Xavierism

A Moment with Kylie

 

Kylie watching a TCM Classic, The Constant Nymph, featuring Charles Boyer and Joan Fontaine.

Happy New Year!

 

May your World be filled with Love, Joy, Health & Wealth,  a touch of added empathy towards others and an abundance of Happiness. Wishin' you a wonderful 2012. Happy New Year!

*****CHEERS!*****

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas...

Celebrate the True Meaning of Christmas, Be thankful for all Blessings; big and small and Feel the Love & Joy of the Season. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas...

Yeah, Today's A Good Day!

***Random Play
*Gavin Rossdale: Wanderlust
*Natasha Alexandra: Behind Your Back
*Terra Naomi: Under The Influence
*Charlotte Sometimes: Waves & The Both of Us
*Sia: Some People Have Real Problems
*Jake Walden: Alive and Screaming

Self Image. I have Love/Hate/Love/Hate relationship with my Self Image. On a good day, I can feel higher than any cloud. On a bad day, I'm lower than a dead armadillo along a lonely Texas highway. On those low days, tears keep rolling down and down. My faith has always kicked into autopilot and saved me from further emotional damage. I have always been overweight for most of my life. I've had to physically and emotionally fight the weight issues. Again, when things are good, I can overcome anything. When I'm feeling fat, it affects everything. I feel as though I'm not worthy to step out of my own house and into the real world. I have to put on my best PR smile and march to an unfamiliar beat that somehow I know all too well. I've gained pounds...now it's up to me to get back to my physical comfort zone. I miss feeling and looking great. I had a great work out yesterday and I'm looking forward to today's gym time.

So Obama is the Democrat's choice for US President. As a Hillary Clinton supporter, I'm not happy about this but I will support the Democrats. I hope that Clinton is considered as the VP choice for the ticket. I believe it will be hard for McCain to dig his claws into his opponent without Obama's camp using the race card. Obama, the media's darling, had an easier ride than Clinton.

I'm not a fan of Randi Rhodes. I was listening to her radio show and she constantly bashed Hillary. Half the Democrats are torn between Obama and Clinton and here she is barking about Clinton. Yeah, way to go toward unifying the party. I've always believed that far left huggin' liberals can be just as anal as right wing conservatives. Enough of politics. I simply wanted to share my opinions on the election process.

Gavin Rossdale. He released his solo debut CD, Wanderlust. I love this CD. Since his Bush days, he's mellowed and matured. I love the adult contemporary rock feel throughout the CD. While crying throughout the Sex and The City movie, it was sweet to hear his song, Love Remains The Same, during a great scene. This is another CD and artist that I highly recommend.

***Love Remains The Same video on YouTube.com

Sex and The City movie. Loved it! I was a fan of the show but I could live without it. The show's finale and this movie really tapped into something deep. So many scenes reminded me of my own trials and tribulations with Life & Love. I thought of all the times I shared with girlfriends going through their break ups. The Tear sessions. 

After a haircut from my fave barber and an eyebrow wax from the beautiful Summer, I feel fabulous! As far as today goes, my Self Image is in a good spot. Working on myself is an on going project. Sometimes I forget that. I can't take it for granted because then I suffer. It's summer. I wanna feel fabulous inside and out.

Yeah, today's a good day!

***Pic: Kylie and Myself early in January 2008.

Current Music: Gavin Rossdale's Love Remains The Same
Current Mood: Blessed to Be Happy!

Easy Grooves

Kylie watching the sprinkler water the yard.

***Random Play
*Joni Mitchell: Shine
*Laura Marie: Drawn
*Mozella: I Will
*Colbie Caillat: Coco
*Annie Lennox: Songs of Mass Destruction
*Sacha Sacket: Lovers & Leaders

***Music Recommendations:
*Annie Lennox: Songs of Mass Destruction: I believe this is one of Annie's best CDs. She uses more of her beautiful upper range and allows the songs to flow from track to track. This CD is a journey filled with beautiful lyrics and productions. Love is Blind track is about the harshness of life. She tugs the heart strings yet the listener feels the anger.  Sing is about the HIV awareness in Africa. At the end of her last track, Fingernail, I'm left with a sense of Hope concerning the matters in this present day world. A perfect CD for your collection.

*Joni Mitchell: Shine:  It's JONI MITCHELL! Beautiful arrangements and passionate lyrics to  Joni's voice and style. No collection is complete without Joni Mitchell.

Early Sunday morning. Cool air surrounded me.  City sounds. Wind Chimes whispers. Bird chirps. Early Sunday morning are best.

Glad to see that the Texas LONGHORNS rebounded from two consecutive losses and easily defeated the hicks from Iowa State.  Gotta rest up my energy and voice for the  Diamondbacks & Rockies game this afternoon.

Rodan and I were excited to see  Elizabeth, The Golden Age. I loved the cinematography but didn't think that the movie flowed quite as well as the first one. I was hoping to see Cate really sink herself into the character but other than a few scenes, I didn't feel it was grand. I do believe she should receive an Oscar nomination for this role. In my opinion, she was robbed of the Oscar from her performance in Elizabeth.   

I'm gaining ground. Steady ground.  I'm must remember that I'm responsible for my own happiness. I can't blame others and things. It's all up to me. God, my faith, my angels and saints continue to guide me. Time to head to the gym!   

*****CHEERS!*****

Current Music: Annie Lennox's Fingernail
Current Mood: Relaxed, Easy, & Loving

It's Been a Good Monday!

***Random Play
*Arden Kaywin: Quarter Life Crisis
*Skye: Mind How You Go
*Nadine Zahr: Underneath The Everyday
*Allison Sattinger: VOX
*Judith Owen: Here
*Amy Winehouse: Frank

The fabulous musical diva, Melissa Polinar, is back in town! She performed a gig last night with another great indi musician, Chris Ayer, at a coffee house far out in the east valley. Afterwards, we stuck around that side of town since Melissa had a radio interview with Shon White & Lizzy at KWSS 106.7. The interview went well. Thank you Shon & Lizzy for making that possible.

While waiting for Melissa's radio interview, we decided to take in a flick. At first we weren't thrilled with the choices. We finally decided on Premonition. Halfway through the film, I didn't think the movie would have a sensible ending. WRONG! I actually loved the ending to this film. I highly recommend this film. That's all I'll share for now.

If you're a local here in Phoenix, please come & support a great cause & benefit at Picazzo's of Scottsdale at their Frank Lloyd Wright location on Thursday, March 29th from 6-9pm. A percentage of dinner that evening will go to Sing For Life Breast Cancer Foundation of Arizona. Music will be provided by Melissa Polinar, Dave Yaden, and local favourite, Mary Hoffman. So please join me for great food, music, and support a great cause.      

Last week, I was a bit stressed over a few matters. Last week, I dug deep into my soul & spirit. Today, I feel a sense of calmness over me. It's as though my angels are letting me know that everything is going to be okay. It's been a great Monday. I feel that this is gonna be a great week! Okay, time to wrap up the day's work.

*****CHEERS!*****

CURRENT MUSIC: ARDEN KAYWIN's What If
CURRENT MOOD: Happy

Pre-Oscar Night Thoughts

Rodan and I sharing a moment at Good Hurt in West Lost Angeles.

I'm ready to enjoy a night of Hollywood joy with my main man, Rodan. We have been cleaning the house and doing laundry for most of the weekend. We've planned a nice Pork roast and dessert for dinner...along with wine & martinis. I'm looking forward to our "date".

My sentimental Oscar favourites? Little Miss Sunshine for Best Picture, Peter O'Toole for Best Actor, and Helen Mirren for Best Actress. I can't decided which actress I'd prefer to win Best Supporting Actress. It's a three way tie between Abigal Breslin, Cate Blanchett, and Jennifer Hudson.

During my recent trip to LA/Hollywood, I was driving to a meeting and got lost. I found myself at the intersection of Laurel Canyon and Mulholland Drive. Once I knew where I was, I found my way back.  I must admit, I enjoyed the detour.

Like many of you, I love movies. I owe so many thanks to those that are in the movie industry. It's so nice to be able to come home and pop in a DVD and relive moments of my favourite movies.  Love or hate Hollywood...but I am thankful that Hollywood exists. Good or bad...it's magic lives in my heart.

Time to get ready for The Oscars!

Enjoy the Moment!

*****CHEERS!*****

Super Bowl Sunday

***Random Play
*Amy Roberts: It Is
*Brian Vander Ark: Resurrection
*Raina Rose: The Prophet, The Panhandler, & The Moon
*Morley: Days Like These
*Matt Jones: The Segue EP
*Amanda Kaletsky: Between You & Me EP

*Blog of The Day: I love Jann Arden's latest blog entry. Take a moment to enjoy Jann's words & thoughts.

It's Super Bowl weekend. I'm not a huge fan of The Bears or Colts so we'll probably watch the game from home. A Sunday evening at home with Rodan & the feathered angels sounds like a perfect evening.

Jill & I enjoyed First Friday at our fave places. It was great catching up with her. I remember during our first few minutes of conversation, she said, "Wait a minute. I can't believe you've lost so much weight!" I have the most amazing fruit flies. I'll be spending time with Jill on Tuesday evening at the Justin King & Ten Dollar Outfit gig...Sweet!
 
I've now lost 58 pounds. Five more pounds and I'll be at goal.  I still can't believe that I have lost the weight. I hope to never have countless pity parties over weight issues. I must remember this is not about a diet alone...it's about a lifestyle change. I have a new personal trainer...Jeff. Oh man...he's one handsome stud. I had my first workout with him on Friday. I look forward to our sessions. I'm happy to report that during my last runs, my right ankle hasn't been a problem. I'm taking my time with the longer runs and concentrating on merely getting used to running three/two times a week.

The Pursuit of Happyness. Last night, Rodan and I decided to take in a movie. We have so many movies to see & review before The Oscars. I'm glad we decided to see Will Smith's latest flick. This movie is warm hearted. It was such a joy to see Will co star with his own son, Jaden Smith. From the opening scene, each person can identify with the main character, Christopher Gardner. From beginning to end, you're wishing and hoping for a happy ending. I highly recommend this movie.

Time to enjoy Sunday. Take care & Enjoy the moment!

*****CHEERS!*****

Current Music: BRIAN VANDER ARK's A Million Things
Current Mood: Relaxed & Happy

Music & Joy Without Martinis!

Edie Carey

***Random Play
*Edie Carey: Another Kind of Ending
*Jerzee Monét: Love & War
*Harry Connick, Jr.: Only You
*India.Arie: Testimony: Vol. 1,  Life & Relationship
*John Mayer: Continuum
*Nadine Zahr: Underneath The Everyday

Monday morning arrived far too quickly. I've already had a cup of coffee. I must admit that I greeted the morning sounds of the cty with sincere happiness. I had a great weekend.

Friday evening, I spent the late evening with Laura & Alicia at  Cafe Boa. My favourite local band, Ten Dollar Outfit, provided the musical entertainment for the evening. It was great catching up with Laura. We became friends thanks to LiveJournal. I get to see both of these chicas this Friday. Laura is a member of Hung Dynasty and they're playing a gig at Chaser's in Scottdale. The Dorsets, another local band, will be sharing the stage with Hung Dynasty...so mark your calendars, people! Be at Chaser's this Friday evening!

Ten Dollar Outfit, has a new Live CD out! It'll be soon be on sale at CDBaby.com. In my opinion, they're by far Phoenix's best band. It's only a matter of time before an A&R rep "discovers" this trio.

Saturday evening, Edie Carey, performed a gig at Mama Java's Coffee house. Since we had to be at a few other places & parties, we stopped in before the gig began so I could purchase her new CD. I was hoping to say hi to her but she wasn't available. Edie's new CD is truly a gem. Her voice, songs, and lyrics, are exquisite. I've always loved her delicate voice. For all the folksy music lovers, this is a definite artist & CD for your collection. We were then on our way to celebrate holday cheer with friends.

After cleaning the house yesterday afternoon, we decided to chill and enjoy the Christmas movies featured on  TCM. Anything with Barbara Stanwyck is a perfect way to spend an evening. She'll always have a special place in my heart. I love all of her movies but Stella Dallas will forever be my fave Barbara Stanwyck film. I didn't feel that great later in the evening and crawled into bed early.

I feel fabulous this morning. I'm looking forward to my workout today. Can't believe I feel that way about exercise! I ate very well this past weekend. I didn't binge or eat too much. Considering all the fun things we did this weekend, I am proud of myself. I'm on a mission.

I am finally happy to say that our Christmas cards are on their way. I feel bad for mailing them so late this year. What I love most about writing Christmas cards is the moments of reflection I have for each person as I write their card out. For many, I'm thankful that we share a great friendship and bond. Many, I've lost touch with but are still special. Others, I'm not shure what to think. I hardly ever hear from a few. I did come across a few on my address book that really shouldn't be on there anymore. If I don't make an attempt to keep the friendship intact, I'd never hear from certain people. So I simply deleted those individuals. I'm looking forward to this Christmas. I've been given so much joy. I'm blessed.

On with the day! Have a great week, Everyone! 

*****CHEERS!*****

CURRENT MUSIC: EDIE CAREY's The Night
CURRENT MOOD: Bouncy

What Time is It? It's 1:33...and OU Still Sucks!

Myself, Melissa Polinar, Jill, and singer/songwriter AM

***Random Play
*Jill Paquette: Self Title CD
*Corrinne May: Safe In A Crazy World
*Vienna Teng: Dreaming Through The Noise
*Jennifer Vazquez: Bend
*Ginny Ownes: Long Way Home
*Judith Owen: Here

First of all, I must admit that I had a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration and weekend. I spent time with those that needed a friend and met a group of wonderful new friends. Thanksgiving Day was special. I spent the afternoon delivering meals to the elderly. I was given a long list of deliveries but I made it a point to say that I couldn't just walk up to their door and say, "Okay, here's your meals. Gotta go!" I wanted to spend a few minutes with those that I sense needed human and spiritual intervention. So that's exactly what I did. I learned about the lives of many interesting individuals. Many that no longer have families. Many that no one to pass on their stories about their lives here on earth. In a sense, I feel a responsibility to pass on those stories. I met a widow of 84 years old. Alone and scared. Her husband died three months ago. She mentioned that she relives the day she found him dead in her mind every spare moment. She said they shared a lunch. He kissed her and thanked her and he headed for his nap. A nap that he never woke up from...he died in his sleep. She broke down and gave thanks for having such a special man in her life.  Every one that I met, I did leave them my phone number so that in the event someone needed me, all they had to do was call me. I did the same thing on Friday afternoon. I really didn't do much. I gained so much insight about my own life.

Rodan only had to work part of his shift since the 10pm newscast on Thanksgiving evening was pre-produced. So we joined friend, Carri, at her place. There we were introduced to new friends.  From there, we later went to a bar and joined the group for drinks and delightful conversation. Turns out that Carri is good friends with one of my favourite local singer/songwriters, Cameo Hill . It was great getting to know her on a personal level. Once we returned home, Rodan and I finally had our intimate Thanksgiving dinner. Late but it was so much fun. Even the birds enjoyed the turkey and stuffing!

Friday wasn't a great day.  The Texas Longhorns lost to the Aggies. I was not a happy camper. I was actually frustrated for most of the evening. I was looking forward to the sounds of Texas Longhorn Band perform in the Fiesta Bowl Parade. So many local Longhorn fans in the valley were talking about buying tickets to the Fiesta Bowl and support The Longhorns. Instead, we'll have to settle for The Hick Bowl; Boise State  vs. Oklahoma or Nebraska. Oh well, I'm certain our local taverns, bowling joints, and crazy 8 motels will be excited about the upcoming business. The Longhorns will have to settle for a lesser known bowl. Things could be worse. We have next year. 

We did take in a movie. I highly recommend that each one of you see this film; Bobby. It's a film about the lives of various characters on the day that Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated. This movie touched my spirit. It's reminds us that the sentiments of time does in fact repeat itself. Even before this film, I've oftened wondered what this country would have been like had Robert F. Kennedy been elected President. There are now real winners through Violence. This country is facing a war that has no end in sight...and an administration that lies and preaches fear to the country. Progressive change is needed here and around the world. I hope the Academy Awards praises this film.

I've started writing out our Christmas cards. It's odd writing cards when one's in a tank top and shorts. We're supposed to see temps dip to the low 60s during the day and mid 30's at nights later mid week. I'm excited about that. I have this one sweater that I've
treasure since my college days. It's a huge sweater since I was HUGE back then but it feels so right. I can't wait to wear it again.

As  for the picture,  it was taken at Cafe Boa after Melissa's performance.  Singer/Songwriter AM was in town for a gig at The Marquee Theatre not far from Cafe Boa. So after his gig, Jill brought him down to the restaurant. I wanted him to hear Melissa & Mary but he arrived during Melissa's set. Afterwards, we all went to a nearby Waffle House. AM is such a kewl guy. So many musicians from LA could stand to take a few lessons from other LA artists such as AM, Genevieve, Jennifer Vazquez, and Charlotte Martin.     

It's a beautiful day here. The birds are happy. I'm enjoying the moment. Life is good. I can't wait to decorate the house for the holiday season. By the way, yes, I do have an out of whack sense of humor. So for all the hicks that do happen to use a computer and read this, no need to be offended! ::::insert hearty bourbon laugh::::

Enjoy the moment!

*****CHEERS!*****

CURRENT MUSIC: JILL PAQUETTE's Come To Me
CURRENT MOOD: Happy