Khatchkars - "Stone Cross"

Khatchkars - "Stone Cross"
Khatchars are everywhere in Armenia; in and around churches, on streets and roads, and out in the countryside. There are tens of thousands all over. Some characteristics of khatchars are that they are seldom symmetrical left to right or top to bottom. This symbolizes the assymetry of the world. The carved background patterns (similar to celtic knots) on many khatchkars have no beggining or end - symbolizing the eterenity of the universe. And, finally, a common practice was to break a small piece of the carving with a chisel. This symbolizes the idea that nothing on earth is perfect. Khatchkars date from at least the middle ages if not earlier. .

Saturday, July 21, 2012

Our Armenian Fundraising dinner was a great success last Saturday. We had about 30 people in attendance.  Marty and I performed a house concert  - we are called Twisted Roots - along with our friends Marilyn Kaler on harmonica and Paul Chasman on guitars.

Scandia Hall - Sons of Norway  - about to be invaded by
Armenians

We ate well, raised money for my house building project in Armenia, got to share some of the culture and we all went away with lots of leftovers.  We are still eating kuftas, khorovats, dolmas, imam beyeldi and simit here at hom

Leslie making Armenian prayer flags.

Thanks to all our great friends who cooked, set up, dined and then cleaned up with us. Friends and family are what life is about.
Our deepest thanks.

Ivy Rose getting the wrinkles out.

Saturday, July 7, 2012

Fuller Center for Housing Armenia - Brief Video



Lots of people ask about the project I will be working on in Armenia this August. Here is a short video about the Fuller Center for Housing.  This is why I am going.