What is a quality Squidoo lens? This is a question that I am always trying to answer and what we are striving to discover on Squidoo Lens Reviews. Since we all perceive things differently, what is quality to me may not be quality to you. However, if an article grabs your attention, keeps you mesmerized, makes you think and you keep remembering it afterwards, then it was quality for you. This is what happened when I first read Grannysage's lens, "Des Moines, Baryshnikov, and Me."
To give you some background, Grannysage is a lensmaster that is in no hurry to create fifty or a hundred lenses. She takes her time with research and writing and does not hit publish until she is completely satisfied with what she has created.
Diane writes in her bio, "I consider myself to be a storyteller. I like to wrap inspirational messages inside little vignettes of my life or the lives of others." Her 24 lenses are personal, thoughtful, entertaining and filled with substance. This particular lens is a perfect example.
It is a true story (mixed with a little fantasy) of a family trip to Des Moines, which touches on celebrity worship, in particular her obsession with the great Russian ballet dancer, Mikhail Baryshnikov. I don't want to give away any more than that because you should read Grannysage's hilarious version of the story on your own. It is a story of synchronicity and taking advantage of opportunities as they arise. Her style of lensmaking reflects the philosophy of Mr. Baryshnikov himself. "Dancing is my obsession. My life. I do not try to dance better than anyone else. I only try to to dance better than myself."
I hope that you enjoy reading this lens and that it inspires you to read more of Grannysage's work.
Visit: Des Moines, Baryshnikov, and Me
I am honored to be writing Squidoo Lens Reviews on Fridays, focusing on lenses that are beautifully designed as well as informative. My passions revolve around photography and the environment, books and wine, and numerous other things.
I'll never forget reading Des Moines And Baryshnikov when Grannysage first made it. Yes, top quality, Kim. And, oh, I love that quotation. …How much better the world would be if each one of us quit the needless competition with each other and just tried to be better than our former selves.
What a great lens and story! I love how Diane describes herself and her writing. She does a wonderful job of fulfilling that description!
Diane always captures my attention with her superb writing. I enjoyed reading her piece on Baryshnikov even more the second time around.
BevsPaper´s last blog ..Native American Storytelling Tradition
I had a feeling someone was talking behind my back. And look, it was true! Here you all are, telling stories about me, very kind and flattering stories I might add. I am so glad you enjoy my little story about my friend Misha.
Thank you for this wonderful review, Kim. It was a wonderful surprise and boosted my spirits immensely.
So now I must go and live up to my own reputation. Write, write, and write some more.
Kim, you have reviewed here someone who I really do think is one of Squidoo's best writing talents. Each and every one of her creations is a joy to discover. I loved this story of her encounter with a ballet legend. While each of us here is draws inspiration from different places, quality such as this is something I'm pretty certain we will always agree upon. :)
Kim, this is a most excellent review of a most excellent lens. I thoroughly enjoyed reading both the review and the lens. Baryshnikov is truly fabulous.