miller.insight

Blue Man Group...

2010-02-05T09:16:00.002-05:00

Well, I am finally going to see the movie Avatar this weekend. I think my best friend and I might be the last ones left on THIS planet to go see it... hope that means we'll have the theater to ourselves!!!

Have a great weekend, everyone.

Great Actor... Great Movie

2010-01-18T08:47:00.002-05:00

I am so happy that Robert Downey Jr won the best actor Golden Globe for his performance in "Sherlock Holmes".

Happy New Year!!

2010-01-04T13:38:00.002-05:00

Wishing everyone a very happy and healthy 2010!

The Voice...

2009-06-30T08:27:00.002-04:00

I know that this is a blast from the past... but I'd like for you to take five minutes out of your day to watch this. Karen Carpenter's amazing voice and this incredible song affected me deeply as a child.

Just soak it in... her voice... and the lyrics. What a beautiful combination.

Angel...

2009-06-25T13:37:00.002-04:00

Farrah Fawcett has lost her courageous battle with cancer. May she always be remembered as the beauty from the iconic 70's poster.

After showing us how to face life's overwhelming challenges so gracefully... go, be free of all the pain you have withstood... and fly with the rest of the angels.

Alice in Wonderland...

2009-06-23T09:27:00.006-04:00

Tim Burton is adding his off-beat creativity to a classic. Here are some first-look photos of Alice in Wonderland that is coming to theaters in March 2010.

Helena Bonham Carter as the Red Queen...

Anne Hathaway as the White Queen...

and Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter

I do love the collaboration between Tim Burton and Johnny Depp. They continually amazing me with their playful (and sometimes dark) charm. It should be another interesting creation by Tim Burton!

Techno Fun...

2009-06-22T10:13:00.004-04:00

I got a new play thing... um, I mean phone!!

On Friday, I went to Verizon and upgraded my phone to the new LG enV Touch. And although I am trying to figure out all of it's bells and whistles... I absolutely love it!!

Here is the phone when it's closed. The front is a touch screen...

And if you need to do any in depth texting... you just flip it open to use a full QWERTY keyboard!

It's my fourth LG... and it's really a great phone... Way to go LG!!

Totally 80's...

2009-06-10T15:37:00.002-04:00

I was sucked into a serious time warp this weekend when I turned on VH1. I watched "100 Greatest One-Hit Wonders of the 80's" and "100 Greatest Songs of the 80's".

Oh, such a guilty pleasure...

Ice Waves...

2009-04-09T08:22:00.007-04:00

I was fortunate enough to grow up on Houghton Lake, the largest inland lake in Michigan... taking approximately 33 miles to drive around it!

I remember as a kid... in the spring, I would get into the car with my parents and we would drive around the lake to view the ice damage on the shoreline. What that meant was checking out the piles of ice that broke from the lake, seeing how high the "ice waves" were... how close they were to the lakeside homes... and assess the damage to the homes that the ice overtook!

I thought I'd share some photos from the local paper to show you the progress of this year's ice. It was noted that some of the ice piles are 20 foot high.

Great Lakes State...

2009-03-26T12:16:00.005-04:00

Michigan needs to be renamed as the "Great Weight State"

after this one...

Michigan baseball park to offer

4,800-calorie burgers

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Well, at least the salsa is low-cal. The West Michigan Whitecaps, a minor league baseball team, will be offering up major league cholesterol, carbohydrates and calories in an enormous hamburger being added to the menu this year at the Fifth Third Ballpark.

The 4-pound, $20 burger features five beef patties, five slices of cheese, nearly a cup of chili and liberal doses of salsa and corn chips, all on an 8-inch sesame-seed bun.

The Grand Rapids Press reports that anyone who eats the entire 4,800-calorie behemoth in one sitting will receive a special T-shirt.

Um.... I hope it's an Extra-Large T-shirt!

Star Light...

2009-03-19T08:16:00.002-04:00

Star Bright

One star in heaven just got a little brighter.

Natasha Richardson passed away at the age of 45 as a result of her injuries sustained in a fall on a Canadian ski slope.

This statement was released last night...
"Liam Neeson, his sons and the entire family are shocked and devastated by the tragic death of their beloved Natasha," the statement said. "They are profoundly grateful for the support, love and prayers of everyone and ask for privacy during this very difficult time."

I am having a hard time with this one...

Thoughts and Prayers...

2009-03-17T08:52:00.003-04:00

Actress Natasha Richardson suffered a serious head injury in a skiing accident in Canada on Monday. Richardson, 45, was taken in critical condition to a hospital near the Mont Tremblant ski resort, then transferred to a larger medical center in Montreal. Her husband, Irish actor Liam Neeson, rushed from a movie set in Toronto to be by her side.

What an amazing actress... she has such grace with a hint of old Hollywood. I do hope that this story has a happy outcome...

And now...

2009-03-01T21:04:00.004-05:00

The rest of the story.

A radio icon passed away on Saturday. Paul Harvey filled our airwaves at noon every weekday for years. Now that great voice has been silenced at the age of 90.

I will forever remember his parting words each day: This is Paul Harvey... Good Day.

Wonderful World...

2009-02-10T08:08:00.003-05:00

Of Disney!!!

I had a great trip... and will definitely go back to Disney World.

It is the Happiest Place on Earth!!!

M-I-C...

2009-01-23T08:19:00.003-05:00

See Ya Real Soon!!!

So Jodi, now that the country has a new president...

what are you going to do??

I'M GOING TO DISNEY WORLD!!!

I'll be getting my fill of Vitamin D for about a week...

so I'll be missing in action for a while.

I will have pictures to post when I return.

Have a great week!

A New Day...

2009-01-20T08:42:00.003-05:00

May today be the beginning of what we need most...

hope, change, and promise.

A Moment in Time...

2009-01-16T10:47:00.003-05:00

Today, there are many families who are blessed to still have their loved ones with them. The story of US Airways Flight 1549 could have had a completely different outcome if it hadn't been for the amazing veteran pilot, C.B. "Sully" Sullenberger behind the controls... and the hands of God guiding him.

Just another moment to realize that miracles do happen... everyday.

They call me a designer...

2009-01-08T14:01:00.005-05:00

I guess no one will want to be eating over

at my place from now on.

No Words...

2009-01-05T11:05:00.003-05:00

I cannot express the sadness I feel for parents who lose a child...

it's unimaginable.

My heart goes out to John Travolta, Kelly Preston, and Ella.

Out with the Old... In with the New!!

2008-12-31T08:46:00.001-05:00

I hope all of you have a great 2009!

Happy Holidays!!

2008-12-23T07:53:00.003-05:00

In 30 Seconds...

2008-12-17T08:41:00.008-05:00

That's all it takes for this commercial to take me back to September 11, 2004. My last day in Switzerland... and my last embrace with The Austrian.

How can 30 seconds... with no words... bring back a heart full of emotion?

Kate Winslet's expression of the longing, the hope... of what is, what was, what can never be... filling me with the memory of heartbreak and LOVE like no other.

Where ever life takes me... I will never forget the emotions I experienced with the man that changed my life... and how I feel about love.

He will forever haunt me... and it's something I will cherish... always.

Love is a treasure...

Older than Dirt?

2008-12-16T13:57:00.002-05:00

NO... but I am older than the MOUSE!

On December 9, 1968, Stanford Research Institute scientist Douglas Engelbart demonstrated his unique invention -- the computer mouse -- for the first time in public. It took another decade and a half for it to catch on, but once it did, computing was never the same.

Boy... do I feel old!!! ;-)

Best Thing EVER...

2008-12-15T08:42:00.007-05:00

I have a new best friend. It's the NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Machine!! I love it so much that I have even given it a name... Rosie. Why... because the shape of it reminds me of Rosie, the maid from the Jetsons!

Here's a little PSA on this wonderful machine:

It’s never been easier to produce a high-quality, coffeehouse caliber drink experience in the convenience of your own home. NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto is a single-cup coffee solution that is specially-designed for the savvy coffee drinker:

• No mess, No fuss. Everything you need to make hot or cold drinks are contained in our easy-to-use capsules

• NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto utilizes a professional-level 15-bar pressure system (similar to coffeehouse machines) which helps to ensure that every cup is perfect with a foamy froth, rich crèma and luxurious flavor. Other single-cup home brewers offer only one-to-three bars of pressure

• The unique patented Custom Control Lever, combined with airtight capsules, is specifically designed to optimize the extraction pressure delivering the best quality, texture and customized strength with every cup

• The exclusive KRUPS Thermoblock technology heats the water fresh every time, in less than one minute

• NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto uses only the highest quality ingredients - featuring only 100% Arabica roast and ground coffee, rich chocolate and foamy milk

• Stylish and sleek design that will stand out on any kitchen counter

I'm telling you people... this machine is AWESOME!!

The Dark Side...

2008-12-05T10:44:00.005-05:00

This weekend my best friend and I are having our annual Star Wars movie marathon! It'll start tonight with two of the movies along with sushi and martinis. Tomorrow we will resume our movie fest with the remaining four movies while we chow down on doughnuts (we have to start fairly early), ham and green onion rolls (appetizers), and pizza!! We will be sipping on cosmos most of the day... and I stress "sipping"... or we never would remember the third or fourth movie!!

Okay... we are nerds! But really it is just an excuse to lounge around in sweatpants and eat and drink until our heart's content... or our belly's are full!!

May the force be with all of you this weekend!

Oh, the weather outside is frightful...

2008-12-01T11:20:00.003-05:00

We have about 4 inches of the white stuff on the ground... and everything else for that matter!!

It actually is quite beautiful... although the road I live on will NEVER be plowed. So it's slip and slide through my neighborhood streets to get to work. But at least the office is close... and I don't have to get on the main streets with everyone else!!

Winter is here, folks!!!

Giving Thanks...

2008-11-26T11:46:00.003-05:00

It's the time of year to give thanks to those we normally don't think to give thanks to!!!

I hope all of you have a very Happy Holiday Weekend...

and safe travels as you make your way to your

Thanksgiving destination!

Be well... and eat well!!!

Headline of the Day...

2008-11-25T11:17:00.003-05:00

Finally, urine recycler passes astronauts' test

According to the Associated Press... astronauts now can drink their own urine!! Very exciting news!!

I predict in 2012, you'll find a similar device in your nearest Home Depot... on the shelf right next to the Brita Water Purifiers!!!

Can't Wait!!! EWWW!!!

Before and After...

2008-11-20T14:16:00.004-05:00

I saw this side-by-side comparison photo of Mickey Rourke (then and now) and I about threw-up! What happened to this guy? Okay, I know people age... but what happened to "gracefully"???

I am completely grossed out and at a loss for words!

When You Wish Upon a Star...

2008-11-18T11:56:00.002-05:00

Happy 80th Birthday, Mickey!

I can't wait to go to Walt Disney World in January... I haven't been there since I was three, so I am sure much has changed over the past 37 years!! And I think all it will take is a week's worth of Disney magic for this 40-year-old to reclaim a bit of her youth!!

Home of the Brave...

2008-11-11T11:18:00.002-05:00

To all the people who served our great country...

and to all of those who never came home.

I salute you.

Can't Help Myself...

2008-11-05T08:09:00.002-05:00

I woke up this morning with this Louis Armstrong song going through my head...

I see trees of green........ red roses too
I see em bloom..... for me and for you
And I think to myself.... what a wonderful world.

Time will tell what the future holds... but for now I think it's looking bright.

Just Do It....

2008-11-03T11:19:00.005-05:00

Whoever you may vote for...

just get out there tomorrow

and make your voice heard!

Mini 1986 Class Reunion...

2008-10-27T08:30:00.005-04:00

I went up to my hometown this weekend to visit my parents and meet up with some of my high school buddies. We had a great time...

It's me, Tina, Mary, and Jane... looking just as good (if not better!!) as we did in high school!!

And while we were out, I ran into a high school crush of mine... my art teacher, Mr. Rachilla. He's still handsome after all these years!

Transformer...

2008-10-21T11:14:00.004-04:00

Here's an insect that was clinging to my screen door.

Is it a grasshopper... or is it a leaf?

I don't know what it was... but it was very cool!!

Sorry for the poor quality photos...

I couldn't get my camera to focus that close-up!

Girls Game Night!

2008-10-17T08:37:00.003-04:00

Tonight a bunch of my friends are getting together to have a game night. It is always fun and exciting... with lots of drinks, food, and laughter!!

Have a great weekend, everyone.

Yippeee!!!...

2008-10-13T11:21:00.003-04:00

It's sad, but true...

I am excited about the gasoline

I purchased yesterday!

$3.09

Could we possibly be seeing it fall

below $3.00 soon?

One can only hope!!

Lovestruck...

2008-10-03T10:38:00.004-04:00

Tonight in Santa Barbara at the Biltmore, the divine and debonair Ed Harris will be honored with the Kirk Douglas Award for Excellence in Film.

I have always loved this man... and always will! This award couldn't go to a finer actor.

October is...

2008-10-01T09:25:00.004-04:00

Breast Cancer Awareness month.

So all you women, I ask you to do one thing...

They're Back....

2008-09-29T16:52:00.002-04:00

Yes... it's that time of the year again!

Brothers & Sisters is back on TV!!

I have become addicted to this show... and will seek treatment once all the first-run episodes have aired!

Last night was the season premiere... and the Walker family are just as fun to watch as they were when they left us last season.

If you haven't given this show a chance... please do so... it's worth the watch!

Go with the Flow...

2008-09-19T09:04:00.005-04:00

Last weekend Mid-Michigan received over 6 inches of rain in a short 48-hour period. With that, it brought on leaky roofs (mine), flooded streets, and overflowing rivers.

The Red Cedar River cuts through the heart of Lansing and East Lansing. It is usually a very serene and peaceful river. But after this weekend's rains... it became a white water rapids!

Here is what the river normally looks like.

This is what some MSU college students, having a rare oppportunity, decided to do on the river the last few days.

SURFING... On the river!! Not something you see everyday in the Great Lakes State!

The Devil in Disguise....

2008-09-11T10:19:00.005-04:00

Mike's Hard Lemonade looks and tastes innocent enough... but having 5 bottles of this concoction while dining with friends on a week night... well, let's just say it's really not the best thing to do.

Let me tell you, it was a slow start to the morning... and I don't feel so lemony fresh!

P.S. Hey Dad, if you are reading this... don't tell Mom!! (Yes people... I am a grown woman still not wanting to disappoint the parents!! ha ha)

Funny Girl...

2008-09-08T16:50:00.002-04:00

I can't wait to go home this evening and watch....

I DVR'ed it... and will continue to do so every day! I absolutely adore Bonnie Hunt and think that she is one of the funniest actresses in the business. I have been a fan of hers ever since I saw her in the movie "Only You".

I am very interested to see how she does in the "talk show" world... I hope that it's a success for her.

Going Batty...

2008-09-02T11:59:00.005-04:00

For a little excitement on Saturday night... I got to capture a Little Brown Bat that was flying around INSIDE my best friend's house. It was quite exciting... and a bit scary.

This picture isn't the actual one that I caught (but that is exactly what it looked like!)... no time for picture taking when I am in the middle of a battle!

I wasn't too afraid of it... but I was definitely afraid of being bit. It looked larger flying around than it actually was... the wingspan make its size very deceiving. But the little thing had BIG fangs... and I knew that the fish net and sheet I was using to catch it would not give me much protection.

I had to wait for a bit before it landed and I could capture it without harming it... or me for that matter!! It took me about 15 minutes to finally secure it in the net and sheet before taking it out into the street under the light to let it free.

It sure was a thrilling adventure for a single girl on a Saturday night!!

'Tis the Season...

2008-08-28T08:35:00.005-04:00

I hope all of you have a

safe, happy, healthy, and "warm"

Labor Day weekend!

Dropping the Ball...

2008-08-21T11:56:00.006-04:00

er... I mean baton!

Both the men's and women's US 4 x 100 relay teams literally dropped the baton in the Olympics last night. It's sad to see great teams blunder on the fundamentals when competing... but it just goes to show you that they too are human... and mistakes can always be made!

Sorry that it had to happen when the stakes were so high and they were going for gold! :-(

Fallen Arch...

2008-08-14T11:58:00.004-04:00

BEFORE

AFTER

Another one of the nation's natural wonders is gone. The Wall Arch in Arches National Park has crumbled.

I was fortunate enough to visit this arch last year during our camping trip out west. I'm glad that I had the opportunity to take in this beautiful sight before it was gone.

Love...

2008-08-13T14:40:00.002-04:00

A little macaque nestles its head on a pigeon that responds peacefully on Neilingding Island, China.

Doesn't this sight make your heart melt?

Love this Guy!!...

2008-08-08T10:37:00.002-04:00

Joshua Allen became the last man standing on last night's "So You Think You Can Dance" finale! And although he may not have been the best dancer in the finals... you can't take away the fact that this kid has heart. This is a hip-hop guy that has had minimal dance training. But he tackled each and every dance genre with the grace and balance of a well-trained dancer.

He had this enduring quality about him... you would see this football-player-like guy... and then find out that here is a kid who is so graceful, sensitive, and grateful. That's rare!! Especially at 19 years old!

I wish him the best... he has a good head on his shoulders... and I hope that he makes the most of the wonderful opportunities that he has lying in front of him.

Congratulations, Joshua!!

Never Been Gone...

2008-07-29T09:38:00.005-04:00

This song by Carly Simon gives me such peace... feels like home.

The video is a bit cheesy, but it was early on in the video-making days.

Take a couple of minutes to listen and enjoy!

Ceiling Art...

2008-07-24T13:39:00.002-04:00

This ceiling was in a small room of the Markburg Castle outside of Koblenz, Germany. What beautiful colors... very dramatic.

Have a great weekend...

She Calls to Me...

2008-07-11T10:15:00.004-04:00

How I wish to be in Venice again...

Have a great weekend everyone.

The Puppy That Never Was...

2008-07-08T12:58:00.016-04:00

This past week has been a very trying time for me. I went and got this beautiful little puppy from a breeder... it was purely love at first sight. I named him Graham... and he was all about love and puppy kisses.

Later that afternoon, he began to get lethargic... his little stomach was

growling, but he refused to eat. So with the holiday weekend fast approaching... I thought I had better get

Graham to the vet.

Only 6 hours after falling in love with this little boy... I found out that he had the parvo virus. It would cost anywhere from $1,400-$2,500 to treat him. And as much as I had fallen in love with him... I knew that I could not afford the vet bills. So I had to contact the breeder and arrange for Graham to go back.

After his three-day hospital stay, Graham recovered from this nasty virus... and I was blessed to keep him at my house for a few more days until the breeder could settle the vet bills and come pick him up. And although it ultimately was my choice to give him back... today, I said goodbye to this little one... and my heart hurts.

This whole experience has left me disillusioned and wondering if I really want a puppy. Do I have the time, energy and MONEY to give to a puppy? For now... I am finished with the idea of having a little one romping around.

But these last few days have been filled with sweet puppy breath... and I will forever love my little Graham.

Could Tomorrow Be The Day??...

2008-07-02T13:41:00.003-04:00

I am actually taking a half day tomorrow so I can go over to the east part of Michigan to look at 2 puppies!! They are 8 week old cocker spaniels... a boy and a girl... so I have to make the decision once I get to interact with them. They are adorable... merles with a bit of chocolate and white.

I see a lot of "picking up poo" in my future!!

Have a great July 4th weekend... be safe and have fun!

Happy Friday...

2008-06-27T12:12:00.002-04:00

Pop open a cold one and enjoy the weekend... have fun and be safe!

I Can't Deny It...

2008-06-25T08:44:00.003-04:00

Little Albert was such a good student!

My friend over at GingerSnaps inspired this post!

Round and Round We Go...

2008-06-20T10:04:00.002-04:00

I am at that point again...

To get a puppy. Or not to get a puppy.

That seems to be the question.

On one hand... I feel this is a good time in my life to get one. I live close to where I work, so I could go home during my lunch hour to help the housebreaking process and spend time with the puppy. I am much more responsible than I was when I had my first dog... and would do the proper things to ensure that the puppy would be well socialized and get the one-on-one time it deserves. (Not that my first dog wasn't socialized... but I was flying by the seat of my pants on how to properly raise him.) And quite frankly, the daily walks would do me just as good as the puppy!

On the other hand... I don't have a great yard for a dog. So do I try to fence what little yard I have or add a run line?? Of course, my dog wouldn't spend a lot of time outside... I want an inside dog. Yet with Michigan winters, how long do I want to be out in the blowing snow waiting for the dog to do it's "doody"!! Then there is my cat, Lilly. There is the underlying fear that she won't care to have a slobbery mutt hanging around HER house! Can I get them to live happily together? Another fact is that if and when I do take a trip... who will watch my pets? It's easier to pass off a single animal onto someone rather than a whole brood of creatures.

So there you have it... the never-ending merry-go-round of whether I should get a puppy or not.

Any thoughts??

Sick and Wrong....

2008-06-19T10:17:00.009-04:00

Winner of $57M Mega Millions

has criminal record

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — The winner of last week's $57 million Mega Millions lottery jackpot is a registered sex offender who pleaded guilty to assault with intent to commit sexual penetration and pleaded guilty to breaking and entering charges .

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

For all of us hard-working, law-abiding citizens who buy lotto tickets now and then... this is just a slap in the face.

All I can say is that at least now he will be able to afford his own lawyer the next time he gets caught breaking the law!

Let It Be...

2008-06-17T12:08:00.008-04:00

People are People... and Love is Love.

More than 55 years after they first met, longtime partners and

human-rights activists Del Martin, 87, and Phyllis Lyon, 83,

at 5:01 Monday night became the first same-sex couple

to be married in San Francisco.

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

Whether you think it is right or wrong...

and although I admit that I sometimes can't wrap my

thoughts around the whole gay/lesbian issue...

Everyone deserves the right to be happy.

The Photo Says It All...

2008-06-16T12:00:00.005-04:00

Luke Russert, son of the late 'Meet the Press' moderator Tim Russert, touches his father's empty chair on the darkened set at

NBC studios in Washington.

Rest in Peace....

The Truth about Life...

2008-06-11T12:10:00.003-04:00

My dad passed this on to me... and I thought I would share it!

Love him or hate him, he sure hits the nail on the head with this!

Bill Gates recently gave a speech at a High School about 11 things they did not and will not learn in school. He talks about how feel-good, politically correct teachings created a generation of kids with no concept of reality and how this concept set them up for failure in the real world.

Rule 1: Life is not fair - get used to it!

Rule 2: The world won't care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself.

Rule 3: You will NOT make $60,000 a year right out of high school You won't be a vice-president with a car phone until you earn both.

Rule 4: If you think your teacher is tough, wait till you get a boss.

Rule 5: Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your Grandparents had a different word for burger flipping: they called it opportunity.

Rule 6: If you mess up, it's not your parents' fault, so don't whine about your mistakes, learn from them.

Rule 7: Before you were born, your parents weren't as boring as they are now. They got that way from paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you thought you were. So before you save the rain forest from the parasites of your parent's generation, try delousing the closet in your own room.

Rule 8: Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life HAS NOT. In some schools, they have abolished failing grades and they'll give you as MANY TIMES as you want to get the right answer. This doesn't bear the lightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life.

Rule 9: Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you FIND YOURSELF. Do that on our own time...

Rule 10: Television is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.

Rule 11: Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working for one.

Trip Snippets...

2008-05-28T14:33:00.009-04:00

We had a great time on our River Cruise through Europe. We got to see parts of the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary... great sights, sounds, and eats!!

Here is a sampling of what we saw....

A Holocaust Memorial in Nijmegen, Netherlands

The amazing buildings, color and cathedral in Cologne, Germany

Passing by the Marksburg Castle outside of Koblenz, Germany

(we actually had stopped in Koblenz and

took a tour of this castle... very cool!)

The Melk Abbey (Germany)

A great little alley in Salzburg, Austria

Me, hanging out with Napoleon (what a stiff) in the city square of Bratislava, Slovakia

A nighttime river cruise of Budapest

Oh, and here is a sampling of our eats!!...

This was an incredible appetizer aboard ship. A crab salad covered with salmon, a little herb mustard, with a little selection of caviar scattered about the plate!!! DELICIOUS!!!

A Great Man...

2008-05-27T09:15:00.002-04:00

Director and actor Sydney Pollack dies at 73.

After fighting cancer for nine months, Sydney died on Monday afternoon, surrounded by his family.

He was a shining light in Hollywood... and he will be greatly missed.

Headline of the Day...

2008-04-25T16:46:00.002-04:00

Greater Wealth Tied to Lower Stroke Risk

Yes, people... "We confirmed that lower wealth, education, and income are associated with increased stroke up to age 65, and wealth is the strongest predictor of stroke among the factors we looked at," noted Dr. Mauricio Avendano.

This is just ONE more reason why I need to win the lotto!!

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

Catch you back here in a couple of weeks!!

Leaving on a Jet Plane...

2008-04-24T08:39:00.004-04:00

Okay, I know it has been a long time... too long... since I have posted on the blog. I do apologize, particularly to some certain family members who were extremely worried that I would NEVER get over the loss of my beloved Roy Scheider! ;-)

A lot of things were going on in my world... a new job... the thought of turning 40... and just everyday life. And to be honest, I didn't feel like I really had much to say. (Ginger and Claudia... thanks for checking in on me... wondering where the heck I have been!!)

But now... I feel settled in my job (and I am happy with the work I am doing)... turning the big 4-0 wasn't so bad after all... and more importantly, I have actually gone out on a couple of dates... WITH A MAN!!! Yippee!!

Also, I thought I would share with you my new adventure... my best friend and I are leaving on Saturday for a two-week European River Cruise!! It's to help celebrate (a.k.a. mourn... tee hee) the fact that I have turned 40! We start off in Amsterdam and cruise all the way to Budapest. It should be a wonderful time. And hopefully I will have a lot of great pictures to share with you when I get back!

Well... I just wanted to check in and let you know that I am alive and kicking!! I hope all is well in your world.

I will try to post more regularly when I get back... see you in mid-May!!

Roy Scheider: 1932-2008

2008-02-11T07:56:00.000-05:00

Roy Scheider, a two-time Oscar nominee who played the alarmist police chief who famously saves a beach resort in the 1975 blockbuster Jaws, died Sunday. Scheider had been battling multiple myeloma, a cancer of the plasma cells, for the past few years.
He was 75.

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

I don't quite know why, but even though this man was older than my dad... I found him incredibly sexy.

Rest in peace, Roy.

On the Move...

2008-02-05T10:56:00.000-05:00

Sorry, it's been few and far between with my posts... but I have been going a bit crazy lately.

Last week, I gave my notice at work. I have been pursued for about a year by a company, and they finally made me an offer I couldn't refuse. It's the busiest time of year at my current job... so I have been scrambling to get things done in my last two weeks here.

I am very excited, but nervous about my new job. First and foremost, I hate change. But I know that with this job, I'll have more creative freedom... and a chance for professional growth. I am going to be their Senior (this term frightens me... I'm turning 40 in 2 months!) Graphic Designer and will be overseeing two younger designers. There will be more stress with this job... but I think, overall, it will be much more fulfilling.

I'm hoping that in the next few weeks, I'll get settled in my new environment and will have a bit more time for posting to my blog.

Hope each and every one of you are doing well... and are happy!

I Love Me Tuna!...

2008-01-24T14:16:00.000-05:00

Reports are coming out today about the dangerous levels of mercury in sushi-grade tuna. And as much as I would like to maintain a healthy lifestyle... I am afraid I cannot give up my tuna sushi!

Hopefully, like with all the other "food scares"... they will eventually find out that this problem isn't as bad as they initially thought... and sushi is safe for one and all!

So if you see me walking down the street with an odd "glow" about me... yes, I may be radiating with mercury... but at least you will know that I am happy!

Numb...

2008-01-23T12:38:00.000-05:00

Heath Ledger... dead at 28.

I don't care to know the details... or speculations. They really don't matter.

What matters is the fact that such a young talent... and more importantly, a son, a brother, and a father... is gone much too soon.

Coming Up For Air...

2008-01-18T10:07:00.000-05:00

This weekend, I am taking a break from my busy work schedule! My best friend and I are having a "Pirates of the Caribbean" movie marathon tomorrow. She got the set for Christmas and we are going to watch all three movies back-to-back! There will be chips and guacamole... and to wash it down... lots of margaritas!!

I will have to work on one of my jobs a bit on Sunday... hopefully I won't be too cross-eyed or hung over! But will also take time on Sunday to watch the MSU basketball game... and go out with some friends to celebrate a birthday of one of them.

I am beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel with these projects... so I thought I would reward myself with a bit of fun! Monday will be work as usual... but until then, a mix of business and fun will do me good!!

I hope you all have a great weekend!

The Juggling Act...

2008-01-10T13:10:00.000-05:00

Yes... this is how I feel... but with jobs!

I have somehow (okay, it was greed) gotten myself into a mess. I am juggling jobs like a madwoman. Aside from my very busy 8-hour-a-day job... I have now taken on two other jobs for my former boss. One is a 36-page magazine for Michigan State University... and the other is a 32-page magazine for Kettering University!

I feel like I am on the computer 24/7 with no end in sight. I am kicking myself for getting into this position... but it is helping out my former boss who is faced with a shortage of freelance designers... and frankly, the money is almost too good to pass up!

I know that money isn't everything... but it sure does help! Already, two of my freelance jobs I finished last month have paid for my 16-day European River Cruise that I am taking with my best friend in April. So, I guess it's worth the added stress!

But for now... while I am in this electronic hell... I continue to wonder why I do this to myself.

The answer that always comes to me...

THE MONEY!

And I know that in February... when the jobs are complete and I have two crisp checks in hand... I will have a smile on my face!

Brrr....

2008-01-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

Well, it's definitely winter here in Michigan. This morning the thermometer read 2 degrees and the wind chill was MINUS 15 degrees... now that's cold, people!!!

But there is one thing you can count on in the Great Lakes State... inconsistency!! Next Monday, they are predicting it to be 50 degrees out!! Yes, our temperature just see-saws back and forth through the winter months...

I can't wait for Spring!!

2008...

2008-01-02T10:40:00.000-05:00

I wish for you... all the happiness, good health, success, and love

one year can hold!

May all of your dreams come true in 2008!

My Boy, Quinn...

2007-12-28T15:06:00.000-05:00

Well... I think I have finally found a good home for my sweet, little Quinn.

I had placed a flyer up in the breakroom at work and our young security guard responded very enthusiastically! She has another cat about Quinn's age and really wants to take him home to join her family.

She is coming over tonight to pick Quinn up. I am very happy, although it is a bit bittersweet. I love that little guy... but know he will be well-cared for in his new home. I did tell her that, if for any reason, she no longer wants him... or the cats never warm up to one another... I will always take him back!

A Sad Day for Women Everywhere...

2007-12-27T10:44:00.000-05:00

A strong woman has been

taken from us much too soon.

Former Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto was assassinated Thursday at a political rally, two months after she returned from eight years of exile to attempt a political comeback, officials said.

Bhutto was shot at close range as she was leaving the rally in this garrison city south of Islamabad, aides said. Immediately after the shooting, a suicide bomber detonated explosives near Bhutto's car, killing at least 15 other people.

Bhutto was rushed to a hospital with extensive wounds to her torso, her supporters said. Shortly after she arrived at the hospital, an official came out of the building and told a crowd of supporters Bhutto was dead.

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

This just makes me very sad...

My wish for you is...

2007-12-21T13:43:00.000-05:00

That all of your holiday wishes come true!!

May all of you have a safe, happy and healthy holiday season!

A Day in the Life of....

2007-12-20T09:03:00.000-05:00

DOG DIARY
8:00 am - Dog food! My favorite thing! 9:30 am - A car ride! My favorite thing! 9:40 am - A walk in the park! My favorite thing! 10:30 am - Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing! 12:00 pm - Lunch! My favorite thing! 1:00 pm - Played in the yard! My favorite thing! 3:00 pm - Wagged my tail! My favorite thing! 5:00 pm - Milk bones! My favorite thing! 7:00 pm - Got to play ball! My favorite thing! 8:00 pm - Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favorite thing! 11:00 pm - Sleeping on the bed! My favorite thing!

CAT DIARY
Day 983 of my captivity. My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength. The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the carpet. Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am capable of. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a "good little hunter" I am. Bastards! There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of "allergies." I must learn what this means, and how to use it to my advantage. Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow -- but at the top of the stairs. I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches. The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released - and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded. The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him communicate with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe..... for now...

A Voice Silenced...

2007-12-17T08:10:00.000-05:00

My brother called me last night to let me know that a singer/ songwriter, that was one of my all-time favorites, had died. Dan Fogelberg's music was a huge part of my childhood... and I carry my admiration for his music and the amazing man behind it with me to this day.

This is yesterday's statement from his website... “Dan left us this morning at 6:00 a.m. He fought a brave battle with cancer and died peacefully at home in Maine with his wife Jean at his side. His strength, dignity and grace in the face of the daunting challenges of this disease were an inspiration to all who knew him.”

Dan Fogelberg was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2004.

Some of his greatest music was not necessarily what everyone heard on the radio. His first few albums were pure genius. "Home Free," "Souvenirs," and "Nether Lands" showcase his amazing songwriting ability.

So I hope anyone who appreciated his music will take a moment... listen to "Same Old Lang Syne"... and remember this wonderful man.

I'm Here...

2007-12-14T12:26:00.000-05:00

Okay... see it's me, I'm alive and well!!

This post is basically to get my brother off my back! He is quite the complainer. When I talk to him on the phone, he is always letting me know that I haven't posted anything new lately and wonders what his little sister is up to... and basically "why do you continue to have a blog if you aren't going to post on a daily basis"!

Yes, people... this is now the new form of our family communication... my BLOG. Does my brother call to ask how I am doing?... um, NO! But if I go a couple days without blogging, he gets quite concerned (irritated, rather) because he has nothing new to read.

So this one is for you, big brother. I hope you have a great weekend. You know that I love you more than life itself... but now please GET OFF MY CASE about the blogging! tee hee

Hugs and kisses to you!

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

Oh, and everyone else... have a wonderful weekend too!

Exhaustion Sets In....

2007-12-04T10:16:00.000-05:00

I have been burning the candle at both ends lately...

and it is catching up with me.

Aside from my 8-hour day job, I have been working on an "emergency" project for my previous employer... helping him out of a deadline jam. I received most of the project information on Saturday for this 11" x 17" 16-page newsletter... and had to have something for the client to see on Monday morning. I had the initial layout finished at 10:30 pm on Sunday... just in time!

Yesterday, I received the revisions at 6:30 pm... and worked on the job until 10:45 pm. The client was hoping to see something this morning... and I hate to disappoint!

On top of all this, I have just agreed to do a freelance job... creating a corporate identity (logo) for a new company. I will start this job next week. I am hoping that with designing their logo... I will have more work from them... such as brochures, letterhead, envelopes, business cards... and any other print media they may need.

I know in the long run I will be glad that I stretched myself because I will have some extra money in my pocket. But right now... I am tired. I am the kind of girl that goes to bed by 9:30-10:00 pm during the work week. I NEED MY SLEEP!!

But I am hoping this bit of suffering will pay off... literally!

Hearing Aid...

2007-11-28T10:53:00.001-05:00

I got a new cell phone last night. My little gadget is the LG VX 8550 Chocolate Black Cherry (sounds good enough to eat!)... and it is awesome!! The sound quality is great when I am talking to someone... which is very important to me since I have such a hard time hearing in general.

When it is closed it looks like this...

And you slide it open and you get this...

It has a lot of bells and whistles that will take me FOREVER (or as long as I own this phone) to figure out... but what I will probably use it for the most is the camera, mp3 player, and make TONS of phone calls!

The Garage Dweller...

2007-11-26T14:34:00.000-05:00

This is Quinn.

He is around 3 or 4 months old and came into my life last week.

Quinn was so skinny that his hip bones and ribs showed through his little fur! I was giving him tough love... um, for a day. Then decided to take his life into my hands and find him a good home. I can't let him into the house because of my cat, Lilly. So he has been living in my garage, out of the elements and away from any vicious critters. He seems to enjoy having a bed to sleep on, a litter box to do his deed in, and ample amounts of food to fatten up his little body!

Quinn is such a sweet little guy... he purrs loud and constantly. He just loves human contact... following me all around the yard, onto the deck and back in the garage!

I am taking him into the Humane Society next Tuesday to be given his rabies and distemper shots as well as get neutered. Thankfully, the Humane Society only charges $25 to do these services. I will once again bring him home and nurse him back to health... and hopefully find a good home for him.

If not, he may become a permanent resident of the Miller household... time will tell.

Turkey Day...

2007-11-21T14:03:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone has a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

How Low Can You Go...

2007-11-13T11:36:00.001-05:00

Someone stole my gutters. Yes, you read that right... my GUTTERS!!

I was out raking my leaves in my backyard and noticed that there was only the elbow left where the rest of the 15-20 foot gutter is SUPPOSED to be connected. I thought to myself... why would anyone steal my gutters? They were even screwed into one another! So I looked over to the neighbors... and yes, all that remained of their gutters were the elbows also! Our whole neighborhood was hit... backyards only, of course.

Gutters... why would anyone steal gutters?!!?!?

Well, I found out from a man at work that this has become quite an epidemic! People are stealing ANYTHING that is aluminum to get top dollar at the recycling center. It's been happening around the city... gutters taken by the truckload. In fact, aluminum is in such high demand that party stores and distributors have been having to put higher deposits on beer kegs because people are not returning them. They can actually get more money recycling it, rather than returning it to get their deposit back!

So if you have anything around or on your home that is aluminum... beware, there are thieves out there that will be gladly to take it off your hands, er... homes!

I went out to Home Depot the other day and bought new gutters...

PLASTIC... yes, plastic is my new-found friend!

Blue Moon With Heartache...

2007-11-06T15:18:00.000-05:00

Rosanne Cash to Undergo Brain Surgery

The country songbird and daughter of Johnny Cash and his late first wife, Vivian Cash, has canceled the remaining four dates on her Black Cadillac: In Concert tour to undergo brain surgery in New York for a "rare but benign condition."

The announcement was made on the 52-year-old's official Website Tuesday. According to Cash's manager Danny Kahn, the singer has been diagnosed with Chiari I Malformation, a congenital deformation of the skull that affects the brain and spinal cord.

"She does want everyone to know it's a benign condition and it's not life-threatening," Kahn said. "It's nothing like a tumor or hemorrhage or anything. It's elective surgery."

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

When I worked for CBS Records/Sony Music in Nashville, I was fortunate enough to work with Rosanne Cash briefly on her album, Interiors. In fact, it was the one and only “album” cover I worked on… everything had switched over to compact disc by then. Rosanne had insisted on having this album on vinyl as well as digital. It was an honor working with her. She is an amazing and truly talented human being.

If you ever have the chance… listen to her CD The Wheel… it was the first album she recorded after leaving Nashville and the “country” genre. It's simply beautiful.

The one Rosanne Cash song that will forever be in my heart… “Blue Moon with Heartache”... off of 1981's Seven Year Ache album.

My thoughts and prayers are with Rosanne throughout her surgery and healing process.

Four-Letter Word...

2007-11-05T14:12:00.000-05:00

S***

Yes, it's that time of the year... tomorrow, we people of the Great Lakes State, will be seeing our first SNOW of the season.

UGH!!

Winter is creeping upon us...

The "Spirit" of the Season...

2007-10-31T09:54:00.000-04:00

I wish all of you a happy, and safe Halloween.

May the costumes be scary and the candy be plentiful!!

Good News....

2007-10-30T07:54:00.000-04:00

Foxes at city zoo won't be put down
Doctor says boy to get rabies shots after bite on finger

It looks like Potter Park Zoo's arctic foxes - facing a death threat because one of them bit a 10-year-old boy who climbed into their enclosure - will be spared.

At issue was whether the boy's family would allow him to undergo a series of shots to make sure he had not contracted the rabies virus.

"My understanding is that the family is going to proceed" with the series of shots, said Dr. Dean Sieko, medical director of the Ingham County Health Department.

If the child does go through with the shots, "there would be no reason to euthanize the foxes," he said.

He said it was his understanding that the boy was with a health-care provider late Friday. The 10-year-old climbed over the barrier to the foxes' enclosure last Saturday and was bitten on the finger.

Zoo Director Gerry Brady said he was glad to hear that news and said the zoo would support the boy and his family in any way possible.

Like all zoo animals, the three foxes had been vaccinated against a variety of diseases. But the rabies vaccine, developed for use in dogs, is not specifically licensed for use in foxes, Sienko said.

If the boy and his family had chosen for him not to undergo the series of rabies shots, the foxes would have been euthanized for necropsy, the only way to definitively detect rabies.

Brady said he believes the animals are healthy, but they will be quarantined for 60 days before being returned to their enclosure.

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

Well, I must say that I am feeling a bit better about this whole situation. But I still hold a grievance with the mother for even thinking of putting the lives of these beautiful creatures in jeopardy!

I hope everyone involved in this matter can move forward and see things in a different light.

Lessons learned...

I Never Leave Home Without It...

2007-10-28T15:18:00.000-04:00

Fun Monday is here once again! Our host for this week is Candid Karina who asks us... What is it that we can't leave the house without.

Well, I have a few things... and here they are!

Chapstick... it's very important to have at all times. Soft lips are very important. I actually got this habit from an old boyfriend. He had a "thing" for Chapstick... sadly not me wearing it... he wore it... ALL THE TIME! He was a bit obsessed with it. He had some in his car console... in his desk at work... in his pocket. Okay... looking back, I now see that he was a bit too into himself. But Chapstick is the one good thing that came out of the relationship!

My beloved cell phone... it's the only thing I truly feel naked without! I am not one of these people who has the phone glued to their ear. It's just I love knowing that it's there in case of an emergency. Plus, my phone has a Tip Calculator... so I don't have to figure out the tip after dinner. HEY, I'm a designer, not a mathematician!!!

Kleenex... what can I say, I'm a 80-year-old in a 39-year-old body! My nose drips... yes, I'm a nose-dripper. So Kleenex is very important to have with me at all times. I usually fold up a couple and either shove them into my pocket or purse on the way out the door.

And last, but not least... my Pepperspray. I have resorted to carrying this on my keychain since this summer when there was a serial killer roaming around the city of Lansing (close to my neighborhood) killing women who live alone. Thankfully they caught him... but the Pepperspray has stuck with me.

So that's it people... the few necessities that I hold near and dear as I head out the door!

Happy Monday!

Nice Job, Mom...

2007-10-26T18:17:00.000-04:00

I have never been more angry... this small, city zoo is only a couple of blocks from my house... and this story sickens my heart.

Potter Park Zoo arctic foxes may be destroyed

Potter Park Zoo’s arctic foxes may have to be killed because a boy entered their enclosure and one of them nipped his finger.

The 10-year-old boy was bitten last Saturday, zoo director Gerry Brady said.

Brady said the boy’s mother doesn’t want him to have to undergo a series of rabies shots, so the foxes may have to be killed. Autopsy is the only way to determine whether an animal carries the rabies virus.

Brady said it’s impossible to tell which of the foxes nipped the boy, but that all of the animals have been vaccinated.“They’re very healthy,” Brady said.

Dr. Dean Sienko, medical director of the Ingham County Health Department, is expected to decide this afternoon whether the foxes will live or die.

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

What in the hell is wrong with this mother?!?!?

First of all, HELLO... watch your child. How could this boy have that much unsupervised time to get into the "well-fenced" enclosure? It's a zoo... that's why they have the animals in cages and fenced-in areas. It's not like these wild animals broke out and attacked him.

And yes, your son got "nipped"... yet I think a few shots won't be SO traumatic for him that it justifies destroying several innocent animals.

Perhaps having this boy go through the series of shots might teach him that there are sometimes consequences when you do something wrong.

Gee, on second thought... NO, let's just put down several beautiful animals so he can go through life thinking he can do whatever he feels like without realizing the affect it has on others.

BRILLIANT child-rearing, you dingbat!

Taking a Stand...

2007-10-26T10:40:00.000-04:00

I’ve never been a big fan of Maria Shriver.

Aside from the fact that at times she looks like Skeletor, her harshness as a reporter, and shrill voice has always turned me off.

But I have a newfound respect for her.

She has decided not to come back to TV news. Why? The final straw was the media circus surrounding Anna Nicole Smith's drug overdose death last February.

"It was then that I knew that the TV news business had changed and so had I," Shriver said. "I called NBC News and told them I'm not coming back."

I think it’s about time someone has stood up and said enough is enough. We no longer have the news reported to us… the TV networks and various news channels feel as if it’s a sense of duty to “entertain” us.

Remember when there was only one half hour of news? All of us gathered around the TV as Walter Cronkite eloquently gave us the IMPORTANT news of the day from around the world, stating only the facts. I sure miss those days.

So my hat’s off to Maria Shriver… will it really make a difference, probably not. But it is nice to know that everyone in the public eye hasn’t lost their professional morals.

Good Night, and Good Luck.

Inhale... Exhale...

2007-10-17T11:11:00.001-04:00

For the past few years... I have had a bit of a problem with congestion, runny nose and watery eyes every fall when I start up my furnace. It is usually horrible early in the season and lingers throughout the winter months. I have had the furnace and air ducts cleaned... but nothing seems to make a difference.

So this year, I decided to try something new. I broke down and bought the Ionic Pro Turbo Air Purifier... and trust me, it is as cool as it sounds!! I only have had it a couple of days... but I think it is really making a difference.

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

Here's the scoop on this incredible device...

Eliminate offensive odors and trap airborne allergens from pollen, pets, smoke, paint and the like with the Ionic Pro Turbo Air Purifier. This unit is 3 times more effective than the leading silent air purifier.Your home will be fresh and clean-smelling as the Pro silently circulates air. Ergonomically designed with innovative technology, it's also energy efficient and as always, very affordable.

This new next generation air purifier silently cleans, purifies, sanitizes, and removes odors and pollution from the air in your home. The Ionic Pro Turbo's all new patented design removes airborne dirt, dust, pollen, pet dander, and even germs and viruses quickly and effectively. In an independent laboratory test, the Ionic Pro Turbo captured 99.9% of the airborne viruses and bacteria in its standard test room in less than an hour! The Ionic Pro Turbo is affordable, easy to use and inexpensive to operate. Energy usage is low only pennies a day to operate. And, the Ionic Pro Turbo does not have costly filters to replace. Scientific tests prove the Ionic Pro Turbo is the most effective and efficient silent air purifier on the market today and at half the price of the competition. Made by Ionic Pro, LLC

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

People... this thing doesn't make a sound!! I put my ear up to it and I couldn't even hear a hum!! I thought that maybe it wasn't working... but sure enough, air was streaming out of it. The owner's manual says that it uses the same amount of energy as a nightlight. I honestly don't know how this thing exactly works... but if I can breathe... I don't care if there are tiny kittens in there running the thing!!! I CAN BREATHE!!! Ahhhh....

The Results Are In...

2007-10-12T16:02:00.000-04:00

The chunk out of my nose??? Pre-cancerous. But that's okay... it's manageable (ie... wearing lots of sunscreen and hats and checking myself for any abnormal spots).

My best friend's biopsy??? BENIGN!!! I cannot begin to tell you how relieved I am... a weight has been lifted!!

All is well... and life IS good!!

Life...

2007-10-09T12:55:00.000-04:00

It keeps getting in the way.

Sorry, I have been delinquent on posting. But there have been some things going on that have taken precedence.

I have been taking care of my best friend... she had surgery on Friday. It's a long story, but she has been through a horrible hospital experience. I am trying to be strong for her... be there for her. So between focusing my attention on her needs and trying to fit in work in-between... I haven't been able to post... or feel up to being creative enough to post anything interesting.

As for my best friend, I continue to tell myself that she is going to be just fine... in my mind, there is no other option.

All I can say is... ladies, get your mammograms. Men, make sure the women you love get their mammograms.

And most importantly.... hold the ones you love... even closer.

Brilliant...

2007-10-04T08:26:00.000-04:00

Last night I watched "Pushing Daisies"... the new show for ABC. I could tell by the commercials that I was going to enjoy it... and the premiere didn't disappoint!

A deliriously happy fable about death, "Pushing Daisies" is colored in the bright pastels of a children's book. A cheerful, soothing narrator takes us by the hand and leads us through the bizarre yet somehow logical conventions of the story:

Young Ned learns that he has a strange power: He can bring the dead back to life with a touch. Unfortunately, if he touches them again, they return to death. And if he keeps them alive longer than a minute, someone else must die in their place.

We meet Ned again as an adult. He's running a pie restaurant (first bringing dead fruit back to perfect ripeness) and also working with a private eye to solve murder cases (and collect a reward) by bringing the victim briefly back to life. But Ned's secret leaves him deeply lonely. He can't even pet his dog. Then another murder case reintroduces him to Chuck (Charlotte), his childhood love. Unfortunately, she's the victim, and when Ned brings her back to life, he can't bear to let her go again...

Lee Pace stars as Ned and Chi McBride as his colleague Emerson. Anna Friel stars as Charlotte "Chuck" Charles, Kristin Chenoweth as Olive, and Swoosie Kurtz as Lily. The cast is joined by Jim Dale (the Harry Potter books narrator) as the narrator.

If any of you have seen and enjoyed the movie "Big Fish" with Ewan McGregor...
you will love the show "Pushing Daisies"!!
It has the same whimsical feel, using the elements of color and narration in a
brilliant way.

Check it out!!

Desperate...

2007-10-02T13:49:00.000-04:00

Yes I am... I am so desperate to see the movie, "Once"!!

Here's the synopsis...

A Guy (with no name - Glen Hansard of the Irish band The Frames) is singing his heart out on the streets of Dublin for tip money. One day a Czech Girl (with no name - Marketa Irglova) stops to listen to the Guy play his music. She is very impressed by his songs and she asks if he wrote his own music. The Guy says that he writes and loves to play his own songs to himself even if the street crowd wants to hear other music. It is nice to earn tips, but that is not what his music is all about. The Guy lives at home and helps his father repair vacuum cleaners, but he has a dream of becoming a recording star. His girlfriend of many years has just left him and is now living in London. You can tell what this has done to his emotions, because it is being reflected in his new songs. The Girl who happens to have a broken vacuum cleaner also has a musical background of playing the piano and writing songs. Their music brings them together and the Girl begins to help the Guy realize his dream. They begin to share their music and their feeling for each other. They put together a band with other street players and rent a recording studio for the weekend to record two demos. This could be the start of a new and wonderful life.

I've seen the trailer and have heard songs from the soundtrack...

It seems simply amazing!

This Little Piggy...

2007-10-01T08:26:00.000-04:00

"It's as simple as something that nobody knows... that her eyes are as big

as her bubbly toes... "

Name that Tune, People!!

Fun Monday is brought to you by Robin and Pensieve. Her basic premise was: "Shoes tell a lot about a person and we wanna delve deeply into your soul sole. Photograph your favorite pair of shoes--or feet."

Well, I have never been a fancy shoe person. I have always been about comfort. All my shoes tend to be big and clunky soled. I do not own one pair of shoes with spikey heels... or any other type of fancy heel, for that matter!

So here are my favorite summer shoes... my beloved Teva's!! They are comfortable, rugged enough to hike in, and just plain fun to have on my feet! I must admit that this time of year is bittersweet since I have to think about packing them away for the winter.

Why Run?...

2007-09-28T08:24:00.000-04:00

When you can walk!!

This is what I'll be doing on Sunday morning!

I'm only doing the 5K Walk... WHAT?!?!?.... it's early on Sunday!!

Have a great weekend, everyone...

Why Mess With Perfection??

2007-09-26T14:16:00.000-04:00

Tonight NBC is attempting to reclaim it's glory by airing a new
"Bionic Woman".

Why, I ask, WHY?!?!?

The original "Bionic Woman" with Lindsay Wagner is a classic. Okay, looking back... it might be cheesy with all the low-budget effects. But the show defined a huge part of my childhood.

The new "Bionic Woman" is supposed to have much darker plots with all the latest and greatest effects. Well, La-Di-Da! Will there be the mannequin-like fembots?!?!? I think not!

Just take a look...

The original Bionic Woman

or The new Bionic Woman

I'll watch the original, thank you very much!

Hideous...

2007-09-25T11:18:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, I had to have half of my nose gouged off of my face by the dermatologist!!

Okay, I may be overreacting just a smidge... but that's what it felt like!

A month or so ago, I started off with a nasty spot on the bridge of my nose... it became more noticable on our trip out west. I thought that maybe I had just missed that spot with my sunblock and got a really good burn. But after a month had gone by with me pampering it... I began to worry that it may be something more. It was a bit scaly and kept changing from being bumpy to being smooth like a burn.

So I made my appointment... went there at 8:30 am with all the thoughts of having him take a look... give me some cream... and sending me on my way. But no!!! He took a look... then said that he needed to remove it for biopsy... but he did not use the word "remove", instead he went with the term "SCOOP"... hello, that's my nose, what's there to "scoop"?!?!? He said that it looked like the beginning stage of Basal Cell Carcinoma. And before I know it... he had me down on the table... aiming a needle toward my nose. Okay people... I don't know about you, but there is not a lot of flesh on my nose to shove a needle into.

And it is at that instant... when the needle is in my nose... I start to go. What I mean by "go" is... I get the cold sweats and everything starts getting further away... I'm heading into the abyss! I have the strength to say " Um, just so you know... I am going to pass out now." The doctor tells me to hang in there with him, which I do... not because I always do as I am told, but more because of my fear that if I am out... he could possibly take the whole nose!

So he does his "scooping" and let's me lay there for a while. I finally feel up to sitting... I stay in that position for a while. Then I get up to cross the room to pick up my purse... whoa... I need to sit down again. After a few minutes, I make it down the hall to pay. As I am standing there, my hands and arms begin to go numb... I hold onto the desk and pray that I do not pass out in in front of the other patients. I finally make it out to the car, where I sit for a few more minutes. WHAT A GREAT WAY TO START THE WORK WEEK!!!

I should get the results back next week sometime. I'm not too worried at this point... because right now I am more concerned about how hideous I look! I keep a bandage on it during work... I don't want to horrify my co-workers!

Here are a couple of the photos that I have sent with an application to the circus... I am hoping to get a job in the FREAK SHOW!!!