…just stuff…

…yeah, it's been a while. Things are starting to settle in and fall into place, making a sort of normalcy that is tolerable at this time. I'm so lucky to have friends that love me… and they know I love them…I am still struggling with sleep, finances and stress… just to add insult to injury, I lost my job in January, just after I posted my 1 year anniversary… still listening to the music… it just doesn't feel right yet, but it's closer… meanwhile, trying to stay busy, job hunting, finishing up the estate business… looking forward to the end of that…

…what the ?

… I don't know whether to laugh or cry… everything seems to be collapsing around me…and I am totally unable to prevent it…maybe I should chuck it all and go back to the farm…

…and…

never, ever forget to tell your mother you love her…

I miss her…

After a brief but tough battle with PPC (Primary Peritoneal Carcinoma) a very rare ovarian cancer that strikes mostly women who have had hysterectomies, I lost mother... she was so close to being home... then this struck. I think she just missed daddy too much to fight anymore, and it's alright, she's with him now... I really miss her, as we'd grown very close in the years since my dad's death. Actually, we became friends... I miss talking with her about mundane daily junk that seems to take over our lives...and those long Sunday afternoon drives that became increasingly harder for her to do...

I urge ALL women to be checked. It is detected with the following: 'tumor marker' CA-125 BLOOD TEST...

Mystery Illness Round 2

Well, it has been a long and strange road this illness has taken us on, and I am exhausted! Round 2 has struck, and its hospital time again...bedside sitting isnt really very fun, but its necessary right now...progress is being made, again... and exhaustion is following us or should I say, leading us around... I've met more cute Drs, Nurses, Aides, Techs, etc than I can count, and the staff is really been great...now, if we can just get it figured out...

think about it...

HOW DO YOU LIVE YOUR DASH?

  I read of a man who stood to speak
  At the funeral of a friend
  He referred to the dates on her tombstone
  From the beginning...to the end.

  He noted that first came her date of birth
  And spoke the following date with tears,
  But he said what mattered most of all
  Was the dash between those years. (1981 - 2000)

  For that dash represents all the time
  That she spent alive on earth...
  And now only those who loved her
  Know what that little line is worth.

  For it matters not, how much we own;
  The cars...the house...the cash,
  What matters is how we live and love
  And how we spend our dash.

  So think about this long and hard...
  Are there things you'd like to change?
  For you never know how much time is left,
  That can still be rearranged.

  If we could just slow down enough
  To consider what's true and real,
  And always try to understand
  The way other people feel.

  And be less quick to anger,
  And show appreciation more
  And love the people in our lives
  Like we've never loved before.

  If we treat each other with respect,
  And more often wear a smile..
  Remembering that this special dash
  Might only last a little while.

  So, when your eulogy's being read
  With your life's actions to rehash...
  Would you be proud of the things they say
  About how you spent your dash?

WHAT?????

Exxon Mobil posts biggest US quarterly profit ever!

You've got to be kidding! And most of the middle class are struggling to pay for gas... come on!!!

time & space & other things!

Well, it has been a long and strange road this illness has taken us on, and I am exhausted! BUT, things are looking up for mum now. I started a new assignment just as we got her settled in... and I'm still there. I just got back from a trip to Florida, I won an all access pass to a fabulous design conference (about 10 conferences rolled into one) and I think my head is going to explode...I did take time out to go see Miss Kimmy while in FL...she sure has her stuff together! Ahh, to have life figured out like that... as for music? still listening, but not visiting with my awesome musician friends, I'm just way too tired right now. Still trying to figure out why some people just can't believe in me...it's complicated & frustrating! The bethel is growing and it is absolutely wonderful! We got lost in the corn maze, with our newest member to be! And we are planing a trip to Build-A-Bear just after she joins! We are beginning the fundraisers for session in just a couple of weeks...I even brought the girls back t-shirts from FL! oh, and just a bit of pixie dust! ****

Just trying to unwind and figure out what tomorrow will bring...still living it one day at a time, for now... =]

NEW UPDATE!

My mom is feeling much better & after 2 1/2 months of not eating, she is now having three meals a day, YEA!!!! Her muscle weakness is improving and she says she feels more and more like herself everyday! I want to thank those of you who have expressed your concern, sent cards or just understood that I can’t get all the things done to this site that I wanted to right now… Mother is really enjoying the cards, I have them posted up on the wall so she can see them!

OMG! where am I going to get that kind of $$$

holy cow that is expensive, anyone have any idea of the cost of a stay at IUMed center? I do now...

MOM - updated

Mom is now at Eagle Creek Health & Rehabilitation Center. She is feeling somewhat better, but has a lot of therapy ahead of her as this has affected her muscles and made her very weak. She is still not eating because it has affected some of her throat muscles and cannot swallow correctly.

update

I still detest fake friends.

Mom is in the hospital, many days in Vincennes, now at IU Med Center... still trying to confirm things and rule out others... it has been a horribly long two weeks, including the cancellation of the big trip to Wisconsin - sorry Brittney, Jette, Becca & Indiana...

just one more thing...

I've learned that it takes a very long time to build up trust, and only a moment to destroy it...

i hate so much about the things you choose to be

on Fake Friends [again] and life...

You know, I still feel the same way about fake friends as I always have, but it has just recently been thrown in my face that you never really know who your TRUE friends are until you really need them. Then there are those people who hear about a tenth of a conversation and THINK they know what you are talking about...who should shut up and mind thier own business, but don't - I've discovered that life is really way to short for this high school crap, because nothing is more important than my mom! Not some band, not some guy who really could care less, not even people who you thought were your friends! It comes down to who you can really count on when you absolutely need them to be there, your real friends! For those of you who are wondering about this post- my mom was just diagnosed with a rare condition that is similar to Muscular dystrophy and when I needed some friends to be there for me, I found out who my real friends were...thanks you KNOW who you are...I love you all... I am always in YOUR corner too.

As we grow up, we learn that even the one person that wasn't supposed to ever let you down probably will. You will have your heart broken probably more than once and it's harder every time. You'll break hearts too, so remember how it felt when yours was broken. You'll fight with your best friend. You'll blame a new love for things an old one did. You'll cry because time is passing too fast, and you'll eventually lose someone you love. So take too many pictures, laugh too much, and love like you've never been hurt because every sixty seconds you spend upset is a minute of happiness you'll never get back.

More Lovehammers

For your viewing pleasure!

Dermatomyositis

It's been an interesting week & holiday... My mom is really sick, they think she has this condition called dermatomyositis, similar to muscular dystrophy. She has a HORRIBLE rash & she is weak all over. It has been a very LONG week... many hours in the car, lots of time at the doctor's office, and really, tons of non-quality time with mom - I HATE THAT! I love quality time with mom...

Another Session

Returning from another Grand Session... and once again, I am a GBRep... my dream falls away again... and that is where it will most likely stay... I am taking on two responsibilities: Bethel Guardian at Bethel 68 & webmaster of the Indiana JD site... more on these two items later... we are drawing closer to the final walk of our Miss International, that will be very difficult & she has done a wonderful job representing the order this year....

CS Conference

WOW!

One solid week of intensive training sessions on the various design apps from Adobe. And one really interesting night doing the crawl along Broadway & finding myself dancing, Coyote Ugly, need I say more? And one of today's sessions was so interesting and easy, I think Cindi will get her wish for the JD website, now all I need to do is finish the pageant pics and get the layout shelled of the site...

Graphic Design 24/7!

Ahhh, MOGO... the Creative Suite Conference!

Day one of the conference, and my brain is full. Yesterday was Tutorial day and I learned many things I did not know! Dreamweaver. CSS, Photoshop, InDesign and MORE!!!! I can't wait to get started using these tips, tricks and techniques I am learning. TWO more days... and I'm in Nashville, ready to go listen in some hotspots for some fabulous tunage!

For your viewing pleasure!

2008-2009 Misses

misses, originally uploaded by Lavender Unicorn.

Our brand new misses! Jamie, Mallory, Becca & SarahBeth. And so begins their journey!

Easter Service cross

Easter Service cross, originally uploaded by Lavender Unicorn.

The "Living Cross" is the prettiest ceremony that Job's Daughters have the honor to perform. It has a very purposeful meaning and is steeped in tradition & values. This is a special version of the ceremony, formed during the annual Memorial Service at Easter, for the Rose Croix at the Scottish Rite Cathedral.

VISUAL DIALOGUE

VISUAL DIALOGUE, originally uploaded by dailypoetics.

A very cool business card! Look at the whole set of interesting cards that dailypoetics has compiled on flickr...

GREAT PROMO!

026_pics, originally uploaded by Lavender Unicorn.

Calling all air artists! I found this image on a website that had numerous photos of odd things. I found it very appropriate considering SOME of my friends...

(I uploaded it to flickr to avoid potentially offensive items being linked here)

Sorry Tom!

tom&eli, originally uploaded by Jeff Valois.

I just watched Eli & the Giants pound the ever so great (HA) Tom & Patriots into the dirt! Every team is beatable! You just have to believe! What a cool thing for the Manning family, passing the trophy from one to the next, and the MVP title too! Sorry Tom, I don't think you are the greatest, or your cheating coach either! I was offended when Billichek was named coach of the year - this sends a clear message that cheating is ok, when it is not... I'm pleased that Eli & the Giants proved that teamwork, confidence and support of each other can win in the end!

HammerJam 2008

HammerJam 2006, originally uploaded by Lavender Unicorn.

Oh how I want to be there, but a promise is a promise, and I already had something scheduled for that day... so I thought I'd share my favorite photo from Metro, HammerJam 2006...

NEW: Job's Daughters of Indiana - a flickr space for us!

flickr-Job's Daughters of Indiana

a place for all Indiana Job's Daughters to post photos of fun activities! If you had a good time, SHARE!

Email me for an invite to join!

Indiana Degree of Royal Purple Recipients

Indiana Degree of Royal Purple Recipients, originally uploaded by Lavender Unicorn.

Our first OFFICIAL group photo. Taken prior to the ceremony for our 15th Indiana Recipient, Tiffany! I feel honored and privileged to be among this group as we all continue to work in the interests of the beautiful young ladies of the Indiana Job's Daughters.

Geez! I hate being sick! and food poisoning is the worst! YUK! I feel horrible.

But laying in bed or on the couch gives you lots of time to contemplate life... and although decisions shouldn't be made while you are sick, it doesn't mean that you can't consider things... and make plans.

The time has come for me to thoughtfully consider changes in my life. I seem to be no closer to a permanent job now than I was 5 years ago. I hope that I made the right decision in turning down the position in Kokomo. I wasn't ready for that kind of change at that time, and maybe I should have just closed my eyes and jumped! Because there doesn't seem to be anyone else out there that wants me. Why can't I get a break? I work myself to death and I still can't get ahead!

Then there is the matter of fake friends, you know the kind I'm referring to, the ones who call you only when they want something, but ignore you when you need them... yea, those people... can I say again that I dislike fake friends...

Happy New Year!

To all my friends & enemies the same!

[somewhere i have never travelled]

somewhere i have never travelled,
gladly beyond any experience,
your eyes have their silence:
in your most frail gesture are things
which enclose me,
or which i cannot touch
because they are too near

your slightest look easily will unclose me
though i have closed myself as fingers,
you open always petal by petal
myself as Spring opens
(touching skilfully,mysteriously)
her first rose

or if your wish be to close me,i and
my life will shut very beautifully, suddenly,
as when the heart of this flower imagines
the snow carefully everywhere descending;

nothing which we are to perceive
in this world equals
the power of your intense fragility:
whose texture
compels me with the color
of its countries,
rendering death and forever with
each breathing

(i do not know what it is
about you that closes
and opens; only something
in me understands
the voice of your eyes
is deeper than all roses)
nobody,not even the rain,
has such small hands

ee cummings

i carry your heart with me (i carry it in my heart)

i carry your heart with me(i carry it in my heart)
i am never without it(anywhere i go you go,my dear;
and whatever is done by only me is your doing,my darling)
i fear no fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)
i want no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it's you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you

here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows
higher than soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)

ee cummings

Alligator Brothers : Lulu's : Wednesday, September26

Nice to see you Faith Marie! It was fun! Miss you!
Great job boys! The show was fun and very entertaining!

Candy Bomber : Lulu's : Thursday, September 27

ahhhh, sweet! Wade - marvelous, simply marvelous!

Flatbed Twitch : Bentley's : Friday, September 28

I hadn't seen you as the full band for quite sometime! I enjoyed the show! Glad you got Steve, Wade & Birdy up for a few! Nice show! It was good to be back in 3lbland...

Supreme Session : Job's Daughters International : 2007 - Merriville Indiana

Wow- what a great week. I am so glad I spent the week with the fabulous & fun girls from Indiana! And then Brittney's dream came true! Now we have to let the world experience what we already know - That the Fabulous Miss Britt is a wonderfully articulate and caring young lady! Once again, the ritual competition was fun to judge, I only wish I could go and judge every year! I enjoyed the fellowship & entertainment at the Degree breakfast, just wish it weren't so darn early! (Think they can have brunch next time? 10 am?) I hope to attend next year's event in Wisconsin!

For those who don't know, Job's Daughters is a youth group that I work with, and love! It helps young ladies grow into beautiful, compassionate and caring individuals. It gives me hope for the future.

Wow, I just realized that it has been 8 long months since I posted to my blog...

Life has just been that busy! Between driving to Kokomo everyday, the band schedule, Job's Daughter events and traveling to see my mum, visiting other bands has been pretty lean.

The Kokomo assignment will end August 31 and that should free me up for some rest, relaxation & fun with my many band friends!

And, of course, how fitting that today is my birthday…

----
Take note that as I discover new blogs that make for interesting reading, I will post links here under the "Blogs to read" heading in the right hand column. Feel free to explore them, and send me suggestions!
----

Happy New Year Everyone!

-------------
New Year's Eve was a blast! Thanks guys, once again, for making my night special. Hope you all enjoyed the food! Glad to host the party! I had a great time! Want anymore champagne? Looking forward to the new year, whatever it may bring.

BANDS : in general : All the time!

What fun! Live music is NOT dead! Support your local music scene, and dance like no one is watching!

Everyone have a good thanksgiving with lots of turkey, family, and friends?

Hey Wade, we need to open the wine cellar again and light the fire in the fireplace! Soon... with more music and less boxes!

Perform with the Band : Lulu's : Tuesday, November 28

Nice to see Drew! The Stones tunes are missed!

Alligator Brothers : Lulu's : Wednesday, November 29

STEVE!!!!! Wow it was nice to hear you front the band once again! Gotta tell ya I miss that! Those harmonicas are fabulous! Wade - where did THAT come from? Tim - did you ever get to finish that beer? Sparky - I gotta tell ya, I love ya! Robere - we have to tip those teeny glasses faster! ;) Gigi - you are just the right mix of sassy, classy & star!

Candy Bomber : Lulu's : Thursday, November 30

ahhhh, that was great! Eric darlin' - marvelous, simply marvelous!

Here's an idea :

As we grow up, we learn that even the one person that wasn't supposed to ever let you down probably will. You will have your heart broken probably more than once and it's harder every time. You'll break hearts too, so remember how it felt when yours was broken. You'll fight with your best friend. You'll blame a new love for things an old one did. You'll cry because time is passing too fast, and you'll eventually lose someone you love. So take too many pictures, laugh too much, and love like you've never been hurt because every sixty seconds you spend upset is a minute of happiness you'll never get back.
-----

Don't be afraid that your life will end,
be afraid that it will never begin.
~anonymous~

The Flying Toasters : Mickey's : Saturday, November 25

BILL! You guys rocked as usual! Sorry I have been neglecting you! And as always, I just show up and I am treated like family! You are just SOOOO nice to me. I love you all...

Thanks for the ear tug, you "know" how I love that!

Jason! What can I say? Fabulous, once again! ;) BTW - just how many guitars DO you have?

I'll be out again soon! Until then, rock on!

luv,
~chicka

Marty Casey & Lovehammers : Hammerjam 2006 - Metro - Chicago IL : Saturday, October 14

Can you say, "ROAD TRIP"?

What a BLAST! I had a fabulous time! Well worth the $$ I spent on the tix. Gotta say Marty and the boys were in excellent form, and due to the nature of the event, it was absolutely phenominal to hang with the band! Food, music, drink - makes the old saying Eat, Drink & Be Merry very true! Wish I could have stayed until the party was completely over, because it was a great time. I must have taken well over 300 photos as well, and MOST of them turned out! Gotta LOVE that! And they were filming for a dvd as well, so maybe I'll be famous! hehehe. I can't wait to do it again! Chicago anyone?

luv,
~chicka

9/11
5 years later, and I still don't know how to deal with everything that happened. Working at the airport was really scarey and even creepy! The skies were clear blue & silent for days, except for the flight of Air Force One over Indy! I broke the news to the building because I was running late and it was on the radio. We scrounged for a tv and watched the coverage continuously that day, unsure of what it would mean for us... I actually thought the world was coming to an end... even making deals with friends and acquaintances about what we would do in the event of that occuring! ...then losing my job a year later. And I am STILL looking! and what really matters to me the most? some of the friendships are so much more now... and we all remember our promises to each other from that fateful day... so I say to you, Let's all be good to each other...

WOW, What a wonderful thing I did for myself for my birthday!

The ticket was dirt cheap for the show I saw! $10 for FOUR, YES FOUR bands! And what a great show! And to top that off, I actually knew one of the bands! A shout out to Steepwater! Hi Boys!

Well, I think I've finally found someone who can rock as hard as Henry does! Lovehammers was absolutely rockin'! Marty was fun, friendly and quite the showman. And I met the band after the show! They were all very friendly and personable. and the tunes, WOW! I am officially a hammergirl, front row baby! And the camera got a real workout! I have a few pics posted on myspace (LavenderUnicorn), and hope to have a gallery at my site soon!

I think I may have to do a roadtrip - Chicago anyone?

Ahhh! That's better, more than one band a night!

Possum : Moon Dog Tavern : Friday, July 14

Boy did I enjoy listening to you guys! I miss you! I will be back out! Thanks for telling me Sparky! (was that Clark?)

Double Coyote : Kelly's : Friday, July 14

Frank, Tim - gotta tell ya, I had fun! It was nice to see Larz and Bryan & Rochelle

Alligator Brothers : Ben Davis 1985 Reunion : Saturday, July 15

That was fun! Glad I could get you some refreshment! ;)

------ I do hope to start getting back out to see more bands soon, now that my official state officer year is complete. Just have a few details to finish up on, then my free time will be just that, FREE!!! ;)

…ahhh, just a few more weeks of this crazy schedule of my Youth Group duties, and then, I will be back to band following in earnest! I am so sorry to my favs whom I haven't seen in a while! I haven't forgotten you and I do MISS you all. I just have certain duties to fulfill on a promise I made...

a heartfelt apology....

ahhh, I am such a dope! Wade darlin' Happy Birthday and I'm sorry for the little bit of "drama" I created most recently! ;)

I seek comfort, solace, in words, music & you...

Perform with the Band : Lulu's : Tuesday, February 21

Live band karaoke- OK so I fronted the band! OMyGod! I was nervous, had a major dose of Grand Mariner and was slightly off key, but it was fun, and after getting through the nerves, I might do that again! As long as the boys will have me! What fun!!!!! :)

Alligator Brothers : Lulu's : Wednesday, February 22

EVERYONE WAS ON FIRE!!!! Thanks for the encouragement! I might just have to sing again! (if you all don't care!) I do have to say - what a rush! Z & Bill: I think I am almost ready... hmmmm...

more musings- a bit of poetry for you:

untitled. 01.28.2006

-and sometimes the music
touches you so very deeply,
it swirls around inside you
until it reaches
your very soul, and shatters
into a million shards
filling you to your most
inner core...

LU.01.28.06 cyt


Music & Wine. 11.19.2005

music & wine
words, secrets, hopes, dreams
a warm hug,
a quick kiss
whispered words
a soft carress
comfortable silence
yet electricity in the air —
tilted glasses
nectar of the vine,
deep conversations
feelings, heavy & astute-
bluring the edges
thoughts tumbling in my
cloudy brain

LU.11.19.05 cyt

Alligator Brothers : Johanning : Saturday, January 28

What fun! Hey Rob: B-EE-RR-U-N beer run! can't believe I was the last one out, Thanks for listening boys! Wade: do you need a bodyguard? Glad you came over to my side of the bar? And we did finally open my wine cellar! But I think we got ahead of ourselves, and forgot to light the fire! On another evening then... with more music and less boxes?

Perform with the Band : Lulu's : Tuesday, January 31

hmmm, can we say, live band kareoke? It was fun, and maybe I'll get up with the band soon!

Alligator Brothers : Lulu's : Wednesday, February 1

OOhhh, nice! Hey Wade, Purple Rain almost reduced me to tears!

Candy Bomber : Lulu's : Thursday, February 2

Ahhh, Larz, just like old times! ;)

Jennie Devoe : Rathskellar : Friday, February 3

TOTALLY AWESOME! I missed you! I took over 200 photos! I have some posted on my website! I will gladly share! Can't wait for the (what was that I saw?) DVD? cool! Jon, my man, fantastic to see you, and thanks for the compliment!

Endless Summer : Mickey's : Friday, February 3

Ahh, it was just like the old days, more than one band to see! Glad I made it up to Mickey's for at least part of the show! Faith- thanks for the intros & the compliments! Everyone was so friendly! Nick & Lesa: thanks for the chat and the lift around front! I'll try to plan my evening a bit better next time for optimum listening pleasure of BOTH bands! ;)

The Flying Toasters : Avalon : Saturday, February 4

Jason honey! Thanks for the dedicated tune! Sonja- YOU ROCK! Chris, Rodney & Orvis: what fun! Oh Magical Bill- what happened to you? I couldn't find you after the show! Keep on hittin those skins! What a fun time! I'll be out to see you again soon!

musings....

giving up my dream a second time, the ONE dream I always wanted, even after everything that has happened these past few years. I still love the group and what it stands for... except that sometimes, I just can't STAND the politics of the ones who don't get it... and does the dream last? who have I become? will I be able to continue to move on? I am broken... it is a love/hate relationship...

I seek comfort, solace, in words & music...

Alligator Brothers/Henry Lee Summer : Adam's Mark : Saturday, December 31

New Year's Eve: WOW! an GREAT show. Henry was in a good mood! Gigi- you looked smashing as always! Mark, Tim & Wade - thanks for the midnight toast! Nick & Eric - too cool! Rob: wonderful! and you rocked!

I hope the food was ok. I didn't want you to go hungry! I really enjoyed the down time with you all, football, jokes, food and good fun!

even the drama

I hope I can host the Green Room party again next year, I do hope you enjoyed!

Merry
Christmas!

to all my musician friends, miss you, Happy New Year too!
~chicka

I think I did fall off the face of the earth. I found a house and got moved. The little house is fabulous, I even have a FIREPLACE!!!!! I will get back out on the music trail soon! Hope everyone has a Happy Holiday!

~chicka

You all must think I have fallen off the face of the earth, but alas, that little thing called life has intruded on my lovely night life! Not only have I been working 14-15 hour days and weekends, but now, in their infinite wisdom the NEW owners of my apartment building have decided that 29 of us are not worthy and have evicted us to make way for new condos! So, I am in the process of moving! GROSS!! I hate moving...

Carl Storie : Chammps : Friday, August 19

It was GREAT to see you all! Thanks for helping me celebrate my birthday!

The Flying Toasters : Mickey's : Friday, August 19

BILL! You guys rocked as usual! Oh, and a Happy BIRTHDAY to YOU!!!


luv,
~chicka

Happy Birthday to me!!!!

The Flying Toasters : Knights of Columbus Brickyard Party : Saturday, August 6

BILL! You guys rocked as usual! Sorry I have been neglecting you! And as always, I just show up and I am treated like family! You all are SOOOO nice to me. I love you all... Jason, I don't know, a stage air conditioner? Are you sure it wouldn't spoil you? hehehe BTW-anyone got an XL red, white & blue shirt I can buy? Ya'll were out last night :( Gotta get a FT shirt! :)

luv,
~chicka

Happy 4th to All!!! Remember to thank a soldier today!


Fun, sun, parades & fireworks... and absolutely fabulous weather!!! gotta love that!

A definate change from slogging in the nasty mess I found in my apartment when I returned from a 5 day trip (and the 4 hour drive home that accompanied it)...

HIKE Benefit w/Carl Storie : Muncie Performing Arts Center : Saturday, April 23

Did I scare you? What an absolutely fabulous thing you have done! I really enjoied it! My two worlds finally touched! Your daughter is great, I hope she decides to be a Job's Daughter! I do hope you can do it again!

HIKE: Hearing Impaired Kids Endowment Fund — Kids helping kids hear!

Ahhh, to my favorite bands that I have been neglecting — I hope to be out again soon. I have been so very busy… I have missed you all, and will be ready for some awsome tunes! (this includes Zanna-doo, Carl, Toasters and Jennie....)

Cool Jerk : Lulu's : Tuesday, May 3

Henry, you've done it again! What a fun evening! Playing what you don't know! Hmmm, GREAT IDEA! Now, if only I can come up with a bunch of STUMP the BAND songs!!! Play on!

Shake-n-Bake : Gallagers II : Saturday, April 15

Thanks for the warm welcome! You ROCK! It was great seeing everyone again! Even Mr. "and I Helped" John!!! Fabulous job!

Carl Storie : Mickey's : Friday, April 14

WHAT FUN! :)

Flatbed Twitch : Joe's 2 : Friday, April 14

What can I say Sparky, but "WOW!" Thanks for telling me! April, Thanks for your kind words. Just remember its ALL about the music! (Of course a little love never hurts!)

The Flying Toasters : Avalon : Friday, March 11

Thanks for the song Jason! You all ROCK! Thanks for treating me like family! Bill, Jason- everyone that matters say HI back! Bill - yeah, yeah! – I've said it before and I'll say it again, WHAT FUN! :)


BIRTHDAY BOY & crew: Moe & Johnny's

Wade, hope you had a good birthday. We must chit chat soon over a Sterling vine! My ear is always available to listen and my heart is there for you. You matter to me, of course I would never forget!

~chicka

Just some musings:

just a wierd dream, a visit from a ghost - making me think about some choices I am making and wondering how to handle them... Should I follow my heart or complete the promise I made to someone, even though it really means giving up my dream a second time? Wishing I could do both, even though in certain circles its frowned upon? And there isn't anyone out there who really understands. Its the ONE dream I always wanted, and have been denied for 20 years... and this is the absolute LAST chance to try to follow it, should I? I wish I could talk to someone about this dream and what it means, but who would get it? And I still want it, even after everything that has happened these past few years. I still love the group and what it stands for...

What happens to a person when they give up their dreams?

Three Pound Universe : Toppers : Saturday, February 19

Well Wade, it was all that I expected and more. You and the boys were fantastic! The bar was cool, your friends were nice, and I haven't seen you so animated, wound up and on in a while! I am so glad you insisted I come! (I didn't cramp your style too much did I?) I hope you enjoyed yourself as much as you seemed to be! (even trying to sneak those shots in front of mom! ;) ) The only trouble now, the next gig isn't until APRIL! Get on it and fix that schedule!!!! Meanwhile, we shall have to make due with AB,CB stuff... Give me more music suggestions soon, I need input!

The Flying Toasters : Kelly's Grille : Friday, February 18

Bill! Just as always - you and the gang were tons of entertainment! Gotta love it! The improvements at Kelly's are just what this band follower needed!!!!


Candy Bomber : Lulu's : Thursday, February 17

All we need now is a pool table for me to sit on and a couple of Wendy drinks!


Alligator Brothers : Lulu's : Wednesday, February 16

FUN!!!

Alligator Brothers : Lulu's : Wednesday, January 5

Simply marvelous darlings!!!! :)

Greg Foresman : Slippery Noodle : Thursday, January 6

Man, I had forgotten just how much I enjoyed listening & watching Greg play! It was a whole new experience!!! ;)

Greg, I had a good time. Thanks for the hug & kiss! and the conversation! Hope you enjoy the Hammerheads video as much as I enjoyed making it…

Zanna-Doo! : Kelly's Grille : Friday, January 7

What a fun time! ZDoo - I missed you! Greg, I forgot to get a spooky laugh :(
Thanks SaucySauce.........

Alligator Brothers/Henry Lee Summer : Adam's Mark : Friday, December 31

WOW! an absolutely fabulous show. Henry was all fired up! Gianna- you looked smashing! Eric, Jason, Birdy - all on it! Sparky - Wade: What can I say, I was so enthralled by what you were playing and where you were going... Robere: ;)

I hope the food was ok. I tried to do a variety of items, I didn't want you to go hungry! I really enjoyed the down time with you all, football, jokes, food and good fun!

Can I hang out with you all again?

The Flying Toasters : Kelly's Grille : Thursday, December 30

Hope you all had a great NYE! The show was great for a pre NYE party ;)


Alligator Brothers : Lulu's : Wednesday, December 29

What a great warm up for NYE!!! I expect great things!

ZannaDoo! : Cheeseburger in Paradise : Sunday, December 26

What a great time! Missed seeing everyone, glad I attended! ;) Hope to get out more!

Alligator Brothers : Lulu's : Wednesday, December 22

Absolutely fabulous! Even the "blizzard" outside couldn't stop the fire inside! :)

The Flying Toasters : Kelly's Grille : Thursday, December 23

What a great time! Hope all enjoyed the cookies...

Wade, the talk we had was nice.
Thanks for sharing! I am always available to listen.

By the way, the cookies were homemade and
FRESH!!!

Merry Christmas!

what happened to my toastmiesters? missed ya tuesday... had fresh baked cookies for you, too bad, they ar eall gone now (and I do mean FRESH!)

The Flying Toasters : Mickey's : Friday, December 10

And as promised, I arrived to hear you all jam! :)

Bill, thanks for those words of encouragement! I do love the controlled chaos! Jason, honey, thanks for ALWAYS making me feel like I am part of the gang! Sonja - I will get those photos for you!

Wade-
glad you had a good night (Wed night and last night) Thanks for talking with me about music, I miss that... don't forget to let me know where to be to help you avoid lameness... ;)

The Flying Toasters : Kelly's Grille : Thursday, December 9

ahhh, Bill, Thanks for caring! as a matter of fact I think I need to thank the whole band for the same reason! What a great group of people you have surrounded yourself with! :)

I do plan to come by sometime during the evening on Friday...

Gigi & Faith, Thanks for the hugs, I needed them! Eric thanks for the friendly greeting in the parking lot, TOO FUNNY!

Thanks for coming over to chat with me Wade, sometimes I dont think before I act, or I think too much and dont act, and just when I'm ready to just forget it all, you come along and say just the right thing at just the right time... thanks for just being there when I need you most, just when the despair seems to be seeping in.

Just a couple of random thoughts, well, not so random:

ever wonder why you even bother to do something? I started a new job this week, then got sick with the flu, got to felling better, then was slammed by a reply to a comment I posted on a forum about a band I love, and I wonder why I even bother.... fortunately there are people and bands who really appreciate the way I feel. To them I say Thank you, as most of them check this journal, to the others, (You know who you are), I say BAH HUMBUG!

The Flying Toasters : Kelly's Grille : Friday, December 3

Again an awsome show!!! Bill, if I weren't otherwise spoken for on New Year's Eve, I would come to Mickeys! However, you know where I will be...

Thanks for doing "You Are" - I LOVE that tune...

Can you believe I was out two nights in a row? ;)

The Flying Toasters : Kelly's Grille : Thursday, December 2

Great show gang! I will take care of those photos for you Sonja! ;) Chris, it was nice chatting with you, THANKS for being so friendly! Bill, yeayea! :)

Wade, MarkB, Eric & Ben... nice to see you at Moe&Johnny's...

Thanks for the invite to chill with you after, it was fun, hope I'm not wearing out my welcome...

Alligator Brothers : Lulu's : Wednesday, December 1

Definitely a good night! Fabulous GROOVE!

XOXOXOX

So after spending all day Thanksgiving in a dark room because of a migraine, I arrived at my Mom's around lunchtime Friday. I didn't hardly have time to visit the powder room! We jumped in the car and started driving. After stopping for a delicious meal at an Amish restaurant we continued south! The sun was shining, and what a fabulous drive... arriving in Lawrenceburg In around 3:30 ish, we decided to "drop anchor" at the casino for the weekend. Great food, good company, and just a small bit of gambling... it was nice to be up enough to pay for the hotel all weekend!! ;)

It was a nice diversion to an otherwise bad time of the year, two years to the day (Friday) that dad is gone now, and it was much better to be away from home NOT celebrating Thanksgiving... I did, however miss my music, and my loving friends...

and for all those musicians out there, my favorite movie quote:

... to truely love some silly little piece of music or some band soooo much, that it hurts...

Flying Toasters : Shots : Tuesday, November 23

hehehehe, great show... Thanks for the kind words and hugs Bill, I needed that! ;)


Alligator Brothers : Lulu's : Wednesday, November 24

Wade and Henry feeding off each other! Marvelous guitar showdown! It was great to see Donn!

Thanks for inviting me over too Wade, I enjoyed the conversation, music and the wine. I'm sorry for being mad. I hope we are still friends.... ;)

don't make friends with musicians, friendship is the booze they feed you, make your reputation on being honest and unmerciful.... "lester bangs" ~Almost Famous

Flying Toasters : Shots : Tuesday, November 16

WHAT FUN!!!!


Alligator Brothers : Lulu's : Wednesday, November 17

oooo, Wade, you were on it!

Fabulous time enjoyed after too!!!! :)

Great Scott : Peppers : Thursday, November 18

It was fun hanging out with Amy again, Thanks GIRL! The band was fun, but where was the bottom?


Three Pound Universe : Rathskeller : Friday, November 19

Ahhhh, music feeding my soul, but you know the stronger, the deeper, the LOVE, the harder, the heavier the HURT.


Steepwater Band : Slippery Noodle : Friday, November 19

The boys from the northwest corner are back to a three piece band, and it was STILL kicking!!!

Three Pound Universe : Kelly's Grille : Friday, November 12

WOW! Thanks boys, I needed that! a complete attitude adjustment! the music has fed my soul.

Fabulous! need I say more? :)

The Flying Toasters : SHOTS : Tuesday, November 9

Fun show, but just a bit too much country for me, Bill, its the ability of all to switch places in the middle of controlled chaos that makes it cool!


~chicka

The Flying Toasters : SHOTS : Tuesday, October 26

Hey! Fun show! ;)

Someone has to tell me what that slow song is that Chris sings, I LOVE IT!

Jason, nice job on lightning crashes...

Bill- Turn UP the Radio....


~chicka

The Flying Toasters : Kelly's Grille : Thursday, October 21

THANKS for welcoming my friends into the band scene! We had a BLAST! and yes I will encourage the ThreePounders to come out!

It was fun to take Angie & Keith out to my favorite nightspots. No, Wade, you didn't scare them away, they were just ready to leave: lightwieghts when it comes to barhoppin! BUT it WAS nice to chat with you. And YES, I will be having a party soon... hmmm, wonder what kind of music to play? food to serve, oh, wait, I have to finish the apartment first! hehehehe :)

Alligator Brothers : PrivateParty : Saturday, October 23

hmmm, everyone looked pretty nice! and it sounded good too...

Loretta : Birdy's : Sunday, October 24

This was an awesome show, the two openers were good as well. I enjoyed the whole evening, it was just a shame that it was SUCH a small crowd...

Bloomfield Indiana : Class of 1984 : Saturday, October 16

Ahhh, class reunions.very interesting evening... Need I say more? - catching up with old friends. -

we shouldn't wait for reunion. we ought to get together more often....

Jennie DeVoe & Henry Lee Summer : RibAmerica : Sunday, September 12 - Louisville

Fabulous day! Great tunes! Cool venue, Awesome drive down & back… Need I say more? - Henry in absolutely rare form!!! -

that is except for being on the outside looking in... I don't think anyone even cared that I was there... except Henry & Carrie, who BTW helped me get my car out of a tough jam with a Semi! Ever go curb jumping and lawn driving?

Jennie DeVoe, Henry Lee Summer & Hootie and the Blowfish : RibAmerica : Saturday, September 4

Fabulous! Simply marvelous! Awsome! Great! need I say more?

that is except for being invisible...

The Flying Toasters : Joe's Grille 2 : Thursday, September 2

Wow, such a fun group! THANKS for the little special medley of my own! I really enjoyed that! hehehe.... I'll bring the camera out again next time, and I will get those photos done for you Sonjia ;)

Bill, I might just have to take you up on the offer to sing with you, just gotta get my nerve up to do it, as it has been a lot of years!

later...

Ahhh, what fun Sat nite! Starting out at the Blues on the Avenue show with Greg Foresman, Jennie DeVoe (HI STAHLY!!!) and Delbert McClinton... then up to Elwood for Alligator Brothers, then to Moe & Johnny's hanging with Eric, Wade & Claire (and their friend Don) and then it was off to Wade's place to muse over wine, music and deep conversation...

Three Pound Universe : Joe's Grille 2 : Saturday, July 24

What a SLOW crowd, but an awsome musical venture! It's too bad more people weren't there to enjoy... Thanks for the compliment Wade ;)

Fabulous! Simply marvelous! Awsome! Great! need I say more?

just a single white sheet
torn from the artist's pad
dust and lead smeared
and smudged, crumbled erasure
spread, a small tear,
crumpled in anger,
to be smoothed out, with
gentle hands, blended with
pastels or chalk, working
to complete, the image
of you within me
my fingers rub,
the smudges and lines merge
and you begin to appear
emerging in that sketch
rendered real,
a man from paper and lead

CYT: 05.05.04



— and again I seek you, your smile
beckons me,
your eyes looking deep into mine
yet still unknown, while the
music connects us…

(LU: 9/02)


- So many bands, so little time....

this diva has boxed the killer red shoes for awhile, so off to see/hear some more of my bands, BTW: what a wonderful thing the bands that participated in the Concert for Annie did... and the music was fabulous! I think I may have to add a few more bands to my visiting rotation! I absolutely LOVED the Rotwiellers....

ahhhh, i needed that! music for my soul.... :)

Bad news for retro fans, 93.9 Retro music here in Indinapolis will be no more as of Friday 6am :(

Now where will I find my fix of HLS & 80's music?

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Alligator Brothers/Henry Lee Summer : Fishers Concert Series : Tuesday, July 6

Rain, what rain? Just didn't get to the Henry stuff... It was great to chat with Scott F, Class of '84!!! hehehehe

Thanks for the kind words Faith Marie! BILL, yeah, yeah... Robere, hats off to you! Mark, Wade, Bertram - YOU GUYS ROCK! Gigi, you looked fabulous! Eric, now you are getting it... hey Wade, what in the heck did you throw at me anyway? it was hard! Henry, don't I always look out for you? :)

____________________
Three Pound Universe : Monarch Party : Saturday, July 3

WOOHOO! Boys, what a great show!
I had an FABULOUS time... birdy, watch out for that black cloud, don't get wet! hehehehe ;)

you know i just HAD to harrass you...

Jennie DeVoe : Rathskeller : Friday, July 2

AHHHHHHHHHHHHH! I had almost forgotten what a great performer J was, almost, the band and J really rocked tonite! and thanks for Faster Johnny & U2!!! and what a pleasant suprise to discover Ode to Billy Joe on the new cd! which is awsome, btw!!!

__________________
Alligator Brothers : Beer Seller : Friday, July 2

Wade, Wade, Wade - just where did that come from? inspired by VanHalen? Were your fingers even connected to your body & brain? Great to see/hear Jamie out: I got there in time to hear MY song, Chain of Fools! :)

Thanks for the compliment Carrie, I guess I ought to show my legs off a little more often... ;) and the red heels don't hurt...

It was pointed out to me that I have been remiss in the postings of my favorite musicians so, here goes:

The Flying Toasters : Joe's 2 : Thursday, June 24

What fun! I am glad I dropped in! Thanks so much for making me feel so welcome... Bill, I didn't know you had any guitar in you! Jason, are there ANY buttons safe on your shirt? Chris, I have a really GREAT photo of you... I will be out again ;) XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOX :)