I can still remember clearly the first time I heard his voice. I would lay around listening to the radio, trying to catch his name or the name of the band he was frontman for. I would always hear parts of the song… but never enough to make a purchase in the 5 music stores I went to. I would try to sing words from the song, always to a very confused music merchant. Finally, a person at Virgin records had heard it too. They placed the elusive CD in my hand and I was off. I popped that thing into my car and turned it up so loud the walls vibrated and shuddered. The voice was haunting, dark, melancholy. It was deep like the vocals that have attracted my attention since I was a small child. I played that CD endlessly until people refused to ride in my car. I can laugh at that now. That day Chris became my favorite singer. He had the voice of a dark angel. The kind of tone that hits you inside the chest and gives you that twitchy pain behind your eyes. The tone you feel into your very soul.
I’m a firm believer that some people are just not meant for this world. They try so hard to conform and live amongst us. But their souls are always restless. No amount of love or money or beauty or fame can tame them and their search for that “something” that will keep them steady and quiet their soul…it just never comes. Some people will say he was selfish. Some people will say he abused drugs or alcohol. Others will discuss what was in his mind; depression, mental illness, bi-polar, whatever… as if they knew him well both inside and out. The simple fact is no one did. We only knew his music.
What I say? I pray that God wraps loving arms around his family and friends. I pray Chris has finally found his inner peace and is free. God Speed Brother.
Imagine each day you wake, you live with the possibility of feeling ill. Your throat gets scratchy, your ears plug, your sinus’s have painful pressure and your eyes water. Imagine everyday feeling like you have a cold…that will never go away. Not enough? Take your right hand and with your index finger and thumb, pinch them together over your nose and hold. It’s at this point you begin to breath through your mouth. Now, with your left hand, place your flat palm over your mouth and hold tight. Imagine the weight of a 30lb child standing on your chest in the center between your nipples. Can you feel the weight pressing? Now wait until you have to breath…until you’re actually scared…and then… don’t let go. Not enough. Dig a hole… in the ground…and place yourself in it. Let a friend cover you over with fresh, heavy earth, until there’s no light and no air. Get the picture?
Asthma facts and Statistics
Every day in America Alone:
Every day in America Alone:
40,000 people miss school or work due to asthma.
30,000 people have an asthma attack.
5,000 people visit the emergency room due to asthma.
1,000 people are admitted to the hospital due to asthma.
11 people die from asthma.
An estimated 20 million Americans suffer from asthma (1 in 15 Americans), and 50% of asthma cases are “allergic-asthma.” The prevalence of asthma has been increasing since the early 1980s across all age, sex and racial groups.
Multiple Chemical Sensitivity
Chemical-based products are all around: in the clothes we wear, in the food we eat and in the air we breathe. It is not possible to escape exposure. Many people have become sensitized to the chemicals around them. It is estimated that as much as 15% of the population has become sensitized to common household and commercial products. For some people the sensitization is not too serious a problem. They may have what appears to be a minor allergy to one or more chemicals. Other people are much more seriously affected. Such people have a condition known as Multiple Chemical Sensitivity or MCS.
Symptoms of MCS
• asthma or other breathing problems • autoimmune disorders • behavioral problems • bloating or other intestinal problems • cardiovascular irregularities • chronic exhaustion • disorientation or becoming “lost” • dizziness • dystonia (paralysis) • eye, nose and throat problems • fatigue and depression • flu-like symptoms • food allergies and intolerances • genitourinary problems • headaches • increased sensitivity to odors • inflammation • irritability • learning disabilities • mental confusion • movement disorders • muscle weakness and joint pains • numbness and tingling in limbs • persistent infections, especially yeast • persistent skin rashes and sores • seizure disorders • short or long term memory loss • visual disturbance
MCS may result from a single massive exposure to one or more toxic substance or repeated exposures to low doses. Some people become chemical-sensitive following a toxic chemical spill at work or in their community, or after exposure to pesticides. Or, individuals may develop this condition from spending time in a poorly ventilated building, where they breathe a combination of chemicals. MCS may be brought on by a wide array of chemicals found at home, at work, in hospitals, in parks, and at school.
Now, the next time you splash on that aftershave…or the next time you spray your body with your favorite brand of perfume…to go to work, a restaurant, a club, a sporting event, a play or concert… think about this…
Did you know that perfume is made of toxic chemicals that can injure your health? Many of the chemicals in perfume are the same chemicals in cigarette smoke, and yet there is no regulation of the fragrance industry. Many people are “bothered” by perfumes – developing headaches, sinus problems, and even asthma from exposures. Many have gotten sick or even disabled from wearing (or being exposed to) fragrances and using other scented products. And fragrances are now used in almost every cleaning, laundry, and personal-care product on the market! These chemicals go directly into the bloodstream when applied to our skin and are also absorbed into the skin from our clothing. We also inhale the chemical fumes, which then go straight to our brains where they can do major harm. Many even have a “narcotic” effect, which is why some people seem “addicted” to their perfumes.
The problem with scented products is not so much the smell itself as the chemicals that produce the smell. Nearly all scented products currently on the market are made largely or entirely of synthetic chemicals, usually derived from petroleum or coal tar. Nearly one-third of the chemical additives used in perfumes and other scented products are known to be toxic, and it’s not safe to assume that the other chemicals are safe just because they aren’t yet known to be toxic. (Keep in mind that most of the chemicals used in this country, including 90% of the pesticides, have never been tested.) And just one perfume can contain more than 500 chemicals. Expensive products are just as likely as cheap ones to contain synthetic chemicals. And words like “hypoallergenic,” “natural scent,” “floral,” and the names of various flowers don’t mean that you can trust the product under the label–they just mean that the manufacturer wants you to think that the product is safe. Even “unscented” may actually mean that a masking fragrance has been added to the product to disguise the smell of certain ingredients.
The only safe assumption about scented products is that they contain numerous toxic chemicals which constantly vaporize into the air and attach themselves to the hair, clothing, and surroundings of anyone who wears them. These chemicals are skin irritants, suffocants, eye and respiratory tract irritants, and neurotoxins. That’s why being around someone who’s wearing a scented product (or who’s wearing clothes that have picked up smells from past use of scented products) can cause an chemically sensitive person to develop obvious allergy symptoms (sneezing, coughing, watery eyes), to have an asthma attack, to develop a headache, to become dizzy or nauseous, to have trouble focusing or thinking or remembering, to experience sudden mood changes, to develop muscle cramps or spinal subluxations, or even to have a seizure or lose consciousness.
And that’s why wearing scented products isn’t just a personal choice. It’s a choice to impact the air space of others–and in ways you may not be able to predict or control. And that’s why “I’m just wearing a little!” or “It’s not perfume, it’s just my soap” are irrelevant responses. The chemicals don’t care. They don’t care how much you’re wearing or in what form you’re wearing it–they’re going to vaporize into the air around you and do their chemical thing, even if you weren’t planning to harm someone.
I don’t own these statistics and words. They belong to these wise and caring people and Foundations:
Thanks go to Roberta Rigsby, the World Asthma Foundation, the Asthma Foundation and the Chemical Sensitivity Foundation for all this great info and for trying to make the world a safe place for everyone.
Many people out there are soul searching in these difficult times. I am one of them. I can’t put those feelings into words but this lovely song has done it for me. This is for all of you (and me too). Many Blessings 😉 H
Special thanks to Civil Twilight for the beautiful song “Human”, to Da Vinci, 109BC, The Voice, Media Watch, Szukalski, Tori, People’s Voice, The Telegraph, Humanity Healing, Klunavik. MNN
There is a new Ken Burns documentary coming out at the end of the month about our National Parks and the people who were instrumental in saving them for generations to come… I was very lucky to have a sneak preview.
Chira Obata was one of these rare and gifted people and this particular remark (or a portion from it) hit home with me. He was speaking about Yosemite National Park.
… the coyotes howl in the distance, in the mid sky the moon is arcing, all the trees are standing here and there, and it is very quiet. You can learn from the teachings within this quietness. …Some people teach by speeches, some by talking, but I think it is important that you are taught by silence.” I, too, think you can learn a lot from silence…
We’ve been working diligently on our last show all week long. The combination of Yumiko and Kweli’s work complement each other perfectly and the viewers first impression upon entering will be very powerful. Four large, strong, colorful paintings have been deliberately placed “in your face”, with complemented color set to draw your eye through the room. I learned early on that I was gifted an ability to create something visually, where people do not always understand “the why”, but for some reason they feel good about what their looking at. It’s not something I understand myself, but it has always come second nature to me. It’s that mystery and balance that compels me to create…and will always keep me content, as I move on from the gallery into my next, unknown adventure.
I hope to see you all on Saturday night to support these two very talented (and more important) truly good, kind women. From me to you, a warm hug and big thank you for all your support and well wishes. H
It is with great sadness that I tell you, I will be closing the Gallery at the end of April. My Husband Micheal, was laid off from his job of 17 years, making it impossible for me to keep it open. To all those who have been an important part of Anuvue Studio, I wanted to thank you for your friendship and utter kindness. It is very rare to be able to have a dream become a reality. For a short sweet time, with the help and inspiration of all of you, I was able to have mine. A very wise woman told me “Heather, when one door closes, another one opens”… and I will always believe in that wisdom. I want to thank each and every Artist and valued friend for all your very kind thoughts in email, by phone and in person. I share what I can with you here.
I am most proud to announce that the last 2 Artist’s in line to show are Yumiko Yanone and Kweli Walker. Anuvue will fulfill their dreams on April 18th, in a duo show, with a party full of love and celebration.
I do so hope that all of you will join us one last time and make it a great memory.
God Bless all of you and your Families
Love Heather
Hi Heather .
You all have been in my thoughts lately. I’m sorry to hear your lovely Gallery will be closing . It has been a pleasure to be included in your gallery with so many lovely artists.
If you need me to clear out before the 18th so you have more room to showcase other artist please let me know .Otherwise I will shoot for the 25th but still do my best to stop by and say hello before then .
I’m so glad to have met you and hope we have the pleasure of working together again in the future .
See you soon.
Best ,
Gina
Heather,
Sad news indeed. Give your husband my best.
Thanks you for a great place.
Best,
Darcy
Oh sweetie….. I am so sorry. I will be in CA April 5-10 and will try to get up to see you and the gallery. Or at least the gallery as you will probably be working your real job. Krap. And it is such a beautiful gallery. I HATE this economy stuff. We love ya- Vicki
Oh Heather… I am so sad and very sorry to hear of this news. I am certain it was hard to write. What I will always know is how inspired you were by your father to open the gallery. You did him AND you very proud. Let me know how I can help in this final showing….I will contribute some foodie stuff. Xoxo jenny
Oh Heather, I’m so saddened to hear this and so very sorry.
I know that you’re grateful for the time you had running this wonderful space, but it still sucks!
I am so very grateful to you for all you’ve done and want you to know what a difference you’ve made in many people’s lives- including mine, and I will always be grateful for this time.
I will absolutely be there on the 18th– (the day before my birthday actually!)
You did a great thing for a lot of people Heather, remember that always. I wish this weren’t the way it is, but this damn recession.
Love you lots Heather,
MaryBeth
Oh, Heather. I am so sorry for both of you. I sat and cried after I read your email. It breaks my heart to hear that you have to close the doors on your dream.
Also, the uncertainty of your future now that Mike has lost his job. Those feelings came back to me in a flash. Not knowing what doors will open. I remember Patrick trying to remain upbeat while I am sure the turmoil inside was brewing as he thought of how he was going to provide for his family. It is a scary world not knowing what the next day will bring. I cringe every time Patrick comes home and tells me they lost a bid on another contract. Kawasaki is desperately trolling to bring something into the plant. I pray that through his connections, that Micheal will find something soon. We will keep you both in our thoughts every night as we say our prayers with Joseph. You will be added to his prayer list. Godspeed, My Dear, Godspeed. -K
I’m so sorry to hear that, Heather. It’s such a rough time for everyone. I wish you much love and support for the future. I’ll be by with new things for your last month. We’ll go out with a bang! 🙂 Cynthia
Hello!
Most of you have no idea who I am, and you’re probably going to think I’m nuts, but I really feel a need to do this. My name is Dee Muzic, and my husband Tim did most of the carpentry for Heather and Mike. I watched the cabinets, desks, display cabinets, and walls, come to life in my own backyard. I know this sounds crazy, but I feel a real connection to Anuvue Studio and when I read the email Heather sent I cried. I felt a sense of shock as well as an overwhelming sadness for her and Mike. I, as well as the rest of you, know what time, effort, frustration, and love went into making this dream come true for Heather. She made many people’s dreams a reality, along with hers. She is a very unselfish person, and deserves to have her dream fulfilled for as long as possible. I am willing to do whatever I can to keep the studio alive. If ANYONE can think of ANYTHING that we can do to keep the studio and dream alive, please let me know. I know that just one person can’t do much, but with a bunch of people who really care, miracles can happen.
Dear Heather,
I’m so sorry to hear this has happened. That is such a shock and challenge for you both. Your gallery was one of the best things that ever happened to me and the other artists who’ve shown there. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help you and Mike. We (the artists and neighbors) must have a big moving party to ease the challenge of getting your things moved, etc. Please let us know how and when we can assist. When one door closes, another one opens! I hope and pray Mike finds a better job right away.
Love Always,
kweli
Hi Heather,
I got your message.
I am so sorry about Mike. I just couldn’t believe it…I’m sure he worked so hard for 17 years for the company and this happens…
And I am so sorry about your gallery, too.
The gallery is your child and the place was my dream place, too.
Thank you for still giving me a chance to have my art show.
Yes I am willing to share my space with Kweli.
If there is anything I can do, please let me know.
Sincerely,
Yumiko
I’m not much with written words but things have been difficult for many of us recently but faith with the help of time heals as well as making us stronger.
Leo
Heather, I am so sorry to hear this painful news. You are the warmest, sweetest spirit that I know. I pray it’s just a short time before something great comes Mike’s way, and you can both hold onto your dreams. Please, please call if there is anything we can do. All our love to you both, Shiela and family
To my dearest beloved Aunt,
I just heard the news from mom and read your blog… unbelievable… it’s the only thing that comes to mind. I can’t imagine how Uncle Mike feels about leaving a place he has been for so very long. Please send him my thoughts. As for you… my heart aches at the thought of you having to depart from something you have given so much devotion and love to achieve. I assure you I wouldn’t miss that show for the world!! You know, I have done much reflection on our times of late, trying to determine it’s purpose. I heard something simple yet profound today… be grateful for what you HAVE, not what you HAD. In the midst of all that we endure, you are a rare soul who shines so bright, you have given others a chance to live out thier dreams, as you live yours. I cannot begin to say I understand, or know what lies in your head or heart. My prayers will be for you and Uncle Mike. Yet rest assured, that you have left your mark on many with your gifts and you will have the opportunity to give and receive again.
I love you so very much!
Forever your niece
Corina
Laura’s reception coincided with what seemed like the entire lower state of California burning in all directions. My prayers go out to all those affected and all those waiting in the evacuation zones. Two of Anuvue’s resident artists, Cathy (fused glass) and Jim (Photography) along with Jamie (our teacher and my dear friend) and Susan (our intern) were all directly affected and thankfully all safe at this writing.
40 brave souls ventured out amongst dark, dry skies and unbreathable air to support this generous, lovely woman. I could not be more proud of them and their dedication.
I thought I would share Laura’s work first and then follow up with the reception after I developed them.
Well, another year’s festivities have come…and gone 😦
Hard to guess the numbers we had for Halloween at our new location but it was a great turnout after all. At first, I was a bit worried…but the old saying…if you build it, they will come was “Dead on”. After the trick or treaters finished in the tracts they headed East, up the 19 steps to “Day of the Dead” with all the trimmings. My answering machine had 3 calls from the Los Angeles Times. Did I return them? Heck no! I didn’t get that much candy. 😉
Shout outs to all that helped. We had my dear bud Jamie tearing up the place with her famously popular caricatures. The line formed out the door with all the little darlings but no worries there… she’s a returning veteran at this stuff. She told me one young boy wanted to leave his dog mask on. Guess what his caricature looked like? Jim manned the costume photography with the skill of a seasoned Halloweener… even though this was his first year. He told me he had fun and I have to say, from what I saw, I believe him. The lovely Susan, our gallery intern (who actually knows the price of things) was able to get off work and assist both Jim in the photo department and me in the gallery. It was her first Halloween with us as well and she made it through and still had steam for another party…ahhh to be 25 again! Jamie’s son Scott and his good friend were the “candy watchers” and did a great deal to help in the clean up department. There was also James (my young neighbor) who has grown up with “my little hobby” (now 17) and came by to lend a hand. Thank you to all three young men.
I made one sale in particular that made me a proud, happy woman. We have a talented teenage girl named McKenzie taking Jamie’s art class. She drew a wonderful pastel of a girl’s face that reminds me of both the girl in Beetlejuice and the one from “a series of unfortunate adventures”. Jamie and I decided it was perfect for the gallery this month. A lady inquired and I sold it to her (with prior permission from the young artist). I can’t wait to hand her the cash and see her face! We also held a raffle for the photograph that’s on the invite. I need to locate the winner and deliver her the prize 😉
A special thanks to the fabulous band members of The Blue Lion Project. All the party goers enjoyed them (grandparent’s too) and they enjoyed themselves… which was great to see. I danced with my neighbor Steve (or rather tried to stay out of his foot loose way) to every Van Halen song they knew. Don’t ask me why Van Halen…I don’t even drink!
Mike (who doesn’t dance unless inebriated) got to speak with the police twice in one night and he did a magnificent job (as he always does) keeping things under control. After years of Halloween mania, I doubt I could surprise him now…well possibly…but you know I will certainly keep trying! 😉
I got to watch children dance and sing along with the band, parade in their wonderful costumes, shove candy, soda pop, chips and gigantic cupcakes down their throats and cry frantically because they didn’t want to leave.
I’d say my job is done for another year. Santa, you may release those darn reindeer…
Anuvue Studio 