I. Freaking. Love. This.

It's happy.

It's anthemic.

It's Fun.

Tonight....We are young so let's set the world on fire. We can burn brighter than the sun...



I'll carry you home tonight...

It's beginning to sound a lot like Christmas...

I'm a pretty darn traditional girl. I think that having and looking forward to traditions are what make life bearable. If you looked at my Christmas Playlist, you would see that I don't veer too far from the carols of old. You will also see that I'm an awesome mother since I allowed my children to put music from "A Charlie Brown's Christmas", and "Christmas Shoes" on said playlist.

Being as traditional as I am, this first choice will not surprise you. I love this sound. I love this song. This, to me, is Christmas.




This next song just about brings a tear to my eye every time I hear it. And not at all for the reasons you will assume.

I think that Joseph is a key figure in the Nativity story that we tend to overlook sometimes. We give Mary the credit she so truly deserves, but I think we often forget the sacrifices and struggles that Joseph was faced with. He had to listen to this story that the girl he was going to marry told him and decide for himself what he was going to believe. If he didn't believe her, he did not have to marry her. He could have had her stoned. He didn't. He trusted her, received his own witness that what she was saying was true, married her, and cared for her needs, both temporally and spiritually. How devastated he must have felt when they were traveling, her great with child, and him responsible for not only her, but that special baby; and he could not find a comfortable and clean place for her to deliver. The agony he must have felt while watching her suffer to complete the job she was chosen to do. And I'm not even going to go into the fact that God chose this man to raise His Only Begotten on this earth. What a magnificent and daunting calling. He must have felt so unworthy and inadequate. This song shows us that Joseph was an ordinary man, with an extraordinary opportunity. Would we have what it takes to make the choices he made? Would we be able to do what was required of him?
I'm just not sure...

A song for my friend.

Because she is stronger than she knows and braver than she could ever imagine.

One step closer...

I think every one is looking for that person who is perfect for them to spend their lives with. That person who will help them grow into their full potential and be everything that they can be. That person that they could spent a thousand years with. That person who makes them feel like they've already loved them forever.






I'm lucky to have finally found that person.

Tis the season...

It's Christmas time again. Most people know how I feel about Christmas. And even more so, how I feel about Christmas music. I love it. Plain and simple. I am, however, very picky with my music. Justin Beiber covering Mariah Carey makes me want to stick knitting needles in my ears. I am a fan of the classics. Gene Autry, Jimmy Durante, Harry Belafonte, Nat King Cole. Also, I've said it before and I'll say it again....country music is acceptable at Christmas time. I grew up on Alabama and Kenny Rogers at Christmas time.

This season has been a little different for me. Personal struggles and stresses have made the holiday season a bit harder to enjoy. I've been able to understand a little more why people grow to dread this time of year. I had an experience a few nights ago that restored my faith in the season. I've been struggling with a decision that I had to make. One that I didn't want to make. One that went against all my instincts as a human, but because of the circumstances of my life had to be done. The self inflicted repercussions of it had been, little by little, destroying me. So, after a particularly hard evening that was compounded by some other events, I found myself laying on a dock at Daybreak Lake freezing my arse off at 2 in the morning. Laying in frozen seagull poop, looking at the stars and begging for some comfort. Through tear soaked eyes and a runny nose I begged my Father in heaven to let me know that it was okay. I closed my eyes and just kept saying...I believe...over and over again. When I opened them I saw a shooting star. I know it's a simple thing. A thing of nature that happens over and over again, but at that moment I knew that one was for me. An answer to a simple prayer. That was all it took. I was able to stand up and leave.

This simple act renewed my faith in the holiday season. It isn't about stressing over money and gifts. It isn't about having perfect Christmas lights. It's about faith. It's about believing in a miracle that happened long ago and believing that they can still happen today. It's about family and love and giving.

"Ships go sailing far across the sea. Trusting starlight to get where they need to be."

This has become one of my favorite Christmas songs. It's about having faith in yourself and what's inside of you. Remembering your worth and the goodness that we all have. Our divine inheritance. And if we forget, find it again on Christmas day.

A fairytale...

Once upon a time there was a beautiful princess born to a wicked queen. She was raised in squalor while her spoiled sister got everything she wanted. In spite of this cruelty, she was kind and loving and ever so grateful for the wondrous things around her. She sang like an angel and the animals would sit on her shoulders and listen to her voice. She had strawberry blond hair and beautiful green eyes that shone like a rebel diamond cut out of the sun...

Sorry. I got off track. This post is about Layne. Cause it's her birfday. And she's older than me. And I love her because she always gives me good advice and loves me when I do dumb stuff. And stands up for me even if she doesn't agree with what I'm doing. She's the best older than me friend that a girl could have. She rocks. Hard. Shes always got my back.



Yeah...she's kissed me good night before. Not on the lips sickos.


Did I mention she's older than me?

I love you Layney. We'll always have each other.

My Gift.

It seems the only thing I don't fail at is failure.

Hope...

I am usually the first to criticize the Disney channel people who start singing and then get all famous because apparently 12 year old girls rule the music industry. I have found my exception. I really like her voice and I like the song. It's not profound and deep and spiritual like Brandon Flowers or Gary Lightbody. It's simplistic. But right now, I need some simple in my life. And I need some strength. If I have to get my strength from the Disney channel, I'll take it.

I hope that I can be a skyscraper. I hope that one day I'll rise up. No matter how broken I get over the next few weeks. I hope that I can find the strength and worth in myself to overcome all the trials and tribulations that I have endured. I hope that I can remember who I am. I hope I can improve upon that and become better. I hope I can be an example to my children of someone who is strong and can keep their head high no matter the ordeal. I hope that I can once again view myself as someone of value. I hope that I can remember my humor. I hope that I can share that with other people. I hope I can be a good friend. I hope I can give my experiences and what I've learned to help someone else. All I can do is hope...

little bird...

For my sweet friend.

Who's almost perfect.

And doesnt need to change

For anyone but herself.

AHK-Toong BAYbi Covered. Oh yeah baybi, it's good...

This gave me goosebumps...





I love it!





ooooooh yeah....




and of course...

My Silver Lining

I am one of the luckiest moms in the world. I have four beautiful children and they are all special...

I have this girl, she has a million nicknames and she's amazing. She's beautiful- inside and out; she's multi talented- she is successful at pretty much everything she attempts. She's kind, she's thoughtful and she's smart. She has one of the kindest hearts, but don't mess with her. She's strong and tough, but soft and sweet at the same time.

She almost didn't make it to this world, but I'm so glad she did. She has blessed my life so much and taught me more than she'll ever know. I always joke that I'm her trial because she really is almost perfect... and well, I'm soooo not...

Zizzy, Thanks for letting me be your mom. It's been a wonderful 12 years. You are inspiring to me and to everyone around you.

You are truly loved.

Here's your favorite song...

OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's no secret that I love Kelly Clarkson. I know it's poppy weird music, but I love her voice. And she was my American Idol. I love her and I'm not ashamed.

I love this song...So me!!!

Sometimes it lasts in love...

But sometimes it hurts instead.

This song went right to my soul the first time I heard it. There are few that do that for me. Adeles voice is so passionate, I almost cried. You can actually feel the pain and longing.

I don't even know what to say. The song speaks for itself.

Blink is baaaaack!

I've been listening to this album for about a week now. While short (only 49 minutes!), In my opinion, the album does not disappoint.

I think after 8 years, Tom, Mark and Travis have come back strong. it's got a lot of the classic Blink sound, but they've added synths. I hear some nods to my favorite black haired, lipstick wearing band the Cure in here too.

I've read reviews, and they are not all positive, but I like it. To me, it's the Blink 182 we know and love, but a little more grown up. You can certainly hear a very similar sound to Tom Delonge's other band, Angels & Airwaves, which I think that some die hard blink fans might have issues with.

I struggled with the decision of what song to play in this post, I didn't wanna play something that is on the radio right now, I prefer deeper cuts. But it was also important for me to capture the sound of the whole album in one song as much as I could. So naturally, I'm gonna play a couple...

Enjoy.

Because If I have to suffer, well, you should too...

This song has been stuck in my head for days. I might have to die if it doesn't go away soon.


Somehow, it's just better when Dave Gahan sings it.




I'm not dissin' Johnny... But c'mon, man.

Happy, Happy Birthday!

Today is a special day.

It happens to be the birthday of someone very special.

Sting.

I like Sting. He's so talented. He's like 60, and looks amazing. His longevity in the music industry is legendary. And anyone who plays the Double Bass is just. plain. awesome. Period.



Come to think of it, there's someone else who shares this special day with Sting. This person is courageous and strong. She does not play the Double Bass, but still somehow, remains cool. She has been part of my life for many, many years. She has made me laugh when I wanted to cry. She stood by me when she thought I was being stupid. That's a good friend.

She has made some tough choices recently. Choices that I questioned and worried over. I love her and I love her family. I want them to all be ok. I think they will be, but the backlash she is experiencing is not comfortable. One thing I admire about her is that in the face of all this, she remains true to her feelings and stands for what she thinks are good, long term decisions for herself and her family. I wonder if I can be that strong... not sure that I could be. I have hope though, after all these years, that she has been able to teach me and impart some of her courage unto me.

anyway.... Happy birthday, dear friend. You are loved. A lot.


Here's your boy singing a special song just for you.

I can't stay....

Those of you that know me fairly well know that although I may not be a "religious" person per se, I am a spiritual person. I believe in God and that he has a plan for us and loves us. I believe that there is good in most people. I do search for meaning in the things that have happened and try to learn from those things. And most of all, even though my life is full of mistakes, I do try to be a good person. I try to see the positive in bad situations, although sometimes I do become overwhelmed. I try to see the good in all people. One of my best, and worst, qualities is how quickly I am able to forgive and forget. It's good for me to be able to do that, but I have a hard time understanding when it is not reciprocated. I have been told that it is a spiritual gift that I have been blessed with and that a lot of others just do not have the capacity for it.

Today I am struggling with the small mindedness of some. I guess I just can't understand why people focus on one aspect of a persons life and draw so many conclusions from it. How they can automatically assume that someone is a bad person because they see a bottle of rum on their kitchen counter. In my opinion, spiritual vices are just as, if not more, harmful than physical ones. Feeling that you have the right to look down on someone because you don't agree with how they live their lives. It's fine to not agree, it's not okay to pass judgment.

I have a dear friend, her name is Gen Faumuina. She is a beacon of hope to me of what people should be like. She is probably the most kind, understanding, compassionate non judgmental person I have ever met in my entire life. She is good and pure and giving. She never has time for herself because she is so busy doing for everyone else. I instantly loved her the moment I met her and I count her among my best and dearest friends because she can say, Stacy, look at what you're doing. This isn't who you are. And she can do it in a way that I know she isn't judging me, but genuinely sees me for who I am and the potential that I have. I hope to one day be half the woman, friend, mother and wife that she is.

But anyway...my point is this...I have made a personal discovery over the last few weeks that I hope I can implement in my life. I don't need to explain my every action to people. I am not accountable to anyone here, but myself and my children. I don't need reasons. I don't need excuses. I am just me. And that's enough. And if it isn't for you, then see ya round. But don't point a finger of judgment at me and treat me like I am less, because the fact that you are doing it shows that you have just as much work to do in your own life as I have in mine. One of my favorite scriptures is in 1 Samuel 16:7...(yeah, I know the bible, what of it?) And the point is that man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart. And I think that people who truly love you and know you look there too. They know the person you really are. And when you make a mistake, they can just take your hand and help you stand up. And they are willing to do it over and over and over again until your footing is secure and you can walk alone. They expect nothing in return. Nothing has to be owed. Nothing has to be earned it just is. These are the people you should surround yourself with because they are the ones who will always be there.

I like to look for spiritual things in music. I don't like church music. I think most of it is pretty cheesy. So I look for messages in other areas. And when I first heard this song it wasn't one of my favorites. But now I love it. And the beautiful thing is that music can take on any meaning that you need it to.

I've been in the dark for a while now. And I can't stay. It's time for me to face my decisions and go home.

Where Oh Where Has My Little Boy Gone?

It's hard to believe that 12 years ago I became a mother. It doesn't seem like it's been that long, and on the other hand, it feels like forever. But so it is, and I was lucky enough to be blessed with one of the greatest kids to ever grace this earth. My sweet Nathan Alexander. He's been such an angel. So smart and confident and driven. He watches everything I do and hears everything I say. He is my protector. Now, that isn't always a good thing because sometimes he hears and sees things that he probably shouldn't, but luckily for me he handles most of it with grace.

He loves his mom. Just yesterday he told me that on a scale of 1-10, I was a 13. He has brought me so much joy and happiness and proud moments. In his short time he has achieved so much. He is loved and adored by everyone who meets him. He is so personable and kind and loving. He is so helpful and does the things I ask without too much fuss. Now, if I could just get him to be nice to his sisters.


I love him so much. He is quick with a hug or a kind word for me. He never leaves without kissing his mom good bye. He doesn't even get too embarrassed when I make him do it in front of his friends. I know that he is destined for greatness and I'm going to be there cheering him along the entire way.

















































Happy Birthday my sweet Nathan. I love you with all my heart.

Here comes your man...

I had every intention of doing this earlier, but I've been busy, so there.

Stacy loves Snow Patrol. That isn't a big secret. Gary is her Brandon. And he even has pretty teeth now! I'm super excited about that. While I cannot change allegiences, I am in no position to try and act like that Irish lilt does nothing for me. It's hotttttt. When we saw him in concert, he swore and it sounded so pretty. It's amazing what a lovely accent can do for the English language. Even naughty words sound sweet. Oh well, he isn't my boyfriend and I shouldn't be talking about him like this, but I'm hoping this might bring Stace some happiness today. It's been a tough year and she deserves a snippet of happy.

I'm officially old.

My sweet lil girl started high school a couple of weeks ago. I'm not gonna lie. I was a little sad about it.
In the movie Father of the Bride, at one point, Steve Martin's character is looking at his daughter and he didn't see her as a the grown up she was, he saw her as a child, in different stages of her childhood and was sad about it. That's what happened to me when she was climbing those stairs to the front door of the high school for the first time. She looked so small and fragile. She is neither of those things, but as she was walking, I saw my little kindergartener going into this huge school that I was afraid she wasn't ready for. The school she's going to is HUGE. I'm talking college campus huge. Had I taught her enough? Had I suffiently helped her build her self esteem? Will she remember to kick boys "where it counts" if they deserve it? Will she make friends and have someone to eat lunch with?
It was rough at first. She has her first class at 6:45. She's not a morning person. But I think things are going to be ok. She's a good girl and she's smart. She doesn't have a perfect mother, but she has a mom who thinks she's amazing, and knows that she can do anything she puts her mind to.

Here's a song that she loves and I hope it makes her smile.

I like it when she smiles.

That's What Friends Are For...?

I jokingly put a mock ad on my facebook account today asking for friends. Although it was silly, it was how I felt. I don't know what it is about women. And maybe it's not even all of them, but we need companionship. We need other women in our lives to share things with. To get pedicures and talk crap. Men think we're weird. They don't understand why their company isn't enough for us, but it just isn't. There is a bond between women that is just different. A sisterhood if you will.

I feel like I lost a very close friend today. Someone who I had put a lot of trust and faith into. Someone that I thought would always be there for me unconditionally, through thick and thin. Someone who didn't judge and loved me in spite of all of my mistakes. It turns out it was only contingent on me living my life according to her standards. And now, in a time of desperate need she can't be there for me because she doesn't agree with how things have turned out.

My heart aches. I feel like a gaping hole has been left. I'm tired of being hurt by people. I'm tired of feeling worthless. Like I'm less. Like a failure. Like I let people down. So, with that said...I'm going to hide for a bit. Lick my wounds and hopefully come back with a bit more resilience. Add another layer to the shell.

On this day in history...

Here I am yet again celebrating the birth of an another amazing person. My beautiful Elizabeth Grace. Probably the wisest 6 year old you will ever have the pleasure to meet. She's a watcher. She will know if you're worth her time before she gives you a second of it. And she is quite possibly the best judge of character I have ever met.

She takes no bull. Not from me, her dad or her brother and sisters. She doesn't think twice about telling you that your butt does indeed look fat in those jeans. Or that your hair looks stupid. She applies make up with more precision than most grown women and can accessorize like a fashionista.

She is incredibly kind and loving. She feels the pain that others feel. She is the first to ask for, and offer, forgiveness. She gives 100% of her heart to those that have earned it.

When she was born we had decided to call her Grace. I always loved the name and wanted that to be hers. But it became apparent from the get go that she was not a Grace but a Biz. She is tough but gentle. Course but kind. Strong but soft. She's my Bizzy Bop. And I adore her.

I started playing this song as soon as we got in the car to bring her home, and even though she didn't end up a Gracie it still became her song. Whenever she was upset we could play it for her and she would calm down. Even now she'll ask me to play her song for her when we're in the car.



Happy Birthday my beautiful Angel and total hard ass!!!

Four years ago today...

I created perfection. Just me all by myself. That was the day my little Maddi angel was born. Easy pregnancy, easy delivery and easy baby. She gave new meaning to ending on a good note. This little girl is as sweet as they come. Precocious? Yes. Stubborn as heck? Yes. Spoiled beyond belief? Possibly. But as sweet and cute as they come.

She really is my angel. She gives me cuddles and love whenever I need them. She always makes me laugh with her silliness. And the sound of that sweet little voice saying, "I love you, Mama", always makes me smile. If I leave for a weekend she always asks, "Are you gonna miss your Monkey Butt?" I love it. And I love that she loves me.

We have a special bond, her and I, maybe it's because she's my clone. She looks like me. Thinks like me. Manipulates to get her way like me. They always say that your parents pleasure is when their children have a child just like them to see what they had to go through. Well, my parents were DAMN lucky, cause if I was like Mads then I pretty much rocked. She's my sweetie. My special, as she calls herself.

I love you Mads. You give me strength to keep up the fight.






















































Even if your favorite song is retarded.





Love, Momma

Happy birthday, Lady Killer...

I have cool children. They dig good food, have great senses of humor and they have exquisite taste in music (for the most part).Today, my Little Man turns 9. He is exceptionally cool. When asked what he wanted for his birthday his swift reply was this: "An iPod Touch or a soccer ball or socks. Whatever you wanna get me, just... well nevermind." And he grinned like there was something he didn't want to tell me... "Just say it, whatever it is, I promise it's ok." He flashed his dimple at me and told me that he didn't really like it when I bought him clothes, because "you know...they just aren't like, kind of what I want?........" When my response of laughter came his warm blue eyes flashed with relief. Then he hugged me really tight and told me I was the best. The truth is, I am fairly awesome, but only because I have kiddos like him.

He got an iTunes card for Christmas and you know what cd he chose to download? "Singles" by Travis. He insists that his first concert will be with me, the next time The Killers are in town ( I would imagine he'd be happy if I footed the bill as well). He loves it when I sing him to sleep. He has two songs that he picks from- "Tidal Wave" and the Abbey Road version of "Sam's Town"- I don't know why those are his favorites, but they are. He loves snazzy sneakers, clothes, and annoying his older sisters while doting on "his baby". He's complex, beautiful and super smart.

My life almost ended the night his began, but he is worth it. He truly is a lady killer with the heart of an angel.

Here's one of his favorite songs...

Just cause I want to...

Very rarely do I find a song that I love the first time I hear it. I was driving the other night and this song came on and I actually pulled over so that I could just listen to it. I love it. So, of course, I felt the need to share.



Enjoy.

Inspirational Quote of the Day...

I never married because there was no need. I have three pets at home which answer the same purpose as a husband. I have a dog which growls every morning, a parrot which swears all afternoon and a cat that comes home late at night. ~ Marie Corelli

Don't even act like that isn't inspiring.



Now where the hell do I get a swearing parrot?

Estheticians Wanted...Please inquire within.

Now, for those of you who know me it will come as no surprise to you when I say that I like popping things. Bubble wrap, bubbles people blow, especially when it gets all over their faces, and above all, zits. White ones, black ones, deep ones, surface ones. I'm an equal opportunity zit popper. And if I have to get the tweezers and bobbie pins out to help me, well, I'm practically in heaven. Now, this is actually really weird for me being as I have such a weak stomach. Blood, urine, poop, BO, bad hair, instant oatmeal. They all make me gag. And nothing makes me vomit more than vomit itself. But there is just something about oil and pus that makes me all giddy.

Until I saw this...



It has ruined me forever. I sat and gagged through this entire thing. Dear Lord and Baby Jesus lying in a manger. Make it stop. Who in the hell lets something like that grow on their back without seeking medical attention. Hell. No!!! You sick dirty bastard. Buy a friggin' loofah for hells sake.

GAAAAAAAAAAAAAA VOMIT!!!!!!

Tears don't mean you're losing

seeing is deceiving

dreaming is believing







It's ok not to be ok...

Let's party like it's 1776, baby!

It is our prayer that everyone is safe and happy this fourth of July. Let's celebrate our Independance with style and grace.

Oh! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand
Between their loved home and the war's desolation!
Blest with victory and peace, may the heav'n rescued land
Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation
Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,
And this be our motto: "In God is our trust."
And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!


My favorite verse of The Star Spangled Banner and (most of) my favorite boys. The other two happen to be with me today...




P.S. England,you still totally rock.

Useless Knowledge...

Excessive Diarrhea: It may be the first sign of Ebola virus infection. If so, the severity of this condition will quickly escalate, and within a few days every orifice on your body will be gushing blood profusely.

I don't want to die this way.


That is all.

They're Baaaaaaaack.... Spankin' new music from The Killers- The Rising Tide

So here's a new song from my boys... This was recorded in London just last week. There are rumors that they are recording the new album as we speak.

I'm trying to be biased here, but it's difficult for me to criticize my boys. My hubby heard this and he thought Brandon was off his game a bit...I think Mikey's just jealous. I like the song. As usual, the lyrics are yummy. the music is yummy.

I was there, on the back of the room, when you testified
When you took the stand, you licked your lips, and you lied...
Well I gotta belive there's something on my side
When the venom in your veins is satisfied
You'll be running, but there ain't no where to hide

oh yeah, babe. you do NOT mess with B Flow.



I really don't have a lot to say here... which is weird cuz I always have a lot to say when it comes to my favorite boys. I'm proud of the stuff they've done on their well deserved hiatus, Ronnie finished his degree, the guys played music, some solo, some collaborations- and hopefully they spent time with the people they needed to and got lots of rest...
I am eagerly awaiting the new album. With an new album comes a new tour. Me and my girls need a hot night out. This time I will wear comfy shoes. and possibly even eat. who knows- maybe something magical will happen.

So tell me- what do you think?

wow. that went by fast...

It has been brought to my attention that this year, the Go-Go's celebrate the 30th anniversary of thier debut album Beauty and the Beat. 30 years is a lonnnnnnng time. 'Tis no secret that I love girls that can kick some hiney and these girls can certainly do that. They are revolutionaries who paved the way for women to rule in the world of rock and roll. Needless to say, they deserve a little attention and a lotta respect....Here's a tribute to some ladies who I happen to think are amazing. and plus, they sing good. Also- Belinda- if you're reading this, my brother in law Kevin in totally in love with you and has been for about 30 years. Give him a wink or somethin', will ya?




Here's a song that is an autobiography of sorts...

Quite Possibly The Best Weekend Welcome Song EVER!!!!!!

And if you have Loverboy running through your head right now you need serious help and should probably be shoot and put out of your misery. Cause Loverboy ain't got nothing on Moz! Nothing I tell you.




No one can say "Boot the grime of this world in the crotch dear" with such feeling and intensity as Morrissey. They shouldn't even try. And I don't believe any ever has.

So my advice to all the weekenders...Don't go home tonight. Go out and find the one that you love and who loves you.

"If there's a burning in your heart."

I love music. I love lyrics and I love it when I find a song that touches me and gives me answers to things that I'm dealing with. Well, this song came to me like a light from the darkness the other day. Change is so hard. And it's so hard to know if you're doing the right thing because there are so many outcomes that can come from one decision. Especially when it's not just yourself, and others are affected by your choices. I guess that's the beauty and scary part of agency. But I think the time has to come when you just take a leap of faith. Overcome your fears and just jump. Remember that the ones that truly love you will be there with open arms to catch you. Or at least break the fall a bit.

And if you find yourself a tourist in the city you were born, it's time to go. And you find your destination with so many different places to call home. Cos' when you find yourself the villain in the story that you've written it's plain to see. That sometimes the best of intentions are in need of redemptions, Would you agree?




If so, please show me.

I'm going home....

You've heard people say that "home is where the heart is." If that's the case then I pretty much own property all across this grand country. From Virginia to Massachusetts to Texas to Colorado to California and right here in the Beehive State. I believe that anywhere can be home if you fill it with love and the people you care about. Square footage really becomes inconsequential if you are able to do that. Nice carpet just wears out from kids rolling around and giggling on it. And new paint gets decorated with beautiful little finger prints. It doesn't matter. Really.

Just fill it with love and joy and make lasting memories. The address is moot.

I love my B's

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH YEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!















Play for the cup Boys!!!!!!!!!!!

This is How I'm Feeling- CLeO StYLe

...in those ugly pink apartments with the hustlers and the kids mapping out some retribution...

Sometimes Even Katy Perry Gets Something Right.

I love this song. It reminds me of me. And I like me. Most of the time. Let me tell you a little bit about a former me. I was happy, free spirited, loved life, loved fun. I had energy. Spunk I guess. I was the class clown, but not in the annoying way. I deal with things through humor. I loved people. I had so many friends. And not the fair weather kind. True friends. The kind of friendships that you forge through hard work and support and being there for each other and giving of yourself. I had life.

That's not who I am anymore. Well, it's not who I've been for a while now. I lost it. I felt suffocated and trapped. I lived for someone else besides myself. I did everything to make that person happy. To serve them. I gave up everything I was to be who they wanted me to be. I became a mother. I raised and taught four beautiful children. I lived through their lives. Their accomplishments and growth. I had to. I had none of my own. I was stagnant. Wallowing in emptiness. I had nothing to sustain me and honestly, I don't know how I survived. It was through the grace of God. I'm grateful that he saw a purpose for me because I didn't. I saw nothing in myself. Nothing of what I once was. Only the achievements that I helped others earn. And yes, there is value in that. But it's fleeting. You can't take claim on anothers accomplishments. I became a shell of who I was. And I lived that way for a long time to keep the peace and make others happy.

But I can't anymore. I need to live for myself. I need to find things that give me joy again. And I can't allow others and their beliefs to hold me down anymore.




'Cause I used to be a shell. Yeah, I let him rule my world. But I woke up and grew strong. And I can still go on.

I'm not going to be a shell anymore.

After the Storm

What a strange little band this is...stranger still is how they have touched so many people in such a short period of time.

My sweet friend has been going through a lot. She's climbing a scary hill and has no clue what's on the other side. I can't tell her about the other side because I've never been there. See, I'm not much of a hiker.... I prefer malls over scary trails that lead to who the hell knows where. Plus, they have Chanel in malls. I heart Chanel.

Anywhoooooo, as usual, I digress.

Music has a gentle way of healing that nothing else can really imitate. This is a soothing little song that carries with it the melody of hope.

When you get to the other side of the hill, you really never know what awaits. I prefer to think that peace awaits. Certainly less heartache. Who knows.... maybe even happiness.

Me, myself, I got nothing to prove.

Do you ever get songs stuck in your head because of certain things you're going through? I do all the time, and I can't be the only one. Sometimes they aren't even songs I like. One time I had She Drives Me Crazy by FYC stuck in my head for about a month straight. It didn't matter what else I listened to, if there was a moment of silence in my life, it was there. I really, really, REALLY hate that song. Mainly cause the lead singer had jacked up teeth. And we all know how I feel about people with jacked up teeth. Blah. But anyway....

So, I've had this song stuck in my head for a few days now and I didn't really understand why until I sat and thought about the lyrics. Then I realized why it was there. I really think it's my subconscious giving me insight to what I'm really feeling. As many of you know I've been dealing with some pretty crappy stuff over the last couple of years. Well, it finally came to a head. And not in a pretty way. I mean I knew it wouldn't. But I didn't expect to feel the way I feel. I hate that I am such a weak person and that I can't just stick to my guns. I hate that I am so swayed by other peoples emotions. I feel like I give in a lot just to keep the peace. And if someone cries, forget it. I'm like the mother of the wretched kid throwing a fit at Target. Giving them exactly what they want just so they'll stop. Or not bring attention on me. And I always end up unhappy about it in the end. But everyone else around me is. So , I suck it up. Cause if everyone else is happy and I'm the only one unhappy then the decision must have been right. Since I'm in the minority.

This isn't a happy song. It's not a happy ever after song. It's about hoping for better and ending up in the same predicament just in a different place. But it is about working hard and doing what's best for you. Even if it means doing it on your own.

Riding Along In My Automobile....

I have some things to complain about again. I know you aren't surprised. That's basically what I do. Complain, breath and eat. We all know I don't sleep or poop. And I occasionally shower. But anyways...

Today I feel I need to start my rant on the drivers in the Beehive state. I mean, seriously. I have never seen an IQ drop so dramatically as when people get behind the wheel of a car. I just don't get it. The traffic laws really aren't that hard. So...

1. Blinkers. They're there for a reason. Use them.

2. It is not necessary to come to a full and complete stop on Redwood Road before turning right when your light is green.

3. The acceleration lane on the freeway is there for a reason. And oddly enough, it's right in the name what you should be using it for. Accelerating. Lets get to freeway speeds people. Come on now.

4. Learn how to f'ing merge. I'll make it easy for you. Here's the site.

http://publicsafety.utah.gov/dld/handbooks.html Look it up bitches.

Okay...enough about driving.

5. Why the hell do the gas pumps pop when you squeeze them all the way? Lame. I had to stand outside in the cold for like 10 minutes the other day trying to fill up my car.

6. Please, please, please...for the love of God, get rid of all those stupid car shaped grocery carts. I know you think you're being helpful to mothers, but quite frankly, it's a pain in the ass. They never push right. You can't fit as much in them. They have a ridiculous turning radius. Don't even get me started on parallel parking. And dear Lord, when was the last time those things were cleaned. I have to spray Mads down with a pressure washer when I get home. Blah. Not helpful. They should all be removed and recycled into something useful, like those new plasticky candy wrappers.

That is all.

Bat Out of Hell

This song makes me think of Patrick. I don't really need to say anymore, do I?

From the fracked up mind of....Moi.

Since I don't have a fb account anymore, and therefore, no place to write down all the useless crap I think about during the day, I'm gonna have to do it here. So, here it goes...

One...What happened to the good ol' fashioned candy bar wrappers? A piece of cheap paper covering a super thin piece of cheap aluminum foil. Easy to get into. Easy to wrap back up for later usage. These new wrappers are a pain in the ass, almost plasticky. It took me almost 2 minutes to get into a Kit Kat bar earlier. Seriously, if I wanted to work that hard I'd be exercising instead of stuffing a candy bar down my gullet.

Two...Why can't they make a nice in between softness tissue. The lotion ones are gooey. No likey. The plain ones are to scratchy. My nose hurts and I'm not happy about. I'm a blower (he he) not a wiper, so there is no reason the skin should be peeling off my nose.

Three...Is it possible for mold to grow on poo while it's still in your body? Just curious. Don't ask any personal questions.

Four...I have a really hard time believing that 12 double rolls really equals 24 single rolls. I'm sorry. But I feel like I'm being cheated. I know the math adds up. But I never use to run out of toilet paper and now I do all the time. I actually took a roll from the church bathroom two weeks ago. One of those giant ones. It was awesome. Don't judge me. I pay tithing.

Five...I have learned that if you want a man to answer something important through text you shouldn't send another one until he does. Otherwise, they will convienently "forget" to answer the important one. OR...they just ignore it all together. Lame. I wouldn't have asked the question if I didn't want an answer.

Six...I hate men who refer to spending time with their own children as 'babysitting'. It's parenting you fucktard.

Hmmm...I think that's all for now. Here's a song.

One cannot live on vegan sandwiches alone.

Never a truer statement has been spoken.
According to my hubby, one should never even touch a vegan meatless burger, but because he doesn't have a big ass, his opinion doesn't count on this particular subject. But, I digress.

I cannot live without a lot of things, but music is at the top of my list. I love it. A lot of the music I have enjoyed over the years has shaped me into who I am today. I also enjoy a fairly wide variety. Recently, a friend was stunned because I asked to borrow her Eminem CD. My closer friends wouldn't have been so shocked, but it kind of took me aback and I asked her why that was so surprising. She didn't have a clear answer, just that I did not seem like the type of person who listened to rap. I got a lil bit o' ghetto fabuless in these veins, baby. And don't even get me started on the Beastie Boys....

Today I'ma go back to my roots. Bands that influenced me from the earliest stages. Bands that we don't hear from that often anymore. They are icons and deserve to be celebrated. Unfortunately, some members are no longer with us, but I like to think they are looking down from heaven and smiling because they have not been forgotten.

Here's my first pick:

This song has been covered by everyone from the Cure to Bjork, to Fall Out Boy... they can't hold a candle to Ian Curtis though. Ian was a creative force to be reckoned with and gone too soon.


Here's another song that impacted me... I wouldn't say that it's my favorite Smiths song, but it was very influential to me when most of my friends were listening to Bell Biv Devoe. It summed up my feelings quite accurately.


This video freaked.me.out. But I loved it.


This video made me realize that girls could do awesome stuff.

A song for my friend

I'm sorry that you are going through a difficult time right now. It's no secret how my life has been lately, but let's use these trials to help each other.


OK so I'm not a selfish fake, but the rest of the song fits pretty damn well.

You are one of the most amazing women I've ever known. I'm honored to call you friend. It's too bad that there are people in the world who can't recognize greatness, but you can't let them bring you down or alter your self image- they don't deserve that kind of power.

You are beautiful, don't you know?


Love your guts. tons.

Going off the rails on a crazy train....

People are crazy. Some are good crazy...example MOI. And some are just plain screwed in the head, f'ed up crazy. I would like to dedicate my post today to them. Now, we all know someone like this. Usually we are lucky enough to be able to laugh at them at a distance. But what do you do when they are your family. And not just one member. Like the whole damn family. A bunch of crazy ass loons who band together to reek havoc on the life of the one semi sane member of the family. Okay...so maybe not semi sane. But at least the one with the good heart. The one that trusted that her family would be there for her in her time of need. The one that left everything that she knew behind, moved closer to them in the hopes of having a support system only to have them all turn on her like a pack of hyenas.

Families are supposed to be the ones that we can always count on. The ones with unconditional love. The ones that accept us for all our faults and love us in spite of them. Unfortunately, the families that we are born into, on many occasions, are the ones that do us the most damage. It's sad, isn't it. When a mother will tell you she doesn't understand why God put you into their family cause you just don't fit in. And a sister will try to have your kids taken away during the most difficult time of your life. So, my thought is this, and maybe I'm wrong, but I say SCREW THEM. You choose your family. You surround yourself with the people who love you and have your best interests at heart always. Friends, neighbors, distant relatives, and perfect strangers if that be the case. At the very least people who won't ball kick you in the tit. Which I'm sorry your boobie hurts but the image of that still cracks me up.



Anyway... You're a fighter. You're strong. And you have a lot of people who love you and your family. People who would stand in front of a bus for you. And people who would even take a kick to the boob for you. I'll always be by your side.

This is How I'm Feeling- CLeO StYLe

I'm really not in the mood to say much.

It's a bad day.

It was a really bad week.

I'm really sad.


This song has been on my mind since last night when I was reading a book and it had the line "It all seems so different now"

I love this song. It's special to me and it suits my melancholy mood.

Girl Time...

I love hanging out with my girls. We have lots of laughs and giggles and they don't rat on me when we eat too much junk food. I love those little squirts with everything that I am and I wouldn't trade my time with them for anything.

But there is one little thing I need to take issue with. Their music choices. I'm a good mommy so I listened to it on repeat in the car for about 45 minutes. Then the good mommy in me wore off. I just couldn't take it anymore. Enjoy...

"

They think it's heeeeelarious when Ken says..."Come on Barbie, let's go potty." I mean, don't you think it's hilarious too. :-/

Know when to hold em...

Have you ever had one of those days when you had a crap ton to do, and your mind knows you have to get it done but your body just can't do it anymore? Well, I've had one of those years. Only in reverse. Physically, I'm fine. Well, if you don't count the extra poundage I'm packing around my hips. But man, psychologically I'm toast. It seems like everyday is more emotionally and mentally draining than the next. I swear I'm getting more stupid by the minute because I just can not cognitively function at full capacity anymore. How do you recoup from that? Take a vacation? Go to the spa? I don't know. It seems to me every time I try to rest, there's just more to do the next day. And I'm not gonna lie. I'm kind of tired of trying. I'm tired of trying to make everything right and everyone happy. It never turns out that way and no one ever is. There's always someone to find fault in what you've done. And am I happier? That's what was supposed to happen. You work hard, you do what's right. You pray, fast and read the scriptures and things are supposed to get better. Well, it doesn't always work that way. Apparently. Things can go great for a couple of days. Even a couple of weeks and then WHAMO!! You're right back where you started. I'm sick of starting over. I want the progression. I want to see that the effort I've exuded has made some sort of effect. So what do you do when this doesn't happen after multiple attempts? When you just keep losing hand after hand? Well, maybe it's just time to fold.

Home Sick....

I've been really homesick lately. Not for New England, even though it's beautiful and all my family is there now, good ol' VA will always be my home. I grew from a gawky teenager to the wicked bombshell I am today on those streets. I miss clamming with Rebecca on Langley then going for chili at the 'O' club. I miss picking up Layney at Monteys Penguin and then getting into way too much trouble. I miss dunkin' donuts at 5 am on Buckroe Beach watching the sun rise. I miss watching fireworks every 4th at Mt. Trashmore with my family. I miss Bluebird Gap Farm. I miss getting up in the morning and saying hmmm....Water Country, Busch or Kings Dominion and then throwing a cooler in the car and going. I miss Melissa Mansfield Fiero. That was a fun car. I miss Pizza Hut after football games. And Chilis after choir concerts. I miss the heat and the sun. The sun so bright that you can't open your eyes all the way. I miss all my friends that are still there who keep asking me when I'm gonna come back to visit. One day...I promise.


Anyway...this band epitomizes my summers in my 1988 Chrysler LeBaron. Love them. And I love VA.

This is how I'm feeling today...

I think I need to unplug for a while until it passes. Try to focus on what's actually real in my life. Play with the kids. See ya when the sun comes out.

Because I love you. Part deux.

Don't ever feel like you aren't ok. You amaze me with your strength and integrity. I know that life is difficult. Sometimes we have people or situations in our lives that make us feel less than great. But you are fabulous. Really. Do not allow anyone to tell you any differently. Ever.

There are times that we make choices that are not the best for us, and then we hurt because of the consequences of said choices, but that's how we learn. I personally believe you can screw up as much as you need to, as long as you learn from your mistakes. Never look at your mistakes as failures, simply as growth opportunities. No one should condemn you for growing.

I know that we haven't had time to catch up lately, and I feel really out of the loop. That makes me sad because I have always been comforted by knowing that you are only a phone call away, and that the sound of your voice can make troubles seem less significant. It would break my heart if I didn't have our friendship to lean on in times of trouble.

You are an inspiration to me and I wish you could see yourself through my eyes. It makes me sad when you don't see your worth. You are one of my most favorite people in the whole world and I hate that we don't live closer. Please let's promise that no matter how busy we get, or how bad things suck that we will always be there, and we will not ever allow anything to ruin our friendship.

I love you.

L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N.

I love the sun. Thank goodness it's been out the last few days. Even though the weather change did give me a head cold, I can't bring myself to care. I love going out into my backyard and laying on my porch swing. I still wrap up in my snuggie cause it's not really that warm yet. But to just lay there with the sun on my face has felt amazing.

This winter has been long. And hard. And dark. I'm ready for the sun. I'm ready to stand in the middle of the park and turn my face to the sun and put my arms out to the side and turn around in circles until I fall down. I'm ready for all the things that spring time brings. That warm fresh scent of clean air and hyacinths. Cool breezes and warm sun. Being able to open up the windows of the house and that openness. No longer being cooped up. Rebirth and renewal. I love it. And I feel like I'm among the things being renewed. I've grown a lot this winter. But the one thing that I think I have learned and taken to heart is that no matter what happens life goes on.

It always has and will continue to do so no matter what happens. One of the greatest lessons I have learned over the past few months is being able to see things from anothers perspective and not just mine. Even if I feel I'm right, to be able to step outside myself and understand why others think they are right. And accept that their reasoning is just as valid as my own. To not be so hasty in my reactions. I hope I can continue to do that. It's a great lesson for me to have learned.

I hope the spring brings continual peace and renewal. And if it doesn't I just need to remember to learn the lessons I'm meant to learn and that life goes on...

Let the sun shine, baby!

Wow. I was reading over the last few posts and we are a bunch of sad sacks lately.

Life is hard. We all struggle. We need to make sure that the people we love know that we love them. Every day.

We will be caught in thunderstorms. The skies will darken and the rain will pour. But we must always remember that after the rain, the sun shines. (Insert cheesy Nelson song here) Remember to look past the clouds. There is always sun after rain.

Sometimes you just need perspective.

A Dark Cloud...

Do you ever feel like you are covered by a dark cloud? Occasionally, the sun will break through and throw a little bit of light your way. But it always comes creeping back. And it's not necessarily anything that happens. I have a problem with thinking. I wish I could stop. Stop thinking. Stop remembering. Stop asking 'what if?'

I've had a few relationships over the past two years that have failed and I keep going back to them and wondering where I went wrong. The first was me trying to do what I thought was the right thing. I backed away in hopes of keeping a family in tact. That wasn't what my counterpart wanted and decided that if it couldn't be his terms it couldn't be anything. The second, well, I'm tired of talking about that one. I'll never understand it. And I'll probably never make peace with it. The third, and this is the one I've been thinking about today, was entirely my fault. There was a disagreement and instead of accepting where I was wrong and saying I was sorry, I let my pride get in the way. I found every excuse in the book to justify my behavior. I look back on it now, and I was intentionally trying to push this person away. I have an extreme fear of losing my independence. I lived in a box for a lot of years being someone I wasn't just to make someone else happy. And the fear of being in that position again is so overwhelming it almost drowns me. The second reason is because I wanted to see how easily he would let me go.

After the first two relationships failed I began questioning myself. What was I doing wrong? Did I expect to much and not give enough? Why is it that a person could tell me that they loved me yet walk away from me so easily? Was it a personality flaw? Or am I just that forgettable? I wanted someone to say "I love you and you're worth the fight. You can't push me away.' Needless to say, he didn't. He just turned and walked away too. So, I guess my little experiment worked. Just not in the way that I had hoped. I do know that they all failed because of me. I'm the only common denominator. I just haven't quite figured out what it is about me yet that makes it so easy for people to leave.

All of these people have been attracted to me for the same reasons. I'm funny, flirty, independent, say what's on my mind, strong. (Their words, not mine.) But once in a relationship they don't want these qualities anymore. They suddenly become a threat. And I don't know how to make these fit into the "relationship box" without giving up some of who I am. I know myself. And when I am committed to a person. I am committed. And I guess I don't like that questioned because someone is suddenly uncomfortable with the qualities that attracted them to me in the first place. It seems a little unfair. But maybe I'm just making excuses again. It seems likely that I am.

Hopefully the cloud will pass over me for good one day. Until then I guess I'll just keep to myself and learn how to function in the dark.

This is How I'm Feeling- CLeO StYLe

Ever feel like you mean nothing? Like you're invisible? Like no one cares? Like every move you make is inconsequential? You try to reach out because you need a comforting word and you are just ignored?

Yeah... it sucks.

I'm having a hard time and no one to confide in. Everyone is too busy. Too preoccupied with their own stuff. I get that. I spent 40 plus hours last week alone studying for one 50 question exam. I'm not someone who likes to bother people with my own stuff. But sometimes you just need a shoulder. Or a kind word. Or someone to be proud of your accomplishments- however insignificant they seem.

I frankly, don't have time for this crap. But how do you cope when you have no one to lean on? What do you do when you're too tired to walk?

I'm hoping that the sun will shine tomorrow and wash it away. For now, I'm going to try and sleep.

Razorlight- America

I like this song.





That is all.

I need a vacation...

This song makes me sad and happy at the same time. It's about addiction and bad family relations and any other form of self deprecation there is to deal with. And no matter how hard you try the odds are, you're going to lose.

But it's also about acceptance and belonging. We all have something that we struggle with, are ashamed of, or have failed at. But that unites us. We are all a bunch of flawed losers so we might as well band together and find acceptance amongst ourselves. Stop finding fault with others and focus inward. Maybe we'll see that we are really all the same in one way or another.

Naked and Famous... just the way I like it

As I was driving down the highway listening to Alt Nation on XM radio, this cool song came on. Well, a lot of them came on, but this one stuck out. It's catchy and the lyrics are good. I think I just found a new album to download. Of course, they're coming to Dallas in April, but I have no room in my schedule and none of my concert friends live near me anymore. boo.

Also- as my boyfriend would say; "I'm totally jealous of their synths..."

Ode to an Ass...

I used to believe that everyone came into our lives for a purpose. Now I'm not so sure. I think it's true for some, but I haven't figured out why we have to endure people who rip us to shreds. Part of me says it's to gain strength... but is there no other way? Why do we have to deal with liars and cheats and evil people who profess their love, but really only care to serve themselves and their own selfish desires? People that dupe us into devoting our time and energy cultivating relationships with them, when they cleary have no affection for us. The only "people" they are capable of "loving" are themselves.

People like that have a special reservation awaiting them in hell. They go around using innocent people to make themselves feel better; they are so delusional that they really think they are worth the dust from which they were formed.

They are sadly mistaken.

I do not often focus on negativity. I'm a happy person. I love life. I love my friends. You'll never meet a more loyal friend than me. Ever. So when someone I dearly love comes to me and tells me how shitty and worthless they feel because of someone's thoughtless and callous behavior, I get angry. My friend is a good, loving, and generous person-one of the kindest I have ever known; but they have been led to believe that they are nothing... I'm not OK with that.

YOU HAVE NO RIGHT.

Fortunately, luck is smiling upon you and I am far too classy to ever condescend to your level. Frankly, you're not worth the energy- and I might break a nail. Then I'd be even more pissed than I already am. That would be bad.

You know who you are. I refuse to even speak your name. Just pray that you don't meet me in a dark alley anytime soon. It would end badly for you. You're barking up the wrong damn tree, you mangy mutt.

This song is dedicated to you. Please take heed and follow the instructions that you hear.

FOD, baby.

Post Valentines Day Rant

I'm not really sure why I'm sitting here writing this. I guess I just feel inspired. Valentine's Day really is a terrible day. I think it should be banned. And here's why. It has this horrible way of reminding people that they are alone. Even when they don't think they are. My friends google status this morning said...Why does love hurt so bad? My response was...Because you're loving the wrong people. I don't necessarily believe that. Someone can be very right, but if they are incapable of love themselves, it really only affects the person trying to give them a piece of themselves. You can do everything. Love so deep that it hurts and empties you of everything that you are. But if they don't know how to love it's not going to matter.

Here's my advice to my friend...Pull yourself out of the picture. Look at the past for a minute. How many people have loved this person? And how many times have those relationships failed even though he said he loved them in return? Even if he is in one now, it will ultimately fail too because he does not know how to love. He knows how to have fun and have sex and give surface emotions, but that's not love. Any man who will tell you that he loves you and do a full about face within a week DOES NOT LOVE YOU!!!! I don't care what the excuses are. He has no clue what it means to love and probably never will. Any man who will willingly do things for his own carnal pleasures, knowing that if they ever come to light will hurt you, doesn't love you. It's hard. But it is time to walk away. Fall flat on your face. Wallow there for as long as you need. And then slowly lift yourself back up. If the desire strikes to try to 'refriend' this person, fight it. You will only be let down again. (Hopefully it won't be finding out that he slept with one of your friends while telling you that he loved you and then hiding it for months without ever giving you a thought.) But anyway...Don't do it. Let bygones be bygones. And look wholeheartedly to your future.

I hate Valentines Day. I hate that chocolate makes me fat. I hate that there has to be a day set aside for love. Everyday should be for love. If you love a person, you want them happy everyday and you do everything you can to make them that way. And it doesn't come and go. Love is a burning, powerful eternal force that doesn't just go away. It lives on. And it drives us to make the person we want or have in our lives feel like they are special and irreplaceable. It doesn't hurt. I don't care what anyone says. It lifts us and makes us strive to be better. It makes us whole. It makes us smile so much our face actually hurts at the end of the day. It gives us meaning and purpose. It makes waking up every day worth while. It feels amazing.

If that's not how you feel. It's not love. And most likely, it never was. Don't be a victim anymore. Let him know that you are strong and beautiful and good. And far better than anything he deserves. That the amazing love you have to share was wasted on someone like him. Then walk away with your head high. I love you.

A few things I don't want for Valentines Day...

So, to make it easier for anyone considering buying me a lovely gift for Valentines Day, I decided to compile a short list of things that I REEEEEAALLLY would rather not get.


5. Pretty much anything that falls in the category of "random, ugly shit".




















4. I love you but don't tell me your shit don't stink. Some things just aren't meant to be shared. Tandem toilets are out.



















3. Along those same lines. If you think the only way to say I love you is with some fake poop. You have serious mental issues that need to be addressed.













2. Anything with disparaging nicknames probably isn't gonna fly. Ho, Bitch, Wench, Big Tits McGee. All are a no go.





















1. Anything that says "I love you, baby. But I'd love you more if you looked like this."



















So, there it is. I hope no one is having to make a run to their local Wal-Mart right now to return a gift. Because if you do, quite frankly, you suck. That is all.

Love is for....

My co-author says that love is for sucks.

Sometimes I agree with her.

Sometimes I don't.

I'm a strange old bird because I am not a fan of commercialized love, but I better at least get a freaking card. Or Chanel perfume... or concert tickets to see my boyfriend, or a pair of $300.00 dollar sunglasses- I'm not too picky...after all, it's the thought that counts, right?

Anywho- it's Valentines Day; and I hope it doesn't suck. And I would like to take this time to recognize a day where, if we are not in a healthy relationship we feel like total crap, and an excuse to eat chocolates we don't even look at the rest of the year.

Hallmark, I salute thee.


Here's a little song you might enjoy on this fine and "love"-ly day...

I heart Sam's Town... a lot of times.

I have a sweet friend named Sam. She is one of my besties. I love her. Right now there are trials in her life that she is having a difficult time dealing with. My heart breaks for her because I know the pain she is feeling. It's easy to sit next to someone you love and tell them that they need to relax and have faith that things will work out the way the are intended to. It's a totally different thing to actually be the one doing it.

I know that there are things that make you cry. Things that you can't control. If I could take them away, I would. In a heartbeat. But I can't. Unfortunately in this mortal realm we must be tried and pulled until we think we might snap. The great thing is that we have the people around us that love us enough to pick us up when we fall. To remind us that we CAN actually do biochemistry. That we are beautiful and of great worth, and that the world would be a sad place if they weren't sharing it with us.

Sam- to me, you are one of those people. I love you. I have a select few that I call besties. I'm a total snot head(technical term).... Most people do not measure up to my standards- at least enough to be in my inner circle. You were in almost immediately. And if I may say so- that makes you fairly awesome. But I'm still not sharing my boy. Ever.



Lemme roll that world right off your shoulders.


xoxo

Mama...I'm coming home....

I'm usually an optimist but sometimes I just get so disappointed with what little bit of human decency people have left. What is wrong with our world? Why can't people live their own lives without meddling, gossip and lies? I'll never understand what it is that drives a person to want to hurt another one. I'll never understand why it's so hard for people to forgive and move on. And I'll never understand why people only expect the worst in others. Why they snoop and search and use everything at their disposal to find out what dirt they can get on another. It'll never make sense to me and THANK GOD for that.

But then I have to think how to I keep myself and my kids from falling victim to this when it's so prevalent in the world that we live in? I don't know the answer to that except to try to keep them from beings victims of it. By keeping them hopeful in people and our world. And by consoling them when it does fall in their laps. But I think the best thing to do for them is to remove any influence of this that I know of out of their pathways. So, that's what I'm going to do. And I'm doing it for myself as well. I'm tired of being sad, and heart broken and constantly having to explain my every action. I think it's time I get the hell out of here. See ya round...

Never Doubt Who You Are

My sweet friend Layney has been going through some difficult times as of late. A lot of change in a short period of time can be overwhelming. A move, a new job, starting school, being close to family again, yes that takes getting used to and can sometimes be very challenging, and a lot of other small things that go hand in hand with all of these things. Throw 4 kids and a husband into the mix and, well, you get the point.

Anyway...she's been a little down on herself. Thinking she's a bad mom and not smart enough to do biochemistry and not strong enough to handle all the stress of everything she's taken on. The fact of the matter is, she is probably one of the smartest and strongest people I know. She has gotten me through many a hard time with her wisdom, good advice, willingness to listen and big heart. She has picked me up from some of my biggest falls and when she couldn't she laid down with me until I was ready to get up on my own. She is a truly amazing person. Her 4 beautiful kids are smart, fun, witty, talented and very precocious. All of which they get from her.

She isn't afraid to stand up for what she believes is right. Even if she knows she isn't going to be listened too. She is probably one of the most compassionate people I know. I remember once when we were in high school we had to pick up a man from the hospital who had worked with my dad who was dying of AIDS. His name was David and on top of having the AIDS virus he was also very very unkempt. Layne walked over to this man sitting on his hospital bed, put her arms around him, lifted him up off the bed and let him lean on her all the way to the car. I have never ever forgotten that experience. Even I was leary of touching this man and I have always considered myself a very kind person. She didn't hesitate. She is an amazing woman. And I know she is going to be able to touch the lives of many in the new profession she has chosen.

I love you Layne. You are an inspiration to me. Always have been. I know you will pull through this with shining colors and anyone who ever doubted you, including yourself, will feel sort of foolish for ever thinking you couldn't do it. I am not one of those people. Stand strong my friend. You're not alone.

Are the Jonas Brothers the Hand Maidens of Satan? We have your answer here.

Ok. So, all of you know that I love Gary Lightbody. A lot. He's the lead singer of my favorite band and well, quite frankly, he has nice teeth. And I'm not afraid to admit that I have a bit of a Freudian oral thing that I have never been able to shake. Well, I was doing my daily reading on the Snow Patrol blog and this little entry of Garys made me smile so I thought I would share it. Mainly because it is something that I too am quite passionate about. Click and read my friends.

http://www.snowpatrol.com/blog/default.aspx?did=1248


I would like to join my voice with Garys in saying..."To all of you out there, may you enjoy lots of consensual and safe sex for all the days of your lifes."

Best Coast and Beach House. A little bit of awesomeness for you.

I love new music. Some here are two of my favorite newer-ish songs that I love. Funny that one is about boyfriends and the other is about lovers. I always say that I love love. Well, I only love love when I'm in it. And when it's being nice to me. Luckily for you, I am and it is. And because of that you get two new great music choices. You can thank me later.

The first is Best Coast Boyfriend. Great, fun, peepy song. Classic musical sound and fun lyrics. Just easy to listen too.

.

And the second is Beach House Lover of Mine. More mellow. The lyrics are a lot deeper and actually their sound takes more getting used to but is really great if you can appreciate it.



Well, their ya go. Two new great songs from moi. Enjoy.

Sheer bliss at 70 mph

I love to drive. I really love listening to loud music while I drive. While running errands this morning, I was rockin' the "FAVS" playlist. A couple of songs that have made me happy for many years are on this list. And, because I cannot study for one more minute or my head will explode, also because I'm tired of looking at boobs, I'm gonna play a couple of those for you.

You are welcome.


I love the giggle... so cute.
Also- just a wee bit of personal trivia- the guy I went to prom with looks like he could be Michael Stipe's twin. Just thought you should know...

Here's another classic...


I have an overwhelming sudden urge to put my tiara on and go water skiing...weird.

Of course, there are a lot more songs on the playlist, but these two made me particularly cheery this morning.

I love being a girl

Sugar and Spice and everything nice. That's what little girls are made of. Ahh...isn't that sweet but then we grow up and we learn quickly that being nice and sweet and smart and giving and all that jazz really isn't all that important. What you do gotta have to make it in this world is boobs. You know...fun bags, dirty pillows, devils dumplings, gazongas, ta ta's, hooters, baby feeders, chesticles etc, etc, etc... And it doesn't matter what they look like. Big ones, small ones, saggy ones, perky ones, lumpy ones. We're an equal opportunity boob world. You just gotta have em. And know how to use them. I mean, seriously, these things are miracle workers. Never having to pay for drinks or meals. Never getting speeding tickets. Getting on the VIP list for clubs in Vegas (true story). Never having to worry about your horrible poker face cause no ones looking at it anyway. Looking great in practically everything you try on. Above the waste anyway. I've even gotten tires for my car for half price. That's huge and was done with nursing boobs so don't try that on an average day.

Anyway...my point is this. You can spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on college and have perfect etiquette and always know the right thing to say. Or...You can go to the local Target and get a push bra and a low cut shirt for $15.99 and achieve the exact same thing. You decide. I choose BOOBS.

To New Beginnings

There are times in life where choices are made and decisions are followed through with. This is one of those times for me and my sweet friend. We have been though a lot of changes both seperately and together.
Tomorrow is a day that we open new chapters. We are both 30 something mothers of four. We have great responsibilities and cherish our children more than I think they'll ever really know. We are both zaney and love life. But this past year was a tough one. Bad stuff happened. Decisions were made, some wise- some not so much... and reprecussions are still being felt. But we learned that we can deal with bad stuff and that we will eventually come out on top. There are a few scrapes and bruises...maybe even a skinned knee or two, but we made it through some nasty junk.
I like to think that in large part, we made it because we had each other and a few other dear friends to lean on when the sun just wouldn't shine. It's still partly to mostly cloudy, but there is light. And we love light.







I love you, best friend.

The Sun Always Shines. Always On Time...

Yesterday morning I woke up to a quote on my phone that my sweet friend Mandi sent to me. It said. .."Everything will be okay in the end. If it isn't okay, then it isn't the end." I think she was inspired to send that to me because the night before was really bad. I really had given up on myself and everything else for that matter. Sometimes its just so much easier to focus on the negative and the things that stink in our lives then it is to see the bright spots. A lot of times that's because those bright spots just get covered up in so much of our other crap. And sometimes we just don't want to see them anymore. It's easier to wallow and give up than it is to stand up and fight. But unfortunately, that's the cowards road. And I am no coward. Except when it comes to spiders but that's not really relevant.

I think it's important to remember that even through the darkest of times that the sun always shines. Maybe not as bright as we would like it too, but it does shine. And it gives us light to follow no matter how faint it may appear to us. And there are people in our lives who give us light as well. And it's okay to follow their light for a while, until ours is bright enough to lead us down our own path.

I have amazing people in my life. And some super crappy ones. The key is to be able to separate the two. No matter how you may be connected. Blood doesn't make one better than another if they don't have your best interests at heart. You will know the people who love you because they are the ones who are willing to stand between you and the fire storm. And who love you even if you are dead ass, stupid as hell wrong.

My point is...hard times come to everyone. And we fall and lose our way. But don't be afraid to stand back up. Do the best you can and rely on those around you when you can't do it alone.

I love this song- Three Wishes- The Pierces

I have been melancholy lately. Mainly I'm missing some peeps that I love. Also, I'm standing in the middle of an intersection and I'm not sure which road is going to take me where I want to go. If you know me, you know what a huge deal this is because I have a superb sense of direction. And I like to know stuff. I don't know stuff right now. I'm not sure when I will be let in on the secret, either.
I'm getting ready to register for school and I'm nervous about it. What if my 13 year old is right and I am too old? And I am technically a blonde, you know.... so there's that. I didn't like math the first time I tried to do it.

I was able to talk to my sweet friend today, and she is really dumb in her own life, but gives great advice to others. And I can say that because she knows I love her and also because it's just plain true. She has a great heart and it gets her in trouble sometimes. But she knows this and loves anyway. I wouldn't change her for the world. She has my loyalty forever. She just needs to listen to me instead of her. But She makes me feel better and for that, I'm grateful.

I love the lyrics of this song. They are so true. If our hearts were iron we wouldn't get hurt. There are drawbacks- I get it. But people are mean. And I am soft. No one really knows that because I am strong. It has been my experience that the people who profess their greatness are the meanest ones. There is a quote by Maya Angelou that says something like when people tell you who they are, believe them. I used to think this was always true, but I've learned that it isn't. Whatever. I guess we learn by getting hurt. We cannot build an armor around us because we would never love. That would be sad. So it's better to deal with crap that we don't like than to be isolated. We can't have everything we want. It isn't prudent.

The intersection I'm standing in has a couple of great roads. I could be happy down any of them. But I gotta find the best road, and that road will have potholes. I might fall down and scrape my knee, probably more than once... but when I reach my destination it will all have been worth it. And that is what I have to focus on.

If we never have bitter we cannot know delicious. And that is the truth.





***Disclaimer- apparently this has been featured on "Gossip Girl". I didn't know that. I'm cool enough to have found this on my own.

That is all.