Myra's Thoughts

Musing @Morgan's . An Art Networking Event.

2010-08-15T00:46:00.000-07:00

at The Table. August 4. 2010

left to right...

Harold Whims, Yanitz Rameriz,

Michael Steel, Patricia Schnall-Gutierrez, Jennifer Basile, Rachel Blechman, Tom Weinkle, Linda Weitz, Authur Salomon, Becki Boni-Litman, David New.

Also attending, but not in the photo

were: James Weinkle, Pat Green,

Jamey Azelvandre, Jon Spencer Eiseman, Michael Enns, Harry Gottlieb, Reed Horth, Kat Barrow.

Tuesday, January 2, 2007

2007-01-02T08:07:00.000-08:00

While I am listening to Gerald Ford being eulogized by Henry Kissinger, I am posting an update.
First of all HAPPY 2007 TO ALL.
May Gerald Ford rest in peace. He was a good man. At the time when he pardened
Nixon, many of us didn't think so. History has proven otherwise.

There are now 3 eggs in the "Pretty Birds" nest. I called the place where I purchased them
to inquire what procedures were required. Interestingly, Gouldian Australian Finch are not
known for being very domestic. The females rarely sit on their eggs long enough for them
to hatch. If you are breeding these finch it is a good idea to introduce a Society Finch as a
nanny type, who will sit on the eggs. Who knew? Incubation is approximately 28 days.
If by Feb.4th there are no baby birds, I will remove the nest and discard the eggs.
Boo Hoo.

Let's see what unfolds.
I'm off to a day filled with errands.

Love to all.

The Last Day of 2006.

2006-12-31T13:52:00.000-08:00

This is Kelly and Riley
This is my sweet Miss Spicey, my favorite friend at Wednesday's arts and crafts class.
The group of us celebrating Sydney's 60th Birthday.
Well it's Sunday, December 31, 2006 and I can't believe it's almost a month since I last posted on my blog.
Life moves on, if one participates on not.
This past month seems to have flown by so quickly.
I've had wonderful times and am just kind of distracted, not having posted anything in so long.

Of note is the fact that as of Christmas Day, exactly 2 months post op, I am down 47lbs. This is a miracle to me and
I am so grateful.
My life post surgery is no cake walk. There are good days and some not so good days.
Most important to me though, is to remember that my worst day post op, pales compared
to my life before this surgery. I don't ever want to forget how miserable I was, both mentally
and physically.
I am so grateful to God for this opportunity at a new improved life.

I'm looking forward to my 40th High School Reunion in mid January.
So many friends I haven't seen in years will be attending. Should be
a memorable weekend.

I'm also cohosting a Baby Shower, the same weekend as the Reunion.The Shower is for Kelly, my dear
departed friend Sara's daughter-in-law. She's expecting a little girl and
we are all so thrilled about this. The Shower will be an opportunity
for so many of Sara's friends and family to be together.

Oh this is big news! Pretty Boy and Pretty Girl (my Gouldian Australian Finches) are going to be parents too!
I'm kind of freaked out about this though. I bought a little house/nest for
their cage at the suggestion of the salewomen at Pet Smart. She said she
had finches and that really they just love to hop around and in the wild live
in the hollows of trees. I said what about mating? She assured me that they
would mate with or without a little nest. PS...There are 2 tiny eggs in that
little nest. How is this possible? They are suppose to be babies themselves.
I just bought them as such in early November. Does this mean there is a
need for an Avian Chapter of Planned Parenthood? No kidding, babies having
babies and then what.
Stay tuned on this one.

Mostly I wish to take this opportunity to put out good wishes to the universe
and my friends on this the last day of 2006.
May each of us be blessed with good health, happiness, prosperity and
some peace of mind in this coming year.
May we each do our part to make World Peace a reality and to stop the
spread of disease and poverty.
Do the next right thing. Collectively, we can make a difference.

I'm One Lucky Girl...Comments on a Beautiful Week

2006-12-03T09:31:00.000-08:00

Well for starters, is will be interesting to see in what order the photo's will post.
That said, I'd like to fill you in on the beautiful week I've just had.

My week started on Monday, November 27th, when I had a wonderful visit with my old friend Mark.(see my previous post)

On Tuesday I went to Books and Books at the lovely Bal Harbor Shops for a 2PM slide show presentation and book signing
event by an old acquaintance of mine, Jewel Stern.
I first met Jewel, I bet it was at least 20 years ago and at that time she was a recognized photographer.
Fast forward to the present and low and behold I find out she is a collector of "Modernism in American Silver, 20th Century
Silver Design". This also is the title of her book, published by Yale University Press.
What an amazing woman Jewel is.
She gave the most engaging and informative presentation.
A champagne reception followed.
Jewels' collection has been accquired by The Dallas Museum and is on loan presently to The Wolfsonian, here on South Beach
through March of 2007.
Her book as well as the exhibit at The Wolfsonian have both gotten rave reviews, as well they should.
Interesting to note that this exhibit is up during the upcoming Art Basel week in Miami and Miami Beach, which is an international, world class event.
I find this all too thrilling and exciting as I'm a native of Miami and have witnessed the growth and development
of our beautiful city. Despite the recent reference to us being a "Third World Country".
In spite of the crime, over congestion of our streets and highways, and way to much development going on,
Miami continues to be a thriving, incredible city with the most diversified mix of cultures. I feel extremely lucky to have
been born and raised here.
I look forward to attending this exhibit down the road, with a group of women from The Funding Arts Network, an organization I am involved with.

So that was Tuesday.

On Thursday evening I drove south to the Coral Gables branch of Books and Books for another slide show presentation,book signing, by a woman who was a friend of mine when I had my children's clothing store. Her name is Jane Katcher and her book is titled "Expressions of Innocence and Eloquence: Selections from the Jane Katcher Collection of Americana", published by Yale Universiy Press as well. This book is huge and amazing. It weighs 5 1/2 pounds.
Jane is the woman I aspire to be in my next life. She is a former Pedicatric Radiologist, a wife, a mother of 3 beautiful
daughters and just an amazing woman in my opinion.
She gave a most dynamic presentation, so add gifted public speaker to the list of her accomplishments...
I was sitting in the audience, Jewel Stern was in attendance too, thinking to myself, how amazing is this, that two accomplished women, that I happen to know,
have each published a prestigious, highly regarded book? These books will be used by art historians for years to come as a benchmark in each of their fields of collecting
I am so proud of them.
I am so honored to know them.
They give me such hope as a woman in today's world. They are testimony, that all things are possible.
Kudo's to both Jewel Stern and Jane Katcher for a job well done!
Stand up and take a bow!

Do I still have your attention??? If so thank you and please read on...

Friday night was spent on South Beach with my wonderful buddies Bill and Jose.
We saw "For Your Consideration", the Christopher Guest movie.
It was plenty funny. Not a Hollywood blockbuster, but very entertaining and full
of much needed laughs.
We had a lovely meal at Joe Allen's afterwards.
I always know I'm going to enjoy myself when I'm with Bill and Jose.

And last, but certainly not least, was the culmination of my beautiful
week. I attended a Birthday Party for Miss Ella, herself, who is now 4. Ella and her 2 yr. old
sister Chloe, are the daughters of my cherished friend, Hunter and her husband Peter. Hunter is the
daughter of Mark and Donna. I know Hunter since she was this same age and I was dating her newly divorced Dad.
The party was perfection! They had a clown doing face
painting on the kids and a colorful bounce house, where the kids were jumping and running
themselves ragged. The day was glorious, with a cool breeze going on.
The thing that impressed me the most was how all the young parents were so relaxed, patient
and hands on with their kids in such a healthy, loving way.
It was a beautiful thing to witness and I felt so lucky to be part
of this glorious gathering.

Thanks for staying tunned.
I am one lucky lady.
I am so grateful.

And here's to another beautiful week unfolding, ahead, for us all.

Jose and Bill @Joe Allen"s Friday night.
This is Ella opening presents and sister Chloe showing her face for the camera
Catching the Birthday Girls face, Miss Ella herself...
Madame Chloe having a meltdown!

A Day at The Ranch

2006-11-28T04:35:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I had a 5PM accupuncture treatment down south and was looking for something to do down that way earlier, so
I would not have to deal with driving there in the rush hour traffic.
It occured to me that my old friend, Mark, could use a visit as he recently had hip replacement surgery.
So I decided to stop in at his Chickee, which he custom designed and built in the early 1970's when we were an item.
I have many fond memories of him and that chickee. It sits to the back of his family's compond, which they call The
Ranch. To further add to the visit, Barry appeared. He and Mark go back forever and have done many a project
together. Barry is renown for his work with the trunks of trees. He's a recognized crafts, artisan and also creates natural
environments. His card says "industrial artist-Land Shaper". Another thing to add...Congratulations go out to Mark
and Ann, his significant other for over 20 years now. They finally got married. So there you have it. And now some of the photo's from
my visit.
This is an outside corner, featuring the bathtubs.
This is Mark in the back and Barry in the front. The Silver Fox Brigade
This is the Totem Pole. Mark carved the alligator, replete with teeth, no less on the top of this single piece of wood, probably a tree trunk.

This is one of many of the artifacts on the grounds surrounding the chickee.
This is an inside shot of the ceiling of the chickee.

Continuation of Girls Get Together, Publishing Ass Backward for a Change...

2006-11-26T09:25:00.000-08:00

This is our styling girl Nora and Kay. Nora is
a Florida native and gifted photographer. She makes her living as a "location scout" for photo shoots.
This is Sister Margaret Mary and Kay. Margaret is
a former Nun. She goes by just Margaret, but I always love for people to know that she was a nun. Margaret is a former
journalist and runs the Port Everglades Association, the private, nonprofit organization of businesses at the Broward County seaport.
Here is our lovely Susan with Kay of course. Susan
has recently retired. We go back to 1972 and the McGovern Campaign. Susan was the Chief Operating Officer of the first "Summit
of the American's" held in Coral Gables, several years ago. She then went on to be Director of the not for profit organization, Florida Partnership of the Americas. She also had her own Public Affairs Firm. She's a major player in all things
good in our community.
And with the blue and white wreath, made
especially for me, Myra, because I don't celebrate Christmas, with the creative and talented girl herself, Miss Kay!

Girls Get Together @ Kay's

2006-11-26T09:12:00.000-08:00

My dear friend Kay hosted a "girls get together" for 5 of us yesterday @4 o'clock in the afternoon.
It's a special treat when the 5 of us get together as we all live in different parts of South Florida and
everyone is busy, so it was wonderful spending time together in Kay's festively decorated apartment.
We laughed alot and remembered our dearly departed friend Sara, who was a common denominator
in all our lives.
When we finished feasting on the beautiful spread Kay had put out, Kay said "keep the camera's out".
She then proceeded to drag out 4 huge black trash bags from the back bedroom and announced "I am
doing this in alphabetical order".
Ta Da.
Here is our beautiful Kay surrounded
by the inredible wreaths she hand made for each of us.

An Ass Backward Presentation of My Wonderful Saturday.

2006-11-19T20:24:00.000-08:00

Matador with bull.
Pablo and Myra, photo op! By the way, I
look much better than this in person...Hope you're laughing.
South Beach @night, where my wonderful day
culminated
Head on shot of the magnificent Bull. Gold
leaf done with cigarette paper.

A morning with Pablo Cano @MOCA, publishing out of order...

2006-11-19T20:07:00.000-08:00

That's Pablo Cano, himself, up high in this
photo, manipulating the puppets.
I loved the eye's on this elephant. They are
so compelling. By the way, the silver leaf is done with silver paper from empty packs of cigarettes. Amazing, no???
This is an octopus kind of fellow.
This is a Mr. Fur Face kind of guy.
And this magnificent creature is made out
of plastic bowls and plates from the dollar store. If you click on any of the photos you'll get a larger view. In this case
you'll better see what I mean about the magnificence here.

MOCA.Photo's documenting the 1st stop in what was a most wonderful day!

2006-11-19T19:47:00.000-08:00

This is one side of a puppet by Pablo Cano.
Uploading photo's on this Blog is still a mystery to me. They never publish in the order selected. The other side of
this puppet is a few down.
Unfortunately I was so busy taking pictures
that I couldn't take notes too...That being the case, I have no names for these incredible characters. Pablo introduced us
to each one...this guy has flipper feet, which being the great photographer I am, I failed to get in this shot. I forget his
name, but he is the narrator throughout the show, I think.
Ah, here is the front side of "Princess Tula".
This guy greets you as you approach the
front of the Museum of Contemporary Art/MOCA. He is part of several objects set in the outdoor fountain. Kind of "Hello
Kitty'esk", no?
And this is the entrance to Pablo Cano's
space where the performances of Under the Sea will take place.

I'm going to post some more photos...The sequence of which will be up to the Blogging God.

Parrot Jungle Morning . WLRN Public Radio Circle of Friends Breakfast with Robert Siegel

2006-11-17T09:30:00.000-08:00

This is Robert Siegel, host of All Things Considered on PBS radio.
He was the featured guest speaker at this mornings breakfast.

When the breakfast was over, I ventured into the entrance of The Parrot Jungle Park.
These were a few of the faces that greeted me.
So darling, all 2 yrs. old, visiting with their school.

Parrot couples. Incredible colors and incredibly loud.
Oh my gosh, I'm glad I got finches and not parrots.
But they are pretty magnificent to look at.

PEACE

2006-11-16T06:19:00.000-08:00

Just listed this ATC on eBay.
I love the subtle colors
and the message.

Good News

2006-11-16T01:16:00.000-08:00

The good news is Mother is home from the hospital and getting back to her usual self

More good news! I'm officially off all my medications! YAHOO!
My GP, was thrilled that my blood pressure is totally normal and
my blood sugar # was good too. He assured me it is only going
to get better as I continue to lose weight.

Frankly, I can't believe the whole thing.
This has happened so quickly.
I am so blown away.
Totally delighted and of course, so grateful.

Looking forward to my scheduled day.

Let me know what you think of these new
cards just listed on eBay.
They are different than what I ususally do.

What a Difference a Day Makes!

2006-11-14T03:39:00.000-08:00

Photo's of some of my friends and table mates at yesterdays Woman's Fund LuncheonThis is Katy Sorenson and my friend Donna Reno
This is my friend Hunter Reno, who is a Board Member and Ronie Smulian

and now to What a Difference a Day Makes...

To begin with my Mother is in the hospital. Poor thing, she has been sick off an on since last Wednesday night with some kiind
of stomach thing. You know, both ends...(thanks for sharing Myra).
The good news is she managed to pull herself together and attend her birthday celebration for Charlie on Sunday night.
But yesterday morning when I got up I saw her sitting in her Lazy Boy Recliner, wrapped in a blanket. I woke her, to get
her in her bed and she said she had been so sick throughout the night.
I had a full day scheduled and made her promise she would call her doctor, etc.
Bottom line, @11:30 AM she left a message on my mobile that she was in the emergency room on an IV and I shouldn't
worry or cancel anything...they were taking many tests and also taking good care of her.
I ended up seeing her @4PM, still in the emergency room. They told me they were admitting her. Which I was kind of
relieved about. They have her on antibiotics and are monitoring her. Her heart is fine, they think this must be a bug
of sorts. We shall see.
Meanwhile, Charlie's 93rd Birthday Dinner was a big hit. Unforturnately, there are no photo's to post, because I ended up
not going. I had a particularly rough Sunday and my Mother excused me, thank God!
My action packed day, yesterday was wonderful. I thanked God every minute. I was able to accomplish everything in a
precision like manner. No kidding the day ran like clockwork with perfect timing. It was all a miracle.
The hightlight was a Donor's Luncheon for The Woman's Fund, an organization that does incredible work for underprivileged
and at risk young woman. I have been supporting this organization for several years now. One of my favorite friends is
on the Board and they do such amazing, good work.
The luncheon was at a beautiful new restaurant on Brickell Aveune, just south of downtown Miami, overlooking Biscayne Bay.
The setting was so spectacular. The women in attendance were all impressive in their own right. I saw so many people
that I hadn't seen in many years. Everyone was so receptive and seemed so happy to see me. It felt good to be in a room
filled with these lovely woman. It also felt wonderful to be acknowledged and so lovingly recieved.
I have to get myself together to leave in about 30 minutes. I'm going to my GP, for a fasting blood sugar and a check up
in general, post surgery. Then up to Ft. Lauderdale to had my dressing changed and then on to see my Mother.
Will report in later.
I am grateful for a new day and all the possibilities it holds.

Dream Girl

2006-11-12T13:36:00.000-08:00

Another new piece just listed on eBay.
Ain't she sweet?

Good Morning . It's a Beautiful Day!

2006-11-12T04:07:00.000-08:00

Good morning to all. Here I am once again at the computer early
on a Sunday morning.
I'm looking out the sliding glass doors at the beautiful day as it
begins.
I am so grateful.
I've been up since 4:30AM, which is not unusual for me.
It is such a delight to come out into the living room/work space
area and see my lovely Pretty Birds. Last night they slept side
by side, both facing the same way, real close to each other.
It was so sweet. I didn't take a picture because I didn't want
the flash to disturb them.
I've managed to eek out a new card to list on eBay.
Another black and white presentation.
What do you think???
The Faithful Friend, we all have one, right?
You do know that to have a faithful friend,
you have to be a faithful friend.
Tonight is "The Birthday Celebration" for
Charles, my Mother's boyfriend. He's 93 yrs. old,
officially tomorrow. He was born ll/12/13, isn't
that interesting? The sequence of numbers, I mean.
I've made the place cards and am in charge of
decorations. I'm laughing, because it's a restaurant
and how much can one decorate.
I ordered M&M's on line for party favors.
They are red and orange and say "smile Charlie:
"your 93!", cute, no? They are packaged in clear
cello bags, tied with a red ribbon.
I plan on getting somekind of balloon bouquet
and that's it for the decor.
I'll be the official photographer too.
So stay tuned for photo's of the gala event.
Off to read the Sunday paper.

Resurfacing after a few rough days...

2006-11-11T05:21:00.000-08:00

So here it is Saturday morning. I'm at my computer with The Pretty Birds by my side.
This is the first morning I'm kind of feeling somewhat normal. Wednesday afternoon
I started to slide. Which really surprised me, as I was having such a beautiful day.
Wednesday started out great. I had an acupuncture treatment, which is always wonderful,
but even more so this day. The reason being that I had decided that morning not to take
my blood pressure or blood sugar medications. I made this decision because my legs
and ankles were swelling to the point of distraction. They were killing me. I thought
about the 3 days in the hospital, where they did not give me this medication and how
I came home with thin ankles and no swelling, until I started taking these medications
again. I figured if I could get by in the hospital without them, then I would try getting
by without them again.
Thank you to the powers that be, because before my treatment the practioner took
my blood pressure and it was 130 over 80, which is way good for me, with or without
the medication. After the treatment my blood pressure was 120 over 80, perfect.
Was I ever elated and grateful.
So I took the scenic route home North on A1A, ocean view to my right and low a behold
there is this magnificent, huge kite flying right before my eyes.
These photo's were taken from inside my car, while I was driving.
I stopped to do some errands and that's when things started to slide.
Something happened to my left rear ankle. Like I tore or over extended something...
All I know is that it was very painful and made it quite awkward to walk.
But I perservered and got everything on my list accomplished. Go Myra!
PS, when I got home I was so wiped out that it's taken me 2 whole days to semi
recover.
The foot is sligthly better, which is a good thing. However, this has put a real
damper on my daily walking is the halls.
I'm hanging in there and doing the best I can.
If anyone has survived and read this far, I applaud you.
Such a mournful, woe is me, Myra.
Enough about the downs.
The good news is I purchased a "sports cord", I think that's what you call them.
I'm learning how to do all kinds of strengthing and stretching routines and this
is a very good thing for me.
Tomorrow evening my 86yr old Mother, Reva is hostessing a Birthday Dinner
for her 93 yr. old squeeze named Charles (Reva calls him Charlie). This will
be my first dinner out venture since my surgery.
I'm sure I'll do just fine.
Did I mention how much I'm enjoying my pretty new companions?
The birds are a delight.
I love coming out in the morning and seeing them.
I love hearing their chirping. Somehow they have enhanced my life.
And oh yes, I remain grateful still, for all I have.
Let's see how this new day shall unfold.
Good wishes.

TA DA!

2006-11-08T02:11:00.000-08:00

I am late in posting this encouraging news...
16 lbs., that's what I'm down in almost one
month.
I am still retaining lots of fluid in my legs,YUK
and OUCH.
This is a reaction from the medication that I
take for blood pressure and blood sugar.
The doctor said it represents about another 10 or 12 lbs.
So there.
Yesterday was a wipe out for me in terms of
energy.
But I am thrilled and proud that I managed to
accomplish all that I set out to do.
Most importantly voting.
I am distressed to awake this morning and see
that in Florida we shall have a Republian Governor
again.
Oh well, you win some. You lose some.
Our Democratic nominee was a real long shot.
I see that nation wide though, we have what
to celebrate.
I only hope and pray that my fellow democrats
will work hard at making a difference and not
exhibit inappropriate behavior that is so prevalent
today.
It's 5:20 AM. I have been up since 4:45 AM.
Slept thru the night, from about 6:30PM yesterday
till now.
WOW. I must have needed that sleep.
Good morning world.
I am so grateful.

Good Morning Pretty Birds

2006-11-07T05:21:00.000-08:00

Well the Pretty's made it through their first night just fine.
I moved their cage to sit next to my work table so I can
admire them all the time.
They've been chirpping and flying around.
I feel badly about the flying around.
The cage is so small.
But for now this will have to do.

I'm off to my doctors appointment.
I've a list of other things to accomplish
while I'm out.

Wishing my self good luck.

Looking forward to accepting this
beautiful day as it unfolds.

Pretty Boy and Pretty Girl an Australian Love Story.

2006-11-06T17:32:00.001-08:00

This is the second time I am writing about Pretty Boy and Pretty Girl
an Australian Love Story.
The first time just published to the wrong blog, myras-blog.blogspot.com.
What a bummer.
I am so frustrated with the learning curve on blogger but must persevere
because this is such a lovely story.
I was itching to get out of the house today.
I thought, why not take a nice long drive up to
The Festival Flea Market.
Once there I would get a much needed walk in and enjoy the visuals
provided, by the assorted merchandise.
So there I was walking up and down the aisles when I hear all these
bird sounds. Not exactly singing birds, but rather lots of chirpping,
kind of. So I follow my ears to an amazing scene. Three large cages
with the most beautiful, colorful assortment of Australian Baby Finch.
I was mesmerized and immediately drawn in to one particular bird.
Meet Pretty Boy. He has the orange head and dark purple chest.
I asked the proprietor all kinds of questions.
There were several people in and out through out the questions and
answers, all attesting to how great the birds were from this woman.
That she hand feeds and raises them and how happy they are with
their purchases, etc.
So right then and there, I knew I had to have this bird.
She got him into a smaller cage I had selected and I asked her to
pick out the female. Meet Pretty Girl. She has a black head with
a pale lavender chest and a thin turquoise line around her neck.
The woman told me they are babies and that their color will become
more intense as they age.
They will not mate unless I put a little house in the cage for them to
nest in.
I can't believe the whole thing.
I took the cage with them in it home talking and whistling to them all
the way in my car.
I'm sorry they have to live in a cage.
They are not birds to handle according to the woman.
Anyway they are mine.
I am so thrilled and delighted. Did I say happy and
over the moon?
I am grateful to the powers that be, that led me to this
today.
Life is good.
Tomorrow is judgement day, with my 1st weigh in.
I will go to bed tonight with peace of mind.
Looking forward to what the morrow has in store for me.

On Beauty

2006-11-05T15:08:00.000-08:00

My offering for the day.
On beauty. Gibson Girls, love that soft romantic look.
Had a wonderful day.
Tomorrow have a list of must do's
and then it will be Tuesday.
My day of recogning. First time on the
scale at the doctor's office.
I know it will be good news.
Actually had 2 walks today.
That's big for me.
Night all.
Sweet dreams...

Tripping down memory lane...

2006-11-04T12:03:00.000-08:00

These photo's have kind of just turned up.
I wanting to publlish them here to remind myself that in not too long
a time
I should be looking plently good again.
The oldest photo is from 1974, at the Essex House in NYC, with Leon and Stephanie Rosenblatt,
Leon and I go back to hebrew school together. We were 8 or 9yrs old when we met..
He and Stephanie have been married now, I bet close to 40 years, if that's possible.
Anyway, note the cigarette in my hand. I know I weighed at least 160 in this photo.
All of a sudden 160 looks pretty good to me.
Granted this photo is 32 yrs. old already, so youth was on my side.
The photo under the palm was taken on my 50th birthday. That was 8yrs. ago.
I know I weighed over 200, but looking at it now, I still think I looked
pretty damn good.
I'm not announcing my official top weight, post
surgery, yet.
I know it won't be long before I am ready to reveal this information.
Tuesday is my post op doctor's visit.
That will be the first time I am on a scale since the surgery, so we
shall see how it goes.

The really good news, as far as I'm concerned is that I put on my
Nike's today and actually took a walk. Go Myra.
And I actually got dressed and in my car and did errands.
I had fun today.
I am grateful.
Later.

Perserverance Pays Off!

2006-11-03T01:42:00.000-08:00

Oh my dear. What an ordeal I've been through trying to post on this blog.
Several months ago I was unable to access entry to my blog, Myra's Thoughts.
After many frustrating attempts I decided to let it go and just start a new
blog. The new blog was titled Myra's Blog, which by the way still exists, as
I only have learned to well during these past few days.
You know what? I'm going to spare you all and myself the details.
All I can say is that by persevering I was able to finally get what seemed
impossible before.
Go figure.
I am so delighted and relieved. Did I mention grateful?
I have been trying to publish to my blog for days...
Now, finally, I have.
TA DA!

At last or at least I hope so...

2006-11-03T01:32:00.000-08:00

3 new listings on eBay. What do you think??? I have my fingers crossed that this is going to magically appear in my blog, Myra's Thoughts.
Not in Myra's Blog, which is a whole other story that I will tell if this successfully pubishes in Myra's Thoughts.

Latest work listed on eBay.

2006-10-31T01:33:00.000-08:00

I just listed this piece on eBay. It is a 4 1/2" Art Squared Card. I'm mad for the
image of this woman. It's a color copy of the original hand colored antique photo that I own. I struggled with words to add
to this card..."live radiantly", "peace of mind", "the weaker sex", all came to mind. But in the end, I thought, no let this image
speak for itself. I used torn hand made paper for the base of this piece. At the last minute I decided on adding the little circle
to frame her one eye. I have used this detail on previous work. Somehow when that was done I felt the piece was finally
finished. Let's see if I get any reaction with the listing.

Favorite Collage Faces

2006-10-30T17:33:00.000-08:00

I bought these on eBay and can't find the artists signature which is really unfortunate
because I'd like to give her the credit. My hope publishing them here is that someone might recognize them and help me
get back to the artists listing. My favorite is the one in mostly browns, but they are each so beautiful and outstanding.

The day has flown by so quickly, I can't even believe it.
Time does fly, if you're having fun or not.

Going to bed now.
Night all.
Sweet dreams and
acknowledged gratitude
for yet another good day.
Thank you God!
Amen.

Good Morning Beautiful World.

2006-10-30T05:08:00.000-08:00

It's just after 8AM here on this beautiful Monday morning, October 30. 2006.
I am so grateful to be alive and participating in living. It is just 5 days since
my surgery and I feel so much better each and everyday. What a blessing.
What a miracle. I am humbled.
I hope I will never forget all the days leading up to today and that I will be capable
of living in true grace by remaining humble for the rest of my days.

I've been up for hours here at my desk, sorting through lots of the ephemera
and do da's that I use in creating my art. It feels so good to have done this.
I'm so looking forward to sitting here again, later today and having the time
of my life creating new art.

Life is good.
Let this be a productive
and positive day for us all.

So Grateful to be at Home.

2006-10-29T06:06:00.000-08:00

Gorgeous 53" orchid from my friend Sharon.
It's Sunday morning, October 29th, 9:30 AM, here in sunny, cool South Florida.
This is the first day of daylight savings and I so grateful to be at my computer
posting to my blog.
I had gastic bypass surgery this past Wednesday. I came home on Friday.
I still feel like I was hit by a truck. It's especially painful getting up and down
or in and out of bed. But truth be told, each day is better than the day before.
All things considered, I doing just great.
I was on liquids for 3 days. Yesterday had my first pureed food. Sounds yummy
right? Well interestingly enough it absolutley didn't taste that bad. The point is
that this surgery is only a tool. I must follow directions and adhere to this new eating,
exercising food plan that has been presented me.
Really it's quite simple. Protien builds muscle. Muscle burns fat. Exercise builds
muscle. Exercise burns fat. Because of the facts, it is imperative to comsume the
amount of protein they have prescribed for me and my body mass index (BMI).
One will lose weight if they don't eat or consume fewer calories, but they will not lose
as quickly as they will consuming the correct of amount of protien,
How's that for a quick lesson?
I am treating myself like a new, precious little baby. My stomach is the size on a walnut,
the same size as a newborn. I am feeding myself like I would a newborn baby. Slowly.
No liquids till 60 minutes after meals. Three meals a day, consisting of 1 1/2 oz pureed
protein and 1 oz of pureed fruit on vegtable. Plus 2 snacks. One of 6 or 8 oz of low fat
plain yogert (surprisingly this even tasted good to me yesterday) and 8oz of skim milk
in a blender with protein powder equivilant to the balance needed for the day.
It is a little complicated at first, figuring out all these details, but I'm actually doing it
and that leaves me feeling rather empowered.
I'm still not smoking and am doing breathing exercises on these little plastic machines
they had me using in the hospital. Even those patience who didn't smoke had the same
breathing machines. Anyone who is extremely overweight has some kind of compromised
breathing and laying in a hospital bed they want to make sure you don't get pneumonia or
a collapsed lung. They also want you to be getting up and down. Moving around, preferably walking.
Not only for the exercise benefits but also to improve your lung capacity and prevent blood
clots.
Most of you probably know these things already. Most people tend to eat sensibly and practice
a healthy lifestyle.
For me this is a new world. A new beginning.
Now I'm going to get a little rest.
I'm kind of laughing after all this pontificating, here I am shutting down and resting.
Love to all my many friends who have seen me through this experience. I don't think I would
have made it this far without your support and kindness. Thank youi.
Last comment...I have Bob Dylan's new CD Modern Times, playing and I'm loving it.

Big Day Tomorrow . Reporting on the last few days in my life...

2006-10-24T00:50:00.000-07:00

A card I just listed on eBay. The sentiment speaks volumes to me.
My dear friend Kay and me. Co celebration of her 65th Birthday and my
semi "Last Supper"

And so tomorrow is the "Big Event", in my life anyway.
My gastric bypass surgery.
It's hard to believe that this will mark the beginning
of the rest of my life.

The past few days have flown by.

Friday night I saw Maria Antoinette with my friends Bill and Jose.
Oh my God, what a visual feast.
From the opening scene all the way through till the end, the film was stunning.
The grounds and gardens of Versailles. The costumes of course.
The shoes and the food were some of my favorites.
The dialogue was kind of like a joke.
The actors don't speak with French accents, and the
story is coveyed, I think, through the music and the visuals.
The music rocks and so does this film.
I highly recommend seeing it.

After the movies we had a late, lovely dinner at Joe Allen's.
This all took place in our famous South Beach which is
so much fun and plenty of visuals going on, itself, on a
Friday night.

Saturday I spent doing some art and trying to tie up
any loose ends in anticipation of tomorrow.

Last night, or rather Sunday night (it's 4:20 AM,
Tuesday morning, right now) a few of us girls got
together to celebrate our dear friend Kay's 65th
Birthday and my up coming event.

We dubbed the evening "Myra's Last Supper" and
it was my last supper out, for a while at least. After
the surgery I will be eating pureed food for at least
4 to 6 weeks.

We had such a lovely evening together discussing
our upcoming elections and how grateful we each
are for all that we have in our lives.

Later this morning I have a dentist appointment and an
accupuncture treatment this afternoon... And then home
to begin the rather unpleasent, last, preoperative
things I have been instructed to do.

And then voila, before I know it will be 6:30AM,
Wednesday, October 26th and I'll be arriving at
the hospital for my scheduled noon surgery.

The hospital stay is usually 2 nights and 3 days.

My next entry here on my blog, will be post
operatively, please GOD.

I am so humbled, blessed and grateful by the
outpouring of love, support and good wishes
from all my many friends.

Thank you all and God speed.

Six More Days To Go...

2006-10-19T19:36:00.000-07:00

There are 6 more days until "The Big Event".
My surgery.
I am on a kind of spiritual high it seems.
I've been on this rather restrictive diet since Tuesday, October 12th,
in preparation for the big day. Having success in actually following
this food plan has had a positive affect on my soul I think.
The fact that I haven't had a cigarette since September 26th, doesn't
hurt either.
What about the orchids that are blooming in my house?
They seem to be a metaphor for my transformation.
I'm tired and I'm going to bed.
Just wanted to document what I'm feeling.

Think Pink Poem by Mike Hunter 1983

2006-10-19T19:35:00.000-07:00

2006-10-19T19:34:00.002-07:00

2006-10-19T19:34:00.001-07:00

2006-10-19T19:33:00.000-07:00

BOO HOO . Learning Curve Hurts!

2006-10-18T06:56:00.000-07:00

I just deleted the "Think Pink" poem it had taken me so long to publish in the first place.
I know I am changing, because I am not that upset about it.
I really only published it so Miss Thing, you know who you are, could read it, as she
is presently off line. The beautiful poem was originally meant for my eyes only and
after I published it I thought, maybe this is too private.
Oh well.
The learning curve in life, can be painful.
No pain, no gain.
Gag me with a spoon.
Life is becoming one big cliche.
Oh no.
and in the meantime, thanks to wanting to communicate with this very Miss Thing,
I find myself here blogging on a regular basis.

Hooray . I Think I Nailed It!

2006-10-17T18:43:00.000-07:00

The trick to uploading photo's, as far as I can tell, is to do it one or two at a time.
Ta Da! Done.
This is an assemblage box that I did maybe 6 years ago.

I can't believe it. I just successfully published a photo on this here Beta Blogger format.
It's devine intervention, I swear.
I think the previous problem is that I was attempting to upload five images at a time, as was
allowed before. Apparently 5 is to many photos for this new system to handle at once.
Am going to see if it will upload the next 4.
Fingers crossed. Wish me luck.

Assemblage Box. Attempt #99...

2006-10-17T18:41:00.000-07:00

Upgrading to Beta Blogging . NO FUN

2006-10-17T06:02:00.000-07:00

Well am I ever frustrated. I somehow upgraded to this new super Beta Blogger, only to experience being unable to upload
any photo's. I found some photo's of stuff I wanted to publish here on my blog. I have gone through the steps at least
10 times. Each time everything seems fine until I hit upload. The blog's upload icon keeps spinning and spinning, never
completing and republishing. I kid you not, I have endured waiting 30 minutes plus, on more than one occassion.
How maddening is this???
The only good thing, I think is that I was successful in changing the background of my blog from beige to black.
I prefer how this looks, which is rather curious as black is one of my least favorite colors. Then again, where did beige
fit in the picture? I used the former template/formate for the green that was in it mostly.
Now I will see if I am successful in publishing this new post.
Enjoy this precious day.

10 Days and Counting...

2006-10-15T18:53:00.000-07:00

Ah, it is Sunday evening, about 10PM, October 15, 2006 and I just got home for a lovely meal with a new friend named
Arlene. I met her through a doctor connection we share and it turns out we share more than that too.
In 10 days on October 25th I will be entering Holy Cross Hospital, here in lovely South Florida, to undergo gastric bypass
surgery. For anyone that is tuned in to my blog, they know this has been about a 6 week journey.
When I think about it, it's actually been a 58 year journey, cause that's how old I am and this is where my life has lead me.
Arlene is a gorgeous woman who had this surgery done several years ago. I am blessed that she is willing to be my friend
and share her experience with me.
I have a long road ahead of me, with any luck, it won't be as tough as I think it's going to be. But then again, who am I kidding?
I'm only looking to change my entire approach to life as I know it. For starters, I stopped smoking September 26th. This is a
total miracle. I feel quite empowered by this. I just wish I could be more pleasant sometimes. I mean not snap at my mother
for instance. Poor thing, she takes such verbal abuse from me. My only consulation is that I know, that she knows, how much
I love and appreciate her. She is willing to let this go because she knows how hard it must be for me to stop a bad habit like this. On top of not smoking, I have been on a rather restictive, precise, pre operative diet since this past Tuesday. I was so
nervous about this diet thing. You know, if I could stick to a diet, I wouldn't be needing to go through this gastric bypass thing
is how I was thinking about it. Meanwhile, guess what? I've stuck to this diet. I really can't believe it. I tell you it's a miracle
and that God has sent angels to surround me and keep me on this path. How else could this be happening?
That's about it with the BLAH, BLAH, BLAH for now.
For anyone out there that may read this and then may leave a comment, please know that I don't necessarily check in on this
blog spot on a daily basis. For that reason I may not get back with you in a timely fashion. (is that a disclaimer I just wrote?).
Send out peace, love and serenity to the world and to myself.
Good night and good dreams!

Afton Being Silly w/Dad and @Halloween

2006-10-13T11:55:00.000-07:00

Witchy Witch

This was Jerry's last birthday on earth. Afton was not yet 3.

Full Frontal Witch.

Cleopatra has returned. Egypt get ready!

There has got to be an easier was to be able to add comment to photos when one posts!

Photo's taken Friday the 13th 2006 for Miss Madame

2006-10-13T10:59:00.000-07:00

Folk Doll/Mouse circa early 1990"'s, by a Colorado Artist, whose name escapes me.
I sold her fabulous work in my children's clothing store, Red Road Kids Club.

Alessi Pinochio Funnel on the wall.
ExecuDuck in gold frame.
Hand colored drawing by Leon Rosenblatt.
Circa 1970's

This was a something I purchased when I worked for an interior design firm in 1969/1970.
It's signed, but I can't make out the name and I'm ashamed to admit I don't know if it's a
print or a lithograph. I do know it's hand colored.

My homage to America, my maternal Grandparents and World War I.
This is a framed silk scarf, Greetings from Ft. Lee, VA.
Beautiful embroidered post card and handkerchief from France.
My grandfather, Meyer Martin, from Hazelton, Pa.,
served in the Army during World War I.
These were keepsakes, handed down. I had them framed.

And finally this photo of my beloved, Miss Madame's Baby Collage,
by our own Miss Sandra Gordon aka Sandy Gordon aka Crabapple
aka Miss Madame. It is sitting on a box by me and featured in a
turquoise, celadon kind of grouping of things I have displayed in
my work/living area.

Of note...I am still working at perfecting copy with photo's. The learning curve continues...
I'm not thrilled with how the above is "laid out", but for now, it's the best I could do.

Memories...Old Photo's/Afton @2.Myra and Jerry circa 1969/1971.Myra and Dad circa 1975?...Myra 1983 circa Think Pink Poem...

2006-10-13T09:12:00.000-07:00

Friday the 13th

2006-10-13T06:12:00.000-07:00

So here I am thinking that my beloved friend, Miss Crabapple herself has abandoned me. I have been emailing her like crazy
and have received no reply. And then just now upon this very day, Friday the 13th, what should appear in my in messages
but an email from my beloved, via eBay, thank you very much. Oh Sandrala, I have missed you so, you have no idea. I only now
came to my blog to see your comments because you are first informing me that your computer is down and that you've been
leaving me messages here. OH MY G'D and Hallelujah, you have not deserted me at all. I was going all paranoid, thinking what had I done to offend you. I just couldn't figure out why I had stopped hearing from you especially since I had finally
found and emailed you "Think Pink", the poem by my ex, Michael, from the 1980's. Tra La Boom Dee AAAA, I'm so relieved and
thrilled to find you again.
This blogs for you!
I have not had a cigarette since Tuesday, September 26th! Miracle, no kidding! My surgery is scheduled for Wednesday, October 25th. YES! And I have adhered to a ridgid post op diet since this past Tuesday. Another miracle!!!!
I continue with weekly accupunture treatments and am so grateful to have this and the nurturing practioner in my life.
I know this is helping me alot.
The past week has been rather intense for me. I've been alot on the weepy side, crying at the littlest thing. I mean seeing something that touches me and there they are, tears in my eyes. Where is this coming from? Emotions running high, no doubt with all this
life changing work going on right now. Amazing and somewhat scarey.
I have great confidence in myself and my loving friends, who are being so supportive and helping me thru this journey.
Nora said last night, new prespectives, new realities. She is so right.
So there it is, in a nut shell, more or less.
I'm dying to upload some photo's just for you Miss Crabapple, too!

Sara's Family of Friends Pot Luck Dinner . Saturday . September 23rd

2006-09-24T12:49:00.000-07:00

And so, last night was the Big Event of the weekend, the Pot Luck Dinner at the Smith Family Home.
WOW! There were probably 30 or more friends and family gathered at this event. The children that so many of us have
witnessed growing up, are now parents themselves, with their own toddlers, who were all there. This alone would have made for a special
time for me, as I love being in the presence of children, each one so precious and unique. The fact that so many of Sara's friends were there is a testament
to how many people's lives she touched.
Everybody brought something delicious and that had been a favorite of Sara's to eat. Devon, Sara's daughter passed around
a small voice recorder for each of us to share our memories on. At this point,
many tears were shed hearing this testimony. Mostly we laughed and thoroughly enjoyed our evening together.
A good time was had by all.
I look forward to Christmas time, when we will likely see each other again at the annual Smith Christmas Gathering!
Thank you Sara for enriching our lives so. We love you girl!

Sara's Family of Friends Weekend Celebration

2006-09-24T12:07:00.000-07:00

My cherised dear friend Sara, passed away March 23rd of this year. She would have been 68 yrs. old yesterday, September the 23rd. To honor her memory, it was decided that we would invite her "family of friends" to come to a pot luck dinner as a memorial Birthday
Celebration.
One of the group ladies, Susan, held a dinner party at her home on Friday night, for Sara's daughter Devon who came in from Puerto
Rico and a small group of us. This was such a lovely evening. Susan is an incredible chef as well
as the most gracious entertainer. She served gazpacho for starters, followed by the most delicious orzo salad with roasted vegtables and another beautiful composed salad of pieces of chicken breast with fresh sugar snap peas, red and white wine
were poured. YUM! We then retired to the outside patio for custom made expresso's or cortadito's and a perfect apple tart.
Two of the highlights of the evening for me, personally, were Susan's animals. Marley, her gorgeous, black, Spanish Water Dog, who
runs around with a lime green ball in his mouth and his red tongue hanging out...too funny and cute. Susan said they call
him "The Baby Jesus". Then there is Miss Eleanor Roosevelt, a Maine Coon Cat. She is huge and will keep growing until she
is 3 yrs. old. I chanced upon her sitting on the dining room table after the dishes had been cleared. Seeing her there was
such visual impact, that dark big, fluffy, elegant cat just posed on the orange and gold tablecloth. To me it was such a
Halloween statement. Unfortunatly my photograph skills are slightly lacking in composition and cropping.
The group photo is missing about 5 of us...oh well. This documentation really is for myself. I have no clue as to who will
land on my blogspot and actually read or view this stuff. I am just happy to have these records to reflect back on these
moments.

Afton Elected 1st President of Her School!

2006-09-22T05:57:00.000-07:00

My most adored Niece, Afton, who turns 11 on November 2nd, was elected the 1st School President at her Montessori Charter
School in Islamorada, Florida. She has been attending this school since kindergarten, 6 years ago. This is the first year they
held school elections. Five children ran for President and Afton was elected! Hoory for Afton. We are so proud of her many
accomplishments, this being but one of them.

Afton is the only grandchild in our small family. Her Dad was my younger brother, Jerry, who was in a fatal car accident
when Afton had just turned 3. Because of this and for so many other reasons, she is really so very special to us. She is the sunshine of our lives, my Mother's
and mine.

Her Mother Katherine remarried several years ago and her new Dad, Joe is a great guy. My Mother and I are so grateful
to have Afton in our lives.

The one photo is of Grandma and Afton. One shows the table set with her CAKE. Another photo is of the campaign signs
she used and the other is an image of our living room.

I'm goiing to add another photo now of Afton, that for some reason did not publish with the others.

A Celebration for Afton!

2006-09-22T05:48:00.000-07:00

Art Cards . September 2006

2006-09-22T05:16:00.000-07:00

Myra's Blog

2006-09-22T05:04:00.000-07:00

Myra's BlogSo this is Friday,
September 22, 2006. Big changes are underway in my life, I am happy to say.
For starters, on Monday I am scheduled to undergo psychological testing to determine if I will be accepted to undergo gastric bypass surgery. This is by no
way a small thing in my life. The past 6 weeks have led me to finally look forward
to this very day with great anticipation. I have no doubt that I will pass this test
with flying colors. That will then put me 1 step further towards the end result of
scheduling the actual surgery. Yes! Oh my gosh, I can't believe the whole thing
really. How this all came to be, I mean. This is life changing big time in my life.

My health has been a burning issue, especially, I would say in the last 6 months.
With the swelling in my legs and ankles, I was convinced that I must have congestive heart failure. My shortness of breath upon any type of exeurtion and
my wheezing, led me to believe that I must have enphseyma too.

How relieved I was upon finally being forced to visit my MD, because of an
infected finger that was throbbing for days, before I became willing to finally
bite the bullet and see my doctor. I was so afraid because of my blood sugar
isssues that I could possibly lose the finger or even the whole hand if I did not
address this infection professional.

On the morning of my doctor appointment, an article appeared in our local
newspaper regarding a less invasive type of bariatric surgery, referred to as
the sleeve. This procedure was performed orthoscopily (sp?). Wow, I thought
to myself, I should really disscus this procedure with my doctor and ask if
he thought it was a possibility for me to have this done and would anyone consider surgery on me because I'm a smoker and am having such difficulty breathing.

With my list in hand I drove in the pouring rain with rush hour traffice to my
doctors office. After urine and blood tests, my doctor informed me that
I did not have congestive heart failure and that my kidney's were fine. The
swelling was a reaction to medication I take. He went on to tell me that I also
did not have emphysema. I have a brochical blah, blah, with asmatic tendencies.
When I asked if I would be considered a candidate for bariatric surgery, he
turned around and looked me in the eye and said YES, it will save your life.
He told me that if I had it done it would be likely that I would get off all the
medications that I take and that further more, one of the reasons I'm having
difficulty with me breathing is because I am so fat!

So there you have it. This is what happened that fateful day one month ago
exactly today. I just looked it up on my calendar and see that it was on August
22nd, that I visited my doctor.

Also of note regarding the changes in my life, is that one week prior to the 22nd, on August 15th, I went for my first acupuncture treatment. This was
actually my first step in reaching out for help with my health.

Since the 15th of August, I have had no more coffee. I drink tea instead.
I also drink 160 oz. of water every day. These were specific requests from
the acupunture practioner. She also asked my to walk 15 minutes in the morning and 15 more at night. With this I have not been as successful.
I am making progress though and I am feeling somewhat better.

But the really big, big shift - and I mean large - stellar - is about to emerge
with the completion of this highly anticipated gastric bypass surgery.

I no not, that anyone will ever read this entry in my blog.
It matter not to me.
What matters, is that I have documented this to the best of my ability, for myself, for future reference.
May I never forget the agony and despiration that I have felt for so long, that
lead me to make this decision in my life.

As the Jewsih New Year begins tonight, may God bless me and inscribe me in
The Book of Life, for another year.

Amen.

So it's Monday...

2006-06-19T12:20:00.000-07:00

myra's thoughtsAh Monday, so full of hope. The first day of the work week. Clean slate. How will
the week unfold?
Friday night's excurtion was great fun. The Gay Men's Chorus was a very entertaining evening. The men looked like an ad for Gap, all in khaki pants and
different solid, brightly colored T's...red, hot pink, orange, mango, yellow, gold,
greens and such. What visual impact this made with the 40 men on stage. The
singing was mostly good and the camping and dancing was hilarious. Afterwards,
Bill, Jose and myself went to Cafeteria for a late dinner. This is a restaurant on
South Beach that originated in New York. The place was stellar looking and is known for serving great "comfort food". We had fried chicken with waffles, shrimp
with grits and macaroni and cheese. Pretty yummy and oh so not dietetic. Got home after 1AM, which is the latest I have been out in ages.
Last night was the 5th game in the NBA playoff's. Go Miami Heat. What a game!
Basketball is so amazing. Fast and furious and you can never tell what's going
to happen next. The game was a once in a lifetime, going into overtime and
YES, the Heat finally winning by 1 point. I was so wound up I couldn't fall asleep
till after 3AM.
Had a wonderful surprise when I visited my eBay listings this morning. Three
out of the 4 cards listed have bids. Proof, therefore, that indeed there is a God.
Just kidding, of course, but what a delightful miracle. Here I am complaining about how slow things have been. This is a great relief for me and provides
the encouragement I need to keep on with this art posting stuff. Hooray.
To anyone who is reading this, perserverance pays off. Put one foot in front of
the other and just keep going on. Eventually it works out, I think.
That's it for now.
Keep good thoughts and do the next right thing.
Imagine peace. Say your prayers and remember to eat your fruits and vegtables.

Lastest work

2006-06-16T14:08:00.000-07:00

Summertime and the living is easy...

2006-06-16T14:04:00.000-07:00

myra's thoughtsSo here I
am on this lovely summer day posting on my blogspot. This friend of mine,
Sandra, she's the one that turned me on to this blogging thing, she won't let me
forget about this commitment. God bless this woman. Sandra is the reason that
I am doing art and selling it on eBay. We have a most unusual relationship.
We met doing a transaction on eBay. That was almost a year ago now, and my life
has never been the same.
I am a big believer in things happening for a reason. About messengers and such.
Sandra continues to be an inspiration and great motivater in my life and for this
and many other things I am blessed.
Tonight is The Gay Men's Chorus. A performance being held at The Colony Theatre
on Lincoln Road, South Beach. I will be attending with my friends Bill and Jose.
I am very curious about this venture and shall have to give a full report in the next
day or two.
An intersting thing happened this morning. While reading the newspaper I see
a little article on a restaurant that I know with a photograph of an old man and
the owner of the restaurant and the man's name, age and comments. I think
that this might be someone I knew as a child. The dance instructor at the Saxony Hotel on Miami Beach in the 1950's. I go to white pages on the internet
and type in the name, get a phone number and call. The man is 92 years old and totally rememebers me and my family. I am going to take him to dinner
next week. Too funny and sweet.
Saw Match Point, on Demand yesterday. What a disturbing little film. Go Woody.
Am having a hard time in accepting how slow things are on eBay, at least for
me they are. I continue to make art almost every day and list it on my eBay site.
It is so discouraging that there is such little traffic on my stuff these days. What's a girl to do? Just keep on keeping on. I really thing this a a summer
phenomena and will pass, come September (I hope so).
So there you have it, some thoughts for the day.
Love to the universe. Peace . Serenity...Do the next right thing.

Some of my latest work

2006-06-11T13:29:00.000-07:00

still a rainy day...

2006-06-11T13:26:00.000-07:00

myra's thoughts
It has been totally dark and rainy all day. I am so bored too. I had plans to see "Prairie Home Companion" with friends that got cancelled due to
to much partying last night (not me, my friends). So much for making plans. Boo Hoo. No big deal really. Just as well not to be in the car navigating
in this bad weather. I'm too distracted to really write at this time too. So time out for now.

June 11 . 2006 Rainy Lazy Day

2006-06-11T13:20:00.000-07:00

myra's thoughts

2006-06-11T13:16:00.000-07:00

myra's thoughts
I have just visited my friends blog, ArtTeaLife. What an inspiration.
I must perservere on this site and figure out how to post easily. Then remember
to visit and post on a more regular basis. I loved reading all the entries my friend
has made.
Let me see if this appears where I think it will or not...

2006-05-11T06:43:00.000-07:00

It's definitely Thursday morning, 9:40 AM over here in not so sunny South Florida.
Joyce will be dropping in today - oh goodie, clean house. Thank you Joyce. Thinking
about the people that matter in my life and how my life is enhanced in so many ways.
I am so grateful and at a more peaceful time in my life than I have known before. It seems
like a miracle and yet as each day unfolds, new delights, with my eyes I do see, with my
ears, I do hear, with my thoughts, I do write.
Remember when you are out there in the world, be an example of how beautiful the world
can still be, if only we each do the next right thing.
Sharing my reflections, first thing in the morning world, anybody listening?
m.

May 11th 2006 Thursday indeed

2006-05-11T06:24:00.000-07:00

5/11/06

2006-05-10T13:55:00.000-07:00

2006-05-08T06:57:00.000-07:00

NYC on my mind...05.05.06

2006-05-05T15:25:00.000-07:00

Hello Universe, how you all doing out there? Me, I'm thinking about heading to
NYC for The Stationary Show, Sunday, May 21 thru Wednesday, May 24th.
Anybody care to join up with? It promises to be a stimulating visual
experience, if nothing else. But oh, what if, or else? I'm only thinking of the many fun and inspiring experiences awaiting me in the Big Apple! Big M is on her way! I can just feel it.
Yes, something to look forward to doing...bring it on... some fresh, new perspective. For the eyes and for my soul. Is it to be?
In the meantime, hooray, I have finally figured out how to add photo's. YES!
Myself . m.

Art Cards . April/May 2006

2006-05-05T15:04:00.000-07:00

Art Squared from Feb. 2006

2006-05-02T13:52:00.000-07:00

2006-05-02T07:02:00.000-07:00

myra's thoughts

2006-05-02T06:58:00.000-07:00

myra's thoughtsToday is
Tuesday, May 2, 2006. It's a beautiful, clear day here is Sunny South Florida.
I have a full day ahead of me but wanted to get something posted for the lovely month of May.
I have listed some new Artist Trading Cards on eBay. My ID is Myra 7670, check it
out if you have a chance. So far I have been unable to figure out how to post photo's to this blog spot. Another way to view some of my art is to go to http://www.flickr.com/photos/pinkbird. I would love feedback on my art and welcome
others to share there art with me.
For those of you not familiar with ATC's, Artist Trading Cards, it's a niche, classification of original art, available on eBay at affordable prices. They start at
$2.99 and go up from there. Another format for affordable, original art is called
Art Squared, also available on eBay. The format for ATC"S is 2 1/2"x 3 1/2" and
Art Squared is typically 4"x 4".
I discovered these formats while doing a search on eBay for collage/assemblage.
My work is all collage at this time. Part of the journey in doing art on a daily basis is seeing what emerges.
Saw a wonderful, entertaining film the other day called "Kinky Boots". It's a British Film that reminded me very much of The Full Monty and Billy Elliot, with
it's charming, upbeat theme. This one was visually stimulating too, very creative.
I'm reading I Elizabeth, a historical novel about the first Queen Elizabeth of England. HBO has just released a piece with the same title starring Helen Miren and
Jeremy Irons, has anyone seen it? It's beautifully done I think - a feast for the eyes, the costuming is gorgeous.
Gotta run.
To be continued...

It's a new day.

2006-04-25T07:43:00.000-07:00

This is the first day of having my very own blog. Wondering how this will enhance the journey I am on? Will this open up a whole new world to me? One never knows. They say "you never know if you'll hit a home run, unless you get up to bat." So
here I am with bat in hand and keys beneath my fingers, urging me on.
I am struggling with creating something new with my art today and every day, actually. I feel so stagnant with what I've been
doing and somehow am finding it hard to be inspired, of late. I know this creative thing is a process and comes in waves and
patience is a virtue, that I have a hard time dealing with. I also know that patience and perservenance are the qualities that will
see me through this rather uninspired time in my life.
I have to laugh a little, having read what I just wrote. I have nothing to complain about really. I'm so grateful to have the luxury
afforded me in being able to devote time to making art and feel so thrilled when someone responds by actually bidding on something I've created.
I have the supreme pleasure of having met so many lovely women through this process. It is so rewarding to exchange ideas
and life with other like minded people.
With this in mind, I invite you to comment in this forum called blogging.
Remembering that it is my belief that "Peace begins with a smile". Pass it on .
Myra
4/25/06