . Enchantment. . . Corinne Bailey Rae

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Lighting


Lighting, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Kanani came for the weekend and she stayed at the home of Two Square
Dogs. We all had a wonderful time excluding the small incident of
the person who was too busy with phone or ipod and rear ended my car.
Thank Goodness we are all fine but what a way to welcome a friend to
Tucson.

The storm that was to start when Kanani was here, waited till Monday
evening . . . good thing she left that morning and missed this
storm. Lighting and Thunder all around as the storm circled Tucson.
This storm was very slow moving so we had major rain fall and that was
really great for Tucson.

This picture of the storm at sunset is facing West and if you look at
the right side you can see some lighting. The camera I use now is
really not great for Lighting shots but I was lucky to capture this
flash by accident ! and yes the sky was quite yellow from the setting
sun and the clouds very deep blue and purple.

soaked. . . . parsnip
music. . . Rainy Day. . . Tatsu Yamashita

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

The Boys


The Boys, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

The Boys just came back from their " Herbal Body Wrap " or in boring
everyday terms the groomers and are looking good but not for long !
Hey they are Bad Bad Little Square Black Dogs and this is Tucson !
Yikes !

Hamish on the left and Watson on the right.

Laughing. . . parsnip
Music . . . Hello, Kitty Girl . . . ost The Last Exile

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Hurricane Jimena


Hurricane Jimena, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Hurricane Jimena is approaching Southern Arizona. . . but by the time
it gets to Tucson, this weekend, the hurricane will be a storm. That
means extra moisture and maybe RAIN !

Hopeful. . . parsnip
Music. . . Suddenly The Trees Are Giving Way. . . Ulrich Schnauss,
Far Away Trains Passing By

Monday, August 31, 2009

Bunny # 2


Bunny # 2, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

It has been so hot in Tucson. The monsoons have not been very strong
this summer. . . not enough rain. This week the temps have been
hovering around 105 .

All the critters have been searching out the cool places. This very
young and well camouflaged Jack Rabbit comes and rests in the hot part
of the day where my drip watering system is. This view is from my
floor to ceiling bathroom window out on my south-west side-yard.
There was a little Cactus Wren also in the shade but flew away when I
tried to sneak in for the picture.

Hot. . . parsnip
Music. . . The Sheltering Sky. . . Ryuichi Sakamoto

Friday, August 28, 2009

Summer


Summer, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

This card folds out to reveal a summer house complete with glass wind
chimes, watermelon, kitty, and morning glories.

Japanese cards are really gifts in themselves that can be saved to
enjoyed over and over again.
I change them out with the seasons.
Just wait till I post my collection of Christmas cards !

It's 104 very hot. . . parsnip.
Music. . . Trouble Sleeping. . . Corinne Bailey Rae

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Memories


Memories, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Memories. . .

This afternoon I got to relive some of my childhood. . .

Growing up in Tucson, this is what my summer looked like. Towers of
clouds rising up into the sky as they moved slowly across the valley,
the rain drifting lazily down.
We also had the fast moving downpour type of rain storm that does lots
of damage and is gone in a minute but so many of my summer afternoons
looked just like this.
Listening to the muted thunder so far away drifting towards me on
breezes smelling of dust, sage and ozone as the lighting bounced
around in the clouds, I was young again and sitting in my backyard.

Reflective. . . parsnip
Music. . . Six days. . . DJ Shadow

Heavy Cloud No Rain ! (Sting)

Monday's afternoon rain storm. . . this view is facing West.

No rain at my home but it rained all around the Tucson Valley with
micro-bursts to the south that did lots of damage.

Wish I could post more than one picture at a time, because this storm
that engulfed Tucson was so intriguing, it was on all side of me and
kept changing every few minutes. I must learn how to post more than
one photo at a time.

Humid. . . parsnip
Music. . . Blue. . . Hikaru Utada

Sunday, August 23, 2009

Fountain


Fountain, originally uploaded by angryparsnip.

Ever since moving into this home I have wanted to put a fountain in my
back yard. It has been almost 3 years, it is about time ! Other more
important things to do like rip out the carpet and fix up the kitchen
and bathrooms.
The plain wall next to the grassy area I put in for "The Two Square
Dogs" is the perfect spot. The wall was nice but boring, even though
it helps to keep out the critters.

I didn't want a pre-made fountain so I designed this one . It is a
window fountain open to the view in back with a copper pipe drilled
with holes so the water flows down from the top like rain then falls
over the rocks into the basin.
I had the bench wall made for extra seating, and of course somewhere
for the water to fall into. The materials were mostly items I had
saved from other projects.

Now the fun part starts. I want to add big rocks to the water basin
and maybe some blue and green glass bottles, for color, that I have
been saving. I like clean simple lines so I will not be filling up the
seating area with pots of plants, even with water the sun burns them
up. Maybe one large pot with some sort of drought tolerant plant. . .
and a few rocks.

Giddy. . . parsnip
music . . . Rain. . . Ryuichi Sakamoto . . . ost "The Last Emperor"

Friday, August 21, 2009

Tucson home with impending storm

Tucson has not had a very good monsoon this year but today is the
first day of 5 days of projected rain. Yea ! we need it. You can see
the very beginning of the storm clouds behind my home.
The rain hit my home at 2:50 on Friday afternoon. The Storm Alert said
winds were tracking at 65 mph before the rain storm that was moving
at about 45-mph.
I can believe it as I was taking some pictures out side I could see
the storm moving down the valley towards me and it hit with a
vengeance. Lots of lighting and booming thunder.

One lighting bolt just hit about 5 miles from me as I was looking out my window while typeing this. Yea-Haaaa just another day in the wild wild west !

Windblown. . . . parsnip
Music . . . Ride Like The Wind. . . The Cafe Carlyle Sessions,
Christopher Cross