I am working on a big commission. Mongo size. It is 6 ft. tall by 4 ft. wide and encompasses 5 generations of my client's family, over 100 photos.

I have scanned, digitally re-touched, sized, printed and cut out all the photos. As I worked the layout, I had to resize, reprint and cut everything out again because things kept changing. And changing. And changing. This process took weeks.

Then I researched backgrounds, gathering all sorts of related ephemera from various sources such as eBay, flea markets, my own collection. Stuff like maps of hometowns, college campuses. Pertinent sheet music, menus. I then scanned, sized and printed those items, using a mix of originals and copies.

I am working 2 canvasses side by side on tables. One is the background, the other the foreground. They take up a whole lot of studio space as you can see. The cats freely walk under them but I have to walk on top of my furniture to change the stereo, turn the lights on and off, etc. It is nuts.

After I put the background materials down, I moved that canvas to a vertical position so I could prepare for the painting. I put little sticky notes over parts of the composition that I want to be sure and "keep" as in NOT paint over them. I am happy with the background, so pleased I am inspired to do another similar work.

Did I mention I have a deadline? And that it's April 1st? No that's not a joke. Totally do-able. The painting, after all, is the fun part, what I live for.

So why am I paralyzed with fear!?!?!???????????

Probably because this is the most planned of any work I have ever done. With all the photos, it pretty much had to be that way out of necessity. And even though I am capable of being quite the planner girl in other venues, this goes somewhat against my artistic process. I am typically very intuitive. Usually I just start to paint and trust the process.

And I guess that's what I need to do here. Just start to paint already.

And trust the process.

You may or may not know it's possible to customize the welcome message on your cell phone. On my phone, this is the text that appears right above the time.......it previously said "Sprint PCS." Isn't that nice and personal. Ok fine, I never really thought about it before but once I heard this idea (from where I have no idea) I thought why not have any greeting I want!?!?!?

I changed it to "Breathe." Yeah, yeah, I should probably do this more than each time I look at my cell phone. But it's a start.

So now, every time I open the phone that little message gives me a instant of pleasure. Truly. I am easy to please.

Plus, oh yeah, I remember to take a nice long breath.

Daily OM

I've been receiving the Daily OM for quite awhile now and am frequently inspired by the writings. Today's newsletter really resonated with me, cause I'm all about passion (some might say to a fault).

February 27, 2006
A Life Of Passion
Getting Back To What You Love

There are times in life when we are committed to pursuing our passions. Every molecule in our body is focused on doing what we love. At other times, necessity and responsibility dictate that we put our dreams aside and do what needs to be done. It is during these moments that we may choose to forget what it is that we love to do. There are many other reasons for why we may leave our passions behind. A hobby may lose its appeal once we realize it will never turn into our dream job. Someone important to us may keep telling us that our passions are childish and unsuitable - until we finally believe them.

Forgetting about what you love to do can be a form of self-sabotage. If you can forget about your dreams, then you never have to risk failure. But just because we've decided to ignore our passions doesn't mean they no longer exist. Nothing can fill the emptiness that remains in a space vacated by a passion that we have tossed aside. Besides, life is too short to stop doing what you love, and it is never too late to rediscover your favorite things. If you gave up playing an instrument, painting, drawing, spending time in nature, or any other activity or interest that you once loved to do, now may be the time to take up that passion again. If you don't remember what it is that you used to be passionate about, you may want to think about the activities or interests that you used to love or the dreams that you always wished you could pursue.

You don't have to neglect your responsibilities to pursue your passions, and you don't have to neglect your commitments to do what you love. When you make an effort to incorporate your interests into your life, the fire within you ignites. You feel excited, inspired, and fed by the flames that are sparked by living your life with passion for what you love.

To sign up for newsletters, horoscopes or browse the library, go to this link:
http://www.dailyom.com/cgi-bin/browse/browse.cgi

True fear confessions

My friend (I hope it's ok to call her this even though we have never met) Deb Trotter posted something that prompted me to tell this story. http://www.cowboyssweetheart.typepad.com/
Her blog is filled with funny observations, cowgirl sensibilities and yes, terrific art to boot. So check it out. But first, the story.....

Many years ago when I was a budding artist.....no, slash that, it was before I was budding.....more like a wannabee budding artist. I was simply playing around. Taking some art classes at UC Berkeley, doing art every day for the first time in my life and reveling in idealism and discovery.

I had this opportunity to enter a Box show at a gallery out in Pt. Reyes. This was a gallery I used to frequent; my friend Michelle lives in West Marin and we would drive out to Pt. Reyes for lunch, hanging out, hiking, etc. Anyway, they had a Box show every year where local artists were all given a box to paint, decorate, embellish. The boxes were then placed in a silent auction to raise money for some good cause that I cannot recall. A bunch of us decided to do it and somehow we snared boxes. Our efforts were thrown in among boxes by the "real" artists - names I recognized and respected. You see, in those days I couldn't even call myself an artist without stumbling over the word, muttering it under my breath or some such thing. I didn't feel worthy of the distinction.

To say I ruminated over my box minimizes my obsession. I just didn't know which way to go. Should I make a "pretty" box? What about the every popular nature theme? Or even go the functional route? I was in way over my head. Ultimately I just let loose and the muse took over.

First I covered it with green reptilian-like paper. I painted the inside and made these holographic stars that I glued on the walls. I embedded finger hooks in the side walls, beckoning fingers, kind of like follow me sort of fingers. I strung beads and looped them around each finger, entwisting them with a little bling. And then, the pièce de résistance.....my skeleton head. He is perched on top of a spring so he bobbles about wildly. I put a crucifix necklace on him, red of course. And then completed his look with a black cowboy hat. I encased the entire outside of the box with Caution tape that said:
"Caution: Buried Sewer Line Below"

Perfection. I was so proud. It was exactly as I had hoped. I named it What lies beneath.



















To me it had deep meaning that was obvious.
All that glitters is not gold....temptation is at every corner....latent (or NOT) religious stuff.....split personalities.....good vs. evil.....in my own head I was saying so very many things.
What lies beneath.

But no one else seemed to get it. I could tell by the way their eyes would sort of dart about nervously as they gazed on my creation. Like what the hell is this all about. Thinking to themselves, ah, Mary Beth really needs to get back into therapy.

I loved this box.

But ultimately I became fearful that no one would bid on it and I would be publicly humiliated.

So I did what any self respecting artist would do. I had my husband enter a bid under an assumed name using his work address and phone number. He surreptitiously (at least I think) entered the minimum $25. During the opening I literally stalked my box, waiting to see if anyone would increase his offer.

But John won the box. Which is why it is still in my possession today. I displayed it in my studio for years but lately it has been relegated to the top of the closet. I got it out today to photograph and I am bringing it into the studio again. There are a lot of lessons in this box and I think I was meant to keep it for that reason.

That skeleton head is no longer mocking me. I think he gets it too.

I feel a collage coming on

Thanks to my friend Nancy for these sayings.....

1. You - Off my planet
2. Not the brightest crayon in the box now, are we?
3. Well, this day was a total waste of makeup.
4. Errors have been made. Others will be blamed.
5. I'm not crazy, I've just been in a very bad mood for 40 years.
6. Allow me to introduce my selves.
7. Sarcasm is just one more service we offer.
8. Whatever kind of look you were going for, you missed.
9. I'm just working here until a good fast-food job opens up.
10. I'm trying to imagine you with a personality.
11. Stress is when you wake up screaming and you realize you weren't asleep.
12. I can't remember if I'm the good twin or the evil one.
13. How many times do I have to flush before you go away?
14. I just want revenge. Is that so wrong?
15. Can I trade this job for what's behind door #2?
16. Nice perfume. Must you marinate in it?
17. Chaos, panic, and disorder -- my work here is done.
18. Earth is full. Go home.
19. Is it time for your medication or mine?
20. How do I set a laser printer to stun?
21. I'm not tense, just terribly alert.

Trying to decide between my favorites.....#3, 6, 19 or 21.

Note to self

Never watch 2 episodes of 24 back to back and expect to sleep. I will be up all night. The good news is I didn't have a stroke.

We are catching up on our Tivo since we were out of town. And to say that 24 is getting intense is an understatement. I would have been screaming at the weiner President except I don't have a voice. Jack is the only one who could possibly fix this cluster fuck (that is a military term, my husband told me so). I am even liking Audrey this season.

So I guess I just have to wait till Monday to see where this goes next.

Of Eats and Feets

Our hotel in Orlando sold tickets to Universal Studios, tours, etc. Here is a portion of one of the signs, which cracked me up as I was eating breakfast. It probably also cracked up the gentleman sitting next to the sign as I was trying to photograph it. He was giving me a really weird look.

The hotel was a Hampton Inn which is our usual, but there was a bigger array of breakfast food than usual. Including all sorts of carry-out snack things. I was compelled to pick up a few like a package of Brown sugar Pop Tarts and a box of low fat Granola. Because they were free don'tcha know. What is it about the lure of free food?

The thing is, you never know when you might be stranded in the car and have to forage for food. Lordy, between the snacks I had on hand, the free snacks I gathered at the show (can you say Famous Amos cookies?) and the stash from the Hampton, we could have eaten out of the car for a week.

And, per request, here is a picture of my skinny ol' feet wearing their Princess shoes. First time I have ever photographed my own feet.

The shoes are made by Onex. They have some cushioning in the sole so they are cloud-like. Every part of them is soft as butter, I kid you not. Just a tiny wedge heel of about one inch.

So many stories, so little time....

Where to start.

My new Princess shoes……comfy little sandals with some bling on them. Just what a girl needs when in Florida. Some say they are "fancy" but I don't think so, perhaps just a smidge over the top. They look nice on my foot and they feel so great. I wore them for days on end with no blisters at all. Pretty amazing for me because I have tender feet, what else would you expect from a princess.

Vincent Van Gourd. Yes, I was in a show with an artist going by the name Vincent Van Gourd. Actually they were good looking gourds if you’re into that sort of thing. 'Nuff said.

Kiki of the Tiny Treasure Tent. Many of these shows have a tent where children can purchase small pieces of art for moderate prices, usually under $25. The Artigras organizers asked the participating artists to donate works so I gave a couple of repros. That's how I met Kiki. She selected my work and then her mother brought her over to meet the artist. She was adorable and shy, a petite redhead with creamy skin. She seemed "in awe" of me to say the least. What a doll; I am so pleased she selected my art to hang in her room.

Scrapbooking on Steroids. Every once in awhile someone will compare my work to scrapbooking and clearly there is a connection since I am using family photos in square format works. So this is my new phrase.

Small World. We were stunned and amazed when a couple we know from Cincinnati walked into the booth the first day. They were vacationing in a nearby town and attended the show with relatives. When they entered Artigras, Wayne joked, "wouldn't it be funny if Mary Beth was here?" Then another couple from St. Louis showed up. Everybody knew everybody else from when we all worked for Safeco Insurance years ago. It was great to catch up a bit; just wish I would have had more time. Needless to say, they were shaking their heads over the fact I worked in the insurance world all those years.

We are in Orlando. Drove over after the show. Teardown took us only a little over an hour even with my multi-tasking the final sale of the day. We are going to spend the night here to hopefully make our trip home a little bit more manageable. We took the turnpike and stopped to enjoy the array of fast food at Ft. Drum Plaza. Whew, that was a lot of stimulation. Lights, sounds, smells, you name it, much like an indoor carnival. Way too much going on for me. I ate a Nathan's chili cheese dog; John had a Philly Cheese Steak. Then we got the heck out of there.

Once we were back on the road, the first exit was Yeehaw Junction. I am not making this up. John kept driving despite my yelling Yeeeeeeeeee Hawwww. Of course this didn'’t help my already sore throat. Too much talking at the show on top of me being half sick already. I feel certain John is hoping I get laryngitis. It has happened a couple times during our marriage (that I lost my voice) and he tries to put on a face of concern but I know he is secretly rejoicing over the potential for peace and quiet.

Artigras ended up a financial success and even made up in part for the Boca show so the trip overall was profitable. It was strange though as I usually sell so many of my smaller works and the Florida people seemed more interested in the big stuff. I also sold 2 abstracts which was nice. Including one that has been living over my mantle for the last few months; I am going to miss that one. Which I guess means I need to get back to work.

When in Jupiter

Well, we are here, just 30-40 miles north yet it seems so different. The minute we arrived I felt more at home for some inexplicable reason.

The booth is set up and I am ready to go. I totally re-arranged my work and have presented the art in a new way. I think it is good. We can only hope. There is a champagne preview breakfast tomorrow morning so I need to be up and at em bright and early. Which means I should be sleeping now cause I didn't sleep last night and I am whacked. Physically and mentally exhausted and head-achey.

But first........dinner tonite was a spot called the Food Shack. It is pretty much a local's restaurant although I heard the NY Times did a review so I guess they get some tourists. Luckily Claire's friend Cher knew about it and told us. So of course we went. And had probably the best meal of the trip.

We sat at the bar/counter which meant we could watch the cooking. We met the owner/chef who is delightful. Also pretty easy on the eyes. I had a "regular" next to me and I ordered what he suggested. Sweet Potato Crusted Yellowtail Snapper over greens, green beans & mangoes with key lime garlic dressing. Oh my goodness, I thought I had died and gone to heaven. Honestly, all my taste buds were covered.
Sweet. Check.
Salty. Check.
Crunchy. Check.
John had horseradish crusted Swordfish. It was also delish. We shared some amazing Key Lime pie for dessert. Truly, this was a charmed dining experience.

We are going back tomorrow night.

Miami Beach Sunset

Not the beach really, this is the view over the traffic jam as I was hanging out the top of Claire's convertible. The clouds were so incredible I was immune to the traffic, but then I wasn't driving.

It was a beautiful day and I finally caught some rays. I even have budding tan lines, attained while sensibly wearing a #30 sunscreen.

Claire and I had a great day touring Miami Beach. The architecture is amazing, such crisp style paired with the retro pastel color palette that is so Miami Beach. Fashion abounds and the people watching is world class. The boat show is also in town.....to use the word "boat" to describe these floating monstrosities is not really adequate. We are talking multi million dollar ocean going yachts here, many are 3 and 4 stories tall, simply stunning in appearance. This little Midwestern girl has never seen anything like it.

We met up with John for dinner in Ft. Lauderdale. Sidewalk dining at a fantastic Italian spot on Las Olas. I think we were all in the mood for Italian after hearing the food talk from Olympics coverage. And it did not disappoint. Yum.

Then came home and stayed up late watching Whale Rider. Claire and I were drawn to this film because Lisa Gerrard (of Dead can Dance) was the composer. Her music is a haunting backdrop. And the movie is good; sweetly touching. You might need Kleenex. We also saw The Parrots of Telegraph Hill the other night. A great documentary that any animal lover would enjoy plus lots of San Francisco scenery that brought back memories for me and John.

But I am back to work today. We are heading a little north to Jupiter. We'll set up the booth or rather John will set up the booth and I will hang the art. Then get settled in a hotel for the next few days. I believe we are going to have lovely weather this weekend. The show is Sat, Sun, Mon. I am cautiously excited.

This is my new friend. Let's call him Francis. He hangs out in the wetland area near the pool. I was sketching over there the other day (yes, I actually pulled out a sketchbook!) and he kept coming closer and closer. I took about thirty pictures of him, a la fashion photographer. I wasn't able to draw him cause he kept moving so much. He is a very curious guy and seems remarkably tame.

The weather has been so darn cold here, record breaking in fact. Which totally sucks. I mean crap, it has been warmer AT HOME than it is here. It is balmy today though and I am hoping we will get to the pool or beach. I had a pedicure yesterday so my toes are ready for their debut.

Continuing in our exploration of country music, we saw Walk the Line the other night and WOW what a great movie. I was honestly surprised at how much I enjoyed it. Prior to the movie, I knew very little about Johnny and June, except for a few performances I had seen on TV when I was a child. Joaquim Phoenix IS Johnny Cash though, at least it seemed that way to me. An amazing and inspired performance. I bought the soundtrack for John as a Valentine's gift. That is code for I got it for me, especially since I opened it and listened to it in the car before I gave it to him. I also bought some chocolate hearts that John claimed he gave them to me for Valentine's. We have an easy marriage that way.

We are headed to Miami Beach today. The sun is shining and it is gorgeous.

Well I have dipped my toe into the Florida market and now I have gangrene. Ok, maybe it's not that bad, my inner/outer drama queen must be talking. Sales were low as in horrible. As in non-profitable we lost money on the trip low. My neighbors at the Boca show tell me this was not the norm and to definitely give FL another try. Which I will because of course I'm in Artigras next weekend. And I am hopeful that will present a group of more like minded people. Cause the Boca crowd was just a little different. Sunglasses worth more than my computer. Not to mention purses and shoes. I am a little vain about my looks and such but these women put me to shame. I am positively LOW maintenance down here.

In all fairness, I met many lovely folks and the vast majority were supportive and complimentary of my art. My friend Karyl told me she heard that you have to hear 100 compliments to erase the sting of one ugly remark. Luckily I did experience that kind of ratio because there were a couple real cutting comments that just knocked me flat. The woman who stood in the middle of my booth and proclaimed (imagine loud east coast accent) "why anyone would want pictures of someone else in their home is beyond me." But on the other hand, I so enjoyed my conversations with a number of people including a woman who had recently left her corporate job to pursue creative interests. Much like I did six years ago. She was delightful.

And I saw the most amazing sights. Dogs were the hit of the weekend. Wearing visors, the favored doggie accessory here on the southeast coast. Saw one dog wearing a ruffled dress. But the winner of the doggie fashion show was a Peekapoo sporting a pink suede jacket with matching pink suede boots. On all four feet.

Unbelievable.

I’ll tell you a secret about my husband. He listens to country music. One day I got into his truck and the radio display said “The Bull”…..I didn’t know the station but it only took me a second or so to identify it as country. Ya think?

Generally I am not a big fan of country music but every once in awhile I kind of enjoy listening. Some of the tunes are pretty snappy and the musicians seem decently talented. And I really like to make fun of the lyrics.

So we’re on this road trip and I am controlling the radio, a play mix of NPR, iPod, CD’s. It's pretty eclectic. Yesterday I was playing the Seek game and found a Nashville station called The Wolf. I don’t know what’s up with the animal names but yeah, you guessed it. They were just voted #1 country station in the nation at a self proclaimed big deal radio thing in Vegas. And I will have to say, it’s a great station. 40 minute spots of music featuring a very unusual mix of old and new country, classic rock, and a female DJ with a British accent. Hmmm, are we still in Nashville?

The first song we heard was “Cheatin,” a soulful tune about the down side of cheating. Our song’s heroine basically took everything from her bum ex, prize possessions such as the trailer and the truck. It is actually a pretty funny song to which I could relate although the terms were slightly different in my situation.

The second song was about a guy coming home from work, he’s tired, just driving his truck minding his own business when someone in a foreign car (while talking on a cell phone) cuts him off then gives him the finger. Our hero plugs along and loses a parking spot to a Mercedes Benz. Etc, then goes into his refrain, Some Beach.........you get the drift. It’s hilarious.

This morning NPR was playing classical instead of Diane Rheem. We were about to fall asleep so I punched up another station and couldn’t believe my ears. The first song I heard was “Cheatin.” And then…….I already knew what it was just from the first notes……..'"Some Beach"…I couldn’t hear the whole song cause we were getting gas and John turned the car off. Most likely to stop me from singing at the top of my lungs. And my cowboy boots sauntered in to pick up a Yoohoo Mocha. They don’t exactly have Starbucks here in the middle of nowhere Georgia.

We are staying in a Motel Six masquerading as a Hampton Inn. All right, perhaps I am being a bitch. The room is actually fine. There is a Hampton signature lap desk that I have come to know and love. It is available for purchase by calling 1-888-224-7730. I think that means you will be charged if it shows up missing. We have free wi-fi. But it still looks like a souped up Motel Six. The doors open to the parking lot.

The trip so far was uneventful which is good. John drove. I slept. When I was awake I was knitting. I didn't sleep at all last night so the car seemed like my best option. This is why I have my special car pillow to prevent my neck from lolling out of control and giving myself whiplash.

Atlanta is fucked traffic-wise. People are nuts, driving like they are crazed which always complicates things. Especially some fool in a white Lexus. He gave us the finger. John waved. We finally got through Atlanta rush hour, which lasts until past 7 pm apparently. We are in Macon.

Japan Spa and Hong Kong Spa are nearby. Whatever that means. I don't know if this is code for something else, like a massage that isn't really a massage, winkwink. John didn't know either but there were billboards. Also several billboards to "Donate your Boat. Once again, I don't know what they meant, like donate your boat meaning a huge car. Or donate your boat meaning a money sucking flotation device. I am not sure. Honestly I never thought charitable organizations were that interested in boating. But we're in the South now so who knows?

And now, for the packing part of the program

Packing the art is one thing. Even though there's a lot of it, 100+ pieces, there are only so many ways you can do it. We use carpet padding for the large canvasses, with bungie cords to hold it in place. The smaller stuff fits into large plastic containers, each piece separated by carpet padding and/or wax paper. The wax paper helps with varnish stickiness, clearly more of a problem when there's a lot of humidity.

But my clothes. That is another story. Yee gads, I wish I could simplify this in some way. But no, I always have to pull everything that fits ( a moving target) out of my closet and try on various combinations while I consider every possible layering option. Then I look to shoe choices and complicate it further.

After considering many options I believe I am going with my kitschy skirts and cowboy boots which is what I usually wear to the fall shows. The summer shows I wear the same skirts with flip flops. But I don't think it will be warm enough for that as 60's is not what I consider flip flop weather. Usually a camisole on top but in this case I think I will have another layer or two on top as well.

This image is a new t-shirt I just got........what you can't see from the photo are the sequins! Is this NOT Boca!?!??!?!? It will be perfect with a denim skirt and my boots.

The gallery visit was good on Saturday, great in fact. I liked them, they liked me and they wanted the art for a show. My abstracts!!! It was a good match all around. Once we have some details firmed up I will post more information.

Here are the Florida shows if anyone wants to come!

Feb 11-12
Boca Raton Museum of Art
Art Festival
Mizner Park, Boca Raton, FL

Feb 18, 19, 20
Artigras
Jupiter, FL
http://www.artigras.org/

I am starting to get excited which means my energy is flying off in every different direction. Again. At times like this it is very hard for me to stay in the moment. Which is just one of the many many reasons I do Yoga. Class last night was wonderful and the meditation at the end.......well, there just aren't any words. I felt at peace.

For a few hours anyway. Got home about 8 pm, had dinner, watched 24 on Tivo, went to bed, got up (about 11 pm) worked for awhile, went back to bed.

The good news is I have lost some of the pesky holiday weight. The other, even better good news is I got a good report on the biopsy, as in it's nothing. It is looking much better too.

The Hometown Team

That would be Anheuser-Busch this year. Now I always think they have great commercials. And this year was no exception as my number one commercial from the Super Bowl was the one with the horses. Of course.

There is a baby Clydesdale (guess that is a colt?) who is in the barn looking at the wagon the big horses pull. There are lots of close up shots of his face and you can tell he is dreaming of the day when he will be a big horse and finally get his turn. He figures out a way to get his head into the harness and tries to get it rolling. You see him struggling at this for awhile then finally the wagon is moving out of the barn and he is simply glowing with little horse pride. Pan to a shot of the back of the wagon where there are two of the big horses pushing it from behind.

Awwwwwwww............I know I know I am sappy. But I loved it.

And the Steeler's won so John is happy.

I got up at 6:30 am today. Did some quick email, slammed coffee with my daily raw nuts fix, showered and was out the door by 7:30 am for a very early appointment with the dermatologist. He had to biopsy this thing on my chest which sucks as we are going to Florida next week and I know I'll want to wear tanks and camisoles. Hopefully it will be healed?

I know it shouldn't surprise me, but I am amazed at how much I got done today. Certainly it was due to my early rising. Plus the fact that I got up and just started moving, didn't do my usual slow mosey into the day. So I was quite productive and have many items crossed off the list. Of course I have also added a bunch of stuff to the list. But everything seems do-able.

Got accepted into Brookside. Hooray, I did that show last year and did well. But I am finding you can take nothing for granted in this fickle business. So I never for a second assumed I would get in again this year. A very dear friend of mine (who was in Cherry Creek last year) has suffered a horrible rash of rejections for no apparent reason and she is freaking out. I am painfully aware this could happen to me at any second. Nothing is certain, there are no guarantees.

Shades of Gray

For me, issues are seldom black and white. Seems like there are lots of variables no matter what the situation and I can usually think of them.

Keeping track of sex offenders always seemed fairly cut and dry. In fact, the registry is a minor penalty. Truth be known I would actually want to cut off their genitals, but maybe that's just me.

Except for this story I read in the Post Dispatch on Sunday. Here's the link if you care to read the entire article.
http://tinyurl.com/awjjb

In a nutshell.... it was 1993 and this guy was 18. He had consensual sex with a 13 year old. He didn't realize she was 13. She was apparently sexually active and dressed well above her biological age. I can see this happening as I knew girls like that. Not me of course, I was the chubby nerd girl with coke bottle glasses and braces on my teeth. Despite my raging hormones, no one would have ever wanted to have sex with me at age 13.

Once the guy found out how young she was, he went to her mother and apologized. The Mom forgave him. The girl's aunt, on the other hand, went to the police and some deal was cut where he would plead guilty then serve probation for 2 years at which time he was supposed to get a clean slate.

So this guy does the probation, goes on to college, gets married, has 2 kids, becomes a police officer. His wife has a small daycare operation in their home. They are living a good life.

But the whole clean slate thing didn't work out. He ended up on the Sex Offender registry of several states. He lost his job, his wife was ordered to close down her job and now he can't visit his kids at their school.

It seems sad to me, like there should be some way to cut this guy a break. I guess I didn't really imagine myself rooting for a "sex offender." But it seems black and white to me.

Thank goodness I can depend on Marian for documenting my life when I always forget my camera.

This was last night, my bargain outfit. Pants (previously mentioned diaphanous silk), that I got in Hawaii, my friend Lois scrounged through some rack for them (in my size only!), reduced from a crazy 3 digit price to low 2 digits. Camisole, same deal, I found it here though. The shrug is from a cheap Asian import store which fills in as my local version of Chinatown. Total = well under $100 for the whole get-up. Also intentionally loose enough to hide my stubborn holiday pounds.

See that bracelet on my wrist? The gold and diamond one? Well I lost it last night but luckily a friend found it. Ya think I need a safety chain!?!?

Speaking of diamonds. Smart mouth Marian thinks I need a diamond solitaire to go with my earrings. Naturally she mentioned it right in front of John, ha! What is not to love about this woman!?!?!??!

And doesn't John look cute by the way?

The end of a crazy (in a good way) week

I'd like to thank the Academy. Oops, sorry, I'm in the wrong dream sequence.

Seriously, I'd like to thank everyone from Chesterfield Arts for hosting a fun and glamorous fundraising event last night. Thanks for all their work bringing the arts to our community. And last but not least,thanks for giving my donated painting, Mother Bird, the first place prize at Art Feast. It was CASH ($500) and financed my bidding for the evening, allowing me to acquire a Paul E piece I was dying for, how cool is that!??! And what a rush to walk in to this fabulous evening and find out I had won a prize oh be still my heart, this is the stuff I DO dream about.

Of course this also meant my art had moved from silent auction to LIVE auction status. Oh my God, I was afraid I was going to barf when they auctioned it off and, as luck would have it, I was really (yes, REALLY) in the bathroom at that time, thankfully not barfing.

http://www.chesterfieldarts.org/index.html So here's the link. You can see past exhibits including "On my Word" which is a show I was in last year. And I expect there will be some photos of Art Feast shortly; there is just a promo photo right now.

Des Moines Here I come!

I am a crazed maniac right now because I found out I've been accepted into the Des Moines Arts Festival. The #3 show in the country. Only 150 artists. The competition was fierce and I just can't believe it. I keep pinching myself I am so thrilled.

I have had a number of show rejections and am relieved acceptances are starting to roll in cause I need to make some money. How crass is that? But my cute little car is being a pain in the you know what. We had 2 separate car repair incidents this week with a total cost over $1000. Ouch, not what I needed. I am very disappointed in this car, my adorable "I'm going to keep it forever" red Saab. Only 54,000 miles and it seems to be falling apart. GM, what have you done to these cars??????? Needless to say, a new car is not in my near future.

It is rainy and gray outside. I'm in the studio all day though which makes me very happy. Then we have to get dolled up tonite for a swank fundraising event for Chesterfield Arts. I painted my toes for the occasion. Toenails I mean, I'm not that nuts.

Be, Bee, Bejesus?

I am buzzing right along on my list and feel very invigorated this week. Of course I am probably boring the bejesus (did I just say that?) out of everyone.

Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
bejesus

be-je-sus; be-jee-zus

Function: interjection

Etymology: alteration of by Jesus-- used as a mild oath; used as a noun for emphasis

"scares the bejesus out of me"

At least I am using the word properly.

I love these old words and phrases. A friend used one on the phone the other day, "living the life of Riley." Stopped us both in our tracks and we started cracking up. It was so funny how it just rolled off her tongue as if she were channeling one of her deceased grandparents. Naturally I am going to use it in a collage.

I met with my big commission client last night. I had prepared a slide show of the layout progress and was hoping I was on the right track. You never know about this stuff and I was nervous. I've been working my butt off (figuratively of course - regrettably it is still back there, still too snug in sexy jeans, still encased in old lady jeans). I explained the process to the client. Mainly scanning, retouching and doing layout of nearly 150 photos spanning five generations of her family. Working 2-6' x 4' side by side canvasses for layout, moving back and forth from one to the other. It is a crazy number of photos to work into one piece and I have questioned my sanity more then once these last few weeks.

But it all came together last night as the client was very happy with my work. So happy it brought tears to her eyes. Which felt incredible to me, not that I want to make her cry, but happy cry is good. And it was good to be on the right track. It will be much easier leaving for Florida knowing I have the layout done. When I return I will get down to the gluing and painting which is hopefully when the real magic will begin. I can't wait!

The other commission is coming along well too. Funny thing about that. Since I have been working on this mongo piece, it seemed so much easier to do the 20 x 20. Same way with the few 6 x 6's I have made this week. I felt refreshed when I returned to those familiar sizes and that was a nice side benefit.

I also talked to the gallery owner and have an appointment for them to view some of my originals. And get this.........they like my abstracts........woo hoo..........how exciting is that. So, if all goes well on that front, perhaps I can get my abstracts out there in front of an audience. Oh how that would please me.

Seems like my favorite hair styling tool of the moment is a dryer sheet. Yes, you heard me right........dryer sheet, as in the laundry product.

My hair is baby fine and this time of year it carries so much static I can hardly believe it. So if I even touch it briefly, say while getting dressed or, God forbid, running a brush through it, I get this wild electrified look. Remember when you were a kid and used to rub a balloon against your head (ok, I sometimes still do this to entertain the grandkids). Well, that's the look. The only way to calm it down is with water or to use a dryer sheet. Hence my new styling program. The nice thing (NOT) is I always have this Fresh linen scent emanating from my head.

A day in the life

Tuesday, here's how it went:

- Got up, had coffee, blogged my list, read some other blogs and email
- Scrambled one egg and warmed 2 pieces of thinly sliced turkey, breakfast of the week
- While eating I re-printed the edits for big commission, then worked in studio for 3 hours
- John and I messed around with the repros(as opposed to each other, how sad is that?) and still can't get the color right for this one painting. I ordered mats and clear bags
- Shower, clothes, makeup, hair - 20 minutes
- Quick lunch (plain Greek yogurt with local honey- which is supposed to help allergies and sinus- plus muesli) - 15 minutes while reading the mail
- Dentist, high marks for excellent dental hygiene, no cavities although old fillings beckon replacement. Yeah yeah I find more and more parts of my body beckon replacement at this point.
- Stopped at ABC trading to get a wrap for semi-formal event this weekend. Got this lacy shrug-like thingie that looks really cool and was very cheap. Plus it has sequins on it, tee, hee, hee. I always wanted to wear sequins and envisioned something way over the top. These are black and rather subtle really, not like my fuschia boa but that's a story for another day.
- Sprint store, traded my phone for a new one. The battery was shot and it actually cost less to get a new phone than it would to get another battery. I selected a phone that works as.........drumroll please..........a phone. This is a near obsolete item which you know if you have been in a cellphone store lately, it's all about multi-function. But I really just wanted a phone. One requirement only, I wanted to see the # of the incoming call on the front of the phone. The one I got is small, cute and black. It has outrageous ring tones. I lusted over the sleek Razor-like phone, in fact I actually pawed it in front of the sales guy. But it was way out of my budget. Their computer went down and I had to wait maybe 5 minutes extra which I was doing quietly, for which I was given a $20 credit (? huh ? since when did cell companies turn so polite???) promptly redeemed on accessories like a 2nd car charger so John and I no longer have to share. They transferred my phone book, voice mail etc for free. Got 300 more minutes a month plus free anytime minutes starting at 7pm(instead of 9pm) for only $5. Hooray for Sprint.
- Checked out new Nutrition store in the Valley. They are going to order some of my favorite food from CA that I can't find around here.
- Called neighbor kid to order Girl Scout cookies, yeah, that's not exactly nutritiously sound is it? Nor is it on my SouthBeach plan......
- Hemmed my diaphanous silk pants for the previously mentioned semi-formal event. Now what the f*%k was I thinking when I thought that hemming satin lined silk pants was within my feeble sewing capabilities........yeesh, several hours later I would have gladly handed anyone $50 bucks for taking these dudes off my hands. But they are done now and seem to be equal length all around which is something of a minor miracle.
- Dinner with John (Asian chicken stew, yum, my honey is the best)
- Caught up on a little Tivo
- Worked on computer for a couple hours. Scanned pieces for 20x20 commission, developed my layout, emailed client
- And I finally made a decision! No repros for FL shows. I spent some time reading the repro policy and it is clear as mud. So it seems pretty obvious to me - if I don't even know what they are saying, I shouldn't try to do it, huh? Hopefully we can get this together before 4 Bridges show.

Spinning my wheels

I feel like a worker bee lately. As we prepare for Florida, I have so much going on it's hard to keep everything straight in my head or on paper.

I am a list maker, always on graph paper of some sort......those squares, what can I say? Anyway, once I go through the ritual of writing it down, usually everything is committed in my head and I find I never have to refer to it again. But I do of course since the act of scratching things off is so rewarding. And yes, of course I have played that game where I do something not on the list then add it on just for the sheer thrill of crossing it off. Can you say anal?

But now I am in this place where I have so much going on I can't even remember to put it on the list. And the things on the list are not lodging in my head like they normally do; in fact, I am living by the list right now because I can't remember crap. And for me, that's a sign too much is going on.

Ok, so here goes......before we leave for FL......that is 2 weeks and 2 days.......I need to do the following:

1. Complete new 20 x 20 commission and mail to recipient
2. Re-do print-outs of photos for 6' x 4' commission, finalize layout and get background materials assembled/meet with client
3. Send CD of images to gallery owner who requested them
4. Write promo for custom work to hang in booth/prepare a questionnaire to use when someone purchases a custom piece, kind of a checklist (this may have to wait)
5. Finish more 6x6's for FL inventory, probably 2 dozen more, 12 which are in the works already
6. Review show entries that will be due during our absence/make decisions and just enter them already
7. Make final decision of repros, order bags, mats if necessary
8. Final inventory count for FL shows
9. Scan and Photoshop new photos
10. Review prices and prepare new price lists for FL, buy price stickers
11. Deliver ArtFeast donation
12. Deliver art to be photographed for slides
13. Email jpgs for slide preparation
14. Monthly altered book project

As I review the list it occurs to me some of these items are on here because I can't make a decision. They've been on the list for awhile now yet I still drag my feet. Hmm, I wonder what's up with that?I also see that I can maybe do one task per day and get it done. Obviously the 6x6's couldn't be done in a day, but a few here and there plus some late nights and it's do-able. NOT on the list are all the personal things I need to do such as pull out FL type clothes and see if they still fit.......

We had the grandkids on Friday night and started out by picking them up at Daycare (or "school" as they call it). The conversation in the car went like this...

"There's an American flag."

"I don't see a flag," I said, baiting him.

"It's behind those trees, just wait Yia Yia and you will see it."

"Oh yes, there it is, wow, what a big flag!" I exclaimed.

"It's an American flag. We live in America." Aidan replies quite seriously. "America is on the Earth," he continues, "so is Madagascar."

A few miles further down the road......

"I would like to eat some macaroni and cheese."

"Well Aidan, it's your lucky day!" I said, "Because that is exactly what we are having for dinner. And we are having fish sticks too."

"I like fish sticks." he said. "We had fish sticks at my house last night."

He paused. "But I didn't get any because I was not being cooperative and was throwing a fit."

It was all John and I could do to keep from bursting out in laughter.

And we're not talkin' donkeys

I survived the Yoga practice. It was definitely challenging but I was able to do all the postures. Afterwards I was floating on air. It was only later when I felt like I had been hit by a very large truck as I was really sore but in a good way. Got the t-shirt too, or two I should say. In a moment of excess (yeesh, even at a Yoga function I couldn't maintain balance!) I was indecisive so got both short sleeve and long sleeve. I was just so drawn to the Pure Yoga logo, it pulled me in.

Rod Stryker is such a compelling teacher and I would enjoy studying with him again, preferably if I were in better physical condition and a little more experienced. I believe he comes to town once a year so I have time to get ready. He did a little bit of lecture before the practice (the classes were teacher training after all) which was excellent, very inspired yet down to earth. He also inserted bits of humor which I didn't expect and found very cool. His quiet passion made me want to study the history and philosophy of Yoga. It prompted me to pull his recommended reading list off the website and I am going to get started on the books.
http://www.parayoga.com/

Plus he is easy on the eyes. I know you probably shouldn't say that about a Yoga teacher but this man has the best looking ass I have ever seen. I kid you not. And I know asses.

Oddly enough, Merlyn likes ricotta cheese. So does Gil. And how do I know, you might be wondering? Well, I was having my evening South Beach dessert and they both cuddled up to me. I am sure they thought it was ice cream. Which in and of itself reveals more about my eating patterns than I would normally admit.

But anyway, I gave them a taste. And they loved it, just a little bite though was enough for both of them.

These cats teach me something every day.

Last night was my regular Monday night Yoga. In the last couple weeks I have been trying to do Yoga more frequently, about 3 times a week, gearing up for a workshop. Famous Yoga guru Rod Strycker is coming into town to conduct 5 days of teacher training. Each morning he does an open Yoga session that is 2-1/2 hours long which anyone can attend. I am signed up for 2 (!!!) of these sessions.

I have heard it is rigorous, that I should expect to work hard. I have heard he "likes to generate some heat." In yoga talk that means he's going to kick my ass.

My goal for the workshop is to avoid emergency medical attention. I would also like to be able to walk to my car afterwards.

da Bears

"What's wrong baby?"

"Both my teams lost today," he said.

"Oh, I'm sorry sweetie. So........how many more games are there anyway?"

"Three."

"Well I'm sure a new team will present itself," I consoled, trying my best to be serious. Which I mangled rather badly and ended up laughing hysterically to the point tears were running down my face.

"You probably think you're funny, don't you?"

Who knew?

If you are one letter off on my blog address, you get a site for Bible studies. A mega site in fact.
http://mbshaw.logspot.com/

And the rapture is coming. Read it here first. Luckily there is information on how to be saved. Maybe I still have a chance.

Probably not after this post.

Turns out that 111 is not my lucky number after all. Got Murk? was rejected(officially we call that "not selected" - it just feels like rejected) from the Layered, Stitched and Assembled show. I am sort of bummed. OK, maybe more than sort of.

Layering is kind of my thing you know. Or at least I think it is. So the rejection or not selected or whatever you want to call it feels a little bit worse because of that. And then the fact that I truly thought this piece was significant since I practically bled all over it, that's how passionate I was creating it.

I keep telling myself this is only the opinion of two people.

Right.

The Rock Knocking Incident

When we lived in California and I was still in my high paying corporate job I worked out with a personal trainer 3 times a week. Tiffany was a doll and I liked her so much I even followed her to a new gym. I got to know her husband Marty too. He was a potter of the starving artist variety and John and I bought several things from him including a wonderful fountain.

It is a large clay dish made out of natural colors. There are "rocks" in it, made of clay but they look quite real. They stack up in various configurations and the water pours over them.

When we first got the fountain I thought it would be a lovely Feng Shui accent in our home. I imagined relaxing to the soothing and blissful water sounds after I returned home from a stressful day of work. Or perhaps we would move it into the bedroom and I could fall asleep to a gentle babbling brook. John quashed that idea as he was convinced it would make us have to pee.

But our cats claimed it early on, say Day 1, as their water dish. And yes, what is even more insane is that we allowed it, even cooperating to the extent we removed their "real" un-used water dish from the laundry room. So today we have this lovely artisan fountain - situated on its own "display" table in our living room - that is basically a huge glorified cat bowl.

This time of year, when the house seems uncommonly dry, it is hard to keep the fountain properly filled with water. I will confess that John and I both forget from time to time to fill it with fresh water.

I awoke at 4:13 am, to the sound of knocking, persistent and annoying knocking. I burrowed down in the feather bed unsuccessful at my attempt to will it away. John was still asleep. I knew what it was of course. This has happened before, just not in the middle of the night. It was Merlyn, with his sidekick Izzy, both sitting on the table, Merlyn's furry paws in the fountain, batting the rocks around to create noise. Gil was involved too, watching from the floor because there was no more room on the table.

And this explains why I was up at such an insane hour pouring a pitcher of filtered water into our fountain.

Fun weekend.

It started on Friday, during the day with my massage. Aaaahhh.........I needed that.

Then I met up with a group of women to see The Good Body, http://www.thegoodbody.com
Eve Ensler's new play. This time (unlike Vagina Monologues which I saw in SF with the ensemble cast) Eve is the whole show. And she is simply fantastic assuming multiple roles as she explores women's ideas regarding body image. The show is touching at times yet laugh at loud funny and provides intelligent food for thought. Needless to say, with my body (stomach) obsessions, this was precisely what I needed to see at the start of the New Year. Hilarious to hear Eve lament over her stomach which of course did not seem an issue to me(her stomach that is). But then she probably wouldn't find mine an issue either.

On Saturday I had to deliver the painting. My schedule totally derailed early in the morning with an email about a postmark deadline (thank goodness for Art Fair Sourcebook) for a show I had intended to enter. Somehow I had it on my calendar with the wrong date. So I immediately spent about an hour getting that together along with several other packages to mail. John headed to the Post Office and I went into the city to meet Rhonda.

Lots of work submitted for the show, some of it very good. I was number 111 which I thought was lucky. I feel sure it's someone's lucky number. Whether it is mine or not remains to be seen. I heard there were about 100 more works expected.

Rhonda needed to meet with a gallery owner to retrieve unsold items from a recent show. We decided on lunch at Kitchen K and went that direction. Ultimately connected with 2 of her other friends and hung out a bit plus got tours of their very cool and hip lofts. Met up with the gallery owner, Chris, and he is a terrific guy who already knew of my work, how cool is that? We went over to Philip Slein to see the new Tom Huck show and to say it is amazing is an understatement. Huge woodcuts of such incredible detail it is hard to fathom. Just inspiring.

Anyway it was my favorite kind of spontaneous day. I had to pinch myself I cannot believe how great life is.

Sunday I caught up around here. Wanted to get into the studio to make some art but it didn't happen. I was doing Photoshop stuff on the new commissions. Hours of Photoshop stuff, like an entire football game ripped by me and I didn't even realize it. Needless to say my shoulders are all hunched up again. I think I need another massage......

Got Murk?

This is my newest painting which I am entering into a show at Art St. Louis. They are jurying off the original art, so I will deliver it today. The show is called Layered Stitched and Assembled, hopefully the jurors will find my work meets their expectations.

This is the third piece in my new abstract series and I have been working on my artist statement. I've been struggling as I know what these pieces mean in my head, but putting it into words is another matter. I mean that's why I am painting them instead of trying to write. But here is what I've come up with, keeping in mind it is possibly a work in progress and may evolve:

My paintings are layers of exploration. I build the piece with collage elements sandwiched over and under paint, soft pastel, and ink. Using sand paper, I intentionally distress or peel away certain layers. And out of the murkiness comes a moment. With so many things assaulting us daily, to preserve a moment seems sacred to me.

I would still like to "name" the series, like I have done with my Common Denominator work. That name didn't pop up initially though, so I suspect that, as time goes by, the name will come to me. Probably when I am in the shower.

And yes, Got Murk? is really the name of this painting.

Little Debbie

We are not talking snack cakes here, but real cakes. And brownies and cookies, and tarts oh my!

Lucky us, that our son-in-law Frank has pretty cool relatives, some we have even claimed as our friends such as his brother Chris and wife Debbie. I really relate to Debbie because she left a job as an attorney to become a pastry chef. Much as I left a career in the insurance biz to become an artist. We did it right about the same time. Plus we are about the same age. Plus she is irreverent and liberal leaning and says just about anything that pops into her head. Gee, imagine why I would like her?

Anyway, Chris and Debbie came into town over the holidays (or holidaze, as Jane http://seejane.blogspot.com/ would say). We caught up with them for lunch on Monday and had a delightful time. Debbie brought us treats. I waited all of about 2 minutes (until we were back in the car) to open the box and peer inside.

The most gorgeous assortment of brownies I have ever seen. At first I thought I would wait to try one, but the smell was irresistible. I picked up the brownie with great care, worshipped it briefly then took a modest bite. Oh my goodness, it was amazing - Debbie had surpassed herself. It was a very dense moist brownie that had been dipped (smothered) in chocolate with chopped nuts on top. Absolutely divine to die for flavor. I was polite and offered John a bite even though I was secretly hoping he would refuse.

I tried to entice him, "I think this is the best thing I have ever had in my mouth."

Raised eyebrows were his answer.

"Oh, I mean except for........" I said in reply.

Use your imagination. This is a family blog after all.

What is this world coming to?

I watched ET (Entertainment Tonight) this evening. Yeah yeah, I know, how embarrassing.

Oh lordy, what's up with this Lindsay Lohan girl? I mean when did she launch herself into stardom? And the even bigger questions - HOW and WHY!?!?! Maybe it was her insightful performance in Herbie: Fully Loaded? Or her inspired role in Freaky Friday. Blond hair, brown hair, who knows what is real. Eating disorder, yes or no. Apparently she tells all in the upcoming Vanity Fair article, I can hardly wait.

This girl is 19 years old. Per ET she now commands 7-8 million dollars per film.

Hmmm. That seems fair.

First you draw a Circle

Just finished watching the movie, How to draw a Bunny, a documentary of artist Ray Johnson. What a terrific movie. It is an absolutely fascinating portrayal of this elusive man. Almost like watching a trainwreck in a certain way as I couldn't take my eyes off the screen, especially the footage of Johnson himself.

He is gone now, having committed suicide in a 1995 drowning incident that appears to have been his last event, possibly carefully planned and orchestrated. In death he has become famous and is remembered for many things -his collage works, the beginnings of Mail Art, the performances, his "nothings" and of course his bunny head drawings. Here is a link to an excellent summary of his life:
http://www.echonyc.com/~panman/Ray.html.

I found the movie thought provoking, a must-see for other artists. I'd like to say that I "get" what Ray was trying to do but it's hard to get. And of course that sounds so banal. Plus I think such a comment only tends to demean Ray's influence. I doubt anyone really gets his work the way he intended. And maybe that's the point? He was undefined in life and remains so in death.

What I do get is his passion and commitment. He had a purity of approach than lingers in my mind and, as an artist I felt a gut level connection. I want to see more of his art, better pictures than what I saw in the film; the collages inspire me. I think I need this book.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0888656122/102-6073781-3164934?v=glance&n=283155

Happy New Year!

I'm going into a whine, so don't say I didn't warn you.

I have gained either 3 or 4 pounds during this holiday season. I say 3 or 4 because if I balance very carefully on one foot the scale flickers briefly at the lower weight. Now that might not sound like much but I am a short girl. Four pounds is a whole size for me. It is the difference between me wearing my "spent too much trendy to die for cute" jeans vs. the "on sale bought yesterday for this horrific occasion" jeans. They have stretchy fibers woven in, the horrific ones do. How pitiful is that? But the others are out of bounds at the moment. Even though I can get them on, they are low slung and I will NOT display my new "muffin top" (phrase that I learned from my friend Jeff) above the waistband. A girl's gotta have her limits ya know.

So looks like I need to get back on track here.
Right after we celebrate New Year's with lobster, champagne and flourless chocolate cake.........

Road trip

I took a little baby road trip yesterday to visit my friend Rhonda. She lives in Vandalia, IL and I had never been there. It was one dreary-ass day(why can't the sun shine here!?!?!) and I made terrific time driving, got out there in one hour, forty minutes which included a stop at Starbucks.

The billboards claimed Vandalia as a "historic" destination which Rhonda explained.......it was the first capital of Illinois. We did a little driving tour around town; Rhonda has lived there all her life except for college and her parents still live there plus I think maybe one of her sisters. It's a very small town but you can tell they are trying to hold on to some identity. The fast food spots (and the prerequisite Wal-mart) have arrived but are near the highway while the historic part of town is a few miles away, thank goodness for that.

Whenever I am in a small town I always get this itch to pick up and move, how crazy is that!?!? I have this ongoing fantasy that I am going to buy a very remote property with a scenic view(must involve water) so I can hole up and do my art all the time. Of course my alternate vision is the "loft in the city" scenario. Once again confirming that I do have at least two distinct personalities going on in my head.

Anyway, Rhonda has a wonderful spot. A darling little house set on the edge of a wooded area, right next to water. Huge screened porch, big deck, mega hot tub. Yum. And her studio is fabulous, why I didn't think to carry my camera I don't know, but it is big, open, funky - a separate building from the house complete with 2 dogs and 2 kittens. She does clay work and has several kilns including one that she built herself. It was so interesting to see how she works, the entire process is exotic since I know nothing about clay. I loved wondering around looking at all her stuff.

We just yacked and yacked, talked about everything, food, diet, exercise, art, decorating, relationships, you name it. Brainstormed a bit regarding the show circuit which was oh-so-helpful to me since I still consider myself a newbie in that arena while Rhonda is a seasoned professional. It was a terrific day.

Matchmaker, matchmaker

An unnamed friend of mine wanted to put up an ad (I suppose that is what they are called?) on a certain unnamed website. One that is known for making matches of the romantic variety. I was chosen to assist.

Why? Maybe because she thinks I have a way with words. Or perhaps because I know her quite well and she was hopeful I would come up with clever yet appealing phrases to describe her endearing idiosyncrasies? Or maybe it was my sheer stamina......

Seriously, we worked at this for I don't know how many hours last night, let's say 3 at least. It was nuts. Page after page of questions, checklists, places to put little essays, pictures, etc. It just went on and on. By the end I was ready to date her just to make it stop.

Before starting I wanted to check out the competition so I could see what other women in the age group were saying. Hmmm, there is no way to say this delicately.....they are liars. They have to be. With the rate of obesity in our country, there is absolutely no way that every available female in the 55-65 age group works out 3-4 days a week and has a slender well toned body. Now really. Although it could be that ol' fear of someone seeing you naked diet. I remember John and I were both on it when we met. Today it's the fat and happy eating plan.

But I digress.

After checking out the competition, we perused the supply of men. They are, for the most part, liars as well. Many claim to prefer cuddling, a moonlit walk on the beach, putting the needs of their partner first. They are frequently active with all types of outdoor hobbies, love to be out and about. I am sure these guys never lay on the couch watching sports on TV. And guys without shirts. Must be some sort of prerequisite for the men. Nearly every single guy had a photo of himself, very tan of course, without a shirt, typically standing next to or on a cool looking boat. Then there was this loser wearing a Speedo......pleasepleaseplease.....I offer this as a public service announcement to all male readers........women do NOT like Speedo bathing suits, never have and never will. Get rid of the Speedo. Now. Destroy all evidence you ever owned one and I beg you, for the love of God, burn any pictures.

Finally we got to the task of crafting a listing. We tried to be honest. Funny is hard in the singles arena as you never know how it will come off; I would love to do a completely humorous listing and see how that plays. But it's risky. So we went for playful yet sincere. Found a couple great photos - a casual portrait type plus a couple active shots, on a bike, next to a horse. You get the scene. I'm telling you, I would date her in a minute.

Anyway, it is done now. And I made sure she actually hit enter and paid for it(you have to PAY for this!?!?!? I am so naive). Pending approval. I suppose that is to make sure you haven't done anything unseemly or profane? Hard to imagine how that Speedo got through.

The Aftermath

Ugh, I feel like I need to be in detox for my eating the last few days. And we were even at home most of the holiday, so I have no one to blame but myself for reaching my little mitt back into the cookie tin over and over and over. Of course it's generally that way with over-eating. I have rarely, ok that is never, experienced force feeding. Yes, I put each and every bite in my mouth all on my own.

We are all gifted out. Lots of neat stuff including this adorable and functional JBL thingie that John got me for my iPod. It charges the iPod and also plays music. Plus just looks cool.

The sound quality is good, not like our "real" sound system of course, but certainly decent especially considering the mobility. It will be great for travel and even just using around the house. I will most likely keep it in the studio.

And books and more books, woo hoo. From me to John and John to me. I am a piggy with them - attempting to read several at a time, I keep them close at hand piled around me on the couch. Also got some nice clothes that I picked out for other family members (to give back to me, ha, this is a good gig). My stepdaughter needs no assistance whatsoever to pick terrific stuff that I will truly wear.

The grandkids were adorable. I believe that Ian would have been totally satisfied with the 59 cent bottle of bubbles that I put in his stocking. "Bubble" is one of the words he can say, so maybe it was cheating on my part. I cannot believe how much pleasure he derives from watching us all blow bubbles. He tries but can't quite do it himself. The site of the 2 puppies jumping to catch (and burst) bubbles with their mouth thrills him to no end. The remote control car I got was also a very big hit. It is made to be a child's "first." Way cute this one is, delighting parents and grandparents alike and even older brother.

And the huge box of stickers would have been it for Aidan. Forget the Leap Pad. It was all about those stickers especially the fish. Aidan is a child of moderation and seriously would have been content leaving all remaining gifts unopened. I think there is a lesson here somewhere.

The only return is the Automatic Tape Measure John received. Twice. Continuing in my family's tradition of all the men giving each other the same manly stuff.

It was 1991

My Year of Magical Thinking.

Until I read Joan Didion's book, I never actually referred to it this way. But that is exactly what it was, that year following my son's death. The year when I waited and watched for him around every corner and conducted myself as though he were going to reappear. Played little penance games with myself on the off chance my behavior might tend to influence the timing of his arrival.

That first Mother's Day, in May of '91. It was just a few weeks after Nathan died. I so strongly felt that he would arrive then. A surprise gift, given quietly without hoopla. I was waiting in the little office off our bedroom (and Nathan's, the rooms were adjoining). I remember wondering when and how he would be presented to me.

Momentary craziness I suppose but it gave me hope.

I was deeply moved by this book. Didion is a beautiful writer and I intentionally slowed my reading to savor her words. I ache for her as I ache for myself. Yet there is no self pity(from either of us for that matter). Or maybe just a little, but it is carefully hidden.

Read this book.

Easy as......

Introducing my new painting.

This is a continuation of my un-named series on stuff that's in your head. All the compartments where you store information - layer on top of layer all competing for attention at any given moment.

The little piece of film inside the Viewmaster says FOCUS. It is the first frame from an old filmstrip.

'Nuff said.

A tale of two eggs

I have been cooking like a maniac lately. As I say this it occurs to me I rarely go into anything halfway. Either I am not doing it or I am doing it like a maniac, whatever that means. And well, cooking has been that way. Basically, I haven't cooked at all for months then I jumped into gear the past week.

So last Tuesday I had my first manic session. I made meatloaf and chili. At the same time naturally, since I was in the kitchen already. Huge quantities of both; we didn't have to cook for the rest of the week and then still had meals to freeze.

Last night (also a Tuesday, hmmm, am I establishing a habit here?) I launched into the Xmas cookies, attempting to make three varieties simultaneously. I had both ovens fired up, bowls all over the kitchen, flour on the counters, every cooking sheet I own in use. It was, in military terms, a "cluster fuck." At one point John walked in and plucked cookie dough out of my hair, that's how it was. I was cooking for hours, to the point I was actually exhausted and can't imagine how real chefs do it, standing on their feet all that time!?!?! Our ceramic floor is certainly not good for this. Or I am getting too old, but that couldn't be it.

And then this morning, I decided to make a new breakfast recipe out of Self magazine. Their recipes are not always the best. Although they are extremely healthy, I find that pertinent ingredients are often omitted, mainly fat flavorings. I do honestly try to eat healthy and, since dinner last night consisted of raw cookie dough, thought a sensible meal was in order plus this recipe did contain some fat.

Crack eggs into custard cups. Top each egg with 1 T. grated Gruyere. Microwave together 2 minutes on high. Then microwave 1/4 cup marinara sauce and spoon a bit onto each egg. Top with a little more Gruyere and serve.

Have you ever microwaved eggs? I am guessing there is maybe some trick with this that was not mentioned in the recipe. The first egg leaped completely out of it's cup within the first minute, not as a whole egg I might add but rather as a slime missile, spraying all over the interior walls and ceiling of the oven. I quickly turned the oven off, covered them both with a paper towel and then restarted. Right before my eyes, the second egg exploded upward, blasted the paper towel aside, and amazingly, landed in the other egg cup. Done. I opened the door and was stunned at the amount of mess created by these two detonated eggs.

Incidentally, this is a pretty good dish. Needs a little salt and pepper, but otherwise quite tasty and I must imagine fairly healthy because it was good fat. 322 calories if you include a slice of low cal whole grain toast, which I did not.

I should still be sleeping

One of the great things about being an artist and working at home is I don't have a particular schedule. Meaning I can sleep in most days, no alarm necessary. So it is 5:03 am and I have been up for over an hour. Staring brainlessly at this computer screen, drifting through blog after blog of people I don't know. Finally found a funny chap (he lives in the UK so chap just sounds right plus I always wanted to use that word) who writes about every day stuff. He has an odd take which naturally I find interesting.

So why am I up you might ask? The sound of a barfing cat woke me. Why oh why do these cats have to barf in the middle of the night in the middle of our bedroom? I know it was Gilligan, I recognized his hack.

Of course once I was awake I realized I had to pee but was afraid to venture across the floor fearful my bare feet would land on fresh cat barf. I contemplated this for awhile and mapped a strategy in my head. Hugging the edge of the bed, then the skimming the chaise and keeping near the wall, I made it to the bathroom without incident. Returned to bed the same way. Couldn't get back to sleep, had a few hot flashes or night sweats whatever the hell they are called (yeesh I am waaaayyy too young for this) and now I am officially up and kind of dressed, meaning I grabbed clothing in the dark along with my Uggs (it's not pretty). I should go down to work on my new painting but it's still cold in the house; the furnace won't kick into its daytime mode for another hour or so.

I am watching my email as all my newsletters, Daily Sauce, NY Times, et al, are being delivered. I already have my horoscope which says something about Abundance and that I should splurge today. Hmmm, I thought I already did that with Amazon....... their evil little Prime Program along with its sibling One Click. Free trial my ass. They've already hooked me.

And two of my neighbors have gone to work. I can't believe all the action I usually miss.

It's a small world

Tonight we met up with my friend Barbara Bourne and her husband Larry at Lucas Park Grille.
http://www.bbourne.com/

It's a funny story about Barbara and Larry.
They used to live in St. Louis, up until around 1998 I believe, which is when they moved to northern CA. Of course we also lived in St. Louis until 1998, which is when we relocated to northern CA. And in 2000 I happened to quit my day job to "pursue my art." (In retrospect I didn't really know what that meant but it sounded cool).

Then in 2001 I was invited to share studio space in this marvelous, incredible warehouse in Sausalito.
http://www.icbbuilding.com/
Which is where I met Barbara. How odd that we had moved from the same city to live in the same area to actually share a studio in the same 1800 square foot space.

I haven't seen her since we left the Bay area 2 years ago. She called last week and said they would be in town and would like to meet for drinks, plus she wanted me to meet a good woman friend of hers who she thought I would like.

It was great to catch up. She and Larry look exactly the same and are just as fun as ever. We talked "studio" talk, about that magical spot in Sausalito where Barbara bore witness to all my early attempts at art, some successful, some.........well, let's just say they were early attempts. We reminisced about how I progressed from a 6ft x 6ft. space (I swear it was really that small) to the "middle" spot (a slightly larger space with walkway in the middle of it!) to (finally!) a prime window location overlooking the water. It was so glorious, idyllic really, the studio of a lifetime. I can't think of it without getting a little weepy. Larry told of my first open studio, how I barely even knew what I was doing, hardly had adequate work to cover my walls but then, in some insanely freakish moment, sold more than I ever would have imagined. What a total rush to realize that perhaps, just maybe, I was making stuff that people LIKED???????

Then finally, tonight, Barbara introduced me to her friend, the person she wanted me to meet. I felt an instant affinity to Cindy, she had such kind eyes. She reached for her purse to get a business card and I did the same. We made the exchange. She looked at my card, then smiled and said, "I have this card." I must have looked puzzled but she recalled that she had signed up for my mailing list and had received my holiday flyer.

Any day is a painting day

Since most of the shows are over or already hung (40+ hanging in various venues as we speak) I have been champing at the bit to start some new works. Not really part of my Common Denominator series, but other stuff, more abstract, possibly in line with the Stick a Fork in it already piece. In fact I had mentally blocked out next week for playing around with new ideas. I usually call this my "soul work." Or at least that's the code word I use with my coach.

I didn't expect to do it today. We had the grandkids last night for a sleepover and I thought most of the morning and longer would be spent with them. But Ian got sick - poor little guy barfed on me 3 times (you can imagine how charming I smelled!). And this led to an early departure so the kiddos could go home to mom. After changing clothes (again), I threw the smelly stuff in the laundry and decided I would Play in my studio. Woo, hoo, it doesn't get any better than this, a bonus studio day!!!

Working with a 24x30 canvas, I collaged and painted, then painted and collaged some more, layers on layers.....soft pastels, gesso, inks, wax crayons, you name it, true mixed media or is that mixed up media!?!? Plus spray bottles of water and alcohol. And my hair dryer. I had put the tarp down first and that was good thinking because of course I went wild with the drips. It is odd, but anytime I return to "soul work" I have to gear up with some drips. It is almost a ritual with me. There is something so absolutely soothing about the process. I love to watch paints and ink drip and am fascinated with directing the movement with my hair dryer. It is mesmerizing to do over and over again, layering up then wiping away to re-expose parts previously covered. It just feels so right to me.

So now I'm a happy girl again.

"don't go lettin' yo head get too big

for yo britches now honey,"
she said,
this funny friend of mine.

As she forwarded the link below......

http://www.thecommonspace.org/2005/12/happening.php

Do you hear what I hear?

I've been thinking about memory lately. That sounds kind of weird doesn't it, that phrase, "thinking about memory?"

Last night I decided to put up the Xmas tree and do some decorating around the house. I had been playing Scrooge up till now but got to feeling the guilts about our grandkids primarily. And truth be known, I do actually like to see a decorated tree standing in the living room. Particularly since we have so little furniture, ha, ha.

So John brought the tree up (it's a fake, he is allergic to pine) and put it in front of the windows where it looks pretty cool from the outside plus we also have a nice view from the family room. After Yoga and dinner, I finally got started on the decorating. It was late and I wasn't really in the best of moods. I had this idea that John and I would do it together - in my imaginary tree decorating scenario, a fire would be crackling, lovely jazzy versions of Christmas carols playing, we would be sipping some mulled cider or perhaps hot chocolate with homemade marshmallows......but alas, it was just me with 3 cat spectators while John watched Monday night football.

And it started the minute I opened the ornament box. The memories that is.

Because it seems like every ornament has it's story. Perhaps it was home made, I have lots of those. There are also some from my childhood and John's. Others were passed down through the years and are preciously old. Many were gifts to people who are now gone, remnants of another day. They all have a story to tell, these bastard ornaments. Some were so lame they made me chuckle and I chose to not even put them on the tree. But others brought tears to my eyes, especially the expansive collection of shooting stars.

I guess it is a collection of lives. I remember the stories that go along with each one. So odd because I can't even remember where I put my cell phone but I have carefully catalogued every one of these memories. And I wonder will anyone want to listen to my stories?

The Day

I have been talking about this day for months......the day when the shows are over.....now it feels more like the day the music died. Naturally I am happy I will have some free time (of course I have tons of projects stacked up in addition to holiday preparations so I'm not sure how "free" my time will be) but it's kind of sad to think no more shows. Till February at least. Because even though it's a lot of hard work, I have found I truly like the scene. I have met some amazing people this past year, fellow artists, art collectors, art wannabee collectors - good people all around. What a wonderful experience.

And on that note, let's talk about the weekend.

The Independent Art Market was a grand success in my book. Our fearless organizers staged a classy little event. Held in a fabulous gallery space (can you say exposed brick, wood floors, architectural features, ooh la la), the "market" was more upscale boutique which is a good thing in my book. I felt proud to be included. Plus I sold a decent amount of work, woo hoo. Heard some good music from fabulously talented musicians. Drank some wine. Had a chance to get to know some artists I had not met before. Drank some more wine. Caught up with some old friends. And had even more wine. What a life, eh?

Big hugs to my brilliant and beautiful friends John and Darryl who have now earned the #1 stalker spot by coming to both (yes, BOTH) of my shows this weekend. I am just being a snot because of course I LOVE seeing them. They are not only fun and frivolous (ok, maybe that's just John) but can also be slightly outrageous and caustic with their humor and God only knows I appreciate the laughs. They also engage (and even encourage) the Princess in me, not that I need much encouragement, ha! So thanks you guys for hanging this weekend. It means a lot to me.

So this is what it's like?

Hmmm, kind of a light crowd at my opening tonite. I don't know what to make of that. Everyone kept saying it was the weather. And of course there were lots of other openings tonite. Whatever.....you can make tons of excuses for this sort of thing. But the bottom line is I was pleased with the people who came out.

Because they were thoughtful and seemed truly interested in my art. Or maybe they were just stroking me? Or maybe they were just my friends or family? Who knows? But I did sell a decent amount of originals and nearly all my repros which means I need to make more.

So it was a good deal.

Naturally I didn't get anything to eat. I did have lots of wine. And we have lots left over.

I had Life cereal when I got home. C'est la vie.

Pet Peeve

I have a lot of pet peeves. Things that are stupidly insignificant but still bug the crap out of me. I usually tell John. At time it's so much stuff I feel sure he thinks I have entered an "angry artist" phase.

Here's one. And all you guy readers probably won't get this.

You enter the ladies bathroom to find 2 stalls and a line. Clearly, the only option at hand is to get in line which you do. You wait patiently as women move in and out of the stalls until you are first in line. Usually there are still a couple of women behind you when this happens, so it's clearly "a line." A new woman enters the bathroom. Then (and this is the pet peeve part) she queries you on whether the stalls are occupied or not.

"Are you waiting," she says, to whoever is listening.

"Yes,"

"Did you check the doors?" she queries.

"No," I say since I have seen women enter the stalls hence no need to check the doors. Exchange glances with woman behind me, both of us roll our eyes.

"Hmmmm," as new woman boldly steps around the line and proceeds to peer under the doors. She tests the handles but they are locked. Big sigh; she gets back in line.

Like we are all just standing there for our own amusement? Like I am so friggin' stupid I would never think to actually check and see if anyone is using the bathroom. Do I look that much like a doormat?

Ok, I feel better now.

Art, art everywhere.....

Well, it's here.........my final exhibition weekend of the year. I am happy, sad, relieved, excited, invigorated, exhausted.......if you've been reading here for any period of time you know how obsessive compulsive neurotic I am, naturally I am experiencing all these emotions at the same time, ha! So anyway, here's the schedule. If you're in town, stop by!

Friday, Dec 9th at Subterranean Books my solo show opens with a reception from 7-9pm. This is a terrific bookstore in the loop that bears exploring (books are my next favorite obsession after art) and I will have about 30 pieces on exhibit including many new works from my Common Denominator series plus my new figurative piece and some small reproductions just in time for holiday gift giving.
Subterranean Books – Dec 9th from 7-9PM.
6275 Delmar
University City, MO 63130
From 40, exit at McCausland and go north. This will turn in to Skinker. Turn left on Delmar and Subterranean will be about a block down on the right.
From 170, take the Delmar exit and go east until you get to the loop. Watch for Subterranean on the left. It is about a block before you get to Skinker.
The show runs until Jan 9th.
See http://www.subbooks.com/ for hours.


Saturday and Sunday (Dec 10th + 11th ) I will be at Shaw’s Gallery (no relation, I am just lucky with my name) at the Independent Art Market. I am very excited to be part of this event which is a holiday market featuring all kinds of very cool fine art items from 13 different artists. I will have a lot of collage work (yes, more new stuff!) at this show including some reproductions. So, if you’re like me and haven’t really had time to do your shopping, this is the spot! Plus there will be music on Saturday night so expect a party.
From 40, exit at Kings Highway and head south. Left on Shaw - go past the Botanical Garden. The gallery will be on the left about 2 blocks down.
4065 Shaw Blvd.
Saturday 12-10PM
Sunday 10-6PM
http://www.independentartmarket.org/

Here's what it REALLY looks like

My studio that is.

Visitors often tell me how neat my studio is. Well, the fact is, if I am having a visitor I usually clean. At the very least, I put supplies back where they belong, unpack the latest shipment from Dick Blick, and organize so that I can see the tops of the tables.

But now it is a friggin' mess. I have been reduced to perhaps a 6 inch square working space. The varnish table is packed with new works. I haven't put the acetate (repro) packaging away so Merlin has grabbed a few and deemed them cat toys. He apparently likes to nosh on the plastic, not to eat but to produce a crunchcrunchcrunch sound which seems to amuse him to no end - OCD cat behavior (akin to a bubblewrap addiction with humans).

The worst part though is you can barely walk because I have a show sort of laid out on the floor. In my planning for Subterranean, I wanted to eyeball exactly how the works would look. This is sort of my pre-show ritual; I like to sketch it (to scale) then do a floor lay-out to see if everything looks good, spacing, colors, etc. That way the hanging goes so much quicker. Of course I always make changes once I am there but at least this is a good starting point. But suffice to say there are about thirty pieces laying all over the floor. Along with my door. A real door in the floor (awesome movie by the way, emotionally charged) although it is not functional. I use it as an extra flat surface and sort of drag it around the studio as necessary. Why it is on the floor at this point I couldn't say as I simply don't remember.

I am at my wit's end with the mess. Today I am going to pack for the next two shows.
Then clean.

I see a gift coming on

Did anyone else see Howard Stern on 60 Minutes? He is intriguing to me. Not for the content of his shows, his outrageous behavior, or his wild-ass hairstyle. But for the fact he has attracted my mother as a fan.

Yes, my mother.....same woman who won't wear white shoes after Labor Day. Defies logic I know, but she was actually a regular viewer of his show until it was taken off the air. And it wasn't like she was secretive about it; everyone in our family knew and her language was peppered with "well, on the Howard Stern show yesterday....." She even tried to pull me in for awhile. But I could never understand exactly what she was getting out of the show.

So now Howard is back and has this hee-yuge contract with Sirius (can you say 500 million dollars?) And a new girlfriend with lots of hair, big cleavage, bright teeth. Who seems to live and breathe simply to fawn over this guy. Good gig I suppose, if you're into that.

Perhaps I'll get my mom satellite radio for Xmas this year.

One Down

Yesterday was the Saturday Monday sale and it went very well. Not only did I get some great Xmas gifts (can't say what they are or Michelle won't have a surprise, tee, hee, hee), but I had so much fun hanging out. Especially with my booth buddy Dana who is a riot and makes the most adorable greeting cards I have ever seen. Naturally I broke my own "buying rule" when I HAD to have this fantastic necklace made by PJ, that says "I run with scissors." Hmmm, thanks Beth for helping me spend my money......actually it is just soooo perfect, I love it!!!

Of course a very big thanks to Heidi, newly elevated to Empress status by those who know and love her. http://www.queenfor1day.blogspot.com/. She is definitely the hostess with the mostess. I know she is probably really really tired today but I hope she decides to do this again next year.

My grid walls look terrific if I do say so myself; they were a good purchase as I will be able to use them here at home as a small display area too. Many people had a bigger area but I was happy with this diminutive (!) display and it served me well. By the way, thanks also to Marian (my official event photographer!) for the pic. It is indeed colorful.

The new greeting cards were a big hit and the repros did well too; you can see "The Perfect Purse" hanging just above my shoulder. It features my 3 favorite perfect purse collages, all reproduced on one ribbon hanging piece. The little baby repros were also well received, so I think they will be nice offerings for the holiday shows.

Now, moving onward. I need to plan my strategy for Subterranean which we hang on Wed. John took measurements yesterday as he was uncomfortable with my "eyeball" measurements, gee, I wonder why.......then I need to re-work my inventory for the Independent Art Market (note Eric's VERY cool poster hanging on the left side of my booth, he soooooo rocks).

Plus make some new art. My fingers are itching.

Three Cat Night

It has been very cold here. And you know what that means.......all the cats sleep with us. Once again I am reminded of why we require a king size bed. Izzy and Gil are well trained and curl up at our feet. But Merlin, oh Lord.. he doesn't even know he's a cat.....sleeps right between me and John.

Between the new feather bed and the cats, I have actually gotten hot the last few nights. Wait, that could have been night sweats I suppose. Who knows. Anyway, I love it when all the cats crawl into bed and I wake up surrounded by my family.

We went to the final play of the season last night, the Off Ramp production of This is Our Youth. It was good, funny at times, but also thought provoking. And very well acted, especially the guy who played Warren, he was such a lovable slacker.

What a crazy week though, with so many evenings "out." I seriously need to be home, doing my nesting thing. Which we will do tonite and then I have the show tomorrow. I am pretty much ready, my packaging bags arrived yesterday (thank goodness as I ordered so late) so the new repros look all fresh and professional in their acetate sleeves. I had my products all set up yesterday and stupid me should have snapped a picture but I wasn't thinking. Suffice to say, the new grid walls (black epoxy) are nice and make for a clean look in a situation where I have limited space and am unable to use my usual booth. Like tomorrow.

So, if you're in the St. Louis area, come on out to the Saturday Monday Sale. I feel sure there will be lots of wonderful gift items. My focus for the day will be to NOT spend every cent that I earn.
http://www.saturdaymondaysale.blogspot.com/