music

50:365

(*all photos by Elaine A. Russell)


It's Friday! ... and my Art Gallery "Sneak Peek" is: Black Market Goods
(peek #7 in my series)


"Black Market Goods is a collective of artists who have operated together since 2005. From 2005-2009 we have put on one night art shows showcasing up and coming artists in the area and all across the country. In January 2009 we took over the art space at 112 Morningside NE (Formerly Stove Gallery) to open our gallery/studio/theater/performance space" ...

(click on photo to enlarge it)


I first encountered BMG shows in 2007. I was fortunate enough to be one of their artists in a roving show... and it was my first real taste of art shows here in ABQ.

If I had to describe a "typical" BMG... it would be "beer, babes, and edgy art"... but it is really more than that. It is a high energy, fun loving group of founding members ... who inspire fun and exciting shows. Shows often include live music and performers, runway Fashion shows, beer from Tractor Brewing Co... and lots and lots of art. Edgy, urban, graphic .... these are synonymous with alot of the artists that BMG has showcased.


(click on photo to enlarge it)


But ... I wouldn't consider their shows "typical" by any stretch. They have continually pushed the envelope and aimed high. Featuring so many young, up and coming artist/ groups/ poets/fashionistas... makes them a "gotta see" venue.

See more on this gallery at the following links:

--BMG MySpace Page

--BMG Website

the "after" days....


photo by Elaine A. Russell


This has been a difficult post to write. Although most people do not come into contact with the celebrities of this world.. they effect us nonetheless. They brighten our lives with tender songs, wonderful movies, and joyous events.
Today has been a day of reflection. Of people that have passed on this year... of music that will never quite be the same... of songs yet unsung. As this year ends, I would like to post a tribute of sorts, to the actors, singers, entertainers who have gone on this year to a better place... may you all rest in peace.





...and a little video on Mary Travers, who also passed away this year. Even though I was born in 1964 (which some people would argue was too late to be influenced by this time-frame) --- the folk/rock era was (and is) my music. I felt so at home with the music and ideology of this period. The love, the desire for peace, the need to get back to nature ... to take care of this land and its' people... it still speaks to me. And groups like Peter, Paul and Mary were a big part of that. I loved these songs... as well as the activism that groups like this stood for...


it is sunday... right?

photo by Elaine A. Russell




it's been an odd day. One of those days that kind of blends in with the others and leaves you wondering what day is it really??? So much (last minute) prep for the holidays.. and now it's mostly over. Time to rest. Time to enjoy the winter. Time to have fires in the fireplace and warm tea whilst watching movies. Time to snuggle with a happy puppy.

Today we ordered pizza. Yes, really. The leftovers are mostly gone.. and tomorrow I will be roasting a nice winter ham. So-- pizza sounded good.... it's green chile and chicken; in case you are wondering :)

We didn't mail holiday cards this year (* or last year, or the year before...) somehow we got out of the habit. I am thinking that maybe I will start a new tradition.... the Epiphany card....just in time for the Magi to visit... (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biblical_Magi)... and to celebrate what "epiphany experiences" (Epiphany (feeling), the sudden realization or comprehension of the essence or meaning of something) ....we have had over the course of the past year. .... plus, it gives me until January 6th to mail the buggers ---always a *bonus*

I have enjoyed getting notes from you all...some have offered some great suggestions for my blogsite...and lots of you have inquired about me starting a website... which I hope to do in the year 2010.
And I reminder for those who haven't yet... just send me an email before Jan 9th at 9am... and you will be entered in a fabulous give-away ---> (moongipsies@msn.com)

In the meantime... sit back, relax, put on some great music or a wonderful old movie... and enjoy the evening.....

Wishing You a Very Merry Christmas

photos by Elaine A. Russell


It's a wonderful time of year... and Santa has been spotted at various locals here in ABQ...

Time to get the tree trimmed...the wreathe on the door.... the lights in the windows....ham in the oven... music playing.... fire in the fireplace..... stockings hung with care.... lists made and checked twice (have you been naughty or nice?).....cookies baked....loved ones loved... and a chill is in the air...maybe some snow? .... or a little Ho Ho Ho.....











(WONDERFUL WISHINGS for ABC Wednesday )

saturday ... in the park....

Red Headed Stepchild-- at the gazebo in Coudersport, PA





train cars being remodeled near Mt. Jewett Pa by Elaine A. Russell



Today has been rather busy. When you live in the country... the week is full of chores, and if there is anything fun to be done.. it has to be on the weekend. Saturday brings the residents of Potter County out and about as much as anything does.
Today there was a Farmer's Market in the town square/park, and monthly book sale put on by the local library. I got fresh peas, salad greens and leeks. Made an awesome salad for dinner.

Over near Austin Pa is the "Dam Show" ... a yearly musical treat located at the ruins of what used to be the Austin Dam. Here is what happened there : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Austin_Dam.
This is another really good blog about it: http://caris-photo-journal.blogspot.com/2008/02/austin-dam-disaster.html.

One of the bands featured at the show is Red Headed Stepchild. A local group, now located in Nashville. They have been wowing people here for years. http://www.redheaded-stepchild.com/index.htm
As a special treat.. they put on a free 2hour show at the Farmer's Market as a teaser for tonight's show at the Austin "Dam Show."
I was able to pick up a couple of their CDS, schmooz with the band, and even got a photo (see above).

Then I was off to a birthday party for a "sorta" nephew. It was a great party with some great people.

The majority of the afternoon was spent watching torrential rains coming down. I think if it rains any more -- I will have to go mushroom hunting.

I also got to play with some friend's pet rabbits. Adorable... but now my eyes are almost swollen shut. Ah well.

And in other news... I found a home for the dog I mentioned in my blog. She is now on a farmette in the rolling hills and woods of Sweden Valley.. about 6 miles out of town. She is living with people who run a Dog rescue. I can just imagine her herding all the other dogs at the rescue and playing in the fields. She was very excited to be in the car riding up there.. and immediately allowed the owner to pick her up and give her some lovin. It was awesome. http://www.adoptapet.com/adoption_rescue/73589.html