From the Heart with Gini Rifkin

THE BRAVE LITTLE GOAT

2012-02-23T10:46:00.004-07:00

My amazing wonderful Precious:

My unicorn with glorious horns,

a little white beard, and split hooves.

You were so aptly named, for precious you surely were.

I loved you so much.
Birth date reckoned 1996
Died 2-21-2012

You and Cowboy were my “first born”. We went through a lot together, you helped me to get on with my life after Gary died. When I first saw you at the Boulder Humane Society I fell in love with you and knew immediately you were the first animal to be rescued, then Cowboy ran up “take me too, take me too.”

You were laying with the front end of your body in a wheelbarrow, your hooves, three of them because you only had three feet, were terribly overgrown and your long beautiful white mohair was a big matted mess. You had blood sucking lice and were sick. I looked at the lice under Gary’s microscope, yikes.

I learned to love goats because of you and Cowboy. You suffered through me learning how to trim hooves and what to feed you and we spent hours every year trimming your hair. You were scared of the buzzy thing so I cut it by hand with a blunted scissors and you were so patient. We played the radio and listened to the oldies. At first you were strong enough to stand on the big wooden spool that made it a lot easier on my back but later I just sat on the floor and you stood on an old chaise lounge pad. I tried to spin the hair with a drop spindle but wasn’t very good at it. Now I have all those bags of hair but not you.

You are the most noble, gentle, courageous, and kind animal it has been my privilege to care for. You learned to cross the little bridge at the first place so smart, so brave, and ran up the ditches with the best of them. When I broke my pelvis and was on a walker we were a pair to draw too hobbling across the field. The one time I put the donkeys and you guys together, Jack went down in the ditch and his head was ground level and you head-butted that donkey to pay him back for chasing you around, talk about a gutsy little gal, that was you.

After 13 years I guess I should have more stories to tell about you and the times we had. But they were just simple and glorious days of companionship (a tremendous gift) and smiles, it went by so quickly.

You came home in Craig’s horse trailer and walked all the way to the barn. You always did everything I asked of you. One day you took it in your head to climb the steps at the house with four doors. We played Goat Show Barbie and Cowboy Ken. I thought you bit me once but you were just trying to eat my flannel shirt.

We should have called first, Cowboy.

I don't think anyone is home

Your favorite treats were animals crackers, especially the elephants because, hey they are the biggest. You looked so cute in your little red coat. The ducks and goose liked to sneak in the barn and eat your chow and mess up your water. You ate their cracked corn to pay them back. Lolly goose also liked to pluck at your hair, you would stand there and let her as if you were getting a beauty treatment.

Please forgive me if I ended your life before you wanted. I hope it was relieving your pain, the indignanty of your brain outliving your body, ending the struggle and giving you peace. If there is any cosmic justice you now have 4 feet and are running around with Cowboy.

I love you.

From my arms to the Goddess……Cowboy and Bill are waiting.

MOM

BERTHOUD HISTORICAL SOCIETY BOOKSIGNING

2012-02-12T11:02:00.000-07:00

February 10, 2012

VALENTINE'S DAY BOOKSIGNING

My thanks to the Berthoud Historical Society for sponsoring my booksigning at the beautiful McCarty/Fickel home built in 1916.

Somewhat unassuming from the outside, but spacious and bright and very remarkable within. There is such a happy atmosphere in the house, nearly all of the furnishings are original and I think (or at least hope) many happy times were shared there.

        My sister and two friends (Evy and Angela) came, they already have all my books but offered support and truly brightened the day. Darn, I didn't get a photo of them....It was nice to get to know Virginia, John, and Mark a little better. They are instrumental in running the Historical Society. Gees, didn't get their photo either, well wasn't it just a "me me me" day. Not too self-centered....

    Didn't have any other "fans" show up, but above mentioned folks bought a few books. It was VERY cold that day, but the sun came out and all in all it was a fun experience and a day filled with positive energy.

    Looking forward to the day when I'm famous (rich is okay too) and people are lined up around the block to see me! Beautiful dreamer...

Gini.

HAPPY IMBOLC

2012-02-01T13:41:00.001-07:00

What do groundhogs predicting the weather, ewes, a Pagan goddess, a Christian saint and spring cleaning all have in common? They are each intertwined into the history of Imbolc, the feast day of Brigid, on February 2nd.

This holiday is one of the Celtic fire festivals and is also called Oimelc, an Irish term that means ewe's milk. Traditionally, this time of year exhibited the first signs of spring shown by the lactation of ewes. It is a cross-quarter day signifying the midpoint between the Winter Solstice and the Vernal Equinox.

Being a cross-quarter day it is also a reverse barometer. Just like the logic used on Groundhogs Day if the weather is fair (sun is shining and Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow) the weather will take a turn for the worse and there will be more weeks of winter. If the weather is bad, good news, better weather is on the horizon.

The Christians usurped the day and tried to redirect the Pagans to worshiping St. Brigit and also called it Candlemas. The Celtic goddess was a powerful figure of Brigid the Light-Bringer so this tied in nicely.

St. Brigit is known for her special cross, said to have been weaved from rushes as she tended a terminally ill Celtic chieftain, telling him the story of Christ and converting him on his death bed to Christianity. Many streams, trees, mounds are named for the Saint in the British Isles

In many parts of the world, February is a harsh and bitter month. In old Scotland, the month fell in the middle of the period known as Faoilleach, the Wolf-month; it was also known as a’ marbh mhiòs, the Dead-month. But although this season was so cold and drear, small but sturdy signs of new life began to appear: Lambs were born and soft rain brought new grass. Ravens begin to build their nests and larks were said to sing with a clearer voice.

Brigid is also known as the daughter of the Daghda, the “Great God” of the Tuatha de Danaan (faeries). In folklore he calls her a “woman of wisdom…a goddess whom poets adored, because her protection was very great and very famous." Since the discipline of poetry, was interwoven with seership, Brigid was seen as the great inspiration behind divination and prophecy, the source of oracles.

She is the goddess of poetry, healing, and smith-craft. Also described as the patron of other vital crafts of early Celtic society: dying, weaving and brewing. A goddess of regeneration and abundance, she was greatly beloved as a provider of plenty who brought forth the bounties of the natural world for the good of the people. She is closely connected with livestock and domesticated animals. She herself had two oxen called Fea and Feimhean

This is a good time for spring cleaning of house, hearth, and spirit. So burn a candle, get out the broom, take heart and have hope as we look forward to the rebirth of the earth and our creativity. May your spirit renewed.

Here are two ceremonial poem/chants from Patti Wigington’s site.

Hail, Brigantia! Keeper of the forge,

she who shapes the world itself with fire,

she who ignites the spark of passion in the poets,

she who leads the clans with a warrior's cry,

she who is the bride of the islands,

and who leads the fight of freedom.

Hail, Brigantia! Defender of kin and hearth,

she who inspires the bards to sing,

she who drives the smith to raise his hammer,

she who is a fire sweeping across the land.

-----------

Bride of the earth, sister of the faeries,

daughter of the Tuatha de Danaan,

keeper of the eternal flame.

In autumn, the nights began to lengthen,

and the days grew shorter, as the earth went to sleep.

Now, Brighid stokes her fire, burning flames in the hearth,

bringing light back to us once more.

Winter is brief, but life is forever. Brighid makes it so.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2012-01-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR

I don't make resolutions anymore. I never keep them and then I feel guilty. However, while speaking with my friend, Angela, on New Year's Eve, she mentioned that rather than resolutions she makes plans. This sounded so much more logical, optimistic, and attainable. And hey, plans can be altered, added to, fall through, be scrapped, go awry, or culminate in great sucess. So here goes....

I plan to have a smashing vegetable garden this year.

I plan to grow out my forlorn hair do (hair don't).

       I plan to write more, including westerns and contemporaries.




                             I plan to become rich and famous.

                                    I plan to try meditation.

                            I plan, oh I can't tell you that one....

      Anyway, I hope your New Year is filled with exciting new plans, happy days, romantic nights, and dreams come true.

And if things aren't working out, try a new plan.

THE WINTER SOLSTICE: CELEBRATION OF LIGHT

2011-12-18T10:05:00.000-07:00

Last year at the Winter Solstice, I had barely moved into my house and I remember laying in the snow in the frontyard, hoping my new neighbors we'ren't watching as I gazed up at the Lunar eclipse of a full moon. How magical.

The festival was called Satunalia by the Romans as they honored the god Saturn. Yule by others. My goats especially love the notion of Joulupukki, a Scandinavian tradition whereby goats pulled Santa's sleigh.

On the night of the Solstice, the longest night of the year, darkness triumphs then gives way to light. Some believe the Dark King is transformed into the Infant Light, the divine child Sun who is the bringer of hope and the promise of summer. It is the rebirth of the King of the woodlands, the Green Man, and the days begin to grow longer and will do so until the Equinox.

art wrok by Anne Stokes

The word solstice comes from the Latin words "sun" and "to stop", due to the fact that the Sun seems to stop in the sky. The Sun is directly overhead at "high-noon" on Winter Solstice at the latitude called the Tropic of Capricorn. In the Northern Hemisphere, the solstice days are the days with the fewest hours of sunlight during the whole year.Winter begins in the Northern Hemisphere on December 22, 2011, at 12:30 A.M. (EST).

Winter Folklore
Deep snow in winter; tall grain in summer—Estonian proverb
Visits should be short, like a winter's day.
A fair day in winter is the mother of a storm—English proverb
Summer comes with a bound; winter comes yawning.
Onion skins very thin, mild winter coming in.

and to all, a magical good night....

STILL MOMENTS MAGAZINE

2011-12-08T13:28:00.001-07:00

Just saw my ad for LADY GALLANT in the lovely holiday issue of STILL MOMENTS MAGAZINE

Thank you Darlene Fedette for the opportunity and the beautiful layout. http://stillmomentsezine.blogspot.com/

Lady Gallant is set during the holiday season and is the perfect read for winter. Hunker down and cozy up and go along with Josephine Posey as she heads off to the Black Sea with Florence Nightingale to tend the wounded in the Crimean War.

The hero, Garrick Allen, a reporter for the Times, is one of England's first war correspondents. He'll win your heart as well as Josie's as he champians the soldiers and tries his hardest to let the people back home know exactly what is going on.

From the charge of the Light Brigade, to the backstreets of Constantople, there is intrigue waiting for you. And even black market schemes and bombs bursting in air can't stop the passion waiting for Josie and Garrick.

Praise for Lady Gallant:

“A very romantic Victorian love story,

circa 1854 set during the Crimean War.

Rifkin’s novel is epic in scope, meticulously

researched and finely detailed. A genuinely

sweet romance married to an exciting

war/espionage story.”

~RT Magazine

“I was intrigued at the possibility that this story

might offer something fresh. I was not disappointed.

Reading Lady Gallant was a pleasure. The characters

are relatable and the romance is touching. I highly

recommend it to any fan of historical romance.”

~Long and Short Reviews

A SMALL SNIPPET FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION

Disowned by her father and still mourning the death of her fiancé, Josephine Posey joins Florence Nightingale’s brigade of nurses bound for the Black Sea. Thousands of British soldiers desperately await these angels of mercy and a new life awaits Josie. Amidst the chaos of death and despair, she finds a spark of hope, lighting the flame once more inside her soul.

In search of the truth, Garrick Allen, one of Britain’s first war correspondents also journeys to the Crimean Peninsula. To him the soldiers seem all but abandoned by Queen and country, and as he smokes his cheroots and makes friends with a bottle, he writes his bold but honest dispatches for The Times. Not wanting anything more than to finish his job and go home, Garrick is blind-sided by a nurse with attitude who offers him a new slant on life and a reason to love.

Excerpt:

She wore no corset, only a camisole, and the curve of her firm breasts threatened to spill up and over the sleek fabric.

Dazzled by the riotous accumulation of lace, roses, and ribbons, Garrick's gaze drifted lazily over her form, the combination of his prim image of Josie and the erotic under-things she wore exploded into a conflict of unexpected sensations—delightfully unsettling.

“You’re quite bold in your choice of fashion,” he pointed out with a smile, as he envied the silk that caressed her in places he longed to touch.

Doubt shadowed her expression. “Does it leave something to be desired?”

“Oh yes, I dare say it does.”

“What?” she demanded petulantly.

“Only you,” he reassured.

A naughty smile was her only reply. The expression didn’t appear to be practiced

or contrived. He ached a little more with wanting her.

“You’re so beautiful.”

She glanced down almost as if embarrassed or unbelieving. He tipped up her chin, forcing her gaze to meet and mingle with his. “Take off the rest of your dress,” he whispered.

Like a cat uncurling from a sweet dream, she rose to stand before him. Then she slipped her thumbs under the fabric that hung gathered about her hips and with a slight bit of encouragement, the quilted taffeta slid downward over the wonderful curve of her bottom. The fabric billowed to the floor and pooled around her ankles.

Lady Gallant is available at The Wild Rose Press in paperback or e-book.

http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=advanced_search_result&search_in_description=1&keyword=lady+gallant&x=41&y=16

http://www.ginirifkin.com/

GIVING THANKS & THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN

2011-11-12T10:32:00.002-07:00

NOVEMBER, the month for giving THANKS.

Let me start by thanking the MAGNIFICENT SEVEN. (Yes, I know there are only 6 people in this photo, my sister went missing for a minute)

One year ago, on Halloween, I moved to the house I presently occupy with my small herd of feathered and four-footed "children".

   The move was one of necessity rather than true desire, and without family and friends, I don't think it would have been possible.

    There were those who stood by at the new destination holding down the fort and preparing for our arrival, a stranger who offered to personally move the animals and hay, friends that put up fencing and unloaded said animals and hay, and new neighbors who came over with good cheer and welcome.

THANK YOU

In a world filled with so much sadness, strife, suffering and intolerance, what a joy to be surrounded by your kindness and glowing spirits.

******************

November is also the month of the traditional Thanksgiving holiday. Most of us know how the first one started, but the story of how it became a national holiday is also an interesting aside.

When you sit down to dinner on that Thursday, give a toast to Sarah Josepha Hale.

Sarah Josepha Buell Hale, born October 24, 1788, was an American writer and an influential editor. She is the author of the nursery rhyme "Mary Had a Little Lamb".

She seemed to have a rather bipolar approach to women’s rights. Respected as an arbiter of taste for middle-class women in matters of fashion, cooking, literature, and morality, she also reinforced stereotypical gender roles, celebrating the "separate sphere" for women while casually trying to expand on it. She did not support women's suffrage and instead believed in the "secret, silent influence of women" to sway men voters

Hale is credited as the individual most responsible for making Thanksgiving a national holiday. Previously it had been celebrated only in New England. Each state scheduled its own holiday, some as early as October and others as late as January; it was largely unknown in the American South.

Her advocacy for the national holiday began in 1846 and lasted 17 years before it was successful, during which time she wrote letters to five Presidents -- Zachary Taylor, Millard Filmore, Franklin Pierce, James Buchanan, and Abraham Lincoln. Her initial letters failed to persuade, but the letter she wrote to Lincoln did convince him to support legislation establishing a national holiday of Thanksgiving in 1863.The new day of celebration was considered a unifying day after the stress of the American Civil War.

Prior to the addition of Thanksgiving, the only national holidays celebrated in the United States were Washington's Birthday and Independence Day.

Hale retired from editorial duties in 1877 at the age of 89. The same year, Thomas Edison spoke the opening lines of "Mary's Lamb": the first ever recorded message on his newly invented phonograph.

Hale died at her home on April 30, 1879 and is buried in the Laurel Hill Cemetery, in Pennsylvania.

Thank you Sarah Hale….now please pass the dressing and mashed potatoes.

Here at Compass Rose we sponsor a turkey each year rather than eating one. This 12 year old tradition especially makes the duck and goose happy. This year's rescue is the lovely Victoria.

HAPPY ALL HALLOW'S EVE

2011-10-28T17:19:00.000-06:00

The wheel turns. It's hard to believe it is Samhain already, my favorite night of the year.

Since this is the Celtic New Year, I see it as getting a leg up on setting resolutions, looking forward to new beginnings, and being thankful for the past 12 months.

    I hope your Celtic year was prosperous, enlightening, and kind. Filled with family and friends. I am realizing more and more that the support of others, both physically and spiritually, is the only way to learn and grow (actually to survive) on this journey. The only way not to fall off a cliff, sink in the river, or fly too high.

Listen for the wolf howling in the night, you may hear the ancient words and thoughts related to this most joyous day.

On this night, the ancestors walk abroad. The gates between the worlds are open wide. We call upon our ancestors, those known and unknown, to come among us and celebrate our reunion on this night of Samhain. We call upon our loved ones who have passed into the Summer Land to come and feast with us tonight. We offer remembrance and honor to their spirits. They help us to realize that at the time of greatest darkness, there is the greatest light.

We look behind us at the past year and begin to assess what we have done with our year…and what we failed to do.

We look back on friends and loved ones who have gone beyond the veil and remember them.

We look at what we must leave behind in order to move ahead.

We stand between the worlds in this Time-out-of-Time. We stand at the door of a New Year in a place that is not a place. In this doorway we are neither in the past or the future, we are in the Realm of Ancestors, the Island of Avalon.

We welcome the Lady of Avalon who gives rest and healing to those souls, who welcomes the dead, and who guides us all to rebirth. Please protect and comfort those who have gone before us. Ease their suffering if need be, remind them how much we miss them. How much we cherished having known them. How much we value the time they spent with us.

Tonight we call upon the spirits of this special realm to be at peace with us and to walk lightly among us. Help us to relinquish unnecessary burdens and walk into our future with light steps.

So leave your offering to placate the spirits.

And burn a candle that your ancesters might find their way.

HIGHLAND FLING

2011-10-12T11:08:00.001-06:00

Love a man in a kilt, or a knight on horseback?
The Estes Park Scottish Festival had it all.

9/9/11
Although there is already snow on Trail Ridge Road, the day I spent in Estes Park was beautiful. (Thanks for taking me, Sis).

Temps in the 70's, sunny and bright, with an intermitant refreshing breeze, and the Rocky Mountains a breathtaking backdrop. Oh, and of course, gorgeous men no matter where you looked. It was a romance novel cover come to life.

They had a "real live" trebuchet!

They were lobbing bowling balls into the lake at an inflatable
"Nessie". Luckily they missed her every time.

A brief history of the Trebuchet

Rocks were the first basic weapon, easy to find and easy to use, just lob one towards your enemy. Eventually someone came up with the idea of the sling, which simply uses a piece of cloth or looped strap in which a stone is whirled and then let fly.

Next came the idea of the catapult. A simple machine that throws a stone or other projectile farther and harder than a human could. The Trebuchet was capable of hurling stones weighing 200 pounds, with a range of up to about 300 yards. And once the counterweight model was invented, the rate of release was amazing - up to two thousands stones could be released in one day! The force of the Trebuchet was capable of reducing castles, fortresses and cities to rubble.

Compared to the basic catapult, the trebuchet is pretty young. The ballista- a type of catapult built like a very large crossbow, was first reported near Syracuse, Italy, around 400 BC. The mangonel was being used by the Romans around the first century, AD. We don't find the trebuchet until the second century AD, where it was first used by the Chinese.

These types of machines became popular as both siege (attack) and defense weapons. They made their way through many cultures, probably moving from China, to the Byzantine Empire via the nomadic Mongolian people. Although focused around Turkey and the Balkans, the Byzantine Empire had ties with Europe.

In 1216, Prince Louis of France used the trebuchet to attack Dover Castle in a bid for the English throne. The constable of Dover castle was Hugh de Burgh - he refused to surrender. King Edward I ordered his chief engineer, Master James of St. George, to begin work on a new, more massive engine called Warwolf (what a great name). The Warwolf is generally thought of as the most powerful and most famous of the trebuchets in history.

The French made improvements to the projectile range and accuracy of the trebuchet making it the siege machine of choice in the middle ages. Soon, the Traction Trebuchet, which used people as a power source, was replaced by the Counterpoise Trebuchet, which used a weight on the short end. It was so reliable the trebuchet was still being used even after the introduction of cannons. The word 'Trebuchet' is derived from the Old French word 'Trebucher' meaning to throw over.

“Ammunition” for the trebuchet often included more than stones, such as: sharp wooden poles and darts, fire, casks of burning tar, burning sand ( this became trapped inside armor ) pots of Greek Fire, dung, dead (sometime mutilated) bodies, disease ridden bodies, dead animals, any rotting matter, and quicklime

The Trebuchet revolutionized warfare. They were usually built "on site" in a surprisingly small amount of time. And when the battle was over and the castle breeched, they would burn the trebuchet to the ground, retrieve the hardware and be ready to build the next one when the occasion arose.

A great collection of armaments was available for perusal and purchase.

There was no shortage of interesting characters, whose regalia inspired thoughts of highwaymen and scallywags.

And the women took no backseat to the men in jousting or costuming.

The Medieval equivilant of "Got Milk". We passed on this. The traditional recipe follows.

1 sheep's lung (illegal in the U.S.; may be omitted if not available)
1 sheep's stomach
1 sheep heart
1 sheep liver
1/2 lb fresh suet (kidney leaf fat is preferred)
3/4 cup oatmeal (the ground type, NOT the Quaker Oats type!)
3 onions, finely chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
3/4 cup stock

Wash lungs and stomach well, rub with salt and rinse. Remove membranes and excess fat.

Soak in cold salted water for several hours. Turn stomach inside out for stuffing.

Cover heart and liver with cold water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Chop heart and coarsely grate liver. Toast oatmeal in a skillet on top of the stove, stirring frequently, until golden. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Loosely pack mixture into stomach, about two-thirds full. Remember, oatmeal expands in cooking.
Press any air out of stomach and truss securely. Put into boiling water to cover. Simmer for 3 hours, uncovered, adding more water as needed to maintain water level. Prick stomach several times with a sharp needle when it begins to swell; this keeps the bag from bursting. Place on a hot platter, removing trussing strings. Serve with a spoon. Ceremoniously served with "neeps, tatties and nips" -- mashed turnips, mashed potatoes, nips of whiskey.

For more indepth information on haggis,

watch for a future posting...

The History and Mystery of Haggis.

HAPPY AUTUMNAL EQUINOX

2011-09-19T09:52:00.006-06:00

The Equinox is not just a car.......

This is the second harvest, Alban Elfed, the Celtic celebration of Mabon. On the 23rd the sun rises due east and sets due west. It is the fleeting union of solar and lunar forces. A time for thanksgiving. A time of wonder. A time of balance as the sun enters Libra, a special sign for me. A time ruled by love and the planet Venus.

According to legend and ancient belief it is the time of the dying sun and we honor our dead and celebrate their memory with joyous remembrance. We pray for their rebirth into another plane another world that we do not understand.

We honor our elders and all who have taught us regardless of their age. The wheel turns, we should be thankful for the goodness the year had brought rather than lamenting the darkness ahead. Endings are new beginnings. Sometimes a painful concept

Mabon has grown old and will die at Samhain. This time of year is associated with Herne the Hunter, who leads a wild phantom chase through the forest, heralding confusion and change. It is the Night of the Hunter.

It is the "assumption of the Crone," when the dark face of the Goddess assumes the sway over the world which She will hold until the return of the Maiden at Imbolc. The month of September also marks the "Wine Moon," the lunar cycle when grapes are harvested The full moon closest to the Autumnal Equinox is the Harvest Moon.

It is a day sacred to Carpo, goddess of Autumn, and Carmon the Irish patroness of poetry. It is the time of Frey, and we ask for fertility of mind and spirit.

In the days ahead when the sun is our friend and we seek his warmth rather than running from his touch of fire, let us be thankful for the food we have stored and the love we have garnered (deserving or not).

This is the only day in which light is vulnerable and is overtaken by darkness. Today we feel the earth wobble on its axis, it is the day of the sacrificial death of Llew the god of light. The fall of John Barleycorn-spirit of the fields. For the Christians it is Michaelmas.

In stories of old it is the time when Demeter’s daughter, Kore, is given by Zeus to Hades. Her name now Persephone, she abides in the underworld. Demeter curses the earth and no crops will grow.

Zeus sends Hermes to retrieve the girl but Persephone has been tricked into eating the seeds of the pomegranate. Demeter is furious. Trying to find a peaceful accord, Zeus declares that Persephone will spend 6 months with her mother and 6 months in the underworld with her husband Hades. The time has come for her to descend to darkness and yet to her lover. It is the time that Demeter’s curse still rules the land and all the plants sleep as we await their return in springtime.

words to ponder

The leaves fall, the wind blows, and the farm country slowly

changes from the summer cottons into its winter wools."

-Henry Beston, Northern Farm

Autumn is a season followed immediately by looking forward to Spring."

-Anonymous

Autumn, the year's last, loveliest smile.

-William Cullen Bryant

I would rather sit on a pumpkin and have it all to myself,
than be crowded on a velvet cushion.
-Henry David Thoreau

Summer, where did you go?

I hardly knew your face at all.

Did you hide yourself from me?

Or did I not take the time to look?

-Gini

FYI
While the September equinox occurs on September 22 in 2008 and 2009, it occurs on September 23 in 2010 and 2011 (UTC). The September equinox has also occurred on September 24(UTC), with the last occurrence on that date being 1931. The next time a September 24 equinox occurs will be in the year 2303. Moreover, a September 21 equinox will occur in 2092.

There are a few explanations on why the equinox dates differ in the Gregorian calendar. The varying dates of the equinox are mainly due to the calendar system – most western countries use the Gregorian calendar, which has 365 days in a year, or 366 days in a leap year. According to the National Maritime Museum, the equinoxes generally occur about six hours later each year, with a jump of a day (backwards) on leap years. An extra day is added in a leap year to minimize a gradual drift of the equinox date through the seasons.

AND THEN THERE WERE TEN

2011-09-13T11:19:00.000-06:00

I'm so sad. My duck died last night. We'd been together for ten years, her name was Emily, named for Emily Bronte, and she was one of the original three.

Dear Emmy Duck:

You liked to hide in tall grass and make nests and I had to look all over for you. I would call you, but you would just hunker down and pretend no one could see you. One day, I found you sitting in the water bucket and you couldn’t get out. Don’t know how you even got in there.

You survived the West Nile epidemic, were the smartest of all the ducks I ever had, and taught the rest of them how to use the ramp to get in the barn and the step to climb into the pool. You never fought with your buddies, you were gentle, a pretty kaki Campbell. You didn’t talk much, had a black beak and black feet and got grey “hair” in the end. You waddled so cute and made me laugh, you were the one I loved the best, (don’t tell the other fowl.)

I’m not sure why you died. You acted a little droopy the night before but you’d done that before. And you’d spent a fine day in the sun chasing grasshoppers.

A long while ago, when we lived at our other house, you hurt your leg, but with TLC and hydrotherapy in the middle of winter, you recovered just fine. I’m sorry you died alone, I hope you are okay now and with your sister Charlotte and swimming in a real pool with moss and flowers and lots of bugs and cracked corn to eat.

I miss you little brown duck.

Love

Mom.

I hope when we die, we get to see not only the people we love, but all the animals who have brightened our journey and taught us those lessons humans cannot impart.

FULL MOON WEB HUNT CONTEST @ NIGHT OWL REVIEWS

2011-09-08T16:11:00.001-06:00

Full Moon Web Hunt

Open - 09/01/2011 (Noon PST)

untill 10/31/2011 - Ends at Midnight PST

For details on how to enter, click on www.nightowlreviews.com/nor/Pages/FullMoonDetails.aspx

GRAND PRIZE to be divided between five winners
Silver Publishing - Amazon Kindle and 5 eBooks from Silver Publishing
Erin Kellison - $15 Amazon Gift Card
Terry Wright - $15 Amazon Gift Card
Beverly Rae - $5 gift certificate to Samhain Publishing's eStore
Castles & Guns - $20 Amazon Gift Card + $10 Amazon Gift Card + eBooks - Unbreak Me by Lex Valentine, Crimson by Nickie Asher
Donna Brown - eBook copy of Short Stories I-IV + and eBook copy of Fezariu's Epiphany
Angela Johnson - Autographed copy of Vow of Seduction
Rachel Haimowitz - eBook Copy of Each - Counterpoint: Song of the Fallen, Sublime: Collected Shorts, Where He Belongs, and Anchored: Belonging
McKenna Chase - Readers Choice of my available ebooks (McKenna Chase) via Kindle or directly to winner's computer via the Free Kindle app
Simone Bern - $10 Amazon gift card + Readers Choice - a copy of one of my ebooks
Darah Lace - eBook from my back list and $15 gift cert
Mary Abshire - 5 of my ebooks (I have three in a series to select from)
Carol North - $15 Amazon Gift Card
Elle Druskin - eBooks - To Catch A Cop, Nominated as Best Romantic Comedy of 2010 by The Romance Reviews | To Catch A Crook, the second book in the "To Catch" series due for release on June 30, 2011 | Outback Hero, a contemporary romance set in the Australian Outback
Maggie Jaimeson - Choice of autographed print copy of ETERNITY and print copy of EXPENDABLE OR a $15 gift card from Amazon or Barnes and Noble.
Karen McCullough - ebook copy of Heart of the Night - ebook copy of A Question of Fire

JOIN THE FUN
enter the
FULL MOON WEB HUNT

http://www.ginirifkin.com/

FEELING PROUD

2011-07-31T09:44:00.002-06:00

IRON HEART receives a “Great, would want to read it again”

review from Lisa at Once upon a chapter.

www.onceuponachapter.com

Thank you Lisa @ Once upon a chapter: An inspiring in depth review like this makes the process of writing worth all the blood, sweat, and tears and doubts, worries, and fears.

Iron Heart by Gini Rifkin

Faran Kilbraun is on a mission to reclaim his pride and honor. He is traveling across the sea to retrieve ancient relics that are priceless to his people when he becomes shipwrecked on a deserted island. There he finds a castaway, Leanora Wrenn, who is mysterious as she is beautiful. Leanora’s past has made her reluctant to trust anyone. She was forced to hide away on this lonely island to escape punishment when she was wrongly accused of her terrible husband’s murder. Faran has now disrupted her quiet life and wants to take her away from her sanctuary. What neither of them realizes is that once they depart they will begin the adventure of a lifetime together.

Iron Heart is an exciting adventure from the first page to the last. Filled with plenty of drama and romance, this novel will easily sweep you into another time and place.

One thing I love about Iron Heart was the fact that you have two great characters with an undeniable attraction. Both individuals are on the run together fighting side by side against evil to win the day. Leanora was a great characters because she was such a fierce survivor who overcame her greatest fears to work for her own freedom and to help Faran. Leanora was at an uncertain time in her life and in this journey she progressed into a warrior. Faran was the loyal, resilient warrior that could easily be seen at the perfect hero. Always faithful and honest, he was the man you would want on your side. His treatment of Leanora was heartwarming because he viewed her as his equal in many ways. He was always pointing out her strengths yet he also saw her as a woman worthy of great admiration. It was enough to soften any reader’s heart.

Leanora & Faran have a very shy and uncertain love...Hesitant to admit their feelings to one other. It’s a very sweet and charming romance...at first. As things develop between these two characters the romance certainly becomes very passionate. Cabin romances are one of my favorite themes in romance...where the hero and heroine are constantly on the run, and Iron Heart fits that category easily. Leanora and Faran travel far and wide on their quest encountering new dangers and adventures along the way. They do so without involving a overwhelmingly large cast of characters which leads to a stronger character development.

Rifkin not only writes a charming romance, but a novel with interesting historical detail as well. Her novel references and shares some qualities with the mythical Beowulf, having unnatural creatures, chilling villains and a spectacular hero to save the day. Iron Heart also focuses on the classic ideals of honor and prestige being of the utmost importance to our hero’s everyday life. Ultimately being what he risks his life and health to reclaim. The novel also contains the excitement and drama of that time in history, including details concerning warring clans in a fight for supreme power and major religious changes. It added great interest and entertainment to the story.

Iron Heart is a fabulous tale for historical romance fans. With a great plot, well developed story and a breathtaking romance it is easy to see why this novel stands out amongst the rest. Iron Heart is a mythical adventure that’s a lot of fun, very exciting and certainly a journey you won’t want to miss.

WIN A KINDLE

2011-07-11T12:16:00.006-06:00

Enter the Digikindle hunt.
Contest runs July 19-Aug. 22
2011

www.digibookscafe.com/index.php?main_page=page&id=9

A summer treasure hunt, what could be more fun?

___________________________

Come on Sweetheart,

we should get in on this deal.

_______________________________

we won't need no stinking badges....

_________________________

Sounds like fun, let's do it

and we can visit

Gini Rifkin, a participating author @

www.ginirifkin.com

CONTEMPLATIONS REGARDING THE 4TH OF JULY

2011-06-30T11:44:00.001-06:00

On July 4^th 1776 we declared our independence and formed a new nation. But amidst all the flag waving and bombs bursting in air, I tend to forget the war had only just begun. It would rage on for many years demanding much sorrow and many lives to secure for me the freedom I enjoy today.

Beyond the snippets learned along the way in public school, I am guilty of not being well versed in the political atmosphere or military maneuvers that constituted the Revolutionary War. This is something I intend to rectify.

Loss of life from battle, disease, starvation, and deplorable conditions as prisoners of war is thought to be at least 50,000.

The war finally ended in 1783 at the Treaty of Paris. The sovereignty of the United States over the territory bounded roughly by what is now Canada to the north, Florida to the south, and the Mississippi River to the west was recognized.

How far we’ve come, how large we’ve grown. Sadly we are once again at war. War is such a nasty business as it pits man against man. I’m not here to debate the moral legitimacy or necessity of war. Only to give thanks to the soldiers who have stepped up to protect my country and my freedoms and to offer my deepest sympathy to those who have lost loved ones related to battle.

Of late, I'm beginning to think

the only thing worth fighting for is Peace……

WISHING YOU A MAGICAL SUMMER SOLSTICE

2011-06-20T08:37:00.000-06:00

Litha is upon us, Alban Hefin. The summer solstice.

The longest day of the year.

Keeping track of the seasons can get confusing because nearly every week on TV there is a season finale of one program or another and I keep wondering exactly what season they are talking about. But there is no mistaking the longest day of the year, June 21st.

The summer solstice occurs exactly when the Earth's axial tilt is most inclined towards the sun. Although the summer solstice is an instant in time, the term is also colloquially used like Midsummer to refer to the day on which it occurs. Except in the polar regions (where daylight is continuous for many months during the spring and summer), the day on which the summer solstice occurs is the day of the year with the longest period of daylight. Thus the seasonal significance of the Summer solstice is in the reversal of the gradual shortening of nights and lengthening of days. The summer solstice occurs in June in the Northern Hemisphere and in December in the Southern Hemisphere.

This magical day has been celebrated since time began from Stonehenge on the Salisbury plain to Chaco Canyon in New Mexico.

It is also celebrated in literature, most notably in Shakespeare's "Midsummer Night's Dream".

So take a moment on June 21st and revel in the sun and know that the days will begin to grow shorter until the Autumnal Equinox when they will be equal and soon to begin to wane. A Celtic quarter day, as opposed to a cross-quarter day, is a direct barometer of what the future weather will hold.

Should you be so inclined, here is a short ceremony of celebration.

From the East comes the Spirit of the Air. Warm and gentle you carry the fragrance of the roses and other midsummer flowers. Hot and full of fury you usher in the storms. Welcome to our circle Spirit of Air.

From the South comes the Spirit of Fire: Seen in the lightening the forks across the summer sky. Seen in the power of the Sun King who now reaches his Zenith: Welcome to our circle Spirit of Fire:

From the West comes the spirit of Water: You nourish our crops, quench the thirst of the parched earth, and remind us of Aphrodite and Yameya Goddesses of the Sea. Welcome to our circle Spirit of Water.

From the North comes the spirit of the Earth: The mother of all of us in whose womb grows the seeds we have planted. You are the ship upon which we travel the universe. Welcome to our circle spirit of Earth.

At Midsummer, it is by wedding you, Mother Goddess, that the Sun King indeed becomes King. Mother Nature, you are at your finest for it is your most passionate and abundant time. Tonight your consort is at his Zenith of power and the lust you shared at Beltane becomes mature love and though the Oak King becomes the Holly King light will continue to rule until the Equinox.

We honor St. John the Baptist and the horned spirit of the forest, we ask protection from unfriendly spirits as we acknowledge and hope for a glimpse of the Tuatha De Danaan.

If we jump the fire will the crops grow up higher? We ask blessings on our land and the animals that abide here. Purify us and see to our health in body and soul.

It is a time of joy though we miss and grieve for our loved ones departed. Remember those who have gone before us and cradle them in your compassionate hand.

To the family and friends still with us on this plane we thank them for their strength, friendship, and encouragement. Tonight we forget the cold dark days of Winter, we are languid in the heat of the day and energized by the coolness of the evenings. Yet we remember that the fullness of Summer is transitory and we are thankful for what this season brings as the wheel of the years ever turns.

AFTER 40 YEARS, STILL TRYING TO SAVE THE DOLPHINS

2011-06-09T10:45:00.001-06:00

The cruelty human's can manifest breaks my heart. After fighting to save the whales and dolphins for nearly 40 years I am disheartened that Mankind cannot seem to leave these beautiful creatures to live in peace. Please take a moment to read about this latest injustice and vote to save them.

http://www.avaaz.org/en/saddest_dolphins/?vl

25 wild dolphins are facing a tormented life of captivity because Resorts World Sentosa wants a new attraction. But our global outcry can make the whole project a public relations disaster, and secure their freedom. Sign the petition to free the saddest dolphins, and fight the wild-captured dolphin trade:

The pod was swimming peacefully in Samoa when nets closed in from behind -- trapping 25 wild dolphins for a luxury resort's latest exhibit. They are now locked in tiny pens, starved of food -- but we can free them.

http://www.avaaz.org/en/saddest_dolphins/?cl=1107707882&v=9354

For wild dolphins captivity is torture, their powerful sonar bounces off the walls back at them -- as if they are trapped in an endless house of mirrors. Most die young from stress induced illness, but some even commit suicide. If the wealthy Resorts World Sentosa succeeds in keeping them captive then half the dolphins will die in the first 2 years -- and it will legitimise the widely banned practice of capturing dolphins in the wild. We can’t let that happen -- let's use our voices to set them free.

Resorts World was forced to abandon plans for a whale shark exhibit two years ago because of the huge outcry that threatened their reputation. Let’s build a massive call now to free these intelligent, beautiful creatures -- and make this a turning point in the fight to end the global wild-dolphin trade. When we reach 500,000 our petition will be delivered to Resorts World and the media. Sign now and forward this to everyone:

The appallingly cruel wild-dolphin industry has been banned in nations from the UK to Costa Rica. The terrifying capture process involves driving the dolphins to shallow water, where up to half drown or die of their injuries before they are even caught. If we force Resorts World to free these wild dolphins now it will send a powerful message to all other resorts, and help break the back of the capture industry. We can also give these dolphins a second chance in life -- renowned dolphin expert Ric O’Barry has offered to rehabilitate them back into the wild.

Resorts World argues that their “interactive spa program” will help heal sick and disabled children – but there is no scientific evidence to support this technique, which sees desperate parents pay thousands in pursuit of an imaginary cure. They also claim their programs aid conservation – but dolphin capture drives are also hunting expeditions. The “display-worthy” dolphins are spared, while the others are butchered. By ordering wild-caught dolphins, Resorts World is driving up demand for these barbaric hunts.

The trade of wild-captured dolphins must end. The world is moving slowly but surely in this direction, and our intervention could set a valuable precedent. Resorts World has buckled under pressure before, and it can’t afford another hit to its image. Let’s join our voices urgently to free the world’s saddest dolphins, and win a crucial battle in the fight to save all wild dolphins from short, miserable lives in captivity. Sign now and send this to family and friends:

Wild dolphins are incredibly playful, social and caring, as well as extremely intelligent -- they are utterly captivating creatures. In the world we all wish for, dolphins are not hunted, trapped and broken -- they are treated with the respect that all life deserves. Today, as we work for their freedom, we are taking a small but important step towards making that world a reality.

With hope,

Ricken, Ben, Morgan, Alice, Shibayan and the whole Avaaz team.

SOURCES

Wild caught dolphins for Resorts World Sentosa - SPCA says 'NO' to dolphins in captivity

http://www.spca.org.sg/captivedolphins.html

The International Dolphin Dealers

http://www.iridescent-publishing.com/rtm/ch4p1.htm

Save the Saddest Dolphins campaign by local Singaporean group

http://www.saddestdolphins.com/

Dolphin Therapy

http://mundoazul.org/habitats-species/whales-and-dolphins/freedom-for-dolphins/dolphin-therapy/

In Opposition to Dolphin Captivity

http://animal.discovery.com/tv/blood-dolphins/dolphins/opposition-dolphins-captivity.html

Dolphins in captivity may commit suicide

http://www.thescavenger.net/animals/dolphins-in-captivity-may-commit-suicide.html

Is it cool to see dolphins at the zoo?

http://www.inkokomo.com/dolphin/captivity.html

THIRD BOOK SIGNING GOES WELL!

2011-06-06T10:12:00.000-06:00

      Book signings are so exciting and a little nerve-wracking.

    I'm basically very shy and meeting people face to face and chatting doesn't come easily for me. Also it is ironically harder than one might think to come up with witty and personal one-liners to add along with one's name when signing. At least it is for me.

    I sold 6 books and having read somewhere that if you sell 8 books at a signing that's considered good, I felt fairly happy with the way things went. It was a very fun day, Gena Feldman the owner of INDIDO SKY TRADING CO. hosted the event. What a gracious and kind person she is. In her shop she sells a myriad of antiques and collectables. Also dragon and fearie statues. My wish list grows longer every time I step into her shop.

It seems to be a rather long and wearisome road to fame and fortune. Yes, fame and fortune. Does that sound avaricious, greedy, cocky or all three? Well I can think of a lot of good things I could do with more money. And as far as fame, well I might be shy but I guess I'm darn proud of my books and wouldn't mind a few accolades now and again. Here's an excerpt from The Dragon and The Rose......

THE DRAGON AND THE ROSE:

A very romantic medieval adventure

set during the last days of true magic.

He was the Dragon of Normandy. She was the Rose of Flanders. They met in the North of England and together they changed the course of hearts and history.

Sir Branoc Valtaigne, ordered to Northumbria By King William II, fights to keep peace along the Scottish border. He is a formidable battle-tested warrior, but as he honors his vows to God, king, and country, a young woman’s smile proves to be his undoing.

Martanzia Verheire, tricked into standing as good faith hostage for Flanders, seeks freedom from castle Bamburgh and love from Sir Branoc. As she clings to the Celtic dragon statue given to her by her mother, she leads them all to the brink of an era where true magic will be gone forever but where dreams can still come true.

Excerpt:

God above how he wanted to taste all the sweetness she offered.

But Martanzia was a young lady of breeding, and destined for a nunnery. Surely she did not know what heathen longings she kindled in his belly and what pagan thoughts she inspired in his mind.

They intertwined so perfectly, and although layers of fabric separated their bodies and true desires, the softness of her breasts was remarkably evident, and he remembered laying his hand upon her there. That mind altering experience had nearly been both their undoing.

Last night it had taken all of the resolve he possessed to keep from picking her up and

carrying her away to his room to satisfy her curiosity and his need.

At the recollection, the embers of need flamed anew and he transferred his weight to one leg trying to alleviate the hurtful pleasure that laid low his ability to think clearly. The maneuver drew Martanzia closer, transporting him to a new plateau of desire. She sighed and the tremulous sound reverberated against his mouth. Did Martanzia want him as much as he wanted her?

Yes. He could feel it in her touch. That bit of knowledge pleased him beyond measure, even as it brought him to his senses. He pried her arms loose from around his

neck, eased her away from his body, and held her at bay. There was a hunger in Martanzia’s eyes and a quickening of her breath and she leaned forward as if to recapture his mouth. Reluctantly he released his hold on her and took a step back.

“Would it disturb you overmuch,” she asked, “if I were not here to vex you and disrupt your camp?”

The question took him by surprise. “More than you might know, lady,” he admitted under his breath. “More than you might know.”

www.ginirifkin.com

http://ginirifkin.blogspot.com

PREPARE TO SIZZLE

2011-05-31T09:08:00.002-06:00

THE ROMANCE ROOM

is sponsoring a Sizzling Summer Reads contest.

Check out my book IRON HEART
and oh so many other hot offerings.

Over $5,000 prizes up for grabs!

Total of 8 pairs of tickets to RomCon 2011 to be won!!!

(each pair worth $490)

Sizzling Summer Reads (Romance)

From June 1 to 28, 2011

at http://www.theromancereviews.com

(Look for the Sizzling Summer Reads event button)

Play the games. Explore new books.

Chat with authors. Rack up your points!

CAN YOU UNLOCK THE PUZZLE?

Visit everyday to increase your chances to win awesome prizes!

PLANTING BY THE PHASES OF THE MOON

2011-05-15T12:10:00.002-06:00

Mourning doves are calling, the world is greening up. It almost looks like a wee bit of

Ireland. Don’t mind the dandelions they are nice and friendly compared to the

Canada and Goat-head thistles that menaced our other place.

I haven’t had a “lawn” for over 15 years and I don’t know when I’m suppose to mow it, water it, feed it etc. I keep peeking out the windows watching what the neighbors are doing. Their lawns look super. I’ll do what they do only a day later!

This year I’m going with container gardening, too tired to plant a “real” garden. And if the weather turns bad, I can hall all the containers onto the back porch rather than just stand there and watch them be washed away by rain or torn to shreds by hail. Here is a bit of information regarding planting by the phase of the moon.

New moon to full moon/Increasing Light

Examples of garden chores to do by the Light of the moon:

Repot and groom houseplants.

Sow seeds of plants that grow

above ground. Fertilize and graft fruit trees.

Plant evergreen and deciduous trees.

Full moon to dark of the moon/Decreasing Light

The decreasing or waning phases are when the moon "shrinks" from the full moon down to the new moon (darkness).

Plant bulbs

Plant crops that grow below the ground,

such as potatoes, carrots.

Plant biennials and perennials

because they need strong roots.

Eliminate slugs, Prune shrubs.

How is sowing, transplanting and harvesting linked to phases of the moon? One theory is that during the light (waxing) of the Moon, sap is thought to flow more strongly, filling plants with vitality and energy, favoring the planting and harvesting of crops that mature above the ground.

The decreasing or waning phases are when the moon "shrinks" from the full moon down to the new moon (darkness). As the moon wanes during the 3rd and 4th quarters, this is a good time to prune plants, as the water table is diminishing and so less sap will flow out of the cut ends. The plants are said to orient themselves toward their roots, making this a favorable time for planting, transplanting and harvesting root crops in general. The 4th quarter is the most dormant period and is good for chores like weeding.

Happy planting and may your labors now

reap many delicious rewards all summer long.

This blog in memory of Uncle Al and Aunt Linda. Aunt Linda always made me feel pretty and Uncle Al was a heck of a gardener, who did wage and win several terrtorial battles with the squirrels.

CHAMBER POTS: A peek behind the bathroom door.

2011-05-01T12:17:00.002-06:00

Ahh the good old days,

well maybe if you were part of the upper class.

As romantic as the Victorian era may sound, I have a feeling it was pretty rough in the trenches….especially the trenches running through town filled with the byproducts of the Industrial Revolution.

By the mid-1800s, the consequence of 3 million people crowded into London was flowering, mixing, and foaming merrily along. All sewers led to the Thames, pouring through bulkheads along the shores. (I always thought punting on the Thames sounded so nice, probably not.)

The abominable odors of the Fleet river, complained the monks of the White Friars, "have overcome the frankincense burnt at the altar". They claimed the fumes caused the deaths of several brethren. And for a number of sultry days in 1859, the Thames seethed, seeped, and nearly boiled under the burning sun of an unusually hot season. Parliament was suspended as window blinds saturated with lime chloride and other disinfectants failed to subdue the odor and revulsion. It was so revolting that one foreign newspaper bannered twin headlines to catch the calamities of the day: "India Is In Revolt, and The Thames Stinks."

The cess-pit which existed in London for many centuries, from medieval times onwards was a chamber in which sewage from each individual house was 'stored' until it was emptied. This dubious task was assigned to the 'night-soil men'. And nothing was sacred not even privy privacy. Saltpetre men extracted nitrates from excrement, so it could be used to make gunpowder. Saltpetre men also had a license from the king to enter into anyone's house at any time and remove the sewage-ridden earth from the cess-pit.

By 1858, George Jennings had popularized public lavatories. He first introduced the novelties by installing them in the Crystal Palace for the Great Exhibition of 1851; over 827,000 people paid to use the "necessary convenience."

Still the chamber pot, our topic of today, remained in demand for many years due to the fact that converting one’s home was expensive and on occasion not logistically sound. Chamber pots are known by a variety of names including: •Po •Pot •Pot de chambre •John •Jordan •Potty •Thunder pot •Thunder mug •Bourdalous

The chamber pots of the working class were usually made of copper, although later ones might be of crockery. The chamber pots for the rich and royalty were solid silver, the kings' very ornate and pretentious. James I had a portable "potty," which he used for traveling. During the 1500s, poor families would urinate in a pot and at the end of the day this urine would be sold at the local tannery to tan animal hides. Some families were so poor that they "didn't have a pot to piss in" thus the term.

Going even further back in history, injuries caused by the far-flung contents of the chamber pots, or "missiles of mirth" as one ancient Greek dramatist called them, persisted through the ages. Early Roman law included the Dejecti Effusive Act, which fined a person who threw or poured anything out of an open window and hit someone. The law awarded damages to the injured party. Strangely, the statute applied only during daytime hours. King Richard II followed suit with his writ of Statuto quo nut ject dung "A writ that no one is to dump dung."

Proper manners would prescribe warning unwary pedestrians that a shower was on its way. Thus the cry of "Garden l'eau" (pronounced Gardy-loo, and meaning "Watch out for the water!") would echo up and down the streets. Over time it evolved into English slang for the toilet or loo.

If you were a family of means, you had a chamber maid to empty the chamber pot. With some variation, the hierarchy of maids in large households ran thusly. Housekeeper, Lady’s Maid, House Maids divided into Parlour Maid, Chamber Maid, Laundry Maid, and servants.

The Chamber Maid was responsible for taking care of the 'chambers' in the home. Normally this meant the bedrooms and dressing rooms. They would make the beds, dust, clean up the clothes and floors. They would also take care of the 'facilities' such as chamber pots or bathrooms.

There are still occasions when chamber pots seem practical, envision a two story house with a main floor bathroom, primitive camping trips and long car rides.

Anyway, the next time you use your lovely nice smelling facility, gleaming with porcelain, chrome, and travertine tile, do offer a moment of gratitude for the advancements we’ve made.

For which modern day convenience or invention are you most thankful?

THE ORIGIN OF THE COMPASS ROSE

2011-04-25T12:05:00.001-06:00

The compass rose has appeared on maps since the 1300's when the portolan charts first made their appearance. These were charts frequently drawn on sheepskin which showed coastal features and ports. In earlier days, what could be used as a harbour encompassed more of the coastline than now. As ships were smaller back then they might need to seek refuge more often and some ships were intentionally beached for maintenance and repairs. Thus, nearly any protected bay or flat beach might be of interest to mariners, for safe harbour but also as coastal reconnaissance.

The straight lines criss-crossing many portolan charts represent the thirty-two directions (or headings) of the mariner's compass from a given point. This is similar to the compass rose displayed on later maps and charts. Unfortunately, portolan charts failed to take into account the curvature of the earth. Therefore, they were not helpful navigational tools in crossing the open ocean. But they were of use in close quarter identification of landmarks and were used for navigation in smaller bodies of water, such as the Mediterranean, Black, or Red Seas.

The term "rose" in compass rose is derived from the figure's compass points resembling the petals of the well-known flower. Originally, this device was used to indicate the directions of the winds (and it was then known as a wind rose), but the 32 points of the compass rose come from the directions of the eight major winds, the eight half-winds and the sixteen quarter-winds.

In the Middle Ages, the names of the winds were commonly known throughout the Mediterranean countries as Tramontana (N), Greco (NE), Levante (E), Siroco (SE), Otro (S), Libeccio (SW), Ponente (W), Maestro (NW).

On portolan charts you can see the initials of these winds labeled around the edge as T, G, L, S, O, L, P, and M. The 32 points are therefore simple bisections of the directions of the four winds.

For western apprentice seamen, one of the first things they had to know were the names of the points. Naming them all off perfectly was known as "boxing the compass".

There is no absolute standard for drafting a compass rose, and each school of cartographers seems to have developed their own style. In the earliest charts, north is indicated by a spearhead above the letter T for tramontana. (Tramontana or Tramontane can refer to Tramontane, a northern wind).

This symbol evolved into a fleur-de-lys around the time of Columbus and was first seen on Portuguese maps. Also in the 14th century, the L was found representing levante. (Viento de Levante is an easterly wind that blows in the western Mediterranean. Levant indicates the lands in the eastern Mediterranean, covering

Syria

Lebanon

Israel

, Palestine,

Jordan

Iraq

Seaon the east side of the rose was replaced with a cross, indicating the direction to Paradise long thought to be in the east, or at least to where Christ was born.

The colors on the figure are supposedly the result of the need for graphic clarity rather than a mere cartographical whim. On a rolling ship at night by the light of a flickering lamp, these figures had to be clearly visible. Therefore the eight principle points of the compass are usually shown on the compass rose in black which stands out easily. Against this background, the points representing the half-winds are typically colored in blue or green and since the quarter-wind points are the smallest, they are usually colored red.

Today, wind roses are used by meteorologists to depict wind frequencies from different directions at a location. The compass rose is used in global-positioning systems (GPS) and similar equipment and devices.

The compass rose is also seen in tile and inlay.

In flower arranging, embroidery, and woodworking.

And the more flamboyant renditions are favorites in the tattoo world.

Thanks to Bill Thoen for his invaluable article.

MY BLOG SUCKS

2011-04-14T10:00:00.007-06:00

At least it seems that way to me......

Everyone else’s blog seems so dang witty. I feel totally intimidated. I shouldn’t even have a blog let alone try posting to one. I go brain-dead when I think about it. But my dear editor, Amanda Barnett, whom I love and respect, said I gotta do it.

I’ve been at this house for 5 months now, so I can no longer claim moving insanity for my ineptitude in blogging or life in general. And I’m an author for goodness sake, but it takes me months and months (sometimes years) to write a book and then there are re-writes and hey the story isn’t about me so it is much more interesting and exciting.

We moved into this house on Halloween. An auspicious sign as it is my favorite holiday and there was also a full moon. FYI-when I say we, I mean me, a goose, two ducks, three goats, two donkeys, and three cats. Was I crazy to move in the winter in Colorado? Yes. The jury is already back on that one. It was a much smaller house, barely a patch of land (the old place had 73 acres this a little over 2) and NO BARN. But it all worked out because I have amazing friends and family.

I call this place Compass Rose. That’s the pretty element on a map that points N,W,S,E. My hope was it would mean we had finally found our way and we wouldn’t be moving any more. (please please no more moves, at least for a little while. Moving is soooo tramatic).

More on the history of the compass rose next time.

My first place was Ravenglass although the ravens never showed up. The second place was Dragon Song because it was out on the prairie in the middle of nowhere and when the wind doth blow, a moaning sound howled off the roof and down the chimney.

I felt defeated having to leave Dragon Song. I moved out there with true pioneer spirit and make it on my own grit and determination. I was master of my domain, going to get solar and wind power and get off the grid. Gonna be self-sufficient when the big one hit. Well one scrawny woman with a lawn mower met defeat in the face of nature and reality. Solar and wind power were very expensive and I realized I wouldn’t live long enough to get my money back on that type of investment. The driveway was a quarter mile long which didn’t seem such a big distance in the fall, then the snow came. I’m good at being snowbound, however, as long as there is enough feed for the animals and bourbon, chips, and chocolate for me.

Everyone worried about me being “out there” on my own. I never really thought about it much. I loved the peace and quiet and solitude and the view was exceptional. I could see the front range of the Rocky Mountains from Wyoming to Pike’s Peak. The weather was dastardly however. Wind, dust, 8 foot snow drifts, 100 degree heat with no tree in sight. I planted 40 trees—they should be tall enough to sit under in another 15 or 20 years. And then there was the rain, flood, and hail season. The barn always flooded in the summer and the hail ripped everything to shreds that dared to come up and defy the other brutal elements.

So we’re on a farmlette now. City living with a “really big” yard. The barn is up, praise be and I’m trying to grow accustomed to neighbors, neighbors’ dogs, kids, radios, leaf-blowers, cars, and kindness. Yes these are the nicest bunch of folks one could have as neighbors. I know I could count on any number of them in an emergency. And the Walmart and hospital are much closer. Life is a trade-off on so many levels.

Bye for now from the eccentric author woman with the goats and donkeys. Wish I could afford a classic 1930’s car to tool around in. With the proper hat, the image would be complete.

NEW AGE OR AGELESS?

2011-04-05T12:16:00.003-06:00

As we spend our days walking on concrete in the shadow of towering buildings, with the nearest tree in a park or state forest, it’s easy to forget we are spinning through the universe on the Good Ship Earth. Easy to forget to watch the moon as she dances across the sky to a rhythm that existed before the first man. Easy to disregard the stars as they play out the fables and stories written in the constellations.

Take a moment in the month of April and dare to set free the primordial instincts locked deep inside of you. Look up. There is a new moon in Aries, a full moon in Libra, Passover, Easter, and Earth day. In other words, April offers something for everyone.

It’s the season for spring cleaning. De-clutter the house, your mind, your intentions. A time for new beginnings, wow a cosmic “do over” how often do you get a chance at that? Oh no, does this sound like New Age mumbo jumbo. Really? Other than Earth Day there’s nothing new about any of this information. It’s not new age it’s ageless.

The days are longer since Ostera, the Vernal Equinox, the nights a little warmer. On the 18^th, bundle up and seek thee the full moon. I’ll be gazing at it too and thinking of you.

We are Nature, long have we been absent, but now we return.

Walt Whitman

Oh--what will my new beginning be? I’m going to get a radical haircut. New house, new blog, new book, new me….. Of course, this might lead to getting a blow dryer and some of those mysterious hair-care products I’ve always tried to avoid. Wonder if the donkeys and goats will still recognize me?

With love and gratitude,
Gini

P.S. Feb 1865 is the only month in recorded history without a full moon.

LOVE MAKES THE WORLD GO `ROUND

2011-03-30T09:29:00.001-06:00

Love makes the world go `round. All you need is love.
Love is a many splendored thing.

If we are lucky, from the first breath we take to the last breath relinquished, love surrounds us. But Love is an elusive emotion. It comes in many shapes and sizes, different colors, and morphs depending on viewpoint and experience. And with age, it definitely becomes a cherished commodity. It is by far the most powerful emotion in the multiverse, it is immortalized by poets, capitalized upon by card companies, jeered at by some, sold on street corners, and secretly longed for by all.

But as we were never promised a rose garden, not everyone gets an equal share of love. Maybe only a lovin’ spoonful rather than an ocean of love. It’s not fair, it hurts to feel unloved.

In a recent quantum physics class, I was told we create our own reality—pretty big responsibility—and what we put out into the world is what we attract. In other words, the Beatle’s were correct, in the end, the love you take equal to the love you make. Better get out there and make some love! Slow down, I don’t necessarily mean physically. You can love a person, an animal, a tree, even a rock. If you hold to the secular concept that we are created from stardust our connection to the universe is unquestionable.

So, do you feel a bit short on love today, this week, this year? I’m sorry. If you’d like to borrow some for a little while, my stories are jam packed with romance and they always end happily. Not necessarily a reflection of real life, but what we strive to make it and what it can be at least for a little while. You’re never alone with a good book at your side. Please visit www.ginirifkin.com for book titles, reviews, and excerpts.

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Well, that was my first ever post on my first ever blog and for some reason I feel like Carrie Bradshaw spewing out theories, thoughts and feelings. Putting it out there and wondering if anyone will even read this. Hope so.

With gratitude for so many things, especially love.

Gini