Are you Freakin' Kidding Me??!!

Dear Makers of Finale Print Music:

While I appreciate that you have provided a program for me to more easily write and notate music on the computer, and your program is easy and fun to use, I have just one item of complaint.

After spending countless hours of my precious time, notating a very important choral arrangement, inputting each single note one at a time, listening to it to ensure the quality of the sound, your program unexpectedly shut down.

And while I was sure that your "auto-save" feature was enabled, when I re-opened the program, much to my dismay, ALL of my work had been lost. Patiently, I started again, clicking each, individual note, one by one. This time, pausing to push the "Save" button after notating each line.

Your program continues to shut down, over and over. The last time I contacted you about this horrible ordeal, you suggested that I pay an extra $30 and upload the 2009 version of your program, ensuring me that that would fix the problem. So, I did so, paying an extra $30, when I had already spent over $100 on the already new and updated 2008 version of Finale Print Music.

The program continues to shut down, wasting my time.

I have a deadline to finish this project, and would have been done hours ago, if it weren't for your piece of crap program.

In retribution for the hassle this has caused me, I want you to reimburse me 1000 hours of my time. Simply transport me back in time, to before the incident, and fix your damn program.

In addition, I would like my arrangement finished, and perfect before the start of this time allotment.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Frustrated and out of time.

Tower of Strength

I feel honored to have to opportunity to tell you about this amazing author, and her wonderful book.
I have gotten to know Annette through her blog, and have grown to love, admire and respect her.

Here is her bio from the back of her book:

Annette Lyon, Utah’s 2007 Best of State medalist for fiction, has been
writing for most of her life. While she’s found success in freelance
magazine work and editing, her true passion is fiction. In 1995, she
graduated cum laude from BYU with a BA in English. Her university
focus on 19th-century literature proved beneficial years later while
writing historical temple novels. Her fifth novel, Spires of Stone, was a
2007Whitney Award finalist.
When she’s not writing, Annette enjoys spending time with her
husband and their four children. She also loves reading, knitting, and
chocolate—not necessarily in that order.
Readers may contact her via her website, http://www.annettelyon.com/.

I was amazed, and honored, and grateful when she approached me about making a video trailer for her new book, Tower of Strength, and asked if she could use one of my songs for the audio. Of course, I said yes, without hesitation.
You can watch the video here:






I was equally grateful when she asked me to read her book in advance and participate in her blog tour. I was so happy to be able to participate. I truly enjoyed reading the book, loved the history of Manti, and the temple, and empathized with the characters. Annette is a brilliant writer, and wonderful person, and I'm proud to call her my friend.

Here is a brief synopsis of the book:

"It was 1877 when Tabitha Hall Chadwick left Manti as a young bride. Now, nearly seven years later, she returns as a widow with her young son to make a new beginning. Tabitha's strained relationship with her mother–in–law adds more difficulty to her life as a single working mother. Yet with a stroke of courage, Tabitha makes two purchases that become her passions: the local newspaper and a traumatized horse.
As she struggles to meet the challenges of her new roles, Tabitha welcomes the friendship of Samuel, a recently widowed British immigrant. Working together to train the abused horse, the two discover a second chance at love. But when Samuel is critically injured during the construction of the Manti Temple, Tabitha faces the pain of old wounds and the risk of new ones.
Weaving themes of loss and renewal, this poignant tale explores a vital
choice each of us must make: to seek safety in isolation or to embrace the
painful yet beautiful complexities of life and love."

I had a few questions for Annette, after reading the book:

1. Did you know/love horses before you wrote this book? Or did you have to research all of the horse information to write about it?

Even though I took riding lessons for a couple of months when I was eleven or twelve, I knew almost nothing about horses going in to this book. I about had a heart attack when I realized that a main plot thread (and practically a main character) would be about a horse. Lots of head banging frustration and research ensued.


2. Did you identify with the characters? Namely, Tabitha? Is there a part of her that you developed from yourself? Are any of the other characters patterned after people in your life, or is it strictly from your imagination?

Tabitha became very easy to identify with, not so much because of her situation, but because of the way she handles problems. She always thinks she can take care everything herself and never relies on anyone else (after all, she's the strong one and can't really trust that someone else will be there and do it, right)? I think a lot of women can relate to that.

One of my critique group members commented on how often Tabitha is hugging and kissing her son and suggested it was overkill, so I cut a few of those references. I'm a very affectionate mother. I guess that part of Tabitha is very me.

Other than that one quirk, no, none of the characters are based on anyone from real life.


3. How much extensive research did you have to do about the history of Manti, and the building of the temple did you have to do before you could write the story?

I was lucky enough to find several sources, particularly two theses written about the settling of Manti and the construction of the temple. Another book published by the Manti Temple centennial committee was helpful as well. I'm not a real historian by any means. I rely on what the real historians have found and compiled to learn just enough to write a believable story.

4. Do you outline your story before you start writing it, or does it just flow and develop as you write? Did you know what would basically happen, and how it would end before you began?

I always have a basic idea of where the story will begin and where it'll end up. I also know several landmarks along the way. But I don't know all the details, and I discover a lot as I go.

For example, before I start, I might know plot points A, D, F, L, R, and Z, but I won't necessarily know how I'll get from A to D. As I write, I figure out more of the scenes that will come and I jot down notes about what they'll be as I go. A lot of subplot things show up and surprise me.

I'm in the middle as far as outlining goes--I have to have a basic skeleton before I begin, but I also can't have every single detail mapped out ahead of time or it falls flat.

5. What's next on your agenda for writing? Will you take a break now, or do you have more projects in the works?

I always have projects in the works. :) I submitted a contemporary novel last fall about five women whose husbands are deployed to Afghanistan. It's very different from anything I've done before, but researching the topic and writing the book was a powerful experience. Tenatively titled Band of Sisters, it will be on shelves in about a year.

I'm working on several other projects right now, including a young adult fantasy, a grammar book (for all those people who ask for my help with their grammar, usage, and punctuation issues), and then next up is a chocolate cookbook. I have a sneaking suspicion that last one will be fun to work on.

Thank you, Annette, for giving me the chance to have a sneak peak at Tower of Strength, and the opportunity to share my music on your trailer, and review the book here.

OTHER BOOKS AND AUDIO BOOKS
BY ANNETTE LYON:
Lost without You
At theWater’s Edge
House on the Hill
At the Journey’s End
Spires of Stone

My Pet Peeves

First of all, I decided to take down my post from yesterday. I vented it out, which I needed. I got some good feedback from you, thank you. And it's done. So, I don't want it staying out there to cause more drama than it needs to. From now on, it is between me and C, TJ, and his primary leaders. Nuff, said.

Now that that's behind us, I have some more complaining to do. Big surprise, I know. But, after this, I promise to be more upbeat. I mean I AM leaving for Hawaii at the end of this week. Now that's something to celebrate!!

So, here are a few of my recent pet peeves.

1. I'm always claiming that I am the complete opposite of OCD. Well, there is just one thing about me, that might be the tiniest bit OCD. That is the way my groceries are bagged. If they do it wrong, it drives me CRAZY. And I try to make it easy for them. When I'm taking things out of the cart, to put them on the counter to check out, I arrange them by category: produce, frozen, refrigerated, boxes, cans, non-food, etc. You get the idea. And I always leave a space between the different categories so there's no mistaking. And yes, it does irritate me when the worker comes to help me empty my cart, because he's not going to arrange it on the counter the way I like. I find myself rearranging stuff on the counter after he puts it on.

So, yesterday, at the grocery store, I did just that, making it really easy to see how I want my groceries bagged. During the checkout the bagger was placing bags in my cart. He put one bag on top and I noticed he put the vegetables, and the shampoo in the same bag. Wha the huh? So, I simply pulled all of the non-food items out of the bag, and said I didn't want shampoo leaking onto my vegetables, so will you please put them in a different bag. Then, when I was loading them into my car, I noticed that the 5 cans of food I had purchased were put in the same bag as the bread. ARRGGHHH! Who puts cans and bread together? Any idiot knows the bread will get smashed.

So, my pet peeve is people who don't use logic when bagging groceries.



2. Long sleeve shirts. I have man-arms. No, seriously, I'm not joking. I have a long body, and broad shoulders. And it seriously BUGS me that whenever I buy long sleeve shirts they don't go all the way to my wrists. And if I go up in size then the shirt is just baggy, and unflattering. I am of the opinion that if you wear clothes that are too big for you, it makes you look bigger, rather than smaller. I just want my clothes to fit! I also hate short pants, too. I'm always scouring the racks for long fit jeans. They are hard to find. And I'm only 5'7''. I'm pretty average height. If I have a hard time finding pants long enough, how do people taller than me find pants? The world of tall women should revolt, and start a new clothing store of just apparel for tall people. They have a petite section for short people. Why don't they have a tall section?



3. People crossing the street, slowly. As a runner, I am often in category of pedestrian. And when I cross the street, or come to an intersection, I run as fast as I can across. Especially if there is a car waiting for me to cross. It drive me insane when people cross the street, thinking that just because they have the right of way, that the should mosey along, slower than tar. That's just rude. It is common courtesy that when you know someone is waiting for you, even if you are on foot, and they are in a car, to hurry and get out of their way.

Same goes for people walking/driving slow. Move over, and let the person behind you pass. If you want to go slow, that's your prerogative, but don't hold up the line/traffic just for spite. It's rude!

I couldn't resist posting this picture. 100 points if you know who/what this picture is!

4. People who feel the need to discipline my children in front me. That is probably the worst insult you could ever give me. Because in my mind, that is your way of telling me that you don't think I'm doing a good job as a parent, and there is a need for intervention. It undermines my authority, and discredits me in front of my kids.

I'm sure people have good intentions, but it's none of their business.

Strangers DO NOT know what's best for my children more than I do. So back off.

Do you want to know who won?

I am resisting the urge to entitle this post "...and the winner is..." or "Drum roll, please..."

The winner of this awesome stash will receive a "pre-release" copy of my CD Solitude, a bag of Cadbury mini eggs, a package of Ghirardelli Dark & Raspberry chocolates, a package of Trident Citrus mint gum, and a bottle of Bath & Body Works Midnight Pomegranate deep cleansing hand soap.

Thank you to my lovely assistant, KJ, for helping me draw a name.

And the winner is.....

Laurel!!! of The Tea Party Place

And since I got such a great response, I decided to have a 2nd & 3rd place winner, too. You will also receive a copy of "Solitude."

Congrats to:

Susan Brady of Don and Susan

and Mikki of Firelein Tomfoolery

Congratulations! Now just email me with your name and address, and I will send you your loot!

pianorunner at yahoo dot com

TGIF, Random Sherisms, and some random tunes

Friday always seems to creep up on me. Wednesday I woke up, and thought to myself, "Man, it's only Wednesday?"

Then, suddenly it was Friday.

**************

This morning, as I was dropping TJ off at preschool, I was walking out the door, as a Mom and her daughter were walking in. The little girl had a kind of scowl on her face. You know, the 3-year-old-I'm-pouting kind of look on her face. Then I heard the Mom say, and I quote, "Now someone else can listen to you whining for a little while."

I just about busted up laughing right then and there. I don't know why, but that line just made my day. I walked to my car with a huge grin on my face.

Then, this afternoon, as I trying to get the kids into the car, to go have lunch with my girlfriends, and Peter was whining at me, I found myself thinking those EXACT WORDS.

I guess, I thought that woman's pain was funny, because I've lived through it, and I'm just glad I'm not the only one.

***************

Earlier this week, I went to the movies with a bunch of girls in my neighborhood. We decided to make it cheap and easy, so we went to the local dollar movies, where they are playing "Twilight"

I'm not sure why I subject myself to this torture over and over again. I guess, for the sake of having a girl's night out.

The movie was just as cheesy, ridiculous, and stupid, if not more so, as the first time I saw it.

And again, I couldn't help thinking to myself, every single time Jacob came on the screen:

Sharkboy.

**************

I think there is something terribly wrong with my dishwasher. It is only just over 2 years old. That's still pretty young for a dishwasher, right? And it still cleans the dishes just fine, but for the last few months, the so-called "whisper quiet" feature just doesn't seem to be working. That thing is so darn loud. So loud, in fact, that if I run the dishwasher, you cannot have a conversation in the kitchen. And I can't run it at night because it will wake everyone up. It is THAT loud. I kind of reminds me of when we used to live very near the air force base, and the fighter jets would fly over head, and you had to stop whatever you were doing, and just wait, because you couldn't hear yourself think.

My dishwasher has the decibel strength of a fighter jet.

*************

Last night, for my book club, the ladies and I went over to my old alma mater to attend a lecture by Jeffery Zaslow. He is the co-author of the book, The Last Lecture, with Randy Pausch.

If you aren't familiar with The Last Lecture, this man Randy Pausch, who was a professor at Carnegie Mellon University, and had terminal cancer, decided to give a final lecture. It was then documented in a book.

I loved reading the book, and really enjoyed the lecture. I was amazed at this man's wisdom, and tenacity, despite his trial of dying. He basically did this lecture to leave a legacy for his children before he died.

He taught so many incredible life lessons through the stories he told in his lecture.

It gave me a lot to think about.

Here is my review from goodreads, that I wrote right after reading the book:

This book really surprised me. Before I read it, I didn't really
know what it was about, and being a nonfiction, I was skeptical. But I have to
say I really enjoyed reading it. I gained a lot of respect and admiration for
the author, and his ideals. I learned a lot about keeping a positive attitude,
living life, and raising my children. I think the message of this book will stay
with me for a long time.

You should go read it. Probably the best non-fiction book I've ever read.

*************

I have decided that I am a drama magnet. It seems that no matter where I go, or what I'm doing, some sort of drama ensues. I can't figure out why.

But it has me thinking. Turning it back onto myself. Do I create all this drama? Well, I certainly didn't create the drama of the crack-whore motel, or the almost accident. Ok, well, I might have escalated that drama in my head, stressing myself out, but I didn't create the incident.

So, why do things like that always keep happening to me?

It's got me wondering about my reaction to things that happen in my life. And if I'm handling each situation the best way I can.

**************

Today is the last day to enter my giveaway. I will be drawing a name tomorrow morning after i get back from my weekly long run. That is if I'm not taking a nap. So, if you haven't entered, go do it now. It's your last chance to win a copy of my CD "Solitude" plus some more Sher Loves: chocolate, Bath and Body works, and more chocolate.

*************

And now, some tunes:

1. El No Esta Por Ti - Laura Pausini

2. Here with Me - Reo Speedwagon

3. Lovebug - Jonas Brothers (don't judge me, I have a 7 year old)

4. Possession - Sarah Mclachlan

5. You Really Got Me - Van Halen

6. To Be With You - David Archuleta

7. Con te Partiro - Andrea Bocelli

8. We're Young and Beautiful - Carrie Underwood

9. Independent Love Song - Scarlett O'

10. Crashed - Daughtry

Bonus: No Llores Por Mi - Enrique Iglesias (apparently we're loving Latin music today)

MeMe Q&A Follow up

Thanks everyone for making me feel special and asking me to talk about myself.

Oh man, you guys seriously asked some really hard questions.

I was thinking more on the lines of “what’s your favorite color/food.” Talk about deep thinking. Not to mention, some of these question may or may not require me to open old long ago healed wounds, and reveal my most painful deepest darkest secrets. To protect my mental/emotional well-being, I may have to be somewhat vague. You understand, I’m sure.

That said, I’ll do my best to answer each of your questions and candidly as possible.

So…..

Andrea asked:
“If you could change one thing about your teen years, what would it be? It seems like the majority of people always say that they wouldn't change anything because they learned so much from it, or are the person they are today because of the choices they made, blah, blah, blah, it kind of sounds like crap to me. However, I am curious as to your thoughts on the subject.”

Hmmm. There are some things I would change, sure. I wouldn’t have been so boy crazy. And let me tell you I was really boy crazy. I finally wised up my senior year, and had a blast with my girls. I wish I hadn’t wasted so much time chasing boys.
And I wish I had passed the AP English test. Stupid Grapes of Wrath (which I didn’t read).

Annette asked:
“What was your favorite childhood toy?”

That’s an easy one. Thank you Annette! When I was little I was obsessed with Annie (as in the musical, little orphan Annie). I sang the songs constantly. I used to make my little sisters act it out with me.
I had a doll, I called it my turn around doll. It had a frilly pink dress, and you could wind it up and it would turn around in a circle and play “The Sun’ll Come out Tomorrow.”
I also had a heart necklace that was broken in half, just like the one Annie had.

Erin asked:
"What is the best book you have ever read?"

That’s harder than you think to answer. Because I like different genres for different reasons, and I have favorites in all categories. Best over all? Hmmm….I’m not sure.
I really enjoyed reading Angels & Demons because of the history, and of course because it’s sent in Italy. And I like the action. I’m not sure if that’s my absolute favorite though. I also loved Pride and Prejudice. And all of Jane Austen. And David Morrell. This is a really hard question. I just can't decide.
But since you're asking favorites, and nobody asked this, my favorite composer is Chopin. Hands down.

"When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?"

I’ve always had a passion for music, even when I was really little. And I’ve always loved to perform. I remember my extended family gathering around to hear my sing, and loving the spotlight.
So, I always knew I wanted to be in music, and be a performer. Concert pianist, or broadway singer.

"How many hours a day did your piano teacher require you to practice at the highest point?"

I don’t remember if she set an actual time limit. I do remember at times I would practice at least 2 hours a day. I used to get up at 5 in the morning to practice, I’d go to my piano lesson during my lunch break in high school (so I could be in the musical after school), then I’d go home after school and practice more. I also remember loving to practice. Sometimes it was hard and I wanted to goof off and play something besides what I was supposed to, but my Mom never had to hound me to practice. I actually got out of a lot of chores because I was practicing piano.

"What is your most embarrassing moment?"

Ha ha! All of my embarrassing moments involved bodily fluids. But my most embarrassing?
Probably 5th grade. The class was taking SAT tests, and I was afraid I’d get in trouble if I asked to go to the bathroom, and I just couldn’t hold it anymore, so I wet my pants.
It was the single most humiliating moment of my life.
I was very emotionally scarred for many years because of it. Thanks for opening that wound. Thanks a lot.

2busy asked:
"Any more psycho car chases lately?"

Ha ha! No, thank goodness. Hopefully that whole thing has been settled. Keep your fingers crossed.

span>"On another note, did you study music in college?"
span>
No, I didn’t. And I regret it. At the time, I felt so insecure and inadequate and I knew the music department was so competitive and I didn’t think I was good enough. I didn’t even audition for a scholarship, and later my freshman year, after the department head had heard me sing, she told me I should’ve auditioned because I would’ve gotten it. One of the many times that my insecurities of held me back.
So, my declared major was English secondary education…and I took A LOT of music classes, before I quit to get married and have babies.
So, yes, I’m a college drop out. (I’m so ashamed). One day, I want to go back, and I would like to study piano performance, but again, I’m afraid I’m not good enough, or that now I’m too old.

Lagirl asked:
"Any "guilty pleasures"?(I'm talkin' food here)"

Uh, hello. Umm…all of it!! I have a very unhealthy relationship with food. Eating is probably one of my favorite past times. If my hubby and I go out, it is always to eat. Always. I love eating out. But my biggest weakness if chocolate. I actually like a lot of healthy food. I don’t really love fast food, or hamburgers. But, give me dessert, and I just go hog wild. I always order dessert. And I have been known to eat an entire bag of Hershey’s kisses in one sitting.

Peggy asked:
"Yeah, whatever happened with that guy?"

Hopefully, he’s off the grid, and I’ll never see him again.

"How do you get a piano student to practice? He loves coming to lessons (I think he has a crush on me) but just is NOT progressing. Any advice?"

How old is he?
I’ve learned over the years that parent involvement is the biggest factor is kids practicing. It seemed, without fail, that every time I had someone not practicing it was because their parents used piano lessons as a half hour break from their kids every week. I would stress very strongly about getting them involved.
I also had a practice record they took home every week, and they had to fill it out and bring it back to me, and show me exactly what songs they practiced and how long.
And I always had a treat or some kind of reward for practicing.
Good luck!

Jan asked:
"When did you start having your social anxieties? I have always been curious about that. Love this."

You know, it’s probably not as bad as I make it sound. I was always kind of a nerd growing up. I was never really comfortable in social situations. Ironically though, I always craved the limelight. So, I learned to draw attention to myself. I kind of became the class clown. For some reason, if I made a fool of myself I didn’t feel so stupid.
As I’ve gotten older, and mellowed out, I’ve been a little less, um, dorky, I guess.
But, it’s gotten worse as I’ve gotten older and had kids. Crowds really bother me. It started, I guess, when I was expecting my first baby. I couldn’t stand people touching me, and being “in my space.” I guess I just never grew out of that. I like to have my distance. I’m not much of a hugger. I prefer small, intimate gatherings rather than big ones.
By the way, thank you Veronica for letting me ride with you to the meet and greet, because I would’ve been way less comfortable if I hadn’t had one person with me when I arrived.

Wonderwoman asked:
"So I can't ask what your fave position is? I feel so free when I'm commenting.....I know my mom won't read it."

You can ask, but I’m not going to answer it. And, your Mom reads my blog!
Mwa-hahaha (evil laugh)

"Seriously......I want to know your most embarrassing moment. And biggest regret."

Biggest regret? I’ve decided that I can’t live my life looking back, and wishing I hadn’t done this, or I’d done that. Besides, I don’t think we should live with regret. That is what repentence and the Atonement are for.
That said, if I had to name a few regrets: not majoring in music in college, not finishing college, quitting the violin.
But those are trivial things, and I try not to let them bother me.

Sarah asked:
"Will you come to my house and help me redesign my blog?"

Sure! Anytime! Although, I’m probably not the best person to ask.

Melissa asked:
"What started your passion for running and when did it happen?"

It’s funny, I used to hate running. I was one of those people (that I now make fun of, yeah, sorry, I’m mean like that) who always had some excuse for not doing it.
Then, I had my third baby, and I was frustrated that I couldn’t lose the weight. I had always been active and walked everyday around my neighborhood, which was about a ½ mile. My husband suggested I start running because it might help with losing the weight. So, I went to the park in my neighborhood that had a track that was a ½ mile long. And I decided I would try to run the whole loop. And I did it. And I hated it. Because it hurt. But, I kept going till I could go twice around, etc.
Then, I got a little gung-ho, and signed up for a 5k with my Mom and my SIL.
It took me 45 minutes. (I know!) But, I loved the exhileration of being in a race and being surrounded by people who always loved running (and yes, Jan, I can’t stand for someone to be in front of me in a race). And my competitive nature kicks in, and I just start passing people.
Then, I signed up for a 10k. It was a huge accomplishment. Then, 2 years later, I signed up for a half marathon. I think that’s when the love of distance running kicked in for me. Running 6 miles is hard. You just barely get into your rhythm and you’re done. Running 13-26 miles, is easier because you get into your groove, and then you just glide along, letting the endorphins carry you along.
Running is like a drug for me. I crave that adrenalin rush after finishing a race.

Tink asked:
"1. Is your hair naturally curly?"

Yes, it is naturally curly, and yes, I hate it. It’s not quite as curly as is used to be, it’s relaxed a lot. Having babies will do that, I guess.

"2. If your kids wanted to quit taking piano lessons, would you let them?"

My kids are still little, so only one of them has started. And we’re hit and miss. I guess that’s what happened when the mom and the teacher are the same person. I will start my 5 year old soon. And I will probably give them the same opportunity my parents gave me and my siblings. We got to choose our instrument, we could do piano and one other thing, and we had to have lessons until we graduated from HS, then we could choose if we wanted to continue. But, I don’t want to force it down their throat, and make them hate it, either. KJ is already showing more interest in sports than music, and that’s OK with me.

"3. When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?"

A concert pianist or a singer on broadway. Even from when I was really little, I loved to perform.

Mina said:
"What was your best college memory (if you didn't go, I guess insert young adult era)?"

I loved going to country dancing with my girls from my student ward. Jamming with my roommate, Rebecca, who was/is an incredibly amazing musician. Doing my homework upstairs at the Salt Lake Roasting company over a cup of steamed milk.

"How much time do you practice the piano now?"

Not as much as I should. I spent a lot of time last year while I was writing a lot, and last summer/fall while I was recording. Lately, I’ve just been playing around. I need to practice more because I still have like 10 songs to transcribe.

"Are you happy with where you are now in life?"

Absolutely! Actually, the thought occurred to me the other day, that all of my life’s dreams are coming true. I feel like I’ve accomplished a lot in recent years: I have a loving husband, and beautiful, wonderful children; running marathons; and recording an album.

"Where would you like to see yourself in 15 years?"

Translated.
But, if not, then I want to still be writing/performing music, hopefully make some money doing it, have more babies, and have confident, well-adjusted children, and a happy husband. And I DON’T want to be a grandma, yet. KJ will be 23. She could wait a few more years, although I was 23 when I had her.

Alyson asked:
"Social anxiety? Do tell!"

I elaborated under Jan’s question, but in essence, I just don’t like big crowds, or people touching me, or walking in front of me, or lots of noise. I get confused. Maybe I’m just getting old.

Boob Nazi asked:
"Who/what were you named after/where did your parents get your name?"

I wasn’t named after anyone. I think my parents just liked the name. My Dad wanted to name me Marandy. Not MarandA, but MaRandY. He also liked Thelissa. (with a soft th) Yikes! Sorry, to anyone out there who is named Marandy, or Thelissa, but I’m just grateful that my mother used her veto power on that one! BTW, funny story: if I had been a boy, they would’ve named my Clint. Hmmm…..

Kristen asked:
"Who is your favorite sister? j/k I already know it's me j/k again. I'm okay with being 2nd fav, cuz Kathryn is so awesome."

Yes, Kris, you and Kat are my favorite sisters. Love you!
p.s. are you still pregnant?☺

Me! Me!!

Getting to know You ME, version 2009

I know a lot of you have done this on your blogs before. And, while I'm a little afraid to proceed with this, because doing so, draws on the assumption that, yes, people want to know stuff about me.

That is a little narcissistic, on my part, I guess. But, who cares? It's all about me, right? Because, it's been pretty well established that this here blog aint so much about my little ole family, cute as they may be. It's all about Sher!

Besides, if you didn't care about wanting to know about me, you wouldn't be reading my blog, right?



RIGHT?!



*silence*



*crickets chirping*



There may be a few things about me, that you don't know. For instance, the fact that I can sleep and run at the same time! It's true! Here's proof:



Oh man, that picture turned out way smaller than I wanted. I guess that's what I get for swiping it from the marathon website, instead of actually purchasing the picture of me running/sleeping simultaneously.


So for the two of you that don't already know my life story, and if you spend the next 17 hours reading through my 306 posts, you do, I'm offering myself up to interrogation.




Let the questioning begin.


Ask me anything you want. I will do a follow up post to answer your questions.




Restrictions:

1) No, I won't give you my SSN# or credit card # on my blog.
2) No, my husband is not available for trade. He is MINE, all Mine, you can't have him.
3) No gratuitous sex questions. Please keep it PG-13. See above, if you are confused.
4) If you want to know how much money I make, then well, the answer is $30 a month for the one piano student I have left. Someday when the government figures out how to pay stay-at-home-Moms, without drug addicts and dead beats taking advantage, I'll be raking it in hand over fist!



Otherwise, ask away!!

Global Warming?

The thermometer on my car said 58 degrees today. FIFTY-EIGHT DEGREES!

My instinct was to think it was a mistake, but then I realized I had shed my coat, turned on the A/C, and my sleeping 3-year-old in the back of the car was sweating.

I'm liking this weather! Especially considering that exactly a week ago, it was in the 20's, with a huge blizzard that brought us a foot of snow.

Now, if it can just stay this warm all week, and melt that foot of snow from my front yard, so my spring bulbs can start sprouting.

Welcome Spring!!

I just made 40 new friends!

Last Saturday, I had the wonderful opportunity to go have lunch with a crowd of beautiful amazing women, a la Kristina. Many of these women I have gotten to know, and grown to love and admire.

I'm so happy to have finally gotten to meet them face to face! I had a fabulous time, and I'm so glad I let you (all of you) talk me into going!

I drove down with Veronica. We met for the first time face to face when she came to pick me up, but we found we have a lot of mutual friends (besides our blogging buddies), and have a lot in common. I can see us being long-time friends.

I do wish I'd had more time to chat with everyone. There were so many people to see and talk to, I felt like there were some I would've like to talk to more. So, I'd be totally down for having another one. Soon. How about something further North, next time?

Here are some pics of the lovely ladies I met:

Vanessa, Veronica, Melissa, Me

Kristina, Amber, Ariane, Melissa

Shauna & Me

Ariane (showing us how to pose to avoid the double chin), Melissa, Martha, Vanessa, Sheila & Tiburon (above)

Tib, Veronica, Me (sticking my neck out to avoid the double chin)

(L-R) Me, Jeni, Susette, Annette, Kathy, Erin

Me, Kristina, Veronica, snuggling up in the "Snuggie"

Apparently, I don't know how to wear it, because it kept falling off.

Ladies, it was wonderful meeting all of you. I know I didn't get pictures of everyone, and I didn't get to chat with everyone, so hopefully, there will be a next time, but I'm so glad I went.

Mu-wah!!

Random Sherisms, and Random Tunes

This week has whizzed by so fast. And I am exhausted. Laying around all day, shirking your responsibilities, avoiding housework, and neglecting your children is really exhausting.

Ok, maybe I haven't actually been that bad. But that's how I've felt. Somehow the depression bug didn't bite me in January. Probably because it was sunny.

Well, it has surely been biting me the last two weeks. This week especially.

Yesterday, I was really stressed out.

First, I got up at 4:00 A.M. to run 9 miles (I sure the lack of sleep might have something to do with my mood), thinking, I've got to get my butt in gear, and start exercising. It was hard. I guess when you go all week without doing anything, and eating crap all day, you get out of shape. Who knew?

Then, after taking all the monkeys to school, I went to KJ's school (where I volunteer every Thursday). I talked to the office about signing TJ for Kindergarten, got all the necessary paperwork.

Then, after preschool, I took TJ to the doc for his Kindergarten shots. First we went to the wrong office, because I was sure I specified the doctor and the office I wanted that is in my town, but no, our appointment was with another doctor, in another town. So we had to drive all the way there, got dirty looks and comment for being late. It was all good though, because the nurse had a British accent, and I liked hearing her talk. And the doc was nice. TJ was a total and complete drama queen about his shots. I don't even think KJ cried when she got her shots.

So, the rest of the day, he walked around all straight legged, like a zombie, because of his "hurt legs." I gave him some motrin and sent him to bed.

Anyway, we had just enough time after the doc to eat a sandwich, then went to karate. (Yes, I made TJ do karate after getting shots---I'm such a mean Mom).

After that I taught a piano lesson (I still teach my neice). KJ brought a friend home from school. Homework. After school snacks. Laundry.....

Then, my insurance agent called me. Crap. The saga continues....apparently the freak somehow got my info, and personally called my insurance company. Maybe I'm mistaken, but isn't it usually protocol to call your own insurance company, who then, in turn, calls the other insurance company for you? Creepy. Anyway, I told them my side of the story. He told me he was worried, because if the dude files a claim, then I could have an accident on my record. I said, but I didn't hit him. Then I told him about how he didn't get out to check for damage, but immediately started chasing me, and he said, well, that changes things. So, I spent the rest of the night worrying about it. I even tried to call the police to amend my report, to let them know the dude is stalking me. Following me to tumbling, which by the way, is interesting because he didn't have a child in his car when he showed up. It is apparent that he came JUST to talk to me. I'm considering filing a restraining order. I just want it to go away.

I can't believe that almost hitting someone could cause this much drama.

Then, last night C went to the Jazz game, and I sat and watched TV all night. It was a late game, so I was in bed before he got home. So, I sat in bed, worrying, and festering, and thinking, he's not going to get much sleep tonight. And he has to wake up extra early and drive to one of his company's stores that is 3 hours from here in the morning. What if he gets in an accident? What if he dies? I had myself totally freaked out last night.

Today, I'm still feeling that tightness in my chest, that looming cloud of doom. Anxiety.

See, that's how I know I've got the crazy bug because of all my irrational thoughts.

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Sorry, if you didn't want my day's play by play. But I'm venting here. And this is my journal, so I'm writing for me.

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Ok, I'm a little discouraged about the numbers who have entered my giveaway. If I can't even get more than 30 people to want my CD for free, how am I going to sell thousands of copies, and go platinum? Come on, people! Tell your Friends! If this is an indication of how few copies I will sell, then I am considering just doing a homemade version and selling off what I have, and calling it good. There's no way I will break even if I have a professional cover done, and only sell 30 copies. I figured out recently that I have to sell at least 100 to break even. Is it worth it?
I don't know.

I'm feeling discouraged.

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I lost a follower today. I know I shouldn't let it bother me, but it does. I just want people to like me. And I can't help wondering who and why.
p.s. I have more followers than entries into my drawing. If everyone that is following me entered the giveaway, I might feel a little better about myself. (hint, hint)
Come on, it's free stuff!

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Let's see, what else can I complain about today? I'm just a giant boob today. Ok, that didn't come out right. Although, I'm sure C would appreciate that....

Whatev.

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By the way, did one of you link to me about my post in December about Depression? All of sudden this week, I've been getting comments, and people visiting that post. Just curious where all the traffic is coming from all of sudden.

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On a brighter note, I am overjoyed to announce that my little KJ has entered into the realm of ABBA fanhood. I couldn't be more proud. Everytime we get in the car, she grabs the Ipod, and puts on ABBA and totally ROCKS OUT!

Thank you, makers if Mamma Mia, for being the awesome music of ABBA to the world, and my little girl.

Thank you for the music! ☺

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Here's my random 10 list of tunes for Friday:

1. They Rage On - Dan Seals
2. Uninvited - Alanis Morissette
3. Lost? - Coldplay
4. I Get Weak - Belinda Carlisle
5. I Have a Dream - ABBA
6. Breathless - Corrine Bailey Rae
7. They All Laughed - Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong
8. Under Pressure - Queen & David Bowie
9. Last Dollar (Fly Away) - Tim McGraw
10. Please - The Kinleys

Bonus: No One Mourns the Wicked - Kristen Chenoweth