I wake up with the oddest songs in my head. Here are April's (updated daily)
04.01 - ---
04.02 - ---
04.03 - Fuckin' Perfect by Pink
04.04 - What's My Name by Rihanna
04.05 - ---
04.06 - ---
04.07 - Love is a Murder by The Constellations
04.08 - ---
04.09 - ---
04.10 - Maybe by Sick Puppies
04.11 - It's a Great Day to Be Alive by Darrell Scott
04.12 - ---
04.13 - ---
04.14 - Pumped Up Kicks by Foster the People
04.15 - Nail in My Coffing by The Kills
04.16 - Speakerphone by Kylie Minogue
04.17 - ---
04.18 - MoneyGrabber by Fitz & the Tantrums
04.19 - ---
04.20 - ---
04.21 - ---
04.22 - ---
04.23 - Riot Radio by The Dead 60s
04.24 - Turning Tables by Adele
04.25 - DNA by The Kills
04.26 - Baby Says by The Kills
04.27 - ---
04.28 - DNA by The Kills
04.29 - ---
04.30 - Karma is a Female Dog by Bombshel
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Friday, April 29, 2011
All You Need to Do Is Smile
When I'm in a bad mood this picture of my youngest niece makes it better. Reminding me all I need to do is smile. Yeah life can be bad, tough, and sometimes rough, but just smile and keep on living.
 |
| Taylor - April 2011 |
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
a-MAY-zing May
May might kick my ass, but I'll have fun while it's doing so.
Here's a tentative schedule of my life for the month of May.
05.02 - Charlotte Checkers Game
05.03 - Interpol @ Fillmore
05.04 - Charlotte Checkers Game
05.05 - Happy Birthday to my niece Taylor
05.06 - Lunch & after work drinks with industry peeps
05.07 - Carolina Rebellion
05.07 - Happy Birthday Ashley Sparks
05.07 - Michael Tolcher @ Evening Muse
05.08 - Happy Birthday to my niece Riley
05.10 - 3rd Eye Blind @ Neighborhood Theatre
05.11 - Hank and Cupcakes @ Amos
05.11 - Happy Birthday Nikki Correll
05.16 - Xavier Rudd End Session
05.17 - Xavier Rudd & honeyhoney @ Neighborhood Theatre
05.18 - Faster Pussycat @ Tremont
05.20 - Vegas Bound
05.21 - Rammstein in Vegas
05.22 - System of the Down in Vegas
05.23 - Somehow recover from Vegas
05.26 - Deftones @ Fillmore
05.26 - Food Lion Speed Street
05.27 - Happy Birthday Bossman Anthony
05.27 - Food Lion Speed Street
05.28 - Food Lion Speed Street
05.29 - Minus the Bear & Constellations @ The Music Farm in Charleston
05.31 - Panic at the Disco @ Fillmore
Here's a tentative schedule of my life for the month of May.
05.02 - Charlotte Checkers Game
05.03 - Interpol @ Fillmore
05.04 - Charlotte Checkers Game
05.05 - Happy Birthday to my niece Taylor
05.06 - Lunch & after work drinks with industry peeps
05.07 - Carolina Rebellion
05.07 - Happy Birthday Ashley Sparks
05.07 - Michael Tolcher @ Evening Muse
05.08 - Happy Birthday to my niece Riley
05.10 - 3rd Eye Blind @ Neighborhood Theatre
05.11 - Hank and Cupcakes @ Amos
05.11 - Happy Birthday Nikki Correll
05.16 - Xavier Rudd End Session
05.17 - Xavier Rudd & honeyhoney @ Neighborhood Theatre
05.18 - Faster Pussycat @ Tremont
05.20 - Vegas Bound
05.21 - Rammstein in Vegas
05.22 - System of the Down in Vegas
05.23 - Somehow recover from Vegas
05.26 - Deftones @ Fillmore
05.26 - Food Lion Speed Street
05.27 - Happy Birthday Bossman Anthony
05.27 - Food Lion Speed Street
05.28 - Food Lion Speed Street
05.29 - Minus the Bear & Constellations @ The Music Farm in Charleston
05.31 - Panic at the Disco @ Fillmore
Monday, April 25, 2011
Happy Birthday Amy
 |
| Amy at her Half Marathon The note says: This Mile Dedicated to - Shelia Taylor - because I missed her Buffett Birthday Party because I had to run. |
Meet Amy Mann (pictured above). She turns another year awesome on April 29th and this kicks off her birthday week. In honor of her turning another year of awesome, I am wanted to write something in her honor. A birthday message because sometimes words are the best present and Amy is a present to the world.
The story: I met Amy at work. We worked on various projects together and worked together through out all the time I have been here and still work together. She keeps me sane when I feel like I'm about to snap. Somewhere along the way, we became more than work friends, we became great friends. She is one of my most trusted confidants. If I have a life choice to make, I often go to her to ask for advice, to share that I'm doing something, and to get the reassurance that my brainiac idea(s) aren't as crazy I think they might be. She is my sound board and my go to girl. She is a champion on all my endeavors no matter big or small or hairbrained or well thought out they are. I try to be the same champion for her in her endeavors. Like the picture above, I was bummed she was missing my party, but her reaching her goal of running a half marathon far surpassed my need to shove a shot down her throat.
So Happy Birthday Amy! I hope your birthday week is filled with love, laughter, deliciously bad desserts, fantastic bad food, great music, and that it's with the people that love, respect, and cherish you as a person and your friendship as a wonderful gift. I am honored to share my journey of life with you and honored that you have chosen to share your journey of your life with me.
Visit Amy's Blog
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Trouble Bound in Atlanta
I had been planning to go see The Kills in Atlanta for about a month. I adore this band. I was super stoked to be heading to one my favorite places to visit. The A-T-L. The last time I was in Atlanta, I had more fun than one human should be allowed to have and I laughed more than one human should be allowed to laugh, and this Atlanta trip was no different.
Back up to Friday...The awesomely funny and fellow Good Time Activist, Heather, and I were exchanging texts about what were doing this weekend. I was going to ATL and her roommate, fellow Good Time Activist, Nikki, was going to spend it with family. Being the instigator I am, I asked Heather to come along and the impromptu road trip for her was born.
Saturday morning @ 8:30 am, the HOTlanta trip started with this text from Heather: Vodka? My response was: Duh. She was recovering from Vegas still. I was recovering from my Thursday night impromptu fun. The drive down to Atlanta was easy breezy. Most of the holiday traffic was gone and the cloudy skies parted to blue skies and sunshine. We check into Hotel Indigo in Midtown Atlanta and we are greeted by the wonderful Eddie Barton. He is exuding happiness and positivity. Just another sign in the road of life that life is grand. Heather and I drop off our belongings, have a quick drink to celebrate the road trip, and then head to Taco Mac to watch the Rangers vs Capitals game. (Sadly, Rangers lost.) We gave Katie, our server and another smiling soul, our order of Whippets (Pinnacle Whipped Vodka and Whynatte Latte) and started the game watching. We ended up getting a round of Whippets on the house because the bartender screwed up the first order and Katie told him/her she was absolutely not serving them because we knew what we were doing and the drinks had to be right. Being a slight wuss and knowing what kind of fun Heather and I have when we are without our adult supervision of other fellow Good Time Activists or anyone else, we retire for a quick nap, shower, rejuvenation, drink, etc.
Before we hop in the cab to head to The Masquerade, we notice several things:
1) We are the only people not heading in the direction EVERYONE else was going.
2) We are the only people not dressed up.
3) We are the only people not in prom gear.
4) We realize that Yanni is playing across the hotel @ the Fox Theatre which explains # 1 & 2
5) After seeing our 25th pair of silver shoes, ball looking gown, and uncomfortable looking boys in tuxedos, we realize it's prom night which explains #3.
After a quick 5 minute cab ride to The Masquerade we make our way to "Heaven" to catch The Kills. (The Masquerade is split into 3 levels "Hell," "Purgatory," and "Heaven."). We order a round of not so great drinks (strawberry vodka does not go with Red Bull) and find a spot to watch the show. 8 pm says the ticket. 9ish was what time the band started. I'd tell you the name of the band, but they never mentioned it and if they did, I didn't understand it. It was a 3 piece band from California. I'm sure they woke up from a weed induced stupor and decided to they could play decent enough without splitting ear drums. The bassist, a chick, looked like Cousin It. They were definitely wannabe hippies. I told Heather that if "Heaven" was like this when I died, then I didn't want to go to. (Of course, "Purgatory" had a death metal band playing so I was sure I didn't want to go there either and "Hell" seemed to consist of all the others that just wanted something to do on Saturday night.) Cold Cave started out promising. A little dancey, a little of Franz Ferdinand, and then around the 4th song that still sounded like the 1st song, I grew bored. I was tired of watching the "odd" girl out with a group of friends and was tired of having her invade my 6 inch of personal space. If The Kills didn't come on soon and be awesome, I was going to break into tears.
The Kills take the stage with "No Wow" and I am in "Heaven." Literally & figuratively. VV (Alison Mosshart) and Hotel (Jamie Hince) did not disappoint. Others have always compared them to The White Stripes because of them being a duo but they are so much better than The White Stripes (sorry White Stripes/Jack White fans...like the music, don't think they/him are the end all be all.) Somewhere in the set, Heather turns to me and says, "I like them. She has swagger." She is so right. The band is a smooth scotch that you enjoy from beginning to end.
Their set list included:
No Wow
Future Starts Slow
Heart is a Beating Drum
Kissy Kissy
U.R.A. Fever
You Don't Love Me (No, No, No) Dawn Penn Cover
Steppin' Razor Joe Higgs Cover
Satellite
Tape Song
Baby Says
You Don't Own the Road
DNA
Sour Cherry
The Last Goodbye
Pots and Pans
Friend My Little Brain
Sadly, they did not play "Nail in My Coffin" from Blood Pressures, but I was completely happy with their set and my decision to come to Atlanta to see them. It was so worth it!!
After the show, Heather and I are in the mood for some normalcy...which for us includes a bar. We have a cab drop us off at the hotel and we walk to Publik Draft House across the street. Our host and server, Nicholas, was also our instigator. We wanted Whippets but they didn't have Whynatte but Nicholas assured us they would come up with some sort of creamy coffee flavored goodness for us. Nicholas did not let us down. Pinnacle Whipped, Bailey's, Espresso Vodka...bam...next best thing to a Whippet shot. We order the best damn fries I have ever had in my life...cajun seasoned fries with BBQ sauce for me and sweet potato friends with cinnamon and honey mustard for Heather, and settle into our seats. Nicholas kept the drinks coming and Vida kept the tunes playing. Heather and I entertained ourselves by being snarky, laughing at the world around us, and plotting next adventures for the Good Time Activists. My only complaint about Publik...it was a frozen tundra where we were sitting. Heather asked Nicholas for a candle as a heat source in one point of the night and used her napkin as a blanket as well. Heading to Publik (aka The Gin Mill of Atlanta on Peachtree Street) was one of the best decisions we had. I want to go back and enjoy their Bottomless Mimosas on a Sunday.
All in all Atlanta was 5 stars of fun, laughter, good music, and friendship.
We didn't get into serious trouble as the title of this blog suggests...that title comes from the song "Another Like You" by Hayes Carll. I told Heather it reminded me of her and my friend Josh. Sarcastic, funny, and sassy. They lyric, "Let's have another round, it looks like we're trouble bound..." well, that's all of us on Friday or Saturday night isn't it?
If you're ever in Atlanta, stop by Hotel Indigo for a great stay. I hope Eddie B is working the front desk when you arrive.
If you're ever in Atlanta, stop by Publik and make sure you sit in Nicholas' section and enjoy the fries and creamy coffee shot goodness.
Quotes of the trip:
Heather: I need something.
Shelia: What do you need?
Heather: I need...fuck I don't know what. Redemption? Savior?
Shelia: I'll be your savior.
Heather: I don't care, I'm being spontanarty. Sounds like spot + arty.
Shelia: Can I be arty?
Watch "Satellite" from The Kills
Back up to Friday...The awesomely funny and fellow Good Time Activist, Heather, and I were exchanging texts about what were doing this weekend. I was going to ATL and her roommate, fellow Good Time Activist, Nikki, was going to spend it with family. Being the instigator I am, I asked Heather to come along and the impromptu road trip for her was born.
Saturday morning @ 8:30 am, the HOTlanta trip started with this text from Heather: Vodka? My response was: Duh. She was recovering from Vegas still. I was recovering from my Thursday night impromptu fun. The drive down to Atlanta was easy breezy. Most of the holiday traffic was gone and the cloudy skies parted to blue skies and sunshine. We check into Hotel Indigo in Midtown Atlanta and we are greeted by the wonderful Eddie Barton. He is exuding happiness and positivity. Just another sign in the road of life that life is grand. Heather and I drop off our belongings, have a quick drink to celebrate the road trip, and then head to Taco Mac to watch the Rangers vs Capitals game. (Sadly, Rangers lost.) We gave Katie, our server and another smiling soul, our order of Whippets (Pinnacle Whipped Vodka and Whynatte Latte) and started the game watching. We ended up getting a round of Whippets on the house because the bartender screwed up the first order and Katie told him/her she was absolutely not serving them because we knew what we were doing and the drinks had to be right. Being a slight wuss and knowing what kind of fun Heather and I have when we are without our adult supervision of other fellow Good Time Activists or anyone else, we retire for a quick nap, shower, rejuvenation, drink, etc.
Before we hop in the cab to head to The Masquerade, we notice several things:
1) We are the only people not heading in the direction EVERYONE else was going.
2) We are the only people not dressed up.
3) We are the only people not in prom gear.
4) We realize that Yanni is playing across the hotel @ the Fox Theatre which explains # 1 & 2
5) After seeing our 25th pair of silver shoes, ball looking gown, and uncomfortable looking boys in tuxedos, we realize it's prom night which explains #3.
After a quick 5 minute cab ride to The Masquerade we make our way to "Heaven" to catch The Kills. (The Masquerade is split into 3 levels "Hell," "Purgatory," and "Heaven."). We order a round of not so great drinks (strawberry vodka does not go with Red Bull) and find a spot to watch the show. 8 pm says the ticket. 9ish was what time the band started. I'd tell you the name of the band, but they never mentioned it and if they did, I didn't understand it. It was a 3 piece band from California. I'm sure they woke up from a weed induced stupor and decided to they could play decent enough without splitting ear drums. The bassist, a chick, looked like Cousin It. They were definitely wannabe hippies. I told Heather that if "Heaven" was like this when I died, then I didn't want to go to. (Of course, "Purgatory" had a death metal band playing so I was sure I didn't want to go there either and "Hell" seemed to consist of all the others that just wanted something to do on Saturday night.) Cold Cave started out promising. A little dancey, a little of Franz Ferdinand, and then around the 4th song that still sounded like the 1st song, I grew bored. I was tired of watching the "odd" girl out with a group of friends and was tired of having her invade my 6 inch of personal space. If The Kills didn't come on soon and be awesome, I was going to break into tears.
The Kills take the stage with "No Wow" and I am in "Heaven." Literally & figuratively. VV (Alison Mosshart) and Hotel (Jamie Hince) did not disappoint. Others have always compared them to The White Stripes because of them being a duo but they are so much better than The White Stripes (sorry White Stripes/Jack White fans...like the music, don't think they/him are the end all be all.) Somewhere in the set, Heather turns to me and says, "I like them. She has swagger." She is so right. The band is a smooth scotch that you enjoy from beginning to end.
Their set list included:
No Wow
Future Starts Slow
Heart is a Beating Drum
Kissy Kissy
U.R.A. Fever
You Don't Love Me (No, No, No) Dawn Penn Cover
Steppin' Razor Joe Higgs Cover
Satellite
Tape Song
Baby Says
You Don't Own the Road
DNA
Sour Cherry
The Last Goodbye
Pots and Pans
Friend My Little Brain
Sadly, they did not play "Nail in My Coffin" from Blood Pressures, but I was completely happy with their set and my decision to come to Atlanta to see them. It was so worth it!!
After the show, Heather and I are in the mood for some normalcy...which for us includes a bar. We have a cab drop us off at the hotel and we walk to Publik Draft House across the street. Our host and server, Nicholas, was also our instigator. We wanted Whippets but they didn't have Whynatte but Nicholas assured us they would come up with some sort of creamy coffee flavored goodness for us. Nicholas did not let us down. Pinnacle Whipped, Bailey's, Espresso Vodka...bam...next best thing to a Whippet shot. We order the best damn fries I have ever had in my life...cajun seasoned fries with BBQ sauce for me and sweet potato friends with cinnamon and honey mustard for Heather, and settle into our seats. Nicholas kept the drinks coming and Vida kept the tunes playing. Heather and I entertained ourselves by being snarky, laughing at the world around us, and plotting next adventures for the Good Time Activists. My only complaint about Publik...it was a frozen tundra where we were sitting. Heather asked Nicholas for a candle as a heat source in one point of the night and used her napkin as a blanket as well. Heading to Publik (aka The Gin Mill of Atlanta on Peachtree Street) was one of the best decisions we had. I want to go back and enjoy their Bottomless Mimosas on a Sunday.
All in all Atlanta was 5 stars of fun, laughter, good music, and friendship.
We didn't get into serious trouble as the title of this blog suggests...that title comes from the song "Another Like You" by Hayes Carll. I told Heather it reminded me of her and my friend Josh. Sarcastic, funny, and sassy. They lyric, "Let's have another round, it looks like we're trouble bound..." well, that's all of us on Friday or Saturday night isn't it?
If you're ever in Atlanta, stop by Hotel Indigo for a great stay. I hope Eddie B is working the front desk when you arrive.
If you're ever in Atlanta, stop by Publik and make sure you sit in Nicholas' section and enjoy the fries and creamy coffee shot goodness.
Quotes of the trip:
Heather: I need something.
Shelia: What do you need?
Heather: I need...fuck I don't know what. Redemption? Savior?
Shelia: I'll be your savior.
Heather: I don't care, I'm being spontanarty. Sounds like spot + arty.
Shelia: Can I be arty?
Watch "Satellite" from The Kills
Friday, April 22, 2011
Apologies
Here's my only apology to the world: "I'm sorry I'm not sorry."
Yesterday was a day that I will mark in my life as one of the greatest days in my life. Why so great? It was unexpected. What was so unexpected? It was a fucking awesome day/night. The ones you see in a movie and go, that never happens in real life, but things like that do happen in real life and hilarity will ensue.
At work, we had the band Skybombers come in and do an acoustic set for us. It RAWKED. I got to see a new band and I dug their music. It was Scott's birthday so I passed to them a bottle of Jack Daniel. (I wasn't going to ever drink it.) The boss let me bolt out an hour & half early so I could see Jimmy Buffett. SCORE! Emily Beth & I loaded up the car and tailgated from the parking lot. It was her 1st Buffett show and I don't know what number for me. It was the best Buffett show ever! He played some of my favorites and some I have never heard live. I was in Buffett heaven. For two plus hours, I was in the islands with 18,000 of my closest friends. After the show, I stopped into the Gin Mill to have a birthday drink with one of my besties, Suzanne. I also found Scott & the rest of the guys from Skybombers there so birthday shots were ordered for everyone. <insert song "Closing Time"> I let the band crash at my apartment. No one was in the shape to drive and they didn't have a hotel. I have enough floor space, blankets, and such. Besides, it's in my nature to make sure people are okay. I slept for about two hours, got up showered, and went to work. I was sleep deprived and then the shots hangover kicked in. My boss sent me home. The first time ever I was sent home from work. At first I tried to argue with him that I was fine and could get through the work day but I'm glad he sent me home. My eyes and body wanted to betray me and I wanted to sleep and sleep hard. After taking a 4.5 hour nap, I finally picked myself up, still discombobulated, and took another bestie Easter goodies for her sons. I had a bloody mary, two shots, and another mixed drink. As I sat watching the Sabres/Flyers game, I started to tweet something about going back at living the life and partying again, but I stopped myself with the thought that someone might think this or that. Then I got pissed at myself for thinking that. I called it an early night because I am driving to Atlanta to see The Kills and went home. While walking my dog, I had an epiphany...
I AM NOT SORRY FOR LIVING MY LIFE TO THE FULLEST. I AM NOT SORRY FOR TRYING TO SQUEEZE LAUGHTER, LOVE, HAPPINESS, & GOOD TIMES INTO EVERY SECOND I HAVE ON THIS EARTH. I AM NOT SORRY FOR PARTYING HARD. I AM NOT SORRY FOR LOVING EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY. I AM NOT SORRY FOR BEING ME. I AM NOT SORRY I AM HAVING FUN.
I remembered the blog entry I wrote "My Life Choices Are Mine" and I reflected on how great yesterday and last night were. The only thing I regretted about yesterday...parking my car in a different lot and having to walk in the pouring rain this morning.
Yesterday was a day that I will mark in my life as one of the greatest days in my life. Why so great? It was unexpected. What was so unexpected? It was a fucking awesome day/night. The ones you see in a movie and go, that never happens in real life, but things like that do happen in real life and hilarity will ensue.
At work, we had the band Skybombers come in and do an acoustic set for us. It RAWKED. I got to see a new band and I dug their music. It was Scott's birthday so I passed to them a bottle of Jack Daniel. (I wasn't going to ever drink it.) The boss let me bolt out an hour & half early so I could see Jimmy Buffett. SCORE! Emily Beth & I loaded up the car and tailgated from the parking lot. It was her 1st Buffett show and I don't know what number for me. It was the best Buffett show ever! He played some of my favorites and some I have never heard live. I was in Buffett heaven. For two plus hours, I was in the islands with 18,000 of my closest friends. After the show, I stopped into the Gin Mill to have a birthday drink with one of my besties, Suzanne. I also found Scott & the rest of the guys from Skybombers there so birthday shots were ordered for everyone. <insert song "Closing Time"> I let the band crash at my apartment. No one was in the shape to drive and they didn't have a hotel. I have enough floor space, blankets, and such. Besides, it's in my nature to make sure people are okay. I slept for about two hours, got up showered, and went to work. I was sleep deprived and then the shots hangover kicked in. My boss sent me home. The first time ever I was sent home from work. At first I tried to argue with him that I was fine and could get through the work day but I'm glad he sent me home. My eyes and body wanted to betray me and I wanted to sleep and sleep hard. After taking a 4.5 hour nap, I finally picked myself up, still discombobulated, and took another bestie Easter goodies for her sons. I had a bloody mary, two shots, and another mixed drink. As I sat watching the Sabres/Flyers game, I started to tweet something about going back at living the life and partying again, but I stopped myself with the thought that someone might think this or that. Then I got pissed at myself for thinking that. I called it an early night because I am driving to Atlanta to see The Kills and went home. While walking my dog, I had an epiphany...
I AM NOT SORRY FOR LIVING MY LIFE TO THE FULLEST. I AM NOT SORRY FOR TRYING TO SQUEEZE LAUGHTER, LOVE, HAPPINESS, & GOOD TIMES INTO EVERY SECOND I HAVE ON THIS EARTH. I AM NOT SORRY FOR PARTYING HARD. I AM NOT SORRY FOR LOVING EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY. I AM NOT SORRY FOR BEING ME. I AM NOT SORRY I AM HAVING FUN.
I remembered the blog entry I wrote "My Life Choices Are Mine" and I reflected on how great yesterday and last night were. The only thing I regretted about yesterday...parking my car in a different lot and having to walk in the pouring rain this morning.
Jimmy Buffett
 |
| Jimmy Buffett 4.20.11 |
If you know me, you know I'm a Jimmy Buffett fan. If not, you live under a rock or don't know me at all. I mean, I have a part of my favorite lyric tattooed on my arm, I own all of his cds & books, and have seen 6 plus shows.
Last night, I saw Mr. Buffett again and he didn't disappoint. Hands down, it was my favorite Buffett show ever. He played songs I had never heard live and he played some of my absolute favorites too.
Set List (favorite songs)
The Wino And I Know
Brown Eyed Girl
Off To See The Lizard (Aussie Lyrics)
Havana Daydreamin'
It's Five O'Clock Somewhere
Changes In Latitudes, Changes In Attitudes
Life Is Just A Tire Swing
Come Monday
Peanut Butter Conspiracy
Son Of A Son Of A Sailor
School Boy Heart
Cheeseburger In Paradise
One Particular Harbour
Use Me (with Tina and Nadirah)
Lady I Can’t Explain
Chanson Pour Les Petits Enfants
Sending The Old Man Home
Volcano
Coast Of Carolina
Margaritaville (with the no longer lost verse)
A Pirate Looks At Forty (Jimmy and Mac)
Back Where I Come From (featuring Mac)
Fins
Southern Cross
The Great Filling Station Holdup (with Midnight Rider)
Last Man Standing
Survive
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Touched by Kindness
So I entered a contest to win $10,000 for a dream getaway. My dream getaway. Australia. Has been for 10 plus years, this year, I want it to become a reality so I entered this contest and I'm saving my money for it. The contest is a voting based and I sent a message out via Twitter & Facebook and to some co-workers. I mean, I have a 1 in 843 chance to win. If I didn't at least try, I fail. Failure is not an option in my vocabulary this year. 2011 is the year of living the dream no matter how big or small.
The messages from friends and strangers retweeting my message and Facebook messages have been overwhelming. The kindness that is being generated and the positivity is worth it's weight in gold. Even if I don't win, I have won knowing I am associated with some pretty amazing and positive people. Some I know, some I've never met, some real life daily friends, some social media only friends, and they may see my thank you message back to them as a simple acknowledgement but it's so much more to me.
I was once in such a dark place in my life that I knew that death would be a better option than living, but I also knew that no one would come to my funeral. I'm no longer in that dark place and haven't been since I was in my twenties, but I know now, that people would come to my funeral. It's through the kindness of others that has made my world a better place and continues to make my world a better place.
I'm a believer in the positive energy of the Universe and how one positive thing can multiply another positive thing tenfold. Pay it forward or just being kind to another. The Universe is better because of it.
Thank you everyone who's voted for me and continues to vote for me. Your vote is not going unnoticed by me. Every vote means the world to me and every vote is a positive universal vibe you're putting out to the Universe. So thank you for the positivity. Thank you for the kindness. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
To vote until April 26: http://readergetawaygiveaway.com/?id=829#829
The messages from friends and strangers retweeting my message and Facebook messages have been overwhelming. The kindness that is being generated and the positivity is worth it's weight in gold. Even if I don't win, I have won knowing I am associated with some pretty amazing and positive people. Some I know, some I've never met, some real life daily friends, some social media only friends, and they may see my thank you message back to them as a simple acknowledgement but it's so much more to me.
I was once in such a dark place in my life that I knew that death would be a better option than living, but I also knew that no one would come to my funeral. I'm no longer in that dark place and haven't been since I was in my twenties, but I know now, that people would come to my funeral. It's through the kindness of others that has made my world a better place and continues to make my world a better place.
I'm a believer in the positive energy of the Universe and how one positive thing can multiply another positive thing tenfold. Pay it forward or just being kind to another. The Universe is better because of it.
Thank you everyone who's voted for me and continues to vote for me. Your vote is not going unnoticed by me. Every vote means the world to me and every vote is a positive universal vibe you're putting out to the Universe. So thank you for the positivity. Thank you for the kindness. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
To vote until April 26: http://readergetawaygiveaway.com/?id=829#829
CD Review: This Is Gonna Hurt By Sixx: A.M.
First, I have to say, I'm a Nikki Sixx fan. I have loved him since I discovered the music of rock & roll. I covered my walls with posters of Motley Crue and Nikki Sixx. I think he is a creative genius. Look at Motley Crue, Brides of Destruction (wish he still worked with that band, they kind of tanked after he left), and Sixx: A.M. He's best selling author and a hell of a photographer and then there's that whole clothing line.
THIS IS GONNA HURT by SIXX: A.M. did not disappoint. There is always that sophmoric slump that some bands fall into and there are the bands that top the first album. I don't think THIS IS GONNA HURT surpasses THE HERION DIARIES, but it definitely holds its own.
Track Break Down (my sole opinion of the tracks):
1. This is Gonna Hurt
I really think this song should have been the 1st single off the CD. It's got an infectious chorus and a great bass rift. Favorite lyric from the song "Nothing is gonna keep you down, even if it is killing you. Cuz you know the truth. Listen up, listen up, the devil is in the church. Got a bullet in the chamber and this is gonna hurt."
2. Lies of the Beautiful People
This is the first single from the CD. Watch the video below. I like the lyrics to this song. A song to remind you that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
3. Are You With Me
A slower song. NOT A BALLAD. Just a slower tempo song compared to the 1st two tracks. Again, I love the lyrics to this song (I'm a lyric person). I find this song beautiful.
4. Live Forever Love the bass/guitar in the opening of this song.
5. Sure Feels Right This a slow song. Lyrically it reminds very much of Butch Walker and in the way James Michael carries his voice while singing. The 1st time I heard it, I wasn't a fan but I really like the story telling of the song...as the song says, it sure feels right.
6. Deadlihood I like some of the lyrics to this song and it's probably my least favorite song on the CD.
7. Smile Slow song. Ballad song. Song of warm & fuzzies. That's all I can say about it.
8. Help is the Way Good solid song lyrically, vocally, & musically. Title says it all. Infectious little ditty.
9. Oh My God I really don't have an opinion of good or bad on this song. Lyrics are strong, music is strong. I'm just in indifferent to the song which I feel is bad since to me the song feels like it's trying to make a change in the world yet here I am on the fence about it. I can see this as a closing song. Do something better for the world song.
10. Goodbye My Friends Don't hate the song, but it became background noise to me.
11. Skin
Feels like the "sequel" to Lies of the Beautiful People. Good song reminding one to be who they are.
Originally posted @ 1065.com & www.thehockeymaven.com
THIS IS GONNA HURT by SIXX: A.M. did not disappoint. There is always that sophmoric slump that some bands fall into and there are the bands that top the first album. I don't think THIS IS GONNA HURT surpasses THE HERION DIARIES, but it definitely holds its own.
Track Break Down (my sole opinion of the tracks):
1. This is Gonna Hurt
I really think this song should have been the 1st single off the CD. It's got an infectious chorus and a great bass rift. Favorite lyric from the song "Nothing is gonna keep you down, even if it is killing you. Cuz you know the truth. Listen up, listen up, the devil is in the church. Got a bullet in the chamber and this is gonna hurt."
2. Lies of the Beautiful People
This is the first single from the CD. Watch the video below. I like the lyrics to this song. A song to remind you that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
3. Are You With Me
A slower song. NOT A BALLAD. Just a slower tempo song compared to the 1st two tracks. Again, I love the lyrics to this song (I'm a lyric person). I find this song beautiful.
4. Live Forever Love the bass/guitar in the opening of this song.
5. Sure Feels Right This a slow song. Lyrically it reminds very much of Butch Walker and in the way James Michael carries his voice while singing. The 1st time I heard it, I wasn't a fan but I really like the story telling of the song...as the song says, it sure feels right.
6. Deadlihood I like some of the lyrics to this song and it's probably my least favorite song on the CD.
7. Smile Slow song. Ballad song. Song of warm & fuzzies. That's all I can say about it.
8. Help is the Way Good solid song lyrically, vocally, & musically. Title says it all. Infectious little ditty.
9. Oh My God I really don't have an opinion of good or bad on this song. Lyrics are strong, music is strong. I'm just in indifferent to the song which I feel is bad since to me the song feels like it's trying to make a change in the world yet here I am on the fence about it. I can see this as a closing song. Do something better for the world song.
10. Goodbye My Friends Don't hate the song, but it became background noise to me.
11. Skin
Feels like the "sequel" to Lies of the Beautiful People. Good song reminding one to be who they are.
Originally posted @ 1065.com & www.thehockeymaven.com
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Let's Go Red Wings
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| Autographed 2003 Red Wings Jersey |
Monday, April 18, 2011
Lucky 13: Pavel Datsyuk
There's 101 reasons Pavel Datsyuk is one of hockey's best players, but's goals like this that make him amazing.
This is from Game 2 of the NHL Playoffs on Sat. April 16, 2011
This is from Game 2 of the NHL Playoffs on Sat. April 16, 2011
Thursday, April 14, 2011
The Kills
I can't remember the exact moment I heard & fell in love with The Kills. I know when I heard "The Good Ones," I immediately bought their CD and every CD before that and after. I am FINALLY going to see this band live on Sat. April 23rd. Making the trip to the A-T-L for a night of great music & I cannot wait!
Check out IFC's video of The Kills performing "Baby Says" from SXSW 2011. If you don't own their CD "Blood Pressures" go out and get it. ASAP!
Check out IFC's video of The Kills performing "Baby Says" from SXSW 2011. If you don't own their CD "Blood Pressures" go out and get it. ASAP!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Monday, April 11, 2011
The New Tattoo
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| By http://www.fustattoos.com/ |
This tattoo was just for me. A reminder to myself that life is short and the I'll wait until <insert excuse> will no longer work. I can't look in the mirror and give myself an excuse anymore. I have to just "dare to be" because "the time is now."
There might not be time to dare to be tomorrow...
http://www.fustattoos.com/wp/our-peeps-their-creds/travis-lakeman
Listening to "Gasoline" by Burn Halo
Saturday, April 9, 2011
30 Day Song Challenge: Day 30 - Your Favorite Song at This Time Last Year
This was easy to remember since I create a song list for each month, so looking back, I think "Love Left to Lose" by Sons of Sylvia was my favorite at the time
Friday, April 8, 2011
30 Day Song Challenge: Day 29 - Song from Your Childhood
"Karma Chameleon" by Culture Club.
I remember my mom singing this song and how much she loved the music of Culture Club.
I remember my mom singing this song and how much she loved the music of Culture Club.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Happiness is Coming
"And I saw just how it goes, out on that old two-lane road. I'd been saving time for another life. Maybe happiness is coming but you don't know when."
~Gravity by Angie Aparo
I hadn't listened to or even thought about the song "Gravity" by Angie Aparo in forever. I was on my way to Raleigh to see the Detroit Red Wings take on the Carolina Hurricanes (DET lost) and I was pumped full of sugar from 2 packs of Starbursts, 1 stick of Laughy Taffy, and Doritos. The word sugarbuzz kept going through my head which reminded me of the song "Sugarbuzz" by Marvelous 3. Obviously, I had to listen to it. I hit the genius mix and let it play. "Gravity" appeared and as the above lyric was sung, I burst into tears. I had always loved the song but it had a complete new meaning as I headed down I-40.
I've said in previous posts that I'm trying to live the life I missed out on in 2010 and pay attention to the things that I missed. The lyric "I'd been saving time for another life. Maybe happiness is coming but you don't know when," is what made start crying. It made me think of what I had put aside in my life and what I had sacrificed for the sake of <insert excuse...work, not enough time, not enough money, etc>. It made me realize that how I am living now is exactly what I'm suppose to be doing. Daydreaming about how I'm going to sit in a lounge chair in Key West with near equator sun beaming down on me. Plotting out adventures while I spend 18 glorious days in Australia. Imagining and hoping I hit the big score in Vegas, so I can pay for all my dreams to come true. I'm suppose to be living my life. I don't need to save it for another time. The time is now.
If I should die tomorrow, I want to at least say this, I am happy. I am grateful. I am living and loving life. The world is my pearl for the taking while it rests in this magical place called the Universe.
30 Day Song Challenge: Day 28 - Song that Makes You Feel Guilty
I would have to say "Country Grammer" by Nelly only because there is a version that was on the radio that replaced all the cuss words with animal sounds and that is how my sister & I taught her first born daughter the sounds of animals
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
30 Day Song Challenge: Day 27 - Song that You Wish You Could Play
"The Oaf" by Big Wreck
The guitar intro is worthy of learning alone.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
30 Day Song Challenge: Day 26 - Song that You Can Play on an Instrument
Mary had a Little Lamb on the piano. Skilled, I know!
Monday, April 4, 2011
30 Day Song Challenge: Day 25 - Song that Makes You Laugh
"Drive By" by Glen Phillips
The story of this song is fantastic. Listen/watch and enjoy.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Saturday, April 2, 2011
30 Day Song Challenge: Day 23 - Song that You Want to Play at Your Wedding
If that day ever does arrive, I'd like to have "All I Wanna Do" by Jamie Lidell
Friday, April 1, 2011
30 Day Song Challenge: Day 22 - Song that You Listen to When You're Sad
This was actually hard. I have a bunch of "go to when I'm feeling the blues" songs, but this is probably my favorite of them.
"La Vie Dansante" by Jimmy Buffett
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