My 12 Day Headcold

My do gooding came crashing down when I realized that I was not fully recovered from this cold. I was informed at breakfast that I appeared gaunt. I found myself none to warm in layered sweaters even though it was a balmy 50 degrees. I saw shorts today. Yesterday, I thought that maybe it was time to clean up the mess of papers and do a couple of errands. It was only after those few errands stretched into two days that I realized that maybe I should just hide out for this holiday week and read the mountain of books that adorn my bed. I bought three blue Hyacinth blooms and dusted the top of the ancient built in closet that would now house my books. I began wearing a moss green knit scarf indoors and fell asleep again by two in the afternoon. I awoke neck deep and wallowing in literature. I drifted to sleep surrounded by the books that I wanted to find a place for. I am a mess, granted, but at least a culturally infused mess. I realized that I have to actually read the books which means sit in one place and not be scattered. My osmosis technique isn't working, so tonight I will keep myself home hoping to heal and recover. I will read and do nothing more. I will attack the good deeds when I am better.

My 12 Days of Christmas-Day 2

After an amazing 15 hours of head cold induced sleep, I boarded a bus and got ready for another day of do gooding. Today's victims were the visitors to the Met. My neighbor has her internship there and she wanted to give me a day pass to help get me back into the art scene. I jumped at the opportunity to see Tara Donovan's tape installation and the angel laden Christmas tree. I thought to myself, how am I going to have an inspired day of kind acts at this mellow museum?
Upon entering the great hall my question was answered as people pushed and shoved around the information desk. It took me twenty-five minutes to check my coat, giving me time to come up with the idea to be "good citizen of the day."

It was pretty clear that people were numb from the holidays and the museum was filled with a jet lagged international set whose faces showed that they were simply trying to tick it off their NY to do list. I sprung into action by first smiling at security guards who seemed relieved at the gesture. Second I helped open doors for people and helped others find the Christmas tree. After taking a rest in a gift shop I was able to assist the poor sighted by reading the fine print holiday greetings on the sale boxed cards. In general I didn't really do things that much differently, just with a little more zest than my normal day.

This day is dedicated in memory of my Dad who could talk to anyone about anything

My 12 Days of Christmas-Day 1

I decided to try my best to have twelve consecutive days be shaped by kind acts inspired by thoughts of kind people that I know. This is my Christmas gift to give and receive this season.

Today I spent my morning giving the volunteers of a no kill cat shelter a little rest to be with their families. Taking on the care and cleanup of their 17 current residents was a rewarding challenge as nimble kittens pried their bodies out to bound around, as I tried to sweep, wipe and refill food. They are a happy lot, with only one Mama and babe on the mend. The blue eyed Babe got extra TLC as her Mama is young and doesnt really have health on her side yet. Its been a while since I fed with a syringe, but nurturing seems to never be forgotten. I will probably go back for New Years Day to help too, and as needed thereafter.

This day is dedicated to Pamela, my redheaded fireball of a cousin who loves all creatures great and small, including me.

Liberty Island

Parade

Central Park

I remain facinated when visual worlds unite. I look for instances when the world seems to be collaged naturally.