Martha Brammer

A Night At Tuckers On Vine

2010-04-25T22:42:00.003-04:00

Tonight was an unusual Sunday night for Howard and me. As a matter of fact, it would have been unusual for any night of the week! We ate at Tuckers On Vine which is around the corner from Liberty Street; not an area you want to be in after dark, but we were there long after the sun went down and weren't worried.

When one of the employees invited me to be the guest artist this month, I accepted the invitation. Tonight was the art opening which included a buffet, live jazz and a poet reading her work. You can see her in the black hat in the photo on the right. Each poem was written on a one- dollar bill. Don't ask me why. I'm still trying to figure that one out!

Live Jazz @ Tuckers

2010-04-25T22:35:00.006-04:00

Ralf & Gillian

2010-04-25T22:33:00.004-04:00

We took our neighbors Ralf and Gillian with us. They had a great time, and so did we!

Welcome to the Traders Point Christian Academy

2010-04-25T17:18:00.005-04:00

Traders Point Christian Academy held their annual fund-raising banquet Friday night. It was exciting to hear what has been accomplished through the school. Howard continues to serve on the board.

The Academy's Logo Made Into a Sculpture

2010-04-25T17:17:00.003-04:00

"Back Home Again In Indiana....la la la la..la..la..la.."

2010-04-24T11:27:00.005-04:00

Howard & I are not only singing this song, we are living it as well! We have decided to make one more move and that's it!!! Where else would we go but back to the Circle City.

We spent Friday touring downtown lofts and condos in and around Massachusetts' Avenue. The building called Mill No.9 had two lofts that got our attention. The factory had been a nylon hosery mill back in the 20's. Contemporary-style lofts were built a few years ago. High ceilings, open pipes, weathered hardwood floors and walls filled with huge windows remain to remind one of days gone by.

Most of you are aware that our son Craig recently moved to Washington D.C. He is working in the area of healthcare. He is not involved in the controversial issues you read about or see on TV. His focus is in the area of IT. At this point, his family is staying behind. Taylor graduates in a few weeks. Crosley will do the same this time next year. It was not a good time to move them.

Craig wanted us to move here so Howard could get the best healthcare from a noted doctor who specialized in treating Parkinson's Disease. Now that Craig has moved, the dynamics of living here have changed. The doctor has taken good care of Howard, and he will continue to do so after he moves to Indy.

We were concerned about the grandkids, but once they got over the surprise, they were fine. They decided it would be "cool" to bring their friends to Indy and stay downtown. They will like it even more when they realize that Bazbo's Pizza is around the corner!

I know they will enjoy the new Cultural Walk whick takes you through downtown, the canal, museums, art galleries and restaurants. This path goes right past Mill No.9. Indy's downtown is very exciting. It is listed in a recent retirement magazine as one of the top places to retire. Howard and I will give it a shot and see if they are right! When we know our new address, we will put the WELCOME mat out with the hopes you'll come!

Perserverance!

2010-04-18T15:04:00.007-04:00

Last year about this time we hired a landscaper to come in and push the dirt around in our backyard. The surface needed to be smoothed down, top soil added and then a layer of sod put down. We built a long flower bed on the back side of the yard with bushes and trees planted alone the new fence.

We could not believe it when we looked out the other day and saw this tulip in the center of the yard. The elderly lady who lived here most of her life planted a row of them along the section of chain-link fence that protected her dog. We had the fence removed since it sliced the yard in half, and we had no poodle.

I dug up all the bulbs and replanted them in the new flower beds. Somehow this one got overlooked. It was not going to remain behind. It pooked its head out when the ground got warm enought, and here it is in all of its splender saying, "Yeah....I made it!" (The grass got mowed as soon as the camera clicked!)

The Junior Prom

2010-04-18T15:03:00.002-04:00

Last night was our granddaughter Crosley's Junior Prom. She and her date stopped by to let us see her all dressed up. She loves to go camping and plays on the school's soccer team. She will lifeguard at the community pool this summer. It isn't often we see her in a white chiffon dress!

Crosley was born on my 50th birthday, so whatever she does today, more than likely I did it fifty years ago!

My Personal Tour Guide

2010-04-18T15:01:00.005-04:00

Jason was my own personal guide as we toured his shows in Chicago last week. (I'll post some of his work.) I went up thinking summer had arrived. Much to my surprise, it hadn't!!! Erin loaned me a jacket, gloves and a wool scarf before the tour began.

Is This Your Shopping Bag?

2010-04-18T15:00:00.005-04:00

The Chicago Brammer cat crept into my shopping bag uninvited. I had a hunch she was posing for her picture to be taken since she made no effort to get out until after I clicked the camera. Cats are a lot smarter than we think!

Art Piece #1

2010-04-18T14:59:00.003-04:00

Private Collection

2010-04-18T14:58:00.007-04:00

I doubt that Jason & Erin will ever let this painting be moved from over their couch. It measures around 6 ft.by 4 ft. It is acrylic over a faux finish of burnt unber. The lighter sections are metalic gold.

Art Piece #2

2010-04-18T14:58:00.004-04:00

This piece is made of wood with horse reins looped on the top and bottom. The light inside the hole is painted. He removed the circular design from a dresser drawer found in the alley. A steel weight from a plumb line hangs at the bottom. The little thing on the top front is a small wooden pully. The entire surface is crackled.

The Return Trip

2010-04-18T14:56:00.005-04:00

The return trip on the Megabus was a little more complicated that the one going up. We gathered at a downtown bus stop in Chicago waiting to board the big blue bus for home. When the driver introduced herself, read all the rules and we got settled, she turned the key but nothing happened. The engine died on the spot! She called for a backup. It arrived an hour later. It could have been worse. Had the engine died down the interstate, we would have had to wait much longer. I was glad we were safe and sound while waiting.

"Back Home Again In Indiana......"

2010-04-17T14:03:00.003-04:00

It will probably surprise you as much as it did me when Howard and I looked at each other recently and said, "Let's go home!" We have lived here in Cincinnati three years now: three good years I might add. Being around the corner from our family provided an opportunity to know our grandkids better and become acquainted with the neighborhood kids they call friends. All of them are wonderful people who are in the process of making the world a better place.

We have enjoyed meeting new people, but it is not the same as the ones that come with some history between you.

Craig recently moved to Washington D.C. to work on the nation's healthcare. We are not moving because he no longer lives here, but it did change the dynamics of our lives some what. His family will remain behind. His wife will continue with the neighborhood theatre she and a friend started. The coffee shop has a big question mark on the door (not literally.) I stayed with it long enough to know it was not my calling in life.

We don't know where we will live in Indy, but I'm pretty sure it won't have a yard to mow. Our next step is to cull through everything we own and take ONLY what we need....what a job!

I've heard it said, "You can never go home again." We'll put it to the test and let you know if it's true or not!

Amazing Art in the Cincinnati Schools

2010-04-11T17:54:00.003-04:00

Whether you live in Cincinnati or not, I thought you would find this interesting:

By 1859, Cincinnati was the second largest industrial city in the United States (Philadelphia was the largest), and its citizens clearly heard the call for reform. The primary voice they listened to was that of British philosopher and art critic John Ruskin, who argued that beauty uplifts the spirit, inspires the soul, and transforms character. Following Ruskin's dictum, Cincinnatians argued that because childhood is an impressionable time, it is also the logical stage in life to begin addressing the transformation of character. And where better to showcase inspiring works of beauty than in public schools? So Cincinnati began to beautify its schools by incorporating architecture, painting, sculpture, fountains, friezes, murals and even stained glass into its school buildings.

Visiting The Windy City

2010-04-10T14:00:00.004-04:00

I did something I have never done before....rode the Megabus! The double decker took me to Chicago via Indianapolis in the same amount of time it takes to drive it. Much to my surprise the trip was delightful: comfortable seats, clean upholstery, quiet passengers and a driver who did not narrate along the way. On the other hand, what is there to tell about as you drive through the flat farms of northern Indiana.

Everyone was reading but me. I can't read and ride even if the road is flat and straight. It's something I regret when I'm the passenger on a lengthy trip. I stare out the window while sucking on a salty pretzel. The dry pretzel keeps my stomach from churning. It's a trick I learned years ago. When Dad put straw in the back of his '49 Ford with an army blanket covering it, he would give us kids a handfull of pretzels about the time he figured we were getting motion sick. When I got older, I realized he got his clue when we began pecking on the back window of the truck motioning that we were going to throw up. He would pull over, rip open the bag and fill our hands with pretzels. A pretzel never tasted so good.

I had a delightful visit with Jason and Erin. He took me to the four spots where his shows are hanging. There were a lot more pieces than I expected. We celebrated Erin's birthday by having dinner at a new pizza shop within walking distance of their condo. It had only been open two days which accounted for the fact that the big stone Italian oven was more than the chef could handle. The crust was burnt to a crisp! We ate it anyway :-) Who wants to complain when the poor guy was, no doubt, doing his best.

Welcome To Eden Park on Easter Sunday

2010-04-05T11:49:00.001-04:00

Inside the Flower Conservatory

2010-04-05T11:23:00.004-04:00

The Old Water Tower in Eden Park

2010-04-05T11:16:00.004-04:00

There is a type of fishing in Japan where the fisherman wraps the throat of a duck with a string so it can't swallow the fish it catches in it's mouth. The fisherman grabs the fish from the duck's mouth and tosses it in a large woven basket.

This bronze sculpture was given to Cincinnati many years ago. I can't remember what the type of fishing is called or the date when the gift was given.

Our neighbor boy is convinced this is a woman rather than a man because of the skirt he is wearing. I saw a doctumentary on Discovery that showed the history of this style of fishing, and the fisherman was wearing a skirt like this one. The neighbor boy doesn't care about that....it's still a woman to him!

More Of Eden Park

2010-04-05T11:13:00.002-04:00

FAREWELL CRAIG.....

2010-04-03T14:07:00.009-04:00

Craig leaves for Washington D.C. tomorrow. Howard & I had lunch with him today. The official explanation of his job is: a position with the Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology in Washington to serve as Deputy Director for the Beacon Community program. As a member of the ONC leadership team, he will be working to accelerate the adoption of health information technology, performance measurement and payment reform strategies in forward-looking communities across the US.

His family will remain in Cincinnati where the kids will continue with their schooling, and his wife will stay with the theatre she and a friend started last summer. He will fly home on weekends.

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What's A Skateboard Park?

2010-04-01T22:19:00.004-04:00

If you're wondering where these steps and ramps take you, the answer is "nowhere." This is a skateboard park. You are to get on a skateboard and go under the poles, leap over the ramps and slither down the steps without breaking your neck.
It's amazing to watch these kids do the impossible.

Jason was a skateboarder....and still is for that matter. (Once a skateboarder always a skateboarder.) He restrains himself from doing the daredevil stunts he once did. He is cautious now: no longer on our insurance policy.

These kids were enjoying the spring weather this afternoon at the Skateboard Park behind the Bethany church in Kettering. I enjoyed watching them since none of them belonged to me.

SURPRISE!!!!

2010-04-01T08:52:00.005-04:00

When Howard read that the Beavercreek Christian Church was wanting to sell their baby grand piano, he immediately thought of granddaughter Madeline.

Madeline takes lessons from "Mr. Carl" the next-door neighbor who retired after spending many years playing with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.

She not only loves to play, and is doing well at it, but she writes much of her own music as well. She recently wrote "Indian Rainfall" for her recital which gave us a goosebump or two when we heard it for the first time.

The price tag on the piano made it possible for Papaw to fulfill a dream Madeline has been carrying, but she never had a clue it would happen now. Thanks Papaw....you're the greatest!

Brutopia's Latest Art Show

2010-04-01T08:38:00.001-04:00

Yily is an artist from Loveland, OH.: a quaint village north of us. Her paintings have been hanging during the month of March. She paints on wood with the purpose of letting the grain show throw at various points. Her style is most unusual. Butterflies, cats and human faces are the main subjects in this body of work.

Is This a Joke?

2010-03-31T21:26:00.003-04:00

Last week I glanced in the window of a pricey clothing store in an upscale shopping mall. This is what I saw! I was so amazed at the condition of these jeans that I dug to the bottom of my purse for my camera. I figured I would get home and question what I had seen or at least have a hard time convincing Howard.

My brothers wore jeans on the farm, but they were not allowed to go into town wearing any clothing that looked like this. As a matter of fact, I think they wore better when milking the cows.

I wonder who started this fad. I also wonder how parents can afford them. This store had a hefty price tag tied to the zipper.

A couple of clerks watched me from the inside and smiled as I took the photos. They probably knew what I was thinking....is this a joke?

If you can't count them, paint them!

2010-03-31T20:35:00.005-04:00

Last night when I discovered I could not sleep, I decided to paint the sheep rather than counting them. This is an 8X10 watercolor of England's Countryside.

Happy Birthday Denny!

2010-03-29T21:46:00.002-04:00

Howard and I were invited to Denny Nystrom's 70th birthday party Saturday at Bloomfield Hills, MI. When Denny entered the room, his face turned bright red. I knew he was surprised! He had no clue a daughter had flown in from Spain, another one from California, a friend from London and others who had come long distances to make the day special.

Two Beauties

2010-03-29T21:34:00.003-04:00

Howard was invited back to the Beavercreek Christian Church to preach yesterday. He served as their interm pastor last year.

These sweet ladies were chatting when I approached them with my camera. The one on the left recently lost her husband of 62 years: a WWII Vet.

The combined age of these widows is 181 years. They have walked with the Lord all their lives, and they are quick to tell you they would do it all over again!

Crosley's Big Trip!

2010-03-25T19:29:00.001-04:00

http://www.morganscanoe.com/2010/03/An-Adventurous-Trip-to-the-Waterfall-in-Matapalo.cfm

Crosley (on the left) is on a big adventure in Costa Rica. Click the link to learn all about it!

Sawyer (11 years olds)

2010-03-25T09:10:00.001-04:00

Monday Sawyer came home from school sick. Well, he was either sick or he wanted one of Mimi's fruit slushes. Either way, he felt better lounging on our couch than he did at school tethered to a desk.

Kids know what they want and need. Grandparents understand that and come to their rescue.

Sunday Guests

2010-03-25T09:01:00.002-04:00

Each Sunday afternoon around three o'clock the doorbell rings. I see two little faces pressed against the front window. I don't have to guess who they are! I know it's Rachel and Ellie. One lives next door, and the other one lives down the street. They come each week to play with Mimi.

We go downstairs to the studio and make things. They are eager to try out any medium they see. However, colored pencils are not one of their favorites. They like to use brushes with bright liquid colors that splash and slide all over the surface. Markers are also fun when used with stickers from my scrapbook supply. These girls are into action. Colored pencils are boring!

When their art is finished, they go to the china cabinets and pick out a tea cup & saucer from my collection. This process takes a while. They never want to drink out of the same cup twice! We have tea and cookies. Sunday Ellie (on the left) surprised me by bringing her own teabag. She informed me that she liked mint better than the flavors I had.

These girls are going to change the world, and they have already started. At least they are changing mine...no more Sunday afternoon naps!

Raqlette Dinner

2010-03-25T08:48:00.003-04:00

Howard and I bought a raqlette grill a few years ago while on vacation. We thought it would be a fun meal for the grandkids. I discovered, however, it was something you pack away and forget about! I ran across it this week and brought it out of storage.

Howard is shown here getting it heated up while Sawyer watched. Each serving dish is filled with items to be grilled...mushrooms, broccoli, summer squash, onions, peppers and chicken, etc. The individual pans on the lower level of the grill are filled with cheese waiting to melt under the heat.

Once the food is grilled, you dip it in the cheese and eat it. When it's time for the second course, the grill and pans are wiped clean and dessert items are added. Chocolate bark replaces the cheese, and fresh fruit goes on the grill.

Sawyer doesn't look too interested here, but he got into it as the food was coming off the grill!

Hello Everyone.....I'm Back!!!

2010-03-22T20:17:00.002-04:00

I want to thank those of you who have inquired about the blog. The fact that you have missed it is encouraging. We have had a dreadful time with these computers, but I think Howard has fixed them! He has devoted a lot of time to it anyway, and so far, they are working. (I'm still having problems getting my photos imported, but it worked tonight. We'll see what happens next time.)

I'll give you a little update on what's happened in the Brammer family since my last entry.  The number one question is always, "How's Howard doing?" Well, he is doing quite well. Parkinson's is known for interrupting one's sleep pattern, and Howard can atest to that. I would say that is his main complaint. Lack of sleep for a few nights in a row will make anyone tired. It is especially difficult for him. Once he gets in a few all nighters, he is back to his old self.

He is still preaching at Kettering on weekends.  It is near Dayton; not far from Beavercreek where he spent a year doing the same. The church is in the process of interviewing for a new pastor. I'm not going to be surprised if he applies. Once he gets to know the people, he has a hard time saying good-bye.

Craig has accepted a position in Washington DC in the area of healthcare. You can Google him and read more about it. He will be leaving soon. His family will remain behind which means they will continue living around the corner from us. We are extremely proud of Craig, and we anticipate him making a great contribution to the nation's healthcare.

Jason and Erin show no signs of leaving Chicago. I thought the ice and snow would drive them this way, but not so. Their hearts are definitely anchored in the Windy City! Erin continues to manage the art business while he stays grounded in his studio. His latest claim to fame is in selling two original pieces to the owners of the penthouse in Chicago's Trump Towers.

I am no longer working at the coffee shop.  I found myself getting deeper and deeper into the business which was requiring more stamina than I wanted to give. I compared it to nursing a baby. You can't get very far away for any length of time without hearing a cry for help. This isn't the way I had my retirement planned. I looked forward to no schedule and limited committments. I decided to leave Brutopia before I got so deeply involved I couldn't get out.

Okay....you're up to date on us, now let us hear from you. If you have plans to come this way anytime, please add us to the schedule. Remember we're within walking distance of Graeter's Ice Cream shop!!!

Much love to all of you,
Martha

New Painting

2010-03-22T19:36:00.001-04:00

(My computer won't let me turn this photo. It's still acting up!!!) It was a hard decision for me to sell all my ceramic equipment two weeks ago ; however, it was a good move, and I am glad I did. The sale included a large kiln, commercial slab roller, wet saw, etc. It took two trucks and a van to haul everything away. Two artists went together and bought everything. It was nice to sell it all at once.

Working with clay has been hard work. I decided it was time for a change. Watercolor has become my favorite medium. I am making watercolored greeting cards, but I don't know what I'm going to do with them at this point. Any ideas?

Tonight I finished a new oil painting. I photographed it for you. It has been fun getting back into that medium as well. I started out by covering the canvas with a raw-umber acrylic glaze which I brushed on and then ragged off. Then I painted the irises with oils, decoupaged handmade rice paper on the top and bottom before glazing it all over again with the raw-umber mixture. It measures 42"X26".

Jason gave me the stretched canvas for my birthday several years ago. He will be glad to know I finally got back to oils and used it. The piece is being entered into a show this weekend.

Nancy Achberger's Art Show @ Brutopia

2010-03-12T22:26:00.002-05:00

Nancy Achberger, in the white sweater, is one of Cincinnati's finest plein-air artist. She hung her beautiful oil paintings in Brutopia during February. The Coffee Shop suddenly looked like a lovely French Bistro!

Computer Crash!

2010-01-27T10:41:00.002-05:00

My laptop has decided enough is enough. I don't know what I did to cause it to bite the dust; but it went down, and no matter how much coaching Howard has done to it, it will not open. We have a "tech" friend in Indy who says he will pay us a visit, and see if he can retrieve the information. I hope my final memoir writing can be saved. If it can't, I'll simply write it again :-(

Howard and I are enjoying the warm temperatures here in Kissimmie. We leave the sunshine state next Tuesday for home. We are eager to get back into our regular routine. January is a nice time to leave Ohio; but there's no place like home even if there is snow on the ground!

Howard's Sister, Connie, Doing What All Tourist Do

2010-01-23T09:52:00.000-05:00

Shopping At Celebration

2010-01-23T09:50:00.001-05:00

Another Look At Celebration

2010-01-23T09:47:00.004-05:00

Welcome To Celebration

2010-01-23T09:39:00.002-05:00

If you haven't visited Celebration, you are missing a treat. This community was designed and built by Disney. It consists of homes built from a variety of archetural designs.

Yesterday I met a woman who has lived here fourteen years. She loves it. She said Disney didn't own it anymore. It wouldn't be a place I wanted to live, but it was fun to tour and have lunch.

Some Oranged That Escaped The Freeze

2010-01-23T09:31:00.001-05:00

The freezing weather Florida experienced a while back has passed. It is now back to normal: in the mid-seventies. Sunday promises a whopping 80.

West Virginia Cousins

2010-01-15T22:18:00.001-05:00

Howard's two cousins (Jane & Norma) and their husbands (Larry & Jim) came through Daytona today on their way to Miami where they are going to board a cruise ship tomorrow. It was fun visiting with them over lunch.

Bird Meeting

2010-01-15T22:12:00.000-05:00

Okay guys....I want you'll to listen up. The tourists will be here in a couple of months on Spring Break. I want you'll to enjoy the quiet beach while you can 'cause we're gonna be out of here when them crazy kids come down here hootin 'n hollerin.

A New Driver Spotted On Daytona Beach

2010-01-15T22:02:00.003-05:00

Daytona Beach is probably the only beach in the country where motorists and pedistrians share the same space. I was walking along the water this morning when I saw a car coming toward me only to discover I was in the traffic lane. This photo was taken of a new driver who was speeding down the beach at a record-breaking ten mph. He looked like someone I'd seen before, but I wasn't sure.

Traders Point Christian Church & Haiti

2010-01-14T19:38:00.007-05:00

As I watched the news tonight, I was reminded of the long-standing relationship between Traders Point Christian Church and the tiny island of Haiti; the poorest nation in the western hemisphere. I think of all the people who have gone from TPCC in the name of the Lord to do whatever was needed to be done. There are hundreds of you! You have gone as dentists, doctors, nurses, preachers, teachers and many other professions. You took suitcases stuffed with clothing for the purpose of leaving your belongings behind. You filled crates and barrels with needy products to distribute. You performed duties of all kinds without complaining.

I heard the testimonies when you returned. I saw the excitement in your eyes and heard music in your voices. It amazed me how close you got to the Hiatian people in such a short amount time. You all said you had received more than you had given, and I believed you.

I asked Howard if he had any idea how much money TPCC had invested in Haiti over the years. He paused and said, "Undoubtedly hundreds of thousands....quite possibly a million or more." I don't say that to brag. I say that to comfort all of you whose hearts are breaking now as you watch the news coverage. You did a good thing when you went to Haiti: from rocking babies to extracting teeth and performing surgeries.

Howard and I had the privilege of sponsoring little Chantelle from the time she started Kindergarten until she graduated. He met her when he went on one of the early trips. She was a shy six-year-old then. My heart goes out to those who founded Lifeline Christian Mission. Their hearts must be breaking too. They were responsible for providing all of us an opportunity to sponsor a child.

Did you noticed how many Christian missions, hospitals and schools were shown on the news? God's people loved the people of Haiti long before the reporters and cameras arrived. God bless Haiti, and God bless all of you who put your arms around the people and loved them over the years.

Catching A Muralist At Work

2010-01-14T15:56:00.003-05:00

We were on the Boardwalk looking for a place to have lunch today when we spotted this artist painting a mural. She agreed to let me take her photo. We had a nice chat. She and her business partner live in Orlando. The landscape behind the portrait was done by the other artist.

Enjoying The Sun

2010-01-14T15:50:00.005-05:00

With the cold blast gone, it is a treat to get out into Florida's beautiful tropical gardens. This is bamboo behind the bench. (We see a lot of it growing in Cincinnati which surprised me. I didn't think it would grow up north.) I don't need to tell you who is wearing the red sweater. I'll let you guess who has the camera!

The Gardens @ The Orman Art Museum

2010-01-14T15:46:00.002-05:00

When I viewed this water feature at the entrance to the Orman Art Museum, I assumed everything was part of the sculpture. All of a sudden a turtle's head moved!!! The peacocks remained in the same position the whole time we were there. I assume they are the sculpture.

Hey Buddy....Look At The Camera!

2010-01-14T15:38:00.002-05:00

What Is Shadware?

2010-01-14T15:23:00.005-05:00

An art form known as SHADWARE was once thought to be "Hippie Art," but today it has made its way into some mainstream galleries. We visited the Orman Art Gallery this afternoon where the gardens were decorated with walls covered with shadware. You can see actual dinner plates as well as raised carvings embedded into the broken pieces of pottery, glass, mirror and china. It gives the garden a whimsical look.

2010-01-14T15:22:00.003-05:00

Growing Old Isn't So Bad After All

2010-01-13T23:46:00.005-05:00

The building where we are staying here in Daytona Beach offered a craft class yesterday afternoon to off set the cold weather. I had nothing to do, so I sauntered in. The paper posted in the hallway said the class would be painting bird houses. I got there only to be told I was supposed to have signed up the day before. Since I hadn't, I would not get a bird house!!! There were not enough to go around. I apologized for being so thoughtless (I hadn't read the small print about signing up.) As I was about to leave, the director said, "you can stay, but you'll have to paint a box." I really had my heart set on painting a bird house, but, hey, if all they had was a box, so be it! :-)

She held a plastic tub filled with acrylic paints asking which ones I wanted her to put on my styrofoam plate. I was afraid to ask for too many, since I hadn't signed up, so I requested only two: black and white. She carefully squeezed the bottles as the paint blurped onto my makeshift palet.

The man across the table was busy painting his bird house with brilliant colors. He welcomed me to the table by asking, "where are you from?" When I told him, he aked "What do you do back in Cincinnati? "I'm retired," I said as I glanced over at his blue and lime green bird house thinking how nice it looked. "What did you do before you retired?" he asked. I wasn't eager to tell him since I was engaging in a very elementary form of what I once did as a profession. "I worked as an artist," I said reluctantly. "Oh," he said in an excited voice, "No wonder you make such nice dots." I suddenly realized I was in a place I'd never been before: in an old-folks craft class painting dots! I decided growing old isn't so bad after all.

Sunrise This Morning

2010-01-12T21:48:00.000-05:00

I woke up this morning with the sun shinning in my face. The warm rays felt good.

A Lonely Walk

2010-01-11T14:17:00.003-05:00

If you look closely, you can see two people all bundled up taking a lonely walk along the beach. I am seven floors up looking out over the water. I am doing the same thing most people are doing this afternoon...staying inside! The temperature is supposed to reach into the 70's by Thursday. I hope they're right. I brought swim gear, shorts and T's...and one thin jacket!

Too Cold To Swim!

2010-01-11T14:13:00.005-05:00

The pool at the condo in Orlando was empty. Too cold to swim. I chatted with a family from Alaska who had packed swimming gear for a week in the sun. The children stood at the fence looking at the chilly pool with little hopes of getting in. Perhaps they had a fun doing something else. Mick 'n Minney are always ready to show every kid a good time at Disney World if the parents have enough money to cover it!

Burrr-r-r-r-r It's Cold Down Here!

2010-01-09T20:05:00.000-05:00

We flew down here to get out of the cold weather, but it followed us! The average temperature in the Orlando area during the day has been in the mid forties. That might not sound cold to you Midwesterners, but it's very cold for the folks down here. One old timer told Howard he had lived here over fifty years, and he had never seen the weather be this cold this long.

The marine life is suffering terribly. The big turtles are being pulled out of the swamps, wrapped in blankets for the 72 hours it takes them to warm up. They become paralized when their body temperature drops. The iguanas are also making the evening news by falling off tree limbs. They loose their grip when they get cold. Fortunately, the fall doesn't hurt them. The manatees are crowding into neighborhood waterways where the waters are warmer. They are eating the vegetation off the banks which is quickly running out. The local evening news anchor said the weather must break soon or many of the marine life will be lost.

Extreme weather causes problems no matter where you live. We have always been in the midwest during a deep freeze. The temperatures here are nothing like back home, but they are devastating for the citrus growers and the marine life. The fact that we can't go swimming or lie in the sun seems incidental compared to the devastation around us. We're having a great time staying inside looking out....just like we did back home!

Greetings From Orlando

2010-01-07T15:16:00.003-05:00

The temperature here in Florida rose this afternoon. It was 42 this morning, but is now warm and toasty. It must be in the high 60's. Howard and I ate lunch at Celebration City today. Howard enjoyed getting some rays.

Update On HRB

2010-01-01T10:38:00.001-05:00

Howard gave us a scare Wednesday when he passed out in a restaurant. He was transported to University Hospital here in Cincinnati. The doctors weren't sure if it was due to his Parkinson's disease or his heart. He was put into the heart unit where they examined him thoroughly. His heart looks great. That was good news considering his family history.

It was finally determined that he was dehydrated. His veins do not push the blood up to his head as well as they once did. Keeping the veins filled with fluids is the answer. He is to drastically increase his water intake with 1/3 of it being electrolytes. Parkinson's robs him of his sleep, so a new sleep aide was given which was also part of the problem.

Believe it or not, but we went to the symphony last night after enjoying dinner at PrimaVista restaurant with friends! He did fine, and there is no reason to doubt that his condition won't continue. Thanks for your concern.

The Mural Is Finished!

2009-12-29T20:00:00.003-05:00

We had a hard time figuring out which of the cables were real. Don't let the shadows fool you: some of them are also real and some are painted. The guy on the right is definitely real. His name is Jason Brammer. We're proud to claim him as our son!!!

Developing The Sketch For Brutopia's Mural

2009-12-26T12:01:00.000-05:00

Jason and Erin work together in developing the concept for the mural that's going on Brutopia Coffee Co.'s wall. Craig is watching knowing whatever they come up with is going to be good. This is how we spent the afternoon on Christmas Day. You'll see what Howard is doing in the next post!

Howard's Contribution To The Project!

2009-12-26T11:57:00.001-05:00

Jason is busy painting, Craig is glazing woodwork, I am the official photographer, and what is Howard doing? Hanging the restroom door...scrubbing the toilet & sink....mopping the floor. I think he deserves a big round of applause. There is no glory in cleaning a public restroom! Yeah for HRB!

The Mural Begins....

2009-12-26T11:52:00.001-05:00

A mural is appearing on the coffee shop wall while Jason wears his mask and guides the airbrush. The water below is waiting for a giant sea creature to come to life and splash in!

No Help From St. Francis

2009-12-26T11:48:00.002-05:00

Saint Francis is stone still while Craig glazes the entry post. He looks away hoping not to be asked to help while Craig works up a sweat on his project. The good saint's job is to wait for a bird to rest on his shoulder or a rabbit to set at his feet.

Opening Gifts On Christmas Eve

2009-12-25T09:58:00.000-05:00

Jason standing on the right, his wife Erin, Carol (foreground), Taylor, Howard, Crosley (standing on left), Madeline, Craig and Sawyer.

A Lily In Full Bloom @ Christmas

2009-12-22T20:23:00.003-05:00

No it isn't a poinsettia, but it's beautiful just the same.

Happy Birthday Madeline!

2009-12-18T00:21:00.002-05:00

Madeline turns 15 Saturday, but we celebrated tonight. Crosley is giving her a birthday hug not realizing Madeline is holding a knife covered with icing!

Sawyer Is Making Ginger Cookies @ Mimi's House

2009-12-18T00:11:00.001-05:00

Yummmmm!

2009-12-18T00:08:00.002-05:00

He had to make do with the shape of the Gingerbread man since we didn't have a cookie cutter. He decided to eat the guy with the suspenders!

Christmas At The Brammers

2009-12-15T22:25:00.006-05:00

I got into the Christmas spirit this afternoon and decorated the house. I enjoy setting by the fireplace and reading whether it's decorated or not. It a cozy spot any time of the year.

Our Christmas Tree Went Up Today

2009-12-15T22:12:00.002-05:00

Yeah, I got it!! Thanks for all your help!

Taylor Brammer behind the Counter @ Brutopia

2009-12-15T22:03:00.001-05:00

Taylor is our oldest grandchild. He turned 18 back in the fall. He does not lack for friends, and a lot of them gather after school at Brutopia where he puts in a couple afternoons a week. He is a great kid. I go down and help him close the shop sometimes. We have fun chatting as we work.

Crosley & Papaw Enjoying a Mocha

2009-12-15T21:59:00.000-05:00

Crosley is our oldest granddaughter. She turns 17 January 13 (we share the same birthday.) She was working at Brutopia Coffee Shop when Howard and I stopped in yesterday. She made a mocha for Papaw and one for herself!

Shaw's Restaurant & Inn - Lancaster, Ohio

2009-12-10T17:10:00.004-05:00

Howard & I had a wonderful stay in Lancaster, Ohio the last couple of days. In many respects, it is like "going home." We lived there eleven years ('72-'83.) It will always be my favorite place to live. Craig was four years old when we arrived. Jason was born there in '74.

The town was small (35,000); however. if we wanted something Lancaster didn't offer, it was only a 30-minute drive to Columbus.

I took this photo last night in Shaw's restaurant. The Inn is beautifully decorated in keeping with its original style. If you are going through or get near Lancaster, I recommend you stop off at Shaw's and spend the night and enjoy the hearty breakfasts that go with the room. You'll be glad you did.

Who Is Richard Outcault Anyway???

2009-12-10T17:06:00.002-05:00

Did you ever wonder where cartoons came from? Someone had to have drawn the first one! Well, that person was from Lancaster, Ohio. There is a large sign on Wheeling Street downtown letting everyone know that the town was home to Richard Outcault, the first cartoonist!

General Sherman's Home

2009-12-10T16:56:00.001-05:00

Lancaster's most famous son is General Sherman. He was born in this home which is located on Main Street in the historical district of town.

If I remember correctly, he was born here, but was reared up the street a few houses by the Ewings. When I lived here, I had his story down pat and would always take friends & relatives through the museum. I found it fascinating to see his early photos, uniforms, etc.

The three-story mural on the side of a downtown building shows him in his famous stance with his hand in his vest. He never smiled for the camera!

The Georgian & St. John's Episcipal Church

2009-12-10T15:58:00.009-05:00

The old St. John's Episcipal Church is one of the oldest congregations in Lancaster. It is located in the downtown historical district.

The Georgian is across the street from the church. It was once the home of a prominent family, but it now serves as a elegant setting for receptions, concerts and art shows. When we lived there, we enjoyed setting in the parlor while listening to chamber orchestras. It gave you that "Gone With a Wind" feeling.

Brutopia Coffee Shop's New Look!

2009-12-03T22:23:00.002-05:00

The Cincinnati Christian University Christmas Musical

2009-12-03T22:18:00.002-05:00

Each year the students @ Cincinnati Christian University present a Christmas musical written by Professor Paul Friskney. The programs are always outstanding, and tonight's was no exception!

The students came out of character long enough to serve several hundred of us a delicious meal with all the trimmings. It was also a night to remember because we were guests of Tracy & Beth Wright from Beavercreek. We sat with the whole Beavercreek gang.

A Visit From The Catlins

2009-12-03T22:09:00.002-05:00

We were delighted when the Catlins called last week saying they were driving from New York to Evansville, IN and would be coming through Cincinnati . They lead the most interesting "retired" lives. They live in a fifth-wheeler which takes them all over the country ministering to people in need. Their most recent venture was in a poor area in Eastern Kentucky that had gotten flooded. They could write an inspiring book....a real page-turner! Judy was Howard's secretary for several years back @ Traders Point Christian Church in Indianapolis.

The Carpenter Arrived @ Brutopia

2009-11-18T15:30:00.002-05:00

I am posting these detailed photos for Craig who is checking in each day to see the progress on the coffee shop. He is in Phoenix attending a meeting.

The face being built above the rafters will provide an area for storing paper products. The yellow beams will be brown tomorrow.

The blue/gray on the ceiling is the new paint. The walls are the same color but very light. It will all come together once the accent color (burnt red) is added. I'll keep you posted!

2009-11-18T15:24:00.001-05:00

Day 2 of Brutopia's Makeover

2009-11-18T10:26:00.002-05:00

Craig is making coffee @ Brutopia Coffee Shop Before the New Makeover took place

2009-11-17T18:36:00.002-05:00

A Car With A Message

2009-11-15T20:15:00.004-05:00

I have never been one to put bumper stickers on my car; however, I am intrigued by the messages others put on theirs. This morning as we followed this car up I75, I thought about the words that were facing us: Mercy, Hope, Grace, Faith, Love and Others. Were they intended to serve as a reminder to the person who owned the car, or were they put there for those of us who followed? I hope I can incorporate all of them into my upcoming week. If you and I cross paths, and you notice one or more of the attributes to be missing, would you let me know?

The Pops Concert

2009-11-15T20:12:00.006-05:00

Cincinnati lost a great conductor recently when Eric Kunzel passed away. He came to the city in the mid 60's, and became known for starting the "Pops Series." I worked in the Symphony office the months between college graduation and my marriage. It was long enough to gain an appreciatin for the symphony and all the work that goes on behind the scenes. I also learned to appreciate the creativity and energy Eric Kunzel brought to Music Hall. The young conductor we heard this afternoon worked closely with Eric. He will do a great job filling his shoes, even though they were a very large size.

The Chandelier In Music Hall

2009-11-15T20:11:00.003-05:00

Good Music & Good Friends

2009-11-15T20:10:00.005-05:00

Arch and Tammy Grieve joined us for the Pops Concert this afternoon. Arch is an elder at the Beavercreek Christian Church where Howard preached last year. Tammy teaches high school literature in the Beavercreek area.

Another Photo of Last Night's Program

2009-11-14T21:34:00.001-05:00

I told you about the Singer/Songwriter concert that was held at the new Clifton Performance theatre last night. I was looking back over my photos and spotted this one. This young man was the last to perform. He had a nice voice, and he wrote some interesting songs; however, the fellow on the guitar who accompanied him was an incredible guitarist. I would have loved to listen to him as he played his Spanish-style music. He will surely make a CD. I absolutely love to hear a Spanish guitar!

Roses Blooming on November 14

2009-11-14T21:22:00.002-05:00

The temperature today had to set a record. It was 65 degrees in the Queen City. The evening news painted a different picture for those of you who live on the east coast. We're sorry for the dreadful weather you're having. I wish everyone could have passed a rosebush like this one on your way to work this morning. It was blooming in our neighbor's yard just like it did all summer.

A Night of Original Music

2009-11-13T23:26:00.001-05:00

The Clifton Performance Theatre hosted a full house tonight at their Singer/Songwriter program. Three artists performed their original music, and all of them were exceptionally good.

Carol Brammer is seen here visiting with guests during the intermission.

Chili Recipe

2009-11-13T17:27:00.002-05:00

This is a small amount of chili because it came from "Dinners For Two" recipe book. We got it as a wedding gift forty-two years ago this Wednesday (Nov. 18.) It makes 2 generous servings.

Three-in-one Hamburger Mix

1/2 Cup chopped onions

1 tbsp. butter

2 lbs. ground beef

2/3 cup catsup

1/2 cup water

1/4 cup chopped celery

2 tbsp. lemon juice

1 tbsp. brown sugar

1 1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

1 1/2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. vinegar

1/4 tsp. dry mustard

Saute onions, celery in butter. Brown meat and combine all ingredients. This makes great Sloppy Joes.

Chili

1 1/3 cups Three-in-one Hamburger Mix

1 can kidney beans (including liquid) I use hot chili beans instead

1 cup tomato juice

2-3 tsp. chili powder

The chili is great the next day! It makes 4 cups.

A Wonderful Salad

2009-11-13T14:11:00.001-05:00

For those of you who have asked for this salad, here it is. If you haven't had it, it's worth trying. It is sweeter than most salads.

3/4 cup dried sweetened cranberries
3/4 cup glazed walnuts
1 can mandarin oranges, drained
3/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled (I often use Feta)
1 avocado, cubed
1 bag fresh spinach & mixed greens

Cranberry or raspberry walnut vinaigrette dressing.

The Dining Room Table Was Full

2009-11-11T21:40:00.001-05:00

There was no room at the dining room table for Hannah Draper and me, so we enjoyed eating by the fireplace in the living room. Hannah is from Indianapolis and is a Junior at the Cincinnati Christian University. She has a lovely diamond ring on her left hand with plans of marrying Carl Wittrig next summer.

Cincinnati Christian University Students

2009-11-11T21:28:00.001-05:00

Howard and I enjoy hosting students from the Cincinnati Christian University when our schedules coordinate. Tori Thompson is shown in this photo. She and Carl Wittrig (far right) are both from Traders Point Christian Church in Indianapolis.

Another View

2009-11-11T21:24:00.001-05:00

I walked around the table and got a shot of the rest of the kids who came for dinner. I had an old-fashioned country meal: beans, cornbread, coleslaw & fried potatoes. They seemed to enjoy something different. I don't think the cafeteria at CCU serves country suppers.

Becca @ Aveda's

2009-11-10T15:56:00.003-05:00

I was pleasantly surprised with the experience I received this afternoon at Aveda's in Oakley. I always thought going to a beauty school was a risk I didn't want to take.

This was my first experience to set in a chair while a girl, young enough to be my grandkid, took a pair of scissors and a razor to my hair. I watched closely at first, but I soon realized she knew what she was doing. I could relax and enjoy the ride.

I got a wash & cut, mini facial, and a neck & shoulder massage all for $17. That sounds too good to be true, but it wasn't. I can only recommend one stylist and that's Becca. She is the only one I know...... she was great!

Brutopia Is Getting A New Image

2009-11-10T09:44:00.000-05:00

The painters are getting ready to cover up the aqua 'n orange. It's a new day for Brutopia, the Brammer coffee shop, and we want it to have a fresh look. A branding company has been hired to design a logo that will carry the new theme.

When Jason comes home for Christmas, he will paint a mural behind the serving counter. We can hardly wait!

We select an artist each month to display their work on the long wall inside the coffee shop. I have recently assumed that responsibility, which is one I am delighted to do. Cincinnati has two large buildings that house artists, and each one has an open house once a month (Pendleton & The Essex bldgs.) I have already met lots of wonderful artists in both of them.

This is an exciting venture for Howard and me. It gives us an opportunity to become more involved in the Clifton community as well as in the lives of Craig's family. They live around the corner from us.

A New Image

2009-11-10T09:19:00.004-05:00

Howard & Craig are enjoying a morning chat in front of Brutopia even if it is the 10th of November....no coats....no gloves...just hot coffee.

The new stainless steel tables and ebony planters add to the clean, crisp look we are after. This photo doesn't show the bright burnt-red trim on the dential molding, but it gives a nice punch to the subtle gray & slate blue colors.

We are delighted with the new look. If you are in the city, come by for a latte or the best cappuccino in town! Everything in the shop is organic (coffee, cream, etc.)

The Clifton Lantern Walk

2009-11-09T22:00:00.005-05:00

Last night was the annual Clifton Lantern Walk. I was told it was a German tradition. When I asked a walker how many were in the crowd, he estimated four hundred. It was interesting to see how many different kinds of lanterns were being carried by old and young. There was no generation gap in this crowd. Little Tikes rode in strollers while dogs followed along on leashes. There was a community spirit that tied this group together. I didn't have a lantern, but I was glad I found my camera in the bottom of my purse!