The Recovering DJ

This is a Test

2011-07-28T07:55:00.001-07:00

Yaddie Yadda Yadda

The Recovering DJ has moved!

2009-11-23T16:07:00.000-08:00

Join the Recovering DJ now on my own domain name!! Site is under some construction, but feel free to take a look around now!

The Recovering DJ

"Sesame Street" is old and so are you, deal with it

2009-11-13T16:08:00.000-08:00

"Sesame Street" turned 40 this month, an anniversary that made me think, “Really, 40 years??”

I still distinctly remember the first episode. I really do. There were cows in it and funny little characters and I was hooked from day one.

I learned all kinds of things from that show, like everyone can be friends no matter if they are tall or in a garbage can or red or blue or yellow. I learned letters and shapes and how to count to 10 in Spanish. I sometimes wish I had learned more of another language as a yongerser, I think it would have stuck with me a lot longer.

"Sesame Street" was my gateway show to all other television programming, since it is the first show I can remember watching.

Some other favorite kid shows were "Mr Dressup" with Casey and Finnegan on the CBC out of Winsor. Mr Dressup was a mellow "Mr. Rogers", if there could be anyone more soft spoken the the Rog. I loved "Mr. Rogers" too, I even had his complete albumn collection, a fact I finaly don’t care about mentioning anymore.

"Mr Dressup" intro

It's from Mr. Rogers that I learned how how to spell friend. The song "You are Special" spelled it out, and my constant singing of the song helped me sort out the “i before e” issue in spelling tests. I’d conjure up the phrase “F-R-I-E-N-D, special you are my friend, you’re special to me” and get it right every time. I wish more spelling had been set to music.

Of course there was Captain Kangaroo, and the clowns-"Bozo", who was the nation's clown,( insert your own "nation's clown" joke here) and "Oopsy" who was a Detroiter. And the zany shows like "The Electric Company" from the '70's (which is being revived) and "Zoom" we really had alot goin'on back in the day.

I look at some of the shows kids have now and I feel bad for them, ha ha.

Some great old school Detroit sites:

Detroit Memories

Detroit Kid's Shows

Nostalgia for the old foods

2009-11-03T10:59:00.000-08:00

It's nostalgia time.

I don't know if it's because the holidays are a rambling around the corner or the winds are a rollin' and the days are getting shorter, but I've been thinking about "old school foods" if there is such a thing. The foods that were a comfort then, that probably wouldn't be now, but I can't help think about them and smile.

I was watching a news clip the other day about kids and sugar cereal, and how food companies are marketing “bad” cereals to kids. Nice to know that age old battle is still going on. We were fortunate to have parents who knew better, but man at the time it certainly didn't feel that way. Mom was not big on buying us the "good" cereals, although occasionally we wore her down. And that box full of crunchy high fructose goodness was like a slice of another life.

Oh how tastes change...

Ironically, I now favor cereals like Kashi and Raisin Bran, but back in the day the faves were Freakies (I believe there was a regular version and a fruity version) as well as Grins, Smiles, Giggles and Laughs. Really the same cereals, just different shapes. And the FABULOUS free prize in every box. They were almost as cool as Cracker Jacks.

Other munchies from back in the day: Space Food Sticks. They were marketed as "food the astronauts eat", energy bars for the 70's before Luna and Power Bars came around. It was implied they had great nutritional value, but I'm not so sure about that now. They were basically a long chocolate or peanut butter Tootsie Roll. The last thing you need is a bunch of guys in space bouncing around a 100 square-foot tin can on a sugar rush. But they were certainly good at lunch or snack time.

Fruit Float was a favorite desert in the household. I believe I favored strawberry while my sister liked peach. It was a can of something fruity, you added milk, stirred it up and instant desert! It was jello and pudding like all at the same time. As a wordsmith even than I loved the commercials where an announcer would go around and ask people to say "Fruit Float" three times fast. I couldn't find that one, but this one is a hoot.

What's your old school food?

Recovering DJ Review: Michael Jackson’s “This Is It”

2009-11-02T16:32:00.001-08:00

I don’t go to the movies much. And I don’t watch videos or concert films, like ever. But I really wanted to see “This Is It”, for reasons that seem morbid and silly. I never got a chance to see MJ live, so I thought this might be the next best thing. He still is one of the greatest and talented entertainers of my decade and I was curious to see what made him tick.

If you think about it, the flick’s title is chilling, although “This Is It” that was the name of the 40 or so London shows he would have put on. Unless you have been under a huge rock since June, the untimely death of Michael Jackson spurred the release of this rehearsal footage, which turned out to be his final days.

Lovingly put together by long time collaborator Kenny Ortega, it's a voyeuristic glimpse into MJ and his hardworking cavalcade of dancers, singers, musicians and technicians creating a colossal concert. It’s an inside view of what went on in the dance sessions, in some of the additional videos that were cut for the big screen behind the stage, and all the other nuts and bolts that made up this huge endeavor. And then some of MJ’s best tunes- finished dress rehearsal clips are shown. I could not keep back the tears over how wonderful it all was.

What you’d think would be a big showy spectacle is more like a documentary that is at times very personal and touching. A glimpse into a man overshadowed by myth and legend. A perfectionist, he wanted to put on the best show ever for his loyal fans. And all the members of his staff wanted to be a part of that too. Many of the people were happy for the chance, honored to be working with someone with actual skills.

And oh those skills! At 50 his voice was still strong and vibrant. His moves were still fluid and he really seemed to be…Happy!

That’s what gets you, the realization that he seemed ok…even working the long endless hours with relative ease, you wonder “what if " tragedy had not happened.

It’s a movie for MJ fans, or students of stardom. It’s a last look at how one of the few truly talented entertainers did it, before the American Idol’s, Brit Brit’s and super processed “stars” take over it all.

I can’t wait for the DVD to come out.

Soup to nuts, Soup was nuts!

2009-10-23T10:59:00.000-07:00

On all things soup

Soup is warm. Soup is nourishing. Soup is SUPER!

Soup is funny.

I’ve been ruminating on soup today, ever since I heard the news that Soupy Sales went to that great laugh factory in the sky last night. I know some people might be unfamiliar with the comedy stylings of Mr. Sales. I myself have a small nugget of knowledge about the man, which ironically has to do little bit to do with soup.

Mr. Sales was known for throwing pies into the faces of thousands of people and a silly style of humor. Pee Wee Herman is said to have “borrowed” some of his act from Soupy, and even SNL paid homage to his stunts. If you liked him as a kid, his antics stay with you in the back of your dark recess of a mind.

Soupy was a comedian who started out essentially in Detroit. He hosted “Lunch with Soupy” in the late 50’s and early 60’. It was a zany midday sketch show on Motown’s ABC affiliate WXYT-7. The show was so successful the station created a nighttime version of his show, which was a bit more adult and incidentally featured some great jazz artists of the time. He was raking in the dough and he helped the network tremendously. But like anyone who’s not actually from Detroit, he left to go to bigger markets, L.A and NY.

I realize now I saw all his shows in reruns. As a kid, I thought Soupy was this funny, goofy guy in Detroit who waited for me to turn on the TV so I could be amused.

Even then it was all about me.

I have fond memories of coming home for lunch, (my elementary was in our backyard) and slurping up steaming bowl of chicken noodle perched on a TV Tray chuckling at the old Zenith. That had 3 channels. Channels you had to get up and change, no remote, horror of horrors.

Reading about him today and going through some old clips, I also realize he was one of those guys that didn’t talk down to kids. His show featured real music, like Motown and jazz, not pre-made over processed bubble gum crap. Soupy also thought that executives were ruining the business. Something we all know continues today in TV and radio. His comedy might have been a little “punny” but he certainly kept the pie industry going.

They don’t make ‘em like the used to, that's for sure.

Monday music-what songs take you back?

2009-10-12T15:49:00.000-07:00

Wrapping up last week’s TV week and on to this week’s flavor…music.

Everyone has ‘em…whether you’re into music big time or only a causal listener. The Songs That Take You Back. You know what I mean, the tunes that transport you to “back in the day”, suddenly remind you of a past place in such a vivid way that if you close your eyes and turn up the volume, you’re almost there.

The first dance in junior high, the first album you bought, the first band you saw in concert, the first kiss, The one song you played over and over again until someone in your household told you to knock it off.

We all have ‘em, and we forget. I have songs that remind me of my elementary days, my high school days, my radio days, when I lived in Ohio, when I lived in New Jersey, etc etc. Half the time, I forget they’re around, as they lie dormant in the back of my full of useless information head.

The other day I actually found myself driving and horror of horrors in a bit of traffic jam. I did what people do when stuck in a non-moving vehicle…fiddle with the radio. And lo and behold, I forgot for a moment I was stuck in Seattle somewhere, and instead was transformed to the Bonaventure Rolling Rink, full of popcorn, frozen cherry coke and dreams while jammin’ with my friends. All while on roller skates.

The song? “ Best of My Love” by The Emotions. I had the 45 and as I cranked the volume way past 11, I could see the Columbia label in my head. I did a little seat dance, (arms and head only, as I was still in a car), sang the lyrics as loud as I could and as the traffic began to move, hardly noticed people were looking at me like I was crazy.

What song takes you back?

Random Friday comments

2009-10-09T08:30:00.000-07:00

Here's a pet peeve of mine, among many...why are you sent a "confirmation e-mail" when you UNsubscribe from a newsletter. I just told you I don't want you to send anything to me and you turn around and do it again. I'm thinking NOT sending me anything anymore is confirmation enough. That's just me.
*************************

No real spoilers...I thought last night's episode of "The Office" was the best ever-click to read my two cents.

Also, "Community" is turning out to be one of my new favorites. Just a little background-it's a show about a wide variety of individuals of various ages who are attending a community college.

Abed and Troy have some incredibly hilarious bits at the end of each episode. Check it out on Hulu or NBC. This bit is after an episode about the gang's Spanish class, and what the boys do with the only Spanish words they know.

Have a good weekend!

The new "Must See" Thursday

2009-10-08T13:46:00.000-07:00

Wrapping up my compelling series on “What the Recovering DJ Watches” we come to what I consider to be the best night on television. What used to be “Must See TV” on NBC is now, “Must DVR and Watch Later” for ABC and NBC shows.

And since I don't want to shamefully admit I still watch "Grey's Anatomy", here's a capsule of some new Thursday night shows.

Parks & Recreation

Not really a brand new show, but I’m thinking it’s new to many. I watched an episode in April and it didn’t do a whole lot for me, but I gave it another shot for the lovely Amy Poehler’s sake..and I’m not disappointed. There are some funny bits in the episode I recently viewed called “Stakeout” and I will definitely catch it when I can. It goes a bit too far on the quirky side at times, but there are some sharp moments that make it a standout. You can watch full episodes on Hulu, for free.

Community

The pilot was a little uneven, but I got some laughs out of it. And it’s getting better. Joel McHale who grew up in Seattle , is cute and funny and Chevy Chase isn’t as awkward as he could be, a dash of him goes along way, and the producers seem to grasp that. The supporting actors are great, although for some reason I'm bothered that Alison Brie, who is also in Mad Men is in the show, mostly because I think that it is a bit hoggish to take two parts. Also, does that mean Community or Mad Men will be cancelled and she's hedging her bets? These are the things I think about.

Flash Forward

This is the “Lost” replacement until next year. I’ve only watched the pilot, but truthfully it wigged me out. In a good way. I woke up in the middle of the night contemplating the kooky crazy plot line. That’s a good show in my book.

Wednesday TV

2009-10-07T15:52:00.000-07:00

This week's television recommendations continue....

Wednesday aren't really a "good night" for TV traditionally in the Recovering DJ household, unless "Lost" is on. But I've stumbled across two shows that might not be completely horrible sitcoms. Half hour comedies that aren't "Seinfeld" but they might be able to fill the vast void for a moment Jerry and the gang left behind.

Modern Family

A quirky show featuring a few veteran TV Actors Like Ed O'Neill of "Married with Children" a show I wasn't really fond of, and Julie Bowen of the underrated "Ed" and a wide variety of other shows. The family consists of Ed O'Neill and his new young wife and son, his daughter and her family and his son and his partner.

I've only watched the pilot, but there were some funny bits involving cream puffs and disciplining a child that shot his sister with a BB gun. I haven't laughed that hard in a very long time.

Cougar Town

A wink, wink, nudge nudge at the whole "cougar" phenomenon, in which older women seduce younger men...I myself just get exhausted thinking about it. I think the town high school has a cougar for a mascot too. At any rate, not being the biggest fan of Courteney Cox, I do give her credit for being the hardest working of the "Friend's" since that show ended...another sitcom that has stood the test of time, and that seems to escape imitation, although very often it is indeed hopelessly emulated.

Again, only watched the pilot but the show had some surprisingly funny moments. For me personally there was a bit of an ick factor. But that's just me. It's one of those shows that might hang on these days, because...well there isn't really anything else.

Cute trivia from IMDB: The show is set in Florida. With the exception of the pilot, season 1 episodes are named after Tom Petty songs, Mr. Petty being a Floridian and all, I think it's pretty funny...and it's the little things like this that will keep me watching. I'm pretty easily amused like that.

Fall TV part deux

2009-10-06T11:06:00.000-07:00

The other day I covered my TV viewing suggestions for Fri-Mon. I forget to mention again of course I watch “ Mad Men” Sundays on AMC, but I don ‘t always watch when scheduled. AMC does a great job of posting the show On Demand for free.

An On Demand digression…

NBC charges for On Demand, only 99, that’s just ridiculous. If the networks want us to watch their shows…they should post all of them to On Demand for free, with the spots (commercials) in it and everything. And watch their total viewership go up.

End of rant.

Now I'm getting to the core of the TV viewing week, the days my beloved DVR is truly living for.

Tuesday’s means only two shows for me. "Melrose" and "Wife"

Melrose Place

I was never a "90210" fan only "Melrose Place", which is something I can’t explain; it's just the way it is. Melrose is a gianormous guilty pleasure I’ve never gotten over, so obviously I’ve been looking forward to the reboot since it was announced. And it has not disappointed.

Slicked up for the 00’s, the music is contemporary and the outfit so right now.The characters are not completely memorable but appropriate to the spirit of the show and the crazy casting of the bug-eyed, creepy Simpson-Wenz girl sort of works, she DOES look like Sydney. I’ll give her that. The addition of Michael, Sydney and now Jane seems rather seamless. Of course, I’m looking forward to the return of Amanda, it just seems appropriate.

“Relationships are complicated, cooking comes with instructions, " Auggie. It’s lines like this that make the guilt go away, ha ha. It’s trash TV people, not fine lit, so take it or leave it.

The Good Wife

For me, a big surprise this Fall Season is “The Good Wife”. I’m honestly not a Julianna Margulies fan or foe, there being that fine line between love and hate that both imply emotion.

And frankly I think Chris Noth is over-exposed, playing all his characters the same exact way in different shows. Not that I don't think he’s hot

But back to JM- she does a wonderful job playing the part soft spoken when it could easily be screechy and hysterical. I see now her ER character was annoying to me and also she was mackin’ on Geogre Cloony. This is a personal blog people, not a high minded critical writing spot.

At any rate, it's many members of the remaining cast that makes me happy.

I'm glad to see Josh Charles, playing JM's former colleague and new boss. Josh, formerly of the critcally acclaimed, never watched by anyone but my hubby and I, “Sports Night” seem to immensly help the careers of Felicity Huffman and Peter Krause but Josh Charles, who was “the star” disappeared. At any rate, it's good too see him.

Christine Baranski too, is another actress I really enjoy. Loved her in "Cybil" and “The Bird Cage” She's one of those character actors its just nice to run into.

I finally had to google the woman who plays an assistant at the law firm JM works at because it was driving me nuts, and I couldn't figure it out. It's Archie Panjabi who played the older sister in Bend It Like Beckham

Toss in the Rory’s last boyfriend on "Gilmore Girls"Matt Czuchry, and this show is full of actors I enjoy. The writing isn’t bad, the “ripped from the headlines” topical nature behind the storyline is not too overwrought. The husband’s a slime ball politician who actually went to jail in this one, and the wife went back to work. Her character isn’t defined so much as what we see now, but I think despite the fact we need another lawyer show like we need another hospital show, the "Good Wife" will do good.

Comin' up....two new shows for Wednesday

Some call it Fall season, I call it TV season

2009-10-02T10:49:00.000-07:00

I’m not ashamed to admit it, I unabashedly love television, especially when the new fall season kicks in. It's like the beginning of a sporting season…you wonder which team will make it to the finals, (renewed or an Emmy nod) and who will be gone?

Yes, I know TV is mindless entertainment at times. But don’t you want entertainment to be somewhat pointless? I mean, then it's not entertainment…it's work.

Sometimes I view a show for story arc and dialogue. You can learn a lot about writing by watching TV. Good shows for what works. Bad shows intrigue me. I wonder: why does this show suck? What would make it better?

Julia Louis-Dreyfus made a comment at this year’s “Emmy Awards” that this is "the last official year of network television”

I disagree. Radio was supposed to die years ago and it's still kickin’ along. The networks should adjust to the way things are…people don’t want to be, or can’t be…tied to time schedules. Hence the proliferation of DVR’s, on demand and online viewing.

The Tube still rules!

Recovering DJ Recommends:

Here’s a list of what I generally watch Fri-Mon

Fridays

I don’t really watch TV on Friday. I understand “Ugly Betty” has been bumped to TGIF, so I’ll catch it on the DVR. Enough with the braces already girlfriend! I think at this point the show is a goner. Friday nights seem to be the path to the television graveyard now, a far cry from the 70’s where shows like “The Brady Bunch” and “The Partridge Family” ruled the roost.

Saturday

For me, this seems to be the day of sports, old movie reruns, and sometimes “SNL.” If a show is scheduled on Saturday nights, it also seems be the beginning of it's demise. I honestly couldn't tell you what is on Saturday night prime time, but I can remember watching “Love Boat” on Saturday nights and BEGGING to stay up and watch “Fantasy Island”, which I don’t think was allowed very much. I LOVED “Love Boat.”

And now the theme song is in my head, and probably will be all day.

Sunday

The former night of the wholesome “The Wonderful World of Walt Disney” and of course my beloved “Hardy Boy/Nancy Drew Mysteries” is now “Family Guy”/”American Dad “night, which I catch if I can. I love Seth MacFarlane. I used to watch “Desperate Housewives and “Brothers & Sisters” for a bit…but honestly all you have to do is watch the promos and you pretty much keep up with these shows. I can’t be expected to watch everything for heaven’s sake.

Monday

This is “Gossip Girl” night, which I know has some harebrained storylines, but I can’t help it. It’s a GP (guilty pleasure). I’ve come to realize I watch it mostly for the stunning scenes of the show’s co-star-NYC. Recently, Serena and Blair were sitting on the steps of my favorite place in the world, the Metropolitan Museum and I just, welled up a bit, but then smiled through my tears. That’s what TV does to me sometimes.

I generally actually watch the CBS “comedy” line-up, and then DVR “Gossip Girl” Certain people in my household will not tolerate any shows on the CW.

Most sitcoms are hardly funny anymore, with the great exception of the supremely under rated “How I Met Your Mother” HIMYM is superior to “30 Rock “and so much funnier than “ 2 ½ men “ which I think is just OVER with a capital “O”. And Jon Cryer will always be Ducky from “Pretty in Pink”.

“Accidently on Purpose” the new Jenna Elfman vehicle, is more accident than purpose. I never got her appeal. But I will admit to warming up to “Big Bang Theory” which I thought was awful at first, but the nerdy characters are really growing on me. After that I generally watch “CSI Miami” the only CSI show I ever catch. For some reason I tend to fall asleep early on Monday’s, not sure if it's the show lulling me to sleep, or my weekends wear me out. Probably a bit of both.

Coming up next week-Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday viewing and new show recommendations!

Milestone: 100th post and The Recovering DJ turns 1

2009-09-24T11:53:00.000-07:00

We love milestones. Anniversaries. Points along the way to trumpet our progress, that shout to the world “look at us, we’re still here”

You have your milestone birthdays…21, 30, 40…

1 billion burgers sold
500 tubes sock worn
75th anniversary of the Bugle Awards

Today, I’ve hit my own little milestone. And I’ve been pondering it for a while.

The Recovering DJ is 1 year old, and this ironically enough is the 100th post. If I was a TV show I would do some sort of retrospect of the past seasons, but I’ll trust that you can do that yourself by clicking on old posts.

100 posts is not a good average for a blog really. It means I’ve written less than a third of the time. The truth is, writing is hard, for me anyways. It takes a lot out of me sometimes. But I’ll tell you, I think about this blog all the time, about what I’m going to write, and how. I have many many unfinished pieces. I try not to post something just for the sake of posting. I write and rewrite. Heck, I’ll admit I write and rewrite my Facebook and Twitter posts a lot too. There’s a “rule” in writing: edit edit edit. And of all the rules this rule breaker follows it’s that one. It’s not as easy as it looks kids.

But people thought radio was easy, and it was never as simple as it seemed. I would practice and re-practice a multitude of breaks. Occasionally a good one would just come out of me, like a radio muse was channeling through me, which would always entertain me. Sometimes making myself laugh is half the battle.

But it was always hard work, being “on” day after day, putting your heart and soul into it week after week. Someone once told me -you knew you had a great show if you were exhausted at the end of the day. The harder you worked, the better you were.

A year ago I started this blog (and it was kinda a dorky start) for a variety of reasons. I wanted to write and showcase it for future employment, and I wanted to make money by blogging, and I just wanted the discipline of keeping something like this going.

But most importantly, I see now…I need an outlet to entertain.
To entertain, perchance to amuse. Ah, there’s the rub. To misquote Mr. Shakespeare.

I love love to make people laugh and amuse them and entertain them. That's why I loved acting at a young age, why I loved radio, why I like to write and why I just like to be around people and crack wise.

When I started this blog, I didn’t know who would read it. I know it's not a huge audience, probably because I haven’t really obeyed any of the “blogging rules” of attracting followers. But there are a few people who are reading and have told me they like what they see. Some have praised because they’ve known me a very long time or they're related to me. And some people might feel they have to be nice. But there have been a few surprise compliments that keep me going…even if it's only a third of the time.

In radio, a station has a “target demo”; the ideal listener a staff wants to keep tuned in. I learned as a baby DJ that it’s best to focus in your mind on one person so you can talk directly to them. It’s called “one on one communication”, and it’s part of the magic of radio called “theater of the mind”. Every person listening should think the announcer is talking directly to HIM OR HER. Its how you get ratings and keep your job. It's sometimes how you get stalkers too but that’s another story.

It's been hard sometime to focus on who my “blog audience” is; it’s quite a mixed bag. If I write to one person, I alienate another…. (another trait I can’t seem to shake is the need to entertain EVERYONE.) All the blogging books and websites say you have to focus, you must find your niche you should have an exact description about what your blog is about.

And yet a year later, this blog still is about nothing. But it's not for nothing. And I’m ok with that as long as you are dear reader. Cheers to you! I'm evolving, the blog is evolving. That's the way it goes.

So lets go for another milestone, perhaps another 50 posts…by the end of the year? Or maybe 20 good ones… or 10 really really good ones…. ☺.

Humbly Yours,

The Recovering DJ

Ode to Vegas

2009-09-15T16:17:00.000-07:00

I've been going to Las Vegas now for over 8 years now. My DH (darling hubby) first dragged me there when we were dating, and I've been bedazzled by it ever since. It's one of those places I just KNEW I would like.

I've decided there are two kinds of people in this world-people who get Vegas...and people who don't. It's kinda like New York or L.A...either you are in or out. There just isn't any wiggle room.

And it's not just the gambling in Vegas. I have a friend that doesn't touch a table or sashay by a slot....(and I envy her for that) She just loves the GLAM. The sheer pulsating energy of the place. You can get a cocktail whenever you want, eat at some of the most WONDERFUL restaurants and hang at the pool, heck IN the pool all day long. It's funny to see so many people midday in the middle of the week just soakin' it up. It's Disney for grown-ups.

We've been going for several years now under the banner of "Luckypalooza".( I even just bought the domain name ;))

What started as a celebration of a milestone birthday for my DH, has continued as a celebration of the friendships that have endured all these many years as we have moved around different parts of the country. Anyone can get to Vegas pretty easy and fairly reasonably for the most part. And the end of summer seems like a good time to get together and toast each others accomplishments.

If you're a Vegas person...I say Vegas Baby! If you aren't...I probably don't know you ;)

Check out my Amazon Fresh Review

What Labor Day Weekend Means to Me

2009-09-07T12:03:00.000-07:00

Labor Day Weekend to me has been like a new beginning.

Back in the old days Labor Day weekend meant it was just before "back to school". The days had a frantic frenzy mixed with dread feeling. I rushed around trying to get all the things done on my “what I want to do this summer “ list. The new school year was looming ahead with a whiff of promise of a new me heading down a new path.

Now this time of year is still a bit of a "new chapter". It's a chance to revisit New Year’s resolutions and make them right one last time in the fourth quarter. The weather is turning, and I really try to get serious once again. We’ll see if it works this time.

Recovering DJ’s Top 5 Songs about Working

“Working’ for Livin’” Huey Lewis & The News
“Welcome to the Working Week”- Elvis Costello
“Working for the Weekend” Loverboy
“Working Girl” The Members
“The Working Hour” Tears for Fears

It’s Monday and I’ve got Mad Men on my mind

2009-08-24T09:31:00.000-07:00

No, not men that are mad, but “Mad Men”, a show on AMC that started its 3rd season last week. The program is ultra cool, suave and a critic’s darling. Plus it won a bunch of awards last year, a sure sign that it’s probably a good show and it's not on a “Big 3” network. (Are they even the “big” 3 anymore?)

I personally didn’t hop on the hip bus until after the first season, when I bought the DVD. And then I actually missed the entire 2nd season live. Thanks goodness for on-demand. The point is, these days you can start watching a show even after a few seasons, the catching up part is virtually painless.

For those of you not familiar with the show, ( and it seems most people are not, as it’s not exactly the highest rated in TV land), “Mad Men” takes place at a fictional advertising agency in New York City in the early ‘60’s. The stories circle around Don Draper, played by the mad hot Jon Hamm, and his office staff, family and “friends”. I think the “Mad” stands for Madison Avenue initially, and just the shear madness of the era later on. Just a theory.

New York City is a grand dame in the show and it’s a very interesting commentary on the times. Women are getting stronger in the workplace, for the most part as secretaries, but the truth is good administrative assistants run a company underneath it all.

Elisabeth Moss, the former Zoey Bartlet on one of my fave shows “The West Wing” turns in a fabulous performance as a girl who wants to get out of the pool and into the boardroom with the boys. As an aspiring copywriter, nothing, and I mean Not A Thing, stops her from reaching her goals.

You’d think I’d identify with her; I myself worked in a male dominated business for some many years, putting up with some of the crap. And I’m trying to reinvent myself as a copywriter. But I really identify with the character of Betty, wife to the lead character Dan Draper. Her lonely suburban housewife feels more realistic than any of the characters, who become over-the-top caricatures every once on awhile.

The show is not for everyone, it's a bit dark but very stylistic…and if you aren’t a fan of vices you won’t like that EVERYONE freakin' smokes and drinks ALL the time…something I personally find a hoot, but I know some don’t.

But hey, it’s only a TV show. And if you like it enough, you can “Mad Men” yourself…loads of fun for those slow moments, when you could use a little madness. ☺

"Julie and Julia"-foodie film that feeds the soul

2009-08-18T11:53:00.000-07:00

On my list of "pending possible posts", a mocking and menacing list that taunts me daily, I’ve been meaning to comment on the new movie “Julie and Julia”, spurred by an article I read in the “New Yorker” last month about Nora Ephron.

I didn’t actually think I would go see the movie myself, I just don't go to the movies lately, but I wanted to encourage others to do so, for two reasons…I read and loved one of the books the movie is based on, and I really admire Nora Ephron, a strong female writer and director who creates the kind of movies I would make, if I was a film maker.

As luck would have it, I had the great delight of checking out the flick yesterday and I’m pleasantly surprised how well it turned out. It felt like a cozy bowl of soup with some flaky biscuits on the side. It was a movie of a sweet and wondrous love between a husband and wife and the marvels of plugging away at your dreams little by little. A nice dinner with a good bottle of wine afterward kept the glow a goin'

I knew the story of Julie Powell,I read her book "Julie and Julia: My Year of Cooking Dangerously"when I first moved to the Pacific Northwest. My sister, who is an excellent cook and is ironically named Julie, loaned it to me. I enjoyed the amazing food preparation descriptions and escapades, and the loving details about the wonderful mecca that is called New York City. But I hated it for the same reason; I was so homesick for New York at the time that sometimes it made me sad. I was so annoyed that this girl who was an admin in a crappy office situation became a famous blogger, plus got a book deal out of the whole thing. Yes, of course I was jealous…I admit it.

I have vague memories of watching Julia Child on television, her quirky voice and the interesting way she cooked, hunched and looming over her counters. But other than that and the Saturday Night Live sketch in which Dan Akroyd portrays a blood spewing Child after she cuts herself, any other knowledge I had of the famous gourmand was pretty limited.

But after this movie I suddenly have a deep interest in her. She seemed to be a robust, passionate woman who was so upbeat and alive, enjoying whatever challenge came her way. I am eager to read "My Life in France" a memoir that half the movie is based on. I am also now convinced I could make a Beef Bourguignon, and whip up several other recipes as well. I think Julia Child was the Food Network all on her own, before such a thing existed.

Meryl Streep embodies the character so seamlessly it’s hard to tell where she ends and Julia Child begins. I would imagine for such a well-know actress this is no easy feat. Stanley Tucci plays a wonderful doting husband and chemistry between the two is truly magical. I’ve read some other reviews that state the Amy Adams sections aren’t as strong, but I think that’s like saying watermelon doesn't taste like cantaloupe. Amy Adams portrays the blogger Julie and it's unfair to say that an unknown person such as Julie Powell can compete with the star power of a Julia Child. Plus, I think reading “Julie and Julia” beforehand allows a better sense of those sections in the movie. I’m generally an advocate of the “read the book before you watch the film” movement. (If there is indeed such a movement, and if not I should start one. )

At any rate, two thumbs up from me, "Julia and Julia" is a movie I thoroughly enjoyed, something I haven’t done in quite awhile. If Meryl doesn’t get an Oscar nod, than I’m not watching them.

Ha, ha that’s not true of course.

Post Problems

2009-08-13T16:52:00.000-07:00

Lately, I’ve been thinking I really need to post more. There seems to be a bit of a demand, at least 5 people are regular readers, and I hate to let any audience down, not matter how small. Old habits.

Sometimes, yes life distracts me. I can’t sit my booty down long enough to jot something down. I’m also shockingly a bit particular, something I’m realizing later in life. I normally don’t like to post anything just to post.

That’s how I was in radio. I hated to do a break just because the clock said it was time to crack the mic. It sucked if it talk break time and the talk over song had a 1 second intro. Can’t say much with that time, although I would certainly try...if not switch my break completely, much to the chagrin of the boss. I was never a time and temp jock. I really wanted to say something funny or relevant or give a little fact. I couldn’t just talk to talk.

Or so I thought.

But I digress and as I do, I realize….here I am with a little post. Funny how that works out
The posting “problem” (is it really a problem in the grand scheme of things?) but the issue isn’t quite frankly, a lack of something to write about. The real rub is this-I have too much to write about.

So many thoughts and fragments run through my tiny little brain on a daily basis that it’s hard to know where to start. So sometimes I start everywhere and then end nowhere.
Yes, that in a nutshell is the story of my life my friends. So many beginnings, so many things started and nothing is finished.

Writing isn’t easy, just like opening up a microphone isn’t as easy as everyone thinks. The biggest problem I’ve always had is how to wrap it up. And how to wrap it up smoothly, in a compelling fashion with a pretty little flourishing bow.

The other thing is my audience. In radio, for the most part, the station format dictated who we were talking to-the “target demo” that was the catalyst for one to one communication. Radio is theater of the mind, and in order for anyone to buy into it; every single person has to think the jock is talking directly to him or her.

No small feat. The same goes for writing, but sometimes knowing who my audience is holds me back. The gripes and groans and opinions I want to ramble on about don’t seem appropriate nor interesting to the people I know are out there. You have to play to the audience. It's not what you want to hear, or write about...it's what your listeners/readers want. It takes awhile to learn that, and even then…it's still a hard rule to follow.

Not the prettiest bow, but it’ll have to do for today.

Radio Demystification 101

A Radio Clock: Essentially the schedule of music, talk breaks and commercials

Song Intro Time: The instrumental length at the beginning of a song that a Top 40/AC jock can talk up.

Hitting the Post: Talking up an intro perfectly..ending the exact time the vocals start without chatting over the vocals.

Rock stations are generally different, as jocks in those formats generally talk more before and after a song, not over the song. My only experience with that was college radio, which led to some hilarious 10 minute breaks about MINUTIA…(yes kinda like this blog.) ☺

Hughes, Hughes, Anyone...John Hughes?

2009-08-07T07:58:00.000-07:00

I was tired of being “Home Alone”, so I decided to take a “Vacation”. I stopped at the “Breakfast Club” first which was so “Pretty in Pink” with “Sixteen Candles” at the counter. I ran into to “Ferris Beuller” who was acting all “Mr. Mom” when he told me “Curly Sue”…“She’s Having a Baby”, which seemed like a bit of “Weird Science” but I extended my congratulations as “ Uncle Buck” walked by and told me I’d have to take “Train, Planes and Automobiles” to get to my destination, which really made me feel “Some Kind of Wonderful.”

John Hughes, Director, Writer, Producer and by all accounts all around good guy left us yesterday. His movies were the background to my generation and his passing has made me ponder my mortally a little bit, and the fact that I’m getting older a lot. It's been a heck of a summer for our icon's.

John Hughes made the movies that made me feel good at the end, no matter how implausible.

John Candy, Molly Ringwald, Michael Keaton, and The Red Wing Shirt wearing guy from “Ferris Beuller”…All favorite actors portraying great characters that have never left my subconscious.

Speaking of the jersey guy...I just read that John Hughes was born in a Detroit suburb...duh…I could never figure out why a Chicago boy would be sportin' a Wing’s shirt.

My university lumped together Radio, TV and Film as “Telecommunications” so I have a bit of a film major. I studied a huge variety of “films” and “cinema” (those words sound fancier than “movie” don’t they?) I viewed the very first films in America like “Birth of a Nation” and Russian and French flicks, and through it all I learned to develop an appreciation of “film as art.”

I wrote a term paper on the “Auteur Theory” ( A paper created on a typewriter, and no copy exists which bums me out)

The “Auteur Theory” in a nutshell is this: It means “author” in French and is generally associated with the French new wave. Essentially it means that films created by a director all contain his/her ideas and visions, like a personal stamp. I had stated, that directors like John Ford, Billy Wilder, Hitchcock, etc etc were true auteur's despite the fact that they weren’t French. There’s a certain essence to certain directors' movies that resonate throughout all of them. It’s a “Stephen Spielberg” movie, it's a “Michael Mann” etc etc. You get the picture.

I won’t go into it much more than that, but to say that in retrospect, John Hughes is a true auteur as well.

I’m sure many scoff at that notion. He’s never been recognized by the Academy, yet he put his mark on a slew of movies that have never been erased from the collective hearts of those of us, for better or for worse, grew up in that much maligned 80’s era.

Sure, some of his movies and characters are far-fetched and improbable, and sometimes very “cheese on cheese” (The end of Sixteen Candles…,the sister and principle character in “Ferris Bueller” etc etc.) But I personally LOVE cheese and John Hughes’ movies are slices of hope, happiness and entertainment all wrapped up in a sassy bow for enjoyment over and over again.

The music, the dancing, the sappy moments. They take you away for a minute, if only a minute. Because at the end of the day, isn’t escapism why we watch a movie anyways?

THIS IS A BIT LONG BUT A GREAT OVERVIEW:

This Radio Life Part 3-Jump in my pool

2009-08-06T12:14:00.000-07:00

One summer, I was a midday personality at a radio station in Detroit. The area was in the midst of a scorching heat wave. (As if a heat wave could be something less than scorching??)

I wanted to do a segment that would “take off the heat” so to speak, help people forget for a minute. Being the dork I am, I asked the production guy for a sound effect of water splashing sounds. I played it intermittently throughout my show and asked people to call in and tell me why I should let them “jump in my pool".

There is beauty in simplicity sometimes. The phones went nuts. A little something I was just going to fool around with for a while became a full-blown segment pretty quickly. The sales department was of course trying to sell it immediately, so shortly after I received a request from K-mart to host a grand opening, live in front of their store….broadcasting from my pool.

Radio is theater of the mind, so the live event didn’t go over as big as the powers that be would have liked. But it certainly makes a great story. In fact, it’s a favorite my hubby likes to tell.

It’s occasionally irksome when friends and family tell stories about my past…how I used to be in radio...blah blah blah. I’ve noticed when I meet new people now and I say I’m doing pro bono marketing work or freelance copywriting, they wear an expression of “ Oh whatever”. But if I say, “I used to work in radio” they quickly perk up. Sometimes it’s the only thing anyone remembers about me.

I’ve realized I could live my whole life like this….livin’ off what I used to do, because the truth is anything I do now or in the future will never be as cool…

Or will it?

It could be as cool as jumpin' in the pool ☺

Beauty in simplicity could strike again.

Summer summer summer time...

2009-07-28T14:03:00.000-07:00

Baby, it's hot outside. I feel like I'm in Miami, and I LOVE it.

So here I am in the Pacific NW, a place where “they” told us it never gets over 80 in the summer, and guess what…day two of 95+ weather, with maybe two more to go. Good thing we didn’t listen to ‘them” and rented an apt with A.C…apparently a very large portion of people here do not have AC…If it keeps up I’ve thought about throwing a “come sit in my AC” gathering for a nominal fee.

I just crack up at the concern of the air conditioned broadcasters. There's like a few weeks tops of this, and the rest is gonna be crap.

Ironically, "they" also told us it doesn't snow here. I'm beginning to feel that perhaps we're a jinx.

But the heat, , got me thinking of “Things I used to do in the summer as a kid:”

Slip & Slide

For hours and hours and hours …tore up the grass, which you ended up getting all over and you cut your foot or some body part on the stakes, but man it was fun.

I checked the a new one out on Amazon and now there is a “stopper” on the end to keep you from completely sliding off…no fun…and reading the reviews they just don’t make ‘em like they used to. Ahh, that's always the way.

Wake up early in the morning to fill the pool.

This was something my sister and I took turns doing. The thing was, even thought it was warm outside the water that came out of the garden hose was coooooold. So we'd fill the pool before breakfast, hang inside a bit, and then…poolside! (And by "pool" I mean ghetto fabu plastic ones of course" ;) )

Going to swim club

We never actually belong, but just mooched on others. All I know is I had to buy the Funyuns and that seemed liked a great deal.

One wonders how smug I would really be w/o AC though. One might never know....

The Curious Case of the Cassidy Charisma

2009-07-21T11:17:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I was watching a Harry Potter movie marathon on ABC Family, reeducating myself in anticipation of checking out the latest flick in the franchise. I haven’t seen it yet, but I have been pondering about a promo for another show I kept seeing.

And it’s something I haven’t admitted to anyone until now. I’ll just come out and say it. They say the first step towards recovering is admitting.

I secretly want to watch "Ruby & The Rockits" that premieres tonight.

It’s a show that seems to essentially be about two brothers who were in a band in the 80’s and now they’re off the radar. A long lost daughter appears and the musical mayhem begins. One brother played by David Cassidy, who is really, really aging very well. The other brother is Patrick Cassidy, so the story is mirroring reality a bit. I’m not a reality show person, but I like the twist the show is employing.

But one of the biggest reasons I want to watch the show: Shaun Cassidy is the executive producer. YES Shaun…AKA JOE HARDY. The first boy who made my tummy feel funny when I saw him.

I distinctly remember discussing this phenomenon with my classmates in the bathroom Monday morning after the Sunday night premier of “The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries” We broke into the “Joe” groupies or “Frank” groupies…who was played by Parker Stevenson.

Ironically, I had wanted to watch the show because I was a HUGE fan of the Nancy Drew mystery books. But after seeing Joe, it was adios Nance. The show at first alternated every week between a Hardy Boys episode and a Nancy Drew episode. We were not thrilled on the nights that Joe & Frank did not grace our screens.

But Joe DID grace my walls. Oh yes he did. That was the beginning of the “Tiger Beat” era of decorating for me. I would save my allowance to get the latest magazine and plaster every bit of wall space with pictures of Shaun. I have to ponder on who he was later joined by, maybe Scott Baio and maybe Jimmy McNichol. YIKES!

And let’s not forget the great Shaun Cassidy music. Yes, I had the albums. “Da Do Ron Ron”, “Hey Deanie”, “That’s Rock & Roll”

Pure magic to a little girl’s heart. Even after all these years.

Monday Moonin’

2009-07-20T13:20:00.000-07:00

Even though at the time, I was as big as a raindrop, I do remember it, I swear I do. Perched upon my Dad’s shoulders in our old backyard, my eyes following his finger that was pointing at the moon.

"A man just landed there", said my science and science fiction loving pop in a tone of serene reverence.

I nodded, my small, undeveloped soul sensing the seriousness of such an auspicious moment.

I would spend many years after that, staring at the sky, seeking a glimpse of the guy walking on the moon. I would also think the moon looked like a smiling man, and would wonder if I got it wrong.

In honor of the 4oth anniversary of the first and only moonwalk...

The Recovering DJ’s top 7 Moon Songs
(to be listened to eating Crescent Rolls & Moon Pies, tee hee)

1-Man on the Moon-REM

References Andy Kaufman... which reminds me of a company I worked at for a minute during my Manhattan days that was co-owned my Andy’s brother. Which really has nothing to do with anything other than the fact that I just thought I'd bring it up.

2-Walking on the Moon-The Police

3-Whole of the Moon-The Waterboys

It's taken me over 20 years to tolerate this song.

4-Fly Me to the Moon-Frank Sinatra

This is the version I’m most familiar with as it was played for me over and over again on a pub jukebox until I agreed to speak to a certain someone after a disagreement.
There’s also a groovy version from “Down with Love” by Astrud Gilberto.

5-C’ Moon (Cry Like a Baby)-Simple Minds

One of those bands I forget how much I love

6-New Moon On Monday-Duran Duran

7-Moondance-Van Morrison

Good, warm summer time music

Now go have some Crescent Rolls!

Blame it on the Sun

2009-07-16T18:05:00.000-07:00

...Not to be confused with "Blame it on the Rain" Milli Vanilli....

There's a myriad of reasons and excuses and explanations as to why I haven't posted lately. I'm working on a few writings but they just aren't finished. Truth be told- it's been too beautiful the last few days, and frankly I've been wandering around and soaking up the Vita D. that is seldom found in these parts. I could also blame it on my mama...who always told me to go outside when it was nice out...:)

Why is 6 afraid of 7?

2009-07-08T07:18:00.000-07:00

I'm not a math person. I still count on my fingers if I need to perform simple computations and no calculator is available. But despite that, I have a thing for numbers, especially when it has to do with time.

So I was particularly fascinated with something that happened this A..M at 12:34:56 7/8/9. As you can see, the numbers aligned- in order from 1-9 for that split second in time. For the first time in 100 years or so.

And I just think that's darn cool. For no particular reason. I mean today's date even amuses me-7/8/9. Yes, I know purist argue that it's really really 7/8/09. So you can write 07/08/09 then. Ya happy now?

Reminds me of a joke:

Q: Why is 6 afraid of 7?

A: because 7 8 9.

You have to say it aloud if you don't get it the first time. An oldie but a goodie in my small book.

Another thing about time...do you have a certain time of the day where you always seem to look at the clock, without even trying to do it at the same time? Many times, whenever I glance at a digital timepiece the time reads 4:22. Really, it's true!

Back in my radio days, and heck even years after...I'd look at the clock and think..."it's 10:20 it's time to go into spots" or it's 12:55 time for the top of the hour.

Old habits, like time are a funny thing.

And that's all I have time for today.

If you have the time, some old time like posts for some newcomers.

Time Talking

Little Ditty 'Bout Time

Still Remembering

2009-07-07T10:10:00.001-07:00

All the Michal Jackson hoopla has got me reminiscing this week. I've been remembering the time, a time that was simpler and the livin' was easy. It was a time of music bought with hard earned allowance and baby sitting money. Music first discovered on the radio. Music on vinyl.

I mentioned before, my fascination with radio was evident even back in the day. That included diligently listening to former Detroiter Casey Kasem every Sunday night on Keener 13 in Detroit. I remember commiserating with my friend over our utter dismay that “Miss You" by the Rolling Stones beat out "Saturday Night" by the Bay City Rollers for number one. I was pretty young then, I didn't have any older siblings to tell me about the Stones and the Beatles and now I laugh at my lack of musical knowledge...back in the day. Yes, I remember the time, it's funny what you do remember from so far back.

And so today, as MJ is finally put to rest there's news that radio legend Casey Kasem has quit. A class act in a business FULL of classless jerks certainly was inspiration to this recovering DJ.

It's like all the childhood characters are starting to slip away. And all that's left is the remembering.

A Recovering DJ's MJ two cents

2009-06-29T13:07:00.000-07:00

I'll always remember where I was, and who I was with when I first heard the news about Michael Jackson. Kinda like Elvis, John Lennon and Joe Strummer. A part of my musical life, gone in a flash.

For all intents and purposes, the person-Michael Jackson, has been out of my life for many years. Since leaving radio, I don't need to keep up on his antics. And I like to keep the musician/artist separate from the real life drama. What you do on your own time doesn't really bother me, doesn't affect the way I dig the music, your art. Other than the first night, I've purposely kept away from watching too much of the cable news or reading too much online.

"Off the Wall" from 1979 and "Thriller" in 1982 were truly the albums of my teens. Almost every song on those records were hits, and if not they were still damn good. Many hours were spent with my friends choreographing intricate dance moves to ""Billy Jean", "Rock With You" and a group fave, "PYT" and more. Well, we thought they were cool anyways.

We would pause to listen and sing along to Jackson Family Christmas songs played over and over at the Nursery/Craft store we all worked at during the holidays after school. "She's Out of My Life" was the premiere post break-up song, or at least "the crush doesn't like me" song...the line "damn indecision and cursed pride" seemed to fit the situations.

The scandal that surrounded him was not as important as the music that endured, melodies that reside in my soul as the soundtrack to many many good times.

And then I went from a listener to a player. I remember spinning "Black & White" for the first time in Lima, OH. Featuring Slash from Guns & Roses on guitar it was a tad "controversial" at the time. My Program Director was standing behind me in the studio and said" I don't think this song is going to make it" I said-"It's Michael man, it's gonna be a hit!"

20-30 years later you'll still find these songs on my ipod-an invention never dreamed of when I was spinning vinyl on my Panasonic turntable. "Wanna Be Startin' Something" , "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" and other MJ gems are in the middle of my work-out play list, for their distinct motivational force on me. I ALWAYS get my booty moving a little faster when I hear them.

Rest in peace MJ, you certainly brought alot of happiness to this lil' DJ...you deserve a lil for yourself now.

Plane Thoughts Part Deux

2009-06-22T12:18:00.000-07:00

Song of the Day:
"Paper Planes"-MIA

Random thoughts from a recent flight.

I have several irritations about flying, which I've discussed before, but there’s one in particular that sticks out: I don’t understand how someone can board a flight and not bring ANYTHING to read or a game to play. Don't the get bored??

I personally cart along way too many activities and I rarely get to all of it…Nintendo DS, music, games and videos for my phone and computer, plus a selection of books, magazine, newspaper. I'm not good at doing nothing and like to be entertained at all times.

On a flight the other day, I observed a gentleman reading the “Sky Mall” catalog for two hours. Although I myself have been drawn in by the allure of it's shiny, never-before-seen gadgets, what-nots and doodads; I can’t imagine I could get through a whole 4 hour plus flight ogling doggy doors and wireless speakers that look like space ships.

The whole “incident“ reminded me of a scene from “Seinfeld”...the episode where Elaine is traveling with David Puddy and she is so irked with him because he does not have anything to do. This annoyance turns into their second break-up on the flight, and she starts to talk to the guy next to her, who she keeps calling “vegetable lasagna”. I think of this particular episode as well every time I see vegetable lasagna…usually in my grocer’s freezer.

Yes, big digression…

At any rate, what with my limited attention span I obviously can’t sit still without amusement, and find those that can survive without anything to do fascinating.

What I also don’t get is turbulence, and why we have to have it and why I seem to be the only one on a plane FREAKED out by it.

I have to distract myself. I try to pretend I'm on a subway. This trip I found a 5-song set by Yo Yo Ma suprisingly did a good job. And the book (I finished "Beauty by Zadie Smith,) and the video game (I currently hooked on "Peggle Nights") didn’t hurt either.

Distractions, diversions, what would I do without them?

Enought of the 8 already

2009-06-12T09:10:00.000-07:00

My 2 cents on the poor 8

When I was a kid, one of my FAVE shows was “Eight is Enough”, a slightly syrupy ABC "dramedy" that started in 1977. Every night when an episode was over, I really wanted to have 6 more kids added to my family, preferably right away and the exact same cast. Despite the fact that I lacked any design and architecture knowledge, I’d lie awake at night, building additions onto our house for the extra brood in my head over and over again.

“Eight is Enough”, “The Brady Bunch”…all shows back in the day with loads of kids, and parents seemingly normal enough to deal with the stress and financial strain without having to sell anyone’s soul. Of course it turns out a lot of the actors on the show in real life were real hot messes. But isn’t that the case with reality…it's messy? Love, happiness and “normal” families only happen on a scripted show.

So you see where I’m getting with this??

I’ve never watched the show that Jon & Kate and the eight kids show. I’ve heard a few people here and there talk about it, but it never peaked my interest. I’m sure it’s sweet and all that, but ‘eh. I’m not a reality show kind of person anyways.

But these days, you can’t go to a grocery store checkout or peruse an entertainment website without seeing the latest scandal. It's too bad. Those poor kids. Shame on TLC, and shame on the parents…they are both monsters in my humble opinion. Get a real haircut lady. Of course, my hatred of her might stem from the fact that after 8 kids she looks better than me, heh heh.

At any rate, shame on the American public too. We’re the ones who can’t look away from an accident, a train wreck, no matter how horrible. We should say enough already, but we know that’s not gonna happen.

The neighbors are always the last to know

2009-06-08T10:25:00.000-07:00

There was a story in the Sunday paper about a couple in Florida who have been accused of spying for Cuba, for many, many years. I was cracking up at the neighbors...who were SHOCKED at the charges.

They just didn't think it was possible the sweet li'l couple next door could be secret agents.

Seriously, don't you think they wanted it that way? If you DID think he could be a spy than he wouldn't have been a very good one, right?

If the neighbors were telling the media "Oh, I totally thought he was a spy. He was so shady and shifty..." then I'm guessing he'd have to turn in his secret decoder ring PDQ.

Instead they are shocked, " taken aback by news of the arrest."

People just crack me up sometimes.

I went to a fight and a hockey game broke out…

2009-06-04T12:45:00.000-07:00

...So goes the old saying. I don’t know it really is a saying, but I k now I lie to say it. And then I goggled it, and apparently other people like to say it as well. So there you have it.

I mentioned last week that I recently moved, and I think the ONE noticeable thing I have always carried with me is my love of the Detroit Red Wings.

I have a vague memory of going to Olympia Stadium (where the Red Wings played a long time ago) and as a child I was THRILLED to pieces when the guys smacked up against the boards. The whooshing of the skates, the chill of the stadium, the blood on the ice. All good times. I don't really know if I really was there, or if I dreamed it, but I’ve told the stories so many times when people ask me “How long have you liked hockey” that I believe it. Such is the legend of hockey in Hockeytown, AKA the home of the Detroit Red Wings.

In Michigan, the proximity to Canada I guess explains one reason why hockey is a big deal to a huge age group and both men and women in the area. People are rabid about the games. Naps are taken in order to watch the West Coast games. Yelling very loud at the TV is very common as well. During playoffs, plans are changed and trips are canceled. It's a big deal.

I worked with a great lady at a Detroit radio station who was going through a divorce and her ex-husband gave her a choice between 4 seats behind the Red Wing bench or the house. She said, “You can always get another house!” I sat in those wonderful seats a few times, and let me tell you…there is nothing like it, nothing like it at all.

That is if you’re a hockey person. If you’re not, well I don’t know what to tell you. There are more "non-hockey" people I think than hockey fans, so maybe that’s why we all stick together. And the Red Wings have become a little bit like Red Sox nation or the Dallas Cowboys back in the day. But Red Wings fan are much much nicer than those two teams.

At that same station in Detroit, The morning show “douche” (who is my “he who shall not be named”, because A) I think he’s litigious as hell, and B) he’s a publicity whore and I’m not about to give him any.

At any rate, the dude TOTALLY dissed Gordie Howe, a legendary player who is truly bigger than GOD in some circles of Michigan. I remember trying to explain to the marketing director that the morning show was going down a very very bad path with the Gordie Howe bashing, and she didn’t believe me. She was from Cleveland, so knew absolutely NOTHING about hockey. Which always used to crack me up, you’d think in a way they would be a hockey town. Kinda like I can’t believe Seattle is not a hockey town, so close to Canada…crappy weather conducive to hockey watching, etc. etc.

At any rate, within’ about 20 minutes of the Gordie Howe snub from the morning show, people began to FLOCK to the station raising hockey sticks and screaming very very bad words about the morning show and generally causing a huge ruckus. The phone lines were off the hook and the program director dragged the morning douche onto my show (I did midday’s at the time) to make an apology right then and there.

The point of the story is –Don’t mess with the Red Wings, or the fans. Unless you know what you're doing, it's just won’t be worth it.

I'll have more Red Wings musings coming up soon.

She was so moved

2009-05-29T10:27:00.000-07:00

File this under: " Things only I care about Alex for $200"

Strange but true, I recently completed my 20th move. It was one thing to be in radio and move “town to town up and down the dial” but it seems at times a few crazy roommates and an upwardly mobile hubby has caused me to box up my crap.

1. Parents 1 to Parents 2
(small house we lived for a few years early on and then into house I grew up in)

2. Parents to Eastern Michigan Univ. Dorm 1
(the first of the 10 years it would take me to get degree)

3. Dorm 1 to Dorm2
(first time I lived by myself, took summer classes, was a bit scary at first but then cool)

4. Dorm2 to off campus
(the beginning of ”a time that shall not be named”)

5. Off campus to a horrible southern state I don’t want to talk about either

6. South back to Parents-
Entered the Specs Howard School of Broadcast Arts-True story...I won $1000 in a RADIO STATION call in contest, and when the jock asked me what I was going to do with the money I told him "Go to radio school and take your job some day"

7. Parents to Cadillac, MI 1
(First Radio Job)

8. Cadillac 1 to Cadillac 2
(Mice in the first place)

9. Cadillac 2 to Lima, OH 1
(Second radio job)

10. Lima 1 to Lima 2
(Ferret and roommate who got strange in first place)

11. Lima 2 to Akron, OH
(3rd Radio job)

12. Akron to Buffalo, NY
(4th Radio job)

13. Buffalo to Parents
(Yes, the 'rents were SUPER thrilled with me at this point...went back to EMU to finally finish my degree and SWORE I was done with radio)

14. Parents to On my Own in Mich 1
(It was in this time period I met met my now husband, graduated from college...and used that new degree to....go back into radio. Still paying for the degree too, ironic)

15. On my Own in Mich 1 to On my Own in Mich 2
( Roommate issues again and went and got my own pad. 5th & 6th radio jobs-best time ever working in my hometown of Motown)

16. On my Own in Mich 2 to Hackensack, NJ
(Love conquers career..sorta. BF now hubby had transferred there, I was getting booted....it was all a timing thing)

17. Hackensack to Jersey City 1
We fell in live with JC…. it‘s the 6th borough you know. It’s right across the river from NYC… where I eventually worked most of the time in my East Coast days.

18. Jersey City 1 to Jersey City 2
Bigger place and now tied as the Best View Ever--if you kept the door of the front bathroom open, you could see the Statue of Liberty while…uh…you know… I also had my 8th radio job in Philly for a while, but that drive and other factors changed that. It turned out to be the last place I was on the air.

19. Jersey City to Seattle 1
Upward mobile hubby gets a job all the way across the country. Ain't love grand. ;)

20. Seattle 1 to Seattle 2-
Rents have gone down on this HUGE place with a Best View Ever Number 2. It truly is stunning.

Top 8 Songs about Movin’

Movin’ Out- Billy Joel (mentions Hackensack baby!)
Keep on Movin’-Soul II Soul
Move on Up-Curtis Mayfield (featured in a cute scene from "Bend it Like Beckham")
Moving in Stereo-The Cars
I Love to Move in Here-Moby
Move Away-Culture Club
Move Along- All-American Rejects
The Man Who Can’t be Moved-The Script (One of my new fave bands...very Maroon 5ish.)

Sittin' on a Dock on Tahoe...

2009-05-26T09:29:00.000-07:00

Song of the Day: "Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay"- Otis Redding

Spent the weekend at a friend's place right on Lake Tahoe and actually I was singing: "Sittin' on a Dock on Tahoe, ohhhh, I don't want to go."

It was my third visited to the area nestled between California and Nevada, and it just doesn't get old. I grew up with sandy beaches on the Great Lakes, and later fell in love with the Atlantic Ocean from South Beach to Point Pleasant. But with Tahoe you get the water, the mountains, the trees. And then there's the casino's at night, a great cure for a "nature overload"...something city folk experience from time to time.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words...but after this weekend I have to say that's not always the case.

At times, pictures can't really convey those "momentary qualities of light" that Monet was so fond of painting. The sun chasing the water and the water tossing off sparkles. You can't look at a picture and really smell the clean air, hear the soft putt putt puttering of the small boats lumbering by, not in a hurry to go anywhere. Taste the succulent, perfectly spiced meat that was slow roasting on the BBQ, or feel the utter contentedness at that a simple yet full day can bring.

You can't see any of that in these pictures. Thank goodness for words.

Monday Moanin's

2009-05-11T08:09:00.000-07:00

Song of the Day: "Ironic"-Alanis Morissette

One of those songs I like forgot I liked, mostly because it uses the word ironic and offers up some illustrations. What can I say, I'm a bit of a geek.

A Recovering DJ Definition of Irony:

The other day, I was late for something, because I was running around looking for my WATCH!!

Here's something funny too, apparently you can buy irony.com, I found this when I was googling for a definition link. And apparently I'm a little off on the real definition of irony, but what can I say, I only have an English minor.

I'm in the middle of packing up and moving across the courtyard...which is better than moving back across the country, but truth be told...some days I'd much rather do that...ha ha. Maybe that is irony too???

So posts are short and sweet this week, which might turn out to be the new format anyways. I'm ALWAYS a work in progress....:)

I'm also an iPhone junkie, but I can laugh at myself...check out this funny, I think it's ironic, don't ya think?

Phoney pet peeve

2009-05-06T07:28:00.001-07:00

Song of the Day: "Hangin' on the Telephone"-Blondie

This comic reminded me of one of my top silly pet peeves- LONG, rambling voice mail messages. I can see that you called, I'm probably just going call you back anyways.

I also don't like the "it's me" on a message. I've noticed I have a lot of "Me's" who sound alike, although now they are easier to identify now with caller ID. Modern technology....

Fun little bit to take your mind off the flu

2009-04-30T09:07:00.000-07:00

Oh, except I just mentioned it, so you're probably thinking about it now even if you weren't. Sorry. "The Swine" just showed up in my backyard, so now it's in my personal universe and even more annoying.

I can't wait to see the Seattle mayor on TV with a mask, I'll be curious if they can find one big enough for him.

I digress...

The other day, I was researching for a post on Susan Boyle, and I stumbled upon a blog written by a guy from the U.K. He did a very funny "bit" called the "Female Celebrity Vilification Game." Fill in your own names for hours of fun with friends and family!

Missing Maude

2009-04-29T10:28:00.000-07:00

When I first heard that sad news that Bea Arthur had passed over the weekend, I immediately thought of Maude, one of the first strong female characters my young eyes had ever watched on television. She was sassy and confident and talked back to that mean ol’ Archie Bunker. She scared me a little bit, but in a good way.

She wasn’t hot; she was sort the Susan Boyle of the day. I know that’s stretching it. But back in the 70’s, it seems the definition of “hotness” was different. I mean Sally Struthers on “ All in the Family” was considered the cutest person on the show. Not that there’s anything wrong with Sally, she did a remarkable turn on “Gilmore Girls”

But I digress...

Most people seemed to be talking about Bea on “Golden Girls” which I personally don't think could have happened without the ground breaking “Maude.” I read on blog a rather smart statement that “The Golden Girls” was “the original ‘Sex and the City’ but without all that ugly consumerism and pathetic pining. “ True dat.

But honestly, I didn't care for "The Girls" when it first came out. When I moved to Seattle however, it was the only thing on at 9 AM besides horrible talk shows. And I began to see the subtle charm of the show. It wasn’t about a bunch of old biddies; it was about a bunch of friends who somehow managed to save enough to retire to Florida.

Bea Arthur came from Broadway and was a star there first, until Norman Lear “discovered her.” She said many times she didn’t want to be the “voice of feminism” but I think it's better than being the voice of Jimmy Choo.

Looking back, she was a role model to a young girl who didn’t even know at the time what “feminism” meant. She just liked a tall funny woman who spoke her mind and wore long shirts. I’d rather look up to Maude then Carrie Bradshaw any day.

Think about television today- what strong role models for girls/women are there right now? Mushy Meredith from “Grey’s Anatomy?” Spoiled and Bratty Serena & Blair from “Gossip Girls?” Shady and skanky Kate on “Lost?”

Maybe Betty on “Ugly Betty” or Mary on “In Plain Sight” could be considered "Maude like?"

Yes I watch a lot of television, I know I know.

Recovering DJ: my five pence on Susan Boyle

2009-04-24T11:27:00.000-07:00

So I’m finally chiming in on the whole Susan Boyle controversy, upheaval, or whatever you want to call it. I'm prone to comment on anyone named Susan, as well as music in general.

Like most news items, I've been paying attention with just half an eye and ear. I see drips and drabs on TV news and scan headlines here and there online or in one of those old fashioned newspaper things. You can’t miss her really; she’s s all over the net and is consistently a trending topic on Twitter.

In case your attention span is worse than mine. Susan Boyle is a contestant on "Britain’s got Talent," She's a tad bit frumpy to put it mildly, and the audience immediately thought she wouldn't be that great. But alas, it’s not true, she got “the voice”.

As a girl who’s got the perfect face for radio and makes everyone in a gym feel much better about themselves when she walks in, I gotta say Bravo Susan B! You make a Susan proud.

Some people are of course now commenting that perhaps it’s all been a calculated act or something, but backlash is inevitable.So what if she did have a few tricks up her taffeta sleeve? It’s called marketing and P.R. It's O.K when actors and other dubious “celebrities” plan their little plots, but heaven forbid a woman like Susan Boyle joke about never being kissed and then admit later she was joking.

The truth is, I just now watched the entire video of her first audition and I started SOBBING, even though I’ve seen parts of it already. Her cute little victory jig at the end reminded me we all have feelings and dreams and we should be permitted to go down our own paths, without getting trampled on by people who think they know it all.

And now I’ll go back to paying half attention.

No more unwatched flicks

2009-04-23T10:04:00.000-07:00

The Recovering DJ household recently jumped on the "cost cutting caboose". Factor in that plus plain 'ol principle, and we decided to cancel our Netflix membership. It was really the principle of the whole thing, but strangely I'm a little sad. Cinderella was right, You really don't know what you got until it's gone.

I love Netflix, I really do. From what I've read they're a great company with excellent execution on a great concept. You generally get your new DVD the next day, and now you can even watch certain flicks on the net.

But a problem arises...when you don't watch the movies. Either for months and months or...ever. I've mentioned before that I had possession of a DVD for over 7 months before I watched it. The lack of pressure to turn in a movie on time for some reason lulls me into a mode of "I'll just watch it tomorrow, or the next night, or on the weekend."

Apparently this household isn't the only one suffering from self-induced Netflix nonsense. If there really are alot of people like me out here, the Netflix concept is even more genius.

In the meantime, it's back to cable movies. Thank goodness the new USA shows are starting.

It's not just Earth Day for some people

2009-04-22T11:15:00.000-07:00

Song of the Day: "Birthday"-The Beatles

Today is Recovering DJ day too.

It’s funny how it's such a big deal to some people it’s their birthday and some people could care less. There must be a big psychological study about how you react to your big day defines the kind of person you are. As if it's that easy.

I have friends that go way overboard on their day, all "me me me" and it's like come on, we’re gettin' too old for this. But then I have some friends who don’t make a big deal at all and I think that’s wrong too.

Your birthday is your day; (unless you share it with other's- I happen to share it with four people I know, which I feel is an unusually large amount. I want my own day, HA). But regardless, you should be nice to yourself, treat yourself to something-however small but important only to you.
I think of my birthday as New Year's Day, which it really is. Another year of your life. I reflect on the past, and future and pour myself a glass of vino because it's all so much. Another story for another day.

I also try to do something nice for myself-like a mani/pedi, and responsible- I schedule doctor and dentist appointments before my birthday, that way I know every year when I’m due for my check ups. Ugh, that’s such a grown up thing to do now that I go back and read that.

When I worked in radio, saying a birthday over the air was a BIG DEAL, to both the birthday person as well as the person who made the request. I felt I possessed a great power over civilians, which I guess I did. But the simple gesture made people happy, so it was worth using the power for good instead of evil. At least I don’t think I ever used it for evil, unless I said someone’s age or something, broadcasting it to thousands of people at once…Oops.

Aaliyah (may she rest in peace) sang: “Age ain’t nothin’ but a number”. True, but sometimes it’s not a good number, not a number you want out there. I know some people hide their age, although now that I think about it, not in my circle. I am probably the only one who has started to think about shaving a few years off here and there, I mean who would it hurt really? I know some people who think they'r sooo old and therefore are acting so waaayyy too soon. And then I know people who don’t act their age, and I’m not sure if they ever will. I think I fit somewhere in the middle.

Today is also Earth Day, something I find veddy veddy amusing. Without giving too much away, Earth Day was created AFTER I was. Therefore, a somewhat egotistical maniac who thinks the world revolves around her might think Earth Day is about her.

Alas, not so. Just a funny little coincidence, which I think might help people remember my b'day. Or not, if they're aren't Earth Day sort of people.

At any rate, it’s certainly better than being born on a day like Christmas. You really get gypped on the gifts. Of course you do when you get older too, but that’s a story for another day boys and girls.

I love USA!

2009-04-21T10:37:00.000-07:00

The network... Well and the country, of course.

I came to this fascinating and startling conclusion the other night while watching the season 2 premiere of “In Plain Sight”-a show about a pair of U.S Marshalls in New Mexico and the madcap mayhem that happens on the job. The male Marshall is named “Marshall” which my “punny” humor just loves. The female lead is played by Mary McCormack, formally a “West Wing” cast member, (In fact USA seems to employ a lot of former “West Winger’s” which I find incredibly amusing as well) **

At any rate, while watching, a promo comes on for a new USA show starting in June called “Royal Pains” starring Mark Feurstein, he of “In Her Shoes” (a once top-secret favorite Recovering DJ movie, now obviously that’s out)

“Royal Pains” also co-stars Campbell Scott, a fave of mine in the David Mamet classic “The Spanish Prisoner” and of course the Seattle singles scene in “Singles”. Add in the fact that the story sounds fun and I am hooked.

Another promo comes on later for “Burn Notice” featuring the hottest spy in the world played by Jeffrey Donovan and this is when I exclaim to my husband, startling him away from his Kindle, “ I love this network!”

He nods knowingly, his wife is a TV junky and her new fix is now within easy reach on one channel.

I got hooked on USA last year when I started watching “Monk” every day to catch up on the show. The network does such a good job of promoting all their shows that I began to watch more and more. It doesn’t hurt that I am a marketer’s dream, pretty much swayed by slick production and quirky characters.

Yes, I watch too much TV.
I guess admitting it is one step towards recovering though, right?

**What makes USA the “West Wing” Network? (File under things only I care about.)

Mary McCormack on “In Plain Site” played Kate Harper, deputy national security advisor

Dule Hill on USA's “Pysch” played Charlie, the President’s assistant.

Bradley Whitford-Josh on WW guest stars on “Monk”

Richard Schiff who played Toby on WW had a two episode story on “Burn Notice” when I checked him out on IMDB it states he also guest stars on “Monk” and “In Plain Site” crazy!

Kindle 2: Amazon's New Wireless Reading Device (Latest Generation)

My tribute to "The Bird"

2009-04-17T10:48:00.000-07:00

My mom told me the other night, a quick one line e-mail…”Did you hear Mark Fidrych died, “The Bird” he was 54. I had not heard, and the news made me blue.

I honestly can’t recall if I ever saw the “Bird” pitch live, I feel like I did, and I'm telling people I did, but it's possible I'm embellishing a bit. I know back in 1976 I was a really really young, but I think the mid-70’s was when I got intrigued by baseball.

I think the crazy, wacky “Bird” got me interested in something I never cared about before, an entity that has become a part of my life since then. Late nights listening to my scratchy little AM radio next to my bed, Ernie Harwell calling the West Coast games, lulling me to sleep. Baseball was warm summer nights to me back then.

He spoke to the ball, he jumped over the white lines, he immediately congratulated great plays made by his teammates. His excitement and love of the game was infectious.

And I think the “Bird” got me into pitchers. All the great Tiger pitchers from back in the day-Dave Rozema, Jack Morris , Dan Schatzeder, Dan Petry….and on and on.

Back then, I couldn't wait to go see Patty Smyth and John Waite, at the time two of my favorite singers touring together was "totally rad". However, Kirk Gibson and Rozema showed up and sat two rows ahead of us. Guess whom we ended up watching more, the concert or Gibby & Rozie? That's how much I was into pitchers and the Tigers.

I remember my first game, at old Tiger Stadium at Michigan & Trumbell, the non-gentrified stadium that seemed a lot more “baseball like” than parks like Comerica and Safeco…both great ball fields that I’ve been to many times, I’m just sort a purist when it comes to the old school. Although then first time I went to Yankee Stadium I thought it was a total dump, but I got over that.

I loved my first game. My dad got box seats for the four of us. I believe we played Toronto. The seats were bright orange and the sun was burning bright. It was a good day.

I recall the game when Al Kaline's number was retired, I thought that ‘s when I saw the “Bird”. But it would have been too late for him then, his career was sadly already over. One great summer.

A sweet, genuinely sincere guy who was happy no matter what he was doing. Certainly an inspiration. The sad/funny thing is, these days, “The Bird” would not have been accepted.

I’ve been listening to Dan Patrick lately (and surprisingly liking him even though he’s a sports broadcaster). But he something the other day about Fidrych, how “We are so cynical and snarky now… (we would all think it's an act) it’s orchestrated, it’s pre-meditated, its not natural”

It’s true. We have celebrities that do absolutely nothing but let the paparazzi follow them. But a guy who is livin’ his dream, a dream of many people, would be ridiculed for enjoying the ride.

Let's hope he's still enjoying.

More articles on "The Bird"
Freep Flashback

Drew Sharp "When the Bird Was the Word" (that title has been in my head all week now"

2009-04-16T11:20:00.001-07:00

I am 12 years old I swear. It's bad enough I'm a social media junky. Now I have discovered I can text in a blog post!? This is a test, this is only a test of the emergency recovering Dj network.

DC Tea Party Protest Shut Down By Secret Service, Package Thrown Over White House Fence (VIDEO)

2009-04-15T15:56:00.001-07:00

What is wrong with people??? Bush is the one who dragged us down into this mess you idiots. What a bunch of lemmings, it just makes me sad and sick. Although I will say the government must hate people who don't own their place and who don't have children, trust me I know because we got TOTALLY reamed. What can you do? Absolutely nothing. You can't fight city hall. Death and taxes are the only things certain in life.
About Tax Day Tea Parties
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost

Starting again, once again, in a matter of speaking

2009-04-13T17:04:00.000-07:00

Hello dear readers-all two of you.

I really loathe pushing the "fourth wall",that invisible divider that separates the character from the audience. Ironic, since I spent a long time talking directly to an audience. Well actually, just an audience member, one person....that's the key to great radio...one on one communication, talk directly to one individual.

But I digress...

I know I've been remiss on posting as frequently as I should. You know how it is, once you get off that bicycle...you head to a bar and then you can't remember where the heck the bike is, or something like that.

I know, I know the saying is really: "it's like riding a bike"...the all purpose catch phrase for something not forgotten... but doesn't seem to apply to me... I don't even know if I could ride a bike anymore quite frankly. I'd like to, but with the hills around here...who knows.

The bike I was on, metaphorically speaking, was the East Coast. I was distracted all week from writing even the simplest of posts to keep the blog momentum going. I couldn't get a New York minute in at all. It's crazy I know, and it’s something I really need to work on. And that's important, keep working on, not giving up.

Cuz sometimes it's so much easier to give up.

It’s always a process really, being a human being, trying to keep going. It’s easy to get caught up in the smallest minutia of life and forget the big picture.

So, once again, as always, I'll pick myself up, dust myself off, and start all over again.

The adventure continues my friends, the adventure continues.

But I'm suppose to be Susan!

2009-04-03T08:19:00.000-07:00

Song of the day: "My Name is Not Susan" Whitney Houston

A long forgotten dance gem in my opinion.

I loved "talking out" of this song on the radio, because simple humor amuses me most.

" 10:52, Whitney Houston there, who's not Susan, but I am!"

I used to think that was sooo funny. But it probably wasn't to most people. Which can explain alot.

Yes, my name is Susan. And I'm here to claim it.

What got me on this protective Susan rant is something I just read about- a new "mock umentary" that will be appearing on the web. And it stars Sarah Silverman. Who I don't particularly care for. I don't know why. Some would say it's jealousy. But whatever, the point is...her characters name is SUSAN! grrrrr.

But of course I've just given the show a plug, so there you go. Any P.R is better than no P.R I always say. Look at Britney if you don't belive me for heavens sakes!

But I digress...

Sarah Silverman playing a Susan is not as bad as the mother of all eyebrows lady who I really really don't care for, Brooke Shields who did a show called "Suddenly Susan" for what seemed like forever. I could NOT believe Susan was her characters name. I took it as a personal assault. Back then I was on the air and I would rail about it constantly. The universe had plotted against me. That too would probably explain alot.

Cute Susan side note, while Googling for "Suddenly Susan" I came across a interesting little blog by that name.

See, my "Susan bashing" is random. For example, I didn't mind Madonna's character being called Susan in "Desperately Seeking Susan".

Although I always wonder-Why does the flower's name have to be Black Eyed Susan??

Why are trays that rotate around called a Lazy SUSAN???

Yes, my name is Susan and I'm a bit of a a nut job.

It's been about six months since I started this blog, and I wasn't quite sure where I was going with it. I just knew it was something I really wanted to do. And felt I should do. People have been asking me, what is your blog about? And I usually say "pop culture", which is partially true. But really it's about me I guess, and my little observations on the world. And it's a release for rants that would normally be reserved for the radio.

We are all "me centric". We all think the universe revolves around us, and can't understand why people would not agree with us, hence the reason there is so much bickering going on in the world.

I used to say, "I'm the sun, and you are all planets circling me"
And someone said to me, "Well in that case, I want to be Pluto, as far away from the sun as possible"

That brings you down a peg.

Because in the end, it's the over sized ego that gets you, no matter what your name is.

A tale of an April fool on the radio

2009-04-01T08:39:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, in a land that is “hi” in the middle and round on both ends* there was a beautiful on-air radio personality. And lo, she was a funny girl too, at least she thought so anyways. She decided it would be a hoot to play a little trick on the 1st of April on the kindly townsfolk.

She thought and she thought, and finally came up with a brilliant idea. At least she thought so anyways.

When her radio show started, she began to report the most wondrous news to her eager listeners. She told them in the most convincing tone that her show was being filmed, live! If you, dear listeners, turn your television sets to channel 77 you will see the fair maiden DJ in all her glory.

The townsfolk were so excited and eager to see this spectacle; they immediately ran to their TV’s and switched them to channel 77.

But alas, there was no picture, only a fuzzy grey and white pattern. They were sad, for they were so looking forward to seeing the inside of the grand radio studio as well the fair maiden DJ.

“Don’t fret”, said the DJ. “You just need to wiggle your antenna, or jiggle your set.”

“That doesn’t work!” exclaimed an excited listener, calling on the station request line.

“Perhaps you need to adjust your cable, make sure it's plugged in all the way." responded the DJ.

And so it went. Caller after caller tried to get reception on channel 77, and nothing was working.

Some thought they might see a shadow of some sort “ See me now, I’m waving my hands back and forth” announced the DJ at one point to a caller live on the air.

“Oh yes” squealed the listener, “I can see something shadowy moving on my screen, now that you mention it.”

And so it went on some more, as listeners became callers, but alas none of the townsfolk were able to get television reception on channel 77. Although some claimed they could indeed see something moving on their screen when the DJ persuaded them to look harder. The power of persuasion, especially from a soothing voice, can be very magical.

And then suddenly, the dreaded Studio HOT Line rang. This was a super duper, top-secret phone number that only the evil program director boss knew. He would dial this number whenever the fair maiden DJ was doing something wrong, or what he deemed to be wrong. The Hot line ring was every DJ's greatest fear, behind dead air.

The evil boss roared, “The cable company is getting flooded with calls. People think there is something wrong with their cable because some fool DJ is telling them to turn to channel 77 to view the radio station studio live.”

The fair maiden DJ chuckled. Channel 77 did not exist in this town. The listeners, unwittingly, and fallen prey to an April Fools Joke!

And oh, how she laughed and laughed as she told the townspeople the news. And oh, how they screamed and yelled when told they had been the victims of a prank.

But they didn’t stay angry for long, and everyone eventually had a guffaw over the whole affair.

And every once in awhile, some townspeople would admit later, they’d turn to channel 77…just to see if MAYBE it wasn’t a joke after all.

*(Ohio)

Recovering DJ's latest grooves

2009-03-25T15:43:00.000-07:00

Indie Songs I’m groovin’ on this month-just a few of many

It’s that time of year, we're over Winter and anxious to move on to Spring already. While I can’t do a darn thing about the weather, I can offer up some musical gems that might take the edge off.

There’s an irony in my little household that once upon a time, I was the one discovering new music to spin on the radio. Find artists to educate the masses…make the listeners see, well actually hear, the error of their musical ways and try to persuade them who they really should be listening too. At least that’s how you think it’s gonna work when you start out as a baby DJ. Record companies and artists were always sending me albums and CD’s so I didn’t have to look for music, it came to me.

Now, my main source for new music is my husband. He’s got a knack for discovering a quirky group…usually someone he read about in Blender or Rolling Stone. With the rise of iTunes (and the Genius feature, which is awesome.) Anyone can find new music.

Most of these songs I came across on XM satellite radio, Channel 43 XMU. It's actually Sirius XM now and unfortunately, XMU is not that great since that the companies have merged, which is a shame because it was a Xcellent indie music source. It's funny I liked XM much better, because they were owned by that biz killer, Clear Channel.

It’s kinda hard to make note of new songs when driving, which I only do about once a week. I try to say the names aloud a few times over and over in hopes of memorizing the band name. If I have paper and pen close by, I try to write and drive, or sometimes I take a picture of the radio with my phone in hopes of being able to see the digital readout later. That one doesn’t work out so well.

Truthfully some of these tunes aren’t “new” but they’re new to me, and therefore as far as I’m concerned, new to my universe. What’s old is new again. Like flowers poking their heads once again through the frozen dirt, some songs finally reach the surface of my existence and I finally notice.

Rogue Wave-“Chicago X 12”
I’d call them a “poppy-alternative” hybrid. These guys are on Jack Johnson’s label now after Seattle’s Sub Pop dropped them.

The New Pornographers -“Twin Cinema”
Title track from their 2005 release, I missed the boat the first time around on this cheeky band from “up north ay“ in Vancouver.

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah -“Over and Over Again””
Another ’05. All the kids call these Brooklyn/Philly boys CYHSY. The lead singer totally sounds like David Byrne, which is a big duh for those who have already been on the train. I again remember reading about them, but eh…just never got around to checking them out, for shame!

The Kills-“The Good Ones”
I should really call this list the "best of ’05." I guess Sirius doesn’t have any newer CD’s, what with having to pay Howard Stern (*SNAP*)Anyways-this one of those songs that just really gets under my groove skin, which is different than your regular skin, don’t ya know?

M.Ward featuring Zooey Deschanel-“Never Had Nobody Like You”
This one is actually from 2009!! M. Ward lives in Oregon and his latest work is an old school sound with a fresh car smell. A bit more popish than some of his pervious work I think, but the addition of the always-"Elfish" Zooey gives this song a unique feel.

While "music is within a world within itself, in a language we all understand (so says "Sir Duke" himslef, Mr. Stevie Wonder), music is also EXTREMLY subjective and personal, so if you don’t like my list…please keep that in mind.

Before You Tube, it was just...the Tube

2009-03-20T07:17:00.000-07:00

Song of the day:
"57 Channels and nothin; on"-Bruce Springsteen

For me, TV is comfort food. Good ol’ shows like “Seinfeld”, “Gilmore Girls”, “Will & Grace”, Frasier, 90’s shows in syndication on your basic cable channels like TBS, Lifetime, and Family Channel. I hear the snickers now, but whatevah.

New shows don’t it for me as much. “Family Guy”, “Ugly Betty” and “How I Met Your Mother” about my only new “comfort “ shows. I love “Lost” but that’s an event, not a soothing moment. And then the so-called reality TV is not reality at all and all the voyeurism just wears me down. How does the minutia of someone else’s life seem interesting??

TV lulls me, soothes me and whatever your arguments are about TV, I know I’ve wasted a lot of time with the boob tube, but isn’t admitting it the first step towards recovering? You’d think so anyway.

Like last week I was half watching “ER”, something I haven’t done in years. Half watching means I was on the phone, or reading, or playing Pogo. Back in the day, “ER” was a show that introduced me to a whole different world. The Michael Crichton writing the George Clooney hotness, it was such a high-speed, slick show at the time.

You have cop-show people, soap opera people, I think I’ve always been a hospital show person. “St. Elsewhere”, “Chicago Hope”, “ER”. And yes “Grey’s Anatomy”. The first season was crazy frothy fun with a great soundtrack-CD that got me through a lousy time. A show about a city I had never been to nor had any desire to see. Yes, the irony that I now live in the shadow of Seattle Grace doesn't escape me.

Who says TV doesn't model real life??

I often wonder why there isn’t an “all-old” sitcom/drama network. I know there’s “nick at night” but I’m talking only the stuff I like.

I know there’s licensing issues and the money it costs to make all this happen. So maybe someone can come up with a “My channel”? If you are a subscriber to a cable network, and you could pull together all the shows you want to watch on one channel, like a mix tape. Stranger things have happened.

A (news) paper cut can go deep

2009-03-18T08:27:00.000-07:00

I know I’ve belabored it, another post about a silly newspaper. In a town I’ve only been in a few years yet. Wall Street crumbled and I hardly even blinked an eyelash, GM might go under and I shrug, but now my eyes keep spilling over as I read the last print edition of the Seattle Post- Intelligencer, the P.I.

I know I’m harping, but it seems no one else is. Which makes me even sadder. I’ve been leafing through the last edition, and the history that the paper has been a part of is awe-inspiring.
There’s an episode of “Seinfeld” where Jerry tells a woman that his friend George Costanza is a marine biologist. George exclaims “But you know I’ve always wanted to pretend to be an architect.”

I myself-I’ve always wanted to be a journalist, and I'm sorta pretending to be one now. Had I not been so lazy when I was younger I think I would have tried a lot harder to get into print or broadcast news.

(One of my all time favorite movies, “Broadcast News”…the part where Holly Hunter unplugs the phone and cries hysterically than goes back to work…. I can relate. )

But for me, there was also a glamorous glow in newspaper writing. I don’t know where I got that feeling, but I think I’ve always felt that way.

I feel bad for the PI employees who had to go. Some of them, 10, 20, 30 years on the job. I know what it’s like to be in an extremely specialized field.

I remember trying to get a “real “ job in New York City. I was registering with a temp agency and the recruiter went over my resume with a black Sharpie, obliterating 10 years of my life. She reduced my radio career to whatever “administrative” or “managerial” work I had done, insisting I include nothing about being on-air, which she said would hurt my chances for getting a job.

She slashed and cut, and a piece of me went too. I left the building to sob on the corner in the pouring rain, realizing I didn't have enough money to get a hot dog AND get the bus back to Jersey. That’s when I realized radio was no longer payin’ they bills, the mean ol’ Sharpie lady was right.

It’s ironic that the very part that was cut is the very part that people are fascinated with. My friends, family are always like “my friend used to work in radio” It doesn't matter what I’ve done after. That will be the defining time of my life. It can be exhilarating and exhausting all at the same time.

So I do empathize with the PI peeps. It’s hard to adapt to “civilian” life. I don’t think I ever really have. I truly wish them all well in their future endeavors, and hope they don't run into too many recruiters who are brandishing Sharpies.

And I think the kids today; they don’t know the glitz of the daily’s. The well written thought out news stories, in-depth articles, thought provoking opinions. Instead, the cynical "short attention span" generation gets all it’s news from a bunch of yahoo bloggers. Yes, present company included.

There’s a picture on the front page of the last PI issue that’s showcases a quote from Thomas Jefferson gracing the walls of the P.I building:

“Were it left for me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter."

Here here!

Seattle PI put to bed

2009-03-16T13:31:00.000-07:00

The Seattle PI is no more! Tomorrow, March 17, 2009 will be the last edition. It's so sad, the demise of a paper.

As I mentioned last week, I've only been a Seattle resident for a short time, but anytime a journalistic empire goes under is cause for dismay.

Songs of the Day:
In honor of the PI

"Sunday Papers"-Joe Jackson

"Second Hand News"-Fleetwood Mac

"News of the World"- The Jam

Would you believe that's all I could find??!!

Why I picked the P.I

2009-03-11T13:00:00.000-07:00

When I was a baby DJ, the Internet was still just a gleam in the eyes of many a tech geek. News came down the old fashion way, from the AP news wire. Show prep (in civilian terms, that means prepping for your show) was done in the most archaic fashion, pulling it from the wire and reading the newspaper.

I’ve always been a big fan of the newspaper. I enjoy the feel of scratchy paper and rubbed-off ink on my fingertips. I grew up reading the Detroit papers, the News and Free Press (The Freep had better comics, that’s all an eight year old cares about.) Many a day was spent pouring over the pages, not understanding what I was reading sometimes but overjoyed at the prospect of what I might learn.

I wrote for my High School Paper (The Blue & White!) and my college paper for a short time. I was torn between going into broadcasting or print journalism. I had given up my kindergarten ambitions of being an actress or the Queen. I went with, what I thought at the time, was the safer bet-radio. (Yes, that’s a whiff of sarcasm mixed with irony)

At any rate, as I began to move around the dial I’d grab my locals every day-The Lima News, The Akron Beacon Journal, The Cleveland Plain Dealer and The Buffalo News. And when I moved to NY/NJ It was like a newspaper junkie’s dream come true; it was the land of a dozen papers. The Star Ledger, The Bergen Record, The New York Post and the gray lady herself The New York Times. All could be easily folded and read on the subway. And all had a special place in my heart for different reasons.

My newspaper Jones doesn’t diminish in my travels. Of course there’s always the USA Today, which I have to say isn’t the worse thing I’ve read. I’ve picked up The L.A Times, The Miami Herald, and The Chicago Tribune, even the Las Vegas Sun. Wherever I’ve been I’ve perused the local paper.

So, you can imagine, moving to Seattle and leaving my East Coast stable of papers behind was a little daunting. I was somewhat mollified when I discovered Seattle was a two-paper town, The Seattle Times and the Seattle Post Intelligencer. With a JOA in place that is sort of like Detroit’s, the Sunday paper is a combo of both. The dailies are a bit different and unique, and it took me awhile to decide who was going to have the honor of gracing my doorstep. Call me a loon, (and many do) but opening the door in the morning to the newspaper at my feet is one of my most favorite things. It doesn’t take much for me, and my husband is constantly grateful for that.

So how to pick? The P.I’s office is right down the street, with an old school “Daily Gotham” like globe spinning atop the building. At first I didn’t really know where the Seattle Times office was, but I knew they didn’t have such a hip rooftop ornament. The P.I name was more unique; different from any paper I’ve known. The Seattle Times…well around here they’re “The Times”, and I thought at first people were referring to the only paper that will ever be just “The Times” to me…The New York Times.

In most towns, you have the conservative leaning paper and the liberal leaning paper. In Seattle, there’s the liberal paper, (Seattle Times) and the really liberal paper, (Post-Intelligencer). I don’t normally pick a paper for its politics. There are certain ascetics I’m drawn to- like layout, lifestyle section, and various syndicated columns. The New York post is ultra right, but I love Page Six. The New York Daily News has better sports. The Bergen Record was more about North Jersey and had a much better layout than the more popular Star Ledger.

And the Seattle Post-Intelligencer has better comics. Yes, the eight year old won. Not to mention my husband liked the sports section better. And I also liked the layout and lifestyle sections.

But now, just like that, The Hearst Corp. is cuttin’ the P.I loose. No more printed word, only a glowing, cold online format. I’ve been through format changes, I’ve been through staff changes, but I’ve never worked at a station that ceased to exist.

And the sad thing is, most people don’t care. Most people don’t read the dailies anymore. The ‘net is a great place, and yes I get most of my news from it these days. But it just feels like an end of an era. You can’t really fold up the ‘net and read it wherever, or tear out a recipe out or cut out an article.

And it's really hard to read the comics online.

My happy thoughts go out to all the P.I people who are cut lose. As you compete for the same jobs I’m going for now, just know that you'll persevere, you will pull through. Hopefully.

And at least some of the time, you’ll at least think you’re recovering. ☺

SNL: The Rock Obama: Don't Make Obama Mad (VIDEO)

2009-03-08T12:26:00.001-07:00

I have to admit, "The Rock" can be entertaining! If you can't laugh, then what's the point...this is a hoot.
About Barack Obama
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost

A little ditty 'bout time

2009-03-06T07:32:00.000-08:00

This morning my brain was brewing a clever li'l post about time. And then I realized I already wrote a little ditty about time in the fall.

Spring Forward!

I did want to mention the switch to Daylight Savings time this weekend. We lose an hour, ugh. And it seems so early this year, no?

Time was really important in my on-air radio career. When struggling for what to say at the next break (which was often) I'd start with the time. “Q-9 5 5, Susan Cruise at 10:52 with the latest from Matchbox 20 there….”

Time became a crutch, so I was told. It wasn't so important in midday's. (10am-2 or 3 pm shift) as it was on the morning show, where time checks were given all over the place, in several different forms...digital..."It's 10:52”...old school…"It's about 10 minutes before 11:00."

You also had to be on time for work. People really really noticed if you were late for your shift, so there wasn’t any excuse that was good enough. If you were prone to tardiness, it was great when you didn't have a talk break right away at the top of the hour.

But usually that was not the case. Nothing like racing to the station and hearing someone else do my first break. AND they're telling the world they are doing it because you are late. Oh yeah, I wasn't sneaking into the studio without getting yelled at after that.

The time changes also messed up the playlist. Playlist? Oh yeah, the top secret playlist “civilians” aren’t suppose to know about. Long story short, every hour has a list of music. So when a shift has an extra hour, (like during “Fall Back” in the fall) I had to make sure to add an extra page of music. I'd also have to remember to tell the idiot night jock that there actually WAS an added hour of music, so they didn't play the same hour twice.

Although, truth be told, I’m sure not that many people noticed that.

Recovering DJ props to Paul Harvey

2009-03-03T11:36:00.000-08:00

Just a quick Paul Harvey tribute, who died over the weekend. He was a true radio pro in a biz full of posers. In several of the small markets I worked at I had to run his show, and what started as an annoyance (he was taking time away from MY show) turned into a comforting habit and lessons learned in consistency and loyalty.

Whether you agreed with him or not, he had longevity and CLASS in a business that has very very little of either. Unless you're a syndicated douche blowhard taking jobs away from everyone, than you might have some longevity....(snark, snark)

At any rate, there are few old school radio peeps left these days that I respect. Anyone who has persevered as long as Mr. Harvey had deserves a standing "O".

My movie two cents...

2009-02-23T08:08:00.000-08:00

...Two Cents...adjusted for inflation...what would that be???

I'm know I'm a day late and a dollar short....but man oh man...the Oscar's were pretty excruciating!

I was all excited I got home in time to watch them... AND I thought it was sooo money they were live on the West Coast..all the other awards shows are taped which soooo annoys me...

But it was pretty much all for naught. The Hugh Jackman/Anne Hathaway bit was cute. But then... Previous supporting actress winners came out to give long drawn out homage to the 2009 nominees....and suddenly I knew it was going to be a long long haul.

The even moolah was on "Slumdog Millionaire" so not too many people were disappointed. Despite the Slumdog backlash. There's always backlash, but I felt this film was deserving..much more so than past winners...

Top 5 Best Picture Oscar winners that didn't deserve it:
1981 "Chariots of Fire"
My friend and I went to see this after it won, and it was sooooo awful we left pretty early. I think it's the only movie I ever walked out on!

1990 "Dances With Wolves" Never saw it, never will. Have no interest in it. Just the way I roll.
1997 "Titanic"
Ohhh, will never watch this long, lame monstrosity. The boat sinks, they all die...I'm really going to waste 3 hours of my life? There's more to my Titanic distaste, but for another day...

1999 "American Beauty"
Really thought this was weird, bizarre and awful. I think I'm the only one though.

2004 Million Dollar Baby
I was soooo rooting for "Ray" and "Sideways" that year. Hey, maybe it's the word MILLION that helps a flick win? But seriously,Baby was lame and personally I think that's why the far superior "Gran Torino" did not get Clint ANY nominations....the academy blew their wad on this one!

And so ends another award season!

Sick of being sick?

2009-02-18T22:50:00.001-08:00

The Recovering DJ is Recovering!

I've been sick. Bad cold, nothing serious. But I'm a big baby. And I haven't been sick in quite awhile, so it hit me hard. I'm not surrounded by people as much, so my immunity is not boosted by others anymore.

Working in a small, airtight on-air radio booth sharing a microphone with others is a HUGE breeding ground. It's worse than a daycare. I remember one time in Lima the P.D using what seemed like a CASE of Lysol to spray down the on-air studio when one of the jocks came down with the flu. If one got sick, we all got sick. But of course you still had to work because there's no such thing as a sick day for DJ's, unless you completely lost your voice. And even then it was debatable. Oh, the glamours of the radio biz, snark. Even today I panic when I lose my voice, old habits die hard...or never at all.

When I first moved to the NJ/NY area, I was illin' all the time, a blast of bugs to my system. But after about six months, I was hardly sick at all. I attribute that to riding the great mass transit system know as the PATH to the New York City Subway. I say everyone should lick a subway pole and that would boost your immunity ten-fold!

If that just made you throw up a little in your mouth thinking about it, sorry. But I know there are other things you can do do boost your immunity, everyone has their favorites. I like Vitamin C, and those Zinc supplements. Plus lots of tea and water and juice. I don't do echinacea anymore, but I do think yogurt and garlic have their merits.

It's all a crap shoot probably, or perhaps it's a little bit of a self-fulfilling prophecy- If you FEEL the vitamin or supplement will help you get better, than perhaps you WILL feel better!

5 Songs About Illness

"Night Fever"-Bee Gees
"Bad Case of Loving You"-Robert Palmer (RIP- R.P)
"You Be Illin'" -Run DMC (RIP Jam Master Jay)
"Unwell"-Matchbox 20
"Cat Scratch Fever" -Ted Nugent

Bonus : "Fever"-Various Artists

Many have recorded this including Peggy Lee, Tom Jones, Elvis & Madonna

A "25 random things" Facebook musical replacement

2009-02-11T18:55:00.000-08:00

There's a thing going on around the social network Facebook called "25 random things" that is so popular that even the mainstream media has been commenting on it.

You basically list 25 random things about yourself to your Facebook community. Some people like it, some don't, either way it's the latest thing to create and read.

At any rate, I'm not so much into making the list about myself, for a variety of reasons, but I was sent this little ditty that I found much more enjoyable. Of course it takes a little time, but it's kinda funny how it all turns out. And if you aren't on Facebook ( and why aren't you, ha ha) Than you can just e-mail to your friends. This would also make a fun little party game as well.

RULES:
1. Put your iTunes, Windows Media Player, etc. on shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.
3. YOU MUST WRITE THAT SONG NAME DOWN NO MATTER HOW SILLY IT SOUNDS. (I admit to fudging a bit here and there...;) )
4. Tag AT LEAST 10 friends (including me so I can see your results).
5. Everyone tagged has to do the same thing.
6. Have Fun!

ALL CAPS is the question, Italics underneath was what came up for myself

IF SOMEONE SAYS 'ARE YOU OKAY' YOU SAY [I AM]?
Our Lips Are Sealed-Fun Boy Three

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF?
Holdin' On Together-Phoenix

WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL?
King of New Orleans-Better than Ezra

HOW DO YOU FEEL TODAY?
Just Another Night-Mick Jagger

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE?
Where Does the Good Go? Teagan & Sara

WHAT'S YOUR MOTTO?
Flamethrower-J.Geils Band

WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
Be Be Your Love-Rachael Yamagata

WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
Rock DJ-Robbie Williams

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
Pennies From Heaven-Louis Prima

WHAT IS 2 + 2?
Everlasting Love-U2

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?
Dance Away-Roxy Music

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
Heart of Glass-Blondie

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
Somebody Told Me-The Killers

WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Do You Want To-Franz Ferdinand

WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING?(if you already had one, just pretend ;) )
When I Fall-Barenaked Ladies

WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
Good Times Roll-The Cars

WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST?
Never Surrender-Corey Hart

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST FEAR?
It Ain't Over Til it's Over-Lenny Kravitz

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET?
Don't Leave Me This Way-The Commandos

WHAT DO YOU WANT RIGHT NOW?
Nine Million Rainy Days-Jesus & Mary Chain

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
A Thousand Beautiful Things-Annie Lennox

WHAT WILL YOU POST THIS AS?
September-Earth Wind & Fire

Recovering DJ Grammy grumblings-better late than never

2009-02-10T09:51:00.000-08:00

I always feel like I have to watch The Grammy's. I’m an award show junkie in general, but not watching the Grams, considering I’m a Recovering DJ, it seems sacrilegious. There was a time they were my fave awards, but the truth is, I like the Globes, the Oscars, and the SAG’s better.

I get soooooo annoyed with the tape delay thing on the West coast. Once again, The Grammy’s were at the Staple center in L.A. but I have to wait till 8PM PST. I could have checked out who won online, because none of the websites were holding back anything.

The Grammy’s always seem out of touch, and behind, and granted I’m getting there too. I felt that right away when U2 kicked it off the show with their new song, "Get on your Boots" and I thought; "man oh man…they’re lookin’ a bit old. " Heck, they should… I bought their albums’ 20 some years ago!

I couldn’t tell you what most of the nominated artists sing, although I could take a guess. I knew M.I.A, (LOVE “Paper Planes”-despite the Clash sampling) but I couldn’t honestly discern who the rappers were that joined her onstage. I knew who they were after I watched the wrap-ups the next day, so I'm not completely out of it...yet.

Whitney Houston looked good, but man she rambled. She present an award to Jennifer Hudson, who I’ve begun to really like…. I loved her in “Dreamgirls” Poor J-Hud… I started to make fun of her dress...it looked like she had a lobster bib on the front, but then I remembered the horrible tragedy she has endured and I stopped. Apparently some people liked the outfit, and what do I know about fashion anyways?

Kid Rock was pretty good. I don’t have a visceral hatred for him like I used to. I honestly think it’s because he’s from the East side and I’m from the West side. I was that way with Eminem too. I don’t get the Coldplay allure. I know they're the hottest band in the world right now, but they are just "eh” for me.

The robotic Jonas Brats and the Stevie Wonder combo just brought me sadness. Those three children had no business being on the same stage as Stevie, his handlers should be fired!

I actually got bored about 10:30 PM and flicked over to the Cartoon Network to watch “Family Guy” I’m bummed I missed Neil Diamond’s performance, but not so sad I missed the Robert Plant and Alison Krause gig. What is up with those two, why does the Grammy board love them so? Robert Plant is lookin’ A LOT like Mickey Rourke…come to think of it, have you ever seen those two photographed together?

Once upon a time, I did love the “gram gram’s” My favorite Grammy moment took place in 2003. It was the Joe Strummer tribute performance with Bruce Springsteen, Dave Grohl, Steve Van Zandt and Elvis Costello jamming on "London Calling," by the Clash. The Boss introduced the song, "This is for Joe,” and I lost it! I remember just sobbing on the floor, my nose to the TV, my heart breaking and healing all at once as one of my all-time favorites was properly immortalized by a group of artist that I loved and respected as well.

That’s what the Grammy’s mean to me Virginia, proper props by proper musicians.

How long should you hold onto a rental?

2009-02-05T10:30:00.000-08:00

How long have you kept a Netflix DVD that you’ve NEVER watched? There really should be some sort of a guideline. I just discovered that I’ve had “The House of Sand and Fog” for SEVEN months. SERIOUSLY! I went back and checked my account and I received it in JULY of ’08! At this point, I could have just bought it. I loved the book, I think I’ve been waiting until I’m in the right mood to watch the DVD, but that might never come at this point.

I’ve done this before, had movies sitting around for MONTHS unwatched and I end up sending them back. It feels wrong, but I can’t imagine I’m the only one who has done this. I’m a betting it happens quite a bit, but no one wants to admit it.

For some weird reason, I like to watch movies on TV, with basic cable being my first choice of channels-TBS, USA, Oxygen, AMC, etc. (That's a GREAT name for a network…ETC!!! Ha Ha. ) Maybe it’s just easier than putting in a DVD? Yes, I’m that lazy. Sometimes I think it’s because I like to keep in contact with the world when I’m watching a movie.

Some DVD’s I actually HAVE watched recently, in case you’re looking for your next Netflix pick…

“The Bank Job” is really good, and I didn’t expect it to be -so it was a nice surprise. It’s a goofy little bank robbery caper with a few little twists and turns and some interesting characters.

“House of the Rising Punk”-If you are a fan of vintage punk like the Ramones, Iggy Pop and Television, this is right up your dark ally. Excellent footage from the beginnings of what became the world famous CBGB’s in NYC.

“Iron Man”- I love Robert Downy Jr. so I was rooting for him in this one. My husband kept saying “It’s not as good as the “Dark Knight’” but I don’t think that is a fair comparison. They’re two different flicks. Yes, they're both superhero action films, but “Dark Knight” seems to try to hard to be so “meaningful”, while “Iron Man” is not so dark and much more cheeky. Let’s face it, we aren’t watching these movies for the reality, we’re watching these movies to be entertained and to escape the realities of our own lives.

Oh heck, what do I know; I hang onto my Netflix DVD’s forever. ☺

What the Super Bowl means to me-another football season is over!

2009-01-30T07:06:00.000-08:00

So, in case you've been under a rock, this Sunday is the granddaddy of all Sundays, the Super Bowl. I myself, could care less...but somehow I end up co-hosting the party. I've learned a few things along the way, and I am happy to share my last minute Super Bowl party tips.

The one nice thing about the west coast...kick-off is at 3:18 pm, instead of 6:18 pm. I NEVER understood why the game starts so late on a "school night." Why not start earlier, or play on a Saturday?

All I know is, football is over for awhile, thank goodness!! And on February 14th, pit chers and catchers report to Spring training. Why is that important? That means SPRING is on the way! Whooop Whooop!

The Recovering Actor? SAG round-up

2009-01-25T21:19:00.001-08:00

The SAG’s were on Sunday night. Yes, I really am an award show junkie! The SAG's began with a selection of actors from around the room reciting a quick lmonologue extolling the virtues of the craft and ending with…”I’m so-and -so and I’m an Actor”

That get’s me every time, I could’ve been a contender, and I could have been an actor!

My love of the stage started back in a grade school class play, when I slyly expanded the small role of Lady Lemondrop with comedic ad libs. Suddenly, I was a bit of a celeb, and I LOVED it. More school plays, musicals, and summers spent doing shows at the local community center. I was building up quite the resume. Ahh…C’est la Vie.

SAG one-liners round up

Is there a 30 Rock backlash yet?
I'm starting not to care for Kate Winslet. I don‘t respect actors who fall apart when they make a speech. Get it together lady!
That House guy really cleans ‘em up. That show is "eh" for me.
Sally Field winning was a bit of a shock. I guess they still really, really like...oh you know...
Mad Men really is good, just have to be in the right frame if mind.
There was a nice tribute for James Earl Jones, who is very cool. It was a little long so that is where I switched over to Family Guy. Overall the SAGS are actually pretty snappy time wise. We'll see what the Oscars bring!

Seattle Community Examiner: For your consideration-more theaters showing Oscar nominations

Hug a DJ today

2009-01-20T13:23:00.000-08:00

Today is National Disc Jockey day! So as a Recovering DJ, I found myself a little bouquet!

Although I'm really a Recovering On-Air personality, DJ does sound better.

Mr. Obama goes to Washington

2009-01-20T10:50:00.000-08:00

Song of the Day: "Young Americans"- David Bowie

Like most of the world, I've been viewing the Presidential Inauguration festivities today. I can't really remember watching so much coverage, I don't think I have ever cared so much before!

I have a friend who told me her son had the choice of going to recess or watching the Inauguration. Ha Ha....he's in 1st or 2nd grade...it's like asking a kid if he wants to take his medicine or have a piece of candy. The school should've had ALL the students watch, it's a piece of history no matter what your beliefs. That's a shame, he's missed out on a memory that would always be a part of him.

Good luck President Obama, I wish you the best!

Let's call it a water landing, shall we?

2009-01-15T14:13:00.000-08:00

So I was "on lunch" with the tube on getting ready to compose a frothy little post about the Wii Fit. And lo and behold...there's a plane in the Hudson River!

Ummmm..planes don't belong in that waterway between NYC and Jersey City, Hoboken, and the "rest of New Jersey"!

Something about planes crashing in the NYC area freaks me out more so than any other area. So I call the hubby, who turned on the computer part of the Slingbox. We watched in silence together on the phone for a few minutes, our old home shrouded in tragedy once again. We hypothesized where exactly the plane had crash-landed and we were amazed at the sight of a slew of boats and ferries surrounding the area. And then he had to go, and I called the next person I call during these times....my mom.

In the meantime, I updated my Facebook, Twitter and Adium statuses. (Twitter by the way, an excellent resource for times like this, found pictures on the web immediately)

I started IM'ing with my Jersey peeps as I watched and waited. And then it was ok, for the most part. Silly geese...a brave, quick-thinking US Airways pilot, who walked the plane twice after the crash...a water landing really. He made the absolute best out of the cards he was dealt on a dime, and it turned out all right. A whole lot of people must be thankin' their lucky stars today. It certainly puts it all in perspective now doesn't it? Who cares about lost luggage and security hassles now??

A shout out to the Circle Line and NY Waterway Ferries! If ever you get to NYC/NJ area...you won't be disappointed by a ride long or short.

Alot of people on Facebook were fretting they were afraid to fly even more now. I say-the best time to fly is after an incident like this, the karma is good. Can't be afraid, just have to be grateful and hope for the best.

But I'll tell ya what,,,I'll take sitting in the exit row much more serious now!

True confession 2: Couldn't resist tuning in!

2009-01-14T15:13:00.000-08:00

Contrary to what I said yesterday, I ended up watchin "American Idol."

I know, I know...I'm a hypocrite. I never said I wasn't.

I didn't seem as mean spirited as it's been. But really "bikini girl"....you've GOT TO be kiddin' me girl!

And of course the blind guy made me bawl. That whole segment was designed for tear-jerking and it served its purpose.

Not sure I can watch it two nights in a row though.

Seriously!

Tomorrow I have to report my fun with the Wii Fit!

True confession: Not an"Idol" fan

2009-01-13T09:49:00.000-08:00

I know I'm a jumbo-sized minority here…. But I can’t believe we have to endure another season of "American Idol."

I just don’t get it. The show raises false expectations. It’s churning out a nation of "over-singing" karaoke crooners and sloppy tribute bands. Anyone who can hold a tune for a few in the shower thinks they can take on the Simon. They want to stand next to that creepy cyborg Seacrest and slobber over bizarro world Paula.

I think American Idol is ruining music. I really do. Over and over contestants cover the same classic songs. Really? No originality whatsoever? Whatever happened to American innovation?

I’m not a fan of, nor do I get the whole genre of “reality TV”. Isn’t reality TV the news??? Think about that one. But I realize the pull of the limelight is strong, so warm and inviting. That’s the draw. We can all hear the voice in our head whispering, “Look to the light, the bright shiny spotlight and all your dreams will come true.” Or at least your 5 minutes of fame that lives forever on “You Tube. “

Of course I’ll probably watch a bit. I like to see if I’m right about the diamonds in the rough in the beginning. I get bored in the later rounds. Besides, on the West Coast you can just hop online and get the updates without having to watch. I think if they did original songs, it would be much more interesting.

Ahh…originality, what a concept. There’s an idea for a genre-“original TV” ☺

But what do I know. A quick glance on Twitter this morning proves that a TON of people can't wait for tonight. And speaking of ton, a lot of people are talking about flipping back and forth from “A.I” to “The Biggest Loser”. I can’t believe that show; the humility people subject themselves to.

And before you get all huffy on me, just know-I’m not the only one who’s a rabble-rouser.

And I do love to rouse me up some rabble, heh heh.

Random Radio Births

2009-01-12T17:25:00.000-08:00

Super Random tidbit to share....

I heard this on XM's P.O.T.U.S channel this morning....

Howard Stern and Rush Limbaugh share the same birthday today. That's just so cosmically wacky, no??? I kinda hate 'em both but I just thought this was a hoot. How bitter do you think Howie & Rushy are about this!???

It's also Christiane Amanpour's of CNN birthday as well. Good day for broadcasters to be born I guess.

Just a random, recovering dj ponder :) And my shortest post ever to boot!

I LOVES me da Globes...

2009-01-12T13:55:00.000-08:00

The Golden Globes. Celebs from all walks of entertainment in one room…drinking and table-hopping. I would love to be there just once...what a blast!

I love watching the tables between the awards to see who is talking to whom. This year you saw Bruce Springsteen sitting next to Mickey Rourke, Robert Downy Jr. & Tom Cruise at the same table, and Susan Sarandon & Ralph Fiennes made a fine couple I thought. I know they were all in movies together, but still…I’m sure they don’t have to sit at the same table if they don’t want to.

I got on the “30 Rock” bandwagon a little bit. I groaned when Tina Fey won AGAIN-but her speech made up for it. When she said, “I love the Hollywood foreign press, I have all the action figures…” I LOST IT. What a hoot! I got a Facebook post and Twitter status out of that comment…BONUS!

I love award shows probably in part because I never got over my childhood dream of becoming an actress. I tossed that fantasy and went into something more financially rewarding and chock full of job security…radio…heh heh heh.

It’s after an award show I feel a stronger tinge of “I wish I was in the radio again.” It was such a blast to pontificate on what happened…who did what, etc. Radio is the lowest form of entertainment, so the only thing jocks can do is poke fun at those above. ☺

A few more random globalicious globs:

Why are they delayed on the West Coast..??? So annoying. I have to stay off the Internet for a few hours, which probably is at the root of my aggravation.

Laura Linney’s speech was great...she is such a pro. (“Recount” was excellent by the way) I’ll never understand how people can be ACTORS but they can’t speak in public off-the-cuff…drives me nuts! I wanted to smack the overrated Kate Winslet for her awful speech and stage presence.

And that “Happy-Go-Lucky “ babe Sally Hawkins was hideous. Someone should have just dragged her off the stage, what an idiot. That movie isn’t even playing around here, which is rather sad.

Ricky Gervais was hilarious. People in Hollywood don’t get him at all I don’t think. I think he was making some references to an episode of “Extra’s” (super duper funny show).

I am so over the tweens-Jonas Brothers and Billy Ray Cyrus’s kid. (I know her name, but she don’t need no more press ;)

Paul Giamatii looked weird, but still love.

What is up with Rita Wilson’s hair?

And what was going on with Jessica Lange & Drew Barrymore??

Ugh, how hideous was Mickey Rourke??

“Slumdog Millionaire”…yay!!! Can’t wait to see it!

Why wasn’t"Gran Torino" nominated for Best Picture or Clint Eastwood for Best Actor??!! The Academy’s better straighten that out!

If you missed the show EW has a great little play-by-play.

The Globes. Bringin’ out the diva in all of us!

Panic in Detroit Rock City

2009-01-08T16:05:00.000-08:00

Song of the day: "Detroit Breakdown" The J. Geils Band

Today, I was sent a link to probably one of the best articles I have ever read about Detroit. It’s an article in Sports Illustrated written by Mitch Albom. Yes, it’s a little long and schmaltzy…but any Detroiter, former Detroiter or anyone who wonders what the heck it’s like to live in the Detroit area should read it. It certainly has made me ponder. It’s nice to know there are others who feel like I do.

It's hard to be a Detroiter. I guess I'm a former Detroiter since I don't live there anymore, but I think it's kinda like being a recovering Catholic. It will always be in you; no matter how hard you distance your self or try to deny it, it will always be a part of your makeup.

Detroit and its suburbs will always be “home”…in that Hallmark “home is where the heart is place.” I was born there, grew up there, spent my best years in radio there. My family and some great friends are still scattered about all over area. Detroit’s a giant metro region that is very spread out. It can take you an hour or more to drive from the east side to the west side. There’s no such thing as public transportation, something I knew nothing about until I moved to the NYC area. And either you get it or you don't. I suppose it helps when you've spent a long time there.

And you can love it or hate it. I know a lot of people that left and never looked back. I know alot of people who want to leave but can't. I left 10 years ago and more or less always check behind me. Sometimes I’m embarrassed and frustrated to admit I’m from there and every once in awhile I want everyone I know to just leave already. But most of the time I keep up on what’s going on. I still root for the sports teams, although I really don’t like to own up to the Lions anymore. I love Vernor’s ginger ale (which you can buy in Seattle ironically) and crave Coney Islands, (hot dog’s with chili), Olga’s (sort of a gyro) and Sander’s cream puff hot fudge sundaes (self explanatory ☺). Yes we are a fat bunch, ha ha. But Michigan summers truly are legendary.

Back in town over the New Year holiday, I got used to having to drive everywhere again. The roads are generally a joy to drive on, and they keep ‘em cleared for the most part in the winter. Yes, there are potholes and what not, but you can drive 70 MPH in most places on the freeway!

And despite it all, people are still nice and friendly; as if all they have left to give is a smile and a kind word and they’re gonna flaunt it.It’s funny, because sometimes I tell people I’m from Detroit and they think I’m all tough. But if I say I’m from Michigan they just shrug a bit. It certainly is a sad little city, and the butt of so many jokes as Mitch said in his article.

it’s the place that built my backbone; my foundation my spirit, and I'm realizing you can take the girl out of Detroit, but man that Motown is still flowin’!

The most dreaded day of the year

2009-01-05T13:28:00.000-08:00

I personally think The Monday After New Years...(Shouted in a booming, echoing voice) is one of the most daunting and dreaded days of the year. Back when I was gainfully employed at a “real” job…I would grieve the holiday that just passed.

No more short workweeks, no more cocktails and cookies anytime you wanted, just because it “was the holidays”. It looks bare and empty everywhere…no more plastic colored lights, fake greenery and tinsel to fill the void.

Everything that you put off until “after the holidays” has to get done, or at least now you have to pretend you are going to do it…even more exhausting.

You’re flipping through a calendar, either the one you received as a gift and feel obligated to use… or the one you had to buy because no one got you a you a calendar this year…and all that was left at the Rite Aid was a Barbie knockoff or one with weird pictures of dogs posing with fruit. Thank goodness it was free or 70% off.

I digress….

So you’re flip flip flipping through the calendar and it dawns on you that the next long weekend maybe isn’t until February, if you get Prez day off. Unless your company is very progressive and you get MLK day off. A few people in financial will have Good Friday off, actually all those days off if you’re in financial AND in NYC. But for most people, other than calling in on the Monday after the Super Bowl or taking some vacation time…. Most people won’t have a three-day weekend until Memorial Day!

Yikes! That will turn you back to cookies and cocktails.

None of this applies if you’re in radio, where you work six days a week anyway, no holidays off and there is no such thing as a 3-day weekend. Or you’re not a 9-5 Monday-Friday kind of person, work part time, or have flexible hours and your time is your own, not “the man’s”

Or…you’re a recovering D.J ☺

Happy New Year…you can still say it. Hope your dreaded day was ok.

How's your day 2 of '09 goin'?

2009-01-02T13:25:00.000-08:00

GO WINGS! Heck of a game at Wrigley. I love the new NHL Winter Classic that started a few years ago. Always reminds me of a very underrated but very excellent movie called Mystery, Alaska. Loved the old school 'D jerseys too!

Ahhhh, the New Year. A clean slate, a time to start over. Usually, I have a million resolutions. And by now, I've already broken most of them. But since you can't break something you don't make, I'm actually ahead of the game this year! What a relief.

Been in the 'D for New Year's. Spent a great night down at the MGM Grand casino, where I made a sizable contribution to the city of Detroit. You wouldn't know the area is going down the tube by the crowd hangin' down there on New Year's Eve!

Always cracks me up now, how many "NON-foreign" cars area around here, as opposed to Seattle. Who knows how long that will last though, they might all be made outside the U.S.

I was ambling around the dial thinking of one of my favorite bits growing up. Ken Calvert, "the casual one" used to play it most mornings for a long time on WRIF or WLLZ....I think it was WRIF...one of the greatest rock stations in America.

If you know my humor, or share in it's madness, you too will have a whale of a chuckle.

Wet Dream-Kip Addotta

Happy New Year! If it wasn't so great in '08 it should be fine in '09 :)

Just be your Elf

2008-12-25T08:40:00.001-08:00

The Space needle and a tree. Yes, the girl from Michigan is writing about New York from Seattle. Deal with it ;)

In the last few days, I've watched the movie "Elf" about 5 times. Directed by the underrated Jon Favre and starring the big kid Will Ferrell, who despite looking like an ex in a certain light now and again… always makes me laugh.

Most of the time I fell asleep or was doing something else while it was on, so in all actuality I probably watched it straight through about once. It's a great happy movie to fall asleep too, I like something light in the background. And the music is really jammy so it's good to have on doing chores and what not.

At any rate, for awhile I couldn't figure out my sudden obsession with this small little holiday flick. I was getting worried.

And then after about viewing 4, as Elf made it out of the Candy Cane Forest, and past the Swirly Twirly Gumdrops, and he's walking through the Lincoln Tunnel and he comes out........

And there it is. The Big Apple. All shiny and pretty and exciting and...and it hits me.

"Elf" is a giant video love letter to NYC. And it gets better the more you watch it. And double bonus if you know and love the City that Never Sleeps! The city that wears Christmas like no other.

But Christmas comes to wherever you are, it's that small light in all of us, that shines no matter where you are. Santa can always fine you! :)

A Snow Falls in Seattle-A Street View

2008-12-22T15:13:00.000-08:00

When the snowing gets tough, the tough grab a snowboard. Resourceful kids on Broad St. in Seattle

From buses hanging over I-5 to the heartbreaking stories of the stuck masses out at Sea-Tac, to say it’s been heck of a week weather-wise in Seattle is an extreme understatement.

Slip Sliding Away

Who really gets used to cold and snow? I guess some people do, those that enjoy winter and skiing and sledding and all that. I myself…not a fan of the winter sports.

If you can't beat it, than do some city skiing

I think the problem is, I really hate snow touching me. I remember as a kid, getting into those full body-armor snowsuits and feeling well protected from all the elements. Although it really sucked when you had an itch. Or when you started getting sweaty and all it just pooled in your suit. Ewwww…you know what I mean!

An umbrella is good way to keep the snow from touching you

But with snow, comes the whole white XMAS thing, so you just have to make the best if it.

This looks like the beginning of a Holiday Animated Special ;)

Snow? We don't need no stinkin' SNOW!

2008-12-18T06:57:00.000-08:00

It snowed in Vegas last night. VEGAS. It makes you contemplate the whole “when hell freezes over” expression. If you see piggies flying by….well…

The other night, the first snowfall settled upon the Seattle area. It’s comical how initially a few flurries can make even the most cynical, “anti-snow” person a little jubilant. We stood outside our local, having no commitments and nowhere to drive and raised our faces to the sky, the ginormous flakes whizzing by. It was pretty, like being in a snow globe. Yes, we had a few glasses of wine in us too.

But now it’s snowing again. And it’s not so pretty anymore when you have to be somewhere. It’s not so pretty when you live in a state that doesn’t clean the roads very well, or have salt.

This is my third winter (gooood grief, I’ve been here this long already, ugh)…In an area that allegedly never gets any snow, at least that’s what we were told before we moved here. At any rate, there are many many things I don‘t understand about this neck of the woods, but one of my big beefs is this…. clean the effin roads!

It is beyond my comprehension how a few inches of snow strands an entire metro area, schools are closed, roads are icy and the best they can say is put chains on your tires. I don’t even know how one would go about doing that.

I know, I KNOW "they" do the best they can. It’s hard with all the hills here. (Another secret Seattle tidbit) Where I come from, those roads get cleared pretty quickly. That salt is thrown down. If they didn’t, we wouldn’t have had school all winter, we would have had snow days all the time.

Snow days all the time? Hmmm, on second thought……

Recovering DJ's Holiday mix tape-part 1

2008-12-10T15:25:00.000-08:00

As I've previously mentioned,I’m a Christmas music lover. Toss together some Pop with a little bit of Rock and Jazz and you've mixed a mélange of melodic goodness. It’s a sickness, but isn’t admitting that the first step towards Recovering? ☺

With so many holiday themed events comin’ down the chimney lo’ these next few weeks I bet you’re seekin’ ideas to keep the sassy Santa spirit a flowin'. Here’s a good start, in order of how many times they've played according to my iTunes: an 0bjective way put together a countdown.

Top 15
By order of iTunes play count

1-"Last Christmas" -Wham!
So so 80’s I know, it just makes me ache with nostalgia. And FYI, I’m not the only one who loves it… so **mleh** (I believe that's the sound of sticking out your tongue?) Say it aloud and see.

**Just discovered this has been covered by someone named Taylor Swift *Gasp**

2-"White Christmas"-Otis Redding
This version is from the “Love Actually” soundtrack- a new classic holiday movie in our household. It’s a little sad and soulful, but the warmth of Otis’s voice wraps around you like a musical muffler.

3-"A Charlie Brown Christmas"- Vince Guaraldi Trio
I couldn’t decide between, “O Tannenbaum”, “Christmas Time Is Here”, “Skating “ or “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” so I just threw in the whole thing.

An interesting story about the "Charlie Brown Special", tee hee.

4-"All I Want For Christmas Is You"-Olivia Olson
From "Love Actually" as well, you could use the Maria Carey version in a pinch though.

5-"Santa Claus is Coming to Town (Live)"-Bruce Springsteen
" He’s flyin’ over Michigan…down the Jersey Turnpike.." Whoop Whoop!

6-"God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen"-Barenaked Ladies & Sarah McLachlan
Two of my faves rockin’ the Xmas tree Canadian style

7-"The Little Drummer Boy"-Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band
From a Very Special Christmas, a great series of contemporary Christmas music. Not really my fave song in the world, but have to add Rockin’ Robert when you can.

8-"The Christmas Song"-Luther Vandross
I like other versions of this song, but love the late GREAT Luther!

9-"Wonderful Christmastime"-Paul McCartney
Happy Paul, before Linda died and that other psycho wife came a’ callin'.

10-"Same Old Lang Syne"-Dan Fogelberg
“We drank a toast to innocence, we drank a toast to now”...that "Rob Lowe on Saxophone" sound from “St. Elmo’s Fire"…C’mon this is quintessential 80’s people. I immediately bought this last year when he died. Along with that, and the older I get, “Same Old Lang Syne" gets a little more bittersweet with each passing year.

11-"Bells Will be Ringing" - The Eagles
Really, just keeping the 80's alive...

12-"Winter Wonderland"- Harry Connick, Jr.
From the “When Harry Met Sally Soundtrack” which is another one of those "Christmissy" movies that isn’t really billed as such.

13-"Happy Christmas (War is Over)"-John Lennon
Oh John…What if…!!??

14-"Run Rudolph Run"- Keith Richards
A new fave from last year, the Bryan Adams version was previously on the Recovering DJ Holiday Mix. Brits usually trump Canadians. Plus, if you buy on iTunes, it comes with a bonus rocker “Pressure Drop”

15-"Father Christmas"- The Kinks
This is upbeat and "it's easy to dance to Dick, I'll give it a 95" This always reminds me how much I forget I love Ray Davies.

Glancing over this list, I see I’ll have to add some more subjective favorites soon.

"Sooner or later, your legs give way, you hit the ground"

2008-12-05T12:40:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite albums of all time is Special Beat Service by the English Beat. I bought it, along with many other fabulous records at Harmony House in Downtown Farmington-the wondrous local music store where I spent many a magical day, and much of my babysitting money on the splendors of recorded music on vinyl.

In my senior year, I would listen to that album over and over …the skip on my copy of the record in the beginning of “I Confess” would prove to be just part of the song to me.

When I heard the CD version years later, I could still “hear” the scratch, chuckling at the memory.

So I was very excited when I found out the English Beat was going to do a show at the Showbox Theater in Seattle. The Showbox is a charming joint, just grimy enough to give it a little character. A few months ago I was fortunate enough to catch Squeeze at the same venue. Squeeze is definitely another of my top fave bands, and although Chris and Glenn or getting old, they still put on a heck of a gig. (See pic at left)

Yes, a pattern is emerging, old 80’s bands, and albums. I’m getting a little ***gasp*** mature.

It’s ironic that I spent half my life immersed in new music, keeping up with all that is hip and hot, but for the last few years, I am less and less into it. I try to stay current, but glancing at a recent top 10 songs list I’m familiar with less than half of the artists. It makes me feel a bit out of touch. But these days, I am extremly comforted by all that is musically aged.

I don’t really know how it started, but I became a big BIG U.K music fan. I would anxiously await “Rock Over London” which came on after “The King Biscuit Flower hour” on 89X a Canadian station in Windsor. Or there was the “Dangerous Exposure” show on WABX Detroit, hosted by the Mike Haloran, who started the best alternative station in it’s day; XTRA in San Diego.

I loved all things musically British so much, I used to dream of moving to London and becoming a DJ there. I had heard they ironically liked American accents as much as I was enchanted by English accents.

So it’s comforting when an old school band comes around. To me sometimes, the 80’s happened just a few years ago. It’s when I go to a show and get a good look at the rest of the audience….
I realize that I’ve become an old fart.

The crowd overall was pushing 50. And Dave Wakeling, the only surviving original member is not aging well. ( see pic below) Despite not coming on until the late hour of 10PM…☺ they played a strong energetic show. I was exhausted when I got home at 12:30, clutching my requisite concert t-shirt and a bit sad because the one song they didn’t play was “I Confess”

I wanted to see if I would still “hear” the scratch in the live version. I’ll have to “Save it for Later” ☺

We need a little Christmas, right this very minute

2008-12-03T11:45:00.000-08:00

Song of the Day

"We Need a Little Christmas"-Various Artists

There are two things that I've lugged around during my many moves- a box of records (the vinyl kind that contain musical recordings) and my big blue Rubbermaid box o’ Xmas.

Yes Ginny, I’m a Chris Missy person.

You either are or aren’t a Xmas person, to varying degrees. Some people aren’t into Christmas for religious reasons, or they think they’re too cool for the room, that’s ok. But some people are just plain mean and hateful and those are the ones that need a little Xmas.

I fight it. Sometimes I say I’m not opening the box, it’s too much trouble. Things are tough, the world is in shambles, Christmas is for kids, blah blah blah…

Which is precisely when we need a little Christmas right this very minute.

My Christmas addiction isn’t really the religious sort, much to my mother’s chagrin. But it’s that concept of good. Of the brightness that shines in all of us, no matter how tarnished the world makes us.

Monet liked to paint what he called “momentary qualities of light” and that’s what Christmas is to me. Those little moments that make life just a little more bearable and enable us to trudge on.

Plus it’s the one time of year you’re allowed to hang shiny shiny lights everywhere.

When you feel good, you make others feel good. You give a smile and a “Hi” to the cashier at Rite Aide as opposed to a curt nod. She is nicer to the cranky old man behind you who in turn is actually a tad kind to the next person he comes across.

That’s what Christmas is all about Charlie Brown.

P.S......

Did you know that “We need a little Christmas” is from musical “Mame”? I always thought it was in an animated Christmas special.

"Momentary qualities of light" is the title I have chosen for my great Amercian novel, or at least a short story that the "New Yorker" will publish...whenever I get around to writing it.) ☺

Holiday travel tips: You can't take it all with you

2008-11-26T06:33:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I was pondering about a nice frothy little post with some soft random thoughts and frilly traveling advice. It’s the holiday season and a lot of inexperienced fliers are out and we should all just try to get along. I was feeling uncharacteristically Zen; pretty O.K. with my fellow man & womankind.

But then I got caught.

Caught red handed with extra gels and liquids. Done in by my greed to take my new Burt’s Bee’s Orange face wash that I LOVE and a few other extra niceties that didn’t fit in the regulation bag, like hairspray and my own shampoo and conditioner.

I know the rules. I obey the quart size bag decree to the tee. I take off my shoes and coat, place everything in those bins, and have my boarding pass ready with a pleasant attitude. I travel quite a bit.

Since I’ve have been there, done that…I saw it…. more like felt it. I was getting flagged. I’ve been stopped for electronics, I’ve been stopped randomly. But I haven’t been stopped over gels before. I knew they saw something. You know why? The bag with the extra contraband was in the outside pocket. I cursed my stupidity.

But truthfully I had never tried to sneak in a whole regular size Burt’s Bee’s before.

Suddenly, my bag is grabbed off the line and this strange lady opens it up and is touching my stuff…which just makes me crazy. In all the hullabaloo my toothbrush comes loose from its case, skids out and hits the floor.

I begin to lose it. I grab a few bottles out of my bag and throw it in bin and say, “I don’t need this stuff lady, I need to go”

Bad move. I’m not allowed to touch, or use a tone. I’m supposed to be happy I’m being violated. I know, I know they’re just doing their job…. but it was early in the morning.

NOW these big guys come over and yell at me. My horrid criminal self with the large size Burt’s Bees, and essentially three small extra items. He’s gonna haul me away in a second if I don’t calm down. I flash to myself on the news, the crazy woman screaming and kicking and no Thanksgiving for you lady. I wondered too what the hell happened to my Zen moment.

So, I step back a second. In all fairness to the lady, she’s trying to shove as much as she can into my quart bag and I think she is at least being nice, but I don’t care, I want to be done. The process, which is probably no more than a few minutes tops, feels like decades and I’m shakin’ like a junkie and I need to cry now.

So, I think they’re gonna run my stuff through the conveyor security thing again. That’s the point right? I had too many liquids that weren’t originally in the trusty quart bag. I know the rule.

But no, they just sent me on the way without a few of my products and most of my pride.

I knew I was wrong. A weak last minute moment that morning, throwing a few extra things in the bag. After I stopped crying I chastised myself.

I was gluttonous. I wanted to take the little niceties that help staying in three different places in five days a bit more manageable when you have all your HBA's with you.

On this Thanksgiving Eve, it’s nice to have such little problem right? I’m grateful for that. I feel like such a turkey now ☺

This Radio Life Part 2-Names & B'days

2008-11-24T13:43:00.000-08:00

When was on the radio, my air name was sometimes, and most famously Susan Cruise.
I was actually just Susan at WORB- the Oakland Community College radio station where This Radio Life all started. At my first paid gig, up in Cadillac,MI- I was Susan Dean. I know pretty lame.

Onward I went to Lima, OH where the overlords wanted something jazzier. So Susan Cruise..AKA Cruisin’ Susan was born. Until I went to Akron, OH and Buffalo, NY where I worked and later hung out with the incomparable Sue O’Neil. Sue had seniority and wanted to be the only Sue….so Dianna Cruise was born. Changing names on a whim can be fun.

But back in Detroit, I was Susan Cruise again. Nov. 20th came around and I did a shout out "Happy Birthday" to my dad, because even thought he wasn’t listening I knew my mom was and she would tell him. Plus, a huge on-air perk was the on-air birthday announcement. People love to hear their name on-air and you are so forgiven if you for forgot the card and gift.

So I said something like this I am sure:

“ Latest from Sheryl Crow there…Q95 5. How are ya, its Susan Cruise wishing my papa Tom a happy happy birthday, Have a good day daddy! We’ll check the weather next on the Q.”

And the phones started ringing’ off the hook. I couldn't figure it out, It didn’t even dawn on me at first.

Half of Metro Detroit was wondering: “Is your dad really TOM Cruise!??”

Tee hee. In a matter of speaking, I guess so.

Happy Belated Tom “Cruise” ☺

Time Talking

2008-11-19T10:22:00.000-08:00

I was in Champion's the other day, looking for a time-themed costume for a time-themed party. (70’s costume, milestone birthday party) and was ruminating on time, how times have changed, how much time I had to find something, how much time has passed since I met my dear friend….

When suddenly, the day turned to night. I panicked for a second, because I thought I had only been there a short time, for when I arrived it was light.

“What time is it?” I asked the hipster dude behind the counter.
“I know, it seems so late now with the time change, right?” was his reply.

Ahhh, that’s right, the time change thing. From daylight savings time to standard time. It gets dark soooo early and you think it’s soooo late.

I was out at 6pm the other night with my husband and I felt it was around 10pm. I was already tired and ready for bed.

The transition from day to night…from light to dark progresses quicker on the West Coast than in the East Coast or the Midwest…something to do with the mountains I think, the sun just drops.

But the thing is, when it was 6PM here, it WAS 9 PM on the East Coast. So I could have been a little tired. I swear for the most part I am still on East Coast time.

I know my darling cats are stuck in their native time zone. They used to get fed around 6 PM EST. Now they are hungry and whining at 3PM PST. You can’t tell an animal that suddenly the time is different just because you shoved them on a plane and flew them to a new time zone.

And time seems different on a Saturday then it does on a Wednesday. Time used to drag during the summer when we were kids, until that week just before school, and suddenly it flew, …you didn’t have enough time to get ready!

I don’t have the time. Can you make some time for me? What time do you have? Is it time to go yet? He’s got too much time on his hands.

It’s time for you to leave. How much time is left in the game? We made good time. What time does the show start? Can you believe how much time she took on that project?

Time flies when you’re havin’ fun. I lost track of time. Thanks so much, we had a great time. Time to make the doughnuts.

Make some time for yourself and the ones you love. Time is precious.

Bonus Songs of the Day-

Top 10 Recovering DJ songs with Time in the Title
In no particular order

Too Much Time on My Hands STYX

Entertained some friends lip-synching to this one on the way down the shore one time.

Favorie Waste of Time- Marshall Crenshaw

He’s from Fashionable Ferndale!

Sign O’ the Times-Prince

Good Times-Chic

Aawww yeah, she went there

Time (Clock of the Heart)- Culture Club

Ditto above

Time Is On My Side –The Rolling Stones

Time After Time- Cyndi Lauper

She was on "Gossip Girl" a few weeks ago, she’s still the bomb, times been good to her!

Fine Time-New Order

All This Time-Sting

Time for Letting Go & This Time it’s Us Jude Cole

An underrated artist who I was obsessed with many years ago, but still worth looking up.

And if you’re talkin’ Time have to give a shout out to that "other" band from Minny, who ask-
What Time is it!
Moris Day and the Time!

Bonus Holiday Time songs

Christmas Time is Here- Vince Guaraldi Trio (Charlie Brown Xmas !!!!) ☺

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year- Andy Williams

It’s the theee-ah-ter dahling

2008-11-14T12:44:00.000-08:00

The other night I saw “The Drowsy Chaperone” at the surprisingly beautiful 5th Avenue Theater in Seattle. It's a very tongue-in-cheek commentary on musicals, and the woman who played Georgeanne in "Mary Tyler Moore" is in it. It’s really a cute, quirky little play and if it comes near you I highly recommend it.

The first live play I saw live was “The King and I” at the Fisher Theater in downtown Detroit. Yule Brenner was in it and I still remember sitting on the edge of my seat, enchanted and entranced. I was hooked on the stage.

I was almost an actress. I sang in choir and preformed in school musicals and acted in plays at the Farmington Community Theater. My parents used to call me Helen Hayes sometimes, but I later found out that was due to my tendency towards tears and the overly dramatic, and not necessarily my acting abilities.

Instead of acting, I went into something safer...radio broadcasting. Theater of the mind they call it. Life is a stage and we are all actors, said Mr. Shakespeare. Heck, waiting tables was acting. Showtime began when my first table sat, turn on 'da charm to rake in 'dem tips.

Everyone loves watching people singin’ and a swayin’. Don’t believe me? Then why are “Dancing with the Stars” and “American Idol” consistently number one in the T.V ratings?

That’s showbiz kid, that’s showbiz. ☺

Bugs Bunny Lunch Box

2008-11-12T10:17:00.000-08:00

Song of the Day: Borderline-Madonna

Today is the birthday of a dear dear friend of mine. I’ve known her since I was around 6, so I’ve known her most of my life. We have not lived in the same state most of our adult lives, but she is always there, on the phone, online via IM or e-mail, and I just got her started on Facebook.

We are very different people- different values, different lifestyles, and different hair color. But we both loved the Bay City Rollers, and Madonna and Bonne Belle lip-gloss and all kinds of food.

Our shared loves have evolved into "Seinfeld" and "Lost", and Bonne Belle lip-gloss, and all kinds of food. And we love each other, no matter what. I think we both know that now, we’re stuck with each other; after surfing wave after wave of events; sometimes together, and sometimes apart, good and bad.

We met very innocently, (I think she hates when I tell this story). It was first grade at Longacre Elementary. I had already done kindergarten there, so I was in the loop. She was new. She looked scared, as all the kids pretty much knew each other from last year and had already begun to form their clique’s.

She stood on the outside the circle, head down a bit, biting her lip, blond wavy hair swirling around her face. I'm betting she was wearing a matching sweater and skirt ensemble as sweaty hands grasped a Bugs Bunny lunch box, that I thought was exquisite. Even in first grade I thought in big words, Ha Ha.

I did not have a Bugs Bunny. I think I had some stupid plaid lunch box, or maybe one with monkeys. Lunch boxes were the designer bags of our time, and I didn’t have a Canal Street connection back then.

So, I went up and talked to her. I couldn’t tell you what was said. (This is why I could never in good conscience write my memoir’s, who can remember?)

At any rate, the die was cast for our lifelong friendship. We have so many memories together from grade school through high school, through marriages, and deaths, through losses and triumphs.

Now, we are as different as salt and pepper, as moon and sun. Our lives have taken completely different routes. I used to say, if I met her now, I probably wouldn’t be friends with her.

But that’s just plain silly you rascally rabbit.

We judge people so quickly; you never know what kind of inspiring person might be hiding behind that lunch box. You may miss out. If I hadn’t taken a chance and said hello, who knows…I might not be writing today about blonde haired first-graders and Bugs Bunny lunch boxes.

Plane Thoughts

2008-11-11T10:14:00.000-08:00

Song of the Day: "Jet Airliner" Steve Miller Band

Thoughts from the other night, while flying SEA-EWR...

I think I’ve mentioned before, when talking about cities or traveling, I write in "airport talk" sometimes. SEA- is Seattle obviously; EWR is Newark, which is not so apparent, etc, etc) Chalk it up to the fact that I am easily influenced by others and have several friends who work in the airline industry. Plus, I honestly think any sort of code or abbreviate is cool. I am all about LOL or BRB or my fave TTYL.

We were in our old ‘Joisey neck o’ the woods over the weekend, attending the wedding of some friends of ours, a good Polish girl from Bayonne, and a good ol' Irish Jersey City firefighter. Yes, full Catholic mass and do the math on how much liquor was consumed. Ha Ha.

Another story for another day, but you can take the girl out of Jersey, but man, that Jersey does not budge from the girl.

At any rate, when I'm flying, especially on the long flights, I tend to write a lot, and usually come up with some pretty good ideas. I have bushels of things started; the rub is getting them finished. It's amazing how much gets done while wedged in a plane. Perhaps having nowhere to go for hours on end settles me into the mode. Something I try to replicate when on the ground, but I'm not able to get the same affect. The phone and internet work down here, and I can open the fridge.

I feel important while writing on a plane. I know people are glancing at me now and again, wondering if I am working on the next great American novel. Truth is, I am probably writing about them, because another thing flying causes in a lot of people is the “Center of the Universe” syndrome.

Which leads me to:

Recovering DJ’s Top 3 Flying Pet Peeves

People who hog up the aisle while fussing with their massive luggage

It never ceases to amaze me how someone will hold up all the passengers behind them while they fuss for eons with their luggage, for hours (ok it’s only minutes, but it seems like forever.)

People who lean to far back in their seat

Your head is in my knee lady, and seriously I will kick your seat like a two-year old if this continues

People who talk soooo loud to their seatmate

Dude, she’s right next to you and even she doesn’t care about your exploits on the golf course, let alone the whole plane. You're why we don't want cell phones allowed.

I know only 3? Well, the middle seat was vacant!!!, so the ride was much more luxurious than usual, so I’m feelin’ a bit generous.

It’s the little things that keep us going.

And speakin' of keepin' us going, like to give a shout out to all the Veterans out there today, new an old. We should all have a quick happy thought for the the brave peeps who keep us safe, so we can sit and blog about minutia.

Cheers!

Who do ya know whadda ya know?

2008-11-05T16:40:00.000-08:00

Sometimes knowing your audience makes it a little difficult to entertain accordingly. You feel yourself editing to spare feelings, or hide information you don't want certain people to know.

Working on-air in Detroit was the first time in my radio career that my family, not to mention friends I’ve know since grade school, were in the market...and listening.

So when the douche bag morning guy slandered me on his show I took it much more personal then when I was in Cadillac or Akron, where no one really knew me.

"My mom is listening” I’d whine to my program director. (Tom O'Brien where are you?!!) "I'm gonna kill him, I’m gonna spill his skanky little secrets!”

But I wouldn't. I would want to. I would instead call people and explain, “No, what Danny said wasn't true.” He was just trolling for ratings using my reputation as bait.

Knowing your audience can be good sometimes too, in an evil scientist sort of way. I was told once you shouldn’t use the airwaves for your own personal gain and amusement, but man it’s hard to resist. But that is another story for another day my pretties.

I digress....

So seriously, really WOW what a historic night it was Tuesday night. No matter what your preferences, it really really was one heck of a chapter for the U. S of A. I cried and cried and then I laughed and all the while I had a few cocktails. And now we'll see what happens. We could not do any worse; I am confident we'll do better.

It's funny though, I've always been proud to be an American, but apparently alot of people weren’t' until last night. Well, glad to hear they’re happy now and I hope we can all just get along, because suddenly a “new crop of bitters” has sprouted up and that’s just not good for business. We’ve got things to do and places to go and I think this little country that could…. needs to grow up a bit.

Go Vote!

2008-11-04T07:31:00.000-08:00

Song of the Day:

"American Girl”- Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers

‘Well she was an American girl, raised on promises…

This is a great song to start running, or driving or walking to…. try it and see. It also sounds like a beginning of a movie…It probably is somewhere….

I digress….

When the Gulf War hit in 1990, I was working at WZOQ-92ZOO in Lima, OH. As I was heading to the station one morning…. after laying blurry-eyed on the couch all night watching CNN….it dawned on me what a great country this is and how fortunate I was to be a part of it. Here I was, a single America girl living away from her family, driving alone to speak relatively freely over radio station airwaves.

What a concept. And yet, I don’t think I had ever really thought about it before, the simple things we do every day. Freedoms we take for granted every day.

I've lived all over this country. Different areas have strikingly different values and customs. But it’s all still the good ol’ U. S of A.

I covered many elections over the years, both local and national. And I always voted wherever I lived. People fight for our right to vote and I feel we should honor that. It’s so weird that before today I have never been so nervous and so vested in an election in my entire life.

I was raised in an independent thinking household. I've slowly shifted my views over the last few years from where I originally started. But that is the beauty of it, we’re allowed to. We’re allowed to talk freely, and vote freely not live in fear we'll be persecuted for our beliefs.

Five artists who do a song called “Election Day”

Seriously, all on I-Tunes!

Arcadia

Lyle Lovett

The Replacements

Blaze Foley

The Riots Before

Friday music musings

2008-10-31T11:32:00.000-07:00

Song of the Day: "Friday I'm in Love" The Cure

I think I had a T-shirt that said "You've got the disease, we've got The Cure". Not sure where it is, and honestly....not completely sure the t-shirt ever existed. It's possible I made up the concept because I thought it would be a cool shirt to have.

Ahhh, the joy of losing brain cells. At least I'm pretty sure it was fun.

Speaking of The Cure , a friend of mine, who Robert Smith loves has got a new band together, an all-female fab trio called Josephine. Check 'em out online and if you're in the NYC area check 'em out live! They're gonna be huge, so you can say you knew them back in the day. That's always cool.

Chrissie Hynde of the Pretenders is back in action, and still rockin'. She bought a place in the ol' Akron hood and is trying to make vegetarians out of those Ohio mouth breathers, ha ha. I might have to check her out when she comes to Seattle.

So now that I am "on staff" at Muzik Reviews, you should check my reviews for free while you still can, you never know when Rolling Stone or Blender will call. :)

Happy Halloween! And remember beer doesn't go with chocolate, wine does!

Last Minute Halloween Costumes

2008-10-30T13:14:00.000-07:00

If you're Mr. or Ms. Pro Crastinat0r, here's a a few more ideas you can pull together quickly.

True Blood character

I don't watch this show but apparently it's about vampires who look like real people; how hard can that be to put together? Makes me look at people on the street a little different though, because I guess you never know who's a blood sucker!

Vampire Slayer

Since a bunch of people seem to be going out as Vampires or Sarah Palin this year, this could make you the ANTI "life of the party"

Paint or sew or draw "vampire slayer" on an old shirt. Get some garlic, a cross or a wooden stake and something that looks like it's holy water.

Or you could dress like a normal person too, now that I think about it Buffy was "one of us." You could also dress up as a priest but it might be hard to find a little boy to walk around with you all night.

Devil's Advocate

This is my costume this year. If you've read my previous post on "punny" Halloween costumes, you'll know I'm not a fan of "normal" run-of- the ol' mill dress-up. I picked up a devil's outfit the other night, just so I would have SOMETHING to wear.

And then it hit me...devil's outfit + the addition of a pin or some kind of label that says "Advocate" Violia!

Added bonus, watch the look on the faces of others when they take in your devil outfit, see the name tag that says "advocate" and then slowly put it all together. Priceless! Or at least I am hoping it is.

muwahahahahah!!!!!

Top 15 Halloween Songs

2008-10-28T14:10:00.000-07:00

You’ve got your costume ready to go. The ingredients for Devil’s Food Cake and Vampire Blood Punch are in the cupboard. A few jack-o- lanterns and spiderweb decorations and you think your party is complete, right? Wrong! Whether you’re having a small gathering or a full on barnburner, the zombies and witches still need to get their groove on. Here's a list to get you started, most of these can be found on I-Tunes.

Devil Inside - INXS
Werewolves of London - Warren Zevon- A classic
Devil Went Down To Georgia - Charlie Daniels Band
Spooky - Classics IV
Don't Fear The Reaper - Blue Oyster Cult
Ghost Busters - Ray Parker Jr. Who ya gonna call?
Psycho Killer - Talking Heads
Highway To Hell - AC/DC- So last century, they aren't online, scary
Dead Man's Party-Oingo Boingo-Who doesnt like to say "Oingo Boingo" !?
Nightmare on My Street - DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince
Running With The Devil - Van Halen
Withchy Woman- The Eagles
Monster Mash - Bobby 'Boris' Pickett-Only time of the year you can hear this one!
Somebody's Watching Me-Rockwell- You can discuss if Michael Jackson is singing on this song or not.... And speaking of M.J, last but NEVER least...
Thriller – Michael Jackson-Download a "Thriller" Dance Session for added funny fun

Monday Morning Moanin’

2008-10-27T09:49:00.000-07:00

(Props to the late great Bob Talbert, Detroit Free Press columnist)

Last night I couldn’t sleep and there’s nothing on TV. Five gazillion channels and nothing on. Why is it late Sunday nights have a different schedule than the rest of the week? I would prefer to fall asleep to my usual shows. The networks seem to run the STUPIDEST programming in the time slot from Sunday at 11PM on. My choices were pretty much “Hook”, “Patch Adams” and the TBS standby “Pretty Woman”.

You'd think network execs know Sunday night is big insomnia night, so run something good that a captive audience is gonna watch. Usually you sleep in on Sundays, so you’re not tired at your normal bedtime. Or you drank more coffee than usual, or you just have the Sunday Night Dreads.

My old EMU roommate was the first person I ever met who talked about the Sunday Night Dreads. I didn’t know anyone else had them. SND is the feeling you get right after dinner usually, like around 7 or so…when suddenly you realize the weekend is crashing to a close. You’re ruminating about the good times, you’re sad it’s over, you’re mad because you didn’t get as much done as you wanted to.

And then, I really hits you…like a fat cat running from a water hose right at YOU.

Tomorrow is Monday. (Scary music here) Your tummy tumbles, your heart beats and your brain starts tossing around all the things you have to do tomorrow.

So you think you’d better get to bed because you have a big day. But you can’t sleep.

So that’s where I was last night. Mind racing, flipping channels and I came across the “Sarah Silverman Show." I was apprehensive at first, I even went through all the channels again and there was seriously nothing else on. At any rate, I feel like I don’t really know her so I thought I would give her a chance.

It was pretty painful. She’s a critics' darling- that makes me suspicious to begin with, I am usually not on board with the critics.

Like for example, take “30 Rock”… love love Tina Fey…Thought “Mean Girls” was great. She’s a smart woman who writes well and is not afraid to show her brain instead of the other b's. But "30 Rock" is generally not all that Yet it keeps winning Emmy’s and the critics LOVE it. Maybe there is a critic club I don’t know about.

Speaking of Tina, enough with the Sarah Palin bit. Tell Lorne to bite it man, the bit is over. That is one of the biggest problems with SNL, is they just don’t know when to stop the bit. And no, not an SP fan, just sayin…

Well, Sunday Dreads gone, and Monday Moanin’ here… so “Good day and may the good news be yours!”