Winter wandering.

Today, here on the Pacific Coast, the mostly clear icy-blue sky is visible in all directions. The weak sun is reflecting on the gently rippling Grand Canal, only interrupted by the occasional diving duck. It looks like winter - it feels like winter, but 

"calendars across the Northern Hemisphere say winter will begin on Dec. 21, but for meteorologists, the start of the season happens three weeks earlier on Dec. 1. The reason behind the discrepancy is that weather experts follow what’s called meteorological seasons, while others use the astronomical calendar to signify the change. Meteorologists and climatologists break down the seasons based on when temperatures typically change, not the status of Earth’s rotation." (source) 

Well, the trails are mucky and my freezing fingers fumble trying to find a box under that infamous 'duff,' which around here consists of slimy leaves, sopping moss, and dirt. Ah, the joys of winter boxing in the PNW! Actually, I haven't traditionally boxed for a bit (not counting the sporadic planting), but have been doing more holiday-themed projects.

I decided, at the last minute, to jump into this year's Sock Swap (thanks Damselfly for hosting!) and it was a joy to send fun socks to a long-time boxer from the East Coast I recently had the pleasure of meeting - Sherlock Miles. Since we both attended the amazing Harry Potter-themed Never Tickle a Sleeping Dragon event, hosted by Music Chick, I knew my choice of HP socks would be perfect! I set out to carve a couple of stamps to embellish my humble gift.

this was the transfer - yes, I am still in LOVE
with the laser ink-acetone transfer method!

aren't those socks perfect for the swap?

Another project that involved some running around was my part in the office's annual Secret Santa gift exchange. Honestly, I am kind of a 'ba-humbug' type, but it has been fun to put this together. Come to think of it - I am not sure I have ever done a Secret Santa thing before! I included candy, popcorn, an ornament, more candy, a candle, therapy dough and aromatic mist, a restaurant gift card, a Zox wristband, a coffee gift card, and a Squishmellow (not shown). Cuz, who doesn't need a Squishmellow? The one I added is a chocolate bar - so fun! My person is a Mobile Crisis Team angel and deserves to feel special - I do hope she feels the love :)

oops ... I think I exceeded the spending recommendation :(

yep, I even dug out the two holiday-themed
stamps from my stash for the tag

And finally, last weekend Obimaster and I ran away to the Oregon Coast - my favorite escape from reality. I'll drop a few pics of our rainy weekend. It was absolutely delightful; I filled my self-care 'cup' with moments of calm, gratitude, companionship, and peace. But, alas, no finding of hidden treasures. We did manage to plant one though, which is good.

our upgraded peek-a-boo view - thanks, Best Western!

Camp 18 is an old logging camp turned 
touristy restaurant constructed with some of the biggest
timbers you have ever seen in a building

they serve a decent breakfast ... and this
little guy thinks so, too

We ambled through the shops in Cannon Beach, and
I couldn't resist a snap of these glorious colors

me 'n my love - I am not sure if the masks were
more protective of the plague or the cold!

gosh, the water was so high at Cannon -
don't think I have seen it that high before

the roundabout at Seaside in winter dusk is simply magical

on the Prom

sometimes I manage the perfect snap :)

here we are sans masks
(dang reflections!)

Seaside was so moody - so good for the soul

So, how's that for a meandering winter wander? From carving to shopping, to escaping for the weekend ... I sure hope you are making the most of your winter wanderings, as well. 

Wishing you the happiest of holiday seasons 

from the Pacific Northwest!

Fresh ink.

As the end of my master's program looms, I am planning on some fresh ink. I have decided on this unlikely image:

carved in Firm Kut, the larger is 1.5", the smaller 1"
I carved the first, then decided I wanted it smaller.

The dragon is a highly nuanced symbol as it combines the serpent and the bird, which in isolation each carry their own symbolism. Together, the dragon is a powerful, mythical creature dating back to antiquity. 

Although the dragons of the East and the West have quite similar physical characteristics, their symbolic representations are drastically different and, in a way, indicate the cultural differences between these civilizations. The most notable difference between the Asian and European dragons is that while the European folklore has portrayed the dragons as evil, fearsome and malevolent creatures, the Asian cultures regard them as benevolent beings. (https://www.ancient-symbols.com/dragon-symbolism.html)

I have always been fascinated with dragons, and love the portrayals of dragons in films like Shrek and How to Train Your Dragon, and even those dragon-like creatures in Avatar. Come to find out (from a friend who is a Reiki master and knows about such things), my Chinese zodiac is a dragon. And, even more interesting was, while playing in the Wizarding World, I discovered my patronus is (would be?) a dragon. If you are unfamiliar, (which I suppose most are not), a patronus is a type of 'anti-dementor' guardian. Dementors are symbolic of soul-sucking depression, and frankly, who isn't tormented by soul-sucking depression now and then, especially these days. All that to say - dragons keep showing up in my life.

Back when I finished my mindfulness studies program at the start of the pandemic, graduation festivities were summarily cancelled. So, I marked the accomplishment with a mindfulness symbol tattoo.

As everything started locking-down, I quickly determined that I could make the best of it by taking another master's program. It sure has kept me occupied, without a doubt. But, my graduation for this degree will again come and go without fanfare. I have chosen the dragon to represent this challenging psych program, but also as a way to acknowledge these past years of (political, societal, and climate) chaos. Just like the semi-colon on my wrist, a dragon symbolizes resilience through difficult circumstances. I am still here and moving forward. 

the Breathe symbol,
carved in Firm Kut, .5" x 1.5"

Another symbol I really resonate with is the 'breathe' symbol, which incorporates the 'om,' described as the universal vibration. It seems, to me anyway, that human spirituality and science are merging - but in reality, they have always been intertwined. This symbol embodies both the scientific and spiritual concept that all things, including human breath, have a unique vibration, and they come together to create the sound 'om.' The inventor and scientist Nikola Tesla once said "If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency, and vibration." 

I haven't added the Breathe symbol in permanent ink ... yet. So many of us have tattoos - have you carved yours? Seems like they might make pretty good sig-stamps :)

A little late to the party, as usual.

 As I have aged, I have reformed my tendency to be late. Well, not that I ever wanted to be late, it just naturally happened due to a myriad of things, all of which culminated in 10-15 minutes late anywhere. When I was in my twenties, I even told a prospective employer that I was a hard worker, and would willingly stay late, but was habitually 15 minutes late. I got the job, by the way. As I have gotten older, I have reformed my ways. Now I aim for exactly on time. It usually happens.

But not so with cultural phenomenon. I guess I am a bit of a skeptic and hold off, watching the hype swirl around me. Fashion is a good example of this, as is hair styles. Cell phones was another; my then-husband welcomed me to the 21st century when I finally gave in. And with letterboxing, it took me a good year or so to give it a try after hearing about it. Then, wouldn't you know, I took it on far more than the ones encouraging me! And that is just the thing - I tend to be an all or nothing. (Awareness is a good thing, right?) Once I am interested, I fully immerse in the experience.

Star Wars is a good example. Although I saw the initial movie back in '77 when it came to my town, I wasn't quick to jump into fandom. Well, to be fair, I was only 13 and was flat broke. But I definitely was in line for the second film to hit theaters... and the third. And then it was over. I all but forgot about the saga until Episode 1. But after that film, I became a full-on, costuming fan girl. No lie. All or nothing. 

Some of the Star Wars stamps I have carved over the years
 (actual size 8.5" x 11"); I have a whole drawer full!

But frankly, and I say this with the greatest of lament, Star Wars has lost some of its luster. Oh, not the original canon of nine films, including a tenth (Rogue One). I love all of them. They all hold a special place in my life and heart. Always will. But the newer streaming shows? After a couple of the Mandalorian episodes, I took a pass - reluctantly at first, but now a definite hard pass. Same with Book of Boba Fett. I can't explain it; the shows just don't spark my imagination. I am not personally hurt - I simply think I, and those like me, were not the fans they were appealing to. 

But during the holiday break, perhaps a bit before, I had the curious thought to watch Harry Potter (of all things). Just out of the blue, really. I have not ever been engaged in any of the films, and had side-stepped the books and all the excitement. I had watched the first movie about five years ago or so, but even then it didn't strike me. Samsonite has read the books and watched some (if not all) of the movies, but she didn't seem all that excited. But now, it seemed I was ready. 

After watching the fourth movie - we are watching one each evening to culminate with the 20th anniversary reunion show - I am absolutely fascinated and hooked. With my imagination fully sparked, I am a little late to the party. Twenty years late! 

And you must know that carving has commenced. Starting with a request of a fellow 'boxer, I will be carving various stamps to play with, including our houses (yes, we have been 'officially' sorted), and collecting some pieces of essential accessories (I do love a good scarf!). Alongside a desire to dust off my Latin, there have been surprises along the way, such as which house each of our family members got sorted to, and the fun of thinking about our patronuses (is that a plural? or is it patroni?). After watching all the movies (in order, of course), I have set an intention to read the books, and watch the Fantastic Beasts movies, as well.* 

As one who studies psych, it all fascinates me to no end. Of course, the house-sorting is linked to personality 'types' of the Big 5. But there is so much more for my imagination to chew on. And that is what I needed - what we all need, perhaps: Something to think about other than the regrettable drama and hardship of current events. I am long overdue for some harmless, imaginative, immersive fun. How about you?

Platform number is an inchie, while Harry is 1.5"
carved on Tan-Z

*Yes, I am aware of the horrific, transphobic opinions of J.K. Rowling. So unfortunate. I do not support her bias and think she has made a huge mistake, first in forming a bigoted opinion, and second by spewing hateful, hurtful, and harmful things disguised as support of feminism. So shortsighted and lacking in wisdom and compassion-empathy. I am ignoring her, for the most part, to enjoy this wonderful thing she, the actors, and film-makers have created. I empathize with all the long-time fans who have agonized over this ethical dilemma and have had to choose between the object of their beloved fandom and respect/admiration of its creator. But, I want to be clear: I fully support, and am an ally, of any and all who identify as trans, as well as all in the LBTGQ community, either in or out. I completely disagree with the transphobic comments and opinions of Rowling.