One of my latest verses, composed in the voice of my favorite dog, Cotton Griffin (with her permission and input, of course!) I will soon post her picture, since we are now co-poets. Cotton's owner, John Griffin, recently had knee replacement surgery.
This could be my new vocation - animal poetry, and celebrating new body parts!!!!
NEW KNEE
(if you say this fast more than three times,
it sounds like you are
communicating with aliens!)
Oh, my gosh, I’m gonna pee,
Popsy’s got a brand new knee.
As soon as he stops feeling rotten,
I’ll take him for a walk – Nurse Cotton.
On days when he feels kinda sick,
I’ll give his knee an extra lick,
wag my tail a hundred times,
write more of these funny rhymes.
I’ll loan him my fancy shampoo,
won’t allow him to overdo.
I’ll make sure he does his exercises,
even the ones that he despises.
Soon he’ll feel as good as new,
despite his monumental boo-boo.
Right now, my Mom and I are sad;
when Popsy’s home we’ll both be glad!
He’ll be ready for a nap,
and I’ll look forward to his lap!!
So ends my “tail,” it’s quite enough;
hope you like my cottony fluff.
—by Cotton Griffin (channeled through Shirley J. Brewer)
June 25, 2009
Me, Shirley, the Goddess
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Saturday, June 13, 2009
DIGITAL DITTY
No, I have not yet converted,
but before you call me perverted,
know I really like the static -
how can I be more emphatic?
I miss my trusty analog,
I'm croakin' like a grievin' frog;
oh, well, I gotta go with progress,
what's next is anybody's guess.
6/18 the cable guy will hook me -
I hope he doesn't overlook me.
I'll get back all my channels,
and celebrate in summer flannels.
Me, Shirley, the Goddess
but before you call me perverted,
know I really like the static -
how can I be more emphatic?
I miss my trusty analog,
I'm croakin' like a grievin' frog;
oh, well, I gotta go with progress,
what's next is anybody's guess.
6/18 the cable guy will hook me -
I hope he doesn't overlook me.
I'll get back all my channels,
and celebrate in summer flannels.
Me, Shirley, the Goddess
Sunday, May 24, 2009
KALEIDOSCOPE*
The kaleidoscope image holds a special significance for me. The first gift I remember receiving was from my grandmother - my father's mother - Alice Crippen Brewer - when I was about five. Her present: a kaleidoscope! It was magical, whimsical, and I never tired of looking into the cylinder and seeing the endless combinations of colored glass or plastic, or jewels - as I imagined them.
The kaleidoscope became my metaphor. Bright colors, accessories, represent the real me, who is also the me I present to the world. The colors and patterns change, yet the effect is always luminous. Modest, aren't I?!!
In selecting a symbol to represent the spirit of PLORK (PLAY + WORK), the kaleidoscope became a natural choice.
The PLORKSHOP is a journey to help you access or connect with your Creativity. This process involves being open to see things in new ways, see things differently. Surely, the kaleidoscope is a reminder that new possibilities exist!
Plorking is a practice, and Plork exercises help you form new habits. It's a joyful process.
When I had a serious accident/fall in June, 2007 - six fractures - I decided in the emergency cubicle at Lawrence Hospital in Bronxville, New York, that if I could find ways to Plork through this experience, I could Plork my way through anything.
My healing journey was a long one, but I did accessorize it with the spirit of Plork!
In the hospital, I had a wonderful pain-management doctor who assigned a tune to me to help him remember my name. My song was "Put Another Nickel In, In the Nickelodean" - made famous by Teresa Brewer - no relation! Every morning, Dr. Gary would whistle that tune as he approached my room on his rounds. When he found out I was a poet, Dr. Gary always took time to discuss different poets with me. He liked Robert Frost. So, I began each day in the hospital with music and poetry. PLORK!
I wanted a way to motivate myself to make the difficult transition from my hospital bed to my wheelchair to the sink in the early morning. With a broken shoulder and pelvis, this transition was slow, awkward, and painful. Plus, I'm not by nature a morning person, but in the hospital you have to be. I called my friend, Terry, who is an Arbonne consultant. Arbonne is a line of Swiss skincare products I like. Terry brought an orange travel kit with a cleanser, toner, eye cream, serum, day cream, etc to my hospital room, and placed it near my sink. Each morning, when I woke up, I saw that spot of bright orange and went for it! Sometimes, it took me a half hour or more to get there. My reward was a glowing face to offset my broken body. PLORK!
Once I got home from the hospital in mid-July - I also spent several weeks recuperating with friends - I faced an entire summer in my 3rd floor apartment, except for trips to physical therapy. This seemed dismal, when everyone else was outside enjoying the sunshine, vacations, etc. I decided to focus on decluttering my entire apartment, one item at a time. Three friends came over to help get me started, and then I was on my own. The result was very satisfying. Eliminating physical clutter eases the mind in so many ways. I also reviewed all my poetry and writing materials, which was a huge task. I focused on examining all my poems and putting together a new manuscript, which I am convinced led to my book, A Little Breast Music. When the editors of Passager Books - Kendra Kopelke and Mary Azrael - asked me in early 2008 if I had a new manuscript, I had it ready to put in their hands. PLORK!!
Plork works in all kinds of weather, time zones, and circumstances. My Plork Humanifesto is my lighthouse.
When life situations present challenges, try the PLORK approach. Look through your kaleidoscope, and shake gently.
*With gratitude to my friend, Bonnie Schupp, for the kaleidoscope image pictured here.
Me, Shirley, the Goddess
The kaleidoscope became my metaphor. Bright colors, accessories, represent the real me, who is also the me I present to the world. The colors and patterns change, yet the effect is always luminous. Modest, aren't I?!!
In selecting a symbol to represent the spirit of PLORK (PLAY + WORK), the kaleidoscope became a natural choice.
The PLORKSHOP is a journey to help you access or connect with your Creativity. This process involves being open to see things in new ways, see things differently. Surely, the kaleidoscope is a reminder that new possibilities exist!
Plorking is a practice, and Plork exercises help you form new habits. It's a joyful process.
When I had a serious accident/fall in June, 2007 - six fractures - I decided in the emergency cubicle at Lawrence Hospital in Bronxville, New York, that if I could find ways to Plork through this experience, I could Plork my way through anything.
My healing journey was a long one, but I did accessorize it with the spirit of Plork!
In the hospital, I had a wonderful pain-management doctor who assigned a tune to me to help him remember my name. My song was "Put Another Nickel In, In the Nickelodean" - made famous by Teresa Brewer - no relation! Every morning, Dr. Gary would whistle that tune as he approached my room on his rounds. When he found out I was a poet, Dr. Gary always took time to discuss different poets with me. He liked Robert Frost. So, I began each day in the hospital with music and poetry. PLORK!
I wanted a way to motivate myself to make the difficult transition from my hospital bed to my wheelchair to the sink in the early morning. With a broken shoulder and pelvis, this transition was slow, awkward, and painful. Plus, I'm not by nature a morning person, but in the hospital you have to be. I called my friend, Terry, who is an Arbonne consultant. Arbonne is a line of Swiss skincare products I like. Terry brought an orange travel kit with a cleanser, toner, eye cream, serum, day cream, etc to my hospital room, and placed it near my sink. Each morning, when I woke up, I saw that spot of bright orange and went for it! Sometimes, it took me a half hour or more to get there. My reward was a glowing face to offset my broken body. PLORK!
Once I got home from the hospital in mid-July - I also spent several weeks recuperating with friends - I faced an entire summer in my 3rd floor apartment, except for trips to physical therapy. This seemed dismal, when everyone else was outside enjoying the sunshine, vacations, etc. I decided to focus on decluttering my entire apartment, one item at a time. Three friends came over to help get me started, and then I was on my own. The result was very satisfying. Eliminating physical clutter eases the mind in so many ways. I also reviewed all my poetry and writing materials, which was a huge task. I focused on examining all my poems and putting together a new manuscript, which I am convinced led to my book, A Little Breast Music. When the editors of Passager Books - Kendra Kopelke and Mary Azrael - asked me in early 2008 if I had a new manuscript, I had it ready to put in their hands. PLORK!!
Plork works in all kinds of weather, time zones, and circumstances. My Plork Humanifesto is my lighthouse.
When life situations present challenges, try the PLORK approach. Look through your kaleidoscope, and shake gently.
*With gratitude to my friend, Bonnie Schupp, for the kaleidoscope image pictured here.
Me, Shirley, the Goddess
Sunday, May 17, 2009
PLORKSHOP - JUNE IN BALTIMORE!
BREAKING NEWS!!!
Another PLORKSHOP on my June calendar!
Join me at the Village Learning Place (VLP) in Charles Village on Wednesday, June 24, from 6 - 7:30 PM.
PLORKSHOP: ACCESSorize YOUR CREATIVITY
(Plork = Play + Work)
Village Learning Place
2521 St. Paul Street
Baltimore, MD 21218
$10 Admission - Includes dinner and open bar - NOT!!! Does include a copy of the
Plork Humanifesto!!!
You'll walk in at 6, feeling vaguely uncomfortable about various aspects of your life and your diminishing portfolio. You''ll walk out at 7:30, feeling like a pleasant tornado has whipped through and rejuvenated your spirit.
Trust me, Shirley, the Goddess
Contact me for more Plorkshop information, or to register:
shirley@apoeticlicense.com
410.279.5487 Cell
See post below - May 9 - Shirley's Creative Pursuits - for details about Annapolis Plorkshop on June 10, 2009, at Tara's Gifts
Another PLORKSHOP on my June calendar!
Join me at the Village Learning Place (VLP) in Charles Village on Wednesday, June 24, from 6 - 7:30 PM.
PLORKSHOP: ACCESSorize YOUR CREATIVITY
(Plork = Play + Work)
Village Learning Place
2521 St. Paul Street
Baltimore, MD 21218
$10 Admission - Includes dinner and open bar - NOT!!! Does include a copy of the
Plork Humanifesto!!!
You'll walk in at 6, feeling vaguely uncomfortable about various aspects of your life and your diminishing portfolio. You''ll walk out at 7:30, feeling like a pleasant tornado has whipped through and rejuvenated your spirit.
Trust me, Shirley, the Goddess
Contact me for more Plorkshop information, or to register:
shirley@apoeticlicense.com
410.279.5487 Cell
See post below - May 9 - Shirley's Creative Pursuits - for details about Annapolis Plorkshop on June 10, 2009, at Tara's Gifts
FARRAH'S STORY
Farrah Fawcett and I are the same age. Farrah turned 62 in February, and I'll reach that milestone in a scant three weeks. How is it possible?
1976 seems like yesterday. That was the year Farrah and her hair wowed America in her only season on Charlie's Angels. And I returned to my speech therapy position in Maryland - after a
1 1/2 year hiatus rethinking my career choice. As I recall, no cameras covered that event.
Over the years, I've followed Farrah news in the press, and applauded her dramatic talents -remember Extremities and The Burning Bed. After all, we blondes stick together.
Tabloid news was not always flattering, but who believes that nonsense? Several years ago, Farrah gained headlines again, this time when it was announced she was suffering from anal cancer, more uncommon than other forms of the insidious disease.
Last Friday, May 15, NBC broadcast a documentary called Farrah's Story, which detailed not only Farrah's struggle, but her strength in dealing with her medical fate. I watched this program, filmed by Fawcett's close friend, Alana Stewart, and actually took some notes.
The most striking visual image in the film was when Farrah chose to reveal to the camera - and thus to millions - her mostly shaved head. She shaved off her own hair, when she began to notice it falling out, rather than allowing the cancer to take it.
I think this act - this revelation - was the bravest moment I have ever witnessed on television - ever!!!!
Our American culture is so focused on physical beauty and perfection. Witness the opulent Red Carpets, when movie stars parade their expensive faces, bodies, gowns and accessories. Hair is a vital part of the entire package.
Kate Jackson, one of the brunette Angels, admits that Farrah's Hair attained the status of another character on the show, a fourth Angel!
Early in her chemotherapy, doctors tried treatments that would allow Farrah to keep her tresses intact. As the disease progressed, the treatment plan escalated, and she lost her famous trademark. Her reaction? She covered her head with a scarf, kept her bangs, and smiled into the camera.
I so admire the courage of this woman, my peer, my fellow blonde. I hope I display a similar courage when obstacles of any sort are placed before me.
Thanks, Farrah, for your inspiration. You were never more Beautiful. Sending you Positive Energy. On my birthday, June 5, I'll toast you and the gifts you gave America, especially now, at age 62.
Here are some of Farrah's words...phrases...wistful thoughts...I won't comment...just let Farrah speak:
this illness...stranger to myself...alone inside myself...pain I have never known...
I miss my life...celebrate a good dose of joy...how much I would miss the rain...
And how are you? What are you fighting for?
Me, Shirley, the Goddess
1976 seems like yesterday. That was the year Farrah and her hair wowed America in her only season on Charlie's Angels. And I returned to my speech therapy position in Maryland - after a
1 1/2 year hiatus rethinking my career choice. As I recall, no cameras covered that event.
Over the years, I've followed Farrah news in the press, and applauded her dramatic talents -remember Extremities and The Burning Bed. After all, we blondes stick together.
Tabloid news was not always flattering, but who believes that nonsense? Several years ago, Farrah gained headlines again, this time when it was announced she was suffering from anal cancer, more uncommon than other forms of the insidious disease.
Last Friday, May 15, NBC broadcast a documentary called Farrah's Story, which detailed not only Farrah's struggle, but her strength in dealing with her medical fate. I watched this program, filmed by Fawcett's close friend, Alana Stewart, and actually took some notes.
The most striking visual image in the film was when Farrah chose to reveal to the camera - and thus to millions - her mostly shaved head. She shaved off her own hair, when she began to notice it falling out, rather than allowing the cancer to take it.
I think this act - this revelation - was the bravest moment I have ever witnessed on television - ever!!!!
Our American culture is so focused on physical beauty and perfection. Witness the opulent Red Carpets, when movie stars parade their expensive faces, bodies, gowns and accessories. Hair is a vital part of the entire package.
Kate Jackson, one of the brunette Angels, admits that Farrah's Hair attained the status of another character on the show, a fourth Angel!
Early in her chemotherapy, doctors tried treatments that would allow Farrah to keep her tresses intact. As the disease progressed, the treatment plan escalated, and she lost her famous trademark. Her reaction? She covered her head with a scarf, kept her bangs, and smiled into the camera.
I so admire the courage of this woman, my peer, my fellow blonde. I hope I display a similar courage when obstacles of any sort are placed before me.
Thanks, Farrah, for your inspiration. You were never more Beautiful. Sending you Positive Energy. On my birthday, June 5, I'll toast you and the gifts you gave America, especially now, at age 62.
Here are some of Farrah's words...phrases...wistful thoughts...I won't comment...just let Farrah speak:
this illness...stranger to myself...alone inside myself...pain I have never known...
I miss my life...celebrate a good dose of joy...how much I would miss the rain...
And how are you? What are you fighting for?
Me, Shirley, the Goddess
Sunday, May 10, 2009
MOTHER'S DAY 2009
This is my first Mother's Day without my mom, and it seems strange to me. My mom lived in Rochester, New York, and my home base has been Baltimore-Annapolis for almost forty years now. Still, I talked to her all the time on the phone, and visited her several times a year. I felt connected to her in ways that were not always verbal. She was such a lovely woman. I miss her greatly.
I thought I would honor my mom today by revealing her favorite passion: doing the dishes. Years ago, my dad surprised my mom one anniversary by having a dish washer installed while she was out for the day. She was furious! I think it was one time I remember when my mom actually stopped speaking to my dad for a day or so. Poor guy, he just didn't get it. He should have opted for the traditional flowers, candy, or a dinner at one of their favorite restaurants. like Glen Edith or the Oatka Inn.
My mom elevated washing dishes to the rank of sacred ritual. I mean, she loved the entire experience! She and my aunt - who lived with our family for many years - were best friends, and they took turns washing and drying. They also "dished" about local news and neighborhood gossip. And they laughed like schoolgirls. I have never seen two grown women who were funnier when they giggled than my mom and aunt. Their faces would crinkle, tears would flow, and yet somehow the silverware and glasses all got put away.
Holidays were the best. My mom usually wore red, and my aunt, green. After the meal, they'd be in the kitchen for what seemed like hours. They never left dishes until the next day.
I just realized I've been writing about the two most beautiful women in my life - my mom and my aunt. Both mothered me. I was lucky. Both lived to be 95. My aunt passed away in January of 2004, and my mom, January 10 of this year.
Did I mention I never use my dishwasher? I like the feel of Palmolive, and I'm never alone at my kitchen sink. I can hear the giggles almost before I turn on the water.
If it's true that heaven is one big feast, then I know who's washing all the plates.
With Love and Gratitude to Jean M. Brewer, and Alvina J. Morse, from Me, Shirley, the Goddess.
I thought I would honor my mom today by revealing her favorite passion: doing the dishes. Years ago, my dad surprised my mom one anniversary by having a dish washer installed while she was out for the day. She was furious! I think it was one time I remember when my mom actually stopped speaking to my dad for a day or so. Poor guy, he just didn't get it. He should have opted for the traditional flowers, candy, or a dinner at one of their favorite restaurants. like Glen Edith or the Oatka Inn.
My mom elevated washing dishes to the rank of sacred ritual. I mean, she loved the entire experience! She and my aunt - who lived with our family for many years - were best friends, and they took turns washing and drying. They also "dished" about local news and neighborhood gossip. And they laughed like schoolgirls. I have never seen two grown women who were funnier when they giggled than my mom and aunt. Their faces would crinkle, tears would flow, and yet somehow the silverware and glasses all got put away.
Holidays were the best. My mom usually wore red, and my aunt, green. After the meal, they'd be in the kitchen for what seemed like hours. They never left dishes until the next day.
I just realized I've been writing about the two most beautiful women in my life - my mom and my aunt. Both mothered me. I was lucky. Both lived to be 95. My aunt passed away in January of 2004, and my mom, January 10 of this year.
Did I mention I never use my dishwasher? I like the feel of Palmolive, and I'm never alone at my kitchen sink. I can hear the giggles almost before I turn on the water.
If it's true that heaven is one big feast, then I know who's washing all the plates.
With Love and Gratitude to Jean M. Brewer, and Alvina J. Morse, from Me, Shirley, the Goddess.
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