American Artist ----- Judy Chicago

"I believe in art that is connected to real human feeling, that extends itself beyond the limits of the art world to embrace all people who are striving for alternatives in an increasingly dehumanized world. I am trying to make art that relates to the deepest and most mythic concerns of human kind and I believe that, at this moment of history, feminism is humanism."
Judy Chicago Signature

Judy Cohen was born in Chicago Illinois 1939. Right as the depression ended a star named Judy was born. Judy's parents were Jewish who voiced their belief in family and left wing politics. The young girl would create drawings at the age of 3 while attending classes at the Institute of Chicago. The early art lessons would be inspirational and soon the artist Judy Chicago was born. The strong artist would see many changes in the following years some led by life, others by her own cares and inspirations.

Judy Chicago would receive a formal training at UCLA. In 1964 she received her M.F.A. The early work of Jdy was that of female sexual expression. These pieces were often rejected by her peers leaving her to turn from this path and more toward sculpture. The sculptures seemed to comply with that of the geometric style found in many pieces in the art world during the 1960s. But when her life turned upside down and her husband died in a car accident her art style would change again.

The works she created were more expressive and personal. They seemed to be rooted in her personal feelings of grief. She traveled back to her early works emphasizing the body but this time in abstract form. The works could still be easily interpreted as a male dominating a female. It may of been that Chicago herself felt this way in her own life. Female body parts became the subject of choice during Chicago's art work of the mid 1960s through 1970s. In 1969 Chicago remarried but refused to take his last name. She chose to keep Chicago as a tribute to her hometown.

The 1970s was a time in America for women to be all they could be. The art world also had women who were very involved in the Feminist movement. Their goal was to call attention to reflect the lives of women, the roles that women artis play and to alter the conditions under which contemporary art was produced and received.   The art world was one that had been dominated by men from the beginning when artist were first recorded. Now a movement was being put into picture, a movement that both the art world and politics together. Women artist began to take a stand for their selves. One of these artist was Judy Chicago who brought her beliefs of women into view.

Judy Chicago used the art mediums of needlework and embroidery to help bring her feminist vision to reality. She was not only an artist but an educator and organizer. The women's movement of the time helped her rebel against the male dominated art scene during the 1960s. Chicago worked on creating pieces that helped recognize the achievement of major female historical figures. Other pieces demonstrated works of needlework, ceramic decoration, and glass.


Judy Chicago also sought changing how women artist were trained. It was her dream to make a broader access for women artist to be visible in contemporary art. Creating several organizations to help promote women artist Chicago continued to fight on.

Judy Chicago has many pieces of art that have been archived in one of many places. The Schlesinger Library at Radcliffe College holds many pieces of her personal work. A collection of women's history and culture books that belonged to Judy Chicago are housed at the University of New Mexico in 1999. Judy was honored with the UCLA Alumni Professional Achievement Award, she also was awarded with honorary degrees from Lehigh University, Smith College, Duke University and Russell Sage College. Judy Chicago was awarded with a Visionary WOman Award from Moore College of Art & Design. She was a honoree for Women's History Month in 2008 at National Women's History Project. Chicago donated her collection of feminist art educational materials to Penn State University in 2011.

Judy Chicago has strived to keep her art knowledge up to date. She has even explored attending car - body school to learn air-brushing and has worked with glass as well. Chicago was interviewed by Gloria Steinem on her "goal as an artist" Chicago shared that many pieces of her art was created with the thought of all being seen through the male gaze. 

Judy continues to show her art, teach others and speak on her thought and that of being a woman.

Do Like It when Bananas Split

Have you ever been to an ice cream parlor?? I must say I have only been to one ice cream parlor in all my years. The one time we went was with my parents and I was in middle school. There were so many different things to order from ice cream sundaes that we enjoyed to banana splits and other ice cream delights . It is quite common to find such goodies in an ice cream shop but did you know that it was a `pharmacy and not an ice cream parlor that served up the first banana split.

To me this is not a true surprise as our local little town pharmacy also served ice cream, sodas, sandwiches and more. So I can imagine that David Evans Strickler, a 23 year old pharmacist apprentice created the first banana split while experimenting with new sundae flavors. The treat was sold for a dime a piece and since that time the banana split has been celebrated on the 25th of August. 

Banana splits are perfect to share with friends because:

• The banana split is perfect size to share with a friend. Normally having 3 scoops of ice cream, fudge, whipped cream banana and more it allows to split it in half top them both of with cherry and share with someone you love
• Banana splits can be fixed the way you like them. Choose the toppings, ice cream flavors, types of chocolate, how your bananas are sliced Anyway you like it, fix it up and enjoy the banana split how you like it. 

Fact about the author of Annies Home:

in 1979 at the local DQ  I was selected to be part of the banana split eating contest. I did not win but  had a great time and was a memory made at 9 years old that would last a life time 

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Trouble Sleeping Try Working All Night Long

Recently because of injury I was placed on the midnight shift at work. For those of you who do not know I am a nurse and love to work my dayshift. Since being on midnights many things are different but one of the issues is sleep. When you work hours that many sleep and must sleep when others are awake there are many issues that can come up.

Night shift work can be hard on your personal life and difficult on your health as well. It must be said that one must get at least 6 hours of sleep during the day and be as health conscious as possible. Healthy meals and snacks should be on the menu and caffeine must be limited as we all know what issues caffeine can cause. Exercise is something that should be implemented in ones schedule as well. One of the best things working on the midnight shift is the extra time to spend with those individuals we have relationships with. If we can get the sleep and health issues down pat then we will have the energy as well.

If you have ever worked midnocs then you know that one of the worst things is fighting the sleep battle. Halfway through the shift, but then the when the shift is over it seems as if the world is up and going. We want to spend quality time with our families and at times it is hard to choose whether sleep or time with family is more important.

Many times, I have taken the kids to school, spent some time with hubby after working the late night shift before getting any rest. I can tell you that while the children are at school I can sleep a bit deeper like I do at night. However, if the house is loud I sleep a bit lighter.


Some tips to help those on third shift some sleep:

• keep a sleep ritual that includes going to sleep directly after work. Don't do chores, errands, or scheduling. These task can be done later after you sleep when you can put your full attention on the jobs at hand. 
• Sunlight helps your body to perk up and makes sleep difficult. The room you sleep in should be dark as possible and spend no more time than needed outside in sun before coming in the house to sleep
• ear plugs make a good investment. The pone should be on silence and you should ask family members to be quiet while you sleep
• Sleep aids are not always good. While they are a temporary solution they may not be able to take care of long term problem. Sleeping pills do not help your body to adjust 
• Caffeine may be a great tool helping you threw the shift but is an enemy to sleep. 

Extra tip
eat snacks and drink water on the shift so that you do not get dehydrated. Dehydration will leave you feeling drained and lethargic. Healthy snacks will help keep blood sugar from dipping and maintain energy.

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Fall Prep for the Yard and Garden

As summer slowly starts to wind down, fall is on its way. Just like the fable of the ant and grasshopper as fall comes closer there are jobs that must be done. While fall is a glorious time of year full of laughter and good times there are jobs that must be completed to prevent later problems. The summer jobs of mowing and weeding may come to a close but yard work is not yet over. There are jobs that need to be done in the fall before winter so that we will be prepared for next year.

• Yard debris such as old leaves, mulch , grass and branches must be cleaned up and taken care of. These areas can lead to insects such as mosquitos, fungus and other diseases that no one wants. Be sure to check under shrubs and roses for old branches and leaves. Another area that end of summer grass clippings and old leaves accumulate are the flowerbeds. Cleaning them out will not only prevent future pest but also help you prepare for next season. How many trees in your yard?? Will you have large amounts of leaves or not so many?? While leaves are great for composting into fertilizer to be used in flower beds and gardens one great way to rid the leaf problem simply mow them over with a lawnmower with an attached bag. The chopped up leaves can be spread in garden areas

• While your soil is full of nutrients, it is depleted at the end of the growing season. Fall fertilizer is needed to restore nutrients. So why not give your grass, shrubs, an perennials some help to make it through the winter with a little fertilization. 
• You may be surprised when I tell you that experts advise not to prune dead flowers and branches in the fall but to wait til spring to prune. During the fall and winter months the plant should go dormant but pruning the plants stimulates new growth something that it will not be doing
• Fall is the perfect time to mulch. Use your choice of bark, shredded bark, pine needles, or chopped leaves. Mulch should be at least 6 inches away from stems or trunks of plants to prevent mice from nesting. 

• Nature's critters like rabbits, voles, mice and rats are all looking for somewhere to spend the winter. Somewhere they can nest and feed til spring. Areas that are covered with tall weeds and brush are perfect for these little pest. To prevent them clean up outdoor debris, remove food and water sources. 
• Spring flowering bulbs and garlic can be planted until the ground freezes. 
• Cool season veggies should be protected to extend the harvest

Enjoy the rest of your summer, have a great fall and don't forget to prepare so you wont know what to do when it is time for winter season

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Chocolate Pecan Pie

3 tbs. butter, melted
3 eggs, beaten
1/2 c. brown sugar
2 tbs. flour
1 tbs. cocoa powder (optional)
1/4 c. maple syrup
2 tbs. bourbon (optional)
1 1/2 c. toasted pecans (I like to use big, roughly broken up pieces)
3/4 c. dark chocolate chips
Pinch of salt
Pie crust

Preheat oven to 340°.  That's correct, three-hundred-and-forty.  Mix the ingredients into a bowl in this order:  brown sugar, flour, cocoa powder, eggs, maple syrup, bourbon.  Add melted butter.  Mix in pecans, chocolate chips, and salt.  Pour into pie shell.  Bake on a tray or sheet for 45-50 minutes.  Serve with ice cream.  Thank the pecan gods and pray that next year's nut season is bountiful.

recipe source here

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What Do Mosquitoes Do In the Fall

Mosquitoes are cold blooded creatures that generally do not bite in temperatures below 50 degrees. As winter nears mosquitos often enter into hibernation prior to the first frost. Mosquitoes may also die in the fall but have winter hardy eggs where the embryos hibernate.

Mosquitos have been here according to fossil evidence for 46 million years. The ice age was only 2.5 million years ago so we can easily see that the mosquito is very resilient.

It stands to reason that a few months of winter hardly phases a cold-blooded mosquito. So, what happens to the mosquito during the winter?

The lifespan of a male mosquito is up to 10 days, and then it dies after mating. The males never make it past the fall. The female mosquitoes spend the colder months inactive in protected places, such as hollow logs or animal burrows. It is fair to say the mosquito enters a period of dormancy, similar to a bear or squirrel hibernating for the winter. She can hibernate for up to six months.

Mosquitoes can be as active in the fall as they are in the summer. They are cold blooded and hibernate or die off. Temperatures are consistently below 50 degrees will stop the mosquitoes activity. Early fall months that are simply a bit cooler has the tiny biters at home allowing them to keep on pestering. Individuals often notice the bite of the mosquitoes more during the day time than the cooler eventing.

Mosquitoes will continue to breed through late summer and early fall. Summer months see more breeding time but the early fall months still see an opportunity to make more. Fall months of the mosquito are filled with preparation of winter. Some breeds may totally die off and others will simply hibernate til warmer months. Still other species lay winter hardy eggs that can survive the cold and hatch in warmer temperatures or some female mosquitoes will mate fatten up and hibernate

Autumn is a great time of year to remove nearby mosquito breeding grounds. Reducing the amount of water in your yard is also something that you should do.

• Removing standing water in flower pots, bird baths, tires and any small containers that are the size of a bottle cap or larger
• clean your gutters and fix leaky pipes and faucets outside
• remove piles of leaves to help get rid of mosquito homes and breeding area, Leaves hold moisture and may prevent proper drainage in your yard leading to standing water 

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Dish Up Some Tex Mex Waffles

1 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
1⁄2 cup yellow cornmeal
1 1⁄3 cups longhorn cheese or 1 1⁄3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1 tablespoon baking powder
2 teaspoons sugar
1⁄2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon mild chili powder
1 2⁄3 cups milk
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1⁄3 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons finely chopped green chilies

Preheat the waffle maker.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, cheese, baking powder, sugar, salt and chili powder. Add the milk, eggs, vegetable oil and chiles, and mix just until moistened. Mixture may be a little lumpy.
Bake in preheated waffle maker according to manufacturer's instructions. Makes 4 to 5 large waffles.
Serve with your favorite salsa, sour cream and additional grated cheese.

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Old Fashioned Double Crust Peach Pie #Recipe

So many times you will find pies with only crust on top. When I was a kid my grandmother made pies with both a top and bottom crust. Pies like that of my grandma's are known as double crust pies. The bottom crust is rolled out and placed in the pie plate. The filling of the pie tops the bottom crust and then the top crust is rolled and prepared. The edges of both the top and bottom pie crusts are trimmed and crimped to seal the crusts together. The top crust should have several slots cut into the crust or few holes should be made to allow steam to escape as the pie is baked. 

2/1/2 cups flour plus more for rolling out dough
1 Tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
12 Tablespoons cold butter cut into small pieces
4 to 6 Tablespoons ice water
Peach Filling
4 Tablespoons butter
1/4 cup light brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar more for sprinkling on top
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 Teaspoon cinnamon
zest of one lemon
1/2 cup water
10 ripe peaches peeled, pitted and sliced into 1/4 inch slices, thawed frozen peaches can also be used
3 Tablespoons flour
2 Tablespoons cream for brushing top crust
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

For the crust
Using the blade attachment for your food processor, place flour, sugar and salt in the processor bowl. Process until combined, about 5 seconds. Add the cold butter pieces and process until mixture looks like coarse meal. Add the cold water 2 Tablespoons at a time until dough just comes together. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured clean surface and knead until it comes together. Divide dough into 2 pieces, form each half into a flat disk. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Roll each disk out into a rectangle to fit the 9 x 13 inch pan about 1/4 inch thick. This doesn't have to be perfect. Your just going to lay it on top of the filling, no crimping needed. Place rectangles on 2 parchment lined baking sheets and refrigerate to chill. Each rectangle will have it's own parchment lined baking sheet.
Peach Filling
Melt the butter in a large saute pan. Add both sugars,water,lemon zest, vanilla and cinnamon. Cook until sugar is dissolved. Drain the peaches of the juice in the bowl, you can leave a little juice in if you want more sauce in the cobbler. Add peaches and flour to the saute pan, cook until thickened and it starts to boil. Remove from heat.
Assembly
Generously butter a 9x13 inch baking pan. Place half the peach filling in the pan, place one dough rectangle over the filling. Place on a cookie sheet, bake until crust is light golden brown. Remove from oven, top with the remaining peach filling, place second dough rectangle over top the filling. Brush the top with cream and sprinkle with sugar. Return to the oven and bake until top crust is light brown and juices are bubbly. Cool 30 minutes before cutting. Serve with cream or ice cream.


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Overnight Pumpkin Pie Spice French Toast

1lb loaf french bread, diced into 1-inch cubes
8 eggs
1 cup pumpkin puree
2 1/2 cups pumpkin spice egg nog
4 tablespoons brown sugar (dark brown if you have it)
1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vanilla
butter for greasing pan
Topping
1/4 cup packed brown sugar (preferably dark brown sugar)
1/4 cup white sugar
2 tablespoons flour
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons cold butter

Butter sides and bottom of a 9x13 pan and set aside. Place bread cubes in a large mixing bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs together and add pumpkin puree. Whisk until smooth. Mix in pumpkin spice egg nog. Add brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla and whisk until combined. Pour mixture over bread cubes and very gently toss until covered. Let sit for 2-3 minutes and then toss again, making sure all bread cubes get covered in some of the egg mixture. Place entire mixture in prepared 9x13 inch pan, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, white sugar, flour, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon, Either grate butter with a large-hole cheese grater, or cut it into small chunks, and use fingers to crumble mixture together. Cover, and place crumb topping in fridge overnight.
In the morning, take french toast pan out and set at room temperature while you preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Uncover pan and sprinkle crumb topping evenly over the top. Bake for 45-55 minutes, until puffed and golden all over. (Mine usually takes closer to 55 minutes). Remove and let cool for 10 minutes or so and then cut into squares and serve.
Serve with softened or melted butter, 100% real maple syrup, and sweetened whipped cream sprinkled with pumpkin pie spice.

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History Is Full of Wonder ===== Maryland

The state of Maryland was named after Henrietta Maria of France. Henrietta Maria was the queen consort of England, Scotland and Ireland and also the wife of King Charles the first. The state flag of Maryland is the only one that is based on English heraldry. The design comes from the first shield of Lord Baltimore. The 1630s black and gold quarters are the arms of Lord Baltimore's family, the Calverts.

One of the original 13 states, Maryland, entered the union as the 7th state on August 24th. Maryland had a lot to offer one commodity was the coast. Maryland's coast has come to be rooted in maritime heritage where it has seen battle in the ocean defending Ft. McHenry in Baltimore. It was at that location that the National Anthem The Star Spangled Banner was penned by Francis Scott Key. Key was born in Maryland and inspired by the American flag as it continued to wave during the battle and attack from the British navy during the war of 1812.

One individual from Maryland, John Smith explored the Chesapeake Bay area. His travels were recorded and included information about Native Americans in the area as well as plant life and animals in the area.

Maryland has a rich history as well. The civil war era with the battlefields and Antietam National Cemetery are among the many places that remain keeping scores of rich historical information. One date that rings out is September 17, 1862 when one of the bloodiest battles was fought. Shortly after this battle Lincoln issued a Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation. Maryland was considered southern as it was below the Mason Dixon line but unlike the rest of the southern states Maryland never receded from the Union.  (The Mason Dixon line was drawn between Pennsylvania an Maryland in 1760s to end a border dispute. The line was commonly used when speaking of the division between America's north and south states)

You can find the oldest state capitol that has seen continuous use in Maryland. The Maryland state house has also served as the Continental Congress meeting spot from November 26, 1785 to August 13 1784 It was at this location that George Washington resigned his commander in chief ending the Revolutionary war. The judges of Maryland all wear rear red robes when on the judges chair.



Looking for a job in aerospace, defense, or federal cybersecurity?? Look no further than Maryland. Other industries rich in the state include fishing and seafood. Some of the many names located in the state are Perdue, McCormick, Black & Decker and Underarmor.


Maryland is full of mountains and oceans, countryside and metropolis. When visiting Maryland many desire to visit the Boardwalk where relaxation, adventure, and fun in the sun can be found abundant. The area also provides stunning scenic views, site seeing , peaceful accommodation, festivals and events for everyone.

Pumpkin Swirl Brownies

8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for pan
6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups pumpkin puree (canned is ok)
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9-inch square baking pan or dish. Line bottom of pan with parchment paper; butter lining.
Melt chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth.
Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl; set aside. Put sugar, eggs, and vanilla in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment; beat until fluffy and well combined, 3 to 5 minutes. Beat in flour mixture.
Divide batter between two medium bowls (about 2 cups per bowl). Stir chocolate mixture into one bowl. In other bowl, stir in pumpkin, oil, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Transfer half of chocolate batter to prepared pan smoothing top with a rubber spatula. Top with half of pumpkin batter. Repeat to make one more chocolate layer and one more pumpkin layer. Work quickly so batters don’t set.
With a small spatula or a table knife, gently swirl the two batters to create a marbled effect.
Bake until set, 40 to 45 minutes. Let cool in pan on a wire rack. Cut into 16 squares.
Notes: adapted from Martha Stewart October 2004 Magazine

Amelia Earhart ===== Wonderful Goal Breaking Pilot Is Also Character In Grand Mystery

The year was 1932, the date was August 24th, a woman by the name of Amelia Earhart set off on the first successful coast to coast flight for a woman. The trip would take Earhart on a journey from Los Angeles, California to Newark New Jersey. It would take a remarkable 18 hours and 5 minutes. 

This flight would be remarkable and go down in history. But the story of Amelia Earhart began many years ago in Atchinson Ky on July 24, 1897. Growing up Earhart was adventurous enjoying many of the same things that boys her age did. From climbing trees and shooting rats. Playing girl games like dolls was not something she enjoyed. At around the age of 20 years old on a Christmas vacation Earhart became inspired to enter aviation. Her first flight inspired her to save up money for flying lessons and soon in 1923 would become only the 16th woman to obtain a flying license. 

Many may not realize that Earhart was married to George Putnam but kept her maiden name rather than taking a marrie name. It was just another remarkable move in Amelia being a strong woman and demanding what she wanted. Her flying career would obtain such first as well. For example, the time she flew over the same path that Charles Lindbergh took flying over the Atlantic Ocean. That was quickly followed by her coast to coast trip in 1932. The next goal would be to attempt a trip around the world which would take place June 1937. It would be the last trip she would fly as she and her co-pilot would disappear over the Pacific Ocean. 


Note: 
in 2017 a photo that was possibly Earhart and her co-pilot were found in the National Archives. Was it truly a picture of them and were they taken prisoners by the Japanese military?? The adventure and stories of Earhart seems to still capture the attention of many

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Some Love Math and others Loathe it, check out this giveaway to see how it can help your child with math

Math is a subject some may love and others may loathe. When I find great learning tools to help my little ones learn math I have to check it out. With the giveaway over at A Heck of  a Bunch you have more of a chance to not only check it out but learn about it as well.

One person will win a hardback book copy of CRASH! BOOM! A Math Tale.

Art of Mary Cassatt

"I had already recognized who were my true masters. I admired Manet, Courbet and Degas. I hated conventional art - I began to live."
Mary Cassatt


Mary Stevenson Cassatt was born in America to an upper middle class family. Her father was a successful stockbroker, and her mother belonged to a prosperous banking family. Mary would move to and traveled to France to gain an artistic training.

Mary Stevenson Cassatt was born to a comfortably upper-middle-class family: her father was a successful stockbroker, and her mother belonged to a prosperous banking family. Her family lived in France and Germany for a few years allowing the young Mary an early exposure to European arts and culture. As a child Mary Cassatt learned French and German language The early exposures most likely helped Mary when she traveled to France and remained during her art career.

Cassatt was one of the few Americans allowed to exhibit her talented art with that of the Impressionists in Paris. As one of the few women to have her art looked at and accepted by art skeptics she often created art illustrating women as well as mothers and children. Mary employed a light palette and a loose brushstroke that was in line with other Impressionist artist. The art of Mary Cassatt appears to have an influence of Japanese art as well as that of the old masters Europeans. Perhaps the variety of technique in her art comes from the fact she was able to work in such as large variety of media.

Cassatt enjoyed her career at the same time as a move of feminism of the 1840s took part. This allowed her and other women in the art world to access educational institutions at the colleges and universities that were now co-ed. Mary Cassatt was an outspoken advocate for women. Pushing for equality she campaigned with her friends for equal travel scholarships for students and the right to vote in the United States as well.
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Life for Mary Cassatt was lived as a successful, highly trained woman artist who never married. Her mother Katherine Cassatt believed in education for both men and women and Mary campaigned for the cause by being knowledgeable and socially active. She demanded in being known more than just a "woman artist" by supporting women's suffrage. She displayed a show of art in 1915 that was supported by feminist Louisine Havemeyer. The show caused quite a conflict in the family as they not all supported her thoughts.


Cassatt lived a long life to the age of 82 when she passed in 1926

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whats your legacy

I often remind my children and grandchildren that they need to always try their best and behave like they are supposed to as they represent me. I feel this way partly because this is what my grandmother would tell me. What my behaviors are reflected back on the family. But how exactly does this work??

The generation that went before us has created a reputations. Sometimes this is good and other times it is not. In our family , it was good as the previous generations worked hard and created a name in the community to be proud of It is a name that whether I like it or not (which  I love it) is mine because I am the generation that followed.

It is more than a reputation that should be lived up to it is a legacy. Our family legacy is full of hard working farmers. While I do not farm I do work hard and still enjoy many of the activities that my parents and grandparents took part in It is now my turn as there have been two other generations of our family to come since I was born to come along. Materialistic wealth is not exactly where it all is, it is in how we treat others and how others think about us.

Leaving a legacy, a way of leaving a meaningful, lasting and energizing contribution to humanity. It is through serving a cause that is greater than that of our selves. We are all unique and most of us have at least one thing that we are passionate about. It is by devoting ourselves to that cause or reason that helps create a legacy. It is the desire to go beyond our safety box and help others or fight for a cause.

What would you make as your legacy?? I have devoted much time to helping others and will continue to do so but to say I have been devoted to a specific cause I would say not at this time. What is your legacy?


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Keep Mosquitos Away

Mosquitoes are small and tiny creatures. The nuisance that they are is only the start of it as these insects can cause several dangerous and fatal diseases. Malaria and yellow fever are among the diseases that can be caused by mosquitoes. Mosquito bites are itchy and painful and the market to help stop the discomfort left from mosquitoes is full of remedies. Many of the popular remedies help make your surroundings mosquito free but leave negative effects on the environment. 

There are a number of ways to get rid of mosquitoes. Citronella candles have been used to rid the area of those pesky little biters. But, has the thought of using garlic powder to spring on the ground to help guard against mosquitoes ever cross your mind?? This post will take a look at riding our area from those tiny little pests known as mosquitoes. 

One of the best ways to protect our yard is to make sure that our lawn is mowed and there is no free standing water. Other proven ways that can easily be obtained and not harm our atmosphere include:

• Dry ice, while humans exhale carbon dioxide it attracts mosquitoes. Dry ice is frozen carbon dioxide and will evaporate into gas as it melts. Keep a dish of dry ice it will attract the little pest. Simply place a cloth over the dish and trap the bugs in , killing them. 
• Coffee grounds is something that many may have around the house, sprinkling coffee grounds in stagnant water near your home will force mosquito eggs to the surface. This will deprive the eggs of oxygen, killing the eggs before they have the opportunity to hatch. 
• Garlic also makes a good mosquito repellent. Simply crush a few cloves of garlic and boil in water. Pour the water in spray bottle and squirt in room. Eating garlic will also help prevent mosquitos as well rubbing garlic on your skin
• Mint is another fragrant that mosquitoes do not like. Fresh mint, mint oil, or mint extracts to keep mosquitoes away. Pour mint oil into a spray bottle and use as a fumigator, or apply mint to any exposed part of body. 
• Rosemary naturally repels mosquitoes. Burn a few stalks of rosemary, the aroma will drive off the pest. 

Bug Be Gone Spray Recipe

In a empty and clean spray bottle fill 1/2 with distilled water. Then continue to fill with witch hazel. Finally, add 60 drops of essential oils. Shake well, 

Help your yard stay mosquito free

As, I stated earlier mosquitoes hate the scent of citronella, rosemary, catnip, mint, marigolds, basil, lemongrass and garlic. So these are exactly the plants that you want to plant in your yard and garden. 

Keep yard free of standing water. Make sure that animal dishes and birdbaths are clean and fresh 

Make sure to weed your yard and garden, trim bushes and keep the yard mowed. 

Use bird houses , especially purple martin houses, to decorate the yard. BIrds eat mosquitoes and will help rid your yard of them

We all know that fans are useful in the summer months but did you know they can help with mosquito problem as well. The fan blades when in motion attract the mosquitos but when they get near they are sucked up by air and killed by blades. Thus, placing fans on covered porches, gazebos and other outside areas is a great idea. 

When in nature it is almost impossible not to get any bites so what to do if you are bit by a mosquito?? Here are some ideas

• apply ice to the area that appears as it may be swollen
• Spray apple cider vinegar on the area to ease itch and pain
• used tea bag will help reduce redness and itching
• make a paste of baking soda and water to rub on the bite. The mixture will draw out the itch
• mint leaves will help reduce itching 
• placing a banana slice on your bite will help ease pain
• aloe vera will help reduce redness and swelling

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