THRU LISA'S LENS

The Royal Wedding...who cares

2011-04-22T12:51:00.002-04:00

Obviously about everyone. An estimated 2+million people will probably watch the wedding on April 29th. I actually feel for her. Can you imagine the pressure of:
1 - We know you've dated for 7 years but do you really know this man? The same guy that doesn't pick up his socks or put the seat down MAY one day be King and you...the Queen. No really, how cool is that?!
2 - What if you trip as you get out of the car? I mean can you imagine all eyes on you and you trip and fall, possibly chip a tooth? Was this a concern and why you picked Westminster - no stairs.
3 - It's bad enough when he has a middle name...when he has 4 or 5 and none of them a last name, like "Jones" or "Smith" how can you keep them straight?
4 - Talk about pressure of the 'first kiss'. No dribble, not too long and none of the funny business of inhaling her face in.
and finally
5 - Keeping it white until after your official photo. That means no last minute glasses of wine to calm your nerves (I'd just do a quick scotch straight down), no touching up of red nail varnish and truly stay away from any royal baby no matter how cute. Baby puke no matter how royal stains.

Things I would love to see during happen during the Royal Wedding:
1 - Kate step out in a dress that would make the Queen blush. Hey, as long a your shoulders are covered and not too much cleavage, I'd rock those legs Kate!
2 - As you recite all 400 of his names, sneak in your private pet name for him. Even if it's a whisper and what's one more name right?
3 - Do the famous "Dip-Kiss". You know the one from the end of WWII. It's your stage and hopefully the one and only time you'll have people looking down your throat while you kiss, so make it worth their while. Give her a right proper snooch Wills!!
4 - Change 3 times and have your last party frock be one that you've designed yourself. Show people that you are more than "Waity-Katie" and a former glorified sales girl for H&M but someone with a proper head on your shoulders and a true eye for style. Then after your honeymoon, open your own bridal line. It would truly be "From one Princess to another" OR design one for Disney Weddings. I hear they are looking for a new Princess to create a movie for.
Finally and I don't really like this for normal brides but...
5 - TRASH THE DRESS. I'd love to see you take it back to your small village where you and the Prince live and really give it a good throw around. What are they going to say to you - you have the ring, the new title and the Prince. I'd say ...you're good.

Most of all, as someone who attended Oxford and actually was lucky enough to meet Prince Charles (quite the charmer) I can only imagine what you must be feeling. You're honestly much more woman than most and good for you. Just keep your head on straight, your face forward, don't loose your sense of self (or humor) and fun and if William gets out of hand...just tell his grandmother. She'll put him straight away.

Hello Old Friend

2011-04-17T15:06:00.002-04:00

Wow...it's been such a long time since I've been here. Life and things one wants for their life have a way of making days...no months fly by quickly. So much has changed. Some makes me incredibly happy...others deeply sad. Where does one begin.

The new business has taken off and if I'm honest, it's completely overwhelmed me. I have terrific clients and yet finding someone to help - an intern - is nearly impossible. What are kids learning in school these days? If I see a 'blast' email for employment - "delete". If I see "To whom it may concern" - delete. If I see "Dear Sir." - Oh hell yea I DELETE. People don't take the time to know whom they are addressing, why they are addressing them and/or if they are qualified to address them in the first place. If you can't take the time to make it personal...I don't have time for you. Life is personal! My business is personal!

I know (and am often reminded from someone who...well...really isn't a 'friend') that I'm not perfect. I have faults and I own them. Then again...no one is perfect. What I don't need is someone in the 'under the guise of friendship and caring' to blast me, or shoot snide remarks or being nasty. I'm so over it...and you.

The view that I see thru my lens today is from the comfort of the kitchen in NC. I haven't been here, in this house for about 3 years....and it's always nice to come 'home'. It's a beautiful day out side - Palm Sunday - and right now my parents are laughing with each other, and dinner is being prepared. I still marvel at a relationship that has lasted almost 50 years and what's more...they seem to still like each others company. They are truly friends and it shows. I wish I had that kind of relationship.

So before I leave to head back to the rat-race of NYC, I will take lots of pictures. I want to capture these memories and hold them to my heart everyday. I want the view in my life to be of family and the very, very few people I call friend.

2010 you are the song I sing

2010-01-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

WOW...here we are...once again...trying to do it right.
I sat at my computer at 4am a few nights ago, wondering where the heck did the last 9 years go? Where did the last 20 years go? Where is my life going now?

I have to say that I'm pretty lucky. Great family, a few really great friends and I live in the best city in the world. The last few years have been a trial - by fire most days and I only got slightly singed. It's funny that just when you think your life is going great, something come along and slaps you up-side the head. Usually it's 'life' saying 'I'm still in control and don't you forget it.'

Being able to shake the dirt off the last few years is a freeing experience. I am over the moon, beyond grateful, on-my-knees-daily thanking God that I am now healthy. I also continue to pray that I am guided to the life I am supposed to have. Wait a min...the last few years WAS the life I was supposed to have.

LIGHT BULB MOMENT PEOPLE!!

I was supposed to have this crappy illness, go through 7 surgeries, deal with loss, be on/off the roller coaster and then release it - only to find it. Does that make sense?

I was recently told that I'm a control freak and maybe I am. There has been responsibility thrust on me from an early age and frankly when people say 'well, she'll handle it', what the heck are you supposed to do - say no? Well, maybe that will be what I learn this next 10 years. I no longer want to be everything or anything to/for any/everybody. I just want to be happy. If that means you think I want to be in control of you - like my brother used to say as a kid 'you're not the boss of me' - well, I don't want to be. I want to be loved for all my goodness and flaws. When I say I'm sorry, I want 'I'm sorry' to be enough. I want to leave on a jet plane and discover new places, dream new - BIG, wonderful dreams and I really, really, really want them to come true.

I want my life to be an open road with a beautiful sky just like this picture. Want to come on a ride with me?

So what am I going to do about it...lol...live I guess. I'm going to continue on the road of health to the best of my ability. I'm going to spend time with my family because they sustain me, love me unconditionally and most importantly - think I'm pretty gosh darn cool! I'm going to visit my friends who I've not seen in years and catch up with them over coffee, tea, wine or water - I don't care. It's more about being with them and re-establishing the connection. I'm going to light a fire under my own butt, to build my business, buy my own home, and walk in my Manolos without fear they are too high and I might fall. And you know what, I might stumble...and yup, even fall, but I've learned these last 9 years to get up, dust myself off, straighten my new short girly skirt and keep on steppin'.

Here's to 9 years of growth - I toast you.
Here's to 9 years of new growth - I welcome you.
Here's to you, my family, friends and readers...I love you.

Happy 2010

Did I do 25 in 52?

2009-12-27T04:25:00.000-05:00

As I go over the list - I have mixed feelings.

The 'old' me is saying "you said you would do all these and you didn't - you failed".
The new me is saying "you really did 3/4 of them and that totally rocks!!"

So what didn't I complete....you know, the only one I'll disclose is the bikini. I didn't go any where warm and the scar still has me freaked out a bit, so no bikini in 09', but look out 2010.

It's funny that thing they call self-talk. What I find is that I spend more time than I need, finding my faults instead of saluting all the good things about myself. I have gotten a lot better, but I still have moments of doubt, despair and just plain fear. I wasn't one who got scared before, I don't know where it came from but it's here. You know, those moments of panic that I forgot someones birthday, or did I lock the car door, or is my zipper up?

Well there will be a new list next year, as soon as I can figure out what I want. Will I add the things I didn't finish this year...hmmm, maybe not. Maybe there aren't supposed to be finished, but just there for me to dream about. Maybe they were there as a stepping stone for my true self to dare to come into being again. Maybe, they were there, just because it sounded good. I don't know - I'm not that smart, nor that sneaky and frankly, it's way too early in the AM to ponder it.

I do know that I'm going to begin a list of things I want to do in the next 10 years and they will be BIG. I'm thinking...about 3-5 per year and if I do them out of order, or finish them up before that particular year is over,...I'll just move to the next year and add new dreams on the back end.

Yea, that's the ticket. So I hope you are dreaming big and if you have any suggestions, let me know. After all, you never know...

Did someone say Christmas Cheer?

2009-12-24T06:08:00.002-05:00

I can I hardly believe it’s the night before Christmas. Where did this year go and what am I going to do for New Years eve?

Well a few of you asked for different cocktail recipes that you could serve now, through New Years beyond the traditional ones. Here are a few that I absolutely love and will have for friends and family as they pop over. They are easy to make and really pretty to look at. So deck the halls and lift a cup of holiday cheer. Don’t forget, while you’re having fun drink responsibly.

Here’s wishing you lots of goodies and may all your dreams come true this holiday season.

Candy Cane Swirl

Candy Cane Swirl
1 oz. SKYY Infusions Raspberry
3 oz. Red Cranberry Juice
0.5 oz. Grenadine
0.5 oz. Peppermint Schnapps
Lemon Lime Soda
Candy Canes

Rim martini glass with crushed candy cane. Combine SKYY Vodka, Peppermint Schnapps, Cranberry Juice and Grenadine into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into martini glass. Top with Lemon Lime Soda and garnish with small peppermint candy cane.

Mele Kalikimaka Martini

A creative twist on a Bing Crosby classic, the Mele Kalikimaka Martini is ”Hawaii's way to say Merry Christmas to you.” Turning a classic cocktail, contemporary using SKYY Infusions Pineapple and Coconut Cream, the martini adds a personal touch to your typical eggnog and is a surefire way to impress any partygoer. Trust me, this is smooth!!

Mele Kalikimaka Martini
1.5 oz. SKYY Infusions Pineapple
3 oz. Eggnog
Splash of Coconut Cream or Coconut Milk
Nutmeg
Cinnamon

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into martini glass. Top with sprinkling of nutmeg and cinnamon and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

The Ninth Night

You may think that you’re done celebrating once the candles burn out in the menorah, but The Ninth Night is the great way to conclude your Hanukkah festivities. A refreshing cocktail designed to commemorate a special (and unofficial) ninth night of Hanukkah.

The Ninth Night
2 oz. SKYY Infusions Citrus
1 oz. Triple Sec
1 oz. White Cranberry Juice
Lemon Lime Soda
Lime Juice

Combine SKYY Infusions Citrus, Triple Sec and Cranberry Juice into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into tall rocks glass with fresh ice. Top with soda and lots of fresh lime juice. Garnish with blue ribbon or pipe cleaner around the glass.

Cuppa Good Cheer

Whether you anticipate a “White Christmas” or a California “Endless Summer,” we all snuggle up with loved ones and a cup of warm hot cocoa at least once during the holiday season.

Cuppa Good Cheer
1.5 oz. SKYY Infusions Cherry
0.5 White Creme de Cacao
4 oz. Extra Hot Chocolate
1 oz. Half and Half
Whipped Cream
Red Sprinkles
Maraschino Cherry

Combine all ingredients into a holiday mug and top with whipped cream, red sprinkles and a Maraschino Cherry.

Infuse passion into the New Year with a flashy cocktail featuring SKYY Infusions Passion Fruit, fresh juice and raspberries. The New Year’s Sparkler is an easy way to spice up your champagne flute this New Year’s Eve.

New Year’s Sparkler
1 oz. SKYY Infusions Passion Fruit
1.5 oz. Pomegranate Juice
3.5 oz. Champagne
5-6 Raspberries

Combine SKYY Infusions Raspberry and cranberry juice in a chilled champagne flute and top with champagne. Garnish with raspberry tree.*

*Slide 5-6 raspberries onto long skewer and place vertically in champagne glass.

This is one of my favorite drinks. I greet my guests in from the cold, winter weather with a traditional cup of Holiday Glögg, a Scandinavian take on mulled wine. Made in large batches and easily reheated time and time again, this recipe is a great one to have in your back pocket for any surprise guests.

Holiday Glögg
12 oz. SKYY Vodka
1 Bottle 750 ml of Dry Red Wine
1.5 tbsp. Mulling Spice
1 tsp. Fresh Orange Zest
2 tbsp. Sugar
2 tbsp. Blanched Almonds
4 tbsp. Raisins

Wrap Mulling Spice in cheesecloth. In a large saucepan, combine the Wine, SKYY Vodka, cheesecloth with Mulling Spice, Orange Zest and Sugar. Allow to very lightly simmer over medium heat for at least 30 minutes (do not boil). Discard the mulling spices. Drop a few raisins and almonds at the bottom of each mug and top with the hot liquid.

I'm hope you enjoy this holidays drink selection. I can't wait to share more with you in 2010.

Happy Holidays One And All

Farewell Montreal...

2009-12-14T12:49:00.004-05:00

The phone blares at 6:00am. In all of my brilliance decided I wanted to spend an early morning photo shooting. Well, that didn't happen. Instead, I lounged in bed until 7am when the sun started to rise. Sunrises and sunsets are my favorite times of the day. Yes, it may have something to do with orange being my favorite color, but more than that, each holds it's own 'promise of things to come'.

My last day to run around, and take photos of beautiful Montreal. They don't have Christmas windows like NY, but some of their decorations in their malls are lovely. Oh....I will say that the 5 block underground city is amazing. All you do is enter, and you really never have to come out for hours. There are tons of stores, every block section has it's own food court, and they range from the reasonably priced to the uber expensive mall. Last breakfast, bookstore visit - I had to check out their bridal magazine collection. Today, it's 14 degrees. While I will miss lots here, the weather is not among them.

With good-by said to the staff, the ride back to the airport has me filled with mixed feelings. I'm actually pretty proud of myself. This trip was a success and I was only sick once. I learned a lot, had fun, met some really cool people, wrote a letters to my friends and will walk away with the knowledge that I can do trips alone...no with myself, once again. I guess when you get so used to traveling with a road-dog, the first time solo...is like the first time once again. Not that I wouldn't mind a girls-trip again...I know that it will come again, in time.

Ah....There are lots of beautiful skylines. I'm always excited to see the cities from 25,000 feet in the air, but there are none more beautiful than NYC. It's great to come home no matter how much fun I had. I'm looking forward to 2010 and all the new adventures that will come and maybe - no I'll absolutely visit Montreal again (just when it's much warmer).

So much to do, le si petit temps (so little time)

2009-12-13T10:44:00.008-05:00

What a great night's sleep. I feel totally like a new person!!

Breakfast is European style and expansive. Cheeses, fresh fruit (where do you get such sweet melon in the dead of winter?) coffee, tea, fresh breads, cereals and lots of juice and coffee. Greeted by one of the managers, frankly I'm surprised that she is back so early, looking so FRESH!

Camera - check, boots - check, warm hat (thanks mom!!) - check, gloves, sunshine I'm ready for day two.

Today is going to be fun. I'm going to actually meet up with some of the girls I've been tweeting with. I absolutely love twitter for that. I sent a note last week asking for women in the bridal industry who live in Montreal to reach out and boy did they ever. We're meeting for lunch at 2pm at Le Cartet in Old Montreal. This is a great coffee house with long tables, great groovy french music, amazing food and lots of good energy!! Since I only know Nadine, I wait for her to arrive which she does with Karina, Carrie, Kim, Nadine and Lynn. These are some of the wedding professionals in Montreal, but more than that, really cool girls.

While the food was tasty, I really loved the ease of conversation and flow between french and english. We laughed a lot and then went to Nadine's house to meet her new baby Tess. Very cute little girl...I may have a little boy or two here for her to meet (since they are all between 8month and 1yr old - hey, you never know!!). We ended the night with going to an event that was equivalent to etsy - where they had some new artists showcase their work. Some if it was really beautiful. I loved meeting them and know we'll be great friends.

I hated saying good night to the ladies but it was a long, cold day and I had dinner plans. When I walk the 4 blocks (and I mean super long up a hill in the snow kind of blocks) from the event to the hotel, I am greeted by thumping music, great smelling food and a red-rope that wasn't there last night. I guess the party has begun.

By now, I've made friends with the bar and restaurant staff. I will say honestly, there are NO ugly people in Montreal. I've walked around, been in/out of shops and truly have not seen anyone who was not attractive. HOWEVER...these folks, here...took it to an completely different level. I ask Bridget (aka Peanut) where is a good place to eat and she recommends 'Grande Manager' in Old Montreal. Seems her friend is a manager there. She warns that I may need reservations, but there is a bar with seats. Since I don't mind that, actually prefer that, I grab a cab and head over to find this place.

What I walk into is a very small, very dark, very french and charming restaurant. It's packed yet there are 4 seats at the bar. The manager makes her way past the waiters and TV crew (more later), and asks me if I have a reservation. I ask "Are you Jessica?" "Yes I am" "Well Bridget, uh Peanut recommended that I come for dinner." "Well, we are expecting another group, but you can sit at the bar, perhaps have a drink for a few moments to see if they show up?" That's fine. Well, actually I'm hoping they don't show up. The food smells amazing!

Lobster, rabbit, veil, beef and tons of puff-pastry-filled goodies. To make this night really special, the chef was creating new tastings that they were passing around for guests to sample. I hear the chef Chuck Hughes, is a TV star and actually they were filming him tonight. I had the lobster risotto which was so rich and filling, I could barely finish it all...but I did :-) Jessica said that I was more than welcome to stay as the restaurant usually had a good crowd of people that arrived around 10pm and danced until the early hours of the morning. I did stay for a while as the music changed I realized that I am getting old. Too loud music a bit much for me. But it was fun for a while.

After a wonderful meal, I was lucky to get a cab almost immediately and then head back to the hotel. Too tired to get pretty tonight I just dump the boots, put on my shoes (oh, the really cool ones from Morocco), fresh make-up and back down stairs. Hey it's my last night in Montreal and I can party if I want to (or can stay up is really more like it) The music is thumping....and more beautiful young and old(er) people. Some really handsome men - I mean to tell you!! The women, I mean beyond beautiful and all wearing barely any clothes. I hope they came in warm coats!

I did what I do best...grabbed a glass of Champagne (of course), and grabbed a seat to watch the fun. Lots of students from McGill college (which isn't that far from the hotel), business men, and locals all are here for a night of fun. The music is great, I met some new friends and at 1am, I head up stairs. The party is going on strong.

As I entered my hotel room for the last time, it was warm, turned down service and the only thing that made the night more perfect, was the hot bath (in the jumbo tub) and then the light of the moon falling gently through my window. I fell asleep in a happy, content, and mentally refreshed.

Montreal a combination of old and new

2009-12-12T10:36:00.002-05:00

The streets begin to look familiar. I walk about 3 miles before I head back to the hotel to meet with the general manager. Jacques (and Katherine) who are both very sweet, very corporate, very professional and I can tell are used to a ‘hard-nose’ kind of industry professional. That's sooo not my way to interview.

I’m shown all over the hotel, restaurant and club. I’m also told that things really start to kick off around 10pm. Once I have a few moments with Jacques he begins to relax and his true personality begins to show. He is fun and knows his stuff. We make plans to meet up for dinner around 7pm and I’m left with more brochures to review.

Meeting done, back out in the cold and lights of Montreal.

“Lisa, we have a few friends her from Toronto, would you like to join or do you just want to have dinner with me?” Jacques asks
“No, I’d love to meet your friends.” With that, I’m told to drop my stuff in the room and meet them at the bar in about 10 min. Just enough time for me to splash my face with warm water (I’m totally frozen), and get out of the clunky boots.

This is the first time in 3 yrs that I actually put on a really pretty-girly top and black jeans. Frankly, I look totally hot!

What I didn’t realize is what I was getting into. Ian, Michelle, Jacques, Donald and I had a BLAST. We ordered about five appetizers and courses which was all served family style. The portions were huge and oh so good. Lots of great conversation, 4 bottles of wine and cognacs later, kisses on both cheeks and I bid bonne nuit (good night) to my new friends. As I leave, I can feel the energy of the restaurant change – the beautiful people are coming and the party is just about to begin. Well, maybe this 'beautiful person' will catch up with them tomorrow night.

Comfortably back in my room, I take a shower and settle into the king sized goose-down bed and sigh. Truly exhausted because I’ve been up for now almost 41 hrs, it was easy to finally fall into a blissful French sleep.

Canadian Security, the White House is on the phone…

2009-12-11T10:08:00.006-05:00

I have my luggage (a small roller-bag and my camera equipment) and not knowing how long the ride from the airport to the hotel is, well...I make a pit stop. The bathrooms are extremely clean, no wait and the most stalls for woman that I've seen at any airport in my travels. After I 'refresh', there is the LONG corridor that you have to walk down - of course the rolling sidewalk isn't turned on yet...because we are the first flight in...so all I hear is the 'clomp-clomp' of my boots and the swish of the luggage wheels. Normally I don't get scared, but honestly being alone with no one in sight is a bit creepy.

"Welcome to Customs."

Why are customs people so grumpy – I mean honestly it’s 9AM…what pissed you off already? Because I’m just so ‘happy’ I try to coax a smile out of the agent. Not happening. Finally he asked me where I lived (one of the 7 questions he asked. I was waiting for him to ask my blood type!), and when I said “Brooklyn”, you could see a light go off. Seems he has family there and he was coming for a visit in a few months. I said, maybe I’ll see you. While we both know the probability is really slim, he did smile and wish me a good stay. WHEW!! Considering the recent crash of the white house, maybe our security could learn something - just a suggestion.

Only four more security checks before I can actually exit the airport, grab a taxi and take the ride to the Opus Montreal Hotel.

As I am driven down St. Catherine, I remember the last time I was in Montreal. It was with my BFF in Nov of 2003 (I think), and we were having a blast. We discovered that our favorite brand at the time “Lush” arrived from London and opened a new shop there. All the yummy soaps and bath bombs…we were delirious. When we heard they were going to open one in NY-well we were doing the happy dance. That meant we didn’t have to ‘import’ tons of this stuff anymore, we could just get it at home. I remember another friend of ours Kristin, that day was her birthday so we called her walking down Rue Sherborne singing “Happy Birthday” loudly to her on my phone and got the “crazy American” looks from the people around us. We didn’t care; we were having fun.

This time it’s just me…off on another adventure…new discoveries.

The Opus Montreal Hotel is a relatively new boutique hotel located at 70 Sherbrook Ouest. This is NOT your typical US boutique hotel. I arrived at 10:30am and immediately shown my room. Now did they do that just for me, or because I’m 'media'? The truth is I saw them welcome another party, so maybe they are prepared for early arrivals. Imagine that…prepared for your guests so they feel welcome and don’t have to wait.

Originally, I was in the Orange room and completely blown away. Large, colorful and beautifully arranged I felt as if I walked into an apt and not a hotel room. Obviously this isn’t a normal ‘boutique’. The shower (ok for you guys who read this. Girls check out closet space and bathrooms – that’s how we judge a good hotel) was all glass encased, very chic fixtures and amenities and a 42inch flat screen tv. Yes this room had it all.

Happy to settle in my phone rings.

“Madame, I just received word from my manager that we would like to upgrade your room to a suite”.

"What type of room is this?"

"Oh, that is a regular room. I didn’t realize and we want you to be comfortable. A suite just became available so I’ll have a valet come and move you."

Ok…is about all I could muster…THIS IS A REGULAR ROOM??

Five minutes later, I’m in my new suite, which is taupe colored, a room that is larger than some NY apts and again my mouth drops open. This time I have a shower AND a SUPER-SIZED TUB.

They will never get me to leave.

Since my first meeting with the manager isn’t for a few hours, I grab my camera and go looking for my first adventure.

Montreal, here I come!!

2009-12-10T12:46:00.007-05:00

The song “Leaving on a jet plane” is playing in my ear. Maybe it’s because I’m leaving in a few hrs on my first solo trip in years, and I’m excited. It’s more likely because I’ve been up since yesterday 3:00am and am delirious.

So what’s so important about this trip and where am I going?

Destination: Montreal Canada

Airline: Continental Airlines

Location: Opus Montreal Hotel

Time: 3 Days

Temperature predictions: 14-31 – Brrrrr!!

Waiting at Newark airport before the crack of dawn has only one benefit – I’m here before the rush, so there is no wait at the security line.

“Any liquids, perishables, explosives?” – Nah, only perishable is my string cheese, which I’m going to eat as soon as I put my shoes back on. I hate wearing my snow boots because, well you know for security purposes, you have to nearly strip before they let you go through.

Ok, I know your next question is “why have I been up for over 28 hrs?” – I wasn’t feeling well yesterday and I woke up at 3AM. Well, once I’m up, I’m up. It’s a curse!! The bottom line, I really didn’t want to take the chance of sleeping through the alarm, so I stayed up and figured that I would sleep on the plane.

Once on the plane, I settled down for what was about a 20 second nap. Between the flight attendant bumping me in the shoulder with the cart (really small plane) as soon as our beverage and pretzels were served, the captain said “we have begun our decent into Montreal.”

As I look out the window, all I see is S-N-O-W. I was prepared for it, but reality (especially when I left NY, the high for the day was going to be 50) is something different. But I’m game for a challenge and as we land I’m as excited as a child at Christmas. I’m in Montreal, a place that holds so many great memories for me and I can officially say ‘it’s a business trip’. YEA!!!

So much to dooooo

2009-12-06T15:06:00.004-05:00

Yesterday it snowed - ok, so a few flakes which melted as they landed, but it was amazing. "It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas" was running through my head the entire time. Of course, frost that was nipping at more than a few places than my nose, didn't make me a happy camper.

I realized I'd not posted anything here since Thanksgiving, so here is the long/short update.

My parents went to Spain and Morocco - in two words - LOVED IT! It's really funny to hear my dad go on, on and on about places in Spain/Morocco as if I've never been there. He usually catches himself and then just chuckles. Frankly I'm thrilled that they spent 3 weeks traveling, exploring and truly enjoying themselves. Of course the best was being at the airport in Newark to surprise them as they made their way to their connecting flight. I missed the almost daily talks with mom mom...and of course miss talking and joking with dad. Can't wait to see their pictures, especially of dad on a camel. He said that one of the camels kept trying to bite him...hmmm

Recently, I've been hanging with the band again. They are so like an extended family and it's always wonderful to see them during rehearsals. The added highlight for me this time was Sting (yep - Mr. Police himself) was also doing studio time. I am one of the biggest Sting fans and to see him in person, ok, so I became a silly-groupie. He is very, very nice and once he saw me with 'my artist', realized that I was harmless. The artist I've been hanging with is on her way to a gig in Russia. Now, there have been 2 bombings in the last week - so I'm a bit nervous for the entire team, but I believe that God/Universe will protect them. Can't wait to hear how Moscow goes.

Tonight, I'm doing something that I really love, a Christmas window pub-crawl. What's a Christmas Window Pub-Crawl - well just what it says. We'll go visit some of the best stores in NYC, look at their windows (along with every other tourist-ARGH!) and then grab a cocktail or several along the way. The merry group are hysterical to be with, it will be really cold, but no rain tonight and I can't wait to see them. Christmas (and my birthday) is my favorite holiday and I fondly remember Christmas in London, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Singapore and Fla. I think Singapore and Fla., freaked me out the most. There is something abnormal about Santa in surfer shorts....

Ok, so I've got to get ready to deck the halls (or some way-ward tourist), and bow the holly and get my fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la groove on.

OH Canada....(hint-hint, next blog entry)

Thanksgiving dinner that's not my moms....

2009-11-23T01:51:00.001-05:00

Yup...it's that time of year again. Let's see, in the past I would have Dave's (husband of friend) turkey...he does this brine thing that makes you want to 'slap yo mamma'. Never to be in second place, last year I had one of the best smoked turkeys that my dad has EVER made. When ever I visit my parents he makes it for me - I think he knows I like it. He is so my hero! This year...lol...turkey breast but I'm not skimping on the trimmings. Here are some of the quick, easy and healthy recipes I'm going to try. Yea, I want the full-fat, but if I did... I would sooo pay for it later. This being healthy stuff - sucks ;-) Thanks to Prevention magazine for the help in being healthy

Five-Minute Cranberry Sauce

Work Time: 5 Minutes / Total Time: 5 Minutes / Servings: 8

8 oz sweetened, dried cranberries (about 2 c)
1/2 c orange juice
1/4 c water
1/4 c chopped ripe mango

Puree cranberries with orange juice and water in food processor until cranberries are almost smooth but still retain some texture, 1 to 2 minutes. Then stir in mango.

Nutritional Info Per Serving 98 cal, 0 g pro, 26 g carb, 2 g fiber, 0.5 g fat, 0 g sat fat, 2 mg sodium

Sweet Surprise Mellow mango sets off tart cranberries in this fresh, fast relish

Get Ahead: You can serve this immediately, or make it up to 5 days ahead and add the mango the day before. It's good either chilled or at room temperature.

Cinnamon Sweet Potatoes with Vanilla

Work Time: 30 Minutes / Total Time: 55 Minutes / Servings: 8

3 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into approximately 3" chunks
1 c reduced-sodium chicken broth
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
2/3 c fat-free milk "plus" (we used Over the Moon)
1 Tbsp butter
1 tsp vanilla extract

1. Put potatoes and broth in large pot with tight-fitting lid and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 25 minutes.

2. Add cinnamon, milk, and butter.

3. Mash in food processor or with handheld masher until smooth. Add vanilla extract and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Nutritional Info Per Serving 125 cal, 3 g pro, 25 g carb, 3 g fiber, 2 g fat, 1 g sat fat, 126 mg sodium

Smart Splurge Just a tablespoon of butter makes these potatoes taste luscious

Get Ahead: You can make these up to 5 days ahead, and they reheat beautifully. If they're a bit dry, just stir in water.

Whole Grain Stuffing with Sausage

Work Time: 30 Minutes / Total Time: 1 Hour 55 Minutes / Servings: 8

2 tsp canola oil
1 lg onion, chopped
1/2 tsp salt
3 lg ribs celery, chopped (about 2 c)
3 Tbsp thinly sliced fresh sage leaves or 1 Tbsp dried
2 cloves garlic, minced or crushed
1 1/2 tsp whole fennel seeds (optional) - I'm not using these, would hurt my system
1 1/2 c fat-free milk "plus" (we used Over the Moon)
1/2 c reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 sliced bakery loaf 100% whole wheat bread (about 1 lb), cut into bite-size cubes (about 10 c)
8 oz fully cooked smoked turkey or chicken sausage, chopped

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Lightly coat 11" x 7" baking dish with oil or cooking spray.

2. Put oil in Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until onion turns golden, about 25 minutes.

3. Add celery, sage, garlic, and fennel seeds, if using, and cook 5 minutes.

4. Remove from heat and add milk, broth, bread, and sausage. Stir well, season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and put in prepared baking dish.

5. Coat top of stuffing lightly with more oil or cooking spray, cover dish with foil, and bake 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue to bake until top is brown and crisp, about 40 minutes.

Nutritional Info Per Serving 243 cal, 11 g pro, 35 g carb, 4 g fiber, 7 g fat, 1.5 g sat fat, 619 mg sodium

Tradition With A Twist Whole wheat bread and smoked turkey sausage add healthy flavor in this moist-on-the-inside, crisp-on-top dressing

Get Ahead: You can put this stuffing together a few days before serving or up to 2 weeks ahead, then freeze it. Cover and store; thaw when ready to bake.

Fast and Fancy Green Beans

Work Time: 15 Minutes / Total Time: 30 Minutes / Servings: 8

1 clove garlic, minced or crushed
2 tsp olive oil, divided
1/4 c water
24 oz petite (or regular) frozen green beans
20 lg fresh basil leaves, gently torn
1/3 c blanched slivered almonds, toasted
1 tsp cider vinegar

1. Put garlic and 1 teaspoon of the oil in large pot and cook over medium heat until just beginning to turn golden brown, about 2 minutes.

2. Add water and beans, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 10 minutes.

3. Place 1 cup of the beans in small food processor along with basil, almonds, and vinegar. Pulse until mixture is thoroughly chopped and sticks together. Stir in remaining 1 teaspoon oil.

4. Stir pureed mixture into remaining beans to coat. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Nutritional Info Per Serving 73 cal, 3 g pro, 8 g carb, 3 g fiber, 4 g fat, 0.5 g sat fat, 4 mg sodium

Ok, so it's not a normal Thanksgiving, but neither is life - normal that is. I'm really thankful that I am healthy, my family loves me and a few good friends who make me laugh. It's been a year of continued growth and I look forward to growing more in 2010 (god willing).

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!!

Top 25 are coming to a close

2009-11-16T03:40:00.001-05:00

So many posts of late have been “deep or sad”. So today is a light.

Let’s go to the “Top 25 list”.

I’ve two months until this will become a new list – wow…six weeks until 2010, I can hardly believe it. They say when you get older time flies...and they are right. It's been a TRIP of a year...with interesting twists/turns and I'm sure...it's not over yet.

With all that said, this is a recap of what I've been able to accomplish so far:

I have a unique collection – I decided to collect pencils. I think as a writer, it makes the most sense to me. Pencils from hotels, restaurants, and even have a few friends who have traveled to different places and bring me a pencil from their trip. If you have any pretty ones from unique places, let me know.

I’ve hung with the band - GMA and Whitney Houston - THANKS WHITNEY!! This was her official come-back (even though she didn't really go anywhere) and it was a blast.

Capture the moment – Sloane-Kettering, reading of my story, and allowing myself to re-live that over & over with friends/family. I don't think people reading it really GOT IT, but hearing it, seeing it performed was what made it clear! THIS CRAP WAS HARD AND IT CHANGED MY LIFE IN WAYS YOU CAN'T EVEN BEGIN TO UNDERSTAND! The best moment however was, “Everything seems to be ok, so no more surgeries, see you in Jan.” I waited so long for those words and there was music that filled the room when my Dr. said them to me. Yes que curtain...opening...not closing; soaring into light, not fading into black. Still waiting for relationships to hit that "capture the moment", moment.

Stay in a 5-Star hotel – I have a trip coming up and they are putting me in lovely hotel in Montreal. This will be my first time on a plane since…well…May 2008 and no fear of bag-bursting!! Yippie!!

Write and article and have it published – well I’ve written over 172 to date and just received an offer to be a contributing editor for Green Wedding Magazine in Jan. – WOW!! Guess I can put a sentence together (sticking my tongue out to those who said I couldn't - you KNOW who you are!).

Be an extra or on a video shoot – well…can I stretch this a bit? I was in a promo video for GetMarried magazine. Yes, only brides will see it but I'll take it!

Own an original work of art – There is a photo of a giant Waffle that cracks me up! I think the woman that I will forever link with that will laugh too...

Wear a bikini - top of the 2010 list…then again…the year isn’t over yet. Anyone want to invite me someplace warm??

Dubai – This is on the 2010 schedule, as well as Bimini (Feb - confirmed); Mexico, London and a few other place TBC.

Write 44 famous people and see who writes back – Hmmm, well I wrote 4 and maybe Christmas/holiday cards will be a good reason to complete the rest. I know...no slacking, but I've been writing two blogs, a column, still sending out resumes....my fingers hurt!

Create a food blog – This was a bit ambitious esp. since I still have trouble processing food. Maybe next year (if I can find a few more hours in the day).

Go to an event and sit in the good seats – Sitting the front row at both bridal and fashion week events was totally amazing!!

Reconnect with at least 1 person from my past – Done that, now what happens next…I’ll keep you posted.

Read the entire New Testament – just a few more chapters to go. It’s really a cool book. You should try it!

Make a difference in a life – I’ve been told that I did that with 3 different people this year. That really touched my heart.

Wear something expensive (I sat in a pair of Christian Loubouitin’s does that count) and yes they were totally sexy!! (Just as I was about to post this...a great woman Linda, sent info on the Manolo Blahnik pvt sale - $100....yes...I won't eat for a month but I'm bringing sexy back....)

Publish my book – it’s going into the last chapters and will be done in a few weeks. So I won’t publish it this year as I hoped but…it will be done and considering everything I’ve had to deal with this year – I’m pretty darn proud of myself!! It's a fun read and you know...when this is published (yes I'm confident it will be, even if I have to do it myself!!), I think people will be surprised how these characters took shape - I know I am!

Ask for help when I need it – I think this will be on any/every list from now until I die. I still have trouble doing this. Perhaps it’s because I’m often disappointed by people who are supposed to be my friends/care about me. I’m trying to live in the moment with everyone and will keep reminding them…”If you don’t want me to have expectations of you…stop your expectations of me”.

Take a picture with someone famous – Yup…Sylvia Weinstock, Preston Bailey. Again, they are in the wedding industry, but since that’s what’s paying me a few pennies these days, work with what ya got!

Go to 5-TV shows – yup done them. GMA, Martha 2X, The View 2X, Today on NBC

Dance under the stars – Sigh, not even close…maybe I have to find someone who can dance first..

Lose 30 lbs – 15 from July to now is a good start. I’ll be that size 6 next year if I have to take this Thanksgiving carving knife to my thighs to trim the extra fat myself.

Visit my family – loved each and every visit, exp when they came to NY for my last surgery we went to the Fancy Food Fair where we ate until we exploded! Even though dad loves his other daughter (Serina, yea the one that plays tennis :-) and Tiger and spent time watching them with me in the hospital, I know he loves me too. He just hated looking at the 'hole'. LOL...funny to see such a strong man, run out of the room at the sight of blood.

Someone with my name – yup and she gives good drugs. My anthologist I LOVE HER, and besides my Dr., she is the only person I trust in an operating room.

2009 is almost over. If you would have told me what twists and turns this year held, I would have thought you were nuts! For the most part I'm a much happier person. One never realizes just how much your health (both mental and physical) can lead you down one path or another. Its still slow go with rebuilding other parts of my life, but 2010 is another year and opportunity to see what transpires. I am grateful to God for my health, my family for their support, my friends for...well, sticking in there and I look forward to being a stronger 'newer' and definitely sexier person in 2010.

What are people thinking??

2009-11-10T02:11:00.002-05:00

I feel like my last few posts have been about President Obama. Well, this is another one. Actually one that’s been on the burner for a while – so can we talk?

Nobel Peace Prize.
Does a young president (meaning only in office for less than 10 months) deserve it?
Hmmm, if I’m 100% honest – no. He hasn’t found a cure for our health care reform - even if it passed the senate - barely, it still has the house to contend with; he hasn’t saved the lives of those who are fighting the war (either abroad or in their own backyard). He hasn’t yet been able to calm the fraction between any of the Middle East countries or rival gangs in East L.A. But to ask has the prize diminished, you know, lost it’s shine, I don’t believe it has.

The five-member Norwegian committee voted for him just weeks after he became President - did you know that?? It seems they based their decision on Obama’s “extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples, as well as his diplomacy and curbing nuclear weapons.” Now, was this a swipe at the former administration – perhaps? Maybe it’s just because like so many people forget, President Obama has ONLY been president for 11 months (now) but because of the lengthy campaign, it seems he’s been in office longer. Look, even he was surprised.

Is President Obama, at this point compared to Mahatma Gandhi, Pope John Paul II, even Al Gore? No but he is, a man who listens and uses a thoughtful approach. Maybe this award will do well in keeping him humble and always focused on the word “PEACE”. In the end the prize will be for us all.

When will the Military listen? Was Ft. Hood loud enough?
This past week there was a horrific rampage at Ft. Hood in Texas. Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, a Arlington, Va born Army psychiatrist fatally shot and killed 13 (to date) and wounded about 38 others. Why? Some speculate it was because he no longer wanted to be in the army. Some will say because “he said he was a Muslim first and an American second”, even thought he was born in the US. Some might even say that even though he was a Major, the anti-Muslim sentiments were too much, even for this trained psychiatrist. It seems that a former Fort Hood colleague found out he was Muslim and ripped of his “I heart Allah” bumper sticker and did additional damage to his car. Maybe as a human, he just couldn’t deal anymore. After all, he is Human first, Muslim second.

I’m not going to go on a rant about “gun laws”, and the “right be bear arms” and how folks in Tx. will drive with rifles on their dash-board because that’s their constitutional right. Don’t get me started!! I don’t know how we citizens, can feel safe on the streets of Boston, NY, LA or Iowa when our soldiers can’t be safe on their own home base. What I’m hoping is that people take this for what it was. A very sad, sick and misguided person, who asked repeatedly to be released from his service and was ignored. Maybe they should have listened. The news reported last night that they "had him under observation"...does that mean they have all Muslims under observation or just him because he asked to be released? I hope people don’t see this and become wary of every person who is Muslim (or black, or spanish, or just...different from themselves); people don't walk around with a six-shooter or bomb strapped to their body. Not every terrorist looks like “one of those”. How do I know this…“Timothy McVeigh”.

No I don’t know what you go through as a person in the military. I’ve dated a solider who graduated West Point, I have loved a member of the Air Force. I've had uncles who have fought in the wars, and cousins who are presently fighting. I have been concerned for those I don’t know, because they are in harms way. Some people choose the military to help with their education; others because they are fighting for something they believed in. They know the risks of enemy territory – I just don’t think the soldiers of Ft. Hood thought that territory was in their own backdoor. May G-d grant their souls rest and their families peace.

Can you beat the system?

2009-11-07T12:42:00.003-05:00

I saw something the other day in the news. It was called ‘Moneybag Medicaid “Cheaters’ Pinched. What was it about – Millionaires, the folks that have money, can buy the best of anything/everything…but they claim they are poor and apply for Medicare. Medicaid, is meant for low-income families – this means folks that earn UNDER $10,000 per year and having less than $13,800 in all assets. Maybe these folks simply ‘missed’ the few extra $.00’s that are at the end of their bank statement. Maybe they simply think it’s their right, or maybe that is how the rich stay rich.

The Manhattan prosecutors’ office handed down indictments for 19 people who are accused of beating the system. I’m not talking about folks that have some cash, I mean a dentist who pulls in a six-figure salary as well as the owner of two waterfront mansions. The person who owns the homes, actually rents them out during the summer for $65,000 each. Now I know the housing/summer share market took a hit, but still come on dude!

What they are ‘finding out’ and I use that term very loosely, is that more and more are simply lying to get a health-insurance handout. Like Bernie Madoff, they just didn’t think they would get caught. You hear “let the rich taxes fund the $849Billion that’s needed for healthcare reform”. I don’t think that’s the only way, nor fair. Nor do I think that raising taxes, or limiting care to those who are not citizens, is the right way. Is it fair that people should have to choose between a doctor or their next meal simply because they can’t afford both? It amazes me that other countries can help their poor, have universal health care, and still have nations that thrive, but we, in the best country in the world, can’t because the ‘powers that be’ can’t play nice in the sand box.

You know everyone wants to come to America, but what are they bring with them? Tons of people say “if you can’t make it in NY you can’t make it anywhere”, well there is a lot more folks NOT making it, or hadn’t they noticed? There are those who want to be educated here, get financial aid and then go back to their own country without so much as a backwards glance to the country that made them what they are. I say if you want to close the boarders (of course people only think of Mexicans that cross the borders in the dark of night, or people from dictator countries that risk life/limb on rickety boats) then close them to all. That means no one coming from the Ukraine, Russia, China, Germany, or any other country. That means watching those visas and monitoring them. What you don’t have the manpower for that – well, hire people (that will stimulate the economy even if in just this sector). If you’re not here and can’t bring benefit to the US of A, then you are no longer welcome. When your country goes to war, don’t look to us to save you, because we obviously can’t save ourselves.

What do I believe? I believe that the US is a great place. We are a country that is welcoming to all who want to do right by her. I have friends from all cultures, countries and economic abilities. I think we have and continue to stick our nose in others affairs and don’t necessarily know how to say “No”. I think this war has gone on too long; it’s lost its focus (to find Osama Ben Laden) and now can’t get out. I think that this country should take a breath and take care of HOME first. What a difference that would make.

Respect is learned...so can someone teach the next generation?

2009-10-28T13:47:00.001-04:00

For some reason I feel it necessary to begin with the following disclosure: “While I don’t have children of my own, I am an aunt, auntie, tiá, and ‘other-mother’ to the children of family and friends. These opinions are based on my love, passion, and desire to nurture the “little people” in my life and to help them become the best people possible.”

There!

What the hay is happening to our young people? They won’t pull up their pants (boys of ALL race, some girls are doing it – yes, folks, I’ve seen it with my own eyes), they continue to be loud and un-ruley and they are seeing the bad behavior of their parents and thinking it’s ok. ARGH!!

Here is a real story – I was on the train in NY recently when a group of school children entered. They couldn’t have been more than 6^th or 7^th grade. When a teacher reprimanded a young woman telling her to hold on and stop stepping on people as the train jerked her around, her fellow male classmate told the teacher “shut the ‘F’ up”. To say I was shocked is an understatement. I looked back and forth between the teacher and student, waiting for her reply…willing her to be strong….hoping that she would be like Sr. Mary Margaret and give him what for. Instead she just looked away – dejected and defeated.

“Have you lost your right mind?” I asked this kid – not to be confused with the mind he ‘left’ at home or where ever he was and thought he could talk to an adult any way he wanted. At this point he is trying to stare me down…obviously he didn’t get the text message that I have the original eye-brow arched stare and don’t easily scare. “What would your mother say to hear you speaking to an adult like that? This is a full-grown woman and not one of your little playmates. She was just looking out for your friend and deserves your respect. You should apologize”. The train went quiet, my heart was pounding and to my surprise – he did it. He said “sorry’, just above a whisper, but he did it. The teacher looked at me and mouthed “thanks”; I winked my acknowledgement and went back to reading my book. The next stop was mine, I got off and don’t know what happened after that. Hopefully he didn’t loose his mind again. I can dream right?

What this generation responds to, are the adult antics that they see. If a parent has a few drinks and drives with no consequences, it must be ok because you got where you needed to go safely. If uncle has a gun…well, it must be ok right because no one got shot. To create a flying saucer, have it released and then have an entire country on the edge of their seat, hoping that the ‘little boy inside’ is ok, only to find out that it’s a hoax…well, what harm did it really do right?

Where is the responsibility? Where are the responsible adults who are teaching them right from wrong? Where are the adults that are willing to say to a kid ‘straighten up and behave’? Where are the parents willing to be responsible for raising children that abide by the laws, treats others as they want to be treated and dare I say, actually do something instead of just drinkin’, druggin’ and wearing those ooh-so-low pants?

They do exist. I see my nephew a smart, well-behaved kid who loves sports, reading, his parents, grandparents and me. I see my friends’ daughters, who actually write me emails and ask my opinion. They often bounce ideas off me, and while they do think of me as a ‘auntie-friend’ and we have fun together, they are respectful. I have two friends that have just birthed the next generation of men (well not the entire generation, each had 1 son). I’m sure that they will teach them to respect adults, cherish women, right from wrong, and knowing them…they will be the kind of men very lucky women will have in 2040.

Why is a young person who is doing what is right such a surprise…shouldn’t it be the norm? I’m tired of stories about suburban teens getting hooked on drugs, girls being raped (or not –another blog ARGH!!) or college pro players being shot ON CAMPUS at a campus sponsored event. It may be simplistic, but …can’t we all just get along?

Cheddar and Hard Cider Fondue

2009-10-26T17:04:00.004-04:00

Well, I wanted to share something that is yummy and pretty easy to make. I want to thank the Food Network for the recipie. OH...if any of you are making it...invite me for dinner. I'll bring wine and dippers.

1 (12-ounce) bottle hard cider
3/4 cup chicken broth, homemade or low-sodium canned
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1/2 pound Gruyere, grated
1/2 pound sharp Vermont or New York yellow cheddar
3 tablespoons corn starch
1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt
1 tablespoon Bourbon, whiskey or apple jack, optional

Fondue Dippers:

Cooked chicken and apple sausages, chorizo, or mini hot dogs; sliced baguette or black bread, radishes, roasted shallots, roasted mushrooms or small fingerlings or baby potatoes, pears, apples or pretzels.

Directions

Heat cider, broth, Worcestershire, and garlic in a medium pot over medium heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

Toss the cheeses together in a medium bowl. Sift the corn starch over the cheese, and toss to coat lightly.

Using a wooden spoon, sprinkle some cheese mixture into the warm liquid and continue to stir in small amounts of cheese until it is all incorporated and the fondue is smooth and melted, about 15 minutes. Stir in cayenne, salt and Bourbon, if using.

Transfer to a fondue pot or double boiler and serve with desired dippers.

I've been MIA

2009-10-22T13:17:00.000-04:00

I know....I haven't forgotten you, but life has been crazy lately. This will be quick, but there is more coming.

So THANK YOU to all of you who voted for me. I did win - YEA!! I know it's only because of all of you who took the time to place a vote for me. Hmmm, that makes me kind of sad that I now feel like I used you. I don't want you to feel that way - I don't mean to put you - my first blog on the back burner. I also feel like I spend a lot of time apologizing to people for...EVERYTHING...so let's just say that I will try to be better.

{{{{{{{I'm giving up saying I'm sorry in 2010}}}}}}}}}

It's a beautiful day here in NY...well, not really. :-) It's kind of overcast and did rain a bit this morning...but the fall air is wonderful as it comes through my bedroom window. I know that there will be far less days of open-windows (of this type - I'm hoping for the open window/closed door other kind...) as winter days are quickly approaching. The air helps me think... It's invigorating... It's free.

Quick updates for those who aren't following my other life...
It's been nuts with trying to finish the book by the end of this year. I'm hopeful that it will happen. My dear editor (Judith) is the best big-sister I could have ever asked for. She understands why it's taking me a bit longer that I thought it would and she only gently nudges. I wish there were more people like her alive. The world would be a better place.

Writing the bridal column has kept me super busy. I've decided to remove some pressure and only write 3-4 instead of 6 days a week. Look, I don't get paid much for it, and all the work I put into it - doesn't equal. What...think I'm kidding....Here are the numbers. I've been writing my a$$ off since March 1. That's interviewing people, taking pictures, traveling to some of these places, writing and trade shows (ok so the shows are fun, but the attitude of some - well that's another post!) and as of today, after over 200 posts I've made $195.45. Yup...that's it! I think the highlight so far is that .... well, I've met some really 'important people' in the industry and they were lovely. One even said "I've read your stuff, it's pretty good". I wanted to scream - HIRE ME!!!

There is just so much going on in the world that there simply aren't enough hours in the day for me to write. I wish I could find a program that works for Mac that allows you to talk into a mic and and it would just type for you. IF anyone know of one, please let me know. It would make my life soooo much easier.

So until a bit later, this is all... Thank you to the at least 4 people I know of who read this...:-)

Can you please vote for a great site?!

2009-09-19T20:45:00.003-04:00

VOTE FOR ME TODAY!!

Isn't this GREAT!! I've been nominated and I need your VOTES. Can you vote TODAY? They close entries after Sept 21, so PLZ!!! I'll continue to bring you the latest news, trends, and advice from the wedding industry - ok, and some juicy gossip too.

http://www.bridalease101.blogspot.com/
Bet ya didn't know I had another one did ya?

I would really appreciate it if you did vote - only once as more than, will be disqualified. I'll let you know if I win - and THANKS!!

YEA!!! Go BridalEase

Click Here to take survey

A day to morn, a day to rejoice - Sept 11

2009-09-11T10:47:00.004-04:00

Ah....I remember where I was Sept, 11 2001. I arrived early was sitting at my desk at Universal music. My BFF and i had a running joke that she could see me from her penthouse apt (which was just across the plaza from my office) so I was looking up to her window and waving good morning. I didn't really think she could see me, but it was something I did often.

About 8:55 my phone rang, it was my mom to say "hey, a plane crashed into the World Trade Center." I looked out my window and sure enough there was smoke coming from one of the towers. By this time my boss had arrived at work and we were looking at it together as he turned on the TV. Being in music industry there were things we were never without...stereo equipment, speakers (loudly) and TV - usually to MTV, but today we watched CNN.

Just as I settled into his chair to watch coverage, we heard the reporter say "there's another plane and it's turning into the tower". I'll never forget this...As I stood up and looked out the window, I could see the plane just at it struck. Holy Sh*t was the first time I'd ever heard my boss swear. Panic ensued. I tried to call my mom - line busy; I tried to call my BFF as her job was on the other side of Manhattan to see if she knew - line busy. People were now arriving at the office and no one knew what to do, say or what was happening.

I have memories of getting on the elevator, running across the courtyard to my BFF's house - the doorman knew me and was asking me what happened. I told him what little I knew, and then called up to her apt. Her boyfriend said that he had just spoken with her and she was on her way back to the apt. Relieved that she would be on her way I raced back to the office, and discussed the plan of getting everyone in our dept out and home. Of course for the people that lived in NJ there was no transportation in - or - out. NYC was in lock-down.

Once we made arrangements for hotels etc, I went back to my BFF's house and the doorman said "you're family is upstairs waiting for you". I knew what he meant and I think it was at that point she and her now husband did become my family. We cleaned out the fridge of food, and then went to the supermarket to buy more. Friends came over and we all were glued to the TV, just watching the horror over and over and over again. I stayed with them in their apt I think for 2 nights because I was just so scared to take the train home. None of us understood, or knew what was happening yet.

As I sat with BFF we had a telescope and let me just say some of the things I saw falling weren't scraps of paper. We watched, ate, drank copious amounts of ..., well everything and when the first tower fell...I watched stunned. When the second tower fell...I just cried.

Days later the NYTimes posted pictures of those "lost". Day after day I found pictures of friends, former boyfriends, a sales person at the shoe shop I knew.

Day after day the city remained quiet except for the firetrucks and police down at "ground zero". I did manage to grab my press pass and go down there to take pictures. What I remember most, the smell and the dust.

Fast forward, today still leaves me with mixed feelings. You can't change the fact that there no longer is Twin-Towers. If the bureaucrats would get off their butts and play nice, we could have rebuilt something already!! The lives of those killed and their family/friends will never be the same. Even if time heals, this is a day when the nation will constantly remind you. You never forget.

I know that a dear friend whose twin brother was a fireman has still to recover from losing his twin, and has since left his post as a fireman. He just couldn't take the constant reminder.

So what to do...morn and then live. Rejoice in their life. Remember the good times. Live the life they would have wanted for you to live. Pray for our solders who are fighting ... still.

Pray that it never happens again.

Money makes the world go round…

2009-09-08T16:19:00.001-04:00

I met a rabbi one day (no this is not a joke); I told him that I wished that I had more money than I had. I told him that I was tired of being ‘poor’ (I know cry me a middle-class river), and wanted to be able to fly off to places whenever I wanted; I wanted a big house, I wanted to be surrounded by at least 2 children, family friends and a man who loved me. I asked him was it bad to be envious of people who ‘seemingly’ had it all? He said to me, there is nothing wrong with wish for, or wanting something that someone else has. The thing is, if you wish for the good, you have to take the un-seen bad that may come along with it. Talk about an ah-ha moment.

The moral to my story – I still wish I had the big house on the sprawling estate and the private jet, but I really don’t want the tax problems that come along with it because of the economy. The reality is – someday in the not to distant future, it will happen.

The rich…I’m not talking a few million, I mean the REALLY, really rich never seem to have any worries. They jet to exotic locations; they have the finest clothes, food and drink. The see something and they buy it. Then there are the rich that are just rich for no real good reason other than they can bounce/throw/hit a ball, or twist the financial industry around their fingers or they are trust-fund babies.

I’m not bashing people who have money and do good, they help their fellow man, spread the wealth, act…well, like normal people and not obnoxious snobs. I’m talking about the people who think that $90million for 3 years is a justifiable amount of money to throw a ball. I mean those that think swindling people (including their own family – glad we’re not related!!) out of their hard earned money/life savings. I mean those that get paid thousands for 15 min to show up at a party, and are famous for nothing at all.

People like the Kennedy’s (yea they have their own ‘stuff’, but in general they believe in service to all people – gotta give them credit for that), Steve Jobs or Bill Gates, these people have money, but they also believe in philanthropy, and the future generation. They are not ones to wear their bling on their sleeve, or flaunt their big homes, private jets, or fancy clothes – but you know they have it.

What does it mean to be wealthy? Is it only monetary? Can we stretch and say it includes family, friends, and if we have a few nickels to rub together (or some good food, wine, music and lots of laughter) that is the whole package? If you have the great family but live in a hut or have a so-so- family but live in Bel-Aire whom would you think the ‘richer person’? Guess it depends on what you need.

I’m lucky – I have a great family and an interesting group of friends. It’s a mix of nationalities, experiences and circumstances. They run the range of friends from grammar school to graduate school. They are black, white, Asian, Hispanic and Indian. They are crazy wealthy, and not so much. There is even European Royalty in there that is a complete nut job, but I love her anyway. If you are looking for someone who is rich, look at the people they keep close to him or her. They are the people you know you can count on and not just because you can get them tickets to a concert, or the latest designer bag free.

Am I wealthy? You bet I am. Maybe not celebrity wealthy, but I am where it counts.

Hot, fat and sticky. - weather and men, making me crazy

2009-08-18T20:20:00.005-04:00

If your initial thought was "she's going to write about food this week", you're wrong.

It has been hot here in NY. So hot that I had to actually turn on the air conditioner - which in turn, gave me a cold. The kind of cold where you're hot and yet your skin is cold and clammy. With all the other health stuff I've dealt with this summer, this was the last thing I need. Then again in the grand scheme of things, this is no big deal.

The last time I wrote it was about things that made me go "Grrrr". I thought I was done, no such luck. I'm hoping you can help me understand the following:

Men playing sports, getting paid a lot of money and then throwing it away. WHY?

I was asked if I thought Michael Vick being reinstated by the NFL Commissioner was fair especially since Pete Rose is still fighting to be instated into the Hall of Fame. Since I like sports I figured I would try to tackle this.

Let's begin with Michael Vick. He did a stupid, vile, unimaginable thing. Ok, I said it to get that out of the way. However, he went to prison and served his legal debt to society, and I think he should be allowed to try to put back together his life. Our prison systems have always said that they were creating a place where prisoners could be rehabilitated no matter what their crime. Not all can be, but at least they are given the opportunity to be. If we don't allow people who have served their time back into society, they'll just remain predators. Do I have a very decided line on hardened criminals (sexual predictors, murders) yes! Do I think Michael Vick falls into that category, no. He was just stupid - and acting stupidly is his crime.

What the commissioner has done by having him reinstated, represents the league (all of them). Now, if no team wanted to sign him because of the issues that will come with him, that's one thing. However this is purely a business decision - you know dollars/cents. The Philadelphia Eagles see him as an asset. He came cheap, and yes he has the skill to bring them a much needed/wanted title. It's just like having a 'normal' job - as long as you produce, make the boss look good, prove your worth, you're wanted. The moment you no longer can produce to benefit their profit margin - "see ya, wouldn't want to be ya."

Michael Vick, Plaxo both have to realize that they are not finding a cure for cancer, they are playing a sport. To be able to do what they do is a privilege not a right. Maybe they won't be as cocky. Maybe they will appreciate the talent they were given. Maybe they won't think the but for them goes the team. Vick the world is watching, and Plaxo...you'll get your turn in a few years. Do your time, learn your lesson and please don't do it again. If either of you do - they you absolutely deserve what you get.

Pete Rose, this is a totally different ball in play. It may sound crazy but, baseball has a "morality code" written in the bylaws for consideration that 'a player's personal conduct should be considered not just his abilities as a player'. To the best of my knowledge, football doesn't have such a clause - it's just about how you play and how many games we can win. Rose committed the ultimate sin in sports. He bet on his own game. Even people who don't follow sports understand that the integrity of the game was marred when he did that. If players and managers are betting on their sport, their own team (either for/against) then you can't be sure they aren't fixing things to win those bets.

We as a society want to hold celebrities and sports personalities up to a standard of almost demi-god. When they fall from grace, then we treat them a lot like gum on our shoe. We are as fickle as we are loyal to our team. Like people in Europe, you are 'born into' a team and heaven forbid you decide you don't like them anymore.

People, we are the ones that are paying crazy money for tickets to see players/these games and we should no must, hold players, managers, teams and the league accountable. There can't be any doubt in the integrity of the team or its players. These are the people that young boys (and girls) hold up as heroes. Maybe their parents should be the real hero, but that's another story. I'm all for giving opportunities and having people being proven guilty vs. innocent, but come on! If you were 170 at the end of the season and after 4 months off, you are now 260 - either you need to push back from the table or those "vitamins" that you are being injected with are not what they seem.

Barry Bonds, Clemens, McGuire, Sosa, A-Rod - all of these guys 'allegedly' use steroids in one form or another. I tell you, I want to reach through the tv and smack them when they say "he just gave me a shot - I thought it was a vitamin". HOW DUMB ARE YOU?? They were good ball players to begin with and just threw it all away. You just didn't think you would get caught. You thought your 'name' made you 'untouchable'. Hmmmm talk about ego!

I once has a boss who said ALL THE TIME "There are no tears in baseball". I'm not sure what she meant by it, but I do know that Plaxo, Vic and Rose (and a lot more players before it's done), will be shedding tears. I don't think so much for loss of their 'star' status as much as their 'star paycheck'.

Race, Relations, and things that make me go Grrrrrrrrrr

2009-08-10T11:10:00.003-04:00

I've been a bit busy - trying to do things that are necessary in my life. I'm hoping that at least some of them, if not all, will be fruitful and bring into my life what I wish. What those things are - I'll blog about in the future.

Today I've finally had a few moments to write some thoughts on what has had me scratching my head, made me angry, and just throwing up my hands.

President Obama, Sgt. Crowley, Prof. Louis Gates.
The topic of race was too quiet...like the elephant in the room. Sadly, it's come out like a lion roaring and I don't know if it has divided the nation anymore than it has, when we should be more focused on health care, getting jobs and the return of the economy.

However, for some people, it's apparently getting increasingly hard to effectively conceal their racism, especially when it comes to dealing with the media. In a story two weeks ago emerged amongst the unavoidable Gates/Crowley fiasco, Cambridge police officer Justin Barrett has somehow managed to put himself in some deep... excrement. (this just says that while Sgt. Crowley may not be a 'racist' there are people in the Cambridge Police dept., the same one that he belongs to that are!)

He was put on paid administrative leave after he mass-mailed a racist, bigoted email to the Boston Globe and members of his National Guard unit, in which he continuously referred to professor Henry Louis Gates Jr as a "jungle monkey." Actually here are some of Barrett's original statement's:

"If I was the officer he verbally assaulted like a banana-eating jungle-monkey, I would have sprayed him in the face with OC deserving of his belligerent non-compliance." He went on further to say "I am not a racist but I am prejudice towards people who are stupid and pretend to stand up and preach for something they say is freedom but it is merely attention because you do not get enough of it in your little fear-dwelling circle of on-the-bandwagon followers."

What saddens me is that the people who demonstrate this type of behavior are more remorseful for getting caught and how they "worded" their statements more so than recognizing the social implications of their actions. In other words 'Open mouth, insert your entire leg!' This is someone who had HE been the one to respond that day, we may have had a VERY different outcome.

Now before you say I'm not responding to Pres. Obamas comments, I can only say that he is a man who may/or not have been a victim of racism himself, I don't know. Should he have used the words " acted stupidly", I don't know. In the end, there are no words that would have been good enough. Any words would have been taken out of context.

For people to presume that just because the U.S. has a black president in the white house is going to make things better; to think racism disappeared the moment he won is beyond sadly mistaken. How do you fix it? I'm not sure. I think that we should go back to our childhood when we all played with each other - with total disregard to skin color. Racism is taught; it's a learned behavior. I know people who have grown up with racist parents (this included color, religion and everything else) and they choose, to allow people into their lives based on who they are "not the color of their skin". Maybe that's too simplistic - maybe I want to believe that most people are good, sadly I know they are not.

Do I think the "Beer at the Rose garden" was as 'sweet' as it smelled, absolutely not. I believe that it was a photo-op. Let's face it...being called to the Oval office is akin to being called to the principals office.

Relations with other countries and each other.
I know Lisa Ling. She is an amazing woman, journalist and someone whose intellect I admire. I am beyond thrilled that her sister Laura Ling and editor Euna Lee are freed from captivity. What I want to know and may never know is why and how they were captured. Let me say upfront, I am not criticizing them, this was not their fault, they were 'just on the job'. I have been on the border of two countries and immediately knew where the country line was drawn...there were armed guards that told me.

I'm wondering if the area they were filming, contained no signs of warning, or police and if not...if they were just steps into N.Korea, then how and where did the military come from to arrest them? It just seems to me that they were (intentionally or not) further into N.Korea than we honestly know. Does this mean they should have been put in jail and sentenced to 12yrs of hard time - absolutely not. There are other journalists, political prisoners and perhaps many others that we will never know because of their 'non-status', who are arrested and in prisons with no chance of getting out.

Ah...former President Clinton to the rescue. I am a fan - yes I said it. I voted for him, worked on his campaign as a volunteer and think he did a good job. I am sad that I don't remember any interaction with Pres. Clinton and Kim Jong-il - the cynic in me wants to say that Kim Jong wanted Pres. Clinton to 'eat a bit of crow' for something in the past, but I have no evidence to back that up. What I do appreciate is that he passed no official messages and made no promises during his mission. N. Korea is still a country that needs to re-think it's policies.

To wrap this up, I hope that we can now get back to what's important: the economy, jobs, health care. For those critics of Pres Obama, look the man has only been in office for 8 months! If he hasn't made a real change by the end of the year, the I just might join you on the "Where is the Change?" bandwagon.

Can you believe that summer is 1/2 over already?

2009-07-27T12:20:00.002-04:00

Wacky weather is what’s been going on here in NY. Actually, I’ve been enjoying it. Sunny days or “wake you up from your sleep” kind of storms at night. I love that I can wake up the next morning and its cool and clean – a great way to start the day.

This year hasn’t been like others when it comes to weather – I don’t think we’ve even hit 90 yet. Not that I mind…it saves on the electric bill, which is a good thing.

So what’s new on the list? A Lot!

I’ve looked at my 25 list and realize that I’ve accomplished almost 1/2. I’m pretty proud of that. Yes, there are a few more to go, but I think I can get them done by the end of the year.

There are tons of friends that have traveled this summer – to Fire Island (NY), San Sano (Italy), London (UK) and New Orleans (LA) – hey I want my pralines Kelli!! J It’s been fun hearing about their adventures as I begin to plan my own. After all, it’s been a while since I’ve been anywhere fun and I deserve it. So…as I dream…London, Amsterdam, San Francisco are on my short list…but even shorter is a trip to Montreal, which I will be doing in Sept. YEA!! This other little writing project I have, has presented an opportunity to visit a destination in Montreal, at the expense of the vendor. Totally rocks right?! One of the last times I was there, was so much fun and the people were truly amazing. Yes, really looking forward to this. I’ll absolutely post pictures when I do.

This also makes me think what do I want to do for the rest of the year.

A Job is an absolute.

“Perfect” health – or at least really, really close.

Finish the book (3/4 there, but I’ve already written the last chapter)

Spend time with my family and friends. There are so many additions to both; it will be nice to hang out with them.

Be content that I’m a work in progress and the final masterpiece will be spectacular. Lol

Guess I should get started huh?

A good quote can make you go hmmmm

2009-07-21T11:29:00.004-04:00

A few days ago I happened upon this quote:

"You never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something, build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete." ~ R. Buckminster Fuller

I thought to myself – this is the story of my life…or at least the life I have lived the last 3.5 yrs. My reality was as follows:

I can no longer wear heels

I can no longer eat what I want to because it clogs the illy

I can’t go anywhere without fear that this bag will explode – which it has done several times

I can no longer be in a bikini

I am no longer sexy or appealing to anyone

I can no longer wear form-fitting clothes or anything smaller than a size14

I will never be able to function like I did before

I will never be able to trust people I thought of as friends, family, or any other title given again

I will always feel let-down, disappointed

No one truly understands what it’s like to live like this day in, day out

I will just have to fake it until it becomes a part of life like brushing my teeth

I will have to fake it because

I won’t ever feel whole again.

These are just a few of the things I battled daily – no hourly with living with an ileostomy. I often felt like the stereotypical ‘fat’ person…you never see a sad ‘fat’ person…so those moments – the real moments when pain ripped though my body, moments when I spent hours crying because that was truly all I could do, when asked I simply responded “I’m fine” because the history with some was “they really don’t want to hear the truth anyway”.

So life is taking on a different reality – it’s a 2 X 2.5 X 2.5 hole that is where my ‘illy’ used to be. By all things natural I’m thrilled even as I look at the crater that is packed with gauze daily by my nurse. I know that it will close itself in a few weeks and then as someone said “life will get back to normal”. My question is “what is that?” What is ‘normal’?

This quote makes me think about my life, my family, my friends…and what reality is. Reality isn’t that they necessarily stop caring – they just go on with life. Reality isn’t necessarily that after an event that is important to YOU (meaning me!!) should be allowed to be minimized by people who have no clue to what you’ve gone through and even less to whom you really are. Reality doesn’t mean that there won’t be moments of sadness, or tears or still an occasional pity-party. Reality is that each of us heals on our own time. No one can rush the process; no one can tell you to get over it; no one can take away what is your present reality.

So what does this have to do with the quote…well my changes started in December and yes I still have my faults. A lot of them perhaps, but I’m not the same person I was circa 2006. I’m not the same person I was circa June 30, 2009. I’m hoping I won’t be the same person in a few months from now. I’m hoping I’ll be more grounded, more self-assured, more confident. I don’t want to be the ‘old Lisa’…I couldn’t even if I did want to. That person in effect – died and so did some of her dreams. What I want is for people who are my friends, for my family, to acknowledge that this was a journey that I traveled alone. Even with well wishes, and prayer…it was something – no an existence that I lived alone. Daily. Now, I’m moving past it – maybe not as quickly as you would like…hey, it’s not as quickly as I would like, but there is another Lisa that will emerge out of the ashes, like a Phoenix and I will fly again. I will live again. I AM Living Now.

I guess the moral of this as I re-read what I’ve just written…is ‘closure’ is finally happening.

What's the count on the 'to do' list?

2009-07-18T11:36:00.000-04:00

There are a few that I still have to do:
Loose 30 lbs
Dance under the stars with someone I love
Read the entire New Testament
Publish my book
Wear something really expensive and sexy (even though I have no clue where I would wear such a thing...does just trying it on in the dressing room count??)
Travel to Dubai
Stay at a 5-star hotel and
Be an extra in a film/video (I don't think that's going to happen this year so I'm being kind to myself and giving myself a pass!)

As I look over the entire list, I think I've done really, really well. I think I've accomplished more than most people have and it proves to me that if I write it down, I can make it happen (as long as I don't loose the tiny little slip of paper I wrote it on!)

I'll keep you posted as things progress...now...back to writing more chapters for this book. Funny enough...it's given me an idea for a second story...yup the creative juices are flowing...now if there were only more hours in the day...

Life and Death

2009-06-30T05:55:00.000-04:00

What a week we've had here in the US. First Ed McMahon, the man best known for saying "Heeeeeeere's Johnny," the phrase that brought Johnny Carson on stage died. In recent years there was a lot being said about him losing money, not being healthy and more.

Right after him was Farrah Faucet. One of the original "Charlie's Angels" she had battled cancer for a long time. While she also tried experimental treatments and for a while seemed to get better, the cancer spread to her lungs and that along with everything else caused her to loose her life.

Before we could wrap our heads around that, Michael Jackson died. Don't need to tell you who he is, but i will share with you two MJ stories.
1 - I was getting into the elevator at Universal Music about 8 years ago, and there were two people in the elevator. One, a very large body guard, the other a very thin man, who couldn't seem to squeeze himself any further into the corner. I remember his black hat, and being very, very, very pale. This being a music company, I didn't think anything of the bodyguard, but there was something about this guy...Then it hit me and I gasped. I looked up at the body guard and at that moment he know that I realized that I was in the same elevator as MJ. He smile. So as the doors opened on the grown floor I turned and said "bye" he responded in kind.
2 - many years later, I was working at Sony BMG and Michael was protesting. He arrived on a tour-bus and there were massive crowds in the front of the building. So those are my two MJ meetings.

What makes me really sad is that all three of these entertainers were amazing in their own right. At least two of them - who had made TONS of money, died having major financial troubles. All three had medical issues. At least one of them will make more money NOW then he could have possibly made while alive.

I just feel badly for the families and in particular the children of both Farrah and MJ.

I feel sorry because these families can't mourn their loved one privately. Yes I realize that they opted for this living in the spot-light life but a husband, is still a husband; a mom and girlfriend is still a mom and girlfriend; a dad is still a dad; death/loss/saddness is still all of those things. While their families will have to go on, I can't imagine how much more difficult it is when your loved one is "a star". You have to in some instances continue to share them in death as you did in life.

Can we all just take a moment to pray for the loved ones of those that have died - these three famous ones as well as the ones we know personally. May the God/Universe that we individually believe in, grant them peace.

What does 1247, the number 5 and June 30 have in common?

2009-06-28T00:32:00.001-04:00

Re-print of a letter I sent to my friends about 10 days ago. I would hum the "Jeopardy" theme song here, but I won't. Instead give me a few moments to share something with you.

Jan 18th, will always be the day that changed my life in more ways than I can count. It was the day that I had my hysterectomy and began a life with an ileostomy. As you all know, it's been a constant roller coaster ride with doctors, surgeries, life changes, emotions, etc. Through it all, those of you I now send this too have been my support, have prayed with me, cried with me, held me up, stood with me when I was in a good mood and those days that were horrible, tried to understand and provided cocktails and wet noses when that was needed. It's been a trip and honestly, didn't like the ride. (no news flash here!)

This past December I gave it up to God. After the absolute nightmare of living in Boston (the exception being Dr. Goldberg at Brigham Womans in Boston who explained everything clearly and told me my options and continues to take my calls, and Sophia who was an angel that morning after Halloween in Beacon Hill and every email after), struggling to find a job, coming back home was the best thing.

* Being in the care of doctors at Sloane-Kettering and in therapy was where I needed to be to deal with my issues.

* For being in the arms of the "Women of Cornerstone - my sisters" who were the first people I spoke aloud my hurt, sadness, fear, disgust, disappointment; they prayed with and for me, in a way I needed. They never judged me and always asked "are there anymore tissues??" after I shared. :-) Thanks L. I-S., for the blind-sided birthday gift when in reality, YOU and your girls are the gift to me. :-)

* I also think, no know the writing program ('Visible Ink') at Sloane-Kettering helped me write it out. Telling MY story was the key to releasing all of this. The written word somehow is more powerful or maybe, it's just easier understood. I can't thank my editor enough for knowing exactly how much to push, being an additional support system and knowing when to just let me be - but for not too long. She is not only my editor, she is a dear friend.

* Finally there is Ms. Patti LaBelle who sang "New Attitude" a night I was in the middle of a deep despair, pain, guilt and sense of loss. It was the moment that changed my life. Hey if it's going to be changed, why not by someone like Patti?

I'm getting to the point - just hang with me a bit longer.

This New Year, I was going to have - or at least try to have a 'New Attitude' regarding living with the ileostomy as January 20, was to be my 5th surgery. It was in my head and heart, going to be the last one and I was ok with it - finally. If you've ever had surgery that's one thing...to have 5 and have the results remain the same, to have your hopes of it being a success only to find out it wasn't, it's another. Nope not going through it again; I was going to create a new life and live-life. I'd let these 3 yrs change me and not all the changes were good. Took a while, but I learned.

After much waiting since Jan., tests, a false/positive, another test, doctor on vacation (not once but twice, then him sick), the results are final and positive. So number 5 was the magic number. The ileostomy will be reversed.

So after 1247 days (and if you add each number and reduce to a single number, it is 5), June 30th I will have the reversal of the ileostomy. How crazy is that?? I know technically that will be surgery #6, thereby shooting my 5 being the magic number to shreds so please, don't point it out - I already know. :-)

To those of you who were there from the beginning, middle or end; to those who never left me, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support, love and understanding - even if you didn't always understand or thought I should "get over it already/move past it". Please continue to hold me in your prayers and bear with me a bit longer as my body re-learns how to function and what emotions that may bring. For those of you who were able to share in the reading of "Thank you Ms.Patti" with me that night 2 months ago (esp you mom), you saw me feeling better about myself. It was the happiest I've been in a LONG time and I can't thank you enough for coming (esp. my NJ/NC crew). I've learned a lot about myself, family, friendships and life during this time.

Let me say that I continue to pray that this is the last surgery I will ever have, only time will tell. Even though you looked at me and didn't see a bag hanging from me, it was there. I will forever be different because of this experience and the scar a reminder. As I said, there is going to be a 're-learning' period of bodily function (is that too graphic??), but I look forward to loosing the weight, wearing my heels (which had to be put away and you know I love me some Manalos), getting better and having my body back. I hope to have the story of this experience finished by Aug/Sept. The names have been changed but you'll know who you are. :-) I can't wait to share in the 'birth' of this novel with you.

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T00:19:00.002-04:00

If you’ve ever seen me and the number one man in my life, you might think we are way too silly. I think we are just father and daughter who happen to enjoy being with each other. Yup, my dad, Mr. B; my “macho-macho man”, my hero, my strength, my friend and yes the greatest man I’ve ever, been blessed to know.

He is truly the son of a farmer from South Carolina, the middle brother in a family of 13 children. He was a star basketball player who was smart enough to marry the home coming queen who is my mother. He is a man that even though he moved from the country to the city, but always a farm boy at heart. He still feels at home and comfort in planting his garden and fishing when ever he can. Still one of the sharpest dressers and a better dancer than any guy I’ve EVER dated, he is just so cool.

It is easier for a father to have children, than for children to have a real father. Okay, before you think I’ve lost my mind; this is a quote from Pope, John XXIII. If you think about it, it’s true. I used to say that there is a difference between being a father and a ‘dad’. Any man can be a sperm donor, or say that they are a father, but being there, doing the hard things, working the crazy hours, providing for your family, playing with your kids, discipline, some days doing things he didn’t want to, and I’m sure doing without from time to time so my brother and I could have, did I say ‘truly being there’, that makes you a father. The fact is, biology alone doesn’t make one a father — or a mother, for that matter.

There’s not been a time, when I think I’ve not been able to talk to my father. I have the ability to share with him my dreams, fears, or just the latest score on “Dancing with the stars”. I have been known to climb onto his lap, race tractors in Home Depot or just sit on the sunny porch during my visit to their home. He is a man I know I can trust to make things better – no matter what.

What’s not easy is to be a real father. It’s not easy to wake up in the middle of the night to change your child’s diaper. It’s not easy to play with your daughter/son after a day of hard work; not easy to read your daughter a book at bedtime when you’re so sleepy yourself; not easy to help with our homework especially after working all night, just a few hours sleep and having to go back to work the next day. It wasn’t easy, WE weren’t always easy, but loving you is extremely easy. OH DAD, are you crying again?? ☺

I hope to one day make you proud of me dad. I know you’re proud of me, but it’s like loving a child or parent. I love you because you are my father, but I like you because you’re a good guy. I want you to feel the same pride that I feel every time I think of you, or someone says “your father is really cool”. I know he’s cool and yes I’m lucky he’s mine!

So Happy Father’s Day Mr. B.

I Love You!

Felicitaciones to U.S. Supreme Court nominee Judge Sonia Sotomayor - YEA!!!

2009-06-04T00:09:00.004-04:00

I am so proud of her my heart is going to burst!! I am proud of the fact that she is a Woman!! I am proud that she is a Latina!! I am proud that she is “more qualified than any other Supreme Court Justice at their time of their confirmation”!! I am really proud that Pres. Obama is brave enough to take a chance.

Now…let’s get to brass tacks (as my Constitutional law professor would say). Is she the right one? Well if you look at her record she is consistent, she is fair, she is a scholar of the law. She is also someone both parties have moved up the legal food chain (the first Pres. Bush then Pres. Clinton). She should be a good pick to make ‘most’ happy. Right?

Some will feel that she is too much a moderate, others will wonder her stance on Roe v. Wade, yet others will say that her problem is that she is empathetic and that’s not what the supreme court needs. They will say that the law rulings should be based on the law and not feeling. Maybe that’s what’s wrong with the law. Maybe your personal experiences should come into play.

Let’s face it…the law wasn’t written for people who were African American, Gay, or Women. It was written for men, by men because at the time, women were worth just a bit more than cattle. African Americans/Blacks at the time were slaves so they definitely didn’t count. I can’t recall if there were Gay men even though some would say that there were, just without the name.

I hear the GOP belly-aching Pres. Obama nominated her because she is a woman – but didn’t you do the same thing with Gov. Palin? There is no way you’re going to tell me that you didn’t pick Palin AFTER Pres. Obama passed on now Secretary of State Clinton, because you thought you would get the woman vote. The difference, Judge Sotomayor IS a woman AND qualified.

This judge is not the answer to every Hispanic’s (or women or minority) prayer, but she is someone who has experience that pertains to a certain population that the other justices don’t. Justices Thurgood Marshall, Stephen Breyer and Sandra Day O’Connor are among my favorite Justices. I want to something here about Justice Clarence Thomas – not my favorite Justice. I have met him before and frankly, I don’t think he reflect the African-American population at all. Then again, given his own remarks, Clarence Thomas shouldn’t have any problem with her. Isn’t he the first one to say “people of color shouldn’t expect things to be handed to them, but pull themselves up by their boot-straps like I did and go after the American dream.” Well Justice Thomas, that’s what Judge Sotomayor has done and continues to do. While I’m a bit sad Gov. Deval Patrick, of Boston didn’t get the nod, there is always hope that one day there will be another African-American male justice to balance Justice Thomas factor. Can we remember that the law is supposed to be a reflection of our peers? While it’s still missing a few members (Native American, Asian, Gay and others), I think this is a good first step.

I look forward to the confirmation hearings, I want to hear how the GOP will try to take her down, I look forward to hearing a woman who will remain composed and factual take them all on. More than that, I look forward to seeing another woman on the bench. She has said that few things have not changed: her feeling of herself as “not completely a part of the worlds I inhabit,” as she said in one speech; her drive and ambition; and her willingness to speak up about her own identity as a Latina and a woman. In many ways, she is walking through a door she pushed open herself. On the bench, Judge Sotomayor may be a careful deliberator, but off it she is a tireless advocate for Latinos.

All the best Judge Sotomayor and from one Yankee Fan to another – HIT IT OUT OF THE PARK GIRLFRIEND!!!

WHAT a week

2009-05-29T10:13:00.003-04:00

This week marks the un-official beginning of summer. Memorial day, bar-b-que, beaches, Fleet Week (here in NY – SOOOO many military personal all looking spiffy in their dress uniforms as they walk around NY), the nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor for the newest and only Hispanic ever nominated to the US Supreme Court a memorial day tribute and of course my personal favorite Dancing under the stars at Lincoln Center.

Ok so a bit at a time.
No Bar-b-que or beach for me…yet this year. The water is too cold still and I don’t have my dad’s hot dogs (truly the best on the planet) so I’ll pass until later on in the season.

I love Memorial Day and Fleet week. Not because of all the really cute guys that are in town, but because of what it stands for. I have several members of my family (including my own brother who was in the service) who have served and died for this country. I have loved a man from West Point (he went on to serve in both Iraq 1 and 2) and got to know first hand how seriously our young men (and women) take their military training – especially when they are training to become an officer (and of course a gentleman). This is in no way not to honor the amazing women that serve. You, are truly more woman than I, even though I almost went to the Air Force Academy. Wonder how my life would have changed if I did?

I also want to give a personal shout out to a young woman who is creating her own change. My adopted niece Melissa. Let me tell you about her and why she totally rocks!

Melissa is the daughter of a friend of mine, and she is what I think most would call a an old-soul. She sees things from a unique perspective and feels deeply. Very Deeply!! So much so that sometimes it’s hard to remember that she is not quite a teenager yet.

This amazing young lady was chosen this past week to read her speech about Memorial day in her hometown of Hillsdale, NJ. Why is this a big deal, because she beat out a bunch of other kids, she walked with their town mayor in the parade and well frankly…because I think it’s a big deal. You see Melissa and I have a very special connection.

She is a writer and photographer like me, she thinks too much (like me), she has a heart that is compassionate and she is brave. While not everything is a rose for my little friend, she has a capacity to give herself a time-out, think it out, and then come to a rational conclusion. Why tell you all that, because I think her paper about Memorial Day is telling of her depth.

In part she says the following:
“What does it mean to be unselfish? Not the textbook definition but the real meaning. The real meaning of unselfish is the men and women fighting and dying for their country everyday overseas. Memorial Day only comes once a year and on that one day everyone should think about all the men and women overseas. Many people just think of Memorial Day as a three-day weekend to escape from work but it is so much more than that it all started on May 5, 1868 when it was officially named a holiday that was when people finally took the time on that one day to remember the veterans and the people in the armed services now.

Memorial is one of the greatest holidays to celebrate because it is not a day to mourn or to be sad it is a time to celebrate the men and women who brought us to our freedom today.”

How smart is she? Personally I think Melissa will grow up to do something amazing. Maybe she will be like a Supreme Court Justice. Maybe she’ll be a world-class photographer, or teacher, or stay-at-home mom. I don’t know, but I do know that I’m grateful that she is a person of character, and who loves (and sometimes hurts) openly. I am proud that she understands that there is more to this holiday than just a day off. I, like her parents and sister Ally am very proud of her. This is among many reasons we need to nurture our young women and add another woman on the bench…the Supreme Court bench that is.

I am a believer that this is a good country that may have gone a bit off tilt in the past few years. This is not to say as I’ve said before, that Pres. Obama will create a miracle – there is just too much to clean up. I’m just hopeful that the rest of the world will see our new Commander and Chief as someone who is willing to listen and not dictate what other countries SHOULD do. Pres Obama seems to be a man that is looking for change, and is creating change to reflect the people of this country. I believe that one day, he just might put an openly gay person in a position of importance. Until that moment, he has taken a HUGE first step in creating a more “like me world” by nominating Judge Sonya Sotomayor.

Judge Sotomayor gets my vote immediately not because she is a woman (I’m not THAT sexist), but because she is a Yankee Fan. Secondly, being a former person in the law, I started reading some of her opinions when her name first started floating around. While I may not agree with them all, I do find that she is consistent, fair, and a scholar of the law to a depth that I am not. Hence why she is still a lawyer and I am not.

I believe that should she be confirmed, we will see some interesting fireworks on the court that we have never seen before. I also predict that this will NOT be the only appointment that Pres. Obama will make. There is at least 1 other judge that may be looking to retire. Mark this page when it happens.

Finally as for dancing…I want to dance. Not because I’m Dancing with the Stars worthy, not because I dance with my favorite guy when ever I can (yup that’s you dad!!), but because this is one of the things I have on my list to do. So if you are in NY, Lincoln center has dancing every night during the month of June. You can go take a class (yea, just meet someone and shake your tail feather for a small fee) and then spend the night dancing. Or…you can just stand on the outside of their outdoors space and dance anyway. It’s always so beautiful to watch couple that know (and those who don’t but love being close anyway) how to dance. Shouldn’t we all dance at least once with someone under the stars at least once in our lives?? This year, I will.

Sigh....words DO hurt

2009-05-22T08:00:00.002-04:00

I met a friend today. Someone who I'd not seen in about 5 years. He is tall, dark, extremely handsome and oh so funny. We spent the afternoon laughing, telling jokes, poking fun at each other and just having a good time. It was so comfortable and probably the most fun I've had in a very, very, very long time. So what's the problem right?

Well, being super conscious of what I wear, I had on a flowing top and jeans that I thought 'held in' everything. As they say..."not so much!" We walked into a shop and there was an older woman handing out samples of some 'juice that will get things going', as she winked at him and then looked at me. He, being a true southern gentleman said "thank you Miss Kathy" as he took a swig of this "all natural, all healthy, have you 'swinging-from-the-celling' dark purple looking thing". She then looked at me and said..."I would give you some but it has just a bit of alcohol in it and I see you're expecting..." Of course I'm not, as my pal nearly spit his drink out. I was so shocked and taken aback that I simply said "I'm not and no thank you anyway".

We continued walking through this shop and I fell quiet. He looked at me and tried to make light of it and then true to his southern good-nature gave me a quick hug, said don't worry about it; I think you look great.

I wanted to run back to her and say you "so and so!!" How dare you make assumptions just because I'm wearing a flowing top. Do you know how stupid you are? Don't you know that I've been battling health issues as well as what I look like issues even when I was healthy and I'm super conscious about what I wear? Do you know that if this was a date (which it totally wasn't), I would have felt mortified, but instead I'm with a friend who knows my health history and he gets it? What an idiot you are!! Instead her words brought back pain, tears and sad memories - yet again. More than that, she had no idea - how could she? Just when I think I'm over the hump...

Look I'm know this older than dirt woman, who is doing this little part-time job to get some extra money didn't mean any harm, but it made me think yet again about word, what is and isn't said. I wondered if I was truly 'pregnant' and not just dealing with an illness that makes me 'look pregnant' would I have felt the same. Would I have been giddy, because this 'little bump was visible'? I know that I am often pissed-off when men don't give a very visible woman their seat on the train or bus, but they are VERY pregnant. That frustration is another blog entirely.

Words to some are just words. I dare to differ. I think what you say or rather what the very young and very old say is a true measure of what they think/feel. For the young, they are being honest - meaning they haven't learned to monitor - or dare I say lie convincingly yet so if I 5 year old says "you look fat"...you probably are. For the older person, I get the feeling that its 'I've lived a long time and I can say what ever I want to". Neither is correct although a child is more forgivable.

I won't say that everything I say is proper - nor correct. Not everything I write is roses or even grammatically correct :-). However as my friend Kristen said to me "when you write something that is so 'out of character' it makes me wonder what really is happening and I don't want to be the person you're angry at." Just now, I thought of the old 'sticks and stones can break my bones, but names will never hurt me. That's not true - it does hurt.

So the next time you see someone - think before you open your mouth. If I woman looks like she's about to give birth any moment now...then I think it's pretty safe to say she's pregnant. If you have a moment of such anger that it's blinding, still try to pick your words carefully. Once the words come out of your mouth (or your computer keys), you can't take them back and sometimes the only thing that can make them better is a hug from a friend who says "It's ok, I love you just the way you are".

2009-05-16T12:02:00.002-04:00

What's new?? I think I am going back to school - ARGH - I know why?? Well, let me explain.

In an effort to try to be useful/productive during this 'time-off', I'm going to brush up on some language skills. Now I know some may say I have enough time with English, but I do speak Spanish and Italian as well so why not brush up on them. I'm also thinking maybe even with the world being in a 'slump', it might not be a bad time to head back across the pond (as it were) and look for a job in Europe. Hey, why not?? I'm not promising that I'll be fluent, but I do think there are places where I can be useful, get a change of venue and possibly...well, I'm open to any and all possibilities.

I've met a lot of people during the last several months and the idea has been brewing in the back of my mind. I also think that if I knew back when I was "smart at Oxford", what life would be like now, would I have come back?I would have lived in London or perhaps France? Would I have married at a young age and have children or would I be the Prime Minister? Would I be happy, would I be rich (here's what she said to me - que sera, sera - what ever will be, will be...the futures not ours to see, que sera, sera)? It's not to say that things would be better/worse, it's just that I think I would have just traveled a different road.

Who knows.

While this is the dream this week - who knows what will happen. Maybe I'll win Lotto, maybe I've be 'discovered' by Stephen Spielberg for his newest movie, maybe Oprah will discover my book (if I ever finish it) and it will instantly become a best seller...Hey it's possible. In the mean time, I'm going to consiga algún helado y leyó un libro bueno (eat some ice cream and read a good book). Gotta start somewhere....

Happy Mother's Day....

2009-05-11T00:00:00.000-04:00

Mothers come in all different shapes and sizes. The thing I think that they have in common is Love. Ok, so I don’t know anything about being a mom directly – I have one, have friends who are, and maybe someday.

There are even a few guys I know that are ‘moms’. What makes them moms? They have dogs or cats that they treat like their children, they have adopted children with their partners, they have sadly lost their partner (so they do the dual role), or they are the primary care-giver because their schedules either allow it or the economy forced it.

No matter how you came to be a mother I wish you a wonderful day. This is a day about being with children (even the 4 legged kind) and remembering how lucky you are to have a ‘little person’ in your life. Yes I hear it’s the hardest job there is and I can appreciate that.

So here’s to you – my own mom. I adore you, I love you, and I hope that if I ever become a mom of my own, I can be 1/100th as loving, kind, understanding and patient as you are.

Happy Mother’s day to all!!

Expectations - the good, bad and just unrealistic.

2009-05-07T09:00:00.004-04:00

The last couple of weeks I’ve been really swamped. Writing this ‘little column’ has proven to be a lot of work. I’m not complaining, as I really do like meeting vendors, and speaking with brides. In honesty, I forgot just how much fun to be a part of the process can be.

However, I’ve also reached out to people who I’ve either worked with before, or jobs I’ve applied to. Yes, the economy has hit everyone and out of the over 100 +people or companies, I’ve only received replies from about 27 of them to date. Most saying there isn’t anything, over-qualified etc. So while a part of me is very sadden by it, I understand. I still get up every morning, look through all the job posts, send yet more resumes and hope that things will turn around soon.

I’ve also been busy trying to finish up the novel I’ve been working on for the last almost 7 months. It’s been a long and very hard road, but I think in the end it will be a fun read. What’s is about?? Well it’s about a girl that has a pretty good life, good friends, and a great job. (so far so good??). Then with a twist of ‘fate’ her life changes and what that does to her, her relationships and how she comes to grip with the changes.

My editor and I had a great conversation the other day about expectations. Most of it had to do with my expectations of the book and what I wanted to come of it, but also expectations in general. Expectations seem to be a ‘hot topic’ lately. It made me think of my expectations of people (my family, friends) as well as their expectations of me. I know that I have, what some consider ‘high expectations’. I think it’s just a matter of if I give you 110%, then I hope that I can have 85% back. Personally, I think that’s fair. However I am a flawed human with good days/bad days. I am really trying NOT to have expectations because; well frankly it’s easier isn’t it? That's not a bad thing, I'm just trying to see people from the place where they come from and accept their words/actions from (hopefully) the good place it's coming from.

What do you think? Do people have expectations of you? How do you deal with your own expectations of people? How can you reach a happy medium? If someone has the answer, please let me know. I’m trying to make things better, but some days I seem to ‘put my foot in my mouth (and not having exercised for a LONG time, you know that’s a tough thing – also not a pretty sight!!). I'm trying to get better and if nothing else, think before I write or speak.

I love my family/friends for telling me when they think I've gone off the deep end...well, I may not always like it, but it does make me think. I'm trying not to go to that place again - ya know?? So, off to more resumes…then to the park. It’s a beautiful day and I’m going to take some time for me – just me. I'm going to create a happy ending to my story no matter what.

Have a great day!

Swine Flu

2009-04-30T10:00:00.006-04:00

The World Health Organization said yesterday the world is nearing a pandemic, raising its threat level as the swine flu virus spread and killed the first person outside of Mexico, a toddler in Texas.

“Influenza pandemics must be taken seriously precisely because of their capacity to spread rapidly to every country in the world,” WHO Director General Margaret Chan raised the official alert level to phase 5, the last step before a pandemic. This is the first time that the World Health Organization has declared a phase 5 that I know of in my life-time.

The virus, is a mix of pig, bird and human genes to which people have limited natural immunity, had spread to at least nine countries. In the United States, nearly 100 have been sickened in 11 states.

This is just crazy stuff!! I know that if people don't think the world is getting smaller, and we are 'connected', then all they have to do is look at what's happening.

What is truly scary for me is I keep having flash-backs to Joe Biden (before he became VP) and he said "Obama will be tested". Look, I don't (necessarily) believe in the prophecy, but I will say that Obama hasn't had an easy first 100 days. And doesn't it seem like he's been president a LOT longer than 100 days? Let me be clear that I think he has done a GREAT JOB and I wish him continued success.

(Oh I just read that Biden said something 'Biden-like' by saying to stay off trains/planes etc. HOW Mr. VP are NYers supposed to get around? We travel via subway and on yea...they are raising the cost of these trains - yet AGAIN, and if the ridership gets lower, will raise it again. WE CAN'T AFFORD THIS.

From the NY Daily News - The gaffe-master Vice President stomped all over President Obama's stay-calm message by blurting out that he's told his family to stay off planes and subways to avoid swine flu - exacerbating fears.

"I would tell members of my family - and I have - that I wouldn't go anywhere in confined places now," Biden said on NBC's "Today" show.

Biden even went into specifics: "It's not just going to Mexico - if you're in a confined aircraft and one person sneezes it goes all the way through the aircraft."

"That's me. I would not be at this point, if they had another way of transportation, [be] suggesting they ride the subway."

Biden's staff instantly went into damage control mode with a what-Joe-really-meant statement, saying the veep thought planes and subways were still okay for his family and they should stay off them only if they felt sick. - Mr. President, aren't you guys tired of your VP and damage control??)

How did it start, how did these students at St. Francis Prep (in Queens) get it, how can you prevent it, what does the bible (if you believe in it) say about sickness and the fall of nations? Look, not going to do the bible thing. I'm no scholar on that, but I have friends who are. If you're interested in a deep discussion, then I can put you in contact with them.

What I am saying is that we really, truly need to take care of each other and our planet. These type of diseases don't just happen over night. Maybe we need to take additional care on the type of food we eat. We also need to take special care of the children and elderly who may not be able to take care of themselves. I keep saying that you are born in one family and then you create a family (your friends and those in your inner-circle). Let's take care of our family, friends and this planet we have. After it's gone, there isn't another.

For more information go to the Center for Disease Control

Do take care of your self....

Happy Birthday Mom

2009-04-19T05:46:00.003-04:00

I wanted to also take a moment to send a very Happy Birthday to my Mommy.

We had a wonderful couple of days together. Of course, my dad...love him two, but he's just such a baby!! He kept calling, asking "where's my wife...oh and I love you too" he would say to me. You would think that she was here for months like the last time.

I know these two love each other but geeeezzzz already. lol

Mom, I want you to know that you are such an amazing woman, who makes me want to try to be a better person. I don't know if miracles can happen...but I'm trying. Thank you for coming up to share in my special night, and I look forward to eating our way through the food fair in June.

Much Love
Lisa

Talent comes in Two to Britian's Got Talent.

2009-04-19T05:16:00.003-04:00

I have been gone so long from you that I feel terrible and will try to be better. The column I'm writing has taken on a life of it's own, with me working harder than I'e ever...but I love it! While this is a short blog, I want you to check out two people from Britain's Got Talent. Shaheen Jafargholi - this kid is AMAZING!!! I also Love Susan Boyle and have not seen the others that are on this show; I would love to see them both win. Watch it - Simon does stop him in the first 20 seconds, but wait to see what happens. Simon really does have an ear - who knew?? I may be a bit cynical (no comments please), but I really think that this show (the British version) showcases new and undiscovered REAL talent. The American Idol version just seems so 'canned'. What do I know...my singing makes dogs howl...

I wish I knew how to embed video - if I did....I would post it - PLEASE go to the link

Shaheen Jafargholi Auditions For Britians Got Talent With Amy Winehouse's Version Of Valerie But Then Simon Cowell Asks Him To Sing His Other Song Which Is a Michael Jackson Song And The Judges Love Him And Also The Audience Give Him A Standing Ovation

Of course here is our girl Susan Boyle...I don't know if you know the words to the actual song from Les Miserables - so here they are as well. If you want to hear the cast version - here is is...close your eyes and you will hear Susan soooo close. I just wish I had talent like this. Anywho...enjoy them both.

Here are the lyrics...I can relate to the character Fantine...can't we all at some level or another. We all have dreams, and some die and then some others are born in another form.
[Fantine is left alone, unemployed and destitute. She sings...]

There was a time when men were kind
When their voices were soft
And their words inviting
There was a time when love was blind
And the world was a song
And the song was exciting
There was a time
Then it all went wrong

I dreamed a dream in time gone by
When hope was high
And life worth living
I dreamed that love would never die
I dreamed that God would be forgiving
Then I was young and unafraid
And dreams were made and used and wasted
There was no ransom to be paid
No song unsung, no wine untasted

But the tigers come at night
With their voices soft as thunder
As they tear your hope apart
And they turn your dream to shame

He slept a summer by my side
He filled my days with endless wonder
He took my childhood in his stride
But he was gone when autumn came

And still I dream he'll come to me
That we will live the years together
But there are dreams that cannot be
And there are storms we cannot weather

I had a dream my life would be
So different from this hell I'm living
So different now from what it seemed
Now life has killed the dream I dreamed.

Turn off the lights and let the world continue to shine

2009-03-25T09:57:00.004-04:00

On Saturday, March 28, 2009, at 8:30 pm, I am taking part in Earth Hour-a global event in which millions of people will turn out their lights to make a statement of concern about our planet and climate change. I want to invite you to join, too! Sponsored by World Wildlife Fund, Earth Hour got started just two years ago and is now the largest event of its kind in the world. Last year, more than 50 million participated and the lights went out at the Empire State Building, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Sydney Opera House and the Coliseum in Rome, just to name a few. Even Google's homepage went black for the day! In Israel, President Shimon Peres personally turned off lights in Tel Aviv.

This year, Earth Hour will be even bigger-already 250 cities in 74 countries have agreed to take part including Atlanta, Chicago, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami and Nashville with more signing up every day. Around the world cities like Moscow, Hong Kong, Mumbai, Shanghai and Mexico City will turn out their lights.

But Earth Hour isn't just for big cities-anyone can participate. To get a better sense of the event, check out this video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjWD8pbK5t8

Participating in Earth Hour is easy, fun and free. I hope you will join me for this amazing event. To sign up, visit http://www.earthhourUS.org where you'll learn more including ways you can spread the word about Earth Hour, plus creative things to do when the lights go out in case you need inspiration!

We want the US to turn out more lights than any other country in the world during this historic event so please pass this note along to anyone you think might want to take part. Let's all turn out and take action on March 28 at 8:30 pm.

It's been a while....

2009-03-21T00:03:00.003-04:00

Soooo Sorry!! I have be so crazy on the new site, but crazy in a great way. Have you had a moment to take a look?? As the New York Bridal Fashion Examiner, I've been meeting with designers, vendors, and if there is a bridal event in NYC, I'm there. I do feel like Carrie Bradshaw (yup Sex and the city is playing in the background on my tv) of the bridal world. As I tell people, I don't claim to know everything, but I'm having a blast while I share what I do. If you would like, you can subscribe to the page AND you don't have to be a New York bride to benefit from the tips. So stop by, share the link with your friends and I'm always looking for new things to write about, so send me a note or post if here.

Oh my gosh...do you remember the piece I wrote "Miss Patty" back in December? Well, it was submitted and accepted to be a part of an anthology book being prepared by Sloane Kettering Memorial hospital. While going through treatment I met a wonderful woman Judith who is my writing coach and is helping me write my book (which I've got to write some chapters this week - I know, I know!!). She is in charge of this evening for cancer survivors and their families and she asked me if I wanted to be a part of the evening and reading. So I submitted 3 pieces - 2 were accepted and Miss Patty will be read - by - an actor (she won't tell me who, says it will be a surprise. My dream would be Maya Angelou to read it - I would simply be over the moon, but I don't think it's Maya) that night at the event. So I will absolutely keep you posted on that as I get more information.

What else is going on?? Like so many people worldwide, still interviewing, looking for a 'real gig', trying to keep my spirits up and not stress about it. That's difficult for someone like me who seems to 'worry' about everything and everyone. I am trying to limit that, but some days it's just too hard. When I think about the bonuses that were given out at AIG, and OH MY GOD...Bernie Madoff having the NERVE to ask to be let out of jail until his sentencing...What $3000 bottle of wine are you drinking?? You have taken life savings of people - including some of your own family, and you want to be let out of jail to go back to your $7M appt? I think the judges were right to make him stay in prison. I don't think there is any reasonable person who thought they would allow him to be out - flight risk or not. A part of me wants to feel sorry for him, but I just can't. He deserves what he gets and he should be glad that the lights are on and cameras are watching him 24X7. Bernie when you do bad things, bad things will happen to you. He created this reality and sadly he will have to live in it.

The only other thing that has left me a bit sad (and I didn't know her personally, but have seen her around the city) was the death of Natasha Richardson this week. She and her husband Liam Neeson were so sweet to people that recognized them. I think the great thing about living in NYC is that we are so used to seeing celebrities that we are rarely shocked if you see one in line at the bank or supermarket. Like I said I didn't know her personally, but it touched me. I really hope that her family and friends are surrounded by her memory and are comforted that she isn't in pain.

I know, kinda sad way to end the blog this week huh? You know what...it's almost 1am and I really can't think of anything else to write so I think I'll leave it here.

This next week will be a good one - I can feel it! I wish you a GREAT WEEK and I'll see ya again soon.

Capture the moment with a smile

2009-03-06T06:25:00.001-05:00

This is a very special week for me for a lot of reasons. First, it’s the first week that I’m another year older (dear God, I hope wiser), and I’m feeling good. Secondly, I’ve been able to check off a lot of things off my list of 25 things to do…

As you may have seen, I’ve officially become a ‘published…actually columnist’. YEA!! I am now the official New York Bridal Fashion Examiner at www.examiner.com. What does that mean? I write about anything/everything that has to do with weddings and bridal fashion. For me it’s fun. I love any reason to get dressed up, even though I don't do it often enough. NO, not necessarily am I walking around town in a bridal dress (that would be crazy, even for me), but I do go to a lot of events and have the opportunity to interview people who may be interesting to my readers. While it’s a p/t position, it really does take a lot of time to do the work, but I enjoy it. I’ve actually received some positive feedback, and I hope I get better as a writer. Hey, one never knows where this can lead right?? So click on the link - OFTEN!! Even if you're not living in NY, you can take advantage of some of the tips I'm going to post.

I have a busy week coming up – Tuesday, I’ll be on the Mike and Juliet show, Rachael Ray show on Wed, and bridal events Wed. and Thurs nights. In between all that, I’ll still be looking for a job and who knows…maybe writing will become the new career. Hmmmm. Ok, so with these 2 additional shows, I only have 2 more to go to and still more than 1/2 the year left. EASY!!

One of the 25 was to ‘capture the moment’. We were really lucky in NY this week as it snowed and we had the first ‘real snow day’ in a long time. I spent time in Central Park photographing the park and the people in it. As I walked around in the peace and true quiet of the park, with the snow falling and the wind blowing, I felt so peaceful. Then you hear the squeals of children as they sled down the hills in the park and it was magic. I was really lucky that I was able to ‘capture their moment’ of pure joy; having fun and not minding the cold. Sooo much fun and it made me think – it’s times like snow days when you really want to have a child (or just act like one). You can be an adult and still find the moments for a snowball fight or making snow angles under the guise of ‘playing with your child’. If you don’t have children, then it’s ok to let your ‘inner child’ come out and play – no one will think your strange.

I wanted to change someone’s life this year. Not just my own, but I wanted to have an impact in someone life. So I found the perfect opportunity and will be doing it on Saturday March 7th. What am I doing?? Being tested to see if I’m a bone marrow match for someone. Why? Well, when I was little, my maternal-grandmother lost her sight. I always wished that someone would donate their eyes so she could see again and I remember thinking that if I could ever make a difference, I would at least try. So this is being done in honor and memory of my grandmother, Charlotte Green. I don't know if I'm a match, but you won't know until you try right?

Jasmina Anema is a 6 year old little girl that I don’t know. What I do know is she is already in the fight for her life. She is suffering from a rare and especially fatal form of leukemia that will probably kill her soon if she doesn’t’ get a bone-marrow transplant. My heart goes out to her for several reasons, including the fact that she is adopted, and has no siblings so finding a donor match is really hard for her. What makes it especially difficult is that in the national donor bank, African-Americans are underrepresented in the network. When I looked at her big brown eyes I just couldn’t not do it. I’ve already been a registered organ donor (for 10 years already), and want to feel like I can do something. The test to be a donor is really easy (a simple and pain free; just a swab of my cheek cells) and won’t take any time at all. Let’s put it this way, for the amount of time it will take (5 min), if it could help – why not? I may adopt a child one day and if this was my child, I would want, as many people as possible to offer to help if they could – wouldn’t you?? So if you are African-American and want to make a difference, call the national donor bank in your area for more information.

Finally, I did take a picture with someone famous “Chase” - my artist. I’ll spare you – cuz I don’t like it, but he’s famous and I did take my picture. I’ll work on having a photo with someone else famous at another time.

A very good week – and you know what…I’m happy for the first time in a LONG time.

2009-03-04T07:36:00.008-05:00

I did it - I jumped in the deep end of the pool and just pray I don't drown. What did I do, I applied, was accepted and now am a full-fledged published writer. YEA!!!
Check out the latest news written by yours truly. OK, click on the word "NY BRIDAL EXAMINER", or on the link at the right hand side of my blog...

I don't claim to understand all about marriage even though I have a good model to follow - my parents, but I do know how to throw a party. One of my former part-time jobs was as a bridal consultant for a large department store here in NY so this is a part of where I'm taking my expertise and where I feel I can offer advice to these brides, grooms and anyone who wants to throw a wonderful party.

So check it out - send me your comments, feel free to ask questions and I'll be happy to get back to you. This is just another way to look through "Lisa's Lens".

Yes I'm slowly checking off my list of things to do and I'm really pretty proud of my self. Ok, so I've got a lot to write and have to get started. See ya soon.

Selfish Birthday post!!

2009-02-28T18:11:00.005-05:00

So I want to take a moment and thank the following people who remembered my birthday:

My Family and Friends: Mom and Dad, My brother Bryant; Alessandra, Mark, Patricia, Michelle B. and Michelle R., Robert, Yolanda, Rich S. and Rich W., Stephanie B. (both of you), Lynne, Merilee, Karen, Justine, Kim, Allison, Lisa S., April, Todd, Pam S. (both of you), Kit-Kat, John, Tarshene, Sue, Butchy, Dominique, Troy, Kelly, Michael, Nigel, Barry, Aunt Jan., Father Louie, Linda, the girls at Dukes, the staff at Beacon, Trump Plaza bar and DelFriscos.

Thanks to you all for remembering and for making this day (even though a non-birthday as some of you reminded me) special.

How can I be sad because the 1 person that should have remembered, didn't, when I have so many people that did?

Life is good right??

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME

2009-02-28T09:17:00.003-05:00

You know what... I'm way too sensitive. I just have to laugh at my self because I am a true Pisces. I have the expectation of romance, love in the air, and everyone thinking things like...birthdays are a big deal.

What I've come to realize as I hung up the phone with my dad (as today really is HIS birthday - HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!!!) the people that love you make it special, even when it's not.

What?? How can I say it's my birthday...but it's not really?? Well being born on Leap Year means that I only have one every 4 years. As a kid - it sucked (some days still does) as I was constantly made fun of and told that "you don't have a real birthday". I learned to deal with it because my dad and I celebrated together. Both my parents made it fun. As I got older, I made it special by traveling the world and being with family and friends. Turning 40 (or leap year 10) was a BLAST. But now...the off-year, when it's not like I'm turning a true milestone year, it's just...well...off.

I know cry me a river. There's massive unemployment and people are losing everything and all I have to do is cry about a birthday? Well, you know what it's important to me. I do have a few friends like Barry who threw me a wonderful dinner party the other night. Besides the fact that he is a dear friend (and reads this faithfully), he is one of the kindest most considerate people in my life. I've had a few people I've not heard from for YEARS, send me cards or call. I think when it's someone you've lost touch with, but they STILL take the time to remember you, on your day - that means the most. Of course mom and dad called me just after the crack of dawn, and we did our strange, LOUD and screeching birthday sing-a-long. I'm sure if you discovered a crack in your mirror - we did it. My brother called shortly there after. It's still early and if you want to be 'technical' my birthday isn't really until tomorrow (if there was a 29th) so people can still reach out and wish me a good year right??

Yes I know I'm splitting hairs. I know...I know, no expectations just hope this year right? Well then, I HOPE when you have a reason to celebrate with someone - your family or people you consider family, make it special for you. Mine do :-)

Chase takes it from the street

2009-02-26T06:57:00.018-05:00

This past week I had a great opportunity. I was heading to my favorite addiction (Border bookstore) on my way to look for a book
when I happened upon an artist beginning to paint a very large mural. The air was thick with the smell of paint, not regular paint - spray paint. As I rounded the corner from the escalator I looked at the outline of this…design just at the beginning stages. Ok, so you have to understand…this was happening on Columbus Circle in NYC…not exactly the street capital of the world.

The ‘street’ artist Chase was just beginning to outline a project for “Western Union” on the second level of the shopping center. If you’re not familiar with Chase, let me tell you a bit about him.

Chase, a Belgium transplant now lives in Los Angeles and paints free murals around the world depicting young children with the text next to them saying: “Remember Who You Are”. Actually, he has many different ‘sayings’ that can be seen through out his various works. While he did formally study art, it seems he was ‘kicked out of art school’ and only then found his true voice.

He says” Painting seems to be a source of happiness for me, when a few days go by without having painted; I feel the need to re-connect with myself through painting. I get psyched on the smallest variations in my work, and the meditative aspect of it is not unimportant either. Once a work is finished, I can’t wait to start another because I want to apply the new things I just thought of, no matter how small they may be…it gets addictive!”

I simply say his work is really cool and it’s really a pleasure to meet an artist whose work I have known and enjoyed around the world.

So why was he here – As I said Western Union was doing a presentation here in NYC and they wanted to get people interested in their product and what a better way then through art. The final piece will be moved to their corporate headquarters in Denver.

Some days it’s really pretty cool to walk around the city and see things. Sometimes the city…frankly is just the city. Other days it’s art where you least expect it.

Happy Fat Tuesday - It's Mardi Gras!!

2009-02-24T08:32:00.011-05:00

Hey, Hey, Hey… it’s Fat Tuesday, or as they say in gay Paris, Mardi Gras. This giant festival of parades, great music and delicious food has been going on for weeks and sadly ends with a bang, on Mardi Gras Day in New Orleans.

Without a doubt, the most famous American celebration happens in New Orleans, but you can celebrate Mardi Gras anywhere. While I’m not throwing a party, I will be attending one where there will have some amazing jazz, Jester hats, jambalaya, and of course those beads!!! Did you know the bead color have meaning?? Purple (for justice), green (for faith) and gold (for power). I am looking for all 3 this year.

For those of you who have never been to a Mardi Gras, it is massive! It's marked by parades, parties, and the city of New Orleans has been celebrating it for more than 170 years! About 1.4 million people usually attend Mardi Gras, and that means a lot of money for the Crescent City. I’m sure not enough given they are still suffering so much after Hurricane Katrina, but every little bit helps.

Here are some interesting facts:

Pope Gregory XIII who made it a Christian holiday when, in 1582, he put it on his Gregorian calendar (the 12-month one we still use today). He placed Mardi Gras on the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. That way, all the debauchery would be finished when it came time to fast and pray. It ends on Easter Sunday.

The first part of the Carnival season is invitation-only coronation balls and supper dances hosted by private clubs known as krewes. Some of these Krewes are open to the general public (read – FREE), while others are kept private (read – exclusive) for ‘fine old New Orleans Families’.

There is an on-going battle as to which city held the first Mardi Gras: Mobile (Alabama) or New Orleans (Louisiana).

There are nine parades on Mardi Gras, most notably Rex. This is the Parade where youmeet the “King” of the parade. The word ‘Rex’ means king.

A plastic baby is baked inside the King Cake, and whoever receives the baby in their piece of cake must buy the next King Cake, or throw the next party!

These are some of the dates for future Mardi Gras:
February 24, 2009
• February 16, 2010
• March 8, 2011
• February 21, 2012
• February 12, 2013
• March 4, 2014
• February 17, 2015

So no matter where you are, and if you can, this is a great reason to get together with friends and family to celebrate. In these troubling economic times, it doesn’t have to be expensive, just incorporate some simple fun things. Don’t forget if your Catholic, Lent (or the 40 days of fasting) begins tomorrow. So as they say in New Orleans...

‘Laissez les bon temps rouler! Let the Good Times Roll!!

25 things update...

2009-02-18T03:17:00.013-05:00

Oh....it's really early in the morning and I can't sleep. So the TV is playing some ... something in the background and I'm here working on the 'great novel' and since I have a bit of a mental block (no comments from the peanut gallery people!!;-)) I decided to do a bit of blog clean-up.

As you know, I've given up the resolution and decided to just be productive and proactive this year. I've been working on 25 things to do in the next 52 weeks. I have no pressure to complete them, but they are pretty cool goals. What I noticed in the program is when you complete a goal - it takes it off your list - which in and of itself is a good thing...BUT...it also takes it off the list. So if you've been reading it, at one point it said "20 of 25 things"...NOW it says 25 again. I decided to re-post the entire list and then just subtract it via the blog. It's also one of my new tags so if you want to just view this progress just click on 25things. Make sense?

So here is an update of what I've been able to complete:
Go to 5 TV Shows:
I know for this may be no big deal since I've been on the show SO MANY TIMES BEFORE. I've been an actual guest and have my picture with Martha, Zac Posen in the amazing dress Zac custom made for me. OH The Dress!! I should take a pic of it and post it as that's as close as I'll ever come to wearing it again. Just imagine a man telling you to put on a dress and then with the largest pair of scissors I've ever seen - cut the excess material while you are standing IN the dress. Talk about scary! This gives the term 'cut to fit' an entirely different meaning. I love that dress!! Maybe one day I'll...nah...

Anyway this show they have an amazing Australian chef Pete Evans ("My Table" is a wonderful book which we got as a take-home gift) and people making children's toys out of cardboard - I kid you not (no pun intended). Not that I'll ever have a need for a cardboard oven, felt cherry pie or cardboard picnic bench, it was cute. The View, Rachel Ray, Mike and Julie and Late Night are some of the additional shows I'm looking to attend. I'd really LOVE Ellen, but I can't afford the California trip and I'm sure she's booked for the season already. Maybe next year.

STILL Reconnecting with people from my past:
Recently I got a Facebook invitation to connect with someone I'll call 'Richard S.' So I look at this picture of a guy - have no clue who he is. I looked to see who we had 'in common'. There was one girl I'll call 'Robin P'. So being the polite person my mom taught me to be I said "I'll be happy to add you as a friend, if you just tell me who you are and how we know each other beyond having 'Robin' in common. I'm looking and looking at this picture, saying the name and nope, nothing comes to mind. I get a reply a day later that says "We went to grammar school together at St. Angela Hall in Brooklyn and you were the first girl I ever had a crush on. I was best friends with 'Saul B', and at that moment all the bells whistles began to B-O-N-G. Of course I remembered him at that point. So I'm thinking...I never knew he had a crush on me and it's taken him more than 30 years to tell me this? Needless to say we will be getting together in the future to catch up with a few other classmates we've connected with. Isn't that crazy?!?

Reading the New Testament:
OK so I'll admit this is going to be a slow go. I have tons of questions, but thanks to the retreat I attended a few weeks ago, I have a pocket-sized version and am taking it with me everywhere. I'm trying to read it like a novel - sadly, it's not quite that easy. I will make sure it's done and will keep you posted.

Write an article and have it published:
I have been asked to write and submit an article which will be included in an anthology. Isn't that great!! I know - why not lead with this as an update - I'm still a bit shy about it. I wrote 3 pieces and 2 of them are being seriously considered. I'm actually pretty proud of myself. Once this is finalized (I should know in about 3 weeks), I'll post the pieces as well as the final name of the book. YEA, finally a published author.

Write 44 people and see if they reply:
Ok, so I've finally gotten serious about this one. I have about 28 so far on my list (sorry Oprah nor Martha didn't make it) and it continues to grow. I think this is a really interesting experiment to see who will take the time to reply. You know I'll keep you posted on the final list of people and their replies.

Oh well...that's just about all I have today. It's about 3:53am now and I've been up for about 2 hrs. I think I'm going to get back into bed and see if sleep comes my way.

How about those New Year's Resolutions???

2009-02-15T09:30:00.000-05:00

Have you taken a look around and realized that those ‘golden resolutions’ are in the golden garbage can?? I think that’s why I decided to lay off the pressure on myself this year. I’ve put myself under enough pressure just to get my life in general back to normal…I’m not trying to make myself nuts.

I did want to take this month to offer a months worth of things I’ve been seeing in magazines and hearing on the news as possible things to help you get through the rest of the shortest month in the year. Hey no pressure – just some things to think about.

1 – Since there are only three weekends in February, your recession budget for fun and frolic will go a little further.
2- Valentines Day is past so you have yet another 365 days to worry about buying that box of chocolate
3 – This is President’s Day Weekend – so you have a three-day weekend and a short week – what a double bonus.
4 – If you live where there is tons of snow, you can burn up to 400 calories per hour (good to know if you ate the entire box of chocolate)
5 – If you live in NY like I do, during this month because it is still so cold, you don’t have to battle the crazy cyclists and the cabs at the same time and the line at TXTS (the outdoor discount Broadway ticket center) is much shorter.
6 - The trees are still bare so all of those really beautiful estates in Long Island, you know the ones with the long driveways, you can see from the road without going up the driveway (not that you could get in anyway)
7- Turtlenecks hide many a mistake.
8- If you didn’t get expensive chocolate for yourself, you can buy it yourself and say it’s from someone else. (oh come on…you never sent your self flowers and they played coy about who sent them??).
9 – We are getting closer to spring each and every day. That’s something to smile about.
10 – There are at least 300-plus days until you have to battle those holiday shops again (or at least 200 until you start seeing cards and decorations in the shops).
11 – If you live in a beautiful tree-lined block where there are apartments that connect (some places call them brownstones like in Brooklyn) without the air conditioning units hanging in the windows you can see just how beautiful the buildings actually are.
12 – There are still at least 4 months until you have to get into that bikini, but sales for them are right now, so shop early.
14 – No guest visiting you in their right mind wants to go on one of those open-air tour buses now – still too cold.
15 – You can actually leave your groceries in your car for an hour if you need to stop into another shop without fear that they will spoil too quickly. I don’t recommend it, but hey your trunk can act as a mini-fridge.
16 – You don’t have to rake, mow, prune, or weed for a few more weeks.
17 – We have just 3 whole months until Memorial Day and the beginning of summer. Oh, that may put a bit of panic with numbers 4 and 7.
18 - It’s easier to be a Good Samaritan; if you’re in a car, let people walking cross the street before you make the turn. Knowing you helped their frostbitten bodies get to their destination faster should provide you with a warm fuzzy.
19 – If you love Peeps (a marshmallow candy)– get Peeps valentines and hold them until Easter to greet your Peeps bunnies.
20 – If you are a college basketball fan…It’s almost MARCH MADDNESS.
21 – There are shorter lines at just about - well everywhere.
22 – The streets aren’t nearly as crowded so it’s easier to get by and if you choose to, it’s ok to do a Sunday stroll even if it’s Tuesday.
23 – There are still 6 months until we have to worry who will take Bret Farve’s place for the Jets.
24 – When all else fails – there’s always Facebook.
25 – Because of the recession this year’s vineyards should have some of their best bottles at reduced prices.
26 – It’s still cold enough for fireplaces, blankets and good books with out feeling like you HAVE TO be outside.
27 – President Obama plans to sign $787 billion stimulus plan which will hopefully begin to turn the economy around.
28 – It’s the last day of the coldest month of the year – that’s reason enough right.

…29 – It’s only 1,126 more days until my Birthday (Feb 29th – yes it’s a real day/reason to celebrate the BEST DAY of the month). I’ll be 12. ☺

This Valentines Day...let's give the guys a break

2009-02-08T13:38:00.008-05:00

Love sculpture - New York, NY

I feel like the last several posts have been...shall I say, a bit 'political'. In an effort to change focus, let me say that I am a total, complete and true die-hard romantic. I make no apologies to anyone who says I'm crazy and it doesn't exist. I've been in that kind of dreamy love before so I know it does.

I believe in first-true love. I believe in real tight hugs, kisses and stolen glances from across the room. I believe in walking down the street, holding the hand of your partner and not having your hands stuffed in your pockets. I believe in couples walking together and not one ahead of the other. I believe that when you are so deeply and completely in love, there isn't another feeling like it in the world. I also believe that these types of expressions of love and affection shouldn't just be on Christmas or the second most expensive day of the year - Valentines Day. It should be year-round and maybe for a lucky few it is.

I'm not saying that February 14th shouldn't be celebrated. Hey, I think Leap-Year (Feb 29th) should be declared a national holiday (then again it's my birthday, so I'm a bit bias...). I love any reason to party, get/give a gift and just have a good time. Shoes on sale - order a good steak; friend lost some weight - hey you must go dancing; told a good joke...I'm all for a pitcher of Sangria. I love to be with friends and lovers and party until dawn. That's why I feel so bad for guys this week, but I do wonder two things:

1 - Why it is expected that guys have to spend money (in some cases money they don't have) on flowers (that are actually cheaper if you buy them the day before) and chocolate just on this day. I also know some guys that take this opportunity to buy the lingerie that they 'think' their significant other wants. It makes me wonder if it's more like what they want. I've heard a guy say "she gets what she wants and so do I" - either way just get the right size (for your own sake!!)

2 - Why women put so much pressure on their significant other to 'come through or don't come home'. I would rather have flowers 'just because' when it's more thoughtful vs. getting them because the person in my life feels he 'has to'. Talk about a lot of pressure. It's just not fair.

Don't get me wrong, I would LOVE to receive flowers and while I'm not a chocolate kind of girl, a surprise slice of my favorite Lemon Cake would be nice. Then again...so would a walk in the park or him sitting through a 'chick-flick' once in a while. I also know that getting a surprise just because for me, would mean more.

This is probably the only time I feel sorry for guys - it's a lot of pressure to come through. I want to propose something to all my girls. Let's either give them a break and/or give them valentines gifts as well. I mean fair is fair right?

Maybe this is the is the year that we get back to basics. Maybe this is the year we celebrate just having someone special in our lives vs. the amount of money that can be spent for this one 'day to celebrate love'. I want love, the spirit of love, the passion of love, the mystery of love, and the love of love to be 365 days a year. Told you I'm a romantic. Let me however say if you want to pick a real day to celebrate - make it the day of your lovers birth after all, if they weren't born, you wouldn't be together right??

What I'm hoping is that love will be more than a day, like Christmas is more than just about a gift. I'm hoping that love, mutual respect and true partnership will be the calling card for 2009. I still hope that your heart is open and loves walks in.

Happy Valentine's Day.

Love sculpture - Brooklyn, NYC

Is being an African American man in politics the new “IT factor”, or is electing Michael Steele to the GOP a way to “ block, saying ‘NOT’” safely.

2009-02-02T09:04:00.000-05:00

Ok, so if this offends anyone I'm sorry in advance. If you have a different opinion and/or thoughts about this, please let me know. I'm willing to listen and learn.

I must admit that there are times I walk past CNN on TV, catch a glimpse of President Obama and pause. It takes me a second to remember yes, we have an African-American man who is President of the United States. I can’t be the only one, who has experienced this. I’m sure as we hear more of the ‘new voice’ in the administration, the more ‘common’ shall we say it will become.

President Obama has begun forward movement of his agenda and I believe that the stimulus package was a great beginning. Even though the Dow did dip to just above 8,000 the day after this passed, I’m hopeful that this will help stimulate the economy. Yes there have been some other early challenges, but he doesn’t seem to be the kind of man who will be easily daunted.

There is a part of me that has become cynical. At one time I believed that our government was made up of “we’re-thinking-of-what’s-

best-for-the-people-who-put-us-in office” kind of people. Then, this year’s election. I questioned why Sen. McCain who had months to announce a running mate, waited until AFTER then Sen. Obama picked his. More so, I wondered why Palin?

I remember driving to visit my family when a friend emailed me “McCain picks Palin for VP”. I responded like so many others “Who?” While I don’t think she was the best woman/person that the GOP had to offer, I do understand the strategy behind it and it was brilliant. ‘Let’s get the 18 million people who voted for Hillary on our side.’ You see how well it worked for them right? This is what makes me wonder if the GOP has done it again. Do they think that by picking an African American to head a party, which is clearly in trouble, will create new interest? What the GOP has done again, is leaping without sincere thought or a clear direction. Let me just be blunt…African American people are not going to become Republicans or follow this new drummer just because he is African American.

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Michael Steele, the first African-American chairman of the Republican National Committee makes me think that now, being an African American male is H-O-T! Of course after 6 rounds of voting, this ‘win’ didn’t come easily. He finally beat out Katon Dawson, the chairman of the South Carolina party, who had been criticized for belonging to a whites-only country club, a membership he resigned before this election began. Stupid me, I didn’t think whites-only country clubs still existed.

Michael Steele, at the Republican National Convention coined the "Drill Baby Drill" chant that was taken up by McCain and Palin to push for more offshore drilling. Most recently, he is also the man who asked GOP lawmakers to close ranks and cast 177 “no” votes when the stimulus bill was before the House. The bill however passed.

Mr. Steels suggests that he wants to lay a new foundation; develop new relationships; make progress with small donors (the common man) as well as the ‘fat’ cats; he seeks to increase the number of minorities to the Republican party who may have shun it in the past and reclaim the Northeast. God Help us…sorry, that was my out-side voice. So far the smartest and most honest thing I’ve heard him say is he realizes that this won’t turnaround overnight.

It seems to me – the cynic – that the GOP is trying HARD to do a few things and yet maybe trying too hard.
First, they are trying to separate themselves from the Bush administration quickly and by all means necessary.

Secondly, the GOP wants people to know they are inclusive and will welcome everyone. With Steele in a position of power, it sends a message that this party has been ‘misidentified as one that doesn’t care, insensitive and unconcerned about minorities or doesn’t want to knock down color barriers – these labels couldn’t be further from the truth. After all they did appoint him an African-American.

Third, maybe they are looking past all the Sarah Palin hype/fallout and looking for a potential African-American candidate of their own in 2012…hmmm. After all, President Obama already did the hard part.

Finally, selecting an African-American chairman, no matter what you think of it, is redefining the party’s image. Only time will tell what this new image is. For now, being African-American it HOT!!

-----------------

Still Michael Steele frightens me. Steele has already said that he “would move aggressively to take on the Democrats.” Steele suggested that he was looking forward to ‘engaging Mr. Obama in the months ahead; that it would be ‘an honor to spar with him’. (Technically, isn’t he supposed to address him as President Obama?) Gee, that doesn’t sound like someone who is willing to work across the isle, show respect, or willing to listen to different views. It sounds like the same ‘ol my way or the highway’ Republican Party to me.

To his defense, I will say that my research as it were, shows that Mr. Steele did verbally attack former President Bush on the handling of the war and said his response to Katrina was a “monumental failure.” He was at the losing end of that fallout. How the tides and attitudes are changing for the party.

Can we just say it already; many feel Mr. Steele is a ‘token’. He will never be Colin Powell and even Colin Powell; a well-respected, African-American FORMER Republican changed, political parties when he had enough. Even if you don’t agree with Steele, is it fair to say that he is a token because he is an African-American Republican. Likewise is it fair to say that only Obama can be the messenger of change – the visionary? I don’t think so. See I am trying to be fair.

Although there are many in the Republican Party in general, Mr. Steele will still find his self-surrounded by racist, radicals, elitist, and extremist. These type of people don’t think that African-American, or any other minority have a place in the White House and I’m sure a dew are having a tough time dealing with the his appointment. Let us remember Rush Limbaugh’s comments last week about President Obama. What does Mr. Steele have to say about this, and/or does he agree with him?

How will he deal with his staunch, right wing GOP supporters like O'Reilly, Limbaugh and Hannity? When they open their mouths to bad-mouth minorities and homosexuals, what will Mr. Steele say or do then? Will he tow the party line, or show a ‘kinder and gentler GOP’? Would you believe there are some who still say that the only reason – and this makes me laugh – Obama won is because the minority population came out in droves. While this may have been the biggest voter turnout since – well forever, folks didn’t elect President Obama because of what he looks like, I know I didn’t. I didn’t care that he was bi-racial, or went to Harvard, or has a seemingly lovely family. I voted for him because he is truly unlike anyone else who was running this year. He offered the country a new vision, a positive change and the hope for a brighter future.

What it seems to me, and call me crazy, the GOP needs to counter (the Obama factor) by putting Mr. Steele in a position to ‘take on the president’ so that those that might not agree, don’t seem racist. Mr. Steele, like Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, is a ‘pull yourself up by your boots strap kind of guy’. Hey, I also believe you have to work hard and those that are constantly looking for a hand out, need to get a grip. However, in this economy what if you don’t have boots, or shoes or socks to pull up? Then what?? If you have 2 men of the same ‘group’ going at each other, doesn’t’ that cancel out any potential racial factor? Hey, I'm just asking so don’t kill me!

-----------------

There have been so many changes in the last month I can barely keep up. What I hope for (among many things) is that this country can get back on the right track. That means reminding our political officials to work together for the good of the people that elected them in the first place. Yes, that means the little people and even those among us that have a few billion to rub together. We need to focus on the economy, get the jobs that are so desperately needed and don't forget the environment.

I want to be of the generation that rejoices in the fact that this 2009 administration, Senate and House are working to abolish racism by putting in key positions people of all backgrounds, all ethnicities, all sexual orientations. That they are looking for success, not setting you up for failure. If that means being Black is the new ‘Black’, then rock on!

In the end whether Mr. Steele or President Obama is the ‘right person’ only time will dictate. In the meantime another African American is creating hope, cracking a ceiling, breaking down the door and walking into a new challenge coming this far by faith. For these two African-American men, it must be good to be them at this moment in history.

SUPER BOWL 43 and NBC, not hurting in this economy

2009-01-31T21:26:00.002-05:00

Well, it’s not as exciting as Obama taking the oath of office, but…IT’S SUPER BOWL TIME. Since I really don’t care that much about either of the teams (maybe next year Jets!!), it’s all about food and the commercials.

I’m really proud to say, that I had a hand in working with one of the top 10 Super Bowl commercials of all time…EDS 'Hurding Cats’ in 1998. It was Super Bowl XXXV, my first real PR client and what a blast it was!! I remember having a Super bowl party at my house and shushing people when the commercial came on. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the New York Giants 34-7. It still gives me such pride…my baby!!! I think the only other commercial that makes me smile and gives me such a ‘warm-fuzzy’ is the original “Mean Joe Green” commercial. If memory serves me, it’s the first commercial I remember watching the game with my dad…hence my love of the game and the commercials that makes the Super Bowl so special.

I think the only thing that disturbs me this year about the Super Bowl, isn’t if it’s going to be a good game. If there are enough Buffalo wings, chili, snacks and beverages, that’s the making for a good time. What upsets me is the staggering amount of money it costs for 30-seconds of commercial time. NBC said on the eve of Sunday's Super Bowl that it has sold 69 advertising spots for the game, pushing total ad revenue for the event to a record $206 million. That’s $3million for 30-seconds of airtime.

The network said its total of $261 million in ad revenue for all of Super Bowl day also is a record, calling it an especially impressive feat in the middle of the economy's steep downturn.

Did you know…
There are a few companies that are bowing out this year due to economic realities; FedEx, Charmin, and GM. Good for you!!

What is really sad is apparently, after laying off 1,400 employees last month, Budweiser Brewer’s new Belgian owner is going for a full 4 ½ min of airtime. That’s just over $25million. Guess what’s what happens when you cut your employees; you have a little extra cash to ‘spare’. You should be ashamed!! Please know that I’ll NEVER drink your beer again, and will encourage everyone I know to drink anything other than Budweiser products. When a company is willing to cut that many people, claim they are cash poor and then turn around and spend it on a commercial tells me a lot about your morals and ethics.

Sorry for the rant. Well, I hope that the game is a good one but as I said for me, this year it’s all about the commercials. I'm looking forward to the Jets coming back strong this year and playing in 2010. Here’s to the best team winning. Here's to commercials that are hopefully worth the money spent.

To tired to write...but here's a joke for ya.

2009-01-28T12:01:00.003-05:00

I want to thank those of you who have read my blog and have offered prayers and positive thoughts during my surgery (see previous post if you have no idea what I'm talking about :-)). I'm still a bit to tired to think of anything "deep" to write, so today's post is from my mom. She wanted to cheer me up with a joke and I found it funny...I hope you do too. Maybe you have to be catholic to really understand it...I don't know. I'm off to take more meds...see ya soon.

Strange Customs

A distinguished-looking young woman on a flight from Ireland asked the Priest beside her, "Father, may I ask a favor?"

"Of course, child. What may I do for you?"

"Well, I bought an expensive woman's electronic hair dryer for my Mother's birthday that is unopened and well over the Customs limits, and I'm afraid they'll confiscate it. Is there any way you could carry it through customs for me? Under your robes perhaps?"

"I would love to help you, dear, but I must warn you: I will not lie."

"With your honest face, Father, no one will question you."

When they got to Customs, she let the priest go ahead of her. The official asked, "Father, do you have anything to declare?"

"From the top of my head down to my waist, I have nothing to declare."

The official thought this answer strange, so asked, "And what do you have to declare from your waist to the floor?"

"I have a marvelous instrument designed to be used on a woman, but which is, to date, unused."

Roaring with laughter, the official said, "Go ahead, Father! Next."

3 Years, 4 Days and 5 Surgeries later,a Long and Crazy Road

2009-01-22T00:20:00.001-05:00

"When we can no longer change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." Victor Frankel.

This may be the last time I write about this, in this format. I'm not going to go into all the history, but in preparing for this day I can almost say, I'm at peace. Of course I'm writing this several days before so it will post on the 22nd without me and I don't know what will happen between now and then.

I've done the stress reduction classes, I'm under a holistic care program, I've taken all the vitamins, minerals, eye of frog and tongue of a wild bird only found on the highest mountain on the 44 planet of Zar....you get the point. I'm trying not to let the other things in my life, stress me out too much. I'm remembering to breathe and enjoy every bite of food. I am listening to music that makes me want to shake my money maker... and reconnecting with old friends who make me laugh at the memories of our youth. I am trying not to cry.

Today is the day that 3 and 5 becomes my magic numbers, and life takes on a new meaning. This is the beginning of my life and I'm going to embrace what ever the outcome of this surgery is. I will get my groove back.

I am adding this on Jan 21 - I thought that I would be fine. I was praticing all that I wrote above. I was really doing ok. Then the phone calls from the hospital started "You will be here tomorrow right?" duh!! "You do know what's going to happen right" Duh again!! You need to do XYZ and no eating/drinking beyond midnight". Does that mean I can get drunk now?? PLEASE??? I know that won't help so why bother right? I tried to be positive and to remain calm and it worked...to a point. Now as I take a break from packing my overnight bag...I'm burning Lavender candles and my heart rate is calming down. I will have a friend with me and you know what - sometimes all you need is someone there to hold your hand, make you laugh and tell you it will be ok. To wish for a hug is almost more than I dare to wish for, but I now it will be there as well...so...

I think the next date will be 8 weeks from now...that will be the test to see if we toast to success...or we toast a completion. Maybe we will toast to both, but I know THAT DAY I will be having champagne with my friends and I'll be at peace. No Matter What...I'm ready for this to be over. I'm taking my life back!

IF you happen to read this post between Jan 22 and 8 weeks from now, if you could help visualize a hole getting smaller and smaller until there is absolutely no space left; that not even a sliver of air can pass through; that it is completely sealed off so tight that nothing can pass or penetrate. Finally that this hole is completely healed and I am made whole again. If you could just hold me in good thoughts and good health, I would be eternally grateful.

Signed, Sealed, Delivered He’s OUR President.

2009-01-21T06:37:00.003-05:00

I feel as if tonight there are so many songs that reflect what I’m feeling but Alicia Keys sang it best, “No one, no one, can get in the way of what I’m feeling…”

I’ve finally had a few moments to sit and reflect on what has happened today. I admit I have been moved by this moment in history. I’ve also been deeply touched by the stories of people who lived through the civil rights marches and moved by their reaction, as they watched Barack take the pledge of office. The smartest little people I met today inspire me. I truly believe if you want insight and the truth, ask someone under nine years old. They’re not jaded yet.

As I do sit here, tired from my running around today I am going to say once again how proud I am of Barack and of this country. I pray that they allow him a moment, but just a moment for there is work to be done, and miles to go before his next good nights sleep.

The critics have already said that Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, dropped the ball when he misspoke the order of the Oath of Office. Some blame it on Barack. One woman said “He should have memorized it”. I think the pause he took was a reflection that he DID know what to say and gave Justice Roberts a moment to re-group. Look, I can only imagine walking through those doors to a sea of millions, knowing that every step you take, every decision you now make, truly rests on your shoulders and you know your critics will be watching you. Likewise I can imagine what it’s like to administer this oath to the President. It was excitement, and you know what he’s human so maybe a bit scared as well. Look, if this is the worse flub of during his presidency, we’ll be fine.

At the Neighborhood ball as they danced, someone said, "It's like they actually like each other". I know and wasn’t looking at two people obviously in love, wonderful. I know this type of love exists because of my parents and of the parents of many of my friends. Hopefully this creates a new stereotype.

My final thoughts are quite simple. This is more than a moment in history. This is more than the first black President. This is more than the history of the past (even though it helped shape this moment); this is the making of the Future.

The Economy, Healthcare, The War in Iraq, Gay Rights and the list goes on. These are the things President Obama will be judged on, not a flub of an oath, or how close he held his wife on the dance floor. These are the things that secure his win, not his ability to rock to Stevie Wonder, how cute the girls are (even though they really are) or his mother-in-law moving in with them.

So as I fold myself into bed finally, the sun is just beginning to rise in the distance. No matter I still have a smile on my face. I am so grateful to my ancestors and my parents for their struggles and the strength they gave me. I look forward and will continue to work hard for those that will come after me. It is my hope to make their world a little but better than mine. You see, Barack isn’t the only one with work to do.

Yes today was historic, but this is not the end. This is the dawn of a new day. We all have miles to go before we can sleep, but until then I wish you peace.

Barack Hassian Obama - 44th President of the United States of America

2009-01-20T18:47:00.022-05:00

I was completely moved by the events of this day. I am hopeful that this is the beginning of an amazing presidency, as well as the beginning of a New UNITED States.

I share with you the transcript of the 44th President of the United States, Barack Hussein Obama.

My fellow citizens: I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors.

I thank President Bush for his service to our nation...

... as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.

Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath.

The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because We the People have remained faithful to the ideals of our forbearers, and true to our founding documents.

So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.

That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age.

Homes have been lost, jobs shed, businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly, our schools fail too many, and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.

These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable, but no less profound, is a sapping of confidence across our land; a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, that the next generation must lower its sights.

Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real, they are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this America: They will be met.

On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.

On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn-out dogmas that for far too long have strangled our politics.

We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.

In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of shortcuts or settling for less.

It has not been the path for the faint-hearted, for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame.

Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things -- some celebrated, but more often men and women obscure in their labor -- who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.

For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life. For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West, endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.

For us, they fought and died in places Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sahn.

Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.

This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions -- that time has surely passed.

Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.

For everywhere we look, there is work to be done.

The state of our economy calls for action: bold and swift. And we will act not only to create new jobs but to lay a new foundation for growth.

We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together.

We will restore science to its rightful place and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality...

... and lower its costs.

We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age.

All this we can do. All this we will do.

Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions, who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short, for they have forgotten what this country has already done, what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose and necessity to courage.

What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them, that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long, no longer apply.

The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works, whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified.

Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end.

And those of us who manage the public's knowledge will be held to account, to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day, because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.

Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched.

But this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control. The nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous.

The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our gross domestic product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on the ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart -- not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.

As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals.

Our founding fathers faced with perils that we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations.

Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake.

And so, to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and we are ready to lead once more.

Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with the sturdy alliances and enduring convictions.

They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use. Our security emanates from the justness of our cause; the force of our example; the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.

We are the keepers of this legacy, guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort, even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We'll begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people and forge a hard- earned peace in Afghanistan.

With old friends and former foes, we'll work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat and roll back the specter of a warming planet.

We will not apologize for our way of life nor will we waver in its defense.

And for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that, "Our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken. You cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you."

For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness.

We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus, and nonbelievers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth.

And because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.

To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect.

To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict or blame their society's ills on the West, know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy.

To those...

To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history, but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.

To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds.

And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to the suffering outside our borders, nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.

As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages.

We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service: a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves.

And yet, at this moment, a moment that will define a generation, it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.

For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies.

It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break; the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours.

It is the fire fighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.

Our challenges may be new, the instruments with which we meet them may be new, but those values upon which our success depends, honesty and hard work, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism -- these things are old.

These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history.

What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility -- a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character than giving our all to a difficult task.

This is the price and the promise of citizenship.

This is the source of our confidence: the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.

This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed, why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall. And why a man whose father less than 60 years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.

So let us mark this day in remembrance of who we are and how far we have traveled.

In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by nine campfires on the shores of an icy river.

The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood.

At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:

"Let it be told to the future world that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive, that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet it."

America, in the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words; with hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come; let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.

God Bless You. And God bless the United States of America.

I Agree with Sasha...Great Job Mr. President.

Today Kings Dream – Tomorrow Obamas

2009-01-19T09:51:00.009-05:00

On November 4, 2008, millions of able American voters, elected Barack Hussein Obama based on the content of his character and his proposed policies, and not the color of his skin. Tomorrow, this segment of Dr. Kings’ 46 year old dream, will become a reality.

Only a simple minded person, or one who thought that because of THIS election of a Black man to the nations highest office, would eradicate racism in this country. Nope, no such luck. What it does however signify is that maybe this country that I love, my home is moving in the right direction. The election of this man (and hey, let’s not forget that there was a woman running on the Republican ticket for Vice President – no matter what you thought of her, that is history as well) has created proof for a new generation who weren’t alive during the King days. Hopefully it will aspire more of them to take the cause of community service, and maybe one day they too can be president, should that be their dream. It’s not an easy road but I believe the rewards for a job well done are immeasurable.

As a people we have been shaken by war, the economic crisis and continued terror threats. I don’t think we have ever been more stirred, than by the passion for change, the desire to created a better country or the throngs of people that have converged on the Nations Capital in the last several days. Those that are lucky enough to be close enough to touch, or those so far away they can only be touched by the spirit of the day.

The last several days have been palatable.

Dr. King taught us about sacrifice, rising up during difficult times, working together to achieve our goals. Given all that has happened especially in the last several years, we need this spirit more than ever. I wonder what he would have thought about this day had he lived?

As we celebrate the life and mission of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and prepare for tomorrows inauguration, let us continue to build a new path of inclusion, bright futures and the ability to allow dreams to come true.

There was an old Negro Spiritual that was later adapted for Freedom Riders of the 60’s. I think the lyrics were poignant then and now.

Ain’t gonna let nobody turn me ‘roun’
Turn me ‘roun’
Ain’t gonna let nobody turn me ‘roun’
I’m gonna wait until my change comes

Don’t let nobody turn you ‘roun’
Turn you ‘roun’
Don’t let nobody turn you ‘roun’
Wait until your change comes

I say I’m gonna hold out
Hold out, hold out
I say that I’m gonna hold out
Until my change comes

I promised the lord that I would hold out
Hold out
I promised the Lord that I would hold out
Wait until my change comes.

TOMORROW…Change Comes.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO ME!!!

2009-01-18T08:25:00.004-05:00

No it's not a wedding, nor a 'birth'day (well not really). 3 years ago today my life changed and good, BAD or truly frustrating, I'm celebrating all that I've learned. It's been a learning curve and I think I'm on the upper part of it now.

3...is a magic number :-)

Staying true to you

2009-01-11T14:30:00.003-05:00

What a week it’s been. I’ve been working hard doing the networking thing….and you know it’s provided some insights which I hope to share with you soon.

But last week, I wrote about Facebook and the obsession that it is. Well I may have to take back any criticism shared, since I’ve now located about 20 people from my youth group days as well as some cousins I’ve not seen in YEARS. May I even say that I located a former boyfriend and WOW did he age well. The last two days have been a test of just how fast I could type (90wpm thank you very much) to keep up with the flurry of “Where have you been”, “You look amazing”, “Yes, let’s get together and please take that 1990 pic of us off the internet”. I honestly can’t remember the last time I laughed so much. So to confirm and say it loud “My name is Lisa and I am a Facebook Addict”
Please feel free to once again insert your own name in place of mine.

I know my mom is a regular reader of my blog and she is saying…what is face book? I’ll explain later - or ask your son to show you. Maybe we can get you on here as well…a true family affair!!

I have also been wondering what to write about. Sometimes there are just so many things going on in my head I can’t pick. What I decided to do today is give an update on a few of my favorite 25 things.

I have accomplished:
Reconnect with at least 1 person from my past. I’ve actually connected with 20 so far. As I said it gave me such joy and it’s so much fun to look at people and see if they’ve changed. Some of these guys I remember from the ages of 16 and now we are all in our late 30’s- late 40’s. It really brought back so many fun memories of our ‘teen club’ with Fr. Kavanagh on Wed. nights at the church and the retreats – OH THE RETREATS!!! The spirit and vitality of those times are what I miss and am working to recapture this year. I know that the blessing of FB is that I can connect with these guys and we’ve already started planning a reunion – oh man!! That will be a blast!!

Ask for help when I need it. I think that even thought I did that this week I’ll keep this on the list as a constant reminder that it’s ok to do this. It doesn’t make me weak or less of a person. I know when people ask me for help I’m ready to, so it’s not so bad to not be so strong ‘all the time’.

Wear something really sexy and expensive. Can you say Manolo Blahnik!! OH how I love these shoes and wish I could afford them. If you don’t know what they are I don’t know where you’ve been livin’. They were the best shoes BEFORE ‘Sex and the City’, but Carrie took them to another level. If you are in the know (meaning if you’ve bought them directly from the store before – or just read the NY Times when they post their annual sale), you know that they always have a ‘pre-sale’ the Sat before the actual sale starts on Monday. When money was no issue (oh those were the days), I did purchase 3 pair of these little gems that way. If you like really pretty things, it really is an experience just to hold them. Even at amazing heights of 4 or 5 inches, they are so comfy… Sorry about that – I was drooling for a second. Anywho, I tried on a pair of beautiful strappy 4.5inch python shoes that were amazing. They were at the lovely sale price of $590…reduced from the original $1495. How could one not buy them – easy, NO MONEY. I did however get my monies worth just by people watching. You can tell they were power shoppers with money (or their husbands credit card). The bling in the place was blinding, and the attitude was as cold as the ice they were wearing. I love the sales associates because they don’t take their attitudes seriously. It’s written all over their faces. So imagine this – here I walk in, black jeans, simple jacket and my hair in a ponytail. I didn’t really think I would stop in but since I was in the neighborhood… I am walking through the store and pick up shoes to try. These Park/Madison Ave. babes are giving me the look like I had the plague, until the sales associates I knew saw me and 2 of them said “Oh my god where have you been – it’s been ages since we’ve seen you. Here have a seat and we’ll get these for you.” Then a new friend who I told about the sale, she happened to be there and she squealed, “Lisa, you look amazing.” Now these chicks are beginning to wonder “Who is she??” Now, all of a sudden I’m the one they want to know. Sometimes I find humor in the little thing. Sadly the shoes I wanted weren’t in my size and frankly I couldn’t afford them now anyway so maybe that’s a good thing. In the end there were air kisses all around and the sea of women parted as I left. Yes I love power even if it’s fleeting.

That was my week and I’m hoping that next week is just as good. One can only hope. So what things have you done this week? Are you staying true to your New Years resolutions? If not…hey you can always start over…that’s the good thing about wanting to make thing better, just “do it over”.

Do You Facebook??

2009-01-06T13:00:00.001-05:00

Ok so I admit I am a tech-geek. A cute geek, but a geek non the less. I will also admit that I've gotten hooked on Facebook. Yes it's a great way to quickly send notes to your friends and family, but it is also addictive. So much so that I (and I'm embarrassed to admit) have it on my crack, I mean blackberry.

Sometimes it's pretty cool to see what's going on, get 'poked', have a hug or fancy drink sent to you. I do admit I would prefer to be hugged for real, I've been 'poked' enough thank you very much, and my martini tastes better in a cold glass, not lickin' a warm computer screen.

Truthfully, I'm still not sure how this is different from MySpace. You have 'access' to your friends on both and you can grow your friends, group and association lists without trying too hard. What surprises me is looking at my friends-friends list. I think you can tell a lot about people buy the company they keep (hey, I think that's something that my mom said...). And does ANYONE (well other than my friend Kathleen who knows EVERYONE) really know 400+ people, I don't think so. I know that after sending a number of friend requests some people I would have sworn on a stack of bibles would have jumped at the chance to 'add' me, but they took their time. Did that mean I wasn't worth being their FB friend for all the world to see? Did that mean that as long as we met in the booth, in the back, in the corner, in the dark on alternate third Thursdays bi-monthly it was fine, but in such a public forum where let's face it you are judged, you had to think twice. Nah...it just means that people have a life and they aren't as hooked to it as I am (and you know you are too...come on, I know you're nodding in agreement with me).

Sometimes Facebook can be a curse. Unlike some of the other social networking sites choosing to have a photo or not and what photo, can be a daunting process. You don't want it to be you drunk as a skunk with bloodshot eyes, nor do you want it to be you in your Sunday best. I choose a picture that is probably one of the only pictures of me. Wearing a favorite orange sweater, hair and make-up were perfect. The look was casual yet confident. Of course I then got a comment from a male friend which was really a compliment, but made me really self-conscious, and I changed it to flowers. Hey, as a photographer I find myself changing the photo's often..see I told you I was addicted.

There are so many applications and games to learn. As a friend adds something I think, "hey that's a pretty cool group - I should join" or my favorite during the holiday the largest virtual snowball fight in the world. That was fun!! Look, I'm just scratching the surface of Facebook. I'm still learning how to keep weeds out of my virtual garden, and how to find out what's in the gift box you sent me and mostly how to actually 'search' the application feature. I'm sure with a bit more practice I'll have the hang of it. Then again maybe not. After all it's not life and death right?

So go ahead poke, send a beer, wish someone a happy birthday or send them a hug. Either way, it's just nice to be thought of by someone you call a friend. OH...if someone sends you a hug it's rude not to send them one back or at LEAST acknowledge it. Maybe there should be Facebook etiquette...hmmmm....

365 NEW Days...Oh What To Do??

2009-01-01T08:56:00.009-05:00

Welcome to the new 'face' of my blog. I really hope you like it. This isn't to say that I won't change pictures as time moves on, but this is a big step.

Keeping with the New Year, New Me (doesn't that sound like Oprah??) I'm going to start the year off similarly to last year. Because it was a leap-year, I read the number of books that equaled my age. No, not doing that again, and not even coming close but....I am proposing my own bucket list. What does that mean? Well, this year I'm taking on a few challenges. Finding the RIGHT job is tops on my list, so if you have any leads...send them to me. Then I have one more surgery to get through, then I'm also going to try to lose some weight and get healthy. You get the point?

Here is the list - and I will give you updates as the year progresses. I know you're thinking...there aren't 44 things here. You're 100% right. I'm taking a bit of the pressure off myself and only looking to do 25. With that said...if I get through them before 1/2 the year I'll add more. So...

1. Meet someone with my own name.
2. Own a pointless collection - or shall I say "unique" collection
3. Hang with the band - no, not that band...another one.
4. Capture the "moment" on film (or digital as it were)
5. Stay in a 5-Star Hotel
6. Get a upgrade to first class on a plane.
7. Write and article and have it published
8. Be an extra in a film or video
9. Own an original work of art.
10. Wear a Bikini again
11. Travel to Dubai, Amsterdam OR Italy. (London is a given this year!!)
12. Write 44 famous people who I admire and see who writes back.
13. Create a food/travel blog - as if doing this one, isn't enough.
14 Go to a sporting event and sit in the good seats.
15. Reconnect with at least 1 person from every school I've ever attended beginning with grammar school
16. Read the entire New Testament
17. Wear something super expensive and super sexy.
19. Publish my book
20. Ask for help when I need it.
21. Take a picture with someone famous.
22. Drink only the good stuff (you can take that any way you want, but I prefer Champagne)
23. Go to at least 5 TV shows (you know Martha, Rachel Ray, Regis/Kelly etc) in NYC
24. Dance with someone I love under the stars.
25. Visit my family more.

Ok, so there it is...Some of them are easy, some not so much. Actually I found this great website called "43 Things" and they helped me create the list that you see on the right hand side of this blog page. The small numbers you see, equals the number of people who have the 'same goal' so you can reach out to each other for support and cheers. It's actually pretty cool - you should check it out. http://www.43things.com What would you have on your own list?

[The original idea came from a book I have and found while cleaning out stuff called "101 Things to do before you die" by Richard Horne, and not the movie even though it's the same concept]
Oh Yea....HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Happy Holidays

2008-12-25T07:00:00.009-05:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS
HAPPY HANUKKAH
HAPPY KWANZAA

"Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful."
~ Norman Vincent Peale click on the links for great songs....sorry couldn't find one for Kwanzaa - maybe next year

Thank you Ms. Patti...

2008-12-20T11:27:00.027-05:00

"And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom." ~ Anais Nin

Are you familiar with Patti LaBelle’s “New Attitude”? Well this is my theme for 2009.

Actually after three years of dealing with a medical issue (yes, it was the 'size of a grapefruit' but it wasn't the kind of tumor that will kill you), at the end of November I got the news I’ve been waiting for. It came from a sweet Santa Clause faced doctor in Boston. He said, “There’s nothing else that can be done that is guaranteed so the ileostomy is permanent. Permanent – as in: not going away, it's forever, it’s here, it’s weird, get used to it.

95% of you don’t know much about me. This blog was originally an experiment I wanted to try, to get me writing the next great novel. Today, I’ll let you in on a little secret. I never wanted or rather during the last 3 years, and 4 surgeries later, never wanted to get to know this thing called an ileostomy. I didn’t want to be its friend. I wanted it to go back where it was originally, I wanted to have my body back. I wanted to look the same way I did, slim and a great 4-pac from years Pilates. It seems that God had a very different plan. Frankly, and honestly (believe me he knows so this is no secret) I’m really pissed off!!

There I was 41, in great shape, and finally with a good guy. These are supposed to be the happiest times in my life right? WRONG! The surgery, a radical hysterectomy which removed this tumor, left me 37 lbs lighter (looking emaciated – great diet, wouldn’t recommend it), but more than the weight loss during this time, I lost me. I felt out of shape after now months of not being able to exercise, never clean enough no matter how often I showered, and just not of my own body. The once vibrant woman became frustrated, angry, depressed and for the first time the person who ‘fixed every one else’s problems, kissed their boo-boos and made them better’, I couldn’t fix my own. Neither could anyone else.

It seemed every 6 months there was a new procedure; trying a new way. Another overnight round of poking/probing and more good drugs to help with the pain. I’ve had this procedure so often I knew my anesthesiologists by name. Another woman whose name happens to be ‘Lisa’ and yes given our ‘relationship’, we’ve become friends. She is the one who made sure I felt no pain and had a wonderful sleep. She was also the one who ever so gently made sure I woke up. I am forever grateful to her warm hands in a cold operating room, and being the last smiling face I saw, assuring me that it would be over soon.

I have gone through the ‘waiting and hoping and wishing and praying’ only to wait 3 months, re-do the very painful exam and tests and be told that it didn’t work…this time. Of course it is expected that I would keep it together, keep a brave face, continue to be ‘strong’, keep moving on with life because after all…it’s not ‘really cancer’…as if the loss of a body part (and one I grew pretty fond of) and what it signifies, is any less a loss.

The pain, numbed for the surgery would come back 100fold every time I heard the words ‘it didn’t work’. It was a roller-coaster ride that wouldn't stop. The highs were so high and I was so hopeful. The lows so low, that I survived as it were, on 3 hrs of sleep a night. I wish I could adequately put into words what this, no I allowed this to do, to my life. A lot of areas in my life suffered. I missed out on or in all honesty half-stepped on a joyous time for a friend. Not just any friend, my BF. In all my frustration for surgery #4, I couldn’t fully embrace her pregnancy but I tried. While happy for her and shopping for this new baby, I found myself in Babies R Us and when the sales girl asked me when I was due, the bottom of my heart dropped. You see with all the weight I’d lost immediately after the surgery, I gained it all back and then some. The stoma sticks out and causes the ‘illusion’ of a small baby bump. As this poor girl apologized when I told her I wasn’t pregnant I realized something. The woman I shared everything with, my sista-girl, the person whose secrets I know and who knows mine, the one I shared every hope and dream with, I couldn’t share this with her. I would never feel a baby kick inside me. I would never know the 'joy' that so many women including my own mother shared…and it hit me like a ton of bricks.

AND if one more person tells me “Well you can always adopt.” I’m going to SCREAM…LOUDLY!! Even though, maybe one day I will.

Wanting to rejoice, I instead withdrew. Wanting to know what it felt like, I found it hard to look at her growing belly. Wanting to be with her, to fuss for her, we both kept our distance not wanting to cause the other pain. There was self-pity, self-doubt, in other words…not a happy time. I needed to get a grip on so many things that happened but most of all, why I couldn’t be fixed. Why people couldn’t understand what this was doing to me (mentally, emotionally, physically), how to feel ‘whole again’. Why life was moving backwards, and yes I went into “Why Me” mode. The answer was simple…Why Not Me?!

A cold-grey day after my relocation to Boston (a temporary thing), yet another new doctor, 4-double scotches (yes, single malt), feeling desperately alone and more tears than I can count, I came to grips with what will be my new life. You see, I found out sitting in the public gardens of Boston, that I had a choice. I could continue to feel sorry for myself, or I could embrace (no matter how sucky it is) the changes I’ve gone through and would continue to go through. I could ask for forgiveness not only of my family and friends, but from myself. It seems my expectations are too high.

Don’t get me wrong I HATE it and surgery #5 is early next year. I still feel like a whale; would give anything for 1 full night sleep and dare I say give up sleep, just to feel sexy again. Hopefully that too will come...soon.

During this time I had two other friends: one who also gave birth to a beautiful little girl and another who was finally successful in conceiving. My joy for them was and comes from a different place. They are friends yes, but our connections are different - does that make any sense? Most recently I met a woman at Memorial Sloan-Kettering while waiting to see my doctor who I struck up a conversation with. Somehow the topic of children came up I explained to her my situation. She, a much older woman also had also had hysterectomy in her early 40's. She shared with me that all the sisters, cousins in her life had children and she rejoiced in their pregnancies, but when her BF became pregnant, there was something that happened that caused them to go through a similar rough time. When I asked her what happened in the end, she said that they went through their time feeling their way and slowly worked their way back. She is now the god-mother to this womans second child, and their friendship has lasted 30+ years.

So what happened to my BF? Well, she had a healthy baby boy, came through fine and now it would seem, she is happy (or maybe delirious from her own lack of sleep). In the end I hope that she will share with me this new life as she shared with me hours before his delivery. That conversation was an amazing gift. Yes we were texting each other the next morning in between her pushing, and me driving to visit my family in another state – modern technology. I'm hoping that our friend/sister-ship will find it's way back - even though she may say it never truly left. That it was on a crazy vacation, and now it's on the way back home. Maybe this child was the breath I was holding for the last nine-months and his safe birth allowed me to exhale. I do know as I saw the text that he arrived and they were both safe, I felt a sense of peace I’d not felt in a very, very long time.

So 2009 is going to be a 're-do' year. While I would love to take back the last 3 yrs I can’t…but this year was my leap-birthday year so yea, I can do that. I was having a conversation with someone that has helped a lot. She said that things usually happen in 3s’…and after that it all gets better. So you know what… Jan 18th it will be 3 yrs and then…it should get better. Actually, it’s getting better already. Even though surgery #5 is a few days after that, I’m hopeful yet my expectations, zero, zilch, nadda, none. See Change isn't just for Obama :-)

I want to know in my heart that after this next procedure I’ve done everything I could. That I’ve tried every option made available to me. Then and only then, can I shut this heavy door. That I can allow my heart to be open to what ever possibility that comes next. To be able to love and laugh freely and with a light spirit. I have learned and grown in a way I didn’t think possible. I want to thank Ms. Patti for being so divine and gracious and saying that it will all be ok. I really want to thank Annie Leibovitz for giving me the best photography advice ever. I am forever honored that she took a photo of us together with my camera. I carry around that picture with me as a reminder of what is possible. I guess anything is possible when you reach out to people and say, "This load is too heavy, can you please help me." The key is to accept what ever level of help they can provide, without expectation but with gratitude. Maybe even moreso when you say honestly "I'm sorry", they will forgive you.

So here’s to a new year, a new life, and a new attitude. There are no promises that I won’t ‘lose my mind’ at sometime in the future, but I hope that with complete understanding and love, I will continue to move forward and life will be as it's meant to be. For a very lucky woman living in a city I love, with family and friends and finding the strength to control the only thing I can...Me.

New Attitude: Ms. Patti LaBelle

Runnin’ hot,
Runnin’ cold,
I was runnin’ into overload,
That was extreme.

It took it so high, so low, so low there
was nowhere to go like a bad dream.

(Chorus)
Somehow that wires uncrossed,
The tables were turned,
Never knew I had such a lesson to learn.

I'm feeling good from my head to my shoes,
Know where I am going and I know what to do,
I've tidied up my point of view,
I've got a new attitude.

I'm in control,
My worries are few,
'Cause I got love like I never knew,
ooo, ooo, ooo, ooo...
I've got a new attitude,

I am wearing a new dress, a new hair,
Brand new ideas, as a matter of fact,
I've changed for good.

It must have been the cold nights, new moon,
New slight change
More that to figure, but I feel like I should, yes

Chorus…

Hey where ya been?? It's been a while.

2008-12-16T10:00:00.005-05:00

Yes I’ve been a bit remiss when it comes to my blog as of late, but you know that’s life.

I am taking this time to update/fill in and hopefully next year, I’ll be better. Then again, my goal was to write 52 articles/thoughts and I’ve done that. Ok, so there isn’t any great prose here, but I am proud of myself. I find that in this day and age that says a lot. So here goes…

Don’t take offense, but I HATE Boston. Is hate too strong of a word? Ok, so it’s not my favorite city on the planet. While it is charming, and yes photographically and historically beautiful, I found a great majority of the people to be like the weather – cold. Living in beautiful Beacon Hill I was just a few blocks from Senator Kerry and did have the pleasure to meet him and his wife on Halloween. Very nice people and a very nice home. I also had the opportunity to meet the Gov. Deval Patrick and his wife at two separate events. Both are extremely charming and Mrs P. is from my hometown, so we had a lot to chat about. There were several opportunities I had to meet people who have lived in Boston their entire lives and they agree, if you’re not from Massachusetts’s people are not ‘warm and inviting’. They know that they are known as being cold and aloof and frankly it doesn’t seem to bother them at all. I will say however some of the nicest people I met were the bartenders and wait staff at Goody Glover (which is in the north end) and Taj, which is off Commonwealth Ave. I also met the lovely Sophia who invited me into her home when she saw me taking photo’s. We had a good chat, and I said to her that she was the nicest people I met during my 39 days in Boston. When I asked her were she was from – Washington. Proved my point. Given what I know now, the next time I have the feeling and think “there’s just ‘something about XYZ place’” I’m going to listen to myself. It would save me money, energy, and time.

Fast forward to Thanksgiving. It was a wonderful time hanging with my family. Of course after the year I’ve had, I needed a bit of family time. Once again dad and I did our father/daughter outing. We decided to go to (and don’t laugh) Home Depot. Let me explain. The last time I was visiting them, I had to get a prescription filled and we went to Walmart. Since they said it would be about 30 min, we decided to wait and spent that time walking around the store. We had a blast. We shopped for clothes (nope didn’t buy any) looked at the tropical fish (nope didn’t buy them either); looked at just a bunch of stuff and had fun. We decided that on my next visit we would visit another superstore – hence Home Depot (I think Costco is next time or is it Lowes?). If you saw us playing around with the giant lawn mowers and just having a blast you would have thought we lost it – in actuality we found some great private time, just a father and daughter having fun. Not to be outdone, Mom and I had a wonderful adventure at the movies. Memories like these will last forever.

During this time a friend gave birth to her first child, and another realized that she was pregnant after several attempts.

This brings us to today. I am so ready to close this year, which should have been my year. After all it’s not every year I get a birthday and this was a leap-year (boy did this one suck BIG TIME!!!). There will be no presents this year (thanks to the economy), and nadda for New Year’s eve. If anything this year has taught me that life moves even when my own world stops. That sadness, anger, disappointment, fear and everything else is a part of life and one can only hope that a true friend is there on the other side when you walk through.

Has anything good happened…well, the book I’ve been working on for about 5 months is almost done and getting some positive feedback from my coach. My family is all in good health. There one new child on the planet (Benjamin) who will hopefully make a difference when he grows up, and one more on the way next spring. My other friends who have children are all healthy, happy and growing up. I will have my 5th surgery in Jan and this time I have no expectations. That is a BIG step for me because I try to give the best and have the same expectation of my family/friends. Yes this year I learned that is too much to expect from them and myself. So in Jan I have nadda, nunka, no expectations at all. If it works – great…if not, then it’s the last and final one. There can’t be another because frankly I can’t emotionally take the up/down of it anymore. It’s taken over my life for the last 3 yrs, it’s changed me into a person I don’t want to be. I want the old Lisa Back!

So yes there may be a Santa Claus but I’m looking for the New Year’s baby. No, there are no great expectations for 2009, just hopeful ones.

Now that the 'glow' is fading, Get To Work Mr. President Elect

2008-11-09T22:18:00.006-05:00

I can honestly say that this week has been a blur. So much has happened, so much anticipation, holding my breathe and then such joy I've not felt in a long time. Let me say...it has nothing to do with our president being a person of color, it's about the promise of a better day that has me flying.

The economy still sucks, over 250K people lost their job in Oct alone!!! I know what it's like not to have a job. I know what it's like to have your savings slip away. I know what it's like to have done all the right things, only to find yourself at the short end of the stick.

I also know it took us 8 years to get here, and Barack is not G-D. He is not the Saviour of all people. He is not a magician and sadly can't pull the economy out of his hat (or the toilet as it were) but there is the hope of a new day.

This is the first time in my adult life when I am completely dedicated to following each and every promise that was made to me as a voter. I'm also paying attention to those that harshly criticized him during the campaign and are now looking for an opportunity to be on his staff. My how the tides turn. Yes everyone wants to be on a winning team.

My only beef this week, I hope the press will lay-off the girls. I've already read some very nasty, racist remarks printed in the papers about Michelle and the girls. Not by reporters but by 'Americans who are voicing their opinions'. Yes, our new President Elect and future First Family are a real, not rare family of color. They are educated, loving and actually seem to like each other. Really, they are no different from some people I know. I still don't know why some people would want to say some very nasty hateful things about two little girls. Come on people!! As someone who is not a mom, but believes in decency - BACK OFF!! Sasha and Melia didn't ask to be in this position - this was their dad's dream. Remember their big concern during Barack's 30 min infomercial, would it interfere with the Disney channel. They are little girls. They can't defend themselves, and if you think anything negative will be tolerated by Michelle - just wait to see what the "Mom In Chief" does. She will protect them at all costs as any good mom would.

Ok, so Mr. President Elect, you have begun to pick your staff and so far so good. You have had your first radio address and you handled it well. I'm just so ready for you to jump in the drivers seat. I want you to put the pedal to the metal and burn rubber!!!

There is a lot of work to do; a lot of things to un-do; a lot of people are behind you to keep you strong. Please keep your promises and keep us informed. To have an administration that is 'transparent' would be a first. It's time that you get your 'to do' list in order, put the economy on top and follow up with health care. Let's get this party started already.

Pres. Elect Barack Obama - Acceptance Speech

2008-11-05T16:11:00.009-05:00

If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.

It's the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches in numbers this nation has never seen; by people who waited three hours and four hours, many for the very first time in their lives, because they believed that this time must be different; that their voice could be that difference.

It's the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled -- Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been a collection of Red States and Blue States: we are, and always will be, the United States of America.

It's the answer that led those who have been told for so long by so many to be cynical, and fearful, and doubtful of what we can achieve to put their hands on the arc of history and bend it once more toward the hope of a better day.

It's been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America.

I just received a very gracious call from Senator McCain. He fought long and hard in this campaign, and he's fought even longer and harder for the country he loves. He has endured sacrifices for America that most of us cannot begin to imagine, and we are better off for the service rendered by this brave and selfless leader. I congratulate him and Governor Palin for all they have achieved, and I look forward to working with them to renew this nation's promise in the months ahead.

I want to thank my partner in this journey, a man who campaigned from his heart and spoke for the men and women he grew up with on the streets of Scranton and rode with on that train home to Delaware, the Vice President-elect of the United States, Joe Biden.

I would not be standing here tonight without the unyielding support of my best friend for the last sixteen years, the rock of our family and the love of my life, our nation's next First Lady, Michelle Obama. Sasha and Malia, I love you both so much, and you have earned the new puppy that's coming with us to the White House. And while she's no longer with us, I know my grandmother is watching, along with the family that made me who I am. I miss them tonight, and know that my debt to them is beyond measure.

To my campaign manager David Plouffe, my chief strategist David Axelrod, and the best campaign team ever assembled in the history of politics -- you made this happen, and I am forever grateful for what you've sacrificed to get it done.

But above all, I will never forget who this victory truly belongs to -- it belongs to you.

I was never the likeliest candidate for this office. We didn't start with much money or many endorsements. Our campaign was not hatched in the halls of Washington -- it began in the backyards of Des Moines and the living rooms of Concord and the front porches of Charleston.

It was built by working men and women who dug into what little savings they had to give five dollars and ten dollars and twenty dollars to this cause. It grew strength from the young people who rejected the myth of their generation's apathy; who left their homes and their families for jobs that offered little pay and less sleep; from the not-so-young people who braved the bitter cold and scorching heat to knock on the doors of perfect strangers; from the millions of Americans who volunteered, and organized, and proved that more than two centuries later, a government of the people, by the people and for the people has not perished from this Earth. This is your victory.

I know you didn't do this just to win an election and I know you didn't do it for me. You did it because you understand the enormity of the task that lies ahead. For even as we celebrate tonight, we know the challenges that tomorrow will bring are the greatest of our lifetime -- two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century. Even as we stand here tonight, we know there are brave Americans waking up in the deserts of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan to risk their lives for us. There are mothers and fathers who will lie awake after their children fall asleep and wonder how they'll make the mortgage, or pay their doctor's bills, or save enough for college. There is new energy to harness and new jobs to be created; new schools to build and threats to meet and alliances to repair.

The road ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep. We may not get there in one year or even one term, but America -- I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there. I promise you -- we as a people will get there.

There will be setbacks and false starts. There are many who won't agree with every decision or policy I make as President, and we know that government can't solve every problem. But I will always be honest with you about the challenges we face. I will listen to you, especially when we disagree. And above all, I will ask you join in the work of remaking this nation the only way it's been done in America for two-hundred and twenty-one years -- block by block, brick by brick, calloused hand by calloused hand.

What began twenty-one months ago in the depths of winter must not end on this autumn night. This victory alone is not the change we seek -- it is only the chance for us to make that change. And that cannot happen if we go back to the way things were. It cannot happen without you.

So let us summon a new spirit of patriotism; of service and responsibility where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves, but each other. Let us remember that if this financial crisis taught us anything, it's that we cannot have a thriving Wall Street while Main Street suffers -- in this country, we rise or fall as one nation; as one people.

Let us resist the temptation to fall back on the same partisanship and pettiness and immaturity that has poisoned our politics for so long. Let us remember that it was a man from this state who first carried the banner of the Republican Party to the White House -- a party founded on the values of self-reliance, individual liberty, and national unity. Those are values we all share, and while the Democratic Party has won a great victory tonight, we do so with a measure of humility and determination to heal the divides that have held back our progress. As Lincoln said to a nation far more divided than ours, "We are not enemies, but friends…though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection." And to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn -- I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your President too.

And to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of our world -- our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand. To those who would tear this world down -- we will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security -- we support you. And to all those who have wondered if America's beacon still burns as bright --tonight we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from our the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity, and unyielding hope.

For that is the true genius of America -- that America can change. Our union can be perfected. And what we have already achieved gives us hope for what we can and must achieve tomorrow.

This election had many firsts and many stories that will be told for generations. But one that's on my mind tonight is about a woman who cast her ballot in Atlanta. She's a lot like the millions of others who stood in line to make their voice heard in this election except for one thing -- Ann Nixon Cooper is 106 years old.

She was born just a generation past slavery; a time when there were no cars on the road or planes in the sky; when someone like her couldn't vote for two reasons -- because she was a woman and because of the color of her skin.

And tonight, I think about all that she's seen throughout her century in America -- the heartache and the hope; the struggle and the progress; the times we were told that we can't, and the people who pressed on with that American creed: Yes we can.

At a time when women's voices were silenced and their hopes dismissed, she lived to see them stand up and speak out and reach for the ballot. Yes we can.

When there was despair in the dust bowl and depression across the land, she saw a nation conquer fear itself with a New Deal, new jobs and a new sense of common purpose. Yes we can.

When the bombs fell on our harbor and tyranny threatened the world, she was there to witness a generation rise to greatness and a democracy was saved. Yes we can.

She was there for the buses in Montgomery, the hoses in Birmingham, a bridge in Selma, and a preacher from Atlanta who told a people that "We Shall Overcome." Yes we can.

A man touched down on the moon, a wall came down in Berlin, a world was connected by our own science and imagination. And this year, in this election, she touched her finger to a screen, and cast her vote, because after 106 years in America, through the best of times and the darkest of hours, she knows how America can change. Yes we can.

America, we have come so far. We have seen so much. But there is so much more to do. So tonight, let us ask ourselves -- if our children should live to see the next century; if my daughters should be so lucky to live as long as Ann Nixon Cooper, what change will they see? What progress will we have made?

This is our chance to answer that call. This is our moment. This is our time -- to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace; to reclaim the American Dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth -- that out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope, and where we are met with cynicism, and doubt, and those who tell us that we can't, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people:

Yes We Can. Thank you, God bless you, and may God Bless the United States of America.

Congratulations Mr. President, We are ready for Change!!!

2008-11-04T01:40:00.003-05:00

Dear Mr. President,

Like so many Americans and dare I say people around the world, I want to congratulate you. Have you had a moment to truly absorb what it is you have accomplished? I hope that you have a photographer there to capture every moment, because some important moments may be a blur. You have worked hard and you deserve this victory. Enjoy it!

I know that you will work hard to restore America to its greatness. I also know and have no expectations that you are the savior and that change will come immediately. It took a while to get in this situation, and it will take a while to get us out. There are a lot of people who have faith in you and are willing to work with you to make change happen. Surround your self with people you not only trust, but who will offer sound advice. It has been a long and hard road and a fight well won. Now, reach across the isle and work with the Republican party because it's time to work TOGETHER!!

I wish you all the best and a long successful presidency. I wish for Michelle, Malia and Sasha happiness as they begin this adventure with you. They truly deserve the puppy. Take time to be with your family to enjoy this win as well as morn the loss of your grandmother. While your grandmother wasn't physically here to see you win, I do believe that she is your angel and was with you this night. I know she as well as your mother is PROUD.

There is much to do and many miles to go, but I think you deserve a good nights sleep. Rest well Mr. President because in 76 days, the real work begins.

Can You Have It All???

2008-11-03T23:30:00.002-05:00

The election begins in less than 2 hours in some states. I am both excited and yet nervous about the outcome. It’s amazing that I shared with my mother and my friend Troy (who this blog entry is dedicated to) a story about something I remembered that happened when I was in Law School.

I was a member of the Black law students association, campaigning for a seat as national secretary. I remember doing all the prep work for flyers, campaign buttons, and the like. As a first year, it was almost unheard of to go after a national position. I was told I didn’t have any experience, but I felt I could do a good job. I have fond memories of getting to Harvard a day early and convincing people, who I met for the first time to be a part of my campaign team. We plastered posters, passed out buttons and worked on my speech. What’s so funny is I was running unopposed. This was a ‘shoe-in’ victory, but I didn’t take that for granted. People told me that I could ‘have it all’, if I just showed up. I however, ran a race as if I was against several opponents. I was passionate about what I thought I could do to make a change. I was focused on making things better in any way I could, and outlined my proposal to anyone who would listen. I met Troy my first day of campaigning. He was a 3rd year who became one of my key campaign advisors during the 3 days of meetings. He was then and still is a very dear friend.

So where is the joke right? In MY MIND…and I know I can have an imagination that takes on a life all it’s own, I thought had I turned right, instead of going left, I could have met Barack. Had things progressed we ‘could have’ dated. If that was successful, I could have been Mrs. Obama. I could be sitting here in my apt in Boston, writing about why I think my ‘husband Barack” should be president. I would share with you his vision on what he believes he could do to make a change for this country. See, I told you I had an imagination. Things obviously didn’t go that way. I vaguely remember seeing him, and we know that he has married the absolutely right woman. Michelle is like the song, “More Than A Woman”. If all goes well, as I believe it is her wish, she will make a wonderful First Lady.

This week has been a week, and campaigning is down to the wire! I wrote to my friend Troy, and asked his advice about life and politics. I asked him if his life, is what he thought it would be, and can a person “have it all”. After a long conversation, these are some of the thoughts I would like to share.

Life is hard, and some days more than others. The thing is when you feel like you are at the end of your rope, you do what most people find difficult– you ask for help. You never truly know the joy or misery others go through. It can appear that they are the king of the hill, or the bell of the ball, but this can be a fallacy that is perpetuated by people who‘fake it or hide it well’. Want we do know is that when the door closes, they are like you…human. But the question remains…are they, at their core happy – truly happy? Are they loved, are they supported, can be themselves no matter what?

Having it all –it’s not money (though I wish I had some), it’s not fame (though I would like to be known for some contribution to this world), it’s not having what the ‘Jones, Smiths or Browns’ have (no matter how much you really, really, really want it.).

Having it all, is a friend who hears your pain in an email and picks up the phone, because you matter that much to them.
Having it all, is knowing that no matter the good, bad, or absolutely crappy way you may be, feel or even in a moment of losing your mind act, that there are people who know you; know your heart and still love you in spite of yourself.
Having it all, isn’t wining the praise and accolades that come in the moments of great triumph, it’s knowing that those moments of quiet, and loss; when fear and doubt may grip your very soul (as it does every living person), that there is a hand that will reach out to comfort you, and arms there to hug you.
Having it all isn’t about being perfect – it’s just about being the best you can be at any given moment.
Having it all is love of family, unconditional friendship and peace of mind.

I don’t have it all. I may have 2/3 of it. I guess that makes me a lucky woman, so I’ll try hard not to complain…too much ☺. What I do have is a drive to be the best person I can be. I say I’m sorry, when I hurt someone and I mean it. I try my best to love unconditionally. Of course there have been some dark and stormy moments but there is always light at the end of the tunnel – or at least that is what I would like to believe. I’m human – I will make mistakes – I will tell the truth when I should remain silent. I will have expectations and yes some may think them unrealistic, but I ask for no less than the1000% I give. I don’t know any other way – and believe me, some days I wish I did.

All this rambling…so what is the point right? Tomorrow is Election Day and some people will be happy, others sad at the outcome. There will be no group of people that will “have it all” because let’s face it…the economy has gone to hell in a very pretty hand-basket. There is no group of minorities that will have it all if Obama wins, just as there is no group of women that will have it all if Palin wins. They are both human who will make mistakes and I hope have the common sense to ask for help. I hope who ever wins will surrounded themselves with people who won’t ‘yes’ them to death, but provide advice and recommendations. I hope that who ever wins remembers their promises, I will. Because of those promises you are getting my vote, and I will hold you accountable.

If we as a country don’t listen to each other (Democrat/Republican), work together, re-build together we won’t have anything. In the end we all lose, and I want to be on a winning team. I’m just praying that we don’t have to get super-nanny to give the senate/congress a time out.

Tomorrow, Please Vote.

16 days and you're on...

2008-10-19T08:06:00.017-04:00

There is electricity in the air, and the change of seasons has nothing to do with it. This country is on eggshells knowing that in about 16 days, we will decide who is leading this country for the next four years. It will be, one of two men who has over the last year, promised to do everything short of walking on water to get your vote. That person will be the next President of the United States of America. What we, rather what I want to know is not what have you done in the past, I want to know what can you realistically do in your first 100 days in office? The key word is ‘realistically.’ No more promises because let's face, politicians don't have a strong record for keeping them. What can you do to help restore this country to one that is not only admired, but also respected by others worldwide?

I could give you my 42cents worth (the price of U.S. postage) but I won’t. I will say please, please all Americans, use this time to do something important. Do your own research. Have a conversation with someone whose opinion you respect. Speak with someone that is on the “same page” as you are. Have a conversation with someone who may have an opposing political view. Get the ‘facts’ not the fables. Forget "reality t.v." THIS, the future of the US is true reality. Remember Declare Your Vote you still have time. YOUR VOTE does count. Your VOICE is important and MUST be heard. Out of the country but a US citizen….No excuse!! In the Military - absolutely no excuse. Above are links for absentee forms. Don’t let not being here, be a reason that you just ‘accept’ whatever the final outcome is. Someone a very long time ago fought for, died for, burned a bra or two, left a country that oppressed him or her, sat in the front of instead of the back of a bus, marched for your right to make this decision. Don’t let anyone tell you, you don’t count. Remember you could be the deciding vote…probably not, but you get the point.

November 4th – Snow, Rain or Shine – VOTE!!!

My name is Lisa and through my sometimes rose-colored view,
I approve of this message ☺

Have You Said "Thank You" To Someone Today??

2008-10-11T10:55:00.004-04:00

It’s been a long time since I’ve written. Not because I haven’t had anything to say, but because I’ve had too much to say. What I’ve learned – abet the hard way is, it’s better to say nothing.
Recently however I had an experience (and it’s not the first time) that left me wondering if people were ever taught manners. This was ‘confirmed’ to me by a conversation that I had this past weekend.

I was sitting at a hotel bar after enjoying the very first decent, non-rainy Sunday in Boston. Of course this was no ordinary hotel; it was one of the most posh in Boston…’Taj’. It sort of reminds me of the Plaza or the Ritz Carlton in NY – old world charm. So why was I there…I stumbled by it while walking through the Beacon Hill neighborhood. I decided to have a glass of wine (way over priced!!!), and work on the novel I’ve been writing (remember that’s why I started this blog to begin with…to focus on writing this “book” – which is going well thank you for asking). It also allows me to listen to and observe people.

No I don’t claim to understand people, I’m no expert but there is something that is clear. People LACK common courtesy.

Thank You, Excuse me, Please…did I say THANK YOU seems to be a dying words in the English language. It makes me wonder if people just ‘expect’ that you will do something – that it’s ‘what you do’. That they are so self-absorbed in their own being that they don’t think it’s necessary that they say something. I wonder if people forget that when you send a card remembering their birthday, or you make an effort to do something that you think will bring a smile, that “Thank You” is the very least you deserve in return. I’ve seen it time and time again. It absolutely boggles my mind that some people just don’t get it. Maybe they were never taught, or maybe they are just so self absorbed that it doesn’t occur to them. Maybe they were never taught (carefully taught…”)

I know my parents made sure that my brother and I said thank you to people (and each other) for any kindness, no matter how small. Their logic was that 'XYZ didn’t HAVE TO DO THIS, so you should be grateful'. What did that mean? You said thank you immediately and if it was something that was sent to you, you then sent a note card; at the very least picked up the phone and acknowledged the other person and their thoughtfulness.

That doesn’t happen anymore. How sad that this, along with the economy has tanked big time.
So I was sitting at the bar watching (not happily, but this is what you do in Boston) the Red Sox, writing and I listened to a mom with her son. They seemed to be having a nice dinner and they obviously had money to spare. It was a cute conversation they were having about their day and things they did. About 10 min after I noticed their nanny arrived with I guess a toy that the child obviously wanted. His eyes lit up, he reached for the stuffed animal. As the nanny turned to walk away, I heard his little voice say “Thank you for finding my bear for me.” She smiled and said “You’re welcome Jonathan.”

I was shocked to say the least, so I said something to her. I asked her how she did that; get a child to understand that those two words are important. She said that she had seen too many children and adults take things for granted...take people for granted. She was determined that her son blessed to have a lot more than other children, not take it for granted. If she could instill manners in him, she would consider herself a good mom. She said “it doesn’t cost anything to say Thank you, so you should show your appreciation.” She said that she wasn’t born into this lifestyle (as she waved around the very opulent surroundings), and was taught to say thank you. Wow, she had parents like mine and is teaching it to her child.

She is right people take things for granted. So, Thank you for reading this my 55th Blog. THANK YOU to those of you who I know (Mom and Dad, Barry, Lanie, Judith and iBert) who religiously read this, as well as those of you pop in from time to time. Thank you to those of you who send me comments directly, for supporting me, and for loving me no matter what. Thank you to all those who have died, are here now, and soon to be born for helping me grow. Hey, since I’m feeling so good, Thank you to those of you who don’t believe in me, wish me failure, and laugh at me moments of weakness…you strengthen me :-)

As I say, my Mom raised me right. Some days I have a slip-up, but it’s not done in malice. The one thing I can say, that I do without fail is say, ‘Thank you’ to those who show me a kindness (and sometimes even to those who don’t). When was the last time YOU said Thank You to someone?

Challenges build character or is that your press agent?

2008-09-27T10:16:00.010-04:00

Ok, so I said that this was a week of change…it’s also been a week of challenge.
Let’s start with the change…can we talk about David Blaine? Don’t worry; I’ll make it quick and painless.

Living in NY you often see some strange things, and seeing David Blaine doesn’t normally rank among them, but he gets the most press. This week was no exception. I was actually going to see my friend Ethelyn (you remember her from Regis and Kelly’s High-Heel marathon - see July's blog for more details) only to find out that they changed the day of the ‘Relly Award’ presentation. She was nominated “Favorite Real P erson: Female”, of course she is NO regular gal (and the best legs in NY). Sadly, she lost to Sister Paulene…guess you can’t fool around with one of the chosen ones – literally! So while in the area, I decided to see David in Central Park.

This week he decided that he was going to ‘hang out’ for 60 hours upside-down. Why…because he can. What they didn’t say is that it wouldn’t be for 60 consecutive hours (sign of a good publicist; I can respect that!). When I arrived, I stood around and waited a good 15 min for him to flip over again while he took a bathroom and tea break.

While no additional banks actually failed during his stunt, President Bush did think it would be ‘ok to address the nation on the current financial crisis.’ After all for the next 40 days he is still the president. David however, couldn’t complete his stunt as he wanted to because of this unplanned interruption. He blames the failure of his ‘dive of death’ on President Bush. Had the president not spoken to the nation – which I personally think is important, given I only have two nickels to rub together – there wouldn’t have been a delay in his show, the wind wouldn’t have picked up and he could have disappeared with the balloons in the night sky as he wanted to. Hey David, why not blame God for the wind? Better yet, why not blame yourself for not thinking of a plan B.

There is a hum of continued nervousness about the state of the economy. There were hundreds of both diplomats and protesters at the United Nations, as various heads of state were once again in town – blocking traffic and racing around the city with their motorcades like their hair was on fire. There were Sarah Palin impersonators (I guess the best form of flattery) and the lady herself, in the city meeting foreign dignitaries who proved that they are…just men after all. I didn’t get to see her while she was here, but did spot her husband at the park in Central park with their children. They seemed like every other normal family on the car Carousel…of course the big burly men with dark glasses, and earpieces stuck out sore thumbs. I appreciate the fact that the carousel in Central park is probably the only place that doesn’t close down when someone ‘important’ wants a ride. Pay your fair, and ride with the rest of us normal folks.

Shea Stadium will see it’s last regularly played Met’s game Sunday. Ok, so technically that happens next week, but Mets fans are just as sad as I was about Yankee stadium. What is my city coming to??

The weather is definitely taking a change. You can feel the beginnings of fall in the air. I love it. This is truly one of my favorite seasons, big sweaters, warm brandy and crisp breezes. Then again I also like spring for the same reasons. Of course this year, I will be experiencing it not in NY, but in a very, very, very different city. You’ll read about it soon. Maybe here; maybe on a different blog.

So where is the challenge you ask? I had two this week, but I don’t think I want to talk about it just yet. You know what I think I’ll approach this a different way. I think I’ll blog words or phrases to make my point. This way I can’t be accused of anything beyond, what I’m going to be accused for anyway. I know pretty lame, but you know what, I just don’t want to go down a road that makes me sad today. I have too much to do, and frankly would like to spend one day this week not feeling sad, so my challenge today, is to remember the words to the song ‘Don’t worry…be happy’.

What’s your challenge? Is it family, work, friends, children, or your partner? How do you address the issue without always being seen as ‘needy’ or ‘over the top’? Do people tell you to ‘get over it’ or ‘it’s not that bad’ or ‘it could be worse’? How does that make you feel and do you tell them? I’m open to any suggestions, stories and/or comments.

After all we are all just trying to make it in this world, one day at a time. Life, even with its challenges is still the best option, right? ☺

The Yankees Have Left The Building...

2008-09-22T10:17:00.012-04:00

Change…sometimes it’s good, sometimes it’s just change. This week, there will be a LOT of changing going on. Let me start with something that made me cry (yea we know I do that at the drop of a hat, because I’m a Pisces – not because I’m a girl thank you very much!) I went to Yankee Stadium yesterday for the final game.

OH MY GOD! The House That Ruth Built closed the doors for the final time last night. Over 54,000 fans watched our beloved Yankees beat the Orioles, 7-3. YEA!

Something that will never change about fans of the New York Yankees: pride, tradition and most of all, we are the greatest fans in the world.

The day started with fans having the ability to walk the grounds, which is unheard of. You actually had the opportunity to touch the walls, feel the dirt (just don’t take any), and look up into the stands and for a moment, imagine yourself as a player looking at all your fans. If you ever wanted to see a grown man cry, it was yesterday. The feeling of good-will was overwhelming.
The pre-game started with so many former players on hand, Bernie Williams (who received the loudest and longest ovation), Whitey Ford, Willie Randolph, Yogi Berra, Reggie Jackson and Goose Gossage just to name a few.

So many memories that are within these walls:
Babe Ruth’s 60th Homerun in 1927; Joe Louis knocked out Max Schmeling in 1938, Lou Gehrig’s memorialized speech in 1933; Sandy Amoros’s winning catch, and Jackie Robinson’s stealing home base in 1955; Pele played with the Cosomos in 1977; Reggie Jackson’s three homers in the 1977 World Series; David Wells perfect game 1998; A-Rod’s 500th in 2007. It's the place where Joe Louis and Muhammad Ali, John Philip Sousa and Pink Floyd, Knute Rockne and Vince Lombardi, Billy Graham, 3 Popes, Nelson Mandela, John F. Kennedy and a ton of others have stood in this park and made their mark in history.

Yankee Stadium isn't just a ballpark; it’s MY ballpark. Of course I had to share the last game with the number one man in my life. My dad ROCKS!! I often say I was his son, until they had one. Along with teaching me to be strong and independent, he also taught me to change the oil in my car, hit a baseball, shoot a basketball, he tired to teach me to fish however, I draw the line with worms real or plastic YUCK!! We also share a passion for all sports (even though he is a Mets Fan). We call each other during commercials; during the play-offs, the Superbowl, Dancing with the Stars, and sometimes it’s so often, my mom just says “Hi”, and then passes the phone to him. Yup…a daddy’s girl!! Of course as I was at the ballpark, I called to share this with him. Yes your final game T-Shirt is in the mail. ☺

The new stadium is right across the street and it’s ‘pretty’, but it has no real character yet. I know New Yorkers…we are a pretty tough bunch. We tend to run the spectrum of emotions, yet we are loyal to the end. No matter how much we balk, we are die-heard fans. However, I would suspect that it will take something pretty amazing to have us fall in love immediately with this new ‘house’, say a championship in 2009 – hint, hint.

As I said, this week will be a week of changes and where one door closes, I hope and pray a new one, a good one opens. I will miss the old Yankee Stadium and regret not going to enough games. I do look forward to a new chapter in their book; I’m sure it will add to the new chapter in mine.

GO YANKEES!!!

What Shall I Read Next??

2008-09-18T09:59:00.004-04:00

I can't believe how time flys. When I started this blog, it was the dead of winter and I thought that this would be a great exercise. It has been my dream and through the encouragement of my parents and my bff, four months ago, I've started writing a novel. It's had some great moments and some sad ones, but it's been fun.

I have a great editor Judith who is an accomplished author herself, and who is a constant source of support and advice. This amazing woman is giving me more, than the now 15 chapters I've given her. While this novel is a work in progress, some of you will be getting advance chapters to see what you think. While I'm not saying this will be the next big block-buster (then again stranger things have happened in my life), writing is helping me clear out all of the 'stuff' in my head and heart.

If you have been following this blog at all, you may notice that my goal is to read 44 book this year (that equals my age). I'm already at 37 with 38 close at hand. The problem is, I'm running out of things to read. I know that sounds impossible, but I'm looking for suggestions. So...if you have any suggestions on what I should be reading to reach my goal, please leave it in the comments area. Who knows, your suggestion might just be my next best read.