Xavierism

Google Friend Connect & This and That...

Anna-Maria La Spina Sings Love is More than 3 Words

***Random Play
*Anna Maria La Spina: Mine
*Jon McLaughlin: OK Now
*Melissa Polinar: Sound Vault Sessions
*Keaton Simons: Can You Hear Me
*Carrie Catherine: Green Eyed Soul
*Tony Lucca: Come Around Again

It's been a great past few days. Work has kept me busy. Even with every day stress, I've been eating better than I have in quite some time. I'm doing my best to stay open and focused concerning marathon training.

Thank God I have people that are pushing me to continue running and regular workouts. I need all the inspiration my spirit can gather. I will be attending an upcoming Boot Camp. I'm certain will kill me but I've got nothing to lose but great information for the future.

I'm thrilled that after four days, I finally was able to add Google Friend Connect to my page. Whew! Do you know how many brain cells I killed to get that thing on my page. I'm certain I killed more than the average crack head. I'm serious...true dat! I really need to focus on myself more and writing within my blog as always been a way to unload a great deal of stress and monitor my days. So if you're a reader of my blog and are on Google Friend Connect, please feel free to add me. I'd be happy to do the same. I love learning and sharing from others...especially those that are runners. I need your inspiration and wisdom. Thank you!

Time to have a lite lunch and get back to work. Working on setting up tour bookings for various bands & singer/songwriters.

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

Current Music: Anna-Maria La Spina's Love is More Than 3 Words
Current Mood: Focused & Hungry!

I'd like to purchase a Slimmer Version of Xavierism, please?

***Random Play
*Danielia Cotton: Rare Child
*Natalie Merchant: Retrospective 1995-2005
*Tony Lucca: Come Around Again
*Morley: Seen
*Caedom's Call: Overdressed
*Diana Winter: Escapizm

It was a beautiful 86 degrees yesterday in Phoenix. Did you hear me? 86 degrees! One can not hide fat or lumps when it's that warm. One could wear black and warm clothes but look like a fool. I'm determined to get back on track to look my best for this summer. I'm ready to attack the gym. Thank God I have Kelly Olexa on my side for inspiration!  Yes, I insist that you click on the link and head over to Kelly's blog & check out this fabulous Diva! My goal is to have just as hot of T&A as Kelly! Oh yesh...that's the goal. Did you hear me, Baby???

Time to wrap up a bit of work so that I can head to the gym before meeting up with friends tonight. 

***Daily Mugshot from last night after taking a shower. I look like a darker version of Jan Brady!

Keep reaching for those dreams...we can all help one another get there!

 
*****CHEERS!*****

Current Music: Morley's Unconditional Ass
Current Mood: Chunky & Determined!

Can You Hear The Wind Chimes?

***Random Play
*Laura Marie: Drawn
*Dave Yaden: Bear Me Up
*Diana Winter: Escapizm
*Tony Lucca: Come Around Again
*Sandi Thom: Smile...It Confuses People
*Keaton Simons: Can You Hear Me?

I love waking up to the sound of Wind Chimes. I've been having problems sleeping as of lately because of bad allergies. I'm a light head when it comes to drugs. I can take drugs before bed time but then I'll be walking around the day after like someone in need of anti depressants.

So many wonderful singers/songwriters, musicians, and bands heading to Phoenix this fall. I'm thrilled that I'll be working with such talented individuals.

Last Friday, I was thrilled to be present at The Paisley Violin to see & hear Curtis Peoples, Tony Lucca, Keaton Simons, and local fave Shane Hunt perform an all acoustic show. I was bummed because members of Phoenix Friday Nights met up earlier that evening at The Paisley. I was there but I was working on details for an upcoming show. I look forward to the next gathering. Thanks to Twitter, I've found amazing bloggers. I wish I could write the way they do...but I'm happy with my little space. I'm actually working on a new layout. It's looking SWEET!

KaiserCartel will be performing an intimate gig at The Paisley Violin on Oct. 2nd @ 8pm. Special guests include local performers Shane Hunt & Sydney Sprague. This will be another great gig. If you're a Phoenix local, please check out this duo. If you like they're music, let me know...I'd love to meet you at their gig.

It's almost months shy of my Father's death. I can't believe he's gone. I have a personal journal that I write in each day. I can't help but read entries from last year. It's like I can recall the emotions and the moments as I read word for word. I know it's all for the best but I can't help but feel the pain. I'm thankful that I cling to my faith and religion.

A new day. Allergies or no allergies...I'm gonna make the most of it. I gotta head to the gym. I plan to give my fat nalgas a great workout!

One more thing: Live Journal folks, what's with all the meme's? A bunch of sheep! 

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

Current Music: Tony Lucca's Time and Time Again
Current Mood: Calm & Blessed

Mu Mu Land

5:30am this morning...I ran and ran. I was bound for Mu Mu Land! I ran an easy three miles. It felt great. I've lost a few pounds and I could feel that I was carrying less fat on me. I start a new marathon training session next weekend so it's time to work on cutting out my bad eating habits and get serious about training again. I bitch and bitch about the changes but once I have things under my control, I feel the magic take over. I want to feel that magic. I want to feel comfortable in my own skin. I want to feel confident again. For the past few months, I've had to play PR Man and fake the role. Now that the Fall season is around the corner, I need for all my new clothes to fit just right. 

I'm walking a tight rope. My faith keeps me from falling over. Hope keeps me focused on my goals. More than ever, I sense my Angels & Patron Saints are on my side. I'll be okay. I'll be more than okay. I want to feel the Xavierism confidence. Yeah...I'll be okay.

PS...If I go to Mu Mu Land, I hope those Mu Mu Girls teach me how to groove like that! What the Hell is Mu Mu Land?

*****CHEERS*****

Current Music: KLF's Justified and Ancient featuring Tammy Wynette
Current Mood: Focused

Pool Time!

  I love my Barber, Michael! He knows exactly how to cut my hair. The scalp massage is by far the best part of the experience.

I have a new recipe I want to try for dinner so I'm excited about that. It'll be perfect after my gym workout. If I love the recipe, I'll be shure to share with you.

Every late afternoon and evening hours seem to be perfect for chilling in the pool.

Pool time! Gonna chill for a bit before I head out to the gym.

*CHEERS*

Current Music: KLF's Justified & Ancient featuring Tammy Wynette
Current Mood: Chilled

Where Did He Go?

***Random Play
*Nadine Zahr: Underneath The Everyday
*Shannon Curtis:  Boomerangs & Seesaws
*Justin Young: All Attached
*Laura Marie: Drawn
*Sia: Some People Have Real Problems
*Jennifer Vazquez: Bend

 

I remember a time when I looked forward to waking up to a new day so that I could write about my thoughts and things that inspired me. I wish I knew what happen to that person within me. I wish he were back. I would love to write more but I just don't have the drive. Maybe I need to add more drive so that I will find the need to share about my new journeys and moments. Either way, I miss the writer within myself...I really do.

I still can't believe that Father is no longer here. He visits me often in dreams.  The dreams are so real. It's as though he's here on this earth. Even in death, he brings and honours me with words of wisdom. I'm so amazed at the power of a parent's love. Mother has been such an inspiration. She continues to be emotionally strong and always there to hear through my tears.

Yesterday was the first time in two weeks that I put in a good work out.  I lost my work out gloves so I'll have to replace those today.  It was great to sweat and feel the good hurt throughout my body. Sitting in the steam room was just fabulous while I thought about everything that's happened in the last few months.

For the past few months, I've been going back to my favourite Barber. Michael is one of the best barber/stylists that's ever cut my hair. I just sit in his chair and he works his magic. I love the feel of my hair when he's done. A simply joy goes a long way...

Omar, Kylie, and Ella have been so good. If only they knew just how much joy they bring to my life. I feel as though I'm waking up to a new life. I'm embracing the things that I forgot brought me joy while I was emotionally down about my Father's death. Depression has never been a strong suit with me. I don't do it well. My pity parties are short lived. Friends on medications suggested that I go on similar meds. Are they crazy? I refuse to turn to meds. I do not suffer from depression so taking meds wouldn't help one bit. An episode of Judge Judy is all I need to remind me that I do not need meds of any kind! I just need a good kick in the ass every now and then. It's safer, cheaper, and down right more honest!

*Music Promotions. I'm looking forward to the March 7th, First Friday gig at Alice Cooper's Town in downtown Phoenix. Music starts at 6:30pm and continues till Midnight. Line up includes: Amber Norgaard, Jennifer Vazquez, Angie Stevens, Sarah Vanell, and
Sacha Sacket. Amazing line up, eh? $7 Cover/21 & up. The gig will be broadcast live by KWSS 106.7FM. So if you're not a local, you'll be able to listen via the KWSS web site. If you would like informations distributed about your non profit organization at the gig, please email me and I'll be happy to make shure your brochures and info are available at the gig's info desk.

I'm blessed about being a part of this day. Life is good. Life is a true blessing.                   

Current Music: Sia's Little Black Sandals
Current Mood: Happy Go Lucky & Blessed

Lover of Life

***Random Play
*Colbie Caillat: Coco
*Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings: 100 Days, 100 Nights
*Mozella: I Will
*Sacha Sacket: Lovers & Leaders
*Judith Owen: Happy This Way
*Skye: Mind How  You Go

I woke up up this morning and felt a bit of that old magic...the love of life. I felt excited about the day. I felt and believed I had a purpose and reason to be a part of this day. Since the last few days of November, I hadn't felt such an inner joy. I knew it was part of an inner layer but this morning I felt the love. I woke up and gave thanks for the sounds of the city & birds. The day's presence overwhelmed me.

I still can't believe that my Father is no longer here on this earth. My Father was a very private man. He lived for his family. His love for his family was unquestionable. Father lives within my Sister and myself. It saddens me that I won't have children to pass on his life stories. I will have to pass all of that on to my three beautiful nieces. My love for my Father runs deep. I'm honoured and blessed to have been the son to such a wonderful man. As I continue life, I know it's up to me to continue to honour my Father...and that's what I intend to do.

It was such a wonderful moment listening to Hillary Clinton give her speech after winning the New Hampshire primary. I felt she finally connected with people of this country. I'm glad she showed emotion during the last debate and during a recent gathering. I want to see the future president fight for the position. I want to see the future president get emotional over the current state this country. I get damn pissed over Bush's policies. Hillary fought her way through the last debate and stood her ground. When she fought her way back, I didn't see a woman that had to earn the respect to be one of the guys, I saw the candidate that was the best choice to be the president of this country. I'm thrilled that Hillary found her voice. I am excited that she will be given a chance to show why her experience does play a big role.

Upcoming Gigs. I will be working and promoting gigs for bands and singer/songwriters: Sacha Sacket, Just Off Turner, Sarah Vanell, Ben Roberts, Josh Queen, Ten Dollar Outfit, Curtis Peoples, Tony Lucca, Ernie Halter, Amber Norgaard, The Dorsets, Michael Mattingly, Raina Rose, Julie Loyd, Brig Feltus, Playground Legends, Pinhead, Angie Stevens, Joe Bresler, Melissa Polinar, Jennifer Vazquez, Keegan Smith and The Fam, Hung Dynasty, Dennis Vasquez, Spring, Ryan Whitney, Brandon Schott, Laura Marie, Genevieve, Emma Hill, Richard Maxwell, Alicia R. Broussard, Shane Hunt, and The Latter. WHEW!!!  True talent, I tell ya!

Thanks to all you that have given me strength by checking in on me. I look forward to sharing with old & new friends in 2008! Blessings to each of you!

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

Current Music: Judith Owen's Conway Bay
Current Mood: Content, Loved, & Blessed

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

Angie Stevens

Angie Stevens & Susan, her Double Bass Player, performing on The Arizona Midday Show.

***Random Play
*Angie Stevens: Stand Up Girl
*AM: Soul Variations    
*Nadine Zahr: Underneath The Everyday
*Tina Dico: In The Red
*James Morrison: Undiscovered
*Edie Carey: Another Kind of Fire

It was great spending time this weekend with two of my favourite musical divas, Tiff Jimber  and  Angie Stevens. I set up a Friday night gig for Tiff and Amber Norgaard at Mama Java's Coffee House. I thought these two complimented each other well. Angie Stevens only had room for a Sunday gig, I thought it was best to set up a house concert. Good friend and local singer/ songwriter, Michael Mattingly, hosted the gathering at his house/studio in downtown Phoenix. Angie Stevens, recently voted Denver's best singer/songwriter for 2007, also brought her double bass player, Susan Phelan. Angie & Susan gave a great performance. They performed as though they were in front of hundreds of fans in a large venue. Both were having a good time...all for the love of music. The intimacy of house concerts are perfect because fans get to emotionally & musically connect with the musicians. Crissy, Angie's Merch Girl, was also part of the entourage...it was great seeing her as well. What a great evening!

Yesterday morning, Angie was the musical guest on KPNX's The Arizona Midday Show.  Angie and Susan did a great job. Since the airing of the show, I've received various calls from friends, fans, and venue booking agents that are interested in having Angie perform when she returns to the valley in October.

I'm looking forward to playing tennis this evening. I love playing...but it's been rough setting times with friends that play. Afterwards, I plan to hit the sauna & jacuzzi at the gym. I want to physically feel fabulous again. I loved the highs I felt after good workouts and long running sessions.

Time to make a few phone calls and get ready for an afternoon of meetings. Hope each of you is enjoying the day/evening.  

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

Current Music: ANGIE STEVENS' Old Churchyard
Current Mood: Okay & Content

Come Sit Next To Me...It's Time For A Little Chat

Angie Stevens. Photo taken by Tim Sutherland.

***Random Play
*Jon McLaughlin: Indiana
*Allison Sattinger: VOX
*Rosie Thomas: These Friends of Mine
*Laura Marie: Drawn
*Skye: Mind How You Go
*Kiff: You Can't Keep It Down

Sundays have always been so special to me. Nothing like reading the morning paper and enjoying the first cup of coffee in bed. Music is playing low. It's cloudy outside. The house really feels like home right now. I love my little home.

Every now and then, I enjoy looking over the stats from my blog. It's always interesting to see where my readers are from and the searches that brought them to this blog. There are those readers that stop in often and I always wonder what it is they're expecting to find. I have many readers from Sweden, France, and Singapore. Go figure, eh? I'm thankful that anyone stops in since I don't post as often as I should.

More than ever, I appreciate the true friendships in my life. It's good to know that I can call or email certain friends and they're there for me. Through my recent chaotic episodes, I learned that I misjudged a few friends. A few that I honestly thought were open and nonjudgmental turned out to be just that. As old as I am, the lessons of life continue on and on. It's all part of life...from beginning to end.

I'm quite excited about the upcoming marathon training class. Sessions start on Saturday, August 25th. I feel that I have enough time to train so that I feel comfortable from the start of training. I've managed to keep the weight off. I didn't go through any major binge hiatus. In the past, I would have abandoned and ignored my personal goals until I felt the need to reach them again. I did gain a few pounds recently but I've lost all six pounds. I'm back on track. It hasn't been easy. I've had to fight from eating every thing in sight. Emotionally, I find myself more sensitive. Comments, rumors, and small talk usually take a back seat while I enjoy breeze of life. As always, I'm digging deep and allowing my faith to go on auto pilot. I know that I'll land on my feet and in the midst of peaceful pastures. It happens every time and it'll happen again.

This evening, Phoenix music lovers are in for a treat. Denver's very own, Angie Stevens, voted by Westword.com as Denver's Best Singer/Songwriter for 2007, will be featured at a house concert in downtown Phoenix. This should be a great night. Angie is one of the most down to earth musicians I've ever come across. What you see is what you get from Angie. I've worked with so many musicians that when a musician like Angie comes my way, it's truly a blessing. Check her out.

Thank you again for the comments, emails, messages, and phone calls. Your support means the world to me. I can honestly say that I am surrounded by good people in my life. Time to bake a cake for the Angie's house concert tonight.                  

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

Current Music: ALLISON SATTINGER's Barefoot Mary
Current Mood: Content & Hungry!