Surveys and more surveys
Current mood: cheerful

I have been trying to catch up with a lot of my surveys----and it's been keeping me quite busy.  However.....some of these surveys have been REALLY INTERESTING.  The most interesting of these are recent BZZAgent campaigns. The last four campaigns have introduced/re-introduced me to some pretty cool products such as:

The Fly Fusion Pentop Computer by Leapfrog;

T.V. Guide Magazine;

Listerine Whitening Strips;

and Mrs. Dash Blended Seasonings.

    This is my first introduction to Listerine Whitening Strips and The Fly Fusion Pentop Computer.  My daughter Melissa and her boyfriend Rob have taken a liking to the Listerine Whitening Strips, even though they say the taste isn't too terrific.....I also tried one myself, and, I found that it takes a few minutes for the strips to dissolve (at least 5-8 minutes).

Yet, I am very impressed with the Fly Fusion Pentop computer....it has helped translate (English-Spanish-English and English-French-English); it can be used as an MP3 player; and it can help with math, english, etc!  As a learning tool, it is great for 11-18 years....!  One drawback: the notebooks for this version are as yet unavailable.

My re-introductions are more impressive than my intros;  though I've known about T.V. Guide Magazine for quite a few years, I would only pick it up here and there.  That is going to change now! I like the format that the magazine has...I also like that it revisits almost every show that is on television...including the CW shows I love. 

As for the Mrs. Dash Seasonings...I thrilled with being re-introduced to them as well: they're excellent cooking without adding salt/sodium.....and there's now more that just the original Mrs. Dash to choose from!  Tonight I tried the Garlic and Herb; tomorrow we will be testing the Lemon Pepper on Talapia.  I can't wait!

An additional bonus of participating in these surveys/campaigns: I get to "earn" some pretty neat stuff for my grandchildren and possibly myself.  Happiness comes in splurts....or so the saying goes....plus I get to speak my opinion!

9:23 PM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

Thoughts on becoming an author...
Current mood: confused
Category: Goals, Plans, Hopes

Just sitting here thinking to myself just how realistic my goal is at this moment.  I have been doing a lot of research and a lot of writing...getting some of my immediate thoughts on paper...however, there is so much honest work in writing a book---especially when it involves people who have attained somewhat celebrity status.  I do believe, however, that the band that I am writing the book on---Better Than Ezra---are very deserving of a tribute work.

Though I just began this project a little over two months ago, I have achieved somewhat of a beginner's sprint with it; however, I don't know for sure if I am going to be able to accomplish the deadline that I have imposed upon myself . What has led to some of this doubt is the inability to recruit the fans of Better Than Ezra to take part in the book.  Although the idea is a tribute to Better Than Ezra, I want the fans to also be a part of this tribute volume---to be able to tell the band (not just show them by attending the live shows) just what they mean to the "common" person.  I am also a little stymied by the legalities of the work:  I need to know that I won't be sued for quoting the band, their lyrics, or reproducing their images in conjunction with my book.  Though I have sent off letters to Better Than Ezra's members and their management team....I am still awaiting a reply .  I know that they are probably extremely busy people, so, all I can be is very patient at this point.

Plus, there's the idea of publishing: after my manuscript is complete...do I attempt to publish the book on my own, or, should I attempt to sell it to a larger publishing company?   I want to retain creative control over my work, yet, I want to make sure that my work reaches the masses!!!!

Talk about confusion....well, I guess I will just have to sleep on my confusion for at least one more night.  Maybe I will have a better feeling of everything in the morning!

11:47 PM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

A Chronic Pain Sufferer's Argument For Medical Marijuana
Current mood: pensive

by Peggy S. |edit

April 15, 2007 08:18 PM EDT

to groups: Random Musings, The Intellectual Activist, LifeExperiences, GatherJournal, Post It, We're Not Picky

tags: news, environment, education, people, politics, health

rating: 10/10 (2 votes) | comments: 6

 email to a friend    print this article
 digg it    del.icio.us

.. Article Text Begin -->

          There are now twelve states in the US that have enacted Medical Marijuana laws: AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ME, NM (just passed in 2007), NV, OR, RI, VT, and WA. Sadly, the state that I live in, Illinois, have not enacted medical marijuana laws as yet---the idea was recently rejected. October 2005 is when I became interested in the subject due to the following reasons: (a) I was diagnosed with a severe chronic pain illness known as Trigeminal Neuralgia in March, 2000; (b) all of the medical attention I've received since this diagnosis has been fruitless in helping me get past/deal with my pain effectively; (c) the numerous prescription drugs I had been prescribed (Neurontin, Methadone, Oxycodone, Baclofen, Tegretol/Carbamezipine) by various specialists never helped completely enough to where I could live a somewhat "normal" life.

          First, let me explain what Trigeminal Neuralgia is all about. In the later end of March 2000, I began having severe pain on the right side of my face. It felt as if someone was giving me an electrical shock that began in my inner right ear and radiated out to my right jaw, cheek & eye areas; it was almost always accompanied by very painful twitching in my right eye. The twitching in my eye also made the pain unbearable, adding fuel to the already fire-hot pain that I was experiencing. I couldn't face my daily routines anymore---cleaning house became a huge chore; working outside my home/having a job became next to impossible; all I could do was sit and cry. Upon advice from my other half, I went to the emergency room because the pain had gotten too extreme. After a few rounds of tests (blood, urine, etc.) and a thorough examination by the ER physician, he came back with the diagnosis: "you have a condition known as Trigeminal Neuralgia/Tic Deleroux. You are going to need to see a neurologist---here is a referral ".

          Second, I tried to seek help from the established medical community. For the first two years, I had consulted a neurologist; the next three years, a pain specialist; and, though they agreed with the initial diagnosis of Trigeminal Neuralgia---there was very little they, as professional doctors could do except for prescribe powerful medications to try to help me with the pain of this very rare condition. The neurologist, prescribed me Neurontin, Baclofen, Tegretol/Carbamezipine, & Vicodin: the Neurontin helped slightly by controlling the spasming of the nerve & very slightly with pain; baclofen was prescribed for severe muscle spasms (not related to the Trigeminal); Tegretol/Carbamezipine was also prescribed to control spasming of the nerve---yet, my liver wound up poisoned from the drug, and, the doctor had to quickly remove me from the drug therapy; and vicodin was prescribed for pain as well. My pain never went below a five (on the 10 point pain scale used in doctor's offices/hospitals). The pain "specialist" I began seeing in 2002---prescribed me the following: Neurontin, Methadone, Oxycodone, & Baclofen. Again, the neurontin helped only slightly; the Methadone & Oxycodone (although they are powerful drugs) only slightly helped with the pain, if at all (it mainly made me sleep---and I continued to "sleep" for three years); the Baclofen was prescribed for muscle spasms. When awake, my life was miserable---even though the pain specialist had me on very strong prescribed medications, my pain hardly ever went under 4-5 points. Sinking in despair after five years of powerful prescribed drug therapy (other than when I slept!), I began smoking marijuana more and more to relieve my pain because the prescribed drugs weren't helping the way I believed they should have. In August 2005, my pain specialist decided to do a random urinalysis---and, I knew as soon as I took the urinalysis, what the outcome was going to be: the pain specialist would stop my prescribed drug therapy because he would find thc in my test. I didn't care anymore; though I had enjoyed more sleep back then, I had lost five years of my life (and almost more) due to the powerful presribed drugs that I had been on. I was extremely tired of my situation: a chronic pain sufferer who was medicated to sleep, but, when awake, always in extreme unrelenting pain. At the end of August, 2005 I received a letter from my pain specialist stating that he would not see me on a professional basis any longer due to the results of my drug urinalysis.

          Between August and October of 2005, I weaned myself slowly of the powerful prescribed pain medications (WITHOUT A REHAB CENTER) the pain specialist had prescribed to me for almost three years. As I weaned myself off of the more powerful prescribed drugs, I began using marijuana on a daily basis to help me cope with my severe chronic pain, and, by the end of October 2005, I was completely weaned from the more powerful prescribed drugs to smoking marijuana & using aleve/ibuprofen to help me ease my pain. After all of my experience with chronic pain & helpless doctors who medicated me to sleep, I began to wake up from my presribed pain medication haze and began to enjoy my life again: household chores no longer seem impossible every day of the week, only part of the week now; I don't sleep constantly through out my days/weeks/months; and I have become a little more active as far as physically & socially.

          Finally, my "newer" therapy---marijuana coupled with Aleve/Ibuprofen doesn't affect my liver as badly as the presribed medications; it doesn't make me sleep all day/night/week; and I don't need a prescription. However, I am worried about the risks that I am taking: medical marijuana is not legally sanctioned by the state that I live in: should I ever be stopped (and searched) by law enforcement officials, I'm going to be facing drug charges---even though I am 43 years old, never run afoul of the law, and don't even drive anymore (due to uncontrollable leg spasms not related to the trigeminal neuralgia). I believe that it is quite unfair for our local, state, & federal governments to disapprove of the medical usage of marijuana based solely on "the abuse factor", outdated research, and quasi-religious etiquette that is just as outdated. If the local, state, & federal governments regulated medical marijuana similar to cigarettes, there would not be as much room for "abuse" as what one may think. Oh, I realize that minors still get away with buying cigarettes: I'm not dumb to that. However, there aren't AS MANY MINORS purchasing cigarettes the way it happened in the 70's & 80's. State laws have become tougher since then! So, why do our local, state, & federal governments resist change? Especially when it can help people as much as powerfully prescribed drugs?

          Since Illinois has not legally sanctioned the medical usage of marijuana, I do know that my residence in Illinois is going to be changing within the next eighteen months. As far as I can tell, I have my choice of twelve states to move to: my research is now beginning. May the best state win.

 

          Post script by author:  I do not advocate illegal drug usage/abuse nor do I advocate any illegal activity.  However, I DO ADVOCATE STRONG HEALTH CARE CHOICES FOR ADULTS AGE 21 AND OVER.

 

          This article was originally published by me @ www.Gather.com ; if you appreciate the views, visit Gather, become a member (it's free), and post your comments!  Thank you for reading my blog!

9:15 PM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

A fan's (UN)biased view on : Better Than Ezra (originally published on Gather)
Current mood: cheerful

If your a hardcore fan of a certain band, people tend to discredit your opinions on that band because of your enthusiasm.  However, though I am a hardcore fan of Better Than Ezra---there are very great reasons behind this loyalty: this article not only covers the music, but, the band itself.

          First, it must be clear that I am NOT the groupie type of fan---far from it.  I also have not followed my favorite band through out the years that it took them to "pay their dues" --- I had heard of Better Than Ezra, but, didn't just grab onto their music at the time they were "big" just because a friend told me about them.  This turned out to be a regret:  I wish I had listened to my friend when he informed me about Better Than Ezra---and not only because of the music!

          I didn't begin listening to Better Than Ezra during their awesome "Deluxe" debut---I began listening to the band sort of by accident:  I'm just crazy about the television show Smallville, and, at least two of their songs have been in episodes of Smallville.  The one that comes to mind most readily is the song "I Do".   It's an upbeat, pop rock tune that can make you feel what the singer is talking about without being too ballad like.

          Second, I must say, I didn't intend to become an "Ezralite"---a hardcore Better Than Ezra fan that will travel miles upon miles to see the band, sign up to be a member on the message boards at the band's official website---and all of that.  I just wanted to experience the band's music live, especially since I LOVE MUSIC CONCERTS.  On August 4th, 2006, I was going to get my chance!

         Through the band's official website, I learned that they would be appearing at the Watertown Riverfest in Watertown, WI on August 4th, 2006.  So, I clicked the related link to the Watertown Riverfest site, and, although they gave background information in regards to Better Than Ezra, there were no prices mentioned for tickets!  So, I wrote to the festivals' email address and inquired.  Within a couple of days I received a reply stating that, seeing the band is free; however, in order to pay for the bands that perform at the festival, food tickets are purchased when it's time to eat.  My significant other and I thought that this was really cool---and, since I really wanted to see Better Than Ezra, we decided, hey, why not?

           As luck would have it though, life was not kind to Better Than Ezra around this time: a group member had lost a beloved parent, and, the group cancelled the show (rightfully so) to allow the band time to grieve.  Ed and I hadn't checked the website bfore leaving----we just got up and went---and, though kind of disappointed that it wasn't Better Than Ezra who performed that night, we still had a great time listening to two different bands:  The Gufs and The BoDeans.  We are now big fans of those bands as well!

          After this disappointing attempt,  I did not give up.  It was now a mission:  I was going to see this band, and, I didn't really care if I had to travel (we had to travel 3 1/2 hours for Watertown, anyway!).  After looking up Better Than Ezra's tour schedule again at their website (www.betterthanezra.com), I learned that they would be appearing in Clarkston, MI on September 8, 2006 @ DTE Energy Music Theater.   I didn't really want to pay full price for tickets---tickets can be very expensive at times to see anyone----so, I looked the tickets up on Ebay.  I got really lucky on this one:  I won an auction for four lawn seat tickets for a total of just twenty dollars!

         On September 8, 2006--me, Ed (my better half), my daughter Melissa, & her boyfriend Rob left around noon, so that we could arrive in time for Better Than Ezra's performance (they opened for Hootie & the Blowfish).  The first leg of the trip was five and half hours of driving, and, when we arrived, we were definitely glad to be out of the car.  Better Than Ezra performed pretty good that night---however, I believed that they just weren't on stage long enough, due to the fact that they were the opening act.  After staying for a couple of Hootie & the Blowfish songs, we made our way back to IL---and, we decided that night that the next time we see the band---Better Than Ezra would be the headlining act.  Little did I know:  it would be just over a month before seeing the band again.

         After the show in Clarkston, MI is when I began to become an "Ezralite".  I wanted to know the next date that would bring them closer to where I resided, so, I joined the official website's "Ezraflash" newsletter and also signed up to the message boards; I even became a member of Better Than Ezra's Street Team.  I then learned that the band would be appearing at Clowes Memorial Hall of Butler University in Indianapolis, IN on October 20, 2006.  On the day the tickets went on sale, I set my alarm clock so that I could purchase tickets as soon as they went on sale:  this is when it struck me, that HEY! I really do enjoy this band!  But I couldn't answer the "WHY DO I ENJOY THIS BAND SO MUCH?" question that was starting to eat at me.

        It only took two and a half hours to get to Indianapolis---however, we were a little late on the opening act (The Waiting Game).  From what we did see of the opening act, they were pretty cool sounding, and, we have souvenirs of the band, although they are no longer together.  It was now Better Than Ezra's turn at the stage: an, being that we had gotten much closer seats this time, I could honestly experience the band members' facial expressions, their body language, and the music all together.  In short, it answered some of the question as to why I enjoy the band so much:  Better Than Ezra is a very down to earth, energetic, fun band---and all members have a sense of humor about them---especially lead singer Kevin Griffin & Tom Drummond (bass).  Tonight's show was a really special show:  an artist known as Howie Day had made a special appearance that wasn't on the set list/planned;  we now are big fans of Howie Day's music as well.

         This wasn't the last Better Than Ezra show that we attended in 2006, however, it was the first show that began to answer why I like the band so much.  Kevin Griffin, Tom Drummond, & Travis McNabb are all very down to earth as well as very hard working.  Kevin & Tom are very witty and entertaining; and, to be honest, the band is better live (with "imperfections") than on cd (the perfected work, according to Kevin Griffin).  Better Than Ezra is also much better in smaller, intimate venues (Clowes Memorial Hall could hold up to 2200; House Of Blues Chicago, up to 1,000)...not due to how they play/how entertaining they are---it's just that when there's a smaller venue, it's just a better and more intimate experience!

          After seeing the band in different venues---my questions of why I enjoyed Better Than Ezra were answered in quite a few areas: first, they are great entertainers---Kevin Griffin & Tom Drummond both have spontaneous, lively & witty responses/reactions during their performances;  I've even heard that from time to time, Travis McNabb (drums) also has comments;  they are very down to earth and acknowledge their fans (during their recent Chicago House Of Blues gig in December 2006, Travis held a drummers' session for those who play drums/which also included a sound check earlier that day); they also are a very hard working band that doesn't ask for more than what they believe to be fair out of their fans (the band recently decided to put fan club memberships on hiatus since they had no special "meet & greets/other happenings planned for the fans).  Speaking just for myself though, I don't mind paying for a fan club membership when the band is as hardworking & entertaining as Better Than Ezra.  They deserve every one of the hardcore fans known as "Ezralites".  And I firmly believe that the band's biggest Kudos are yet to come. Biased or not, they should be granted more fame than what they've received.

9:54 PM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

Random thoughts on parenting/accepting reality
Current mood: contemplative
Category: Life

Normally I don't speak up too much on things that are highly personal on my blog---I feel that highly personal things are private matters.  However, I can't ignore  the fact that there are a lot of parents out in the world today who do more than just protect their children:  they make the foolish mistake of socially stunting their children beyond what is necessary.

Although I have made mistakes in the parenting arena myself, I must say, I know a handful of parents who have taken the " I'm the parent and you will listen to me " attitude beyond what is reasonably fair to their child/children.  Now, I am not talking about 12/13/14/15 year olds; I am speaking of young adults who are 17 maybe even 18 years old.  As a parent, it is emotionally hard to see your child/children become independent of "house rules"/"parental rules" because of the fact that you really have lost control over the one thing you believed you wouldn't.  However, I see parents these days who try to wield control over their children even as they are becoming young adults in their own rights---and, it's very disturbing to me.

Holding a child emotionally and socially hostage, in my minds eye, is a real bad way of showing you love them.  They won't have the social skills that are necessary when they've finally gained their independence of your home; nor will they be able to handle crises on their own if a parent continues to be overprotective just because of the parents' own past ( i.e.: you're not gonna put me through what I put my parents through).   The world has changed quite a bit since I was a teenager, for sure---it's gotten much faster, much more scarier, and a lot dirtier on top of it.  But, in all reality---parents who don't allow their children to become socially responsible for their own calendar (school, work, friends to spend time with, appointments to be kept) are keeping their children from growing into the responsible adult you honestly want to see them become.

There is another warning for these parents that I must address as well:  although these parents are under the mistaken belief that they can "force" their children to do something they'd rather not ( trying to force your 17/18 year old to have a specific "curfew"; mentally trying to control your 17/18 year old into medical procedures of any type; warning your 17/18 year old that they "better not" have sex/drink/do drugs....the list could go on and on) you are going to find that once your 17/18 year old begins to put their foot down there is NOTHING LEGALLY YOU CAN DO.  How do I know this?  BECAUSE I LIVED IT.

I have two older children---my son is 26 (as of April 18th he will be) and my oldest daughter will be 22 (April 17).  Both taught me quite young and quite early on that kids/children have more control and more legal rights than parents know about.  For instance---all parents assume that since you've always been part of your child's medical care (since before the day you brought them onto the earth), that they have a right to say what happens with their child medically after the age of 17/18 (especially if the child still resides in their home).  This is simply not true!  How do I know this? When my oldest daughter had to see a doctor back when she was 15/16 due to a precancerous condition---she had to sign a release form with her doctor BEFORE the doctor would even speak to me regarding my daughter's medical issues.  The doctor also informed me that, even though I was the parent, it was ultimately my daughter's choice on whether or not she went ahead with the suggested form of treatment.  YES, you read this CORRECTLY:  IT WAS MY DAUGHTER'S CHOICE---EVEN AT AGE 16.  This wasn't the only "wake up, your baby isn't a baby moment" that slapped me in the face;  a couple of years later (my oldest daughter had just recently attained the age of 17), she decided to quit school, move out on her own (even though I just couldn't see how she would make it on a waitress job), and be her own person.  When I called the county police, the first thing I was asked: what is the age of your daughter, ma'am?  When I told the officer that she had recently attained the age of 17---the officer, although he understood my parental angst, had to inform me that, being that my daughter was only less than a year away from attaining the age of majority (18 in the state of IL), there was not a darn thing that local, county, or the state police would do to force my child to come back to my home---they won't deal with cases such as these.  My jaw dropped; I was defeated by my child's age.  My daughter could now make her own decisions, and, it was a really rough lesson for me, especially since my son didn't attempt to leave my home before he was 18.  I WRONGFULLY ASSUMED MY DAUGHTER WOULD BE THE SAME WAY.

Now, I'm not saying that parents should stop being there emotionally/financially for their child/children just because the child/children have attained/are close to attaining the age of majority;  some children need that extra emotional support/financial support to help them adjust to becoming an adult.  However, I do believe that trying to force anything onto your young adult (medical procedures) or restrict your young adult (there's gonna be "adult" situations such as drinking, sex, drugs, whatever) is going to make things more difficult for those parents that look at things from only their own point of view ( the "I'm the parent, you WILL listen to me type" ). 

Wake up, parents of 17/18 year olds:  you are now entering the "spectator" end of parenting.  Your child is now an adult in their own right, able to decide what is best for themselves without your interference.  And the laws of the state that you reside in may even push that button farther than you want it to go. 

I know from experience.

4:11 AM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

"Why We Fight"--a lay-person's review
Current mood: contemplative

 The film, "why We Fight" is not only a political commentary of America's "Military Industrial Complex, it also is a citizenry call to arms.  Eugene Jarecki (writer, producer, director/filmmaker of "Why We Fight") takes a look at the unseen forces--economic, social, & ideological--that has encouraged our country to back wars from the WWII era to the present.  And, although most fault our president---George W. Bush---Jarecki does state that it doesn't stop there.  This documentary informs the watcher of the unseen villains as well as those political figures that are in control at the times and dates of major skirmishes since World War II; it shows the watcher sides of the story from different people who have been affected by all the politics, most notably, people who have been involved with the military, Iraqi civilians, & military recruits.

           The watcher will meet Wilton Sekzer, a NY City cop of 35 years, whom lost a son in Tower 1 World Trade Center, whom regrets requesting a bomb named after his son; a young man, William Soloman, who enlists in the military to help economically stabilize his life after his mother's death; and, an Air Force career woman, Karen Kwiatkowski, who felt compelled to remove herself from active duty due to the inner workings of America's "Military Industrial Complex".

           Jarecki's timely documentary was inspired by the Jan. 17, 1961 Dwight D. Eisenhower  presidential farewell address in which Eisenhower states: "Only an alert and knowledgeable citizenry can be trusted to protect the country from the risk of destroying from within that which they are trying to protect from without". 

          Specifics:  Released by: Sony

                          Release Date: 01/20/2006

                          Rating: PG13

                          DVD Release Date: 06/27/2006

          Not only is Jarecki's documentary highly informative---it is also a citizenry call-to-arms warning the lay people of the United States---that if we sit idle and do not keep ourselves alert as requested in Dwight D Eisenhower's farewell address---how our idleness could ultimately lead to a disastrous fall of democracy on a much larger, global scale.

          This film is a must see for everyone: our values, our beliefs, indeed our whole way of life in the United States is at stake: we all need to begin re-acquainting ourselves in the world around us if there is ever going to be peace. 

1:10 PM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

Tough 2007 Resolutions
Current mood: creative
Category: Writing and Poetry

Let's face it: everyone has new years resolutions such as quitting smoking, losing weight, & spending less money/paying off debt...these have been around for ages, and, I am positive they'll be topping a lot of people's lists this year.  However, even though some of the resolutions previously mentioned are tough, there are more resolutions that are even tougher.

     For instance, one particular resolution of mine is to become a better person---however, I haven't yet defined the phrase "better person" (I'm not a "bad" person....what would make me a "better" person?).  So....I'll try to define this "better person" that I want to become.

     First, my goals are to achieve some things I haven't done before---such as resuming college so that I can earn a degree in the field of my choice (the original field, business management, just doesn't appeal to me anymore; my new field is paralegal and/or criminal justice); then use this knowledge in a manner that will also better the world around me.

     Second, to be a "better person", I must become more empathetic to those who have a less fortunate life/have experienced life's little disadvantages in big ways.  The only way to feel better about those types of things aren't just throwing money into a pot and thinking I've done my "random act of kindness" for the day---I believe volunteering for a charity would probably be a very good beginning to the "become a better person" reolution.  The one situation that sticks out in my mind as having a critical need as far as volunteerism is the rebuilding of New Orleans/the gulf coast since Hurricane Katrina....however....I do not live close enough to the impact zone.  Although this may seem a little bit of an obstacle, I will be visiting New Orleans during Mardi Gras---and, although I probably won't have time to volunteer due to my group's planned activities---I am planning on making donations through out 2007 to at least two organizations: the EzraOpen/Rebuilding Together charitable organization and the Red Cross.  I also believe that being a tourist in the area can only help New Orleans & the gulf coast recuperate/rebuild from that storm.

     Third, becoming a "better person" is also about doing things that are the simplest additions to the list----the losing weight, quitting cigarettes, being involved with my health thing.  These resolutions are the simple ones that everyone makes to themselves each year, but, for some reason, never quite work out the way one might plan.  However, I do believe that these kinds of resolutions (losing weight/quit smoking) will benefit me more than just the weight loss/less toxins in my body:  for years(ever since March of 2000) I have been afflicted with a chronic pain condition known as trigeminal neuralgia---and I believe, if I can get my weight down to the proper size for me and get rid of the toxins in my body from smoking---the next time I see my physician, he won't be telling me I need to lose weight, I need to quit smoking...he won't have any excuse whatsoever to disregard the chronic pain issues that I have.

     Fourth & final, I believe that "becoming a better person" also means taking care of my family, my friends & my acquaintances when they have a real need; helping others who are less fortunate in my own home town (volunteering/charitable fund raising).  Becoming a "better person" does sound and appears to be a real tough 2007 resolution---though I have faced tougher resolutions in my lifetime.  For instance, it takes a very strong person to rehabilitate themselves from an addiction to prescription painkillers such as methadone & oxycodone.  However, I accomplished this task on my own---w/o physicians, psychotherapists, etc. in the latter part of 2005/early 2006. 

     Becoming a better person is well within my reach---I will just need to keep my resolve strong by making it my best friend, that's all. 

1:08 PM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

Empty Nest Syndrome & The Holidays
Current mood: contemplative
Category: Life

Empty Nest Syndrome---ENS---always hits worse during the holidays, even when your adult children are with you most of the day...at least that's been my experience on this Christmas Day.  Although my (step) daughter Erin isn't totally independent of parental control...you can tell that she is on her way, and, it made me really weepy after we dropped her off at home.

Then, after getting weepy, I came to an even worst realization: my kids---all three of them---are pretty much grown (Erin only has  the rest of this school year and one full year); trying to get over a small panic inside me that began earlier in the day, I tried to calm my emotions by thinking of my children's lives--how they have become independent of me, yet still depend on me in certain areas.  Melissa and Jason love candied yams during the holidays; Erin loves her Pineapple/Cherry glazed ham; and my Grandson, Ethan, is all about pumpkin pie.  Yet, it is so weird to see my grown son as a parent, even though he may be a little rough around the edges (who isn't??)...he's still a very attentive dad & good father; my daughter, Melissa, who is expecting her first---beginning to like the idea of mommy, watching her nephew (& my grandson) open his christmas presents with 4 year old enthusiasm; my daughter Erin discussing on her way home what she is planning for her New Years.

Then I begin to panic inside again....what the hell am I gonna honestly do if I move to far from my children/grandchildren??  For years my role has been mommy/parenting/nurturing:  although I still possess these qualities, and I still use them with my grandchild (soon to be grandchildren)....but what happens now??

Holidays always bring out the emotions in me---but it is mostly happy tears, feeling good about the family I have been blessed with.  Yet, it still deepens that ENS that inevitably befalls parents---how do you honestly allow your children to grow up??? Just by merely letting it happen??  Or is it that they must learn like we have learned???  There's no rhyme or reason to it---but it leaves it's mark at some of the happiest times of our lives.

12:29 AM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

My ratings for HOB Chicago
Current mood: cheerful
Category: Music

December 18, 2006 04:46 PM EST (Updated: December 18, 2006 04:58 PM EST)

to group: Gatherism

tags: music, arts, reviews, people

 email to a friend    print this article
 digg it    del.icio.us

--> Article Text Begin -->

          This is not a review on the performances of December 15 & 16, 2006---those are covered elsewhere in my musings as a concert attendee.  However, I do want to give my musings on the House Of Blues Chicago.  This was my first House Of Blues experience and I really believe that to do the experience justice, one must write about the pros & cons.

         First, we'll cover what the complaints are---the "cons": 

          It is not uncommon for any music venue to have a NO CAMERAS rule--a lot of venues have this rule; however, with House Of Blues, it is much different.  Although House Of Blues thoroughly checks people as the doors open (I don't see how anyone got in with a camera, either night---although some were crafty enough to get a couple of cameras in), for the most part, there weren't really any cameras. Exception: Cell Phone Cameras.  Now, my first complaint is this:  why does House Of Blues allow cell phone users to take video or pictures----yet, no other cameras allowed???  What about fans that have no need for a damn cell phone and just would like to take pictures of a memorable night???  The pictures don't have to be of the live performance---I would have liked them as a fan, yes, but, I really was more interested in getting pictures of the building; the company store, the live venue SRO area, the coat check---but could not even get these kinds of pictures due to the NO CAMERA rule.  My thinking is, if you don't allow cameras, you shouldn't allow cell phones (at least the ones with cameras)----in all fairness to all patrons.

          Second Complaint: No Smoking Venue.  Okay, I can dig it---I will do without a cigarette for 4-5 hours to see a favorite band ( and the opening act) without having too much of a nicotine fit/craving.  HOWEVER, if you're a NON-SMOKING VENUE---it should apply to EVERYONE IN THE VENUE---meaning the VERY ACTS THAT ARE PERFORMING ON STAGE.  During the first nights' show, the bass guitarist of one of the opening acts had a lit cigarette in his mouth while performing 9/10 of the time.  Almost everyone that has heard me complain about this has told me "well, their part of the performers so that's why they allow it".  I DON'T CARE IF THEY ARE THE PERFORMERS OR THE CONCERT ATTENDEES---NO SMOKING MEANS NO SMOKING BY ANYONE, PERFORMER OR NOT!!!

          Third Complaint:  The "doors open" schedule.  I understand that doors open early for events, however, when you're mainly a SRO VENUE (which is mostly what any HOB is about from what I understand),it's a little maddening to have to stand in line so early (the shows both nights began at 9:00 p.m., yet doors opened early at 7:30 p.m.) for such a late show/performance????  I understand the security necessities, but, I feel it's a bit of a stretch to have to open the doors any sooner than an hour before the first performance, ESPECIALLY IF YOU'RE A SRO VENUE!

          Final Complaint:  The prices on bottled water, drinks, etc.  Although HOB is an "EXCLUSIVE" Live Venue, I don't believe for one moment that HOB patrons need to go into debt just to have a good time.  The first night, for instance, my significant other went up to the bar and purchased two (and only TWO at these prices!) rum and cokes.  The tab??? $16.50 WITHOUT SERVER tip!!! I don't know where they are getting their rum and coke from---but, they need a different supplier!!  For $16.50 (at a liquor store) I could have gotten at least a full fifth of rum!  Instead, we got to 8-10 oz. plastic cups for this price!  The second night we were in attendance---to try and conserve on cash---we decided to have the least expensive drinks for the night---I had a bottle of water ($5.50) and my date had a can of bud light ($6.00)!!!!  Again, way too pricey for what we received.  I understand that any business has overhead and has to pay the bills---that's the bottom line of any business.  However, I really believe that drinks should not be outrageously priced when your also trying to sell souvenirs (which are notorious for being over-priced in the first place)!!!  C'mon, HOB!!!  I understand exclusivity, I understand the need to pay for the performers and the whole nine yards of what you're establishment is about.  But, I still have a very difficult time with how patrons are raked out of their cash just to quench their thirst!

          Now, we'll cover what's really terrific about HOB Chicago---the "Pros" of our experience:

          First, in regards to the live music venue, I would still recommend at least one House Of Blues experience to any avid concert goer.  The sound system was truly amazing, and, if you're seeing a favorite band, it makes the experience an awesome, heart-thumping/soul jumping time.  You can't help but dance and sway with the performers who are up on stage. 

         Second, the House Of Blues atmosphere rates very high as well.  The exclusivity thing really does have it's benefits in regards to atmosphere; people socialize and have fun with pure strangers and hang with it well.  The inside of House Of Blues has a very awesome setting, is a 3-tier SRO venue with awesome bluesy decorative items, and, it added to the atmosphere as much as the socializing scene.

          Third: Security is definitely on the ball at HOB.  When there is a problem, they take care of it---and the show goes on afterwards.  No crazy out of this world happenings are going to go on (one won't have to worry about physical safety in any House Of Blues venue).  The HOB staff members---from Security/Coat Check/Cashier (in the store)/Restaurant host---were all very polite, friendly, informative (when necessary) and so down to earth that it made the experience just as welcoming as the performers up on the stage.  It really helped make the experience of a SRO EXCLUSIVE MUSIC VENUE one of my better concert experiences---and that is probably what led to a second night at HOB Chicago.  Normally, I would have shied away from the exclusive pricing (I tend to be a very FRUGAL person as far as my budget!)---but the atmosphere, the staff, and the truly amazing sound system will have any FRUGAL person wondering why they are so damn FRUGAL.

           Although I am no pro on rating venues---(I previously read that HOB rates a 9.8 (live music venue) and 9.6 (overall)---I really wouldn't give HOB Chicago an overall rating of 9.6.  I do agree that for a LIVE SRO MUSIC VENUE, the House Of Blues has got a definite 9.;6-9.8 rating; however,due to the outrageous pricing, the earlier than usual opening doors, the no-smoking if you're just their for the show (instead of being the performers), and the lop-sided "NO CAMERA" rule, I give House Of Blues Chicago an overall rating of 8.0.  Exclusive shouldn't mean put your patrons in debt, no matter where you're located, no matter how exclusive.

 

          Live Music Venue rating: 9.6-9.8;

           Staff, rating:  9.5

           Prices, rating: 4.0

           Overall rating: 7.5-8.00

11:47 PM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

BTE @HOB Chicago Gather.com Review
Current mood: cheerful
Category: Music

December 18, 2006 07:14 AM EST (Updated: December 18, 2006 03:29 PM EST)

to group: Gatherism

tags: music, arts, reviews, people

 email to a friend    print this article
 digg it    del.icio.us

--> Article Text Begin -->

          One word comes to mind about both nights: WOW!

          Our adventure began in the afternoon on Friday---we left "early" around 2:00 p.m. from central IL to get to Midway Airport/CTA Transit Park & Ride.  After our initial round of questions for the transit worker (how to pay for parking, where to get transit cards), we were on our way to downtown Chicago/House Of Blues.  We stepped off the el on State & Lake--then had to walk two blocks north on State to get to House Of Blues.

         Before getting in line to wait for the doors to open, we visited the House Of Blues Company Store---where I added a new shot glass to my already burgeoning shot glass collection---then went to stand in the line for opening time.  The doors opened exactly at 7:30, however---Security at the House Of Blues is very thorough, so, there won't be too many photos to be included with this article!!  I will say, though, that House Of Blues is a different type of live music venue---it is mainly a SRO type of venue, so, be prepared to be on your feet for awhile.

        The first night, December 15---the opening acts for Better Than Ezra were Rick Brantley & Jon McLaughlin (young Jon McLaughlin...not the middle-aged Jon McLaughlin).  Rick Brantley was up first---and, at times, it sounded as if he was yelling his lyrics instead of truly singing---he wasn't all that bad.  Jon McLaughlin followed, and, for being piano rock, he was quite different...kind of like a different flavor of alternative.

        Better Than Ezra took the stage exactly at 10:30, and, they were sold out on the first night; an announcer from the WXRT radio station (Chicago) came out to announce BTE's show was sold out for the night, which made the crowd cheer.  

         The set list for December 15:

          1)Burned ; (2) Good; (3) Sincerely, Me; (4) Misunderstood; (5) Daylight; (6) Beautiful Mistake; (7) Lifetime; (8) Extra Ordinary; (9) King Of New Orleans; (10) Southern Thing; (11) In The Blood; (12)At The Stars; (13) Laid; (14) Juicy w/Miss You cover; & (15) Desperately Wanting...when Better Than Ezra took the stage for the encore performance afterwards, Kevin Griffin began the encore with an acoustic version of the theme from "Gilligan's Island", thanking the crowd for being "patient" with him--then the other band members joined Kevin on stage to perform "It's Only Natural", Merry Christmas Eve", and "Overcome".  At the end of the show, the band threw an autographed frisbee into the group, as well as a couple of drumsticks from Travis McNabb.

          I was a little skeptical when we first entered the Music Hall this night, however, after just one Better Than Ezra performance at House Of Blues, I'm now convinced that despite the horrendous rules (NO Cameras, yet, people are allowed to have cell phone cameras; no smoking venue---even though Rick Brantley's bass guitarist smoked all the way thru his set), House Of Blues is an excellent venue to experience a favorite band live.  Despite the complaints---the show was very much worth the wait in line and the hours on one's feet.

         Although our original plan was to attend only the first night's show---spontaneity took over on Saturday afternoon, and, by 2:30 p.m., we were on our way to ticketmaster to purchase tickets for Saturday's show!!!  This time, though, my son & daughter decided to see what House Of Blues was like as well.  It ended up being a very memorable night for us all, in many different ways.

         The opening act on December 16 was Graham Colton---and, although I have never really known of his music, he was excellent---he was very talented and did most of his set w/o his band.  During Graham's set, a young lady named Veronica requested a song named "Morning Light"---and Graham had the young lady come onto the stage and accompany him singing.  "Veronica" was nervous and told Graham this, however, he helped calm her nerves and she was able to sing with him for a few verses---which made her night, I am sure!!  Graham also purchased a shot for a young man in the front row!!!  I love down to earth entertainers, and, Graham Colton surely gets a thumbs up from this concert attendee!

        Better Than Ezra was announced tonight by a slighlty enebriated Santa, who was there to pick up on a concert attendee who was willing---he wound up getting a young ladies' phone # for after the show.  Once Better Than Ezra took the stage, a lady and her son attempted to barge into the crowd at the fron of the stage, saying they "friends Of"  the band and had to get a message to the band members.  This lady stated she was from New Orleans, became very argumentive with all the fans (even though she was the rude one), even called me a "bitch" because I refused to let her take my spot in front of the stage.  She then tried to tell me what "concerts" were all about---and, quite frankly, I let her verbally have it, telling her in no uncertain terms that I damn well know what concerts are about---I've been to my share of them recently, and, this is the day & age of e-mail---if you have a message for the band, you can e-mail it!  From what I understand, she got her just deserts as the show went on....LOL!!!!

         We were much closer to the band & the stage on the second night; and, when BTE performed "Pull", with being so close, the song just reverberated thru my whole body.  The crowd down by the stage all sang along with the band, dancing & swaying just like Kevin Griffin says happens so often when your at live shows.  Kevin warned the pregnant ladies in the house to be careful down by the stage (my daughter, Melissa, is due January 25thand she was right up by the stage, LOL) because it gets rather hot up there, and, he wasn't kidding!!! Although it didn't phase my daughter...after awhile, I had to excuse myself a couple of times, because the heat from the lights can be a little on the rough side if you're not used to  it!!!

          Kevin, Tom, Travis & Jim are all so very entertaining to experience live....they love & welcome audience participation at all of their shows, and, tonight was no exception. The audience sang a verse of Desperately Wanting w/o Kevin's help, and, the crowd was just awesome this night.  I will add, though, that the second night it was much easier to navigate the crowd than the first. 

          During one of my excused trips to the ladies room towards the end of BTE's set---a couple of ladies walked into the ladies room complaining about a friend who had just been escorted from the House Of Blues.  They were leaving early because of the friend's antics, and, another of the patrons advised them to leave her sit and think about what she had done.  They didn't---they did leave early, and, my significant other then informed me of what had went on:  the lady had elbowed another concert goer squarely in the face, and, Kevin had caught it and told her that it was downright evil of her, even stopped the show until she was removed.  From eyewitness accounts, this lady even had the nerve to take shots at the band's security & security provided by House Of Blues.  Aside from some of the rudeness of concert attendees, Better Than Ezra performed at their best this night...and I even got to catch one of Tom Drummond's Guitar Picks during the performance!!

          By the end of the evening, with sore ankles (I had sprained my left ankle the night before, getting to the first show!)...although I hated to see Better Than Ezra leave, I was so happy for the train ride back to Midway Airport where we had parked.  I do believe that my significant other and I can be termed "Hardcore Ezralites", especially since I was nursing my sore ankle on the second night.  However, if there is any band on this planet that is worthy of ignoring pain just to catch them live, that band is Better Than Ezra: They perform all of their songs superbly, they entertain the audience each & every time they take the stage, and they're very in tune with what is happening out in the crowd by the stage.  You just will have a superb night seeing this band live---even at SRO venues with crazy rules....!

--> Article Text End --> .. type=text/javascript>Nifty("div.genericSCorner","top");..>