Is It Really That Bad?

I have always been a firm believer that you create your OWN destiny.  After witnessing the "Arab Spring" through various media sources, I believe this even more so to be true.  These individuals, seized an opportunity and used all available resources afforded to them.  I have witnessed, first hand, individuals in less fortunate countries who are not able to change their circumstances.  Here in the United States, we are among the most fortunate individuals in the world.  We have the opportunity to be born into nothing and rise to greatness - if that is what we desire.  

"Opportunity is missed by most because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work".  These words were said by Thomas Edison and is my favorite quote.  Your life is what you make it to be.  No one is responsible for your happiness, sadness, success, or misfortune but yourself.  Don't like what is happening? Change it. Like the way that things are going? Work to keep them that way.  

I do not like to complain, and if you ask those closest to me, you will rarely hear me do so.  Granted, I have my days but that is not my "theme".  I have always been one to find a glimmer of light in nearly any situation.  I think, "What is my responsibility in this situation and what can I do to make it better?".  I always keep pushing, no matter what.  I cannot imagine living a life where I feel hopeless and feel as if there is nothing that I can do, personally, to make my circumstances better and that my only option is to complain to anyone who will listen. 


Recently, it seems that more and more people are complaining.  Complaining about circumstances that they, in fact, can control.  In addition, what they are complaining about may just be what someone else, who is less fortunate, desires.  It's getting to the point of the "boy who cried wolf".  "Is it really THAT bad?".  While I don't suggest that anyone neglects their own needs, I do wish that more people considered their blessings and responsibilities prior to complaining about every aspect of their life. 


How do we fix this? I am not a Psychologist and I don't have all the answers.  Perhaps, the answer is as simple as slowing down, taking a step back, and realizing what your blessings are.  Acknowledge your strengths and weaknesses and seek out assistance to build upon both.  Nothing will be accomplished if you are not, first, completely honest with yourself. Most of all, find an inspiration.  After witnessing the "Arab Spring", I have one more inspirational group of individuals to add to my list!

New Kids On The Block

In 1989 when I was 12 years old, the thing that I wanted most was tickets to a New Kids On The Block concert.  I had all their tapes, yes I said tapes, and listened to them until they were worn out.  I told my Mom they would be around forever.  She assured me that they wouldn't be.  I never got to see them in concert and they did, in fact, break up a few short years later.

I never forgot the five boys from Boston (Donnie, Danny, Jonathan, Jordan, and Joey), who were my first loves.  Anytime I had a party at my house, you could be sure I would be playing "The Right Stuff" and doing the dance.  I played it so often that my niece, Chloe, who is now 7, counted "The Right Stuff" as her favorite song at age 4.  My tapes had long been worn out, but I had every song on Napster.

Fast forward to 2008.  After exploring solo music careers, acting careers (movie, television, and Broadway), and real estate careers, they decided it was time to again grace the world with their presence.  They released a new CD "The Block" and booked a small reunion tour. 

I was lucky enough to get tickets to their first stop in Cleveland.  I got the tickets for my birthday, from my husband.  The person who was supposed to go with me, couldn't last minute, so my husband begrudgingly went along.  When they started singing "The Right Stuff" I literally started trembling like a 13 year old girl, I cried, and nearly wet myself.  My husband plugged his hears for most of the concert.  Not because of the music, but because the screaming of women in their 30's and 40's was rendering him deaf (he was one of maybe 5 men at the concert).  Our ears were ringing for days after. 

I came home from the concert that night, declaring it the best night of my life, and immediately began searching for their future concert dates.  This is where the madness began.  I have since been to 9 more concerts (for a total of 10).  Not all concerts are the same, the set list does change in each "section" of the tour. They never intended to be touring 3 years later, but people keep coming so they keep dancing. 

They are great performers, and their new music is excellent (they do not lip sync).  However, the thing that has drawn me to the 10 concerts and what will draw me to many more concerts, is that I am getting to live out my childhood dream.  Every time I attend a concert, I am again 12 years old (How many 12 year olds drink?).  I am very fortunate.  Not many people get to live out their childhood dreams. 

What was your childhood dream?

This picture was taken at Blossom.  My 6th concert.

So, This Is How It Is Going To Be?

If you are reading this, then you probably know me, personally.  If so, then you know I have had some issues with my health in recent years.  While I don't think it is appropriate to discuss all the gory details (in my opinion, for me personally), chances are you have seen some Facebook or Twitter updates documenting my nondescript struggles. 

I recently resigned my position at The Cleveland Clinic so that I could focus on my health.  I am one of those people who always puts others before themselves.  Also, because of some things from my childhood, I don't want to be perceived as a baby that can't take it.  I had five rather unsuccessful surgeries over the last four years all the while working full time and going to school full time to finish my Bachelor's degree.  My philosophy - keep marching on, suck it up and shake it off.  Of course, being the person that I am, this is NEVER the advice that I give to other people.  I finally decided to take my own advice. 

Just when my issues with Crohn's were starting to get a bit better, I hurt my back.  I was sitting on the floor, organizing some things from my closet, stood up and couldn't straighten out my back.  I think that this was from years of being a nurse and bending and lifting.  I think of my back as a rope that kept fraying and it took nearly no stress at all to finally "break".  So, I have been dealing with this issue as well.  I know, lucky me, right?  I keep telling myself it could be worse. 

Well, I had an MRI of my abdomen a few weeks ago.  When the Dr. gave me the results, it was discovered that I have additional issues, in another area, that I was completely unaware of.  Just keep piling it on.  I haven't seen a doctor yet for the other issues, but I am scheduled to see one in two weeks. 

So, this is how it is going to be?  Life is a learning process and apparently, it is more difficult for some to learn life lessons than others.  I am obviously one of the "slow learners", but I think that the light bulb is almost completely lit.  You would think that after all of my experiences as an ER, Hospice, and Oncology nurse, and combined with my own health struggles, I would have learned to stop and smell the roses a lot sooner.  You would also think that I would have realized how important it is to take care of yourself.  I am getting there.

There are a few important things I have learned through this entire ordeal.  Most importantly, if you think something is wrong (you just don't feel right - you know your own body), be persistent.  If you are not getting the answers you want or believe to be true, seek another opinion (or 4).  Secondly, if you want to take care of others, the best thing that you can do is take care of yourself.  Lastly, take time to enjoy life and don't get so wrapped up in petty behaviors or people.  In the grand scheme of things, life is a blink of an eye and you don't want to have wasted it all on things that weren't that important anyway.   

Grandma Stewart - Happy Mother's Day

Today is Mother's Day.  To all the Mother's out there, thank you for all you do.  I posted previously, "What Makes a Man a Father".  The same applies to women and what makes them a Mother.  Simply having a child does not make you a Mom.  Taking care of your child, making personal sacrifices, and ensuring the best for the future of your children is what really makes you a Mom.

As I think of all the women who influenced my life, I am reminded of one who is no longer here with us.  Nora Stewart, is my Great Grandmother.  That makes her my Mom's (Katherine Payne), Mother's (Janet Morgan) Mom.  Try saying that five times fast!

Grandma Stewart was born in 1915 and grew up in rural West Virginia.  Not only did she grow up in a different time, West Virginia definitely has a different culture than the suburban culture in which I live now.  She didn't graduate high school, never had a job, and didn't drive a car.  However, she always knew just what to say and raised the family that I am happy to be part of. 

When I was really young, I was always very excited to get to visit Grandma Stewart.  She would begin feeding us as soon as we got to her house.  We had saltine crackers with cheese, "special meat" (kielbasa cut into slices to fit on the crackers), Reese Cups, Coke, popsicles with vanilla ice cream in the middle, and banana milkshakes.  She would fill us then flick our bellies and say, "Yep, full as a tick".  She was also known in the family for being and EXCELLENT cook. 

As I got older, and after Grandpap Stewart passed away in 1993, I had the wonderful opportunity of living with Grandma Stewart.  We didn't always see eye to eye, being from two different generations, but I cherish the memories of the time that I spent with her.  My friends also spent a lot of time with her.  It was definitely a privilege for all. 

Other than being known as a great cook, Grandma was also know for her superstitions and old wives tales.  One that sticks out the most - "if two women make a bed together, one will be pregnant within the year".  Another, "if you wash your clothes on New Year's Day, you will wash your life away".  I could go on and on.  Even though I know that these are old wives tales, I don't want to test and see if they come true!

There is one story that she told me about her childhood that I will never forget.  She said when she was a child her family was going into town.  She had a dime wrapped up in a "hanky" so that she could buy some candy.  By the time she got to town, she had lost her dime.  At her funeral, before closing the casket, I placed a handkerchief with a dime inside in her hand.  I wanted to be sure she got her candy, wherever she was going.

I encourage each of you to spend some time with all the women who have influenced your life.  Be sure to thank them for all that they do. 

Knoxville Inn

I am addicted to social media.  I am constantly checking my Facebook and Twitter accounts throughout the day.  Hey, I don't want to miss out on anything. 

One person that I follow on Twitter is Kenny Wallace.  He is a NASCAR driver in the Nationwide Series (second series from the top).  His tweets are very amusing and he does give a bit of NASCAR news.  What he tweets a lot are song lyrics.  I have come to realize that his taste in music is as eclectic as mine.  The other day he tweeted lyrics to "Gin and Juice" by Snoop Dogg and today he tweeted lyrics to "Boot Scoot Boogie" by Brooks and Dunn.  Of course, I know all the words to both songs. 

"Boot Scoot Boogie" is not my favorite Brooks and Dunn song. They were around for, I believe, 20 years.  Their best music, in my opinion, was definitely their earlier stuff.  My all time favorite Brooks and Dunn song, and one of my top 10 overall favorite country songs is "Neon Moon".  If you haven't ever heard this song, I suggest you go to youtube and take a listen.  I haven't listened to Brooks and Dunn in a couple of months and since it was on my mind, I decided to listen to "Neon Moon".  Listening to this song brings back memories of the Knoxville Inn.

The Knoxville Inn is 9 miles out in the country (Middle Grave Creek Road) in Moundsville, West Virginia.  The Knoxville Inn was 4 miles past my house.  The first time I was ever inside, I was probably 10 years old.  My childhood friend, Amber Hoge, lived almost next door (remember this is the country), and we went there to get chips, pop, and Geno's pizzas.  I thought I was really cool getting to walk inside a bar at the age of 10.

I spent a lot of time there when I was 20 years old.  Since it was so far out in the country, the police were never there, and we could drink before we were 21.  It also helped that my friend's Mother owned the bar at the time.  Every time that I was there, which was at least twice a week, we played "Neon Moon" on the jukebox.  Everyone would sing at the top of their lungs.  It really was a good time. 

It is amazing the power that music has.  When I hear a song, especially if I haven't heard it in a while, the memories come rushing back.  It is almost like time travel.  Today I encourage you to go and listen to some songs from your past.  You won't be disappointed in your trip down memory lane. 

Royal Wedding

There are 40 countries around the world that have some form of monarchy (Kay, 2011).  This was shocking to me.  I was unaware that so many monarchies continued to exist.  We have close ties to England, for obvious reasons, so that may be the reason we are so familiar with that monarchy.  Did you know so many others existed?

I was only 3 years old when Prince Charles and Princess Diana were married.  Although I have seen footage, I did not get to experience the feelings of hope, joy, and happiness (just to name a few) along with the rest of the world.  I was determined not to miss out this time.  So I, like many others, woke before dawn today to tune into the wedding of William and Kate.  I chose to watch the coverage on E!.  I am so happy that I did.  It really was a great start to the day. 

It was refreshing to finally see something so beautiful on the television.  I am sure that they were a ball of nerves, but that did not show through.  What did is the love that William and Kate share.  I truly get the feeling that this marriage has a good foundation and will be one that lasts.  Kate looked absolutely beautiful - a true Princess.

I have seen, in the days leading up to the ceremony, people question the fascination with this event.  I can't speak for everyone, so I will tell you why I am so fascinated.  I am interested in both history and culture.  The Windsor's are a historical family, that have continued to exist when so many other monarchies have crumbled.  Their culture, although similarities do exist, is different than the culture here in the United States.  I spent days (ok, it all started when they got engaged) leading up to the event researching the Royal family and watching NUMEROUS programs about the Royal family and William and Kate's relationship. 

Nearly every Disney movie has a princess, who by the end, gets her prince.  Bedtime stories often have the same theme.  Most women dream for years exactly how they want their wedding to be (often even before they ever had their first boyfriend), and hope they will find their "prince charming".  That is exactly what we were able to witness today.  A "common" girl walked down the aisle to her Prince and walked out of the church a Princess.  While you may have found your prince charming, it is likely you are not an official princess.  What is better than watching a real life fairytale and a dream come true? 

Cheers to you William and Kate. 

References
Kay, K. (Narrator). (2011, March 29). Modern monarchy. Do's and Dont's. Cleveland: BBCA.

Happy Easter

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you a Happy Easter.  Easter is celebrated by everyone in many different ways.  Generally, Easter is a religious holiday where families attend church services to "celebrate" and remember Jesus's sacrifice. 

For my family, Easter is a commercial holiday.  I grew up in the Church of Christ, which does not celebrate Easter as a religious holiday.  The belief is that since The Bible does not give a specific date of death, we are to "celebrate" and remember the event every day of the year.  The Church of Christ does not celebrate Christmas as a religious holiday either. 

Regardless of whether or not you celebrate today as a religious or commercial holiday, most families are celebrating the day together.  When I was younger, we awoke to see what the Easter Bunny had left during his visit.  I always had a new Easter dress (and sometimes Easter hat), and attended church services with my family (like I did every Sunday).  What made Easter so special was that everyone went to my Grandma and Grandpap Morgan's after church for dinner. 

It is days like today that I miss my family the most and wish that I lived closer to "home".  As you get older, the Easter dresses, hats, and candy baskets from the Easter Bunny become less important.  What never becomes less important is what family means to you.  I cherish the memories of my childhood and all the great times my family spent at Grandma and Grandpap Morgan's house. 

However you choose to celebrate the day, be sure to make some great memories.  They will be there to light up even the grayest of days. 

Victims

Have you ever known someone who says that they hate drama but is usually the first one to create it?  Have you ever known someone, that while standing with their hand out, complains about people having things handed to them?  Lastly, have you ever known someone who says they have worked hard and having nothing to show for it, yet they are an adult living with their parents without a job?

I am concerned for the future.  More often than I would like to admit, I have met or come across someone who fits into one or all of the "categories" above.  We are living in a culture of victims.  No one wants to take responsibility for themselves and they spend their lives focused on the fortunes, or misfortunes, of others.  People act as if they have no choices and sit around while life happens.  They may want bigger or better things in their life, but have no plan and no desire to really work for it.

I am sure everyone has their "days". Days when you feel buried and wonder if you will ever be able to dig yourself out.  It may even be more than a day, but understanding that with patience and perseverance, anything can be achieved.  It is the people who keep digging, no matter what, that truly inspire me. We are not victims of our circumstances and as human beings and citizens of the United States, we do, in fact, have free will.

Unfortunately, those who read this that fit into the "categories" will likely not gain anything.  My hope is that this can wake up just one person.  One person who will be the future. 

Dear Mother Nature

Dear Mother Nature,

I am not sure which address to send this to, so I figured you might get it here.  I apologize, I could not find an address on "Google".  I am writing in regards to the drastic weather change we are experiencing in North Ridgeville, Ohio today.   I would appreciate your prompt attention to this matter as I am hosting a 40th Anniversary party this weekend.

It is spring and according to weather data the average current high is expected to be in the 60 degree range.  I am not so greedy to request no rain, as I know it brings May flowers, but I would really appreciate seasonal temperatures.  Having high temperatures in the 40's or low 50's with winds so high it could blow me over, is not acceptable. 

I do appreciate the wonderful temperatures we experienced over the weekend.  I had assumed that the 80 degree Sunday was an apology for for the previous weeks of unseasonable temperatures and the snowy winter.  I did not expect for it to be a joke, that would be quickly taken away.

I am sure that you are busy, receiving many complaints.  I will be waiting for your response.

Regards,
Melissa

I Can't Believe It's Been 15 Years

After writing the last week about some of my high school shenanigans, I promised that I would write some more.  So, here I go...

Story #1
My friend Susan had a red Grand Am.  One Saturday night, we didn't have much to do, so we decided to go and hang out at Kroger.  (I know interesting town).  While we were there, we saw the new boy in town who I had a crush on.  We started following him and his friends around the store.  When they left, we decided to continue following them.  Since I had the crush, Susan wanted me to drive.  I had fake finger nails on.  One had come off and I didn't want the boy to see me with only 9 nice finger nails.  This is what Susan wrote in my Senior book beside a "We Love You - Buckle Up" sticker.  "Especially when you drive the Grand Am, don't stop at stop signs, take out bread stores, and take your finger nails off at the same time! Talk about talent."  See, I knew I had talent!

Story #2
I was in the high school Marching Band.  We spent the entire month of August, before school started, preparing for the football halftime show.  At the end of the first song in the show, the entire band ended the song on the sideline in a straight line.  To get from my previous position on the field, I had to walk pretty fast.  I had that in mind and while I was playing my clarinet reminded myself that I needed to walk fast.  I was supposed to be second to the end of the line.  I wasn't really paying attention, just marching and playing.  It seemed like I walked even faster than I had remembered this time.  The song was over and I looked up.  I was 10 yards away from the rest of the band.  I guess I needed some exercise.

Story #3
As a senior in West Virginia, it was a requirement to take Advanced Comp, which was an English course.  I had an excellent teacher, Mrs. Pivik, who was a teacher when my Mom was in high school, yet she was still very much in tune with the teens from my generation.  I had some very good friends in the class, Becky, Ray, and Rick.  We were always talking and gossiping and I believe that it made Mrs. Pivik feel young when we let her join in.  Ray was a new student and from NYC.  Being from a small town, I thought he was the most interesting person I had ever met (you really are).  Although my college years have erased some of my memories, when looking through my senior book Ray wrote, "I love your big feet and humping your leg".  I vaguely remember him always turning to talk to me and straddling my leg.  I can't believe we ever got any work done in that class with all the talking, but I have a report card with "A's" to prove I was there.

I have many more to share, but will save some for another entry.  Until then, pull out your own yearbooks and senior books.  You won't be sorry.  You will be reminded of some of the great times you thought you would never forget but unfortunately have. 

It's The Little Things

Last night I went to West Virginia for my niece, Chloe's, birthday party.  My sister, Lyndsey, had a roller skating party for her.  My niece is going to be 7 years old, and she had twenty one of her little friends attend her party.

I don't get to WV very much anymore and it was really nice seeing some of the family that I don't normally get to see when I am there.  My family was standing near the door when I went inside and everyone wanted to start talking.  It was a bit overwhelming, but it was nice to know that they miss me as much as I do them.

As you can imagine having twenty one 6 and 7 year olds, on roller skates, was quite amusing.  I think most of them were on the floor more than they were on their skates, and I think one girl may have even lost a tooth.  Even though I am sure most of them have their battle scars today, there were very few tears shed.

I remember moments from when I was younger, but I forgot how animated and "grown up" little ones can be when they are with their friends.  If only the majority of adult conversations and interactions could be so serious yet so simple.  The biggest drama of the night came when sitting down to eat.  You see, like any other person, Chloe only has two sides, but more than two friends who want to sit beside her.

Although visiting with family and watching the little ones interact were great, that was not my favorite part of the evening.  Chloe had asked my husband, Mike, if he would skate with her at her party.  She told everyone, "Uncle Mike said he would skate with me".  Lyndsey asked him if he would skate with her during her special "birthday skate".  The two of them were out on the floor skating, to a New Kids On The Block birthday song.  You couldn't have written a more perfect or precious moment.  I really had to fight the tears.  Just watching the two of them skate and wishing that this moment could be frozen in time. 

I hope that for years to come, Chloe will remember this birthday party and cherish the memories of the party like I know I will. 

This Is Me.

I haven't looked through my high school yearbooks in years.  A person who graduated with me passed away this week, and I thought I would get out my old yearbooks and take a trip down memory lane.  I am glad that I did.

While I enjoyed looking through the pictures, what I enjoyed most about my yearbooks is what people wrote when signing my yearbooks, and reminiscing about my many shenanigans.  If you know anything about me, you know that my life is rarely dull.  I always have a way of making an ordinary situation extraordinary. 

Please continue for a glimpse into my past.  This is going to be long. 

Memory #1
I had a close group of girlfriends that I spent most of my time with in high school.  I lived with my Great Grandmother, so this is where my friends and I spent many nights.  My friends affectionately referred to her as "Grandma Stew" (her last name was Stewart) and it did her a world of good to see the life that was brought into the house when we were all together.   She really enjoyed the company, and honestly, so did we. 

Memory #2
My Grandmother's house was on the bank of the Ohio River in Moundsville, West Virginia.  You could literally throw a stone from her house to the river (well, if you could throw).  One day my friend Alberta and I had walked down to the park on the river that was a block from my Grandmother's house.  We knew someone who lived across from the park, so we stopped for a visit.  We were sitting on the front porch and a bee landed on Alberta's shoulder.  Being allergic to bees, I slapped her shoulder and I started to run.  Not only run, but jump off a porch at least 3 feet off the ground.  The bee had flown away by this time, but Alberta (still not knowing why I was running) must of thought I wanted to play tag and started to chase after me.  She also fell off the porch (Did I mention my jump was more of a fall?) and made a mad dash for me.  At this point I had fallen again and I started laughing uncontrollably.  I tried telling Alberta why I had been running, but was laughing so hard I could not talk.  The next thing I knew, I was peeing my pants.  Yes, 16 years old and peeing my pants.  Alberta was carrying a sweatshirt with her and I asked her if I could use it to tie around my waist so we could walk home.  She wrote a message in my yearbook that I could borrow her sweatshirt anytime.  Thanks!

Memory #3
My friend Rebecca and I ALWAYS had an adventure.  There are too many to discuss here, I will save some of them for another time, so I will just discuss my favorite.  I can't remember the name of the road, but she lived on the bottom of a "hill".  You see, in WV, most roads are hills so we always say "you live up the hill".  We decided we should walk to the top of the hill on the hottest day in August.  Why?  That's just what we did.  On this particular walk, we spotted a dead dog on the side of the road.  Most would have run from the stench, but we decided to investigate.  The dog was full of maggots!  We were both in the flag corp and had a dinner later that night at Chi-Chi's with our fellow corp mates.  When asked what we had done during the day, by Rebecca's Mother, we started discussing our walk up the hill.  Of course, we had to tell of our finding, which conveniently came while everyone was eating rice.  Rebecca's Mom, knowing that telling this story about "maggot dog" at exactly this moment, was just par for the course with us, didn't miss a beat.  She chuckled and just kept eating.

Memory #4
My friend, Jennifer and I were supposed to go on a double date.  Our dates lived about on hour away from Moundsville in a small town in Ohio (Beallsville).  Her parents had left the house for a Christmas dinner at the church, so we were home alone to finish getting ready.  Our dates called and said that since we had a winter storm on the way, their parents did not want them making the drive that night.  We decided to take the cordless phone out on the porch and finish the conversation only wearing coats and socks (no shoes).  By the way, we did have clothes on.  When the conversation was over, we attempted to get back into the house.  Of course, we were locked out.  This was the time before cell phones, and we didn't know the number for the church.  Realizing that we may have to spend another couple of hours outside in the cold December night, we decided we would walk to the church to get keys to the house from her parents.  Remember, we didn't have any shoes.  We both had gloves in our pockets and I came up with the bright idea that we should put these on our feet so we wouldn't be so cold.  If you have ever seen a pair of gloves, you are probably now realizing that the gloves would only go half way on our feet since we couldn't get the "finger holes" on our toes.  We looked like we had on flippers!  We made it half way to the church when we saw her parents van.  They had decided to come home early and wondered why we were walking down the street with gloves on our feet.  Just another day in my life.

Memory #5
My friend, Shannon, had asked Rebecca and myself to spend the night with her one night when her parents were out of town visiting her brother in Nashville.  One of Shannon's favorite things was (and probably still is) Chex mix.  Her mother had made her a very large Tupperware bowl filled with Chex mix to last her until they got home.  Shannon was making us something to eat and Rebecca grabbed the bowl.  No sooner had Shannon said, "be careful don't spill it", did Rebecca drop every morsel on the ground.  Of course, Rebecca and I immediately dropped to the ground and started laughing, which only made Shannon even more angry.  I still don't know how the lid came off, but we spent quite a bit of time picking it all off the ground.  I sure hope that Shannon has forgiven us by now. 

I think that I will end this particular entry for now.  I have so many more stories, and would like to write more in the coming days.  If you are reading this, and have a memory to share of our time in high school, put it on facebook or place a comment below.  I will add those stories to the upcoming entries. 

Talented? You Be The Judge.

I have always been envious of people who are obviously talented.  The people who seem to be good at everything.  I guess they must have gotten a lot of good genes.  Could it be that they work really hard and what we see is the end result?

I have never been good at sports and anyone who really knows me knows that I am not an athlete.  Unless of course, having the worlds greatest accidents is considered a sport.  I can fall with the best of them.  If falling were an Olympic sport, nearly all of my "accidents" would be judged at a perfect 10.  You see, I never just trip and fall.  I always make it an event.  Arms in the air, legs over my head, and I rarely injure myself.  I run into things and fall so often, that I find bruises and usually can't remember when exactly they occurred.

I am writing this today, because I had one of "those" accidents.  My bathroom sink is running a little slow.  I leave the water running while I brush my teeth (I know, blame me for the destruction of the earth.  I am not environmentally friendly).  The sink began to fill, so I turned the water off.  I leaned forward to spit out my toothpaste.  It must have been a doozy, because next thing I knew my left eye was stinging and watering. I had toothpaste in my eye!  It seems that the toothpaste hit the water, "bounced" back, and landed in my eye.  Now that, my friend, is talent. 

I don't want those of you who are reading this to think that I am a total boob.  I do have other talents.  I can host an awesome party, I throw legendary Thanksgiving feasts, I can be crafty (when I have the patience), I am a strong patient advocate, and my family tells me that I am a good wife, daughter, and sister. 

The moral of the story...I guess that I really shouldn't be envious anymore.  I, too, have talents.  Even if they aren't so obvious. 

You Are Not The Father

Another day, and another Maury Povich DNA show.  I can't believe that there are enough people who don't know who the father of their child is that they can have a show on this topic nearly every day of the week.  While it makes for entertaining TV, it is very disturbing.

I am not saying that I have never made a mistake.  If you are reading this and believe that you have never made a mistake, then nice meeting you, Jesus.  Making a mistake, though, is one thing.  Being totally irresponsible is definitely another.

The thing that is most disturbing about these shows, besides the fact that I continue to watch them, is that these women and men are so irresponsible.  Having a one night stand or cheating on your significant other carries its own consequences, but you don't have to participate in these actions while being even more irresponsible.  It is called using protection.  Besides a possible unwanted pregnancy, there are diseases that you can contract that will change your life forever. 

I think that most are under the assumption that if you get a STD, you can get a shot of penicillin and be done with it.  That is not always the case.  Herpes, HIV, hepatitis (just to name a few) NEVER go away.  Granted there are those diseases that can be treated with antibiotics, however, if left untreated they can result in adverse consequences including sterility.  Maybe these people should get a lesson in safe sex.

The other thing that is disturbing is how the mother's dance and get in the faces of the men when they "Are The Father" and run and throw their bodies on the ground when they "ARE NOT THE FATHER".  Instead of perfecting dance moves and body flops, maybe these people should work harder on trying to remedy the situation and ensuring that the child is supported financially, mentally, and emotionally. 

The bottom line is that we are going to have a generation of children where many do not know who their father is.  While that does not make or break the future of a child, it is my guess that if you don't know your father, you are generally raised in a less than stellar environment.  I am concerned for the future of our society.  My only hope is that these children will be strong individuals who learn from the mistakes of their parents.

The Grammy's

Ok, I know that the Grammy's took place two days ago.  Yesterday was Valentine's Day, and I spent the day with my husband who was kind enough to take the day off to spend with me.  I also didn't feel like writing during the show, so I just took notes so that I could write later.  So, this blog is two days late and two dollars short.

In my opinion, which I am sure is not unique, there are too many awards shows.  With that being said, I still believe that those in the music industry consider winning a Grammy to be an honor.  If I were in the music industry, however, I would wish that the actual "show" had more award presentations and less performances.  I do wonder, though, if because music sales are down, they feel that this is a way to advertise their product.

We live in a society where we do not feel satisfied without over the top antics.  Every performer tries to push the envelope, but there is only so much left to be done.  I found that in trying to be edgy, the artists are often "ripping off" past ideas and performances.  

So, here is my list of thoughts from the show.

• Did anyone else think Christina Aguilera looked like Snooki?  I get it, I am overweight and short, but there are ways to dress without looking like a meatball.
• I didn't get and wasn't impressed with the opening ceremony being dedicated to Aretha Franklin.  Does the industry know something we don't?  Were they hoping to honor her before her passing?
• What were you thinking, Ricky Martin?  Those pants were horrible and the fabrics don't match.  You can still be edgy without suffocating your man parts.
• Lady Gaga - enough already.  If you wan't to be shocking, try being "normal".
• I thought that Miranda Lambert's performance was wonderful, and I love that she can actually sing live. 
• We are now 40 minutes into the show and only one award has been presented.  I often get embarrased for the recipient with their long drawn out acceptance speeches.  I liked Train's comment - "Thank you Justin Beieber for not being in this category". 
• It is 8:50 and we are just now seeing Ryan Seacrest.  At the end of E! Red Carpet (it ended at 8), he said he had to run because he had to announce a performer.  Was he a 50 minute walk from the venue?
• Mike said that B.O.B. reminded him of Colonel Klink. 
• 9:00 and the second award is presented.  The winner is Miranda Lambert and I think she was most deserving.
• I admit it - I am a "Belieber".  I love that kid and can't stop singing "Baby".
• I didn't realize that Jaden Smith was also singing.  He was recently on Ellen and said that only one person in the family can work at a time.  I guess Willow's career is already over.  While I am on the subject, I am over the Smith's.  I used to like Will, NEVER liked Jada and I don't appreciate the "talent" of their children. 
• It is finally the end of the Justin Beiber, Jaden Smith, and Usher performance.  Usher is a "little" older than them and worked really hard trying to keep up.  He looks like he just took a bath in his costume that includes a drop seat in the pants.
• It is 9:15 and the third award is being presented.  Who knew four of the nominee's even had songs out - Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Jeff Beck, Neil Young, and Pearl Jam.  The only "current" band, Muse, won the award.
• Wow, we are on a roll!  9:20 and the 4th award is being presented.  Don't know what the award was, but it was presented by Justin Beieber's girlfriend, Selena Gomez, and my first love, Donnie Wahlberg.
• Mike's take on the next performance?  "They have left no fossil unturned". 
• Did we really need a time filler?  Why are we watching David Letterman's Top 10?
• A "representative" of the Green Bay Packers (Why did the need represented at a music awards show?) introduces Lady Antebellum.  I was looking forward to this performance and they did not disappoint.  On a side note, men should not wear low-rise jeans.  They make it seem as if you will be short-changed when opening the package.
• 9:45 and the 5th award is being presented.  Lady Antebellum won!
• Cee Lo Green, the Muppets, and Gwyneth Paltrow.  There is too much to take in at one time and I noticed the Gwyneth is not coordinated at all.  Her performance would have only been more awkward if she had fallen.
• A random trio, John Mayer, Norah Jones, and Keith Urban, sing a Dolly Parton song and present the 6th award (10:05).  I don't get it.
• I really enjoyed Eminem's performance.  He is truly talented and is that last rapper that still raps about life.  Although I am enjoying the performance, I am really losing interest in the show, but I already started taking notes, and I always finish what I start, so I don't turn the channel.
• It 10:20 and the 7th award is being presented by Mo Williams - I mean John Legend.  Maybe that was the problem with the Cavs loss to the Wizards tonight, it was really John Legend guarding John Wall.
• The most amusing part of the show?  The lengthy "In Memoriam", without any introduction or hesitation is immediately followed by Mick Jagger.  The "In Memoriam" fades to black symbolizing the end of the package and Mick Jagger appears.
• 10:50 and the 8th award is presented.  I am glad that Eminem won the award.  Did anyone else think that he looked sick?
• Diddy (or whatever his current name is) is stuttering and trying to introduce Rihanna and Drake.  Either the teleprompter is not working, or he doesn't know how to read.  Either way, he was not prepared. I did not enjoy or appreciate the "creativity" of Rihanna and Drake's performance where they were grinding like they were at the Junior High dance.
• Marc Anthony and J. Lo are together to introduce the next performer (or something).  He is trying to be funny and ad-lib.  He is not funny and I am disgusted by his attention seeking behaviors.  Hey, Marc Anthony - get a life!
• At 11:25, the last award is presented.  Arcade Fire wins album of the year.  They seemed so excited that they decided to play another "impromptu" song.  I am not buying it, they just performed and everything is timed to nearly the second at these award shows.  They knew they were going to win, and then perform again.  In my opinion, once was enough.

I hope that you are still here and still reading.  If you are, thanks for hanging in there.  I know that it was long winded.  The show was long and "exciting".

What Makes A Man A Father?

Unfortunately for me, no matter how much I try to distance myself from my Dad, it just seems that I can't.  I still have two siblings under the age of 18, and I am often reminded of how he continues to shirk his responsibilities.  Today, I was again reminded of the person he is and why exactly I continue to have no contact with him. 

Needless to say, I am sad.  Even though I am no longer a child, I still feel the pain of my younger sisters and brothers.  I don't think that it matters how old you are, you likely still enjoy having a relationship with your parents.  Since my father does not hold up his end of the deal, in regards to being a parent, I have stepped in many times to make the burden of my younger siblings lighter.  I also want them to know that not all people are bad and that with hard work and dedication anything is possible.  I hope that I have been a good influence.

With all that said, I started searching the Internet this morning looking for "What Makes A Man A Father?".  There were a few good postings, but I figured that I could do better myself.  So, here I go...

Being a father is not simply being a sperm donor.  Nor is being a father simply providing financial support for the children.  Being a father is many things.  Being a father includes unconditional love and support.  Guiding your offspring in the right direction and helping to pick them up if (and when) they fall.  Being a father means being a decent human being, someone who the younger generations can look up to and strive to pattern their lives after.  Someone who, will still make mistakes, but hopefully mistakes that do not result in irreversible damage.  Even if a mistake is made, a real father owns the mistake and does not try to place blame on all others. 

I do know several good fathers.  For you, I am thankful.  If you are one of the good fathers, go home and hug your kids tonight, just because.  Remember, there are many kids who never get a hug, just because.

If It Is Garbage, I Will Watch

If it is garbage, and it is on T.V., you can almost guarantee that I will be watching.  There are only two sitcoms that I watch regularly - "The Middle" and "Big Bang Theory".  I also watch "Jeopardy" and "Chelsea Lately", but otherwise my television viewing is filled with various reality shows. 

My newest guilty pleasure, besides "Teen Mom 2" is "Jersey Shore".  Last nights episode did not disappoint.  Within the first five minutes, Ronnie was getting a rectal exam.  He said that he "messed it up drinking" and "needed some cream".  I don't know about you, but I generally don't come off a bender needing cream for my rectum.  While Ronnie is being examined, the cameras switch to the house, where Jwoww finally finds Snooki.  Not that anyone had been looking for her, but she spent the night in the dog "cage" with the dogs and the pee-pee pads that had been used (by the dogs I hope).  The rest of the show was filled with the normal drunk antics that keep me glued to the T.V. 

I know that a lot of people claim that shows like "Jersey Shore" are a sign of the devil and the downfall of all mankind.  However, I find it hard to believe that most have not had drunk nights like these.  The rest of us were just fortunate enough not to have it taped for all the world to see.  I think that I enjoy the show so much because it reminds me of times that I spent when I was younger.  Although I may have done some foolish, even downright stupid things, they were my experiences all of which made me who I am today. 

So, next Thursday at 10 PM lock your doors and turn off the lights, but be sure to catch the next installment of "Jersey Shore".  Remember the times when you, too, had little responsibility and the most important choices you had were what to wear and where to go.  You won't be sorry.   

Dedication?

Have you ever believed so strongly in something that you were willing to give your life for the cause?  I can honestly say no.  Watching the events unfold in Egypt, that today are turning violent, has made me think about the differences in cultures.

I am fascinated with people and their culture.  That is probably why I chose the profession I did.  Other than having a great desire to be a caregiver, I love learning from people.  There is no other circumstance in which you can learn more from people, than when they are ill.  It is really a no holds barred attitude that I get to experience in my daily interaction with patients.  I have come to find that when you are ill, especially terminally ill, you are more likely to share the intimate details of your life.  I like to believe that I am culturally competent, while at the same time knowing that I can never fully understand all the nuances of culture that I was not raised in. 

I grew up in "Small Town USA".  Believe me when I say it is small town.  As of the 2000 U.S. Census, there were around 10,000 residents in Moundsville, West Virginia.  The culture of that community is vastly different from the culture of my current community.  I feel privileged to have experienced two greatly different American cultures. 

I have experienced two different American cultures.  I still have not experienced a culture in which the people are so passionate about a cause, they are willing to give their own lives.  We have a very different existence and reality, in America, even when the overall theme is poverty and lack of opportunity, than residents of other countries and cultures. 

The people of Egypt want a change and are willing to see that change to the end.  How great would America be if our residents were more passionate about our government?  If instead of sitting around complaining, people actually got out to vote, volunteered for their political parties, and made sure their voice was heard in Congress and reflected in the change of America?

I do not condone and I am not advocating violence.  I just think it is inspiring to see people who are passionate about something and then do something about it. 

SAG Awards Red Carpet

I love watching "Live From the Red Carpet" on E!.  As a female, I have secret fantasies of getting all dressed up, I just don't have anywhere to go.  When I watch "Live From the Red Carpet", I get to live out my fantasies vicariously through the stars.  However, when I watch the awards, I always have comments on what is said and what is being worn.  So, it is my pleasure the share my thoughts with you.

First, I really enjoyed the interview with Jesse Eisenberg and Guiliana Rancic.  Jesse, without trying to be funny, was.  He has a dry humor you would only likely enjoy if you are married to an engineer.  So far we are an hour into the Red Carpet and nothing else has been funny.  Just your normal run of the mill "who are you wearing" and then onto embarrasing prodding questions from the interviewer in which the celebrity generally squirms and trys to give a witty answer.

Sophia Vergara was just interviewed.  Guiliana just asked her what her least favorite body part was.  Sophia's answer? "I wish I had a size 8 boob".  I think that she is usually drunk on the Red Carpet, but what is a size 8 boob?  It is not a foot, you can't put your boob in a shoe.  

When they pan out on the Red Carpet it looks a little more bare than at other awards shows.  Maybe the stars don't want to walk this carpet so they go directly to their seats, or maybe they just want to dodge the awkward interviews.  John Krasinski just notified Guiliana that she is embarrasing.

I am thrilled that Ross Mathews is interviewing on the Red Carpet.  He was "Ross the Intern" on Jay Leno and is a frequent guest on Chelsea Lately's roundtable.  He is hilarious.  He gets so excited during each interview and is so star struck.  I wish he was doing more of the interviews.  I love Giuliana Rancic, but she can be rather annoying in Red Carpet interviews.

Guiliana just interviewed Justin Timberlake, aka JT (at least in this house).  Mike doesn't appreciate that JT "always seems like he has a schtick going on in his interview.  Who is the real Justin?".   Ok, now Mike is back to his day that has been full of eating an entire bag of chips and cheese cubes.

Ross Mathews just told Helena Bonham Carter that she is a like an art piece.  I would have said that she is like a lunatic.  Who wears two different colored shoes with a dress that cost hundreds of dollars?

I haven't seen any dresses, yet, that I have wanted to have.  Maybe because it is the SAG awards the dresses are a little toned down.  I have noticed a lot of color, which I love!

Dress (and some tux) thoughts...

• OMG, WTF is Jane Lynch wearing?  It looks like she stole Little Bo Beep's dress from the '80's. 
• Eva Longoria, your dress looks unfinished.  Did the designer run out of time?  I would think that as a celebrity you would be able to afford a completed dress. 
• I think that January Jones always gets it all wrong and this time she did not dissappoint.  It is all wrong. 
• Mila Kunis' dress is beautiful, however, the color of the dress makes it look like the dress "Carrie" wore to the prom.  The dress is pink, but looks like it had a giant bucket of blood dumped on it. 
•  I actually like Claire Danes dress, which is a surprise because I don't like her and usually take it out on the dress. 
• Kyra Sedgwick looks beautiful.  I hope that I look that stunning in 12 years.
• Jennifer Lawrence has likely been spending her first time on all the Red Carpets this season (Winter's Bone).  She wore a hot pink dress.  Very daring and I love it!
• I liked the dress that Natalie Portman wore to the Golden Globes better.  The dress she is wearing today looks a little like the dress Megan Fox wore to the Golden Globes.  Who wore it best?
• I like Hilary Swank's look.  She has a very athletic body and it is difficult to see her as a woman sometimes.  Tonight, she looks like a woman.
• James Franco - it is called a comb.  I can't get over the fact that these celebrites have all kinds of handlers, yet no one can tell them their hair is a mess. 
• Nicole Kidman...I don't really want to comment, but I will.  Horrible!
• Tina Fey - red.  Red is your color, do it more often!
• I haven't seen Julia Stiles in quite some time.  She looks amazing.  I guess abscence makes the eyes grow fonder.
• You know, if you are a guy, you can wear something other than a black tie. 

Well, that is all I have to say about that.  I will be writing during the Red Carpet for the Oscars on February 27th.  In the mean time keep checking out my blog.  I will be writing about other topics.

Thanks for reading.

Industry

So, I always have a lot on my mind and decided to create a blog.  When creating my profile, one of the "questions" was industry.  As a registered nurse, I scrolled down to the H's to choose healthcare...nothing.  How can you have a drop box to choose your industry and not have anything related to healthcare to select?