My Backyard

Date: Sunday, February 6, 2011
Time: 9:30 am
Where: Northampton, MA
What: Snowshoeing Tracks

Sometimes you don't have to go very far to enjoy winter activities. Because we've had a record amount of snow dumped on us here in the Pioneer Valley, we can merely step out our back doors into a winter wonderland. With snowshoes on, we ventured out to take a few laps around the perimeter of the yard. We were having so much fun that the artists in us decided to "make art" with our snowshoes. Going back and forth for nearly a half hour we created a pattern that was quite beautiful, especially in the winter light with its brightness and shadows. More snow is due tonight and tomorrow so we should be able to do it again, starting with a clean slate. Is cabin fever getting to us? Look at the photo and decide for yourself. If it's getting to you, too, go out and make your own art--snow angels, forts, snow people. The possibilities, like this winter, are endless.

Bowker Auditorium, University of Massachusetts

Date: Thursday, January 13, 2011
Time: 7:30 pm
Where: Amherst, MA

What: "The Wizard of Oz"

I have to admit that I was shocked when my 20-year-old daughter wanted tickets to "The Wizard of Oz" for Christmas. Why? Because she had never been into plays--especially musicals--even when she was younger. If she had been, she would have wanted something with a grownup theme--something inappropriate for children.  She was one of those kids, even as a preschooler, who would rather be listening to the adults than playing with other children--a grownup before her time. Things have changed! After a quick dinner at Rafters, we headed to UMass to see Amherst Leisure Services Community Theater's production of "The Wizard" at the venerable Bowker Auditorium. It was shockingly well done. Emma Henderson, who played Dorothy, had an unbelievable voice and stage presence even though she looked to be about 12. Another standout was Becca Greene-Van Horn, who played the witch. The sets, music, and acting have to be among the best local theater in the country. Emily, my daughter, proved to me that it's never too late to embrace childhood and experience the thrill of Dorothy's journey to Oz.