Our friend Arlene celebrated her 50th birthday on the weekend. It was one of those after- noons where the mix of individuals was so diverse, that every twist or turn in the conversation lead to new stories and laughter. Imagine, hearing someone describe their childhood music lessons thusly: "I learned to play Mozart on a honky tonk piano in my grandparent's bar in New Jersey." She went on to say that she would fall asleep listening to the sounds of glasses clinking, and wake up to the sounds of whip-or-wills.....
By the time one is 50, a rich blend of unique characters will be the price we pay for being 'lovers of humanity', and Arlene is. She is a nurse, has raised a daughter Pearl, and has just moved into a huge home out in the country.
Pearl made this pumpkin pie for her mom, and put the requisite '50' on top, and lighted the candles. Then, she whipped up real cream for the top. Some ate the pie, and some swirled the heavenly cream on a plate, twirling their spoon around in celestial circles until just the right amount slid onto the bowl of the spoon. 
I noticed that Pearl had her drawing portfolio out, and I asked to see some of her drawings. All of them were done in high school. Keep in mind that most artists do not like to show their old drawings, as after a year goes by - when you are in your teens - an eternity has elapsed, and one's talent shows greater promise. 
We were pleasantly surprised as Pearl pulled out one drawing after another, and explained what they were. Watercolors, pastels, media art on the computer, and pen and ink - typical introductory materials for drawing. I couldn't help but recall with a degree of wistfulness that most of us learned to draw that way. So many of us get caught up in the rigors of life and put the paints and pencils away. Fortunately, for Pearl, this will remain a strong interest as she pursues her college degree. When we were driving home, Rahmat called to ask if he could bring a few friends over for a visit. They were on their way to Hell's Kitchen and Jazzbones for some concerts, and needed to kill a little time. The youth, some from Yakima east of the mountains, get together from time to time just to stay in touch.
Pictured here (l-r) are Safa, Gus, Mina, Nicole, and Sam
