Well son, you got me undone
Pulled the wool over my eyes
and got me lovin' you blindly
Who says fairy tales can't be real
When the hotness that you feel
fills you up completely
Who thought we'd be at it again
Looking back at the end
and trying to rewrite it
A first taste may never be enough
Until you feast on old love
and cannot fight it
But now I'm here all alone
Feeling out of control
Without you here beside me
I'm picking up my own heart
Tryin' to make a new start
Cause you want to deny me
I thought you were my knight in armor
So why aren't you saving me?
I don't need a superhero
I just want you to fight the defeat
This ain't a fair game that we play
When we take the love away
And sub in apathy
Who thought we'd rid ourselves of rules
Make both of us a fool
and pretend we're happy
Now a love I couldn't erase
Has been buried and replaced
by a thing less pleasing
An empty shell
of what we used to be
With no beauty left to see
Cause it's all lost meaning
I'm here all alone
Feeling my heart turn to stone
and watching us dying
I thought you were my knight in armor
So why aren't you saving me?
I don't need a superhero
I just want you to fight the defeat
When I've moved through the pain
I can love again
I won't hold the door open for you
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Monday, August 25, 2008
A-Mix 35/August 2008
"Don't Think I Don't Think About It", Darius Rucker--Dude, Hootie left the Blowfish and went country. Not bad.
"Got Me Going", Day 26--After watching Diddy put these boys together, I figured at least one hit would come about. I was right. I love dancing to this.
"Keep Me Warm", Ida Maria--Come on now. If any of you Grey's Anatomy fans saw the finale (spoiler alert!), you know you melted when Derek smothered Meredith with a lovely kiss. The backroung noise was this song, and I totally imagine having a Mer/Der moment like theirs when I hear it.
"Be Gentle With Me", The Boy Least Likely To--Again, another G.R. song, this time from season 2. It's basically, theme song of my love life.
"Mercy", Duffy--I know a lot of people have been categorizing her with Amy Winehouse, but I think she's got a voice all her own.
"The Light", Common--I heard this on the radio about a week or so ago, and as I am a Common fan, this made sense to download and playlist.
"Wait Another Day", Uh Huh Her--A little soulful and POP-py.
"The Love We Got", Karina--I just melt like buttah when I hear this song.
"Mr. Carter", Lil' Wayne (featuring Jay-Z)--Two Carters, one track. It was bound to happen.
"All These Things That I Have Done", The Killers--I don't know what happened to this cd, but I fell in love with this song shortly after my baptism. ...Maybe I felt connected to Brandon Flowers, who's Mormon.
"Kashmir", Led Zepplin--This song has got me through many a morning run. Classic.
"Cause I Love You", Lenny Williams--Um, if you've ever watched The Original Kings of Comedy, you'll remember what Steve Harvey said about this song. Otherwise, play it as a homage to a man who knew what love is...and sang about for it nearly 10 minutes.
"Far Away", Nickelback--You can't escape these men no matter how hard you try, but this song definitely has a place in my heart.
"Get It Big", Trap Starz Click--Lol...Just the lyrics are enough to make you either feel like a hot chica...or royally offended. Still, I'll play this in my car any day.
"Got Me Going", Day 26--After watching Diddy put these boys together, I figured at least one hit would come about. I was right. I love dancing to this.
"Keep Me Warm", Ida Maria--Come on now. If any of you Grey's Anatomy fans saw the finale (spoiler alert!), you know you melted when Derek smothered Meredith with a lovely kiss. The backroung noise was this song, and I totally imagine having a Mer/Der moment like theirs when I hear it.
"Be Gentle With Me", The Boy Least Likely To--Again, another G.R. song, this time from season 2. It's basically, theme song of my love life.
"Mercy", Duffy--I know a lot of people have been categorizing her with Amy Winehouse, but I think she's got a voice all her own.
"The Light", Common--I heard this on the radio about a week or so ago, and as I am a Common fan, this made sense to download and playlist.
"Wait Another Day", Uh Huh Her--A little soulful and POP-py.
"The Love We Got", Karina--I just melt like buttah when I hear this song.
"Mr. Carter", Lil' Wayne (featuring Jay-Z)--Two Carters, one track. It was bound to happen.
"All These Things That I Have Done", The Killers--I don't know what happened to this cd, but I fell in love with this song shortly after my baptism. ...Maybe I felt connected to Brandon Flowers, who's Mormon.
"Kashmir", Led Zepplin--This song has got me through many a morning run. Classic.
"Cause I Love You", Lenny Williams--Um, if you've ever watched The Original Kings of Comedy, you'll remember what Steve Harvey said about this song. Otherwise, play it as a homage to a man who knew what love is...and sang about for it nearly 10 minutes.
"Far Away", Nickelback--You can't escape these men no matter how hard you try, but this song definitely has a place in my heart.
"Get It Big", Trap Starz Click--Lol...Just the lyrics are enough to make you either feel like a hot chica...or royally offended. Still, I'll play this in my car any day.
A-Mix 30/June 2008
"We Made It" (featuring Linkin Park), Busta Rhymes--This was a great song to run to when I started training. Hardcore at night.
"Energy", Keri Hilson--Very emotional!
"Let Me Think About It", Ida Corr vs. Fedde Le Grand--When I had Sirius radio, one of the stations played this and I went crazy trying to find the track before it was issued on iTunes.
"Stripper" (rock mix), Sohodolls-- Featured in the "Victor/Victrola" episode of Gossip Girl during Blair's burlesque scene. Regardless of the risque material, it's still got a playful, gritty feel.
"Optimistic", Radiohead--By far one of my favorite Radiohead songs.
"Fake Plastic Trees", Radiohead--" "
"Unfinished Sympathy", Massive Attack--I bought the Sliver soundtrack in like, '99 and that was my first intro to Massive Attack. I think it's safe to say I created a monster.
"Magic", Robin Thicke--Because it's Robin Thicke. Duh.
"I Miss You", Incubus--Of course, there's always gonna be some lost tracks that I wanted to hear in my car again. Countless days were spent in my Wrangler with the top down, playing this song as an in love teenager.
"I'm Amazed", My Morning Jacket--This was a great summer, by-the-poolside song.
"I'm Not Over", Carolina Liar--This song speaks for itself. Anyone who's getting through heartache will relate.
"Spaz", N.E.R.D.--Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo rawk my sawks! Great song for the ego.
"Honestly", Zwan--If anyone ever dared to listen to Billy Corgan's "band" after the Pumpkins disbanded, you'd never know you were listening to another group. Still, this was a cute ditty.
"I Told You So", Keith Urban--*blushes* Well, it's a good song.
"How I Go", Yellowcard--This song listens like a poem from parent to child, completed by Natalie Maines (Yeah, THAT Dixie Chick) singing a powerful backing melody. Definitely a reflective type of song.
"Fighters" Lupe Fiasco--Again, something a little wistful. But Lupe does the song up right, beyond my explanation. This was my ringtone at one point, so it musta been good!
"Pretty Please (Love Me) [featuring Cee-Lo), Estelle--Love it. Just give it a whirl.
"November Rain", Guns N' Roses--I felt like backtracking to the early 90s with this epic. Every time I hear it, I play the video in my mind...and cry when Axl wails at the end.
"Energy", Keri Hilson--Very emotional!
"Let Me Think About It", Ida Corr vs. Fedde Le Grand--When I had Sirius radio, one of the stations played this and I went crazy trying to find the track before it was issued on iTunes.
"Stripper" (rock mix), Sohodolls-- Featured in the "Victor/Victrola" episode of Gossip Girl during Blair's burlesque scene. Regardless of the risque material, it's still got a playful, gritty feel.
"Optimistic", Radiohead--By far one of my favorite Radiohead songs.
"Fake Plastic Trees", Radiohead--" "
"Unfinished Sympathy", Massive Attack--I bought the Sliver soundtrack in like, '99 and that was my first intro to Massive Attack. I think it's safe to say I created a monster.
"Magic", Robin Thicke--Because it's Robin Thicke. Duh.
"I Miss You", Incubus--Of course, there's always gonna be some lost tracks that I wanted to hear in my car again. Countless days were spent in my Wrangler with the top down, playing this song as an in love teenager.
"I'm Amazed", My Morning Jacket--This was a great summer, by-the-poolside song.
"I'm Not Over", Carolina Liar--This song speaks for itself. Anyone who's getting through heartache will relate.
"Spaz", N.E.R.D.--Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo rawk my sawks! Great song for the ego.
"Honestly", Zwan--If anyone ever dared to listen to Billy Corgan's "band" after the Pumpkins disbanded, you'd never know you were listening to another group. Still, this was a cute ditty.
"I Told You So", Keith Urban--*blushes* Well, it's a good song.
"How I Go", Yellowcard--This song listens like a poem from parent to child, completed by Natalie Maines (Yeah, THAT Dixie Chick) singing a powerful backing melody. Definitely a reflective type of song.
"Fighters" Lupe Fiasco--Again, something a little wistful. But Lupe does the song up right, beyond my explanation. This was my ringtone at one point, so it musta been good!
"Pretty Please (Love Me) [featuring Cee-Lo), Estelle--Love it. Just give it a whirl.
"November Rain", Guns N' Roses--I felt like backtracking to the early 90s with this epic. Every time I hear it, I play the video in my mind...and cry when Axl wails at the end.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Psychological Feng Shui
I always feel compelled to write when I'm prioritizing or experimenting with my life. The experiment this week? Placing myself in different locations around the dealership.
To give you a visual, my office is located between the sales and service department. It's like the median between total chaos and a smooth sailing ride. The only problem is that I'm totally isolated from everyone, yet exposed at the same time. My office is a giant glass box, giving passersby a human display.
The segregation of it all has made me wonder how productive I'm not, as well as how engaged I feel at work. Today, I'm perching myself all over the place at work, mostly near sun. It's a welcome change. The constant buzz of activity is allowing me to work faster, more dilligently.
I don't know why or how, but I've been focused on making changes--big and small. I reckon change means great experiences...and more to write about.
In other news, I'll be exporting my MySpace blogs to here, so you see entries with titles of previous years, they're all archives.
To give you a visual, my office is located between the sales and service department. It's like the median between total chaos and a smooth sailing ride. The only problem is that I'm totally isolated from everyone, yet exposed at the same time. My office is a giant glass box, giving passersby a human display.
The segregation of it all has made me wonder how productive I'm not, as well as how engaged I feel at work. Today, I'm perching myself all over the place at work, mostly near sun. It's a welcome change. The constant buzz of activity is allowing me to work faster, more dilligently.
I don't know why or how, but I've been focused on making changes--big and small. I reckon change means great experiences...and more to write about.
In other news, I'll be exporting my MySpace blogs to here, so you see entries with titles of previous years, they're all archives.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
June 5, 2006
Mini-epiphanies
I'm at work, on break, taking in this Kaskade cd I downloaded last night. So blissful. So peaceful...yummy.
Anyway, the auction was interesting. I sold for a lot less than I thought I would. My ego took a big smack. I was ready to plunk down 600 for someone else...until I realized I have a big credit card payment to make. Overall it was a good night.
Lately I've been having mini-epiphanies about my personality. The biggest one is coming to grips with the fact that I have low esteem in some areas. Everyone has insecurities somewhere and mine aren't any different. I've just been in denial for the past 4 years about one of them.
When I was a chubby kid with glasses and braces, I wasn't too popular with anyone, least of all the opposite sex. I grew older, I slimmed down, I got physically active. And suddenly all the guys that wouldn't give me the time of day at 16 were looking at me in a different light at 21. The attention inflated my confidence and ego. As long as that attention was there, I felt worthy. I never thought to question how I validate worth...until Friday.
It's not easy trying to sell yourself for a date, even if the benefit goes toward something you prize--like upping your best friend's tuition fund. I was the first person bid on at the auction. I went for 40 (or 45...I can't remember). Very few guys hollered out a bid.
Going into this whole deal I felt confident, motivated to make some money for a person I care about, and thinking that guys would plunk down at least 100 bucks for me. When that didn't happen, I felt just like I did in middle school: very unpretty. I immediately started wondering if my thighs looked too big. Were my stretchmarks from puberty THAT visible? Lack of make-up? It was an exhausting thought process.
I was displeased for the rest of the night (other factors contributed too) and the next day. I spent a lot of time thinking about it Saturday. And at the end of Saturday, I finally came to the conlusion that I was looking to the wrong people for my own validation. I should've been looking at myself for the validation. I say that I love myself all the time, but at some points I really don't. Some days more than others. Some situations just trigger a downward spiral. Friday night was one of them.
There's a lot I have to offer to others. But I really need to start remembering that others will only see what I'm worth I see it and live it for myself first.
I shook off everything and felt a lot better Sunday. But then again, I was somewhere I feel the most confident. Church.
My other epiphany stems from childhood too: aggressive language. I see it as a form of abuse. It's not the same as a punch to the gut, but it's just as hurtful and scarring.
I had a difference in opinion on a topic with someone who's been known to use colorful language at the wrong times. He wrote something about me that I didn't agree with, so I called him out on it and stressed the way I felt about his opinion. I wasn't rude or malicious with my words. After all, I was just telling my side and expressing the fact that he offended me. But the response I got from him was aggressive, complete with name calling.
Granted, I curse. But cursing someone out or telling them to "get your head out of your ass" when debating an issue is disrespectful. It's especially uncalled for if you're supposedly friends.
It's also my no fly zone. If I care about you, chances are I won't dishonor you by calling you a bitch, asshole..etc. I expect the same from my friends, boyfriend, etc.
I had given this person dozens of chances and forgave him for the same types of offenses before. This time, it's a done deal.
So...those were just two things floating in my head this past week. Can you imagine what else was in there?
I'm at work, on break, taking in this Kaskade cd I downloaded last night. So blissful. So peaceful...yummy.
Anyway, the auction was interesting. I sold for a lot less than I thought I would. My ego took a big smack. I was ready to plunk down 600 for someone else...until I realized I have a big credit card payment to make. Overall it was a good night.
Lately I've been having mini-epiphanies about my personality. The biggest one is coming to grips with the fact that I have low esteem in some areas. Everyone has insecurities somewhere and mine aren't any different. I've just been in denial for the past 4 years about one of them.
When I was a chubby kid with glasses and braces, I wasn't too popular with anyone, least of all the opposite sex. I grew older, I slimmed down, I got physically active. And suddenly all the guys that wouldn't give me the time of day at 16 were looking at me in a different light at 21. The attention inflated my confidence and ego. As long as that attention was there, I felt worthy. I never thought to question how I validate worth...until Friday.
It's not easy trying to sell yourself for a date, even if the benefit goes toward something you prize--like upping your best friend's tuition fund. I was the first person bid on at the auction. I went for 40 (or 45...I can't remember). Very few guys hollered out a bid.
Going into this whole deal I felt confident, motivated to make some money for a person I care about, and thinking that guys would plunk down at least 100 bucks for me. When that didn't happen, I felt just like I did in middle school: very unpretty. I immediately started wondering if my thighs looked too big. Were my stretchmarks from puberty THAT visible? Lack of make-up? It was an exhausting thought process.
I was displeased for the rest of the night (other factors contributed too) and the next day. I spent a lot of time thinking about it Saturday. And at the end of Saturday, I finally came to the conlusion that I was looking to the wrong people for my own validation. I should've been looking at myself for the validation. I say that I love myself all the time, but at some points I really don't. Some days more than others. Some situations just trigger a downward spiral. Friday night was one of them.
There's a lot I have to offer to others. But I really need to start remembering that others will only see what I'm worth I see it and live it for myself first.
I shook off everything and felt a lot better Sunday. But then again, I was somewhere I feel the most confident. Church.
My other epiphany stems from childhood too: aggressive language. I see it as a form of abuse. It's not the same as a punch to the gut, but it's just as hurtful and scarring.
I had a difference in opinion on a topic with someone who's been known to use colorful language at the wrong times. He wrote something about me that I didn't agree with, so I called him out on it and stressed the way I felt about his opinion. I wasn't rude or malicious with my words. After all, I was just telling my side and expressing the fact that he offended me. But the response I got from him was aggressive, complete with name calling.
Granted, I curse. But cursing someone out or telling them to "get your head out of your ass" when debating an issue is disrespectful. It's especially uncalled for if you're supposedly friends.
It's also my no fly zone. If I care about you, chances are I won't dishonor you by calling you a bitch, asshole..etc. I expect the same from my friends, boyfriend, etc.
I had given this person dozens of chances and forgave him for the same types of offenses before. This time, it's a done deal.
So...those were just two things floating in my head this past week. Can you imagine what else was in there?
May 16, 2006
Semester Inventory
I take note of all the things I've learned from semester to semester. I have plenty to write about. So...here goes:
School lessons:
1. No matter how hard I try, I always feel like I could learn more.
2. I wish I had the time to get 5 degrees under my belt because there's so much I want to know about.
3. By the same token...I'm nearing the finish line, so thank goodness school's almost over--until that pesky Psy Master business brings itself up.
Family lessons:
1. I always say it, but I truly love my parents.
2. Embrace the things you love about your family members rather than look at the negative.
3. That said...try and influence the negative traits to change--without being overbearing.
4. Listen to your mother, godmother, and godsister, no matter how much you disagree with their advice.
Love (oh, so long):
1. When you least expect it, someone will enter your life, even for a brief period of time, and make you feel alive inside.
2. Love does wait. It just depends on how patient you are.
3. One of the hardest decisions to make is to let go of someone you deeply care about.
4. Never settle for less than what you want and deserve. NEVER.
5. Loneliness isn't a bad emotion/occupation unless you want it to be.
6. Sex is overrated. ...Yeah, I always say that. But I keep proving that it's true.
7. Crushes are awesome.
8. Then again, it's better to muster courage, talk to the crush, and see if he/she is really that dreamy.
9. Persistance is a virtue. (Yes, that's for you, Sincero.)
10. Forgivess is also a virtue. I finally found out that I have it. (Thank you, Jody Moe.)
I take note of all the things I've learned from semester to semester. I have plenty to write about. So...here goes:
School lessons:
1. No matter how hard I try, I always feel like I could learn more.
2. I wish I had the time to get 5 degrees under my belt because there's so much I want to know about.
3. By the same token...I'm nearing the finish line, so thank goodness school's almost over--until that pesky Psy Master business brings itself up.
Family lessons:
1. I always say it, but I truly love my parents.
2. Embrace the things you love about your family members rather than look at the negative.
3. That said...try and influence the negative traits to change--without being overbearing.
4. Listen to your mother, godmother, and godsister, no matter how much you disagree with their advice.
Love (oh, so long):
1. When you least expect it, someone will enter your life, even for a brief period of time, and make you feel alive inside.
2. Love does wait. It just depends on how patient you are.
3. One of the hardest decisions to make is to let go of someone you deeply care about.
4. Never settle for less than what you want and deserve. NEVER.
5. Loneliness isn't a bad emotion/occupation unless you want it to be.
6. Sex is overrated. ...Yeah, I always say that. But I keep proving that it's true.
7. Crushes are awesome.
8. Then again, it's better to muster courage, talk to the crush, and see if he/she is really that dreamy.
9. Persistance is a virtue. (Yes, that's for you, Sincero.)
10. Forgivess is also a virtue. I finally found out that I have it. (Thank you, Jody Moe.)
April 19, 2006
The Healing Power of Jody
It's amazing what you can learn in three days.
A good friend of mine served as a catalyst for new developments and helped me end a chapter of my life that was putting strain on me in ways I didn't realize. With his visit to Houston, a couple of dinners, charming conversation, and one roaring confession, I learned:
Some wounds are harder to heal than others, but with time, even the most painful ones can mend. That may seem a little obvious, but it is indeed true. I'm very fragile in some respects and break easily. Most of the time I can bounce back from an ordeal with zeal. However, the times that I've been deeply hurt (which are very few), it may take me a long while to recuperate. In this instance, it took me a year and one very emotional outburst to express the pain I felt. And when it was over, I let go of everything and finally forgave the person that damaged me.
People can always put the past behind them--if they choose to--and will surprise you every now and then. My parents are protective of me (naturally) and can be extremely unforgiving if I'm hurt. This weekend, I was shocked to see both of them give someone they knew had geatly upset me a chance. That move was an affirmation that nearly ANYTHING is possible.
I'm more tied to my religion than I thought. I'm not too preachy about my spiritual life and if you know about my beliefs, background, and history, you'll understand (If you don't know and are curious, ask me.). The offense I keep referring to revolved around a decision I made in late December of '04. At the time, I was petrified about the change I was making, simply because I was making it on my own and without the support of people I counted on my whole life. Being verbally attacked for my actions was the last thing I wanted or needed and in the end only fueled my ultimate choice. I was being told things that were brutal and untrue. A little over a year later in hindsight, I realize just how much a person's words can impact me...and that I really did have a testimony.
I'm strong...but I can always be stronger. I've said it before: I'll continue to change as long as I'm in this mortal existence. Without change, a person doesn't really live. If a person doesn't live for every moment, good and bad, strength will never come or increase. At the end of this weekend, I did something I never thought possible: I made myself vulnerable to a part of my past, confronted an issue that needed to be resolved, and can actually allow myself to be more open to others because of it. It hurt, but I think it made me a heck of a lot stronger...and definitely happier.
It's amazing what you can learn in three days.
A good friend of mine served as a catalyst for new developments and helped me end a chapter of my life that was putting strain on me in ways I didn't realize. With his visit to Houston, a couple of dinners, charming conversation, and one roaring confession, I learned:
Some wounds are harder to heal than others, but with time, even the most painful ones can mend. That may seem a little obvious, but it is indeed true. I'm very fragile in some respects and break easily. Most of the time I can bounce back from an ordeal with zeal. However, the times that I've been deeply hurt (which are very few), it may take me a long while to recuperate. In this instance, it took me a year and one very emotional outburst to express the pain I felt. And when it was over, I let go of everything and finally forgave the person that damaged me.
People can always put the past behind them--if they choose to--and will surprise you every now and then. My parents are protective of me (naturally) and can be extremely unforgiving if I'm hurt. This weekend, I was shocked to see both of them give someone they knew had geatly upset me a chance. That move was an affirmation that nearly ANYTHING is possible.
I'm more tied to my religion than I thought. I'm not too preachy about my spiritual life and if you know about my beliefs, background, and history, you'll understand (If you don't know and are curious, ask me.). The offense I keep referring to revolved around a decision I made in late December of '04. At the time, I was petrified about the change I was making, simply because I was making it on my own and without the support of people I counted on my whole life. Being verbally attacked for my actions was the last thing I wanted or needed and in the end only fueled my ultimate choice. I was being told things that were brutal and untrue. A little over a year later in hindsight, I realize just how much a person's words can impact me...and that I really did have a testimony.
I'm strong...but I can always be stronger. I've said it before: I'll continue to change as long as I'm in this mortal existence. Without change, a person doesn't really live. If a person doesn't live for every moment, good and bad, strength will never come or increase. At the end of this weekend, I did something I never thought possible: I made myself vulnerable to a part of my past, confronted an issue that needed to be resolved, and can actually allow myself to be more open to others because of it. It hurt, but I think it made me a heck of a lot stronger...and definitely happier.
Archive Blogs
Sunday, December 04, 2005
It's All About Nina
I didn't realize until a minute ago that I named my guitar after one of my most loved singers on the planet, Nina Simone. If I could sing like her, I'd be the happiest woman ever. Then again, her voice is truly original, so no one could emulate it. Got me thinking. If I were stuck in a room with a bunch of crooners, who would they be? Hmm...
Nina Simone, of course.
Jeff Buckley, so I could ask him how the hell he wrote some of the material he did.
Tina Turner. Gosh...Tina. I grew up listening to her music, did my 7th grade biography project on her...I even had a Tina wig (60s wig, not the crazy afro looking thing).
The entire Rat Pack. Love 'em all, Dino the most. I'd want to hear all of their tales.
Marvin Gaye. He was such a prominent figure of his time and still is. I'd love to hear how "What's Going On" or "Sexual Healing" came up.
Janis Joplin, cause she's a woman of the blues. Truly.
Etta James, because I still think she owes me for canceling her last tour date here in Houston. Oh, was I pissed.
Chino Moreno. That man can mix screaming with melodic voicing so well.
Adam Levine. Well...cause...he's Adam Levine. I like his style. The songs "Woman" and "Secret" made for some of the tunes for sucking face. ...Yeah...God bless Maroon 5.
Mariah Carey. You can't be a child of the 80s, 90s, or 00s without knowing that she changed the music world with her pipes. I'd like to see her hit a high C and shatter glass.
Jonny Lang. I sing the blues best and I'd love to duet with him on a few of his songs. They're all honest.
...This is a strange entry to write, but it was just one of my many thoughts this morning.
It's All About Nina
I didn't realize until a minute ago that I named my guitar after one of my most loved singers on the planet, Nina Simone. If I could sing like her, I'd be the happiest woman ever. Then again, her voice is truly original, so no one could emulate it. Got me thinking. If I were stuck in a room with a bunch of crooners, who would they be? Hmm...
Nina Simone, of course.
Jeff Buckley, so I could ask him how the hell he wrote some of the material he did.
Tina Turner. Gosh...Tina. I grew up listening to her music, did my 7th grade biography project on her...I even had a Tina wig (60s wig, not the crazy afro looking thing).
The entire Rat Pack. Love 'em all, Dino the most. I'd want to hear all of their tales.
Marvin Gaye. He was such a prominent figure of his time and still is. I'd love to hear how "What's Going On" or "Sexual Healing" came up.
Janis Joplin, cause she's a woman of the blues. Truly.
Etta James, because I still think she owes me for canceling her last tour date here in Houston. Oh, was I pissed.
Chino Moreno. That man can mix screaming with melodic voicing so well.
Adam Levine. Well...cause...he's Adam Levine. I like his style. The songs "Woman" and "Secret" made for some of the tunes for sucking face. ...Yeah...God bless Maroon 5.
Mariah Carey. You can't be a child of the 80s, 90s, or 00s without knowing that she changed the music world with her pipes. I'd like to see her hit a high C and shatter glass.
Jonny Lang. I sing the blues best and I'd love to duet with him on a few of his songs. They're all honest.
...This is a strange entry to write, but it was just one of my many thoughts this morning.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Obama & the 40 Year Old Man
A little bit about the rally:
I had a fantastic time watching in awe as people of every nationality, religious faith, age and soocio-economic status cheered Mr. Obama on last night. I couldn't get over the fact that a center that's usually packed for entertainers and sports figures was that way for a man who is neither.
Beyond that, it was rather touching to see older generations wipe away tears as an unrealized dream unfolded in front of their eyes. Many will say that Obama's black supporters are voting for him because of their racial commonality. That may be a true statement. But considering that most blacks (particularly older ones) never thought they'd see an even like last night's in their lifetime, you have to be a bit empathetic. And unjudging, too. As many debates as my mom and I have had over race, for one night we were on the same page, tearing up as 19,000 people cheered that man on. It was pretty bonding for me.
The wait to get in the Toyota Center, however, was a different story. While waiting in the e-ticket line, I was engrossed in people watching. My mom was on the phone at times and trying to find a way in with the blue ticket holders at others. I knew we were in for a long wait, but once I heard a male voice purr, "Excuse me," that wait shifted to eternity. When I turned to see who the voice belonged to, I found myself facing a well dressed man. Sharkskin suit. Golden brown skin tone. And looked like he was pushing 40 years.
Let me back up a bit. As an active member of Houston's community, I'm usually around men and women who are about 10+ years older than me. It's always made me feel more mature and poised. This only becomes a problem when I attract men. It's not that I have a fear of men. I have a fear of men who are old enough to be my older brother, or worse ,my dad. There's got to be an age limit, sirs. Besides, I always imagine having the conversation in which I say, 'I can't. I'm Mormon,' and how badly that may end. The Southern gentleman knew none of that, obviously. But I wasn't about to explain it.
Needless to say, I humored him with some charm-talk, took his card and gave him mine. Now he won't stop calling.
I have GOT to learn how to politely say no.
I had a fantastic time watching in awe as people of every nationality, religious faith, age and soocio-economic status cheered Mr. Obama on last night. I couldn't get over the fact that a center that's usually packed for entertainers and sports figures was that way for a man who is neither.
Beyond that, it was rather touching to see older generations wipe away tears as an unrealized dream unfolded in front of their eyes. Many will say that Obama's black supporters are voting for him because of their racial commonality. That may be a true statement. But considering that most blacks (particularly older ones) never thought they'd see an even like last night's in their lifetime, you have to be a bit empathetic. And unjudging, too. As many debates as my mom and I have had over race, for one night we were on the same page, tearing up as 19,000 people cheered that man on. It was pretty bonding for me.
The wait to get in the Toyota Center, however, was a different story. While waiting in the e-ticket line, I was engrossed in people watching. My mom was on the phone at times and trying to find a way in with the blue ticket holders at others. I knew we were in for a long wait, but once I heard a male voice purr, "Excuse me," that wait shifted to eternity. When I turned to see who the voice belonged to, I found myself facing a well dressed man. Sharkskin suit. Golden brown skin tone. And looked like he was pushing 40 years.
Let me back up a bit. As an active member of Houston's community, I'm usually around men and women who are about 10+ years older than me. It's always made me feel more mature and poised. This only becomes a problem when I attract men. It's not that I have a fear of men. I have a fear of men who are old enough to be my older brother, or worse ,my dad. There's got to be an age limit, sirs. Besides, I always imagine having the conversation in which I say, 'I can't. I'm Mormon,' and how badly that may end. The Southern gentleman knew none of that, obviously. But I wasn't about to explain it.
Needless to say, I humored him with some charm-talk, took his card and gave him mine. Now he won't stop calling.
I have GOT to learn how to politely say no.
A Chip Off the Old Block of History
There's a lot I could say about last night's Obama rally, but I can't find the words. I'll just let Chron.com do it for me.
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/politics/5554729.html
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/politics/5554729.html
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Why I Should Never Have A Blog.
Seriously. I shouldn't. In the day to day of my week life, I'm in front of a computer at least 65% of that time. That gives me plenty of time to work, stalk Facebook, and do as much browsing on LDS.org, TMZ, People, EW, and MTV as I'd like. I do ALL of this, but actually typing what I do when I'm not being a computer monkey is about as entertaining as getting a root canal.
That said, life's been pretty interesting in the past month or so since my last entry.
I had an amazing first by completing the Aramco Half Marathon, part of the Chevron Houston event. When a good friend asked me to compete with her back in September, I agreed partially because I knew she'd be there with me to train. April and I peeled ourselves out of bed at 5AM for the next two months to do sprint drills and run in Memorial Park. I was satisfied with the progress we were both making--until I rolled my ankle. I took a week off from running. That week turned into a month. By the time I ran again it was Thanksgiving and April had abruptly moved to Salt Lake City.
During my month long hiatus, I went back to weight training, my first love. While rekindling my affair with weights, I kept having some major doubts: When can I run again? Will I be able to compete? What if my ankle doesn't heal properly? I've been a sprinter since middle school, but distance running is something I've never tackled, so I felt I had a right to be apprehensive. The funny thing is, I didn't make the decision to run until 6 days before the event.
I've never been the type of person to go down without a fight. Whether that's a good or bad thing is anyone's guess. With this, I started to get a sinking feeling that if I didn't at least try to get through that day, I'd totally be shorting myself. So with my godsister's "good luck" basket, my uncle's tips and training watch (he's a veteran marathoner), and a big pasta dinner the night before with friends, I nervously got up that Sunday morning.
The 2 hours, 20 minutes and 24 seconds I ran was nothing but a huge test to myself. I had only gotten up to 6.5 miles in training, and to see if I could make it beyond that was ballsy, if I do say so. I had a plan to run the first 6, walk for at least a mile, and then pace the rest of the run. By the time I saw that giant 6 mile flag, my legs were well warmed up and I thought I'd be okay if I stuck to my plan. But I honestly couldn't stop running. Even after I grabbed my Gatorade and water, my legs weren't ready to quit. My mind eventually agreed it shouldn't quit either, and I didn't stop until I jogged across the finish line.
My parents, heaven bless them, had rolled out of bed to catch the 7:10AM start, had watched the race in the cold, and got text message updates on my progress. They never saw me run across the finish, but when I found them in the reunion area, it was just as sweet.
I live for moments to say "I did that", no matter how hard it may have been. The only hard part about running a marathon or half is knowing that you can't let yourself down. When I was done, I was happy it was over, really ready to eat, and thankful that my family had been there to hug me...and feed me lots of pasta.
I'm looking forward to running the full marathon next year and have already stared some light training before I get into the heavy stuff by April. I figure if I can do that much work for 13 miles, nothing should stop me from doing a little more to complete 26.
My latest challenge is coming in the form of work. When I blurt the words, 'I'm a Dealer Successor' to most people, I get a blank stare. So breaking it down a bit: I work for an automobile dealer. The dealer happens to be my father, the franchise is Chrysler & Jeep, and at some point, the business could be mine. That doesn't come without an amount of work, sacrifice, and proving yourself worthy of being nominated for the National Automobile Dealers Association program.
Sometime last year I decided I'm going to work finance management--with or without my dad's franchise. I've done some things here and there that have upped my chances of being sent into the program, but what I'm working on now is major turning point.
In March, I meet with 19 other Chrysler-Jeep dealers in what's called a "20 Group". The dealer body prepares their individual progress for the quarter, presents it, and the body conferences on the information for 3 days. I've been to the Group's meetings for the past year as an escort and learning ear to my dad. This time, I'm doing the work by myself. Add the factor of being the youngest dealer and only female, and you've got a recipe for "Ashley's First Solo Meeting". The upside? The dealers usually meet in beachfront areas or major cities to relax in once the stress of daily conference is over. I'm packing my green bikini and hoping to get some fun time in Florida.
I've already started preparing the documents I know well, and resourcing on what I don't.
When I return, I'm sure I'll have had a heck of an adventure to recap and hopefully write about.
So until then, take care.
--Ash--
That said, life's been pretty interesting in the past month or so since my last entry.
I had an amazing first by completing the Aramco Half Marathon, part of the Chevron Houston event. When a good friend asked me to compete with her back in September, I agreed partially because I knew she'd be there with me to train. April and I peeled ourselves out of bed at 5AM for the next two months to do sprint drills and run in Memorial Park. I was satisfied with the progress we were both making--until I rolled my ankle. I took a week off from running. That week turned into a month. By the time I ran again it was Thanksgiving and April had abruptly moved to Salt Lake City.
During my month long hiatus, I went back to weight training, my first love. While rekindling my affair with weights, I kept having some major doubts: When can I run again? Will I be able to compete? What if my ankle doesn't heal properly? I've been a sprinter since middle school, but distance running is something I've never tackled, so I felt I had a right to be apprehensive. The funny thing is, I didn't make the decision to run until 6 days before the event.
I've never been the type of person to go down without a fight. Whether that's a good or bad thing is anyone's guess. With this, I started to get a sinking feeling that if I didn't at least try to get through that day, I'd totally be shorting myself. So with my godsister's "good luck" basket, my uncle's tips and training watch (he's a veteran marathoner), and a big pasta dinner the night before with friends, I nervously got up that Sunday morning.
The 2 hours, 20 minutes and 24 seconds I ran was nothing but a huge test to myself. I had only gotten up to 6.5 miles in training, and to see if I could make it beyond that was ballsy, if I do say so. I had a plan to run the first 6, walk for at least a mile, and then pace the rest of the run. By the time I saw that giant 6 mile flag, my legs were well warmed up and I thought I'd be okay if I stuck to my plan. But I honestly couldn't stop running. Even after I grabbed my Gatorade and water, my legs weren't ready to quit. My mind eventually agreed it shouldn't quit either, and I didn't stop until I jogged across the finish line.
My parents, heaven bless them, had rolled out of bed to catch the 7:10AM start, had watched the race in the cold, and got text message updates on my progress. They never saw me run across the finish, but when I found them in the reunion area, it was just as sweet.
I live for moments to say "I did that", no matter how hard it may have been. The only hard part about running a marathon or half is knowing that you can't let yourself down. When I was done, I was happy it was over, really ready to eat, and thankful that my family had been there to hug me...and feed me lots of pasta.
I'm looking forward to running the full marathon next year and have already stared some light training before I get into the heavy stuff by April. I figure if I can do that much work for 13 miles, nothing should stop me from doing a little more to complete 26.
My latest challenge is coming in the form of work. When I blurt the words, 'I'm a Dealer Successor' to most people, I get a blank stare. So breaking it down a bit: I work for an automobile dealer. The dealer happens to be my father, the franchise is Chrysler & Jeep, and at some point, the business could be mine. That doesn't come without an amount of work, sacrifice, and proving yourself worthy of being nominated for the National Automobile Dealers Association program.
Sometime last year I decided I'm going to work finance management--with or without my dad's franchise. I've done some things here and there that have upped my chances of being sent into the program, but what I'm working on now is major turning point.
In March, I meet with 19 other Chrysler-Jeep dealers in what's called a "20 Group". The dealer body prepares their individual progress for the quarter, presents it, and the body conferences on the information for 3 days. I've been to the Group's meetings for the past year as an escort and learning ear to my dad. This time, I'm doing the work by myself. Add the factor of being the youngest dealer and only female, and you've got a recipe for "Ashley's First Solo Meeting". The upside? The dealers usually meet in beachfront areas or major cities to relax in once the stress of daily conference is over. I'm packing my green bikini and hoping to get some fun time in Florida.
I've already started preparing the documents I know well, and resourcing on what I don't.
When I return, I'm sure I'll have had a heck of an adventure to recap and hopefully write about.
So until then, take care.
--Ash--
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Getting Fit In '08!
Happy New Year to all of you bloggers out there. :-D I've been going over my goals for the year, as I'm sure most of you have.
One of the common resolutions is weight loss and fitness. It's one of the best goals you can make for yourself at any time of the year. It's also one of the hardest to meet and maintain, next to smoking!
My hope for anyone who made such a goal is that they keep at it. Reaching a fitness goal takes time, work, and a LOT of patience. The results we desire don't happen automatically, and that's where frustration comes in to play. My advice? Don't give up--ever. If you feel yourself getting annoyed that the scale isn't tipping the way you want it to, evaluate what you're eating and how you're exercising. Realize that you can control both. You don't have to starve yourself to drop 15 lbs, but making healthier choices in food definitely helps. As for exercise, one of the reasons why I love it is because I can change and experiment. So can you. If you find weights aren't your thing, yoga and pilates do a lot of the same core training that lifting does. Don't like the monotony of a treadmill? Take a jog on your local running trail. Not a fan of getting in shape alone? Find a workout buddy or jump into a team sport.
No matter what your reason is for getting in shape, you can acheive what you strive for. Find something that works for you and makes you happy. Then rock it, and rock it hard!
My fitness goal for the year is to lessen body fat and gain more lean muscle, something I tend to yo-yo on. Being consistent in my diet choices is my huge challenge. I find self indulgence in running 6 miles, but finding the same indulgence in eating a piece of coconut cream cake seems to be a problem, don't you think?
Anyway, I'm shooting to attain what I set to do, and am positive I'll make it. I'll also be posting different workouts and some play lists on here in case anyone's interested in what exercises I do or what music is in my iPod while doing them. I'll be updating my progress too, so cheer me on!
Happy New Year again, and take it easy!
--A.Eli
One of the common resolutions is weight loss and fitness. It's one of the best goals you can make for yourself at any time of the year. It's also one of the hardest to meet and maintain, next to smoking!
My hope for anyone who made such a goal is that they keep at it. Reaching a fitness goal takes time, work, and a LOT of patience. The results we desire don't happen automatically, and that's where frustration comes in to play. My advice? Don't give up--ever. If you feel yourself getting annoyed that the scale isn't tipping the way you want it to, evaluate what you're eating and how you're exercising. Realize that you can control both. You don't have to starve yourself to drop 15 lbs, but making healthier choices in food definitely helps. As for exercise, one of the reasons why I love it is because I can change and experiment. So can you. If you find weights aren't your thing, yoga and pilates do a lot of the same core training that lifting does. Don't like the monotony of a treadmill? Take a jog on your local running trail. Not a fan of getting in shape alone? Find a workout buddy or jump into a team sport.
No matter what your reason is for getting in shape, you can acheive what you strive for. Find something that works for you and makes you happy. Then rock it, and rock it hard!
My fitness goal for the year is to lessen body fat and gain more lean muscle, something I tend to yo-yo on. Being consistent in my diet choices is my huge challenge. I find self indulgence in running 6 miles, but finding the same indulgence in eating a piece of coconut cream cake seems to be a problem, don't you think?
Anyway, I'm shooting to attain what I set to do, and am positive I'll make it. I'll also be posting different workouts and some play lists on here in case anyone's interested in what exercises I do or what music is in my iPod while doing them. I'll be updating my progress too, so cheer me on!
Happy New Year again, and take it easy!
--A.Eli
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