The VEB Review — everyone is entitled to my opinion.
For the entire life of my blog, I have struggled to post once a week… my anxiety about hitting publish on anything less than rocket science is severe.
But I have to let this anxiety go because THIS IS NOT THE NEW YORKER.
If you were confused, feel free to excuse yourself.
Today I am going to air out some random facets of my brain… If this sounds boring, go read my post about repurposed kitchen island inspiration, or Pilar Guzman’s kitchen… OR go tour this restored Philadelphia mansion.
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Even though this is my blog, and I decide when I show up, and what I say when I do… there is an awareness of the scrutiny-of-strangers, and the impossibility-of-pleasing-everyone, and the fear of inadvertently making an ass of myself through some gross failure of judgment (or just my general personality), and most of all the commandment that I NEVER BORE YOU.
Combine this with the fleeting-attention-span-of-the-internet… and also the occasional unhappiness of people who don’t like what I’ve written/feel I have failed them personally/and apparently have had an entire lifetime where everything they have ever encountered has been made specifically for their enjoyment, and my blog is their first experience otherwise.
All of this can feel complicated. Like the dance of the seven veils… but with the added requirement that I pay website-hosting fees and hope that you will follow me on Facebook and vote that you like me on Instagram… because what I write doesn’t actually matter if no one validates me in the most impersonal way possible.
The feeling of finding something special: you. A community of people who share my love of the absurd and Giant Fancy Things… has sort of left me paralyzed to NOT DISAPPOINT YOU.
Which has turned into rigidity against trying anything new. And let me tell you something— I AM AWESOME AT RIGIDITY.
Inflexibility is my happy place!
But I guess I’ve finally gained some clarity about the fact that I write free content on the internet along with 37 million other blogs… and that my that failure to write EXACTLY what every single person is expecting is not equivalent to a huge catastrophe.
It took me a while to realize this, because you people are, without exaggeration, the very best thing that has ever happened to me… even the ones who don’t like me are doing me the accidental favor of allowing me to align my Self with Oscar Wilde… Self is pleased!
Anyway. All of this is to say that once in a while, I’d like to write about some things that are frivolous/interesting/time wasting/funny/important to me, but might not be utterly absorbing to you… I would love if you would hang in here with me while I add an occasional tangent to my general rotation.
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Some Luck, Jane Smiley: the first book in a trilogy that tells the history of the last 100 years in America, through a “typical” American family… it begins in 1920, and each chapter equals one year, through 1950… I really loved it and went on to the two sequels: Early Warning, and Golden Age. Neither of which were nearly as good as the first; I barely made it through the last out of respect for the scope of the project.
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Catastrophe, a UK series… The duo who play the main characters also wrote the show which is the sort of thing I really enjoy. I thought was snappy, light, fast, and tightly written… And also full of profanity, and, uh, more profanity. So, if that’s not your thing, skip it.
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Now for the exciting part where maybe I alienate you!!
WELCOME TO MY SOAP BOX: cat lady edition.
Recently I spent a lot of time standing out in front of the stadium in Philadelphia, thinking about the ways I have cheated my own belief system.
I have actively avoided sharing here, the thing that is most important to me; because your validation and enjoyment of my blog feels good and that is hard to gamble with.
But it is time for me to be the change I wish to see in the world– people saying loudly and unapologetically:
1. Animal suffering is evil.
2. WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
What I’m doing: protesting animals in circuses.… SO MANY countries have banned animals in circuses, but the United States continues to allow it!
Here is a great article by the Humane Society that offers a concise overview of the realities of circus animal life. (There are NO images, graphic or otherwise, so please read and share it!!)
— Did you know that circus animals spend, on average, over 90% of their lives in chains or cages? Ringling’s own records show that animals can be chained for up to 60 to 100 hours straight. — Humane Society, Join The No Circus Movement
Knowing the sad lives these wild cats are living makes me want to curl up in a ball. OR set someone on fire… The middle ground is raising awareness that these animals are CAGED FOR LIFE… (if you are a rabid cat lady like me, here is a good article dedicated to wild cats in the circus.)
And it’s not just Ringling! There are SO MANY smaller circuses! Here is a list of the top EIGHT circuses; they have ALL been cited for animal welfare violations… regulations that are impossible to enforce, and nearly meaningless.
Circus animals LIVE in small, filthy travel cages with only enough room to stand and turn around… no matter freezing cold or sweltering heat, without regard for their basic care.
We can make a difference simply by SHARING information and encouraging people to NOT support circuses or any other “entertainment” that uses animals: severely emaciated tigers perform at state fairs, gas stations that double as road side tiger attractions, and this HS football team whose mascot is a LIVE baby tiger… every year they buy a new baby tiger. What happens to the old baby? Nothing good.
This is not a life for any living being.
How to make a difference:
- SPEAK OUT! Be a voice for animals! Tell your friends and use social media to SHARE INFORMATION!
- Read and sign petitions… it really does make a difference. *see below… (here are a few to start: petition Congress: End Wild Animals in Circuses, ask Ringling to retire all animals, petition to end HS mascot cub tradition)
- If the circus is coming to your town: start a conversation on your town’s social media pages. Comment on the circus’s facebook page asking them to stop using animals and send them to accredited sanctuaries!
- Write or tweet to the circus’s sponsors.
- Find a protest. (Philadelphia has TWO more circuses just in May! Protest here and here)
- Organize a protest.
- Write to your representatives to tell them you want them to ban circuses with animals in your county and state! Some cities like SanFrancisco have passed a ban… a proposed bill in PA, still has not passed.
- Tweet to @NicoleFeld —executive vice president of Ringling’s parent company—tell her you don’t think animal abuse is entertainment! Urge Ringling to take ALL the animals off the road and send them to TRUE sanctuaries.
*Ringling is planning to phase out elephant performances, due to public outcry, BUT NOT THE CAT AND OTHER ANIMAL PERFORMANCES.
Ok. I guess you got my point… if you’re still here, THANK YOU for reading. I know that it is painful to witness the suffering of animals, but if we don’t, WHO WILL?
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Elvis update.
Two Sundays ago, Elvis had her first hospice appointment. Her regular vet does not do in-home care and recommended someone who does nothing else.
When the time comes, I want Elvis to be put to sleep at home… and I want her to be comfortable with the person who does it. This is hard, because Elvis really hates new people. My plan is to get her acclimated beforehand.
Since the appointment, I’ve been two things: relived that I really liked the vet. And so, so, so smacked in the face with reality.
But she is still hanging in there! (Much to the surprise of all the doctors she has seen.) But she LOOKS better than she is… her fur is amazing, and she is still eating well and has not lost weight. Actually, she is a real pudgekins now– the steroids are making her chow down.
Paul says she is past the young-GI-Elvis phase, and is now in the too-many-pills-and-fried-peanut-butter-and-banana-sandwich phase of life.
Ok. That’s it… abrupt end. I am still working on the Arkansas GFT. When I have an update, you’ll be the first to know!
Jayne Z
March 15, 2016 @ 2:05 pm
First and most importantly, I’m glad Elvis is hanging in there. My cat Bandit will be 20 in April and I am facing the same issue you are. In the past I have had my pets put to sleep in the vets office while I hold them, but from now on I will have a vet come to the house so they are as comfortable and relaxed as possible.
I love your posts and would simply delete any negative comments — who has time for that. I’m not one bit surprised that you are against the cruelty of a circus. I feel the same way and add Rodeos and most zoos to that same category! I refuse to go to any of them. Thanks for adding all the links to protest this inhumane treatment of animals. You’re the best Victoria (and Paul is I’m sure second only to you)!
Gerry
March 15, 2016 @ 2:13 pm
I find anything and everything you write facscinating and entertaining. It’s your blog and you have every right to write about whatever you want. Don’t worry, we have to keep following you. Everyone is in anticipation of the piano island and Arkansas GFT!!!!
Jayne Z
March 15, 2016 @ 2:16 pm
One last thought — you said: “Which has turned into rigidity against trying anything new. And let me tell you something— I AM AWESOME AT RIGIDITY.” I think you are the exact opposite. Your decorating style is very adventurous and free. You see pieces of furniture and use them in ways that the vast majority would never do and you do it with great style and flair!
Shannon PAvone
March 15, 2016 @ 2:17 pm
I stumbled onto your blog because I love home design, but I have stuck around because I love your writing! And you are freakin’ hysterical. I hope by broadening your topic you will capture a larger audience who will enjoy you just as much as me. 🙂
Leslie
March 15, 2016 @ 2:23 pm
I view your posts as a special treat! On the days when one pops up, it’s like a delicious, unexpected baked good– to be eaten slowly, and savored. I usually read through twice, watch your videos 3 or 4 times, then smile and think to myself, “Wasn’t that nice? I love reading this blog.”
So, really, while I’d love for you to be a daily blogger, blah blah blah, I think it makes your page MORE special to have it be sporadic. 😉
Shelley
March 15, 2016 @ 2:23 pm
Oh Victoria, you are the neighbor I wish I had. Your writing is everything I wish I could do, caps lock and all. I imagine you coming over late morning for coffee and to run your latest post by me. I will say, “It’s tremendous, but it could use more caps lock and exclamations.” You will smile, but inwardly think I may be a whiz at coffee and baked goods, but know diddly squat about punctuation.
Fantasy aside, you should never be nervous to say or do what you care about. I am more concerned with the plight of humans, but I can definitely see that circuses are outdated and cruel. Zoos and transportation are to plentiful and cheap to rationalise the continued existence of animal circuses. What I mean is, it’s not the 1800’s. So, kudos to you for acting on your belief, too few do.
Linda
March 15, 2016 @ 2:32 pm
I am an avid animal advocate and I rejoice when people with an audience use it to inform. The internet via FB and other social media has had an amazing influence by reaching people who may have rarely given a thought to the “behind the scene” stuff going on in circuses or other venues of entertainment. As a child I thought circus animals must be very well taken care of by their owner/trainer because they obviously loved performing with them….it never ever occurred to me that people abused animals. Loss of income is probably the most effective way to end the use of wild animals in the circus. Just look at the changes going on with Sea World due to economic losses.
PLUS I love reading about GFTs and your craziness…and Paul and Elvis!!!!!
Amanda
March 15, 2016 @ 2:36 pm
Being funny in life is pretty easy. Being funny while writing is very, very hard. You definitely have a gift and I always look forward to your posts!
Diana I.
March 15, 2016 @ 2:39 pm
Elizabeth I am always happy when I see your blog pop up in my e-mail. I leave it until I can savor it. You are never boring. Paul is still a saint. Still want to know what the GFT is!!!!
I agree with you about the caged animals, I also think zoos are not a good thing for animals either. Perhaps some of the wild life parks are better, but still the animals are not in their natural habitats. I support what you are doing and will gladly sign the petition.
Happy to see Elvis is still looking really good.
Jenny
March 15, 2016 @ 3:06 pm
Giant Fancy Things!
Ann
March 15, 2016 @ 2:51 pm
I’ve always loved your blog and now love it even more since you’ve shared your stance on circus animals. I have boycotted circuses for many years but have not taken nearly as much action as I should have to bring this horror to an end. Thanks for inspiring me to contact the powers that be to do what I can. Sometimes I just feel that it’s so hopeless that I am paralyzed and do nothing. After reading your blog today, I’m encouraged to at least try to make a change in this world. Thanks you!
My best to little Elvis. She’s a lucky girl to have such a caring mom. You’re giving her a wonderful life and assuring that her death will be without fear or pain. That’s all any of us can wish for…
Becky
March 15, 2016 @ 2:54 pm
Your blog reflects the interests, strengths and weaknesses of us all, and that is what keeps us reading your refreshing style of articles. No two people are exactly alike, which would account for any criticism some may post. Your following is a reflection of those who have and admire imagination and creativity. Keep on trucking!
Ceara
March 15, 2016 @ 2:54 pm
If it makes you feel better- you are the only blog I have ever read. I think you are a great writer, and I enjoy all tangents and stories.
Jenny
March 15, 2016 @ 3:04 pm
Thanks for reminding me how much I do not like circuses, (and many zoos aren’t much better).
Thank you for the book recommendation- always ready for a good read.
Love CATASTROPHE! Have seen the episodes twice because I can only get the first season (don’t do TV) and sometimes it’s difficult to find anything worth watching. Don’t always want to read. My husband and I been through WEST WING and SECRETARY OF STATE, (highly recommend).
Your dedication to your GFTs is wholly understandable. We go to untold lengths to make use of old, solid, quirky and real materials. Usually beyond all reason, but “reason” has nothing to do with it! Thanks for your kindred spirit.
I lost one of the loves of my life when I lost my kitty. He was awesomely smart and hilarious and rumbly in the tumbly. It’s been 12 years and I still miss him. Best wishes for safe travel for Elvis.
PAR
March 15, 2016 @ 3:05 pm
We love you! You write about whatever you want and I’ll keep reading it. Your writing has a unique “voice”and I so enjoy it!
About Elvis, my heart breaks for youand Paul. He’s a lucky kitty to have such a devoted Mom.
Amy Callis
March 15, 2016 @ 3:18 pm
Love your blog! Really enjoyed the Philly house and that to-die-for spiderweb transom! And Victoria, a wise woman once told me to ignore the insults and remember the compliments.
Linda D.
March 15, 2016 @ 3:24 pm
So many people have already said it, so I feel like an echo, but I figure you should be left in no doubt. I subscribe to your blog for many reasons, not the least of which is about the way I feel after I read your posts. Your writing touches the best of me. Thank you.
Suzanne Forbes
March 15, 2016 @ 3:29 pm
Thank you for being your true self 🙂
And also for giving me brand new information. I had no idea there were any other circuses still travelling with animals in the US, or that Ringling still travelled with animals under horrible conditions. I thought circuses were only people doing aerials and trapeze these days. I am horrified to learn this, but glad you shared.
Amy b.
March 15, 2016 @ 3:32 pm
thank you for sharing something meaningful to you. I hate that our country has become so decisive on issues that people feel they can’t share their views. So for all of us who are tired of the “I have to agree with everything you think or else I can no longer interact with you” crowd, THANK YOU.
Thanks for speaking up and sharing important information. I love that you’ve allowed us all to get to know you better, and you spoke up about an important issue.
Hugs for Elvis.
AnnW
March 15, 2016 @ 3:34 pm
This is your blog. You can write anything you want. But thank you for giving me the means to fight this problem. One of my first dates with my husband was to the Ringling Bros circus in Madison Square Garden. We liked it a lot. When my daughter was two, she asked to go to the “kirkus.” We went several times. One of the most thrilling acts was watching the elephants stand with their feet on the shoulders of the elephant in front of them. Now that act is gone forever, as it should be.
I just got back from Tanzania and Rwanda. Before the trip I read lots of elephant books, etc. I never realized that elephants are more like humans than we realize. It is a crime to cage them up and take them away from their family unit. I didn’t realize that cats were caged All Day. that’s a shame. I followed all your instructions, but I don’t have a twitter account. Can you give us any more information about Nicole Feld, email? Corporate email?
I spent $1500 in Rwanda in national park fees to see the gorillas in the wild for one hour. It was worth it. The gorilla population is increasing and poaching is down dramatically. But, there are still people like Donald Trump Jr who like to hunt for big game. The picture of him holding the tail of the elephant he killed is disgusting. Did you see the other picture of the two Trump sons with the leopard they killed? Idiots.
When are you going to finish your kitchen, or is it finished and you are making us crazy?
Meg
March 15, 2016 @ 3:37 pm
I love your writing. I actually found your blog by some completely weird intervention of fate. I have no interest in architecture, houses, GFT, craigslist, building, remodeling….well you get the idea. But I keep coming back because of your writing. I drop everything when I get that email telling me of a new post. Now I’ve probably done the opposite of what you’d hoped for, and put more pressure on you to continue providing awesomeness. But I will continue devouring every word you write – about anything. If I happen to learn some new things along the way, well that’s just icing. And now I had to get instagram so I can follow you there.
Don’t let anyone cheapen or stifle your passion! Please continue to use YOUR blog to write about things YOU are passionate about! Your passion is a huge part of why I follow you.