The Saguaros of Arizona

If there was one symbol that defined the Sonoran Desert of Arizona, it would have to be the Saguaro. (Yes, that's me in the photo above, hugging the saguaro. Not something I'd normally do, but this one's base was decaying and had lost its needles). 

Here are some interesting facts about the saguaro. Although the cactus can reach up to heights of 40-60 feet (12-18 meters), it is actually rather slow-growing. In its first 8 years of life, the saguaro might only be 1 1/2 inches (3.81 cm) tall. It often starts its life under the protection of an ironwood or mesquite "nurse tree." Once it begins growing, it absorbs the nutrients and water from the nurse tree, thus killing it. The Saguaro has a very shallow root system (4-6 inches), with one root stem going two feet. The root system typically is as wide as the height of the cactus. It can weigh up to 4,800 pounds (2,177 kg). 

A Saguaro typically grows its first "arm" at around 50-70 years of age. Up to 25 arms may be found on a saguaro. It first bloom appears around 30 years. At only around 125 years of age is it considered and "adult" saguaro. They generally die around 150-175 years of age, but may reach 200 years. Once the cactus dies, its interior woody ribs can be used to build furniture, fences, or roofs. 

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Petroglyphs of Superstition Mountain

On this beautiful December day, we went on a hike in the southwest corner of Superstition Wilderness, a short ride east of Apache Junction. The well-traveled path took us past a wide variety of cactus, shrubs, and rock formations. Still within the Christmas break, people of all ages were returning from a hike - a good indication that the trail's rating of easy-to-moderate was accurate. 

As we neared the Hieroglyphics Canyon, the rocks on the path became larger and some climbing was needed. The sounds of rushing water mingled with the squeals of laughter and excitement of kids who were enjoying splashing in the water.

The petroglyphs, etched into the rock by the Hohokam Native Americans who lived in the area from 500-1450 AD. The dark desert varnish patina found on these rocks made an excellent surface for carving the imagery. (Early settlers mistakenly called them hieroglyphics in reference to those linguistic symbols in Egypt, but they are in fact petroglyphs, or rock paintings)

Some of the lower rocks also contained more modern carvings– or should I say, graffiti. 

Any symbolic meaning of the petroglyphs has not been determined. I saw what looked like snakes, lizards, and goats.

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Remembering our Savior

A blessed Christmas to all! Remembering the birth of our Savior on this Christmas Day.

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 

- Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)

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Nativities Around the World

A few of the Nativity scenes on display in Mesa. Merry CHRISTmas!

Bali

France

Japan

Philippines

Scotland

Tibet

Zulu (South Africa)

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Pizza and a Wurlitzer

This past week we went to Mesa for a double-treat; pizza and music. Our destination was Organ Stop Pizza. Waiting for our pizza to be finished wasn't a hardship, with plenty of awesome music to pass the time. From our balcony table, we had a good view of the veteran organist (who was named "Organist of the Year" in 2000 by the American Theatre Organ Society) who commanded mastery over the instrument and its plethora of keys, stops, and buttons. Being right before Christmas, he played plenty of holiday songs. It was amazing to hear him play Mannheim Steamroller's version of "Carol of the Bells" in such a way that he was nearly able to replicate Chip Davis' entire band. Nary a sheet music could be seen, as he expertly switched between a variety of music styles, rhythms, etc.

This is no ordinary organ. Known as a theatre pipe organ, this 1927 Wurlitzer was originally designed to provide background music for silent movies and stage shows. Once an integral part of theatres of every size, these orchestral organs (with plenty of theatrical sound effects) fell out of fashion when talking picture movies became emerged. This particular organ started with 15 ranks/set of pipes, but was rebuilt with parts from other Wurlitzers in the early 1970s to have 23 ranks. In 1997, it was further expanded and now has 78 ranks, 17 tuned percussions, lots of sound effects, and 6,000 pipes. Four large turbine blowers provide the needed wind. The walls of the expansive restaurant are adorned with the pipes and lots of different percussive instruments and lighting designed to complement the music. The curtain in front was opened a couple times to reveal dancing marionette-style cats - perfect for the song "Alleycats." The ornate organ was perched on top of an 8,000 lb rotating hydraulic elevator, enabling all to catch a view of the maestro tickling the keys.

Oh, by the way, the pizza was excellent as well.

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Texas Meets Arizona

The Superstition Mountains of Arizona are quite picturesque and have many hiking opportunities and of varying levels of difficulty.

Despite less-than-optimal weather conditions, we went further on our hike and were rewarded with some pretty scenes.

Near the end, we saw several longhorn cattle freely roaming about within the park lands. It made me feel like I should have been in Texas! I wondered what the process was for rounding up all the cattle - and what precautions the ranchers must take to protect themselves against those horns. Somehow, within all those prickly cactus and scrubby bushes, the cattle (who looked very well-fed) must find enough to eat. Gosh, if that would have been the Holstein cows we had on our farm in Wisconsin....

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Artwork: Tuareg Couple Dancing (Color Pencil)

In anticipation of an art exhibition, I wrote a short story about each painting, as if written by the person in the painting. These are all real people, and the stories are based on experience, observation, and representative/factual information typical of someone from that region/profession. Some of these paintings are still available, so if you are interested in purchasing one, please contact me.

My husband and I have been invited to perform at the American Ambassador’s residence, along with fellow Tamascheck tribal musicians. Such events give me the opportunity to dress in my flowing Indigo robes and adorn my hair with silver pieces handed down from my grandmother. Most of all, it’s a chance to dance to the slow, flowing, repetitive melodies that are so much a part of our nomadic Saharan heritage. When I close my eyes and focus intently on the music, I almost forget that we are over a thousand kilometers away from our homeland. It is rather fascinating to see Westerners join in on the dancing or even give some of our traditional percussive instruments a try. In this way, we can share our culture with others far beyond our isolated desert village. 

See more artworks on www.melissaenderle.com.

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Artwork: Kampong Phluk Woman with Purple Scarf (Watercolor)

In anticipation of an art exhibition, I wrote a short story about each painting, as if written by the person in the painting. These are all real people, and the stories are based on experience, observation, and representative/factual information typical of someone from that region/profession. Some of these paintings are still available, so if you are interested in purchasing one, please contact me.

Every week I take my basket of vegetables to sell at a small market  outside of Kampong Phuk. I look forward to this time, when I can gossip with my other friends who also spread out their goods to sell. It helps me forget, at least for a little while, all the terrible things I saw and experienced as a young woman when the Khmer Rouge extended their reign of terror over my homeland. It is nice to see smiles once again on the faces of children, who can play games and go to school instead of slaving away and seeing loved ones being killed. The money I make from my little garden isn’t much, but it’s enough for me to buy rice, fish, and a little oil. Today my sales were even better, enough for me to buy some chicken and even a Hello Kitty pouch for my granddaughter. I am happy again.

See more artworks on www.melissaenderle.com.

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Artwork: A Long Night's Catch (Watercolor)

In anticipation of an art exhibition, I wrote a short story about each painting, as if written by the person in the painting. These are all real people, and the stories are based on experience, observation, and representative/factual information typical of someone from that region/profession. Some of these paintings are still available, so if you are interested in purchasing one, please contact me.

I live in a densely populated fishing village in Besant Nagar, Chennai. During the December 2004 tsunami, the majority of the thatched huts in our village were either washed away or damaged. The wooden catamarans and fiberglass boats didn’t fare any better, and most had to be replaced. Even though we received funding to buy new boats and fishing nets, we were given no assistance in addressing sanitation issues. Our homes still lack access to clean drinking water, toilets, and drainage. Despite these challenges, the Christian faith of my family, which we can trace back to the apostle St. Thomas, enables us to remain optimistic. We know God is in control and will work even these challenges for our benefit.

See more artworks on www.melissaenderle.com. 

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Warm Glow of the Saguaro

Yup, this is a far different scene from the last nature photo posted on Monday. I successfully escaped the Wisconsin winter (for a few weeks at least) and am down in sunny Arizona. This morning, I took this photo, just a short distance from the "silver" park where my parents stay for the winter. It's a lonely, single saguaro cactus with Superstition Mountain in the background, but it is what I could access on short notice. Within a few minutes of this photo, the warm glow of the sunrise was gone. 

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Artwork: Haegeum Player, Changdeokgung Palace (Watercolor)

In anticipation of an art exhibition, I wrote a short story about each painting, as if written by the person in the painting. These are all real people, and the stories are based on experience, observation, and representative/factual information typical of someone from that region/profession. Some of these paintings are still available, so if you are interested in purchasing one, please contact me.

A lover of music, the prince has invited his guests into the garden area of Changdeokgung Palace for a concert. The other musicians and I sit on embroidered mats arranged on the grass between  the prince’s dwellings. With my legs in a lotus position, I balance the barrel of my instrument on my right foot and anticipate my entry with a hint of nervousness. Taking a deep breath, I rest my left hand over the neck and its two silk strings, while the right hand deftly grasps the horsehair bow. Easing a bit of tension, I gently glide the bow over the strings in order to create a delicate sound. Soon my haegeum is transported into a bird.

See more artworks on www.melissaenderle.com. 

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Into the icy water

What a difference a few months makes. Tenney Park is now a stark winterland, the branches of the fallen tree blanketed in snow and a bit timid about dipping its tips into the frigid waters.

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Artwork: Rabari Farmer, Gujarat (Watercolor)

In anticipation of an art exhibition, I wrote a short story about each painting, as if written by the person in the painting. These are all real people, and the stories are based on experience, observation, and representative/factual information typical of someone from that region/profession. Some of these paintings are still available, so if you are interested in purchasing one, please contact me.

Greetings, a blessed Ram-Ram to you! After a long, hot day in the sun with my sheep, goats, and a few water buffalo, I walk along the dusty path that will take me to my village. It’s amazing that my white tunic isn’t dirtier! The lack of rains requires my herd to walk even further in order to find water and grazing land, and now . With the support of my fellow Rabari clan and blessings of the gods, somehow we will persevere through the oppression of industry and capitalization.

See more artwork on www.melissaenderle.com.

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Thai Village Handmade Crafts: Sewing for Sustainability

The other week when walking up the stairs at church, I noticed a colorful display of handicrafts.  Couldn't pass that up, now could I? In front of me were well-crafted handmade jewelry, bags & purses, an adorable stitched Noah's Ark, tin ornaments, and much more. The embroidery designs were characteristically Hmong, reminiscent of what I had seen in Thailand and Myanmar.

 A young woman standing nearby told me more about the non-profit organization based in Thailand and initiated by WELS Kingdom Workers. She shared with me a brochure which stated the mission: "Through the production of handicrafts, we seek to develop long-term relationships with artisans and encourage self-sufficiency by providing opportunities for vocational training, Christian education and higher education, made possible by not-for-profit sales." The organization also helps support community health and development, literacy and children's programs, and Bible education.

Bible Cover - Hmong design

Each item is designed and produced by local Thai artisans who earn living wages in fair-working conditions. The products are a team-effort, involving several people to create each piece. 100% of each donation is tax-deductible as a charitable contribution.
Over my years of traveling internationally, I have sought out cooperatives and other organizations that promote self-sustainability, empowering and training locals and promoting their unique crafts. A win-win for all!

Hmong Coin Purses

Nativity Set 

If you're looking for a unique gift or simply want to donate, check out the Thai Village website. 

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Artwork Stories: Male Fan Dancer, South Korea (Watercolor)

In anticipation of an art exhibition, I wrote a short story about each painting, as if written by the person in the painting. These are all real people, and the stories are based on experience, observation, and representative/factual information typical of someone from that region/profession. Some of these paintings are still available, so if you are interested in purchasing one, please contact me.

As a young boy, I loved to hear the stories told by my grandfather. Now I am a pansori singer. Accompanied by a drummer who strikes a rhythmic pattern on his buk, I sing narratives based on popular tales. Performing on this festive Chuseok harvest festival, my excitement is apparent in my dynamics and the way I manipulate the fan with crisp, fluid movements.

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A Few Leaves Left

Gone is the colorful foliage that was painted over the Wisconsin landscape. With a few exceptions, most are like the tree in the foreground - bare, save for a few scraggly dried-up leaves, clinging to the branches.  I'm thankful that no (s)now has yet fallen on my neck of the woods, but I know it's only a matter of time. 

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By the Glow of the Supermoon

Although my photographic knowledge and camera equipment limited me from achieving any spectacular view of the moon, I was determined to produce at least some creative photos incorporating the moon. My current position by Lake Monona prevented me from capturing both the state capitol and moon in the same image. I would have to go elsewhere. 

My brother and I went to Madison's other lake - Lake Mendota. The small parking lot at the beginning of Picnic Point was full. I guess other people also took advantage of the mild temperatures to enjoy the full moon. Navigating by the bright moonlight, we walked along the path towards the tip of the peninsula, passing by other walkers and some young people who were enjoying campfires at several designated sites. Several women spoke excitedly in Chinese as they pointed to the city skyline, naming some of the city's landmark buildings.

The moon was quite high in the sky, but the bare branches added some creative framing for the night scene. Thanks, brother, for patiently putting up with my night photography!

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By the Glow of the Capitol

Spurred on by the relatively mild (for Wisconsin) November evening, my brother and I went for a night stroll. Our first destination was a small park across Lake Monona. 

From here, we had a great view of the beautiful state capitol and the small Madison skyline.  I was grateful for the ordinance (passed in 1966) that restricted the height of buildings within a mile of the capitol to be no higher than the base of the dome. Considering that the capitol at 284 feet (86 meters) is the tallest building in Madison and second tallest in Wisconsin, that's a vastly different skyline than in Seoul (tallest building is 1,820 ft - 555 meters)! 

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My latest artwork: Naxi Woman with Blue Shawl

Naxi Woman with Blue Shawl

Lashi village, China

Color Pencil ©2016 Melissa Enderle

For eighty-three years I have trod through the narrow lanes of my small village - first to my parents’ home, and then to my azhu's family farm. I loved living with my nai nai; now I get to enjoy the laughter of my grandchildren as they run through the family courtyard or play with the kittens. Even though my son says I don’t have to go to the market to sell vegetables, I quite like it, for it gives me something to do and a chance to chat with the other women. With a basket securely fastened to my cape, I slowly make my way to the tiny market, chatting with friends along the way.

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A Roadside Shave

Gotta love the convenience of services in India. On the road to Agra (a few years ago), we spotted this man getting a shave.

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A Web of Pearls

With a thick fog enveloping the neighborhood, I knew that capturing I would not be capturing autumn colors on my morning walk. Instead, nature granted me a different photographic subject. The intricate strands of pearls simultaneously emphasized a delicacy as well as the strength the web must have had in order to withstand such weight. 

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Rainbows and Crosses

One of the things I love about the changes of seasons is that it enables me to see the same scenes in a whole new way. I passed by this wall many times on my walk without giving it much of a glance, but on this autumn day, it begged for attention. 

Before me was a splendid "rainbow" in warmer hues.

The Cross was also featured, reminding me that God is always with me and can even speak through nature.

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A Walk Through the Woods

The bright sunshine beckoned us out for a walk through the woods. The leaves were already quite deep in some places along the path, but Meko (the dog) was keen in accompanying us.  

The afternoon sun cast long shadows on the leaf-strewn forest floor. Many of the trees are already rather bare, allowing even more light to penetrate.

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Sanghyang Dancer, Pastel

My latest pastel painting - Sanghyang Dancer

As the last performer of the night, I want to leave a lasting impression on the audience and of course, the gods. I am proud to be one of a small select member of the Pemangku temple priests. I deeply breathe in the incense that a fellow priest wafts in my direction. Now possessed by the celestial soldier deity Gandarwa, I enter a trance and mount my hobby horse.  The chants and percussive rhythms of my fellow performers encourages me to imitate the movement of a soldier on horseback as I dance in a circular motion around the blazing fire of coconut shells. After several circumnavigations, I have achieved the state needed to pass directly through the fire, filled with the energy and powers of Gandarwa to scatter the red hot coals with swift kicks of my bare feet. Surely I, as with previous Sanghyang dancers, now have been endowed with the power to drive out illnesses and disease. 

See more artworks at http://www.melissaenderle.com

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Framed by Yellows and Oranges

Shortly after I started my walk yesterday morning, the clouds gave way to reveal the sun. A great opportunity to take a few photos of the changing colors in my neighborhood.

If only the colors would last!

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