Seriously? OMG!

The Holiday Spirit Eludes Me Yet Again

2009-12-11T14:49:00.003-06:00

Another year, another ho-hum holiday. And, yet, I want it so badly. I wish I felt the spirit of the season - wanted to deck the halls - sing a jolly carol - but instead it's like any other day. I begrudgingly take the mail from the box each day... more photos of perky children in their best outfits. A brag book from my mailbox. Sadly, I have nothing to brag about. Oh yes - I've tried - I've sent around the photo of my pets in the past, but it's not the same. Are children the magic key to the holiday? Or perhaps just having one special person in your life? Could that be enough?

It's obviously not the time of year for the solo acts. Who wants to buy a ticket to a holiday extravaganza alone? Endure the questions... "Who are you with?" - the replies dripping with pity - "Aren't you brave for coming alone!". The only shot of surviving unscathed - to avoid the whole event completely.

Leaving the Corporate World at Long Last

2009-11-07T08:56:00.003-06:00

Having your job "eliminated" can sometimes be such a blessing. One more work week to go... then a new life!

Guaranteed Security

2009-09-23T16:46:00.003-05:00

Guaranteed Security... there is no such thing. But we all want it. We purchase plans to try to work toward it. We wear protective devices. Take vitamins. Show up at work every day. Yet nothing is guaranteed.

Not guaranteed at all. Insurance doesn't cover "that". The helmet didn't protect you from the car slamming into your bike. You got cancer anyway. They decided your work was unneeded.

It's an unsafe world and when you get right down to it - you can't protect yourself from everything. You might as well get out there and take some risks!

Finally...a Name!

2009-09-02T15:15:00.002-05:00

After countless hours of squeezing my brain dry of all "thought juice"... putting together random words... unrandom words... Finally I've got a name for my little music project with my cousin. We shall now be known as "Preferred Diversion".

"Where did it come from?" you may ask. Well I resorted to the online thesaurus. I looked up the word "hobby" - since that's really what this is. And both words seemed to speak to me - so I put them together! Preferred Diversion...so it is.

I have started pages on Myspace and Facebook - "Friend" us and "Fan" us! Please!

MySpace Page
Facebook Page

Dating in the New World

2009-08-21T11:52:00.002-05:00

I heard a really interesting method of "man hunting" recently. Perhaps this is the future of dating.

This beautiful, successful woman was having a difficult time meeting men. She decided to hand out her business card to five people every day either for them to contact her - or if they had a friend who they thought would be a good match for her. She chose her targets superficially of course, since they were strangers - but she would take into account the place where they were, their appearance, style and the people they were with. She approached them in a lighthearted manner - explained that she was trying to meet new people - and had her fabulous career and business card to her credit. She eventually was set up with her now fiance!

Has she found the key? Is this the answer. I know I personally have experienced the deception of Internet dating. I've always believed friends were a good source -- but married people tend to only know married people. Are the well-groomed strangers the new source? Do I have the guts to find out?

Jean Armor? Really?

2009-08-14T13:23:00.004-05:00

The photo says it all really... but armored jeans? Totally not necessary - and the design doesn't even attempt to look cool. I have to wonder - did the designer put up their own money on this project or were they able to find investors? Who are these people? Can't wait to see if these jeans see the light of day!

It's Official - I'm in Love with a Lip Balm

2009-08-13T15:02:00.002-05:00

This is definitely not a paid endorsement - but I'm going to tell you about this fab lip balm I found. Rosebud Perfume Company - Brambleberry Rose Lip Balm. It is heavenly. Every time I use it - it is an experience. Twisting open the vintage styled tin and the scent hitting my olfactory system and taking me somewhere cozy and safe. I don't know why... but it's so comforting. If you are looking for something new to try -- I give it a thumbs up! I found mine at Sephora.

Please Allow Me to Get a Few Things Off My Chest

2009-08-12T15:16:00.003-05:00

Ever just need to release? This is my turn.

1. Dear Central Arkansas Transit,
Your buses are too wide for 3rd street - please select an alternate route and avoid scaring pedestrians and other drivers. Thanks

2. Fellow drivers - if their is a sign above the stoplight that says "No left turn between the hours of 4-6 p.m." there is a reason for it!!! Obey!!!

3. City of Little Rock - Your street sweepers are useless. Seriously, what's the point? How much do those vehicles cost? Do you realize your just shooting pine straw out the back of your sweeper?

4. Those with Yards - Please do not use your leaf blowers to conveniently remove your yard rubbish by blowing it into your neighbor's yard or into the street (where conveniently it too will end up in your neighbor's yard.) Seriously.

Thanks - that's all for now.

Regular People Need Love Too!

2009-07-31T14:04:00.003-05:00

What's the deal with these dating shows lately? So for years we've watched size 0 and size 2 women on the Bachelor - Now to make it more "real" they've created a dating show for large women - I believe most, if not all, were over 200 lbs. Why the extremes? Are people with a healthy weight uninteresting? Don't they deserve love too? pffffft Give us a chance!

New Song - "Awake"

2009-07-07T10:11:00.000-05:00

I've written a new song with my cousin Andy Evans. Take a listen - let us know what you think - and pass along to any bands / publishers who would want to work out a deal with us for the song. Thanks everyone!
http://www.sendspace.com/file/1lpe5b

I hope you enjoy it!

New Song Coming Soon!

2009-06-30T12:21:00.002-05:00

Andy is in the final stages of producing our latest track! I can't wait to hear the final cut. This song came so quickly - probably had it all written within two days time... so really only about an hour combined effort on my end. Sometimes I feel like I dump it all on him coming up with the instrumentation and production. But I need to not take too much away from myself -- there would be nothing without the idea.

The interesting part about songwriting to me...if and when the inspiration will hit. Will the words come...and if so - how fast? What's going to be the hook? I actually think I write better if I start off with a hook or chorus -- then fill in lyrics. I'm well aware I have a backwards method of songwriting. Most people start with music - then words. For me it comes together simultaneously in my mind. The words tell me the melody. Hey - whatever works!

Heard at the Pool...

2009-06-08T13:14:00.003-05:00

Fun experiment for you all to try the next time you are out lounging by the pool. Close your eyes and let all the surrounding conversations wash over you until something catches your interest.

Lines I couldn't ignore:

Father to child: "Your noodle is down there."

Mother to child: "Don't order junk - get some nachos."

Woman: "Are you going to do my back?"

Teen girl: "I think my parents have picked up that I am like not happy with them at all."

Mother to child: "How much is it? Wait you have your own money??? Well use that then!"

Yes... lines out of context are the most humorous!

The Magic Moment of an Idea

2009-05-29T10:41:00.002-05:00

That moment when an idea for a song really comes together... I can't describe it any better than magic. I understand how ancient people could create mystic muses and gods as the reason for their inspiration. It's just too unbelievable to even grasp that it came from your own mind. Where did that come from??? Magic!

I've sent off a song to my cousin Andy to work on if he likes it and am currently writing a new song. The chorus came out of nowhere and knocked me out! It will be smooth sailing from here on!

Better Download

2009-05-07T09:47:00.001-05:00

The quality was a bit off on the previous download... here is a new one for your listening pleasure!

http://www.sendspace.com/file/hfwoem

New Song!

2009-05-06T11:52:00.002-05:00

My cousin, Andy Evans, and I have completed our first collaboration. And get this... I live in Arkansas...and he lives in Australia! The power of the Internet! I write and record the vocals - email to him - and he builds music around them.

We would love to talk with a publisher or group about using our music -- if you know anyone who would be interested - Please feel free to share!

"When You're Gone"

http://www.sendspace.com/file/6aea9u

Thanks!

And So It Happened...

2009-02-11T16:02:00.002-06:00

I've been away from the blogosphere for far too long. What can I say... work has been nuts... in my free time I haven't wanted to spend it too tied to the computer...

What's new? Well I've gotten back into songwriting. This time I'm going to treat it like a part time job though. I really want to have something creative in my life...and if I could someday make a living from it - all the better! Writing the songs isn't a problem...but the process of getting them sold or to a publisher seems to be a much convoluted process. I've received so much conflicting information. Some say hire a lawyer - others don't. Some say make a name for your self in a small way then build - others say go directly to the bands you want singing your stuff... some say find a publishing company... some say find a Rep...some say go to labels... Some say get a demo...some say just record yourself... yada yada yada... just digging through.

DVDs I watched this Weekend

2008-10-27T15:36:00.006-05:00

I finally got around to renting Miss Pettigrew Lives for A Day and P.S. I Love You.

Miss Pettigrew was a delightful film. I don't know that it is a "Must See" - but it had its merits and is definitely not a waste of money. Frances McDormand is superb!

The surprise of the weekend was P.S. I Love You. I have always detested Hillary Swank - so I was shocked when I was able to get through one of her flicks without much more than 5 minutes of disgust. I'm not saying she won me over...but this story was just THAT good. It is the ultimate chick flick! I swooned...I cried... I envied! And...OMG -us Grey's Anatomy fans know the goodness that is Jeffrey Dean Morgan - but that does not even scratch the surface. He (and his backside) are magnificent to experience in this film!!! I could absolutely drown in those eyes. Definitely a MUST SEE!

ACK! I had a dream about the Jonas Brothers!!!!

2008-10-24T13:29:00.003-05:00

Ok...not "that" kind of a dream...so calm down.

But still!!! With such media saturation they have seeped into my subconscience and have mettled with what was a pleasant dreamscape. The Jonai are EVERYWHERE!!! There is no escaping them.

Also the High School Musical group... Geez... they hit you at every angle! It's a cross marketing juggernaut!

Teens have become way cooler than any need be. Surely it gives normal teens false expectations! ;-)

Tina Fey for President!!!

2008-10-07T10:17:00.002-05:00

Just kidding ;-) But I do love love love her!!! I think we could be bestest buddies...if we only knew each other.

Tina has been playing the part she was born for... Sarah Palin. When I caught my first glimps of Sarah Palin my mind immediately went to Tina playing the opening sketch as Palin. It was all too perfect - and I'm glad Tina and Lorne agreed! Word on the street is Palin wants to portray Tina on SNL... whatever... she could never change that voice of hers.

SO!

Tonight is Presidential Debate Numero TWO! Back to the battle bitches! Here's hoping Mr. Obama can trash McCain in what he considers to be his turf... the town hall meeting. From what I've seen so far -- I think Obama can handle this setting just as well as McCain...if not better! I'm fired up for tonight!!! We HAVE to win this election. We HAVE to stop the war in Iraq. We HAVE to fix our economy and our budget. We HAVE to get our resources in check. Now is the time. Eight years in the hole...it will take a while to dig out - but it has to start somewhere.

Rest in Peace Paul Newman

2008-09-29T14:39:00.002-05:00

I fell in love with Paul Newman sometime around junior high... Brick in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof - those eyes...the intensity... his range of emotion...

What person didn't adore Paul Newman? Male or female - he was inspirational to all of us. His work in film is legendary...his generosity to charities lives on.

Mr. Newman... you are loved and will be greatly missed!

"Save ourselves...Save the world?"

2008-09-23T13:23:00.002-05:00

Nah...just not as catchy as "Save the Cheerleader...Save the World"

Other than that - the new season of Heroes started off on not just a good foot... but an AWESOME AMAZING foot.

Claire survived Syler surgery!!! OMG! I always wondered if she could heal after that. Syler digging around in her brain was a bit nasty... but very interesting. I don't understand why she didn't tell her parents that she could never die... you'd think that would put their minds at ease so they wouldn't fuss over her so much. Her fire-palmed real mother creeps me out though. Could she be one of the bad guys?

Nathan Petrelli had a lot going on in the premier. He comes back to life... sees Lenderman AND Nikki... wowie. My question...where are his wife and kids? no visits to the hospital? And is Lenderman invisible? or simply made up in his mind?

I also think it's interesting how momma Petrelli doesn't consider "Future Peter" as her son... Saying - what have you done with my son? Bring my son back! He is your son... Perhaps the future she has seen sees a rift in the family.

Mohinder turning into "the fly"...nasty.

Here's to 7 long days waiting for the next episode!

Jessica Simpson... Please stop.

2008-09-09T12:51:00.002-05:00

I just watched a clip of Jessica performing her new country song on GMA this morning. Ugh... so now she is overly pronouncing her "r"s while singing now to sound like a hick... Come on o-verrrrrrr...I needja in these A-rrrr-ms. Grab yer coat... grab yer hat... make me puke!

I'm tired of her morphing herself every year into something new..."Oh wait - I'm really THIS person... I was just doing what they told me to before." How many times have we heard that? This is the REAL me... um no. it's not. "Yer" desperate.

http://abcnews.go.com/video/playerIndex?id=5760073

The album dropped today - can't wait to see the numbers!

Yummy Gummy Vitamins!!!

2008-09-08T17:03:00.003-05:00

O.M.G! These vitamins are so yummy...keep them away from the kids! They taste just like gummy bears!!! This will be the first vitamin that I will have no issue sticking with. No more horse pills! Go get you some! ;-) I found mine at Target.

OMG Britney!

2008-09-08T16:02:00.002-05:00

Brit Brit finally made a public appearance without embarrassing herself! It's a miracle! Could the Britney of 5 years ago really be back??? There is a video out on the web of her rehearsing a new number....looks like a tour is in the works.

Britney Rehearsing (Video) ...

I don't think of Britney as a singer... just an "entertainer" - and she if very entertaining. But I would never pay money to see her entertain... but I love following her train wreck of a life. Is that wrong? Oh but wait! I have purchased her CDs!!! So there! I have paid for the right to gawk at the train.

Fact Check Time

2008-09-04T10:22:00.001-05:00

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080904/ap_on_el_pr/cvn_fact_check

Attacks, praise stretch truth at GOP convention

By JIM KUHNHENN, Associated Press Writer
Wed Sep 3, 11:48 PM ET

ST. PAUL, Minn. - Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin and her Republican supporters held back little Wednesday as they issued dismissive attacks on Barack Obama and flattering praise on her credentials to be vice president. In some cases, the reproach and the praise stretched the truth.

Some examples:

PALIN: "I have protected the taxpayers by vetoing wasteful spending ... and championed reform to end the abuses of earmark spending by Congress. I told the Congress 'thanks but no thanks' for that Bridge to Nowhere."

THE FACTS: As mayor of Wasilla, Palin hired a lobbyist and traveled to Washington annually to support earmarks for the town totaling $27 million. In her two years as governor, Alaska has requested nearly $750 million in special federal spending, by far the largest per-capita request in the nation. While Palin notes she rejected plans to build a $398 million bridge from Ketchikan to an island with 50 residents and an airport, that opposition came only after the plan was ridiculed nationally as a "bridge to nowhere."

PALIN: "There is much to like and admire about our opponent. But listening to him speak, it's easy to forget that this is a man who has authored two memoirs but not a single major law or reform - not even in the state senate."

THE FACTS: Compared to McCain and his two decades in the Senate, Obama does have a more meager record. But he has worked with Republicans to pass legislation that expanded efforts to intercept illegal shipments of weapons of mass destruction and to help destroy conventional weapons stockpiles. The legislation became law last year. To demean that accomplishment would be to also demean the work of Republican Sen. Richard Lugar of Indiana, a respected foreign policy voice in the Senate. In Illinois, he was the leader on two big, contentious measures in Illinois: studying racial profiling by police and requiring recordings of interrogations in potential death penalty cases. He also successfully co-sponsored major ethics reform legislation.

PALIN: "The Democratic nominee for president supports plans to raise income taxes, raise payroll taxes, raise investment income taxes, raise the death tax, raise business taxes, and increase the tax burden on the American people by hundreds of billions of dollars."

THE FACTS: The Tax Policy Center, a think tank run jointly by the Brookings Institution and the Urban Institute, concluded that Obama's plan would increase after-tax income for middle-income taxpayers by about 5 percent by 2012, or nearly $2,200 annually. McCain's plan, which cuts taxes across all income levels, would raise after tax-income for middle-income taxpayers by 3 percent, the center concluded.

Obama would provide $80 billion in tax breaks, mainly for poor workers and the elderly, including tripling the Earned Income Tax Credit for minimum-wage workers and higher credits for larger families.

He also would raise income taxes, capital gains and dividend taxes on the wealthiest. He would raise payroll taxes on taxpayers with incomes above $250,000, and he would raise corporate taxes. Small businesses that make more than $250,000 a year would see taxes rise.

MCCAIN: "She's been governor of our largest state, in charge of 20 percent of America's energy supply ... She's responsible for 20 percent of the nation's energy supply. I'm entertained by the comparison and I hope we can keep making that comparison that running a political campaign is somehow comparable to being the executive of the largest state in America," he said in an interview with ABC News' Charles Gibson.

THE FACTS: McCain's phrasing exaggerates both claims. Palin is governor of a state that ranks second nationally in crude oil production, but she's no more "responsible" for that resource than President Bush was when he was governor of Texas, another oil-producing state. In fact, her primary power is the ability to tax oil, which she did in concert with the Alaska Legislature. And where Alaska is the largest state in America, McCain could as easily have called it the 47th largest state - by population.

MCCAIN: "She's the commander of the Alaska National Guard. ... She has been in charge, and she has had national security as one of her primary responsibilities," he said on ABC.

THE FACTS: While governors are in charge of their state guard units, that authority ends whenever those units are called to actual military service. When guard units are deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan, for example, they assume those duties under "federal status," which means they report to the Defense Department, not their governors. Alaska's national guard units have a total of about 4,200 personnel, among the smallest of state guard organizations.

FORMER ARKANSAS GOV. MIKE HUCKABEE: Palin "got more votes running for mayor of Wasilla, Alaska than Joe Biden got running for president of the United States."

THE FACTS: A whopper. Palin got 616 votes in the 1996 mayor's election, and got 909 in her 1999 re-election race, for a total of 1,525. Biden dropped out of the race after the Iowa caucuses, but he still got 76,165 votes in 23 states and the District of Columbia where he was on the ballot during the 2008 presidential primaries.

FORMER MASSACHUSETTS GOV. MITT ROMNEY: "We need change, all right - change from a liberal Washington to a conservative Washington! We have a prescription for every American who wants change in Washington - throw out the big-government liberals, and elect John McCain and Sarah Palin."

THE FACTS: A Back-to-the-Future moment. George W. Bush, a conservative Republican, has been president for nearly eight years. And until last year, Republicans controlled Congress. Only since January 2007 have Democrats have been in charge of the House and Senate.

___

Associated Press Writer Jim Drinkard in Washington contributed to this report.

Obama - you have to win me over!

2008-08-29T10:04:00.002-05:00

Dear Barack,

The Clintons cannot sign, seal and delivery me to you. It should never even be considered their place to do such a thing. You have to earn me damn it! Last night - you did a bit better... I admit that. But I need more of your ACTUAL plans to surface. I don't buy into the generalized "idea" of change. I need to know what the change will be and what policy you will be pushing. Specifics man! Specifics! Please flesh out some of the ideas you mentioned last night.

Thank you ---

Happy Birthday to ME!

2008-08-26T14:52:00.003-05:00

Thirty-Four
Thirty-Four
Thirty-Four

Nope, can't get use to the sound of that. Jane Austen would definitely describe me in one of her novels as a spinster. Scary. There are so many good women my age that are single. Perhaps we should have been drowned at birth - I "KEEED"!

Here's to another year. Perhaps this time around I'll find out what I'm supposed to be doing.

Excellent Radio Station with Online Stream!

2008-08-21T15:20:00.005-05:00

Sometimes I need to shut out the world around me while at the office...headphones on... head down...typing away...focused...

I've found this great radio station out of NY state - an amazing mix of old and new music...and by new music I mean music you haven't heard in Arkansas. They also throw in some live tracks of your fave bands in concert.

Check them out! The Peak

RIP LeRoi.... We will miss you!

2008-08-20T08:45:00.001-05:00

The Hills is Back Bitches!

2008-08-19T14:42:00.003-05:00

What did you think of last night's episode. I was so disappointed that all of the hot moments were aired in the commercials.

I'm so sick of Audrina. She recently admitted in an article that a producer hired her to be one of their friends on the show... so why is she surprised that she feels left out? Lo and Lauren have been besties since childhood! Give me a break. And her freaktastic friends...blech...

And I wish Heidi and Spencer would just die already.

Great Rentals I Watched this Weekend...

2008-08-18T13:53:00.004-05:00

Paris Je T'aime --- wow... 12 5-minute shorts - each located in a different section of Paris. So much creativity went into the making of each segment of this film. Imagine trying to build a story and create characters the audience will care about all in 5 minutes! Each director/writer were given one local and given 2-3 days to shoot!

Penelope... I was really surprised at how much I enjoyed this film. The set design, cinematography, story line -- all superb! Christina Ricci is adorable and James McAvoy is as lust-worthy as always.

Having one of those lonnggg days...

2008-08-15T15:53:00.003-05:00

Today has been passing by ridiculously slow - so I thought it would be a good time to post some random thoughts...and by random...I mean seriously random...
------------
Public Notice: If above a stop light there is a sign that says "No left hand turn between the hours of 4-6" It's there for a reason... that reason being your stupid ass won't hold the rest of us up by not being able to turn left in front of rush hour traffic.
---------------
I need retail therapy - desperately. I hate being poor. Waiting for the insurance adjuster to do her thing - and cut me a check - is killing me. I'm not made for having to carefully balance income and expenses :-( I need account cushion again - and soon!
--------------
I want to go to L.A. and see the pretty people. Actually - I'd like to be one of the pretty people for a few days... have their clothes... cars... jewelry... clothes...bank accounts. Go have lunch somewhere fabulous....dinner out followed by an evening at the hippest clubs in town - VIP only. Ahhh to be pampered... how fabulous.
------------
I don't want summer to end. I love putting on a bikini and jumping into some cool water. Vacations. Flirty sundresses. Sandals. Sun beams.
-------------
I need to exercise but I've totally grown to hate the mess it causes. First there is the time issue...then you have to shower AGAIN for the day... the effort of blowdrying my hair... And do I look any different? Not so much!
-------------
I can't wait for The Hills to start back up again on Monday! I love watching their pretty lives. It's always summer in L.A. Is that a song? It should be if it's not.

Now this is just sad!

2008-08-13T09:47:00.003-05:00

Story and photos taken from http://pinkisthenewblog.com/home/sienna-miller-cracks-under-the-pressure/

I don't care what rumor is floating around about a person - no one deserves to be hounded to the point of bringing them to tears! This is absolute harassment! The Paps need limits!!!! It is my wish that media outlets would not purchase photos that show the celebrity in obvious distress. If they can't sell the shots - then maybe they won't work so hard to get them.

Movie Excitement!

2008-08-12T12:29:00.008-05:00

I'm so jazzed about these two new releases about to hit theaters.

Woody Allen is back with Vicky Cristina Barcelona.... with my girl crush - ScarJo. Ahhh those lips...those eyes...that skin... She's perfect. If only I was a lesbian...and she was too... yeah whatever. ANYWAY - this movie looks fabulous and I hope I'm able to see it soon.

Next!

Brideshead Revisited. I never saw this series - but this movie looks "beautiful". From the previews - I'd say it will be up for an Oscar for cinematography...sets...wardrobe... something.
And...Matthew Goode... quite lovely to look at!

A Third Remake???

2008-08-11T11:11:00.003-05:00

Has that ever been done in film? Three remakes?

First was "The Women" - 1939 - staring Norma Sherrer, Joan Crawford and Rosalind Russell.

Next there was "The Opposite Sex" - which actually had men in the cast - 1956 - Starring June Allyson, Joan Collins, Dolores Gray and Leslie Nielsen.

Now a third version is set to release this September with Meg Ryan in the lead roll with Eva Mendez and Annette Benning. I've viewed the preview... it follows the original movie version it seems - except for the modern day translation... It's more in your face as we all are these days. It also appears to leave the men out of the movie visually- only referenced to as in the first movie.

Seeing as how I've been through this story line twice already - perhaps I'll save my $8 and wait to rent. :-)

Eight Ate 08 - Happy Friday!

2008-08-08T12:37:00.002-05:00

I'm really not into the Olympics...and I'm very disappointed in China... so I'm not even going to touch on that.

The summer is quickly passing us by...8/08... crap! The pool will surely be closing soon as the lifeguards go back to school :-( One thing I've noticed this summer... no cold water out of the tap! So hey -- hot water for free you guys!

August is also my birthday month... thirty freaking four. blech. grrr. arrrgh... still single...still childless... fabulous!

Sorry for this horrible boring post... perhaps I'll become inspired later in the day... but don't count on it!

Getting my read on...

2008-08-05T16:21:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago I finished the complete works of Jane Austen: Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Mansfield Park, Emma, Northanger Abbey, Persuasion, and Lady Susan. What a great feeling of accomplishment after turning that last page! Eager for more words to devour, I checked out the local library for a new read. I noticed a book with a bright yellow sticker "HOT PICK - No renewals".... hmmm I thought... must be popular - I should read this. And I did. And it was drivel. James Patterson's Sunday's at Tiffany's might as well be a children's book after reading the great works of Jane Austen. Back to the classics for me!!!

I've made a short list of books to try to get my hands on... although usually when I go for something in particular it is checked out :-(

A Room With a View
The Great Gatsby
The Age of Innocence
The Woman in White
Madame Bovary
Love in a Cold Climate

Surely that will keep me busy for a while. I'm returning the ghastly James Patterson novel tomorrow! - as soon as I can get away from the office!

A Contradiction of Mind

2008-07-29T15:37:00.002-05:00

How is it possible that I can hate the rock band KISS...their music, their look, their act...
yet, I love the show "Gene Simmons' Family Jewels". I think it must be the kids and Shannon that win me over every episode. They are so clever. For having a "demon" as a father - the children are strangely well adjusted...intelligent... funny... how can this be? Sophie will definitely be a star someday - either through fashion or her singing. Keep an eye out for her.

JM OM28 Guitar Recovered!!!! YAY!

2008-07-29T13:35:00.008-05:00

Amazing News!!!

I have recovered my guitar, violin and diamond drop necklace!!!

The thief sold them to a pawn shop just outside of Little Rock for $300. Someone bought the guitar, then saw one of the posts I made on the Internet, and took it back to the pawn shop and told them to contact me. Thank God for the Internet and the kindness of strangers!

I had to pay the pawn shop the $300 they would lose to get my things now - or else would have had to wait 6 months to a year for the guy to go to trial and for them to recoup their losses from him directly. The man who sold these items to the pawn shop has been arrested for another crime. They now have to link him directly to the robbery at my home. First they have to run the prints - if they hit on at least a partial - then they can get a blood sample from him to match to the scene.

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you everyone for spreading the word and staying on the lookout! It really does work!!! I never would have imagined getting the guitar back so soon. Never! wow... I love the Internet!

John Mayer is the Nicest Guy Ever

2008-07-26T21:00:00.005-05:00

I received a surprise in the mail from Richard Young today. I was absolutely shocked!

It's so nice to see there are still kind people in the world after dealing with the two break ins. Thanks to Richard for setting this in motion and thanks to John for taking the time out of his day to do this! I'm a forever fan!

Thanks NPR for making me feel old yesterday

2008-07-24T09:33:00.003-05:00

While driving home from work listening to NPR, as I often do, I caught an interview with the "Nirvana Baby" who is now freaking EIGHTEEN YEARS OLD!!!! wow. Wasn't it just yesterday that "Nevermind" was running through my head non stop?

Poor kid comments on how everyone has seen his penis :-) But what a cool and interesting way to begin life!

You can read or listen to the interview here...

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=92833535

Fall Fashion... Yawnnnnn

2008-07-23T09:33:00.003-05:00

I'm so not looking forward to the sea of plaid I hear is on the way to a store near you. I can still remember clearly back in my school days flipping through Seventeen Magazine and seeing the dewy faced young girls with their perfect long hair and box pleated plaid skirts...suspenders... stockings... boots. I didn't wear it then...and I won't wear it now. I'm just not mad for plaid. Houndstooth! YES --- Yes to houndstooth! Love it.

I wish we could stop reverberating the 80's look. If shoulder pads come back - I'll just die!

Celeb dissing time...

2008-07-22T15:12:00.004-05:00

Items of interest...

"Speidi" is going to Iraq? Can we pay an insurgent to kill them while they are there?

Katie Holmes passed on the latest Batman -- what a fool! You know she has to be sick about it now! HA

Jennifer Aniston and John Mayer.... does anyone else smell a Management setup here? Perhaps to keep her in the spotlight during the birth of the "wonder twins" -- And John hasn't released a new album - yet has decided to go on tour. Hmmmm... It has definitely peeked paparazzi interest.

Jessica Simpson... she needs to just become a porn star. She could be successful in that arena. I love that they booed her at her "country" show. :-)

Reese and Jake...awwwww

Absolutely Ridiculous

2008-07-18T17:26:00.002-05:00

How can a grown adult - twice married - twice divorced - say that they have been through so many mates that they "know" when something is right. Obviously they don't know when something is right. Obviously they don't know the true qualities to be looking for. AND to say they are getting engaged after 2 months??? Getting engaged because of loneliness and needing a constant 24/7 companion??? Any good therapist will tell you that if you aren't ok by yourself - you can never be ok for someone else.

Oh it will be a long engagement? Why not just date for a year? So she can have a ring to be proud of???? What does that say?

My God am I the only sane person left?

Watch Out Single Women!!!

2008-07-17T08:30:00.002-05:00

I originally posted this on my private blog on MySpace - but I thought it was something that should be shared publicly -- perhaps our experiences can save one or two of you out there!

Watch out single women!!! If it can happen to Anne Hathaway and Me... it can happen to you!

The more that surfaces about Anne Hathaway's ex, the more I feel compelled to warn all of you. Felons come in all shapes and sizes. They are smooth... deceptive... and very good at what they do. You may think...Hey he has a nice hair cut...he dresses neatly... went to college... But don't be fooled! He too can be a criminal just as easily as the greasy haired slacker next door. I personally dated a preppy guy that I had known back in college and recently re-met. He said he changed careers for a "lifestyle change". Thankfully that relationship didn't pan out, and I recently was informed he spent time in Federal Prison for wire fraud... "lifestyle change" indeed! He also lied about his devotion to his child... he owes on child support! Be careful ladies!

If you haven't read about Raffaello Follieri - you must! It's amazing. He actually used the Vatican as part of his con.
Article from CNN

And ladies - if you want to see if any local boy you are about to date has any judgments against him - you can look him up on the County Clerk's website. This won't show you federal entanglements... but local ones.
Pulaski County Clerk

My life sucks balls

2008-07-16T11:29:00.002-05:00

So not only was my home ransacked... vandalized... bloodied... My things taken from me...
But I must also deal with the most incompetent insurance adjuster possibly on the entire planet. I've taken to copying my insurance agent on my complaints to her -- and he has in turn been copying her boss.

I hate all of this. It's just too much for one person to deal with.

And today, I found out yet another "friend" lied to me - or perhaps he would say "omitted" the truth! HA. Why can't everyone just be open, honest, truthful??? Is it really so hard? I don't have time for friends who can't be forthcoming. I demand respect damn it!!!!! :-)

To those friends remaining... listen - you don't have to be my friend if you don't want to be. If we make plans and you don't want to go through with them, just tell me - I don't want to spend time with someone who doesn't want to spend time with me anyway. To the guys - if we are flirting and have made some plans and you end up dating someone else -- just man up and say so and not just ignore the situation completely. I DON'T CARE. I do care if you blow me off!!!

It's all about respect. We all have feelings. Be thoughtful of others - Please - I beg of you!

Dear Hot Men, Please Move to Little Rock! Thanks.

2008-07-15T13:23:00.002-05:00

Some girls and I were just chatting about the hot men shortage we seem to be facing here in Central Arkansas. And not to put down you hotties currently among us...but we know your history! ;-)

We need "fresh meat" so to speak. HP will be opening an office here at the end of 2009 --- Only Hot Geeks need apply! Acxiom is always hiring as well.

In my best southern accent... "Come on down, y'all!" We'll certainly make you feel welcome! ;-)

Site Update

2008-07-15T12:36:00.001-05:00

Anyone should be able to leave a comment now without being a member. Post on!

The Bachelor Series is Obviously in Serious Trouble

2008-07-15T12:01:00.001-05:00

Last night they had yet ANOTHER episode of the Bachelor/Bachelorette - "Where are They Now". Where are they now? The same place they were last week when they reported on them during the After the Final Rose episode.

Yes - Andrew Firestone did get married last weekend - but they showed no photographs from the wedding that are now plastered all over the weeklies. (Andrew - if things don't work out... call me)

DeAnna and Jesse (vomit) met Trista and Ryan to ask them how they kept their love alive.... le sigh. Must you ask? Stay away from L.A. and be "real" - if you can still manage that.

ABC really needs a wedding with two other couples still only long-term engaged.

I'm still so disappointed in DeAnna. First - she apparently was too young to have her own show. She didn't even know what she was looking for. Second - she thinks she can get married in May of next year and still have 3 children by the time she is 30. Unless she can arrange to have twins - pretty impossible. And Jesse wants them to spend time together as a couple and travel etc... There shall be trouble ahead. He's definitely not ready for kids.

And I have to get this off my chest about Jesse -- I can't believe he's in love with her. First he went on MTV's "Made" to gain television exposure for his "post-snowboarding" career. This was back in February of this year. Check out this lovely clip...

Made for MTV video where Tara mentions Jess's girlfriend moving in. Remember he only taught her to snowboard for 6 weeks during the Made for MTV show and this clip was posted on Feb 13, 2008:

http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?id=1581518&vid=209387

Sadly I can't find the article where he mentions his publicity plans. :-( Ugh.

He then signed up for the Bachelorette for more exposure... so I'm supposed to buy that he is real? I don't think so.

Anyway -- here's hoping the next bachelor/bachelorette they select is serious and smart about what they are there for.

The Wonder Twins are Born

2008-07-14T14:27:00.000-05:00

Brangelina gave birth to Knox Leon and Vivienne Marcheline Saturday night at the Lenval hospital in Nice. And word is out that Brangelina hates being called Brangelina... so ... Brangelina Brangelina BRANGELINA :p

That makes three actual spawn of Brangelina. Can you imagine being these kids growing up in today's world? They will be recognizable faces to every person worldwide. Even those who avoid celebrity gossip can't avoid this family.

We'll be with them during their first steps... ridiculing them during the "awkward" years... spying on their dates... They will never know a life outside the glass house. Poor kids. I feel for them except that they will have every thing and every advantage in life! So then... not so much...

Thieves SUCK

2008-07-14T13:55:00.000-05:00

SO....my home has been broken into twice in a month and a half. I am completely wiped out! Damn bastards!!! I go to work every day to make a life for myself... and these asses can just take it all away??? I can't even understand that mindset. That it's ok to just take what they want - screw the laws.

The best thing out of all of this... during the last break in - the burglar was seriously cut when breaking my bedroom window (CSI thinks it to be an arterial cut due to the blood spray). I hope that wound festers and oozes. I hope the scar is knotted and discolored. I hope he never feels comfortable wearing a short sleeve shirt again!

They only took one thing I truly care about and cannot replace. My Martin John Mayer Limited Edition OM-28 acoustic guitar. Number 12 of only 404 made. :-(

In memory of my baby...

A New Beginning!

2008-07-14T13:45:00.001-05:00

After getting my feet wet with a MySpace Blog... I thought it was now time to go public! WOO HOO! I'm Amy - nickname "Grabafella" (and no - no grabbed fellas were harmed in the creation of this nickname.)

Lots of ramblings to follow soon...