“Corporate America”

Gosh, it's been some time since my last post. Didn't I promise to post more often? What happened? So quickly I forget. Anywho, I am pleased to report I have accepted a design job with Verizon. I've been working with them for a few weeks now. Yep, can you imagine me getting fully integrated into "Corporate America" and all that entails? Makes me laugh too! Judging by the standards of my fellow designers, it would appear I have sold out, but contrary to thought, there is no glamour in being a starving artist. I've been heading Verizon's Hollywood, Florida creative department. Work is great so far...there are a few pros and cons. One of the pros? Being one's own boss, so to speak—my supervisor is located in Minnesota. Creative freedom is superb, though I'm finding that being in charge of the department can at times be dauntingly challenging. I still have a hard time believing that these people, who appear worlds more qualified in their own fields, are looking to me for creative direction. Are you serious? Still haven't quite gotten used to that one. Another pro? I get to work a variety of ads, so it never gets boring. Con? My commute is 45 min. in the morning and anywhere from 1 hr. to 1 1/2 hrs. in the evening! Did I mention the glorious bumper-to-bumper Miami traffic? I'm taking it one day at a time. Well, off to bed now. Gotta rest for that morning drive!

We miss you guys!

Party at Van Dyke's

Saturday night we met up with our new buddies Marzieh and Jalil Thurber for Jalil's 32nd birthday celebration. Van Dyke's is a trendy eatery on South Beach's famed Lincoln Road. The upper level of the restaurant houses a fabulous jazz lounge, where jazz can be heard every night of the week. That night our ears were delighted by the Brazilian sounds of bossa nova as well as some New Orleans blues. Also in attending: the lovely Lisa Rayner, and two of Jalil's buddies from D.C., brothers Shamim and Shahram. Great fun guys!

Happy Birthday Flor!

Flor is the sweetest, most dear friend—one whom I am fortunate to have known the last 15 years! Distance hasn't kept us apart. On the contrary, it has served to only strengthen our friendship over the years. Somehow we've managed to share every moment with one another, as though we never were apart. Today, 20...ahem...some years ago (a girl never tells) the world was blessed with the birth of a wonderful, dear soul. And the world is made a brighter place each day with her presence and contributions to humanity. Florcita, I love you so much and wish you all the best on your special day! Felíz cumpleaños, my dear sister of the Spirit.