***NOTICE***

I am in the process creating an "viewers allowed to read my blog" profile. If you are interested in being on this list, please send me your name and email. I believe you can still message me through the Blogger system.

I will be changing my settings by Saturday, July 18th, so please notify me ASAP. If you have a friend or relative who is currently reading my blog, please let them know also. I didn't want to email my entire email list, I just wanted to contact those who are active readers of my blog.

Sorry for the inconvenience, and thank you, in advance for your understanding. This will allow me to post things a little more freely for my dedicated readers...and not have to worry about the general public reading specifics about my life.

Thanks again!

~M~

Lost but not Forgotten.....

For those of you who track my site still....I have not fallen off the face of the earth. SO much going on in my life right now. I'm heading to bed (I've been getting less than 20 hours of sleep a week), but lemme run down the highlights really quickly:

Dad was diagnosed with mulitple myeloma about 6 weeks ago. I am his primary patient advocate. He has been really negative, and I have been doing my BEST at trying to give him POSITIVE outlooks on his situation. It's not easy....

Mom's "old" house that she still has belongings in, was HORRIFICALLY ransacked at some point last week. The police were there for 2 hours dusting for prints, and got a TON of them. Now, they are just hoping that the prints are "in the system". At this point, mom, my sister and my aunt have been trying to put the house back into SOME sort of order...hoping to get her OUT of there ASAP.

I've had 3 shoulder surgeries since March 12th of this year.

I am trying to get the house in order for about 75 people to come for Briana's Engagement Party in a couple of weeks. It's casual....but, the whole thing is putting massive stress on my marriage...which is another area that I need some prayer.

Trying to keep up on paperwork for Dean, as he is freaking out about it before going on vacation.

My uncle passed away last week and we are headed to his memorial.

I'm not getting enough sleep....and it's slowly effecting my fibro, which makes physical therapy a bit rough.

Summer school for Dayna.

A wedding to plan.

A 50th birthday and a 40th birthday this year.

There WAS a possible purchase of a new home on the plate....but, thank God, that was removed.


Those are just a few tips of the iceberg. I truly have NOT forgotten about you all....just been absolutely rundown and flooded with life. I shall return to blogging here in the VERY near future.

I was afforded a beautiful comment on one of my blogs from someone who has an account, but, I cannot look them up and thank them for their eloquent words. It pertained to the closing of my business and the sale of my gowns back in March. I just want to say, "Thank You. You are the reason I am here tonight making sure that my readers know that I am still breathing and wanting to blog. Thank you for your inspirational words."

I hope to catch up soon!

~M~

You spin me right round, baby, right round....

So......you haven't heard from me in awhile, and I apologize. I can make excuses, but instead, I think I will just explain myself. I've had a couple of reasons why I haven't been on here much, as of late. Here are some of them:

Seems like I have a follower in the family, that I can't understand why they are interested in my blogs, as everything I do in their world, gets turned around and used against me. So, I've been sitting in contemplation of whether or not to scrap my blog. I decided to try and work through the feelings that it brings up, and continue on. I have a nice following, and have pick up a few more friends along the road....so, I shall continue. I get encouraging notes from people who really enjoy my openness and style or writing, so I will take a step out on to that ledge. No growth comes from being stagnant, right?

Besides that, life has kinda gotten in the way recently. I've got so much on my plate. I feel like every time I start getting close to seeing a HINT of the bottom of my plate, some unwanted dump truck backs up, and unloads its load on to my plate. Now, I'm overwhelmed. Where to start....

Many of you know that I am dealing with my fathers EXTREMELY poor health. I am the one who has willing jumped in front of the train and decided to take action in getting him better medical treatment. It's been almost 3 years now that the doctors locally have been trying to diagnose him with SOMETHING. ANYTHING!! And gotten nowhere....slowly. Well, since I have been involved, things have fast-tracked a bit more. Besides looking at getting him into Mayo Clinic in AZ, he's gone through a few tests in the last two weeks, and even been seen my a doctor an an oncologist on their days off!! SOMEONE is understanding the great need in getting him diagnosed ASAP...and I am grateful for that. I am also grateful for the amount of heart-to-heart time this has given me and my daddy. It's been a tough road for me...and I can't even IMAGINE everything that HE must be going through.

Besides that, there's been my "pseudo-surgery" in March (I was put under at the hospital, only to be woken up later and told that the surgery was aborted before they could do anything.) A week of depression. Then, I had my REAL surgery on 4/16. I'm recuperating. The orthopaedic surgeon says 4-6 weeks of physical therapy, and 6 months until a have a decent recovery. Two days ago, I got word that I will need to have another "in house" (under local) surgery. On my back shoulder, again. This will require 3-5 stitches, and a 2 week lifting embargo. I will be so glad when I can get this all behind me, and operate like a decent human being.

Then there's this little thing called a "wedding" that we are gearing up for. Granted, it's 14 months away....but, an anxious bride awaits. So, I sure there will be a solid 14 months of planning, parties, and more planning.

Top it all off with the fact that Dean is hot-and-heavy after buying a new house. Wait....lemme clarify. It's NOT new. But, after we gut and remodel it, it basically will be. (I seem to remember myself going through this for 3 years...and it only ended less than 2 years ago....) It's a HUGE chunk to bite into, especially with then marital ties are about to snap as it is...

So, I sit here with a chest holster on, as I have been assigned a cardiologist by my primary care doctor, for palpitations. They are trying to figure out if they are stress related, o health related. When the cardiologist asked me if I was under any stress, I asked him to define "stress". haha I told him that I thought that "off the charts" would be an accurate description.

So what's new with you??

News on my dad...

Well, I hate to write this letter, as I just had surgery yesterday, and was getting ready to call on Mayo for screening on my dad come Monday.

His doctor and another specialist ran a 5-hour blood protein work-up on him this past Monday, and he just called me with the results. He was unsure as to what type of protein they were speaking of, but the level was supposed to run around 250.....dad's level is at 4600.

They are trying to rush a bone marrow test, and send him to an oncologist. They seem to think that he has a form (or precursor to) of multi-myeloma....which is fatal.

I'm trying my best to have high hopes, but this was a hard blow to the both of us, and my heart is just breaking. Mayo will be put off for now, and I wanted to thank all of you who have sent letters, prayers (which he still will desperately need) and questions.

Much love,

~M~

I'm off!!!

I'm TRYING to get outta here so that I can head down to Anaheim!! Wil be down there from tonight until Sunday night.....meeting up with old friends, watching Dayna at the National Cheer Competition at the Anaheim Convention Center and going to Disneyland on Friday!!

It should be a nice break away from all the stress of reality recently. I booked myself a REALLY nice room there (5 star) for a REALLY nice price ($89 a night!), so I am REALLY excited to go back "home" for a few days!!

You all be good while I am gone!!!

It is finished.....

I decided to go late in the day, to the sale of my inventory that I donated from my past business.

It was a blessing. Thank God, most of the couture gowns were sold. For some strange reason, that made things easier for me. Alyssa found a couture dress for an upcoming prom. A $3,000 dress that they sold for $50. I bought myself a VERY vintage Oscar de La Renta piece that had never been worn. It's possibly a museum piece. I paid $25 for it. Glad no one really appreciated it's value. A little piece to keep as a reminder.

Anyways, I met up with a local newscaster there, from the station where I was a Producer. I was able to introduce myself, and help her with some gowns, which brought back the love I always had for what I did in my business. She took a picture with me, which I thought was really sweet. It warmed my heart to watch her three small children "oh" and "ah" every time she came out in a gown. I had her just TRY a $5,000 Oscar de La Renta couture piece....and she looked STUNNING! Her eldest boy gasped, and pointed at her plunging neckline, while her youngest son ran up and gave her a huge hug around her legs, and her daughter told her how beautiful she looked. THAT'S why I loved my job so.

I had to cringe at some of the "pointers" a volunteer was giving her about one gown in particular....that did NOT flatter her at all. Told her how terrific she looked in it, just needed a few alterations, and the gown would look PERFECT with a jean jacket.

That's where I understood how some people "get" couture......and some DON'T.

Anyways.....here are all of the local links that are currently running on TV as of this weekend. I am sure there will be more to come. Enjoy them like I am doing.

Me giving up this business was excruciatingly difficult. Having it offered up to the public like it was, was like splaying my most private, treasured parts for everyone to treat with disrespect. I must give HUGE kudos to the Candlelight Guild. They treated the entire endeavor with love and respect. My understanding was that when they arrived more than 45 minutes before opening, there was already a line wrapped around the building. They only let in a few people at a time, and they were only allowed to take two gowns to the dressing rooms at a time. It would have been the only way that I would have wanted it handled. I had visions of delicate couture gowns being pulled from peoples arms, tossed around uncaringly......a total mess. It was QUITE the opposite. However, I found myself rehanging gowns that had not been hung correctly...taking scarves that were misplaced on gowns, and returning them to the rightful gowns.....putting the gowns on the correct size racks.....typical me. And, I loved every moment of it.

I have a very close friend, who has another friend......who took HER friend down to find a wedding gown. She found one, and was thrilled. I received two wonderful letters of thanks from them, which utterly made me cry. I became aware of the gift that I had given, and my selfish pain was slowly transforming into humbleness. Then, the fact of how much the hospice was benefiting from the sale....reminded me of why I donated the gowns to them in the first place, and how thrilled I was that they are benefiting from it all.....finally.

Well, now that I have rambled on, here are the local links as I promised.

Remember to give back to others. Even if it's terribly painful. There is great gain...

~M~

Great Day, Channel 26, KMPH - Fresno

ABC, Channel 30, KFSN - Fresno


There was one more station that reported the story....however, they reported my business as a family business, and that I had died....hence the donation. I didn't feel the need to give their erroneous story any further hits.

Well.....it's finally happening.....

They are selling off my gowns.

It's all over the news stations today. Michelle's Sweetpeas inventory is being sold off for the benefit of Hinds Hospice. Click on the link above, and see some of the beautiful gowns that will be available for no more than $150.

Valentino, Escada, Badgley Mischka, Prada....runway gowns that still have their tags on.....valued up to $6,000 per gown.....for $150. Makes me want to cry thinking bout how much it cost for me to put them in my store, once upon a time.....

So, the question is, to attend, or not to attend?

I am torn.

My work for daddy...

I spent the day with my daddy today, and took a couple of pictures for those of you who are following his journey. Last night when I told him that a medical team would need to fly with him, due to his frailness, he became VERY apprehensive and pulled back from the whole process. I told him to thin about it and pray about it overnight. When I went to visit with him today, he was telling friends who were calling, that it "looks like (his) family will be shipping him off to Minnesota". Anyone who heard, was pleased by the news. I think it's starting to settle in comfortably enough that he's accepting it.

I just got an email from Hinds Hospice. I Vigil Volunteer for them, and they were the recipients of the over 600 couture gowns that I had in my inventory when I closed my doors in 2007. They had tried selling a few of the gowns in the past, and had not been very successful. Well, I guess they have a large guild here in town who will be holding several charity auctions fr the hospice, using my gowns. They were on the morning news (I wish I would have known), and the reporter bought a gown on the SPOT! They will be doing another plug tomorrow on TV, and talking about me and the gowns, and how they came into the hospices' hands. I can't WAIT for them to SELL, SELL, SELL!!! I am so excited that they may have found a TRUE group that can raise some healthy funds for the hospice! I am sure that which ever TV station it is on, they will have an Internet link. If I can find it, I will post it here s that everyone can see and enjoy!

I am off to have a battle/meeting with Dayna's cheer leading coaches. *sigh* Never a dull moment around here!

ANSWERED PRAYER!!

Well.....in less than 36 hours of posting a site for my dad on Facebook, we have all we need to get into the Mayo Clinic in Roschester, Minnesota. Now, it's "prep" time for my dad, who was actually dumbfounded that this came together so quickly. He's a little worried about transporting, but it sounds like he will have several family members, and most likely a medical transport team assisting him through the flight(s).

Please pray that we sweep him off his feet and just get him to the Clinic with as little static from his insurance companies as possible. Sounds like besides his hesitancy/fear, the insurance stands to be a major obsticle we get to overcome. I am sure that all will come together!

Again....I simply cannot thank you all enough!!

URGENT PLEA FOR MY DAD

I have been busily creating a Facebook page for my father,who is dying of an unknown cause....rapidly. I just want to cut and paste the description of the group here. I am reaching out to my blog community that might not be set up with me on FB, and to any others who might stumble upon this blog, in search of hope.

Thank you, for any and all help and prayers that you reading this, may give him.


Ok...I'm in the process of getting some info and pictures together in regards to my father, and his terribly failing health. He is 6'1", and as of today (3/16/09) weighs in at a whopping 110 pounds. He has been run through the test gammut LOCALLY, and needs some MAJOR intervention OUTSIDE of our local community. I need some connections who are willing/wanting to get him to the right place/people, and in short order. He is losing about a pound a week, and there's no way he will be lasting very long at that rate.I am making a DESPERATE plea to try and spread the word through friends and family, who have connections in MANY different arenas: medical, media....ANYTHING that can help get his case some MAJOR attention. He eats well, and regulalry, and is losing weight (and almost all of his muscle now) rapidly.I will NOT be asking for any money. All I am asking is that you read through the updates, sign up, and pass this along to your friends and family. I KNOW that God will provide assistance....but, I am having to hit the pavement HARD to find help.Let me thank you, in advance, from the very bottom of my heart. He's only 59, and has 5 grand-daughters that are depending on having him around for awhile longer....I love and appreciate you ALL for helping me out.Feel free to ask questions, and like I said earlier, I will post pictures of "before" and "present".

~M~

Getting older...

Well, that will be me tomorrow. The hospital calls me today to give me the time. I gotta admit, after seeing this picture, I got a little sick. I've been doing fine....not anxious or anything. But, this pic ain't very becoming, if you know what I mean. At least I have one of the finest orthopaedic surgeons in the country, if not the world. I feel very fortunate.

So, if you don't already know what's going on....my left shoulder has "issues". The doc will be doing three (3) things: repairing/sewing a torn tendon at the tip of the shoulder.....filing down a bone spur somewhere in the same location....and draining an engorged bursa that is not responding to cortisone shots. The only things I am worrying about are getting the IV (which is ALWAYS an issue for me) and the fact that they have to put me in a Vancomyacin drip during surgery, due to my MRSA susceptibility. I've had it once a year now, for two years. I have a low tolerance for Vanco, so I am REALLY putting myself in the trust of someones hands, to a drug I know I am allergic to.... Kinda scary.

Send up a little prayer for me, if you would. I could use it.

I'll possibly find out tomorrow when I start physical therapy. They might not give me a date until we discover how intense the surgery was.

Well.....I'm off to lay in bed and toss and turn.

Cuttin' it up!!

Remember my previous posts about ice massages, e-stem, and cortisone shots on my shoulder?

Welllll.....here's the skinny:

Since September, my left shoulder has been hurting. I went in October to my doc, and was told it was time for my yearly cortizone shot, as appearantly my bursitis was flaring up again. I passed on the offer, as the last time he had to give me three shots in one visit. Told him I would come back when I just couldn't move my arm. He laughed and said, "I'll see you in two weeks". I didn't go back in "two weeks".

Well, it kept getting worse. I went back, mid-January. He gave me one shot in the bursa, and it worked for 2 1/2 days, then started aching again. My physical therapist told me that I should go back and ask him for an MRI. He took an x-ray and it came back negative, so he set up an appointment for a MRI. I called for the results today, and the nurse was just printing out the results: I have a torn rotator cuff and need surgery. She said the doctor will be reviewing the report and refering me to an orthopaedic surgeon.

I was just getting ready to plan a trip to Disneyland because my youngest daughter qualified for Cheerleading Nationals there at the end of March. Also, I have a Mexico mission trip coming up on April 3rd. So....I shall wait to see when I get my O.S. appointment, and when he decides to schedule surgery.

I'm bummed....yet glad that they know what the cause of the pain is. Just wasn't prepared for "surgery" to be what came out of all of this....

Ahhhh, memories....

I've gone from THIS.....



....to THIS.....

I've spent the last two days digging through old photos (and some newer ones), in order to scan them and upload them to my Facebook account. I've had some fun at my own expense....and at the expense of some of my childhood and high school friends....lol All in all, it's been a fabulous trip down Memory Lane....and, I'm just getting started. This is kinda of my own way of "scrapbooking" or journaling my life. And, I'm having a blast doing it!

In the middle of doing all of this, I am trying to finish up month end paperwork for Dean, run the household, write and negotiate FOR my writing, and plan our 25th high school reunion (which looks like it will be a BLAST!!).

I hope that YOU will take the time to go down YOUR Memory Lane. You never know what trinkets you may find. I found a poem that was written on lined paper (looked like a rough draft that I never received). It was from my beloved grandma, who passed away 2 days after Dayna was born. She wrote it to me, about me, and for my 21st birthday. If I get some time, I just might rewrite it here for one of my blogs.

Right now, though.....I gotta run and play taxi not only for my girls, but for my mom and sister.

Hope to catch you all later!!

~M~

TA-DA!!!

Ok....can't talk long....

I have a new job!! I am now a freelance writer for a new Central Valley magazine!! YAY, me!!

Anyhow, today is my first day to "write". I have to produce a biography so the Editor-in-Chief can pitch me and the mag to the advertising department....then, I need to pump out 1-4 articles, ASAP!!

Just wanted to keep you "in the know"!!

I'll try to hit up my blog really soon, and let you know how it's going.

I'm so excited!! I'm gonna be published!!

:D

The game was good....

....but isn't THIS what it was all about????






Which one was YOUR favorite???

***YAAAAAWN***

Oh man....am I feeling like that right now.


Take one 500mg Vicodin, add two 220mg Aleeve, and 2 Benadryl tablets...and this is what you get.


That would be me.


I got my first night sleep in over a week, last night. Went to my physical therapy appointment at 10am. She worked on my TMJ. I told her that I finally slept soundly, but it was on my bad shoulder. I also ended up with a hip that was so painfully sore, I could barely walk. She massaged it for less than 5 minutes, which brought me to tears. So, I scheduled a massage to go to as soon as I left the PT's office. In the meantime, my PT aid I should start taking 2 Aleeve, along with my Vicodin. Apparently the bursa in my left hip has flared up, to match my left shoulder. So...I head to my masseuse. He barely got started on me and was noting how badly my skin was reacting to touch. My histamine levels are SSOOO high that my body is reacting by having SEVERE inflammation issues right now. So, he recommended that I start taking 2 Benadryl.

I am sssooooo sleepy right now. Sleepy enough that I might just pass out.

I'm gonna have to write more later. I have a MRI tomorrow. I'll try to write how all is going sometime after that appointment.


I hope you all have a great evening!

I'm LOSIN' IT!!!!

Crazy week.


This weekend, Dayna spilled water on my Blackberry that I got this summer. It would turn on, ring when called, and receive all emails, texts, etc....but, I could retrieve nothing. So, Monday I took it to the Verizon store. Thank goodness my friend was there and said, "I've seen this before. The buttons don't work. Lucky thing for you, we got a shipment of BRAND NEW Blackberry's in. Let me swap yours out"...and proceed to replace my phone with a new one, and all of its accessories. He's so wonderful to me!

UNfortunately....I lost my calendar. So, I am flying by the seat of my pants with having a TON of information an appointments that were lost on the old phone. One of which was today's appointment: an appraiser that came out to the house. All I knew was that it was after 10am. Good thing for me, I had the house all nice and clean (and me all nice and clean)....and was prepared for her when she happened to show up at 11am.

I had also forgotten that I was picking up my girlfriend's two kids and feeding them tonight. Trip to the store for extra dinner makings. I did stop by the RedBox movie kiosk and get a few movies. "Mirrors", which was too gruesome for me, but had an EXCELLENT story twist..."Lakeview Terrace" which was AWESOME!!!...."The Women" and "Swing Vote", which we haven't watched yet.

My girlfriend's kids left. Alyssa had a MASSIVE....MAJOR meltdown. We go through this with her almost every month. Which in turn, flairs her eczema up to an INCREDIBLE level. Well, I tried to help her out....but, looks like I got deemed the "bad guy". I'm a damned good mom. The whole mother/daughter struggles that happen so infrequently in this house between myself and my eldest two just break my heart. They are so unnecessary. One day, when they have girls of their own, maybe they too, will understand.



On the HAPPY side of the coin, I got some really interesting news today. There is a very good chance that I will start writing for a magazine in the near future. I will be doing articles on travel, arts, wine/spirits, and possibly fashion. I'm really excited about the possibilities! I would be working from home (it sounds like), which is a nice benefit. Seeing as how I have not been sleeping, I could actually pump out a BUNCH of articles, and store them up for future editions.

I thought that was exciting news. :)

Anyways...I don't think I have any appointments tomorrow. Maybe I will take a sleeping pill tonight, as I haven't slept in DAYS. I got my cortisone shot in my shoulder on Friday and took x-rays. I guess the films turned out fine, so they are sending me in for an MRI. Should hear about my appt. by the end of the week. The shot just ain't cutting it, and physical therapy is only helping so much. Good thing I have my new job possibility to keep my mind off of my pain. That....and my Vicodin. ;)

So....what's new with YOU?

UUGggghhhhh....

That's Dayna's latest show. She's a blondie on the right side. That's best I can give ya. I wasn't there, and a friend video taped this one for me. She has another competition this weekend....I'll post that when I get it recorded.







BUSY, BUSY, BUSY weekend!!

Looks like I may be coordinating my 25th reunion for the high school I graduated from in Fresno. I grew up in southern California....and I attend BOTH reunions, when they have them. Looks like I am kicking around a 3 or 4 day Mexican cruise for the Fresno reunion. Gives everyone time to save up (should be cheap, though).

I've posted the idea on Facebook...everyone kicking it around seems to like it so far. Now....to put thing in action...


What did YOU do this weekend?


Hey Kohl.....how's that job comin'? Does it look like I will be down there in February for a rockin' Ozomatli concert??? ;)

If so....JoAnn.....shall I stay at your house and wreak havoc and school you in Guitar Hero??? lol

Everyone's free...

....and that includes me.


And you.


Seeing as how I am trying to go through a "personal growth" period, I thought I would share with you one of my favorite songs.

It's so inspiring.

Listen...to...every...word.

My baggage....

Well, it's been a busy day. Ups and downs...back and forths. And....I'm tired.

All of this emotional stress has caused me to rely upon myself....to release myself from the bondage that I have been held by for years. And....I'm doing just that. I promise to no longer hold myself prisoner in my own life. Just because I feel one way....strongly....and have hopes, dreams and aspirations....doesn't mean that others share that with me.

So....off come the cuffs that I have placed on my life.




I am really hoping that this will be the fresh new start that I need. That this will be the first of many layers to a happier, healthier life.


Some of us grow and mature faster and wiser than others. It took me a little longer to see the light. I feel sorry for those that are still stuck in the dark.


I hate that I had to thicken my skin to get here....but, I shall consider it something that needed to be done. I sat in the fire as long as I could. Allowed God to work on me until His job was finished, and I understood.

I believe I have arrived at my first stop of many.


I hope that you, too, are able to find light in your darkness.....

Was this REALLY needed???

And, so it starts....

It's 11:30am.....less than 2 hours after Obama has been sworn in...and my middle daughter is already being harassed at school. I CANNOT believe this!!

A classmate turned to her and said, "I would shoot Bush, if he were worth the bullet". This was a 16 year old GIRL!!! My daughter told her that she shouldn't say that and got, "You just don't like Obama because he's BLACK!"....as is this student.

I am a HUGE believe in equal rights. H-U-G-E. I WILL NOT tolerate ANY race, religion, orientation even BEGIN to harass my children. NONE.
You DON'T want me to go "MAMA BEAR" on you!!

THANK GOD!!!

IT'S OVER!!!



Was it just me, or did it seem like the entire nation has been holding it's breath ever since the Presidential-elect was announced?

Maybe it's my news-work-side that has jaded me so. I was on pins and needles hoping that the inauguration went off without any problems. I didn't vote for our new President...but, I'm also smart enough to know that if anything would have happened to him today, that it would be HORRIBLE for our country.

I watched the entire inauguration, which like most Americans, was probably my first. Thought Aretha sounded like she needed a little help...although, she's till one hell of a singer....thought the prayer from Dr. Rick Warren was very good...could have done without Feinstein....thought Bush looked tired...the Obama girls looked adorable....and the benediction was decent...a little racist...but, humorous, none-the-less.

HOWEVER....I thought CBS' coverage commentary was TERRIBLE!! I've ALWAYS had a heart for Katie Couric, but I SSOOOO lost all respect for her during her commentary today. I thought she was monumentally disrespectful of our out-going President. Could not say ONE nice thing. I don't know about YOUR mom, but I was always told that if you can't say something nice.....don't say anything at all. Katie, obviously, did NOT learn that lesson. I TOTALLY felt like the media was playing their card. I think this was one of the great reasons why I didn't enjoy my time in TV as much as I could have. I don't like to see media abuse of power. But..another story for another time.

All in all, I thought that DC did a fabulous job in handling the crowds, and the event itself, was very nice.

Now.....it's time for the country (and me) to exhale, and pray that this will be as smooth a transition as possible, and that Mr. President will fulfill his duties to the best of his capabilities.

May God Bless America.

Ready for a new day....

Had that today....

Ice massage....for 30 minutes. Along with heat therapy....ultrasound....and e-stem (electric pulse shock) treatment. Two hours worth of physical therapy for my jaw and shoulder. Left side of my jaw is back to being in a HUGE KNOT...even though I am using my jaw splint and bionator religiously. ***sigh***

So....since the therapy on my shoulder has not been working, I get to go through THIS again:








Appointment is on the 23rd. :( I hate cortisone shots. Granted....they WORK...just not very comfortable.


As far as the jaw goes....saw the TMJ doc today. He's not thrilled with how I was doing well...and now my mouth is getting "used" to the appliances, and is backsliding. He says they might have to make one or two different appliances. I guess that even with the night time appliance (bionator), I'm clenching so hard, they fear that I will bite right through the appliance. I had NO idea that a human could bite down SO HARD....DURING sleep.....all night long. I'm exhausted. Between the shoulder and me not sleeping (let ALONE through the night), my fibro is trying desperately to get the best of me. I'm back on Vicodin...much to my dismay.


My dad's not doing well. He's down to 112 pounds. I guess they are rapidly pushing him through the UCSF program to be seen by some GI specialsits. He has intestinal and lung issues that they can't seem to diagnose. He's withering away, and my heart is breaking. And, of course, I'm not dealing with it well. When someone close to me becomes deathly ill, I tend to get angry, and pull back....pretending like it's not going to happen. Which is a real bullshit approach. Doesn't get me anywhere. At least I know my issue. Just gotta deal with it.

Seems like there is a lot for me to deal with right now in my life. There's a lot I really DON'T want to face....and it's just right there IN my face...not leaving me alone. Good thing I'm pretty damned strong. I have to admit...I feel pretty beat up right now. I just hope I have the strength to get through the next few years....

By the way....Briana and Lee set a date: June 5th, 2010. So, I guess we will start planning soon. She's already starting a guest list. Has the place locked in. Wants to dress shop in March, I believe. I can't believe my baby is getting married....

I hope life treats her well.

Disneyland for Dummies...

So, I spent an hour last night drafting up some Disneyland "advice" for a friend of mine. Actually, I had TWO friends this week, and one last month, come to me for advice and information. I figured that since I don't have anything interesting to blog about tonight, I would post my "advice" about the Magic Kingdom for all to appreciate...should you be heading in that direction. Mind you, it was generalized for one person, but there is a LOT of information here that you can gleam from...no matter WHEN you are going, or whom you are going with. it's long...and just SOME of the information that I have gathered along the way. I hope you get some use out of it!!


As far as hotels go, I have stayed in MANY of the hotels around Disneyland, EXCEPT for Candy Cane, as they are privately owned, and never come up for discount searches.
The two hotels within walking distance that I have stayed at and had not only good rates, but nice rooms, were Desert Palms Hotel & Suites and The Anabella. I used to stay at the Anabella ALL the time. They were bought out several years ago by someone in England, and the service and rooms went DOWNHILL. However, that being said, they had THE nicest rooms up until my last stay a few years ago. I looked up MANY recent reviews on the property, and it seems like they got their act back together over the last few years. The best rate that I found was on hotels.com. The perks here at this hotel are that they have their own on-site restaurant that is not only good, but not very expensive. Also, next door, there is a coffee shop (has been there FOREVER) called Tiffy's. We frequent there when we stay in Anaheim. The DOWNSIDE of the hotel is even though it is across the street (on Katella) from DL/CA, it is a bit of a walk. You CAN buy a transportation pass (which used to be $4 per person), but if you leave late at night, the wait to catch a bus with empty seats can be a hassle.

The place I have had THE best luck with is the Desert Palms Hotel & Suites. They have a VERY friendly staff, nice pool for the kids, easy access to the park (you go in through the parking lot and catch the tram in), and a Quizno's located downstairs. I DO like the fact that they will match or BEAT any internet price you can scrounge up on their property. They have always been VERY generous with that. They have several types of rooms to choose from (you can google the hotel and check the rooms out). We usually get the family room which faces CA, so that we can see the fireworks at night, should we retire early. It has 2 Queen beds, with a step- down living room and a fold out couch. They also have rooms for two families to share, if anyone wants to go that route. The only drawback I have with this hotel, is you need to check in at a fairly early time in order to find a parking spot...and try to keep your car there...as it is VERY difficult to try and find a spot late at night.

I noticed that the Carousel Inn had some decent prices on their rooms, but I have not stayed there before. I also noticed that in their reviews, there were more negative comments than I would like to see. People LOVED the beds, but you needed to ask for one of the newly rennovated rooms. Several people commented on "hidden charges" (i.e. parking, internet, resort tax). MOST hotels in the area have not charged for parking (unless you are staying at Hyatt, Marriott, [HOTEL] etc). Internet is ALWAYS an extra charge, unless you stay at a Marriott Courtyard, Fairfield or Residence Inn. As far as Resort Tax goes...you will get that no matter WHERE you stay in the Anaheim area. I believe it's between $5-$15, depending on the cost of the room. When we last stayed at the Grand Californian, the room was a little over $400 a night, and taxes were almost $20.

I did see that the Doubletree Hotel across from the park had OUTSTANDING reviews, and was only $87.20 per night per room. I have NOT stayed there, but have heard great things about it, and I BELIEVE that they recently remodeled the entire hotel. I don't know what restaurants they have inside the hotel itself, but, I do know that there is a Mimi's Cafe in front of it.

As far as eating goes: I would not recommend the "Dining Package" that you can purchase through Disney. It is rather confusing to use. You CAN save SOME money by using it, but more often than not, you find yourself eating somewhere, and you don't have the correct "coupon" for that type of eatery. I also don't know if you can purchase the package without going through Disney Travel Co....which NEVER gives you a break on ANY pricing. I WOULD recommend that you make reservations for eating anywhere in the park, besides fast food stops. They do have a Disney Dining number, which you can locate online, and I recommend keeping it in on your phone. You can make reservations up to 90 days in advance.

Places I would recommend: Carnation Cafe (on Main Street) for lunch. They have a GREAT "comfort food" menu, and fun stuff for the kids to eat too. This is a MUST whenever we go. I would DEFINATELY say to make a reservation if your entire party will be eating together. Anything over a party of 6 will require a substantial wait at any of the eateries. The Blue Bayou is always a favorite with our family. Located inside the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, the ambiance is fabulous. Don't plan on it being a RUSHED meal...but, their serving time has improved tremendously recently. They are pricey, and the food is moderate...but, the experience is unlike any other you will get in the park. MUST have reservations, no matter WHAT size party you have. The Carnation Plaza is a great place to eat, located at the end of Main Street. No reservations needed. Their specialty is fried chicken. If you get there somewhat late for dinner/early for fireworks, and place yourself outside under the heaters, far enough where you have a clear view of the castle, you will be right smack dab in the middle of the night-time fireworks show. The kids might complain about sitting there for a bit..but you CAN'T beat the view!! The River Belle across from Tom Sawyers Island is also a great place to eat for lunch or dinner. No reservations. If you go there for dinner, go early, and stay for the Fantasmic show. You'll get an up-close and personal, unobstructed view of the show. Pizza Port is located in Tomorrowland. It specializes in pasta and pizza, of course! It is reasonably priced (for Disneyland), requires no reservations, and has ample seating. One chicken pasta plate is enough for two adults...and the kids always love the food. No reservations. In California Adventure, there really aren't many choices for a sit-down meal. The hot dog stand in The Backlot is very good, but it can sometimes be difficult to find seating, once you get your food. The corn dog stand next to the purple dinosaur on the boardwalk has great corndogs...no seating. We usually hit the restaurant where the winery is. No reservations needed, although if there are more than 6 of you, I would recommend making one. Be sure to have a glass of wine and order their orange panecotta for dessert. It's to DIE for!!

As far as tickets go: I would either buy them on eBay, or get a season pass. We have had Premium Annual Passports now for 8 years. If you purchase the Premium Pass, you can go any day of the year. All other passes have "black out" days, which cost over $40 if you want to get in on these days. The Passports are especially good if you are planning at LEAST one other multi-day trip to the parks. The Premium also includes free parking, which is currently $12 a day. (You can pay extra to add parking on to the other passes.) You will get discounts at almost ALL eateries, and 10-15% off of your purchases within the park and Downtown Disney. You also qualify for discounted rates at the Disney prooperties, should you decide to stay there. They are pricey, but save you money in the long run, should you be planning on returning within a year. Otherwise, your best bet is on eBay. (Be sure to look at the shipping charges and the positive feedback of the seller!!)

Many of the rides have "Single Rider" entrances. If everyone does not want to go on a particualr ride, this is a GREAT way to get on a ride quickly (if there is a long line). There is no guarantee that you will be seated together (most times you are not), but it IS a great way to get through the rides quickly...or ride the favorites over and over. Keep in mind that not ALL rides have this option. When in doubt, ask an attendent. Also, you can only pull one Fast Pass per person, per time limit. Let's say you pull a Fast Pass for Splash Mountain (which has single rider), but your "window" is in 4 hours. You cannot pull a Fast Pass for another ride (within that park), until the window time has come up. Keep that in mind when you are pulling passes.

If you are looking for "character dining" for the kids, or just fabulous food, NOTHING beats the Storyteller Restaurant in the Grand Californian hotel. They have the BEST breakfast, hands down! They start turning over for lunch at 11. Reservations for your party are a good idea.

If you arelooking for a diversion from the rides, try a tour. The best tour (in my opinion) that Disneyland offers, is the "Walk in Walt's Fottsteps" tour. it's about 4 hours in length, an what you get out of it varies with each cast member. Regardless, if you are a big Disney fan like myself, you will learn so many little bits and pieces of park information that are not normally known to an average guest.

I don't know if any of this has helped. I know it's a lot of info...and it's just the tip of the iceberg for me...lol

If I can answer any other questions or help you in any other way, please don't hesitate in asking! I have no idea how long it's been since you have been down there, so you may already know much of what I have shared.
I hope you have a FABULOUS trip down there!


OH!! Be sure to take advantage of their new "PhotoPass"! They have photographers all over both parks. At your first photo, they will give you a card. Each time you take a picture, you hand them your card, and it stores all of your photo information with a bar code, for the entire trip. If you don't wish to view the photos in the park, you can go home and order them...and even DESIGN some special backgrounds and add characters! You can look at/order your pictures online for up to 30 days. I always make sure we take LOTS of pics around the park, since there is no charge involved, and we don't have to remember to purchase them at the end of the night when everyone is tired.

Once again, let me know if I can help you any further! I would say that hotels.com had the best prices by FAR on the internet for hotels, if you are looking for a great deal on hotels that are off of Disney property.

~M~

OK, OK, OK!! Here's what you've been waiting for...

Yup. That is Quincy Jones...goofing around with me in his living room! I was invited to go with my cousin Liz to his house. Our friend Ingrid also came along. All I can say was it was an awesome experience, and I am FULLY looking forward to our next trip back.



Quincy has a GORGEOUS home, designed by Steve Wynn. From the balcony off of the main living room, you can see all of Hollywood, Los Angeles and even down to Catalina Island!



He was an amazingly gracious host. We spoke of everything from his past projects to upcoming projects....new talent he has found to talent he has worked with in the past. Friends from the past that he lost...Presidents and Nobility that he has welcomed to his home. From jokes shared between us....to tears shed between us.



Never once was I nervous about meeting him. Never once did I feel out of place walking around with a living legend. So humble and hospitable, he was. Made me feel like I was sharing time with a life-long friend.



After we had been there about 2 1/2 hours, he decided that we needed something to eat. So, he asked what we would like, and we all decided on soup and salad. He also ordered up a nice bottle of Reisling. Next thing I know, one of his employees presented us with a silver platter that had 4 glasses of white wine. We laughed and talked some more, until the table was set and we shared a meal together. FABULOUS salad topped with THE most incredible salmon sashimi (about 3/4" thick!) on a bed of greens. Then there was the incredible soup we had! Broth with fresh vegetables and the finest ground meat/sausage. Dessert was fresh watermelon sorbet topped with big juicy blueberries. Laugh after laugh was had at that table.



My cousin had an engagement to go to, which was sad because Quincy had video of a superstar that he found....years ago when he found them. This person is legendary now...and it would have been an awesome thing to see. However, the fact that we had to leave, left it that we would be back...maybe for a night of movies in his theater!!



Either way, I am forever indebted to him for the grace at which he entertained. I felt so comfortable being there. I loved looking at all of his Grammys, Oscars, MTV Awards, philanthropic awards.....pictures of all of the family he loves so much, to pictures of movie stars, rock legends, and Heads of State.



All three of us went away with smile on our faces, and a token from our visit. It was an amazing experience, and I look forward to being able to visit with him again and again. Such a gentleman...



I have left a lot of detail out, but there are some memories which I like to keep to myself, and I respect the privacy of Quincy and our visit together. Sweet memories, from a sweet man. I wish that everyone could get to know him...it was such a pleasant, welcome surprise.

GEARIN' UP!!!

I KNOW I have left you all in the lurch as of recent. And, I apologize. I'd say that I would be up for a public whipping...but, those of you who know me....well....


ANYWAYS....

I read through my entire last year of blogs, and realized how often I was promising to write this and that....post pictures of this and that....and never followed through.

I'M GONNA DO IT AGAIN!!


But....I have GOOD reason this time!

I have GOT to finish up Dean's month end paperwork, and get a couple projects out of the way...

...'CAUSE I GO TO QUINCY JONES' HOUSE FOR LUNCH ON SATURDAY!!! Can't wait. I guess he has lunch at 2 every day.....and Liz said we will be there between 2-3pm. I WILL take pics of "Q" and I together....so y'all will believe me. lol

Anywho...lemme get all this stuff out of my way...do a little pre-packing, and I will blog late tonight. I've been up until 3-4am every night, so, I'll put some time in for blogging, since I have been such a slack-a-lacker!!

Will chat soon!

~M~