"So Long, Suckas"

SAMMY P GRADUATES FROM PONY TO STALLION 7/19/2007


Blog title courtesy of one of our memorable "frequent fliers" from New Orleans, relocated to Houston courtesy of Katrina. As she would leave any treatment area, her farewell (in perfect New Orleans patois), "So long, Suckas!!"

On Sammy's final day at Ben Taub Mental Health Services, he promised to wear all white to celebrate because we all threatened to wear our mourning black. Sam's belt and shoes courtesy of his brother John.

Sammy and his "Mama"

Jacier, Sammy, and Janet. He is so proud of that belt.

Sammy with Mama I and Mama II. Check out the white pukka beads.

Don't leave us Sammy !!!

Sammy receives a certificate from the OT staff (Janet, Sally, Elderine & Sam) to commemorate his new status as stallion.

We love you !!

Sam and Loida in the nursing station. Backpack over his shoulder and a big-ass grin, he is getting ready to go.

At the bus stop about 4:30, we are exhausted, but the stallion is rarin' to geaux!!

SO LONG, SUCKAS !!

Jan Keel's "Grace"

Jan Keels, a New Orleans artist, had some paintings on exhibit at a favorite gallery of mine in Houston, Los Manos Magicas.







One of her larger pieces, Grace, spoke to me. Interwoven in the evocative images of my past (childhood in New Orleans), there were embedded messages I have been receiving from the Universe recently.

It now "Graces" the living room wall of my home. There are Mardi Gras beads, salvaged Katrina detritus, images from Catholic prayer cards of Saints and Goddesses, & surprising underlayers of paint (peace signs form a crown around a Saint's head)...



I wish my photography skills could do it justice.