1. Q: What was your first memorable moment when music affected your life?
My mother used to have my sister and I "sing" conversations instead of speak them. We would just
make up melodies and sing something like, "What do you want for lunch today?" and I would sing in
response, "Grilled cheese, please." And she would sing back, "what would you like to drink?"
etc, etc. It was playful, memorable, creative, and made me think of music as being something
improvisatory, free, and very powerful in communicating. High notes were for important words
or intense emotions, fast notes were for excitement, etc.
2. At what age did you begin to play an instrument? What did you play? Were
you in Choir?
Besides singing around the house, I mostly concentrated on instruments, particularly the
flute and piano. I began playing piano as soon as I could maneuver my walker over to the piano
(there are pictures!), but began lessons in first grade (though I quit as soon as I could, I hated
piano lessons - but I love playing the piano!). I sang in church youth choirs, camp, and in school
throughout elementary, middle, and high school. I first started studying voice in
high-school.
3. What reason did you choose your instrument?
I decided that singing was my "main gig" in high-school, and decided to be a voice major in
college. I chose singing over piano or flute because of the connection it has with text,
emotion, and communication.
4. Have you played in any orchestras, symphonies or "garage" bands?
I've played jazz flute in several bands, sung in a bluegrass band, conducted many choirs
(church and community groups), and still gig quite a bit with my husband, Sam, a guitar player.
5. What is your most accomplished musical moment?
My senior and honors voice recitals at Augsburg College still stand out as a high point in my solo
voice performance career.
6. Have you won any competitions or awards?
I was selected as an "Emerging Conductor" last year and was honored to conduct the Minnesota
Chorale (the choir that sings with the Minnesota Orchestra). A composition of mine won the
Cincinnati Children's Choir Choral Composition and was performed there in March, so I flew out
there to attend that concert.
7. Where did you attend college? What was your major?
Augsburg College in Minneapolis - Bachelors Degree in Music, Voice Performance Major/Organ
and Flute Performance Minors
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities - Masters Degree in Music, Choral Conducting
8. At what age did you decide to teach music? Was there any influence behind this decision?
I didn't decide to actually go into teaching until after I graduated from Augsburg. I had
planned to have a part-time church music job and sing. But as I came to absolutely love directing
church choir rehearsals, and not just teaching them the notes and rhythms of the piece, but
actually talking about the composer, why that person wrote this type of music, what was
happening in the world when this piece was written, I got so much energy and joy and fulfillment
out of that role, I decided to pursue conducting and teaching rather than performing as the
primary focus of my career.
9. How long have you been at ARCC?
This is my 8th year.
10. What is your favorite part about your job?
Making music - especially "old" or "classical" music - relevant to people's lives. Watching or
reading about a student's reaction to the first time hearing Samuel Barber's ADAGIO FOR
STRINGS or their first orchestra concert or seeing and hearing the thrill of a choir performing
Handel's HALLELUJAH CHORUS with a professional orchestra - nothing better then that!
11. Do you still play any instrument?
I do still sing, play flute, organ, piano, and a little bit of tuba for fun (that's what I played in
high school and college band).
12. What kind of music do you enjoy listening to?
Most everything - INCLUDING country and rap (which seem to be the two people make exceptions for
when they answer this question). Honestly, I am hungry to hear what others are creating in any
style or genre. It is all interesting and all communicates something about life. I do tend to
find myself listening to choral music because of my career but also some off-the-wall
comedian-musician groups like Flight of the Conchords, Tenacious D, etc.
13. What does music mean to you? How does it affect your life?
Music is so much a part of my life, it feels like eating or sleeping. When my son died in 2006, I went
for months without touching my piano and that separation between my daily life and music, my
inability to play or sing reflected the emptiness I felt in my soul. When I was able to slowly
return to singing , playing, performing, that was an enormous step forward out of grief.
14. Who is your favorite composer? Either classical or modern, or both?
There is absolutely no way I can answer this question! Too many favorites! They are all my
favorites! (Cop-out answer, I know, but it is the truth!)
15. What other hobbies do you have?
Reading non-fiction and being with my husband, Sam (fellow music faculty at ARCC), and 4-month-old son, Finn.
1. My sister played the flute so I'm familiar with the way she performed,
but I've never heard of Jazz-Flute. Can you explain that a little further?
I play a "regular" flute, but I play it in a jazz group, so there are style differences, tone
differences, and definitely a lot of improvisation (notes aren't written down, so you
"spontaneously compose" and make stuff up!).
2. Okay, I asked your favorite musician and you answered like I would have!
So basically, how about a top five or even top ten if you had to break it
down, and why they are your favorite?
Composers on my top five list (and ignoring the usual top five of Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn,
Handel, Bach) would definitely be Samuel Barber both for his Adagio for Strings and his songs
for voice and piano, Stephen Sondheim for his work in musical theater, John Dowland the
Renaissance English lute song composer, Benjamin Britten the 20th century English composer
for his gift with writing for voices so colorfully and beautifully, and Egil Hovland the 20th
century Norwegian composer for his challenging but evocative choir compositions that can be
satisfying for a professional choir but attainable by an amateur church choir or college
group.
3.How did you meet your husband? Since you are both musicians I'm interested to hear the story!
My husband and I met in college - first day of class! I slept in and was late to music theory on the
first day of college classes, and he says he fell in love with me when I barged in to the classroom
still in my pajama pants and hair all over the place. Strange but true...
4. Your mother sounds like a very interesting woman to inspire your sister and you to sing to each other. What else did she do to inspire you?
My mom and I are so much alike. She is a musician, working in church music, and we have very similar
personalities, too. We have shared ideas, resources, and helped each other out in our various
jobs immensely. I still perform at her church whenever I go home to visit.
5. Can you elaborate more about your composition(s). How long have you been composing? Where do you get your ideas? What kind of music is it? How much have you composed?
I've been composing since college. I took composition lessons there and in graduate school,
but mostly wrote pieces for people I knew personally. A few of my pieces were performed by
ensembles at Augsburg College, which was quite an honor. The vast majority of my pieces are
vocal works, either solo voice with piano (or guitar), or choir. So all my ideas usually come
from the text I choose. I try to read the text over and over, and I usually scribble all over the
text trying to find patterns or words that jump out at me to highlight in the music. I've composed
quite a bit, actually. When I worked in church music, I would compose quite often for my church
choir and for the organ. Now that I'm teaching I don't have quite as much time, but I'm working on a
set of solo songs for voice and piano right now based on poetry of Ginger Andrews. I'm hoping to
have them ready to enter into a contest by December 1. Those contests aren't really about
winning (though that's nice!), but they serve me well as a deadline so I have more discipline and
follow-through with my composition ideas.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Monday, October 26, 2009
Andrew Lloyd Webber Diagnosed with Cancer
The composer Andrew Lloyd Webber was diagnosed with prostate cancer Sunday. This famous composer is known best for his works: "Phantom of the Opera," "Joseph and the Technicolor Dream Coat," and "Jesus Christ Superstar." He was knighted in 1992 and named into Britain's House of Lords in 1997.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Night of the Living Dead never felt so good!
They came from all over Minnesota, staggering slowly and hungrily chanting one word, Braiiiiinss. This was Washington Avenue downtown Minneapolis Saturday night, which was out numbered by zombies looking for brains and beer. It could be only one event, which was the fourth annual Zombie Pub Crawl. Once a year, 17 local bars along the west bank are host to the undead. The gouls can be heard chanting, “What do we want? Braaaaiiiiinnnns. When do we want them? Braaaiiiiinnnnssss.”
The weather was extremely cold on Saturday, with the high in the 20s and flurries of snow falling from the sky. This did not stop the living dead, with a turn out of over 5,000 zombies who could not resist the gathering.
The only thing better than watching the zombies going from bar to bar conversing and socializing, was watching them dance to the zombie anthem Thriller, by the late Michael Jackson. This song celebrates its 26th year anniversary and because Michael Jackson buzz is still in the air, these zombies were dedicated to preserving the intentions of the song. The theme was heard at every bar, along with the theme from Ghostbusters and other Halloween favorites.
Common themes along the crawl were the zombie Jesus, the Abraham Lincoln zombie, and of course prom queen zombies. It is amazing to see the creativity that goes into the appearance of becoming a zombie. Some of these people are planning months and months in advance to make sure they are standing out among the crowd.
A loyal zombie crawl enthusiast named Jennifer Schreifels, 24, never misses the opportunity to get dressed up and stagger around downtown. “I do this every year and it keeps getting better. It’s so cold this year and still everyone is all dressed up! These are my people!”
It was interesting to hear what any newcomers had to say as well. Benjamin Laabs, 26, was almost overwhelmed by the turn out of the crawl. “I can’t believe how many people are here, this is amazing! So many people went all out for this!” He was dripping blood and clothes torn from rising from the ground, determined to fight the cold and have a good time.
The bartenders seemed to enjoy the crawl also. This was surprising due to the fact that not only are they serving so many people, but a lot of them are actually scary to look at. A young bartender at Grumpy’s Bar said, “The pub crawls are always so stressful, but zombie crawl is my favorite because these people are hilarious. I don’t even have to worry about orders because of the drink specials. They just have to moan at us and we serve up the zombie special.”
Among the large crowd there were a handful of people not satisfied with the festivities. The common factor of these unhappy customers was they were not dressed up. Jovan Knudson, 28, was extremely upset by the long lines and getting fake blood all over her winter coat.
It is important to remember when attending Zombie Crawl, to be prepared to be targeted for blood splatter. Wear old clothes and shoes when possible and dress up to blend in with the crowd. These Zombie’s keep the party going until bar close and then they return to their graves.
The weather was extremely cold on Saturday, with the high in the 20s and flurries of snow falling from the sky. This did not stop the living dead, with a turn out of over 5,000 zombies who could not resist the gathering.
The only thing better than watching the zombies going from bar to bar conversing and socializing, was watching them dance to the zombie anthem Thriller, by the late Michael Jackson. This song celebrates its 26th year anniversary and because Michael Jackson buzz is still in the air, these zombies were dedicated to preserving the intentions of the song. The theme was heard at every bar, along with the theme from Ghostbusters and other Halloween favorites.
Common themes along the crawl were the zombie Jesus, the Abraham Lincoln zombie, and of course prom queen zombies. It is amazing to see the creativity that goes into the appearance of becoming a zombie. Some of these people are planning months and months in advance to make sure they are standing out among the crowd.
A loyal zombie crawl enthusiast named Jennifer Schreifels, 24, never misses the opportunity to get dressed up and stagger around downtown. “I do this every year and it keeps getting better. It’s so cold this year and still everyone is all dressed up! These are my people!”
It was interesting to hear what any newcomers had to say as well. Benjamin Laabs, 26, was almost overwhelmed by the turn out of the crawl. “I can’t believe how many people are here, this is amazing! So many people went all out for this!” He was dripping blood and clothes torn from rising from the ground, determined to fight the cold and have a good time.
The bartenders seemed to enjoy the crawl also. This was surprising due to the fact that not only are they serving so many people, but a lot of them are actually scary to look at. A young bartender at Grumpy’s Bar said, “The pub crawls are always so stressful, but zombie crawl is my favorite because these people are hilarious. I don’t even have to worry about orders because of the drink specials. They just have to moan at us and we serve up the zombie special.”
Among the large crowd there were a handful of people not satisfied with the festivities. The common factor of these unhappy customers was they were not dressed up. Jovan Knudson, 28, was extremely upset by the long lines and getting fake blood all over her winter coat.
It is important to remember when attending Zombie Crawl, to be prepared to be targeted for blood splatter. Wear old clothes and shoes when possible and dress up to blend in with the crowd. These Zombie’s keep the party going until bar close and then they return to their graves.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Bear seeks beer, then keeps his cool in grocery
A 125 pound black bear walked into a Marketplace Foods in Hayward, Wis. It headed straight for the liquor section and stayed there for about an hour before Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources came to the scene. They were able to tranquilize the bear and get it out of the store. No alcohol was consumed by the bear.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Obituary
Sarah deRosier's life was cut short Saturday night, due to an unfortuanate Fire Spinning accident which resulted in 3rd degree burns. DeRosier always said she wanted to go out doing something she loved, and she held fire spinning closest to her heart.
DeRosier was pursing her Asocciates of Arts degree to move onto a career in Medical Transcripting after graduating. She was a hard worker and always very motivated to give her best in what ever she was doing. She began her fire spinning career three years ago and wanted to become more professional. Despite warnings from her cautious parents, she would light up any time she found the opportunity.
The funeral will be held at St. John's Baptist Church at 2:00 pm on Friday, followed immediatly by a cerimonial scattering of her ashes. The family has asked for any donations to go towards fire safety awareness.
She is survived by her Parents, Phil and Martha deRosier; her 28 year old sister Ann Nimchuck. She also is survived by her loving boyfriend Benjamin Laabs.
DeRosier was pursing her Asocciates of Arts degree to move onto a career in Medical Transcripting after graduating. She was a hard worker and always very motivated to give her best in what ever she was doing. She began her fire spinning career three years ago and wanted to become more professional. Despite warnings from her cautious parents, she would light up any time she found the opportunity.
The funeral will be held at St. John's Baptist Church at 2:00 pm on Friday, followed immediatly by a cerimonial scattering of her ashes. The family has asked for any donations to go towards fire safety awareness.
She is survived by her Parents, Phil and Martha deRosier; her 28 year old sister Ann Nimchuck. She also is survived by her loving boyfriend Benjamin Laabs.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Ambition is the Key to Success
Living a busy life may be on Rachel Halverson’s plate, but this does not hold her back from achieving her dream of figure skating. Years of practice and competitions have taught Halverson the values of self-motivation, discipline and patience along her journey of pursuing figure skating.
Starting at age eight, she began her lessons at the Elk River Ice Arena. Her family has been very supportive from the beginning; in fact her entire family has been on the ice in one way or another. Her mother was a recreational skater growing up, and her father was a hockey player.
“You have to work hard for what you want and it isn’t always easy. My coaches help motivate me, but ultimately I’m the one pushing to be the best that I can be,” Halverson said.
With dedication on her side, Halverson can be found at the rink Monday through Friday. Currently she is working toward the goal of earning a spot on the European skating tour, which asks many requirements of the skater. Halverson is preparing the first requirement, which is sending in an audition tape with certain jumps, spins, and footwork included. She is finishing up the last touches of her tape and will be sending it in soon.
“I’m really busy all the time. It’s sometimes hard to fit everything in, but I love skating so much that I would never give up on it.”
Not only can she be found at the rink almost everyday of the week, Halverson is also taking classes at the Elk River Area High School and Anoka Ramsey Community College as a PSEO student. As a senior, she strives to graduate with 40 plus college credits in order to have flexibility with college. This will benefit her greatly if she does go on a skating tour having several credits under her belt.
“I want to seize this opportunity when I can because college will always be there for me. I’m thinking about attending Biola University in California, but I’m not sure what I’ll major yet.”
Starting at age eight, she began her lessons at the Elk River Ice Arena. Her family has been very supportive from the beginning; in fact her entire family has been on the ice in one way or another. Her mother was a recreational skater growing up, and her father was a hockey player.
“You have to work hard for what you want and it isn’t always easy. My coaches help motivate me, but ultimately I’m the one pushing to be the best that I can be,” Halverson said.
With dedication on her side, Halverson can be found at the rink Monday through Friday. Currently she is working toward the goal of earning a spot on the European skating tour, which asks many requirements of the skater. Halverson is preparing the first requirement, which is sending in an audition tape with certain jumps, spins, and footwork included. She is finishing up the last touches of her tape and will be sending it in soon.
“I’m really busy all the time. It’s sometimes hard to fit everything in, but I love skating so much that I would never give up on it.”
Not only can she be found at the rink almost everyday of the week, Halverson is also taking classes at the Elk River Area High School and Anoka Ramsey Community College as a PSEO student. As a senior, she strives to graduate with 40 plus college credits in order to have flexibility with college. This will benefit her greatly if she does go on a skating tour having several credits under her belt.
“I want to seize this opportunity when I can because college will always be there for me. I’m thinking about attending Biola University in California, but I’m not sure what I’ll major yet.”
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Joseph Nash, concentration camp survivor, dies
Joseph Nash was only a teenager when he was imprisoned in the concentration camp Dachau. He was a good man who did random acts of kindness throughout his life. After the war he came to Minnesota and opened his own business. He died Thursday at his house in St. Louis Park at the age of 86 from Cancer.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Interview of Tawana "true" Grimes with follow up questions
Question 1:
I read over your introduction to your blog, and I'm wondering about your nick
name? does it have any special meaning?
Answer:
My first & middle name is Tawana Rue. “true” came about as a nickname from the first letter of my first name ‘t’ with ‘rue,’ which equals “true.” Since a lot of people have trouble pronouncing “tawana,” true is a lot easier to remember and say.
Question 2:
I noticed you are a Beatles fan! Me too! What are some of the reasons why
you love the Beatles and what is your favorite song?
Answer:
I remember seeing the Beatles for the very first time when they appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show. I was in the sixth grade living in Austin, Texas, and I think the year was 1963. I just love the beat and uniqueness of their music, that its overall fairly easy to listen to. Most of all, their music has been timeless and no other music group has really come close to it.
Question 3:
In regards to hobbies, with four kids did any start with their inspiration?
Answer:
Although I was fortunate to travel and hike a little when I was a kid, I have traveled & hiked more with my kids. Since I raised them to be global in their thinking, they also got a love of travel from me. Two kids have actually lived in Latin America for six months or one year. And, three have spent time in Europe. We all would definitely travel more if funds were available. Regardless, we love being with family and spending time outdoors, though we’re not the best Minnesota winter people!!
Question 4:
Tell me a little about your hobbies?
Answer:
Aside from travel, hiking and being with family at get-together's, I like to read, listen to music, cook and inexpensively decorate the house, go to movies. It just seems there’s not always enough time to enjoy hobbies while in school. No matter what, we’re all busy people.
Question 5:
What's it like going back to school in your experience?
Answer:
Although it’s been very hard, it’s also been quite the adventure. While I’ve publicly embarrassed myself on too many occasions, I’ve been continually amazed at the variety of terrific learning experiences that have come my way. I’ve had some academic disappointments but I learned from them, too. Returning to school has also been humbling because the more I learn, the more I realize I don’t know. There have been plenty of times when I felt like a complete imbecile and wondered what the heck I was thinking about when I returned to college. On the other hand, there are days when I know I’m in a good place. I’ve learned to celebrate the smaller things, too. Although I have gotten quite a bit of negative feedback from family about going back to college, my four kids have been the best supporters! I’ve been happy to meet wonderful students and make good friends and equally blessed to have excellent, wonderful teachers who really care. Although life & a lot of stressful events got in the way, I think it will all work out and I’ll be a better person as a result. I have so much to be thankful for.
1. I was wondering if you could elaborate of your travels, where have you
gone and did anything interesting happen on your journey?
I wish I could say the destinations have been exotic and far away. But, Mexico has been the most frequented place so far – Cancun, Guadalajara, Mazatlan, Monterrey, Puerto Vallarta, Once, my son’s professor at Tech de Monterrey recommended this quiet little remote village on a lagoon that only the natives frequented.
2. Is there anywhere you want to travel to that you have never been to?
why?
I really want to go to Europe some day. And, I want to see it like those young college graduates who buy a Euro pass, backpack across the continent and stay in inexpensive, quaint little inns.
3. What kind of books do you read in your spare time? Any favorites?
When I was a young kid, “A Wrinkle in Time” was unlike anything I’d ever read. Plus, I was really into the Nancy Drew mysteries then, ha! I still like non-fiction books about real people best. I also like John Grisham novels (and the movies based from them).
I wish I had more time to read for pleasure. Before my oldest son graduated from U of M, Twin Cities, his CLA professors always encouraged students to read the most interesting, well-written books. Therefore, Justin always carried a good book around with him at all times.
However, I did take a lot of time out to read while going through some medical treatments at Mayo Clinic five years ago. Since the treatments caused weird complications and serious brain fog that affected concentration, I was unable to do much more than live in a recliner and rest. That’s when I spent an entire summer to read every one of the books Nicolas Sparks had written. Since those novels didn’t require too much thinking, I could read one in a couple days. However, it didn’t take long to recognize a distinct pattern that I didn’t care for, that Sparks usually killed off one of the main characters. I didn’t care for that at all.
4. You mentioned decorating your house, is this for holidays or do you have
an overall theme to how you decorate?
My decorating is very eclectic. I’m partial to cheerful, easygoing yellows and soothing blues, with a touch of green. Since the winters are not my best times, I try to achieve spring/summer all year around. The last two winters, my bedroom was in a tropical motif. Now, it’s yellow with royal & true blues and blue toile accents. Since I’ve been a student, my humble home is always a disaster and there’s been no time for decorating. But, if I had a personal assistant and housekeeper, it could be a sweet place.
5. My last question is what do you do in the winter, since you said you are
not the best Minnesota Winter family?
For our family’s first winter, I bought and burned 2 ½ cords of firewood. I kept a fire going in the fireplace EVERY day that winter. Most people I met really made fun of that. I didn’t care, though, because those comforting fires, although unnecessary for warming the house, helped us get through what we first believed to be a frozen hell. When the winters got to us, we found it helpful to go to local places that resemble indoor parks. My kids ski & snowboard a little. What’s even better is heading off to a warm & sunny getaway, although a lack of funds has kept us from doing that the last few years. Even now, when it gets down to subzero temperatures, I unfortunately spend too much time complaining and asking myself, “Why do we live here?”
On the upside, I think the winters help us slow down our hectic lives and spend more time together as a family. I love walking outside after a fresh now and listening to the quietness. I also enjoy hugging my mug when it’s filled with hot apple cider, cocoa or tea. It helps to step up visits to a health club during this time. Our family down south finds it hard to believe that we continue to live in Minnesota and go through terrible winters. They think we stay because our brains cells have been frozen so many times that we aren’t smart enough to leave and move back down south, ha!
Date: Wednesday, October 7, 2009, 7:34 PM
Hello Again True! I have just a few more questions I'm hoping you can answer
for me, just to make sure I have covered all my bases here!
1. You mentioned that you like to read, cook, and be with family. Is there
any particular hobby that you hold above the rest?
I love being with family and get-togethers with family & friends the best.
2. Why is this hobby so important to you? Do you have any specific examples
of how it has enriched your life?
Other than my faith, there’s nothing more important in my life than family, which includes four children and family down south. We might not be perfect but we can always count on each other for help, love and support. That’s what families are for.
3. If you were not interested in this particular hobby, do you think it
would have made your life different?
I cannot imagine my life without my kids and extended family. It would be so empty and sad. My heart goes out to people who have no children or family. I don’t see how they get through the tough times in their life.
4. Being a mom is such a huge part of your life, and it sounds like your
kids are so supportive! Can you elaborate a little more on their ages and
how they are supporting you going back to school?
Since three of my kids have gotten through their college experience, they know how hard it is and understand the challenges. They’ve been very appreciative of how I helped them get through college. On the other hand, even though I attended college over thirty five years ago in Texas, I am now much more aware of what my college kids dealt with. Also, I was diagnosed with ADHD and a couple learning disabilities seven years ago. So, my trials at college have helped me better understand what my youngest son has gone through in secondary school.
5. What are your kids names and what do they do?
Justin, 30, works at Children’s Hospital in the business office where he uses his bachelor’s degree in Spanish-Portuguese and minor in Latin American studies and economics. He’s an awesome chess player and also writes music and sings. He’s plays the acoustic guitar, bass guitar, mandolin and piano. He’s played with several bands. Happily, Justin’s getting married Dec. 5 at the Weisman Art Museum at U of M. Both families are so excited!! Justin is the first kid in the family to get married, so it’s a big deal. We absolutely adore Kassie, 23, who he met at a funeral!
I just helped Summer, 27, get ready to move. It was bittersweet to see her head off to Vermont Sept. 27. Since she started a new career selling life insurance in February, Summer has a job with that same company in Burlington. Prior to this, she was a hair stylist after graduating from Aveda Institute (2002). She also earned an AA degree from Normandale (2001). Since she’s fluent in French, Summer plans to attend a university in Montreal or Toronto in the near future to get a bachelor’s in English. Summer used to draw a lot as a kid and played the clarinet. She plays the guitar and piano and has also written a little music.
Holland, 23, graduated from Normandale in 2007 as a registered nurse. She worked at Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis, for two years, until moving to Nicaragua in January this year to serve as a volunteer missionary. Currently, Holland is on a three-month traveling nursing assignment in Burlington, Vermont, before she heads back to Nicaragua in January 2010. Her hobby is painting that she began in a painting class at NCC. Holland learned how to unicycle in the fourth grade and took two years of dance in high school. She plays the violin and drums and used to play in a small band.
Benjamin, 22, is the assistant manager at National Camera on Hennepin Avenue in Minneapolis. He’s really an awesome photographer, too, and does a few weddings a year. Interestingly, he began collecting vintage cameras when he was in middle school. Then, in high school, he took up photography before setting up a dark room at our home. Currently, he lives in Minneapolis with four roommates in an older two-story home that has a soundproof music room in the basement. Ben plays the piano and bass guitar in a band and records specialty sounds for music.
I read over your introduction to your blog, and I'm wondering about your nick
name? does it have any special meaning?
Answer:
My first & middle name is Tawana Rue. “true” came about as a nickname from the first letter of my first name ‘t’ with ‘rue,’ which equals “true.” Since a lot of people have trouble pronouncing “tawana,” true is a lot easier to remember and say.
Question 2:
I noticed you are a Beatles fan! Me too! What are some of the reasons why
you love the Beatles and what is your favorite song?
Answer:
I remember seeing the Beatles for the very first time when they appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show. I was in the sixth grade living in Austin, Texas, and I think the year was 1963. I just love the beat and uniqueness of their music, that its overall fairly easy to listen to. Most of all, their music has been timeless and no other music group has really come close to it.
Question 3:
In regards to hobbies, with four kids did any start with their inspiration?
Answer:
Although I was fortunate to travel and hike a little when I was a kid, I have traveled & hiked more with my kids. Since I raised them to be global in their thinking, they also got a love of travel from me. Two kids have actually lived in Latin America for six months or one year. And, three have spent time in Europe. We all would definitely travel more if funds were available. Regardless, we love being with family and spending time outdoors, though we’re not the best Minnesota winter people!!
Question 4:
Tell me a little about your hobbies?
Answer:
Aside from travel, hiking and being with family at get-together's, I like to read, listen to music, cook and inexpensively decorate the house, go to movies. It just seems there’s not always enough time to enjoy hobbies while in school. No matter what, we’re all busy people.
Question 5:
What's it like going back to school in your experience?
Answer:
Although it’s been very hard, it’s also been quite the adventure. While I’ve publicly embarrassed myself on too many occasions, I’ve been continually amazed at the variety of terrific learning experiences that have come my way. I’ve had some academic disappointments but I learned from them, too. Returning to school has also been humbling because the more I learn, the more I realize I don’t know. There have been plenty of times when I felt like a complete imbecile and wondered what the heck I was thinking about when I returned to college. On the other hand, there are days when I know I’m in a good place. I’ve learned to celebrate the smaller things, too. Although I have gotten quite a bit of negative feedback from family about going back to college, my four kids have been the best supporters! I’ve been happy to meet wonderful students and make good friends and equally blessed to have excellent, wonderful teachers who really care. Although life & a lot of stressful events got in the way, I think it will all work out and I’ll be a better person as a result. I have so much to be thankful for.
1. I was wondering if you could elaborate of your travels, where have you
gone and did anything interesting happen on your journey?
I wish I could say the destinations have been exotic and far away. But, Mexico has been the most frequented place so far – Cancun, Guadalajara, Mazatlan, Monterrey, Puerto Vallarta, Once, my son’s professor at Tech de Monterrey recommended this quiet little remote village on a lagoon that only the natives frequented.
2. Is there anywhere you want to travel to that you have never been to?
why?
I really want to go to Europe some day. And, I want to see it like those young college graduates who buy a Euro pass, backpack across the continent and stay in inexpensive, quaint little inns.
3. What kind of books do you read in your spare time? Any favorites?
When I was a young kid, “A Wrinkle in Time” was unlike anything I’d ever read. Plus, I was really into the Nancy Drew mysteries then, ha! I still like non-fiction books about real people best. I also like John Grisham novels (and the movies based from them).
I wish I had more time to read for pleasure. Before my oldest son graduated from U of M, Twin Cities, his CLA professors always encouraged students to read the most interesting, well-written books. Therefore, Justin always carried a good book around with him at all times.
However, I did take a lot of time out to read while going through some medical treatments at Mayo Clinic five years ago. Since the treatments caused weird complications and serious brain fog that affected concentration, I was unable to do much more than live in a recliner and rest. That’s when I spent an entire summer to read every one of the books Nicolas Sparks had written. Since those novels didn’t require too much thinking, I could read one in a couple days. However, it didn’t take long to recognize a distinct pattern that I didn’t care for, that Sparks usually killed off one of the main characters. I didn’t care for that at all.
4. You mentioned decorating your house, is this for holidays or do you have
an overall theme to how you decorate?
My decorating is very eclectic. I’m partial to cheerful, easygoing yellows and soothing blues, with a touch of green. Since the winters are not my best times, I try to achieve spring/summer all year around. The last two winters, my bedroom was in a tropical motif. Now, it’s yellow with royal & true blues and blue toile accents. Since I’ve been a student, my humble home is always a disaster and there’s been no time for decorating. But, if I had a personal assistant and housekeeper, it could be a sweet place.
5. My last question is what do you do in the winter, since you said you are
not the best Minnesota Winter family?
For our family’s first winter, I bought and burned 2 ½ cords of firewood. I kept a fire going in the fireplace EVERY day that winter. Most people I met really made fun of that. I didn’t care, though, because those comforting fires, although unnecessary for warming the house, helped us get through what we first believed to be a frozen hell. When the winters got to us, we found it helpful to go to local places that resemble indoor parks. My kids ski & snowboard a little. What’s even better is heading off to a warm & sunny getaway, although a lack of funds has kept us from doing that the last few years. Even now, when it gets down to subzero temperatures, I unfortunately spend too much time complaining and asking myself, “Why do we live here?”
On the upside, I think the winters help us slow down our hectic lives and spend more time together as a family. I love walking outside after a fresh now and listening to the quietness. I also enjoy hugging my mug when it’s filled with hot apple cider, cocoa or tea. It helps to step up visits to a health club during this time. Our family down south finds it hard to believe that we continue to live in Minnesota and go through terrible winters. They think we stay because our brains cells have been frozen so many times that we aren’t smart enough to leave and move back down south, ha!
Date: Wednesday, October 7, 2009, 7:34 PM
Hello Again True! I have just a few more questions I'm hoping you can answer
for me, just to make sure I have covered all my bases here!
1. You mentioned that you like to read, cook, and be with family. Is there
any particular hobby that you hold above the rest?
I love being with family and get-togethers with family & friends the best.
2. Why is this hobby so important to you? Do you have any specific examples
of how it has enriched your life?
Other than my faith, there’s nothing more important in my life than family, which includes four children and family down south. We might not be perfect but we can always count on each other for help, love and support. That’s what families are for.
3. If you were not interested in this particular hobby, do you think it
would have made your life different?
I cannot imagine my life without my kids and extended family. It would be so empty and sad. My heart goes out to people who have no children or family. I don’t see how they get through the tough times in their life.
4. Being a mom is such a huge part of your life, and it sounds like your
kids are so supportive! Can you elaborate a little more on their ages and
how they are supporting you going back to school?
Since three of my kids have gotten through their college experience, they know how hard it is and understand the challenges. They’ve been very appreciative of how I helped them get through college. On the other hand, even though I attended college over thirty five years ago in Texas, I am now much more aware of what my college kids dealt with. Also, I was diagnosed with ADHD and a couple learning disabilities seven years ago. So, my trials at college have helped me better understand what my youngest son has gone through in secondary school.
5. What are your kids names and what do they do?
Justin, 30, works at Children’s Hospital in the business office where he uses his bachelor’s degree in Spanish-Portuguese and minor in Latin American studies and economics. He’s an awesome chess player and also writes music and sings. He’s plays the acoustic guitar, bass guitar, mandolin and piano. He’s played with several bands. Happily, Justin’s getting married Dec. 5 at the Weisman Art Museum at U of M. Both families are so excited!! Justin is the first kid in the family to get married, so it’s a big deal. We absolutely adore Kassie, 23, who he met at a funeral!
I just helped Summer, 27, get ready to move. It was bittersweet to see her head off to Vermont Sept. 27. Since she started a new career selling life insurance in February, Summer has a job with that same company in Burlington. Prior to this, she was a hair stylist after graduating from Aveda Institute (2002). She also earned an AA degree from Normandale (2001). Since she’s fluent in French, Summer plans to attend a university in Montreal or Toronto in the near future to get a bachelor’s in English. Summer used to draw a lot as a kid and played the clarinet. She plays the guitar and piano and has also written a little music.
Holland, 23, graduated from Normandale in 2007 as a registered nurse. She worked at Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis, for two years, until moving to Nicaragua in January this year to serve as a volunteer missionary. Currently, Holland is on a three-month traveling nursing assignment in Burlington, Vermont, before she heads back to Nicaragua in January 2010. Her hobby is painting that she began in a painting class at NCC. Holland learned how to unicycle in the fourth grade and took two years of dance in high school. She plays the violin and drums and used to play in a small band.
Benjamin, 22, is the assistant manager at National Camera on Hennepin Avenue in Minneapolis. He’s really an awesome photographer, too, and does a few weddings a year. Interestingly, he began collecting vintage cameras when he was in middle school. Then, in high school, he took up photography before setting up a dark room at our home. Currently, he lives in Minneapolis with four roommates in an older two-story home that has a soundproof music room in the basement. Ben plays the piano and bass guitar in a band and records specialty sounds for music.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Sleeping in Longer Will Benefit Health
Staying up late might make you the life of the party, but lack of sleep catches up in a very harmful way. Diana Gant, one of the nation’s leaders in the study of sleep is recommending nine hours of sleep each night to avoid serious risks to your health. “Nine hours is better,” she said in a recent interview. “I know not everyone agrees with me, but that’s what I keep finding.”
Gant has been with the psychology department for 17 years and studying sleep even longer. Her interest began by wanting to write about people who only slept a few hours and still remained productive. As her studies progressed, Gant discovered that people who go without sleep become drowsy, which directly affects public and personal safety. “It can make people clumsy, stupid, and unhappy,” she said.
These problems can cause astronomical consequences, and may even be related to major disasters. Gant said, “I look at a lot of disasters like the space shuttle Challenger, the accident at Russia Chernobyl nuclear reactor and the Exxon Valdez oil spill. The element of sleeplessness was involved in all of them, at least contributed to all of them, and maybe, probably, caused all of them.”
Gant gathers her studies partly in laboratories and partly on statistics that connect sleeplessness and accidents. One interesting study finds the number of traffic accidents after the shift to daylight savings time in the spring, when people typically lose one hour of sleep. Her studies found an 8 percent increase of accidents occur the day after the time change in the spring. To further support the research, a decrease was found in accidents in the fall when people gain an hour of sleep.
“Think of sleep like exercise. People exercise because it is healthy. Sleep is healthy.” Gant said. She recommends that people relax for about an hour or so before going to bed, to wind your body down to prepare for sleep. Tobacco, coffee, caffeine, and alcohol all affect sleep and should be avoided when possible. She also said it should be cool conditions for the room you sleep in, 65 is best for good sleep. These simple steps can quickly bring about good sleep patterns, which will benefit health tremendously. She ended by saying, “Get a comfortable bed, and keep your bed lines clean and fresh.”
Gant has been with the psychology department for 17 years and studying sleep even longer. Her interest began by wanting to write about people who only slept a few hours and still remained productive. As her studies progressed, Gant discovered that people who go without sleep become drowsy, which directly affects public and personal safety. “It can make people clumsy, stupid, and unhappy,” she said.
These problems can cause astronomical consequences, and may even be related to major disasters. Gant said, “I look at a lot of disasters like the space shuttle Challenger, the accident at Russia Chernobyl nuclear reactor and the Exxon Valdez oil spill. The element of sleeplessness was involved in all of them, at least contributed to all of them, and maybe, probably, caused all of them.”
Gant gathers her studies partly in laboratories and partly on statistics that connect sleeplessness and accidents. One interesting study finds the number of traffic accidents after the shift to daylight savings time in the spring, when people typically lose one hour of sleep. Her studies found an 8 percent increase of accidents occur the day after the time change in the spring. To further support the research, a decrease was found in accidents in the fall when people gain an hour of sleep.
“Think of sleep like exercise. People exercise because it is healthy. Sleep is healthy.” Gant said. She recommends that people relax for about an hour or so before going to bed, to wind your body down to prepare for sleep. Tobacco, coffee, caffeine, and alcohol all affect sleep and should be avoided when possible. She also said it should be cool conditions for the room you sleep in, 65 is best for good sleep. These simple steps can quickly bring about good sleep patterns, which will benefit health tremendously. She ended by saying, “Get a comfortable bed, and keep your bed lines clean and fresh.”
3 H1N1 Deaths Double the State's Toll
The H1N1 flu virus as claimed three more lives in Minnesota. This has brought the total up to six since the new strain developed in April. The three were older, one in her 40s and the other two in their 50s, all with preexisting health conditions. It is believed that the overall severity of the disease is the same as seasonal influenza.
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