Do you remember making gum wrapper chains when you were a kid? If not, have you seen the movie 28 Days with Sandra Bullock?  Hold that thought. I'll get back to it. During the summer, I have found that I tend to do more crafts than other times of the year. I finished an afghan I started at Christmas time. A friend taught me how to make rag rugs that are really easy and durable. I crocheted door mat and a tote bag out of plastic grocery bags. I love the idea of getting something for nothi...

Heat in Iowa is oppressive. Heat in Maryland is demoralizing. Heat in moister regions of the country is a sticky, wet violation, like the frotteur on a crowded bus. In Arizona, yes, it's really, really freaking hot, and yes, it's a dry heat. Arizona heat is more like an overbearing co-worker who stands a little too close and talks a little too loud. One can easily escape. It's not the heat, it's the light. The light is unforgiving. Every flaw is on display. It's surgery lighting, dentist chai...