February 28, Saturday

OK- you have my attention. I don't think there is a need to preach about the Luxury part. We are all feeling the bite, and when we worry about making a mortgage payment, luxury is a foreign concept. Since the downturn it's been a season of Lent- people giving up so many things, big and small. It's almost easy this Lent because we have been doing it all along. My prayer is that we can continue to work and keep the roof over our heads in this dire time. It extends to all my neighbors and fellow Ridgewoodites.

Winter bounty

Happpy birthday MAYA!!

The wind last night was ferocious. It was strong enough to blast these down like dominoes.

I did not realize until last month that these are new doors. the old ones did not have windows. they are lovely, I heard they are much better for energy saving, and it's really nice that they let in the light.

A VINO! I have a Vino- in fact, I have this exact scooter- same color, same model, same 85 miles to the gallon. The owner tells me the kick start is really great in the cold. I've never tried it, but take a lesson. Anyone with saddle bags is serious!

the breakfast selection is tempting at Ridgewood Coffee. the baristas who work here are really, really cool, very deserving of their tips. The Clover is coffee on a new level. I can drink it black, it's so smooth.

If you ever give up hope, if you ever have doubt,

just take a lesson from these winter survivors

already showing themselves

in these below freezing AMs

If they can push themselves through frozen

soil, we can push ourselves through our

most solid barriers

Keep hope- always

A controversial neon sign. It's not lit today, but it was earlier in the week. It is not offensive to me, but maybe a glowing neon filled town would throw off the Village ambiance

Now where did this Christmas left over come from? It's on the grass in front of the animal hospital. I feel that that Christmas was so, so long ago....

This morning she's at top mast. Last night's wind is still blowing

James Rose hanging sculpture

Ivy clad sentinels

The gate is open, and the light streaming through bids welcome. The James Rose outdoors and indoors were designed to be one space. The great big windows open to the outdoor garden. I love the James Rose house. I hope there will be tours this year, and hope to see Dean Cardassis. His stories are so good.

February 27 day 3

Thurs day two

First Day for the walker Ash Wednesday

My first day. It's a challenge. I wake up and it is a cold, dark morning.

I don't feel too good, but I force myself to get dressed for 24 degrees. It's hard to adjust to the thought of this below freezing start.

I expect it to be a quiet and empty. I hope to count the number of cars I see on one hand. I see the number on both hands in the first 5 minutes. Why is eveyone out already? Once I'm out, it's better. It is lighter out than I expected it to be.

What is surprising is the sound of birds having their morning conversation. I did not know they were here already.

The GAP is completely lit.


... remnant of the last storm


Trucks are downtown. This one is very cool- the whole side rotates up, and a new sign shows. Nice colors too. I can't figure out what's delivered.

By the time I make it to the square it is well after dawn. It's safe to cross at this hour.

Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return.

Ash Wednesday, 2009

the flag in the square is at half mast

Morning dleivery

Perfect LOGO

for the

Ridgewood Walker

who
Boldly strides in the Village

as day begins

Another half-mast.

For whom is this so respecfully lowered?

I add a prayer in deference and honor