Take a chance and don't ever look back

The original 30 Day Song List Challenge lists Day 27 as a Song You Wish You Could Play, but of course for me, that's any song.  I'm cheating again.  I found a different list so here goes:

Day 27 (Amended): A Song that You Discovered After Everyone Else

So here's my dirty little secret: I don't listen to the radio.  I can't remember when the last time I listened to music on the radio.  When in the car I listen to ESPN Radio.  At work I listen to Pandora or podcasts.  At home I listen to Spotify, my music library or books on tape.  I just get bored with Top 40 radio (and the constant repeating) too quickly.  In other words, I have no idea what the top songs are right now.  The only way I hear these songs is through popular culture: television, commercials, links from friends on social media.

I learn about most of the Top 40 songs way past when they are first aired or even after they've become hits. For the most part I don't think I'm missing out on anything.  I do get into music ruts here and there, but that's not anything that the likes of Justin Bieber or Lady Gaga could fix anyway.

According to Wikipedia,  Katy Perry released "Teenage Dream" August 2010.  I listened to The Rescue's cover ... some time after that.

Teenage Dream, The Rescues, Single - Katy Perry Cover, 2010

I heard this cover before I heard Katy Perry's version   And I love this cover so much more than Katy Perry's.  I have this thing when I listen to music, I like to pick out the harmonies and zone in on the individual instruments.  Our local Ear Nose and Throat specialist told me it's because of my sonic hearing.  This song is great for that, they have beautiful harmonies and unique sound.  I dig the artsy black and white video, and every time I watch it, I notice something new.

I have never listened to The Rescues before this song, but after this single I tuned into their music.  This winter I saw one of the members, AG, live - she's a very awesome solo artist as well.

Tune in for Day 28: A Song that Makes You Feel Guilty

In fact, I am told that a lot

I had a hard week.  A couple of reasons that are unavoidable ... weather, the calendar, etc., etc.  I realized that I miss writing for fun.  I don't write as much anymore because it's what I do (in part) for a living.  My brain is so damn tired when I get home that the last thing I want to do is think (and things I don't want to do at night when I get home is a very long list!)

So, I thought I would pick up on the 30 day song challenge that I failed miserably at ... I stalled at Day 24 because life got in the way.  I got a new job and my grandfather died ... but with nearly two years past, I think it's okay that I pick it back up for a "mindless" writing session.

With out further ado:  30 Day Song Challenge - Day 24: A Song that You Want Played at Your Funeral

The song I'm choosing for Day 24 is a sweet, yet melancholy song.  

I don't know what it means that I had to wrack my brain for most of these songs, but I instantly knew the song I wanted played at my funeral.

The Luckiest,  Ben Folds, Rockin the Suburbs, 2001

I go back and forth with this song ... sometimes it feels like a love song, other times it feels like one last gasp from a deathbed.  I suppose, it can be both at the same time.

The rhythm is slow and contemplative   The piano is lonely and hopeful.  This song is a reflection on the good memories and missed opportunities that make up a life of moments that are meant to be.

This song is a lesson that it's the people around you that make a life special, not possessions  accomplishments or money.  Love, family and friends are the things that span all time and space.

Rockin the Suburbs (also a great song you should check out) was released on September 11, 2001.  Wow, way to not be relevant.  But I would contend it makes "The Luckiest" even more meaningful.

Catch up ... Day 23 is here or if you'd like to start from the beginning, try Day 1.

Unravel and Unwind

I had a long and somewhat stressful day.  But there were two things that kept me going ...

My sparkly necklace and pretty nails (that match my outfit perfectly!)

(Ignore my short, ugly fingers)

And then I got home and saw ...

Wahoo!

Yay, pretty wedges!

And of course, as always, there's a little furry friend who makes me smile and melts my stress!

Hercules

Sparkly, pretty, furry and cuddly... that's what matters in life, right?

Transition, Goo Goo Dolls and Belly Rubs

2011 brought many new things into my life.

I've had a handsome boy move in with me.   I'm the one bringing home the bacon, filling the food dish and cleaning the house.  But I love my morning cuddles, hugs when I get home from work and snuggles at bed time.  (I <3 my cat Hercules)

I also closed a chapter in my life, after six years with one job, I moved on to another.  I don't know how some people can move or change jobs every year.  It's stressful and familiarity makes me feel more comfortable and confident.  I love my new job though and look forward to many, many years there.

I've fulfilled a couple of life goals, even though I don't have the "official" list any more. (It's on the HD of my old computer, too lazy to take it to computer people to retrieve data.)  Those goals include seeing the Goo Goo Dolls live in concert (be still my heart) and making/decorating my own gingerbread house.  So fun!

2011 by me:

3 words: transition, music, belly rubs

Favorites:

TV Show: Big Bang Theory

Song: Unravel, Unwind, The Spring Standards

Movie: I may have only seen one movie in the theatres ... Water for Elephants.  the best pairing of the book and screen.

Book:  I read it twice ... The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo

Football player: Aaron Rodgers ... that is ... b....who?  :-p

Wine: Angelique, Sparkling Wine from Stone's Throw Winery in Door County - almond flavored!

Gift Given:  Scentsy pot for Erika, I love her reaction to the gift!

Web site: Google Reader.  I have 1000 + posts to read and I know I'll never get to them all, but I can never say I'm bored!

~ * ~ * ~

Overrated:  Planting cacti, there's a reason they're picky, they shouldn't be touched.  Ouch.

Disappointed:  Missing fantasy football .... just could prepare without normal preseason coverage and job transition

I need to work on: sticking to a daily routine   -- This was my goal for 2011, I failed miserably!

Overrated Part 2: NFL Lockout, nearly broke my heart

~  * ~ * ~

Grateful for: good friends and supportive coworkers

Travel: Door County, Baraboo and Madison  AND Dubuque, IA to visit my friend Breanna & her hubby and going to my first Goo Goo Doll Concert!!!

I miss:  not second guessing everything

Somewhat obsessed:  twitter, google reader & you tube subscriptions

Here's to 2012 and all the inspiration, opportunity and possibilities it brings!

Feeling like the truth has found you here

30 Day Song Challenge - Day 23: A Song that You Want Played at Your Wedding


Ok .... I got distracted by You Tube Videos ... checking out America's Best Dance Crew Season 6 winners - IaMmE.  They call their style brain bang and it's perfect description b/c it totally screws with your senses as you watch.  (whoohoo Pacman & Moon!)  Aghhh and then check out Urban Jungle and Office Life (also featuring Hok of Quest Crew)!


Wow. Distracted much?


So my initial thoughts for this song was Without You Here by the Goo Goo Dolls.  But, in my pure euphoria in seeing them live for the first time, I posted it on Day 11 as the Song by My Favorite Band.


I don't like most of the sappy, sugary traditional wedding type songs.


So this isn't a traditional wedding song.  It's a little more dark.  But it's more real life--the journey to that day and all the adventures ahead of you is what a wedding celebrates.  And love songs that are all about the high points and fairy tales come true are a lie.  And boring.


My wedding song choice is:

Become - Let Love In - Goo Goo Dolls, 2006

It's an amazing song that I feel is better reflection of what relationships are.  It might not be an easy road, but we're on it together.  So let's fight and dream together, even when we're lost.


And, it totally makes me cry--isn't that a qualification for a wedding song??  ;-)


Day 24: The Funeral Song.  One of the easiest for me to choose.

In a different time or place the words would make more sense

30 Day Music Project - Day 19: A Song from Your Favorite Album

My favorite album is When Your Heart Stops Beating from +44.  It's the only CD I've listened to for 11 months in my car without changing the CD.

This is huge, typically I can only listen to something twice before I take it out and put something else in.

+44's music is fast with hard beats and lyrics with quick wit.  And when I say fast, this song was named because it has 155 beats a minute.

155, When Your Heart Stops Beating, +44 - 2006

All I see ahead of me are glistening lights

Day 18: The Song I Wished I Would Hear on the Radio

Talk about long titles.  No long title for the song I wish would be on the radio though.  I first heard this song at a local concert.  It was good, but in that moment, it didn't strike me as special (maybe it was the March blizzard outside that dampened the mood?).  But, the thing about good musicians who choose to play smaller venues, they love to share their music ... even for free.  So I signed up for a mailing list and got a half a dozen of Joey Ryan's songs.  This one, is my favorite:

Broken Headlights feat. Sara Bareilles - Kentor Canyon - Joey Ryan, 2010

The more I listened to it, the more I loved it.  This is quite normal for me ... does that happen to anyone else?  Sometimes I need some time to fully appreciate music.  Other songs I know instantly if I love or hate it.

I love songs that have really smart lyrics. I'm talking beyond the simple rhyming every other line.  Ryan crafts a beautiful picture with his intricate styling of words, and then peppers them out in such a way that to anyone else it might seem like a tongue twister.

You have to check out Joey Ryan--he's fantastic (and tall too!)

A moment in your arms became the reason why

Day 11: A Song from Your Favorite Band

I had to do some minor soul searching when it came to this post.  My favorite bands are Goo Goo Dolls, Blink 182 and +44.  And in different periods of my life I listened to each heavily.  Goo was my teenage years, Blink was my early twenties and +44 captured 25+.

So which is my favorite?  I think I own just as many CDs from the first two and the third only had one. But I think it has to come back to the Goo Goo Dolls.  There are just too many fantastic songs that I will always love.

And, this is a perfect day to write a post about my favorite band.  Because I just got back from seeing them in concert.  I totally held my shit together too, I was impressed with myself.  I wasn't that crazy girl who was crying and draping herself over the stage (she was there though).

I must admit, when Iris started, my knees sagged and it was really all I could do not to cry.  It was one of the moments that the universe gives to just you, even though there are hundreds of people in the room.

So, there are probably 5-10 songs you know from the Goo Goo Dolls.  And they're great.  But there at least 10 more that you haven't heard that are fantastic, just simply beautiful.

Without You Here - Let Love In - Goo Goo Dolls, 2006

So, let's dish about the concert.  Sadly, they didn't play this song.  It was way too short (even though it was a little over an hour and a half?). Robby sang like three songs (two I liked, which was a blessing) and he wasn't wearing any shoes.  We were in the standing mezzanine level, which was an awesome view.  Speaking of which, Johnny was on in the yumminess factor, but was wearing a red baseball cap. So disappointing!  He had a black longish sleeve shirt, khaki pants and older vans style shoes.

I had on a fantastic outfit with light purple shirt with black and white scrolling flowers up the side, black cover up and my awesome purple shoes.  I broke out the Johnny necklace and my Gutterflower emblem and wore earrings in every hole (which I very seldom do anymore), patterned after Johnny's piercing (So, can you believe I wasn't that girl who was crying and making a fool of herself?)

Thank you to Breanna & Robert for inviting me, it was a great night and I wouldn't have wanted to share it with anyone else.

Always on my mind like reflections on my shades

Day 9: A Song You Can Dance To

I don't really dance.  At least not in public.  I wish I had skills, but alas, uncoordinated white girl here.

If I were to dance, I would totally kill it during this song.

Fighting for Air - Free Wired - Far East Movement, 2010

I discovered FM through following members of Quest Crew on Twitter (@thequestcrew, my favorites: @hokutokonishi and @victorquest).  The Asian Invasion is strong in the LA arts/dance/music world and the really talented ones (that catch my eye at least), seem to be friends.

You probably know Like a G6 (yes, it's about a plane) and you should check out Rocketeer feat. Ryan Tedder, the lead singer from One Republic--the video's awesome too.  I loved Like a G6 and started hearing more songs from Free Wired from the twitter peeps, so shortly after it was released I picked it up.

I'm not the dance club kind of girl, and I typically don't dig this type of music.  Black Eyed Peas is the closest I get to dance-pop. Fighting for Air sort of reminds me of 80's Madonna-driven dance music.

Fighting for Air is the song that gets me refocused when I'm working out. Free Wired always gets me energized and ready for anything.

Day 10: A Song that Makes You Fall Asleep

You'll come out of nowhere and into my life

30 Day Music Challenge - Day 5: A Song that Reminds You of Someone

So, initially the only songs I associate with other people are for negative reasons.  I don't use this as a forum to air my dirty laundry, so I couldn't choose them.

Then, there was a song I think of because a friend loves because it reminds her of her childhood ... and that just didn't seem right, it wouldn't have been my song.

I continued to ponder, and Pandora gave me the answer.

Michael Buble's "Haven't Met You Yet" played on "My Favorites" station.  Big thumbs down! I really don't like this song.  It's good, but just not my cup of tea for general listening.

But it makes me smile and think of Hokuto Konishi, because of this piece he choreographed to capture the essence of the fuzzy feeling you get when you're falling in love.

Haven't Met You Yet - Michael Buble - Crazy Love, 2009

You can find the full song or Buble's video if you want.   But when I hear it, all I see is Hok dancing (and his perfect heart at :14 seconds).

And it makes my heart smile.

Swirling Clouds in Violet Haze

30 Day Music Challenge - Day 4: A Song that Makes You Sad

I'm not the type of person to listen to songs that make me sad.  Most songs I enjoy with that undertone usually end in hope.  And I try to listen to more upbeat music when I'm sad ... so I struggled with this day.

I went through my music files and came up with eight songs.  Three songs were from musicals, so context is pretty important to lend the emotion and that's a little bit of an unfair advantage.

But one shone over the others whenI realized that I sometimes skip this song because of how melancholy it makes me.

Vincent (Starry, Starry Night) - American Pie - Don McLean, 1971

Vincent is McLean's stirring tribute to the artist Van Gogh.

I've always admired Van Gogh's most well known painting, Starry Night. (I saw it at the MoMA and used it as inspiration when I painted my bedroom.)

But I began to notice often the things I found beauty in were subjects of Van Gogh's art: sunflowers, deep blues and purple, soft greens and finally, my favorite flower Irises.

I'm not sure what exactly the paper was about, but I had to write a persuasion paper for an English class, and I chose to center it around Van Gogh.  At this point, I discovered the song by McLean.  Since, Josh Groban has covered it, also a fantastic version.

It makes me sad because so many are inspired by Vincent's works now.  But he found very little success or praise when he was alive.  Vincent barely made a living and was often tortured by various afflictions of mental illness.  I think everyone can relate to not being appreciated or understood, and McLean captures the anguish we all feel in this song.

Tomorrow: A Song that Reminds Me of Someone ... I had one picked out ... but changed my mind!

I only want to be part of your breakdown

30 Day Music Challenge - Day 3: A Song that Makes you Happy.

This is not easy at all!  What a task to think through the thousands of songs I enjoy to choose one worthy enough to place here.

When Your Heart Stops Beating - When Your Heart Stops Beating - +44, 2006

I discovered +44 through Yahoo! Music by chance.  A very poor quality video played as I listened to the song.  I noticed the bassist stance was familiar, but the drummer's style was unmistakable. 

On to Google and Wiki I went. +44 was formed by Travis Barker and Mark Hoppus of Blink182 in 2005 after the split up.  What?! I missed that memo (and people, this was a full year or longer later--where was I? I felt unworthy to call them one of my favorite bands).  I was sad to know there wouldn't be any more Blink music, the last release was so different than what they had done in the past.

As my shocked faded my new love for +44 grew.

I think I bought the album that day or very soon after.  I listened to it at least 8 months straight in my car.  This is unusual for me as I change CDs at least twice in any trip over 15 minutes (if I'm not listening to sports talk radio), and at this time my total daily commute was around 40 minutes long.

So why this song?  I love the melodic repetition.  The hard beat. I love how the lyrics punch through the air.  The video is average--and compared to Blink videos, a disappointment.  But you gotta give Travis credit ... he broke his wrist in the filming and just kept drumming.  

Every time I hear this song, I cannot help but be energized or tap my foot.  It brightens my day without fail.

As much as I was disappointed Blink was gone, I was even more devastated when they reformed.  I want to know what's next in the +44 chapter.

Day 4: A Song that Makes You Sad  ... I have a list of eight, now I just need to narrow it down.

Closest to Heaven that I'd Ever Be

Just saw a friend post a video for his Day 1 pick of the 30 Day Song Challenge.  I found the full 30 Day list via search here.

I was just thinking about writing about music and how diverse my tastes have become, so this is perfect.

Looking at the list, it's actually going to take a lot of thinking, and may be a little harder than I first thought.  Regardless, what a fun challenge, and hopefully I get to share some great music that you might check out.

So Day 1: Your Favorite Song.

Now, I don't listen to this song as much as I used to, but whenever it comes on the radio or pandora  I pause, take a breath and smile.

Iris - Goo Goo Dolls - Dizzy Up the Girl (written for the City of Angels Soundtrack), 1998

This was a confusing time for me musically.  I had grown up with country and Disney musicals.  But now, I was listening to Top 40 radio on the bus.  I knew the music of my childhood wasn't going to cut it, but the new music wasn't that thrilling either.

But then came Iris, which was so dynamic and different from late 90's pop; I loved it instantly.  Legend has it, Lead singer John Rzeznik was suffering from writers block when he was asked to write a song for City of Angels.  He saw the movie and wrote Iris immediately after.  It was their breakthrough single to mainstream radio, and set records for the time of being number one for 18 weeks.

So I looked into the band and I discovered that a couple of the songs I liked from the radio were from the Goo Goo Dolls.  And, as with all things I love, my interest certainly didn't stop at Iris.

Oddly enough, years after I fell in love with Iris and the Goo Goo Dolls, I saw City of Angels.  I dislike Nicholas Cage and didn't enjoy his performance.  The movie was good but I think I only watched it that one time.

I now own all of their CD's except for the first release, self-titled.  The Goo Goo Dolls are THE band that shaped my teenage years.  Listening to their music is coming home.

Day 2: Your Least Favorite Song ... what will I pick??

Totally ready for some football

Football is back --- Wahhooooo!!

Without it, fall would be so much less enjoyable, and Sunday would be a sad day.  I'm nervous about the potential lock out next season, and see valid positions on both sides of the table.

We got off to a great start with the Saints win over the Vikings -- but the slow, defensive battle is an indicator of the rest of Week 1 games. There weren't a lot of high flying exciting games -- at least not on my tv screen.

Heart in a blender

Disappointed this year.  My colors ... they aren't as brilliant and sparkly.  The squeals.  Well, there aren't any.

So You Think You Can Dance.  Season 8.  EPIC FAIL.  (the season henceforce known as 'Yeah, we can dance, what of it?! (YWCDWOI))

At first, I loved the all stars.  Perhaps they should do just an all star show.  I had so many favorites.  There were so many that could have made the show.

But it wasn't right.  I didn't miss the show when it wasn't on.  I didn't care about every moment.  I *gasp* missed routines.

Part of the tarnish is I think the all stars carried the contestants in a way that they couldn't fail, which resulted in them not pushing themselves.  When contestents dance with someone who excels at their field, and in many instances are teachers themselves, the newbies always maintain the average.  There were no huge missteps, and some times, to borrow from a cliche ... you need to fall to rise again.

Were there too many good contestants?  Very few were not the best in their genre.  I mean, come on, Alex Freakin' Wong.  When the judges say that was perfection (in Week 2!), it gets boring.

Speaking of perfection, maybe there was a memo the audience didn't get.  Judges were way too nice.  The first or second week they were honest, but then they apologized for being harsh.  But, not only is perfection boring, you also don't learn from it.

Because let's face it, even though they maybe more naturally talented or better trained than prior contestants, they aren't as exciting.  There are no highs or lows, it's all mid range.

The choreographers also aren't varied enough.  Or maybe it's not enough of the old favorites.  Every week there's a nappytabs routine.  It doesn't make me hold my breath anymore.  I used to squeal when my fav choregos were on the show.  No Shane.  No Brian.  No Wade.  No Mia. 

I used to get butterflies before the show.  Last week.  I didn't even watch. 

Dancers personalities are great.  Maybe too young, maybe too trained.  But the excitement, passion isn't the same.

Maybe everything just aligned under the wrong star this year.  It just isn't working. 

Injuries.  It's hard to be invested in the competition when the best three dancers are eliminated because of injury.  To leave after that Twitch routine, maybe Alex rose the bar to a level the other dancers couldn't reach and his absence is preventing the others from exceeding expectations.

I'll watch Season 9 --- but in the meantime I'm totally dialed into QuestCrew.com to get the butterflies I used to get.  <3 <3

The simple days of llamas and stroking

I was inspired by a friend to look through high school yearbooks.  (Eek.)  In most ways, it's a pleasant trip down memory lane.

I really hit my stride in Junior year so I bypassed the awkward years and started at that yearbook.  Some of the stuff I don't remember .... but you have to hand it to my friends, they did a lot better than have a nice summer, see you next year and good luck in the future.  Oh no, when my children read this in the future they'll wonder about their mom.

Let me take you through what they'll learn:
1. There was a competition of who could write the most. Kerry won. Lindsey came in second.  The tandem of Jenny and Kriston came in third and Josey observed the long winded nature of all of them.
    1a. Kerry also wrote in the shiny purple pen and told me that when I was bored I should erase the silver so it would be purple.  I never did that ... although the word angel is erased.  I think Kerry did that herself, but she's still not fooling anyone.
2. Mr. Buchanan is mentioned almost more than I am.  We all obviously enjoyed, hated and obsessed about comps and physics.  The crowds rejoiced when we were done.
3. A lot of people were really happy I was Editor-in-Chief next year.
4. Lindsey started a rumor about me and Amish boys.  (Seriously Lindsey, wtf was up with that?)
5. Even though Jennifer and I didn't see each other much we had a lot of fun in history.  She claims she won.  Which I remember is not true, I won ... I'm not sure what, but I know it involves biology (from sophomore year, I believe) somehow there were legos and blue diploid freaks.
6. Jenny & Kerry value my friendship.
7. Kerry can't guarantee one of her alter egos won't murder me.
8. Jenny thinks I'm a wonderful person, even if I'm a little sarcastic.
9. Shannon confirms I have the best shoes.
10.  Sarah's not so sure I won't blackmail her.

Our senior year I got a much wider scope of people as the big going away sign fest took place.  A handful of people I used to hang out with pointed that out (Sorry about that, I was probably too weird for you anyways) and the core group didn't hog as much of the pages.

1. There are a lot of animals in here.  Ducks, llamas, monkeys, kitties, squirrels, fleas, cats, deer, donkeys, tigers and turtles.  (And I thought we didn't get into bestiality until junior year of college!)
2. There's also underwear gnomes and naked cowboys.
3. Jenny stole my picture of Johnny and hid it under my starry night picture.  Not cool Jenny. Not cool.
4. Llamas are mentioned on nearly every page.
5. To read the entries, I literally have to turn the book around and around.  Looks like I'm not the only one who can't write in a straight line.
6. To my surprise, the word lesbian comes up less than five times.  (Glad to see I rose above that)
7. I am, however, known for stroking things and dropping Charity's agenda.
8. Jennifer still thinks she won.  Though, we all know, she is wrong.
9. Eight teachers signed my yearbook.
10. Kerry and Lindsey did not.  I remember Kerry and I did an exchange, but its not with my yearbook.  Probably put it in my agenda.  Oh the STORIES that Agenda COULD TELL!!
11. Most of people did not sign their last name.    Seriously, more than half of them.

How is it that licking is not even mentioned once?!

As much as I have mixed emotions about that time (and the year to follow), it makes me nostalgic.

Ahh the simple days of llamas and stroking.  

All Chips are not created equal

Have you ever stumbled in the magnificent world of Old Dutch Dill Pickle Chips???

O.M.G.  Best Junk Food Ever!!  If I could only eat one chip (or junk food for that matter) for the rest of my life, it would totally be Dill Pickle Chips.  But, only Old Dutch.  I've tried other brands and they just do not hold a candle to these fantastic additions to the potato population.

My dad would bring home Dill Pickle chips as a treat sometimes from his frequent haunt.  Every one thought it was funny that a kid would like something sour.

I still love the chips just as much as before.  If I could buy the bulk seasoning, I'd get that wonderus salty, dilly, vinegary powder and just forgo the chips. To watch my budget (and of course, waistline) I only get them when they're on sale.  Which is way too infrequent.

Last year or so, Old Dutch released Ketchup Potato Chips.  I got a bag.  I'm not so much a ketchup on a chip fan, but love the vinegar-ness of ketchup.  So I figured, what the hell.  If I didn't like them, I'd give them to mom.

Um, well ... that bag never made it home to her.

So now I have a quandry.  When Old Dutch chips are on sale ... I just halved my stock of each.  I only allow my self four bags total (to be stored away out of sight so they last).  So very sad.

Mom realized this, and buys me a bag or two of the Dill whenever they are on sale.  She hides them so my dad doesn't find them and gives them to me.  Reason One Million and 32 why I love my Mommy.

Farewell and good riddance to the Aughts

Here's the fourth installment of the year in review.  This time, we're saying goodbye to a decade ... my second full.  I'm not sad to see the "aughts" go.  There were generally more good than bad, but the bad moments were so trying and life-altering.


May the 2010 decade bring much happiness, prosperity, merriment and lots of posts!

Three Words to Describe 2009: Loss, Historic, Ripples

TV Show: Two way tie: Grey's Anatomy & Doctor Who

New TV Show: Gotta give this to a radio/cable tv show moment ... Danettes Dodge Ball Bets.  I would get DirectTV just for that (luckily, they are posted on YouTube)

Song: Not Meant to Be - Theory of a Deadman

Book: A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

Movie: The biggest disappointment I had when I finally got to see  ... Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End.  Crappy Ending to a series that started out great!

Most Notable NFL Moment: The sign from Sunday: 75% percent of the world is covered by water, the rest is covered by Charles Woodson  (the person who thought that up is BRILLIANT)

I'll turn the channel when: any thing with Sarah Palin on! (Please, Please GO AWAY!)

Gift Given: Kelly's toys ... too, too fun

Best new tradition/habit: Ten Dozen Minutes with Jick & Skully internet-radio show. 

KoL:

Wine: 9 ~ Tomato Wine from my mom's coworker, maybe not the best as compared to "professional wines" but most interesting

Best Blog: Dooce.com

Tingling all over

Kick off weekend was awesome.  So awesome, in fact, I think I was a little over-stimulated.

What a better way to start the season than a game that went into overtime?

Let me count the ways ...

Ah, the start of the NFL Season, only topped by the thrill of the Super Bowl. Kickoff weekend brings all the things I love about football flooding back ...

1. Feats of brain over brawn (Denver WR-Brandon Stokley running parallel so that time ran off the clock or the Brian Westbrook play last year where he took a knee on the one yard line instead of scoring so the clock would run out and the other team wouldn't have a chance to score).
2. The chatter and cadence at the line of scrimmage before the snap.
3. The beauty of a pass rocketing straight down the field to a waiting receiver.
4. Sacking the other team's quarterback.
5. A defender appearing out of seemingly no where to swoop in, intercept the ball and run it in for a touchdown.
6. The winded D-lineman when he's the one running down the field trying to make a touchdown after a fumble recovery or tipped ball.
7. Whisper of a perfect completion.
8. Thwack of a batted away ball.
9. Comrade of the players and coaches.
10. Grace of the athletes.
11. Toeing in touchdowns.
12. One handed catches.
13. One handed over the shoulder catch between two defenders.
14. A pass that's floated into a receiver and caught without breaking stride.
15. Anticipation of the big game.
16. Celebrations.
17. Pre-game choreography.
18. The synchronicity of no-huddle offense.
19. Redirection at the line of scrimmage.
20. New commercials (practically better than famed super bowl ads).
21. Holding your breath at the big play, waiting to see the conclusion.
22. Ricocheted passes that are completions and touchdowns.
23. Perfectly executed blocks.
24. Making defenders miss.
25. Shrugging out of a sack.
26. Stiff-arming a player two times bigger.
27. Nail biting final moments that pay off.
28. Making something out of nothing.
29. When reviews go your team's way.
30.  Complicated formulas to get into the playoffs.
31. Third down defensive stands.
32.  Stretching for the first down.
33.  Big yards after the catch plays.
34. Booming kick off or punts.
35. Field goals that dink off the upright.
36. Eleven hours of football (with pregame/post game).
37. The really good color commentators & pregame shows.
38. Surprises as scores come up on the ticker.
39. Bad weather games.
40. High scoring games.
41. Broken plays that gain yards.
42. Fake plays.
43. Blocked field goals.
44. Triple digit fantasy points.
45. Ending the game with an interception.