Botany refresher

Claire and I went to the Weisman Art Museum this morning. We went specifically to see Fresh Cuts, which was billed as "an international exhibition of the American Society of Botanical Artists." We both enjoyed it a great deal, and Claire helped me summon some botany terms from the dusty corners of my memory. I'd like very much to relearn what I knew in the fall of 2003, especially now that I'm so enthusiastic about someone who's enthusiastic about plant biology.

We both particularity appreciated a watercolor of rhubarb by Maine artist Hillary Parker. My favorite piece of the day, however, came from the West! Frank Gehry and the Artists of Venice Beach, 1962-1978 exhibit. Guy Dill's 1971 work Untitled (17 Wood Blocks), a fascinating sculpture held together by tension in the ropes and friction between the blocks.

Heat

It looks like we're in for a hot one today. The temperature is rising so fast that I can stand and watch the tenths-place on the (digital) thermometer change. The predicted high for the day is 95, and the heat index is expected to surpass 100 easily. I suspect the beach will be packed, numerous parents will loose their children, and I'll come home absolutely exhausted. I much preferred the cold and stormy conditions we had on Monday; lightning kept us closed for much of the day, and no one returned to the water afterwards. I figure I got paid a dollar a minute for the time I was actually working. I suppose the slow days and the insane days balance each other out.

Changes

Today marked my first full day of work as a lifeguard at the Elm Creek Park Reserve swim pond (which is generally far more pleasant than my job at the Maple Grove Community Center pool). I also learned that I will be living with a fellow named Jared London next year. I was given a phone number; I'm hoping I can call him sometime this week.