Feb 11, 2014 | Adventures of Rear-Mirror Rissy, Health and Wellness |
Make a Castor oil pack with: Castor oil, flannel fabric, & Pure Herbs “5 Oils” – saturate cloth with castor oil mixed with about 4 drops of the “5 Oils”, place on chest, put a piece of plastic between the pack and your clothing; let sit on chest while resting, napping or at bedtime
With a relentless cough that was into it’s third week, I suspected that I may have had Bronchitis, but when the doctor said I had Pneumonia, it was hard to believe!… (Me, Clarissa Rizal has pneumonia!? How is that possible!?) He prescribed antibiotics of course and when I asked him what the side effects were, he hesitated for a moment and replied: “…nausea, vomiting, headaches, intestinal disorder…” to which I said to myself, “okay, no problem, I can take supplements that would counterbalance those disorders.” —- Ha! After reading the clinic’s handout on the side effects of the antibiotic for Pneumonia; NOT!
One of the best remedies when catching the flu virus symptoms or any time you have any flu-like symptoms: the homeopathic remedy Oscillococcinum — most health food stores carry them — and even Fred Meyers has it!
I was about to take the antibiotic, when I decided to read the four-page document on the antibiotic BEFORE! Good thing I did; it was quite the eye-opener and educational experience. This is what I discovered:
My cough began during the 2nd week of the flu (mid-January); up until two days ago I had been taking cough drops and cough medicines to get rid of the cough to no avail – after three weeks of coughing, the intensity peaked over a week ago. So this being said, a pneumonia that sets in during the course of the flu virus is a viral pneumonia as opposed to the bacterial pneumonia. I have the viral pneumonia. Hello!?!?!
The Levofloxacin antibotic prescribed to me would not help rid me of the virus because (according to the clinic’s handout they gave me): “…an antibiotic is for a bacterial infection, not a viral infection. Pneumonia caused by the flu virus may be treated with an antiviral medicine and most other viral infections must run their course – viral infections will not respond to antibiotics.”
These herbs were recommended for my personal immune system support – from Pure Herbs, Ltd. A half dropper-full of each in 4 oz of water once/day first thing in morning, though because of the acute condition of Pneumonia, I added another dose just before bedtime. Click here for Pure Herbs website
Okay, we got that straight: the antibiotics the doc prescribed me will not work because I have the viral pneumonia as opposed to the bacteria pneumonia. So back to the side effects the doc mentioned. Well…according to the three-page hand-out the clinic provided for me about the antibiotic, here is the comprehensive list of the ADDITIONAL, real side effects, and mind you I quote this info right off their hand-out sheet:
These herbs were recommended for me to strengthen my heart, brain and immune system – A half dropper-full of each in 4 oz of water once/day first thing in morning, though because of the acute condition of Pneumonia, I added another dose just before bedtime
“Levoflaxacin, a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, can cause serious side effects. Some of these serious side effects could result in death. If you have any of the following serious side effects while you take Levofloxacin, get medical help right away…”
“If you have any of the following symptoms of a severe allergic reaction:
- hives
- trouble breathing or swallowing
- swelling of the lips, tongue, face
- throat tightness, hoarseness
- rapid heartbeat
- faint
- skin rash”
Now hold on, this list is just the beginning,….there’s a whole lot more….
Natural antibiotics and immune support: Mullein and Goldenseal tinctures, Echinacea capsules and Elderberry syrup – A half dropper-full of the two tinctures in 4 oz of water once/day first thing in morning, directly before lunch and because of the acute condition of Pneumonia, I added another dose just before bedtime – One capsule of the Echinacea taken at the same time, and directly afterwards a teaspoon of the Elderberry Syrup — NOTE: Golden Seal and Echinacea should only be taken for brief episodes of not more than a week on Golden Seal and not more than two weeks on Echinacea. If you anything different, then follow that rule.
“Other severe responses include:
- Tendon rupture or swelling of the the tendon (tendinitis)
- Worsening of myasthenia gravis ( a problem that causes muscle weakness)
- Liver damage damage (hepatotoxicity)
- Central Nervous System Effects (Seizures, hear voices, hallucinations, paranoia, suicidal, headache with blurred vision)
- Intestine infection (Pseudomembranous colitis)
- Changes in sensation and possible nerve damage (Peripheral Neuropathy) – The nerve damage may be permanent in arms, hands, legs or feet
- Serious heart rhythm changes (QT prolongation and torsades de pointes)…may cause an abnormal heartbeat and can be very dangerous.
- Joint Problems
- Changes in Blood sugar
- Sensitivity to Light”
Do you think I want to take any chances in attracting any or all of these (possibly permanent) conditions? Heck no! (Pardon my French!)
ceramic Netipot and Netipot salt – The cleansing of the sinuses via the Netipot is an East Indian tradition. During the period I had my Pneumonia, I also had a sinus infection which also affected my ears (a normal connection). I performed the cleansing of my sinuses twice daily first thing in the morning and because of the acute condition of Pneumonia, I added another Netipot session directly after dinner
SO WHAT DID I LEARN IN THIS DOCTOR’S VISIT?
- I was diagnosed with pneumonia; good, now I can remedy the situation accordingly
- ALWAYS READ THE FINE PRINT!!!
So with the assistance of my kids and a couple of my friends, who had researched healing Pneumonia naturally, I compiled a few remedies and my rigorous regime that I share with you here in these photos. Remember, this is the regime I created for myself. You can copy exactly what I did, or you can modify to your desire; it’s up to you. Use your intuition and common sense. Keep tabs on your recovery. Little by little, depending on your recovery time, you will decide which remedy you will decrease and/or cease.
In the olden days way before the use of pharmaceuticals, we knew how to remedy ourselves of illnesses. Some day we are going to go back to those ways. It’s always good to know a little bit about natural ways of healing for the preservation of this knowledge for future generations.
OH, and one more thing: Did you know pneumonia is highly contagious? Be mindful; be full of care.
Supplements: 1000mg vitamin C, L-lysine, Probiotics, Vitamin B Food Complex taken during meals. The Vitamin C and Vitamin B Food Complex I’ve taken once a day for many years. I take L-Lysine whenever I think cankersores or a cold sore is about to spring up on my lip, and the Probiotic I have taken once in a blue moon if I’ve got intestinal stuff going on —- In this acute case of Pneumonia, I upped the daily dosages to: 5 capsules of 1000mg of Vitamin C (or “bowel tolerance” amount), 2 L-Lysine, 6 capsules of Probiotics, and the regular dose of 1 Vitamin B tablet.
The first day of this regime was quite the day. I spent four consecutive hours doing nothing else but taking remedies, making and eating meals, resting with the castor oil pack, making and drinking the concoctions and cooking and eating the potassium broth; then, I did the main part of the cycle all over twice again, once in the afternoon and once again at night — this rigorous regime took a total of 12 hours! hello! By the time 10pm rolled around, I was whooped! So I devised a method to be more efficient…
A roomy pillbox to be used as a 7-day container OR to hold your variety of supplements —
Organization is the name of my game to be keep my efficiency strong because I am a very goal-oriented person; my daily activities and projects are numerous (even though I don’t get anything done when I am not well, BUT my mind is still racing with what I WANT to get done! haha!)
I devised a couple of methods to keep track of my efforts to heal self AND to be more efficient so I had time to rest! I used two tools: above is the pillbox with the specific number of daily supplements I took, and below is a chart that I referred to many times to keep me on track.
To assist you in keeping track of what remedy you took when, create a chart. — With more than 20 remedies to take either before, during or after meals, this was the only way I could remember! (and besides that, like I said, I like being organized!) — I labeled the days of the week on the left of the columns and the name of the remedy at the top with the amounts per day (as shown)…this chart is one half of two pages of remedies!
What is your diet? With any type of respiratory ailment, and at least while you are healing your self, stay away from mucous-causing foods such as all dairy products: All! There are no exceptions. No corn. And for those of you who have a difficult time eliminating sugar and wheat, just remember, the length of time is only during the time you are trying to heal. Once you are well and feeling 100% better, go ahead and get back to your “normal” diet.
Baked Garlic — Yum!!! Directly after the doctor’s diagnosis, I baked a week’s worth of garlic — meaning: I ate one entire bulb of garlic per day in one sitting! That’s equal to 15-20 cloves of garlic. If you have a weak stomach, maybe 3 or 4 cloves from the bulb would be safe for you; intake all depends on you and your body. Warning: You will smell like roasted garlic, but hey, do you want to heal yourself naturally or suffer!? — To Bake Garlic: Place whatever number of garlic bulbs you want to cook on a cookie sheet and place in preheated 350 degree oven for 35-45 minutes. It’s that simple! — Immediately after I ate that first bulb of garlic, my grogginess and headache disappeared! Wow, now THAT is a remedy!!!
The following are invigorating, healthy, supportive, non-invasive, no-side-effect-drinks that will help revive your spirit, mind and body. Drink at least once cup per day.
Boil about 1 tsp. fresh grated ginger in 2 qts. water for about 15 minutes, strain and drink a cup once a day – can add honey but I prefer the enjoyment of its strong, simple taste (must be the Asian in me!) — great for circulation and warmth
I forgot to photograph my “potassium broth” before I finished it off last night (oh well, it looks like chicken stew without the chicken!). Potassium helps heal the lining of your lungs. If you have any heart conditions, do not take this broth! The potassium broth can be juiced raw or you may steam the veggies and eat the entire “soup.” Here’s the recipe for one serving of raw, juiced broth:
* 4 cloves garlic * 2 radishes * 2 big carrots * 2 stalks celery * a couple of pinches of parsley * water
I didn’t want mine raw. Luckily we have the option to steam a version and create a potassium soup using a lot more than the ingredients above. My recipe was something like this:
1 bulb baked garlic, peeled and chopped, then wash and chop the following: *8 carrots * 6 stalks celery * 2 zuchinni * 1 bunch radishes — place all in pot and cook in 3 quarts of water — after veggies are soft, then add a big handful of chopped parsley —- chow down as much as you can stand; it’s a wonderful soup to aid lousy-feeling lungs! This pot was enough for 4 large servings! I had one serving per day for 4 days!
1 TBSP Bragg’s organic Apple Cider Vinegar in 8 oz. glass water two to three times per day before, during or after meals – helps detoxify system as you strengthen and maintain your immune system — I cannot say enough about this all-time remedy maintain the general health of an individual, animal or human!
You will figure out your own regime depending upon what remedies you decide to take. Like I said, I did this entire regime. The first day, I didn’t know what the heck I was doing so I didn’t have the “schedule” down pat. After the first couple of days, I figured out a more efficient method based on what I had to take, before, during, or after meals. Here’s my schedule broken up into morning, noon and night:
MORNING upon rising in this order: * heat water for lemon water drink * brush teeth * drink 1 glass water * drink 1st set of herbs in 4 ozs. water * netipot (allows first herbs to pass through system 15 minutes, before taking second set) * drink 2nd set of herbs in 4 ozs. water * place two drops of “5 Oils” onto back of neck * wash up/get dressed * drink 2nd glass water * take Echinacea/goldenseal/mullein tinctures in 4 ozs. water followed with 1 tsp. Elderberry syrup * make breakfast and eat * make lemon/honey drink and take supplements of Vitamin B, Vit C, Probiotics and Biosil directly after breakfast * brush teeth * drink 3rd glass water * fill humidifier, place on high or low
Drink two 8 oz servings, one in late morning and late afternoon of this wonderful, soothing, zesty concoction to ease sore throat & up your Vitamin C intake: Pour hot boiled water in a mixture of 1/2 Lemon juiced into mug, add 1 to 2 tsp. Honey — Stir and enjoy!
AFTERNOON in this order: * drink 4th glass water * take Echinacea/goldenseal/mullein tinctures in 4 ozs. water followed with Elderberry syrup * netipot (allows herbs to pass through system 15 minutes, before eating) * make lunch and eat * Eat one bulb of garlic (15-20 cloves in one bulb) * make lemon/honey drink and take supplements of Vit C, Probiotics and Biosil directly after lunch * brush teeth * drink ginger drink * place castor oil pack on chest, lay down and rest
Drink at least 6 to 8 cups of pure, clean water per day – Yes, that’s on top of all the other liquid concoctions during the healing of Pneumonia! — It’s extra special and easier to drink the water if it’s in a hand-blown glass like this one! If it’s hard for you to drink water, having a special glass helps ease the chore!
EVENING in this order: * drink 6th glass water * drink 1st set of herbs in 4 ozs. water * make dinner * take Echinacea/goldenseal/mullein tinctures in 4 ozs. water followed with 1 tsp. Elderberry syrup * Eat dinner * make lemon/honey drink and take supplements of Vitamin B, Vit C, Probiotics and Biosil directly after dinner * netipot (allows first herbs to pass through system 15 minutes, before taking second set) * drink 2nd set of herbs in 4 ozs. water * place two drops of “5 Oils” onto back of neck * wash up/get dressed for bed * drink 2nd glass water * brush teeth * fill humidifier, place on high or low * castor oil pack on chest
During the course of the day, in between meals, you may take extra Vitamin C as much as your bowels can stand (it’s called “bowel tolerance”- like how much Vitamin C can your body stand before your stools become diarrhea? As soon as that happens, you know that that is how much vitamin C your body can have, so keep track of your amounts). Mine can stand 5 capsules of 1000mg of Vitamin C.
You can also include other teas and drinks like “Throat Coat” and “Breathe Easy”, orange juice, apple/cranberry juice, etc. Remember these drinks do not count as your water intake. Water is very different than drinks, teas, etc.
A humidifier is a must when healing any respiratory dis-ease! The moisture will help break up the mucous in your lungs. I filled this humidifier twice a day, first thing at sunrise and last thing after sunset. If you’d like, you may add a couple drops of eucalyptus or peppermint oil to the water.
Make sure your spittoon is available to you the entire night through. You want to relieve your body of that mucous. I have noticed that most of my big coughing spells were at 2 am and 4 am I also noticed that I coughed more laying down than when I was upright. I kept my spittoon close at hand all day long too!
If you don’t have a fancy spittoon, create one from a brown paper bag. To keep the bag open, fold the top edge of the bag down. Place in plastic bag. After you’ve discarded your used Kleenex into the spittoon, this creates a buffer barrier to catch any spit and mucous, therefore eliminating the use of Kleenex thereafter. A spittoon accommodates to the amount of mucous your body will be expelling during this healing process.
Rest. I cannot say this enough. Rest. I am not good at this, but maybe you are. There are only a couple of things that can keep me in bed; reading books is one of them. I read more books in the past couple of weeks than the past 10 years. It was all good.
Play soothing classical music like Traichovsky’s “Nutcracker Suite.”
Okay, there you have it! A natural method of healing Pneumonia! If you or anyone else you know has Pneumonia, you may try any and/or all these remedies! I suggest you do research on line for more natural remedies.
I’ve been on this regime for 9 days. As of this day, February 11th, I am 90% better. I am cutting back on the dosages of the herbs, Echinacea, Elderberry, Goldenseal and Mullein. I am beginning to take only 3 capsules each of Vitamin C and Probiotics. I have quit doing the Netipot; my sinuses are back to normal. Though I continue making sure that no matter what I have at least 5 to 6 cups of good water a day! I plan on continuing an extension of this regime for another week just to make sure I am in the clear.
I am a testament to healing my body naturally instead of taking the risk of using antibiotics that would not have cured me anyway because like I said, antibiotics work on a bacterial infection not the viral infection that I have.
Today is really my very first full day to work; it’s great to be back!
While detoxing your pneumonia, coughing up balls of mucous is “normal.” To help keep your teeth, gums and the rest of your digestive track healthy, brush your teeth at least three times a day — who knows what’s in that mucous! — Let’s avoid finding out!
Spiritual folks say that attracting pneumonia is a reflection of the person experiencing deep grief and/or a death wish. This couldn’t be more true for me. This past Winter since end of November 2013, I have been grieving the loss of my parents. Although my father passed 5 years ago this past December and my mother passed 3 years ago this July, in those years I was experiencing a lot of other major losses and adjusting to all the changes all at once. This past year has been the first year in 7 years that I am just beginning to feel a bit settled down and I guess the grieving of my parents was delayed until this past Winter.
During this bout with Pneumonia, I realized at one point that I was grieving my parents because over the past three months, anytime anyone brought up the subject of their parents (who were still alive), I would cry silently. I longed to talk to my parents. I wanted to share the joy of their great-grandchildren (my grandchildren) together. I wanted to see them having fun with my kids being parents. I wanted my grand-children to get to know their great-grandparents and be old enough to remember them when they passed. During my illness, there were many times I cried deeply as I remembered my parents. Now, as I am closing in on healing myself of this illness that has plagued me intensely for the past three weeks, I know I am almost done with coughing up all the “grief” out of my lungs. Letting go.
Sigh…We live and learn.
William and Irene Lampe walk the path along Twin Lakes enjoying the daisies – Juneau, Alaska – July 2007 — One day many years ago, before going out the door to walk the dog, Irene grabbed some of William’s packets of daisy seeds – she spread the seeds along the Twin Lakes path. The daisies grew, spread their seeds and now many years later thanks be to Irene, we have big patches of daisies between the lakes and the old highway!
Good-bye Mom and Dad. I sure miss you; I sure love you!
Feb 5, 2014 | For Crying Out Loud, Honoring Others, Relationship Overdrive |
Buddy Tabor – Castle Valley, Moab, Utah – 2006 – I imagine that if he saw this particular photo, he may have used it for an album cover
I don’t think Buddy saw any of these photos I took of him. I think this series of photos in this blog entry he would have enjoyed seeing. It’s been two years since his passing on February 5, 2012. This blog entry is in honorable memory of him.
Buddy with friends Connie and Phil – 2006
Every year in the Falltime he would make his annual visit. He always encouraged us to take a weekend trip somewhere in the Southwest. One year he rented a real jeep and we went into Canyonlands National Park just south of Moab, Utah. Gawd, what an adventure! Something I had never done before or since! The photos here in the Southwest were taken in Castle Valley, near Moab, Utah.
Buddy Tabor Running Rocks – Utah – 2006 – this could have been an album cover too
There are many of us across this continent who miss Buddy. An unforgettable singer-songwriter gone with a blinding flash of light!
Buddy Tabor – 2006
Buddy Tabor with my lovebird, Kiwi – 2005 – though I’d like to think that this photo and the next could have been album covers too!
Buddy Tabor Bear – 2005 – this could have been an album cover for his 2nd children’s album!
Feb 4, 2014 | Adventures of Rear-Mirror Rissy, Honoring Others, Relationship Overdrive |
Clarissa’s four grandchildren, Bette, Louis Violet and Amelie – with another on its way due at end of July 2014
When we are young, we don’t think about the things middle-agedness and old-age may bring us. We are thinking about getting through the day-by-day stuff and we may plan a little bit into the future maybe 5 years down the road. The thoughts about preparing for being middle-aged and old-aged are the farthest things from our minds let alone taking action to prepare for it. That’s like doing everything you can now to prepare for having the perfect experiences in having a baby and raising that kid! uh-huh. Live is an ever-changing, ever-learning experience as we grow up, plateau and then “grow-down.” We learn as we go.
I thought that possibly I would have grandchildren but I really didn’t know what that would look like, nor did I know how I would feel once these kids came into being. With the addition of these young souls in my life, I’m doing things right now to help provide me with the feeling that I have the time to truly be with my kids. I say “feeling” because much of the time, when I am with them, I might be there in person, but because I am a full-time artist and the income I make is entirely from my art business, I’m always thinking of my work. (And all of you who have been a full-time, self-employed artist know exactly what I am talking about—-we do not have the luxury of leaving the office and the rest of the night or weekend is free—-that’s because we ARE the office and we carry our business mind-set wherever we go!).
So for me to FEEL the freedom of truly hanging out with my grandchildren, I’ve got to know that every month my bills will be paid. That is hard to do with sporadic income. So I am making attempts to diversify my income. Diversification doesn’t mean that I will quit doing art for income; it means that I am adding other ways to make income.
Like I said, I am making additions to my life so that I can feel the freedom of truly being with the greatest of all my additions: my grandchildren!
Feb 3, 2014 | Adventures of Rear-Mirror Rissy, Tlingit Culture Accentuated |
“Diving Whale Lovebirds” Chilkat dance robe by Clarissa Rizal – on the ferry (Alaska Marine Highway) to Skagway, Alaska – June 2013
Here’s a link recently posted January 27th on U-tube to a brief video clip created by the Penn Museum in Philadelphia:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tx1uvgmXP48
Postindian Warriors: Creating a New Consciousness in Native America highlights the influential work of Anishinaabe writer and activist, Gerald Vizenor. Vizenor’s expressions of “survivance” and “Postindian” reject Native American histories of absence and domination, and focus instead on the active presence of Native America today. Tlingit artists Nicholas Galanin and Clarissa Rizal speak about the importance of movement and change in their lives and work as well.
About the project:
Penn Museum’s Native American Voices Video project, completed in 2011, was conducted over fourteen months with support from the Annenberg Foundation and Gregory Annenberg Weingarten. The project resulted in the creation of Postindian Warriors: Creating A New Consciousness in Native America, five short videos about contemporary Native America for inclusion in the long-term exhibition, Native American Voices: The People – Here and Now. Five 8 minute films were produced to highlight important themes that emerged from the discussions.
The interviews were in May 2011. My paintings on the wall were “in-progress”; and, obviously same with the Chilkat robe on the loom “Jennie Weaves An Apprentice” completed in August 2011.
Feb 2, 2014 | Latest Art Projects, Showing Off, Tlingit Culture Accentuated |
Lots of braids when you are about to weave the eyes and bridge of nose…yep, folks, this is what a Chilkat weaving looks like when in “full bloom!” – and you wonder how we keep track of it all!
I’m doing a trade with Preston Singletary. The first pair of Chilkat leggings were a little too big for him, so they became a part of the “Copper Man” Ravenstail/Chilkat ensemble (which is now in private collection in Seattle), so I began weaving this pair about 6 years ago. It’s slow going; trades are slow going when you’re trying to keep up with paying the bills. Trades are always on the back burner. Though these leggings are getting done, slowly but surely.
It’s proof in the pudding that practice-makes-perfect. I look at this weaving now and think “golly, it’s not very good…” compared to how I weave now. Also, the warp is not very good. It’s spun pretty evenly but before I figured out the trick of stretching the warp taut when wrapped around the wooden back of a chair to dry, this warp is too bulky. For those of you who know how to spin and know how to weave, and have figured out tricks-of-the-trade in making good warp, you will understand what I am talking about here.
From the beginning shape of the eyes in the photograph above to the completed “electric” eyes in this photo, it took about 3 hours to weave
Even so, the weaving is okay. despite my critiques. I’ll be getting back to it again as soon as I complete the “Resilience” Chilkat robe. I am finishing up old business as well as completing commissions and trades. It feels real good to do this.
Thank you for staying tuned in during the progress of this weaving!
Jan 30, 2014 | Honoring Others, Relationship Overdrive, Uncategorized |
Lily Lalanya Hudson Hope and her mother, Clarissa – December 2013 – Juneau, Alaskaphoto by Kelly Burnett
The moment Lily was born the morning of January 30, 1980, my condemning, self-judgments began to cease. This thing called “love of self” was felt in every cell of my body; I remember it quite well. I feel this is the gift she gave to her mother and this is the gift she gives to the rest of the world – it is also the gift in and of herself.
Lily is all kinds of things, but first and foremost the past six years, she is a mother of two of my favorite people in the world, Bette (Grandma’s nickname for her is “SikiKwaan”) and Louis (Grandma’s nickname for him is “Ajuju”). She enjoys homeschooling her kids; being a full-time mother right now is her favorite job, though for her sanity, she has her own weaving/sewing/beadworking room!
Lily has done all kinds of jobs, she always went “up the ladder” in no time due to her organizational abilities, her mathematical mind and her love to just be busy making people happy. When she was 18, after only a month, she became the manager of McDonald’s in Pagosa Springs, Colorado; then at 20 she became the Marketing Director for Whole Foods in Santa Fe, New Mexico and a beadwork artist for an internationally-famous mask-maker out of New Orleans. When she returned to her hometown of Juneau, Alaska 10 years ago to help take care of her Grandma Irene, she was led back into her Native roots.
She received her Bachelors Degree from the University of Alaska Southeast in 2005. By way of Perseverance Theatre in Douglas, she became an actress and with the assistance of her Grandpa Bob Hudson attended the San Francisco School of Acting. She also became an award-winning storyteller, winning top awards in the All-Alaska Storytelling competition; she and her husband, Ishmael Hope have performed at the Smithsonian. She got back into Ravenstail and Chilkat weaving and won 1st Place for the 4-piece, child-size woven ensemble in the Traditional Arts category of the Sealaska Juried Art Show. She used to have a website under Lily Hudson, but her name changed when she married Ishmael and she hasn’t gotten her younger sister, Ursala the web-designer to create a new website just yet. Although you can visit Ishmael’s superb website at: www.alaskanativestoryteller.com
Ishmael, Lily and their two children live happily in Douglas, Alaska.
Happy Birthday, my Nina!
Jan 26, 2014 | Adventures of Rear-Mirror Rissy, Tools-of-the-Trade |
L to R: Package of three flare-copters, copter & the slingshot
You are probably wondering what a toy has to do with designing and creating art? Like what does this toy have to do with the artist who is blogging this site!? Well, it’s real simple. At the beginning of this year I decided I wasn’t going to create and market my art for my main mode of income. After 37 years of living hand-to-mouth creating and selling art, frankly, I am tired of it. It’s about time I diversify my income. About a month ago, when I saw this toy in Durango, Colorado, it brought me so much joy over such a simple thing, I had to buy sets for each one of my children and grandchildren (and one for me and my friend Margie, of course!). And now I’ve become a distributor!
Do we want a happy artist creating happy work making stress-free happy income? Flare copter is one of my answers!
The Flare Copter is the LED Slingshot Helicopter. Click here and visit the Flare Copters website and find out what fun you’re missing! You can also purchase them on line via Amazon. OR the next time you see me, ask me about my favorite toy!
Jan 19, 2014 | Honoring Others, Relationship Overdrive |
Kahlil Lampe Hudson – 37 years old on January 19, 2014
37 years ago today, my son Kahlil Lampe Hudson was born. Strong-willed and energetic about everything, he was always a handsome one; I remember Grandma Shirley Hudson warning us “oh he’s a real looker…the girls are gonna flock all over him…!” He was the first grandchild on both sides. The only grandson on my side of the family, my parents spoiled him rotten.
Kahlil’s gift to me the moment he was born was patience. I sure wasn’t born with patience, but this boy is all about patience. He is one of the most patient people I know (and I know he didn’t get it from my side of the family!). I first developed patience with Kahlil; I have been learning patience since. Kahlil and I butt heads while we were growing up until he was 16 and I was 36; we had our last argument in this incidence: I snapped a kids-size broomstick over his right shoulder, and while I was in shock at my behavior, I told myself that whatever topic he and I didn’t agree on, just leave it alone, it ain’t worth it! And that was the end of our dumb bickering.
Kahlil is a professional film-maker/cinematographer/photographer receiving his Masters Degree from UCLA. His work has led him all over the world, from India to British Columbia to France and Africa, throughout the U.S. and the most interesting project yet, the Missionary Children on the Pine Ridge Reservation. With his best friend Tyler Hughen, Finback Films was created – they won numerous awards from the Film Festival circuit around the world for their documentary film “Low and Clear” – click here to trailer on website. And if you’d like to buy a copy of the film via Amazon, click here.
Kahlil was also the cinematographer for a feature film “Kumare” – a documentary by a friend who became a self-proclaimed guru. A must-see, very interesting film. You can rent it on Netflix or you can buy it for $2.99 on Amazon by clicking here.
With his wife, Mikiko Ellis, who was born and bred in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, they have a six-year old daughter, Violet, who is one of the best grand-daughters in the world! — They presently live in Denver, Colorado.
Happy Birthday, Kahlil – let’s see what you continue to be and do in the next 37+ years!
Jan 17, 2014 | Acting Out and Musical Chairs, Adventures of Rear-Mirror Rissy |
Brett Manning’s Voice Lessons on CDs and DVDs
January 12th was my first day of voice lessons. It’s so much fun. I practice while I am weaving. It’s perfect. I decided to take voice lessons because I know I can carry a tune in a bucket, but I decided it’s time to make that bucket resonate with it’s maximum voice capacity all its very own.
After singing with Preston’s band and knowing fully well that we will be doing another recording session within the next six months, I want to be able to put my best foot forward, or at least give it a little shoe! I also want to encourage our Native singers of our traditional songs to learn how to sing better; to learn how to harmonize, and to really put our beautiful traditional songs into another light. I’ve wanted this for years,…and it’s about time I get that ball rolling.
I researched on the internet and found Brett Manning’s course at http://www.singingsuccess.com/
I like his approach to singing: “….if you can speak a language, you can sing…we’ll show you how…it’s real simple…relax…”
Already after just three days of simple exercises, I can FEEL the difference in my throat AND in my body. This is a 6-month course. I’m sticking by it. I want to see, hear and feel who comes out of my body!
Jan 12, 2014 | Health and Wellness |
“Skookum” muscle salve by Harlena Warford, Hoonah, Alaska — Visit her website at: www.gutshuwu.com
Last Summer, a fellow weaver introduced me to her Auntie Harlena’s “Skookum” salve that she used for her slight case of carpel tunnel. Of course, I was very much interested since I had developed carpel tunnel 20 years ago in my right arm, to which I have had no trouble until just a few weeks before being introduced to this miracle worker! Within 5 minutes after I applied this stuff, suddenly my fingers began to twitch uncontrollably lasting about 2 or 3 minutes. Then the sharp pains in my wrist and top of my hand was gone!
“Skookum” is made of natural ingredients including: Skunk cabbage, Shea butter, Palm Kernel and Olive oil
Let’s face it, weavers use their hands all the time, and sometimes depending on our projects and time constraints, we may be using repetitive motion for many hours in a given day, in a given week, in a given year. Certain muscles need “food”, they need care especially if we work them day and night. My hands and wrists are consistently in use; if I want to continue creating all that I create, I must respect and honor them by taking care of them. The “Skookum” and the “Incredibrace” are the two unabrasive, no-side-effect tools that I use. I whole-heartedly and gladly share them here with you.
The “Incredibrace” – an innovative invention – well worth the price of $21.00! — check out the website at: www.buyincrediwear.com
Buy the Incredibrace via my Amazon Associate by clicking here.
My health nut friends Jan and Gregg, highly recommended this easy device for wrist support; I took their word for it, and I am sold! I have used this wrist brace off and on for the past six months. I have turned my son onto these braces; he is a film-maker/photographer who carries heavy equipment all the time and my son-in-law is a sculptor working into the wee hours of the morning.
The Incredibrace is great for injuries; it reduces inflammation and increases blood flow and circulation. It increases range of motion, relieves carpel tunnel, Raymaud Syndrome, Arthritis pain, wrist sprains, numbness and cold hands and fingers. Incredibrace fabric releases negative ions – Negative ions vibrate cellular walls; vibrations increase circulation within 20 minutes. No uncomfortable compression needed!
Just wear as needed; it can be worn 24/7
For maximum health benefits and pain-free weaving, when needed (which is not that often anymore), I use both the “Skookum” and the “Incredibrace”.
$21.00 for the Incredibrace and $20.00 for 2 oz jar of “Skookum” – that’s less than a doctor’s visit. Give it a try. You have nothing to lose except your pain.
Dec 31, 2013 | Adventures of Rear-Mirror Rissy, Relationship Overdrive |
Louis and Lily enjoy the high chair cut short – this high chair is one of two that the father of my children and I made back in 1977. I still have the first one made for our son, Kahlil Hudson; i now use it for my grandchildren – and then a surprise happened; during a baby shower this past Summer 2013, out came this high chair which was bought at an art auction by some friends of the owners, Tom and Sue Custer in Juneau, Alaska for their daughter also born in 1977. I had totally forgotten we had made this other high chair – there are two in the world basically built the same though with different design painted on the chair back!
I have always said and known that I am one of the wealthiest women I know. I’ve lived a rich life; I continue to live a rich life. I didn’t know how rich it would be when I started out with all kinds of dreams at a young age; though now I am old enough to look back upon 57 years of richness.
In a recent conversation with my life-long friend, Margie, we were talking about where we are at now in our lives. She made a statement about me that I didn’t know anyone else had the same observation; she said: “…you live a very full, diverse and rich life…”
I have lived a rich life, though this type of richness has it’s cons. It has not been easy raising three children and a husband on art income. NOT EASY!!!! The struggle of never knowing where your next job is coming from and when, how much money you need to make in order to pay your basic bills, and knowing your worth and how much to charge for your work are really BIG things to deal with on a daily basis.
As a self-employed artist, you NEVER leave your work at the office. Somewhere along the line of being self-employed you realize YOU ARE THE OFFICE!!!
Do not get me wrong, yes, it’s been a very wonderfully rich life, though we pay a price!
I wouldn’t trade places with any other woman I’ve ever met or known. I appreciate the life I’ve been given and have co-created. I would not give it up for the world. Here are a few things I’ve done as a self-employed artist/designer/business woman:
1981-1993 I was a landscape gardener working seasonally April 1st through October 31st – although I did a variety of people’s homes in the Juneau area, my main showcase was Sealaska Corporation plaza downtown.
1977 to present day – self-employed artist in Northwest coast design beginning with carvings under guidance with Peter Bibb in 1972; then silkscreened prints and cards, T-shirts, etc. Then learning Chilkat weaving in 1985 with jennie Thlunaut. Began paintings and collages in 2000 with Cecil Touchon. A student in basketry with Selina Peratrovich and Jennie. I’ve been teaching weaving since 1989 which has led me to all kinds of communities in Alaska, British Columbia and Yukon Territory. Took up glass-blowing with Preston Singletary. Worked with Dave Hunsaker’s and Tim Wilson’s NaaKahidi Theatre 1986-1993 as a set designer, costume and props designer, actress, musician, storyteller, tour and stage manager on stages locally, nationally and internationally.
I’ve done a lot. If you have kept up with my blog, you have read a little bit of what I’ve done since I began my blog in July 2010. that’s only 3.5 years worth of stuff I’ve posted (not to mention the stuff I don’t post).
A mentor once said: “….you can take your art and do what you will…you can be a designer and be rich (with money), or you can be an artist and live a rich life…”
I’ve been an artist with a rich life. Though now I want to ALSO be a designer and be rich with money. I know I can have both. It’s a matter of the know-how to make it happen.
Stay tuned. I’ll let you know if I succeed.
Dec 22, 2013 | Acting Out and Musical Chairs, Adventures of Rear-Mirror Rissy, Honoring Others, Latest Art Projects, Tlingit Culture Accentuated |
Preston’s new band tentatively called “Koo.eex” L to R: Gene Tagaban, Clarissa Rizal, Bernie Worrell, Skerik, Stanton Moore & Preston Singletary
Back in October on a Friday night, out of the blue, I received a text from Preston: “…will you be a back-up singer in my band? We will be recording a CD this coming December.” — “Huh? Like who does he think I am; a singer? What makes him think I can sing? He’s gotta be kidding….” —- So, I didn’t answer him. Four days later on the following Monday I got a call from Preston:
“Well hey, Clarissa, uh,…did you get my text?” —
“Yes.” —
“Uh, well, what do you think? (and like how come you didn’t answer…!?)
“What am I supposed to think? I do not recall ever indicating that I am a singer to nobody, like what makes you think that I can even sing, much less be a back-up singer in a band that is going to record it’s first CD!?”
“Hahaha. Hey I remember those songs you sang around the campfire at the end of the two-week work session completing the glass and wood totem pole at Pilchuck…you blew everyone away…!”
“Preston, that doesn’t count…those were dirty songs…!”
“Yeah, well…it’s how you presented them,…it’s the way you sang. I want that kind of energy in my band…will you join us?”
One of Preston’s bass’
Preston’s first love is music. Not glass blowing. How can I tell? He gets that look in his eyes. It’s that true musician’s look as if they are in another time and place; smiling inside out. I grew up with a musician. I’ve been around musicians. Some of my best friends are musicians and although some don’t necessarily “make a living” creating music, there’s that “way of being”….So for those of you who think Preston is a hot glass blower and that is his first love, you got it all wrong. I don’t care if the dude makes thousands on his work and thousands of art collectors have a piece of his work, his true love is music. Bottom line. — But if you must check out Preston’s glass blowing website: www.prestonsingletary.com
Bernie Worrell on keyboards – check out Bernie Worrell website at: http://www.bernieworrell.com/ This guy is no ordinary keyboard player! He is all over the board!
So Preston gathered together his friends, Gene Tagaban, Skerik and I along with two big name musicians (that at the time I didn’t know were big names), Stanton Moore and Bernie Worrell. For the past eight years, Preston had imagined putting together a jazz/funk rock fusion band to record a CD. He saved up money to do so; this December with the help of us buddies, he made his dream come true. The sound that came out of this band was so fantastic and fun, it blew all of us away! The music had become so much a part of me in just three short days, I barely slept. I began to understand why musicians “move to a different drum.” I began to understand why they stay up late into the wee hours of the morning. I also understand why some become drug addicts or are alcoholics or at least have a stiff drink before they go to bed. IT IS HARD TO GO TO SLEEP AFTER FEELING THE MUSIC IN YOUR BONES AND EVERY NERVE OF YOUR BODY!!! Holy cow!
Gene Tagaban on Native flute, Skerik on sax
Who is that drummer, Stanton Moore? Gawd, the guy can drum. Like I thought my friend D.C. Duncan could drum and for the past 20 years I’ve always enjoyed D.C., but man, this Stanton guy is something else!!! When I got back home after the recording sessions, I saw D.C. and asked him if he knew Stanton Moore. He said “well, hell yeah, I have bought his CD’s and have made myself a better drummer through his instructions over the years, the dude is goooood! The guy is THE drummer of all drummers – like he is #2 in the entire world – Why do you ask?”
Stanton Moore on drums — check out the Stanton Moore Trio on youtube and if you are a drummer or wanna-be-drummer, this is the man to hang with; New Orleans born and bred – check out his website at: www.stantonmoore.com
So, we spent three days improvising songs. A total blast. These songs were based on traditional Native songs of the Northwest Coast; we started out with the chants, then the band would slide on in and take off! It was a honor to play with these guys; thanks for the invite, Preston. I have appreciated every moment in actual time and now in memory!
Preston begins with a traditional tune – notice the child-size Chilkat robe in the background – I’d weave when I wasn’t singing…
Gene Tagaban has definitely made his way in the world with his storytelling and musical talents. I had no idea the extent of his talent until this recording session. He topped off these songs; he added so much depth and meaning. His contributions rounded everything out, like bringing the entire fusion together full circle. These are just my opinions folks, you do not have to believe everything I say here. Just make sure you buy the CD when it comes out by the Fall of 2014; it’s nothing like you’ve ever heard!
Gene Tagaban adds a story of Raven…walking along a beach…check out Gene’s website at: http://www.storytellingraven.com/
- Preston Singletary on bass
Bernie Worrell’s keyboarding hands
After the excitement of the first song the entire band played, Stanton and Bernie vigorously shook hands, honored to play with one another
Skerik on sax – this guy rips — Skerik is an American saxophonist from Seattle, Washington. Performing on the tenor and baritone saxophone, often with electronics and loops, Skerik is a pioneer in a playing style that has been dubbed saxophonics. Check out Skerik’s FB page at: https://www.facebook.com/skerik
In the sound room, Gene Tagaban, Bernie Worrell and Preston Singletary listen to the second day’s improv recordings
Sound engineer, Randall at the 1969 “board”
In the dining room kitchen, sound technicians and band members share home-made squash pie and baked apples hosted by Stuart, the owner of the “Avante!” recording studio – YUM!
Dinner at the Bitterroot Restaurant
After a fine day and night of playing together, and sharing a late dinner, Bernie Worrell and Preston Singletary share a bench and a smoke already reminiscing the “old days”…and the next project!
