I have not written anything in ages... and I mean anything. I had this grand notion that once I was no longer working I would have all of this energy to write. Somehow, I would magically organize my life and my thoughts and be able to sit down from 9 - 12 and write 1,000 words. That has not happened. In fact, the opposite has happened. I am currently more unorganized than I have ever been in my entire life and I can't seem to pull myself together enough to correct the situation.
One would think that in the 6 hours a day two of the three kids are out of the house I would be able to get something done, but alas I cannot. I am constantly playing catch up which makes anything pre-emptive impossible. The sad thing is I don't have anything to show for it. It isn't as if I am sitting around watching TV or sleeping or even reading a book.
My time gets sucked into a giant black hole of staring at the piles of everything I have to do, but not actually doing it. I guess it is true, one can feel so overwhelmed that it is easier to do nothing. This will pass... right?
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Book Suggestions...
Do you ever have those moments where you look around and realize that you are not doing anything that had previously helped you relax and made you happy? That is how I feel right now. Please don't misunderstand, spending time with my kids makes me happy. I love it, I just feel like i am missing something...
Today I finally realized what it is that I am missing...a good book. Gosh, I am not even that picky, it doesn't even have to be good. It just has to help me escape into my mind for just a little bit. Something that I will get sucked into and not want to put down. For some reason, I just can't get enough energy to pick up a book.
So, I need someone to give me a suggestion... any suggestion will do...
Today I finally realized what it is that I am missing...a good book. Gosh, I am not even that picky, it doesn't even have to be good. It just has to help me escape into my mind for just a little bit. Something that I will get sucked into and not want to put down. For some reason, I just can't get enough energy to pick up a book.
So, I need someone to give me a suggestion... any suggestion will do...
Thursday, July 28, 2011
What will I do next?
I have spent the last 20 years trying to figure out a way to never grow up. I am the female Peter Pan. I don't want to go to work in an office. I don't want to clean the house. I don't want to do the laundry. What I would like to do is sit at my desk all day and just write, read and listen to music. Unfortunately, I also like to eat, drive my car and sleep in a bed with a roof over my head. Therefore, I fully understand that I will have to find a job and I will most likely have to go back into an office. I am just not willing to accept that reality yet. So, instead I have decided that I am going to organize my life.
As of Friday, July 29th, I will join the ranks of the unemployed. What that means is that I will no longer have a reason for my kitchen being a mess, my laundry not being done and my shelves being dusty. This means I will have to assume the position of responsible adult and start doing housework. If you have ever met me then you know, the idea of this is repulsive. There is very little in the world I hate more than cleaning. I am one of those odd people who tends to be very organized and a bit of a control freak, but the idea of doing dishes or picking trash up off the floor is exhausting.
Given my deficit in so many areas of home management, I have decided that I am going to try one of those fun little "This is how you get your house and life organized" books. Lucky for me, my darling husband happens to be employed by a publisher that supplies just those books. As I have absolutely no qualms about biasedly choosing a book from his collection, I have decided that I will attempt to follow along with the book "Organize Now!" by Jennifer Ford Berry.
Now, I haven't actually read the book yet, but rumor is that it sells a lot of copies. Which we all know, if it sells a lot of copies it must be great...right?!? Plus, this book is "a week-by-week guide to simplify your space AND your life". Which means I get to spend a week on each section. If that isn't a procrastinators dream...
The downside, however, is that I am one of those people who works completely on momentum. I am afraid that if I spend an entire week on something I will never move on to the next step.
If you pick up the book, or have the book, let me know. Together, we can visit Never-Never Land and Never-Never be cluttered or disorganized again. Perhaps, as I organize my home (and my mind) I will finally decide what I want to be when I grow up.
As of Friday, July 29th, I will join the ranks of the unemployed. What that means is that I will no longer have a reason for my kitchen being a mess, my laundry not being done and my shelves being dusty. This means I will have to assume the position of responsible adult and start doing housework. If you have ever met me then you know, the idea of this is repulsive. There is very little in the world I hate more than cleaning. I am one of those odd people who tends to be very organized and a bit of a control freak, but the idea of doing dishes or picking trash up off the floor is exhausting.
Given my deficit in so many areas of home management, I have decided that I am going to try one of those fun little "This is how you get your house and life organized" books. Lucky for me, my darling husband happens to be employed by a publisher that supplies just those books. As I have absolutely no qualms about biasedly choosing a book from his collection, I have decided that I will attempt to follow along with the book "Organize Now!" by Jennifer Ford Berry.
Now, I haven't actually read the book yet, but rumor is that it sells a lot of copies. Which we all know, if it sells a lot of copies it must be great...right?!? Plus, this book is "a week-by-week guide to simplify your space AND your life". Which means I get to spend a week on each section. If that isn't a procrastinators dream...
The downside, however, is that I am one of those people who works completely on momentum. I am afraid that if I spend an entire week on something I will never move on to the next step.
If you pick up the book, or have the book, let me know. Together, we can visit Never-Never Land and Never-Never be cluttered or disorganized again. Perhaps, as I organize my home (and my mind) I will finally decide what I want to be when I grow up.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Another week...
Tomorrow is Monday. The beginning of another week. It is strange how normal tonight feels. I am sitting in front of the computer, the kids are in bed and I am planning for the week. I am writing my weekly to do list. The items that need to get done before the weekend. The list has the normal items; bills need to be paid, laundry needs to get done, rooms need to be cleaned, amendments need to be abstracted. A normal list, like any other week.
Unfortunately, this is not like any other week. This is the last week I will need to add work items to my list. At the end of this week I will be packing up my work computer and mailing it back to Ann Arbor. At the end of this week I will begin to shred massive amounts of legal documents that I have amassed over my last 7 years of work. At the end of this week only 1 in 10 employees will remain at the Borders Corporate office... only 1 in 10.
While that in and of itself is heartbreaking, the idea that by the end of September every Borders store will be gone and over 10,000 knowledgeable booksellers will be out of work is devastating. While I can imagine my life without my job, the idea of life without Borders is tragic.
Another week, an atypical week that will soon become the norm. I guess I will have to find another way to fill my to do list.
Unfortunately, this is not like any other week. This is the last week I will need to add work items to my list. At the end of this week I will be packing up my work computer and mailing it back to Ann Arbor. At the end of this week I will begin to shred massive amounts of legal documents that I have amassed over my last 7 years of work. At the end of this week only 1 in 10 employees will remain at the Borders Corporate office... only 1 in 10.
While that in and of itself is heartbreaking, the idea that by the end of September every Borders store will be gone and over 10,000 knowledgeable booksellers will be out of work is devastating. While I can imagine my life without my job, the idea of life without Borders is tragic.
Another week, an atypical week that will soon become the norm. I guess I will have to find another way to fill my to do list.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
The day after...
I am a little numb today. Just thinking about the world without Borders is thoroughly depressing. I have so many memories of Borders over the span of my life, it is sad to see something that was truly fantastic, in it's prime, disappear.
My first memories of Borders started at 16. That was when we could finally drive without Mom or Dad in the car. That is when we were free to start exploring on our own. One of my earliest adventures out on my own was a trip to Kansas City to visit the Borders at 93rd and Metcalf. I would later identify this as store 23. This store was amazing and so cool. They had all the best books and you could get any CD in their music section. I mean, they had everything from the obscure indy pop that we all thought was so cool to the fantastic regional and local bands we wished we were old enough to see at the Bottleneck any given night. We shopped and browsed for hours then we would leave Borders and walk over the Maggie Moos across the parking lot and indulge in the yumminess that was raspberry ice cream mixed with M&M's. We did not do this once, we did not do this twice, we did this so many times that I would go through Maggie Moos withdrawal when we went too long without a fix.
In 1999 Jon and I were living in Kearney, NE and ready to come back home to Kansas. He was commuting two hours every day to the Hastings in Grand Island, NE where he was the General Manager. While he liked the store, he didn't like the commute. One day he found out that Borders was opening a new store in Olathe, KS and shortly after we were presented the opportunity to move back home. He worked in three different Borders stores throughout his 2 years in the field before finally settling into a position in the Marketing Department at the Corporate Office.
Then in 2003 I was presented an opportunity to join him on Phoenix Drive and pounced. I have never looked back.
Over the last 15 years I have visited a lot of Borders. I have bought countless gifts at Borders. I have received countless gifts from Borders. My absolute favorite birthday gift (next to Emmy's pink toes) was the year Jon bought me 10 books and let me sit all weekend and read. He purchased them, at Borders of course, after contacting friends he had made at Borders and asking for recommendations.
There are so many things I will miss about Borders. I hope that Borders will be remembered in a positive light. I hope that people will remember the first time they walked into a Borders. Remember the first time they had a conversation with a bookseller. Remember all of the authors and books that were on the New York Times Best-Seller lists because a bookseller in Rapid City, SD recommended it to not only a single customer but all of the other booksellers throughout the country who then recommended it to a single customer. Remember the regional bands that would have never had an album on a store shelf had it not been for the consignment opportunities that were offered at Borders. Remember all of the artists whose painting were displayed and sold off of the Borders cafe walls. Remember the books that were donated to low-income schools and educational programs all over the country through First Book via Borders. Remember the impact that Borders has had on their communities. Remember that Borders, in its prime, was a hub for readers and writers everywhere.
My numbness will fade over time and I will mourn the loss of what Borders was. I will mourn the people, I will mourn the atmosphere, but most of all I will mourn the books.
My first memories of Borders started at 16. That was when we could finally drive without Mom or Dad in the car. That is when we were free to start exploring on our own. One of my earliest adventures out on my own was a trip to Kansas City to visit the Borders at 93rd and Metcalf. I would later identify this as store 23. This store was amazing and so cool. They had all the best books and you could get any CD in their music section. I mean, they had everything from the obscure indy pop that we all thought was so cool to the fantastic regional and local bands we wished we were old enough to see at the Bottleneck any given night. We shopped and browsed for hours then we would leave Borders and walk over the Maggie Moos across the parking lot and indulge in the yumminess that was raspberry ice cream mixed with M&M's. We did not do this once, we did not do this twice, we did this so many times that I would go through Maggie Moos withdrawal when we went too long without a fix.
In 1999 Jon and I were living in Kearney, NE and ready to come back home to Kansas. He was commuting two hours every day to the Hastings in Grand Island, NE where he was the General Manager. While he liked the store, he didn't like the commute. One day he found out that Borders was opening a new store in Olathe, KS and shortly after we were presented the opportunity to move back home. He worked in three different Borders stores throughout his 2 years in the field before finally settling into a position in the Marketing Department at the Corporate Office.
Then in 2003 I was presented an opportunity to join him on Phoenix Drive and pounced. I have never looked back.
Over the last 15 years I have visited a lot of Borders. I have bought countless gifts at Borders. I have received countless gifts from Borders. My absolute favorite birthday gift (next to Emmy's pink toes) was the year Jon bought me 10 books and let me sit all weekend and read. He purchased them, at Borders of course, after contacting friends he had made at Borders and asking for recommendations.
There are so many things I will miss about Borders. I hope that Borders will be remembered in a positive light. I hope that people will remember the first time they walked into a Borders. Remember the first time they had a conversation with a bookseller. Remember all of the authors and books that were on the New York Times Best-Seller lists because a bookseller in Rapid City, SD recommended it to not only a single customer but all of the other booksellers throughout the country who then recommended it to a single customer. Remember the regional bands that would have never had an album on a store shelf had it not been for the consignment opportunities that were offered at Borders. Remember all of the artists whose painting were displayed and sold off of the Borders cafe walls. Remember the books that were donated to low-income schools and educational programs all over the country through First Book via Borders. Remember the impact that Borders has had on their communities. Remember that Borders, in its prime, was a hub for readers and writers everywhere.
My numbness will fade over time and I will mourn the loss of what Borders was. I will mourn the people, I will mourn the atmosphere, but most of all I will mourn the books.
Monday, July 18, 2011
It is the end...
In the fall of 1994, as a college Freshman at Kansas State, I ventured down to the TV room in the basement of my dorm to watch the series premiere of a new medical drama. I was pre-med at the time and had every intention of spending my life in a white jacket. 15 years later, I sat on my couch watching the final episode of the same show. In those 15 years I never missed an episode. Even during the Retro Dance craze of my early twenties when Thursdays meant slinging $1.00 pitchers and $0.25 draws at the Granada. My VCR did my dirty work and I was able to escape into the perfect disasters that could only happen at County General. However, around year 11 I began to feel a disconnect from the staff. I would sit down at 9:00 Central (10:00 Eastern) Time and take a deep breath, pumping myself up to sit through another hour hoping I would feel the same draw to the characters and County General that I once had. Unfortunately, I never did. Still, every single Thursday night you would find me in the same place, waiting to take a glimpse into the ever changing world of my once favorite hospital. As I sat and watched that final episode I expected to be sad. I expected to feel a tremendous sense of loss. After all, I had spent every Thursday night for the past 15 years immersed in this imaginary world. I expected that I would mourn the loss of the characters and stories. However, as the dust settled I felt something very different than loss. I felt relief. It was as if a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I was finally free from the world of Cook County.
Today, at 4:22, I (among every other person in my office) received an email telling us of the future of the organization for which I have worked the last 7 years. A company that I love and feel proud and lucky to have been associated. At first I was sad. Thousands of people all over the country will be unemployed. Access to a product I love will be diminished. Yet, once I had a chance to feel the pain and sadness, I felt relief. Relief that I will not be living with a constant block in the pit of my stomach. Relief that I will not have to wonder every morning if this will be the day that another round of massive layoffs will take place. For the first time in 4 years I will lay my head down on my pillow and not fear what will happen tomorrow.
Please don't misunderstand... I am worried about the sacrifices we will have to make going forward to survive as a single income family. I am sad and worried for myself and my co-workers in this challenging job market. I am sad that I will no longer have daily conversations with the people I have grown to respect over the last 7 years. I am sad. I am concerned. I am human. I am, however, ready to move forward. I am ready to see what the next chapter of my life holds. I am ready to see what else is on Thursday nights at 9:00 Central (10:00 Eastern) Time.
Today, at 4:22, I (among every other person in my office) received an email telling us of the future of the organization for which I have worked the last 7 years. A company that I love and feel proud and lucky to have been associated. At first I was sad. Thousands of people all over the country will be unemployed. Access to a product I love will be diminished. Yet, once I had a chance to feel the pain and sadness, I felt relief. Relief that I will not be living with a constant block in the pit of my stomach. Relief that I will not have to wonder every morning if this will be the day that another round of massive layoffs will take place. For the first time in 4 years I will lay my head down on my pillow and not fear what will happen tomorrow.
Please don't misunderstand... I am worried about the sacrifices we will have to make going forward to survive as a single income family. I am sad and worried for myself and my co-workers in this challenging job market. I am sad that I will no longer have daily conversations with the people I have grown to respect over the last 7 years. I am sad. I am concerned. I am human. I am, however, ready to move forward. I am ready to see what the next chapter of my life holds. I am ready to see what else is on Thursday nights at 9:00 Central (10:00 Eastern) Time.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Finally!
Today is June 2nd and I am so relieved that I survived another May. This one was more challenging than others,but alas, we prevailed. Three cheers to my wonderful family for pulling through such a trying and chaotic month.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Doctor Who
I love, love, love Doctor Who! Unfortunately, I am of a generation that didn't have access to the Doctor as children. I didn't even meet the Time Lord until his 9th incarnation, portrayed by Christopher Eccleston. I became smitten with the 9th doctor, but he didn't fully capture my heart until his 10th incarnation, portrayed by David Tennant. I honestly wasn't sure I would ever recover from the heartache of the three knocks which caused the catastrophic regeneration and tragic departure of David Tennant. In his next incarnation, Matt Smith had to work very hard to win me over as the 11th doctor, but alas he prevailed and I am more in love than ever.
For the first time in the history of the series the doctor and his companions filmed episodes on US soil. I am holding an imaginary grudge agains all people who were lucky enough to be in the Salt Lake City, UT area during the filming.
Below is a video released by the BBC to introduce the first two-part episode of the upcoming season which will air on BBC America April 23rd. Enjoy!
If you have not been privy to Doctor Who, please take some time to check it out. All five seasons of the new series, and a number of seasons from the original series, are currently available on Netflix live streaming. You can also catch re-runs on BBC America, check your local listings for times.
For the first time in the history of the series the doctor and his companions filmed episodes on US soil. I am holding an imaginary grudge agains all people who were lucky enough to be in the Salt Lake City, UT area during the filming.
Below is a video released by the BBC to introduce the first two-part episode of the upcoming season which will air on BBC America April 23rd. Enjoy!
If you have not been privy to Doctor Who, please take some time to check it out. All five seasons of the new series, and a number of seasons from the original series, are currently available on Netflix live streaming. You can also catch re-runs on BBC America, check your local listings for times.
Friday, March 4, 2011
March Forth...
Today is National Grammar Day. One of my biggest regrets in life is that I didn't pay more attention to grammar and spelling when I was younger. Writing is one of my favorite past times and I spend more time than necesary debating the correctness of my grammar. It should be second nature and it is not. It is important to me that my children excel at grammar and I love that there is a day to celebrate the importance of having a firm grasp on the rules of your language.
Happy National Grammar Day!
"March forth on March 4 to speak well, write well, and help others do the same."
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Reading Wednesday - Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss
It is almost impossible for me to tell you which Dr. Seuss book is my favorite. All day I have been reading quotes from his collection and each time I think "Ooh... I love that one!" or "Oh, I forgot about that one, wow!". I think that my favorite was ever revolving and changing.
Marvin K. Mooney Will You Please Go Now! was my favorite when I was a small child. I have vivid memories (some of my earliest) of my Dad and I laying in my bed reading this book. I was read this book so many times as a child that when it came time to read it to my kids, I didn't have to look at the pages. This was also the first book that Izzy "read" to me. She was 3 years old and she "read" every word without even one singe look at the book. It was amazing!
My other favorites only presented themselves after I had kids. Not that I didn't read and love Dr. Seuss as a child, I just see them differently as a mom. While I previously found the nonsensical words irritating, I have learned to love how important they are when teaching kids to read. The pictures in relation to the rhyming words make it easy for young readers to sound out the words and create connections that constantly expand their growing vocabulary.
Green Eggs and Ham was the first book Isobel actually read from beginning to end. She made so many new connections reading that book. It was simple enough that she had the necessary confidence to push herself, but with words she had never tried to read before. She made the connection that could, would and should all sound the same, she recognized that both know and no sound the same but are different words. As a parent, it is difficult to watch your child struggle through something as difficult as learning to read and I am not sure I would have made it though without Dr. Seuss to help me along.
The other thing I love about Dr. Seuss is that every book has a simple, kid friendly message. These messages revolve around respecting yourself, respecting others and respecting your environment. These three items are the most basic and important values a child can learn. Everything they do in life will stem from learning and understanding the importance of these three things.
Happy Birthday Dr Seuss!
Thank you for all you have done for me as both a child and a parent.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Kings Firecrackers
I am a lucky girl. I have a husband who is kind and loving, three beautiful children, a job I love (even if just for the time being) and I love where I live.
Today, Izzy participated in a jump rope clinic hosted by the Kings Firecrackers. Those of you who don't live in the area or spend a lot of time frequenting half time shows may not be aware of who the Firecrakers are... I would like to introduce you.
Today, Izzy participated in a jump rope clinic hosted by the Kings Firecrackers. Those of you who don't live in the area or spend a lot of time frequenting half time shows may not be aware of who the Firecrakers are... I would like to introduce you.
What a fantastic way to combine fun and exercise. I can honestly say that every child at the clinic had a red face by the end of the clinic. They had clearly been working hard and in the process getting just a bit healthier.
I hate Coconut...
I hate coconut... It isn't only the flavor, it is the texture. I just can't stand the feel of coconut in my mouth. The thought of it makes me throw up in my mouth a little. Yuck!
A few weeks ago, my dear friend, S, told me that she had tried Samoas for the first time this year and loved them. She had always been a beloved member of my "hate coconut" camp. However, in the fifteen years S. and I have been friends, she has never steered me wrong. So, I ordered my very first box of Samoas.
Today, Emmy and I opened that box and we tried our first Samoa. I have to say... I do not know what those Girl Scouts do with these cookies, but they are delicious. As a tried and true Coconut hater, I can honestly say these cookies break out of the coconut mold and melt in your mouth. If you are like me and refused to try Samoas because you don't like coconut... I urge you to step out of your comfort zone and take just one bite.
Girl Scouts are out at cookie booths pushing their tasty treats, check your local grocery store and buy a box of Samoas (or any of the other varieties). At only $3.50 a box, buying cookies is great way to help your local Girl Scouts (oh and did I mention the yummy cookies).
*FOLLOW UP GAME: How many times can one person use the word coconut in a single post?*
A few weeks ago, my dear friend, S, told me that she had tried Samoas for the first time this year and loved them. She had always been a beloved member of my "hate coconut" camp. However, in the fifteen years S. and I have been friends, she has never steered me wrong. So, I ordered my very first box of Samoas.
Today, Emmy and I opened that box and we tried our first Samoa. I have to say... I do not know what those Girl Scouts do with these cookies, but they are delicious. As a tried and true Coconut hater, I can honestly say these cookies break out of the coconut mold and melt in your mouth. If you are like me and refused to try Samoas because you don't like coconut... I urge you to step out of your comfort zone and take just one bite.
Girl Scouts are out at cookie booths pushing their tasty treats, check your local grocery store and buy a box of Samoas (or any of the other varieties). At only $3.50 a box, buying cookies is great way to help your local Girl Scouts (oh and did I mention the yummy cookies).
*FOLLOW UP GAME: How many times can one person use the word coconut in a single post?*
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Old 97's/Those Darlins - Southgate House, Newport, KY
I am assuming that everyone who reads this knows me, as I can't imagine that anyone would stumble across this rambling blog and actually read. So, you all know that I spent some time in my late teens and early twenties around live music. For a lot of years I saw 5 - 7 live shows a week... so, I can honestly say I have seen my fair share of live bands. Having made that perfectly clear, I also have to make clear that this was one of the best shows I have ever seen.
This was my first trip to Southgate House and I was impressed. It is an old historic house that was built around 1814 and has a crazy long history regarding its former owners and their impact on Kentucky. My favorite is that it was once the home of John Thompson, inventor of the Tommy Gun. I am totally anti-guns and all that violence jazz, but if you are going to lay claim to the invention of a gun, the Tommy Gun is the way to go. Okay, enough with the history lesson. This place sounded fantastic. The Ballroom has a great laid back feel and it is exactly the kind of place you want to see a band like the Old 97's (if you can't see them at the Bottleneck in Lawrence, KS).
Those Darlins from Murfreesboro, TN went on about 8:30 and they were exactly what an opening band should be. I have been having a hard time finding an appropriate description, they are reminiscent of old school chick pop punk with a bit of that country twang. I know I am not doing them justice, but they absolutely got the crowd going. They were so good that I am sure if they were being followed by a lesser band than the Old 97's, the crowd would have walked out. I am saying this with the utmost sincerity, if you ever have a chance to see this band, run, don't walk to the venue. They are that good.
When Old 97's took the stage I actually had a flash back. Although they have aged a bit (as we all have), you would never know it. They are just as energetic as always and I was blown away, as I always have been, by their mere presence. This band knows how to pump up a crowd like the best of them. They played a nice mix of old and new songs which made an old school fan like myself very happy. The only down side for me (which is nowhere near a real downside) is that they played a lot of songs off Fight Songs. This seemed to rile up the crowd and most of the folks were singing along (as if it is possible to not sing along to Murder (or a Heart Attack) or Jagged), but it is my least favorite of the albums... please note that being my least favorite Old 97's album is a lot like being my least favorite piece of chocolate, I still love it.
The last time I worked an Old 97's show at the Bottleneck (again, over 10 years ago), one of my friends told me that he had recently been to a show in St. Louis. He told me that the encore consisted of Rhett, a guitar, and Question. I spent the rest of that night hoping it would happen at the Bottleneck, needless to say it didn't... in fact, they didn't even play the song. Since that night I have always been a little jealous of that friend... wishing I would have been witness to Rhett, a guitar and... oh you get the picture. After the show at the Southgate House, my jealousy has faded a bit. Although I didn't get exactly what he described, they did play Question this time, so I finally got to see it live. Rhett somehow managed to break two strings during the song... if you know this song at all, you know how much talent it would take to accomplish such a feat. The point... he was rocking! They all were!
I have a slight confession to make, while I am not at all the front row kind of gal, somehow that is where I ended up for this show. So, I was lucky enough to be surrounded by some interesting fans. You know, the ones that drive around and see multiple shows in one tour. In fact, the couple next to me told me they had already seen them 4 times on this tour (I am hoping she included the January shows in the "this tour" definition). Anyway, as Rhett rocked through the night, he had a bit of an issue with his fingers, from an earlier tweet I knew it was one of those Rock Star guitar playing injuries. At some point during the show, the injury caused him to request some tape to cover his wounded digits. During the first song of the encore, which was Rhett, a guitar, but not Question, he ripped off the bandage and threw it on the ground. The second that bandage hit the ground the girl next to me (Miss. Four Shows This Tour) had her eye on the prize. A few songs later when the band exited the stage for the final time, there was a mad dash for this tape that had once covered Rhett's bleeding finger... please realize when I say a mad dash, I was not among the girls dashing. In fact, Jon and I were backing away with a mixture of disgust and awe upon our faces. Disgust because, well you know, it was a used bloody piece of tape. Awe because there are actually people who would dash for a used bloody piece of tape and finally agree to split said used bloody piece of tape (did I mention it was a used, bloody piece of tape?) and not be absolutely humiliated.
Regardless of the crazy fans fighting for bloody tape, and a number of broken strings, this show was fantastic. It was well worth the wait, but I am not going to wait another ten years to see them again.
If you want to add Those Darlins to your music catalogue you can do so at iTunes, http://www.borders.com/ or at Amazon (although I really wish you wouldn't get it at Amazon). And if you do not have the complete Old 97's catalogue (especially Hitchhike to Rhome), run right out and fill in the gaps at any of the above mentioned places (again, preferably not Amazon).
And finally, if you have the chance to see either of these bands live... do yourself a favor, get there early and stay until the last note is played. There is not a moment that should be missed from either of these bands.
Just a last little note... The Old 97's, Rhett Miller and Those Darlins are all on Twitter and Facebook... If you are one of those twitter followers (as I am) or Facebook people (again, me) you should Follow Them/Like them. You can follow me if you want, but I don't really tweet and I only recently realized that at least half of them have something to do with Old 97's, which is a humiliation all its own.
This was my first trip to Southgate House and I was impressed. It is an old historic house that was built around 1814 and has a crazy long history regarding its former owners and their impact on Kentucky. My favorite is that it was once the home of John Thompson, inventor of the Tommy Gun. I am totally anti-guns and all that violence jazz, but if you are going to lay claim to the invention of a gun, the Tommy Gun is the way to go. Okay, enough with the history lesson. This place sounded fantastic. The Ballroom has a great laid back feel and it is exactly the kind of place you want to see a band like the Old 97's (if you can't see them at the Bottleneck in Lawrence, KS).
Those Darlins from Murfreesboro, TN went on about 8:30 and they were exactly what an opening band should be. I have been having a hard time finding an appropriate description, they are reminiscent of old school chick pop punk with a bit of that country twang. I know I am not doing them justice, but they absolutely got the crowd going. They were so good that I am sure if they were being followed by a lesser band than the Old 97's, the crowd would have walked out. I am saying this with the utmost sincerity, if you ever have a chance to see this band, run, don't walk to the venue. They are that good.
When Old 97's took the stage I actually had a flash back. Although they have aged a bit (as we all have), you would never know it. They are just as energetic as always and I was blown away, as I always have been, by their mere presence. This band knows how to pump up a crowd like the best of them. They played a nice mix of old and new songs which made an old school fan like myself very happy. The only down side for me (which is nowhere near a real downside) is that they played a lot of songs off Fight Songs. This seemed to rile up the crowd and most of the folks were singing along (as if it is possible to not sing along to Murder (or a Heart Attack) or Jagged), but it is my least favorite of the albums... please note that being my least favorite Old 97's album is a lot like being my least favorite piece of chocolate, I still love it.
The last time I worked an Old 97's show at the Bottleneck (again, over 10 years ago), one of my friends told me that he had recently been to a show in St. Louis. He told me that the encore consisted of Rhett, a guitar, and Question. I spent the rest of that night hoping it would happen at the Bottleneck, needless to say it didn't... in fact, they didn't even play the song. Since that night I have always been a little jealous of that friend... wishing I would have been witness to Rhett, a guitar and... oh you get the picture. After the show at the Southgate House, my jealousy has faded a bit. Although I didn't get exactly what he described, they did play Question this time, so I finally got to see it live. Rhett somehow managed to break two strings during the song... if you know this song at all, you know how much talent it would take to accomplish such a feat. The point... he was rocking! They all were!
I have a slight confession to make, while I am not at all the front row kind of gal, somehow that is where I ended up for this show. So, I was lucky enough to be surrounded by some interesting fans. You know, the ones that drive around and see multiple shows in one tour. In fact, the couple next to me told me they had already seen them 4 times on this tour (I am hoping she included the January shows in the "this tour" definition). Anyway, as Rhett rocked through the night, he had a bit of an issue with his fingers, from an earlier tweet I knew it was one of those Rock Star guitar playing injuries. At some point during the show, the injury caused him to request some tape to cover his wounded digits. During the first song of the encore, which was Rhett, a guitar, but not Question, he ripped off the bandage and threw it on the ground. The second that bandage hit the ground the girl next to me (Miss. Four Shows This Tour) had her eye on the prize. A few songs later when the band exited the stage for the final time, there was a mad dash for this tape that had once covered Rhett's bleeding finger... please realize when I say a mad dash, I was not among the girls dashing. In fact, Jon and I were backing away with a mixture of disgust and awe upon our faces. Disgust because, well you know, it was a used bloody piece of tape. Awe because there are actually people who would dash for a used bloody piece of tape and finally agree to split said used bloody piece of tape (did I mention it was a used, bloody piece of tape?) and not be absolutely humiliated.
Regardless of the crazy fans fighting for bloody tape, and a number of broken strings, this show was fantastic. It was well worth the wait, but I am not going to wait another ten years to see them again.
If you want to add Those Darlins to your music catalogue you can do so at iTunes, http://www.borders.com/ or at Amazon (although I really wish you wouldn't get it at Amazon). And if you do not have the complete Old 97's catalogue (especially Hitchhike to Rhome), run right out and fill in the gaps at any of the above mentioned places (again, preferably not Amazon).
And finally, if you have the chance to see either of these bands live... do yourself a favor, get there early and stay until the last note is played. There is not a moment that should be missed from either of these bands.
Just a last little note... The Old 97's, Rhett Miller and Those Darlins are all on Twitter and Facebook... If you are one of those twitter followers (as I am) or Facebook people (again, me) you should Follow Them/Like them. You can follow me if you want, but I don't really tweet and I only recently realized that at least half of them have something to do with Old 97's, which is a humiliation all its own.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
No Reading Wednesday this week...
Tonight Jon and I are going to see the Old 97's at the Southgate House in Newport, KY. I have not seen them in 10 years and can't wait.
I found this on YouTube and it is one of my favorite Old 97's songs from my absolute favorite Old 97's album, Hitchhike to Rhome. As I have mentioned in previous posts, this album is one my three go to albums (and probably my favorite of those three). If I am having a bad day, I'm stressed, on a long drive or just want music in the background, this is it.
I can honestly say that there are few musicians I like to watch more than these Texas boys.
I found this on YouTube and it is one of my favorite Old 97's songs from my absolute favorite Old 97's album, Hitchhike to Rhome. As I have mentioned in previous posts, this album is one my three go to albums (and probably my favorite of those three). If I am having a bad day, I'm stressed, on a long drive or just want music in the background, this is it.
I can honestly say that there are few musicians I like to watch more than these Texas boys.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
I am sad, so very sad...
I am sad. I am very sad.
I am sad because last week Borders filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
I am sad because one of the exhibits of that document included a list of 200 Borders stores that will be closing.
I am sad because thousands of smart, intelligent, knowledgeable booksellers will be losing their jobs as soon as the liquidation of the stores is complete.
I am sad because these people will have a very hard time finding another job as a bookseller due to the reduction of brick-and-mortar bookstores.
I am sad because my children, everyone's children, will not have the access to books that they did last week.
I am sad for new authors trying to break into the business because the loss of 200 stores will impact the first print run and result in a lower advance.
I am sad for readers who will not have as many places to discover their next favorite book.
I am sad because during the first weekend of liquidation bookscan numbers for publishers as much as doubled. Sales at the closing stores are 20% off, 20%... People were lined up outside of closing stores before they opened for 20% off. They can get 40% off NYT Bestsellers and popular paperbacks everyday at every Borders. Even better, for a mere $20.00 a year, they can always get 40% off Hardcover Bestsellers, 20% off select Hardcovers and 10% off almost everything else in the store EVERYDAY. On top of that, had they shopped with the same ferocity before, they may have saved some local booksellers their jobs.
I am sad because last week Borders filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
I am sad because one of the exhibits of that document included a list of 200 Borders stores that will be closing.
I am sad because thousands of smart, intelligent, knowledgeable booksellers will be losing their jobs as soon as the liquidation of the stores is complete.
I am sad because these people will have a very hard time finding another job as a bookseller due to the reduction of brick-and-mortar bookstores.
I am sad because my children, everyone's children, will not have the access to books that they did last week.
I am sad for new authors trying to break into the business because the loss of 200 stores will impact the first print run and result in a lower advance.
I am sad for readers who will not have as many places to discover their next favorite book.
I am sad because during the first weekend of liquidation bookscan numbers for publishers as much as doubled. Sales at the closing stores are 20% off, 20%... People were lined up outside of closing stores before they opened for 20% off. They can get 40% off NYT Bestsellers and popular paperbacks everyday at every Borders. Even better, for a mere $20.00 a year, they can always get 40% off Hardcover Bestsellers, 20% off select Hardcovers and 10% off almost everything else in the store EVERYDAY. On top of that, had they shopped with the same ferocity before, they may have saved some local booksellers their jobs.
I am sad because Borders has been a significant part of my life since the day my husband became the Inventory Manager of the new Borders Superstore in Olathe, KS 12 years ago. I can't possibly count the number of Borders stores I have visited over the last 12 years. We would plan trips around visiting Borders stores, sometimes going out of our way. I love Borders and it is difficult to watch something you love struggle.
I am sad because something I love is at risk of disappearing right before my eyes. Not Borders, although as I have mentioned I do love Borders, but books. Is it possible that books will go the same way as music? Is it possible that someday people will think of books as unnecessary, even burdensome?
I am sad because my job security is questionable at best.
I am sad because it is possible that the few authors who are scraping by will have to cut back on the number of books they write. Speculation is that with 200 fewer Borders, profits for publishers and authors will decrease by 10%. We saw musicians struggle with the decline of album sales, but they had tours and merchandise that helped make up the difference. They still had a way to survive as musicians. Authors don't have that same luxury. They tour and sign books for people to buy at bookstores, without bookstores they won't even have that.
If you have any thoughts at all about books, brick-and-mortar, author's or Borders... please share. I would love to hear them, but please be gentle... after all I am sad.
What a weekend...
Have you ever had one of those weekends that just pile crap on top of crap? Well, for me this was that weekend.
It all started last week when Eli came down with a mystery fever. It wasn't strep, it wasn't the flu, but everyone, everywhere has it and it will just work itself out. Finally, on Friday, he went the whole day without a fever (since Monday night).
Saturday we headed out onto the town. We tried City BBQ for the first time, and it was the best bbq I have had since leaving Kansas. If there are any other Kansas transplants out there, you understand how impossible it is to find good bbq, but we finally stumbled across an acceptable substitute and it only took us 10 years. That was the only good thing that happened this weekend... the only good thing.
Later that day, I stopped by my local Borders, which is among the 200 closing. I stood at the door, in shock, watching the customers lined up across the store for a mere 20% discount. It was one of the saddest things I have seen in a very long time.
The next day, Izzy laid down on the couch and didn't move all morning, she then didn't eat her lunch because she "wasn't hungry." Izzy is always hungry, so we knew something was wrong. Sure enough her fever was up to 102.2. I hate this winter and I hate strep throat. It turns out that a round of penicillin wasn't enough to kill Izzy's strep and she was back at the doctor yesterday with another positive strep test. On we go to a stronger antibiotic, which will hopefully kill this blasted bacteria.
We then were visited by a local arborist who informed us that our big pine tree in front of our house was dead and needed removal. He also felt that we should trim some of those pesky branches that broke off during the ice storm. Apparently, it isn't advisable to keep the branches held up by a thin sheet of bark over your roof. Something absurd about spring storms and roof damage. So, we let them take those down as well.
Of course, while the neighborhood arborists are removing our tree and limbs, Jon is in the kids bathroom replacing the toilet. It seems that a 3, 5 and 8 year old can be a bit mean to them over time which can lead to death (of the toilet, not the kids).
Then on Monday (which in my world was part of the weekend because the kids didn't have school), Emmy hurt her arm. We have no idea how she hurt her arm, we just know that she was extremely uncomfortable. The blood curdling screams every time her arm moved was the biggest clue that something was a bit off. Rain falling outside, Jon and Izzy already at the doctor getting Izzy's strep test, I run a screaming Emmy and an extremely helpful Eli to the doctor... sending a text on the way for Jon and Izzy to wait for us. Turns out Emmy had dislocated her elbow and it had to be manipulated back into the joint. It wasn't a very pleasant experience and I wouldn't recommend you try it yourself, but the doctor did a great job and Emmy was moving her arm around instantly, good as new. However, we were told that once it happens, it can happen again easily. So, the rest of my life will be spent yelling at the older kids to not pull on Emmy's arm.
It is now Tuesday, which means the weekend is over. Clearly this means things will get better... I mean, they have to... right?!?
It all started last week when Eli came down with a mystery fever. It wasn't strep, it wasn't the flu, but everyone, everywhere has it and it will just work itself out. Finally, on Friday, he went the whole day without a fever (since Monday night).
Saturday we headed out onto the town. We tried City BBQ for the first time, and it was the best bbq I have had since leaving Kansas. If there are any other Kansas transplants out there, you understand how impossible it is to find good bbq, but we finally stumbled across an acceptable substitute and it only took us 10 years. That was the only good thing that happened this weekend... the only good thing.
Later that day, I stopped by my local Borders, which is among the 200 closing. I stood at the door, in shock, watching the customers lined up across the store for a mere 20% discount. It was one of the saddest things I have seen in a very long time.
The next day, Izzy laid down on the couch and didn't move all morning, she then didn't eat her lunch because she "wasn't hungry." Izzy is always hungry, so we knew something was wrong. Sure enough her fever was up to 102.2. I hate this winter and I hate strep throat. It turns out that a round of penicillin wasn't enough to kill Izzy's strep and she was back at the doctor yesterday with another positive strep test. On we go to a stronger antibiotic, which will hopefully kill this blasted bacteria.
We then were visited by a local arborist who informed us that our big pine tree in front of our house was dead and needed removal. He also felt that we should trim some of those pesky branches that broke off during the ice storm. Apparently, it isn't advisable to keep the branches held up by a thin sheet of bark over your roof. Something absurd about spring storms and roof damage. So, we let them take those down as well.
Of course, while the neighborhood arborists are removing our tree and limbs, Jon is in the kids bathroom replacing the toilet. It seems that a 3, 5 and 8 year old can be a bit mean to them over time which can lead to death (of the toilet, not the kids).
Then on Monday (which in my world was part of the weekend because the kids didn't have school), Emmy hurt her arm. We have no idea how she hurt her arm, we just know that she was extremely uncomfortable. The blood curdling screams every time her arm moved was the biggest clue that something was a bit off. Rain falling outside, Jon and Izzy already at the doctor getting Izzy's strep test, I run a screaming Emmy and an extremely helpful Eli to the doctor... sending a text on the way for Jon and Izzy to wait for us. Turns out Emmy had dislocated her elbow and it had to be manipulated back into the joint. It wasn't a very pleasant experience and I wouldn't recommend you try it yourself, but the doctor did a great job and Emmy was moving her arm around instantly, good as new. However, we were told that once it happens, it can happen again easily. So, the rest of my life will be spent yelling at the older kids to not pull on Emmy's arm.
It is now Tuesday, which means the weekend is over. Clearly this means things will get better... I mean, they have to... right?!?
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Reading Wednesday - Chaos Walking Trilogy
The Knife of Never Letting Go, the first book in the Chaos Walking Triology, had to fight hard to make me a fan. I read the first 5 pages of that book so many times it is pathetic. Each time I would shrug and set it back down, opting for one of my other awaiting novels. Then, one day, I had to clean my office. I will do anything to avoid cleaning my office, anything... even read a book that's opening passage is "The first thing you find out when yer dog learns to talk is that dogs don't got nothing much to say. About anything." That night, in the heat of procrastination, I read page 6 and I was hooked. Todd and Manchee, the communicative dog had won me over.
Patrick Ness has taken a classic coming of age story and given it new life. Todd, a young boy, on the cusp of becoming a man, is forced to leave everything he has ever known. In the process he meets, for the first time ever, a girl and vows to protect her. However, we learn very shortly after the introduction of Viola that she is more than capable of taking care of herself, and is as integral to Todd's survival as he is to hers. The reader will share in the struggles of these two children, as they discover the secrets of Todd's home. As the trilogy continues with The Ask and Answer and Monsters of Men, we watch as Todd and Viola struggle to do what is right verses w
hat is easy. By the end of the series Todd and Viola have been forced to grow up and through that process they learn that good and evil is not so black and white. The shades of gray are the circumstances a person is placed in and their reactions. Todd struggles with his inner demons and learns that even good people have the capacity to do evil, hateful things. However, the one thing that remains true through the entire book is that we will all do everything necessary to protect the ones we love, even at our own expense.
hat is easy. By the end of the series Todd and Viola have been forced to grow up and through that process they learn that good and evil is not so black and white. The shades of gray are the circumstances a person is placed in and their reactions. Todd struggles with his inner demons and learns that even good people have the capacity to do evil, hateful things. However, the one thing that remains true through the entire book is that we will all do everything necessary to protect the ones we love, even at our own expense.It is easy to see that the younger readers will fall in love with Todd. My Mommy's mind hopes that my son will find the strength of character to become a man as good as Todd.
While it may be difficult to get past the first 5 pages (and a talking dog), I implore you to try. These books have everything a reader could hope for in a solid YA Science Fiction trilogy.
Visit your local Borders or Borders.com to get your copy today. For you e-book enthusiasts, you can download both The Knife of Never Letting Go and The Ask and The Answer for only $7.79 and Monsters of Men for only $11.09 at the Borders E-Book store.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Please see me after class...
Today, after Emmy's class at Preschool, I was asked to stay behind. The teachers led me into the room and closed the door behind us.
"Emmy, can you tell your mommy what happened today?"
Emmy shakes her head.
"Would you like me to tell your mommy what happened today?"
Emmy shakes her head again.
"Well, one of us has to tell your mommy what happened today."
Emmy shakes her head again.
After a few minutes I learned that my darling little girl was told to go to time out for talking in circle time and decided that she didn't want to do that, so her response to her teacher was a very simple, "No".
I am very sure this will not be my last time to have a sit down talk with teachers about my darling Emmy's defiant behavior. I have so much to look forward to over the next 15 years.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Strep is in the house...
When I was 5 years old my mother, the nurse, sent me to school for a week with pneumonia. While I don't remember having pneumonia or even feeling sick, I do remember to remind my mom of this failure as much as possible.
Saturday night Izzy started running a low grade fever. In and of itself, not a big deal, especially for Izzy. She is my kid that can run a 104 degree fever and not even seem sick. So, I gave her some acetaminophin and had her lay down. A few hours later she told me her throat hurt, so I gave her popsicle. By bed time, her throat hurt, her head hurt and she was super congested. Uh Oh, I thought, she has a cold.
Sunday morning she didn't feel much better, so I gave her some more acetaminophin and sent her back to bed.
Monday, I called the doctor, but not for the right reason. "Izzy has been fighting a number of viruses this year, so she has missed a lot of school. She is running a fever today and had to stay home. Is it possible for me to get a Doctor's note?" the pathetic mom says to the nurse. After a bit of conversation the nurse replies "Well, it is always up to you whether your child is seen or not. However, it sounds a lot like strep, which is going around. I would suggest she come in for a throat culture." Of course, I acquiesce, begrudgingly. Monday night, I take Izzy out into the cold of the night to a doctors appointment, I was 100 percent sure she didn't need.
From my mommy's mind to yours... listen to the nurse at your Doctors office. Oh and never, ever remind another mom of a failure. It will undoubtedly come back to haunt you.
Sorry Mom!
Saturday night Izzy started running a low grade fever. In and of itself, not a big deal, especially for Izzy. She is my kid that can run a 104 degree fever and not even seem sick. So, I gave her some acetaminophin and had her lay down. A few hours later she told me her throat hurt, so I gave her popsicle. By bed time, her throat hurt, her head hurt and she was super congested. Uh Oh, I thought, she has a cold.
Sunday morning she didn't feel much better, so I gave her some more acetaminophin and sent her back to bed.
Monday, I called the doctor, but not for the right reason. "Izzy has been fighting a number of viruses this year, so she has missed a lot of school. She is running a fever today and had to stay home. Is it possible for me to get a Doctor's note?" the pathetic mom says to the nurse. After a bit of conversation the nurse replies "Well, it is always up to you whether your child is seen or not. However, it sounds a lot like strep, which is going around. I would suggest she come in for a throat culture." Of course, I acquiesce, begrudgingly. Monday night, I take Izzy out into the cold of the night to a doctors appointment, I was 100 percent sure she didn't need.
From my mommy's mind to yours... listen to the nurse at your Doctors office. Oh and never, ever remind another mom of a failure. It will undoubtedly come back to haunt you.
Sorry Mom!
Friday, February 4, 2011
Who defines your family?
Zach Wahls from Iowa has a very compelling point. We define our family structure internally regardless of the states position on marriage. Is it really a good idea to make hate okay? It is happening everyday, all over the country. Parents are sitting around the dinner table having conversations, teaching hate... when did this become okay?
Thursday, February 3, 2011
R.I.P. The White Stripes
I confess, I am a White Stripes fan. I find Jack White to be in the category of musical genius. I know there are people who disagree, but I just shrug and think they clearly have no idea what they are talking about.
I remember the first time I heard The White Stripes. They were on the Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn, and Jon and I thought they were a little strange. However, we kept hearing really great things about them, so we decided to give White Blood Cells a try. We bought it at Borders in Rapid City, SD over Christmas in 2001 and I fell in love. To this day, it is one of my three "go to" albums for constant listening (the others being Hitchhike to Rhome by Old 97's and I and Love and You by the Avett Brothers). I was, however, skeptical of a band with only two people. There is something about this that just seemed wrong.
I am a strong believer that a band is only as good as their live show. It didn't seem possible that two people could perform all of the songs on the album. Then, in May of 2002, I was lucky enough to see The White Stripes live and I fell even more in love with them. It was astonishing to see Jack White in action. The man is amazing. That was the day Jack White became a genius in my mind, leaving us mere mortals way behind.
Even the kids love The White Stripes. I always smile when I hear Emmy singing along to their music. Which of course, she hears all day long on PBS Kids. Seriously, how many bands can say that one of their songs is used in a PBS Kids identification spot?
Yesterday, The White Stripes officially announced that they have decided to go their separate ways. While we can still get our Jack White fix with the Raconteurs or The Dead Weather, it is a sad time for White Stripes fans.
I remember the first time I heard The White Stripes. They were on the Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn, and Jon and I thought they were a little strange. However, we kept hearing really great things about them, so we decided to give White Blood Cells a try. We bought it at Borders in Rapid City, SD over Christmas in 2001 and I fell in love. To this day, it is one of my three "go to" albums for constant listening (the others being Hitchhike to Rhome by Old 97's and I and Love and You by the Avett Brothers). I was, however, skeptical of a band with only two people. There is something about this that just seemed wrong.
I am a strong believer that a band is only as good as their live show. It didn't seem possible that two people could perform all of the songs on the album. Then, in May of 2002, I was lucky enough to see The White Stripes live and I fell even more in love with them. It was astonishing to see Jack White in action. The man is amazing. That was the day Jack White became a genius in my mind, leaving us mere mortals way behind.
Even the kids love The White Stripes. I always smile when I hear Emmy singing along to their music. Which of course, she hears all day long on PBS Kids. Seriously, how many bands can say that one of their songs is used in a PBS Kids identification spot?
Yesterday, The White Stripes officially announced that they have decided to go their separate ways. While we can still get our Jack White fix with the Raconteurs or The Dead Weather, it is a sad time for White Stripes fans.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Yo Gabba Gabba
I have always loved Yo Gabba Gabba. The first time I saw it I thought "finally a show for children that parents can enjoy" (and I mean really enjoy not just live through). The Decemberists, who I love, have a song in the upcoming season. I have tried desperately to add this video to no avail, so you will just have to make due with this link (to see the video click on continue reading at the end of the section). Thank you Pitchfork for sharing... if you are on Twitter, you should follow @pitchforkmedia for all kinds of fun music news.
I can honestly say that the day Emmy told me Yo Gabba Gabba was a baby show and she didn't want to watch it anymore was among the saddest in my life. I miss you Yo Gabba Gabba.
I can honestly say that the day Emmy told me Yo Gabba Gabba was a baby show and she didn't want to watch it anymore was among the saddest in my life. I miss you Yo Gabba Gabba.
Reading Wednesday - Charles Jessold, Considered as a Murderer
If we have ever had a conversation about books or music, then you have heard me talk about Wesley Stace aka John Wesley Harding. If not, you should know... I love him.
His music, although not typically my taste, has a very special place in my heart. His voice is strong and clean and his lyrics are storytelling at it's finest. His live shows are amazing! If you ever have a chance to see John Wesley Harding, I strongly suggest you do. Not only does he interact with the audience on stage, you will find him selling cd's at the end of the night. Usually providing lively conversation while signing autographs.
I remember the first time I heard that Wesley Stace was writing a book, I was crazy excited. I couldn't fathom a better person to tell me a story. Misfortune is still among my favorites. Stace was able to weave this story in the most intricate of manners. The gamut of emtions felt while reading this story was unbearable. I was literally awed as I turned the last page. I have said for years that it is among my favorite endings to a book, ever. If you have not read Misfortune, I highly recommend it.
Yesterday, Stace released his third novel, Charles Jessold, Considered as a Murderer. Below is some sort of silly interview that someone, somewhere thinks is clever... I am not one of those people. Although I have been told that Eugene Mirman is funny, I don't think this video is a good example. Regardless, I plan to run out tonight and buy this novel at my local Borders and hope you will do the same.
Oh and if you are at all curious, Stace's second novel, By George, is also fantastic.
If you have never read, or heard, anything by Wesley Stace, you must do so immediately. I am sure your life will be even more full once you allow this creative genius in.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
February 1st, 2003 - 8 years later
8 years ago today, after completing it's 113th mission, the space shuttle Columbia broke into pieces during it's decent over Texas. All 7 crew members perished.
Please take a moment to remember those who lost their lives and the people who love them.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Dear Mother Nature:
Dear Mother Nature:
I love winter! I love the snow, I love the stillness, I love the smell. Heck, I don't even mind being cold. However, this winter, you have really gotten on my bad side.
This winter has had one (or twenty) to many snow days and my typically healthy children have been plagued with disease. I would really appreciate it if you could give us all a break.
Thank you. Marissa.
PS... by giving us a break, I don't mean 1/4 inch of ice followed by a blizzard that shuts down state governments. I mean, let the sun shine a little and perhaps allow the temps to go up to 50 for a day or two. I just need enough time to air out my house so we can stop getting sick!
I love winter! I love the snow, I love the stillness, I love the smell. Heck, I don't even mind being cold. However, this winter, you have really gotten on my bad side.
This winter has had one (or twenty) to many snow days and my typically healthy children have been plagued with disease. I would really appreciate it if you could give us all a break.
Thank you. Marissa.
PS... by giving us a break, I don't mean 1/4 inch of ice followed by a blizzard that shuts down state governments. I mean, let the sun shine a little and perhaps allow the temps to go up to 50 for a day or two. I just need enough time to air out my house so we can stop getting sick!
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Walls of Steel
I sometimes stop outside of Izzy's room and listen to her sing along with her music. Her music is loud, her voice is loud and it is clear, from the creaking of the floor, that she is dancing. I smile as I remember the times that I would close myself in my room and do the same thing. The sanctity of my bedroom, where I could do anything... I was totally and completely alone.
Then I blush as I realize that if I can hear her, my parents could hear me.
Then I blush as I realize that if I can hear her, my parents could hear me.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Ad astra per aspera
150 years ago, on January 29, 1861 Kansas became the 34th state.
Happy Kansas Day!
Friday, January 28, 2011
January 28, 1986... 25 years later
There are only a handful of moments from my childhood that truly stand out and the disintegration of the Challenger is at the top if the list. Still, to this day, I recognize the smoke trail immediately. When I see footage, my stomach clenches and I feel as if I may have a panic attack. In January of 1986, I was a nine year old 4th grader who loved the idea of being an astronaut. I had always loved the immensity of the night sky. My parents got me my first telescope when I was only 6 years old. I would watch movies and TV shows about astronauts, I would read books about astronauts and the space they explored. I would stare longingly at the moon and stars and imagine walking on and among them. I even had an astronaut Cabbage Patch Doll that was among my prized possessions for many years.
On January 28th everything changed. During the launch of the space shuttles tenth mission, only 73 seconds into flight, an O-ring seal in the solid rocket booster failed. This failure allowed pressurized hot gas from inside the rocket motor to reach the external fuel tank causing the catastrophic event.
I will never forget the faces in the crowd, the looks on the faces of Christa McAuliffe's family as they registered the fact that she could not have survived. Christa's son, Scott McAuliffe was also 9 when the tragedy happened, I cried for him as he watched his mother die. Although I had experienced death multiple times by that point in my life, it was the first time I was faced with the mortality of a parent. The first time I had to imagine a child, my age, growing up without a mom. The first time I thought that I may want to be a mom and I wouldn't want my child to watch me die. It was that day I knew I would never, ever, ever be an astronaut.
The most amazing thing about that day is that it was a tragedy that was felt by so many youth in our country. I think that as parents, we try to shelter our children from that sadness of the world, but this was something we all experienced at the same time. This was not a tragedy that parents had time to think about and share in their own way. This was a tragedy that was truly experienced by the kids, live. For months leading up to the launch, teachers all over the country introduced Christa McAuliffe, she became a symbol of the future of education and exploration that resonated through classrooms. We all fell in love with her and the possibilities she presented. Then we all watched, in horror, as she was taken from us.
Seven astronauts died aboard the Challenger that day; Pilot, Michael Smith (April 30, 1945 - January 28, 1986) joined the astronaut program in May 1980. Before the loss of communications, his voice was the last heard, his words "Uh-Oh". Commander, Dick Scobee (May 19, 1939 - January 28, 1986), was selected for the astronaut program in January, 1978. He is survived by his wife and two children. Mission Specialist, Ron McNair (October 21, 1950 - January 28, 1986) was chosen for the astronaut program in 1978. He was a saxophonist who had worked with a composer on a piece that was to be played on this mission. It would have been the first original piece of music to be recorded in space. Mission Specialist, Ellison Onizuka (June 24, 1946 - January 28, 1986) was selected for the astronaut program in August 1979. He is survived by his wife and two children. Payload Specialist, Greg Jarvis (August 24, 1944 - January 28, 1986) was selected as a payload specialist candidate in July, 1984. Mission Specialist, Dr. Judith Resnik (April 5, 1949 - January 28, 1986) was recruited into the astronaut program in 1978 and was one of the first women in the program. Civilian Payload Specialist, Christa McAuliffe (September 2, 1948 - January 28, 1986) was announced as the selection for the Teacher in Space Project on July 19, 1985. She was planning on conducting two 15-minute classes from aboard the Challenger, which were to be broadcast to millions of school children. She is survived by a husband and two children.
The exact time of the death of the crew is unknown. On March 7th divers identified the crew compartment, with the remains of all seven astronauts, on the ocean floor. A report released on July 28, 1986 claimed the cause of death could not be determined. It noted that the forces the crew was exposed to during the initial break up were "probably not sufficient to cause death or serious injury". It further noted that the crew "possibly, but not certainly, lost consciousness in the seconds following the Orbiter break up" due to the loss of pressure in the crew module. It was found that Mike Smith's right-hand panel had been moved from the original launch position, indicating that he was conscious for at least a portion of the descent. Some experts believe that most, if not all, of the crew were alive and conscious for the full 2 minutes and 45 seconds until the point of impact with the ocean which was at roughly 207 mph.
Please take a moment to recognize the tragedy that occurred 25 years ago and the impact it had on the future of the children and the space program. Please, remember those who died and the families that loved them.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
LIFE IN A DAY - The Story of a Single Day on Earth
On January 24, 2010 Kevin Macdonald and Ridley Scott asked people all over the world to film their day and submit it for the Life in a Day project. They received over 5,000 hours of footage (from around 80,000 participants) that was edited down to create a documentary film. It can be viewed here tonight at 8:00 EST.
Check it out and let me know what you think.
NASA Day of Remembrance
Today is the 44th anniversary of a tragic fire that occurred in the Command Module of the Apollo 1 during pre-launch testing, killing Virgil "Gus" Grissom, Edward White and Roger Chaffee.
NASA has designated today as the NASA Day of Remembrance. So, please take a moment to remember all of the astronauts who have given their lives to the advancement of our space program, including the victims of the tragedies of Apollo 1, Challenger and Columbia.
NASA has designated today as the NASA Day of Remembrance. So, please take a moment to remember all of the astronauts who have given their lives to the advancement of our space program, including the victims of the tragedies of Apollo 1, Challenger and Columbia.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Reading Wednesday - Ivy and Bean
I am madly in love with the Ivy + Bean series (Annie Barrows + Sophia Blackwell, Chronicle Books).
I tried forcing these beautiful (yes, I totally judge books by their covers) books on Izzy every trip to Borders, but to no avail. Then, one day, Izzy told me that she needed more books for her book box at school and asked me to pick her up a couple. I asked what she wanted and she said the magic words, "I don't know. You decide." Wohoo! I rushed out that night while Iz was at a birthday party (so she couldn't go with me) and snagged the first book of the series, Ivy + Bean.
I don't know about other parents, but I find there are few books with relatable female characters for girls at Izzy's reading level (Chapter Books, right on the cusp of Independent Reader). The reason I am so in love with these books is the simplicity. It is the story of two young girls who begrudgingly become friends over a common, and totally normal, bond of hiding from an older sister. The beauty of these books is based in the unexpected friendship of these two, complete opposite, seven year old girls. The idea that we sometimes have to see past oddities to really get to know someone, and in the end that someone may turn out to be your best friend. The characters are beautifully written with their own distinct and captivating voice. The black and white illustration continue the elegant simplicity and compliment the story perfectly. They are also proportional to the story, so you don't feel like your handing your child a picture book.
There are 7 books currently available, with the 8th set to be released in the fall. If you have a daughter who tends to be a bit of a realist and loves the idea of "best friends", Ivy + Bean should be on your list of books to try.
Easily, my absolute favorite thing about these books is that the next morning I walked into Izzy's room and she was laying in bed reading. She looked up at me and said "I have been reading since 6:00 this morning and I love these books. Thank you, Mom, these were the perfect choice." I can't imagine a better endorsement for these books, can you?
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
A town without a bookstore
Grand Forks, ND is the third largest city in North Dakota. With a metropolitan population of over 97,000 and home to the University of North Dakota. However, at the end of January, Grand Forks, ND will become a city without a bookstore. According to this article in the Grand Forks Herald, there are some used bookstores and the UND bookstore carries a few new release titles, but nothing more. Starting in February, the fine residents of Grand Forks will have to drive 75 miles south to Fargo or shop online.
While it may seem like buying books online is easier and may save you a couple of dollars, imagine if you didn't even have the option of visiting a bookstore. Would you miss standing in your favorite section and running your fingers down the spine of a book? Would you miss pulling out said book and reading the dust jacket? Would you miss that one sentence that peaks your interest? Is it possible that the demise of the bookstore may just mean the demise of finding your next favorite book?
Really think about the last time you were in a bookstore... Now think about what life would be like without that bookstore.
This is what the poor people of Grand Forks are facing... I don't envy them and I hope I will never be in their shoes.
Do you love the book or the words?
A few weeks ago my Dad and I were discussing the decline of the book and subsequent rise of the eReader. He looked at me and said "There are the people who love to read and then there are the people who love books." Why had I never realized that before? Of course it's true, but I had never recognized the distinction.
I have spent my life surrounded by readers. I have millions of memories of my Dad, in at least half of them (probably more) he has a book in his hand. Dinner's were spent listening to my dad and sister talk about books and stories they had read. Although my Mom rarely read for entertainment, she spent a lot of time with her head buried in a book, furthering her knowledge. Everytime we would visit my Aunt we would leave with a paper bag (or two) full of books that had been passed around our family. Books were comfortable, they were somewhere to get lost and found at the same time.
I will never forget the moment I bought the book that turned me into a reader. I was eight years old and we were at Meadowbrook Mall in Pittsburg, KS for one of our many trips to Waldenbooks. I loved these trips with my Dad, we would pick out a book then go to Baskin Robbins for ice cream (typically a double scoop of vanilla and strawberry). While sitting on the floor of the tiny store, perusing the small selection of Independent Reader books, I stumbled across Noel Streatfield's Gemma. While the book has been passed off as unremarkable and even messy, I fell in love with it. I devoured the other three books in the series and was sad to see Gemma say Goodbye to her cousins in the final book. For the first time I understood what it meant to really immerse yourself in a book, to fall in love with the characters and long for more. It was the day I fell in love with reading.
I am constantly looking for a book that will have that impact on Izzy and once we find it, I will begin searching for Eli's then Emmy's. It is so important to me that my kids know what it feels like to get lost in a book. To be able to leave everything behind and escape to another place, another time, another world. However, as brick and mortar bookstores struggle to stay in business I fear my kids will never have a moment like mine. They may never have the opportunity to experience the moment where they find THE book that will make them fall desperately in love with reading and that terrifies me.
I do recognize the pull of the eReader. They are convenient and they hold a lot of books in one place. As a reader, I get how irritating it can be to lug 3 or 4 different books on a trip, or even worse to finish a book on a plane (or a car in the middle of Iowa) and not have another to start. However, I cannot imagine a world without the ability to curl up on a cold winter night, tucked under a blanket, with a good book. I can't imagine losing the ability to run to my local Borders and grab that new release I have been waiting months for; the sound of the binding as it's opened for the first time, the smell of the paper and ink, the feel of the paper as I turn the page. These are the things I would miss, these are the things that my children could miss.
Therefore, I am making a declaration right here, right now... I am on team book. In my epic battle of the world of books vs. the world of eReaders, books win. In the perfectly written words of my dear friend, S, "I'll be reading actual books when I'm 80 and people will think I'm eccentric." I'm okay being the batty old lady on the corner who still reads those crazy paper books.
Sit back and really think about it... Do you love to read or do you love books? Some of you are thinking that it's the same thing, but is it? Is it really?
I have spent my life surrounded by readers. I have millions of memories of my Dad, in at least half of them (probably more) he has a book in his hand. Dinner's were spent listening to my dad and sister talk about books and stories they had read. Although my Mom rarely read for entertainment, she spent a lot of time with her head buried in a book, furthering her knowledge. Everytime we would visit my Aunt we would leave with a paper bag (or two) full of books that had been passed around our family. Books were comfortable, they were somewhere to get lost and found at the same time.
I will never forget the moment I bought the book that turned me into a reader. I was eight years old and we were at Meadowbrook Mall in Pittsburg, KS for one of our many trips to Waldenbooks. I loved these trips with my Dad, we would pick out a book then go to Baskin Robbins for ice cream (typically a double scoop of vanilla and strawberry). While sitting on the floor of the tiny store, perusing the small selection of Independent Reader books, I stumbled across Noel Streatfield's Gemma. While the book has been passed off as unremarkable and even messy, I fell in love with it. I devoured the other three books in the series and was sad to see Gemma say Goodbye to her cousins in the final book. For the first time I understood what it meant to really immerse yourself in a book, to fall in love with the characters and long for more. It was the day I fell in love with reading.
I am constantly looking for a book that will have that impact on Izzy and once we find it, I will begin searching for Eli's then Emmy's. It is so important to me that my kids know what it feels like to get lost in a book. To be able to leave everything behind and escape to another place, another time, another world. However, as brick and mortar bookstores struggle to stay in business I fear my kids will never have a moment like mine. They may never have the opportunity to experience the moment where they find THE book that will make them fall desperately in love with reading and that terrifies me.
I do recognize the pull of the eReader. They are convenient and they hold a lot of books in one place. As a reader, I get how irritating it can be to lug 3 or 4 different books on a trip, or even worse to finish a book on a plane (or a car in the middle of Iowa) and not have another to start. However, I cannot imagine a world without the ability to curl up on a cold winter night, tucked under a blanket, with a good book. I can't imagine losing the ability to run to my local Borders and grab that new release I have been waiting months for; the sound of the binding as it's opened for the first time, the smell of the paper and ink, the feel of the paper as I turn the page. These are the things I would miss, these are the things that my children could miss.
Therefore, I am making a declaration right here, right now... I am on team book. In my epic battle of the world of books vs. the world of eReaders, books win. In the perfectly written words of my dear friend, S, "I'll be reading actual books when I'm 80 and people will think I'm eccentric." I'm okay being the batty old lady on the corner who still reads those crazy paper books.
Sit back and really think about it... Do you love to read or do you love books? Some of you are thinking that it's the same thing, but is it? Is it really?
Monday, January 24, 2011
Happy Birthday, Izzy and Jon
On January 13th, Jon and Izzy celebrated their birthday.
Izzy got a new bike this year, as she had outgrown her old one. It is not horribly easy to find a bike that fits all of this 8 year olds needs. Which was really only one requirement, NO PINK! Jon and I spent a few hours (or weeks) looking at bikes and every single girl bike had some sort of pink. The boy bikes were covered in blues and greens, but not the right blues or greens. We finally broke down and decided that we would just let Izzy pick out her own bike. So, the Saturday before their birthday, Izzy and Jon went on a bike finding mission. Luckily they found the perfect bike and Izzy is in love...
Izzy aka Isobel
Isobel has had an internal struggle regarding a nickname for some time. She likes the name Isobel, and she doesn't mind that Jon and I call her Bel, but she never wanted the teachers or her friends to call her Bel. Over the years, her friends have been calling her Izzy, but she was never willing to make it her official nickname. I can only imagine that a bit of her hesitance came from my begging to please not make us call her Izzy. Alas, the first week of school I attended the orientation in her class room. I sat down at her seat in the corner and read her name tag, Izzy. After that, it was official. Every communication I get from her teacher refers to her as Izzy and all her friends call her Izzy.
I guess it is time I accept the fact that my little girls is big enough to make some decisions on her own, and this is the first.
Therefore, I proudly introduce you to Izzy:
First Day of School
Okay... I realize it is January, but the kids did have a first day of school, in fact there were three very distinct first days of school this year.
First, we sent Isobel off to her first day of 2nd grade. As I look back on this blog and look at the pictures of her first day of preschool I am shocked by how much she has grown. It is an amazing adventure watching your kids grow up, I love every minute of it. Here she is, on her way to 2nd grade.
Two days later, I put my little Eli on the bus for his first day of kindergarten. He seems to have some anxiety regarding change, so I was concerned how he would react when it came time to get on the bus. He was the one that I thought would cling and have a tough time separating... I was wrong. He flew on that bus and was ready to go. I guess I should pat myself on the back for his strength of character and courage, but I pouted a little. I am glad he went willingly, but a little, bitty part of my heart broke when I watched my handsome boy happily driven away from me.
Just a few weeks after my heartbreak, Emmy enjoyed her first day of Preschool. She is in the same class at Lakeview that Eli was in (with the same teachers). It is a little surreal to have her attend the same preschool I was carrying her into before she could walk. It allows me to see how much she has grown. I often look at her like she is still a baby (I know it is the baby child syndrome), to see her in this environment forces me to see that she is no longer a baby. I have to admit, I am not sad about this, if there is one thing I know it is that I am over the baby years.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)