tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83814500473674229232024-03-14T09:45:51.513-04:00I got somethin' to say!AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.comBlogger522125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-13543305030130780672016-11-09T09:18:00.000-05:002016-11-09T09:18:31.408-05:00Well, this sucks.Good thing I've been reading all those 'Post-Apocalyptic/Zombie/End of the World' books lately. It feels like everything I've learned by reading them will become useful information, sooner rather than later.<br />
But seriously....I'm truly saddened by the outcome of this presidential election. Never in a million years did I think that we'd have such a repulsive reality star/business man as President of the United States.<br />
It really speaks to the mentality of our country. While that absolutely frightens me, I can find some happiness in the fact that this disaster may end up forcing the like-minded folks to rise up and fight against the potential changes that he has talked about making. You know, assuming he doesn't in fact cause the end of the world before we have that chance. For example....he and all his supporters have been screaming forever about 'Building that damn wall!!!' and insisting that Mexico is going to pay for it. Do we really think that this will happen? I highly doubt that it will, and I'm wondering how his supporters will feel once they realize that as well.<br />
I could go on and on about this massacre, but I'll just say that I hope that we can all come together and get through this together. We'll fight if we have to, but ultimately, we will NOT let this bring us down and we won't stand for anyone that tries to take away the rights that we've fought so hard to obtain.<br />
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<br />AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-70615670045159980022016-11-01T15:27:00.003-04:002016-11-01T15:27:43.288-04:00Happy Halloween!!!While it was a tad chilly, Halloween 2016 was a success! Zachary got a bunch of candy, we didn't get too many kids stopping by our house (more candy left for me!!!) and Z's costume was a hit.<br />
However, I'm surprised that more people didn't know who he was supposed to be. We even had some young kids (like 10 or 11 years old) that saw him and yelled out 'Oh no, it's Darth Vader!!!'<br />
Zachary, in true form, quietly replied 'I'm Kylo Ren.' It was pretty funny.<br />
Other folks either gave him a generic compliment 'Oooooh, what a great costume!!!' or 'Wow, I love your light saber!' and we even got one 'Look out, it's a ninja!!!'<br />
Even Zachary just let that one go. <br />
All in all, it was a lot of fun.<br />
<br />
In other news, I'm on day three of my model. I know, I haven't mentioned it here yet...but that's a post for another day.<br />
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Until then, some pictures:<br />
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This is Zachary and my niece, Julia at a Halloween party last Friday night<br />
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The man himself: Kylo Ren<br />
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Daddy and Kylo Ren take on the neighborhood</div>
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<br />AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-66017751107664899842016-10-28T09:25:00.002-04:002016-10-28T09:25:46.022-04:00You Know What Really Grinds My Gears?!?!?!?Hello and Happy Friday!!!<br />
I'd like to get some stuff off my chest that's been bugging me recently; specifically about my daily commute(s).<br />
Here is a list of things that make me CRAZY:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>People who want to chat with me on the morning train. I'm fine with a quick hello, and a 'check in', but I have no interest in talking to you for 45 minutes.</li>
<li>People who talk LOUDLY, and NON-STOP on the train.</li>
<li>People who can't seem to comprehend that when walking through a huge crowd of people, looking down at your phone, and strolling along like you're the only person left on the planet, MIGHT not be the best idea.</li>
<li>People who either have cheap headphones or have their music turned up so loud that I can hear it from 5 seats away.</li>
<li>Loud typists</li>
<li>Those folks who refuse to take their backpacks off, so that they're essentially taking up space where another person could be standing.</li>
<li>The jerks who refuse to let people sit with them on the commuter rail.</li>
<li>People who eat full meals on the train. (extra rage for those eating foods that stink)</li>
<li>Loud eaters on the train.</li>
<li>Train delays.</li>
</ol>
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<br />
That's pretty much covers what's been making me crazy lately....and that's just the list that came off the top of my head.<br />
And people wonder why I want to have a drink as soon as I walk through the door.<br />
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HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!<br />
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AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-91321898633958109522016-10-25T13:28:00.001-04:002016-10-25T13:28:03.210-04:00Shhhhh.....don't tell anyone I'm here.Remember that time I had a blog?<br />
<br />
I am, and have been a Facebook addict for quite some time now, which I'm totally fine with.<br />
I find it hysterical when people comment on my statuses, specifically those related to my commuting experiences, with things like: "You should start a blog!!!", "I hope you're recording all of these somewhere!!" etc. Little do they know that I started a blog 8 years ago, and it has been lying dormant for the past 2 years.<br />
Little did <b>I </b>know that when I finally got around to looking at it (I hadn't looked in LONG time, partially because it was blocked at work, and inexplicably is suddenly accessible!!) I would see that the majority of my favorite bloggers are still going strong. It made me a little bit sad that I've deserted the blog world for as long as I have, and I was thinking back on how much I used to look forward to online visits from my blog friends, and especially reading what they were up to on their own blogs.<br />
<br />
I'm on the verge of letting the Facebook world know that I'm out here.....but I'm not quire there yet.<br />
We. Shall. See.<br />
<br />
In the meantime....here are your old favorites:<br />
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<br />AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-60506535502587848732014-05-18T01:36:00.003-04:002014-05-18T01:36:54.842-04:00See it, woman!<br />
Me: Did you see the original 'Carrie; The Musical'?<br />
Theatre Queen #1 : No, I wasn't in New York that weekend.<br />
<br />
That was my first exposure to 'Carrie: The Musical'; and that exchange took place in the spring of 1990 or so. At that time, it was the floppiest of all Broadway flops, and I knew very little about it.<br />
I'd read the book and seen the movie, but the musical was completely foreign to me.<br />
Fast forward about 7 years to 'Showtune Night' at Luxor in Boston's Back Bay when there on the screen (on a good night) we were all treated to a few numbers from the original Broadway production. The quality was pretty horrible, but it was a treat, nonetheless. The opening number was certainly something to see (YIKES) but one of the more popular clips was of Betty Buckley (in the role of Margaret White) and Linzi Hateley (in the role of Carrie) performing 'And Eve Was Weak', which was an incredibly cool moment to witness (it's out on YouTube, if you're so inclined).<br />
Fast forward once again, this time about 17 years to the present day, where 'Carrie: The Musical' has once again been brought back into my life.<br />
<br />
Last Monday night I was fortunate enough to see the opening night performance of 'Carrie: The Musical' at SpeakEasy Stage Company in Boston. When SpeakEasy announced the show as part of their 2013-2014 season last year, I was VERY excited. I wasn't able to make it to New York to see the 2012 revival , since I wasn't in the city that weekend... Kidding! The 2012 off-Broadway production had a fairly decent run, but still closed two weeks earlier than originally planned. <br />
The fact that SpeakEasy was planning on producing the Boston premiere was perfect. The show was right up their alley as far as I was concerned. A little bit edgy, off the beaten path, and it was something that I thought their usual audience would enjoy.<br />
After seeing the show on Monday, I am quite confident that it will be yet another success that they can add to their list.<br />
As I've said previously, I'm not a theatre reviewer, so you'll have to bear with me. <br />
<br />
In the two most well known roles of Carrie and Margaret White, Elizabeth Erardi (Carrie) and Kerry A. Dowling (Margaret) were a great match. Their number 'And Eve Was Weak' not only sounded fantastic, but the staging and physicality of the number made it one of my favorite numbers of the night. I loved watching Kerry, particularly when she was giving you full-on, crazy Margaret. If you want to see what I'm talking about, the next time you see her, tell her that you're going to the Prom. :-)<br />
Elizabeth has a fantastic voice that is able to convey lots of power but also some quiet, more reserved, moments as well and I really enjoyed her portrayal of the bullied and sheltered Carrie White. <br />
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<span class="meta-fieldphoto-desc">Elizabeth Erardi and Kerry
A. Dowling in the SpeakEasy Stage production of CARRIE THE MUSICAL. Photo by
Craig Bailey/Perspective Photo.</span></div>
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As the 'mean girl' Chris Hargenson (or should I say the <i>leader</i> of all the 'mean girls'), Paige Berkovitz might just be my favorite new discovery of the year. Not only was she PERFECT as the ringleader of the 'bad kids' who make Carrie's day to day life a nightmare, but holy mackerel, can this girl SING! Seriously, she sounded amazing, and I wanted more. Like, "Hi, here's a phone book, now sing it back to me." more. Phil Tayler made a great bad boy in the role of Billy Nolan, Chris'
boyfriend. During the number 'Do Me A Favor' we were given a little
taste of what it's like for Billy to live under the thumb of his
ruthless, demanding, and spoiled girlfriend.<br />
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<span class="meta-fieldphoto-desc">Paige Berkovitz and Phil
Tayler in the SpeakEasy Stage production of CARRIE THE MUSICAL. Photo by Craig
Bailey/Perspective Photo.</span></div>
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Speaking of wanting more....Sarah Drake, in her third SpeakEasy appearance, plays Sue Snell, the mean girl with a conscience. Her voice is suited perfectly for this role, and her number 'Once You See' is fantastic. She does a great job conveying Sue's frustration when she attempts to make things right with Carrie but it doesn't go as planned. Sue's boyfriend, Tommy Ross is played by Joe Longthorne. Their duet 'You Shine' was a delightful glimpse into their relationship, and their voices were a really great pairing. <br />
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<span class="meta-fieldphoto-desc">Joe Longthorne and Sarah
Drake in the SpeakEasy Stage production of CARRIE THE MUSICAL. Photo by Craig
Bailey/Perspective Photo.</span></div>
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Shonna Cirone, makes her SpeakEasy debut in the role of Miss Gardner and I really hope she's back on the SpeakEasy stage soon! She's saddled with being not only the taskmaster who has to deal with a gaggle of troublesome teens, but she also serves as the caring, normal, not-insane, mother figure in Carrie's life. The scene leading up to Miss Gardner's duet with Carrie ('Unsuspecting Hearts') was one of my favorite moments of the show and the song was outstanding. Shonna's got a great voice, and this number really showed it off.<br />
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<span class="meta-fieldphoto-desc">Shonna Cirone and Elizabeth
Erardi in the SpeakEasy Stage production of CARRIE THE MUSICAL. Photo by Craig
Bailey/Perspective Photo.</span></div>
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John Costa did a nice job in dual roles of Reverend Bliss/Mr. Stephens, and the 6 person ensemble rounded out the rest of the cast quite well. Special mention goes out to to Amanda Lopez as Norma for her commitment to the character and her delivery of a particular line (in reference to Carrie's sweater) that had me in hysterics. Also, kudos to Daniel Scott Walton as George for bringing lots of humor to what could have been a throw away ensemble role.<br />
<br />
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<span class="meta-fieldphoto-desc">Paige Berkovitz (left
front) and Sarah Drake (right front) in the SpeakEasy Stage production of
CARRIE THE MUSICAL. Photo by Craig Bailey/Perspective Photo.</span></div>
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Of course, this production wouldn't have been what it was without Paul Melone on hand, not only as Carrie's director, but as SpeakEasy's General Manager and Production Manager. He wasn't only the brains behind all the technical aspects of the production, which were quite impressive, but he was also one of the people who was responsible for assembling this incredibly talented cast. </div>
<div>
Carrie's musical director is Nicholas James Connell, who I have to thank for making the cast (as well as the 6 person orchestra) sound as great as they did. When I think back to the many musical moments that I consider highlights of the evening, I really have to give Nicholas a virtual standing ovation for creating the sound that he did. </div>
<div>
Larry Sousa, who returns to SpeakEasy for a second time after choreographing last season's 'In The Heights' once again does an excellent job keeping things interesting and brings an entirely different style of choreography to the SpeakEasy stage. I look forward to seeing him back at SpeakEasy again!!<br />
</div>
<div>
OK, I've been writing forever at this point, so if you're still reading this, thank you! Seriously, if you're even remotely on the fence about whether or not to see this production, GO!!! The cast is fantastic, the vocals alone are worth the price of the ticket, and it tells a very relevant and important story.<br />
Besides...don't you want to be able to say that you saw 'Carrie: The Musical'?!?!?!? <br />
<br />
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<span class="meta-fieldphoto-desc">Elizabeth Erardi in the
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Bailey/Perspective Photo.</span></div>
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AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-35476363649890097192014-05-09T09:22:00.004-04:002014-05-09T09:27:02.725-04:00Another Post....OK - this isn't the post that I was referring to the other day when I said that there would be a post 'coming soon' - but since I feel like writing, I'm going to. What I WAS referring to is the fact that I'm going to see 'Carrie the Musical' on Monday at <a href="http://www.speakeasystage.com/index.php">SpeakEasy Stage Company</a> and I'll be posting 'review' a of sorts after seeing it. <br>
Now, let's get something clear, I don't claim to be a theatre reviewer of any sort, but what I am, is a person who really enjoyes theatre. When I like something, I want to get the word out there so others can enjoy what I've enjoyed. It's no secret that I'm a fan of SpeakEasy Stage, but they really do bring fantastic theatre to Boston. Not only with the shows that they produce, but with the talent that they put on their stage. <br>
I'm so excited to see this show, not only because I'm a fan of the source material, but I'm fascinated by the history of the show itself. Be sure and come back on Tuesday to see what I think of the production, and keep have your calendars with you so you can buy some tickets!!! <br>
<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil1o06BzPD78qZp-Wif9oeLeGfFrdpPLk7GSKgYOOr-evZIYtkxkJfzjKYYOppKxiz09FbYQ9gvWj79UUGo1r3nxsihHbl73ZUsb6coicrmOLSHWSdTTjwjxr-ztswOndodkA8tIcMXZoB/s640/blogger-image--1871676510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil1o06BzPD78qZp-Wif9oeLeGfFrdpPLk7GSKgYOOr-evZIYtkxkJfzjKYYOppKxiz09FbYQ9gvWj79UUGo1r3nxsihHbl73ZUsb6coicrmOLSHWSdTTjwjxr-ztswOndodkA8tIcMXZoB/s640/blogger-image--1871676510.jpg"></a></div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOU3UNf8CiapmorJTnFrkLDXpS0ejSuVhaRtfkKh5lnP9yzsrga9qPQhebCVfKQ9Jyoxj3ElW7_XpOMH24F2JOqZIwmpcGRK8ltdOvwNaQqIc1G2ySrwb_PwmZkBnF9pvFE6vqJ4z9wS5N/s1600/Carrie+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOU3UNf8CiapmorJTnFrkLDXpS0ejSuVhaRtfkKh5lnP9yzsrga9qPQhebCVfKQ9Jyoxj3ElW7_XpOMH24F2JOqZIwmpcGRK8ltdOvwNaQqIc1G2ySrwb_PwmZkBnF9pvFE6vqJ4z9wS5N/s320/Carrie+3.jpg"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9TZpnK1_YGQbnBVOLemFFLj-Oej9KamBPa66T47mlj-3__AIo916b1La656SQhhv6NPDDs_GG9HYeBKLHTdyfJhWAZDQh8ySyJhWlIb6gNborM054zgVyV0c6gghyphenhyphenePFflQudfI1wCv2y/s1600/Carrie+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9TZpnK1_YGQbnBVOLemFFLj-Oej9KamBPa66T47mlj-3__AIo916b1La656SQhhv6NPDDs_GG9HYeBKLHTdyfJhWAZDQh8ySyJhWlIb6gNborM054zgVyV0c6gghyphenhyphenePFflQudfI1wCv2y/s320/Carrie+4.jpg"></a></div>
<br>
Elizabeth Erardi as Carrie White in CARRIE THE MUSICAL at SpeakEasy Stage. Photo by Glenn Perry Photography.
AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-65268426958018886282014-05-06T14:24:00.001-04:002014-05-06T14:24:06.162-04:00Teaser.Consider yourself teased. <div>There's a new 'real' blog entry coming soon. </div><div>In the meantime, here are some pics. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaEg93XJDAg5lxJfy1PIo3Oo4Rsw7pAsAnLvhlcutFfBRyyR9CC4B4-XgdWQijIzDVhv8nUlNAt75OQIwSPc3dJU_CqT8zVYq9T5Mx0n1MabriP5uZh_nig0XTaG-2yIeaC9NioCS_k7Rj/s640/blogger-image-1369645104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaEg93XJDAg5lxJfy1PIo3Oo4Rsw7pAsAnLvhlcutFfBRyyR9CC4B4-XgdWQijIzDVhv8nUlNAt75OQIwSPc3dJU_CqT8zVYq9T5Mx0n1MabriP5uZh_nig0XTaG-2yIeaC9NioCS_k7Rj/s640/blogger-image-1369645104.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2h5CNow4JtxGN7r-05HsVofyzfJGkgqXc8fEs426NogfNn7p4GBykAdKT6RQGQNgEVBwAknLFjWoOOEJ_KfLNdGZML4srpQBkaVCesDuiWGTQ3Lg2MaRGgenEl2trVzQTAabKdijNpzEb/s640/blogger-image-514773273.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2h5CNow4JtxGN7r-05HsVofyzfJGkgqXc8fEs426NogfNn7p4GBykAdKT6RQGQNgEVBwAknLFjWoOOEJ_KfLNdGZML4srpQBkaVCesDuiWGTQ3Lg2MaRGgenEl2trVzQTAabKdijNpzEb/s640/blogger-image-514773273.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxxR_Zg4wG8OM4WpwZDq_VB69pnJV_OZ92fuOLoS-er7sDEtt8suhvg6mI0Pz3S-H0j5K2pLOoZWzTXeyhOkrOX7KzkPNNgeLwqiB_U-uhAEuY3H2pyQhHbvpzJcC7sHqRI4oCfstcOM-e/s640/blogger-image--1759246008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxxR_Zg4wG8OM4WpwZDq_VB69pnJV_OZ92fuOLoS-er7sDEtt8suhvg6mI0Pz3S-H0j5K2pLOoZWzTXeyhOkrOX7KzkPNNgeLwqiB_U-uhAEuY3H2pyQhHbvpzJcC7sHqRI4oCfstcOM-e/s640/blogger-image--1759246008.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDzBQ6cD4jMz4xG5d1ziOebokJ7mghEfNo55v9wP02hxULFpb1JcfBEJQVy4rHXdKJVd_Y_yQjqTXjvE6gdwQqX4cf5oUM7P6nfWamViUzJ3yOHxMV0eVAaMqRsjbDcxtW0doyU8GDVnd/s640/blogger-image--836047455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDzBQ6cD4jMz4xG5d1ziOebokJ7mghEfNo55v9wP02hxULFpb1JcfBEJQVy4rHXdKJVd_Y_yQjqTXjvE6gdwQqX4cf5oUM7P6nfWamViUzJ3yOHxMV0eVAaMqRsjbDcxtW0doyU8GDVnd/s640/blogger-image--836047455.jpg"></a></div><br></div>AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-19714582036550686042013-08-01T13:55:00.001-04:002013-08-01T13:55:07.928-04:00I Need A Drink!!!!I'm simply a tingle over the thought of my readers taking a look at the blog and seeing that I've posted twice (or more) since they last looked!<div><br></div><div>Work is so very busy these days that I'm counting down the time until I can leave here, go home and have a drink! Yeesh. </div><div><br></div><div>Other than that, nothing new has happened since yesterday, just trying to keep my promise of posting more frequently. Oh - and I'm TOTALLY addicted to Vine these days. For those of you who don't know what it is, it's an app that let's you create 6 second videos. It's set up similar to Twitter, etc. where you follow people or get followed, and there are some FUNNY people out there. If you feel like you need one more distraction in your life, check it out. :-)</div><div><br></div><div>Have a great day!!!</div><div>xoxo</div>AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-25129382024343100662013-07-31T09:08:00.001-04:002013-07-31T09:11:22.875-04:00I'm Commited<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); clear: both; ">Hey. </div><div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">I've been having an internal battle about whether or not to get rid of my blog all together or try to get back on track and start posting again. </div><div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">I've decided to keep the old gal around for a while longer, with a new plan in place. </div><div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Instead of checking the same (of many) social media 'apps' 50 times a day, I will commit to visiting this app and make a blog entry. </div><div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">I'm still pretty fascinating, and I know you're all intrigued by every move that I make, so it's only fair. ;-)</div><div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></div><div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">In other news, all is well with me. Work is good, Jim, Zachary, and the beloved Scooter are great and we're having a delightful summer. </div><div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">I hope the same goes for all of you. :-)</div><div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">xoxox</div><div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></div><div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><div class="separator" style="clear: both; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim7MfhsfX7oLyl7LjA5J4pBMuwf9UI3m8u_wBSzCL4Awi1cuLbuZhHx6-sCwi_DrPw1-r2deeTM_7KSvCUuHG5Jq9eJwNj7p3nExF8Q-ywZG-5sVcXEKumAXyM2ttjctiIB4xHmVWaCmk_/s640/blogger-image--1685339433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim7MfhsfX7oLyl7LjA5J4pBMuwf9UI3m8u_wBSzCL4Awi1cuLbuZhHx6-sCwi_DrPw1-r2deeTM_7KSvCUuHG5Jq9eJwNj7p3nExF8Q-ywZG-5sVcXEKumAXyM2ttjctiIB4xHmVWaCmk_/s640/blogger-image--1685339433.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Here's a recent picture of Zachary and I, after a swim in the pool, which he LOVES. </div><div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></div><div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><div class="separator" style="clear: both; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikgfBK_YHTnRduDK65QIyWQtphj86kqvJI0Um_2RHJSTQEXEi_YlN2AxlOdKhylPDc0x3kVExHe22tAE2G_f55yHVi48-ODzJiWbfbFXg5v-NqwI73e2cHu9vpZa27AY_0vMSI29mgf1N_/s640/blogger-image-632429346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikgfBK_YHTnRduDK65QIyWQtphj86kqvJI0Um_2RHJSTQEXEi_YlN2AxlOdKhylPDc0x3kVExHe22tAE2G_f55yHVi48-ODzJiWbfbFXg5v-NqwI73e2cHu9vpZa27AY_0vMSI29mgf1N_/s640/blogger-image-632429346.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Scooter loves the pool as well, and has been in it FAR more than I have this summer. Typical. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik2FSvuSgcGZayamlE3Xy_x9hFo6jJtxPtNS9LvGUyO7kjKCAE9jyllIeemtweBSmL7qZCyKoTpmawRRNa6BEJAIqiFL2RJ4XJnQGBnmmqp8d3oK7AK-9lnMvgW2jNkz2BrjunYlntwV2i/s640/blogger-image--156760405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik2FSvuSgcGZayamlE3Xy_x9hFo6jJtxPtNS9LvGUyO7kjKCAE9jyllIeemtweBSmL7qZCyKoTpmawRRNa6BEJAIqiFL2RJ4XJnQGBnmmqp8d3oK7AK-9lnMvgW2jNkz2BrjunYlntwV2i/s640/blogger-image--156760405.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Here's a picture of Z and one of the mascots of the Paw Sox (the farm team for the Red Sox). You get an idea of how big he's gotten recently. He's still small for his age (especially his weight), but he's pretty tall. </div></div>AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-64641947886383936522013-04-17T15:16:00.001-04:002013-04-17T15:16:06.254-04:00Waiting and waiting.....As I sit here at work waiting for an export to complete, I figured I'd drop by to say hello. Of course, Thats assuming that people are still reading and remember that I exist. Although, truth be told, I can't blame them if they forgot about me, it's been a while since I blogged with any kind of consistency. <br />
<br />
So, since I last wrote, some CRAZY shit has gone down in the city of Boston. <br />
I'm happy to report that all my friends who were in and around the affected part of the city on Monday are safe and sound. <br />
As it is with any other tragic event, you can't help but feel a little (or a lot) uneasy about what happened and what it means for your future. That's an area where I used to walk just about every day back when I was working in the city, so to have something so horrible occur someplace so familiar to me is quite frightening. <br />
<br />
Let's just hope that they find whoever did this, and fast!!!<br />
<br />
xoxox<br />
<br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnYWz6D4mXMcUW0JUeNhvgmNf5LZ_AGUnSleklgJMRJhvq1RvhRYu3o9GT5SgYCurd9Co9GWczFwiJSKZ9dPC-Cr7g_ok3oYGjlvCphx6aIuKX-R4i_5Hc_Cph7FbZNrnfh2MwvWbeVlVP/s640/blogger-image--377727412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnYWz6D4mXMcUW0JUeNhvgmNf5LZ_AGUnSleklgJMRJhvq1RvhRYu3o9GT5SgYCurd9Co9GWczFwiJSKZ9dPC-Cr7g_ok3oYGjlvCphx6aIuKX-R4i_5Hc_Cph7FbZNrnfh2MwvWbeVlVP/s640/blogger-image--377727412.jpg" /></a></div>AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-59302600560376472732013-04-11T10:32:00.001-04:002013-04-11T10:32:42.467-04:00There's an app for that!So, it looks like the Blogger app just<br />
might be the thing that saves my blog. <br />
It's really quite easy to knock out a quick blog post on my phone, especially if I'm at work and can manage it. <br />
It's MUCH more discreet than bringing it up on my computer. <br />
<br />
That being said, here's a quick update for y'all. Jim just finished redoing our dining room!!! It was a matter of taking down the wallpaper, priming and reprinting. None if which I have any talent/patience for. <br />
He managed to do it in about a week and a half, all while still being a stay-at-home dad! No idea how he managed, but he did!!<br />
Here are some before and after pics:<br />
<br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHr_W_FZZMrDohHyMChROkfsMIADJygTYbTvpgyQO_OBdhwSp7UqrkUIes7wphtlPyqhCuIHiIDMwWLUfe7ilh8W2mJcx-PJKc0x0NXN1nFpKGagYTDu1mh-S4llPPNuUAj5mMSK72mnys/s640/blogger-image--2225391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHr_W_FZZMrDohHyMChROkfsMIADJygTYbTvpgyQO_OBdhwSp7UqrkUIes7wphtlPyqhCuIHiIDMwWLUfe7ilh8W2mJcx-PJKc0x0NXN1nFpKGagYTDu1mh-S4llPPNuUAj5mMSK72mnys/s640/blogger-image--2225391.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxWHGoM654NECgdlQ1wwfU5-cdAAgT8DC1Mt3izxjiEcBgklZC796XIJaOUqt_NqCg55no5cw4ZZnW1vU0-oNWIKBjMizg-O0s6HdGB4JiU-fQfS7LHayEcg263deQaF-YA26V8cWXjxnG/s640/blogger-image-1550737416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxWHGoM654NECgdlQ1wwfU5-cdAAgT8DC1Mt3izxjiEcBgklZC796XIJaOUqt_NqCg55no5cw4ZZnW1vU0-oNWIKBjMizg-O0s6HdGB4JiU-fQfS7LHayEcg263deQaF-YA26V8cWXjxnG/s640/blogger-image-1550737416.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYA9tb46OQtuvWiDF1dvk3Mlkv5tqXNwJulZ8zC1mISb6yOGam1-pM8JD1ZtL0pzMwyb7RO2LlWCra5vWUVaAZhL6OhLxjsHOrskNDnXFxME13wmy6sHi1BN310GropawRpQhvQvaHkO43/s640/blogger-image-708385319.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYA9tb46OQtuvWiDF1dvk3Mlkv5tqXNwJulZ8zC1mISb6yOGam1-pM8JD1ZtL0pzMwyb7RO2LlWCra5vWUVaAZhL6OhLxjsHOrskNDnXFxME13wmy6sHi1BN310GropawRpQhvQvaHkO43/s640/blogger-image-708385319.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsbkY0j_sJPZBKqt4qsh9dP7PRcZeuGTV7oJWpl0LRasee8lYbZsISehxQbzgsl0qLPD05TyUK0t0bijv8n7cxyLLQwLXzxxLdURaPTATrc1NSwjLeRk6u7DCfXfb5fqFVnG-Fcn7AxGjD/s640/blogger-image-1766188746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsbkY0j_sJPZBKqt4qsh9dP7PRcZeuGTV7oJWpl0LRasee8lYbZsISehxQbzgsl0qLPD05TyUK0t0bijv8n7cxyLLQwLXzxxLdURaPTATrc1NSwjLeRk6u7DCfXfb5fqFVnG-Fcn7AxGjD/s640/blogger-image-1766188746.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDppgdwTnYUk9XAIzLAcayJdWnBBDQt64qQ3Rjr2j7_be_560YwAgFNz-9HlobSU8m5lV3mu1fWEhQYGJ08_m9S285j5LtHzHYmeq3PKSvW8vco_P5Q0otkDMOvBCGBGnsWdkoUctE2x1v/s640/blogger-image--629789621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDppgdwTnYUk9XAIzLAcayJdWnBBDQt64qQ3Rjr2j7_be_560YwAgFNz-9HlobSU8m5lV3mu1fWEhQYGJ08_m9S285j5LtHzHYmeq3PKSvW8vco_P5Q0otkDMOvBCGBGnsWdkoUctE2x1v/s640/blogger-image--629789621.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyNNEGA5xixG3qsGBth0HArRyFERipj8zcw8elypZBmb-DF4xIjnVaPSws0wn_kwLMpAK77QcmymBJbbL4kjpmfjfp_66JTIXeE99jMCjVV6wtSzaiC9ROjZYN3csr6mfJ5P95SSb5c1OP/s640/blogger-image--387964201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyNNEGA5xixG3qsGBth0HArRyFERipj8zcw8elypZBmb-DF4xIjnVaPSws0wn_kwLMpAK77QcmymBJbbL4kjpmfjfp_66JTIXeE99jMCjVV6wtSzaiC9ROjZYN3csr6mfJ5P95SSb5c1OP/s640/blogger-image--387964201.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQ6woqkKpsEMtQwns8YMAJQnGI6u9HEl85YszsUTqVIHiekXPhG-7okTkmwd-L08XEskSkJByycz45D8lBr3b1EPbn-IWwBLPN8y73jouis4Oc4CEqQlyUqo-zVOAFjWHtbfekKzJtXfy/s640/blogger-image--1004226907.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQ6woqkKpsEMtQwns8YMAJQnGI6u9HEl85YszsUTqVIHiekXPhG-7okTkmwd-L08XEskSkJByycz45D8lBr3b1EPbn-IWwBLPN8y73jouis4Oc4CEqQlyUqo-zVOAFjWHtbfekKzJtXfy/s640/blogger-image--1004226907.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhix3fXR-xR-PXWBfoWiXH8PxUk6v4u2YlovsEoIJsAdAR1AGe48BZrHqWKxUMJTt6JKTwI1wMNWROUYucr8ThIQIUd3Xii_oyQmT0Zay3v2sIAmuC4u5RocDgvpZNXBLP4DtMyXwcgaOb0/s640/blogger-image--1909644278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhix3fXR-xR-PXWBfoWiXH8PxUk6v4u2YlovsEoIJsAdAR1AGe48BZrHqWKxUMJTt6JKTwI1wMNWROUYucr8ThIQIUd3Xii_oyQmT0Zay3v2sIAmuC4u5RocDgvpZNXBLP4DtMyXwcgaOb0/s640/blogger-image--1909644278.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLn3d3JL6LuHfWI7xW66VBXVyKRVA13tvD6HwhYj4G09tsPPxe9knFOeu3Pmo7Ru2yZUiIPtKBWLznvk5EoMyGChKonC4LHH29s6eBOWWwPSaZJwvNQRRwjp2QNXrzP6feq38R67iPG3C/s640/blogger-image-770123227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLn3d3JL6LuHfWI7xW66VBXVyKRVA13tvD6HwhYj4G09tsPPxe9knFOeu3Pmo7Ru2yZUiIPtKBWLznvk5EoMyGChKonC4LHH29s6eBOWWwPSaZJwvNQRRwjp2QNXrzP6feq38R67iPG3C/s640/blogger-image-770123227.jpg" /></a></div>AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-43544463970480492952013-04-09T21:51:00.001-04:002013-04-09T21:51:53.093-04:00Axe, and you shall receive.....Just a couple of new pictures. <br />
It's the least I could do. :-) <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2NQwxzAxJxIYCFxa0czjhyAcW097YN_S_Mr5Iwyeh7QA4mH_vacDDawIPEqumQHObWDpwnfHCZ_kCyDwvclXRlEe9ZWzOq91eJNWRU6dWJltTM0bBnPbagaiMrrawD2kj65CXKfLy6gm/s640/blogger-image--1744070329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2NQwxzAxJxIYCFxa0czjhyAcW097YN_S_Mr5Iwyeh7QA4mH_vacDDawIPEqumQHObWDpwnfHCZ_kCyDwvclXRlEe9ZWzOq91eJNWRU6dWJltTM0bBnPbagaiMrrawD2kj65CXKfLy6gm/s640/blogger-image--1744070329.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhCz66yiyFh2aPYPEZMI6n_nsw0EULamBdZWF60P7rt1_ly6GXqnWVtICUjhjO1U5gvTIG6htArOUlF2rI4E5_bg57riKx-6-48jgEn1xGSfX8enXbue8otQDD0OdMvtsBGAMzqYnex1vv/s640/blogger-image-1056942101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhCz66yiyFh2aPYPEZMI6n_nsw0EULamBdZWF60P7rt1_ly6GXqnWVtICUjhjO1U5gvTIG6htArOUlF2rI4E5_bg57riKx-6-48jgEn1xGSfX8enXbue8otQDD0OdMvtsBGAMzqYnex1vv/s640/blogger-image-1056942101.jpg" /></a></div>AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-23046542851227691222013-04-09T14:49:00.003-04:002013-04-09T14:49:40.132-04:00Is this thing on???I am HORRIFIED that I haven't posted once in 2013.<br />
I am happy to see that the blog is still out here.<br />
I do keep in touch (aka stalk) with some/most of my 'regulars' via Facebook, but I miss the days of yore, when I was blogging daily.<br />
All is well.<br />
I've been at my job for just about 10 months and still really like it.<br />
Jim is great.<br />
Zachary is awesome (and he's TWO!!!).<br />
Scooter is still the spoiled brat that he's always been (but the ruler of the roost).<br />
I grew my beard back. (I know that some of you were worried).<br />
We're actually going on a family vacation at the end of the month to D.C. (I've never been, if you can believe that) so any 'must sees' are welcome....rememebering that we're 'with child' :-)<br />
<br />
I hope you're all doing well and haven't written me off....I'm still kicking around and think of you often.<br />
xoxoAJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-7038094674359050862012-11-30T14:53:00.002-05:002012-11-30T14:53:12.007-05:00Way overdue...<br />
"How are things in Glocca Morra???"<br />
<br />
What?!?! You act like it's been two months since I've updated my blog.....yeesh.<br />
<br />
OK - guilty as charged. I realize that it's been a long time, but believe me - while I'm not updating as often (or at all) I think about you all quite often, and know that you're out here in the blogosphere waiting and waiting for an update. :-)<br />
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So, let's see......the show I was in (The Drowsy Chaperone) is over and done with, and was a LOT of fun. We played to sold out houses and the show was very well received. OK, the theatre sits 75, but STILL....that doesn't necessarily guarantee a sell out! <br />
That being said, it was great to be back on stage again after so long and I'm looking forward to my next stage adventure. Speaking of, Jim is actually in rehearsals right now for a play at the very same theatre, which goes up in February. Such a talented family we are.<br />
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Other than that, nothing new is going on. Work is as busy as ever, and I'm still enjoying it. <br />
I feel badly for my former co-workers who are unfortunately still dealing with the unstable work environment I was so happy to escape from. Rumors of layoffs are still flying over there and with the upcoming holidays, people are STRESSED.<br />
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In addition to being in rehearsals for his own show, Jim is directing a show (which opens in 2 weeks), still taking care of Zachary all day long, and is currently working part time (seasonal help) at the local Crate & Barrel. Needless to say, he's a tad busy. Hopefully we'll manage to have some extra cash, which we so desperately need, and we won't spend it all on Crate and Barrel 'stuff'. It will be difficult I'm sure, as we both love that store, but we can do it!<br />
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OK - I'm interrupting my normally scheduled blog post to tell you that as I was writing this entry, I received a Facebook message from the ever delightful (and fellow blogger) Blobby, inquiring as to whether or not I ever planned to update my blog. Isn't that CRAZY?!?? Seriously....what the hell are the odds???<br />
Obviously, he's spying on me. Anyway....I thought you should all know that just happened.<br />
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So - it's Friday afternoon and I should be doing one of the 5,000 things I need to do, but I decided to update my blog and spread a lil' love around the Internets.<br />
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I hope you're all well, and you're having a super fun holiday season (if that's your 'thing')<br />
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Kisses!!!<br />
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Here's a picture of this year's Halloween costumes.</div>
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Yes, Scooter was a skeleton again....it's his favorite. </div>
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As you can clearly see.</div>
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AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-13644303694578060722012-09-27T12:19:00.003-04:002012-09-27T12:19:54.536-04:00Get out your tap shoes (again) Frances!!!!<br />
I'm doing a show!!!<br />
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OK - truth be told, I've been in rehearsals for about a month at this point, but I've been SO lacking in the blog department, that the news is just hitting the Internets. <br />
The show is 'The Drowsy Chaperone' (GREAT show) and I'm playing George, who is Robert's (the groom) best man. Rehearsals are going well, and I think it's going to be a really fun show. <br />
I'm doing the show at a local community theatre, which also happens to be the very same community theatre where I performed in my VERY first musical, 'Oliver!'...TWENTY-NINE years ago. :-)<br />
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What's even crazier is that the woman directing this show is the same person who directed 'Oliver!'!!!<br />
Clearly, she doesn't age because she pretty much looks the exact same as she did in 1983. <br />
While this theatre may not be known for putting on the best shows or have the highest production values, it will always be a special place for me. I kind of grew up in that theatre, and it was a fun and 'safe' place for me to spend a lot of my time. They were also super-supportive and kind to me when my mom passed away. As many of you know, when my mom died, I was only 13 years old. Right before she died, I had auditioned for 'Oklahoma!', was cast in the show, and then right before rehearsals started my mom passed away. The director (same one as Oliver! and the current show) told me that if I wanted to drop out, she'd understand, but I decided that it would be a good distraction and the best place for me to be. As it turned out, I was totally right. Doing the show allowed me to take my mind of being sad, it gave me the chance to talk to people about what was going on, and in doing that show, I met some great people that I'm still friends with to this day. So.....that, in a nutshell is why I feel such a connection to that theatre.<br />
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Other than the show, everything else is going well. I'm doing well, work is still going well, and everything is great at home. Speaking of home....and Jim, he just started teaching a theatre class at a local music school a couple times a week and will be directing an (well, HIS) adaptation of 'A Christmas Carol' there in December. He's having a great time, and is thrilled to be back doing some theatre related 'stuff'. Very fun.<br />
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Zachary is doing awesome. He's been walking around like a pro, and through Early Intervention has started going to a weekly play group, which he LOVES!!!! Thankfully, he's a very social little boy. He loves to play with other kids, and he seems to really like music. YAY!!!<br />
We haven't had to deal with any 'separation anxiety' at all (YET) which has been excellent. He'll give us a look as if to say 'Is it OK if I go to this person???' but he doesn't lose it when we aren't with him or if we have to drop him off somewhere. Fingers crossed that that lasts!<br />
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Here are a couple of recent pictures.....<br />
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I came acroiss this random shot on the doggie daycare's website where we used to send Scooter.</div>
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He's a BIG fan of lounging in the sun.</div>
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Yes, much to Scooter's dismay....it's almost that time of year again!!!</div>
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AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-17028025311587416182012-08-23T08:34:00.006-04:002012-08-23T08:34:59.063-04:00SCOOTER!!!<br />
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Due to popular demand.....<br />
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His usual spot....</div>
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Look at that face!!!!</div>
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It was an exceptionally warm evening...</div>
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More lounging</div>
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Even MORE lounging....this time, with a friend</div>
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Alert!</div>
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And this is Miner....my sister's dog.....</div>
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AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-17687768766695697582012-08-22T08:12:00.000-04:002012-08-22T08:12:11.731-04:00Miss Me????Have you missed me?!?!?!?<br />
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After being ENDLESSLY harassed by <a href="http://www.blobbysblog.com/">Blobby</a> (OK, he sent me one email) about my lack of blogging, I thought it was about time I update you all on all the EXCITING things that have been happening since I last updated this blog....in June. YIKES.<br />
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Let's see.....work has been super busy, but very good. It's so nice to not be filled with dread each day when I wake up. Everyone here is so friendly, the work is interesting (and challenging) and even the commute (although long-ish) hasn't been bad!! All in all, things are great.<br />
And they had an ice cream truck here last Friday giving out free ice cream!!!<br />
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The summer is nearing an end (sad face) - but even though it was a pretty stressful one (our endless pool issues, travelling for work, summer illnesses, etc...) that is all behind me and I'm looking forward to the fall!<br />
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In my last post, I talked about our pool drama and I'm happy to say that it is all taken care of. I'm not happy to say that it cost us a TON of money, but at least it's all done and now we have a brand spankin' new pool liner and patio. Here are a couple of pictures of the end result:<br />
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Pretty fancy, huh?</div>
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In addition to all that pool work this summer, I traveled to Minnesota for a couple weeks at the end of July into August and had a FANTASTIC time. I ended up meeting up with a bunch of friends that live in the area (who knew I knew so many people in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area?!?!?) and best of all, I got to meet fellow blogger <a href="http://manginamonologues.wordpress.com/">CB</a>!!! We met up for dinner one night while I was there and had so much fun. After dinner, he gave me a tour of the Minneapolis area, and in spite of me almost completely ruining the entire evening by 1. almost ordering a Miller Lite at dinner and 2. referring to his 'Drum and Bugle Corps' as 'Band' - it was a PERFECT meeting. ;-)</div>
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While I was in MN I worked a ton, but was able to see the sights including The Mall of America (which I loved) and I even made it to a Twins game.....AMAZING stadium.</div>
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All in all, it was a great (although crazy busy) trip and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved the Twin Cities. </div>
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After a very painful, irritating, and incredibly inconvenient bout of 'Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease' which BOTH Jim and Zachary had (poor guys!!) we are all in good health and doing well. We just had a family photo shoot on Monday night - yes, our good friend Barrie is still at it :-) so I'll attach a couple of shots for your enjoyment.</div>
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Oh - and I 'celebrated' - OK, I missed.....my 4 year blog anniversary which was on Monday the 13th. I know, I know.....my blogging has been lacking, but it's still here, and I still think of you all VERY often, so that has to count for something, right?!?!?!</div>
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Have a great day and I hope you're all well. XOXO</div>
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Pictures, Pictures, Pictures......</div>
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AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-67016668472319942302012-06-27T09:53:00.000-04:002012-06-27T09:57:41.116-04:00Lists, lists, lists....<br />
1. I'm writing this entry on my iPhone. <br />
2. I miss you all somethin' terrible. <br />
3. The new job is great. <br />
4. The people here are happy. <br />
5. The people here are friendly. <br />
6. The people here chat with one another and have fun. <br />
7. My commute is long, but it's not 'traffic-y' so I don't mind. <br />
8. Jim is glad to have the 'old' John back. <br />
9. I'm glad to have the 'old' John back. <br />
10. Keep your 'old' comments to yourself. <br />
11. Zachary is doing great since his surgery and is back to normal. <br />
12. We are all set to have the pool re-lined as well as getting some other 'cosmetic' stuff done in the pool area. <br />
13. Jim and Scooter can't wait to swim. <br />
14. I split a second pair of pants at work last week. <br />
15. My diet starts today. <br />
16. Lists make blogging easy. <br />
17. I'll be sure to post pictures as soon as the pool area transformation is underway. <br />
18. xoxo<br />
<br />AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-55247021693719098352012-06-08T07:57:00.000-04:002012-06-08T07:58:45.142-04:00When It's Time to Change...<br />
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The day that I never thought would arrive, has arrived. :-)<br />
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Today is my last day at my current job. When people ask me how long I've been with the company, it's kind of difficult to give a simple answer, because it's a complicated situation. I generally say that I've been here just about 11 years, but then I have to add the qualifier that I've only been with my 'current' company for the past 5 years, but I was with the previous company for 6 years, before they were acquired by my current company. Make sense? It's been just about 11 years in total, but that technically split up between two companies.<br />
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That being said, it's been a long time since I've started a BRAND new job....and that will happen on Monday. YIKES! As you'd expect, I'm a little bit nervous, but mostly excited. For the first time since 1996, I won't be working for a financial company, and that alone sends me through the roof.<br />
There will be no talk of trade processing, no buys and sells to process, no variation margins, no trade extracts, no amortization, etc.and that makes me very happy.<br />
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I'll be sure you do my best to keep you all updated as to how things are going, you can be sure of that.<br />
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In the meantime, our little boy, Zachary underwent his second (and hopefully final) surgery last Wednesday and is doing great with his recuperation. <br />
Here are some photos:<br />
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<em>Jim and Zachary hanging out before he went in for the surgery (Jim went downstairs with him, which explains why he's in scrubs)</em></div>
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<em>One last photo before he went down to the O.R.</em></div>
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<em>He was very sleepy/cuddly after surgery, and required a constant flow of oxygen 'mist' just to be safe.</em></div>
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<em>Spending some time with Scooter at home after being discharged. The 'braces' on his arms are to keep him from putting anything in his mouth, since that's where the surgery was....they're only temporary, and he doesn't mind wearing them. </em></div>
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<em>For the most part. :-)</em></div>
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As I mentioned, Z is doing well with his recovery and aside from having a little bit of a cold (of course) he's just about back to normal.</div>
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In other news, Jim and I got a bit of bad news/shock of our lives when the pool company came to open our pool yesterday afternoon. </div>
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Long story short: They took off the pool cover, and the pool was empty.</div>
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SHIT. </div>
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It seems that there's a leak in the liner, and we'll need to get a new one ASAP. Of course, we don't have an extra $4,000 lying around (which is the estimated cost) so we're going to have to do some creative financial planning in order to take care of it. Until then, we've got an eyesore of a pool that we have to keep under lock and key, since it's a very dangerous place right now.</div>
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Here's a picture of what we saw when it was opened, and the picture doesn't nearly capture what it really looks like. It looks AWFUL and we feel like ultra white-trash having this mess in our backyard.</div>
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I look forward to the day (hopefully SOON) when I can post some "Look at our beautiful new pool!!" pictures. :-)</div>
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I hope you all have a great weekend, and I'll be sure to keep you posted on what's going on in my world.</div>
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Thank you again for all your kind words and support.</div>
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Also - to all my Boston readers, have a GREAT Pride weekend!!!!</div>
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xoxo</div>AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-81763904726534787482012-05-29T09:03:00.000-04:002012-05-29T09:03:00.623-04:00I GOT A NEW JOB!!!!!<br />
Hey there everyone.....<br />
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As you can guess by the title of my post for today, there have been some exciting things happening with me lately. While I don't have the time to get into all the details at the moment, the fact is, that I will be leaving my current position on June 8th and starting my new job on June 11th.<br />
No rest for the weary, right?!?!<br />
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I have to thank each and every one of you for your encouraging words, helpful advice, and above all else, helping me to find the humor in everything, even when I thought there was little hope of my 'escape'. You're all amazing....each and every one of you. :-)<br />
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xoxoAJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-64622229999052240182012-05-11T08:40:00.003-04:002012-05-11T08:40:50.464-04:00The Sun is Back!<br />
I'm happy to report that the sun is shining outside my office building as I type this. While we were in DIRE need of rain, I'm thrilled that the sun is back, and is supposedly sticking around for a few days!<br />
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I managed to survive the rest of my day on Tuesday with my ripped slacks (awful word) and hopefully this weekend I can get out the sewing kit and make the necessary repairs. The last thing I need is to be down a pair of pants. I have specific outfits that I wear, and I'm in no mood to either shop for work clothes or try and come up with an appropriate alternative. Lazy enough? :-)<br />
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I must take a moment to wish my awesome husband a belated 40th birthday! He 'joined the club' on May 3rd and I actually pulled off throwing him a surprise party last Saturday night! He was indeed surprised and had a great time. I'd be lying if I said it was easy to pull off, especially with all the stuff that's been going on for me where work is concerned, but I did it!! Of course, I couldn't have done it without help from his family, so THANK YOU to all of them for everything they did. <br />
I'm very lucky to have such a great group of in-laws. <br />
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Things at work are (dare I say it?) OK for now. It's calmed down a bit and I've been managing to get through every day without having a breakdown or being filled with dread. Don't get me wrong, I still want out - but I've been able to make it through the past couple of weeks without too much stress/anxiety/etc.....<br />
Baby steps, right??<br />
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We have nothing planned for this weekend and I'm looking forward to some family time and hopefully doing something fun! Since I'm not playing softball this year (did I mention that before??) I may try and visit my old team and watch a game or two. It'll be nice to see everyone and if I take Zachary with me it'll give Jim a well-deserved break. <br />
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I hope you all have a great weekend, and things are happy and sun-shiny in your corner of the world!!!<br />
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xoxo<br />
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Here are a couple of pictures from the party:<br />
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<em>Zachary and I waiting for Jim to walk in the room</em></div>
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<strong><em>SURPRISE!!!</em></strong></div>
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<em>'Post-Surprise' Family Portrait</em></div>
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<em>(my beard needs a trim, it makes my face look chubby)</em></div>
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<em>Zachary hanging out with Cheryl and my Dad </em></div>
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<br />AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-91880933667420903052012-05-08T13:16:00.000-04:002012-05-08T13:16:16.814-04:00Ripped<br />
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I just thought I'd let you all know that I'm at work and I just realized that I have a HUGE hole in the crotch of my pants.<br />
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I figured that my readers would appreciate it the most.<br />
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Happy Tuesday!<br />
<br />AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-27629931694002834602012-04-27T14:24:00.002-04:002012-04-27T14:24:31.712-04:00Under the wire...Hey Everyone!<br />
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First of all, thank you so much for all the kind words and supportive comments. It's nice to know that there are people out there who have been though exactly what I'm going through and have managed to survive. In fact, some are going through it right along with me! Misery loves company. :-)<br />
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Things at work have improved <em>slightly</em>, so I'm at least able to survive one day at a time. Is it an ideal situation? Not at all....but at least it's manageable, and hopefully things will stay that way or improve, until a substantial change can be made.<br />
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Other than work stuff, things with me have been great. Zachary is making all sorts of attempts at talking these days, and while he's still not walking, he's getting there. Believe me, I'm in NO rush for him to start. It's difficult enough to keep up with him these days, as he's an expert crawler. Of course, once he starts walking it'll be a while before he's moving all that fast, so maybe we'll have a little bit of a break. <br />
Wishful thinking.<br />
Jim is great, and has been beyond supportive through all of this. There's not a day goes by (tip o' the hat to Mr. Sondheim) that I don't thank the Baby Jesus that I have him in my life. He has been amazing.<br />
I've not only had Jim helping me, but my entire family. They have been a HUGE help and an amazing support system while dealing with everything the past few weeks.<br />
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Well, I just wanted to stop by and thank everyone and let you know how much I truly MISS my daily blogging and blog reading. I vow that someday things will return to normal and you'll be tired of hearing from me!!!<br />
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Have a great weekend!<br />
xoxo<br />
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It's been a while, so here's a picture for your weekend enjoyment:<br />
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<em>Scooter, fresh from the groomer. </em></div>
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<em>(In our newly painted living room)</em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7zDEFPNzuWLES2mF4Kh6k4PF-TtDYrdP-oApQzunjiLdSYH8FbFHDKWDd9Y6FdCw49mEdzD4KHnisNLkMNvAN-laSX6nfKQHb7hkMHD3DyIsaY0eE7FLmRCuIGk-eBlxm14Pw2Ip9V63-/s1600/Groomed+Scooter.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7zDEFPNzuWLES2mF4Kh6k4PF-TtDYrdP-oApQzunjiLdSYH8FbFHDKWDd9Y6FdCw49mEdzD4KHnisNLkMNvAN-laSX6nfKQHb7hkMHD3DyIsaY0eE7FLmRCuIGk-eBlxm14Pw2Ip9V63-/s400/Groomed+Scooter.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-79215965482603042842012-04-03T22:51:00.003-04:002012-04-03T22:51:49.195-04:00Confession Time...Before you get your hopes up, there's nothing juicy about to be revealed in this post. I just figured that it's been so damn long since I came up with an entry that I'd better have a juicy title to grab your attention and keep you reading. :-)<br />
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It's no secret that I haven't been blogging at all recently. I haven't even been all that active on Facebook, Twitter, or any of the other things that used to keep me entertained way back when. <br />
I know that a lot of you have been reading me for a long time and were around in the days when I was blogging much more frequently so I'm sure you've noticed a steady decline in my social media activity.<br />
Yes, it happens to everyone now and then, so I guess it's just my 'turn'? <br />
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Truth be told, I've been in a real yucky place lately. It has nothing to do with Jim, Zachary, or my home life. Everything is great as far as they're concerned, but unfortunately, they're affected by everything else that's been going on.<br />
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As many of you know (and those of you who don't, soon will) my job has been really getting me down for quite a while now. Well, things haven't improved, and they're even getting worse. It so difficult for me to put into words, but let it be said that I'm really not happy with my current situation, and while I continue to try to make changes and look for other options, I've been having a pretty tough time. <br />
I've been going through a whole lot of emotional 'stuff' as a result of my day to day work and at times I feel like I'm completely losing it. (That's where the 'affecting the family' part comes into play.) Poor Jim has had to deal with me being an emotional wreck so often lately that I'm beginning to feel guilty about being miserable.<br />
Make sense?? <br />
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The best way to describe it is that I feel completely trapped in my work situation. I'm completely overwhelmed by everything I have to deal with at work, and there's no way I can get out of there until I'm able to find something that will pay the bills, provide us with benefits, etc...etc...etc... It's extremely overwhelming at times (most of the time?) and I tend to get myself very worked up about it. It's constantly on my mind, and I know that I'm not the same person I was before all this started really getting to me.<br />
<br />Don't worry...this isn't some cry for help and I'm not about to do something crazy....I'm not THAT bad off. However, it's been a really rough road the past few months (years?), and seeing the light at the end of the tunnel is sometimes really, REALLY difficult. <br />
I know that I have plenty of friends and family who are always there for me to lend an encouraging word, and above all else, I know I have Jim and Zachary to greet me at the door each night when I come home. Truth be told, I've been getting a little teary (OK, a lot teary) each night when I come home because my days have been so much for me to deal with.<br />
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I'm planning to have a chat with my manager tomorrow in hopes that he can offer some advice/assistance/help so that I'm not feeling so incredibly overwhelmed and completely stressed about my job. Hopefully that will make me feel better.<br />
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Thank you all for listening/reading....I look forward to getting back on the happy train soon and picking up where the 'old John' left off.....<br />
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xoxo <br />
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<br />AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8381450047367422923.post-36536622295531394052012-03-14T12:12:00.000-04:002012-03-14T12:12:16.694-04:00Next To Normal - See it.<br />
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Hey all....before you even begin reading this, remember that I'm NOT a theatre critic by profession, nor do I claim to be. However, I had the privilege of seeing an outstanding production recently and thought it deserved more than just a 'Hey, you should really see this!!!' mention on my blog - so I wrote a review of sorts. That being said....here's what I wrote.<br />
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I hope you're all well....and if you're in the Boston area....seriously, you should really see this!! :-)<br />
xoxo<br />
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My first exposure to 'Next To Normal' was when I bought the CD and listened to it pretty much non-stop until I was getting sick of listening to it. That’s generally the way things go for me when I get a new recording, especially if it’s one that I enjoy. <br />
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One of Jim’s college friends (Jessica Phillips) was part of the show from the early ‘workshop days’, and ended up staying with the show throughout most of its Broadway run, covering Alice Ripley who played the role of the mother, Diana. There were a few attempts on our part to get to New York in order to see the show when Jessica went on, but unfortunately we never got there to see it. <br />
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The last time that I was in New York City (in the fall of 2009 – how sad is THAT?!?!) I saw several shows, but decided against seeing ‘Next To Normal’ at that time. I mean, I was very interested in seeing it, but the only tickets they had available were obstructed view and WAY too expensive – no thanks.<br />
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We were however, finally able to see the show (with the original Broadway cast) through another way, that I will not explain any further as it may land me in the hoosegow (Google it) if I do. That being said, it was a thrill to finally see the show, especially with the original cast, and for FREE!!! Seeing it helped to answer lots of questions that I had based on the fact that all I’d done was listen to the show.<br />
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Why all this information? I’ll tell you why….<br />
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After MUCH anticipation, I was finally able to see the Boston premiere of ‘Next To Normal’ on Sunday afternoon, and boy am I glad I did. At this point it’s been about 3 days since I saw it, and it’s still on my mind. I don’t want to go into too much detail regarding the plot, because I think it’s more powerful if you go into the show without knowing what’s going to happen and let the show speak for itself. Let’s just say that it’s the story about a family who is dealing with mental illness and the situations that they’re faced with as a result. <br />
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Kudos to Paul Daigneault (Director) for assembling an amazing cast who are all nearly perfect in each of their roles. As is typical with one of Paul’s productions, his vision is so clear and the transitions from scene to scene are so well-executed that you remain completely engaged in the story and are free to go along for the ‘ride’ that the characters are going on. <br />
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<em>Sarah Drake</em>, who plays Natalie (the daughter of Dan and Diana), embodies the role of the ‘tortured teen’ perfectly. She is completely believable throughout the story, so much fun to watch, and she sings the difficult role effortlessly…..loved her. <em>Michael Levesque</em> plays Henry, Natalie’s boyfriend, and does so with great success. He’s got a great voice, which is perfectly suited for the role, and while he’s pursuing Natalie throughout the show, you can’t help but root for him to win her over. <em>Chris Caron</em>, in dual roles as Dr. Fine and Dr. Madden manages to make you see things from his point of view as he struggles with how to deal with his difficult patient and the rest of her family. Who would have ever thought that you’d be feeling the stress/sadness/anxiety that the doctor was going through when dealing with a situation like this?! I didn’t think I would, but to be honest, there were times when I really saw things from his point of view and completely understood what he must have been going through. <em>Michael Tacconi</em> plays the role of Gabe, who is Diana and Dan’s son. He’s got a fantastic voice and there are certain moments that he had throughout the show that had me reaching for a Kleenex. <br />
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The role of Dan is expertly played by <em>Christopher Chew</em>. Chris has been away from the Boston theatre ‘scene’ for FAR too long, so it was an extra special treat seeing him back on stage again. His portrayal of Dan was out of this world. He sang the role as if it were written specifically for him (I’m not a huge fan of J. Robert Spencer on the cast recording) and was equally as great in the acting department. <em>Kerry A. Dowling</em>, who is no stranger to SpeakEasy stage has reached new heights in the role of Diana. From the very start of the show she engages the audience and makes them want to hear her story. She’ll make you laugh, she’ll make you cry and she’ll make you forget that you’re sitting in a theatre in the middle of the South End. The role of Diana is extremely difficult to sing, and she handles the score with ease. Whether she’s blowing the roof off the place, or settling in for a quiet moment, you can’t help but be drawn in to her every word. Hers is a performance not to be missed.<br />
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I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the expert musical direction of Nicholas James Connell. He not only made this extremely talented cast sound amazing, but assembled the off-stage orchestra that accompanied the ensemble so expertly throughout the evening. There were several moments where the ensemble sound (of the cast) was so good - whether it was a perfectly placed note or a ringing chord, that really made me take a moment and think “Wow….nice job Mr. Musical Director….that sounded GREAT.” <br />
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Finally, I have to mention the extremely talented design team. The versatile and well used (again, thanks to Paul D.) set design of Eric Levenson, which was enhanced by the extremely creative (and at often times humorous) projection work of Seaghan McKay and the lighting design of Jeff Adelberg. Of course, without a costume designer, we’d be looking at God only knows what on stage, so I have to mention Tyler Kinney who designed the costumes, which were well done and suited each character perfectly. <br />
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All in all, this was a show that I would highly recommend to everyone. In the past, when I when I’ve listened to the recording or when I saw the show, it really felt like the focus was really on Diana and what she was going through. In SpeakEasy’s production of ‘Next To Normal’, Paul Daigneault and the cast succeed in allowing you to see the show from the perspective of each of the characters and how they’re being affected, which makes for a much more interesting, rewarding, and enjoyable experience.<br />
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Go <a href="http://www.speakeasystage.com/index.php">HERE</a> now to get your tickets…….<br />
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Here are some pictures from the production: <br />
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<em>All photos were taken by Craig Bailey/Perspective Photo</em><br />
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<em>From left: Sarah Drake, Christopher Chew, Kerry A. Dowling</em> </div>
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<em>From left: Michael Tacconni, Kerry A. Dowling, Christopher Chew </em></div>
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<em>Kerry A. Dowling</em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU6mWRRFLPt8jw28MzB1J0iYyEZGa0OwsyoGoygi70HKbrMULWVOf0-Oxw1Q1Qm8f5EYEbRr4vyX8ga-t0AdyVfnXdy8qhVTP6inzpsaYSGB5gpDtzYz7LLVpZ_IEwKjvcmvRoxLjXMKaU/s1600/normal_hi_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU6mWRRFLPt8jw28MzB1J0iYyEZGa0OwsyoGoygi70HKbrMULWVOf0-Oxw1Q1Qm8f5EYEbRr4vyX8ga-t0AdyVfnXdy8qhVTP6inzpsaYSGB5gpDtzYz7LLVpZ_IEwKjvcmvRoxLjXMKaU/s400/normal_hi_7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em>From left: Chris Caron, Kerry A. Dowling</em> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUXIydKG9URJFT1Istny-vC62EYvSQErwHDuRtXLEZFNanBfGsC30w9nLl3U6sJmAxkPaM9lvUcBExMfR5O_-PzQO8Ff-7UcyOYBmHs_mBXgnI-PmcAYR1cF7DCuPazyeU66jx81QwCc5D/s1600/normal_hi_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUXIydKG9URJFT1Istny-vC62EYvSQErwHDuRtXLEZFNanBfGsC30w9nLl3U6sJmAxkPaM9lvUcBExMfR5O_-PzQO8Ff-7UcyOYBmHs_mBXgnI-PmcAYR1cF7DCuPazyeU66jx81QwCc5D/s400/normal_hi_10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em>From left: Sarah Drake, Michael Levesque</em></div>
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<br /></div>AJohnPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13177687947341872896noreply@blogger.com3