Santa’s come and gone. 2008 is winding down. Here comes the New Year, are you ready? Resolutions. New beginnings. Quitting said resolutions. Ending the beginnings, and on the cycle goes until we approach the next December, etc etc. Whatever your MidNight plans may be, and whether you’re feeling Frisky, Feisty, Sassy or Spunky, I sure hope your door closes well on 2008 and opens to a wonderful 2009.
I considered going all out for an end-of-the-year blog entry. Offering some "best-of-2008" lists and top-whatever countdowns of my fave from this year. But instead I choose to leave you with a brief "well-wish" for the New Year. I hope ALL the best for ALL of you, and I think simply saying that eliminates any need for lists, stories, or expectations of the upcoming year.
Tip the glass at the stroke of midNight, sip the champagne, snag that kiss and on we go. Isn’t life just a beautiful thing?
Should all acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind
Should all acquaintance be forgot for the sake of auld lang syne
Santa Says RECYCLE!!!
I'm turning into a recycle nut. I made a box at work for paper recycling I take to local bins. It sits near my 6 inch stack of scrap I use to avoid new paper. As I mailed out my christmas cards I got to thinking, "I hope all this paper doesn't get thrown away, maybe I should put a reminder note to recycle the paper" (dork). I recycle at home, have little grocery totes I drag everywhere, and take my overstock of plastic grocery bags to the recycle bins at the stores. I smash cans for recycling. I even talked my boyfriend into bringing home the plastic bag he carries his lunch in to use more than once! Today I stumbled upon the following article that included useful information I thought you might find interesting, and make you put your christmas cards in a recylce bin instead of the trash.
Happy Reduce/Reuse/Recycling!!!
The holidays are here and you want to do it all! And with all that overindulgence comes a lot of waste. In fact, Americans throw away about 25% more trash between Thanksgiving and New Year's Eve than the rest of the year. This year, you can enjoy the holidays — and be kinder to the environment at the same time — just by following these easy tips.
Holiday Cards
Every year, 2.65 billion holiday cards are sold in the U.S. When choosing cards this year, make sure they contain recycled content or are made from recycled material. And when the season is over, don’t throw away the cards you receive. Be sure to toss them in the recycle bin.
Catalogs
Everyone’s mailbox is stuffed with mail-order catalogs this time of year. Call the companies and ask to be removed from their mailing lists. (If each household canceled ten mail-order catalogs, it would reduce their trash by 3.5 pounds per year!) And be sure to recycle any you do wish to receive.
Shopping Bags
Don’t you hate being bogged down by armfuls of bags after a day of shopping? Then why not take your own tote bags? Unlike store bags, they’re easier to carry and can hold a lot more items.
Gifts
Keep the environment in mind when choosing holiday gifts. Instead of buying trinkets that will end up in a landfill one day, select gifts that won’t create waste, such as homemade cookies, a plant, concert or movie tickets, candles, soaps or a donation to a charity.
Wrapping Paper
While a package wrapped in shiny paper may look festive, just think how wasteful it really is to use the paper once and then throw it away. Try to buy wrapping paper made of recycled paper. Or get really creative and use old maps or the Sunday comics to wrap your gifts. Avoid paper all together by using reusable decorative tins, baskets or boxes.
Decorations
If you put up a Christmas tree, be sure to purchase one that can be planted or mulched after the holiday. Or use an artificial tree instead. Make ornaments and other decorations out of things you find around the house or outside. Use outdoor light strands that are wired in parallel. (This means if one bulb goes out, you only have to replace it and not the whole strand.) Also remember the smaller the bulbs, the lower the wattage. Low wattage consumes less energy and gives off less heat, making your lights safer.
Food
After a holiday meal, don’t throw away the leftovers. Wrap them up and send them home with your guests, or donate them to a local food bank. You can also compost your food waste. Fruits and vegetables and their peels, pits and seeds all make a great natural fertilizer once composted.
Happy Reduce/Reuse/Recycling!!!
The holidays are here and you want to do it all! And with all that overindulgence comes a lot of waste. In fact, Americans throw away about 25% more trash between Thanksgiving and New Year's Eve than the rest of the year. This year, you can enjoy the holidays — and be kinder to the environment at the same time — just by following these easy tips.
Holiday Cards
Every year, 2.65 billion holiday cards are sold in the U.S. When choosing cards this year, make sure they contain recycled content or are made from recycled material. And when the season is over, don’t throw away the cards you receive. Be sure to toss them in the recycle bin.
Catalogs
Everyone’s mailbox is stuffed with mail-order catalogs this time of year. Call the companies and ask to be removed from their mailing lists. (If each household canceled ten mail-order catalogs, it would reduce their trash by 3.5 pounds per year!) And be sure to recycle any you do wish to receive.
Shopping Bags
Don’t you hate being bogged down by armfuls of bags after a day of shopping? Then why not take your own tote bags? Unlike store bags, they’re easier to carry and can hold a lot more items.
Gifts
Keep the environment in mind when choosing holiday gifts. Instead of buying trinkets that will end up in a landfill one day, select gifts that won’t create waste, such as homemade cookies, a plant, concert or movie tickets, candles, soaps or a donation to a charity.
Wrapping Paper
While a package wrapped in shiny paper may look festive, just think how wasteful it really is to use the paper once and then throw it away. Try to buy wrapping paper made of recycled paper. Or get really creative and use old maps or the Sunday comics to wrap your gifts. Avoid paper all together by using reusable decorative tins, baskets or boxes.
Decorations
If you put up a Christmas tree, be sure to purchase one that can be planted or mulched after the holiday. Or use an artificial tree instead. Make ornaments and other decorations out of things you find around the house or outside. Use outdoor light strands that are wired in parallel. (This means if one bulb goes out, you only have to replace it and not the whole strand.) Also remember the smaller the bulbs, the lower the wattage. Low wattage consumes less energy and gives off less heat, making your lights safer.
Food
After a holiday meal, don’t throw away the leftovers. Wrap them up and send them home with your guests, or donate them to a local food bank. You can also compost your food waste. Fruits and vegetables and their peels, pits and seeds all make a great natural fertilizer once composted.
And So This is Christmas...
This past Monday (Dec.8) marked 28th anniversary of the shooting of John Lennon. Looking back, much seems different than 28 years ago. I recently caught a documentary on the time he spent "in bed for peace" with Yoko, and it reminded me – certain things are no different from back then. Here I am a mere 26, wondering what the world woud be like today if he were still in it. Things he said in interviews, and the ideals he wanted to spread are still very needed in the world today. We are in the same positions, just with different elements of the equation. It amazed me as I watched him in bed, people asking questions of why. Why are you doing this? Why is this what you believe? It made me recollect the issues in my life, the things that weigh me down, even tho in 28 years they probably won’t matter. And there’s John Lennon in bed for PEACE, something that still is in play after all this time. And even tho I might not say he’s my favorite "Beatle" or that I’m even a super die hard fan (eh – that’s debatable) credit is due to how amazing he was on his own. The Beatles were such a wonderful package of one another, and yes John was quite a package with Yoko Ono, but still he shook the world as an individual.
"You May Say I’m a Dreamer, But I’m Not the Only One…
I Hope Someday You Will Join Us, & the World Will Live as One"
I don’t know what it was about that show, whether the coincidence of its timing or simply the state of mind I was in while viewing…but I felt a sort of inner comfort afterwards. A sort of – don’t let things factor in, they might not be an issue down the road. Who knows. The holidays are here as well as the end of the calendar year, bringing a time for looking back and forward all at once. A time for coming together with friends, family, loved ones. A time to remember it is YOU who makes a difference in your life, and there’s no better time than now to find your balance.
Happy Christmas Everyone
So this is Christmas
AND WHAT HAVE YOU DONE
Another year over
And a new one just begun
And so this is Christmas
I hope you have fun
The near and the dear one
The old and the young
"You May Say I’m a Dreamer, But I’m Not the Only One…
I Hope Someday You Will Join Us, & the World Will Live as One"
I don’t know what it was about that show, whether the coincidence of its timing or simply the state of mind I was in while viewing…but I felt a sort of inner comfort afterwards. A sort of – don’t let things factor in, they might not be an issue down the road. Who knows. The holidays are here as well as the end of the calendar year, bringing a time for looking back and forward all at once. A time for coming together with friends, family, loved ones. A time to remember it is YOU who makes a difference in your life, and there’s no better time than now to find your balance.
Happy Christmas Everyone
So this is Christmas
AND WHAT HAVE YOU DONE
Another year over
And a new one just begun
And so this is Christmas
I hope you have fun
The near and the dear one
The old and the young
U Can't Get Ahead While UR Getting Even
When someone asks: what are your strengths and weaknesses? The answers often mold to the type of atmosphere the question comes from. Interviewers are told the strengths of a person’s communication skills, etc etc. For a while now my answer has always been the same, regardless. I feel my biggest strength is, at times, one of my biggest weaknesses: my versatility. I have been both complimented and criticized for this trait, and do my best to learn from the bad and take from the good.
It might look like my strength-weakness is an oxymoron, or maybe that I’m just simply a moron, eh? But I promise you, it is a big part of who I am. And as much as I’m grateful to balance out my perspective, and attempt to represent a sort of "karma" I sometimes wonder if my perspective would change, given a different well, perspective.
I'm sure none of this makes sense to you. And that’s ok. Potentially that’s what I’m going for with this blog. Take this moment to re-read its title. I feel like it represents a part of what I’m trying to express as I type-vomit all over this keyboard. Basically it pulls me like Stretch-Armstrong (remember that guy?). I "go with the flow" but then wonder if the "flow" really pushes me forward. I can’t grasp it sometimes, but isn’t that the spice of life? No wait, they say "variety" is the spice. Grr, I’m so confused.
As my confusion sets in, and you realize I’m going nowhere with this blog. I think I’ll quit my attempt to figure out life, and balance, and right versus wrong, and strength versus weakness. I think I’ll just keep on truckin’ with hopes that you also see some beauty in that quote of a title that inspired me to blog about nothing. I hope that as we all get sucked into the expectations of the holiday season we realize we don't have to compete to win, (beyond the Bengals and their TIE, come on WHO DEY!!) And we remember to avoid spite or vengeance. Because the base of those qualities contradict versatility and understanding of one another. And without that we won’t have the ability to move forward.
It might look like my strength-weakness is an oxymoron, or maybe that I’m just simply a moron, eh? But I promise you, it is a big part of who I am. And as much as I’m grateful to balance out my perspective, and attempt to represent a sort of "karma" I sometimes wonder if my perspective would change, given a different well, perspective.
I'm sure none of this makes sense to you. And that’s ok. Potentially that’s what I’m going for with this blog. Take this moment to re-read its title. I feel like it represents a part of what I’m trying to express as I type-vomit all over this keyboard. Basically it pulls me like Stretch-Armstrong (remember that guy?). I "go with the flow" but then wonder if the "flow" really pushes me forward. I can’t grasp it sometimes, but isn’t that the spice of life? No wait, they say "variety" is the spice. Grr, I’m so confused.
As my confusion sets in, and you realize I’m going nowhere with this blog. I think I’ll quit my attempt to figure out life, and balance, and right versus wrong, and strength versus weakness. I think I’ll just keep on truckin’ with hopes that you also see some beauty in that quote of a title that inspired me to blog about nothing. I hope that as we all get sucked into the expectations of the holiday season we realize we don't have to compete to win, (beyond the Bengals and their TIE, come on WHO DEY!!) And we remember to avoid spite or vengeance. Because the base of those qualities contradict versatility and understanding of one another. And without that we won’t have the ability to move forward.
My Party on Pancake Mountain
I can't seem to figure out how to put the youTube video directly on my blog here, but just click the link below and watch the video....its classic adorable.
Kings of Leon played a 2-song set on a kids show called Pancake Mountain. I guess when they were doing their sound check some kids didn't like the loud noise, and some even started crying. But once they started playing they loooooved it and were dancing around the whole time. The boy in green is great! The sound on this video seems awful.....The band seems almost awkward.
I found all of this amusing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMGEt_k643Q
Kings of Leon played a 2-song set on a kids show called Pancake Mountain. I guess when they were doing their sound check some kids didn't like the loud noise, and some even started crying. But once they started playing they loooooved it and were dancing around the whole time. The boy in green is great! The sound on this video seems awful.....The band seems almost awkward.
I found all of this amusing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMGEt_k643Q
Just plain OFFENSIVE
We had over 300 pieces of candy, carved pumpkins, and were all ready for ghouls and goblins to knock on the door. Well, THAT didn't happen so instead we ran around all dressed up on our own trick or treat adventure. Turns out we were on a "pub crawl" where the costume contest theme was Most OFFENSIVE. Although none from our group were all too offensive, we did happen to know the guy who won the black diamond grand prize....The dark knight Joker, frothing at the mouth with an apology note from Heath Ledger. He was up against TheWHO concert victim, and special olympics guy, among others.
It was a great time, packed in those tiny village bars like sardines, all determined to chase around the Naked CowBoy and the radio station guy. I dressed up as a "Deviled Egg" in case you were wondering from the picture. Creative, yes. But most didn't know until I explained to them that the yellow dot on my belly was NOT part of a Twister Game Board.
So next year maybe a young'un will come knocking for some candy, who knows. I suppose even tho we were upset we didn't get any treaters, I guess its good we didn't get any "tricks" either. Cuz our pumpkins are still sitting on our porch (pretty much rotted might I add). But they didn't get smashed against the side of our house like I thought maybe they would.
It was a great time, packed in those tiny village bars like sardines, all determined to chase around the Naked CowBoy and the radio station guy. I dressed up as a "Deviled Egg" in case you were wondering from the picture. Creative, yes. But most didn't know until I explained to them that the yellow dot on my belly was NOT part of a Twister Game Board.
So next year maybe a young'un will come knocking for some candy, who knows. I suppose even tho we were upset we didn't get any treaters, I guess its good we didn't get any "tricks" either. Cuz our pumpkins are still sitting on our porch (pretty much rotted might I add). But they didn't get smashed against the side of our house like I thought maybe they would.
Who Dey? Ebay!
Anyone else wondering which family member's gonna be on local news next??
http://www.local12.com/mediacenter/local.aspx?videoid=35286@video.wkrc.com
http://www.local12.com/mediacenter/local.aspx?videoid=35286@video.wkrc.com
Wicked Dragster Force Power
Ever been to Cedar Point?
If you’re a fan of RollerCoasters, I highly recommend going. Went this past weekend, for their Halloween Festivities. Even tho temperatures were cold and the wind blew off the lake…it was a wonderful time. And there was plenty of hot coffee to go around. We sped 120mph, shot up 240 feet, twisted like crazy, and dropped 300 feet down. I’m ready for next time, maybe once the weather warms back up…
If you’re a fan of RollerCoasters, I highly recommend going. Went this past weekend, for their Halloween Festivities. Even tho temperatures were cold and the wind blew off the lake…it was a wonderful time. And there was plenty of hot coffee to go around. We sped 120mph, shot up 240 feet, twisted like crazy, and dropped 300 feet down. I’m ready for next time, maybe once the weather warms back up…
No Boil? No Way.
So, I don't cook. I don't really even go to the grocery. Altho this new roomie of mine has me attempting otherwise. Somehow from somewhere (I think we saw a commercial and it looked delicious) I decided to snag my mom's lasagna recipe and attempt homemade lasagna.
Then I heard about these magical No-Boil Lasagna Noodles that you simply add uncooked and out comes wonderful layers of yummy lasagna. WELL at my house that was NOT the case. Thankfully no one showed up for the dinner party, so the poor guests weren't forced to tell me how good it was out of respect for my Suzie-Homemaker efforts in the kitchen.
Add-in the wine, ceasar salad, and the boyfriend who was extremely nice about eating my overly garlic and very very stiff lasagna, and it turned out an enjoyable, worthwhile event. And yes, our friends eventually showed up as we finished off 4 bottles of wine and hung around the firepit on a wonderful fall night....I think they all knew better than to let me cook for them.
So I might be the only person who has unsuccessfully used the no-boil noodles, since everyone I tell explains their love for the simplicity of them. I however, found a way to mess them up! What it really "boils" down to tho, is that it was a fun night and I'm not worried about lacking the skills in the kitchen. That's what the wine's for right?
Then I heard about these magical No-Boil Lasagna Noodles that you simply add uncooked and out comes wonderful layers of yummy lasagna. WELL at my house that was NOT the case. Thankfully no one showed up for the dinner party, so the poor guests weren't forced to tell me how good it was out of respect for my Suzie-Homemaker efforts in the kitchen.
Add-in the wine, ceasar salad, and the boyfriend who was extremely nice about eating my overly garlic and very very stiff lasagna, and it turned out an enjoyable, worthwhile event. And yes, our friends eventually showed up as we finished off 4 bottles of wine and hung around the firepit on a wonderful fall night....I think they all knew better than to let me cook for them.
So I might be the only person who has unsuccessfully used the no-boil noodles, since everyone I tell explains their love for the simplicity of them. I however, found a way to mess them up! What it really "boils" down to tho, is that it was a fun night and I'm not worried about lacking the skills in the kitchen. That's what the wine's for right?
a NATIONAL issue
I live across the river from Ohio, one of the most important states in this oh-so-important election. We’re seeing more political ads on tv than probably anywhere in the country, and the candidates are visiting this area like my uncle Aaron visits Las Vegas (those who know him are smiling EAR TO EAR)
Yesterday there was a rally downtown Cincinnati to promote the ability to vote early in Ohio, they were bussing voters to polls, etc etc. Among many other things, such as talking up a certain someone from Illinois. Altho I am a "Kentuckian" I attended the rally, but solely for the sake of the music in my ears. A band called THE NATIONAL was there, little did I know they are from Cincy. So I hopped on my bike and rolled over the bridge to see what it was about.
Low and behold Natalie Portman was there, and of course her biggest fan (one of my best friends) told me of this. She gave a tid-bit of a speech, basically she announced The National onto the stage. The band came on, played some great songs, and respectfully had little to say about their choice for the election. Which I felt was amazing, many props to them….
They stated that "Yes – we are partial to the candidate we like. But we really just want to emphasize the importance of voting, we don’t have much to say, we just came here with our songs."
So to you, THE NATIONAL: thank you for coming to your hometown and letting us gather to see how different this election year is than any other. Not just to repeat again and again who it is you think we should vote for.
Because it is my decision, and I’ll figure that one out on my own.
Turn the light out say goodnight
No thinking for a little while
Lets not try to figure out everything at once
It’s hard to keep track of you falling through the sky
We’re half-awake in a fake empire
Yesterday there was a rally downtown Cincinnati to promote the ability to vote early in Ohio, they were bussing voters to polls, etc etc. Among many other things, such as talking up a certain someone from Illinois. Altho I am a "Kentuckian" I attended the rally, but solely for the sake of the music in my ears. A band called THE NATIONAL was there, little did I know they are from Cincy. So I hopped on my bike and rolled over the bridge to see what it was about.
Low and behold Natalie Portman was there, and of course her biggest fan (one of my best friends) told me of this. She gave a tid-bit of a speech, basically she announced The National onto the stage. The band came on, played some great songs, and respectfully had little to say about their choice for the election. Which I felt was amazing, many props to them….
They stated that "Yes – we are partial to the candidate we like. But we really just want to emphasize the importance of voting, we don’t have much to say, we just came here with our songs."
So to you, THE NATIONAL: thank you for coming to your hometown and letting us gather to see how different this election year is than any other. Not just to repeat again and again who it is you think we should vote for.
Because it is my decision, and I’ll figure that one out on my own.
Turn the light out say goodnight
No thinking for a little while
Lets not try to figure out everything at once
It’s hard to keep track of you falling through the sky
We’re half-awake in a fake empire
U ain't got time 2 call ur Soul a critic...
Right outside this lazy summer home
You ain't got time to call your soul a critic, no
Right outside the lazy gate of winter's summer home
Wond-rin' where the nut-thatch winters
Wings a mile long just carried the bird away
Wake up to find out that you are the eyes of the world
The heart has it's beaches, it's homeland and thoughts of it's own
Wake now, discover that you are the song that the mornin' brings
But the heart has it's seasons, it's evenin's and songs of it's own
There comes a redeemer, and he slowly too fades away
And there follows his wagon behind him that's loaded with clay
And the seeds that were silent all burst into bloom, and decay
And night comes so quiet, it's close on the heels of the day
Wake up to find out that you are the eyes of the world
The heart has it's beaches, it's homeland and thoughts of it's own
Wake now, discover that you are the song that the mornin' brings
But the heart has it's seasons, it's evenin's and songs of it's own
Sometimes we live no particular way but our own
And sometimes we visit your country and live in your home
Sometimes we ride on your horses
Sometimes we walk alone
Sometimes the songs that we hear are just songs of our own
Wake up to find out that you are the eyes of the world
The heart has it's beaches, it's homeland and thoughts of it's own
Wake now, discover that you are the song that the mornin' brings
But the heart has it's seasons, it's evenin's and songs of it's own
Eyes of the World - by the Grateful Dead...
Click to Listen
You ain't got time to call your soul a critic, no
Right outside the lazy gate of winter's summer home
Wond-rin' where the nut-thatch winters
Wings a mile long just carried the bird away
Wake up to find out that you are the eyes of the world
The heart has it's beaches, it's homeland and thoughts of it's own
Wake now, discover that you are the song that the mornin' brings
But the heart has it's seasons, it's evenin's and songs of it's own
There comes a redeemer, and he slowly too fades away
And there follows his wagon behind him that's loaded with clay
And the seeds that were silent all burst into bloom, and decay
And night comes so quiet, it's close on the heels of the day
Wake up to find out that you are the eyes of the world
The heart has it's beaches, it's homeland and thoughts of it's own
Wake now, discover that you are the song that the mornin' brings
But the heart has it's seasons, it's evenin's and songs of it's own
Sometimes we live no particular way but our own
And sometimes we visit your country and live in your home
Sometimes we ride on your horses
Sometimes we walk alone
Sometimes the songs that we hear are just songs of our own
Wake up to find out that you are the eyes of the world
The heart has it's beaches, it's homeland and thoughts of it's own
Wake now, discover that you are the song that the mornin' brings
But the heart has it's seasons, it's evenin's and songs of it's own
Eyes of the World - by the Grateful Dead...
Click to Listen
Four Kicks (and Albums) - Who's Struttin Now?
One thing I quite enjoy is entertaining my ears with new music. These days there are so many ways to obtain new tunes, and sometimes not a dime is dropped. Yes, there’s the whole "don’t steal the music" bla bla. But I’m still an avid cd buyer, so when I come across free stuff, oh well. I feel it’s a Karma balance-of -validation.
Lately I’ve had the chance to overload the "recently added" PlayList on my i.tunes. And have new stuff I look forward to hearing more of, along w/some long-loved artists, (both old and new albums)…its been glorious.
Anyway – what I’m getting at –the new Kings of Leon record is out. I was lucky to snag it prior to release, which in part has me burnt out on it already, by my own fault. And yes, its not the typical sound from them we’ve all know and love. But its still new stuff to hear and maybe, yes maybe, it might just grow on you. Altho they’re gaining mainstream rep and hype….I would guess its what they’re going for, isn’t any band, sort of? Hopefully during this time while they’re "all the fuss" (good OR bad), they’ll start writing songs that pull back to their roots. I suppose we can only wish.
I read a great review where a reader commented that regardless this album would take criticism. Basically it stated how if it sounded like all their older stuff people would gripe of no "maturity" to their sound, but instead now they’re griping its too "pop" and mainstream. Yes, the album is part-corny (I need their off-the-wall lyrics!!) – but also: some people just like to bitch. If anything, the release of this album has given them more recognition, which means they’re sticking around. I’m grateful for that. They’ve been huge in Europe for a while now and as that hype grows in the US, lets just hope they keep it up. Even if they spit out a not-so-par record every now and again…..
My cocky look emerges when U question my moves
Cuz U ain’t got no taste..
U talkin’ bout my baby
I could flip you upside down and I could mop this place...
Kings of Leon / My Party / Because of the Times
Lately I’ve had the chance to overload the "recently added" PlayList on my i.tunes. And have new stuff I look forward to hearing more of, along w/some long-loved artists, (both old and new albums)…its been glorious.
Anyway – what I’m getting at –the new Kings of Leon record is out. I was lucky to snag it prior to release, which in part has me burnt out on it already, by my own fault. And yes, its not the typical sound from them we’ve all know and love. But its still new stuff to hear and maybe, yes maybe, it might just grow on you. Altho they’re gaining mainstream rep and hype….I would guess its what they’re going for, isn’t any band, sort of? Hopefully during this time while they’re "all the fuss" (good OR bad), they’ll start writing songs that pull back to their roots. I suppose we can only wish.
I read a great review where a reader commented that regardless this album would take criticism. Basically it stated how if it sounded like all their older stuff people would gripe of no "maturity" to their sound, but instead now they’re griping its too "pop" and mainstream. Yes, the album is part-corny (I need their off-the-wall lyrics!!) – but also: some people just like to bitch. If anything, the release of this album has given them more recognition, which means they’re sticking around. I’m grateful for that. They’ve been huge in Europe for a while now and as that hype grows in the US, lets just hope they keep it up. Even if they spit out a not-so-par record every now and again…..
My cocky look emerges when U question my moves
Cuz U ain’t got no taste..
U talkin’ bout my baby
I could flip you upside down and I could mop this place...
Kings of Leon / My Party / Because of the Times
Blowin' in da Wind...
I can’t believe I live in the midwest and can say a "Hurricane" hit (sort of). And, considering pictures I’ve seen, and stories I heard of the rest of cincy, mine are minimal. People were out of power for an entire week, along with no H2O due to water pumps that run on electric. So city ways are fortunate I suppose. And I almost feel our issues partially deal with LazyLandlord more than midwest.hurricane, AKA we were not surprised all those trees fell on our driveway. But here’s a pic of Ike’s remnants on Russell.St while we, however, were at Paul Brown, watching the Bengals get "blown away" by the Titans..BLUGH.
Hit Me BABY One More Time!!
My cousin had another baby: Round 3....Drake Thomas Winchester, Cutie-Pa-Tootie!
Born September 10, 2008
Congratulations to the family, you got it goin on AbbySUE!
Smiles N Hugs..BrettySue
Welcome to My Jungle...
Ahhhhh, the BENGALS. This Sunday brings the first home game of the regular season. And hopefully also brings a win over the Titans and a 1-1 record, after the sad display of disgust in Baltimore. But, Whatever. I’m not here to talk strategy. I'm not even here to talk football. Really I just figured it was time to add a picture. So, as I looked through my latest photos, I realized that I should remind you…Ladies and Gentlemen--No matter your wasted-ness, no matter how the bengals play, no matter if you’re cool enough to have a motorized cooler you ride at the tailgate, THROW AWAY your empty beers! If you have any questions or concerns about this, you can always refer to the attached picture. Thank you – and have a WhoDey.
InSide My Head...
I'll tell you about the driver who lives inside my head.
Starts me up and stops me, puts me into bed.
He opens up my mouth when it's time for me to talk.
He fires up my legs when he wants me to walk.
Keeps my eyes open most of the day.
Adds to my memories, the things that people say.
Then he makes decisions I don't have to make.
BUT SOMETIMES IT SEEMS
THAT HE'S GOT TOO MUCH ON HIS PLATE
Like this morning when I woke up and he dressed me in this shirt
It looks a little ragged like he dragged me through the dirt.
I'm moving through this life and I'm thinking about the next
And hoping when I get there, I'll be better dressed.
Keeps my eyes open most of the day
Adds to my memories the things that people say
Then he makes decisions I don't have to make.
I'll tell you about the driver who lives inside my head.
DRIVER by Phish
Starts me up and stops me, puts me into bed.
He opens up my mouth when it's time for me to talk.
He fires up my legs when he wants me to walk.
Keeps my eyes open most of the day.
Adds to my memories, the things that people say.
Then he makes decisions I don't have to make.
BUT SOMETIMES IT SEEMS
THAT HE'S GOT TOO MUCH ON HIS PLATE
Like this morning when I woke up and he dressed me in this shirt
It looks a little ragged like he dragged me through the dirt.
I'm moving through this life and I'm thinking about the next
And hoping when I get there, I'll be better dressed.
Keeps my eyes open most of the day
Adds to my memories the things that people say
Then he makes decisions I don't have to make.
I'll tell you about the driver who lives inside my head.
DRIVER by Phish
Rated X
Get your mind out the gutter, this isn't what U might expect…
I have xmRadio. I like it. I like music. And I like the indie rock station. What I don’t like, is country music (Apologies to those who do—tho I highly recommend other sorts of musical listening).
There I am, in my happy little land of satellite radio. Listening to the "New" stuff, the "Indie" stuff; the stuff people haven’t heard yet, the stuff that might not claim a large name record label. When all of a sudden some country song comes on with a sad little man singing about the mud on his tires and other sorts of HillBilly MisAdventures. I suddenly was filled with confusion, frustration, anger, sickness. This station didn’t play songs like that, hence the reason I drop money to have this service blast my car and computer speakers constantly (FYI: I can listen online it’s pretty sweet). But for some reason I couldn’t change the station and find another, better, more enjoyable song on the 100+ stations I get. Nope. I just sat and listened. To the whole thing.
Once the last twang belted and the song gloriously ended, I set out on a mission. I was going to find the reason for this random tragedy. My heart pounding, my fingers shaking, I furiously emailed a short and sassy 2-liner claiming my disgust. AH– I did it. I have now redeemed all music savvy fans with my bad ass "I showed You" comment. And then, I got a response. Within minutes. Totally making me stick my foot in my mouth for whatever I was trying to accomplish in my poo-on-you email. They say it was during a radio show where a band gets to come in and choose any & every random song they’d like. And, although they don’t normally play that sort of music, they appreciate all genres and listeners have really taken a liking to that show. So then I, the snoot who was on my pedestal of music knowledge was forced to take my pride off the shelf and reply with a less opinionated response. Attempting to validate myself I claimed I dug their station and for them to keep it up. Meanwhile I heard them on the radio commenting how listeners might not have enjoyed the country song just played, but to stick around for more music chosen by said band (I can’t remember the band right now) Sooo, I had indirectly been quoted on xmradio.
HA, my silly little opinion had been aired nationwide to listeners who (hopefully) like me, were mixed up by the yee-haw tune previously played. None-the-less who am I to knock the cowboy hats and pickup trucks really?? I seem to call a "country" state my home, while I "rock" my unbridled spirit throughout the bluegrass state. Oh well, funny story, I got a kick out of it, thought you might too...
I have xmRadio. I like it. I like music. And I like the indie rock station. What I don’t like, is country music (Apologies to those who do—tho I highly recommend other sorts of musical listening).
There I am, in my happy little land of satellite radio. Listening to the "New" stuff, the "Indie" stuff; the stuff people haven’t heard yet, the stuff that might not claim a large name record label. When all of a sudden some country song comes on with a sad little man singing about the mud on his tires and other sorts of HillBilly MisAdventures. I suddenly was filled with confusion, frustration, anger, sickness. This station didn’t play songs like that, hence the reason I drop money to have this service blast my car and computer speakers constantly (FYI: I can listen online it’s pretty sweet). But for some reason I couldn’t change the station and find another, better, more enjoyable song on the 100+ stations I get. Nope. I just sat and listened. To the whole thing.
Once the last twang belted and the song gloriously ended, I set out on a mission. I was going to find the reason for this random tragedy. My heart pounding, my fingers shaking, I furiously emailed a short and sassy 2-liner claiming my disgust. AH– I did it. I have now redeemed all music savvy fans with my bad ass "I showed You" comment. And then, I got a response. Within minutes. Totally making me stick my foot in my mouth for whatever I was trying to accomplish in my poo-on-you email. They say it was during a radio show where a band gets to come in and choose any & every random song they’d like. And, although they don’t normally play that sort of music, they appreciate all genres and listeners have really taken a liking to that show. So then I, the snoot who was on my pedestal of music knowledge was forced to take my pride off the shelf and reply with a less opinionated response. Attempting to validate myself I claimed I dug their station and for them to keep it up. Meanwhile I heard them on the radio commenting how listeners might not have enjoyed the country song just played, but to stick around for more music chosen by said band (I can’t remember the band right now) Sooo, I had indirectly been quoted on xmradio.
HA, my silly little opinion had been aired nationwide to listeners who (hopefully) like me, were mixed up by the yee-haw tune previously played. None-the-less who am I to knock the cowboy hats and pickup trucks really?? I seem to call a "country" state my home, while I "rock" my unbridled spirit throughout the bluegrass state. Oh well, funny story, I got a kick out of it, thought you might too...
Donde Estamos Nosotros?
Have you ever had the feeling you didn’t know exactly what country you were in? You think MAYBE you’ve crossed borders, but you’re not sure if you really left the country you were just in, or possibly entered some transition zone where they move you thru to the actual point of entering the other country. Weird as that may sound.
Not long ago, 3 wonderful peeps and myself experienced this and believe me, it’s a funky feeling…As we rolled through what we now are forced to assume was the border, a simple wave from patrol was the procedure for entering a completely different country. By this time the road signs have switched to Spanish, and the distance changed from miles to kilometers. But there was no passport check, no stop, and to my recollection no sign saying "You have entered Mexico" or even "You have left the United States" in English OR Spanish. There was, however, a weird moment of silence in our car as the 4 of us naïve souls all thought in our heads "What just happened?" finally one of us mentioned this aloud and we were all comforted by the others’ confusion, we were not alone.
So we drove on assuming that soon we would be stopped and checked and searched and questioned, and everything else we were expecting. Nope. Nothing. Or NADA I should say as we really had made it into Mexico, and it was time to step it up on the Spanish. Good thing for us we had quite a translator. We cruised right on thru that little border town, straight for: la playa, las margaritas, la comida deliciosa, y divertido…
Heading back into the US was a different story, I should add. Filled with waiting in a long line, and many offers to purchase souvenirs from determined local sales personnel walking repeatedly up and down through the cars. Anything at your fingertips from sno-cones, to burritos, to mariachi guitars, to lots of turtles and frogs to decorate your garden. And yes, this time there was a passport check, a question of our reasons for travel, and a little recognition that a border was actually crossed. Only thing no one ever noticed was our attempt at responsibility, with our purchase of stupid Mexican insurance that became a fast waste of money, easily down the drain. Oh well, now we know for next time.
I can surely say that all in all it was a good trip, or more respectively, UN BUEN VIAJE…
Not long ago, 3 wonderful peeps and myself experienced this and believe me, it’s a funky feeling…As we rolled through what we now are forced to assume was the border, a simple wave from patrol was the procedure for entering a completely different country. By this time the road signs have switched to Spanish, and the distance changed from miles to kilometers. But there was no passport check, no stop, and to my recollection no sign saying "You have entered Mexico" or even "You have left the United States" in English OR Spanish. There was, however, a weird moment of silence in our car as the 4 of us naïve souls all thought in our heads "What just happened?" finally one of us mentioned this aloud and we were all comforted by the others’ confusion, we were not alone.
So we drove on assuming that soon we would be stopped and checked and searched and questioned, and everything else we were expecting. Nope. Nothing. Or NADA I should say as we really had made it into Mexico, and it was time to step it up on the Spanish. Good thing for us we had quite a translator. We cruised right on thru that little border town, straight for: la playa, las margaritas, la comida deliciosa, y divertido…
Heading back into the US was a different story, I should add. Filled with waiting in a long line, and many offers to purchase souvenirs from determined local sales personnel walking repeatedly up and down through the cars. Anything at your fingertips from sno-cones, to burritos, to mariachi guitars, to lots of turtles and frogs to decorate your garden. And yes, this time there was a passport check, a question of our reasons for travel, and a little recognition that a border was actually crossed. Only thing no one ever noticed was our attempt at responsibility, with our purchase of stupid Mexican insurance that became a fast waste of money, easily down the drain. Oh well, now we know for next time.
I can surely say that all in all it was a good trip, or more respectively, UN BUEN VIAJE…
Little-Ditty...Growin' up N da HeartLand
This summer I caught a repeat of the 1st concert I ever went to way back when. Same venue. Same show. Only this time there were fewer mullets and I was on my own 26 year old feet, while the first time I was up on my dad’s shoulders, too short to see the stage above the crowd. Back then I was probably one of the youngest at the show, mere age of 6 maybe 7. Here it is, 2008, in the same place I was almost 20 years prior, singing the same songs in synch with the singer, potentially holding some sentimental value for me, being the Hoosier that I am. His home was my home for 5 years. We passed each other in the streets, he played a free concert the very first week of my college days, we probably cheered together in Assembly Hall.
So there we were, dancing to my childhood songs with my rocking grandma, singing with my mom just as I did in that same place years ago. It was quite a time. And although I was not born in a SmallTown, and I do not live in a SmallTown… "I cannot forget from where it is that I come from, I cannot forget the people who love me"
It was a great time, with a great group. From family to friends to the boy that now knows the ‘Cougar’ I spoke of…as he watched the crazy women in my family singing every word and jumping around to the beats. And yet again, I’m soon off to another show, another venue, another band. "Ah, but ain't that America, for you and me?" Summer concert season is in the midst of winding down, but I think we’ve done allright for ourselves thus far….
Days turn to minutes
And minutes to memories
Life sweeps away the dreams that we have planned
You are young
And YOU ARE THE FUTURE
So suck it up and tough it out
And be the best you can
So there we were, dancing to my childhood songs with my rocking grandma, singing with my mom just as I did in that same place years ago. It was quite a time. And although I was not born in a SmallTown, and I do not live in a SmallTown… "I cannot forget from where it is that I come from, I cannot forget the people who love me"
It was a great time, with a great group. From family to friends to the boy that now knows the ‘Cougar’ I spoke of…as he watched the crazy women in my family singing every word and jumping around to the beats. And yet again, I’m soon off to another show, another venue, another band. "Ah, but ain't that America, for you and me?" Summer concert season is in the midst of winding down, but I think we’ve done allright for ourselves thus far….
Days turn to minutes
And minutes to memories
Life sweeps away the dreams that we have planned
You are young
And YOU ARE THE FUTURE
So suck it up and tough it out
And be the best you can
Mi CASA es su CASA...
Most days I consider just deleting this blog... Today I decided to continue with it. To talk about WHAT tho, I don’t know. I’m in the midst of having quite a year, starting it off in Vegas for New Year’s and just recently returning from a road trip - from Phoenix to Mexico. Actually I’ve left the country twice this year, 2 trips, within weeks of one another. I suppose I'm taking advantage of the passport that took major procrastinating to finally get. I’ve caught some great music shows, and knowing me -- will probably catch some more. But some of those stories are worthy of their own entry. Another time, another ramble.
So today I’ll start at home base, literally. My new home is great. They say a woman’s home is her castle right? Well, turns out after looking at a disappointing apartment from CraigsList, a Quiet(t) man and myself found a humble abode right in city-limits, and yes, it has a look of a castle. After doing some research on the new place, which is filled with lots of character, I’ve come to find out a man by the name of Albert Koett built this home, we’re guessing in the early 1900’s, after he patented an "improvement" of the existing X-ray machine, and opened a business. Just ask a "Ms. Redwine", born 1989. I know this because her name is forever imprinted in brick on the front porch. Although a little stalking of this poor girl has probably scared her of any interest in the story (i.e: she was found on facebook—way to go BAB!). But summed up in short, I’ve moved, obviously. The new home is a place where many stories have been told, if only those walls could talk. Along with some unique architecture that went into building and designing said place. With probably 100 years of history roaming throughout, topped off with some weird ass flowered wallpaper in the front entrance…oh and the new roommate’s not bad either :)
That is That and This is This...
And so it begins: Why am I doing this? I’m no writer, no english major, when I was actually in school I was barely a student. I don’t need or want to network, or get a business growing, and really quite prefer a more stealth mode lifestyle. I have no theme for this beyond basic word vomit. Simply put my life is more fun than yours and I suppose deem you lucky enough to hear about it. I’ve been sucked into the hype of the memoir, and enjoy reading the stories of an asshole that I might be drinking beer with in hell, or those millions of pieces that we only sort of believe are real-life. Along with the crazy published stories, I do really enjoy my friends and families updates, hearing whats happening with them and their lives, watching their families grow. So I thought I’d hop on the bandwagon. Which pretty much sums up the start of whatever this is going to be. So I guess one could say this is my ROAD TO NOWHERE, come on inside….
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