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WE'RE USING  acouple whereiscookie blogs to bring you up to date on Cookie's and Keller's summer.Today 's post features a recent article from the Cody, Wyoming, newspaper.The newspaper was founded by Buffalo Bill Cody, who is one of the cameo players in "Lilian's Last Dance."We're excited to be touring the book, teaching and hitting the trail for Cody! Click here for more on 'Lilian's Last Dance' ‘Broads, Booze & Buckaroos’ writers’ workshop, reading June 13 in Cody Story Comments (23) Share Share Print Create a hardcopy of this page Font Size: Default font size Larger font size Christene Meyers Christene Meyers Posted: Monday, June 1, 2015 2:52 pm |  Updated: 9:37 am, Tue Jun 2, 2015. 23 comments Award-winning reporter and arts writer Christene Meyers will conduct a writing workshop from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, June 13, in Grizzly Hall of the Cody library. The workshop is free and open to all writers or would-be writers. Called “Broads, Booze and Buckaroos,” Meyers’ workshop will offer tips on imagining or re-imagining one’s history to produce lively writing. The workshop is limited to 12-15 people to give time and attention to each participant’s efforts. Register for the workshop at the library or by calling 307 527-1880 during library hours to reserve a spot. “What is necessary is to have the desire to write, and an idea,” says Meyers. People may choose fiction, non-fiction or poetry for writing genres. Attendees should bring a list of characters – real or imagined – as well as a sampling of vintage photos from their family or friends, preferably at least three generations back. These will be used to inspire the day’s exercises. The Cody workshop is one of five regional workshops Meyers has given. More are planned into the autumn in Wyoming and her native state, Montana. Meyers is on a national tour with her novel, “Lillian’s Last Dance,” recently out in paperback and available at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. She will also address the "Buffalo Gals" in October at the Center, discussing her novel and its "Cody connection." The book’s paperback publisher is WordsWorth of Cody. Meyers will have the book for signing at the workshop. Her book was featured at the Billings Public Library as part of the “Big Read, Wednesday with Willa” activities sponsored by the Writer’s Voice of Billings. Her novel is set in 1907-1917 and features a love triangle among traveling actors during the transition of silent movies to “talkies.” It includes 24 colorful western supporting players and 20 cameos by actual personalities of the day, from Pablo Picasso to Buffalo Bill, after whom Cody is named and the founder of this newspaper. Meyers divides her time between Nye, Mont., and San Diego, Calif. In addition to teaching writers’ workshops, Meyers writes travel and arts articles for newspapers and magazines. Her byline, informed travel tips and knack for a lively interview are familiar to readers throughout the region. She also plays piano in nightclubs in Montana, California and Arizona. There will be a lunch break for workshop participants, who may either bring a lunch or buy it in the library’s Biblio Bistro.

Cookie loves the jacaranda which flourishes in San Diego's Mediterranean climate, and in Barcelona, one of Cookie's favorite cities. Spring in San Diego is much different than a Northern Rockies spring. TOAST SPRING WITH A NOD TO NATURE AND A THANKFUL HEART “It's spring fever. That is what the name of it is. And when you've got it, you want—oh, you don't quite know what it is you do want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so!”  ―  Mark Twain STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER Kate Sessions Park is  at its loveliest in springtime. IS THERE A  more hopeful time of year than spring?  -- wherever on the planet you are. Whether you're strolling the streets of Rome, sailing San Diego Bay or planting the garden in Nye, Montana, spring is the time for optimism. Colors seem more vivid.  Scents seem more intense (in my beloved Montana, a cousin just wrote "it's beautiful now that it's May, after much needed snow, sleet and rain.") In Montana, we don't care what form the moisture takes. It makes the earth smell rich and loamy.  The wild roses and dogwood are blooming and the sage, peony and daisies are leafing out.) The long pre-solstice days mean light until nearly 10 p.m. in the northern Rockies! Always lovely San Diego has a spring luster despite the drought. Spring run-off  is a glorious sight in Woodbine Falls near Nye, Montana. I'VE SPENT  spring in Texas hill country, wildflowers up to my middle.  I've lolled about in the Greek Isles, exploring the ruins in Delos and sipping wine in Santorini. I've had spring in October, prowling the rain forest in northeast Australia (their spring comes during our autumn), and I've "sprung into spring" sailing the swells of the Irish sea with loved ones. LATELY , I've been tilting pleasantly upward, staring with delight to admire the wild lavender blossoms of San Diego's signature jacarandas. Thousands of these trees are in their glory in early May. A picnic in Kate Sessions Park is a perfect afternoon's end. This dog-friendly, welcoming park is a popular recreation area boasting sweeping hillside views of the bay, plus sports fields and a fine playground. Back home, our favorite yellow orchid is blooming! 'Lilian's Last Dance' readings move to the Rockies, click here Filling the bird feeders is a spring ritual on the first week of Cookie's return to Montana, after a skiff of snow. IN MONTANA , where I try to spend part of May (for the lilacs!), spring is a glorious time of year. Streams, rivers and waterfalls are running and the Big Sky will soon be buzzing with hummingbirds, who'll zip about as I fertilize dozens of bedding plants. First, however, comes the obligatory May snow storm. (We had that the day we arrived, May 6.) By June, I'll be feeding three varieties of the magnificent and ever-thirsty tiny hummer: the rufus (largest and most aggressive), the ruby-throated (with its glorious crimson scarf) and the caliope (the smallest bird on the hemisphere). "I'll be right back," I tell them. "Stick around." I TAKE a quick trip inside to cook up a batch of nectar (four parts water, one part sugar, boiled for four minutes). Spring blooms herald the coming of the season in San Diego, where our orchids are coming alive with blossoms. I LIKE TO  think the hummers I see in Montana are the same ones I feed in winter in San Diego. Perhaps they take a ride on a northbound goose's tail, because they're always buzzing about, waiting. They follow me to the aspen tree where one of the feeders -- the most popular -- has hung a decade. Filling these and a dozen bird feeders takes a couple hours. Already a week into May, we have customers:  chickadees, finches, woodpeckers and buntings so far.  "Cap'n Keller'' sails  out of San Diego Bay. Spring came earlier in San Diego, and sailing was divine on our last day. In Montana, where winters are long and harsh and the ground is snow-covered for months, spring is proof that winter is  not  endless.   Rome's fruit and flower stands  herald spring and lure shoppers. Whether you're sailing, planting, hiking, biking, jogging, touring or just plain savoring the season of rebirth, enjoy your spring and remember to explore, learn and live! Camels greet us at a lively rare animal farm near Yuma, Arizona COMING UP: Mid-day at the Oasis!  We'll take you to a camel farm on the Arizona desert south of Yuma, then have a look at exotic birds in our two favorite states -- Montana and California -- and we'll preview the new San Diego Repertory season. It's cutting edge. Don't miss 'UNCANNY VALLEY' at San Diego Rep, click here Plus we'll give advice on making the most of precious time in Europe. And we'll share tips on traveling with pets. All at "where is Cookie." Remember to explore, learn and live! Our posts appear Wednesdays and Saturdays at www.whereiscookie.com

NEARING A CENTURY OLD, COBBLESTONE SCHOOL SHOWS 'CAN DO' SPIRIT IN SMALL MONTANA TOWN The historic Cobblestone School is nearing a proud century old in its Main Street location in Absarokee, Montana. The writer of this blog, Christene Meyers, had the pleasure of teaching a workshop at Cobblestone School just days ago. Readers and Writers use Cobblestone, along with quilters, dancers and actors. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER ABSAROKEE, Montana -- WHEN THE  Cobblestone School began to show its age, a group of civic minded volunteers decided to save her from the wrecker's ball. At nearly 80, back in 1996, the historic school was getting long in the tooth, like any dowager who'd led a lively and active life. The school, begun in 1917 with river rock gathered by the citizens from nearby creeks and fields, was accredited as a high school in 1921 and hired five teachers. The first graduating class had five students. This signaled a giant step forward from the 1903 log cabin and potbelly stove which served the town's first children in the early 20th Century. Through the years, the stately school was used for myriad community functions -- fitting, since it was built with love by the citizenry's elbow grease, on donated land. WHEN A NEW  high school was built to accommodate a growing student body around 1990, the venerable Cobblestone fell to disuse and could not be sustained. A plaque commemorates the building's historical status. Enter "The Fabulous Five." The moniker fits, because the quintet of women, all of Absarokee and rooted deeply in Stillwater County, stepped forward to save the day. "We didn't want it to fade away -- with its history and architecture," said Donna Adams. She, along with Clara Borland, Lois Van Every, Agnes Cowan and Gayle Eberhardt established the non-profit Cobblestone Preservation Committee in June of 1996. They spearheaded a fund-raising drive, including selling bricks to honor contributors and loved ones. A clean-up and fix-up campaign followed. New life was breathed back into the building. IN 19 YEARS , the building's use has grown to serve a diverse community and regional need. Quilters are among regular users at Cobblestone School in Absarokee. Recently, Writer's Voice, a national program sponsored through the National Endowment for the Arts, held a writing workshop there.  The writer of this blog, Christene Meyers, conducted a day-long workshop in a western-style room with lovely hand-crafted pine tables and comfy chairs. A century ago, architect W. R. Plew, of Montana State University Bozeman, devised plans for the handsome building. He hoped it would be both appealing to the eye and useful to the community.   HE'D BE  pleased with the activity today, which ranges from quilting to Sunday School, Beartooth Park and Recreation District to Absarokee Civic Club and the VFW Auxiliary. Anyone can rent the rooms, too, for nominal fees ranging from $15 and $20 to $150 for the whole building, including kitchen facilities. Cookie and Keller spent two years reconstructing a novel she abandoned in 2005. DANCERS LEARN  steps there. Yoga, Jazzercise and aerobics take place.  An amateur theater group, The Cobblestone Players, gathers there and presents plays in the largest of the rooms.  Offerings range from light mysteries to comedies and "whodunnits." Banquets and private parties, receptions and more are held.   Call 406 298-0838. COMING UP : Two fun stories. The Itti Bitti Bistro is sponsoring a Saturday street market and gathering starting this Saturday, May 30. A preview.  And do you believe in epiphany?  We do. When a manuscript, notes and floppy discs fell from a dusty attic box, it hit Keller's head and sparked a great notion.  The next couple years involved editing "Lilian's Last Dance," which I'd co-researched, co-wrote and abandoned when my husband Bill Jones passed away in 2005. More about how the novel came to see light. Meanwhile, remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekends and Wednesdays at www.whereiscookie.com .

ABSAROKEE ENTREPRENEURS GO ALL IN FOR FUN FAMILY GATHERING, SATURDAY MARKET Absarokee veterinarian and businessman Rex Anderson and his wife Monica launch a weekly Farmers and Flea Market Saturday. Tourists are expected to fill the streets of Absarokee, and locals are invited to participate. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER and courtesy Monica and Rex Anderson WHEN THE ITTI BITTI Bistro made its debut on main street a few years ago, Absarokee veterinarian Rex Anderson said he wanted to bring "a little variety, quality and fun" to the food scene in downtown Absarokee, Montana. He succeeded -- with tasty soups, sandwiches, pies and desserts attracting business people, tourists and locals looking for new mid-day dining. Now, with an artistic wife, Monica, who moved to Stillwater County from Livingston when the couple married, the two entrepreneurs have devised a continuing Saturday event.  ENTER THE  new, weekly Itti Bitti Farmers and Flea Market. The summer happening begins this Saturday, May 30, and will continue Saturdays through the summer, except during Fishtail Family Fun Days June 27. It should appeal to locals as well as tourists looking for a colorful day. Itti Bitti Bistro serves up a mean pizza.  Food and drink are part of the plan. Absarokee, Montana's main street will liven up each Saturday through summer. Each Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the couple debuts an expanded version of their corner bistro.  "We'll be using the building and environs inside and the outside, for people of  Absarokee and the outlying areas to come and shop, buy, sell, and trade," says Monica. Booth space is for sale. Demonstrations and live music are planned, along with, arts, crafts, garden produce, farm eggs, honey, food and drink.  "As it grows, we welcome  fundraising endeavors, and community enterprises,” says Monica. THE COUPLE  welcomes vendors large and small to gather weekly at 30 S. Woodard. “Bring the kids for ice cream, specialty drinks, and our famous artisan craft pizza for the market’s May 30 grand opening,” says Monica. Wayne and Connie Burleson will be on hand Saturday to demonstrate organic growing and share their knowledge and plants. Regional authors will sign and sell their books (full disclosure: this blog's writer Christene Meyers' novel, "Lilian's Last Dance," is part of the arts and book display. Signed copies are available, with an "Itti Bitti" discount.) THE ANDERSONS  have also invited popular gardening instructors, Wayne and Connie Burleson, of Gardening 4 Life. They will offer free organic gardening demonstrations each Saturday at 11 a.m. "Kids and adults will learn from their clever and easy to implement techniques," says Monica. The Burlesons are on tap at the market's debut this Saturday to demonstrate the "MOZ" Bucket, a fast and simple way to grow healthy foods. Each Saturday, a market is planned in downtown Absarokee. All are welcome. Market headquarters are inside and outside at Itti Bitti Bistro. The "MOZ"  Bucket Garden got its name when the Burlesons traveled to Mozambique, Africa, to volunteer their time and expertise in improving farming and gardening techniques. Market goers will learn to layer super soils with organic material -- sticks, compost and straw.  “The plant growth rate in the "MOZ" Bucket Garden is crazy.  Imagine vine ripe tomatoes in July!”  says Wayne Burleson. The Burlesons will have hardy tomato and other seedlings for sale at the market. MONICA envisions a "swap meet" atmosphere, too, where people bring used, quality garage-sale type items and art objects, as a good way to empty closets and recycle. She's also invited jewelers, soap and lotion makers, craftsmen, bakers, and creators of homemade jams, jellies and other edibles.  Her husband promises to share his award-winning barbecue. The gorgeous sandhill crane takes a bow at whereiscookie. Interested persons may call Monica at 406 298-0246 to inquire about booth rates. Or e-mail her at ittibittibistro@gmail.com COMING UP:  The sandhill crane is back in Montana and we've been spotting and photographing these lovely and graceful creatures each time we drive down from above Nye, to Fishtail and into Absarokee.  Remember to explore, learn and live -- and take time to enjoy the sandhills!  Catch us for travel, adventure and fun ideas on the road, Wednesdays and weekends, at: www.whereiscookie.com

MIGRATING CRANES THRILL ROAD-TRIPPERS AS THEY SWOOP DOWN FOR A STAY BY FISHTAIL A trio of sandhill cranes steps lightly across a field near Fishtail, Montana, between recent rain storms. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER The sandhill crane takes its name from Nebraska's Sandhills.  THERE MAY  be no more spectacular sight than the unexpected view of a glorious flock of sandhill cranes putting down in a wheat field -- or taking off! The sandhill crane has been visiting near us lately (south-central Montana, about a half-hour from Red Lodge and a few miles north of Nye.)  This lovely bird is known in North America and even as far as extreme northeastern Siberia.  'Lilian...' musical songs debut to public      (click link at left) THE COMMON name of this uncommon bird -- a bit like a Las Vegas showgirl --  refers to habitat like that at the Platte River, on the edge of Nebraska's Sandhills on the American Plains. But this large and beautiful crane also passes through Montana, spends time to nest, reproduce, raise its young and feed, then takes off again. Cranes can be seen in many places, including in our neck of the woods in the Northern Rockies. Found in several scattered areas of North America, sandhill cranes reach their peak abundance at migratory stopover points on the Great Plains. There, they can be seen by the hundreds. We've had the good fortune to view a dozen or so at a time as they stop off in Montana. The early spring gathering of Sandhills on the Platte River in Nebraska is among the greatest wildlife spectacles on the continent, with over a quarter of a million birds present at one time. Although they are currently considered "common," their dependence on a key stopover sites makes them vulnerable to loss of habitat in the future.   SANDHILL  cranes are no sissy birds.  The ones in the northern hemisphere migrate long distances (some cross the Bering Straits every spring and fall, en route to and from nesting grounds in Siberia). Those from the southern part of their  main breeding range -- in the northern and western parts of the lower 48 states -- migrate shorter distances. Recently, with global warming, the sandhill has begun migrating later in fall and earlier in spring. Some are spending winters farther north than usual. Sandhill crane populations nesting in Mississippi, Florida, and Cuba do not migrate at all.  Lucky, birds, to be able to stay put, enjoy the sun and conserve energy! Nick and Nora, our Yorkies, enjoy a suite in the Omni Hotel, Los Angeles. "A Little Night Music," by Stephen Sondheim,  directed by Vint Lavinder, enjoyed a successful  run at NOVA in Billings, Montana.  More about this innovative enterprise soon. COMING UP : Doggone it. Nick and Nora, our magnificent Yorkies, have been with us a decade.  We reflect on the wonders of the canine-human connection next blog. And Venture Theater of Billings, Montana, and Rimrock Opera Company, two proud Billings arts organizations, merged to form NOVA. As its name suggests, NOVA offers new, exciting work. Recently, "A Little Night Music" graced the stage of the Montana Avenue theater. Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekends and Wednesdays for fun road tripping, arts features, music, travel and cruising tips, at : wwwwhereiscookie.com .

Writer's 'Dog and Pony Show' features fun readings, workshops with Writer's Voice between nature viewings Migrating birds happily load up for the next leg of their journey, stopping to snack at High Chaparral near Nye, Montana The Big Read's choice of Willa Cather's "My Antonia," prompted Writer's Voice" to ask Christene Meyers to teach a series of memoir workshops. A downy woodpecker hunts for lunch. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER This bear welcomed us home. WE'VE BEEN  back in the bosom of our beloved Montana for less than two weeks, but in those few days, we've seen more birds than we have in months in past years. We've had twin fawns eating the spills from the feeders, and the hummingbirds are already back, though how they survive the cold, below-freezing nights I have no idea. Friends say they make cozy nests in the fir trees. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, we're happy to be home to Big Sky Country. Weekend reading from "Lilian...." packs a pretty house     (click left) WE HIT  the deck running, with workshops and readings vying for time with unpacking.  Keller was in charge of restoring water.  For the first time in 22 years, we'd drained the water -- after a disastrous and expensive flood last year during our absence. Keller turned it back on in minutes while I filled the feeders! The road to High Chaparral along the West Fork of the Stillwater River. "Is that important to do before the car is even unloaded," he asked. "YES! Absolutely."  I replied. "It's for my mental health. You do want that, don't you?" WITH BIRDS  in the trees, and overflowing feeders and suet blocks, we're attracting squirrels, and of course the usual vols, moles, mice and packrats.  Soon, we will have snakes, too, for as Keller points out, I've offered up the perfect habitat for visiting creatures large and small. WE'RE ALS O taking "Lilian's Last Dance" around to book shops and stores, and we'll update you at the "Lilian" website. Back home, and out our windows this young fawn has a spring snack. More about "Lilian's Last Dance" , click below; http://www.lilianslastdance.com/index.html A Sunday reading at the home of Kent and Linda Harris in Absarokee attracted several dozen readers, who heard Christene Meyers talk about "Lilian's Last Dance."  WE'RE loading up the car with first editions of "Lilian's Last Dance," while we read from and sign copies of Cookie's first novel. (We're happy to inscribe, sign and send a first edition --- check out the "Lilian" blog for details.) We're getting some nice attention, including interviews with the Cody Enterprise in Wyoming.  In Billings, we'll be featured in a story by Billings Outpost editor David Crisp. Keep an eye on "Lilian" website for updates. The Cobblestone School in Absarokee is the subject of an upcoming blog. COMING UP : Our whereiscookie blog takes a Montana turn as we return to Big Sky Country for a recharge of our country batteries.  It's not all play and no work, though, with Keller on the job doing a room addition, the book tour and a half-dozen writing workshops. A workshop a few days ago in the historic Cobblestone School in Absarokee gave us a chance to prowl this wonderful 1917 building, in its 98th year. We take an inside look on Saturday. Remember to explore, learn and live and check us out at Wednesdays and weekends at www.whereiscookie.com

Cookie takes a turn at the three-keyboard Wurlitzer in Wellington's famous Southward Car Museum, invited by Len Fifield.   Wellington has an affection for bold design and color. Cookie shops for dream car, gives an impromptu concert and shears a sheep -- all in a day's play in Wellington     Cookie explored Wellington's famous car museum in search of a new auto. Sheep ranchers and their dogs have a similar look the world over -- this one works on a ranch near Wellington, N.Z., but would be at home in Montana. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER OUR DAY  in Wellington began with a ride on a cable car up a steep hill, a stroll around Parliament and a terrific cuppa. Great tea! Great town. The day segued to a museum full of rare autos, and an even more rare three-keyboard organ. The Southward Car Museum has 250 cars, airplanes, train engines and a magnificent organ. (After shameless hinting, I was invited to play it!) Talk about gilding the lily! AFTER MY  organ tunes and a mini-concert by magnificent theater organist Len Fifield, we headed to a ranch, where I attempted to shear a sheep. We lunched on lamb curry -- delicious, but unfortunately timed. FOR THE SHEEP  shearing, lucky I had help. It's hard work so I shall stick to writing and music. The sheep survived my shaky hands but I was a wreck.... WELLINGTON  pitches itself as a highly liveable place where one season fits all.  It is ethnically diverse and gay friendly with an array of eateries, parks and shops. Wellington also   offers variety and charm, with plenty to do for free or on the cheap. Besides fabulous food and shopping, the people are helpful and accommodating with a sly, wry sense of humor. THIS NEW ZEALAND  city is beautiful and user friendly, with streets made for walking, browsing, relaxing. Arranged around an attractive waterfront, Wellington is easy to navigate. Wellington boasts more In a country known for its love of boating, Wellington, N.Z., boasts an inviting waterfront, walkable and pretty. cafes, bars and restaurants than New York City, and its coffee and craft beer producers are famous.  The town combines a creative, cosmopolitan feel, with the sophistication of a capital (which it is!) plus the warmth and personality of a village. Wellington is simply winning, and it's courting business and industry as well as retirees -- thus the mix of young and old which delighted us. Come with Cookie to the 'Jeopardy' set WELLINGTON HAS  New Zealand's greatest share of high-tech companies. It promises techies shopping for change of venue that they can be part of a vibrant economy -- "open minded, globally-connected, yet collaborative and supportive."  They can indulge in this while enjoying "a healthy lifestyle, rich in cuisine, culture and the great outdoors." All true! The city enjoys over 2,100 hours of sunshine each year, less rainfall than other New Zealand cities and some say the lowest air pollution in the world. Minutes from downtown Wellington we walked along a green belt and enjoyed watching bikers, a sparkling harbor, and a picturesque waterfront designed for strolling and picnics. Cookie took up the shearing device, with a little help from a new friend. Wellington's cable cars are a treat to ride. OUR RECENT  Wellington visit offered crisp, cool mornings and we relished our walks beneath the hills surrounding this lovely town. The aptly named "City to Sea Walkway" starts in the heart of central Wellington near Parliament and ends at the South Coast. The Parliament square is an eye-catching mix of old and new buildings, nicely pulled together with gardens and walkways. NEWLYWEDS  have their photos taken on the steps of the Parliamentary Library, tourists click snapshots of a bronze of Premier Richard Seddon pointing to the sky. The Beehive – a structure known by all New Zealanders – stands beside the imposing grey facade of Parliament House. The buildings have been modified, destroyed by fire, half-built and restored. Folks love them or hate them. Our eyes look for the novel; we loved them. "The Beehive" Parliament Building in Wellington. Wellington Botanical Garden was a highlight, too, with spectacular views, unique landscape, exotic forests, native bush, and colorful floral displays. THE WATERFRONT  walk will take you to Te Papa, with buildings used in early Wellington wharfing, and Civic Square, home to a nice library, art gallery, an engaging Visitor Center and Town Hall Complex. Our day ended as it began, with a cable car ride. These historic red cars run from Lambton Quay in the city's commercial heart, to the top of Upland Road, with the Lookout, Carter Observatory, Planetarium and Cable Car Museum. WELLINGTON  offers something unique at every turn. On my third visit, I left with more to see. Melbourne, Australia, encourages artful graffiti. COMING UP:  We find hidden secrets, stunning artwork and surprising talent in the alleys and secret corners of Melbourne, Australia.  In a unique tradition encouraged by city officials, artists are welcome to For theater, movies, and a fun new book: click on lilianslastdance.com   paint, draw, create and change artwork on the walls of many buildings in this delightful city Down Under. Remember to explore, learn and live, and check us out here Wednesdays for travel tips, hotels, restaurants, cruising and nature pieces:   www.whereiscookie.com

NEW ZEALAND, AUSSIE BIRDS, SOME BATTLING EXTINCTION, RANK HIGH ON 'MUST-SEE' LIST We watched two pair of Australian white ibis -- at two different times -- intrigued by their mating rituals and beauty. They are so much a part of the scenery that they are sometimes ignored in the cities. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS This friendly gull is waiting for the appetizer, not  the fake wine, with Sydney Bridge and Harbour  behind him and a patient Bruce Keller. PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER HAVE YOU  ever looked a kakapo in the eye in the middle of the night? Or watched an ibis vie for your fish and chips at an outdoor cafe? Birds are so much a part of daily life in Australia and New Zealand that residents give scarcely a glance to feathered friends exotic to us.  After widespread bird extinction, the abundance and "come back" seems ironic. Today's flightless birds include showy ostriches, emus, kiwis and other winged non-flyers. They're called ratites. At a Sydney cafe, this ibis caught our eye.  Other diners didn't notice. THE ODDITY  and variety of the Southern Hemisphere birds has helped biologists define a larger group of mostly extinct birds, many of them flightless.  They're called paleognaths, who knew? The kakapo or night parrot has alluring beauty  and is making a comeback from near extinction. We learned that these feathered wonders are key to studying evolution of birds. To our amazement, all living ratites are found in the Southern Hemisphere, or S.H. A tern on New Zealand's south island near Milford Sound.  MANY FLIGHTLESS  birds were wiped out by European and Polynesian settlement and introduction of rats, cats and predators  -- no surprise. We loved our time with the kakapo, observed at night in a sanctuary. They have a voice like a foghorn, gorgeous greenish-yellow plumage, a pleasant musty smell and intelligent eyes. Thanks to a successful recovery program for this unique parrot, they've gone from near extinction to 126 in number. The kakapo possesses flightless features: small or absent keels on breastbones; smaller, simpler and fewer wing bones; larger leg bones and body; and feathers not inclined to aerodynamics. ANOTHER OF  our favorite southern hemisphere birds can fly, as we witnessed. The beautiful Australian white ibis is as common Down Under as is our North American pigeon. Folks call them "bin chickens." Gannets in New Zealand's Muriwai Park are protected. We watched them at outdoor cafes -- as people shooed them with newspapers, sometimes smiling at their beauty, sometimes not. We observed a mating pair for a couple hours, while we munched on fish and chips.  They swooped in on a next-door table's remains with the confidence of seagulls in our San Diego coastal parks.  Maori hunted birds, eating their meat and using their feathers  for capes. They pay homage to feathered friends in this  Okains Bay Maori Museum. This red billed swan enjoyed a swim in Melbourne's Yarra River. Fiordland's colorful crested penguins often mate for life. THE IBIS HAVE  an elaborate courtship and nesting ritual -- almost dance like -- involving bowing to show off white   plumage and black head and neck. The female plays hard to get, but finally gives in. The male finds twigs and she builds the nest. In flight, flocks of Australian white ibis form distinctive V-shaped flight patterns, much like our Canada geese. Click here for art, music, film and theater at Lilianslastdance.com The Southern Hemisphere is also known for its fabulous gannet colony in Muriwai. Thousands of these graceful birds nest in the crags and cliffs north of Auckland and are protected by the New Zealand government. We also viewed that famous black and white flightless bird -- the penguin. Mainly residing in the Antarctic, penguins migrate to the southern tips of Australia and New Zealand. We love knowing that the handsome Fiordland crested penguin is monogamous and mates for life! The Dunedin Train Station is the second most photographed landmark in the Southern Hemisphere, behind the world famous Sydney Opera House in Australia.  DUNEDIN DELIGHTS : Coming next Wednesday, we visit Dunedin, one of New Zealand's charming cities. Delightful Dunedin, settled by the Scots in 1848, is known for its remarkable train station. Remember to explore, learn and live and tell your friends about www.whereiscookie.com where you'll find pieces on travel, adventure, hotels and cruising. For theater, books, film and the arts, check us out at our new blog: www.lilianslastdance.com

Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga deliver wondrous performance TOP LIFETIME SHOWS LINGER IN ARTS REVIEWER'S HEART, AS SHE SHAMELESSLY GOES GAGA  LEGENDARY SINGER TONY BENNETT AND THE GIFTED LADY GAGA COLLABORATE TO THE DELIGHT OF A FULL HOUSE RECENTLY IN LAS VEGAS. OUR ARTFUL TEAM SAW THE SHOW, FOLLOWING THE "MODERN VINTAGE" COLLABORATION.   "I call her "firefly" 'cause oh, my. She radiates moon glow. Wants none of that noon glow. She starts to glitter when the sun goes down 'Bout 8 p.m., it's mayhem........." -- from "Firefly," sung recently by Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga to a standing ovation Las Vegas audience If Cookie cries for joy, the concert or play makes her "tops" list. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER IT WAS MOON GLOW,  not mayhem when Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett charmed us at Planet Hollywod. Everything was in order. SO MANY  fantastic plays and concerts I've seen in my lucky life. I started a "Top Ten" list about 30 years ago.  It changes as I see and evaluate several hundred shows each year. Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga's fabulous, flawless performance made the list.  When a show makes me cry for joy, it's in. Tony Bennett, a frisky 88, still has the pipes, folks, and a sense of fun. Here he twirls Lady Gaga around in a packed house at Axis Theater, Vegas. Lady Gaga goes solo for several songs with the best band a singer could have. EACH SHOW  on my list reminds me of how precious it is to be in the company of greatness. True genius touches one's life only on rare occasions. The greats remain in my heart and mind --so Tony and Gaga join stellar memories of: * FRANK SINATRA  crooning at the old Sands Hotel, with Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr., accompanied by Count Basie in the Copa Room. * Mary Martin washing that man right out of her hair in "South Pacific" on Broadway. The audience wouldn't stop cheering. * Patti Lupone as Mama Rose in Gypsy.  She stopped the show with a standing ovation for "Everything's Coming Up Roses." *Angela Lansbury and Len Cariou taking their fifth curtain call in "Sweeney Todd," to cheers and thunderous applause. NOW, ADD  to my "tops" list the incomparable Tony Bennett and the sublime Lady Gaga. Did I weep?  You bet.  Through nearly the entire concert. Saying good-bye:  Bennett and Gaga leave the floor at the Axis in Planet Hollywood, to raves and cheers. Don't be wary at the 60-year age gap.  (Bennett is a spry and handsome 88 and Gaga is a sophisticated, flirty 28.)  The two are fast friends and exciting collaborators. We've seen them twice since we reveled in their sold-out New Year's Eve show at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas.  We bought tickets in March for their recent two-day gig at Planet Hollywood's Axis Theater, also in Las Vegas. The show was stunning, an immediate "tops" on a list formed from more than 5,000 plays and concerts enjoyed in my lifetime. THE BENNETT-GAGA  show is full of life and love. It's obvious the two love and respect one another's great gifts as they honor Duke Ellington, Cole Porter and Gershwin. Soulful phrasing, fabulous arrangements and the world's finest musicians make an irresistible combination. Fabulous Indian fare in Bay Area bistro, click here I FIRST  heard of the unique collaboration in a New Yorker story. I'd seen Bennett and Gaga in separate concerts -- loved both for their style, flair and precision.  He asked her to record a duet on a favorite album, "Duets II," and in 2011, they recorded “Lady Is a Tramp” then a full album, "Cheek to Cheek," also the name of their ambitious tour.  I love the collaboration. She keeps him youthful.  He adds to her elegance. Their arrangements are Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and Sinatra in the Copa Room of the old Sands Hotel, imploded to make room for the Venetian. timeless.  If a CD can wear out, mine will soon.  "Cheek to Cheek" goes with us -- it's been to Australia, New Zealand, Europe and the Middle East since its top debut on Billboard's Hot 100.  I cried (of course) when it won a Grammy for best traditional pop vocals. I was thrilled to hear “But Beautiful,” "I Can’t Give You Anything But Love,” and “I Won’t Dance” on this tour. EACH ARTIST  takes turns performing solo, so Lady Gaga can change into a half-dozen costumes. While she's becoming a sultry blonde or sexy redhead, Bennett croons classics like “The Good Life,” “Sophisticated Lady,” “Sing You Sinners” and his signature "I Left My Heart in San Francisco."  Gaga sings jazz standards including “Bang Bang,” Billy Strayhorn's beautiful “Lush Life” and a bouncy “Firefly,” which Bennett joins. (BTW: Tony is happily married for years.) A crystal-studded curtain and fabulous orchestra set the show's glittery tone. 'Lilian's Last Dance' updates, tours, schedules, readings, reviews WHO KNOWS  how many shows Tony Bennett has in him.  Years more, if the music gods deem. Meanwhile, he's dipping from the fountain of youth, touring the world with his "Lady." We'll catch them often as we can -- in London at the Royal Albert Hall, and the Hollywood Bowl. Who knows, maybe we'll be invited to her wedding. She's asked Tony to sing! Psst: Have I mentioned I play a mean piano? WHO ELSE makes my top list of performances? That's the next " whereiscookie. " Cookie Meyers and Bruce Keller (Cookie and Keller) on the town and about to dance cheek to cheek.     CATCH US  at  lilianslast  dance for updates on our novel,"Lilian's Last Dance," -- with our unique twist on exciting readings, workshops and more. This weekend, we're in Phoenix for readings and signings at the Ironwood Library and beyond. "Lilian's Last Dance"  is out in paperback, available at Barnes and Noble and Amazon. We're on a national tour of readings and signings.  We're booking into the fall now and would be delighted to read for your book club or civic group. Contact us at:  lilianslastdance@gmail.com   We'll continue our "cheek to cheek" revels, and we put the concerts back here, as you asked! Thanks for giving us a shout out about what you like -- and what you don't! Posted by  Bruce  at  1:45 PM  4 comments,  Post a Comment  Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to FacebookShare to Pinterest

Bay area Indian restaurant offers ambiance, art, films, family history, great fresh food Artful touches abound in Juhu Beach Club in Oakland, named after a beautiful beach in the owner's ancestors' land, India. In just months, Juhu has become known for its authentic, fresh India inspired menu in delightful surroundings.     Honoring ancestors is part of the charm at Juhu Beach Club. Here, owner Preeti Mistry's mother, watches over in a photo. Sari-clad aunties keep an eye on the place in vintage photos. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER PREETI MISTRY has a name as mysterious and poetic as her restaurant, Juhu Beach Club in Oakland, California. Named after one of India's most famous, exotic and beautiful beaches, Juhu Beach Club is in Oakland, not Mumbai. Its nearest large body of water is San Francisco Bay, not the Arabian Sea. But it is the real deal for those of us who have acquired a taste for fine, fresh Indian fare. Mistry and her partner, Ann Madeau, have Preety Mistry and Ann Madeau, married partners, are proud of the Juhu Beach Club's exposure and reputation, garnered in less than two years since the Bay Area restaurant debuted. It has a reputation for excellence and changing specials. transformed an ordinary neighborhood building into an artful, appealing restaurant with some of the best Indian fare the Bay Area has to offer. Their following is growing since opening less than a year ago. It's no wonder. Excellence is the sacred byword for the energetic Mistry, 37. MISTRY IS  no stranger to the food business, nor to the ambition and hard work necessary to make a restaurant successful. Born in London to an Indian mother and father from Uganda (dad's a doctor; mum's a chemist), Mistry grew up in a driven, creative and demanding household.  She acquired a taste for Indian movies and fine food and the beach of her mother's homeland lingered in her mind. Perhaps her London birth influenced her path toward international culinary art.  London is one of the world's great food-loving cities, and it lured Mistry back to its famed chef school, Le Cordon Bleu. She and Ann moved back to a favorite city, San Francisco, in 2004, and started a catering company called Saffron Hill. SINCE TODDLER days, Mistry remembers a fondness for the spicy, fragrant food of her ancestors -- flavorful curries, sweet and tangy sauces and chutneys, slow braised meats and chicken and the distinctive blend of spices and herbs that gives Indian food its appeal. Million Dollar Quartet offers top Vegas show , click left. Turmeric, saffron, tamarind and pepper, cilantro, cumin and ginger greet the nostrils as one enters Juhu Beach Club. Succulent chicken, beef and shrimp dishes are offered and there's plenty for the vegetarian. The papadums and flavorful pickled cabbage are divine. Everything is fresh as a spring morning, from Preeti's pretty fare to paisley and pink walls. PLANTS , movie posters and vintage family photos welcome the guest. A beverage is offered immediately -- all in the time honored tradition of Indian hospitality. The place is also immaculate, as if dusted by fairies.  Regular showings of Indian movies enhance the "Bollywood" cache. Guests peruse the menu, choosing a coconut curry or Bombay sandwich while sipping a mango mimosa, masala chai or old-fashioned shandy.  A small, sophisticated and reasonably priced wine and beer list plus daily changing cocktails provide something for every taste. RAISED IN  Orlando, Toledo and Pittsburg, with family trips to Mumbai, Preeti describes herself as a "in certain ways, a typical American kid with professional parents, travel and exposure."  Her loving but strict parents made no secret of their high standards for their daughter, who had to sort out her sexuality with traditional upbringing and expectations. Mistry met her banker partner and international traveler Ann Madeau in Ohio.  Following Madeau's career, they moved to London and Mistry began serious study as a chef. THEY MARRIED  and honeymooned on an alluringly remote Mexican island where they sought out and found delicious food. The Bay Area with its openness and diversity drew them back to that part of the world. Christene "Cookie" Meyers, left, meets and interviews Juhu Beach Club owner Pretti Mistry during a recent Bay Area visit.  The two complement one another, completing thoughts and anticipating one another's needs. They collaborated as they organized the restaurant, with Ann designing the interior and Preeti developing the menu.  MISTRY'S  broad, international cheffing experience also includes a stint at San Francisco's respected de Young museum store and cafe. The menu was crafted by locally based Bon Appetit Management Company, and, like Juhu Beach Club, features tasty seasonal dishes created with local ingredients from small family farms and producers. With her movie-poster smile, Preeti says, "Eating well in a relaxing, pleasant environment -- and enjoying all aspects of it -- are part of the good life." CATCH US  here Wednesdays for fun food, travel, cruising and hotel tips, at www.whereiscookie.com For concerts, plays, books and adventure and tours with our novel,   "Lilian's Last Dance," check out:   www.lilianslastdance.com on weekends. Remember, carpe diem.  So explore, learn and live! Click here to follow our new novel 'Lilian's Last Dance'

Bette Midler makes the "Tops" list with her  effervescent energy and expressive voice. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER and archives LAST BLOG, we revealed our "tops" lifetime list of plays and concerts. The prompt was a fantastic concert by Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett, which made our list. We recalled a "Rat Pack" concert at the old Sands Hotel in Las Vegas, and  other greats who made our list: Patti Lupone, Mary Martin, Burt Bacharach, Yul Brynner, Angela Lansbury, Len Cariou. To make the list, we must be moved to tears by the genius before us! HERE ARE  others on my "Top Ten" list of concerts and performances (okay, I know it's more than 10; I can't cross anyone off my genius performers' list.)  *Bette Middler at Caesar's in a torchy show of non-stop fun and emotion. She sang her heart out in standards such as "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" and fantastic ballads including "The Rose" and "Wind Beneath My Wings." She came on stage in a jazzy car on a 3-D video screen.  Her fabulous back-up singers, the Harlettes, were on stage, too. Dustin Hoffman as Shylock in "The Merchant of Venice" (Geraldine Page was Portia.)  *  IAN McKELLAN  and Tim Curry, brilliant in "Amadeus" in New York. (McKellen as an aged Salieri sat quietly in chartacter in a wheelchair as the audience took its seats.) Peter Hall's brilliant production was laced with gorgeous 18th Century costumes and wigs.  The acting was top drawer. *Dustin Hoffman in "The Merchant of Venice" in London, delivering a deeply moving performance. It didn't get great reviews, but it should have. Geraldine Page was a magnificent Portia. Elton John gave us our money's worth and more in his lavish, flashy Caesar's show.  *"Death of a Salesman" -- of 15 performances, most memorable were the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and Beijing, China, with the playwright directing. (That production makes my list.) No dry eyes at Linda's graveside eulogy on either continent. Ian McKellan won the Oscar for his nuanced performance in "Amadeus." * THE ORIGINAL  Broadway version of "Les Miserables." Stunning staging, rousing music, great story backed by memorable voices, beautiful costumes and strong acting. *"Agnes of God" with Amanda Plummer. Saw it the same night as Indira Gandhi, who was assassinated the next month. *Elton John, who tore up Caesar's with his lavish "Million Dollar Piano" production. A fabulous, dizzying, talented two hours with a genius in complete control of both his instruments -- his voice and the piano. Terrific arrangements with Caesar's usual "best in the country" musicians.  *Childhood productions of "The King and I," "South Pacific" and "My Fair Lady."  (If only I'd seen Judy Garland at the Palladium in London in 1963. I cherish the double album I inherited from my mother's collection.) Cookie Meyers and Bruce Keller (Cookie and Keller) on the town and about to dance cheek to cheek. Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett: we'll see them twice more in 2015. WHO KNOWS  how many shows Tony Bennett has in him.  Years more, if the music gods deem. Meanwhile, he's dipping from the fountain of youth, touring the world with his "Lady." We'll catch them often as we can -- in London at the Royal Albert Hall, and the Hollywood Bowl. Who knows, maybe we'll be invited to her wedding. She's asked Tony to sing! Psst: Have I mentioned I play a mean piano? NEXT UP: Where is Cookie takes to the desert and finds a crazy camel farm with 276 critters, including a demure hedgehog. And we promise to get to those trains Down Under and beyond. Wherever we take you, we promise fun, humor and a sense of adventure for the new: food, scenery, hotels, cruising.    CATCH US  at  lilianslast  dance for updates on our novel,"Lilian's Last Dance," -- with our unique twist on exciting readings, workshops and more. This weekend, we're in Phoenix for readings and signings at the Ironwood Library and beyond. "Lilian's Last Dance"  is out in paperback, available at Barnes and Noble and Amazon. We're on a national tour of readings and signings.  We're booking into the fall now and would be delighted to read for your book club or civic group. Contact us at:  lilianslastdance@gmail.com

NAPIER, NEW ZEALAND OFFERS ART DECO DELIGHTS IN A TOWN THAT GREW FROM RUBBLE Napier is proud of its art deco design and buildings dating back to the 1930s after a 1931 earthquake leveled Napier. Napier goes all out for holidays and festivals. STORY BY CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER WHEN YOU  first set eyes on the mid-sized town of Napier, New Zealand, you get a large feeling that "vintage" is in style all year. You expect to see Gatsby stroll by, in a dapper suit, with a charleston girl at his side. A classic Packard turns the corner and its driver is dressed in vintage attire. When the town's 1931 earthquake destroyed much of the city -- 7.8 on the Richer scale -- an enterprising city father supervised a rebuilding effort in quick time. Napier is tucked neatly into lovely Hawkes Bay.  Behind the greenery is a beautifully preserved town built in the art deco style of the 1930s.  HE EMPLOYED  the fashionable architecture of the day -- Spanish Mission and Prairie -- and drew inspiration from the popular Art Deco trend, too.   The "deco" style is characterized by precise and boldly delineated geometric shapes and strong colors, and that carries through in Napier's art-deco designed private homes, and big businesses such as the National Tobacco Company and Masonic Hotel.  The newspaper and a theater are "deco," too -- the Daily Telegraph, and the Municipal Theatre.  DURING THE  year, thousands of visitors revel in the 1930s atmosphere created in the heart of the city and spreading out to homes in the suburbs.  Thousands more make the city of 61,100 swell during an annual Art Deco festival in February. Lady Gaga, Tony Bennett dazzle at Planet Hollywood, click here WE LOVED  the glitz and glamour of the musicians who greeted our ship, arriving in vintage autos and matching attire to play songs from the 1930s. Napier is located in Hawke's Bay on the eastern coast of the North Island.  It calls itself "the Art Deco Capital of the World" and makes clever use of that moniker, promoting its annual festival with 200 events including outdoor concerts, vintage car parades, fashions shows, steam train rides, "Great Gatsby" picnics and more. This year's fest attracted 40,000 people worldwide. Businesses in Napier, above, and nearby Hastings have their art deco style of architecture preserved by government. During the fest, event attendees don period clothing, drive vintage cars, sip champagne, picnic in elaborate style, attend elegant soiree's and stroll the architecturally distinct streets that make Napier unique. The popular Masonic Hotel suggests the colors of the day, with its deco lavender, pink and soft green. Vintage autos and vintage dress greet ship passengers. The festival was a two-day event in 1989 but has grown to a week-long extravaganza celebrating an era of sophistication and reflective of the "can do" spirit that rebuilt and improved the town nearly 84 years ago. The Taieri Gorge train ride is one of New Zealand's most famous trips. NEXT UP:  We've promised a train story Down Under and so we finally deliver. We cross Australia's vast expanses in a couple different fun and efficient trains, then take a gorgeous trip through New Zealand's Taieri Gorge.  All aboard! Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us Wednesdays at: www.whereiscookie.com