David Stafford's Posts - International Union of Mail-Artists2024-03-29T06:06:00ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStaffordhttp://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/64519876?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1http://iuoma-network.ning.com/profiles/blog/feed?user=08431jpptniuw&xn_auth=noTrendspottingtag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-10-20:2496677:BlogPost:28367052023-10-20T03:21:07.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12260369700?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-full" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12260369700?profile=RESIZE_710x"></img></a></p>
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<p>I've missed a lot of things. This bubble and that. But when I received a post this afternoon from Aladdin Seine I knew the jig was up. Here's the story. Not more than a fortnight ago I received a post from Susan W which included the postcard you see on the left above. Above that is her inscription on the back (which I will generously…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12260369700?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12260369700?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>I've missed a lot of things. This bubble and that. But when I received a post this afternoon from Aladdin Seine I knew the jig was up. Here's the story. Not more than a fortnight ago I received a post from Susan W which included the postcard you see on the left above. Above that is her inscription on the back (which I will generously translate for the pixel impaired "This has been sitting in my card collection for probably <strong>35 years</strong>…"</p>
<p>Then today's post brought the card on the right from Mr. Seine. Again I transcribe the message (more of a scrawl actually) "I had this postcard for <strong>40 years!</strong>"</p>
<p>If you're wisin' up you can see where this is headed. Now if you wouldn't mind letting me know by dropping a post into the mail with your theory(s) I would greatly appreciate it. We need to get to the bottom of this.</p>
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<p></p>Mr. Postmantag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2023-03-17:2496677:BlogPost:27754332023-03-17T16:08:17.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/10999083453?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/10999083453?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>Mr. Postman. A picture from the Library of Congress of a Vermont mail sorter.</p>
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<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/10999083453?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/10999083453?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>Mr. Postman. A picture from the Library of Congress of a Vermont mail sorter.</p>
<p></p>It has come to my attention…tag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2022-04-17:2496677:BlogPost:26735162022-04-17T15:09:29.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/10395919874?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-full" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/10395919874?profile=RESIZE_710x"></img></a></p>
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<p>I have this weird digital preview thing the Post Office sends out (I guess everyone has it now) that tells you what mail is arriving that day. In the past month I've gotten previews of mail art that never made it into the physical realm. I know I've missed mail from Henry Denander and Bonnie Diva but there may have been others in this…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/10395919874?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/10395919874?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>I have this weird digital preview thing the Post Office sends out (I guess everyone has it now) that tells you what mail is arriving that day. In the past month I've gotten previews of mail art that never made it into the physical realm. I know I've missed mail from Henry Denander and Bonnie Diva but there may have been others in this category. So this is a heads up that if I didn't respond to something you sent....it's quite likely I never got it.</p>
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<p>It pains me to type this because our postal system has been very good to me over the years but sadly it seems we are on a different trajectory. I have a couple of words for this situation that my gf thinks is overkill but here they are anyway: "failed state."</p>
<p></p>Omens and Portentstag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2022-02-28:2496677:BlogPost:26612182022-02-28T22:54:50.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/10161310861?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-full" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/10161310861?profile=RESIZE_710x"></img></a></p>
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<p>Ed Giecek made me some stickers (see lower right) that were made for a moments like this. After I tumped a bottle of Higgins Black Ink over my drafting table the massive spill resolved itself into a raven! I am still left wondering whether this is an omen or a portent however. Either way, it's definitely not the worst thing to fly off this…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/10161310861?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/10161310861?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>Ed Giecek made me some stickers (see lower right) that were made for a moments like this. After I tumped a bottle of Higgins Black Ink over my drafting table the massive spill resolved itself into a raven! I am still left wondering whether this is an omen or a portent however. Either way, it's definitely not the worst thing to fly off this table. Thanks, Ed.</p>Hope for the Agedtag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2021-07-13:2496677:BlogPost:26001592021-07-13T05:12:21.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p>I thought this was a particularly good distillation of why I like mail art. (We still don't know why it doesn't like me but that's for another day).</p>
<div class="teaser-content"><div><div><p class="font--body font-copy gray-darkest ma-0 pb-md">From a Washington Post article on creativity and aging.</p>
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<p class="font--body font-copy gray-darkest ma-0 pb-md"><em>If you’re interested in staying healthy as you age — and living…</em></p>
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<p>I thought this was a particularly good distillation of why I like mail art. (We still don't know why it doesn't like me but that's for another day).</p>
<div class="teaser-content"><div><div><p class="font--body font-copy gray-darkest ma-0 pb-md">From a Washington Post article on creativity and aging.</p>
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<p class="font--body font-copy gray-darkest ma-0 pb-md"><em>If you’re interested in staying healthy as you age — and living longer — you might want to add a different set of muscles to your workout routine: your creative ones. Ongoing research suggests that creativity may be key to healthy aging. <a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/participating-arts-creates-paths-healthy-aging">Studies show</a> that participating in activities such as singing, theater performance and visual artistry could support the well-being of older adults, and that creativity, which is related to the personality trait of openness, can lead to <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3649068/">greater longevity</a>.</em></p>
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<div class="remainder-content"><div><div><p class="font--body font-copy gray-darkest ma-0 pb-md"><em>When researchers talk about creativity, they aren’t limiting it to the arts. Author and Georgetown University psychiatrist Norman Rosenthal defines being creative as “<strong>having the ability to make unexpected connections, either to see commonplace things in new ways — or unusual things that escape the attention of others — and realize their importance.”</strong></em></p>
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</div>Happy Lunar New Yeartag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2021-02-14:2496677:BlogPost:25420002021-02-14T05:45:01.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8551552889?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8551552889?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>T-Shirt from the Jon Foster Collection</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8551552889?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8551552889?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>T-Shirt from the Jon Foster Collection</p>Saving the US Postal Systemtag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2020-07-21:2496677:BlogPost:24235382020-07-21T21:04:53.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p>I may be violating a IUOMA policy here but I think it's important for people to realize that the forces of darkness are once again trying to privatize our Postal System, widely regarded as one of America's proudest achievements for a wide variety of reasons.</p>
<p>Check out this <a href="https://www.inthepublicinterest.org/wp-content/uploads/ITPI_USPSPrivatization_July2020.pdf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">paper</a> from In The Public Interest and then consider writing a letter to these…</p>
<p>I may be violating a IUOMA policy here but I think it's important for people to realize that the forces of darkness are once again trying to privatize our Postal System, widely regarded as one of America's proudest achievements for a wide variety of reasons.</p>
<p>Check out this <a href="https://www.inthepublicinterest.org/wp-content/uploads/ITPI_USPSPrivatization_July2020.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">paper</a> from In The Public Interest and then consider writing a letter to these Senators: <span>Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Doug Jones (D-AL), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Gary Peters (D-MI), Mitt Romney (R-UT), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Roger Wicker (R-MS) urging them to vote YES on H.R. 6800.</span></p>
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<p>Apologies for breaking the law but this is a time to do something to save our Postal System.</p>
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<p>Apologies also if this is a redundant plea.</p>
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<p>Seems important enough to repeat....</p>
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<p>your friend, Dave</p>COVID 19 and Mail Arttag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2020-03-13:2496677:BlogPost:23874982020-03-13T20:14:01.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p>I'm not sure anyone has addressed this yet but it has occurred to me that we may all be wondering what the protocols should be.</p>
<p>Here's an informative <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/coronavirus-can-stay-infectious-for-days-on-surfaces/2020/03/12/9b54a99e-6472-11ea-845d-e35b0234b136_story.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">article</a> that addresses the issue.</p>
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<p>Stay Safe</p>
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<p>Dave</p>
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<p>I'm not sure anyone has addressed this yet but it has occurred to me that we may all be wondering what the protocols should be.</p>
<p>Here's an informative <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/coronavirus-can-stay-infectious-for-days-on-surfaces/2020/03/12/9b54a99e-6472-11ea-845d-e35b0234b136_story.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">article</a> that addresses the issue.</p>
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<p>Stay Safe</p>
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<p>Dave</p>
<p></p>Happy New Yeartag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2020-02-01:2496677:BlogPost:23782012020-02-01T16:40:34.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3843164944?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-full" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3843164944?profile=RESIZE_710x"></img></a></p>
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<p>Here's the pig leaving the building.…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3843166098?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-full" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3843166098?profile=RESIZE_710x"></img></a></p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3843164944?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3843164944?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>Here's the pig leaving the building.</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3843166098?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3843166098?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>EPHEMERA Now!tag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2019-05-11:2496677:BlogPost:23173472019-05-11T20:17:41.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2444978480?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-full" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2444978480?profile=RESIZE_710x"></img></a></p>
<p>It's time again to put out the call to interested ephemeralists and makers of collage. I have more of these old magazines (Mostly women's magazines from the 40s, Ladies Home Journal, The House Beautiful, etc.) that I would like to give away. I also have clipped (what I deem) the usable parts of several of the magazines for those who want to cut to the…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2444978480?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2444978480?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>It's time again to put out the call to interested ephemeralists and makers of collage. I have more of these old magazines (Mostly women's magazines from the 40s, Ladies Home Journal, The House Beautiful, etc.) that I would like to give away. I also have clipped (what I deem) the usable parts of several of the magazines for those who want to cut to the chase. As per my normal arrangement I would like to be reimbursed for the postage which domestically amounts to around $15 to $20 bucks for a priority mail box. Or I could send smaller packages to those who would like samples. This is the culmination of 4 year long project in which I scanned about <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/68208275@N03/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">10,000 images</a> from these old mags and now I want them to find other homes where they may find new uses. Let me know if you need more info. I'm sure previous recipients will sing the praises of these packages which, in some instances, have been life-changing. (Your testimony here).</p>Public Service Messagetag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2019-03-28:2496677:BlogPost:23096802019-03-28T19:52:19.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1709787750?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1709787750?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Note: As part of my plea agreement I am required by law to post these PSAs periodically. Let me know if you have any questions.</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1709787750?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1709787750?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Note: As part of my plea agreement I am required by law to post these PSAs periodically. Let me know if you have any questions.</p>A Public Service Message From Davetag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2019-03-13:2496677:BlogPost:23049672019-03-13T02:26:13.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
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<p>I know just how vexing an issue this can be and that's why I've decided to offer this handy info wheel to those confused by this crazy, mixed up, modern world of mail art. I hasten to add: this is only a prototype. We're looking for investors who might want to help us iron out a few of the kinks. Please go to our gofund me site elsewhere on this planet. Or just bask in the knowledge that there <em>are</em> answers out there to questions that seemed beyond the reach of science. Many…</p>
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<p>I know just how vexing an issue this can be and that's why I've decided to offer this handy info wheel to those confused by this crazy, mixed up, modern world of mail art. I hasten to add: this is only a prototype. We're looking for investors who might want to help us iron out a few of the kinks. Please go to our gofund me site elsewhere on this planet. Or just bask in the knowledge that there <em>are</em> answers out there to questions that seemed beyond the reach of science. Many thanks to DeVillo Sloan for the suggested marketing platform.</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1396031447?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1396031447?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>YEAR O THE PIG PLUS MOREtag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2019-02-08:2496677:BlogPost:22969832019-02-08T20:40:45.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1006784380?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-full" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1006784380?profile=RESIZE_710x"></img></a></p>
<p>Happy Year o' the Pig and all that. But wait...there's more. I'm finishing off my <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/68208275@N03/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">gargantuan scanning project.</a> And now I have all these old magazines that I'm wondering what to do with. I've considered selling them on Etsy but it seems like a fool's errand since…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1006784380?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1006784380?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Happy Year o' the Pig and all that. But wait...there's more. I'm finishing off my <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/68208275@N03/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">gargantuan scanning project.</a> And now I have all these old magazines that I'm wondering what to do with. I've considered selling them on Etsy but it seems like a fool's errand since the market seems saturated with this crap but in the past I've sent stuff out to mail artists in bulk form. Some of you have already received packages from this collection (mostly women's magazines from the 40s including many, many issues of American Home, Ladies Home Journal etc) and can testify to how life changing they've been. (Insert testimonials here). I'm now once again asking if those in the mail art community are interested in receiving these odds and ends (lightly filtered for things of interest). As before I would like to be reimbursed for the postage but that's the only catch. My flickr site (linked above) will give you an idea of what kind of stuff is here but be forewarned a lot of it is just old and dull. So....with that caveat let me know. I suppose I should add that I would prefer that you not sell it yourself but that's outta my hands, isn't it?</p>Super Megathon Blogarama Deluxe-a Go-Go IV: The Umpire Strikes Backtag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2018-09-12:2496677:BlogPost:22502572018-09-12T22:31:02.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226687490?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226687490?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>Brooke C. of Seattle sent my mom this fresh collage/painting. Alas, to complain about too much rain is not something we ever do in New Mexico. Would that we could. But your collage is still lovely, Brooke.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226688099?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226688099?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>And she sent me this colorful…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226687490?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226687490?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Brooke C. of Seattle sent my mom this fresh collage/painting. Alas, to complain about too much rain is not something we ever do in New Mexico. Would that we could. But your collage is still lovely, Brooke.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226688099?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226688099?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>And she sent me this colorful card which invites a response. I think I did. I hope I did. Thank you, Brooke for both our cards.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226688944?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226688944?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Gü of Nottinghamshire in the Surrey Country also sent my mom one of her artful absurdities in this envelope.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226689111?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226689111?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Gü will be happy to note that yesterday, being a day that ends in Y, Mom played bridge. (Any mention of Mom requires me to state that she is 102 years old and we are about to have lunch).</p>
<p>And here, strictly for the hell of it, is a photo of mom checking her facebook likes just moments ago.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226689796?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226689796?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/><br/></a></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226690692?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226690692?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Jon F. of Winston Salem sent me these two screeds (and some other stuff) that tell various tales. Both of which <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/68208275@N03/40045711374/in/photolist-241GJPy-oL1gSZ" target="_blank" rel="noopener">resonate</a> with me. We used to take cap rolls and slam them with a hammer to get that megatonage impact. A fleeting pleasure followed by a puff of smoke. Thank you, Jon.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226691484?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226691484?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p><br/> Stan A. from Hawaii sent me the evidence which I have placed, according to our prior arrangement, into the Univac for proper parsing. Thank you, Stan. I sent you some headlines recently. I hope they can be of some use to you.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226692507?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226692507?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>RCBz of far off Saint Clown makes his screeds from bits of random free-floating anger found around the house. Which makes me think if we all had toxic feeling detectors (battery-powered of course) they'd be screaming in unison and forcing us out into the streets. I think Mr. z will agree with me that voting this year is more important than usual (certainly if we ever want to find our way back to usual). Thank you, RCBz.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226693418?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226693418?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>The Viz down under sent me one of her insanely stamped up envelopes and the collage within. "Something's not right, uhhh!" Yes, I think we have our theme. Viz, I sympathize about the postage. They're trying to make mail art something only the wealthy can afford. Little do they know (whoever they is) that when the lines go down, mail art networks will revive civilization single-handedly, awakening the ancient shipping lanes of communication to…And here he trailed off into a dusty rant which I will spare you. Best of luck with The Fighting Squids, Viz (Her local soccer team) and thank you.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226694315?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226694315?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Tony in Berlin sent my mom this eye-popping collage. We thank you from Santa Fe and Los Altos respectively. Above and beyond, sir!</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226695160?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226695160?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Katerina de Thessaloniki also sent Mom one of her cool Grecian blue cards. I have, as required by law, turned it into a 60s dress pattern. Thank you, Katerina.</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226696061?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226696061?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>I think it was Alistair Cooke who said, "Nancy B. S's collages are like artifacts from an age lost to memory. Burnished by time they wait patiently for a Rosetta Stone to unlock their manifold secrets." Typically, Cooke failed to mention the iceberg lettuce. Thank you, Nancy for your cards and friendship.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226696909?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226696909?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Here are an entire page of Canards. Richard of Emerald Avenue is a master re-purposer who can lay down a broadside on the back of a Wendy's cup faster than Ray Johnson could draw a bunny on the back of his hand. No one philosophizes about Mail Art's true nature more or more pithily than Mr. Canard. (Though DeVillo Sloan's comment will forever resonate with me: "Mail Art is the Special Olympics of the Art World.") Thank you, Sir Richard.</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226697819?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226697819?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>The Keys Family Experience sent me this DVD case (The contents are still being reviewed by the toxicologists) that features someone who looks like me or my doppelganger Walter White on the cover. Some day Diane and I will make a viral Youtube feature together. And I will house it in this case. This I do affirm. Thank you, Diane.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226698662?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226698662?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Finally Rebecca G of Merrie England, (which we are visiting in October for the London Mail Art Oktoberfest) sent me the dossier that has roiled American politics for the past year. Naturally, it's dirty. Also, like all of Rebecca's work, meticulously conceived and larded with textures, stitches, sutures, 60s babes, cryptic messages and statements of incontrovertible fact.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226699584?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226699584?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226700292?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226700292?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226701199?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226701199?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>I think the message here is pretty clear and the implications enormous. Consequently, I have forwarded the dossier to Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell who has assured me he will sit on these revelations until the end of time. Paul Ryan has assured me that Mitch has the perfect ass for such a task. Rebecca has been very generous with her blogposts about my stuff for which I am happy to return the favor. Thank you, Rebecca. See you at Oktoberfest.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Thanks again to everyone. Errors of fact and judgment may have occurred. Please see my lawyer, Ms Rumpole, on your way out to lodge complaints.</p>
<p></p>Super Megathon Blogarama Deluxe-a Go-Gotag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2018-09-12:2496677:BlogPost:22497252018-09-12T00:41:04.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226666768?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226666768?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>From outta the blue Nadia of Barcelona sent me this monster on wrapping paper, just the kind of spontaneous effort I like to see crossing the ocean in search of meaning. Thank you, Nadia.</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226667538?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226667538?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Then Heidi Monster sent my mom…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226666768?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226666768?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>From outta the blue Nadia of Barcelona sent me this monster on wrapping paper, just the kind of spontaneous effort I like to see crossing the ocean in search of meaning. Thank you, Nadia.</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226667538?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226667538?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Then Heidi Monster sent my mom this card. And now a brief shout out to all those people, monsters and otherwise who sent my mom a card. As some of you may not know, my mom is 102....and still appreciates an artistic effort or two from the hinterlands. A most amazing situation. Mom and I salute the steadfast, the true, the solid citizens of IUOMA for their activities above and beyond. And thank you, Heidi.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226668606?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226668606?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>Stephanie Blake from Alabama sent me one of her hermetically sealed collages. Tight, compact and always so reasonably priced. Thank you, Stephanie. (And thanks for paying the non-machineable surcharge).</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226668860?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226668860?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Keith Chambers succeeds randomly at the altar of his old Corona. The beer not the typewriter. (Insert Rim Shot). In addition to his concrete poetry Keith sent stamps, an add and pass and some sacrilegious art that kisses the fab four goodbye. Thank you, Keith.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226669758?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226669758?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Alicia of Iowa by way of New Jersey sent me this collage with a perennially true message. Beautiful, Alicia. Thank you.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226670687?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226670687?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Lorella from Genoa sent me this lovely paper collage with star serpent envelope. Thank you, Lorella. Always appreciate work from complete strangers of which you are no longer them.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226671551?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226671551?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Carina of Petsmo, (the artist not the famous couturier) sent me these two cards which I have added to the Carina Wing of Our Mail Art Museum in Santa Fe. Unfortunately, Carina couldn't attend the dedication of our live Fjord water feature. It's okay, Carina, the bagpipers were lousy anyway. Thank you, Ms Granlund.</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226672405?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226672405?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>Along with Nadia and Lorella, Ewe K sent me mail art out of the wild blue, always a treat. Thank you, Ewe.</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226673241?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226673241?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Of course I notified the authorities as soon as I received the mail art with the tire tread. They were quick in their diagnosis: It's the work of the Artist In Seine. Elusive, furtive even, the AIS has been known to dash off mail art in the dankest recesses of the Louvre, beneath the Paris Opera House and even in the chunnel men's room (Wi Fi Station). There were rumors that lumbago had sidelined him for a time but it turned out to be MAFDS, (Mail Art Fatigue Disorder Syndrome), a completely curable condition. Thank you, Mr. Seine. It's good to see your tread again.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226673999?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226673999?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>As one of my faithful stringers, Nadine is responsible for keeping me abreast of what people are thinking in the boonies. In that capacity she sends me news clippings, purloined tapes, senate testimony transcripts. But she also finds time to send her art along. Here are three portraits, an ATC and a monoprint she made in a night class she's taking as parts of her deep cover infiltration. Thank you, Nadine. (As always, should any of my mail art fall into enemy hands you know what to do).</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226674999?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226674999?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Way back before the dawn of time, Michael in Georgia sent me one of his refurbished Advertising pieces. A close look reveals a photorealistic drawing of the Osteoclast Precursor magnified 10,000,000 times. I have, on my own, identified this as a female Precursor based on the false eyelashes. Thank you, Michael.</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226675853?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226675853?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>Meeah in Lynnwood sent me this brilliant example of Neo-Toddlerism, a school she founded in the 70s. The helicopter fart (seen in the upper right) is one of her singular contributions to the form.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226676557?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226676557?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/><br/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Meeah sent this beautiful ruby throat, captive in red threads to my mom. Thank you, Meeah on my mom's behalf.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226677244?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226677244?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>And dig this envelope. This is asemic living at its finest. Every little circle contains a letter. I am just now running the entire thing through the Univac to determine if Meeah is channeling messages from another world. </p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226678057?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226678057?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Still more of Meeah, including the game that everyone's exhaling about: Pug Tac Toe. Or C-Toe Pug for short. Plus ostriches! Our new national mascots. The dress on the left features the Osteoclathic Precursor blown up 10 billion times. She wears it well. Thank you, Meeah.</p>
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<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226678815?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226678815?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>Michael of South Manchester sent me one of his subtle yet always on target collages. Thank you, Michael.</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226679566?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1226679566?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Could one of these 60s types be Thom of Vermont? We must ask the Banana for guidance. Answer hazy, try again. Thank you, Thom.</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>Okay, I have more but I'll keep you in suspense until tomorrow. Thanks again to everyone who sent me stuff. And forgive me my breezy manner as well as my trespasses.</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>MEGABLOG: THE FINAL CHAPTERtag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2018-06-11:2496677:BlogPost:22232882018-06-11T20:39:59.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73340863?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73340863?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a> As some of you know, I have been in California every other month for the past three months. (More on that later) That means I received lots of mail art which I haven't been able to get to for a while. This megablog, with an emphasis on brevity, is meant to address that and catch up with all the good stuff you've been sending.</p>
<p></p>
<p>First up, a sensuous collage from…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73340863?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73340863?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a>As some of you know, I have been in California every other month for the past three months. (More on that later) That means I received lots of mail art which I haven't been able to get to for a while. This megablog, with an emphasis on brevity, is meant to address that and catch up with all the good stuff you've been sending.</p>
<p></p>
<p>First up, a sensuous collage from Bonnie Diva who does not reside in Shreveport. Thank you, Bonnie.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73340901?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73340901?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Lovely little Kilowatt Hour from Alicia Starr Ryan. Thank you, Alicia. Are you back from where ever you are to where you normally are yet?</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73340989?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73340989?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Allegra Sleep sent me this card which reimagines Dorothy from Kansas in a Dargerous land. Thank you, Allegra. I have already sent the missing tiger.</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341063?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341063?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>Angelica Paez paused to send me this incontrovertible couple of maxims with reversible heads. Thank you, Angelica.</p>
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<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73340998?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73340998?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>A cynara from Borderline Grafiz ripped from yesterday's <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">headlines</span> dictionary. Thank you, BG.</p>
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<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341071?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341071?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>The always Charming Carina Granlund send me these suspicious mice in this Finnish Kitchen Deluxe envelope. </p>
<p>And more recently....</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341036?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341036?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>this somewhat peevish rabbit encased in hand-sewn plastic (the best kind). Thank you, Carina.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341103?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341103?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>World Traveler Jon Foster sent me this Dargeresque collage complete with fish bubbles (lower left) Thank you, Jon.</p>
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<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341105?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341105?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>And Katerina, who Jon visited in Greece, sent me these two timely collages which I have turned into dress patterns as required by law. Thank you, Katerina. Love that haptic cookie.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341041?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341041?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Don't know why there's no clouds up in the sky...Stormy Daniels, the latest broadside from Keith Chamber. Love Keith's hyper precise technique in rendering our possible national savior. Thank you, Keith.</p>
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<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341115?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341115?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p class="p1">My friend Kim Jung-Youn sent me this fun stamp / stamp collage. Thank you, Kim.</p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341137?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341137?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p class="p1">A sensuous drawing from the sensuous drawing master in Sevilla, Miguel Jimenez. To answer your query: Just okay. Thank you, Miguel.</p>
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<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341199?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341199?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p class="p1">Nadine Wendell-Mojica in a far off desert sky has been concentrating on her ATCs lately. I am about to retaliate in kind, Nadine. Watch out for the odd-sized ATCs which will not fit in the plasticine packets. Sigh. Thank you, Nadine. And thank you for the steady stream of Desert City ephemera with which you paint such a vivid portrait of your new home town. </p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341552?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341552?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p class="p1">Nancy Bell Scott, who also keeps me well-supplied with Maine-o-bilia for which I am grateful, sent me two of her exquisite abstract collages in the above envelope with its evergreen suggestion: Remember to Forget Your Phone. Good advice on any planet. Thank you, Nancy.</p>
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<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341566?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341566?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p class="p1">Here are the front and back of RCBz's latest excursion in surrealist poetry. As a fellow traveler I can tell that Mr. Z has spent some quality time with his photoshop pen tool. Thank you, RCBz.</p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341522?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341522?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p class="p1">My Heidelbergian friend Svenja Wahl nails it with an avian view of Lake Starnsberg (?) Maybe? Thank you, Svenja.</p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341574?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341574?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1">Richard Canard sent me this missive with important information about your health. I have now resolved to be around only good teenagers. If possible. Thank you, Richard.</p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341612?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341612?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1">Gü sent me a huge packet of her montages, sidebars and a Ray Jonson (that was you that sent this, wasn't it?) aside. All informed with Gü's sly wit. Thank you, Gü.</p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341526?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341526?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p class="p1">My good friend Henry Denander in far off Sweden has sent loads of great stuff lately including the best personal note about my own work. Special thanks for that, Mr. D. Here's Henry's quartet of Jazz sketches, each one its own sort of improvisation. </p>
<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341617?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341617?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p class="p1">He also sent me two variations on a Charles Bukowski theme and these cool rubber stamp jazz players. Cool shit, Hank. Thank you, Henry.</p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341529?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341529?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p class="p1">Finally reconnected with Meeah Williams after her move to the northwest and now her pens runneth over. She sent me two envelopes stuffed art on the outside and the in. This is a person who loves to draw. Here are her four somewhat bemused men in their pajamas.</p>
<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341586?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341586?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1">Ms Williams doesn't strike me as an Etsy type but her envelopes would make some cool fabric patterns. This is the back of one of her envelopes.</p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341624?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341624?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1">Here's the opening page of a boekie she sent me and here's a…</p>
<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341535?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341535?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p class="p1">page of that boekie, (flipped for easier reading). Like the people who inhabit Nadine W-M's universe, Meeah's people are on edge but witty in their despair.</p>
<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341630?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341630?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1">I appreciate all your efforts, Meeah. Thank you.</p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341540?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341540?profile=original" width="556" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1">Special Bonus for those who dug to the bottom of the blog. Here's a trio of dress patterns made from an envelope that Rebecca Guyver sent me months ago. Sort of a tie-dye feel. Thanks, Rebecca.</p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1">And now for my special request: I've been commuting every other month to California to look after my 102-year old mom. Let me tell you, folks, her mail box is stale with bills, real estate come ons and general artless junk. I would be so pleased if you'd drop her a card. One is enough. Just something to spice up the box and rock her world (which at 102 could use an artful nudge).</p>
<p class="p1">Here's a picture of mom playing bridge with her pals to incentivize you.</p>
<p class="p1"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341590?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73341590?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p class="p1">Her address is:</p>
<p class="p1">Jean Stafford</p>
<p class="p1">92 Loucks Avenue</p>
<p class="p1">Los Altos, California 94022</p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1">Thanks once again to all the good stuff.</p>
<p class="p1"></p>Stripygoose, Brooke Cooks, Richard Canard, Nadine Wendell-Mojica, and Rebecca Guyvertag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2018-03-06:2496677:BlogPost:21959982018-03-06T03:00:00.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334838?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334838?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>Stripygoose sent me this Cool Cardboard Crowing Cock Collage (C.C.C.C.C.), which resembles a museum exhibit in this setting. A Cave Carving from the Age of Cardboard. (C.C.A.C.) Thank you, SG.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334959?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334959?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>Brooke Cooks sent me this valentine. So sweet of…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334838?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334838?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Stripygoose sent me this Cool Cardboard Crowing Cock Collage (C.C.C.C.C.), which resembles a museum exhibit in this setting. A Cave Carving from the Age of Cardboard. (C.C.A.C.) Thank you, SG.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334959?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334959?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Brooke Cooks sent me this valentine. So sweet of you, Brooke. Thank you. As required by law I have turned it into a fashion statement and send it back to you in Seattleville as a virtual valentine. (The snail male version has been hung up in customs).</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335000?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335000?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>My good friend Richard Canard sent me a couple of his broadsides. Richard collects the stories they bury on page 8 and constructs a world view from the shards. Behold the Mighty Mighty Zeitgeistermeister! Thank you, Richard.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335310?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335310?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>From that tumblin' tumbleweed Nadine comes an ATC and some personal memorabilia of hers which I have sealed in plastic. It's a letter her mother wrote to the Daily Iowan in 1976? about school prayer. Thank you, Nadine. Love those comics.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335248?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335248?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Finally, Rebecca Guyver sent me a big ol' package of things (it's a trend) including but not limited to: Some <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/68208275@N03/40644086231/in/dateposted-public/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Grade A Ephemera</a>. We'll get to that later but first the envelope. Zoom in for the stitches, zoom out for the pastoral.</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335408?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335408?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Love these combo rubber stamp, pen and ink people. Looks like physical therapy to me. <a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335423?profile=original" target="_self"><br/> <img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335423?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>As required by law.<a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335342?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335342?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>and here's yet another beautiful thing Rebecca sent me.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335350?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335350?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>It's Dr. Doolittle in the Swamp of Two or Three Colors. Thank you, Rebecca. I will doodle and return with the turning of many suns.</p>
<p>Thanks to all. Some of you may see an unfamiliar California postmark in your mailbox. If it has my fingerprints on it...it could be from me.</p>
<p></p>
<p>one last close up of that dog by Hugh Lofting.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335381?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73335381?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>Year o' the Dog: Our Entry for 2018tag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2018-02-19:2496677:BlogPost:21920592018-02-19T00:28:37.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333465?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333465?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333465?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333465?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>Carina Granlund, Angie Cope, StripyGoose, tic tac, Keith Chambers, Marie Wintzer, Alicia Starr Ryan, Katerina Nikoltsou & Nancy Bell Scotttag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2018-02-11:2496677:BlogPost:21899902018-02-11T19:00:00.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333390?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333390?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Kitchen Litho from Carina in far off Petsmo. Wunderbar. (Can you really do lithography with just things found around the kitchen? If so, I want to try it). And the envelope, please.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333486?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333486?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>Brava! Thank you, Carina.…</p>
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<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333390?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333390?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Kitchen Litho from Carina in far off Petsmo. Wunderbar. (Can you really do lithography with just things found around the kitchen? If so, I want to try it). And the envelope, please.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333486?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333486?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Brava! Thank you, Carina.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333694?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333694?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Angie Cope's entry for the Chinese New Year...it's the year of the earth dog. That tail is whack. (Hopefully, that means something to someone). Thank you, Angie. I'll send you our earth dog once it materializes. We're going with Boston terriers this year. The corgis need a rest.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333911?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333911?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>From Stripy Goose, an English (of course) Sparrow and his overstuffed chair. Thank you, SG. (I too worry about our urban sparrows. One of them confessed to me his preference for velvet over twig. It can't end well).</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333965?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333965?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Tres gifts from Ptrzia in Starnsberg, where, I am required by law to say, Mad King Ludwig was drowned. Upper left, Ptrzia's very small book of etcs. You need no other. Danke, tic tac.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333986?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333986?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>More precision intrigue from Amalgamated Confusion. Among other things Keith is single-handedly reviving the use of Latin in mail art thereby raising the bar for the rest of us. To which I respond: <span>Bonus fortuna cum eo. And now, the revised Non-Goldfish plate:</span></p>
<p><span><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333988?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333988?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></span></p>
<p><span>It's still a not a goldfish to me. And the stylish envelope.</span></p>
<p><span><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333990?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333990?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></span></p>
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<p>Gracias, Señor Chambers. <em>magnam pulchritudinem est in attendentes</em></p>
<p></p>
<p><span><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334059?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334059?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></span></p>
<p><span>Marie Wintzer continues to unfold her Japanese syllabary. And there will be a test. See how well you do. Here's my stab which will probably not place me the upper 93 percentile. </span></p>
<p><span><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334092?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334092?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></span></p>
<p><span>Thank you, Marie. How'd I do?</span></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334303?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334303?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Katerina N. sent me two different pieces from far off Thessaloniki. This whimsical postcard with the famous White Tower and...</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334518?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334518?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>the famous Blue Dress which looks like it may have been inspired in part by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/68208275@N03/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ephemera</a>. Of course, no entry from Katerina would be complete without...</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334487?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334487?profile=original" width="722" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>a riff from her famous dress shop on Harilaou Street. Efcharisto, Katerina. And good luck during Paris Fashion Week.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334554?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334554?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>A succinct collage from Alicia Starr Ryan, encircled with asemic text for protection from our ongoing hex. Here's a clumsy segue to something I stumbled across in the archives.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334529?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334529?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>There is hope. Not for Asemia but other things, I'm told. Thank you, Alicia.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334494?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334494?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Envelopes from Nancy Bell Scott tend to be overstuffed with good things. Among them, this haptic piece (is it a player piano scroll or braille? Our experts will reveal all in the next install.) As well as…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334532?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334532?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>this beautifully constructed collage and....</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334564?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334564?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>ephemera from Nancy's bottomless stash of coolness. (The two hundred kyats are payment for a bet she lost on the election. As it turns out, everyone lost that bet). And the envelope with its paper trail of great stamps from a lost civilization.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334566?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334566?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Again, thanks to all and forgive me my somewhat overly glib nature. I mean no harm. <em>Dilexisti malitiam super benignitatem sine profundum</em></p>
<p></p>Jose, Marie and Janinetag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2018-01-17:2496677:BlogPost:21829232018-01-17T03:37:46.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73332878?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73332878?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>Out of the blue Jose Nogueira sent me this wonderful package of stuff. This was the envelope. Inside:</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333287?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333287?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>Three stencils which I presume are part of a silk screen operation but cool as art in their own right. And...they happen to dovetail with…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73332878?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73332878?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Out of the blue Jose Nogueira sent me this wonderful package of stuff. This was the envelope. Inside:</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333287?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333287?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Three stencils which I presume are part of a silk screen operation but cool as art in their own right. And...they happen to dovetail with my revived interest in <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SaSKKg-igNU" target="_blank" rel="noopener">collagraphy</a> (don't watch with the sound on). The drawing in the lower right is a quick rubbing I did from the stencil to its left. Thank you, Jose and I hope I was the person you mistook me for.</p>
<p>My good friend, Marie who lives in Japan and is practicing her Japanese has sent me two pages from her studies.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333310?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333310?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>I think this may be the beginning of what future experts will call "The Wintzer Syllabary" (insert kettle drums here, or taiko if available). Marie unwraps the folk history of kanji like a Keithed Herring. (Possible book jacket blurb). Also shown is the lottery ticket that Marie purchased on my behalf. I came soooo close. The winning number was 784640. For the record: the third prize was two Year of the Dog postage stamps.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Here is the book jacket design that the publishers rejected.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333290?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73333290?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>I think it approaches...elegance. Thank you, Marie.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Finally...again...out of the blue swiss wilderness came:</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334127?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334127?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>a New Year's feast from Janine Weiss. I lost track of the bottles of champagne, the plates of caviar, the crudites, the luddites, the swirls of raspberry drizzle as well as Charlize Theron, not quite unfolded from her journey and other dreams of Swiss decadence. All of this arrived in</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334559?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73334559?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>a Klee-like envelope that has what art critic David Stafford has described as "integrity of the surface." Thank you so much, Janine. </p>
<p></p>
<p>Thanks to all again.</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>Carina and Nadia and Stan and Jay and Richard and Jon and The Keys Family Media Group featuring Lord Phlegmtag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2017-11-22:2496677:BlogPost:21694352017-11-22T17:18:30.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73329925?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73329925?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>There's an old Buddhist saying: When a person gives you a dog don't thank them until they give you a second dog. Probably a poor translation but I think the meaning is quite clear: I now have the two dogs. It's time to thank. Above: Dog one. We like to keep him on a lead otherwise he gets carried away. …</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73329925?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73329925?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>There's an old Buddhist saying: When a person gives you a dog don't thank them until they give you a second dog. Probably a poor translation but I think the meaning is quite clear: I now have the two dogs. It's time to thank. Above: Dog one. We like to keep him on a lead otherwise he gets carried away. </p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73330076?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73330076?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Dog two. Ferocious on the surface but a pussy cat underneath it all. Thank you, Carina. Your squid should arrive shortly.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73330423?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73330423?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Out of the blue I received an asemic letter from Nadia Aroca in Barcelona. It's actually several layers of asemic writing. Thank you, Nadia. It was refreshing to hear from a stranger in Barcelona and your letter arrived at just the right moment to boost a flagging circadian rhythm.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73330702?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73330702?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Stan Askew sent me this precise collage which may be a crypto-address change letter. I wasn't entirely sure. But thank you Stan and enjoy your stay in Council Bluffs.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73330619?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73330619?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Jay Block sent me this ephemeral collage which fits so neatly together that the eye passes over it without question. The backstory is: The guy on the left, a vegan, goes to dinner at friends and finds they aren't using the gluten-free pasta. Fracas ensues. Thank you, Jay.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73330710?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73330710?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Richard Canard of Carbondale sent me a vivid record of things that turned up on his neighbor's lawn the morning after Halloween. Of special note: White Cat Cigars which conjures a Dad lingering at the edge of the driveway, his White Cat tip glowing in the twilight while his kids fill their candy bags with Utz Mini Cheese Balls. A deathless image. Thank you, Richard.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73330666?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73330666?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>The Keys Family Media Group featuring Lord Phlegm sent me an Elgin potpourri, an assortment pak, as it were, with a featured chew by Rumple Patel. For those who cannot read his bio: "Rumple Patel is a poet, songwriter and lifelong chewer with a degree in psychology and a minor in journalism." I believe he is also a rabbit. For those of you who had not heard, the Keys Family Media Group has thrown itself into the promotion of Lord Phlegm (also a rabbit) in the hopes of getting something viral going. As a person who tried something similar with a group of highly non-photogenic sea monkeys I wish them the best. Thank you, Keysians. We are all Keysians now.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73331009?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73331009?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Finally Jon Foster sent me a huge package of work. Some add and passes, stickers, public service messages (Piss Puddles Sting Toe Cuts), an upcoming tape show announcement (see above and congratulations, Jon) as well as an admonition not to send Jon's add and passes back to him immediately but instead let them grow heavy with sweetness on their journey through the mails. Alas, this I did not do. In my defense, the A&P I returned was so completely pre-filled with sweetness it was ready for its quick journey home to Winston-Salem. Thank you, Jon. I think I can say without fear of contradiction that marriage has been a boon for your mail art.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Thanks again to all and enjoy your Turkey Day.</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>Carina and Katerina in the Falltag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2017-10-29:2496677:BlogPost:21633882017-10-29T19:30:00.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73328597?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73328597?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a> Is it a halloween card, a birthday card or just an old photo of cafe society circa 2017? I'm not sure but for our purposes here we're callin' it a Halloween card from Carina of Finland. Thank you, Carina. Below we have placed the card in a traditional "scary" tableau relevant to our national holiday of horror.…</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73328597?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73328597?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a>Is it a halloween card, a birthday card or just an old photo of cafe society circa 2017? I'm not sure but for our purposes here we're callin' it a Halloween card from Carina of Finland. Thank you, Carina. Below we have placed the card in a traditional "scary" tableau relevant to our national holiday of horror.</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73328712?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73328712?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Also in a Fallish mood: Katerina of Thessaloniki.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73328726?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73328726?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>With some fancy rubber stamp cutting there which we are required by Greek law to turn into some sort of fall fashion statement. Voila!</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73328729?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73328729?profile=original" width="616" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Thank you both again and may all our lives be a bit less scary in the not too distant future.</p>
<p></p>DKULT ARRIVALtag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2017-09-13:2496677:BlogPost:21522642017-09-13T19:09:59.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73325747?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73325747?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>The Family DKult sent a huge package of things (most of which I've returned) (as required by law). As you can see from the Inset Carina G's laughing horse was included in the mix, not once but dos, and, as I discovered somewhat tardily, also in the package was an Anthead Super Collabo-zine add-and-pass which has since been added and passed. Let's take a closer look the…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73325747?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73325747?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>The Family DKult sent a huge package of things (most of which I've returned) (as required by law). As you can see from the Inset Carina G's laughing horse was included in the mix, not once but dos, and, as I discovered somewhat tardily, also in the package was an Anthead Super Collabo-zine add-and-pass which has since been added and passed. Let's take a closer look the ingredients:</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73325805?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73325805?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p><em>It's a a trash-potpourri! </em>Thank you, Dkults. You will be rewarded 10-fold for your efforts. </p>
<p></p>Stamps from Borderline Grafix, Miguel Jimenez, Keith Chambers and Henry Denandertag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2017-09-11:2496677:BlogPost:21515112017-09-11T20:02:04.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73325682?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73325682?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>The allure of artistamps is irresistible. So many mini-canvasses, so many great graphic forms to riff on, plus perfs! Here are four different artist approaches beginning with Borderline Grafix's homage to the classic "good girl" graphics from the Golden Age of comics.…</p>
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<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73325682?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73325682?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>The allure of artistamps is irresistible. So many mini-canvasses, so many great graphic forms to riff on, plus perfs! Here are four different artist approaches beginning with Borderline Grafix's homage to the classic "good girl" graphics from the Golden Age of comics.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73325807?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73325807?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>Next is Miguel Jimenez' Dog Mail with Miguel's drawings filling the frames. I've added a Special Delivery Stamp from the drawing on the envelope.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73326366?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73326366?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>This is Keith Chambers "Rebirth, Reign, Return" stamp set which comes with a sort of first day of issue accompanying sheet (above left) that echoes the theme of the stamps instead of merely blowing up the image. Keith also sent a few of his Post Veritas Provisoriam Grapheocratica stamps as well. Here's a close up of the "RRR" stamp.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73326407?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73326407?profile=original" width="375" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>For me, this captures the political moment in a way that's both terrifying and hopeful.</p>
<p><br/><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73326388?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73326388?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Finally, Henry Denander has put me on his A List for the summer. (Strictly probationary status, I'm sure). I've received several different stamp sets from Henry but here are the last three. First up, Bebop and Bird. Jazz stamps and a Bird Lives boekie (cover at left). Here's a close up of the Bebop stamp.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73326415?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73326415?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>And just to show he digs all kinds of American music...a country set....</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73326418?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73326418?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>It would be churlish of me, a man deeply ignorant of any sort of Swedish folk music, to point out that Ernest Tubbs will not be waltzing across Texas with Henry any time soon. Okay, I'm churlish. </p>
<p>Thank you Borderline Grafix, Miguel Jimenez, Keith Chambers and Henry Denander. Amazing work by all concerned. </p>
<p>I'll end this with an image I picked up somewhere on the web. It was made in 1918 but the whimsy is evergreen plus it's an idea I'm going to steal. Thanks again.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73326301?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73326301?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p><a href="http://undefined" target="_blank"><img src="undefined" class="align-full"/></a></p>D-Kult Insta-Blogtag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2017-06-22:2496677:BlogPost:21330882017-06-22T21:20:23.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321818?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321818?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p><em>The stated purpose of the D-Kult Insta-blog was, as established during the IHOP Convention of 1953, to decrease intra-state tensions by getting the gratitude out in real time. It wasn't until June of this year that an app has allowed this to happen. We're extremely grateful to Bob Simms aka StarryStarryBlight for developing this technology. </em></p>
<p>D-Kult…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321818?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321818?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p><em>The stated purpose of the D-Kult Insta-blog was, as established during the IHOP Convention of 1953, to decrease intra-state tensions by getting the gratitude out in real time. It wasn't until June of this year that an app has allowed this to happen. We're extremely grateful to Bob Simms aka StarryStarryBlight for developing this technology. </em></p>
<p>D-Kult sympathizers will know that last week I sent the Keys Family Players a box that contained an ancient, withered cocktail appetizer. No one remembered what it was before it dried into thick caramel crust affixed to an impossibly hip plastic toothpick that resembles a party goer circa 1965. </p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321884?profile=original" target="_self"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321884?profile=original" target="_self"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321884?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321884?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Today, at 2:30 pm I received the self-same box chockful of D-Kult Gold proving the adage: "Whatever you throw at Elgin will come back at you 10-fold!"</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321934?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321934?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>There's really too much to catalog here so I'll just hit the highlights. Magic beans, (See inset for magic beans that are incised with the words "love" and "happy everyday,") the letter G in Gold Glitter, an antique gumball (this is going straight to eBay), members of Diane's new civilization, Model 3.15, ties, zippers, several blueprints for underpants, a story about Mud and some ancient lemon drink in a wax container. In sum: D-Kult Gold, the kind you won't find in any stores, my friends. Thank you, Diane. </p>
<p><em>This concludes our first realtime insta-blog. Thanks once again to Bob Simms for the app that made all this happen.</em></p>Incoming from Richard Canardtag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2017-06-19:2496677:BlogPost:21319422017-06-19T14:08:56.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321878?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321878?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Richard Canard has sent me baskets of stuff, mostly wisdom strained through Richard's over-active spleen. (It is widely acknowledged that Mr. Canard and I suffer from the same splenetic condition). Richard quotes Gore Vidal: "There is no human problem which cannot be solved if people would simply do as I advised." And I wholeheartedly concur though I'd switch my…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321878?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321878?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Richard Canard has sent me baskets of stuff, mostly wisdom strained through Richard's over-active spleen. (It is widely acknowledged that Mr. Canard and I suffer from the same splenetic condition). Richard quotes Gore Vidal: "There is no human problem which cannot be solved if people would simply do as I advised." And I wholeheartedly concur though I'd switch my name out with Mr. Vidal's. Thank you, Richard for your vital spiritual counsel during these trying times. I shake my fist at the sky in your honor.</p>Incoming from Rebeccatag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2017-06-18:2496677:BlogPost:21317482017-06-18T18:58:46.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321566?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321566?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Rebecca sent me this lovely sewn muted abstract which I'm not sure I have placed on the page correctly. Also some prints with a familiar theme.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321889?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321889?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>The xmas theme tells you how long it's been since I've blogged. Rebecca has written some…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321566?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321566?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Rebecca sent me this lovely sewn muted abstract which I'm not sure I have placed on the page correctly. Also some prints with a familiar theme.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321889?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321889?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>The xmas theme tells you how long it's been since I've blogged. Rebecca has written some great blogs about stuff I've sent her and I'm grateful for the attention she pays. So, thank you both for your art and your words about art, Rebecca.</p>Incoming from Katerinatag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2017-06-18:2496677:BlogPost:21314092017-06-18T15:30:00.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321441?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321441?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>Two separate postals from Katerina of Thessaloniki. Music and Valentines. No post from Katerina would be complete without…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321531?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321531?profile=original" width="383"></img></a></p>
<p>a dress pattern...though I think the one on the left looks more like a 45 record label to me....…</p>
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<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321441?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321441?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Two separate postals from Katerina of Thessaloniki. Music and Valentines. No post from Katerina would be complete without…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321531?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321531?profile=original" width="383" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>a dress pattern...though I think the one on the left looks more like a 45 record label to me....</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321568?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321568?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Thank you, Katerina. And thank you for your steadfast blogging of all the art you receive. I wish I could be as good as you in this regard.</p>
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<p>Special Feather's Day Bonus Pic.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321926?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321926?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>(Blog Trivia: the model is Betty MacLauchlen who was Robert Downey Jr's grandmother.)</p>Incoming from tictactag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2017-06-17:2496677:BlogPost:21316762017-06-17T19:53:27.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321534?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321534?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>tictac sent me some prototypes of her new lemon squeezer which she has helpfully accessorized for American audiences. Also her Xmas greeting. Also her Georgia O'Keeffe stamp. And all imbued with her characteristic wryness and precision.…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321587?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321587?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321534?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321534?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>tictac sent me some prototypes of her new lemon squeezer which she has helpfully accessorized for American audiences. Also her Xmas greeting. Also her Georgia O'Keeffe stamp. And all imbued with her characteristic wryness and precision.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321587?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321587?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Let's get the granular view.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321715?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321715?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
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<p>Thank you, Ptrzia. My life in Santa Fe coincided briefly with Georgia's tenure on the planet. Though our paths never crossed I'm told she collected my work. (And then disposed of it properly according to IUOMA guidelines).</p>From Vizma Brunstag:iuoma-network.ning.com,2017-06-15:2496677:BlogPost:21309162017-06-15T20:22:28.000ZDavid Staffordhttp://iuoma-network.ning.com/profile/DavidStafford
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321657?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321657?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>The Viz from Down Under where it is just about to be winter, sent me this heavily redacted document whose meaning is still being parsed by our security staff. Also enclosed were some clues and $10,000 in hard cold cash should we need it. All of which were sent in this....…</p>
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<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321657?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321657?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>The Viz from Down Under where it is just about to be winter, sent me this heavily redacted document whose meaning is still being parsed by our security staff. Also enclosed were some clues and $10,000 in hard cold cash should we need it. All of which were sent in this....</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321986?profile=original" target="_self"></a></p>
<p><br/><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321986?profile=original" target="_self"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321986?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73321986?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a>quiet, unassuming envelope. As you can see Vizma has volunteered to have my babies. This is all good. Viz, the babies have been sent and will be arriving shortly. Thank you for your generous offer.</p>
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