The extraordinary rock for this carving was found in and around the environs of the district of Homeglen, Alberta, in late Summer 2016. The natural fissures and fractures of the stone were readily retained by the School of One carver as a reminder that supposed “imperfections” are a means of securing and appreciating unique character, celebrating difference, and learning from past missteps. The title of carving recalls a laughter-filled trip with the Dutch adventurer Olga Tapperwijn Zenowich and her partner, the Colonial Latin American historian David Metzger, in Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana, many years ago. This carving is dedicated to the individual historical agency, accomplishments and contributions of single mothers, past, present and future, especially those single mothers who own small businesses. Terrebonne YEG-GA began its travels with M.M., an Albertan entrepreneur and "e-cottage industrialist" who continues to raise her daughter largely on her own, in December 2017.

M.M. is no stranger to adventure and she has certainly left her mark on the urban landscape of Edmonton as as "e-cottage industrialist". Several official provincial records reveal how small business provides the bulk of employment in Alberta, a place generally thought of as running solely on the oil production of big international corporations. E-cottage industries -- defined here as home-based initiatives that produce goods and services and rely heavily on the Internet for marketing and sales -- are a growing part of small business in the province, especially during uncertain economic times in Western Canada. These inititatives, sadly, remain largely ignored by government and political economists. M.M.'s umbrella's are conspicuous "transient landmarks" found throughout North America, including during the summers in Churchill Square, Edmonton, and on the campus of Tulane University, New Orleans. Furthermore, the "upcycled bags" she designed and manufactures with the "leftover fabric" from the umbrellas are now a routine part of the retail landscape of farmer's markets and craft shows in the Edmonton area. M.M.'s commitment to her daughter JFS is readily appreciated in the opening set of vignettes documenting a trip to Jerusalem in December, 2016.

Old City, Jerusalem (with the Mount of Olives on the horizon)
3:15PM, December 17, 2017

The locals here always claim that Jerusalem is located “in the mountains”. After growing up with the Canadian Rockies in Western Canada, this “mountain” seems to be more like a big hill. Nevertheless, the Mount of Olives is actually one of three peaks in the Judean mountain range. I plan on doing a little more sightseeing with Jasmine this trip so we will venture up the hill-like mountain in a few days. For now, we will spend the rest of the day with the family and then try to catch up on our sleep.

Mount of Olives (with the Old City in the background)
11:00AM. December 21, 2016.

It was a gruelling walk up the Mount of Olives. Now, I am quite prepared to say it is mountain rather than a hill, despite my earlier comments regarding comparative Canadian alpine standards. It is such a beautiful view of the Old City from top of the mount.

Most of the people visiting this venue today are on a personal pilgrimage to follow in the steps of Jesus. I am here to escape religion. I can just breathe in the air and feel great humility to be a part of the whole human experience. It is our collective spirituality that will bind all of humanity together in a place of fellowship where we can live in peace. This promise is actually evident throughout Jerusalem with Jews, Muslims and Christians -- all living together. When it comes down to it, all of us share the same Global History no matter what religious or political affiliation we have.