So Thankful....

I try to make a ritual of taking time each day to review all of the things, big and small, that are going right.  Showing gratitude is a simple de-stressor.  No matter what might be happening that I wish were different at the moment I can pause and say thank you and put everything back in perspective.

A place to live, health, companionship, food - all the rest is excess and I am thankful for the bountiful life I am living, excited - knowing that more awaits in the future...what will 2009 have in store?

Technorati Tags: giving thanks,gratitude

Metrosexual

It has been an ongoing effort to bring the VIP into fashion of the 20th century.  I am all about the T shirt and jeans but there is a time and place to kick it up a notch.  For years there have been 2 other notches - the polo shirt and khaki pants, or the sportscoat/suit. 

Now that the VIP is joining me on the dance floor, he needed to look a bit more 'nightlife' and we picked out some flat front pants last week and the following shirts this week - now we are good to go!  More party and less business...

All this from a man who told me he did not like paisley!

It's also taken me over 10 years to convince him he looks better in a shirt that fits and got him to size down.  He is built lean and does not need the belly room many of the full cut shirts afford.

Now there will be no question that we are together when we step out on the town! 

Yowza, yowza, yowza!

 

Technorati Tags: Dillards,marc Ecko,metrosexual

Oldsmar Tap House and Molly Goodheads

Last nite the VIP and I had a fine nite.  We met at Sue & Joe W's to ogle their detached garage, vintage corvette (THIS IS A STOCK PHOTO OF A 67, THEIR CAR LOOKS MUCH, MUCH BETTER)  and hot rod that is being restored now.  The VIP loves all things mechanical and envies any man who has a workshop containing a hoist, acetylene, and a spare transmission with a wall proudly displaying original mopars.

Over Riesling, cheese and crackers we discussed Overhaulin' (I might leave the VIP for Chip Foose if he asked...),  and love of the 67 Chevelle specifically, GTO's and muscle cars in general.  Why didn't I go to McKee Tech?

We departed and met Anne and Dave at the Oldsmar Tap House for a brewski before heading out to Molly Goodhead's.

 

Technorati Tags: http://www.mollygoodheads.com/,http://www.oldsmartaphouse.com/index.htm,1967 corvette,overhaulin,chip foose

Networking Blogstyle!

 

crowdSPRING, hire Kelly Purkey for your new Community Marketing Manager!

Holiday Luau

Those of you joining me for the Showcase on the following nite, please come as my guest at the Luau!  The pleasure of my company over drinks and nosh for 2 evenings at the spa for $25.00, which includes a free 45 minute private lesson at the studio - what a deal!

I hear there will be prizes!!!!

Technorati Tags: Rungo Dance Academy,Holiday Luau,Safety Harbor Spa,Corinne Rungo,RungoDance.com

Getting to know all about you....

 

JULES KNOWS I AM A JOINER!

Where is the person you gave your heart to for the first time?
Living on the west coast

What were you doing at ten last night ?
Facebook - reuniting with college buds

What was the last thing you drank ?
iced tea

What' s going on between you and the last person you kissed?
Love and marriage!

What's something you really want right now, be honest?Beacoup dollars for more ballroom dance lessons

Last time you had butterflies in your stomach?Romantic kind - Reading the TWILIGHT series (and my last kiss).Anxious kind - having to dance in front of a panel of instructors (I am critical enough of myself!)

Anything annoying you right now?

Yes, my insomnia,thankfullyI have this to work on

Who was the last person to make you cry?
Grandma when she died at the end of May.

Anybody you' re looking forward to seeing soon?
Planning a reunion in NYC 12.4 &5 for a group I have not seen in 20 something years....

Are you going anywhere for the next summer?
probably RVing

Who was the last person you hugged?
Troy my dance instructor - you know he wants to press the body - LMAO!!!!

Who was the last person in your room?
The VIP

Did you have a dream last night ?
Yes, but I can't recall it now

How many piercings do you have?
ears only, 2 sets

Have any tattoos?
I have a consult with Jason Minaro at MONIQUE'S Body Art around Thanksgiving for my very first.  Jules needs to come with me for her mermaid....

Are you good at giving directions ?
I've gotten much better!

Last time you cried really, really hard?
When my last living grandparent died.

What is your favorite thing to eat with peanut butter?
banana and raisins and honey

Could you go out in public looking like you do now?
yes but I would not venture further than the mailbox and would not linger long

Have you ever made someone so mad that they broke something?
usually it's the other way around! 

What is your favorite color ?
blue-violet

Do you think your last ex deserves to die?
No, thankfully they set me free to be in my current relationship.

When was the last time you saw your Grandpa?
1970

Do you know anyone with cancer?

too many

Who was the last person you talked to in person?
The VIP

Do you think you can last in a relationship for 3 months?
Hahahaha - this is usually the breaking point - if you make it past 3 months with me you are in for a very long haul!

What is the last text in your inbox ?
From Luis to call him and from Anna about meeting up.  I'm not a big texter - I call back!

Have you lost friends in the past 3 years ?
I've been blessed to have been recently reunited with so many people I never thought I'd be in touch with again - glory be to the internet!

Do you talk about your feelings or hide them?
I have tried to cut down on my venting (I just spool myself up), to think about my intentions and the end results before and then I try to speak in terms the other person can understand without being overly emotional

Do you think someone is thinking about you right now?
Dirty Thoughts I Hope!

Are you excited for anything to happen in the next 6 months?
Well I am celebrating 10 years of marital bliss this thanksgiving - that is first on the timeline.

What should you be doing right now?
Sleeping - I have insomnia.

Do you believe in true love?
Yes

Do you miss your past?

I love my past, my present and am pretty optimistic about my future.  Best to be in the now.

Do you think that your ex still likes you?
Every freakin one of them.  What's not to like?

Has a person of the opposite sex seen you in your underwear?
And less....

If you could go back 3 months from now would you change anything?
probably not.

Where 's the last place you went?
To Rungo Dance Academy

what color are your eyes?
blue

At the moment, are you more warm or cold?
just right

What are you listening to?
I wanna be a cowboy by Boys Don't Cry on my blog's playlist

Do you prefer an ocean or pool?
ocean when it is warm

How long is your hair?
after years of butt length it is ear length!

Last thing you ate?
mixed nuts

Are you a bad influence?
Despite my best efforts, probably not!

Would you share a drink with a stranger?
well, they would not be a stranger any longer if I did.

Can you easily tell if someone is fake?
Usually.

Looking back did you ever waste too much time on a certain boy or girl?
Yes on both.  One sides relationships suck.

What' s your favorite card game?
The one I am winning

Know anyone who' s been drunk recently?
Boy it's been awhile.

Do you enjoy drama ?

I don't play that game.

How many months until your birthday?
5

Do you believe everyone deserves a second chance?
I try to give others the benefit of the doubt the first time - is that the same thing?  Probably not...

 

Last three people you texted?
I don't text back.

 

What are you doing tonight?

having friends over for a BBQ

Is smoking one of your turn offs?
Yes.

 

What' s the last kind of soup you ate?
Been a long time - I use the crock pot to make my own chicken soup

 

What kind of dog do you want?
I have 3 boston terriers already - please no more!

Do you currently have a sunburn?
no, but many freckles

Could you eat nothing but grilled cheese for a week straight?

YUK, I hate cheese!

What color was the last drink you consumed?
pink

Would you rather shave your head or dye your hair bright orange?
Well considering I'm a redhead already, shave it!

Could you last an hour without talking?
yes, do it many hours of the day...

Has anyone told you they missed you lately?
Sniff, no....(wiping tear from cheek)

Are you a Hollister/Abercrombie kind of person?
No, I am a grown ass woman

how many hours of sleep did you get last night ?
2

What makeup do you wear on a daily basis ?
A full face!  foundation with spf, eyeliner, black mascara, blush and eyebrow pencil, eye shadow, lipgloss - glam baby!

What curse word do you use the most?
I have a wide and varied vocabulary and try to use the most suitable one for the appropriate occasion.

Do you own an ipod?
no but the VIP does.  I have my playlists on the laptop.
Would you rather take the picture or be in the picture?
both

Has anyone ever called you lazy?
Only my MIL.

Do you ever take medication to help you fall asleep faster?
No, thus my current state of insomnia

Do you prefer regular or chocolate milk?
If I am drinking it choc soy.

Can you whistle?
Yes. But I never could master using my fingers in my mouth to get a real loud one.

How big is your local mall?
big enough

Are you currently wearing glasses?
no

Do you own any band t-shirts?
not any more

How many aunts and uncle s do you have?
2 biological uncles, only talk to 1

Do you crack your knuckles?
yes

What is your favorite salad dressing?
balsamic & EVOO

Do you read for fun?
Yes.

Can you speak any languages other than English?
At one time or another I spoke Greek, French, Spanish, Japanese, Sign Language and pig English.

Where is your cell phone ?
in my purse

What color is your bedroom painted?
was honeydew, now beige

Are your parents divorced?
yes

What do you like to snack on at the movie theatres?
rainsinets

Have you ever dated someone out of your race?
I guess not. 

What was/is your favorite class in high school?
Dr. Pignatelli's class.  I don't recall the actual title but it seemed to be philosophy and was to date one of the most thought provoking courses I've taken and changed my life for the better.  Wish I had more teachers like him.

If you were born the opposite sex, what would your name have been?
I don't know.

Were you a " planned" child
no

How old will you be turning on your next birthday?
41 years young

Ever eaten an entire thing of frosting?
no.  And I have a sweet tooth!

Have you read To Kill A Mockingbird?
Loves It!

What instrument would you like to learn?
Violin or Banjo

Were you ever a safety patrol in elementary school?
Nope, they knew from an early age better than to trust me - LOL!

Do you like dodge ball?
Not since getting hit in the face in 1st grade.

Ever order anything from the tv?
no, but lots from the internet

Can you write with both hands ?
not well or quickly

Do you get cold sores a lot?
no but I did when I lived up north

Chapstick or lipgloss?
depends

Last time you got poison ivy?
can't remember

Technorati Tags: posting from paradise,W.O.T.E.,Rungo Dance Academy,chain letters,fun facts,questionaires,blogs

Mojito Mamas at Maggiano's

  Anna

Stephanie

Yours Truly

We had a chic meet up and in typical fashion I ordered a pitcher of sangria, but it SUCKED (no fruit, warm, and bitter!) and we sent it back and went for tropical mojitos (Malibu) and appys.  Sadly this is a family atmosphere so there were no (straight, single) men around to harass although the frequent use of crass language did cause some surrounding female eyebrows to raise (deal with it, grandma).

Our server was great, so stop in and ask for Bregina (pronounced brie-jean-ah).

Technorati Tags: maggiano's,westshore mall,sangria,mojitos

Lucky Star

So tonight was a celebration of the 80's and i can state with all modesty that i totally rocked it!

Note my use of accessories!

As you can see there is no lack of hot hotties at Rungo!  (Tara and Shellee)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Patty nailed the 80's business woman and look at those earrings!

Barbara looked like something right off of a DYNASTY episode.

Thanks for playing along - it's so much more fun when you do!!!

Technorati Tags: rungodance.com,tara agresta,1980's fashion

December Plans

Wow, I know it is not yet Thanksgiving, but the pace of the year end is picking up already, as it always does...only 40 something days till Christmas and less till Hannukah.

If you have company coming into town and are looking for something new and fun to do, let me tell you about December 14th at the Safety Harbor Spa:  Rungo Dance Academy is putting on a ballroom and latin dance show at 5 pm, and tickets are only $25.00 which also includes food and drink and a 45 minute private lesson in the studio.

I promise you will have a ton of fun and there are no high pressure sales tactics used.  This is a family run business that has been around for 8 years and just like any business they are always looking for customers - but they only want happy ones, so the atmosphere feels lighthearted and like you are with family (the family that you want to be with not the ones you avoid!).

Once again I find myself dateless and looking for company - I have a few tickets if you are interested and available!  Hope you can come, try something new, learn more about yourself and let me enjoy your company for an evening or two...

Technorati Tags: rungodance.com,ballroom,latin,dance showcase,safety harbor spa,December 14th 2008,december plans,things to do in december,holiday plans,dance lessons

Best Kept Secrets

I just learned about  The Salon Professional Academy, a Redken training facility - and you know I love to share a good thing when I find it.  Thanks go to a friend who has a friend schooling there in need of clients to complete her training hours, and so I thought I would drop by and find out more.

It is very spacious, bright and clean.  It has the feel of an actual salon.  Everyone is friendly and has an amazing haircut.  The prices are phenomenal/inexpensive and all work is supervised so you can feel confident it will come out correctly.  You will need to leave a little additional time in your schedule than if you went to a pro.  I've been to the Aveda Salon and this was a much better experience

I had a set of pink and white acrylic nails allied for a mere $23.00 - if I had gone to my salon it would have cost me $60 plus the tip.  All the money does go to the school, so please do tip your student when you go.

If you are in need of a facial this month (Nov.2008 only!)  ASK FOR Evelyn Garcia and when you make the appointment give the reference Betsy Adams - an hour long facial will be $19.00 less a $5.00 off coupon and you can tip EVELYN THE $5 BUCKS!

contact info and prices here!!!

1. Manicure, Pedicure & Facial Combo ~ $35
2. 50% off Facial & Pedicure
We're proud of our services offered and look forward to pampering you!
Take advantage of our special pricing and top industry talent. All services are performed by students under the supervision of licensed professional educators.
Our Services Include:

Hair
Starting At
Haircut $9
Bang, Beard or Mustache Trim $6
Shampoo & Style $9
Thermal Ironing $6
Special Occasion Hair $19
Color & Style $19
Foil Highlights $29
Perm & Style $29
Relaxer $29

Skin care
Starting At
Facial $19
Makeup Application $9
Facial Wax $11
Brow Wax $9
Lip Wax $9
Chin Wax $9

Bikini Wax $19
Leg Wax $29
Back Wax $19
Underarm Wax $19

Nails
Starting At
Manicure $9
French Manicure $14
Pedicure $19
Polish Change $8
Paraffin Dip $6
Nail Art $4 per nail
Nail Repair $4 per nail
Full Set $19
Pink & White $22
Nail Fill $11
Rewhite & Fill $14
Nail Removal $8

 

Technorati Tags: redken,aveda,salon professional academy,skincare,hair,nails,waxing,pink & whites,acrylic nails,dye,pedicure,manicure,french,polish,nail art,perm,relaxer,foil,highlights,updos

Do Blondes Have More Fun?

 

Last nite I went to a 1970's DISCO themed party and chose this get up.

I was going for Farrah, but as a girlfriend pointed out I ended up looking more like a swinger going to a key party. 

I recall one nite being out on the town with about 11 other girls, and as we walked on by one guy stopped me and said, 'you don't belong' - I was the only non-blonde, and I like it like that.

Next week is a return to the 80's...

Technorati Tags: blondes have more fun,1970's clothing,key party,farrah faucett,disco playlist,rungodance.com

Election

I almost cannot believe that I am watching the election returns on TV tonite.  I have to tidy up some work this evening so figured i may as well tune in and keep my friends in Europe updated since they are interested.  I find that fact fascinating, as i remain uninformed and ignorant about most of the world governments and their leaders.  In my perspective, the BBC does such a superior job covering the WORLD where in the USA we are so ethnocentric it seems there is no other news worthy of report if it does not directly involve our country.

Of course we learned again just 8 years ago that the popular vote counts for naught, only the electoral vote matters, so while we live in a 'democracy' your representatives are not required to vote as a true representation of your wishes.  This has always perturbed me deeply since it seems to be such a basic contradiction.

The only thing that is certain is change....

What's your sign?

Remember that old pick up line?  Well some of you may find this entertaining, others may find it shockingly accurate!

I love the beginning of each month when I get a foreshadowing of all the opportunities that might present themselves in the coming days.  This month I am on pins and needles as Susan's posting for November is not yet available!

                   check it out: astrologyzone

then get back to me with a comment about what you thought - I'd love to hear from you!

Technorati Tags: astrologyzone,zodiac,susan miller,http://astrologyzone.com/forecasts/,horoscopes,wealthynelson,W.O.T.E.,woman on the edge,catherine blackman nelson

Hair by Jay at Salon Allure

Life is good when it's a good hair day, and i am indebted to Jay (a/k/a "Blow-J") for that. 

  He has been doing my hair for a decade now - hard to believe.   I found him thru word of mouth referral (always the best way to find services in my experience - and i have been known to stop people on the street and ask who does their hair...), after my prior haircutter (not used to working on naturally curly hair) decided to use a razor on me (razor + curly hair = frizz) for the first and last time. 

Most women will agree that finding a new stylist is a major, and often traumatic event in their lives. I had moved and had little choice, but I can spare you from the same experience.  While i do not color, i can testify to the fact that he does amazingly natural looking color.  He loves long hair, so do not be fooled by my short 'do - I had to beg and plead for it and he's working on convincing me to grow it back but i love my short do way too much!!! 

If you find yourself in need of a haircut or new style for the holidays, go see Jay.  He is funny, easy on the eyes, and YES ladies - SINGLE!

Salon Allure is located at 26133 US Hwy 19 N. Ste 107 Clearwater This is at the intersection with Enterprise Road in the plaza with TGIF south of the mall and north of Fresh Market.

I am lo maintenance and he gives such a good cut it grows out so well for so long i only need to go a couple times a year...When you visit tell him Cathy said to say hello to 'Blow-J' and maybe you will get the story behind the inside joke....

Technorati Tags: Salon Allure clearwater florida,haircut,haircolor,curly hair,hairstyle,long hair,short hair,the fresh market,TGIF,Countryside mall,W.O.T.E.

Just Won't Burn

One of my favorite artist releases was guitarist and singer Susan Tedeschi's (click this link to watch the video ->)Just Won't Burn. 

I picked it up on a fluke and loved every song on it.  She almost won the Grammy that year, and I've gone on to buy her other releases.  She has a voice that is a combination of Janis Joplin in it's raspy power and Bonnie Raitt in it's lyrical tone.  She is a great story teller, and as an added bonus she is married to the uber talented Derek Trucks.  This guy can jam.  If you like blues - real R&B Guitar, not R&B hiphop then you will be blown away.

While she has her own band, she does tour with Derek's band, and I had the luxury of seeing them live... and here comes another chance - tickets on sale later today for a performance at The Tampa Theatre - one of my all time favorite venues. 

First of all the architecture of the building is magnificent, it's 1920's, Nouveau, marble inlaid floors, dark solid hardwoods, and the theatre interior looks like a grotto and is about the size of an old time projection theatre.  The ceiling has twinkle lights in the centers of a dark starry sky.  So romantic to just sit there in a red velvet seat and watch a movie or listen to the Wurlitzer Organ.

The seating is small so there is not a bad seat in the house and there is a balcony, old time, meaning it's UPSTAIRS, an overhanging second level.  Not a bad seat in the house!  And there is a concessions stand where you can actually get a drink.

DEREK TRUCKS & SUSAN TEDESCHI

SOUL STEW REVIVAL

MONDAY, DECEMBER 29, 7:30PM

click here to order tickets

Technorati Tags: susan tedeschi,derek trucks,live music,R & B Guitar,blues,Bonnie Raitt,Janis Joplin,Tampa Theatre,Soul Stew Revival,Monday December 29th,Wurlitzer Organ,Art Nouveau

Team Match

Sorry readers, no photos to share of the three studio judged dances at this time, if I get some from a friend I will upload them later.   We had an early lead but did not take the first place trophy. 

The lesson learned is sometimes it is good to break the rules you have set for yourself  and do something you swore you would never do, because you just might enjoy yourself.  Besides a new challenge of learning some basic dance steps this month, I have learned some things about myself which is always refreshing for a person who thinks they know themselves pretty darn well!

It's Official

My ballot has been cast in favor of Obama/Biden.

On a fun note, I purchased my first pair of ballroom dance shoes yesterday afternoon and broke them in last evening...I wanted a lighter shade that would blend in with my skintone and the floor but could not wait so I ended up with this coppery tone which looks pretty hot if i say so myself:

 

And yes, your toes ARE supposed to hang over the edge like that.  They do not want to sole of the shoe to show and i've heard some dancers like to feel the floor with their toes.  In Latin dancing you are primarily on the ball of your foot.  This is a 3 inch heel, making me almost 6 ft. Fo'Shizzle!

These came from On Pointe Dancewear on Central Avenue in St. Pete Fl.  They are made by Stephanie Ballroom:

Stephanie Professional Dance Shoes 92005, New Dark Tan *Real leather interior material for extra skin comfort. *Special exterior fabrication/satin made for WATER/OIL/DIRT RESISTANCE (3R = 3 Resistance) *Memory padding for super extra comfort, made with special padding material provides both comfort and long lasting (very strong and thick padding against decompression that last 5 times longer than every leading brand)

Technorati Tags: Stephanie dance shoes,ballroom dance shoes,on pointe dancewear,rungo dance academy,obama,florida early voting

Early Voting in Florida

It's started here in Florida, and while some people i know prefer to wait until the last minute in case something should happen in the days leading up to the 'election day' I am in favor of bypassing waiting in line and declaring my intentions as soon as I am clear and committed. With so many strong opinions  being voiced about politics I thought you might all enjoy a little humor on the subject.  As you may know, i started ballroom dance lessons this month, see my sidebar for more details - come join me for free one night if you are in the area!

Technorati Tags: Obama,McCain,Rungo Dance Academy,Florida,Early Voting,Dance lessons

The mark of a true friendship

That burning smell was generated by my recent reflections on friendships that endure the tests of time and distance.  Here are some of the qualities that i find cement that bond, and you probably have a few experiences to add yourself - please comment, sharing yourself with the world makes it a better place:)

• they make you laugh, hard, and usually over some inside joke that leaves the rest of the world scratching their heads in wonder and disbelief that any people could be so foolish
• you don't CARE how foolish you look to others when you are with them, you will sacrifice all dignity to make them laugh
• they know where you are coming from, even if they didn't take the same path to get there
• when you see them or talk to them there is no sense of time or separation, even if it's been a 20 years since you last set eyes on one another or heard the melody of the others voice

you want more for them (of everything) then you could dream of for yourself

you wish they lived next door or in your spare bedroom so you could spend more time goofing off with them

they have been there for the good times and stayed for the bad

......................................................... What are the qualities you value most?

Let them eat cake! Or Cookies!

I have 2 sites to rave about to meet all your sweet needs!  If you have friends,  family or clients that you need to get that perfect something for but you just don't know what here is a perfect idea:

Sweet Lady Cakes

Home made by Chris

Click to see it and believe it, then order it to taste it - YUMMMM!

Technorati Tags: sweetladycakes,http://sweetladycakes.com/wordpress/,http://www.homemadebychris.com,home made cakes,gifts,home baked goods

 

Baby needs a new pair of shoes...

The Pelle Moda 'Vino' Sandal - makes me want to be a very bad girl....

Beaded rope intertwines with the iridescent snakeskin straps of a gorgeous evening sandal balanced atop a lofty wrapped heel and platform. Ankle strap with crystal-encrusted buckle closure and inset elastic. Approx. heel height: 4 1/2" with 3/4" platform.

believe it or not, these were EASY to walk in and I really WANTED THEM, but i bought these instead because they really looked more like me - classy dare i say, and even the salesman thought they looked better on...me wearing the shoe instead of the other way around....

Pelle Moda 'Colleen' Sandal - Tiny beads line the metallic suede straps of an elegant evening sandal with a wrapped high heel. Slingback strap with buckle closure, approx. heel height: 3 3/4".

Way more coin that I have dropped on a pair of shoes since I can't remember when...

Technorati Tags: nordsrtom,shoes,silver sandals

Git er Done...

  It's never too late to try something new and different, so I gladly accepted an invite to the Citrus Speedway to hang out in the Pit with the cars and drivers and see my friend's car race the 8 track. 

After polling my most fashion conscious girlfriends, I found they expected me to be dressed as Cha Cha Rodriguez, and as flattering as this glamorous comparison was I opted for plan B - ball cap, shades, jeans, and a wife-beater....

 

My girlfriend, auto owner and hostess with the mostess, Mimi Powlus, told me not matter what i wore i would feel like miss america. 

I already know that one does not have to travel very far outside of Pinellas county to get a taste of the Floridian that seems to always make the national news and represent our great state - toothless, in need of a haircut, dressed like a vagrant (those who actually wear a shirt), badly done tattoos, and abundant dip - you have watched the news so you know what i mean. 

If you are one of my dear friends who does not own a television set, i did take a photo of the likes of my gender's representation:

Now, i am well aware of the fashion craze for low rise jeans and do own a couple pairs myself and therefore fully appreciate the challenges of maintaining discretion when it comes to one's butt cleavage when attempting to do anything other than remaining perfectly upright  in  them...in fact if you were standing behind me in the photo op just above and the wife beater came untucked you may have been able to sneak a peak below the beltline...

I am also aware that it is fashionable to show ones whale tail or g-string above the waistline of ones jeans, however if that was this poor girls intention she has poor placement and should have went for something fancier from vicky's secret that had a little rhinestone bauble back there.  I mean if you are going to do something, why go halfway?

 

   MIMI and MIL

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE TRACK CAR

 

 

 

 

MIMI'S DRIVER,

JOEY CATRARELLI

 

 

This was my 28 year old boy-toy for the night - The 'STUD' - he's kinda like the mascot.

 

Technorati Tags: citrus county speedway,powlus racing,joey catarelli,track cars,auto racing,8 track racing,sunshine speedway

She's Crafty....

Some of you from my generation will now be hearing in your mind's stereo a song of that name and with those lyrics (She's Crafty, and just my type...) courtesy of The Beastie Boys.  One Beastie went to HS of the Performing Arts with my first BF and I got to meet him one nite at BAR in Manhattan...yes BAR was the name of the BAR...such was my brush with fame.

But I digress... I really want to share with you fellow blog lovers and papercrafters a link to a blog with some awesome photos, projects, and joie de vive of none other than Jules....if you frequent The Rouge (where I should be cropping now!)  you probably know of Jules already.

Please pay Jules a visit and see her latest creation, featuring a vintage image and a lovely sachet bag that would make a nice gift item!

Technorati Tags: http://postingfromparadise.blogspot.com/,posting from paradise,Gypsy Rose Paperie,beastie boys,she's crafty,papercrafts,scrapbooking with love,sachets

Alter Ego's OC:

Some of you faithful readers know I have a tendency to go on (and on) and you should know that today is One Of Those Days, and before you go any further I suggest you get yourself a fresh cuppa'joe - and if you have not yet read today's installment of Steven's blog (link posted yesterday and in my blogs i stalk) you will really get the full benefit of today's streaming consciousness if you start there first.

The title of today's post is appropriate because just the other day Steven described me rather accurately to some college buddies as his alter ego.  Talk about your freakin light bulb moments... the heavens parted and a chorus of angels was singing during that epiphany.  How an introspect like myself had never realized this yin-yangness before this very moment is beyond me.  Thankfully one is never too old to keep learning.  Hard to believe I have to give THAT BOY props for schooling me though - that was the more shocking part of the exchange!  It's a consummate battle between good and evil and dear readers, you know I am the pure hearted one - the Ivory Girl may have plenty of diabolical thoughts but she has enough sense and impulse control to keep Satan, Er, Uh, Steven behind her.

Plus he lives in the OC and his blog is about his obsession with fitness.

But on with the real reason for the post - I can't go on an on in my comments on his blog and turn it into a mocumentary, when I have my very own place to do so - here!

Let it begin:

Alter Ego is not adopted, but her mother has told whoever has asked that she found me on the doorstep and I really belong to a nice couple from Iowa. 

Alter Ego has a general rule about not running anywhere unless lifesaving is involved, particularly her very own.  Despite any amount of stretching, very bad shin splints.  This does not stop me from the desire of having runner's legs or the elusive endorphin rush.  It's just that if you have seen me you know i love the GLAM and looking like mobsters took a baseball bat to the fronts of your legs doesn't quite fit the image.  I try to tune into my body and find this is my bod's was of saying 'SIT THE F#@K DOWN'.

Alter Ego is a delicate flower and has never broken a bone or gotten a split hair in her lifetime.  Hope to make it to the grave that way.  I have an obsession with personal safety and not making the Darwin Awards.

My typical fitness regimen involves shuffling around the house in whatever I wore to bed (unless i have an errand to run), 1 sprint to and from the mailbox to get back inside before a neighbor can see me out of doors and strike up conversation with me in my bedclothes, and once a week i do an hour and a half of Anusara Yoga (replaced my hour of Pilates) and have added 45 mintues of dance class.

Here is my nutritional intake for yesterday - pretty much the same from day to day:

32 oz of coffee or tea, on sluggish days 32oz of each  (but never plain water) with 1tsp of white granulated sugar per mug and soy milk (had to give up the cow due to cholesterol or it would be cream all the way).

Multivitamin, extra Vit.D and Calcium for strong bones, 81 mg aspirin for heart health, TR niacin to help with the cholesterol (it seems to do nothing).

Fibrous cereal - choice of shredded wheat, Kashi Go Lean, Special K with red berries and half a pint of fresh berries with enough soy milk to wet.  I do not like milk left in the bowl.  Oatmeal is good - never instant, with raisins and brown sugar and sometimes a pat of butter and milk.

Hershey Bar with Almonds - 1.45 oz bar (daily at least once)

Yesterday lunch was butternut squash ravioli with sugar snap peas, silvered carrots and a couple green peas in a white sauce.

Because I had to get ready to go out I did not have a proper dinner but I am not big on eating a large meal in the evening (unless the VIP is home) and try not to eat after 7pm.

My energy pick up was in the form of a can of Vanilla Coke (sans bourbon, I'm driving myself) and a Special K cereal bar (AKA rice krispie treat).

When i got home it was already 10 pm, so a fruit on the bottom cherry yogurt before nite-nite.

Technorati Tags: woman on the edge blog,wealthynelson,catherine blackman,catherine nelson,http://stevensobcessiveroutine.blogspot.com/

Living Vicariously

Many of my Facebook friends have been open and honest in revealing their love of my wall to wall conversations with an old college friend. For those of you who I have yet to convince to get on Facebook and add me as your friend, you can now read his blog. I will comment there now and again, but please don't expect it to hold a candle to the MA rated entries on Facebook. One very good thing, he promises pictures, so if you (or anyone you know) is interested in watching a hot body get even hotter SUBSCRIBE!

Steven's blog

Note - there is a typo in the link, if/after it's corrected and you find this is corrupt, look to the updated 'blogs I stalk' for the good link!

Technorati Tags: http://technorati.com/tags/http://stevensobcessiveroutine.blogspot.com/.%20FACEBOOK,HEALTH,FITNESS

Have i told you lately

     how much I love yoga?

Lonely Girl's Shopping Spree

Today I heard the VIP's voice for the last time for a month to come and I am all kinds of bummed, so what else is there for a lonely girl to do but throw herself a pity party and go shopping? (OK there are lots of other things to do, but I am trying to preserve this relationship and this seemed to be a choice with the lesser of possible fallouts).

Here is what I came away with:

 

1. Black pants with a large flapped accent pocket the VIP will love.

2. Hippie chic jeans: a.'BAM' b.Embroidered details c. front pocket details

3. I almost didn't buy this dress, but boy am I glad I did.

4. Bling T.

5. I <3 screen printed Ts, the hold lettering is glitta!

6. Insane cleavage in this black broadcloth - Ybor?

7. Continuing the pink & green theme from yesterday - this is a racerback and

     methinks it will look better with special undergarments.

8. This lace top is very femme, perfect for the Ivory Girl.

9. Shoes (need I say more?)  the center strap is glitta!  Pair these with the   

    dress and I'm ready for a dance party!

Technorati Tags: shopping,fashion

Supporting the economy...

Today I did a number of my favorite things to do, go to an arts & crafts show, walk around out of doors, enjoy the weather, admire handicrafts and support a charity and a local artisan with my hard earned dollars. I love all things handmade and the people who make them. My purchase was this lovely thing:

It is made by hand, here in the USA, by Christine Nissley. She does not use a loom, and had some exquisite jackets, shrugs, ponchos, tops and scarves, most in vibrant colors with fantastic FRINGE (can you tell i love FRINGE?) and great textural yarns.

I fell for this because I had never seen a knit babydoll, and there is a ribbon tie that falls under the bustline and accents the waistline and has a long side slit where the ribbon falls. I find it very appealing, however the VIP is not crazy about my other knits and doubt he will like this one. The yarn is silk and pale pink and green.

Visit C&C Collectibles, Chrissie's Creations for somthing great all your own: 813-765-4645, cnissley@yahoo.com, chrissiescreation.etsy.com She is an accountant by day, this is her hobby craft. BUY USA!

One of a kind beautiful hand knitted wearable art made out of luxury yarns. This is a store where you can go from casual to elegant at the blink of an eye. Original designs and many one of a kind items. Custom orders are welcome for any size and color. Now is a great time for me to knit up some wonderful new designs. Please check back often to see the new wearable art that "Chrissie's Creations" has to offer. I will also be offering kits soon for some of my designs if you too are an avid knitter.

Technorati Tags: c&c collectibles,chrissie's creations,etsy

OCT 10-12 - CRICKETERS CANCER FUNDRAISER!

If you are in the Tampa Bay area, plan to stop by and have some fun - all for a good cause!  Raffle prizes, free stuff, promotional babes, live music, beer tent, what more could you want?

***** RAFFLE PRIZE LIST *****

(updated frequently)

(1) 14k white gold and diamond breast cancer awareness necklace valued at $1500 (with warranty)

(1) 14k white gold and smokey quartz bracelet valued at $400 (with warranty)

(1) 2 night stay at The Sheraton Sand Key, Clearwater

(1) 3 hour limo ride from Julie's Limousine

(2) 2 hour billiard vouchers for four people at JJ's Prime Time Lounge

(3) $30 gift certificates to Rayz Tanning Salon

(3) $25 gift certificates to Fat Daddy's Watering Hole

(1) original steel sculpture of "The North Wind Blowing" by: Spencer

(1) original painting by: Deb Farley

(1) "Pamper Yourself" basket from Barbara Galliher

and many, many more to come...

 

Technorati Tags: http://www.cricketerspub.com/htm/Cut_Cancer_Out_2008.html,cancer fundraiser,cricketers pub,Octoberfest

CLICK HERE FOR ALL THE DETAILS!

10/4 2nd Annual Hospice Arts&Crafts Show

Join me This Saturday from 10 am until 4 pm!  There will be over 100 crafters, a cafe will be open for lunch, donations go to The Hospice of the Florida Suncoast - Pinellas Counties not-for-profit worklife wellness program.

The location is 5771 Roosevelt Blvd., Clearwater, FL 33760

Find out more about Hospice or make a donation!

Technorati Tags: Hospice of the Florida Suncoast,Arts & Crafts Show

  You will find fun things like this holiday card!

WANNA DANCE?

2 TICKETS TO JOIN ME ON WEDNESDAY NITE, YOURS FOR THE ASKING!

 

Ask for Troy!

The Frog Prince

 

I found this toad, well actually my Boston Terrier (Gretchen) found it, in the yard about 2 months ago.  I spent more than an hour prodding it along the fence line trying to help it exit the yard and spare it further harassment from the dogs.  Not only did it not want to leave the yard, but HE TREID TO BITE ME several times!

Yesterday it was a drizzly morning and toad was rather enjoying himself and let me take this photo before hopping into the ferns.

Let me introduce you

to BK Jackson!  Bernard “B.K.” Jackson is a 16 year old saxophone sensation, who stimulates the soul with rejuvenating gospel and refreshing jazz.  I have been eagerly awaiting this cd which arrived by mail today and I will be playing it tomorrow!

He is playing at this years Clearwater Jazz Festival in Coachman Park, opening act for Tony Bennett!  This is a free outdoor event...check it out.

Read about BK Jackson

Technorati Tags: Bernard “B.K.” Jackson,16 year old saxophone sensation,http://www.clearwaterjazz.com/index.html