According to MSNBC, Terri Schiavo has died. God rest her soul and let the healing of her loved ones begin. May she, her husband, her family and friends finally be at peace.
Here is the lesson that came to me out of all of this:
I believe this case ended up in the forefront to help us see how important it is to have your wishes in writing.
What should you do now?
Don't put your loved ones in the kind of position we've all witnessed over the past two weeks. For yourself, your spouse (partner, friend, future spouse, whomever...) get yourself a living will. Don't wait. You can get information about them from your doctor, local hospitals, the internet. There are tons of places on the web to create one relatively cheap.
Life is terminal. Something tragic could happen to you today, tomorrow, next week... Stop pretending these things happen to other people. Protect your family and loved ones. Take the responsibility off of them. Let them know what you want them to do if, God forbid, the unexpected happens to you.
That is all I have to say about this.
End of rant.
Now, if you haven't already done so...
go get a living will.
3.31.2005
3.30.2005
JTC has a website!
JTC and I just put up the beginnings of his new website using HostBaby. Now, bear with us, it is not completely cooked yet, so keep checking back. We've got tons of stuff to add and tweak.
John's going to work on adding stuff to his gear page, adding more dates to the calendar section and we'll also be uploading some better photos to the gallery (those are FPO right now so we could see what it looked like).
John's going to work on adding stuff to his gear page, adding more dates to the calendar section and we'll also be uploading some better photos to the gallery (those are FPO right now so we could see what it looked like).
My aching head.
Well... it's been headachesville for me today. Not sure if I'm getting re-sick or if my sinuses are protesting the pollen and green stuff emerging with all of the recent rain.
Either way... I'm thinking I'll head home after my 3 p.m. meeting and try this whole thing again tomorrow.
Either way... I'm thinking I'll head home after my 3 p.m. meeting and try this whole thing again tomorrow.
3.29.2005
BMT at Frist Friday...THIS WEEK.
Blue Mother Tupelo is playing at Frist Fridays this week from 6 - 9 p.m.
WHOOHOOOOOO!
Come out and enjoy good art, good food, good music and drink!
I'll be there.
Will YOU be there?
WHOOHOOOOOO!
Come out and enjoy good art, good food, good music and drink!
I'll be there.
Will YOU be there?
Can you blame her?
Ok... I probably shouldn't admit this, but I'm not the suing kind. But, in this instance (don't click it Lindadblu... it's a link to the "bad" chili post), I really can't blame this woman for suing. Just reading about it caused me trauma. I can't even imagine what she must be going through. I don't think I'd ever want to eat at a restaurant... or at all for that matter... again after having this happen.
yyyyeeeeeeeuuuuuck.
yyyyeeeeeeeuuuuuck.
3.28.2005
Easter Weekend Wrap-up
Friday, I left work early, went to Good Friday services and then went home to do absolutely nothing. It felt GREAT.
Saturday, I met Lindadblu for coffee at 7 a.m. We hung out at Starbucks for an hour or so. Then I had choir rehearsal from 10 - 1 ish to get one final practice in before Easter services yesterday. After rehearsal, Linda and I hooked up again for an adult beverage at Johnathans. Then Saturday night, strict vocal rest, cleaning and watching Briget Jones (that I borrowed from Linda) were on the agenda. (Cute flick. But, I liked the first one better.)
Sunday, Easter services at CLC. Both services were incredible. The message was right on. Everything was working together to make for one of my most memorable Easter's services ever. As for my "I know my redeemer liveth" solo, both services went well, but my favorite was the second service because I was able to sing the entire song (The church was packed!). I really love that song. The words are so powerful.
Then, Michelle, Eric and Bob came over. We celebrated Easter with hamburgers on the grill, pasta salad, parsley creamed potatoes and tons of good conversation.
The BEST moment of the day was John's arrival home at around 7 p.m. Whoohooooo. Sure is good to have him back. (He'd been out on a Florida tour with BMT since 3/18) We grabbed a quick dinner at Las Palmas and were sleeping soundly by 9:30 or so.
How'd your weekend go?
Saturday, I met Lindadblu for coffee at 7 a.m. We hung out at Starbucks for an hour or so. Then I had choir rehearsal from 10 - 1 ish to get one final practice in before Easter services yesterday. After rehearsal, Linda and I hooked up again for an adult beverage at Johnathans. Then Saturday night, strict vocal rest, cleaning and watching Briget Jones (that I borrowed from Linda) were on the agenda. (Cute flick. But, I liked the first one better.)
Sunday, Easter services at CLC. Both services were incredible. The message was right on. Everything was working together to make for one of my most memorable Easter's services ever. As for my "I know my redeemer liveth" solo, both services went well, but my favorite was the second service because I was able to sing the entire song (The church was packed!). I really love that song. The words are so powerful.
Then, Michelle, Eric and Bob came over. We celebrated Easter with hamburgers on the grill, pasta salad, parsley creamed potatoes and tons of good conversation.
The BEST moment of the day was John's arrival home at around 7 p.m. Whoohooooo. Sure is good to have him back. (He'd been out on a Florida tour with BMT since 3/18) We grabbed a quick dinner at Las Palmas and were sleeping soundly by 9:30 or so.
How'd your weekend go?
3.25.2005
Easter Sunday invitation.
If you would like to attend church on Easter Sunday but don't already have a particular one in mind, I invite you to attend one of CLC's Easter Services. It is a small church (300 people tops) and very cool. No formalities or evangelical fanaticism... just some really good, down-to-earth people gettin' together to worship.
6:30 a.m. Easter Sunrise Service (although you won't see me at that one!).
8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Easter Services
During communion at these services, I'm singing "I Know My Redeemer Liveth" from Handel's Messiah. Then, at the end of the service, the choir is singing the "Hallelujah Chorus" from the Messiah.
The youth of CLC are also serving breakfast before both the 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services... so you can get some good Lutheran food, too. We don't do much of anything that doesn't involve food!
Here's where CLC is located:
Christ Lutheran Church
299 Haywood Lane
Nashville, TN 37211
615-833-0476
6:30 a.m. Easter Sunrise Service (although you won't see me at that one!).
8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Easter Services
During communion at these services, I'm singing "I Know My Redeemer Liveth" from Handel's Messiah. Then, at the end of the service, the choir is singing the "Hallelujah Chorus" from the Messiah.
The youth of CLC are also serving breakfast before both the 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services... so you can get some good Lutheran food, too. We don't do much of anything that doesn't involve food!
Here's where CLC is located:
Christ Lutheran Church
299 Haywood Lane
Nashville, TN 37211
615-833-0476
Eeeeewww.
Not that I eat a lot of Wendy's chili... but you can guarantee I won't be eating it ever again.
Search continues for origin of finger found in Wendy's chili
I feel sick.
Search continues for origin of finger found in Wendy's chili
I feel sick.
BMT's Last FL Show
Spoke to JTC this morning. The gig at Big Pine went great last night. And, BMT is now on their way to the last gig on the Florida trip. From the sounds of it, they'll travel a little more than half way back home tomorrow and then finish the trip on Sunday... which puts them arriving in Nashville somewhere around 8 or 9 p.m. Easter day.
Whoohoooo!
Whoohoooo!
3.24.2005
Seinfeld's TV Dad is gone.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Barney Martin, a former New York City detective who went into show business and became best known for playing Jerry Seinfeld's father Morty on the comedian's hit television series, has died. He was 82. >>Read more at USA Today
We'll miss you Morty.
Joke-e-oke?
That's right... Joke-e-oke.
Not Kareoke.
Joke-e-oke.
Apparently a guy in SF has come up with it.
The premise: Instead of singing your favorite tunes out of tune, you perform your favorite stand-up comedian schtick. There is a laugh track and everything.
Intriguing.
What the heck?!
I'd try it... at least once.
Not Kareoke.
Joke-e-oke.
Apparently a guy in SF has come up with it.
The premise: Instead of singing your favorite tunes out of tune, you perform your favorite stand-up comedian schtick. There is a laugh track and everything.
Intriguing.
What the heck?!
I'd try it... at least once.
Mr. Roboto Blogger Event
Wish I could have been there last night... but duty called. Couldn't miss choir rehearsal with Easter Sunday coming up this weekend and all. I'm singing "I Know My Redeemer Liveth" from the Messiah and didn't want to risk drinking smoking talking too much. You know...drinking smoking talking is hard on the voice! (especially my low-hard-to-hear-above-the-bar-noise voice.) Got to be able to hit that high A on Sunday!
Talked to LindaDblu this morning, and it sounds like it was a blast. Plus, I've seen the pics and read all of several reviews via RSS. Hope I can make it to the next one.
There is going to be a next one, right?!
Talked to LindaDblu this morning, and it sounds like it was a blast. Plus, I've seen the pics and read all of several reviews via RSS. Hope I can make it to the next one.
There is going to be a next one, right?!
I'm a Rejected Blood Donor.
Well, I just tried to give blood... but was REJECTED. My iron is too low. (It's 35 but it is supposed to be at least 38 to give.) So, they gave me a little packet of information about raising my iron level, a box of raisins and sent me on my way.
Good news is I'm still eligible for the prize drawings ($100 or a car detail) at work because I tried. AND, CLC is having the bloodmobile come on 4/3, so I'll try again then.
But, just because I couldn't give, doesn't mean you can't!
You are welcome to come to the CLC on 4/3 and give, too.
Go for it.
"The life you save may be your own."
Good news is I'm still eligible for the prize drawings ($100 or a car detail) at work because I tried. AND, CLC is having the bloodmobile come on 4/3, so I'll try again then.
But, just because I couldn't give, doesn't mean you can't!
You are welcome to come to the CLC on 4/3 and give, too.
Go for it.
"The life you save may be your own."
JTC's B-day in the Keys
Well... JTC is having a GREAT Birthday in the Florida Keys today.
At midnight, Micol and Ricky helped me out by delivering a cake to John on stage. He said he was totally surprised. (Thanks to Micol and Ricky for helping him start the his big day with a bang.)
I also sang "Happy Birthday" into JTC's cell phone voice mail at Midnight. Sure wish I were there with him!
He said the gig went great at the Green Parrot last night and that they had tons of college kids there. Everyone was telling them that they need to be on the Bonnaroo line-up. Wouldn't that be cool?! Who knows, maybe they can make it happen this year.
BMT is now on their way to Big Pine. Sounds like David Lee Slate and a couple friends who are in the Keys for the winter will be stopping out to see them. Very cool.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JTC!
At midnight, Micol and Ricky helped me out by delivering a cake to John on stage. He said he was totally surprised. (Thanks to Micol and Ricky for helping him start the his big day with a bang.)
I also sang "Happy Birthday" into JTC's cell phone voice mail at Midnight. Sure wish I were there with him!
He said the gig went great at the Green Parrot last night and that they had tons of college kids there. Everyone was telling them that they need to be on the Bonnaroo line-up. Wouldn't that be cool?! Who knows, maybe they can make it happen this year.
BMT is now on their way to Big Pine. Sounds like David Lee Slate and a couple friends who are in the Keys for the winter will be stopping out to see them. Very cool.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JTC!
3.23.2005
American Idol Re-vote
Well, this year's AI contestants are actually impressing me a little. Unfortunately, there was a technical glitch last night and the wrong phone numbers aired under the contestants. So, they are re-airing the show tonight to give us all a chance to re-vote.
The Green Parrot & Cuban Coffee
Just talked to JTC. The gig at the Green Parrot went great last night. According to John, the club was really happy and they had a good-sized crowd. Sounds like there were more people there than they normally have on a Tuesday night. AND, by all reports they loved BMT. Very cool. They are playing there again tonight. Hopefully the word will spread about BMT and the crowd will be even bigger tonight!
When I spoke with John, he was walking down the street in Key West searching for a coffee shop with Cuban coffe and web access. (The "band house" provided by the club doesn't have a phone so he's hoping to find a cafe where he can plug in.) Sounds like Micol and Ricky are going to do a little sight seeing and maybe hit the beach this afternoon. John is going to hang and do his own thing... give himself a little down time... maybe take a nap (in the sun I hope!).
This is going to sound weird, but it sounded sunny and warm when I was talking to John. Wish I was there!
When I spoke with John, he was walking down the street in Key West searching for a coffee shop with Cuban coffe and web access. (The "band house" provided by the club doesn't have a phone so he's hoping to find a cafe where he can plug in.) Sounds like Micol and Ricky are going to do a little sight seeing and maybe hit the beach this afternoon. John is going to hang and do his own thing... give himself a little down time... maybe take a nap (in the sun I hope!).
This is going to sound weird, but it sounded sunny and warm when I was talking to John. Wish I was there!
3.22.2005
10.2 pounds...
BTW: As of yesterday, I've lost 10.2 pounds over the last six weeks. WHOHOOOO.
Now, if I really applied myself a little harder, I could probably double that in the next six weeks. So far, the only thing I've done is cut down portion sizes and eat more fruits and veggies.
Must get to using my mini-stepper 15 minutes at a time.
Now, if I really applied myself a little harder, I could probably double that in the next six weeks. So far, the only thing I've done is cut down portion sizes and eat more fruits and veggies.
Must get to using my mini-stepper 15 minutes at a time.
Mini Step & Flex 2.0
Yesterday, the Mini Step & Flex I ordered from Sharper Image arrived. It's pretty cool for the most part.
Two things kind of annoyed me though...
1. There is no tension adjustment (which I thought there was when I researched it)
2. And, in the instructions it says not to use for more than 15 minutes at a time or the hydraulic cylinders will get too hot. 15 minutes? I want to exercise for more than 15 minutes at a time.
That's ridiculous.
Two things kind of annoyed me though...
1. There is no tension adjustment (which I thought there was when I researched it)
2. And, in the instructions it says not to use for more than 15 minutes at a time or the hydraulic cylinders will get too hot. 15 minutes? I want to exercise for more than 15 minutes at a time.
That's ridiculous.
3.21.2005
VP, CMT Dukes of Hazzard Institute
OK...I know this is hard to believe...but this is an actual job listing that my friend Randy just told me about. (Almost makes me wish I were a Dukes of Hazzard wonk.)
He's a year WISER.
It's my Dad's birthday today.
He's not a year older... he's a year WISER.
Happy Birthday!
He's not a year older... he's a year WISER.
Happy Birthday!
JTC Florida Update
So far, so good.
Friday night's gig ended up not happening. It's a very long story...but the short of it is that the club owner didn't want to pay them because they would have been unavoidably late. An accident closed the interstate, stalling BMT for more than two hours. The guy was a jerk about the situation, so, BMT ended up not playing at all Friday night. Instead, they stayed at Ricky's uncle's in Atlanta.
While BMT's tour got off to a rocky start in GA on Friday, it sounds like the Florida leg of the tour is going great. Saturday was a new day. The Homegrown Pow Wow was a hit and had a very cool vibe. Its organizers (Big Chief and Swamprose) are artists. Big Chief painted BMT a few years ago and they gave them a CD in return. Now BMT's playing at their pow wow.
Another interesting discovery at the pow wow gig plays into the "six degrees of separation rule." Big Chief is Stan Strickland's brother. Stan Strickland is a man I sat next to on a plane to Tampa last fall. He works with artists here in Nashville (big ones) and we had a nice talk. At the time, I mentioned BMT to him and he had heard of them. For the past couple months, Ricky and Micol have actually been trying to connect with Stan. Last week they got a call from some guy saying he was Big Chief's brother. What Ricky didn't realize it was actually Stan returning his call and Stan didn't explain who he was. Ricky thought it was just someone checking in on them about the gig last week and that was pretty much the conversation. Needless to say, BMT will probably be calling Stan back to explain. What a hoot! Pretty cool. There's so much more to this story... but let's just say it is a small world.
Yesterday and today, BMT's been traveling across and down the entire state of Florida to reach the Keys. Just got an e-mail from JTC to let me know they are now in Key West and getting ready to head out for the gig tonight. Hopefully they'll be able to get some sun during the next three days since they are staying in one place for a while.
Blah blah blah.
More tomorrow.
I miss JTC.
BB
Friday night's gig ended up not happening. It's a very long story...but the short of it is that the club owner didn't want to pay them because they would have been unavoidably late. An accident closed the interstate, stalling BMT for more than two hours. The guy was a jerk about the situation, so, BMT ended up not playing at all Friday night. Instead, they stayed at Ricky's uncle's in Atlanta.
While BMT's tour got off to a rocky start in GA on Friday, it sounds like the Florida leg of the tour is going great. Saturday was a new day. The Homegrown Pow Wow was a hit and had a very cool vibe. Its organizers (Big Chief and Swamprose) are artists. Big Chief painted BMT a few years ago and they gave them a CD in return. Now BMT's playing at their pow wow.
Another interesting discovery at the pow wow gig plays into the "six degrees of separation rule." Big Chief is Stan Strickland's brother. Stan Strickland is a man I sat next to on a plane to Tampa last fall. He works with artists here in Nashville (big ones) and we had a nice talk. At the time, I mentioned BMT to him and he had heard of them. For the past couple months, Ricky and Micol have actually been trying to connect with Stan. Last week they got a call from some guy saying he was Big Chief's brother. What Ricky didn't realize it was actually Stan returning his call and Stan didn't explain who he was. Ricky thought it was just someone checking in on them about the gig last week and that was pretty much the conversation. Needless to say, BMT will probably be calling Stan back to explain. What a hoot! Pretty cool. There's so much more to this story... but let's just say it is a small world.
Yesterday and today, BMT's been traveling across and down the entire state of Florida to reach the Keys. Just got an e-mail from JTC to let me know they are now in Key West and getting ready to head out for the gig tonight. Hopefully they'll be able to get some sun during the next three days since they are staying in one place for a while.
Blah blah blah.
More tomorrow.
I miss JTC.
BB
3.18.2005
Jonell Mosser at 3rd & Lindsley
Just wanted to make sure you knew that Jonell Mosser is playing the 10 p.m. show at 3rd & Lindsley tomorrow(Saturday, 3/19). I'm going to be there along with other friends.
I'd love to have you join me if you can swing it!
BB
UPDATE:
Jonell's show was GREAT and the place was packed. She was on fire. The band consisted of members of her old band (Tom Brit - Vince Gill's guitar player, Dennis Burnside on keys, Don Johnson - bass, and Rick Reed - drums.) These guys give her power and there was no stopping her. The crowd loved it. And, an extra bonus for the night, Emily and Lynn came up from Tampa to surprise her and the result was excellent. When Jonell saw them she was stunned. Very cool.
WARNING - BEGINNING OF RANT:
On the other hand...I have to vent about something...
It's too bad Jonell's management / label (whomever) can't figure out that the audience that loves Jonell, loves her music and her soul. They aren't looking for young, hot (cheap) band members who can't play the material musically. (Last year they got rid of all the people she's played with for year to hire a new "more hip" band.) They aren't looking for a "Britney Spears" version of Jonell. Jonell is incredible. She's full of soul. She's beautiful and she's got "it". I don't understand how a manager / label, can sign her and then try to completely change her. She's been doing this her whole life. If you didn't like what she was doing, why did you sign her in the first place? Somehow, they are totally missing the point and I'm afraid the only thing getting hurt in the process is Jonell's future. Time is slipping away.
There is also an obviously HUGE opportunity to sell her new CDs at her gigs. If I had 50 people ask me for a new CD, I had 100. Jonell's new CD has been complete for over a year but they won't give her any to sell. Saturday night, her manager was in NY. No CDs could be had. Why would a label spend money producing, designing, manufacturing a CD and then not release it. (This puzzles me on many levels. I know it happens all the time, but it doesn't sound like a good business model to me. Hmmmm...maybe that's why so many big labels are struggling. No vision... no business model...hmmmm. Well... I guess that is a rant for another day. Back to Jonell...) Last time this happened, I was told that they were trying to "create excitement and anticipation" and wanted to have a "CD Release party" to get the new CD launched. Well...the opportunity is almost past folks. By the time they actually let her sell the CDs, the material is going to be old, her audience is going to be frustrated and she isn't going to want to sing it anymore. AAAAAAAAhhhhhh.
I don't get it.
END OF RANT.
I'd love to have you join me if you can swing it!
BB
UPDATE:
Jonell's show was GREAT and the place was packed. She was on fire. The band consisted of members of her old band (Tom Brit - Vince Gill's guitar player, Dennis Burnside on keys, Don Johnson - bass, and Rick Reed - drums.) These guys give her power and there was no stopping her. The crowd loved it. And, an extra bonus for the night, Emily and Lynn came up from Tampa to surprise her and the result was excellent. When Jonell saw them she was stunned. Very cool.
WARNING - BEGINNING OF RANT:
On the other hand...I have to vent about something...
It's too bad Jonell's management / label (whomever) can't figure out that the audience that loves Jonell, loves her music and her soul. They aren't looking for young, hot (cheap) band members who can't play the material musically. (Last year they got rid of all the people she's played with for year to hire a new "more hip" band.) They aren't looking for a "Britney Spears" version of Jonell. Jonell is incredible. She's full of soul. She's beautiful and she's got "it". I don't understand how a manager / label, can sign her and then try to completely change her. She's been doing this her whole life. If you didn't like what she was doing, why did you sign her in the first place? Somehow, they are totally missing the point and I'm afraid the only thing getting hurt in the process is Jonell's future. Time is slipping away.
There is also an obviously HUGE opportunity to sell her new CDs at her gigs. If I had 50 people ask me for a new CD, I had 100. Jonell's new CD has been complete for over a year but they won't give her any to sell. Saturday night, her manager was in NY. No CDs could be had. Why would a label spend money producing, designing, manufacturing a CD and then not release it. (This puzzles me on many levels. I know it happens all the time, but it doesn't sound like a good business model to me. Hmmmm...maybe that's why so many big labels are struggling. No vision... no business model...hmmmm. Well... I guess that is a rant for another day. Back to Jonell...) Last time this happened, I was told that they were trying to "create excitement and anticipation" and wanted to have a "CD Release party" to get the new CD launched. Well...the opportunity is almost past folks. By the time they actually let her sell the CDs, the material is going to be old, her audience is going to be frustrated and she isn't going to want to sing it anymore. AAAAAAAAhhhhhh.
I don't get it.
END OF RANT.
This I believe...
NPR invites you to tell them about the principles by which you live and the people and events that have shaped your beliefs in an essay to be considered for broadcast on NPR. See the essay writing instructions for details.
This I believe...
I believe we don't spend enough time thinking about the beliefs that guide our daily lives... or lack there of. I believe if more people acted on their true core beliefs, we'd all lead much happier and less fearful lives. I believe if we support this effort, we can help people think about someone besides themselves. I believe everyone has something to say about this... they just might not know it yet.
Go ahead.
Click the link.
Write an essay.
You'll be glad you did it.
AND... you just might hear your ideas read on NPR one day.
How cool is that?!
This I believe...
I believe we don't spend enough time thinking about the beliefs that guide our daily lives... or lack there of. I believe if more people acted on their true core beliefs, we'd all lead much happier and less fearful lives. I believe if we support this effort, we can help people think about someone besides themselves. I believe everyone has something to say about this... they just might not know it yet.
Go ahead.
Click the link.
Write an essay.
You'll be glad you did it.
AND... you just might hear your ideas read on NPR one day.
How cool is that?!
BB's Blog makes Rexblog...
Oh yeah... I forgot to tell you that while on a plane to DC with Rex last week, he let me know that he actually posted about BB's Blog on his blog.
Lindadblu reminded me of it in a meeting this morning, so I thought I'd find the post and tell you about it.
Here's the deal:
Apparently, another blogger posted about how white guys only link to other white guys blogs and issued a challenge for everyone to introduce ten new blog voices that weren't white men. Blah, blah, blah... (Wow. I don't think I've ever used the word white three times in a sentence before.) Anyway, so, Rex rose to the occassion (no pun intended) and posted links to several Nashville female bloggers and the likes. BB's Blog made his list. Whohoooo.
Thanks, Rex!
I now haveone eight readers.
Lindadblu reminded me of it in a meeting this morning, so I thought I'd find the post and tell you about it.
Here's the deal:
Apparently, another blogger posted about how white guys only link to other white guys blogs and issued a challenge for everyone to introduce ten new blog voices that weren't white men. Blah, blah, blah... (Wow. I don't think I've ever used the word white three times in a sentence before.) Anyway, so, Rex rose to the occassion (no pun intended) and posted links to several Nashville female bloggers and the likes. BB's Blog made his list. Whohoooo.
Thanks, Rex!
I now have
JTC leaves for GA & FL today.
Just left JTC as he was making final preparations to go on tour of Georgia and Florida with Blue Mother Tupelo. Sure am gonna miss him the next ten days. He'll get back to Nashville Easter night.
Stop on in if you're in the area... or if you need an excuse to go to Key West!
Here is the tour line-up:
Friday, March 18
CHIP'S BAR & GRILL
Winder, GA
Show begins at 9:30PM
Saturday, March 19
HOMEGROWN POW WOW ART AND MUSIC FEST
Panama City, FL
Art show begins at Noon
BMT begins at 5:00pm
Monday, March 21
SCHOONER'S WHARF BAR
Key West, FL
Show starts at 8:00PM
Tuesday, March 22
THE GREEN PARROT
Key West, FL
Show starts at 9:00PM
Wednesday, March 23
THE GREEN PARROT
Key West, FL
Show starts at 9:00PM
(JTC's 35th Birthday!)
Thursday, March 24
BIG PINE HOUSE OF MUSIC
Big Pine Key, FL
Show starts at 7:00PM
Friday, March 25
WILLIE T'S
Key West, FL
Show starts at 8:00PM
Stop on in if you're in the area... or if you need an excuse to go to Key West!
Here is the tour line-up:
Friday, March 18
CHIP'S BAR & GRILL
Winder, GA
Show begins at 9:30PM
Saturday, March 19
HOMEGROWN POW WOW ART AND MUSIC FEST
Panama City, FL
Art show begins at Noon
BMT begins at 5:00pm
Monday, March 21
SCHOONER'S WHARF BAR
Key West, FL
Show starts at 8:00PM
Tuesday, March 22
THE GREEN PARROT
Key West, FL
Show starts at 9:00PM
Wednesday, March 23
THE GREEN PARROT
Key West, FL
Show starts at 9:00PM
(JTC's 35th Birthday!)
Thursday, March 24
BIG PINE HOUSE OF MUSIC
Big Pine Key, FL
Show starts at 7:00PM
Friday, March 25
WILLIE T'S
Key West, FL
Show starts at 8:00PM
3.17.2005
What kind of elitist are you?
OK...I know these things are cheesy, but I couldn't help it. I took the quiz after seeing it on Pink Kitty's blog. Here's what it said about me:
"Your CD collection is almost as big as your ego,and you can most likely play an instrument or three. You're a real hit at parties, but you're SO above karaoke.
What people love: You're instant entertainment... unless you play the obo.
What people hate: Your tendency to sing louder than the radio and compare everything to a freaking song. "
Scary, isn't it?
What Kind of Elitist Are You
brought to you by Quizilla
"Your CD collection is almost as big as your ego,and you can most likely play an instrument or three. You're a real hit at parties, but you're SO above karaoke.
What people love: You're instant entertainment... unless you play the obo.
What people hate: Your tendency to sing louder than the radio and compare everything to a freaking song. "
Scary, isn't it?
What Kind of Elitist Are You
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Visiting JTC's family.
With the exception of feeling sick (for over a week now... arrrrrgggghhhh), our trip to Iowa was really nice. It was so good to see everyone and be home. John and I were able to take one last walk around his Grandpa (Matt) and Grandma's(Rosemary) farm before it is auctioned in April. It was their home for over 60 years and John has tons of memories there.
While it is sad for everyone, it is also a good thing. Matt turns 90 on April 30. Believe it or not, he didn't stop farming until he was 88. And, if he hadn't had complications from a foot injury, he'd probably still be out there farming. As it is, he's in the good hands of the Sigourney Nursing Home and Rosemary (84) has moved into an apartment a few blocks away. She can now visit him daily and Gertie (and her sisters) have peace of mind that they are both okay.
We also got to see Tommy, Minnie, Grace and Brooke while we were home. On Saturday night we went out to eat at Smokey Joe's and then had a little birthday party and cake for JTC at Tom and Minnie's. (John's turning 35 next week.) Yummy!
Sunday night, Julie and Jason came over and we feasted once again on Subway sandwiches donated by Tom, Sr. Good stuff.
On Monday, we drove back to Nashville in record time... 8 hours 59 minutes. How'd we do that? Two very fast bathroom / gas / food stops and no road construction to speak of. Whew!
While it is sad for everyone, it is also a good thing. Matt turns 90 on April 30. Believe it or not, he didn't stop farming until he was 88. And, if he hadn't had complications from a foot injury, he'd probably still be out there farming. As it is, he's in the good hands of the Sigourney Nursing Home and Rosemary (84) has moved into an apartment a few blocks away. She can now visit him daily and Gertie (and her sisters) have peace of mind that they are both okay.
We also got to see Tommy, Minnie, Grace and Brooke while we were home. On Saturday night we went out to eat at Smokey Joe's and then had a little birthday party and cake for JTC at Tom and Minnie's. (John's turning 35 next week.) Yummy!
Sunday night, Julie and Jason came over and we feasted once again on Subway sandwiches donated by Tom, Sr. Good stuff.
On Monday, we drove back to Nashville in record time... 8 hours 59 minutes. How'd we do that? Two very fast bathroom / gas / food stops and no road construction to speak of. Whew!
Politics Online Conference
Went to the Politics Online Conference in DC last week. It was basically the same conference I went to the previous year... a little disappointing, but I was able to get a few ideas anyway. Rather than go over all the details and opinions, click here to go to Hammockman's post about the event. It's right on target.
3.11.2005
DC and Iowa
Hey friends! I just realized that I neglected to let you know that I'm away from a computer for a few days.
3/10 - 11: I'm in DC at the Politics Online Conference George Washington University. So far...it's a snoozer, but I'm hoping today is better.
Tonight I'm flying back...but not to Nashville. Instead, I'm flying into St. Louis where JTC will pick me up so we can travel to Iowa for a visit at the Richardsons.
We won't be returning to Nashvegas until Monday night...so watch for my next post on Tuesday.
Have a GREAT weekend.
BB
Sent from my GoodLink Wireless Handheld (www.good.com)
3.09.2005
Nashville Star: Great show. Sucky line logistics.
John and I had a blast as audience members of Nashville Star last night. The show was GREAT. (Made me miss working in TV!)
However, the effort to get into the show was a royal @#$!&*? pain. Nashville Star needs to work on their crowd logistics and communication.
We arrived at 7:15 to meet Randi. The next 90 minutes were total chaos. Randi had VIP tickets (supposedly no waiting) but he, (along with several other VIP ticket holders) did not know how to get the tickets. He spent the better part of an hour trying to get some answers with no luck.
Throughout the adventure, there was a man with a bull horn shouting instructions to the 1500+ people waiting in line. The crowd could not hear or understand anything he was saying. So, after a while, I couldn't take it anymore. I went up to the guy with the bull horn, told them who we were and he immediately had our group get together and wait next to the entrance.
In the meantime, my friend Laura walked through (she's friends with Anastasia - Nashville Star judge) and had extra VIP tickets. So, John and I used those extra tickets and went on in.
The rest of our group wasn't far behind and we all ended up sitting in the same area.
What a mess!
Once we were actually in, we had incredible seats (Row F seats 1 & 2 in the Bellsouth Theatre next to the Opryland Hotel) just a few seats to the left of Phil Vassar. We were in the thick of everything and loved it.
Montgomery Gentry performed a song written by Jeffrey Steele and Bob DiPiero, "Gone." Good stuff.
Then, the show proceeded. Throughout the night, John and I formed opinions of our favorites and what we thought of the judge's comments.
From a "whole package" perspective, I like Justin David and Tamika Tyler (Randi's friend). They seem to have some staying power. Jason Meadows was good, too. And, I like Jayron Weaver's voice (He sang "Broken Road" better than the lead Rascal Flatts guy... "flat" being the key descriptor of the group's lead singer) but he needs to work on his presence and performance.
Really though, overall, it was hard to pick. I can see why the judges have a hard time finding something bad to say! Phil Vassar's feedback was pretty benign. He loved everybody. I think Anastasia practiced what she was going to say using last week's show...cause a couple of the things she said made me think she wasn't watching the same show as we were watching. Bret Michaels actually had some pretty constructive feedback...when he wasn't commenting on the "hotness" of the female contestants.
This show is WAY more legitimate than American Idol in that the contestants seem to be real musicians and performers. They play instruments, write songs and are used to performing with a live band. While I enjoy watching American Idol, the show is a glorified kareoke compared to Nashville Star.
If you live in the Nashville area, I would definitely recommend getting tickets and suffering through standing in line to see the show. It was well worth the trouble.
However, the effort to get into the show was a royal @#$!&*? pain. Nashville Star needs to work on their crowd logistics and communication.
We arrived at 7:15 to meet Randi. The next 90 minutes were total chaos. Randi had VIP tickets (supposedly no waiting) but he, (along with several other VIP ticket holders) did not know how to get the tickets. He spent the better part of an hour trying to get some answers with no luck.
Throughout the adventure, there was a man with a bull horn shouting instructions to the 1500+ people waiting in line. The crowd could not hear or understand anything he was saying. So, after a while, I couldn't take it anymore. I went up to the guy with the bull horn, told them who we were and he immediately had our group get together and wait next to the entrance.
In the meantime, my friend Laura walked through (she's friends with Anastasia - Nashville Star judge) and had extra VIP tickets. So, John and I used those extra tickets and went on in.
The rest of our group wasn't far behind and we all ended up sitting in the same area.
What a mess!
Once we were actually in, we had incredible seats (Row F seats 1 & 2 in the Bellsouth Theatre next to the Opryland Hotel) just a few seats to the left of Phil Vassar. We were in the thick of everything and loved it.
Montgomery Gentry performed a song written by Jeffrey Steele and Bob DiPiero, "Gone." Good stuff.
Then, the show proceeded. Throughout the night, John and I formed opinions of our favorites and what we thought of the judge's comments.
From a "whole package" perspective, I like Justin David and Tamika Tyler (Randi's friend). They seem to have some staying power. Jason Meadows was good, too. And, I like Jayron Weaver's voice (He sang "Broken Road" better than the lead Rascal Flatts guy... "flat" being the key descriptor of the group's lead singer) but he needs to work on his presence and performance.
Really though, overall, it was hard to pick. I can see why the judges have a hard time finding something bad to say! Phil Vassar's feedback was pretty benign. He loved everybody. I think Anastasia practiced what she was going to say using last week's show...cause a couple of the things she said made me think she wasn't watching the same show as we were watching. Bret Michaels actually had some pretty constructive feedback...when he wasn't commenting on the "hotness" of the female contestants.
This show is WAY more legitimate than American Idol in that the contestants seem to be real musicians and performers. They play instruments, write songs and are used to performing with a live band. While I enjoy watching American Idol, the show is a glorified kareoke compared to Nashville Star.
If you live in the Nashville area, I would definitely recommend getting tickets and suffering through standing in line to see the show. It was well worth the trouble.
3.08.2005
Familiar Faces in the Audience of Nashville Star
John and I are going to be in the live audience (as opposed to a dead audience) of Nashville Star tonight. Our friend Randi Perkins is friends with one of the contestants, Tamika Tyler, and asked us if we'd like to go. Sounds like we'll be in good seats so there is a good chance you'll get a glimpse of us.
The show is live on USA at 9 p.m. (Central time) tonight.
The show is live on USA at 9 p.m. (Central time) tonight.
3.07.2005
3.03.2005
Bad starters and cam sensors
Weeeehhhhlllllllllllll... let's just say my car has not had a good last couple of days.
Yesterday, as I was parallel parking in front of the Tin Roof to meet my friend Jane for lunch, my car conked out. I clutched to put the Forester in reverse, heard a big clunking noise and the engine stopped running. At the time, I thought my foot slipped off the clutch or something and I killed it.
NOPE.
A sinking feeling came over me as I tried to restart the engine. The key turned...the CD player came back on...lights...everything. The only thing missing was that familiar sound of the starter catching. Nothing. Nada. Nilch. So, after a few choice curse words, I popped it into neutral and coasted backwards, down the hill, into the parallel spot. It was the worst parking job ever... diagonal across the spot... but at least the car was out of the street.
Next, I called my mechanic, the Subaru dealership and then the wrecker service.
Within an hour my car was safely at the dealership to be fixed.
Within two hours I knew it was going to cost over $800 to get it back.
(Yikers.)
The starter had crapped-out and my "cam sensor" was not working.
OK. No biggie. The car's paid for... its got a lot of miles on it. Things are bound to go wrong...right? At least I don't have a car payment... right?
I hitched a ride home from work last night and back to work this morning with Bob (from work). My car was supposed to be ready today. Problem solved.
Well, I just hung up the phone with the dealership. The parts for my car came in this morning. Unfortunately, they were damaged and had to be re-ordered. Guess I'm hitchin' a ride with "Bobby D's Shuttle Service" again tonight and tomorrow morning.
Keep your fingers crossed that I have a car tomorrow!
UPDATE - 03.04.05:
My car is fixed. I'm catching a ride to pick it up after work.
WHOOHOOOOOO.
Yesterday, as I was parallel parking in front of the Tin Roof to meet my friend Jane for lunch, my car conked out. I clutched to put the Forester in reverse, heard a big clunking noise and the engine stopped running. At the time, I thought my foot slipped off the clutch or something and I killed it.
NOPE.
A sinking feeling came over me as I tried to restart the engine. The key turned...the CD player came back on...lights...everything. The only thing missing was that familiar sound of the starter catching. Nothing. Nada. Nilch. So, after a few choice curse words, I popped it into neutral and coasted backwards, down the hill, into the parallel spot. It was the worst parking job ever... diagonal across the spot... but at least the car was out of the street.
Next, I called my mechanic, the Subaru dealership and then the wrecker service.
Within an hour my car was safely at the dealership to be fixed.
Within two hours I knew it was going to cost over $800 to get it back.
(Yikers.)
The starter had crapped-out and my "cam sensor" was not working.
OK. No biggie. The car's paid for... its got a lot of miles on it. Things are bound to go wrong...right? At least I don't have a car payment... right?
I hitched a ride home from work last night and back to work this morning with Bob (from work). My car was supposed to be ready today. Problem solved.
Well, I just hung up the phone with the dealership. The parts for my car came in this morning. Unfortunately, they were damaged and had to be re-ordered. Guess I'm hitchin' a ride with "Bobby D's Shuttle Service" again tonight and tomorrow morning.
Keep your fingers crossed that I have a car tomorrow!
UPDATE - 03.04.05:
My car is fixed. I'm catching a ride to pick it up after work.
WHOOHOOOOOO.
Decompress with JTC and Jeanne
Just wanted to post a quick note to let you know about TWO things you can do to decompress this weekend.
7:00
Friday, 3/4 (tomorrow night)
Blue Mother Tupelo (My favorite drummer, Johnny The Clock, plays with these guys.)
3rd & Lindsley
818 3rd Avenue South
259-9891
(They'll be done by 9 p.m., so it won't be a late night. Let me know if you're going to be able to come!)
7:30
Sunday (3/6)
Jeanne Richardson, Melissa Sigler & Dawn Leaumont
Lipstick Lounge
1400 Woodland St
226-6343
(It's a school night, I know, but we'll have you home in plenty of time to get the rest you need!)
Hope to see you at one...or BOTH!
Thanks.
J
PS: Tell all your friends!
7:00
Friday, 3/4 (tomorrow night)
Blue Mother Tupelo (My favorite drummer, Johnny The Clock, plays with these guys.)
3rd & Lindsley
818 3rd Avenue South
259-9891
(They'll be done by 9 p.m., so it won't be a late night. Let me know if you're going to be able to come!)
7:30
Sunday (3/6)
Jeanne Richardson, Melissa Sigler & Dawn Leaumont
Lipstick Lounge
1400 Woodland St
226-6343
(It's a school night, I know, but we'll have you home in plenty of time to get the rest you need!)
Hope to see you at one...or BOTH!
Thanks.
J
PS: Tell all your friends!
The Truth About Small Towns
My friend Sara Lee (yes, that is her real name) forwarded this to me today and I couldn't help but post it. It sums up my formitave years pretty well.
Those who grew up in small towns will laugh when they read it.
Those who didn't will be in disbelief.
The truth about living / growing-up in a small town:
Those who grew up in small towns will laugh when they read it.
Those who didn't will be in disbelief.
The truth about living / growing-up in a small town:
- You can name everyone you graduated with.
- You know what 4-H means.
- You went to parties at a pasture, barn, gravel pit, or in the middle of a dirt road. On Monday you could always tell who was at the party because of the scratches on their legs from running through the woods when the party was busted. (See #6.)
- You used to "drag" Main.
- You said the "F" word and your parents knew within the hour.
- You scheduled parties around the schedules of different police officers because you knew which ones would bust you and which ones wouldn't.
- You could never buy cigarettes because all the store clerks knew how old you were (and if you were old enough, they'd tell your parents anyhow).
- When you did find somebody old enough and brave enough to buy cigarettes, you still had to go out into the country and drive on back roads to smoke them.
- You knew which section of the ditch you would find the beer your buyer dropped off.
- It was cool to date somebody from the neighboring town.
- The whole school went to the same party after graduation.
- You didn't give directions by street names but rather by references. Turn by Nelson's house, go 2 blocks to Anderson's, and it's four houses left of the track field.
- The golf course had only 9 holes.
- You couldn't help but date a friend's ex-boyfriend/girlfriend.
- Your car stayed filthy because of the dirt roads, and you will never own a dark vehicle for this reason.
- The town next to you was considered "trashy" or "snooty," but was actually just like your town.
- You referred to anyone with a house newer than 1965 as the "rich people."
- The people in the "big city" dressed funny, and then you picked up the trend 2 years later.
- Anyone you wanted could be found at the local gas station, drive-in or the town bar.
- You saw at least one friend a week driving a tractor through town or one of your friends driving a grain truck to school occasionally.
- The gym teacher suggested you haul hay for the summer to get stronger.
- Directions were given using THE stop light as a reference.
- When you decided to walk somewhere for exercise, 5 people would pull over and ask if you wanted a ride.
- Your teachers called you by your older siblings' names.
- Your teachers remembered when they taught your parents.
- You could charge at any local store or write checks without any ID.
- The closest McDonalds was 45 miles away (or more).
- The closest mall was over an hour away.
- It was normal to see an old man riding through town on a riding lawn mower.
- Most people went by a nickname.
- You laughed your butt off reading this because you know it is true, and you send it to everyone who may have lived in a small town.
3.02.2005
No butter for Bubba, the 22-pound lobster
Meet Bubba, a 22-pound leviathan of a lobster pulled from the waters off Nantucket, Mass. >>Read more at USAToday
UPDATE:
Bubba the large lobster dies
PITTSBURGH (AP) — He dodged lobster pots for decades, endured a trip from the coast of Massachusetts to Pittsburgh and survived about a week in a fish market. But a trip to the zoo proved to be too much for a 22-pound lobster named Bubba. >> Read more at USA Today.
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