the diary sessions by rich

i n s p i r e d...

2012-02-11T20:08:00.000-08:00

this morning, i ran with my old team chances teammates (team scottsdale) at DC ranch's stage - getting ready for the Ryan House 1/2 marathon...it was very nice to get back to that terrain (ahh the uphills,) - i was very happy running without knee pain (hope that is behind me!) - i ran the 8 mile map at 8:50 pace - my time 1:10:46, so quite content with the time considering its my first long run in one month (since PF Changs); after our run, we listened to a pair of great athletes - the stories shared by ariana hilborn and jeremy zarins were motivational! they are very talented...ariana competed in the olympic marathon trials last month with a time of 2:37 - amazing considering she's been running for about four years! and jeremy is quite the stud too! he came in third at Pf changs marathon last month, amazing...both very knowledgeable and cool... ..jeremy set me up with gears & rigs at sole sports...so if you ever need great advice, shoes, GU, etc -visit sole sports in tempe or scottsdale...they are top hand with teams...

'this is who i am' - feb 3 - first friday

2012-02-04T08:36:00.000-08:00

(dorothy bringing her art to life...she said her work is very christian based; phone camera)

art captured from words or a frame shot, shall we - last night's first friday was filled with so much energy! creativity was expressed on varying levels....the 1005 warehouse studio is quite the theatre for emerging artist. i enjoyed viewing sculpture, ceramics, paintings, and the music - (the background of this studio is part of a healing process for folks who have behaviorial issues) - i saw the beauty of their creative spirit... a few so simple. others complex yet completely brilliant - what were they sharing about themselves? they were saying 'this is who i am...you see this magenta brush stroke with a sprinkle of marigold...that's me in light'.

later, traveled to urban bean where i had a wonderful conversation with bill timmerman. virginia's bean was hosting a reception for his work....his photography is quite simple yet captures a revealing clue to who we are on this 'sphere'...he talked of the 'starlight' and how contrast can be a powerful frame...i shared my thoughts of photography and my interest with black and white...i expressed my concepts for bringing forth internal emotions through the frame of one's gestures...as well,saw mr will bruder too. good nite!
rb

some call him 6

2012-01-29T10:25:00.000-08:00

http://nsixxfoto.tumblr.com/

amazing photography!

day of days II - Jan. 15, 2012

2012-01-29T09:09:00.000-08:00

I finished my 2nd marathon on Sunday 1/15/2012 at PFChangs Rock & Roll…so much fun!!
Saw many signs…’pain now, beer later’; ‘there’s a zombie behind you’;
Sharing another chapter.

The early morning was exciting…it was like a circus! I started out very comfortable and I guess you could pretty fast…at the 13.1 mile mark, my time was 1:49:45! Felt good and warmed up…going into Scottsdale was okay – still loose yet could feel the body adjust at mile 16. I saw carm; she was ready with the banana and sunscreen...i ran for another two miles at relatively easy pace…then I began to feel my body break …I started to cramp up in both upper thighs! So painful! I was like ‘this is new’; I have not cramped in that location…I was disappointed..wondering if the knee sleeves compressed my upper highs so much that they didn’t know what else to do, (except CRAMP)…I wanted to take em off yet I could not bend over…plus I needed the sleeves to keep my patella from rocking laterally…after mile 20, I entered a storm…or some say ‘the wall’ – I kept saying to myself almost there…i smiled about this knowing I just ran 23 miles…I ran enough to get pass a sign, a streetlight, a crowd, a water station, a bridge – only to be grounded with the ugliness of pain – even my shirt’s ‘dig deep’ slogan was keeping me moving; I saw tempe lake bridge and felt the excitement come...this is part where determination took me…where belief and will took my body down the last stretch…I just kept moving…it was quite the feeling to cross;

Yet now I have the marathon blues,

2012 will be another good story,

There will be a 3rd chapter,

Shall we…

too fast for love..

2012-01-25T20:56:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPJnGCV6634

day of days part II

2012-01-13T18:58:00.001-08:00

friday jan..13,2012 - day of days part II

well, the race is two days away! am so excited...filled with so much emotions! at times its hard to control my thoughts; this will be my 5th PFChangs race in a row...my 2nd full marathon - each race has a story - embedded with laughter, pain, anguish, & most importantly the joy of crossing the line! sunday's race will be my superbowl..my championship...my close of the 2011 running season - yet it will be my transition into the 2012 season- and let me tell you, it will be a dedicated one.

you know, the last year, ive pretty much dedicated myself with strenghtening and core workouts in addition to my running program -all to better my own personal endeavors. you see, i had a very bad injury last spring - my runs were low mileage. i could not keep up the pace past two miles - i halted my runs. apparently my right IT band, both knees were weak resulting in harsh, flaring pain under the cap. i've spent a good chunk of time and endless efforts training my body and mind -

in addition to time off, i hooked up with the good folks at Endurance Rehab where i learn how to stretch and strenghten my legs and gluts...it was tough long road from march to june, i basically was there two days a week..i spent my time on the deck (echo mountain camelback - even with 13 sundays in a row)...august was great...the whole month spent with speed/intervals at coranado high track...overall, my body got stronger...i felt loose, conditioned and just ready to rock...(i even ran a 6:05 mile! - could've caught the chicken) ...september, i was smiling...was looking forward to running the YMCA half yet that was not realized as i experienced runner's knee...was so bummed out! what was happening? so much going into this work...i was thinking the race will be here soon...i started to panic yet a good friend told me 'just believe in your training' - i am believing and having faith i will run with comfort and strength....i will give it all sunday morning...i run knowing i put in the effort...i ran hundreds of miles @ tempe town lake; waterfront canal, dc ranch...did hundreds of push ups...hiked camelback echo just about every weekend...ran the waterfront canal many times. as well as many nights at Club Sar (the neighborhood gym)...each time thinking about the race...thinking about last year's performance...thinking about the pain...thinking about my own strengths...my will.

- i am ready for this...it will be a great story- and all that comes with it...shall we?

have the courage to start - and committment to finish!!

eyes close my faith you love my fear away...

give me strength, make me swift with rhythm & power from city to city -lets do this.......DIG DEEP!

night... xo

Dine' College Senator Pinto Library

2011-12-10T15:10:00.000-08:00

storytelling with storykeepers...

another creative platform

2011-12-10T15:05:00.000-08:00

https://twitter.com/#!/RichardKBegayJr/media/slideshow?url=pic.twitter.com%2FuFnZoaEy

a story from the streets...
and images of two of my daughters

photography
it begins

post fiesta bowl 1/2 marathon

2011-12-05T09:28:00.000-08:00

hydrating hydrating …lunch pasta/bread…dinner spaghetti…and more hydrating…
Watched Muhammad ali boxing matches and did a few lines of writing…happy to be participating with the wounded warrior project and looking to help out a few homeless vets living in ‘concrete jungle’ this dec….a good night sleep, bye…
Sunday morning Dec. 4

Day of days – nice fog; got my cup of joe; stretched in the backyard; got my stuff together fast and headed to the stage; there are plenty of folks driving in this little area of Scottsdale library;
I am good…feeling very confident & nervous; everything set….my gear is tight! Nimbus double knot…signature head band : ) ---- Got 3 packs of Gu on the belt – like readying for a battle; iPod set; Alicia keys coming down…and hitting into some bullet for my valentine : ) – ahh; this deck is going to pound; bye

12/5 Well, I crossed the finished at 1:55:08 ish (gun time)…and I figured I am about a 1:53ish chip – but still waiting on those results; man, the pace was good up to mile 9…then my right knee flared!!! I was like no…not now…in a way I almost lost my confidence…I was running at a fast fast comfortable pace – I was perhaps on a 1:36, 1:37 time goal, yet that quickly changed at the last 5 k of the race…all of sudden after my last drink and slow down at the station, I felt my knee get very abrasive…and had to stop…I was very frustrated yet I knew I had to finish this race; I had a compression knee sleeve on my left (for the flaring cap) – my right knee needed to be stabilized; so I stop and pulled off the sleeve and tried to place on the right knee – it was kind of funny cause I could not bend my body down…all of a sudden my breath caught up; I was hoping not cramp up (which I did not, thankfully) – then I took off again…still kind a gritty but I wanted to finish in the 1:40s – however I had to stop and shake it out…stretch…then I experienced cramping in my left hams – not fun. But I kept going – I saw mile 10 and kept stopping…all of a sudden…started to see the1:50 pace group go by…then soon after, the 2:00 group…I was like ahhh!!!! At Osborn I saw carm all wrapped up and with a smile…I tried to make a good effort of running a strong finish but I was hurting…and my pant was way off…I started to feel a little different here…knowing I can keep on going …better than before where I had the ugly feeling of quitting run through me…I saw the full marathon as a no go..but as I finished, I know I can be at a point in life where I can say I did it…this is a journey about my struggles and celebrations…I am life in human form…I will get there…Susan’s words about controlling thoughts is timely…I

dine' college library

2011-11-18T09:05:00.001-08:00

building dedication today nov. 18 - dine' college shiprock campus, shiprock new mexico...

abbey + jason

2011-11-18T08:43:00.000-08:00

my good friends...

butterfly above siphon draw...

2011-10-01T19:53:00.000-07:00

oct.1...took this pix while hiking up to the flatiron..after a stop on the draw (and avoiding the swarm of bees), i saw this butterfly on some high brush - it was a good moment...
richard

october eve -

2011-09-30T15:38:00.000-07:00

i am looking forward to un-plugging for awhile - need to recharge the batteries -

out,

rich

crossroads....

2011-09-27T21:24:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atw6F47UCYM

found this! yea...i remember this movie...
...the guitar playing is pretty cool...the blues parts are done by ry cooder - awesome dude.

people are strange

2011-09-27T21:09:00.000-07:00

listening to the 'doors' tonight...what music! the song is a glove fit for my thoughts tonight..i am creating a step back memory...a fanstasy to be precise - a vivid tone through the music...the passion..love it...i could paint, write, sketch all night..and wait for the light...
'people are strange' - i am humming it tonight : )

i dove into listen to some of john lee hooker's music too...did i share before i saw his house in California, while staying in Woodside/Redwood City...my dad's vietnam buddy drove me pass his house...i remember seeing all his black cars - one had a plate name 'hookman' -that was June 1998

survivors

2011-09-19T12:35:00.000-07:00

diary sessions 'Skew' -part III monday sept 19...on central near durants...met john and his pup, sammy - they are survivors! well, perhaps i made a contribution to that title -maybe they don't want that title? though his smile and appreciation (as i gave him a few minutes and dollars) may last the day. john said he lost his house in pennslyvannia...he says there is really no need to go back home...i told him i miss my home...yet i am grounded with some level or measure of stability...and he all he wants is that same level for himself...i saw 'beauty' and a genuine spirit of this gesture; a courage of one person with the posture. and his pup sammy does not know these 'lines' other than his companionship to john - rather, a inseparable bond.
why do i feel this way...helping folks out there..easy to talk to...will it make me too vunerable..or submerge myself to a place i would not want to feel...would trap me...or will strengthen my view...my bias..my preferences...my tolerance...what will become of...
all i know, it warms me to see folks reaction as i help them in some manner -(and it should not be measured by amount of money i give...)
i just met two survivors...who have given me something
r

skin

2011-09-12T19:48:00.000-07:00

diary sessions skew - Part II -'SKIN"
monday 4:54 pm - central ave/thomas...on my way home via the light rail -
was confronted by this guy who was wearing no shirt...only his body art...i ask what his name and what he was up to...i didn't mind talking to him....maybe he really didnt mind - i sure didn't, we were quite the pair for a few minutes. Cars rolled up and stopped at the red light..i did not look towards them - though i have a good guess they were watching us - i wonder what they thought...i mean cmon, i am here - and they are shielded safely in their cabs. cars on central avenue were watching. though for William and I, we chatted about the weather, his grocery cart, and his tattoos. i asked him where his is from..he said " i am from another planet"; "i am from New York"; i smiled and asked what he was doing here...he said he was "trying to survive" and that folks were after him...he said "you got to watch it, cause they're watching us" - i then motioned to his cart, which was filled to capacity with his life; i didn't ask beyond the strata of his affects - only if he could get something to eat or something; he asked me to help him. he told me nobody is helping him...i looked at him, raise my hand with some cash and offered; he looked at me as though i was some lost relative or something...i could see it in his eyes..they seem to be telling the story of his life...he was rather excited and joyous (there you go, laughter on Central Ave)...i could sense it (actually, i could smell it as he opened his mouth w joy) -
if the downtown terrain were removed layer by layer...we have a place where boundaries of the human emotions are so tightly bound...yet that's not how it works...a works in progress...

we are all in this together...

'skin' by sixx am is for william

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mr7t3jEDcrw&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4M5lZdwOicw

my IPOD song list -in Chinle 1983...

2011-09-10T12:40:00.000-07:00

Sept 10, 2011 - Saturday
If i had an iPod back when growing up in Chinle....this would be my playlist:

Fleetwood Mac ‘The Chain’ & ‘Go Your Own Way’
Blondie ‘Call Me’
Donna Summer ‘Hot Stuff’
Loverboy ‘Turn Me Loose’, ‘When it’s over’, and ‘Lucky Ones’
Motley Crue ‘Take me to the Top’ & ‘Too Fast for Love’
Styx – ‘Too much time on my Hands’
Foreigner ‘Double Vision’
Joan Jett & Blackhearts ‘I Love Rock & Roll’

Riding around with Redline BMX bike, skating at the catholic church, or hanging out at SandBox gameroom – after all, we lived right behind the place…

one year to plan - "...im crazy...but you like it.."

2011-09-05T12:27:00.000-07:00

i would love to go back to school - grad school that is...had great communications with a few folks down at CALA _University of AZ...they say i would be a great candidate for the master's program -i think it would be awesome to get back 'home' - life is too short to get consumed...keep it open and simple, believe everything else will follow....
"...im crazy...but you like it.."

the pear

2011-09-04T12:33:00.000-07:00

the pear

some see more
i see less
a delicate grasp...of this
moment i remember at rest
truly a surrender...

...a moment to bless
all i see
is 'the pear'

shakira loca...

sunday...

2011-08-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

days are intensely warm - especially when you're out there running...yesterday i ran tempe town lake about 10 am....my enthusiam and body seem ready & in high gear...after the 2nd mile, i had to stop! my body was not performing; the heat is keeping me from running longer than 6 miles...glad the legs feel strong...waiting patiently to test it...i am looking forward to much cooler weather...race is in 8 eight weeks! eye close, my faith - you love my fear away...

new paths...

2011-08-21T20:09:00.000-07:00

sunday aug. 21...the last week was pretty cool..music & new adventures!! in one week, saw little big town, kellie pickler...and last night - saw mato of indigenous at the rhythm room...country & blues. the heat is still here -running was okay yesterday! i ran the waterfront..am on my 3rd week of 1/2 marathon training..love it! miss my team mates...
on a path of a familiar..soon i will be getting back into a world i am much more comfortable with -even though the risks are there - i feel my time with 'Interior' has run out...its very apparent i am uninspired and quite honestly tired of the policies that sorta guide -more like governed the overall force - initiatives say to lead and contribute however i feel that is also limited to area where sit - in my 8'x8'x9' Box - thats it -i feel my offer has little selling point outside of the barrier...
those who know me, understand my reasoning...
...i believe i am meant do much more...

Little Big Town !

2011-08-15T11:17:00.001-07:00

im with the band (again...) -love this group...very good folks...

august 12 - i'm with the band

2011-08-14T10:54:00.001-07:00

august 12 - friday night...down driving on ellsworth south of mesa going to Queen creek...going to see little big town tonight!!! so looking forward to the show! this band is incredible live - the road south reminds me of home back on the rez - .glad to get away from the urban and into the dirt, farmlands...etc...
oh and btw - i am going to meet them too!
rich

place to think...following my uncle

2011-08-10T21:58:00.000-07:00

friday july 22...

2011-07-22T16:16:00.001-07:00

hurry 5 pm !

make-up artist

2011-07-10T16:23:00.001-07:00

sat…ran @ 4:00am…got up at 3:15.made my way to lake…stretched and began my 13.1 practice..it was good up to 9.4 miles..(which is two laps around tempe town lake) - then all of sudden my right knee started aching! I was very disappointed yet happy …disappointed because I thought I was beyond this…like improving on my knee…happy cause I was running fast comfortable despite the 92 degree temp at 5 am : ( - I was on track to do maybe 1:43 or 1:45? Sunday, got up to hike camelback..me and my camelback (as if I did not get enough cardio day before)….the hike was grade school compared to the run! In the afternoon, my daughter breanna & i played around with pixture taking! the camera nikon 3100 is saaaaweet..so we became 'shooters'…we set up with wardrobes (mainly me..)…make up etc etc..(note to self: fire the makeup artist!) it was silly, creative, most of all fun..i painted my face too!

There are as many reasons for running as there are days in the year, years in my life. But mostly I run because I am an animal and a child, an artist and a saint. So, too, are you. Find your own play, your own self-renewing compulsion, and you will become the person you are meant to be. - George Sheehan

summer heat...

2011-06-26T16:13:00.000-07:00

sunday..summer is here ! hike camelback echo this morning - that was tough...i was fully saturated :) - though i was enjoying the terrain...happy my body is the vehicle...i am blessed..

lousiana red and i at the rhythm room!

2011-06-26T16:01:00.000-07:00

met red again...he is such an inspirational musician...i am so inspired by the music he plays...

louisiana red at the rhythm room! june 3 -CARMs Bday!!

2011-06-04T20:36:00.000-07:00

june 3 ; at the rhythm room phoenix...what a night! saw louisiana red on carm's bday -she was chumy as she picked me up...was fun -the night set yay! ...red (as i call him) was in town for his only US show..he has great connection with arizona...we actually saw him two years ago...it was totally rad! his music is so amazing! the delta blues on the acoustic guitar has a certain magic- it tells a story deeply rooted with emotions, you have to give it a try...we saw patty and her friends, who are now friends ! i told her about how this amazing blues guitarist will be starring at the rhythm room - yay! so here we are hanging out musing the magic of red's emotions!! he said rich 'can you do some thing for me? i say yeah! what? he goes, next time you back to the rez, get me some jewelry...i said sure -though i told him i have this red corral necklace (which i got from tuba city fair 2 years ago) which i can offer ..HE ACCEPTS! i took it off my neck and place it around his...he was quite surprise i was parting with it...i told him i am offering as a gift from this navajo boy to the apache boy! check out the picture of him and i - He is wearing it! rock on !

what is beauty...

2011-05-20T20:31:00.000-07:00

Diary sessions skew – part 1
May 11, 2011 – yesterday after I dropped off my boss, I came north on 44th st…and was about to return onto the red mountain freeway, I saw a homeless vet. It made me think about my life –again my ‘eyes’ concept…I had a breakfast burrito (half-eaten). I wanted to give it to him yet I held back because I was in a gov. car thinking what people may think. I wanted to break free from the chains and personally give my sandwich and some cash. I was willing to hear his story…started to think about interview/pix shooting people who have a tough life...like homeless, run-aways, prostitutes, addicts...though it would be certain gesture that just needs to start a fire...I would like to snap their moment to have part of my dairy line..It’s a bold move but I think this is what I could do and it’s beautiful? What would it tell…maybe he wouldn’t mind someone talking with him - or just a moment with a contact...like there is a connection to the beyond...who knows but its coming -

May 20, 2011 –

It’s been some now since I thought of the idea of writing or capturing emotions not of me – but those who have a story to tell. On my way to work from Starbucks on Central Ave, I walked by a man who was sitting on the curb fronting Central Ave. I noticed his posture and ‘visible wounds’ – I wondered what his story was…what he was thinking at the moment as the cars travelled their way..People coming and going. In Starbuck’s now…so there I am standing in line waiting to order my tall drip, I started to hum in my head the words ‘she was born at 6 am on new year’s day in an alley where the homeless children play…we look the other way as long as our glasses are filled’ – I thought of the guy sitting at the curb. In addition to my drip, I also asked the barista for a cup of ice water. Then I proceeded towards my route and to this person. I confronted him (he was still seated) and ask him how his day was (stupid question, maybe?) – And he said ‘okay’ – he just got out of the hospital after being in an accident…he seemed down on his luck, bad. I offered the water and three dollars – he was very joyous and he seemed to get carried away with emotions. It made me smile. This is the part I am finding myself. He showed me where they inserted steel pins/tubes to remove or relieved the pressure on his brain –apparently he had a blood clot. He said he was divorced, has two daughters. He also told me about his wife, where she told him she was going to Flagstaff to see her sister when in fact she met her other man. He said this man was very hairy! He found later of this because he got crabs or some shit like that. He asked me if I could relate crabs, I said hell no! So there we were –chatting it up. He was open to sharing…he said he can now get himself some food to eat. His name is Jeff. (i took a pix of his feet...)

p p p p...

2011-05-15T18:53:00.000-07:00

Spring has been the stage for great company - LBT, Sixx, now Patty Dimitriou (a fellow AZ Wildcat)....currently concocting concept designs for body art with her.....she ask me to develop a symbolic story organize around where she's been, where is now, and where she is going...its quite the storyline - the challenge / magic is now generating symbols, lines, form that represent just that - so as an artist i jump to it! unique fashion...you know i was like yay! nobody's ask me to design art for a tattoo...we talked and shared stories...i was quite amazed about a number of similiarities we have...in way i was very impressed with her creativeness...i said 'you should write a book' - so the journey begins...

you can visit patty with the kfyre & girlfriends...a sports talk show!
http://kfryeandgirlfriends.com/

p p p p ! a great mantra...

finally met nikki sixx !

2011-04-16T19:49:00.000-07:00

april 15 - 10:30pm barnes n noble desert ridge...finally got to meet nikki sixx of sixxam & mc! it was rad & quite interesting to talk with him; though brief, carm n i were like ahhhh! hahahh ...he sign my copy of his new book 'this is gonna hurt' and he also autographed my sixxam debut record; ! i am good now - a certain childish void has been filled ! been waiting for this since 1982...rock and roll! rb

life - "...i got a song to take me there..."

2011-04-10T12:50:00.000-07:00

...music is healing...a passion! i love listening to music, especially live music...all sorts too! i grew up to country, disco, punk rock, and heavy metal...its all to good to me...playing it is great as well...picking my washburn acoustic calms my thoughts...right now listen to Little Big Town's 'Only What You Make of It' -its great song ,even after the show last night...we heard this song live at Country Thunder 2011 in Florence..ahh it was a great experience, even in the mud : ) - the reward; MEETING THEM IN PERSON AND TALKING ABOUT LIFE and MUSIC...i told them they are great songwriters and i just love the music...i 've seen them play live 4 time nows...Jimi, Karen, Kimberly, and Phil are cool humans who create good music! here we are at country thunder! plus they signed the diary too! this diary is packed...its the diary sessions...a fan of country music rb

katie and i!

2011-04-07T19:47:00.000-07:00

katie and i at UA School of Architecture...we are wildcat red; she is my new shareholder...she calls the shots for the company as well...hehe! love her much...

this is gonna hurt...

2011-03-23T21:19:00.000-07:00

diary...this is gonna hurt...wanted something this weekend...would like my friends to be with me - all of them : ) ; starring us!

albuquerque, nm

2011-03-17T20:20:00.000-07:00

diary - here in albuquerque nm attending a software program training program offered by bia...its good so far..being away from arizona is timely yet i am missing much...a void...needs to be filled...staying here at my sisters place..mom and dad are here too! as bre...much happening here...the soul of family is our glue during these glorified and not so glamorous times...the food has been great here..quite the delicacies...the other day, i had a tasty coffee cake at bebe's cafe in old town...the new mexican food is great here! and at times i miss the food in az - particularily the moments shared with the family....each day, i get up early... i mean when i awake - its like 4:30am in scottsdale! i miss certain times...lately my family's line is being bombarded - and most of the time its our own doing..or undoing...waiting for the hero...

faith

2011-03-16T16:01:00.000-07:00

you the only one who wants to end this...

2011-03-10T21:54:00.001-08:00

cultural

2011-02-26T14:28:00.000-08:00

story unfolds…

Our team believes in an open, participatory approach to planning and design – where sitting down early enables a strong foundation towards the planning process – as though ‘planting the seeds’;

We listen to stakeholders, elders & core user groups at each step ensuring community involvement. In doing so, our team is guided towards the vision. We embrace the spiritual connection to landscape, colors, the animals, stories – and to shape a work plan or ‘story telling device ‘on how to implement cultural goals towards the overall vision. The open approach will help discover what should be considered in Incorporating Culture into Design & help prioritize the project’s needs accordingly. This process will systematically translate as the foundation towards meaningful concepts, ideas, and plans.‘Storytelling' with 'story-keepers' are focus sessions aimed at initiating dialogue on where and how to begin the learning process; communicating through language is important as it embraces the special nature of how history, traditions, and spiritual connection are passed down from elder to child –an essential relationship to community learning;

The process progresses logically from general objectives to a specific study using community participation for information and guidance. This collaboration encourages involvement and creativity by all participants during the process. The dialogue will ensure incorporation of values pertinent to community members; such as history, traditions and language – cultural values which are vital and honored.

As community planners, we value input, guidance, and share ideas ensuring comprehensive understanding towards the success of building culturally sensitive and community driven projects.

march 21...

2011-02-20T11:08:00.000-08:00

eyes close my faith

you love my fear away

cannot shy this say

smiling thoughts emerge

love so meant

eyes close my faith

you love my fear away

transition

2011-02-12T14:45:00.000-08:00

one week up; it has been quite the momentum breaker - quite the words for this transition, huh? i do not see myself doing this for years as they say...one thing good is i don't have to worry about being laid off from this full time position...i have health insurance and benefits for myself and my children; making more money than before since graduating from architecture school, have an office with a 4th level view; was provided with a full express bus/light rail monthly pass, and will be given a business credit card - SO WHY AM I UNHAPPY IN SPIRIT AND EMOTION!! well, perhaps i grew up in a for profit structure..and that's all i know...i was at the road of readying for creative future...yet that is on a pause - i have to say i do have time to prepare and continue with my ARE Exams! almost there! that is my highest priority and continue to prepare for what i envision a wonderful practice which will become real in 2012....just as i noted in my business plan...i do miss my friends and colleauges -they have been quite supportive...the family has as well -though my emotional connection marriage to my life partner my wife is very much a deep connection..if not the deeper of my beings... we are two yet one yet really we are two minds with different lines...i feel so bad it has come to a point where understanding and communications (and mis-commmunication) are grounds for friction..say i am not good enough...my honesty is not enough...is there really a god; perhaps...yet my faith and belief has not change...i believe in something....and its that slightest belief that keeps me going and gives me the joy things (not everything) will be quite okay....you know what i mean...simplicity is real to me...

pain is reminder it was real....

2011-01-31T11:49:00.001-08:00

i am fond of weirdness...or is just an honest emotion that is conflicting...why do i feel this way! one is the physical. -slowly i am healing from my marathon; i am coming to terms with the effort yet the manner in which i ran is still not fitting...and now the emotional part. my emotions have been hammered -though my actions from a previous continues to lay the groundwork for the daily, if not our daily cycle...what seemed normal is now branded as unwilling or ruthless...though certain is one thing...the pain is a reminder it was real. the future is coming. each movement of the sun is timeless...i wonder what it would really be like...soon i will be in a transition...perhaps more than one...fate....muse...fate will not control us...we will be victorious my friends...

days of days - Jan 16

2011-01-31T11:45:00.000-08:00

my race experience...Race day – day of days…jan 16-2011…diary
Who knows what the outcome could be or will be…unless one embarks the wonderful journey of pain, suffering, rejuvenation, and success - definitely a process; whatever I had or knew was simple mix with subtle emotions and the many…my body just a vehicle: at gun start…filled with so much adrenaline and excitement (so much energy contained)…it’s no wonder we do this..what a feeling –Team Chances at the start…corral 4; at times I could only hear my own thoughts pounding loudly with slight numb ; I could hear other folks too…looking at everybody’s face…a similar façade – maybe? I kept thinking about my race strategy; trying to keep smiles on….i am leaving good footprints – or least I remind myself I am …; my teammates were awesome; I really enjoy the concept of team…what a wonderful cast of supporters…we know, cause we all endure pretty much the same thing..pain, thoughts of stopping or whatever –however it’s our nature to keep going…finding a second wind…a truth to the madness; I felt this at mile 22; boy was I hurting; like i stated before, once everything is removed, all your running is the faith to believe and get it done..the will and determination to keep going – to not give up..
Back step; I ran great up to mile 11 was running with my wingman…mark –then out of nowhere my left knee cap pop! It never happened before; all of sudden my thoughts overcame me…I was like ‘no, not now!’ – I could not understand – I mean I trained for 20 great weeks..and to feel this weird pain was just fearful; and it was contagious; all of a sudden I was running on this thought after 13 miles (I think I was a 1:54 ½) – bummer..every now and then my left inner knee would flare up with this pin point pain…then I started to cramp up (hamstrings); on Indian school road…saw the family…mom came in from Albuquerque with my three nieces, and carm was there with bre and brandi…definitely a good sight…did give me a good boast even though I was hurting in the legs..they were able to give me some cytomax as well…I felt much better much and tried to run or develop a good rhythm like I was at mile 8; yet I was a mile 17-18, my body was being pushed – I think it was because I started out fast? Yet I felt very comfortable with the 3:45 pacers..hmm…so good I ran ahead of them..my breathing was good – it was my legs (left knee, hamstrings, and quads) – at mile 21ish..saw tim..mr camera man – he got me…hehe…going down hayden (my hood ) was so hard! Around mile 23ish..saw denise..now I had two great teammates running me down….it was so hard here…I wanted to stop but I was running on something..i could barely hear around me…just noise....i was in a totally different emotion; almost like camp pendelton but maybe worst or easy! If you want to know hard, or pain…this is it…at about mile 25, both my quads were cramped! I was running with them cramped! Talk about pain….yet I talk about not stopping through it….and running with a passion and with heart – that was me; seeking a truth

"Keep Believing & Keep Running!"

team chances - chances for children sat. jan 8;

2011-01-06T19:06:00.000-08:00

team run...team prep...one last get-together before the show...20 weeks of training...that's what i put in...so bless me...let do this... my coach /friend above at last month's race...great momentum...what nexts

diary sessions 2011 - nikon 3100...ready

2011-01-03T12:11:00.000-08:00

sharing is telling about an emotion you've experienced...

2010-12-31T19:11:00.000-08:00

december 31...8:23 pm. at home behind the cockpit thinking about moments in 2010...what a week to closeout! ...took an ARE Exam on tuesday after coming back from Christmas weekend up on the rez...I sat for Construction Documents & Services...readying for the next (Programming + Practice)..give me the tools! on wednesday night, i took brandi to see ethnic degeneration at the clubhouse...it was rad! rock and roll heavy metal! i havent seen billy in about five years or so...it was a good connect! i introduced him to my daughter and her friend...funny how i figured this day would come - i kept sharing with brandi about this navajo heavy metal band from kayenta...they rocked! i enjoyed the moment much - they improved very much...i really like the new guitarist! listening to motley crue's too fast for love record writing...one thing about looking back is yesterday brings tomorrow...i written that a few times in the original diary line...i truly believe things happen for a reason...i am so thankful for the moments shared in 2010 (believe me i have captured much in my diaries over the pass few years)...my family...children...parents...and siblings - we are a family with much to share and offer...i believe the magic of our love keeps us motivated and caring for the better...faith is something i believe...like fate! the muse's "fate will not control us...we will be victorious" i like that chorus line. What is my fate - what is your fate...your destiny...i see myself through your eyes! haha...so much to share...where to start...sharing is telling about an event or emotion you've experienced -your characer or emotion is just the vehicle to move another human being - finding a truth will be revealed;

playlist for 2010

alicia keys
little big town
christina aguilera
motley crue
the muse
linkin park (going to see this band play live feb. 2011!!)
U2
Bullet for my Valentine
faith hill
BlackEye Peas!
Lady Gaga
We are the Fallen

christmas

2010-12-27T11:00:00.001-08:00

December 25 Christmas day at my grandmother’s in Tselani-cottonwood, middle of the Navajo rez. After dinner with family at grandmother’s house (carm went to chinle-many farms to see her family): I went on a hike to standing rock with grizo, dad’s dog – I was looking forward to hiking very much – even though my legs were quite done (after my 20 miler with team chances at tempe lake Friday morning). Standing rock is about 3 miles from the house…(the end of the grazing line..now that’s a bit lot..my hood - hehe…:) ; I remember this place very much…memory is good; I walked towards a place we called the ‘rock house’, which is half way to standing rock –my cousins and I use to play here when we were young ones; it made me smile thinking of the times spent on this rock playing war…we act like marine sharpshooters with our pellet rifles…I just smiled holding my springfield… sometimes I wonder how it would be if they were still with us…I think about how we would continue to laugh and help each other out…grizo’s panting is loud! he is good company… he wonders around like a little kid...the place here is neat-o…the ‘layers’ of strata is outstanding and healing - i know my bud Karl would love this..…being out here breaks down all barriers – I see signs! Saw rabbit, birds, raccoon, sheep, coyote, cattle, and horse tracks! Like I told Valley Forward..It’s appropriate to leave good tracks! Came across two horses drinking water at the well - my old great-grandfather was named grayhorse..he was good person who ran with the old ones during a time of 'hardship' …my aunt said this well was the water source for many relatives + families. It’s still in use yet more for livestock…she told of the days when they had to walk here with packs and load up on water and carry back to the house – now that’s work! Now I am deep in our backyard...walking above the wash cause I didn’t want to get pounce by a maii soh – I saw sheep carcass here and there…earlier I felt vulnerable walking down in the wash…therefore decided to get topside…standing rock is quite the feature – quite the marker to the edge. The low rays reveals brilliant textures and shadows…these are little secrets of a place I call home…the 'sound of quiet is a normal sound' native foods galore! My aunt’s food was very good! We had a special blend of corn soup which is slow cooked-corn harvested from the big field; filled with sheep meat from my uncle’s herd..the chili was grown in the backyard as the peaches, apples, squash,etc…talk about ‘grow your own’ – sustainability! …

'navajo tribal seal designer proud of work'

2010-12-20T15:39:00.000-08:00

my grandfather was original designer of the Great Seal of the Navajo Nation...found this while helping clean my parent's house during their move...it was great piece i recall - he even was wearing the bolo tie i gave him as a gift...the article was published in Gallup Independent about 20 years ago...he is proud!

grandson of seal designer -

determination at 20 miles....

2010-12-12T15:28:00.000-08:00

saturday morning early 6 am...endurance rehab north scottsdale...the stage: dc ranch and grayhawke...this morning was great as denise say it would be...20 miles is quite the emotion...starting out was dark and full of rhythm! the sky in blackness reveals a distant...its beautiful watching the blue dawn overtake - a shadow being removed...the pounding of pavement is percussion, almost in tangent with my breathing...the animals see the darkness as their comfort..now i know some of their precious secrets - not all of them...just a peek!

around mile 17-18, i could feel myself seeking a different power..one i have not felt for awhile. you know when the body is pushed and 'everything' is removed, all that is left is the will and determination..i was saying 'i can do this' - there is a certain truth to my breakdown...i am gaining strength..

rb

...harmony in the absence of all agreement...

2010-12-06T20:05:00.001-08:00

“…only a living culture, at once, faithful to its origins and ready for creativity on all levels of art, literature, philosophy and spirituality is capable of sustaining the encounter of other cultures – not merely capable of sustaining but also of giving meaning to that encounter. When the meeting is a confrontation of creative impulses, then it is itself creative. I think that among all creations, there is a kind of harmony in the absence of all agreement” - (Paul Ricouer)

december 6 - monday 9:19 pm...i love this photo of my uncle wilson back home on the rez...i took it while he took the sheep and goats out for their afternoon graze; i follow him to get a glimpse...he has a simple order; almost to a point where simplicity is quite simply the measure of a day...where the process of the life loves away fear, anxiety, and nervous impulses...as though the quietness of one's thoughts pounds loudly saying im ready and offer good blessings just as you have offer life's precious elements...i look forward to getting back north very soon so i can continue to seek a truth - rb

the unveiling of a market landscape is spotlighted - specifically the native american sector, branded as the economic vehicle for firm's business opportuniy map, may seem one-sided as it may sound - the nature of those strategies side-step the seeds of nature and human development and avoid the deeper meaning while continuuing with cliches of Indian Country; i have had a number of conversations/ dialogue with folks about sustainability, material costs, and one, which stands very interesting, how to design a prototype sustainable school on the navajo nation for various regions with a profitable budget...sounds fun - it would be a strategic analysis offered to the navajo educational team; in fact, availing our resources + our value to native american communities will enable them to 'grow their own' leading to transformation or emergence...

living cultures are affected by forces, leading to either extinction or an 'emergence'; an emergence of creative thinking leads to survival - i must live creatively...the practice of architectural design will be deeply rooted to a human connection -that's value...

some say the hardest part is...

2010-12-01T19:36:00.000-08:00

Sunday, November 28

"Some say the hardest part is getting started. If this is true though, why do we hear stories of people who give up on their diet, stop writing a novel or quit a difficult task at work. Maybe it’s not the start but the finish that’s so difficult. This is important to know when you are chasing after a dream or goal. Many of us expect smooth sailing once we start something. However, we find out quickly there are always bumps in the road. The important thing is to embrace these bumps, not run away from them. Remind yourself that if it were easy, everyone would do it. Then, when you reach the finish line, you will have much more appreciation for what you just accomplished. The goal should always be to finish, not start. So keep at your goals, and be prepared for the bumps along the way"

- from Team Chances running program website...

never felt love

2010-11-21T14:07:00.000-08:00

"...It's a miracle and a mystery
How the hands of fate brought you to me
I had lost all hope,I had lost all faith
With each kiss you loved my fear away..."

was searching for show dates ...and saw this on Little Big Town's site and found this great song off their first record...the song is 'never felt love' - its a great song with incredible harmony and rhythms...it rocks....heard and thought of my sisters...it made think about the emotions of the moments...how the children (my nephews and neices) were feeling considering the situation. divorce is an ugly word...yet perhaps the word itself is nothing compared to the process; who would want that...let alone be author to it..its not fun hearing about...somehow families are interconnected...there should be mending...the simplest of gestures can carry more - they become a better memory; or least one we fall back on...i feel like _______! -there's a birth order book around here somewhere...it talks about the order of children...i am youngest of three (two older sisters); seeking a script;

life in a northern town...

2010-11-18T13:39:00.000-08:00

'life in a northern town'

“The evening had turned to rain

Watched the water roll down the drain

As they followed him down... to the station

He would never wave goodbye

You could see it written in his eyes

As the train pulled out of sight, bye bye”

http://littlebigtown.com/media/albums/place-land

son of a hunter...

2010-11-18T13:37:00.000-08:00

this experience was aweseome...love my view...7.62 is neat!

h o m e c o m i n g 2010_University of Arizona

2010-10-25T12:50:00.000-07:00

homecoming over the weekend was awesome!

REZurrection

2010-10-13T15:23:00.001-07:00

REZurrection –
Renewed sensible approach…my time off : “ looking in from the outside”; was home again over the weekend (window Rock)…helping mom and dad with packing and hauling…there is so much to go through, we all get caught up looking at old stuff like pictures, letters, etc ! it was cool to see mom ‘s high school scrapbook and yearbooks..all her photos were great! She was and is a beautiful human being…she even had my dad’s letters while they were in high school! I was able to feed through my gear too! I saw a few HS work like Mr. Edward’s Math assignments- apparently I received a ½ credit, then he re-reviewed it, then scratched out the ½ credit! -all my cassettes tapes too! (remember those) -it was from a time when rolling was just rocking! I even found the original princess leia action figure! Haha…ah what emotions we all felt as we filtered through the strata of memories. Mine seemed to always tie to music…yesterday coming back to the valley, I shared with Carm a few stories of those moments as we listened to old tapes like lita ford, go-gos, WASP, U2’s Rattle&Hum (OMG what an awesome record), and motley crue… it was like a time machine…it was just too cool talkin about the old days…I remember when my brother in law picked me and my best friend brian in Chinle 1987 to see motley crue at the coliseum in phoenix…(whitesnake was the support act)…we got check out around 12:00noon from HS…traveled down…got dropped off at the fairgrounds…rocked and rolled…go hit by a lady’s shoe in the head...purchased t-shirts…got picked up around midnight…traveled back to the rez…got into chinle at 6 am…slept for an hour…was in homeroom by 8am sporting new concerts shirts…ah yes….HOME SWEET HOME…

richard k begay jr, llc

2010-09-29T15:22:00.000-07:00

' dine' philosophy'

Executive Script:

Building in Indian Country is about community planning and development. Growing up in Chinle, Central Agency, Navajo Nation has allowed me to recognize firsthand how culture & traditions, history, language, economy, and the landscape are important when working with Native American communities. As community planners, we value input, guidance, and share ideas ensuring comprehensive understanding towards the success of building culturally sensitive and community driven projects.

“LET’S LISTEN TO THE PEOPLE…LISTEN TO THE LAND…LET GO OF WHAT WE MAY KNOW AND EMERGE WITH KNOWLEDGE…IT’S A GIFT” – Johnpaul Jones, Cherokee

Richard K. Begay, Jr.,LLC is a Native American-owned architectural firm specializing in client-focused development and growth offering professional services in areas of architecture, planning, and interior design along with marketing and business development. At Richard K. Begay, Jr.,LLC, we believe our expertise in providing sustainable architectural design and planning services will help crystallize and reinforce a client’s vision and goals by meeting budgets, schedules, and creating memorable places while remaining sensitive to the environment.

We bring a wealth of resources and experience to our clients – not only are we sensitive to thoughtful design, we offer cultural facilitation, pre-design, design development/construction documents, and construction administration services to our partners and clients. We feel each project among our K-12 education, higher education, civic, cultural, corporate, and residential partners is an opportunity for personal and professional development leading to lasting relationships. Therefore, we value each opportunity with transparent communications, expertise, and integrity.

Business Description and Vision:

The idea behind Richard K. Begay, Jr.,LLC is to provide outstanding service that exceeds the client’s expectations therefore enabling better productivity, better learning environments, efficient use of materials & systems, increased pride and ownership – and just as important, a deeper appreciation and awareness of the environment we live in.

“…the design and construction was of, and returned to, the earth – cyclical process that could continue.” Richard Begay, Diné College Design Story Book

Here at 3308 Studio.Work.Shop, our studio comforts clients, partners and guest with the process of an integrated architectural practice....the openness caters to creative project collaboration and discovery of self awareness thereby extracting the fluid dynamics of teamwork among our K-12, higher education, civic, cultural, corporate, and residential partners. Communication is the key to our success!

We work for our clients. Our approach is simple: we listen! All work is base on listening to clients, enabling our team to thoroughly understand needs, goals, and requirements –and to take those values as framework for developing conceptual models. It is truly exciting to see the client’s reaction as their ideas and sketches are synthesized into realistic and effective design solutions by technology and tactile exploration. In shop, we investigate materials and build models, verify color samples, analyze lighting schemes & study shade / shadows to ensure the best solutions are functional, cost effective and appropriate to region, building type, and culture.
Our client’s are unique therefore the project’s design is unique – we take each opportunity as priority. Our goal is to offer outstanding client service on each project creating memorable experiences, celebrate diversity in cultures and landscape, as well as uphold our commitment as design professionals

Approach to Providing Assistance to the Community:

“As a member of the community’s team, we listen, listen, and listen some more; our team members will work side by side with stakeholders, community members, educators, and prominent elders with preserving and embracing the Community’s values ensuring a framework that will guide and determine the needs of the community”
Our team believes in an open, participatory approach to planning and design. We will work with our partners and with community’s stakeholders & user groups to understand the needs and goals –and to shape a work plan on how to implement those goals towards the overall vision. The open approach will help discover what is important and help prioritize the project’s needs accordingly. This process will systematically translate as the foundation towards meaningful concepts, ideas, and plans.

Our focus sessions or team meetings will initiate dialogue on where and how to start - it begins with developing a clear understanding of goals, community use, philosophy and needs. We listen carefully to core representatives so our team fully understands the diverse range of requirements. Our purpose is to understand and allow the momentum of the process reveal relevant information and to satisfy as many requirements while working under a specified budget and within the project’s timeframe – all to ensure an appropriate solution for the community.

The process progresses logically from general objectives to a specific study using community participation for information and guidance. This collaboration encourages involvement and creativity by all participants during the process. The dialogue will ensure incorporation of values pertinent to community members; such as history, traditions and language – cultural values which are vital and honored.

Competitive Edge:

Richard K. Begay, Jr.,LLC is a small firm with large firm capabilities AND with one goal in mind –exceed the client’s expectation. Due to size, each responsible member of the team provides a dedicated commitment and personal service in meeting a client’s needs. Our designers work with clients & partners early in design; and throughout the production phases and eventually into construction administration ensuring a streamlined collaborative process and team approach on building consensus at each phase. Our team takes pride & ownership of projects by staying on the project from beginning to end – a value we offer compared to other firms where consistency may be lost due to a ‘departmentalize’ structure.

We are competitive yet affordable with our fees. Clients receive better value at a reasonable fee compared to large firm’s overhead. Richard K. Begay, Jr.,LLC,’s team members are talented and have valuable knowledge & experience to offer. We provide this value to our client’s and partners without the ‘corporate structure’.

Richard K. Begay, Jr.,LLC, is a 100% Native American owned firm; Owner, Richard K. Begay Jr is an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation –Central Agency and has certification as (100% Navajo Owned Business Entity with Priority One Status under the rules of Navajo Business Regulatory Department, Division of Economic Development). As a Native American owned business, the firm has a competitive edge over non-Native American firms in meeting Navajo Preference, Indian Preference, and/or Native American Preference, Minority Business for projects requiring ‘preference status’ under tribal or minority business procurement rules and regulation.
Partnerships: We embrace partnerships (Architectural, Engineering, and Construction firms) with the goal of establishing long-term collaborations and relationship dedicated on providing services, whether a small or large budget, to K-12, higher education, civic, cultural, corporate, and residential partners.

Keys to Success:

· Provide a value deeply rooted in open communications. Communication is the key to success.
· Use of technology (computer software program Building Information Modeling) aimed at facilitating communication of the product. (Renderings, Walk-Thru, Daylighting Metrics, Site Adaption)
· Utilize a constant team approach at each phase of the project ensuring consensus/buy-in. American Institute of Architect’s Integrated Project Delivery
· For culturally sensitive designs, implement a community-focus process aimed at building consensus

A I A Design Awards Gala

2010-09-23T10:55:00.000-07:00

night with friends, colleauges, and classmates! i thoroughly enjoyed chatting with jhen, bryan, doug! and it was pretty cool to see ben and carrie (my fellow ua alumni 2001 - yay!)
xoxo

my sisters...

2010-09-22T08:54:00.001-07:00

my older sisters & i (sonjia and trish) at mom and dad's retirement celebration in Gallup NM - the navajo nation had a huge dinner/reception/entertainment for their service to the navajo people...it was great! having it at the historic el rancho hotel/cafe was tight! i was so amazed at how much an impact mom and dad made...it came out as different folks were expressing stories, achievements, etc..it was a great event for the family...

r a i d e r

2010-09-13T14:50:00.000-07:00

times are simple yet they can become polluted by thoughts we carelessly author...keep things simple and within reason can provide a foundation like no other...i thought it would difficult yet i listened to me...what my heart says and what can do...i was very interested to know i possess something that make somethings, someone think...like i have a small amount of a powersource i could potentially be a threat...i don't want to think that way though cause, unless i am ready, i don't want to interrupt certain sequences...but i am being raised quite well...afterall its business and conducting business professionally tells plenty about character of self, character of a firm's culture, etc...

one day, i will bring new fees to a new master or better yet - maybe i will the master...it continues...

' i will not bow to this raider from the north' -

day +12

2010-09-13T14:47:00.000-07:00

'life or something like that'

the best is yet to come -

b l a c k r i n g t a i l n i g h t !

2010-09-10T14:15:00.000-07:00

Black Ringtail Night - Sept 6 7:20 pm Well…got my taste of camelback at night…foolish or curiosity? Maybe both at the same with a slight edge given to foolishness – I guess that depends on who follows. I started up the deck around 6:30 towards dusk…sun is about to leave this valley. The ascent is quite the breather…mine is approaching zone 3! I see everybody front –meaning they are coming down while im going up…in a way they seem to be following the sun’s path line as it gradually descends downward…I on the other hand treks the opposite…opposite on thought..on the right thing…opposite in time…opposite on carefulness – rather I choose difficulty – challenge – slight hinder of danger – why! I do know…but you cannot seem to remove the smile on me as I pant harder and harder approaching the rails –if you know camelback, the thighs are burning now! My body is feeling strength…that’s what I say…I feel strength and not weakness…if I were to never try this…that would be weakness – which is to let thoughts overcome your true human spirit – we have this while we are young…maybe that’s what I still carry some vibrancy of youthful anthems? Who knows? All I know is being on this deck is timely and healing…btw the ipod is putting lincoln park sounds in me…and this one song sung in Spanish…its cool and full of rhythm…being up here is just ‘record’! the light is going away..now a different kind of light follows…the deep red beyond is measure of time – im up here and I can see the stars to the east..the city below is charming with patterned lights…this terrain is dark! Just as I prepping my pack for the return trip…out of nowhere a large furry creature caught my attention! I said what the f###! I aimed the flashlight toward it and upon my focus saw a cat like creature with ringtails…I was holy cow – that’s a desert ringtail cat up here on Camelback! I was like wow! So then I quickly pulled my camera out ready to take its picture…I tried to maneuver towards it yet I could only get a glimpse of it in the darkness – on the eastern slope is a sheer wall cliff so in a way I did not want to move ‘foolishly’ – falling down the canyon wall is not fun! I just left it at that point and began my descent. I was happy to see it…me and the creatures of the night are one…What a night in the city…what a black ringtail night! rb

even in darkness...there is a certain light...

2010-09-08T15:13:00.000-07:00

the last few days have been crossfade - i find myself submerging to new feelings...yet they seem to be there all this time - just needed a brush of a 'gritty solvent' to extract my subtle emotions - something like being laidoff from work can do just that!! The feeling is not so mutual...i mean, cmon...i felt i was part of great momentum, where being a leader is your prime and the results are both rewarding, heartfelt, and yes unforgiving - i felt we were just beginning to stage ourselves in a terrain i feel we could possibly establish ourselves both financially and worthiness, actually with greatness! A value like no other...it continues... Right now, its been one week, the swelling is down....the void is filling...the roadmap ahead is quite interesting...all my support has been very uplifting & intoxicating...i am you in a mirror...i see myself through your eyes...see you soon...the world is not enough...
-rb

t e a m c h a n c e s -

2010-08-30T12:20:00.000-07:00

Dear Family, Friends, colleagues:

I will be participating in the annual P.F. Changs’ Rock and Roll Marathon + Half Marathon in January 2011. Currently I am training for race day (Jan. 16, 2011) with the intent of running my first FULL MARATHON! 26.2 miles! My previous race ,PF Changs ½ marathon, was phenomenal -with the exception of losing my cell phone at the start line.! I was able to run a personal best –I was built for the race!; So many stories leading up to race day…whether it was running track intervals, running Christmas day in Window Rock in snow, or being pushed by inspiring coaches; the top story is knowing my participation resulted in a child’s emotions as they received a new pair of shoes or were able to participate in a fitness program.

I am a member of Team Scottsdale through Chances for Children-Arizona’s “Team Chances”. We are a not for profit group that provides running programs and fitness programs to Valley schools that otherwise may not be able to afford them. I’m not sure if you’re aware of how many schools in our Valley can’t afford fitness programs for children; the numbers are outrageous. Without fitness programs children are at an increased risk of obesity, heart disease, low self esteem and many other issues. So you see, not only will I be actively training to reach my personal fitness goals, my fundraising efforts will ultimately help Chances for Children’s quest to improve the health and fitness of children in our community.

My goal is to raise $1300 for this worthy cause. This will allow four children to participate in the Chances for Children’s running program. How can you help? Well, I’m graciously requesting donations that will help me achieve my personal goals. If I request 130 folks to donate at least $10 – that’s $1300! I will appreciate any amount provided as this will go towards a collective effort! Thank you!

Richard

Click on link below , go to ‘Donate Now’ ; scroll to ‘Donate for an Athlete’; and scroll to my name – you can donate via paypal or if it’s easier, check, M.O., or cash will be fine as well – you can write it out to: Chances for Children Arizona – thank you again!

http://www.chancesforchildrenaz.com/team_chances_home.php

c r o w d p l e a s e r

2010-08-23T16:06:00.000-07:00

Crowd Pleaser
(copyright2003 rkbjr - treatyhisxmark productions)

September 1976
Window Rock, Arizona
The Navajo Nation Fair

Fade in…

The sight of old glory waves…a capacity of onlookers –old and young, a definite family outing.
Yes…a landscape of metal vehicles, buildings & an enormous grandstand all enclosing a small piece of majestic earth. A theatre of tradition …the rodeo arena!

The smell (and taste) of dust…the irritation (and delight) of livestock aroma…sun high and blazing… blue sky - the sensation of a breeze against the skin…the innocence of the young and the daring attitude of teenagers…the swaying of winos at a distance…vertical stature of roman-nosed veterans.

Behind the Chutes (a cueing place for the talented)

The setting behind the chutes is restless yet balances by a magnitude of confidence. The sound of silver and copper-finished bells ring out, young riders preparing their ropes by applying the yellow-colored rocks.

Some guys juggle their Coors beer and ‘Lazy Days, Easy Night’ (a predecessor to Garden Deluxe and Tokay wine); confidence heightens at the sight of single and married women…(their inspirations) yet they hide their personas’ behind the goggle-like sunglasses…the ones with red white blue stripes! The boots are simple and sturdy…some held together by the gray all-purpose tape. Jeans are everywhere; shirts are dusty yet flourish magnificently with the ‘number’ pinned to the back – a visual and spectacular statement of elite…

…Yes – a rider, bull riders to be exact.

Behind chute four readies a soulful champion, his draw awaits – ‘Playboy’ – the grayish-white brahma bull with horns down – one flops loosely like another ear. Nevertheless a sight of awe and power. A violent ride is imminent. Spirited fans are gasping for cool air yet emotions boast the moment. Mildly chaotic.

The announcer begins the biography, “name…comes from Chinle Arizona…”

(name)Rider momentarily succumbs to a higher power
(name)Rider’s friend skillfully prepares the rope…the bell clashes against the steel gate and the earth…the animal is tense and instantly spooked!

Cut

Reflection back to childhood riding a steer at home… (In the chute)

Dad – “Now come on son! Hang on tight and watch his head”
Son – the 9 year old is nervous yet determines to make a good ride…actually only thinking about what will happen next since he is fearful and full of anxiety. He realizes the difference between watching someone else and actually getting on a steer.
Dad – “remember what I do when I ride…”
Son – no sound…just nods his head as though in agreement
Dad - “son, have faith in yourself and you’ll do just fine whatever the outcome”

Cut,

Scene back to Chutes

(name) climbs down into the chute - a wave of chatter finds way to his ear - ‘do it’, ‘come on, your up boy’, ‘ride em hard’, ‘good luck’.

The moment has come as his heart continues to pound, steadily increasing to a chaotic rhythm.

“Okay boys! Okay boys! Let go!”

saturday august 14 !

2010-08-23T16:04:00.001-07:00

operation navajo nation

2010-08-11T07:44:00.000-07:00

it begins...today we embark on, well, a rather 'intense' journey...(that is myself + karl) - we are traveling to dine' bi keyah...how fun! rb

t e a m c h a n c e s

2010-08-02T16:53:00.000-07:00

j o a n j e t t !

2010-06-28T10:01:00.000-07:00

...put another dime in the jukebox...i loooove rock and roll!!!

'raider from the north'

2010-06-22T16:35:00.000-07:00

The interactions with new cultures change the Navajo forever. Beginning with Spain, Mexico, New Mexico, and ending with the Union States of the Americas, the Navajo lifestyle plummeted - almost to a point of extinction. In 1864, 8000 Dine’ are exiled to the south central part of New Mexico as part of the American order of peace. Imprisoned and demoralized.
Exodus. In 1868, a treaty between the United States and Navajo Tribe was signed and later ratified giving the Navajos permission to return back to the four sacred mountains. In addition to the return, an allowance of livestock and utensils were given to the Navajos for their occupation. The years were rigid, to say the least, however the locality was glorious than the one 300 miles to the southeast. The population grew rapidly as did their land base. Strange to them those imaginary lines end their allotment. However the Navajos had the largest allotment established by the United States.
A young raider name Stabber was never captured nor his clan family. His heart remained where his stomach cord was buried…he shared the same wild spirit with his war horses (charger, horse thief, and squeezer). Squeezer was recently given to him from a strong family from the Tselani region (which would later become part of the Chinle Agency). Ganado Mucho was headmen of the area along with Grayhorse. The story continues with the raider from the north…little did he know – his journey would begin with the return of the people. He would become prominent headmen among his group. Standing strong with Juan Yellow, Navajo Joe, and Laughing Boy…they would journey way south into old mexico to find strong-will and resolute and more...what lie ahead change them forever...

may 31

2010-06-14T09:23:00.000-07:00

"only the dead know the end of war" - plato

r u n n e r s . . . d e e!

2010-05-25T11:23:00.000-07:00

d a m s e l s

2010-05-09T11:11:00.000-07:00

may8. the castle; damsels, knights, kings, queens - funnight at new way's fund raising gala in chandler - i felt like the serf - but hidden as the raider...good talk with jim lane too! mr mayor..we seem to have to known each other - we were both trying to remember where we initially met...all good too! wonder whats next....

dear bella

2010-05-02T11:42:00.000-07:00

dear bella,

don't be afraid to go after what you want to do and what you want to be...but don't be afraid to be willing to pay the price.

j

p.s. with black skies...and lightning all around me...i am you in a mirror

black cat caberet dancing down the alley way...CYCLEFEST

2010-04-15T09:44:00.000-07:00

April 14 8:15pm– biker week – cyclefest at scottsdale westworld “handful of grease” –
What a show! Staging ground for the ‘greasers’ – leather, smoke, wind-blown faces, biker chicks, chrome pipes, sleek lines, ink… and Vince Neil!!!!! awesome to see vince again...hearing old anthems such as piece of your action, live wire, same ol situation, dr feelgood, and girls girls girls was sweet...ears were shot! carm said i sounded like a mouse whenever i spoke - hehe

muzic is live!

h o m e

2010-04-06T12:57:00.001-07:00

diary friday 4/2 5:30 pm tselani-cottonwood central navajo nation

sitting in the hooghan nimazi writing in the calm…the wind is present with its rhythmic harmonics, finding way through the smallest of the openings – exiting as sweet songs …the fire is audible too! the cracking of the ambers is soothing – and well, sitting on the dirt floor is simple + healing…

Ceremony by Joy Harjo (thank you Ann Marie!!!)

“when considering ceremony the act of preparation is most crucial…each day is a ceremonial progression in which every human take part. We do so either consciously or unconsciously. You can prepare by setting the alarm clock and jumping into the world with anxiety, or you can still set the alarm clock – but take time to prepare for the day, by singing, by prayer, by a small acknowledgement of the gift of the day itself..”

27 Marzo - e s t a t e h o u s e

2010-04-01T07:37:00.000-07:00

"that happens in a moment which may not happen in a hundred years" - italian proverb

and the day came....

2010-03-21T08:34:00.000-07:00

“And the day came
When the risk it took
To remain tight and closed in the bud
Was more painful
Than the risk it took bloom

This is the element of Freedom….”

(on Camelback Echo Trail this mornign...my day!! - rhythm + power!! loveallxoxo)

run

2010-03-18T21:11:00.000-07:00

yesterday, i ran to the canal near the waterfront..was good to get my body out; needed it back...im a little off yet it was good after 3-4 miles...my next goals? a summer 1/2? not too sure...right now, i am content hitting the gym and hiking camel back once a week...that place will never falter...its quite the theatre for guidance..."everystep is different each time' - there is a certain beauty shielding the dangers inherited in a rocky terrain...

b u s y

2010-03-17T12:54:00.001-07:00

i am sooooooooooooo busy!!!!!!

t e m p e m a r k e t p l a c e - stage!

2010-03-16T07:20:00.000-07:00

over the weekend was neat-o! we took the kids to see a number of high school & college music bands compete; it was great to hear their music and to hang out and talk to a few of them; they are without doubt good people cause they put everything into one show hoping for that one right moment; i applaud them for the effort they put; SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC!

rb

balancing act

2010-03-02T21:38:00.000-08:00

March 2, 2010 10:30pm.
The day was simple with a slight pinch of orderly chaos – it’s a actually a balancing act. First we are fortunate to get our accounts in line with some wiggle room though still a long way to where I would like to be – all of a sudden the vehicle breaks down leaving us to a rental while it goes in for a band –aid – quite the momentum jolt. Today I paid the service which cost 770 as well as turning in the rental – that one put me at 160 – equates to roughly 930 dollars! Not fun…like I said a balancing act. Good news is March is here…plenty of bdays this month…including me! Weekend was good…we went to the Phoenix Open courtesy of AP…it was quite the stage! The usual though this one had a bit of business flair to even though it was a day where the hair down…baseball caps and short cuts are okay…fun times with BJ! He’s like a little boy with his lemonade…hike with my baby girl bish jay on Sunday morning at camelback echo! It was raining too! The best time to go to! Rhythm and Power!

ballerina eyes hyp n o t i z e ....

2010-02-26T11:36:00.000-08:00

my home! i miss runnning around here..my backyard!

2010-02-17T17:32:00.000-08:00

"s e d u c e d by Loverboy..."

2010-02-17T12:03:00.000-08:00

Feb15 2010 8:40 pm – beginnings - my playlist of today; inspired by past; let me share a few:

I grew up to my dad’s 8tracks –hmm, Johnny Horton, Buck Owens, Charlie Pride, Hank Williams Jr., Chystal Gayle, and off course Elvis! The world would not rotate without him! (Right now I am listening to the Beatle's 'Anna (Go to Him)' - how fitting, I love my mom and dad’s time …its truly timely and memorable…
I was also heavily influenced by my older sister's musical grooves – I mean , cmon – I was growing up on rez in the 70s – let me see, Donna Summer with her hooker themed LP cover – that was hot! The Bee Gees; Blondie; that one song sung by Debbie was just too cool and completlely dangerousl! Yea Chicks=Trouble…so there I was caught between mom+dad’s beats and the erotic rhythms of disco.

“…the next record I was seduced by was Loverboy’s debut record in 1980 (the one with dude wearing tight t-shirt & smoking a rette); - talk about cool! Things that were previously hot and secretly unspoken of prior became cool with a big ‘C’...at this point I was ten…days of school inteh early part of the 1980s was just a sweet transition…actually it was just the beginning for things to come…”

rb

taylor made sixx

2010-02-06T16:45:00.000-08:00

me dad loves rock and roll and my baby katie loves taylor swift...interesting photo of these two...a few decades of separation yet one common pulse - muzic!

camelback!

2010-01-31T18:25:00.000-08:00

was awesome to get up camelback yesterday morning with breanna...it was her first time going up...she says it was better than piestewa peak...getting up here was the best! i like the connection i made with my baby...

r a i n i n t h e f a c e

2010-01-12T17:15:00.000-08:00

the power from this creature...
is magical...in the mud...his pleasure
...in the rain...
simply soothing...

rb

k e s h j e e'

2010-01-07T18:02:00.000-08:00

visit home last week was awesome! we played keshjee' at ben's family place in a very cold place on the rez, tsaile. it was fun - they fed us navajo tacos too; their hospitality was genuine - the shoe game was a great reminder of the stories we were told and now tell to our little ones or those who find it curious and interesting...it is played only during winter season; i went to my grandparent's place in tselani - but no one there so went down to the housing andvisit with my aunt. she was doing well...as my other relatives...i was able to see the house and visit with my cousin too! the place seems very quiet...though the magic of place will always be the secret; i enjoyed it during summer and now the cold air reminds me of the nature of such beauty...btw - i ran on christmas morning in Window Rock...must've been single digits...i am ready for you -

below is a description of keshjee'

Keshjee', Navajo shoe game, is centuries old and is not a game. This sacred Navajo ceremony tells and shows the story of how the cycle of day and night came to be.
Long ago, in ancient days, the night creatures and the day creatures did not understand the importance of the cycles of the universe. Each group wanted it to be either day or night all the time. A contest was held to see which group had the most power and this was the first Shoe Game.
The two teams played through the night, trying to guess in which of four shoes the ball made of yucca root was hidden. As the game went on each team would gain or lose 102 yucca stems. At sunrise there was no winner and the animals had learned that all seasons and cycles are part of the grand plan.
Keshjee', as a game of choices, represents life and the fact that the natural order of things cannot be changed. Not every choice can be correct, but the lessons are learned and experience is gained. Neither lying or cheating can change the outcome and the payment of a fee of yucca stems is still required

Anima Sana In Corpore Sano

2010-01-06T06:50:00.000-08:00

New Rigs! 2150 Black – yea!!

sound mind in a sound body...

s t o p & s t a r e

2009-12-31T13:50:00.001-08:00

dec.31...last day of 09...10 is upon us -yesterday brings tomorrow. stop and stare - i like this song....heard it on the radio the other day + alicia key's new record is awesome..that girl is very talented!! c-minor voice and all! good stuff.. later...10 is upon us...rhythm and power...race is coming soon! i am ready for this

y a s ! hooghan di...nizhoni!!!

2009-12-30T14:52:00.000-08:00

r e d e a r t h

2009-12-10T17:53:00.000-08:00

red earth - quitethe view at this angle...i can feel something overpowering happening..very
spiritual in nature...these moments are quite memorable...we are awaken by such beauty -its quite surreal at the same time almost a healing aspect...

bring it on home - dec 5

2009-12-08T09:35:00.001-08:00

s h o o t i n g s t a r

2009-12-05T06:55:00.000-08:00

6:20am..camelback..moon above providing my light...the temperature was 37degrees! i like...i the city is still asleep...going up this trail is awesome during night..i can see glow as i was going up...when there...i saw red earth in the eastern sky...it was very awesome and motivating to be up there..and then looking west...the moon still bright...a shooting star caught my attention...messenger from above has landed! :)...all these element! i am experiencing them with a passion -

"tonight's going to be a good night...tonight's going to be a good good night..."

n.e.w. m.o.o.n.

2009-12-02T06:15:00.000-08:00

wednesday morning...4:15am..was up early this am...got out of the house..did my dynamics in the street with the moon illuminating the western face..i like it...nice glow....i was wearing my full gear-getting cooler every month! i like! i ran my 40 min trailer...it was okay - though my right back of knee is still acting up...making me run-limp somewhat...kinda a staccato rhythm...and to make it ugly, my left calf and quads get sore too! what's happening to me ! i don't want this now..especially with 1.5 months to the big race next month! oh btw...a race is scheduled for this sunday! this week is busy! friday is another exam..then a&P will be bbqing it up for us here at our lot - yea! looking forward to that ...i like seeing my team - friday night.aia art show! brandi's piece is there...it should be fun...saturday: habitat early then off to karl + heather's wedding! wow those two are it! will be fun and exciting - the reception too! little big town!!! sun is coming up!
later rb

b i r t h d a y

2009-11-28T04:42:00.000-08:00

november 28 - 5:42 am...at the moment...preparing to enter echo's terrain - days are filled with plenty...having dinner was excellent -plenty of family...i missed my family back home..they had a big one in window rock - i talked to mom and trish daily...they said my aunt marie and pat were there as well as ben's family; my uncle john - mom seem quite content with the annual moment though was fighting a ugly cold...and dad, i guess he wanted to rest...he was tired and still suffering from the wounds of much...i felt for him...and could only wish and pray he presses forward as he has done the last decades...i am in awe at what he has done for my sister's and i - he is quite the strength...something i found in my late grandmother, mary. trish was energetic talking about all the good fixings they prepared...and as expected...folks were asking about jr. she said sonjia is doing well too in las vegas - they had little dinner with her family..and told trish she had to get up by 4:30am to get to work...she works at vic secrets as a manager...she had to get there early to prepare for the wave of shoppers! our little get together had a similar setting though i missed mom's bread and some native foods! believe me - i could do anything for a piece of sheep meat wrapped in tortilla bread...hmm...carm's sister and her sister's friend came by...and the many kids! the 20 pounder sufficed! it came out nice and juicy...breanna came back on tuesday too! i picked her up at the airport...i was happy though i was still jolted on her gesture and actual move to relocate back to the valley and not finish up at ua....i was so upset though i can't really express only i dont want to repeat what we went through the last year ...its just so upsetting to see her momentum halt ...yet perhaps its 'my momentum' in her that needs to be removed and let her move on (minus me)...her mom supports her fully and thats good..at this time - i need to support her (even thought i think about the scholarships she will lose not to mention the big loan debt she will be in :(...what has led to this...are we relieving ourselves in our children's footsteps? i sure hope she find the inner strength to relize what all the talks were about...as a parent that is toughest to see...well for me it is...i wanted to do her best and get to a point where she will understand and become who she wants to be...i didn't want her to repeat what i;'ve been through because that was a rough road and a big challenge...it took plenty to get where i needed to be..i was a rez kid who went to big city and fell...then i went back to the rez to find myself and then i was ready...
oh yeah...we also celebrated trevor's birthday..i guess in the 'chaos', baby forget her son's birthday...so we wished him a birthday and ate a quick cake...i try not to forget birthdays! mom's birthday is next week and yeah there are plenty of bday(s) in between...breannna's birthday is next month too! i wonder what to get her... got to go...later rb

d a r k n e s s

2009-11-24T13:09:00.000-08:00

darkness has a certain light to it...

echo canyon

2009-11-19T14:38:00.000-08:00

the trail...send me there under cover -

Thoughts of much circulate the sphere…thinking plenty lately, the last half of year is filled with much…sometimes it can be a emotional staccato jolt -other times the joys and laughter of moments make the world of it…after all we all share this crazy yet livable world together – the revealing nature of one’s character is honesty; sometimes I am reluctant to see that or I would revert the mirrored self only to find out it could potentially be late or behind an hour. I wonder about my family much…I am living with them and you could say without them in way that is quite parallel and un-parallel…holidays seem to bring out something…I have a tendency to get carried away with thoughts but sometimes I do and maybe it’s okay too! I don’ really see my parents that much during a course of a year – I miss them sometimes only because when times get rather chaotic, I typically revert to memory…I remember the safety and comfort they provide…I ask myself and the higher power please let me have that feeling back or better yet give me the strength to create the same feeling for all my children…give me strength and I will give something this world has yet to rely on… today mom called this morning and we talked about the many little things..i told her we will not be coming home this next week…I think she understood yet we always seem to come back for this time…family and family friends will be asking for us…time will tell...yesterday brings tomorrow...I have been so busy with much the last few weeks Work is good…busy with CREST and marketing…good to see folks at Greenbuild, AIA Affiliates dinner was fun.,studying and more studying..i seem to always be doing that…running with the Team Chances has been great when I have time…nevertheless my training is going well…our sewer is fixed…finally! rb