Daily Blog

  0

fShare

Tweet

Dear Alex,

Like you, I have been reflecting on this past year and how we experienced our fair share of ups, and thankfully, only a few downs. I agree, the scariest moment was when we learned that the cost of delivering the videos on the web would be more than twice our entire production budget - and this was happening in mid-March, just days before we were to launch the first show. I'm so thankful that new technology popped up that helped us with that issue. It was this new technology that enabled everyone to jump forward, back, pause, etc without waiting for an hour-long show to download. It was costly, but at least we didn't sink the ship before it launched.

From the beginning we wanted to show quilting as a lifestyle. There was no precedence for this in other quilting programs, so it was risky. We wanted the videos to be educational and contain techniques and projects, but also we wanted to allow our community to get to know us - provide a way for us to know them - for them to know each other - and for them to gain insight into the lives of the 'celebrity quilters' that we featured on the show. The concept was met with mixed emotions from our members at first, but it wasn't long before everyone seemed to enjoy the personal touch not only on the shows, but on the website as well.

The other big surprise for me was simply the evolution of the site. At first, it was all about our new "show" - but now I feel like the website has become the main attraction and the shows are the cherry on top. That's pretty cool!

We continue to openly share our personal lives - putting it all out there for our members to see. Again, risky! However, just read the following recent quotes and I think you'll agree that we are on the right track:

"Though we have never met in person, you feel like a good friend..."

"it has helped get me through a difficult holiday and helped me to remember some of my childhood Christmas memories." (regarding posting the Christmas Concert)

"I have renewed my membership for the next two series and I look forward to learning more and more about quilting and finding more new friends, and it's all possible because of the work you two have done for all us."

And then there was this precious comment from JaneGaySahr:

"Dear Ricky, ... I'm an old 64, widow, waking up Christmas morn in an empty house, turning on my computer to reach out and see if anyone sent emaiils today, and there you were offering this warm and friendly concert of Christmas cheer... I truly don't feel so lonely with your music filling my home... I had lain in bed a long time not wanting to get up in my empty house Christmas morning . . . and then love reached out and filled me. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU ! ! !

These sorts of comments confirm that we are on the right track and that the our plans for the future (hint hint) will be worthwhile for quilters worldwide who will actively participate. I am committed to continuing to serving quilters worldwide in as many ways as I can. And so Alex, it's onward and upward as we march into the new year and celebrate our first birthday. In the meantime, tell me what's up your sleeves?

  0

fShare

Tweet

Dear Alex,

I couldn't agree more. One year ago I was trying to develop a site that would be the home for a new quilt show, free from network executives and restrictions - hoping you would join me. The vision was sketchy at best. I've learned so much this year and have sooooo appreciated having you be my personal mentor to keep me from looking like a fool on camera. For me, the most rewarding and unexpected aspect of this endeavor has been the relationships that have been established.

First - you and John. When I look at our overall vision - and wonder how it can work, I'm just so happy that we all (A, R, J and J)bring something to the table. We have been blessed to get along so well and we always work out any challenges by focusing on our goal to do what is best for our community.

Secondly, the relationships with the production team. I would not have predicted that we would have become a family. The thrill of coming together for tapings was the highlight of my year. It was never 'all business' - but rather a gig with lots of fun, with folks that know their stuff - and to think my first inclination was to use only two cameras and do the editing myself -ha! And here, I should not fail to mention Web Guru Bob who has worked tirelessly and faithfully all year.

Finally, I would not have predicted that we would have created a HUGE worldwide family. While I know it was part of the plan - seeing it in action will forever be the most rewarding thing I have ever done. I could not have done it all without you - so thanks for your commitment and support.

Now is a time to reflect and renew - I've reflected here - I'll talk about renewing later. Everyday "It's a New Day!" and now we're coming upon "A New Year" too!

P.S. - Look for my online surprise tomorrow.

From Alex  - I Can't WAIT!!!! 

  0

fShare

Tweet

I know most of you could not possibly come to La Veta for my Christmas concerts, so instead I was able to put together a video of one of the songs from concert for you. The song is Do You Hear What I Hear and it was the opening song of the show. It had been twenty years since Kat Bowser and I have peformed together. I had a blast creating the arrangement and I hope you'll enjoy this holiday song.

Justin taped the four shows from different angles - so the video is a compilation of them all. 

  0

fShare

Tweet

Okay gang, I rarely ask for much - but now - I need your help!!!!

Help spread the word about Sugar Plum Fairy! Call every radio station you know! Hound them over and over to play it. They won't know about it so tell them to download it at www.rickytims.com. Email or call every college kid or young adult you know and ask them to listen and spread the word! Send emails to all your friends!

This new arrangement of Sugar Plum Fairy needs to be heard on every radio station this holiday season. I did this entire production last weekend - so it is brand new! Let's show the world what quilters are made of and get this song out there for the holidays. I pulled out all the stops on this one.

It is not on a released CD because its NEW!. It is only available via download. You can download it for $1.00 at www.rickytims.com. Listen to the sample below - the full version takes you on a ride you won't soon forget and you'll want to play over and over and over again!

I've also produced my new song, Christmas In A Small Town - dedicated to La Veta, but perfect for anyone who has memories of living in a small town or the fantasy of being in one. This song is written, sung, and arranged by me (you won't hear me sing very often) for the upcoming concerts on December 14th adn 15th in La Veta. It is also available via download.

If you download the song - come back here and post your comments. Your efforts help will get air play!

Don't know much about downloading music? Get your kids to help! They're download gurus.

Do you like?

  0

fShare

Tweet

It is amazing to me how what you are interested in as a child remains with you when you are in your developing years and into your adult years. This video was taken when I was 21 months old. I got a tricycle and rocking horse from Santa. My cousin Carolyn got a toy piano. I was more interested in the piano as you will see. Grandpa says, "No Ricky, this is YOUR gift over here!" He sits me on the tricycle. I'm still not so passionate about my vehicles - but I remain very passionate about the piano. This movie is exactly 50 years old this Christmas.

The music is a recording from when I was five years old. It was recorded by my mom and dad. I was playing a Hammond organ. The old album contains about 30 minutes of Christmas tunes, some on the piano, some on the organ. Hope you enjoy this sneak peek into my past. Do any of you cling to those childhood interests and passions like I do?

  0

fShare

Tweet

Happy Turkey Day! Today is the US Thanksgiving Day - a national holiday - so we are all off having a good time with families and eating lots of tukey and pumpkin pie. It is a day to relect and be thankful.

I am thankful that we have almost made it through our first year of TQS. Thirteen months ago this was only a twinkle in an eye. The vision of our sponsors (please continue to thank them), Web Guru Bob, Lilo, and Paul have all made this dream a reality. They have all played a HUGE role in making this first year a success. To all who have supported us and to all who helped build this community - THANK YOU!

I am thankful that I survived the year - seriously! It has been a fast ride and the last few months in particular have been overwhelming - but it is all good. I am thankful that I get to spend my time doing what I love. I am thankful for the support of those near and dear to me. I am thankful that the ARJJ directors share a vision and that we work together so well. I am thankful for each TQS member and hope we serve you well.

Even if you do not live in the USA, I would love to hear what you are thankful for today.

P.S. - Okay, some of you did not notice that those tail feathers are the TQS star! 

  0

fShare

Tweet

A boat signifies a journey. It takes someone away, and brings them back. It is the perfect photo to express my coming and going to Japan. (Author Photo)

Packing my bags in the quiet morning of my last day I was playing songs from my laptop. A particular song came on and the music gently swept over me. I began reflecting on my trip - how it is coming to a close - and about how blessed I am. My eyes welled up and I felt the need to write a blog to you and share with you my thoughts.

I guess this trip could be summarized by what happened at the end of class yesterday. These students took a Rhapsody Design class and had not attended any of my previous events in Japan - so it was a one-day deal for them. But for Markio and I it was the closing of a wonderful chapter. As I bid the class farewell, Mariko began to tear. As my translator, this was difficult. I could only speak through her. Of course, being a big baby myself, I begin tearing up too. We managed to say the farewell, but I was reminded how beautiful and precious life is. I'm happy to see that others a world away share the same joys, passions, as well as heartaches as I do.

Many of the students commented that my class offered lessons in life as well as quilting. This is one of my goals. But in the end, I am the one who is blessed. I learn, I become inspired, I find a new light and a spark to keep my soul alive.

At each stop along the way I would play my flute. I would play just a simple song and tell everyone it was a song about peace - which it was. This morning as I close my bags, bulging with gifts presented to me from people I only briefly met, I leave Japan with a heart richer than it was before I came here.

To Mariko - I came to love you. You are an amazing lady and a gentle soul. Thank you for taking such good care of me. I will remember you forever.

So, It was music that moved me to write this. I was playing an album by William Joseph - a pianist - the album is titled Within. I didn't know the name of the song that caused me to be reflective, so I took a look - it was called Homeward Bound - how appropriate! You can take a listen to it on iTunes. The entire album is wonderful, but this particular song was perfect this morning.

I'll admit, I currently have streams of tears flowing down my cheeks, but they are good tears. These tears tell me that I am still alive - that I have many who love me. The tears flow for the farewell I feel in my heart and they flow for the homecoming that I will soon have with those who love me. I hope my words will remind you of how rich your life is and that forever we will be connected to each other by all the threads in our magnificent worldwide patchwork quilt of love.

Farewell Japan - I will miss you!

  0

fShare

Tweet

Photo: Learning the proper way to turn the bowl in a tea ceremony.

My last tour stop is Fukuoka. This area is the closest to Korea and China so it was essentially the gateway to Japan during the older trading days. It is a large city and I was quite amazed at the architecture and public art.

Mariko and I met up with Chiziko (a full-time quilt teacher and recent award winner in Yokohama) for a visit to shrine, Dazaifu Tenmangu. Shrines are created to honor an ancestor. This particular shine is for those wishing blessings on education and learning, so many students will visit here when they want to pass a test.

Later in the day Keiko Goke met up with us for dinner. It was fortunate that she already had plans to teach in Fukuoka so we were able to be together one last time. She truly is an amazing artist and we seem to share a common creative thread.

This video shows me trying a treat that is made with sweet bean paste wrapped in a rice pastry and roasted. I tried cuttlefish, which was very very good but I did not get that on video. The foods that seemed odd to me tasted okay - or at least had a taste that I could come to like. The entire experience has been rewarding and fun.

Final thoughts? Japan is expensive, the culture is rich, the technology is smart, the hospitality (hotels, restaurants) is outstanding, and the people honest, caring, and giving. My thanks to Bernina of Japan for arranging the trip and to Mariko for being my interpreter and becoming my friend.

  0

fShare

Tweet

Photo: Typical silk kimono merchant's selling room.

In Kyoto, Mariko arranged to take me to see Mrs. Kondo. Mrs. Kondo’s father was a silk kimono merchant. She has turned the front portion of her house into a private museum that features kimonos on the screens (sliding walls) of their traditional Japanese merchant house. Mrs. Kondo lives here, but keeps the front part of the house just as it was 80 years ago when her father sold yuzen dyed silk kimonos.

Her father also started the Yuzen Dyeing Museum which is located adjacent to her house. Yuzen dyeing is a stencil process of dyeing and hand painting silk. The museum features an array of antique kimonos –some that are 400 years old. On the upper level of the museum you will find artisans who are still doing the yuzen process. Prior to the Yuzen dying process the designs were generally embroidered on a colorful silk background. To read more about Yuzen dyeing click here.

I was honored to get to have a private tour of this historic place. The antique kimonos are artfully attached to the screens and all the leftover bits were used in fans as well as to decorate many other items as shown in the video. Many of these kimonos are 300-400 years old.

Following my visit to the Yuzen Dyeing Museum we went to see the Kinkakuji Temple with its breathtaking gardens and lake. Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) is a popular name for one of the main buildings of this Zen temple, which is properly called Rokuon-ji Temple. In the 1220’s (yes, 1220!) it was the comfortable villa of Kintsune Saionji. It is completely covered in gold leaf and it is a world heritage site. You can learn more about this incredible place here.