Specs in the out of the City(Jazzbird Takes Flight)

New Blog

2011-12-27T14:42:00.000-05:00

Jazzbird has flown this coop. With all the new beginnings, I figured it was time for a new blog, as well. Being a full-time student, it's hard enough maintaining one blog, much less two, so I'll be combining everything here:

Take me to higher ground...

Turning the Page

2011-11-18T00:25:00.002-05:00

I'm a newly-married woman :-) I still have no idea how I got so lucky. I know, it's corny, but true. I can't imagine a day of not being thoroughly in love with my husband. Nothing or nobody is perfect, but I end each day feeling grateful, loving and loved. He's not only my very best friend, but truly the most sincere and nicest man I've ever met. Of course, his being cute and incredibly smart doesn't hurt.

We had a small wedding, but I loved that I could see people I actively miss!

So, tons of changes since my last update... I'm out of the city, we've moved into our new place, tied the knot and so much school has passed that I'm already staring down the barrel of finals. I can't believe how quickly time has flown! I swear it was just summer. The whole "easing into school" thing was over before I could fully form the thought. I definitely had to hit the ground running. I'm working my butt off, realizing that studying in my 20s was far easier than my *ahem* current decade. Balancing a full life and a full-time course load has its challenges, but I'm figuring it out, learning from mistakes and celebrating the victories.

In addition to the new things I'm learning and starting on the latest chapter of my life, I'm loving meeting so many new people. I'm making some great friends along the way.

I'll admit I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving break next week. Sure, I have a paper to write, a project to do and an exam for which I'll need to prepare, but I'll have a few days off from classes, get to spend some time with loved ones, and hopefully get to push the "reset" button on my current level of exhaustion. Oh, relaxation, how I miss you! I'm looking forward to getting reacquainted for a couple of hours over banana bread, hot cocoa and snuggled up (in my new footie pajamas!) in front of the Macy's Parade on TV. (It will be weird not hearing the parade live on my corner, though, for the first time in several years)

Moving from the heart of Manhattan to a small town is definitely an adjustment. I remember when "slowing down" in my head meant moving to Queens. It's funny that living near Main St. actually means something here. Yeah, only pizza and Chinese deliver (and only during certain hours... what's THAT about?), but on the other hand, we have so much space! We not only have a quiet house with more than one room, but we occupy multiple floors. And while there aren't nearly as many restaurants (nor is there Ethiopian, sushi, Vietnamese OR Moroccan food), there are a handful of wonderful, independent eateries within walking distance, whether we want high brow or low budget. There's even pizza that rivals that of NYC!

By the way... white Christmas?? It's already white before Thanksgiving! Things are definitely a little ahead of the curve upstate. I've never really minded snow. We'll see what my attitude is about that *after* my first winter (full-time) up here, but comparing summers (strictly on weather), north will likely almost always win. Any way you slice it, I'll be grateful not trying to do the back-and-forth visiting thing during winter storms. That was consistently massively inconvenient for both of us.

Books and Life

2011-03-12T10:39:00.002-05:00

School stuff is going along on schedule. We stopped the house hunt, though, so we're looking for a place to rent before my lease is up at the end of May. I'm starting to get nervous that I only have 2 months left in the City, so I'm trying to get in as much as possible and enjoy it while I can. On the other hand, I'm really looking forward to being with P full-time and actually living in one place, rather than straddling the two. Yay- we'll both be able to have our stuff and ourselves in one location!

My engagement ring finally came (we ordered it Christmas Eve and it arrived after Valentine's Day). I love it. I'm not a huge girly girl, but I do notice it catches my eye more than it probably should. Shiny...

I landed more freelance work, which should start up in the next week or so. Hooray! The great thing is that the launch is expected to be in May, but even if that gets pushed out, I can work from anywhere, since I'll be working remotely. This also means I can make my own schedule (as long as I get the work done, of course) and can still straddle both locations, as needed. It'd be nice if there's more work to get me through the summer until school starts. Either way, though, I have something to carry me through my current lease. And I don't need to ever put on a suit for it ;-)

Wedding plans are frustrating. With the timing, there's one weekend that works especially well with time of year and my school schedule, etc, but it's proving tough to find a venue on that date. We may have to push things out, but I'm sure it'll all work out exactly as it needs to.

I've been chewing through books lately, but I'm now a little bored with my options. I find myself craving something by a few of my favorite authors who have nothing new out. I'm in the mood for something Laurie Notaro, Liza Palmer, or Jennifer Weiner-ish. I need some strong females. (I think I've been reading too many male authors lately.)

A new theatre season has hit here and there are a ton of new things opening. I'm excited to get out there and see as much as possible. Tonight, I'm seeing Anything Goes (a friend had an extra ticket), but I plan on hitting as many rush lotteries as possible in the days to follow. I'm especially excited about Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Catch Me if You Can.

I'd like to do some traveling this summer, if possible. The furthest I've gone is upstate (I've been back and forth so many times, I've earned a free ticket). We did go to Atlantic City for a few days earlier in the week, but I'd love to take an actual vacation before school starts (somewhere NOT experiencing a hot, humid summer). We'll see how the money and time are flowing. Hopefully, I'll still have some work coming in, but have some time to get away. One awesome thing about P's job is that he's been there so long that he's got a ton of vacation time allotted.

Woo Hoo!

2011-01-22T11:12:00.002-05:00

I got my acceptance letter for school yesterday. Woo hoo! So long, back-up plan! (but it's nice to know it's always there if I need it)

Turn and Face the Strange

2011-01-10T10:07:00.018-05:00

Happy new year! I really hope everyone had a good holiday season.

My holidays were pretty spectacularly wonderful. It was certainly the best Christmas ever, for me. Not only was it my first white Christmas, on Christmas Eve, P proposed and I answered with an enthusiastic, "Yes!".

After making a few announcement phone calls (or voicemails where we tried to be as casual as possible, so as not to give it away until they called back, and one call that didn't happen on time, realizing I had the wrong contact info- oops!), we had a lovely quiet dinner to ourselves then spent Christmas day with P's family. Coincidentally, P's sister's bf proposed a day before P did, so it was quite a celebratory Christmas. One of my Christmas presents was a beautiful "Welcome to the family" quilt from P's mother, which of course made me a blubbery mess, but definitely tears of joy. Her work is just stunning. And it's a family of which I'm proud to be a member!

New Years Eve was lovely, too. We both got fondue stuff for Christmas, so had a wonderfully decadent fondue party for two. We started off with a cheddar/beer fondue (it was even low fat, but you wouldn't know by tasting it), with some spicy mustard in which we dipped some grainy sourdough and tart apples; I'd made a roast earlier in the week that yielded some excellent broth, which we used for scallops and very thin cuts of steak, perfect for hot pot cooking; finally, we capped it off with bananas foster fondue (white chocolate-based) with angel food cake, bananas and small chunks of brownies. Of course, dessert was so rich we each got in about 3 bites and saved it for dinner the next night.

In other news, it's also looking like I'll be getting into the school program I want. I won't know for sure until the end of the month or so, but I also have a backup plan, just in case. My admissions contact seemed encouraging, though. My application and supporting material is all in order (including a summary outlining everything I've done since high school- whew!), so now I wait. Yep, the other news I've been sitting on is that I'm going back to school next fall to get my teaching credential. Yikes! With a drastic change in majors, it's going to take longer than I'd originally thought, but it's something I really want, so it's worth the time. Now to get a new job so I can save for both tuition and towards a wedding (albeit a small, simple one).

So, as you can tell, there's been more brewing out here than the measly blizzards.

I didn't really make any specific hard and fast resolutions this year. Mostly, I have ongoing goals-- keeping up better with people who are far away (time differences suck and all this traveling up and down takes its toll, too), continuing on my quest for better health (I did a bit of unexpected damage over the holidays, but there was a LOT of celebrating going on, and I've already lost some of the pounds back in my daily routine), keeping focused on the long term while enjoying the moment... I'm sure there are more, but that's the gist of it.

(Oh! And as a follow-up to my last post, no wonder it hurt like it did! I broke my toe, vs. just a sprain. It's still a bit bothersome, but pretty much back to normal. I've certainly done worse!)

Clumsiness

2010-12-02T22:11:00.003-05:00

It's time for Clumsy Move of the Month (or CMM). No stitches or casts this time. Why is it that the little things are so annoying? I sprained my big toe last night, causing me to swear up a storm and definitely not want to kick things (I was not doing any kicking during this fancy move). As one of my friends put it (on a prior seemingly-impossible move that I couldn't begin to describe accurately), "I SAW you do it and even I don't know how it happened!". So, here's my time to just say "oops" (I did it again). It's more annoying than anything. Luckily, ice is my friend and I generally have several packs on-hand (as does P, thankfully, since I did this at his place). Ah, well, it could definitely be a lot worse.

Thanksgiving was wonderful. P's family did the big dinner on Friday, so Thursday was just the two of us. We made a great, relatively-healthy feast together and enjoyed it leisurely. It was a perfectly-relaxing, great day. Friday was very nice, as well. I really like P's family a lot. I feel very much accepted and at home.

This year I feel extra thankful for my friends and "logical" family (to borrow from Armistead Maupin, referring to the family of choice extending beyond biology), even if we don't communicate one-on-one as often as I'd like. If I call you "friend", know you are loved.

I experienced the first good snow of the season while upstate. It made for a beautiful ride back home, with snow-dusted hillsides and sparkling tips of evergreens in contrast to their core, green hues. I was also able to catch an under-populated bus, which made things even more pleasant, outside of the walrus snoring in the back (or was he the egg man? no, definitely walrus, goo goo g'joob). I can only hope when I finally dozed off a few hours into the trip that I gave him no competition.

Life

2010-11-20T12:05:00.003-05:00

Happy almost Thanksgiving. How did it get to be mid-November? When did time start zooming by at light speed?

I've still been doing a very small amount of consulting, but looking for something permanent, job-wise. There's also still that other iron in the fire I can't talk about yet. Soon, but it'll be a couple of months there (and isn't really related to the current job search).

I'm still greatly enjoying living in the first-person plural. I'm entirely smitten. We are planning on living together when our leases are up. It's a huge step, but a welcome one. I realized the other day that any nervousness is far more an excited kind of nervous than that of concern. And to be candidly sappy, there hasn't been a day since I met him that he hasn't made me smile. It's a wonderful thing to realize. I can barely stand myself ;-)

That's about it with me. My health is improving, my sugar is very much under control and my latest round of hip injections has me soaring through with a bit less pain. My weight has hit a brief plateau, just shy of 60 lbs lost, but it's starting to budge a bit again in the downward direction. I try and be patient, but at least I haven't gained anything back. Knowing that I was able to actually lose weight over the holidays last year has me optimistic. There are a couple of big holiday dinners to maneuver through, but it's doable. I know with P's family there are always salads and vegetables, which helps. Things are so much easier when the entire dinner isn't sopped with gravy and butter. I'm baking the rolls, so I know they'll be grainy, too.

I hope everyone reading this is having a great November. Happy Thanksgiving, all!

Howdy

2010-09-23T22:16:00.003-04:00

Hey there. Know what? I'm still here. I figured I'd show it with a post on this blog for a change, since there are things happening that aren't related to food or my health.

There have been a lot of changes and a few things that haven't changed a bit. For one, I'm still unemployed. Oddly, I'm not panicking, though I am actively looking for the right position that's actually where I live (vs. Backwater, Arizona or Faraway, Michigan) and actually what I do (how many recruiters need to be brought to the attention that I'm not in any way a developer, when it's not anywhere on my resume?).

Summer is coming to an end, which I'm loving. It's not only getting cooler, but the theatre and music scenes are beginning to bloom again. I have tickets lined up, 2 next week, and one to follow, and I've seen 2 this week.

Tomorrow evening, I'm headed to the New River to do some white water rafting with friends. I've never done it, so I'm looking forward to a new experience (and hopeful my back plays nicely, but I'm already scheduling more spinal injections next week). In any case, it should be a fun weekend.

Things are still wonderful with my ever-growing relationship. Life is definitely sunnier when this much in love. Who knew? Okay, okay, some of you knew. Pardon my mush, but I'm just over-the-moon crazy about this man.

There's a Guy for That

2010-06-03T11:29:00.003-04:00

My boyfriend is convinced that, for everything in the city, there's a "guy"-- the shoe guy, the fruit guy, the chicken guy... For the most part, he's correct. I do go to a fruit guy (sometimes the best place to buy fruit- fresher and cheaper than the neighborhood grocery store), a shoe (repair) guy, a chicken guy, the coffee guy (who always charges me less because I live on the street), the bodega guys (there are 2), the list goes on. I love it.

I think it started with Wegmans (a grocery chain) in his town. Much like the multiple "guys" here, I could swear you can buy anything there under one roof. They even have daycare while you shop! The place seems about as big as Macy's Herald Square (literally the biggest department store in the world). It's a slight exaggeration of a comparison, but not by much. They've got a pizzeria, Chinese food, a full-on bakery, deli, groceries, housewares, hardware, a full health food store, a candy shop, daycare, dry cleaning... you get the idea. They're probably 2 sheets of drywall short of being a Home Depot, too. They even carry furniture on occasion. Holy cow!

So, yeah, I miss having access to things like Trader Joe's without a line out the door (we only have one here, so it's always super crowded) and a giant fully-stocked Target, I am glad for the many "guys" and small, local businesses, like the neighborhood hardware store and health food market (not combined, though nothing would surprise me here). It's a lot more small-town service. They may not know my name, like Cheers, but they know my face. In such a big city, it's nice to find the comforts of home in one's neighborhood and beyond.

Turn Your Records On

2010-05-26T14:00:00.008-04:00

As of today, I've lost 50 POUNDS!! Fifty!! I still have more to go, of course, but this is huge (or, depending on how you look at it, not-as-huge). So, if I sing, "All of Me", does this mean I have to sing a shorter version, or just in a lower key?

I've been getting a lot of questions from those who've noticed and friends who've been keeping up with the weight loss progress... "What are you doing?", "What do you eat?", "What plan are you following?", etc. So I started a blog to talk about it all-- the weight loss, the pursuit of better health, the whole bit.

Here it is, if you're curious...
Eating Myself Alive

Oh, Mexico

2010-05-15T15:15:00.003-04:00

I finally found a source of *good*, authentic Mexican food in NYC. You'd expect I'd find some awesome little taqueria, etc. While I've found some good places (I love Mi Nidito, but mostly because they offer more healthy options), I haven't found a lot of authentic food from the regions I'm used to from my California days.

Street fairs!! I found a great booth of Mexican food where I picked up some amazing chicken tamales... spicy, not too starchy, the savory meat mixing with slight sweetness of the masa... yum. Now, if only I could find a source for fruit tamales I'd be in heaven.

I also discovered a very bad thing (and by "bad", I mean "awesome")-- Starbucks' new as-you-like-it frappuccinos. Decaf, nonfat AND sugar-free? And it's made with stevia, too, so not even chemically sugar substitutes. While I usually find stevia pretty bitter, it works well with the coffee. We're talking super tasty!

You've Really Got a Hold on Me

2010-05-11T20:37:00.003-04:00

I've signed my lease for another year. As much as the current economy has thrown in its challenges, it has made for less stress when lease time comes around. They're much happier to keep good tenants than to go for higher rents (I'm not under rent control).

I've toyed with going for a larger space than the one I have, but I do love my building, so am happy to go another year (or more). I have neighbors I know and like and it's very convenient, location-wise. I have several friends within blocks, as well.

I'm sure at some point I'll want to get to a less hustle-and-bustle neighborhood, but for now, I'm happy here. And we all know this city happily has its hold on me.

Happy Birthday to Them

2010-05-10T16:39:00.005-04:00

It's sweet to be back on NYC soil again. I loved getting out of the city, but always feel much more balanced to dig back into it again. Of course, I miss a certain Ithaca resident, but it makes visits all the more pleasant.

Last week was birthday central. I have 5 friends now who all share the same birthday (May 4), including P's sister. His mother's birthday is the following day.

I started the week with Rodney's birthday dinner, which was a lot of fun. He rented out a restaurant in Brooklyn for the occasion. The only downside was that it was the hottest day of the year thus far and the air conditioning broke. In an Italian restaurant with a fully-buzzing kitchen, that can be a challenge, but we all survived without completely melting. It was good to see some people I don't get to see on a regular basis and get all caught up.

The next day, I went up to the Adirondacks to P's sister's place, near Lake George (of course, that's when it got chilly and rainy). Luckily, there were plenty of opportunities where the sun shined long enough to get some nice hikes in. When it wasn't great outside, we had Wii Sports Resort inside, so it all worked out. His parents came up, as well, so it was a nice celebration. Toward the end of the week, we went back down to P's place and I just got back this afternoon.

Now, to catch up on the city side...

Fitbit

2010-05-02T16:37:00.000-04:00

My Fitbit finally arrived! Due to some production problems on their end, I've been waiting 4 long months. (Pardon the photo quality-- it was taken with my phone)

In the first two days since having one back in my clutches, I've already gone over my workout goals by a good third, burning off about 3000 calories a day. I had a lot of errands to run and the weather was nice, so I was able to get in quite a bit of walking. I do love being in a walking-friendly city.

I hit a small plateau in the weight loss for a couple of weeks, but luckily I finally broke it a few days ago. Hopefully, this will make it all even easier. I'm interested in the way it tracks sleep, as well. I'll be posting a much more thorough review when I've had some more time to assess its functionality and accuracy, etc.

All That Jazz

2010-05-02T08:12:00.005-04:00

I've been catching quite a few shows and concerts lately, which has been fun. I love this time of year, when comps flow a bit more freely.

A couple of weeks ago, a good friend of mine and I caught Dave Brubeck and his quartet. Having a few occasions where he was either sold out before I knew about the show, or the last time, when I had tickets and he canceled, it's been a long time coming. Luckily, we got tickets way back in September and it all came to fruition this time. What fun! Great music, of course. He's a legend for a reason. And you have about 400 years of cumulative experience on the stage, which is always fun to watch.

Last night, we saw the Billy Taylor Trio. Wow. This was in the same series as Brubeck, but I wasn't nearly as familiar with his work (outside of his work with Coleman Hawkins). He's truly amazing. And his trio is equally as exciting, musically. Within the first few bars of the first tune, I leaned over and whispered to my friend "I want to have access to that drummer!". The drummer and bass player (Chip Jackson) each got jaw-droppingly more amazing as the evening progressed.

Theatre-wise, I haven't seen that much of note lately. I did get to go to the final dress rehearsal of the "Collected Stories" revival. It's very much worth seeing, if you're able. Linda Lavin gave a remarkable performance, perhaps her best yet. If she doesn't get a Tony nod, I'll be surprised. Of course, attending a dress rehearsal for a Broadway show was pretty cool on its own.

I'm looking forward to the Tony announcements, but it's been kind of a lackluster season, so I'm curious to see what will come out of it.

Lots of upcoming jazz shows, though... Karrin Allyson and Kurt Elling are both playing this month, for starters. We'll see what the comp gods bring to the table, too.

Balance

2010-05-01T14:30:00.003-04:00

It's been great doing some consulting lately. I've taken a few steps outside of my usual corporate box and been the lone-thinker. It's also been wonderful to help my friend take charge a bit more.

A friend of mine is a Director of Marketing for a large theater. His web developer upped and quit without notice, having gotten a full-time gig out-of-state. So, I got the "help!" phone call. It's been fun digging in and not only taking on an existing web project, but help enable my friend (and his team) to get to the point where they can start making the updates themselves. He's also starting his own marketing consulting business, so I've had the bandwidth to help out with recommendations there, as well. I got a little too excited talking about SEO than any human probably should be.

It's fun to take on new little projects once and a while and do something outside of the norm. It's been just the little break I needed.

I'm readying myself to get back out on the market again, soon, after a little traveling I have planned next week. I'm headed up to the Adirondaks (near Lake George) for a few days, expecting to return fully refreshed.

Hippity Hoppity

2010-04-05T19:03:00.004-04:00

What a weekend!

P arrived late Thursday night. During his visit, we covered the Natural History Museum (and an Imax movie therein), different areas of Central Park (the turtle pond, Belvedere Castle, the Delacorte, the ramble, the mall, literary walk, etc.), Dinosaur Barbecue in Harlem, the top of the Empire State Building, The NY Public Library (where the original Winnie the Pooh and friends are housed!!), Easter brunch with my friends, and lots of good, quality hang time. It all went by too quickly, but was fun nonetheless.

It was the big "meet the family" weekend for P at Easter Brunch. He handled himself remarkably well. They can be a tough crowd! They themselves even commented later (to me) that he impressively held his own.

He's headed back home now, but soon it's my turn. I'm meeting his family for his birthday in a couple of weeks. I'm really looking forward to it.

Spring!

2010-03-16T17:10:00.004-04:00

Spring is hitting. Sure, we may have a few more wintery days ahead, but the weather is great at the moment.

I got my wish on the flip flop season of my last post. We had several days of 50s-60s in the city during which the gash on my foot could finally start to heal over. As of a couple of days ago, even walking in shoes doesn't bother me one bit.

I've been in Ithaca since Friday, headed back home tomorrow. I'm not looking forward to being apart from P, but it will be nice to be back in the city. Hopefully it won't be too awfully long between visits.

While here, we went to Moosewood on Friday night. We had an incredible meal, appetizers through dessert. I had a Russian vegetable strudel in whole wheat phyllo dough that was out of this world. And whole wheat phyllo! It hadn't even occurred to me to try it. I found a recipe, but considering the size of my kitchen, I'm more likely to hit Whole Foods' freezer section for pre-made stuff first. What I also liked about the Moosewood pastry was that it wasn't too oily. They had to have used very light brushes of olive oil between layers and very little, if any, on the outside. I'm salivating just thinking about it.

The work front has been going decently. I'm doing a small consulting project, which is keeping my brain moving. I'm using some coding muscles I haven't stretched in a while (pretty simple stuff- I'm so NOT a hard core developer).

I've been reaching out to a few people, otherwise. I'm holding out for the right fit when it comes to a more permanent move.

Feet, Don't Fail Me Now

2010-03-08T12:09:00.007-05:00

I hurt my foot on vacation, which is really unpleasant. So even long walks in new places aren't as exciting as I'd like. I can walk okay, but it hurts and shoes seem to keep tearing at the wound, regardless of how tight or loose the shoes are. As much as I like winter and spring, I'd be okay with it being straight up flip flop season for a week or so to give this thing some full-on healing time. Otherwise, it's tempting stick to my barefoot-friendly apartment (which, of course, would drive me completely bananas, so not really an option). Of course, it's also on the foot that already has bad circulation, so it's taking foreeeevvvveeerrrr. Should I go to my podiatrist? Probably. Am I trying to hold out until our already-scheduled appointment so that he doesn't put me on crutches? Absolutely.

In the meantime, I have a new writing project and some music I want to dive into. Luckily, the foot is fine with the pedals on my piano. I have a few irons in the work fire, as well.

Quite a Week...

2010-02-12T13:53:00.004-05:00

Earlier in the week, Robbie's mom, Mama Max (very much like a mother to me, as well) passed away. In many ways, it was like losing my mom all over again. As Rob put it, heaven got a bit more artsy that day.

Today, I was laid off. It was time and I'm very much okay with it. There had been several shifts in dynamics there lately, so I was ready. I was already putting out some feelers.

The timing is very coincidentally odd. My first week of work at this company, my mother passed away, very unexpectedly. It was also shortly before Labor Day. As I leave, yet another mother figure has passed. Also, before a 3-day weekend.

The next two weeks were already pretty well planned with a couple of vacations. Tomorrow I leave to spend the holiday weekend with a friend, then I may or may not take off for an impromptu few days. I'll be traveling the following week on an existing planned vacation, as well. I anticipate returning fully refreshed and ready to get out there in the working world again. Until then, I need some chill time for my brain and body.

I have a Dr. appointment within the hour. How much do we want to wager that my blood pressure is down?

Down in Birdland

2010-01-20T12:08:00.001-05:00

Things are picking up again on the post-holiday scene. I just snagged some tickets for Tierney Sutton at Birdland next week. I love seeing her live. She's not only a very fine singer, but a remarkable musician, so very fun to watch (and hear). I really dig her drummer, Ray Brinker, too. He can do some crazy magic with brushes. Then again, the whole band is fun. I'm thinking I need to hit Cleo's again soon, as well. It's been a while.

I'm thinking of a vacation in February, but haven't booked it yet. Warmth? Sand? Water?... Bueller? (notice I left out "sun", ha ha)

I have to say, so far, 2010 pretty much rocks. There are some things that are less than ideal, but when isn't that the case for anyone? Overall, we're in the black.

I've lost some weight, I've had a ton of energy, exercising regularly, good friends are having babies, others seeing some fresh starts, I'm spending time with people I care about (though very much missing some who aren't here), and I just have that overwhelming sense of good things ahead. Those things that were more daunting near the close of '09 just don't seem as weighty.

Color me optimistic.

Take the Long Way Home

2010-01-02T20:17:00.001-05:00

Okay, so my trip out west was magical (did I mention that when I got in, they also upgraded our room?). Flawless. On the way back home, the travel gods were most definitely making up for it.

I get to the airport on time (10:30). I am typically compulsive about checking flights before I leave for said airport, but completely missed it this time. When I check in for my flight, it's delayed several hours, not to leave until 3:30. Ouch.

They were able to get me on an earlier flight which was on time, to leave at 2. Hooray! Oh, except it didn't leave until almost 3:30. Not only was the incoming flight late, but they were having problems with the jet bridge, so we physically couldn't board. We left shortly before my other flight was supposed to leave (who knows what happened to them- we stole their gate).

While waiting in the airport, at least a few things were in my favor- I had time to have lunch and won cab fare in the airport casino (which, for NYC, including tip, is $60, so nothing to sneeze at). Thank goodness for a laptop, free wireless, and a Kindle when that got old, so that I didn't pour it all back in. I'm generally good about walking away, though.

I had lunch around 11am because I'd only had an orange (much earlier) for breakfast. Since I'm used to American, which has food for purchase, at least, it didn't really occur to me that I needed food before I boarded the plane (even though I usually do anyway, because it's not always food I can eat). Bad planning on my part- I just wasn't hungry, so forgot about food entirely. Jet Blue serves snacks, but not really any I can eat, though made due with some tortilla chips (could be far worse). I'd have killed for some guac, or at least a tiny tub of salsa.

Another "perk" of Jet Blue- video on the plane. My eyes were too tired to read much, and since I don't really watch TV, sometimes when a captive audience, it can be fun. When it works. It would cut in and out for hours at a time, the majority of the flight. I was able to sneak in about 45 minutes of Law & Order, but cut out in time for the reveal. Nice. I got in a quick nap at some point, so was able to read afterward (No blankets or pillows on the flight? Another 2 points for American).

I have to say, as much as I enjoyed Jet Blue when they first started flying to the west coast, I'm not really as much of a fan now. The seats are smaller (I was larger at the time, so it's not just me), the leg room is about the same as on American, no meals as even an option, small drink selection, my seat only reclined about 1/2" (which I suspect is where their "huge" amount of legroom comes from), and their highly-advertised video wasn't working. I think I'll stick with my preferred and higher-mile-granting airline from now on. Oh, and it seems this was the only airline with as many delays. Hmmm.

By the time we got to JFK, I was ready to gnaw my own arm off, since lunch had been a salad. Thank goodness when we got to the luggage carousel (nearing midnight) there was a bare bones place open where I could get something quick on which I could gnaw to hold me over until I reached civilization (around 2am).

Well, we finally made it. My gloves were too thin, though my jacket was okay. It was in the teens I'm guessing and the cab line was over an hour long- unheated (in their "nice" new terminal??). I could have sworn that the taxi line used to be heated, but that may have been another terminal or La Guardia. In any case, it should darn well be heated, especially when so long.

So, it all balanced out. /rant

You Say You Want a Resolution...

2010-01-02T16:08:00.003-05:00

I prefer to think of them as "goals" vs. "resolutions", but here they are for 2010, in Rob Gordon/Fleming-style:

1) Explore options, from a career standpoint, and make a move forward.

2) Sing more than in 2009. Much, much more.

3) Get a firmer grip on the health situation and find a way to get my body and I back on speaking terms. Do all of the tests on time and make an effort to do better at accepting help where needed

4) Keep the weight loss moving in the right direction (getting my liver to cooperate would help a LOT in this arena)

5) Hmmm... This one I'm keeping close to my chest-- gotta' have some mystery in my life.

Top Fives

2010-01-01T14:58:00.003-05:00

I'm a big fan of Top Fives, a la Rob Gordon (or Fleming) from High Fidelity. Here are a couple of New Year-themed Top Fives:

Top Five Events for me in 2009 (in no particular order):

1) Christmas in Vegas with one of my best friends! And some great one-on-one time.

2) My NYC rent actually going DOWN (without having to move from my unbelievabley-quiet midtown apartment) at the same time my salary took a similar dive

3) Weekly (okay, near-weekly) brunch with some of the most awesome friends a girl can have (and who are not just Sunday friends, haha)

4) Spending several unexpected days with my sisterchick, her hubby, little boy and the newest on the way, making a somewhat sad occasion of a trip much brighter.

5) Getting to see and hang out with on old for the first time in way too long.

And out with the bad:

1) Discovering I had liver and blood sugar problems from the treatment of other issues.

2) Extra weight gain from said liver problems

3) My brother's stroke, a reminder we're all too fragile

4) Losing a friend who'd finally gotten clean

5) Some unfortunate team shakeups

My Day Thus Far

2009-12-24T15:28:00.004-05:00

My day thus far:

A few relatively-painless hours in the office.

Rushed home, switched coats (it was in the single digits when I left this am), tipped my super for Christmas. As I walked out of my building to hail a cab, one was pulling up to my building letting someone out. Score!

No traffic to the airport at ALL. I swear, not even a metering light. Made it in record time for a NON-holiday. Sweet!

Get my boarding pass and I was allowed to check 2 bags for free (was expecting $20 fee). Cool, no argument. Didn't pay much attention beyond that. Cool!

Go over to the huge line to actually check my bag and notice that my boarding pass says "Priority" (I guess I've been bumped up a status - thus the increased bag allowance). Just feet away was the sequestered desk for Priority... with one person ahead of me. Nice!

When I get into security line, since I'm flying coach, I head to the coach line. The woman letting us into line took one look at my boarding pass and said "Priority? You go to the First Class line over there". Awesome!

Since I'd allowed padding for each event, I was ahead of schedule. So, here I am in the airport- hanging in a seat near the charge station, early, watching a movie on Netflix on Demand and just chillin' out eating a salad. Not bad... not bad...

I can only hope the rest of my trip goes as smoothly!

It's Because of You We Can't Have Nice Things

2009-12-24T10:51:00.005-05:00

So, over the weekend, I received my long-awaited fitbit. It's a lovely little device. I've been looking at my life in charts for days now- sleep patterns, eating habits, exercise habits, etc.

Well, last night, after I showed it to my dinner companion, I must not have put it back on properly. I was careless. And on the way home, it fell off. I know exactly when it happened, though didn't know that's what it was at the time. The woman in front of me and I both thought she'd dropped something small... that I saw bounce into the subway grate.

Okay, I can live with a mistake- things happen. But the really difficult part is that I was in queue to get one because I ordered months ago (they didn't go into production until Sept- I ordered before released). Ordering today, they're not shipping until Jan 31 :(

Well, it would have been nice to know my stats on vacation, but at least since I already bought one, I can at least use all the online tools and enter things manually. I may pick up a cheapo pedometer to at least keep me honest.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good... well, it's night somewhere :-)

Turkey Lurkey Time

2009-11-25T21:29:00.007-05:00

It's that time of year again when we're asked to give thanks. This year it seems a little more far reaching, but I am grateful for so much.

This year, I'm removing myself from the usual feast-filled day and seeking a bit of escape. Food isn't exactly my friend these days and there are a few too many landmines out there. Call me a coward; today it's probably appropriate.

Still, the more surface issues have caused me to go deeper. I may occasionally whine about all the things I'm unable to consume where there are plenty out there who don't even have enough food on their plates. I am very fortunate to be able to at least afford those things I can eat. My kitchen is never lacking a bounty of nutrients. And if I'm a little sad and seeking refuge, I not only am in a position to do so, but I have a safe home from which I can escape and awaiting my return. There have been times even in my own life where that wasn't always such a certainty.

I'm extremely grateful for my friends, my chosen family. I have some wonderful ones. I only wish those who were far could all be within easy reach.

While there are some changes occurring that aren't necessarily ideal, I do have a job that keeps me in the lifestyle to which I have become accustomed and allows me to even help others. And it's given me added resume material to aid in finding something even better.

I'm thankful for the city in which I live, my quiet apartment that allows solace from the bustle when it gets to be too much, and the rich culture available at my fingertips.

I have my voice, which makes me happy, and opportunities to use it when I feel the need (and sometimes when I don't).

I hope everyone reading this has a safe, warm, happy, love-filled holiday.

Antici... pation

2009-11-12T19:20:00.002-05:00

I love leftovers. If I could, I'd eat them 6 days a week. Sadly, one has to actually have the first meal for it to really count, otherwise you're just planning ahead (something I also do- often, and not just in regard to food).

I've met several people in my life now who just won't eat them. This has puzzled me for a very long time. First of all, I was never really given a choice as to what I did/didn't eat as a child. In a large household, there was little short-order cooking done. And with so many mouths, there was always at least one person who wouldn't like some element of the meal or another.

As I was heating up my leftover veggie-loaded mac and cheese, it occurred to me one of the reasons I probably love them so much. Sure, the flavors have mingled and taken on a whole new element, but let's delve into my psyche for a minute.

In a family of 8 (I don't remember much when there were 9 of us), growing up among the Valley of the Giants (all many years my senior and all much taller than I, even in adulthood), leftovers were a prized rarity. If you did happen to have a meal you liked, it was unusual to find more of those tasty morsels the following day before being snarfed down as someone else's luch or snack, beating you to it. Sometimes one would be dreaming of it all morning, only to walk in the door from school or some other activity as someone is shoveling in that very last forkful of the coveted tasty goods. Living in a microwave-free household, it didn't hurt that most things were warmed up in a cast iron pan with bacon grease (it's a miracle I was a skinny child-- probably just because I was too slow on seconds and leftovers).

Wow, just typing "bacon grease" made me drool a little.

I love this time of year, moving into the cooler seasons, for many reasons. One of them is that it means I'm cooking more and stocking my refrigerator and freezer with more servings of soups, stews and casseroles to come.

Good Day

2009-09-27T19:07:00.002-04:00

Sometimes, when you're out for another ordinary day, it ends up being such a fun, wonderful time. For the most part, it was a normal Sunday-- church, brunch with friends, sometimes playing games all afternoon (especially if there's a perfect foursome for spades- that will usually cement brunch location), etc. This morning started out with meeting quickly at the Broadway Flea Market, to try the ticket raffle before heading downtown (I actually won 2 sets of tickets, which makes up for last year's zip- but either way, it's for charity). Out of the four of us, three of us got tickets, so that was pretty cool.

Weather wise, it was gloomy and stormy, but I think that just bumped up the punchy factor. We were just having a crazy good time, laughing and being our usual selves.

For me, personally, one of the things that helped was that my body was cooperating pretty much all day. Every time I checked my levels I was decent and I've been on a crazy energy spree again the past few days (yeah, I can connect the dots there). My back was a bit iffy, but that seems like such small potatoes these days.

After a pretty bad 24 hours earlier in the week, honestly, I snapped back and have been feeling awesome. Here's hoping this keeps up!!

I'm definitely feeling that summer is quickly behind us, weather or not. Music and theater seasons are starting and my calendar has been filling up quickly. There may be some convening of a certain country mouse and city mouse, but we'll see about that.

Star

2009-09-22T22:52:00.004-04:00

Living in Manhattan, especially in the theater district, one gets pretty used to seeing a fair share of celebrities. Some are more "celebrity" in my eyes than others, but usually it's a passing mental shrug, if anything. I think some of it is having been in "the biz" since I was basically a kid, so even if I remotely care, I like to give them the same respect I'd give any potential colleague. Even if we make eye contact as I'm thinking "wait- is that someone I actually know or do they just look familiar because- oh, oops, I'm staring at a famous person who probably thinks I'm a stalker now" (busted), I try and just give a polite smile and move it along.

Tonight, I have to admit to being a tiny bit star struck for a moment. As we were entering the theater, I looked at the girl directly in front of me and thought, "huh, that kinda' looks like Mamie Gu.... (Gummer) OH!! And that would be her mother (Merryl Streep) right next to her!" (I've seen Mamie in a couple of things, so not really unusual that I'd see her around town- and poor thing that she's probably gotten that reaction her entire life). That is one classy, talented woman. I still didn't really turn my head and certainly didn't say anything until well out of view or ear shot, but I got kinda' fluttery.

All in all, it was the best September birthday I've ever had. We'll forget for a moment that my birthday was in June. It took a while for us all to be able to get together. We're still waiting to do R's from May, so I'm not all that behind. Summer in the city- weird time to try and schedule stuff.

"Wishful Drinking" was a lot of fun. Even having read the book, the material transferred well. I laughed my way through.

We started out at one of my most favorite restaurants (shhh... it's a secret), so the bar was set pretty high early on in the evening. Good food, good friends, good entertainment. Love it.

Time now to call it a night. Sadly, not even midnight, it's a school night and well past my bedtime.

It's All Relative

2009-09-19T22:27:00.007-04:00

This last week was a rough one. When calling back to schedule what I'd thought to be routine extra baseline views as a follow-up for my first mammogram (yay, family history- can't be too safe), it quickly became evident it wasn't as routine as I'd thought. I was bounced around for a few hours of phone tag from one scheduler to the next, including the biopsy nurse. When I finally got to the right person, I was told to allot 2 hours. For a follow-up to a 10-minute test, yikes. And the first had already been enough to know they're not enjoyable.

This gnawed at me in the background all week.

My appointment was first thing Friday morning. I arrived, as bright eyed as one can for something of this nature. After some nervous time in the waiting room, I was lead back to the second waiting room, where I changed into a gown for more hurry-up-and-wait. Within a few minutes, the first tech came and lead me to the screening room.

She was wonderful-- much more calming and easy than the first I'd had. While still painful, it was not nearly the scene from my prior visit. Within minutes we were done. I'd been told before taking the extra slides that the ultrasound to follow was scheduled "just in case" and that we'd see after these films were done if it was even necessary. Next thing I know, I'm asked to go back to the waiting room and to remain in my gown. After the doctor reviewed, I'd know how to proceed. On my way out the door, however, I saw the films she was looking at-- and the big blotch circled on each of them. A big, white circular mass that looked the size of a ping pong ball, showing on each slide and a big circle, as if it would be hard to otherwise notice. There was no mistaking then why I was called back.

The first tech had given me a survey to fill out as I waited for the next. By all of the info being requested, I could see that I wouldn't be able to complete it until finished, but I was grateful to have something else on which to concentrate. I suspect that was on purpose. I couldn't read the book I had with me because I was far too distracted. I could feel the knot in my stomach twisting tighter.

After what was probably only a few minutes, but seeming like an hour, I was called by the next tech. The ultrasound was uncomfortable, but more mentally than physically. What was happening to me? Does this mean I have breast cancer? What could that huge lump be? How often does this happen?

When she was done, she asked me to wait in the room while she conferred with the doctor. Just hang out and relax. Uh, yeah, if by "relax" she meant "try really hard not to cry", I was doing a decent job. Having had enough ultrasounds of other parts of my body, I knew this part was pretty routine, having to wait for the radiologist to review, etc. Still, that little fact wasn't very consoling this time around.

Next came the part that hadn't ever happened for me-- she arrived with the doctor in tow. "The doctor wants to speak to you....". My throat tightened and I must have been 3 shades of Casper.

Thankfully, his lead was "It's good news!". Wow, alrighty. He explained the whole process, why they had me in, and that the ultrasound showed that it was just a random mass of tissue, not a tumor. "EET EES NOT A TUMAH", as the movie quote goes. I'm just home to a nice mass of tissue that decided to make a home for itself, but kindly flattens out when pushed by an u/s wand, showing its harmlessness.

Whew!! Having been down the cancer road once before, I have to say, some things just put others all in perspective. I didn't really realize just how stressed I'd been lately, especially with all of the other (non-trivial, but comparatively not horrendous) health stuff going on, work stuff, etc. until I fully exhaled. The rest of the day, by comparison, was cake.

This morning, for the first time in a while, I woke up, the weather was gorgeous, I got in a nice walk, and had more energy than I've had in months. What an amazing day to be alive.

Heat Wave

2009-08-19T19:47:00.003-04:00

Sometimes it takes the tiniest spark to rekindle a flame. Next stop: conflagration.

I recently reconnected with a bay area friend to whom I haven't talked much since moving to NYC. We met through a mutual teacher and several friends, but very close to the time I moved to NYC, so we weren't very close. We were definitely in the same circles, though-- working with the same musicians, singing in the same venues, etc. Her latest note talked of her gigs (past and future), musical travels and soon getting into the studio. I can't even fully explain how much that filled my heart with joy-- both for her and for myself, living a bit vicariously. It did give me the slightest kick to get out there again (it may have been as blatant as her saying something along the lines of "you need to get out there").

Last night, I cleared off my piano bench, leafed through my book of charts, sang out loud. It surprised me how my body instantly felt a lift. The day-to-day frustration was gone and it felt like an old friend was sitting here with me in my apartment-- the friend was my own self, immersed in music.

Before I could make excuses not to (it's like I know myself), I sent a quick note to a friend in town who's been after me to sing. I committed and put a date out there.

As if the world knew, after sleeping more soundly than usual, I woke up this morning, had lost 1.5 more lbs (been trying to break through that plateau for a couple of weeks), got a note in my mailbox I've been waiting for weeks to appear, and my day progressed from there. I'm guessing my blood pressure was down. Oh, right, this is kinda' what it felt like when I used to do this stuff every day. Hey la, hey la, my boyfriend's back.

G I Think You're Great

2009-08-07T21:08:00.003-04:00

I went in for a very minor upper GI thing today. It was mostly just to have a look, though they fixed a couple of things they found while they were in there. It wasn't much at all, though I do kinda' feel like Roto Rooter had some fun in my esophagus (very mild- no big deal).

I had a chat with the doctor afterward, though don't know too terribly much until labs are back, etc.

What I really learned to day is that I love Propafol. No, really, I do. Those who know me well know I'm not big on drugs, especially anesthesia. Opiates and I don't play nicely together, whether a Vicodin for bone fractures or the heavier stuff for surgeries. I always need a heavy dose of anti-nauseant in the IV before any sedatives. So, a non-opiate sedative? It rocks!! I was out in about half a second and was semi-lucid upon waking. By the time my friend got me home, I felt fully aware of my surroundings and everything I was doing. After a nice, long nap (and food, not having eaten for about 16 hrs.), I felt fully awake and fine. No drug hangover, no nausea, nothing. I'm a little tired, but it's not a fuzzy, dopey kind of tired.

All in all, not bad.

Work-wise, it's hardly slowed, but post-launch makes it easier to get help from my teammates who weren't "in the know" beforehand. Still, things have been coming at a steady clip. This not having been my first time to the rodeo, I expected as much. It's all manageable. I do enjoy making good on a deliverable before it's anticipated (even by myself). This week I had one such an occasion. I had a site that I expected would be a bigger job than it was. There are a few minor cleanup things to take care of, but I left it in a good state for the weekend. I practically had one hand typing as I was on my way out the door. I hate leaving loose ends, so it was a relief, especially with a couple of our UI guys out today.

I'm looking forward to getting back on the social scene in the next few days. Tomorrow I'm heading to CT for a b'day party, then a few things planned for the week. Later in the week, a few of us are going out with some folks from the JC office, which should be fun. We always have a good time.

Uptown Girl

2009-07-31T20:48:00.005-04:00

I'm so glad this week is over. I could use a day to myself. It was lots of hard work, but there was some fun in there, too.

The launch went well. There are always little follow-up things and it'll be a bit before the dust settles, but with it all being public now, I have more resources to help. It's bound to be an interesting ride for a while, though.

This weekend, I plan on leaving all thoughts of work behind. Sunday to Monday was pretty much one big 24-hour day with a couple hours of sleep wedged in there. I left late Sunday and was back in at 5am Monday, then chugged along with the week. Wednesday night I slept nearly 12 hours-- what a relief! I don't really feel like I've caught up fully yet, though. That's for the next couple of days.

Tuesday night, despite the exhaustion, I went to the Vince Guaraldi tribute at the 92nd St Y. It was so much fun! I met my friend Rick for dinner at a great little Italian spot near the theatre. I'm rarely on the upper east side, outside of doctor appointments, so it's fun to explore new neighborhoods. Amazingly, not only did they have food I could eat, but delicious food I could eat-- and more than one choice! Especially for an Italian place, it's a rarity. I did have one small warm-from-the-oven biscotti with my bowl of perfectly-ripe fruit and it was heaven, but I figured id I ate one, it wouldn't be so tempting to have something worse later. A little perfect bite of vented steam. Maybe some day I can try the lemon spaghetti, which is supposed to be absolute perfection. I'm not quite there yet.

The concert was fantastic. The evening was part of their Jazz in July festival, directed by Bill Charlap. I didn't know his music before that night, but I'm definitely a fan. He captured Guaraldi's style perfectly, right down to the accents and his solos were great.

Joe Locke was on vibes-- wow. Wow. He's a true master of his instrument. He and Charlap did "Skating" in perfect sync. That's not an easy task. It was like they fused together as one instrument several times that night. I'd seen Locke play before, but he seemed especially in his element. Since we were up in the balcony, it was interesting to watch him play from above. I was mesmerized much of the time.

Each of the musicians that night was remarkable. The percussionist did this amazing solo that gave me absolute chills (not my first of the night). I need to look up his name again and post it later. Brilliant. And to hear Carol Woods sing "Woodstock" was a lot of fun. If you saw, "Across the Universe", she was the gospel singer singing "Let it Be" (she also did Smokey Joe's on Broadway).

Here's a bit of Charlap playing at the Village Vanguard:

Let it Be (warning- if you haven't seen the film, there's a spoiler here):

Joe Locke, doing his thang (I really wish I could have captured "Skating"-- I've been thinking about it all week!):

Here's the song "Skating" anyway, so you can understand the intricacy. Who doesn't like watching Snoopy?

Countdown

2009-07-24T21:00:00.005-04:00

I'm all prepped for my single-day weekend tomorrow. I plan on doing as little as humanly possible, but will probably squeeze in a bit of productivity and, at the very least, a good walk. Sunday, work-wise, we pick up where we left off and Monday ends phase 1 of the current project (woo hoo!!). I can't wait for the exhale! If all goes as planned, that exhale happens in just a few short days.

Nothing new on the health front. I'm still being incredibly cautious about everything put in my body. I haven't gotten the results for last weeks tests yet, which will determine just how careful I have to be. Basically, we need to know if it's just the liver and the definitive root cause. I haven't gotten word of a cancellation for my GI doc, so I'm assuming I likely won't get there until the beginning of August, which is when I'm scheduled. I've been on the cancellation list for weeks. The stomach is the least of my worries at the moment, though.

Can we just stop with the body issues now? I think I've reached my quota of physical problems, especially for things that happened ages ago.

The easy part of this is that I've basically returned to how I was eating when I was still in California. I'd loosened the reins a bit since getting out here, since my friends are all great foodies, but it's a way of eating I'm at least used to. And I already wasn't much of a drinker, so cutting out alcohol completely isn't that great a challenge. I'd miss the occasional glass of red wine with dinner, but the dinners for which that'd be most applicable aren't in the picture anyway. One hitch is fine dining here. I feel like in California there was always at least one or two options everywhere I went since it's a little more health-focused out there. It was more the exception than the rule that I couldn't eat somewhere. It's a challenge here, but not impossible with certain modifications. I just feel more high maintenance here. Ah, well, my health comes first.

Who knows? The nutritionist may unlock even more. I'll be seeing one after my next doctor appointment, based on certain test results. I'm predicting that I'll be a rarity, showing up to my appointment, full food diary in-hand. I've kept one off and on for years, so the nutritionist can already see how I eat, complete with nutritional breakdown, etc. The only fault I would find in my current habits is that I slightly under eat, which is a problem. I'm having trouble eating as much as I should, but I think I just need a bit of time on that one. It's tough going back to old habits with a new lifestyle and daily routine. I just don't live like I did in California (having several large supermarkets and health food stores available in a short radius, for one). One positive change to my current daily life, however, is that not only am I a block from the gym here at home, it's also the same building as I now work.

Okay, time to curl up with my Kindle and get some well-deserved sleep!!

Breaking Up is Hard to Do

2009-07-01T21:51:00.003-04:00

It's the end of an era. A relatively short era (2 years), but an era. My team is being split and we're moving offices- not just buildings, but states. It could open up opportunities, but I'll be sad to leave some coworkers behind. I will be a 100% Manhattanite, as I'm moving to my side of the river. I'll miss the skyline view and the daily ferry rides home from Jersey. The place definitely has its merits.

There are some moving with me, thankfully. It will be an adjustment for all, I'm sure. I'm a little melancholy about it, naturally, but time to move it along...

How Do You Get to Carnegie Hall?

2009-06-20T23:33:00.003-04:00

For me, it's "walk a few blocks". Have I mentioned lately how much I love this town?

Anyway, tonight was my first time there and it was pretty damn spectacular. I saw Jamie Cullum and he was the absolute best induction to the place, although he's now set the bar pretty high. I only wish I'd had my camera, though there were about 2000 other people there who did, so decent photos won't be tough to find. Yeah, they have a strict "no photo" policy, but when the artist encourages it (and encourages crowding around him as he got intimate and unplugged with the audience -- a-w-e-s-o-m-e), they'd need a whoooole lot more security people to control that one!

Not feeling well was somewhat frustrating, but I tried not to let it distract me from the performance, which was nothing short of spectacular. For the most part, I succeeded there.

Three of my most favorite jazz vocalists have all been in town at once this week-- Jamie Cullum, Kurt Elling and Curtis Stigers, two of whom I'd never before seen live (thanks for coming back to the States so I could finally catch you, guys!). I tell you, I would love to be any part of a triple-decker jazz sandwich with these three (note: I said JAZZ sandwich-- minds out of gutters, please). Between a trip last week and schedule juggling, I had to give Kurt a miss (which was a tough choice, especially when I was offered comps), but I'll see him next time around.

I only wish there were several more sets tonight, but I suppose that would be asking a bit much. Rock on, Jamie. You're even more inspiring live than on recordings.

Time

2009-06-20T16:47:00.003-04:00

I've been having a real time problem lately (outside of work). I just don't seem to get in enough time to do everything I'd like and I feel like I'm letting people down in the process-- people close to me. It's frustrating all around.

There are a few things going on that I haven't really talked about much to anyone. Some things really aren't worth sharing. I'm fine, and it's nothing health-related, but this week has been especially tough. I'm exhausted.

I wouldn't even know where to start. I just hope it's all a temporary blip on the radar screen.

Blowing Out the Candles

2009-06-04T00:20:00.002-04:00

It's nearly that time again. I naturally get a bit reflective when about to head into another year on this planet.

First off, I can't believe I've been in NY for over 2 years. The time hasn't flown so much as rocketed. I also still can't believe I haven't lived here since I took my first independent step decades ago. I wasn't ready and I know it, but it feels so homey and comfortable. I do wonder how things might have played out if I'd moved here in my teens vs. my 30s, but I'm pretty happy with how things worked in the end.

To accompany my new lease signing, I am finding myself nesting further. I'm looking at more grown-up furniture than the I'm-unemployed-let's-just-get-somewhere-to-sleep-and-sit studio starter set. It will be nice to have a more efficient space in my tiny, beloved patch of Manhattan. I don't like feeling cluttered. Now that I have my Kindle, I went through my bookcase and got rid of a whole shelf's worth of books I likely wouldn't read again in paper form.

The next week is going to flyyyyy by. I'm booked through the weekend with birthday and Tony festivities then leave shortly thereafter to visit my brother.

I think I touched on this lightly, but my brother had a massive stroke about a month ago. He's progressing, but still fighting paralysis on the majority of his left side (he's not only a musician, but he's also left-handed). He's very young, but it was a congenital issue, so he was a ticking time bomb. Luckily, I know he's as stubborn as I am when being told he "can't" do something. (You can see how much I'm "not walking again", lol).

The last few months have been a little rough, but I have no major complaints. It's mostly been time management and a few health things, but nothing that can't be overcome. I had a procedure on my back a couple of weeks ago that will really help for the short-term. I waited too long, but reeeeeeeally didn't like the thought of having it done. Now that I'm almost two weeks past it, I'm grateful I did it when I did. I knew I wouldn't be able to fly as things were, so it was necessary.

Work is the same, really, and I'm okay with that. I've been sadly neglecting the music end of things. I'm guessing next week will likely be some fuel to change that. I have a new coach I'd like to start working with when I get back home. I've also been talking to a jazz pianist lately and we'll likely get in some jam time when I'm back, too. If that morphs into building my own trio, that wouldn't be the worlds worst thing. I'm also really anxious to get back into the gym when I'm back, now that my back is starting to behave. I'm looking forward to hitting some trails while I'm away, too! It's one of the few things (besides some people, of course!) that I miss about the west coast.

It's all about balance.

April Showers

2009-04-23T00:15:00.004-04:00

Things that absolutely ROCK about April, thus far:

- My rent is actually going DOWN! I guess the poor economy is good for something at the moment

- Seeing Paquito D'Rivera perform tonight. He sat in on one tune with Jane Monheit in the first half and did the whole second half of the evening with New York Voices. They all kicked ass and you could tell they'd been playing together for a long time. It's one of the best live musical experiences I've had in a while (which really just means I need to be getting out there more).

- We're actually seeing spring arrive. We've had more warmer/tolerable days than cold. And even the cold isn't so bad when compared to ice and single-digit temps.

The bad in April, thus far:

- I caught a nasty case of the flu. I'm on week 3 and still just really starting to breathe normally again and sound like myself. I think by the weekend my voice will have returned.

Spring is Here

2009-04-04T15:07:00.004-04:00

Spring is finally springing here in the city. Bulbs are poking out of the ground and it's been in the 40s and 50s. We've even had a couple of 70-degree days, but they're very rare at this point. It's been a nice level of rainy to kick things off. It's nice to wash all the crud from the air once and a while.

Work is work. We're busier than ever, but I enjoy being busy. If I didn't love the team with whom I work things would definitely be tougher.

I took a week off from a lot of things this past week. I went to work every day, but didn't go out one bit. To work and home again. I needed it. Life moves quickly here and, as much as I love it, sometimes need the world to spin without me for a little while. My spark fizzled. I'm now somewhat well-rested and ready for some hang time with friends tonight and tomorrow. Tomorrow will be an early evening, though. I'm preparing for another full week with more than one deadline looming on the 10th, followed by Easter weekend.

I just went to Atlantic City a few weeks ago, but only for a long weekend. I think I need to take a real vacation soon.

Add It Up

2009-03-21T02:33:00.006-04:00

Long distance things can suck. Even when you try very hard to convince yourself you're not in one, they suck. Feelings are tough to temper when both fostering it. It's city mouse vs. country mouse, though. Like Tevye says, "A bird can love a fish, but where will they build their home?" (or something like that)

I saw my first Knicks game (live) tonight. It was a lot of fun! I do love the bball. Of course they lost terribly (or, actually quite well), but it was a fun game. There are a couple of interesting players. The highlight, however, was watching Anthony Anderson bust into full-on splits during one of the breaks, dancing away. Sweet.

I'm in pain, which sucks a LOT. I pushed myself a little bit to see how much my hip would budge, but now I've been down 3 days because of it. Tomorrow (really, later today, I just haven't gone to bed yet) is a day to chill out, ice and put in some TLC. I may go do some mellow stuff, but very mellow.

The music world lost someone this past week-- Jersey Foreman. We used to sit in at the same club and he was a cool cat. I liked his drums quite a bit. He was young, too- only 58. We didn't hang out outside of the music scene, but he's a part of that family, as are many others. I was sad reading his obituary.

So, some good and not-so-good stuff happening at the moment. The good outweighs, but I do get a little worn down sometimes when I stop to think too much.

Turn On

2009-02-09T22:11:00.001-05:00

For the first time in a very long time, I feel optimistic watching the news. Politics could get interesting.

The year has taken off like a shot. I'm slowly catching up to myself. I never really understood the phrase "New York Minute" until I moved here. Regardless of whether you're ready or not, time passes like a flash, along with everything you do within. It's not a question of memory loss, it just isn't the kind of place to stop and wait for you to smell the roses. Sniff all you want, but be ready to hop back on the full-speed-ahead train when you decide to rejoin the ranks. The only down side is that when I do get a few moments, I withdraw completely. Time alone is very precious here, especially for one who's used to having her fill of "me" time. It's only when out in the world again that I remember the 90000 other things I wanted to do when I had a few spare moments (call my friends, do my taxes, burn that CD for a friend, watch the dvd that's been sitting on my coffee table for a month). The other stuff, luckily, I can usually do in my own little bubble on the subway (read, catch up on email, read the news, etc).

So, all else is good. Work is still happening, business as usual until told otherwise. There are some exciting concerts at Jazz at Lincoln Center this month (Diane Reeves, a tribute to Miles and Coltrane, to name a couple). Theatre is a bit slow with all the closures, but there's enough new stuff to keep it interesting. I did get to see William H. Macy in Speed the Plow, which was a hell of a highlight. I've been exploring new (to me) restaurants with friends while trying to keep the pounds in the "shedding" direction. It's slow going, but happening. My eating patterns needed a LOT of adjustment from the west coast. It's just a different style of eating here, even when it comes to schedules. Tomorrow is Indian night. A friend and I are trying to work our way down Indian row in the Village, every few weeks or so, one restaurant at a time. I'm hoping we don't arrive to a bunch of closures tomorrow. In the current climate, it's not exactly rare, sadly.

Weather-wise, we've been going from snow to 50-degree days (which feel almost tropical after single-digit temps), then back to snow again. We're currently in the upswing of the temparatures, but it's supposed to be snowing again next week, so it doesn't appear winter is at its end. Honestly, if this is a "bad" winter so far, I can handle it. It's not the best, but perfectly tolerable, especially with the subway so close to where I live. It seems a lot easier to deal than 100-degree, humid days. I have no issue putting on extra layers, though at times it does feel like my eyes may freeze if I don't blink often enough.

Auld Lang Syne

2009-01-02T10:25:00.007-05:00

2008, in a nutshell:

- I went to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (and learned I likely never need to do that again, even living a block from the route, although we had fun).

- I went to the New Orleans Jazz Fest.

- I bought a piece of real art that truly moved me.

- I settled into my new home even more, finding new friends and chosen family.

- I had a milestone birthday (we don't need details there, right?).

- I saw 56 shows and 77 movies in the theater. (thank goodness for comp and super-cheap tickets)

- I went to Niagara Falls for the first time. And won 10,000 pennies-- the most impressive $100 win ever (long story). AND got stopped in the casino and carded. The legal age is 19 there!! Not bad.

- We launched about 100 new sites at work (which was a LOT of work, and very rewarding to have finished).

- I saw one of my oldest and dearest friends finally get to marry his long-time partner, just before voting day in CA where prop 8 sadly passed.

- I met my dearest sisterchick's new son.

- I reconnected with several old friends, some of whom I'd really missed terribly.

- After a few months of scary tests and multiple biopsies, I was once-again cleared as still cancer free.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T09:55:00.002-05:00

My December holidays weren't the greatest. I didn't get out cards or anything. A little less than a week before Christmas, I got a really unpleasant virus and was sick as a dog. I was popping anti-nauseants just to keep down water! You'd think I'd lose a few pounds in the process of not being able to eat for about 10 days? No. So, not even the silver lining to the being sick part. This had been building from Thanksgiving or so, so overall, not the best of holiday seasons.

The good news is that by this past Monday I was feeling a bit more human and by Wednesday I was pretty much back to normal, so I could celebrate the new year.

Bravely, I stayed in town for new year's eve. A friend threw a party and I knew I could arrive insanely early and wait out the crowds at his place.

The party was fun and the food was amazing. About a week prior, we were all asked by the host what our 2 most significant events were in 2008. We didn't know why. As it turns out, he used that as a theme for dinner! So, each of our events was represented by food: African lentils for the two in our crowd who (seperately) had been to different parts of Africa, fruits and veggies from A-Z for the friend who'd edited a medical dictionary, the list goes on, and the food the best feast to reintroduce good food to my body (I'd been slowly building up to real food for a couple days). I think I ate enough for a small country (especially the baked mac & cheese that was like kissing God).

So, I'm back. I'm enjoying a few more days until I'm back at work. I'm seeing Speed the Plow this afternoon. I saw Jeremy Piven in it, whom I haaaaaaaaaated, but loved Raul Esparza (Indifferent to the woman -- she's tough to judge because I really didn't care for her character, but I think that's just the character). Jeremy "got sick" and abruptly left the cast without notice (perhaps because he's a total tool with no theatrical talent -- apparently the cast hated him too), so they replaced him with Norbert Leo Butz, whom I adore. So, as much as I didn't really feel the need to see the show itself again, I do want to see his performance and get the Piven taste out of my mouth. Plus, I could get cheap tickets. Of course, after buying these, I discovered that William H. Macy is doing the last two weeks. I may have to see it yet a third time, just to see him. Since he's a really big Mamet actor (Mamet wrote the play), it's almost a crime NOT to see him. It also seems a shame to not see William H. Macy in anything when he's merely 2 blocks away. We'll see, though. I can only see a play so many times.

Life

2008-12-07T16:18:00.004-05:00

Movies I've seen this week:

Milk
Slumdog Millionaire
Cadillac Records
Black Balloon
Soul Men
Nobel Son

Somewhat amusingly, I think I even left one out, but can't remember what it is (must not have been memorable).

I liked them all, loved most. The biggest surprise was Soul Men. It's not a great movie, but it is a good one. The music is nostalgic and soul-injected. Bernie Mac and Samuel L. Jackson even did their own singing (which does somewhat explain why their characters' careers didn't sustain through the years, but they're not terrible by a long shot). And I knew about Bernie Mac, of course, but how the heck did I miss that Isaac Hayes died??

Anyway, the rest on the list were really, really good. See them. They're a bit like apples and oranges, so can't even really say I liked any over the others. Milk may be a contender come Oscar time, but we'll see. Despite the fact he finally took one home, I know Penn isn't exactly the friend of the Academy Awards (one of the many reasons I usually think the Oscars are lame).

Oh, yeah, and in all of that, I saw a show this week, as well-- Rock of Ages. The show itself is incredibly cheesy, but the cast and music are fun. Basically, it's a bunch of 80s-era hair band songs loosely threaded through a forced plot (and with the female lead "Sherry", who doesn't see the obvious song coming from 100 miles). The audience was obnoxious, deciding they could sing along in some parts. I'm thinking people didn't pay $70 for a ticket to hear you sing! What we could hear was good, especially from Will Swenson (Berger in Hair last summer at Shakespeare in the Park and soon to reprise the roll as the cast heads to Broadway next year). Constantine Maroulis was good, too. His acting is a little so-so at times, but he's vocally pretty solid, which is more than I can say for some of the American Idol-ites to hit the NY boards.

Life is good. We got a few flurries of snow today, but the big storm pretty much bypassed us, unlike what was predicted. It was kind of nice-- a lot of people stayed home today, so the streets were a little clearer. It was cold as hell, though. I was very happy to have my winter coat and boots on, that's for sure!

Autumn Leaves

2008-11-17T17:58:00.002-05:00

We're gearing up in the city for the first snow, which is anticipated for tomorrow. It's certainly cold enough! The cold is fine, really, but it was really windy earlier. Still, there's a nice chill in the air, holiday lights are going up and it's just a little over a week away from the Macy's parade (and, with it, Thanksgiving, of course).

I had a wonderfully amazing day yesterday (especially considering I was up much of the night before extremely sick to my stomach, but thankfully it passed by evening).

I woke up late for me (around 10), mostly because I'd been up from about 1-6am. I ran a few errands to pick up my friend's (whom I was seeing tonight) birthday present, etc. I'd already ordered it, so just had to pick up the main part and a few accessories.

After I was done with the necessities, I met up with with my friend J for the afternoon. We had so much fun!! We walked through the park, watched the skaters a bit, grabbed coffee to keep us warm along the walk, did some window shopping and just had fun, fun, fun. After wandering around half-heartedly looking for food, we ended up going to the pub across from my apartment. Afterward, we came up for a good round of Guitar Hero. Such a pleasant afternoon. Since he lives in a different borough and we no longer see each other on a daily basis, it's easy to miss each other. I forgot just how awesome it is to hang out with him. I'm completely myself, as is he.

Afterward, a half dozen of friends went to dinner to celebrate a friend's birthday. I had one of the better meals of my life. It was a true gastronomic delight. It was a small fortune and worth every cent. It was at the seasonal restaurant on Park Ave. I'm tempted to go every season now. It was the perfect number of people, though. This way we all got a great taste of the overall menu as we'd ordered a good variety. I had an extremely pleasant experience with every single bite that went into my mouth, from the sweet onion rolls to the fig carpacchio through my last bite of apple cider sorbet.

I went to sleep an extremely content and very loved girl.

Tonight I'm headed to "Broadway Unplugged". I've never been. It sounds like it should be fun.

Lazin' on a Sunday Afternoon

2008-11-09T19:57:00.003-05:00

It's been a mellow weekend, for a change. Very cool. Yesterday was rainy and made for a cozy day in, watching old episodes of Daria, reading and doing a bit of music stuff. It's been a while since I've gone into a weekend where I could just hang in. I went out Friday night (which was awesome-- saw the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra!!), but didn't do much else out, other than some nice walks.

My favorite Cha sent me some cookies from the west coast (Mother's Animal Parade, the company has recently gone out of business). Between those and the tea my wonderful twin sent, I'm set for treats for a while! (I'm trying very hard to ration the cookies, but it's not going very well).

I was half thinking of making soup tonight, but the store across the street that usually has vegetables only has fruit today. I went to the east side today and didn't pass any grocery stores then was too lazy to go west again. I have everything except carrots and celery for the miripoix, so it didn't seem worth going all the way for that, when it comes to extra cross-town blocks. It's not like I can't do it tomorrow. I'm planning on staying in and being productive.

I did get to the bookstore today to pick up the newest Hornby. I've been juggling a few books I just haven't been able to get into, so I feel like it came on the scene at the perfect time! Sure, I have others in the to-be-read pile (a nice score from Paperback Swap), but Hornby typically rises to the top of the pile. I'm trying really hard not to buy the new Klosterman (did I write about seeing him a couple weeks ago? He's as awesome as I'd hoped!), but really would rather wait until it's in paperback. I think the books I have should make for a decent distraction.

Alright, time to get back to my very important Law and Order marathon ;) Oh, and I finally opened Guitar Hero World Tour today. It's sweeeeet. Much better than GH III. Thankfully, I don't ever really get sucked in for more than an hour-- usually more like half an hour. At this point, I'm just going through and unlocking the songs so I can play them in whatever mode I'd like. I'm decent enough that it's pretty easy to do.

Movin' on Up

2008-11-04T23:11:00.003-05:00

I've never been so moved after an election as I am feeling right now. I didn't think it was possible. It's like New Year's Eve outside my apartment and I'm elated to hear it.

Thank god.

Mr. Bush, you've been fired. You may leave now.

I'm Flying

2008-10-09T19:27:00.003-04:00

No more word on my friend. I've tried to put it out of my mind for the time being. It doesn't do any good to worry. I've been putting out a lot of good thoughts. I even went to church on his birthday. I figure it wouldn't hurt.

Work has been getting back to normal. I'm actually fairly busy, which in that climate is a good thing. You never know. I'm not counting my chickens, but I'm not freaked out, either. It's not exactly the time to be looking for a job. Besides, I really like the people I work with, so why would I want to change that?

I'm headed to the theatre tonight. Big surprise, I know. I've been seeing a surprising number of plays lately vs. musicals. The comps are more abundant. Plus, not a whole lot of musicals open yet this season. I see Billy Elliot in a couple weeks, but that's about all I have planned at this point. I'm doubtful, unless a ticket flies into my hands as I walk by the theatre with absolutely nothing to do, that I'll see A Tale of Two Cities. The book, to me, was the worst of times and the worst of times. Ugh. The only person I know who's seen it hated it, so didn't help its case with me.

Okay, better run to meet my friend M before the show!

I promise a more thorough update soon. It was hairy there for a couple of weeks, but there's some catching up to do!

Que Sera Sera

2008-09-26T20:14:00.003-04:00

I know it's meant to be comforting, but somehow the "it's his/her loss" thing never really meets its intended goal, whether about a gig, a guy, or any other applicable situation. There is a shiny silver lining in this one and I actually even see it, but it will take a little bit to fully sink in. Meh. Color me disappointed for the short term, but in the long run, I'm guessing hardly more than a blip.

It's been one hell of a week, though, so there's actually a lot of recovery to be done on many levels. Oddly, the thing I thought would hit hardest has been the easiest with which to cope.

I'm happily getting a chill night in. I've been out a lot lately and I've missed some good, quality "me" time. Even after my injections yesterday (and without a nap, I might add), I had dinner with a friend last night.

I went to see the Birdland Big Band earlier tonight. Always good to end the week with some mad crazy tunes and cool people. It set the stage perfectly for a rainy night in. The guy who invited me is my neighbor. Another of my neighbors was there as well with her son. I'm told I'm not normal for even knowing my neighbors, but I'm glad I do. I knew fewer when I lived in the 'burbs! Somehow in city living I've always managed to know at least one or two around me. Then again, San Francisco isn't quite fair since one of my closest friends lead us to the flat to begin with. Even in Chicago I buddied up with a guy from across my back door. I was hardly there long enough to blink.

State of the Union

2008-09-26T00:25:00.006-04:00

I've been really quiet here lately. I know.

First off, for those who know where I work, I'm still employed. I don't feel any need to freak out or run.

As to the friend about whom I recently wrote, there's been no additional news my way. I'm still hopeful he'll be okay, but his condition is uncertain at this point.

I had another round of injections this afternoon. I decided to do a big deep clean last weekend and got about a steam cleaned kitchen floor into it when my back decided it didn't want to participate. Hopefully, in a couple of days I'll be as good as new. And I can then move enough stuff around that I can actually put the vacuum and the steam cleaner away :)

It's definitely far from gloom and doom here, as much as it may seem. There's lots of good stuff going on, as well. I've been diving into music a bit more, I've been meeting some cool new people and reconnecting with a few old peeps. The folks off for summer stock and the like are beginning to return to the city, too. I'm really enjoying the city's journey toward autumn. Today was the first time this season I've truly felt like I needed a jacket. A light one, but a jacket nonetheless.

Old Friend

2008-09-19T20:47:00.003-04:00

I got some bad news this evening about one of my oldest and dearest friends. I can say I loved him very much. I still do, although differently than in the past. He was an old flame, but we closed that chapter very neatly a few years ago and did the near impossible-- truly became friends.

He's battled some demons in his life and, sadly, it seems they've really caught up with him. He and his family are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Grind

2008-09-14T00:28:00.000-04:00

It's been an interesting few weeks. A decent mix of good and bad, not much left to complain about in the end, but a rough patch.

I've seen a *ton* of theatre to offset the personal dips--

- Spring Awakening - Broadway (with friends who hadn't yet seen it): with a complete replacement cast from the original (which I saw more than once). I was impressed with Hunter Parrish as Melchior, whom you may know as the teenage son in the series Weeds.

- Spitfire Grill - Off-Broadway: Cute show. All but one performance was pretty spot on.

- Lillias White (singing -- mixed genres, all amazingly wonderful): if you've heard the revival cast of How to Succeed, she's the fierce Miss Jones. She's a hell of a singer.

- In the Heights - Broadway, original cast: I really enjoyed it. Having seen all the shows nominated for the Best Musical Tony now, I completely agree this was the winner

- [Title of Show] - Broadway, original cast: Yes, for the second time. I was comped, how could I say "no" to that? Even more funny the second time, catching more and seeing them from the orchestra vs. the nosebleeds.

- Legally Blonde - Broadway: Yes, it did get a little chilly as hell froze over. I was never against the show itself, I just get annoyed at the massive fangirl crowds coming home at night when I forget to cross the street before passing the theater. Again, comped, so no complaint ;) It was a lot of fun. Overall, a very cute show. I need to see Orfeh in more stuff down the line. She was hilarious.

- Fifty Words - Off-Broadway: I'll pretty much see anything with Norbert Leo Butz. His performance in "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" won me over. The play itself had its strengths and weaknesses, but the performances were enjoyable. His costar was Elizabeth Marvel whom I saw immediately afterward in the new Coen Brothers movie, "Burn After Reading".

I think there's actually been more, but those are the ones off the top of my head.

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

I've seen a lot of movies, too. No need to list, really, as you can just check the listings and assume I've seen just about everything remotely interesting (indie and Hollywood), and some not-so-interesting, just funny. Highlights include Vicky Christina Barcelona (Woody Allen), Tropic Thunder, Elegy, and Dark Knight (in IMAX-- very much worth it). I haven't seen the Anita O'Day documentary, but it's next on the list.

I also got a haircut by my most favorite French stylist in town. The pampering alone is worth every cent.

That's about it. Work is, well, work. Our latest launch got delayed, but it's going fine. The delay had nothing to do with our group. Not really a big deal, although it was a bit anticlimactic.

The tourists are gone (as much as that happens) until the holidays and it's slowly turning to autumn here. I know I've adapted when I declare 70 degree temps to be non-summer. Even so, I saw a few trees in my travels today already starting to turn. I'm liking the cooler weather. I'd be happy if it stayed in the 70s for a while before dropping into the 40s and below.

Stormy Weather

2008-09-06T19:32:00.001-04:00

So this is what a tropical storm is like. I was out early this afternoon, just before the rain hit. It felt almost like you could swim through the air. I've been watching television for a bit and I keep seeing storm warnings on scrolling alert every so often.

It's been an interesting week. I haven't been sleeping, been a little stressed out by a few different sources, and I've been busy as hell. I've been out nearly every night this week. It's not as bad as that all probably sounds. I've weathered far worse.

On the positive side, I've also stumbled on a wealth of musical inspiration. Some cool musical scores have come into my possession. I'm looking forward to sitting at my piano for a bit when I get home tonight.

I'm seeing "In the Heights" tonight. Despite it having won the Tony for best musical last year, I still haven't seen it. I figured it was time. Thankfully, I have a new rain jacket ;)

The Music in My Mind

2008-08-21T23:07:00.003-04:00

I'm going to get a little personal on here, which I generally try to keep to a minimum. This, however, is very much related and tied into my New York experience.

To say my mother and I had a strained relationship is a bit of an understatement. It's also not really very much of a secret. There are moments, however, especially since I've been in NY, I want to immediately call her and share an experience.

One of the last times I spoke to her, I was newly moved into my apartment. I remember having to cut the conversation because I was heading down into the subway. It felt oddly native and seemed to tickle her. When I called back the next day or so, she seemed genuinely interested in some of the things I'd been doing here-- going to Broadway shows on a whim, passing by landmarks I've seen a hundred times, but now as a close neighbor, etc. It was the most we'd had to talk about in years.

A few times since I've been here, there are times I really wished I could pick up the phone and share-- my first show at Lincoln Center, along with a handful of other "firsts" that either reminded me of her or just knew she'd have loved hearing. Hey, finally stuff to talk about that might interest both of us.

Tonight, a friend had last-minute comps available to see Brian Stokes Mitchell at Radio City Music Hall. I'd never been there (yes, another "first"). It's huge, historic, and kept very period (although after its most recent renovation, the stands formerly under the seats meant for storing one's top hat were removed to give way to leg room-- I'm all for it). Even the ladies lounge (three large rooms, only one containing stalls) was as impressive as it was massive. I don't recall ever seeing a theater that overwhelming even from the orchestra section. And, as you imagine, I've been in a fair number of theaters.

What I hadn't given much thought, although I knew it in the depths of my memory, was that Mr. Mitchell was there as a guest performer with the Boston Pops. Growing up, I saw every possible showing of the Pops concerts on PBS. From Arthur Fiedler through much of John Williams, I heard at least portions blaring from the only television in a very small house. To say she was a fan is putting it very lightly.

As the concert began, I was brought back to some childhood moments, sitting on the living room rug, I'm sure stacking Lincoln Logs or immersed in a book, with the background of strings and wind instruments, occasionally punctuated by timpani. After some nice Bernstein compositions, Brian Stokes Mitchell was introduced. He did a tune or two before hitting the heavy stuff. First, the song that initially shot him to theatrical fame as Coalhouse in Ragtime ("Wheels of a Dream"), in a rich, baritone voice I could practically hear my mother describing as "Wuuunnnderful" (and it is). Following, for a bit of contrast, he did Billy's soliloquy from Carousel, a tune after which my mother would sigh with dark delight every time the movie was on television (and, I'd imagine, when seeing the show, but I was a kid and in the cast the only time I was around for her seeing it on stage). We very rarely agreed on music, as can be natural when a couple of generations apart in age. This, however, I'd have wanted to share with her. I know she'd have been glowing even hearing about it in a recap.

This week marks a few anniversaries--- the day I started working here, closing the circle on being officially settled; also the birth of my best friend's son.

Sadly, though, also from last year, it will now always be the week my mother died.

Over My Head

2008-08-21T18:08:00.003-04:00

I've been really quiet on here lately. I haven't forgotten the blog. It's more finding both the time and words for an update.

Work is a bit hectic. There are a lot of irons in the fire and we're busy. Most of it's not bad, but some of it could be better.

Life outside of work is a bit stressful, as well. I have a lot seems to be hitting at the same time, so am having a tough time just keeping my head above water, much less ahead of the game. The details are boring, for the most part, so won't bore anyone reading this with the nitty gritty, let's just leave it at "swamped".

This will change soon. I'll have everything under control, stress will be lessened, I'll stop drinking "decaf" coffee I didn't prepare ;) (total switcharoo on my iced coffee this afternoon-- not helping).

I'll post a proper entry. Of course, the time I took to type this just made me late to meet a friend, but it's close by. I'm on Irish/Jamaican time today ;)

Twistin' the Night Away

2008-08-15T17:50:00.001-04:00

Well, I'm home from Canada, and not a minute too soon, it appears. There's currently a tornado warning for NYC county (Manhattan, Bronx). Wow. I don't think I've seen one of these for an area I've lived in since Chicago. I do remember almost exactly a year ago, though, a tornado ripping through Brooklyn. Close to home and weird.

From the Weather Channel website:

Severe Tornado Warning
Large hail, damaging wind, and/or frequent lightning are possible with this storm.

I'm supposed to go to a party tonight, but I'm starting to waffle. I'm sure I'll go, but it's gonna' be stormy as hell.

More about the actual trip later.

R O C K in the U S A

2008-08-13T12:37:00.002-04:00

Greeting from the border. We've been here for what feels like forever (more like 2 hours). I don't feel quite ready to go home yet, but I am ready to catch up on sleep.

I got lucky on the weather front. It was supposed to storm 3 of the 4 days of this trip, but only rained a bit on the way up and a bit Monday evening when I'd already planned to be indoors. Other than that, it was sunny and beautiful. I even, despite my care to use sunblock, got a bit of color. Of course, it's already begun to fade, but that's fine by me.

Yesterday I got a little more sightseeing, but nothing too noteworthy. I also gambled a bit. By the morning I was already up $55. Last night, however, I won another $100+, which doesn't seem all to impressive until you consider that last bit was on a slot machine-- and with pennies!!! Some friends came down from Toronto and weren't too into the tables, so I hopped on a machine to keep me busy. It was hot as coals. Sweet!

Well, looks like the train is finally about to start moving again. Finally an opportunity for shuteye-- that is, if the terrible-two kid in the seat ahead of me can keep down the squeals.

Oh Canada

2008-08-11T23:04:00.001-04:00

What a difference a border makes.

I was reminded today of something for which I'd gained an affinity while in the UK-- baked beans for breakfast. Not a terrible way to start the day. And I know it was probably gauche of me to ask for jam when I'd ordered what my wonderful friend refers to as "dippy" eggs, but fresh, thick challah toast deserves jam (as do I). The beans and eggs can stand alone.

That, on top of a solid night's sleep, made me ready for a full day of fun.
The Heinz ketchup is different here (we're onto lunch here). It's a bit too sweet for me and kinda gross. While they've omitted the HFCS, they've replaced it with "sugar water". It seems to me they also might use less vinegar.

I did the falls sightseeing this morning. The Maid of the Mist tour was wonderful. The falls themselves are beautiful. I took lots of photos, but I'll have to upload them later (likely when I'm back). I brought my laptop, but can't get a wireless signal :( The hotel supposedly has wireless, but it's not working.

I'm up all of $10 on the gambling front thus far. Ooh, la la. I'm done gambling for the evening. I'm more into chill time tonight, taking full advantage of the jacuzzi and the pile of books I brought. I haven't kicked this flu thing entirely, so after being on the go for about 13 hours, I was ready to slow down.

Tomorrow is supposed to be stormy. The weather is likely going to determine daytime activities. Also, a buddy of mine may come down from Toronto, so that's also a factor. I've crossed off the required activities (and even got in a work out), so tomorrow is completely free to whim. If its not too rainy I'll probably do some more exploring.

Long Journey

2008-08-10T19:59:00.000-04:00

Welcome from Canada. I'm on a mission in search of chill time (okay, including some gambling).

I took the train, which was beautiful. What wasn't so beautiful was that the trip was about 3 hours longer than estimated by Amtrak. And, after already passing border control, we still had to wait until everyone had cleared before we could get off the train.

That, however, is my only complaint at the moment (oh, add to that my hotel doesn't have wireless, but I'll get a data cable- no biggie).

I'm not sure what it is about my face that says, "upgrade me, free of charge", but I hope it never goes away.- love when this happens!

I'm sitting here looking at a massive jaccuzzi tub that's calling my name. Instead of the usual straight chair, there's a comfy sofa.

Alrighty... I had to get those few updates, now I'm off for a long bubbly soak followed by room service and perhaps some free money at the casino.

Side note: my cab driver was really cool. He lived in San Francisco for many years when the Haight was at its peak. He gave me some cool tips on where to go, what to see, etc. I love a good cabbie.

--Posted courtesy of the crackberry.

Sick as a Brick

2008-08-06T22:22:00.004-04:00

Sorry for the lack of posting lately. It's not been a pleasant week here in the big apple for yours truly. While there's been some good stuff happening, I haven't really been able to focus outside of the not-so-good...

I'm sick as a dog. SICK sick. Like, this-was-a-bad-year-to-not-have-gotten-a-flu-shot sick. When I finally got to the doctor on Monday afternoon after having dismissed my previous week as just a "very bad cold", I had the death rattle cough going on. The cough is still there, but at least I can swallow without my ears and throat feel like they're burning through my skin.

There's other stuff, too, that's made it very unpleasant a week to be me, but that's as far as I really need to go in a public forum.

I tried really hard to go out and have "just one drink" (I know better) after work today. Of course, for me, this consisted of lots of hot tea and water and less than half of the worst Irish coffee I've ever tasted (seriously, it looked like a milkshake when it arrived, whipped cream, cherry!! and all... oh, but unsweetened... and... gross). Fortunately, since I'd ordered it twice (without it managing to end up at our table) and it arrived at least a half order after I'd ordered it, they at least didn't charge for the nasty thing.

Anyway, I just got home when I should have just come home straight from work, drugged up, and hid under the covers.

So, yeah, proof I'm not always Miss Sunshine. Bah humbug and all that mess. Even my optimism has its limits.

I really shouldn't complain. I have so much for which I'm grateful and a lot of good things in my life. Comparatively, it's just a few annoyances. Sometimes, though, they just get a little tough to ignore.

I'm taking some codeine cough syrup (with an antinauseant chaser, of course) and heading off to bed. I haven't really eaten outside of a hot wing and a few rings of calamari, but I can't deal with food at the moment. I'm ready to tune the world out again for a while. Hopefully, I'll wake up healthier and with a much better disposition. Frankly, right now, I just feel like a giant, sick bitch on wheels. Except without the wheels.

Welcome to the Jungle

2008-07-29T18:09:00.001-04:00

I really wonder sometimes why people dance around before just saying or doing what they were going to do all along. It only leads to frustration and/or disappointment on the part of the recipient that would have been a much smaller blow (or, in many cases, nonexistent) in the end. The more I think I understand people in general, the less I seem to actually do so.

M landed tickets to Shakespeare in the Park tonight. I'm very excited-- its the 40th anniversary production of Hair. So, despite fighting a bit of a cold, I'm happy to sacrifice a night of rest. The production is supposed to be brilliant. I understand they're talking of potentially touring, so perhaps those outside of NYC will have a chance of seeing it (even if not for free).

I'm sure I'll have far more to write about after the show!

Vacation, Have to Get Away

2008-07-28T21:26:00.001-04:00

So, it's all set... I'm headed to Niagara Falls (the Canadian side) for my vacation in a couple of weeks. I'm taking just a few days of chill time to myself. Hooray! I'm taking the train there and back, which is supposed to be nice. I've never been to Canadia (intentional misspelling).

While I was booking my hotel (since I get miles for it), I also noticed my miles for New Orleans were credited and I have enough miles for a European trip at some point. Sweet!!

For some reason, I'm unbelievably exhausted. After a week of insomnia issues, I slept until 4pm yesterday and was back asleep by 11pm or so, shortly after I got home. I'm already thinking of bed again.

My Body is Walking in Space

2008-07-26T23:03:00.001-04:00

Man, this was one heck of a long week!! Add to that some insomnia and it made for an even more tiresome one. I've been on the go all day, just got in.

Highlights:

- George Michael at Madison Sq. Garden. He was awesome. In addition to enjoying the music, it was a pretty visually stunning show. (see below)

- Connecting with friends I haven't talked to in aaaaages

- A fun night of dinner and theatre with friends (tonight)

Lowlights:

- Horrible lack of sleep

- Other stuff

I promise a real update soon. In the meantime, here's a clip someone filmed the same night I was at the Garden. You'll notice the stage is also a video screen-- very cool:

Get Gone

2008-07-18T23:48:00.002-04:00

I saw "Some Americans Abroad" tonight. Well... part of it.

I love Tom Cavanaugh and have enjoyed the few Anthony Rapp performances I've seen to date (most known as the original Mark in "Rent"). The love pretty much ends there.

It would be interesting to see some of the same actors in something else, but they really just don't have a chance here. The play itself is one of the most boring things I've witnessed. Had I been sitting A) next to my friends and B) on the aisle, I don't think we'd have made it to the third scene. I've never, ever wanted to leave something within the first few minutes. My gut instinct held.

The few times I have walked out on shows, it's generally just a small trickle of the audience that sneaks out. This was like a door-busting mass exodus. Those around me (having the benefit of being on the aisle) were out the back door before the lights came up. Yes, it truly was that horrible an experience.

You know it's bad when the first blackout is accompanied by a modicum of (polite) applause. The second with about half that. The third, no exaggeration, one person clapping twice and stopping, realizing everyone else has given up.

I can't even say I hated the play. That would require a feeling far more than pure boredom. Good idea on the cast-- bad idea on the material choice. AND, it was a revival!! Audiences have sat through this thing at some point and *liked* it enough to want to see its return. Really?! I honestly don't get it. I think I'd rather those people just stay abroad, never crossing my path.

Well, if nothing else, it got us a great table at one of our favorite eateries before the post-theatre crowd rushed in. And I was dining with actual interesting human beings (also known as my friends).

--------

As a total side note, as we were walking back from dinner, we passed an actor I've always found incredibly charming and attractive both on stage and film (not in any way involved in the performance I witnessed this evening). Wow, what makeup and lights can do for a guy. On the close-up and nothing to help nature along (even his voice would have helped the moment)... not so pretty. It's so disappointing to get that close to some and see what's really behind the curtain. I'm not saying I'm any better, by any means, but some things really work better with a suspension of disbelief.

A Few of My Favorite Things

2008-07-18T11:01:00.000-04:00

There are two companies in which I should own stock: The makers of "Tide 2 Go" and "Frederick Fekkai" hair products.

I'm not receiving any endorsement dollars, although I'd happily accept them ;)

Tide 2 Go:
This stuff is absolutely one of the best new products out there. Those with whom I've dined more than once know a meal is not complete unless my shirt has enjoyed some of the food as well. I cannot count the number of days I've worn a spot on my shirt (and trousers... and quite
possibly shoes) until I was able to change. Since discovering this little magical pen, I often appear unmarked once I've gotten near enough to my bag. I tried the Shout wipes; don't waste your time.

Yesterday, in a brave move of defiance to the stain gods, I wore a white shirt. After my lunchtime salad, I'm pleased to report it got out all 3 balsamic vinegar spots immediately and without any real effort. I think "chemical magic in a tube" is a more appropriate name
for the stuff.

Frederick Fekkai More
Since I have a history of extremely healthy hair, I can typically find good styling product without breaking the bank. As often as I talk myself into cheaper shampoos and conditioners, however, I shouldn't be surprised that good quality-- and coming with a somewhat hefty pricetag-- is well worth it.

When I switched to Loreal Kerastase a few years ago, I felt a difference quickly. When my status was headed toward unemployment, however, I settled on less expensive, drugstore Loreal offerings.

A month or so ago, I began losing more hair than is normal for me. Having had long hair for much of my life, I am familiar with the typical shedding, but I was seeing far more than usual just running fingers through my hair (which I'll admit I do somewhat compulsively). When it lasted more than a few weeks, I grew concerned, but with as many "ologists" as I employ, I really didn't want to add anything to the medical list. A little denial goes a long way, but it was to the point I could no longer completely ignore the issue.

I, being a solid researcher, did my homework. I researched possible causes and, really, decided to fight the symptom while figuring out the cause.

Knowing a good friend is a fan of his other products, I was lead to Frederick Fekkai's "More" line; not for male pattern baldness and the like, but reportedly good for some low-level thinning. Upon this discovery, I ran, not walked, to my nearest Sephora and picked up the starter pack and was armed for my next shower. Yes, the prices are a bit steep, but not really more than I'd spend on other things.

The following morning, my hair was the same-- pulling yet another pile with the hairbrush. During the day, however, I got 2 different compliments on my hair, asking if I'd A) freshly colored it? (no, not since May) and B) had a new cut? (also not since May). By that afternoon, my fingers, again through my tresses, came back empty!!

I'm not really a believer in "overnight relief" or "magic pills", but something was definitely different. While I've now reached a bit of a happy medium on results, my hair does feel healthier and I've gotten at least 2 more compliments-- still uncut/colored since May (I only go
once every 3 months, on the advice of my stylist).

--courtesy of the crackberry-- yet another of my endorsements :)

Curtain Up

2008-07-08T22:43:00.002-04:00

RS and I saw [title of show] tonight. We both LOVED it!!! Honestly, I was surprised the (what at least looked to be sold out) audience was, by in large, loud and extremely receptive. Some of the material is definitely catering to a small audience (of which I'm a member) of theatre folks. Many times, it really did feel like they were writing a scene that could have been me and any number of my friends. I really can't rave enough about it. I think it's probably the funniest new piece I've seen since Avenue Q. My sides and face ache from laughing. If you're going to find large audiences who get the theatre thing, you'll find them here.

There was only one reeeeeally annoying thing about the whole experience and that was the old fart sitting next to me. He was bitching throughout the entire show (and not silently) because he didn't get it. For about the first half hour, at least, every time we'd erupt in laughter (this includes just about everyone surrounding him except old fart's wife), he'd say, "These guys are plants, they must be plants! Why are they laughing?!". Okay, sir. I understand the show isn't to your liking. Kindly leave or shut the hell up!! If people laughing and applauding (eventually, he took to demonstratively covering his ears-- no joke-- every time we were clapping and laughing) bothers you, an evening at the theatre is probably not a good idea!! Grrrrr!! Fortunately, I was able to somewhat ignore him, but it was tough. He would literally stare down both the people behind him and me (and RS, but he didn't notice 'cause he was on the other side of me enjoying the show) when we'd clap and or laugh-- which, I might add, was a lot. At one point, thoroughly annoyed, I elbowed him as he turned around to stare at the appropriately-reactive audience members behind him, of course shoving his shoulder straight into me. I figured that deserved an unmovable elbow straight in his side. He at least stopped turning around at that point and just would stare me down. What an ass. /rant

So, anyway, had an awesome night. If you saw it Off Broadway and liked it, see it again. There's more :)

Not much else to report. Work is work, life is life, which is good.

Thanks for the Memories

2008-07-06T12:26:00.003-04:00

I hope everyone's having a good 4th weekend. I haven't been around much, but having fun. I'm half out the door again, but this will likely be a mellow day.

The other day, a friend and I somehow got on the subject of my HS marching band. We weren't your average play-for-football, rah-rah kinds of bands. We were the kind that traveled to bowl games and battled it out across the country in competition. We had fun, but worked our asses off. To this day, I can't smell a freshly-mowed, dewy lawn without thinking of those early morning rehearsals, often getting far too intimate with mud. And I can easily get sucked into Drum Corps competitions in TV while channel surfing (admittedly, they don't hold my attention for nearly as long these days).

So, on a lark, I did a quick search on Youtube, confident I'd yield nothing. To my great surprise, there we were!

If you're not really into the whole marching band thing (and, really, how many are?), skip to the middle (about 6 minutes in). Our concert piece was pretty cool (and if you know the name of it-- 3rd song in, I'm forever in your debt). http://youtube.com/watch?v=YjL0Y9sCwvc

Just as a side note, I'd reeeally love to see the year or 2 prior. I had an audio recording at one point, but I think that's long gone (and on tape, at that). That year, my first exposure to doing Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Chick Correa, etc. Yeah.

Roller Coaster of...

2008-07-03T18:55:00.005-04:00

Okay, not a huge amount of time to post, but here goes the Reader's Digest of it all.

- Monday: We hit the mark on a big deadline at work-- and without working through the weekend to do so! It felt good to get everything in. There's still a lot of work ahead, but for the moment, we exhale.

- Tuesday: Went in for more spinal injections. They're getting to be old hat, but not the worlds worst things (that I reserve for the RF procedures, which hurt like hell). I have the follow-up injections in 2 weeks. I would have been completely fine except that , since it did hurt, I popped a pain pill. Forgetting I also popped one last week for something else. Ooops. Too many too close together and I am sick as a dog. Live and learn. I spent yesterday in bed, but today I have color back in my face and was even eating Mexican food.

- Wednesday-- see above.

- Thursday, today.... Let's just say it was good news all around.

Alrighty, I'm headed out the door. Happy 4th, all!

A Trip to the Library

2008-06-30T20:06:00.004-04:00

Okay, this has been posted by several friends now and each time I swear I'll do it. Here I am like a good little lemming...

The Big Read thinks the average adult has only read 6 of the top 100 books they've printed below.

1) Look at the list and bold those you have read.
2) Italicize those you intend to read
3) Underline the books you LOVE.
4) Reprint this list so we can try and track down these people who've read 6 and force books upon them ;) (okay, not really--- I can see where this list wouldn't be for everyone)

1 Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen
2 The Lord of the Rings - JRR Tolkien
3 Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte
4 Harry Potter series - JK Rowling
5 To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee
6 The Bible [I've read chunks of it over the years, but definitely not the whole thing]
7 Wuthering Heights - Emily Bronte
8 Nineteen Eighty Four - George Orwell
9 His Dark Materials - Philip Pullman
10 Great Expectations - Charles Dickens
11 Little Women - Louisa M Alcott
12 Tess of the D'Urbervilles - Thomas Hardy
13 Catch 22 - Joseph Heller
14 Complete Works of Shakespeare (and I have no idea where my copy ended up... I guess it didn't survive the move)
15 Rebecca - Daphne Du Maurier
16 The Hobbit - JRR Tolkien
17 Birdsong - Sebastian Faulks
18 Catcher in the Rye - JD Salinger (I'm the only one I know who really didn't get it-- is it because I didn't read it until my 30s?)
19 The Time Traveller's Wife - Audrey Niffenegger
20 Middlemarch - George Eliot
21 Gone With The Wind - Margaret Mitchell
22 The Great Gatsby - F Scott Fitzgerald
23 Bleak House - Charles Dickens
24 War and Peace - Leo Tolstoy
25 The Hitch Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy - Douglas Adams
26 Brideshead Revisited - Evelyn Waugh
27 Crime and Punishment - Fyodor Dostoyevsky
28 Grapes of Wrath - John Steinbeck
29 Alice in Wonderland - Lewis Carroll
30 The Wind in the Willows - Kenneth Grahame
31 Anna Karenina - Leo Tolstoy
32 David Copperfield - Charles Dickens
33 Chronicles of Narnia - CS Lewis
34 Emma - Jane Austen
35 Persuasion - Jane Austen
36 The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - C.S. Lewis
37 The Kite Runner - Khaled Hosseini
38 Captain Corelli's Mandolin - Louis De Bernieres
39 Memoirs of a Geisha - Arthur Golden
40 Winnie the Pooh - AA Milne
41 Animal Farm - George Orwell
42 The Da Vinci Code - Dan Brown
43 One Hundred Years of Solitude - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
44 A Prayer for Owen Meaney - John Irving
45 The Woman in White - Wilkie Collins
46 Anne of Green Gables - LM Montgomery
47 Far From The Madding Crowd - Thomas Hardy
48 The Handmaid's Tale - Margaret Atwood
49 Lord of the Flies - William Golding
50 Atonement - Ian McEwan
51 Life of Pi - Yann Martel
52 Dune - Frank Herbert
53 Cold Comfort Farm - Stella Gibbons
54 Sense and Sensibility - Jane Austen
55 A Suitable Boy - Vikram Seth
56 The Shadow of the Wind - Carlos Ruiz Zafon
57 A Tale Of Two Cities - Charles Dickens (it was the worst of times, it was the worst of times.., ;) )
58 Brave New World - Aldous Huxley
59 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time - Mark Haddon
60 Love In The Time Of Cholera - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
61 Of Mice and Men - John Steinbeck
62 Lolita - Vladimir Nabokov
63 The Secret History - Donna Tartt
64 The Lovely Bones - Alice Sebold
65 Count of Monte Cristo - Alexandre Dumas
66 On The Road - Jack Kerouac
67 Jude the Obscure - Thomas Hardy
68 Bridget Jones' Diary - Helen Fielding
69 Midnight's Children - Salman Rushdie
70 Moby Dick - Herman Melville
71 Oliver Twist - Charles Dickens
72 Dracula - Bram Stoker
73 The Secret Garden - Frances Hodgson Burnett
74 Notes From A Small Island - Bill Bryson
75 Ulysses - James Joyce
76 The Bell Jar - Sylvia Plath
77 Swallows and Amazons - Arthur Ransome
78 Germinal - Emile Zola
79 Vanity Fair - William Makepeace Thackeray
80 Possession - AS Byatt
81 A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens
82 Cloud Atlas - David Mitchell
83 The Color Purple - Alice Walker
84 The Remains of the Day - Kazuo Ishiguro
85 Madame Bovary - Gustave Flaubert
86 A Fine Balance - Rohinton Mistry
87 Charlotte's Web - EB White
88 The Five People You Meet In Heaven - Mitch Albom
89 Adventures of Sherlock Holmes - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
90 The Faraway Tree Collection - Enid Blyton
91 Heart of Darkness - Joseph Conrad
92 The Little Prince - Antoine De Saint-Exupery
93 The Wasp Factory - Iain Banks
94 Watership Down - Richard Adams
95 A Confederacy of Dunces - John Kennedy Toole
96 A Town Like Alice - Nevil Shute
97 The Three Musketeers - Alexandre Dumas
98 Hamlet - William Shakespeare
99 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - Roald Dahl
100 Les Miserables - Victor Hugo

----------

Six? Really? I feel so under-read at below a third of the list, especially since I read several of them before I was 10.

By sheer coincidence 4 of those I've italicized are currently in my "to read" stack-- and they account for more than half the stack! I'm still trying to plow through my re-read of "Good in Bed" (perhaps the best in the "chick lit" genre) so that I can continue on to "Certain Girls".

Funny That Way

2008-06-28T01:06:00.002-04:00

Caught Kurt Elling at Birdland again tonight. I was in much better body and spirit, so we were happily able to stay for the second set. My friend J was with me and he enjoyed the hell out of it.

Kobie Watkins (on drums) was on fire, of course the rest right there with him (or he with them, however you want to view it). I was so happy to hear an unexpected, "The Masquerade is Over". I don't think he's recorded it, but I did hear him do it once before. I frequently forget just how much I love that tune and he just reinforced it x100. The chart frequently sits on my piano then gets put away before I do anything with it. I sense a reprise.

I need to go spend sometime inside myself. I'm so glad I'm in an apartment old enough, and with thick enough walls, that I can spend some time with music at pretty much any hour of the day or night and go undisturbed (and leave others in the same state).

I hope wherever you are, you're feeling even an ounce as high (naturally) as I feel. Good music just feeds my soul. I'm a glutton for it.

To think I would have been in California this week if it hadn't been for a few twists and turns in that plan. I love when things work out. I'm happy I'm home.

Take it to the Limit

2008-06-27T10:49:00.001-04:00

It's always good to hear these words from your boss, "Wow-- even when you're not 100%, you're 120%". Nice.

Down in Birdland

2008-06-26T22:42:00.003-04:00

I saw Kurt Elling at Birdland tonight. Regardless of a relatively minor, but uncomfortable and painful, medical procedure this afternoon, and against all better judgment, I saw Kurt Elling (granted, after about a 4 hour nap).

As usual, he rocked the place with his crazy solos (dude can scat) and beautiful tones. His trio was comprised of the usual suspects-- all great at what they do. Laurence Hobgood never disappoints. Sitting in on tenor sax was Joel Frahm. Man, that guy can really blow (in every bit a good way). I've heard him on recordings, but don't think I've ever seen him live. He's definitely on my radar now, especially since I think he's local.

They did "I Feel So Smoochie", one of my all time faves, among many other favorites. He also played a few new things, which I liked, too. Of course, I don't think I could imagine coming away from a show of his saying, "Well, that sure sucked". It's highly unlikely, even on a "bad" night.

I had the option of staying for the second set, but just couldn't. I didn't feel well and my body was speaking loudly, pleading its case. I'll be back tomorrow, though. And maybe Saturday for the late set. That's the beauty of living blocks away.

It's pretty crazy how little I've gone out to hear lately in the way of jazz, or any live music, for that matter. I live so close to so many really good clubs and have pretty convenient subway access to many, many more. Now that the June work deadline is over soon, I'll have a bit more energy to expend in that direction, but we all know if I made it a priority it would happen. Who knows, I may actually get my ass out there and start singing again on a regular basis. I miss it, but it's my own fault that I haven't been doing it (from here I can see my book sitting on my piano bench, mocking me and expressing its loneliness as of late). We'll see.

Knock on Wood

2008-06-25T15:11:00.000-04:00

Why is it that some of the best comps come in bunches when you've already planned (and have tickets for) something else? Or, you get an offer for something you've already purchased. Murphy's law hard at work.

Today's been a rough one. It's been one of those kick-in-the-gut kind of days. Here's hoping it only gets better from here.

(Posted via crackberry)

Looks Like We Made It

2008-06-21T10:36:00.008-04:00

My mother was many things-- a super duper cook was not one of them. There were, however, great exceptions to this rule. Her lasagna and spaghetti were things for which I made certain I wasn't late. This, especially with four large and hungry older brothers, would have resulted in perhaps a single noodle serving. Her post-Thanksgiving turkey soup was also award-worthy, as was her spit pea. Fortunately, with a bit of culinary expertise on my part and memory of watching/helping, I can easily replicate all of these with ease, customized and tweaked where inspired.

Then comes the baking. Food chemistry not being my strong suit, recipes for baked goods are required. I can tweak, but bottom up from scratch just isn't going to happen (and, yes, even after having worked at a bakery). There was one type of cake, for example, that without her recipes would require quite a bit of work. They're souffle-like, in nature, and particularly yummy. There were 3 flavors in our household-- lemon (with 7 lemon trees on-hand, it was the most often created), cherry (served once a year on Washington's birthday) and chocolate (served all of once, as my mother found it far too rich and, likely, too expensive, especially for a family of 9).

There were also the "hockey pucks" (for which I don't have the original recipe, but thankfully was able to recreate for a friend's birthday recently with a combo of "Google fu" and picture-perfect childhood memory), chocolate chip cake (which, in truth, is likely somewhat terrible in the eyes of a pastry chef in its density, but I still loved it), and "stained page brownies" (thus aptly named for the page in the eventually-destroyed cookbook).

In planning for a summer-themed pot luck, the lemon cake came to mind. In that same moment, I realized I didn't remember having seen my recipe box since I'd moved. While I can remember detailed, yet completely inane, conversations from a decade ago, remembering a day or two ago can present a bit of a challenge at times. This stirred up a bit of a panic at the thought of losing those few precious recipes. I haven't even used any of them in recent years, but it's always a comfort to know they're there (and I really do want the lemon cake).

The logical place for them, in my head, is on my kitchen window sill. It's not there.

As I googled in sadness, finding similar recipes but being unsure which was closest to my mothers, I tried to tap my brain for further information. I then decided that, as it was easy to forget my hard-to-pack my x-rays and MRI films, there's no way I wouldn't have packed one of my most precious kitchen items.

Prompting a trip to the kitchen, I looked atop my fridge. There, behind the cereal container, I spotted the telltale flash of blue, my recipe box. Of COURSE I'd have moved them from the window last summer-- it's a metal box! My kitchen, again, feels like home. Of course, her secret to doubling (and I'm thinking quadrupling) the delicate recipe wasn't there, but I think I can probably handle that part.

As a complete side note, as I was typing this and beating myself up (again) for having lost my films (xrays, etc) in the move, it occurred to me the "safest" (and only, really) place for me to have packed them. Sure enough, I went straight to the unopened box containing some old art work and such... yep. I really was that smart. I now have all of my brain scans (the irony is not lost), back films, etc.

A high IQ is really nothing without a good sense of recall ;)

She's Come Undone

2008-06-20T18:10:00.001-04:00

TGIF

Waiting to Exhale

2008-06-19T08:44:00.000-04:00

I wonder if I'd get any blogging done these days if it wasn't for the fact that I can do this on the subway. The same goes with email correspondence. I've become frighteningly dependent on the crackberry. Quick, too! If my thumbs ever give out, I'm kinda' screwed.

I've been running around like a crazy person. Last night was my second (third?) show of the week and there are more to come.

Last night was the Off-Broadway production of "The Marriage of Bette and Boo", by Christopher Durang (I love comps, especially when it's for a good show). If you're not familiar with Durang's work, he's mastered dark comedy. Not merely gray and cloudy, but outright pitch black. It's not for the delicate. I enjoyed it, although there was a fair amount of pain with the pleasure. The only way to pull off a Durang show is by being as completely genuine as possible. If you try for "funny", it won't be. It slices to the core of humanity but, at the same time, saying things out loud, much like that of a small child, that otherwise would go unsaid.

Tonight I'm taking a break from the theatre to hang with friends, but tomorrow I'm likely to get right back to it. There are two shows closing this weekend I absolutely want to try and make, if at all humanly possible. The first is "Saved"-- a musical based on the oh-so-hilarious film from a few years ago (and to which I already have cheap front row tickets). The next is "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof", which I'd probably be okay in skipping except for James Earl Jones. It's also supposed to be a wonderful production, overall, but I do recognize that I can't always see *everything*. Terrence Howard is also supposed to be fantastic. So, for that one I'll probably try my luck of the draw at the TKTS booth and go from there. If Sunday night rolls along and I haven't seen it, it won't be the end of the world.

Tomorrow night is a concert in Central Park with Stephen Lynch. I love, love, love this guy. He's terribly funny. Whether or not I decide to go depends on weather and a few other factors. Getting out there by the time it starts is difficult enough and with the crowds I'm guessing I'll be somewhere in the back 40. We'll see. If we can nab good seats for CoaHTR, that will likely be a deciding factor.

Also this weekend is the benefit one-night-only reading of "Jesus Hopped the A Train", featuring the original 2000 cast and directed by Philip Semour Hoffman. I already wanted to go, but happily comps fell into my lap. Sweet! Then, Monday night, I end the current string with a friend's cabaret show on its last night. Whew!

Oh, yeah, and Wednesday Kurt Elling rolls to town-- and he's playing in my hood!! I have tickets for Thursday night, but know I'll see him at *least* one other time.

In all of this, did I mention we have a really tight deadline at work of June 30? About 100 new sites launching (I wish I was exaggerating on that number, but I'm not)? The following holiday weekend should be especially relaxing after the craziness, although I don't doubt that the following Monday will still feel too soon. It always does, regardless of the length of vacation, doesn't it? And I *like* my job-- I can't imagine how it is for people who don't.

There are other shows somewhat new on the scene that I'd like to see, but running longer than this weekend, so there's time. Oh, yeah, and probably getting out and doing some of my own performing in there somewhere.

On Broadway

2008-06-16T22:18:00.002-04:00

I went to a Tonys party last night. It was far more interesting and fun sharing it with others. Of course, my neighborhood to and from was a sea of black tie apparel (I live blocks from Rockefeller Center, where the awards are held).

There weren't really any surprises, from my perspective. I'd love to have seen "Cry Baby" take best choreography, but I haven't seen "In the Heights" yet for comparison. "Cry Baby" isn't without its flaws, but the choreography was truly magnificent.

The best thing of all, however, was seeing "August: Osage County" win. It's by far one of the best new plays I've seen in a very long time. And for me to say that about a 3 1/2 hour show with no music it's REALLY saying something.

Now for the bad part of the awards-- the writing sucked beyond suckage. It made everyone look terrible, most especially the host, Whoopi Goldberg. She looked absolutely embarrassed having to say some of that corny drivel.

Also, what was with the scenes chosen??! This year there were performances by shows not nominated for best musical, in addition to those that had been. It was like a giant statement of "See? THIS is why it wasn't nominated!". They chose some of the most awful representations. The scene from Young Frankenstein, for example, was perhaps the worst scene in the show. Of course, some of the nominees didn't represent themselves very well, either. The song from Passing Strange definitely wasn't their strongest. I've seen it twice and loved the show, but I wouldn't have bought tickets based on that particular performance.

I do really want to see In the Heights, but that's about all I walked away with last night. Except for a very fun night with snarky friends, of course.

She's a Little Bit Country

2008-06-13T23:37:00.000-04:00

Two days to go before the Tonys. I'm in the midst of "operation catch up", still not sure if I'll cave on full price "In the Heights" or not. I've got a decent discount on tickets but they were sold out of them for this week. And I think their rush policy is students-only. I have plenty else to do, but it's still tempting. If I don't get a chance to see it before Sunday, I'll still likely buy a ticket beforehand since it's favored to win. If that's the case, tix will be scarce for a while.

Tonight I saw "The Country Girl", with Morgan Freeman, Frances McDormand and Peter Gallagher. Rounding out the cast is Broadway veteran Chip Zien, whom I've somehow managed to miss until now. Also in the cast is Remy Auberjonois. I remember seeing his bio for "Frost/Nixon" and wondering if he was any relation to Rene. While it's not in his bio (and why would it be?), tonight's performance left me with zero doubt. At certain angles, it's unquestionable. Of course, I've now read on imdb that he is, in fact, his son. Of course the physical resemblance was probably tougher to spot in the nosebleeds for F/N than tonight's up-close orchestra seats.

No, "The Country Girl" isn't nominated for anything, but I still wanted to see it for comparison's sake. I think if "Boeing, Boeing" hadn't been transfered to Broadway just in the nick of time, it would have been on the revival list. And it seems like cheating to have Shakespeare under "revivals" ;) It's like having the Bible on the NY Times Best Seller list.

I really enjoyed the play. The first act is a lot of foundation, leaving one to wonder where it was all going, but the second act raced by and brought out wonderful performances by the entire cast. The performance that surprised me most was Peter Gallagher. He was brilliant. And, seriously, how often is Morgan Freeman hanging in my 'hood?

I had comps for a comedy show later tonight (had my choice of 10pm or midnight), but I passed them along to a friend. It's been a long week, so I was happy to consider a somewhat early night. It was tough enough to get in both yoga and dinner with a friend before tonight's curtain. My alarm will definitely be turned off tonight.

The Book of Love

2008-06-12T22:42:00.001-04:00

I've resisted the idea of the Kindle. If it weren't for the $350 price tag and the fact I love to have the paper versions on my bookshelves, I'd likely have one in my hands this moment. I do think that after years of attempts to reinvent the electronic book, they've done an amazing job. They've addressed the eye strain issues, making it look basically like virtual paper. The only thing you're really missing, beside the cover art, is the heft and the musty paper smell (which I know some people love, but I'm not really into musty-- I do love the smell and feel of a new book cracked for the first time, though).

The heft is really the biggest appeal for me. It weighs just over half a pound. I hate that I have to wait as long as I do for paperback versions of things. Unless I'm absolutely chomping at the bit, I won't buy the hard cover. I think the only hard covers I've purchased in the past decade have been Armistead Maupin's latest. Currently, however, there are three new books I'm dying to get my hands on. Now that I'm commuting by public transit, however, I refuse to carry hardbound books.

So, here I am, patiently (or not-so-patiently) awaiting paperbacks from a few of my favorite authors. Thankfully, two of them are sequels, so I can use this filler time to reread the previous books (by Nick Hornby and Jennifer Weiner). If I budge on the hard back thing, it's a slippery slope.

On an entirely different subject, although met with the same amount of anticipation, I've been avoiding talk of Top Chef all day. Last night was the finale (which I missed). Tonight was the repeat I also missed. At some point this weekend that will be mine. At that point, I'm sure I'll be dying to discuss.

Summer Lovin'

2008-06-07T09:32:00.002-04:00

As I've mentioned, it's been unseasonably cool here through spring. Today, summer is set to arrive full force. Yesterday, it was 68 degrees out. It's expected to hit 97 today. So much for a gradual transition!

Shakespeare in the Park has started up, the Mr. Softee trucks are everywhere, patio/sidewalk seating is plentiful, and my favorite chair has moved position from in front of the window with the air conditioner to in front of the one above the radiator. I think it's safe that the radiator won't be on any time soon.

The Puerto Rican Day Parade is happening here tomorrow. One thing about my 'hood is that we're on or near parade routes on a somewhat regular basis. There are parades I encounter that I've never even heard of. I've buddied up to the doorman, though, who usually keeps me posted on the local happenings and events that will trigger extra crowds and barriers. Sometimes I like to join in, but it's also nice to know to avoid them if I want to, too. Luckily, I have subway lines within the block both to the east and west of me, so there's always one line that's accessible.

Love is All Around

2008-06-05T16:31:00.002-04:00

I feel very loved today. It's truly wonderful. While I don't have my bay area peeps and twin here with whom to celebrate (happy birthday, Sinead!!), I feel them all with me. With them, I'm fully embraced by the east coast additions, all members of my chosen family. Sure, some are the crazy cousins and the brothers who like pulling my pigtails, but still very much adored.

I'm pacing myself for a few days of celebration. To kick things off, a few of my co-workers (and very much friends) surprised me down in our building's lobby (under the guise of finding the ice cream guy-- I fell for it hook, line and sinker-- they're good!) for a mini celebration.

While lavished with shiny things and fun events, the people are truly the best gift in and of themselves.

After Midnight

2008-06-04T21:58:00.004-04:00

In approximately 2 hours I'll be another year older. I don't feel it a bit. If anything, I feel younger than I did 10 years ago. Is this because I was born in a different time zone? ;)

On a totally random note, I just stumbled across the wiki for High Fidelity (the novel). It lists the "top 5..." lists! Uber cool. I think I feel a re-read coming on soon.

Avenue Colbert?

2008-06-02T18:36:00.001-04:00

I'm not sure how much many of you may know about my love of puppets, but it's there. I love them. Seriously.

Even if you don't, if you like Colbert, this is worth a chuckle or two:

Here's to the Ladies Who Lunch

2008-06-02T17:13:00.002-04:00

I'm really wishing I'd brought my camera today (new crackberry, while awesome and global, lacks a cam). I'm taking the ferry and views from the pier were beautimous. Thankfully, we've only just begun.

Right on the heels of the Sex and the City premier, I've become one of "those girls". I've gone from the trusty messenger bags to the big shoulder monstrosity. It's actually far more comfy than I'd expected and, more importantly, doesn't cause the "great divide". I even haggled over the price (and won).

I'm also noticing I'm adapting better to the weather. It's still disgusting at high temp/humidity combos, and I'm still forgetful enought to have been caught in a thunderstorm wearing jeans (soaked up to the knee, each leg about 5 lbs heavier), but I'm generally more prepared.

I did see the Sex and the City movie over the weekend, followed by cosmos and a good friend, although I especially missed being able to get together a passel of my fave Bay Area girlies.

And... Only in nyc... The 10am (!!!) Showing was still nearly sold out. Uptown!! Crazy people live here (I include myself, of course).

Rock It

2008-06-02T00:23:00.000-04:00

Are you the next rock star? You just never know...

http://www.abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=4971065&page=1

Ain't No Sunshine

2008-05-28T23:02:00.004-04:00

This is by far the most beautiful song I've heard all day:

I was already a bit of a fan of Eva Cassidy, but this just sliced right through to my core and melted it. And if you think I won't add this to my set at some point you're sadly mistaken.

Summer Time

2008-05-27T00:10:00.004-04:00

Bye bye spring... it was nice while it lasted. Tomorrow it's supposed to be 80 and stormy. I remember last Memorial Day, though, which was horribly hot, so this was wonderful. Last year, my air conditioner had been delivered, but my super was gone for the weekend and I couldn't get it installed. This year, I've been lucky enough that it's only been on once so far. Now it doesn't feel so terrible that summer lasted until October (please, not again this year... although, we don't need sub-zero as a replacement).

It was a fun weekend. I got some quality time in with friends, which is the best way to spend time off. I made a few new ones in the process, too.

A couple of friends had a party today/tonight in Queens. I met some really cool people, ate far too much (really good) food, had the best sangria I've ever tasted and late into the evening played Celebrity. I left Manhattan more than once this weekend. And I didn't even need a visa or passport! Who knew? ;)

Let Me Entertain You

2008-05-24T15:34:00.002-04:00

I'm on my second Broadway show of the weekend (number 3 is tonight). I have some catching up to do, especially before the Tonys. I really do love that I have such luxuries at my doorstep.

Last night was Les Liaisons Dangereuses (starring Laura Linney). It was complete brilliance. I enjoyed both the play and the performances immensely. Ben Daniels was a standout as Valmont. It drove me crazy when I recognized Mamie Gummer (Cécile), but just couldn't place her. Now that I looked up her online bio, I recognize her as Meryl Streep's daughter, recently seen in the film "Evening".

---
At the moment, I'm at the latest revival of Gypsy (it's intermission). While Patti LuPone isn't delivering the vocals as powerfully as expected, her character is right on the mark.

As the orchestra struck its first note of the overture I was captivated immediately. It took me straight back to those nights many years ago, alone in my room listening to the Tyne Daly recording of the same show, hanging on each note, savoring every chord. I always had a soft spot for Louise. I think if I ever had done the show, that's likely where I'd have landed, although I didn't see it at the time.

I found myself several times in the last hour welling up several times just from pure, raw emotion. Of course, Tulsa's big number (All I Need is the Girl) gets me every time.
---

Now that the show is over... wow, wow, wow!! The comment about the lack of strong vocals from LuPone? A tool clearly used for contrast and dimension. "Rose's Turn" was an absolute knock-out!! I don't remember an occasion where, at the end of a number, but still in the midst of the show, the audience leapt to their feet so instantly and with such fervor. My hands ache from clapping so hard.

The rest of the performances were equally as strong. Boyd Gaines was the perfectly-balanced Herbie to LuPone's Mama Rose. Dainty June, played by Leigh Ann Larkin, went from syrup to acid seamlessly and Laura Benati as Louise (Gypsy) had tremendous range. She flowed beautifully from the forgotten and neglected Louise to the strong Gypsy.

---
Tonight, I'm off to see "A Catered Affair", the new Harvey Fierstein show. It'll be interesting to see how it measures up after being snubbed by the Tonys. I just have a hard time believing it's not better than Xanadu.

In Your Neighborhood

2008-05-22T21:35:00.000-04:00

I've been venturing out to more neighborhoods on my own lately and getting to know the city better as a result. I'm not actually on my own once there, usually, but I have to travel there on my own, which makes me learn the area rather than follow somewhat blindly. Last week I tackled getting lost in SoHo, but eventually getting on the right track (and sans the GPS on my phone and calling the person I was meeting to help me orient myself). Today it was the east village. Each are places I've been numerous times, of course, but always traveling with someone else, so not really absorbing how I've gotten there or how it otherwise connects with the city.

I'm happy at the prospect of a 3-day weekend. Tomorrow is a half day as a result, so we can kick it off properly. I know I just got back from vacation a few weeks ago, but it's worn off. I'm always ready for the thought of some extra time off.

It's supposed to heat up, starting tomorrow, so I'm excited about the few outdoor activities planned this weekend (provided it stays below 90-- mid 70s would be perfect). I'm not anxious at the thought of summer, but some real spring weather would be appreciated at this point. It's far cooler than it was last year at this time. Since I moved into my place almost exactly a year ago, I have a pretty good mental time line for last year. I got my air conditioner right before Memorial Day and was dying that I had to wait until after the weekend for my super to get back and install it.

Night and Day

2008-05-17T08:59:00.005-04:00

A quick update...

I saw Endgame at BAM last night with John Turturo, Max Cassella and Elaine Stritch. It's Becket, so it's pretty out there as far as the play itself is concerned, but the performances were right on target. I especially loved Cassella. It was also great to see Stritch and Turturo live, although Stritch really only had one scene. I thought Turturo was just at the peak enough to not go over the top on his performance. I enjoyed it. I'd love to have gone for drinks afterward with the friend I who saw it with me, just to discuss the material itself, meanings, etc, but it was an exhausting (good) week, so all I could think about was coming home and getting some sleep.

Otherwise, life is busy, work is good, things are well. I've been going out a lot lately and exploring a few parts of the city I don't know as well as I'd like to. This week is another pretty packed calendar, but it's a good thing.

I'm off to hang with some friends for the weekend. It should be a good time. I can sleep when I return ;)

I haven't been singing at all since I left for New Orleans. I caught a horrible cough/cold thing that is still lingering a small bit, so my voice wasn't really terrific there for a while. I'm aiming to get back next weekend. I definitely have some work ahead of me.

In cleaning out a couple of things last week, I ran across a book I've been missing-- Jamie Cullum's Twentysomething. It's been sitting on my piano for about a week or so now and has provided some nice additional inspiration when I sit down to the ivories (which, of course, aren't really ivory ;) )

Oh, and I got about 6 inches cut off my hair this week (for those who haven't seen me in a while, it was down to about the middle of my back when straight). I love it. It's not too short, not too long... very much "just right", as Goldilocks would say. This should get me through the summer without my hair feeling so heavy before I'm due for another cut. It also handles the curls a little better, so it's lower maintenance. Summer here isn't really conducive to straightening.

Have a good weekend, all!

Can You Picture That

2008-05-04T14:59:00.002-04:00

First off, if you get that song reference, you're my hero. Secondly, I'm loving the whole blogging-on-the-go thing (sans laptop). I'm sitting in a cafe at the moment.

While doing some final legwork to wrap up a good friend's birthday gift, I had to get some photos copied. The very nice woman at the photo place was very helpful in getting them all scanned before making the dups.

As she came upon one particular photo (honestly, one of my faves), she said, "Wow, who is that?"

"Oh, that's me, several years ago"

"Really? That's you?? You're so skinny! So beautiful!"

"Uh, yeah, I was dancing a lot"

"You don't dance anymore?"

Youch. I know she meant it as a compliment to my former self, but it was definitely a swift kick in the butt.

That being said, I've been thinking a lot about dance lately. I might need to do something to feed the soul (with which my body would actually cooperate... Meh, details...).

Girls, Girls, Girls

2008-05-03T22:18:00.004-04:00

Hello, my name is Sheila and I'm at home on a Saturday night (and blogging about it).

A friend I was supposed to see tonight had to cancel, so I'd made loose plans to hit Iridium to see Allan Holdsworth. Thankfully I'd planned on that being a solo venture so could easily stand myself up ;) Instead, I'm home nursing the stupid cough (an ounce of prevention and all that stuff). He's also playing a couple of sets tomorrow night, so I might make it to the late show.

One of the few positive things when my voice is in a fragile state (which, of course, otherwise frustrates the hell out of me) is that I'm more likely to sit at the piano and just let myself go. I picked up a song I started writing a while ago and made a bit of progress, but also just enjoyed feeling the chords underneath my fingertips and let myself go from there. There's a song I'm pretty sure is about to emerge, but I'm having a tough time bringing it to the surface. It's very hard to describe, but I'm guessing I'm not alone with this one, either.

I saw the first half of "Top Girls" on Broadway this afternoon. Let me just say that it's definitely no "August". We had comps, so at least that's something, but I do want that hour (seemed more like 12) of my life back, please. Mary Catherine Garrison is one of my most favorite performers. When she was in "Debbie Does Dallas - The Musical" (yes, you read correctly-- not a typo-- and it's a huge bucket of awesome), she held a supporting role but stole the show. I could kick myself for missing her in "Assassins". We saw a tiny glimpse of that humor, but even she couldn't pretty this thing up. As for Martha Plimpton and Marisa Tomei, I have several films of theirs I'd rather see.

Thankfully, the person I was with totally rescued the day with lots of laughs and fun. The right company can really save just about anything.

Under the Weather

2008-05-02T18:14:00.003-04:00

I skipped the Airborne for my last flight-- bad move. The only time I've gotten sick after flying the past couple of years are the two times I've missed it (even if it's coincidence or in my head, which I'm more than willing to entertain).

I have a horrible cough :( It kept me up half the night last night.

I'm supposed to go out tonight. I'm tempted to cancel, but I'd feel really bad flaking on this person, so will probably troop it out, at least through dinner.

I imagine I'll shake it soon, though. It's just a cough. I hope so, at least-- it's a pretty full weekend.

I have the photos uploaded. I'll post some later.

Homeward Bound

2008-04-30T18:17:00.004-04:00

I'm back from NOLA. We flew in last night. It was a pretty packed 6 days (two of which included travel).

Monday was out touring around the city. We drove through the 9th ward, which was the hardest hit by Katrina. Since R lived there, he felt the need to visit, which is understandable. Such devastation. There were a few streets where Habitat for Humanity started new construction with rows of brightly-colored new houses and every once and a while you'd see a few peppered rebuilt homes. There is still an exceeding amount of boarded up and condemned buildings with spray-painted signs indicating a building's state upon discovery and inspection.

Afterward, we toured Tulane and the surrounding area, which was nice. There's some beautiful architecture in that city (incidentally, our hotel was built in the 1700s-- you don't really see a lot of that where I'm from).

We had lunch at the Camellia Grill. You go for the ambience and history, not the food. The food was perfect greasy-spoon fare, though (and I think the only meal outside of beignets that didn't contain some form of seafood). The servers and cooks are very entertaining. It was worth the hour in line (and that was nearing 2pm!- imagine the noon crowds) for a small bit of counter space. Go for the atmosphere, stay for the chili fries.

Once back at our hotel, we set off for a walk along the river. There are some very nice views and you can see the old river boat ferrys still very much in operation (they hold both cars and passengers). We spent some time in the casino. It felt very much like Reno or an off-strip Vegas, except there weren't any table games in sight. I pretty much broke even on video poker. R bought us dinner with his winnings.

The aquarium was closed, sadly. It's on the list for next time.

That night, we hit Pat O'Brian's again and got in some quality time with the hurricanes (yes, plural). We then wandered the French Quarter a bit, hearing random bands as we walked around. There was one band doing AC/DC covers that sounded pretty good. I love the fact that there's music in varying styles pretty much at every turn-- jazz, rock, funk, blue grass, country, whatever your thing is you can probably find it in close proximity. We even ran across breakdancers that had taken over the middle of the street (they're blocked off on Bourbon).

In addition to the places we visited and things we did, the people were by in large extremely sweet. Things run a little more slowly down there, but everyone we met was nice as can be, perfectly polite and amazingly hospitable. Almost every time we went to a restaurant (as well as in shops, etc), we ended up chatting with our neighbors. My very obvious Yankee accent made no secret of the fact we were visitors :)

I haven't quite snapped back yet. I was in a post-vacation fog much of the day while I played catch-up. Thankfully, it wasn't a heavy day. I'm sure by tomorrow I'll be back to my same energetic self. Hopefully my skin will recover as quickly after all the fried foods ;)

One Day More

2008-04-28T12:14:00.002-04:00

It's weird to be on vacation away from home and think of returning to a place that used to be one of my favorite vacation spots. Pretty damn cool.

We kicked off the day at Cafe du Monde over beignets. It's a true breakfast of champions. We're headed out to the 9th Ward then a quick tour of Tulane (R's alma mater). Later on it's the river walk, aquarium (the largest salt water tank in the world, I believe), and maybe a casino or two.

Singin' and Dancin' in the Rain

2008-04-27T13:38:00.001-04:00

It's the second day of downpour. Thankfully, it let up until early afternoon so we could walk around the festival a bit. We were safely in the jazz tent enjoying a cool trio by the time we hit monsoon levels. I have no other words to remotely cover how much was coming down. Yesterday after Billy Joel it took about an hour indoors and in dry clothes before my body felt anywhere near dry. The grounds were flooded.

It's a bit lighter now than about an hour ago. R is out watching Irma Thomas (in hopefully less rain than for Billy Joel). I'm in a tent waiting for the Nicholas Payton Quintet to start and keeping a couple of dry seats for the two of us. Cassandra Wilson is playing here later, which is the biggie for me. Elvis Costello and Allen Toussaint overlap, but I just saw them (together) not too long ago. Besides, Cassandra is indoors and Elvis is not ;)

We haven't really decided on tomorrow yet. I think it depends on the weather. If it's clear, the river walk would be nice, but I'm happy to play it by ear.

Piano Man

2008-04-26T20:38:00.001-04:00

It's been a day of surprises. Not bad ones, just a few deviations from the (very loose) plans.

After a late breakfast/early lunch, we did a small bit of shopping and meandering on our way back to the hotel. The last stop was the gallery across the street that caught our attention the night before. Next thing I knew (about an hour of deliberation and dealing later), I was plunking down a small fortune on a painting that captured my heart (photo to follow). I'm still in awe.

We didn't do much of the festival. It was pouring out. And that's a huge understatement. By half way through Billy Joel, it was the biggest wet t-shirt contest on the planet. Through rain ponchos, umbrellas and all, we were soaked to the bone. After being indoors and in warm, dry clothes I finally felt dry about an hour later. It poured the entire 2 hours of his playing.

All that being said, he was incredible. He had an amazing assortment of musicians in tow. He played a bit of everything, keeping jazz-centric, even among the hits. He even played "singin in the rain" ;) For his first encore he played my absolute favorite-- "Scenes from an Italian Restaurant". It felt complete. Did I mention we were in the front row for all of this?

Okay, I have someone anxiously waiting for me to finish this so we can move it along, I just had to get this out while fresh. More soon.

To the Festival

2008-04-26T08:26:00.000-04:00

The fun has continued here. Yesterday was the first day of the festival. Oddly, most of what we saw wasn't jazz but good all the same. The whole experience reminded me of a Grateful Dead show x5 (easily!). Back when Day on the Green still happened in Oakland (does that still exist?), Bob Dylan and The Grateful Dead played (far after their hay day, of course, but just as delightful) and it was a similar atmosphere, spinning dancers and all. Just add 10 more stages and break up the crowd a bit.

In an attempt to catch the last bit of Otra, we happened on Big Sam's Funky Nation. They're lots of fun if you ever get a chance to see them. I'll be looking for their stuff in the CD tent before the weekend is out.

After that, we spent a bit of time at the gospel tent. A good gospel choir can really get to me. This one was no exception. We weren't there long as we wanted to make it to another stage, but they were fantastic. Didn't catch their name, though.

Next we saw Alison Kraus with Robert Plant. A small part of me wept when I heard the question, "Isn't that the Addicted to Love" guy? (Btw, the answer is "no"). They were great. They did an a capella number (Down in the River?) that literally moved me to tears (luckily hidable, lol). They also did a couple of Zeppelin tunes, which were lots of fun.

We stuck around for Sheryl Crow a bit before heading over to see Lizz Wright. I know some heavy jazz fans who aren't overly enamored with her, but I liked her a lot. RS is a fan now, as well. Her voice itself is stunning. She did CSN's "Old Man" and I was in heaven.

Today is Billy Joel headlining. Incidentally, he was very close to us as we saw Robert Plant.

Much more to come...