New Lyrics - "Just Fine"

Woke up with these in my head. Funny:

JUST FINE

I'll be your ballerina, rockstar, MBA, let's play
Songwriter, finance girl, publicist, take a whirl
Receptionist, secretary, VP quite contrary
Anything you want to be - just come along with me

This is your life
This is your time
La la la la la la
Everything will be just fine

I'll be your Taurus, Virgo, Gemini
Which one is my alibi?
TImes Square, Red Square, Trafalgar Square
I'm there
Jesus, Buddha, L. Ron, which one makes you sing your song?
Anything you want to be - come enjoy the ride with me

This is your life
This is your time
La la la la la la
Everything will be just fine

BRIDGE
I don't want to see you giving up the fight
But I don't want to be you, 'cause being me is alright...

I've been broke and I've been rich
Sometimes in the same week stretch
Feel just like a billionaire
Even when the checks ain't there
I know I'm a princess, but I don't deserve less
And if you think I'm crazy, just repeat this after me:

This is your life
This is your time
La la la la la la
Everything will be just fine

Friday Night at the Atlanta Ballet...

Friday night's triple bill at Cobb Energy Centre was nothing less than spectacular. The Atlanta Ballet is rapidly becoming one of my all-time favorite ballet companies, and I have seen many in my day. Several dancers have emerged as favorites, but all are more than capable of dancing leading roles, and there is no "star system" in this company.

Sinfonietta Giocosa was a Balanchine-esque piece choreographed by Christopher Hampson. Vaguely reminiscent of my favorite ballet of all time, Concerto Barocco, the simple costumes, the stark set (an empty stage with a simple lighting change between movements) and bold, athletic choreography, created a contemporary classic visual treat. Standouts in the piece were the ever-effervescent Kristine Necessary, the magnificent Christian Clark; a delightful duet with resident blonde beauties Anne Tyler Harshbarger and Christine Winkler; a strong male cast featuring David Blumenfeld, Jacob Bush, Brian Wallenberg and John Welker; and a pas de trois featuring newcomer Alessa Rogers. Jonah Hooper continues to impress me after his amazing turn as Dracula. And, always outstanding were Tara Lee, Courtney Necessary, Taylor Gill, rounding out the female cast.

"The Firebird" is The John McFall-choreographed vehicle created for Christine Winkler and John Welker. The powerful Stravinsky score creates the perfect backdrop for this delicious abstract piece.

I understand that dancer-choreographer Darrell Grand Moultrie visited the company for just three weeks, on loan from his Broadway run in Billy Elliot. In that short time, he created "Boiling Point", my favorite piece of the evening. While every piece in this program was demanding on the dancers, this was even more so. Athletic, dynamic, powerful, acrobatic, and aggressive are all adjectives that describe the dancing in this piece. Christian Clark's backbend-to-the-floor motion, as fluid as water, was sheer brilliance. The teeny-tiny Peng-Yu Chen was like a bullet shot from a gun, and the gorgeous Kelly Tipton carries herself like ballet royalty, while executing rapidfire moves that dazzled the audience.

Go and see The Atlanta Ballet if you have the chance. I am very much looking forward to Don Quixote and Snow White, in May.

My Next Decade Punch List

As I approach a milestone birthday, thoughts turn to what I accomplished during the last decade, and what I hope to accomplish in the next. Herewith, my punch lists for both.

1999-2009: This was a decade of many ups and downs. The highs were exhilarating, and the lows were devastating. However, I must give proper respect to those events, happenings and accomplishments that marked this extraordinary decade.

:: While the financial highs in no way matched those of the previous decade, there were still some very rich times.

:: I learned to drive, got my license, and other than highways, I pretty much go anywhere, any time.

:: Despite all evidence to the contrary, I have kept my own company afloat for 10 years.

:: Despite all indications to the contrary, I stayed in the same apartment for 10 years.

:: I have kept my word to provide Alan the best care I can and to continually help him to try to get well.

:: I have conquered many fears and accomplished business challenges I never thought I could handle.

:: I have very little debt, and have brought back into control the little that I do have.

:: I have made great strides in patience, tolerance and positivity.


IN THE NEXT DECADE - 2009-2019 I plan to:

:: Achieve a higher spiritual state

:: Achieve my financial "comfort" zone

:: Achieve my happiness zone

:: Overcome fear of driving highways

:: Learn to windsurf, jet ski and possibly buy a small sailcraft.

:: Spend more time in Siesta Key.

:: Get and stay in my best shape ever.

I am sure these will be added to, modified and edited as time goes on, but its a starting point. Excelsior!

Lyrics

These lyrics just popped into my head while I was working out.


I don't need you here to be near you
Because my heart is in your hand
And I don't need the proof to believe you
Because you always take a stand
and I don't need a picture to remember
Because it's tattooed in my mind
And we don't need to ever be together
Because everything is one in the face of space and time

Random. The first line was something someone said to me recently, and it stuck. He was referring to the fact that although distance and even death separates people, as long as you hold their memory in your heart, they are with you. It's an old cliche, but I wanted to put a little metaphysical spin on it. Now the challenge will be to see if I can turn it into an entire song. Co-writers are welcome.

xo

Walking Your Talk

It has seriously dawned on me lately how few people actually DO walk their own talk. I guess that is our flaw as humans - our ideals are greater than our frail wills can handle.

I remember meeting "J", the (then) new wife of a colleague, back when I worked at a venture fund. She was perfect, tall, blonde and gorgeous - smart and well-educated, with a fabulous career leading nature adventure expeditions. She talked of holistic lifestyles and championed regular meditation, whole and raw organic foods, aromatherapy and massage. I admired her sense of adventure and fearlessness of all things outdoors and health-conscious. So, when I saw her dragging away on a cigarette behind the building, the image was clearly compromised. What else about this seemingly perfect individual wasn't what she talked herself up to be? We've all seen it...the "vegetarian" pigging out on the occasional cheeseburger, the "environmentalist" chucking a plastic bottle in with the regular trash...you know the drill.

There is probably no need to mention (but I will anyway) the countless religious "leaders" who have fallen from grace, the Catholic priests, the televangelists, the archbishops, and the tent revivalists. Yet, people are always willing to forgive and forget, and they eagerly welcome a new face with the same message.

Is it their conviction alone that inspires? I am not sure. It seems as if those with the most conviction also fall the farthest.

Still, I believe we need our convictions to keep us on a "path". We will all surely fall from the path and fall short of our own, and others' expectations. But I would rather live a principled, albeit highly imperfect life, than a life with no principle at all. I try to walk my talk, but I don't beat myself up too hard if I occasionally screw it up. Perhaps that makes me a hypocrite, but I prefer to think it just makes me human.

yoga with james spader, embracing the ridiculous, raising cash

:: i dreamt last night that i was doing acro-yoga with james spader. it wasn't overtly sexual, but it was mildly erotic. spader is not an actor i give much thought to, so i am truly wondering what my subconscious was up to with this dream. ideas are welcome.

:: i am doing lots of things to raise cash for the move. i am selling a department store gift card with a face value of $250, at a discount. interested parties, please contact me! paypal only. i am also selling guided meditations/hypnosis MP3s (custom made) for $35 each. available meditiations: better sleep, weight loss, quitting smoking, abundance, confidence, attracting healthy relationships, etc. a website will be up within the next day or so.

:: i am much happier when i have few expectations and simply embrace the ridiculousness of life. accepting everything as random and nonsensical is easier than trying to make sense of the chaos. for now, that's my story and i'm sticking to it.

peace,
torch

Exhaustion

This week has been probably the most stressful I have endured in a long time. Most of it revolved around Alan's medications and trying to reach his pain doctor, a LONG trip down to Peachtree city on Tuesday, bungled meeting plans with other people, playing taxi (which isn't of itself stressful, in fact I quite enjoy the company, but it's just another time schedule to be met), and arguing with pharmacies and insurance. Plus, all the attendant stress of end of month and reports and monies due. Which is stressful enough all by itself.

So, here I sit on Friday night, contemplating a glass of Pinot Noir, and getting ready to close up the computer for the night. Sounds like a plan.

Have a great Friday night, everyone!

xoxo
songstress

The Move

It's looking like it is going to happen! A move to a three-bedroom, fully renovated unit in the Glen Lake complex. Saw the model, it's to die for. All new appliances, fixtures, washer and dryer included, etc. The whole deal should save us somewhere around $250 per month. The $ savings are sorely needed. The best part of the entire thing is that we will have a spare bedroom in which to accommodate guests! No more hotels for our out-of-town friends. And...it's a great party place as well, due to the layout and location of the terrace. We might have one more great summer ahead of us!! I'm already thinking of decor and what I want to do with the place. The only bad thing right now is I really don't want to keep any of my furniture...I will likely have to slipcover the couch and use it temporarily. But we just need SO much stuff! Ah well. All in good time.

Lalalalalala. April first, baby!

Saturday Fun

This has been quite a fun day of getting things done. Delivered 2 Avon orders. Recruited 2 new reps. Got my car's emissions inspection done. Paid my new tag fee ($90.00 - UGH). Started cleaning, but now I have to run out to get Alan some prescriptions and medical stuff.

All in a Saturday's work, LOL. No rest for the weary. I could actually take a nap right now, but no such luck (long, deep sigh).

I have no idea what I'm going to concoct for dinner tonight, either. Might have to watch some Food Network to get inspired.

Ciao for now,
~L~

Good Stuff

More stream-of-consciousness:

Mega thanks to Holly for writing an article about my PR services for designers - very exciting! Also, congrats to her on her private art exhibition in Charlottesville. Awesome news.

I may be moving! I'm not sure how all of the pieces are going to fit together, but, as has always been the case in my life, when something is meant to be, everything manages to fall into place. Stay tuned.

I am no longer angry, but it was good to air my feelings.

I have a certain degree of anxiety right now - about things in general. I am working on it.

Yoga was extremely difficult this morning, but rewarding. Savasana never felt so good.

I am thinking about lunch.

In general, I am pretty happy.

Time to get back to work!!!

xo
torch

The Rage of The Torch

I don't fly into rages very often. I am like my Dad, in that we are generally peacekeepers, non-confrontational souls who live and let live. That is, until we are really crossed. And then it's "watch out, because the hurricane has arrived".

I had one such instance yesterday. I am not proud of my anger, rather, it embarrasses me that I can be provoked in such a way. On the surface, it was a silly thing that sparked the fire. But the intent behind it carried hurt and the kind of mocking scorn that can make me lose it completely. And, it did.

Bottom line...I can be an awesome friend to the people I care about. I would totally want me as a friend. But, I am kind of a high maintenance friend - not in that you need to do things for me, or give me presents or take me nice places, or listen to me whine for hours on end. BUT, I require a few things. Respect, kind words, appreciation, attention. Once in awhile, act concerned about how MY day is going. Ask how I'm feeling. Give me a hug. Tell me you like something I did. Make a comment on something I've written (or, even, just READ something I've written). Call me or email me just to say hello, or for something more than to ask me for favors or to pick my brain. It's really not that much to ask. But, if you're either unwilling or unable to do any of the above, let me know now, because I just don't have the time or energy to invest anymore. I get bruised easily, and life is too short to feel that way.

Afterparty

Usually, the term "afterparty" conjures visions of rock n' roll excess followed by sordid tales of swinging from chandeliers, free-flowing Taittinger and white powder-filled bathtubs. The afterparty I attended on Friday night was slightly less debaucherous, but in my view, no less fun and exciting.

"Drinks with Dracula" followed the Atlanta Ballet's brilliant production of "Dracula", and consisted of a meet and greet with the dancers as well as freely-flowing libations and incredible edibles.

The dancers who seemed larger-than-life onstage were gracious and humble off. I already have my favorites after seeing just two performances, and they include Kristine Necessary - a joyful, lyrical dancer with boundless energy and a great smile; Christian Clark - a simply beautiful young man with elevation rivaling a young Baryshnikov; Tara Lee - an exquisite technician who creates a total character; Jonah Hooper, whose "Dracula" was otherworldly as he slithered across the floor and down the scaffolding and seemed about ten feet tall onstage; and Kelly Tipton, a stunning young woman who reminded me of the Balanchine ballerinas of my day. While the event was, in essence, a "suck up to the patrons" type of fete, not one of the dancers in attendance acted like it was a chore to be there.

It was also a treat to meet John McFall, the artistic director of the company, and Sharon Story, ballet mistress (who I swear I have crossed paths with in a former life).

I am ever grateful to my friend James for allowing me to accompany him to this wonderful evening!

Random Thoughts 101

I may need a 12 step program to get off NyQuil. But I am sleeping SO well!

I am happy to be seeing Atlanta Ballet's "Dracula" tonight.

Friday the 13th is always lucky for me.

I am happy it is a 3-day weekend, even though I will be working throughout.

I love this warm, sunny weather we've been having. It's soothing my soul.

I think I want one of these renovated apartments! They are gorgeous.

I am still sad over Tiny's passing. She was my little sweetheart.

I want to know why there were 6 police cars here last night.

I am missing a few people in my life, even though they drive me nuts most of the time.

I miss the beach...I need some Florida right now.

I want to learn to windsurf.

I need to step up my workouts.

People, by turns, fascinate, infuriate, exasperate, and inspire me.

I love life too much to leave just yet.

I just want enough money so I never have to worry about it and enough left over to help people.

I will be the BEST rich person in the world. ;-)

I want to learn Spanish and Italian.

I will have my dream car within a year.

I feel the urge to dance.

Songs are my freedom.

I'm designing the perfect life for me.

I love you.

More Smellin' Good Stuff

Courteney Cox is the face of Avon's newest fragrance for women, Spotlight, which is due to launch in April. According to Courteney...

"...all women are in the spotlight in their own unique ways and this fragrance highlights the excitement and the exhilaration of that feeling."

Spotlight was developed by perfumer Jean-Marc Chaillan:

"The top notes of the Fresh Oriental scent were inspired by the feeling of excitement before a big moment. An icy silver accord meets illuminating citrus with sun-ripened fresh mandarin pur and Italian bergamot essence, extracted via cold press from the peel of the fruit. At the heart of Spotlight are deluxe naturals only available from IFF's exclusive Laboratoire Monique Remy, a state-of-the-art laboratory and manufacturing facility in France. This luminous floral heart combines pristine hydroponic white freesia, which is nurtured in a purely aqueous environment void of any impurities, rich tuberose absolute, and mimosa pur to capture the essence of confidence and radiance as you step into the spotlight. The base notes include sexy undertones of creamy cashmere sandalwood and precious vetiver with a kiss of white vanilla musk that leaves a lasting impression."

Avon Spotlight will be available in 50 ml Eau de Toilette, in a quilted glass bottle, retailing for $22.50.

I have a tester and can get samples before the actual catalog release - this is a heavenly scent! I can likely get a volume discount if there is enough interest, so hit me up.

Kryptonite in my Coffee

I guess it's flattering that Al called me "Superwoman" today. And, yes, sometimes I feel like I must be (as are most women) with all the stuff I juggle on a daily basis. But I have to say that in the past few weeks, someone has seriously put some Kryptonite in my morning beverage. A cold turned into bronchitis, turned into severe asthma, turned into a sinus infection. I have, by turns, completely lost my sense of smell and now my hearing. But, this, too shall pass. And, if it doesn't, I will learn to sign and read lips.

Peace out.

Falling Into Place

The pieces are beginning to fall into place again. Maybe there is something to this Mercury Retrograde thing, after all. The medications arrived for Al today. People have begun to call back. I'm oddly optimistic, despite the gloom and doom all around me. Probably the only real problem is that the opportunistic sinus affliction has now invaded my ears, and I am practically deaf. Just lovely. And, I am still way more tired than I should be.

My friend Mary Jo sent around an email that was full of funny things uttered from the mouths of little kids. The best one had Mom and I hysterical all afternoon.

Little Susie sat in rapt attention in church, as the preacher said "Without the Lord, we are but dust". At which point, Susie exclaimed loudly, "Mommy, what the heck is BUTT DUST?"

You know, sometimes ya just feel like so much Butt Dust.

Heeeeeee.

Mercurial Madness

OK, so Mercury is out of retrograde and has gone direct as of 2/1, so why hasn't the craziness stopped? Can't really say. I am very happy to be feeling better (although, seriously, I still get winded walking up the stairs, which is SO not me), and the cash flow situation is currently in the black, although still meager. However, I spent three hours in the car last night in search of one of Alan's medications, and another three early this morning -- to no avail. So, the jinx hasn't completely faded from my portfolio. I am grateful, though, for what I do have, and have begun expressing sincere gratitude in whatever way possible to those who have truly made a difference to me.

Newsflash, haha. I am such a naive girl when it comes to people. It still comes as a shock when people blatantly lie, to and about me, and I'm not sure I will ever get over that. And, it's still a bit of a shock when people whom you have gone out of your way for simply don't care. I emerge a little smarter, a little wiser, a little harder each time. But I will never be jaded, thank the Universe. I continue to look at the world through a child's eyes with all of the same wonder and naivete, and I don't really think that's a bad thing.

NDEs and OBEs

How does a head cold become a near-death experience? These and many other questions will no doubt be answered in the coming weeks. I am grateful to be here right now, and will never again ignore the warnings of my body. Although I will say, it was extremely cool to be out-of-body and would like to truly learn how to do it, safely and constructively, more often~~~~

Hierarchy of Needs

It's amazing how your whole thought process changes when you don't feel well. For instance, with this dreadful cold and cough, the only thing on my mind is relief. Halls, Vicks and Kleenex are the deities at whose altar I pray today. Of course, the fact that my electricity will not be turned off (because I finally DID get paid), is a side bonus.

Attention Fellow Bloggers

Fellow bloggers - If you're looking for a cool way to help support your blog or website, do what I did and visit iHype.com -- where expressing your opinion on a huge variety of topics can be lucrative and fun!

Peace out -

~LT~

Favorite Things Part Trois

Favorite things at the moment:

Dooney & Bourke "It" Handbag

Copamarina Beach Resort, Guanica, Puerto Rico

Super-Fabulous Donna Karan Silk Cashmere Cozy

Deseo Fragrance by Jennifer Lopez

Ginger tea and sympathy

I have a ridiculous, stupid cold. And I know it's because my immune system is compromised from all the stress! I've done a great job of trying to maintain a sense of humor about it all, but I guess an opportunistic bug still found its way into this vulnerable host. Well, bug, you are NOT welcome here. I will not make you cozy and comfortable, no way.

I've just grated some fresh ginger into a paste, and from that I will make some hot, sweet ginger tea. Good for evicting unwanted tenants and boosting the immunities.

Later.

~L~

Another Shade of Grey

Here we are again, it's the same old scene
We've played it out so many times before
You would think by now
That we would have it down
But I can't ever seem to find the door

Oh the lines are well-rehearsed
And yet we are
The victims of our destiny
If there were a way
To change these roles we play
That somehow have become you and me

The watercolor sunsets seem much too far away
And everything I touch becomes another shade of grey
When it all comes down and you can't face another day
Can we say goodbye, and blame it on another
Another shade of grey

You may think the answers are very clear
But mine are wrapped in mist and gloom
My head says go, but my heart says no
And there's no way to leave this empty room

Oh you say you've taken all that you can now
And there's no more for you to give
Can't we try again
For the happy end
The times are changin', let's begin to live

The watercolor sunsets seem much too far away
And everything I touch becomes another shade of grey
When it all comes down and you can't face another day
Can we say goodbye, and blame it on another
Another shade of grey

You Don't Have Me

You're a book with a pretty cover
I'm reading between your lines
To find your story vague and simple
Insincere apologies
May never mean a thing

You take me out to a black tie party
Where pretty people meet and tell all their
Sweet lies - to each other
Take them out of my life dear
And don't come back, you

Always know the style
Always think you see
Well you think you have it all, but you don't have me
You think you see the answers
You think you are so free
Well you think you have the world
But you don't have me
No no no

Feelin' like I missed something
Watching all your photographs in my dreams
Face distorted, marble features, looking plastic
Never mean a thing

Well I was never a paper doll
Cut out cardboard in the mirror
So Strange
All around and upside down
Just take them all and go now, go now

You always know the style
Always think you see
Well you think you have it all, but you don't have me
You think you see the answers
You think you are so free
Well you think you have the world
But you don't have me
No no no

Over You

December rain, it tingles my skin
Feels just like this mood I've been in
Don't know lately if I'm coming or going
Sometimes thinkin' that I've lost my head
Might be better if I bailed, instead
But for the moment, I guess I'll be stayin'

Would you tell me if I asked you
What you think about at night?

I'm watchin' you sleep
Keeping your secrets safe and locked up tight
While I pretend it's not true
That I'm not spinning in circles, crazy
Over you.

Guess you're thinkin' I'm the girl who fell
Head over heels, well I'll never tell
This is something far to strange to imagine
Not the chick who's gonna be your fool
Always the one who had to play it cool
You can probably guess why I'm a little bit shaken

Would it scare you if I told you
What I think about at night?

I'm watchin' you sleep
Keeping your secrets safe and locked up tight
While I pretend it's not true
That I'm not spinning in circles, crazy
Over you.

Something New

Hey baby, that's all you said
And just like that your words got stuck in my head
Across the water, nights in June
Bet you didn't think you'd be a song so soon
Something not quite real about this
Maybe I dreamed it
But now I doubt this
Game was good
And every card played exactly like it should
But when I saw that moonlight shining on you
Was it me you wanted,
Or just something new?

After midnight
Wine and guitars
Talked and sang about life and the stars
Funny thing, around you
I kept breakin' things
Glass, fences, hearts and what the new day brings is

Something not quite sane about this
Maybe I'm crazy
Why do I doubt this
Game was good
And every song played exactly like it should
But when I saw that moonlight shining on you
Was it me you wanted, or just something new?

When worlds like ours collide
There's no choice but to enjoy the ride....

This game was good
And every card played exactly like it should
But when I saw that moonlight shining on you
Was it me you wanted, or just something new?

Sweet Contradiction

is there comfort in your chaos?
does beauty lurk in a bad dream
is this real, or just imagined, 'cause you know
i'm not exactly how i seem

got on that train and rode it all the way down

was it you, was it me? was it anything that you or i could see
or just a sweet contradiction?
were you there? was i not?
will you watch me fall apart?
can't see the forest through the trees
beautifully shattered
sweet contradiction

is there sadness in a daydream
is there magic in a fight
does freedom ever make you wonder if you really got it right?

jumped off that cliff, i'm laughing all the way down

was it you, was it me? was it anything that you or i could see
or just a sweet contradiction?
were you there? was i not?
will you watch me fall apart?
can't see the forest through the trees
beautifully shattered
sweet contradiction

looked in the mirror and i turned right around
got in my car and drove it straight out of town

was it you, was it me? was it anything that you or i could see
or just a sweet contradiction?
were you there? was i not?
will you watch me fall apart?
can't see the forest through the trees
beautifully shattered
sweet contradiction

Sorry Now

Been around this crazy world
and the things I've seen could fill a million books
about our strange humanity

But every time I try to find the words to sing, a place to fly
I can't, because we're never truly free

Things have changed and so have I
I can't scream and I can't cry
Still I know it all comes down to this...

Can't keep us down
'cause it's gonna come back and
Life will turn around
Karma gonna kick your ass and
I tried to be the clown, but the laughs have faded and
Guess who's sorry now

Used to have a notion that your love was like the ocean
And its endless nature never would run dry
But for every hour that I felt alone, I felt your power
Now, I only feel a little high

Things are not the same this time
Waste the night in talk and wine
Still I know it all comes down to this...

Can't keep us down
'cause it's gonna come back and
Life will turn around
Karma gonna kick your ass and
I tried to be the clown, but the laughs have faded and
Guess who's sorry now
Do you think I'm sorry now?

Not sorry now ~

Remember You

Shake me, gently from your tree
Make me, blind so I can see you clearly
Time is a circle, I could lose control
A lifetime that's taken its toll

There was a place we used to hide
Save us from the demons and the fears inside us
Prophets and angels, I've tried to befriend
But some things I don't understand ~

I remember walking in the sand
I remember how you held my hand
I remember everything you do
I remember you

I'm not the kind to fear much pain
Say what you mean, and I will always try to
Shelter you, rescue you out of the cold
So we're not afraid to grow old


I remember walking in the sand
I remember how you held my hand
I remember everything you do
I remember you

I remember playing in the sun
You could put a smile on anyone
I remember everything, that's true
I remember you

Shake me~ gently from your tree

Realizations

It hurts when you realize that you may not be quite as unforgettable as you thought you were...just a distant memory, destined to fade to grey. It's hard to understand when someone is so able to move on, that you might as well never have existed in the first place. It's easy to delude oneself into believing otherwise, but the reality is, you're quite possibly not that special.

I hate these realizations.

But then I re-approach from a position of strength. I realize that I have too much to offer to give my power away with self-defeating inner monologue. That I don't really care if some people forget me, because others will never do so. And I take back that which is mine...my cool, my wit, and my energy...there to offer back out to the universe with loving arms.

These realizations are the ones that stick, the ones that conquer, and the ones that will prevail...at least in this mind.

Peace.

On The Bert Show Today

I love the Bert Show, and finally they have acknowledged Sugarland (well, Jennifer, at least) as the superstars they are!!! This interview is a must-listen.

This from Q100atlanta.com today:


Jennifer Nettles On The Bert Show!

Sugarland's Jennifer Nettles took time out of her busy schedule to talk to The Bert Show. She performed Sunday for the 'We Are One' Inauguration Celebration in Washington D.C. with James Taylor and John Legend. But before she did that she got Jeff's parents in trouble with Jeff! Listen below to hear what happened.

Listen to Jennifer Nettles part 1

Listen to Jennifer Nettles part 2

(Source: www.q100atlanta.com)

Truckloads of trash...

are what I am schlepping to the dumpster tonight. This is going to be an ongoing process until "the big move", which still has an uncertain date and destination, but WILL happen, likely this year. Until that magical date, however, the truckloads continue.

At least I am getting my exercise.

Til tomorrow,
LT out.

Hudson Miracle, Arctic Chill, Cat Madness, and other tales

Watching the commentary and footage this morning about US Airways Flight 1549, I was overwhelmed and choked up. Nothing short of a real-life miracle, this was the kind of feel good story America (and the world) needed at this very pivotal time in history. Several days in advance of a historic presidential inauguration....in the heart of the worst economic crisis since the great depression...with severe weather that is uncharacteristic of all the geographic areas it's affecting...I could go on and on. Yes, I think it was some sort of a sign. Divine intervention? Perhaps. I am sure every one of those passengers and their friends and families are thanking their own version of God or a higher power today.

And the weather - it's just too cold. I can handle 40s. Even 30s - hovering around freezing. But 1s and 2s...no Everything hurts. I feel my age. I limp. It's no fun.

My cats are just going mad from being cooped up, too. Magic's eyes turn to black moons and he attacks me for sport. Taylor paces back and forth like a caged lion. They are not at all pleased, and somehow it is all my fault.

Ah well. A little discomfort is good for the soul's development. Along with things like filing and scrubbing floors.

How much development does my soul NEED, anyway?

Don't answer that.

xoxo
~lis~

White Horse

I've loved this song since the first time I heard it on "Grey's Anatomy". I was surprised to learn at the time that it was Taylor Swift, but I should have known. It's probably the best song suited for her voice that she's done to date. And, her whispery emotional delivery never fails to stir my own memories of how many times I have felt like this. Surprising, coming from someone of my age, but the dreamer in me never dies. Somewhere, I'm still waiting for the white horse...at just the right time. So sue me.

Draggin'

The week is just dragging by! I woke up this morning thinking it should DEFINITELY be Saturday by now, or at least Friday. Alas, nooooo.

Still, as the perpetual soundtrack of my life is always playing in my head, this brings to mind the fabulous Stevie Nicks/Tom Petty Collaboration:

written by t. petty, m. campbell
- duet recorded with Tom Petty
- appears on Bella Donna (1981); Timespace - The Best of Stevie Nicks (1991);

Baby you'll come knocking on
my front door
Same old line you used to use before
I said ya...well...
what am I supposed to do
I didn't know what I was getting into

So you've had a little trouble in town
Now you're keeping some demon down
Stop draggin' my...
Stop draggin' my...
Stop draggin' my heart around

It's hard to think about
what you've wanted
It's hard to think about what you've lost
This doesn't have to be the big get even
This doesn't have to be anything at all

I know you really want to
tell me good-bye
I know you really want to
be your own girl

Baby you could never look me in the eye
Yeah you buckle with the weight
of the words
Stop draggin' my...
Stop draggin' my...
Stop draggin' my heart around

There's people running 'round loose
in the world
Ain't got nothing better to do
Than make a meal of some
bright eyed kid
You need someone looking after you

I know you really want to
tell me good-bye
I know you really want to
be your own girl

Baby you could never look me in the eye
Yeah you buckle with the weight
of the words
Stop draggin' my...
Stop draggin' my...
Stop draggin' my heart around

Surreal

I must say, yesterday got even stranger. The T-Mobile drama was eventually settled, and my service restored, thank goodness. However, an unexpected deduction from my checking account caused an overdraft, and one of my checks is still late in arriving. My 22 year old bird, Tiny, went into heart failure last night, and I was certain she was in her last hours, but she rallied and is wide awake this morning and eating and drinking normally. My miracle bird. Had several conversations with friends, good and bad. Many people I speak to seem to be in some kind of personal upheaval or crisis, and I'm not sure if there is some kind of magnetic pull from the full moon the other night, or Mercury retrograde effect at play here.

As always, though, things shall unfold as they are meant to, and I slept deeply and without any anxiety-awakenings for the first time in several nights.

Today must be fully devoted to work. I need to accomplish something real before end of week.

Post Script

As the post script to yesterday, this morning, T-Mobile cut off my service. When I attempted to call and speak to a human person, the recording said "I'm sorry, I can't connect you with a representative until you take care of this past due balance. Would you like to take care of that NOW?". "NOOOOOO!", I screamed. I think at that point, my head started spinning in circles, spewing green goo, Linda Blair-style. Things were not pretty here this morning.

Back to work now, lalala.

More Customer Service Fun

I had to call T-Mobile, again, because the damn $288.11 is STILL appearing on my account. This was the charge for the G1 phone that never arrived. Well, the box arrived, but it was completely empty, except for the booklets. No charger, no headphones, no phone. As I explained to the lovely woman on the phone today, I refuse to pay for a phone I didn't receive! Bollocks on the fact that they originally wanted me to pay it and then the onus was on me to prove I never got the phone (well, howzabout the fact that I never ACTIVATED it? That my SIM card was never used in the phone? Geez, get a clue). This has been going on since October, and frankly, I am a little peeved. And...every month, some nice person at T-Mobile tells me that it will be taken care of within 72 hours. And, it never is. We'll see if this one is any different.

Maybe not the nicest way to start Monday morning, but it definitely got my energy flowing in an assertive direction. Probably a good thing, since I am a slow starter in the AM.

Cats are being super finicky, which is annoying when I don't have much money. I opened three cans this morning, and neither one was impressed (mind you, these are foods they usually will eat). So I told them that was it, take it or leave it. Taylor started crunching on some dry food, and Magic went to sleep in the bathroom sink. Lovely.

Happy Monday, all.

Just For Fun - Which Tarot Card are You?

This fun test comes to you courtesy of two blogs I read: Hurricane Art, and Confessions of a Music Junkie. Enjoy!

You are The Star

Hope, expectation, Bright promises.

The Star is one of the great cards of faith, dreams realised

The Star is a card that looks to the future. It does not predict any immediate or powerful change, but it does predict hope and healing. This card suggests clarity of vision, spiritual insight. And, most importantly, that unexpected help will be coming, with water to quench your thirst, with a guiding light to the future. They might say you're a dreamer, but you're not the only one.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

I giggle over stupid things

Facts about me (well-known and unknown)

- There is a certain point of uncontrollable laughter I reach, where I simply cannot stop. In the past, this has proven troublesome in church or in business meetings. There are three people who can definitely make this happen, and you know who you are ( hint: Peter, Robert and Maureen).

- I live and work in utter chaos. I do get fed up with it about once per quarter and get completely organized, but it lasts about 3-4 days, tops.

- My weight is a constant, omnipresent battle, and has always been. I hate it.

- Other than that, I'm pretty happy with the genetics I was handed.

- I am pretty much a walking contradiction. Anyone who knows me will attest to this.

- I work hard, am diligent and tenacious, but I don't ever really feel like I've done enough. It's a quality that employers love, but isn't always so good for my stress levels.

- "If there was no music, I would not get through"..thanks to Shawn Colvin for summing that up for me.

- I am truly blessed with the people (human, feline and avian) in my life, and am ever grateful for all of them.

torch out.

Shakin' Up The Sadness

It's got me today, the sadness. I don't understand it. Never did, maybe never will. It seems to have a life of its own.

Therefore, I will now attempt to shake it up and out.

Hmmm. YouTube Videos. Maybe there's a new Mean Kitty video. Let's check.

Ah, yes. This is working.



Lalalalala. Little smile.

Peace out.

The Song That Started it All

This is the song that turned me into a Sugarland fan and got me writing again. Prior to this, I had little or no interest in Country music...with the exception of the occasional Keith Urban or Faith Hill song. But the minute I heard Baby Girl, the universe spoke. This song can still bring a tear to my eye, and that's saying something!

Those that can, do. Those that can't, b!#@h about it.

Blogging. I blog, obviously...and in more than one place. I am also an avid reader of blogs. I don't have a lot of time to read books these days, so reading well-written blogs gives me that slice of life and alternate perspective that I'm not getting elsewhere.

Opponents of blogging, on the other hand, think that blog authors are a sick combination of exhibitionists and narcissists - and that blog readers are all stalker/voyeurs.

Where is the truth? As with everything, it probably lies somewhere in the middle. I am sure that some bloggers simply like to talk about themselves, and that some readers are stalkers, but in general, I think that the blogosphere has enriched us. I definitely feel a mental stimulus when reading certain blogs (see my list to the right) and I learn new things about my friends and colleagues every day. My blog time is learning time. And on the flip side of that, my own blogging helps me to become a more disciplined and focused writer.

So, draw your own conclusions, dear friends and readers. I will continue to blog, and to read blogs, as long as there is a place to read and post them.

Good Sunday -
lis

Shameless Self-Promotion

So January is here, and it doesn't look like the economy (or my income) is going to bounce back as quickly as I had envisioned, so I am committing to writing (and to the blogosphere) my projects to bring in ASO (alternate streams of income).


1. My new PRexpress service. This is a "junior" service for smaller businesses that would like a kick-start to their branding and visibility, but can't afford monthly retainers of $1000 or more. $450 includes the following:

:: a step-by-step, customized plan to implement your own Public Relations program in-house.
:: a professionally-crafted press release distributed to over 90 national outlets
:: improved search-engine visibility
:: professional pitch to the top 10 media outlets in region
:: review of marketing materials and website for optimal visibility. complimentary rewrite of web home page or brochure copy to improve brand recognition.

Any business can benefit from this service - please tell everyone you know.
www.dfmpr.com

2. Selling AVON products. I have a website - if you need Avon products, please order them from my site at http://YourAvon.com/ltorch. Depending upon the campaign and how much you order, shipping is free (or at most, $5). Alternatively, if you are looking for a fun way to boost your own income, talk to me about starting your own AVON business. It only costs $10 to get in, and you don't need to carry inventory.

3. I'm continuing to place my songs with licensing libraries. Let's hope for a big placement in 09.

4. Freelance writing - I write search-engine optimized marketing copy for websites. If you know of a need - please send them my way.

Wishing everyone who reads this a Peaceful, Prosperous and Healthy new year.

lis