2010? Wowserooni!

It's 4:00 AM on New Year's Eve, and Guy and I are up. Guy's up because of the pesky raindrops tapping on the window, and I'm up because I went to bed too early. So here I am - blogging away about 2009. Consider this our "Christmas Letter."

The year had a crazy start. After living in two different cities for 6 months of our married life, I could finally move from LA to Nashville and be with Guy. Why did we separate? I thought I had a touring gig as a backup singer, but that ending up being a bust, and Guy wanted to start working with his band Harlott (based in Nashville).

Everything worked out though. I had my cousins and JQ to keep me company, and I started hanging out with Lorn and Bryan from YouTellConcerts.com. Those guys took me under their wings and let me be a part of their brilliant idea - a video concert review site where the fans give the review.

Before leaving to Nashville, the guys asked if I'd be interested in being the Nashville correspondent. I agreed, and it has been the best past time ever. Nashville has been great to me. I've met a lot of great people, seen some killer shows, and I have a lot of journalist experience under my belt now. Many sites have posted our videos, and I think 2010 is going to be YTC's year.

I've also started helping out with editing artist interview videos for one of Premiere's shows, "Aftermidnite." My new friend Robin and her "Entourage" have been so helpful. They welcomed Guy and I in with open arms and have shown us how this fair city works.

Now for the real fun stuff! Harlott! Guy's band is doing great. They've played in some of the more popular clubs and bars in Nashville(Mercy Lounge, Exit/In, Springwater), and they've even toured a bit (Arkansas, North Carolina). They were a big hit at Farm Jam 2009. :) They recorded their album at the famous Blackbird Studios owned by Martina McBride and her husband (thanks to our friend Leland). So 2010 brings the album and, hopefully, more touring.

Of course, things can't be perfect, and the worst thing that has ever happened to me happened this year. My dad was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. I can't tell you how painful it is to get that news. Life just stops and there's nothing you can do, but pray and hope. Suddenly, all the success doesn't matter anymore - only family and friends (those you love).

But no more "sad trombones" (as Masa would say), all the prayers are working. Dad is responding to the chemo, and it's killing those cancer cells. Dad looks great and is active. It's been great spending more time with them this year. We live 10 hours away, so I've seen them every break I get.

My work has been supportive in letting me work from their house when I can. I love my job and my coworkers. I feel very blessed.

My cousin, Emily, had a beautiful baby boy, Marcus, this year. Guy and I got a gorgeous niece as well. Jami, Dru and Brody added Tessa to the family. We got to meet Tessa in October. We went to Nebraska. I saw my first Nebraska game. Nebraska lost, but it was still fun. Well, despite the raging hangover caused by a night of espresso vodka shots with Guy's friends. YIKES! :)

Speaking of hangovers, we are going to a big party New Year's Eve party with fake snowfall, huge video screens, and DJs. I haven't had a drink in a while, so I'll be a cheap date :) Yeah, I'll let you know how that goes.

Wishing you all a blessed, happy, healthy new year!

XOXO,
*Chrystal

Snowball Fight!

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Ditto House

Nooch sent me this, and I nearly peed. So funny!

Riding the Coattails

Tonight is CMA night, and yes, I'm going to the awards and some sweet afterparties thanks to my hard working, connected friends. Lucky me!

The past few days have been incredible. Some of my lovely Premiere friends are in town for the CMA Remote. JQ and Michael came out to Mercy Lounge with me Saturday night to see "My So-Called Band" - 90s covers. We picked up right where we left off and danced all night. We would've stayed for "a million more songs," but once the band ended we headed to Tootsie's so they could get a taste of Nashville's Broadway.



I can tell JQ loves it here, and I can't wait until she comes back to play some shows. Michael seemed to have had fun, which means a lot to us, because he's a super hard worker and deserves a little party time.

Guy has been having fun too, whether or not he chooses to admit it. He like pretending like he's a Country star. Quote: "Get me some sunglasses and a cowboy hat. I'm gonna do some interviews."

Good times, indeed. I'll be sad to have it end, but no tears yet. Big night ahead :)

The Haunted Muskrat Trail

I know...it's dark. You just had to be there...

Another Baby! Marcus Has Arrived!

Look at this little prince! My cousin Emily had Marcus yesterday, and took this picture this morning. So precious. Just think about it...waking up to a whole world - so much to do!

Amazing News

Got great news the other day! Dad's chemo is working! At his last appointment, the doctor said the cancer cells are dead in the lungs and liver, and the tumor in the pancreas has shrunk to half its original size. We are so thankful for everyone's thoughts and prayers and hope you'll keep them coming. God Bless! XOXO.

Since your vibes are so great, please extend some to a little boy named Connor (my co-worker's boyfriend's son). He's going through a delicate surgery to remove a cancerous tumor in his stomach on Friday.

"I get these ideas (like a shirt that says 'loser' or 'talk to the hand')" - Jack Black (Orange County)

If you know me, you know that I always come up with ridiculous ideas that might be popular and fun, but are usually pretty silly. I never actually do anything about them, and eventually someone else comes up with it and makes money off of it.

When I moved to LA in 2003, I was working as a temp, and a co-worker and I came up with the idea for a show. It would be like The Office (only the British version was out then), except a real reality show. Temps would go through a series of tests, obstacles, interviews, etc - competing for a good paying job at a television studio. We wrote a treatment and everything, and sent it to the Writer Guild for copyright. Wouldn't you know it, The Apprentice came out a couple months later. You're fired!

I gave BiddingBride.com an honest effort, and still have that site up and running - I just don't do anything to promote it (I really should).

Then there are silly ideas, like my Spice Girl pool find. When we lived in Encino, we had a pool, and had parties all the time. We also lived right near the 99 Cent store. We needed a pool game to play, and I had my heart set on buying 5 sets of Spice Girl action figures. I wanted to throw them all in the pool, and five people would have to dive to the bottom and find one of each. The first person with a complete set of Spice Girls wins. I'm sorry, but I still want to play that game. Guy talked me out of it. Bastard :)

He has agreed to my "We Are The World" Recording Party though, so I'm pumped about that. Every person has to pick a part out of a hat. Throughout the party, people have to go into the studio and sing their part over a karaoke track. A few days later, all participants receive an MP3 of our wonderful rendition of We Are The World. Now, that's a keepsake to cherish forever.

Most recently, I've been coming up with ideas for the Electro craze. How about Electrapella?
Yup, acapella electro. Suddenly choirs are cool, right? Um...riiiiight?! A nice electrapella number would be great for that show GLEE.

The one I came up with yesterday is pretty hilarious: Elektrobicz (the K should be backwards or something). It's an exercise dance class held in the dark with awesome lighting (yeah, lasers and glowsticks and shiz) - a DJ spins and there's some raver leader of the class teaching us sweet moves. A good way to catch up on your music and exercise. Someone get Dim Mak on the phone.

What Has This Blog Become...

Just a bunch of pics of you with celebrities? Perhaps.

Snagged a pic with Miranda Lambert after her Ryman show. Hope I didn't annoy her. She'd kick my ass.

Here's Guy being a good husband and representing me with a "C." Jason probably thought it was for "Castro" - HAHAHAHA!

I'm currently in Florida, visiting my family. My father, who has been going through chemo treatments, looks fantastic and has kept busy on the motorcycle, doing lawn work, and golfing - while mom and I slave away in the home office. It's been a great trip, and we have some fun things planned for the weekend - including a 50s/60s revue that is right up my alley.

Then, I'm headed back to Nashville. Guy and I will be attending the Next Big Nashville conference. We are covering it for YTC, and it should be an amazing experience - lots of great bands, networking mixers, and panels.

Later this month, we'll be going to Nebraska for a weekend to hang out with the Heidemanns and celebrate Guy's birthday. We're hoping to catch a Huskers game! Go Big Red!

And then, of course, Halloween is around the corner. Can't wait to see what Nashville's got in the Haunted House category.

Kellie Pickler Picture :)

Saw Taylor Swift Tonight - So fun!

Verizon is so smart. They do green screen videos of you with the artist you're seeing, and then email it to you. Wicked fun concert souvenir and FREE! I heart Taylor Swift & Verizon.

8 years...

I went to bed really early last night, and am now up at 3:00 AM, just thinking - waiting for time to pass or morning to come. Then, I realized - it's 9-11-09. Actually, time is racing by. Eight years.

Eight years ago, I was eating breakfast in Nahant, Massachusetts, across the water from Logan Airport with one of my roommates at the time. That's when I found out about the first plane. It was on the way home, listening to the radio when the second plane hit. The announcers were clearly watching the news, describing what they were seeing. It truly struck me when I heard a male host's voice change, where I could tell he was on the verge of tears.

We got back to the house, and watched the footage in silence. The mailman was walking the street, making his deliveries, and we invited him in. There was a sense of unity, even though we were all broken.

I called home, and talked to my mom who was shocked, yet calm. She told me to just have faith and pray. Really that's all we could do. As facts came in, the guys I lived with were pissed and wanted to enlist.

It was a horrible day. Eventually, I was emotionally drained, and made my way to bed to sleep it off. Isn't that the best escape?

The next morning, it was so quiet. The skies were still, but it was a beautiful day. People drove a little slower, and looked each other in the eye in passing. Subtly trying to comfort each other. I was sad and mad at what happened, but yet thankful for my country. It's easy to say you know how lucky you are, but when someone tries to take away your happiness, then, it's all made very clear.

I wish it never happened, but I believe we all did the best that we could individually with the situation. I didn't give them a victory. In the long run, they didn't scare me. I took it, and turned it into something that made me stronger, and I think a lot Americans did the same.

I'm going to try to go back to bed now, and I'll say my prayers, not only for my family, but for everyone who lost their life in this tragedy (and its repercussions) and their families. I'll pray that it never happens again, and to continue to make us better humans - loving, peaceful, happy, and healthy.

Stay Blessed.

Weird Coincidence

I saw this picture of Lady Gaga today on some blog-of-sorts:


And then Spaceballs was on TV:

It's almost like one of www.latfh.com's love connections.

One of my Favorite Sesame Street Segments

You Know How We Roll

A little Backstage BBQ with the Keith-man!

Another great Google Logo

I think people should save this one. Wouldn't a collection of Google logos be a great coffee table book?

Yay! I Got a Nashville Cream Mention :)

"Luckily, we showed up in plenty of time to grab a slice of pizza and some cupcakes from the back room, and also in time to catch local hip-hop trio The Billy Goats, who win our Most Hilarious Slash Meta Rhyme Award for MC Iller's pairing of "how big my cock is" with "a room full of indie rock kids." In between, the Goats flowed and joked, threw up the horns and even got Chrystal (y'know, from all those You Tell Concerts videos) to sing along on their closing number. Iller, 24/7 and DJ Etticut took the stage to a room that maybe wasn't sure about this hip-hop stuff, and walked off to enthusiastic cheers, which were well-deserved."

That makes me happy, as I'm a big fan of this blog.

http://www.nashvillescene.com/nashvillecream

My Niece Has Arrived!

Welcome Tessa Jane Heidemann!

7lbs 15oz

August 23, 2009

1:01pm

Lightning Strikes WSIX Radio Tower

Fast forward to 1:35 on this video:



I guess it screwed up emails, on air broadcast for a few stations, and online streaming.

The storm was ridiculous. The thunder kept setting off Guy's car alarm.

Cute and Creepy

Urban Dinosaur

Our office is surrounded by demolition. Urban Dino is dope!

Going for a Drive

One of my besty bests came out to visit last weekend. We had an awesome time, but it became apparent how much older we have become. Sure, the first night we were immature. We had a blast waving and screaming "Thank you for coming!" to people leaving the Mercy Lounge from the bar's balcony. (So fun!)

However, instead of planning the next Backstreet Boys roadtrip, we were now talking about planning families, our work benefits, and the best mortgage options. After a grown-up brunch, we went for a drive. Yes, a drive.

I remember being so bored as a kid, and bummed beyond belief when Mom and Dad wanted to take us on a drive. No destination in mind, just drive and look at houses. I'd cover my face, being completely embarrassed at the slow speed my father was going, hoping the person behind us wouldn't beep. Now, I wish I could go back in time and appreciate those drives. Sometimes, my parents would walk through the Open Houses held at mansions in Newport, R.I.

As we cruised around a gorgeous community, we thought about doing the same.

I heart a good drive.

Our New Place

We are out of the log cabin and into a new place. Here's a brief tour. We are still moving in, so please excuse the boxes and whatnot. Wish I opened the blinds or turned on a light in the living room, but you get the point.

Our 4th of July Weekend

I got some really crappy news to start my 4th of July weekend. I don't want to get into it now, but prayers are appreciated.

Thank God I have Guy and some awesome friends here in Nashville to help get my mind off things.



We spent the holiday on the rooftop of Grahamn Central Station downtown. Wynonna Judd performed and the fireworks were beautiful...despite the downpour. It was definitely a unique and fun experience.



We finished the night at 12th & Porter, jamming to my new favorite Nashville band, Sterling Y. And then, we danced to Coach vs. Kase. I was pretty disappointed to find out that Justin Kase isn't a fan of LMFAO, but I still adore Coach & Kase. Besides, they'll still kiss LMFAO's asses when they come to town, and there's no way to stop what's about to occur when that album drops on July 7th.

I hope everyone had a safe and happy Independence Day. God Bless America! God bless your pretty little heads. Don't forget about those prayers.

Toliet Paper Wedding Dress

This always amazes me! Every year, Cheap Chic Weddings has a contest where people make wedding dresses out of toliet paper!


Check out the 2009 winner:

MJ

I'm sitting here watching Larry King's coverage of Michael Jackson's death, and I can't believe this day is actually here. This is one of those days that I've thought about. How huge the response would be, how weird it would feel.

I love Michael. One of my earliest MJ memories was when I slept over my cousin's house, and my Uncle Bobby rented "Thriller." I didn't want to seem like a baby, so I lied on the floor facing the TV hoping nobody would see that my eyes were actually closed. I was petrified!

I remember being super excited about the "Black or White" video coming out. There was so much hype, and it seemed like the whole world was tuned in waiting. You could almost feel the electricity. It was awesome how the video itself actually portrayed that unity MJ brought that night throughout the US (and the world!).

In college, my friend Scott and I would blast "Scream" in his dorm room and act out our own music video. I was Janet :) It was the standard way to start a party night.

MJ was a lover of unity and peace. There was some unusual behavior, but he didn't have a normal life. Our 'normalacy' is based on the experiences we have through interaction while growing up. MJ's interaction was with coworkers, fans, and a family of fellow musicians who were jealous or expecting Michael to reach the next goal.

I think he wanted to make everyone else happy, and didn't have time to focus on getting to know and love himself. He tried everything, searching for what made him happy besides being on stage. He didn't feel that he had friends or anyone that he could trust. I don't think he could even trust himself.

What have I learned from Michael's journey? Love yourself, set goals, trust people, and make music a part of your life.

We'll miss you, Michael. Even the haters tap their toes when Billie Jean comes on :) Wish I could have seen you live. Maybe when I get to heaven? (Even in the afterlife, you can't get a break ) I hope we gave you some happy memories, because you've been the source of a ton for us!

PS. Where's the Nashville vigil? Let's get on it people!

Oh and favorite Twitter of the day: By DeadHardy -

"MJ...teach Elvis how to moonwalk would ya? That would be sick!"

It would be dope. :)

I'll Admit It...

I love old people candy. I've had about 50 Bit 'O Honeys this week, and toffee and taffy are my most favorite treats. I even like those fruit flavored sour balls.

At least I'm not munching on ribbon candy quite yet...but I'm on my way.

I'm so ready for the weekend. Seeing Fleetwood Mac tonight, editing videos tomorrow, and hopefully seeing the movie Hangover at some point.

TGIF! Have fun party peeps. :)

Bonnaroo

XOXO

Don't Feel Like Dancing? Not an Option.

We had a ton of fun at Brent's Disco Party!

We're Having a Concert...and that's kind of COOL.

You're Gonna Love My Nuts...

I'd like to thank Bryan for sharing this link.

Favorite Person of the Day: DJ Steve Porter

Cinco De Mayo

A most excellent tune for Cinco De Mayo:

People are Mean on the Internet

Here are some comments on my last YTC video:

Unusually bad video, and that's saying something on youtube. The host is just annoying with the affected expressions and hand gestures. I get it, somebody in a broadcast journalism class probably told her to be upbeat. Upbeat's good. Over the top and unnatural is annoying. Love DMB and Mraz, though.

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

this woman is an idiot. 

fuckin DAYVE MATTHEWS 

the weed smoke.

wow, that guy was hammered.

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

At least these are somewhat "constructive."  The last heartbreaking comments that stick out were from the Backstreet Boys concert, which attacked my "ugly nose" and "skanky dress."  This too will pass like those comments, but I realize that this is why I never fully pursued acting or singing.  I lose sleep over some dream crushers comment.  

I  am going to take the advice about my hand movements.  I've got a lot of musical theatre in me.  JAZZ HANDS!!! As for the facial expressions, I'm a pretty animated person and I might look even more "unnatural" if I try to stop those.  :) But really, YTC is about concerts  and the energy and excitement of the audience.  I was excited to be going to this show...how can I hide that?  And should I?

I just don't know why people have to be so mean about their comments.  People diss on the people we interview, most of the time not even on what they have to say...just their looks and personality.  

The person that said the first comment about me hadn't logged in for over a month on YouTube.  He/She was so annoyed by me that he felt the need to sign in and bash my efforts...in a really mean way.  Why?

On top of everything, that person is a Dave Matthews fan.  Why did this person waste all his/her time on insulting my 1 minute intro instead of commenting with their DMB concert experiences or his/her love for the music?

Obviously, the commenter wins.  I have spent too much time obsessing over it.  Vent complete.

Actually, when I think about it, this whole post is pretty contradictory, due to my post of that hipster site the other day.   That's something to ponder.

A Special Find

My friend David shared this gem with me:

http://lookatthisfuckinghipster.tumblr.com/

Busy Week!

It's been a cool week. I got a last minute confirmation to cover Katy Perry! It was a blast.

Last night, we went to a benefit for a local label guy who lost his house (and almost his life) in the tornado last week. My new boyfriend played. I call him "Country Guy." His real name is Jason Michael Carroll.

Tonight, I'm covering the Rites of Spring with Q-Tip, Santigold, and T.I.

Tomorrow - Duff McKagan's Loaded! So much going on!

The Weekend

My husband rocked it out on Friday night at The End!

On Saturday, I watched hours of "The United States of Tara." Quite Funny!

And yesterday, we celebrated a fabulous Easter with friends. I wonder if Bret Michaels was the main subject of everyone's Easter. The anticipation of the Rock of Love finale was too much for this girl to handle.

I may not have been dead on with my prediction, but at least Taya was in my top three. See January 4th post for confirmation.

Did Kanye Really Write This?

In response to South Park's mockery of Kanye:

We ask ourselves. Did Kanye really write this? For some reason, I don't think Kayne would use the word "douche."

From Kanye's Blog:
SOUTH PARK MURDERED ME LAST NIGHT AND IT'S PRETTY FUNNY. IT HURTS MY FEELINGS BUT WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT FROM SOUTH PARK! I ACTUALLY HAVE BEEN WORKING ON MY EGO THOUGH. HAVING THE CRAZY EGO IS PLAYED OUT AT THIS POINT IN MY LIFE AND CAREER. I USE TO USE IT TO BUILD UP MY ESTEEM WHEN NOBODY BELIEVED IN ME. NOW THAT PEOPLE DO BELIEVE AND SUPPORT MY MUSIC AND PRODUCTS THE BEST RESPONSE IS THANK YOU INSTEAD OF "I TOLD YOU SO!!!" IT'S COOL TO TALK SHIT WHEN YOU'RE RAPPING BUT NOT IN REAL LIFE. WHEN YOU MEET LITTLE WAYNE IN PERSON HE'S THE NICEST GUY FOR EXAMPLE. I JUST WANNA BE A DOPER PERSON WHICH STARTS WITH ME NOT ALWAYS TELLING PEOPLE HOW DOPE I THINK I AM. I NEED TO JUST GET PAST MYSELF. DROP THE BRAVADO AND JUST MAKE DOPE PRODUCT. EVERYTHING IS NOT THAT SERIOUS. AS LONG AS PEOPLE THINK I ACT LIKE A BITCH THIS TYPE OF SHIT WILL HAPPEN TO ME. I GOT A LONG ROAD AHEAD OF ME TO MAKE PEOPLE BELIEVE I'M NOT ACTUALLY A HUGE DOUCHE BUT I'M UP FOR THE CHALLENGE. I'M SURE THE WRITERS AT SOUTH PARK ARE REALLY NICE PEOPLE IN REAL LIFE. THANKS FOR TAKING THE TIME TO DRAW MY CREW. THAT WAS PRETTY FUNNY ALSO!! I'M SURE THERE'S GRAMMATICAL ERRORS IN THIS... THAT'S HOW YOU KNOW IT'S ME!

As I always say: "You know you've made it once South Park makes fun of you."

Fast Food is Fun Follow Up

See how fun it can be! Thanks Steve!

Seriously...WTF?

This weekend I received letters from two of my credit cards saying that they are increasing my APR. But, don't worry...I don't have to agree to the increase. I have the option to pay off the card in full. Good heavens! As they say....it is, what it is.

Fast Food is Fun!

Back in the day, McDonald's created a Menu Song. It was really fast and fun, and there was a contest to go along with it. We received a record (yes, an album - a 45) with the Sunday paper. If you played the album, the actor on "Just the 10 of us" walks a class through singing the McDonalds menu song. If the class made it all the way through on your record - you would win money. Awesome!

This is the actual song:

And I memorized it:

You can dress a sauce packet on the Taco Bell site now. This is my sauce packet depiction of my friend Jennifer Quiroz.

Seriously, It would be so rad to be able to tell people that you are responsible for writing the witty phrases on Taco Bell Sauce Packets.

Help! I can't tell where I am. It's dark and I can hear laughing.
I'm taking the day off. See next packet.
At night the sporks pick on me.
I'm in good hands now.
This space for rent. Inquire within.
Will you scratch my back?
Can I drive?

How many of these do you already have in your glove compartment?
Polly want a taco?
The road to mediocrity is littered with empty ketchup packets.
Mild sauce...the new ketchup.
The official sauce of Taco Bell.
Live life one sauce packet at a time.
Warning! You're about to make a taco very happy.
Nice palm. I read a great deal of pleasure in your future.
My sauce is a honor student at Taco State.
I'm just doing this between films.
Open quickly...I'm burning up in here.
If you throw this, would it be a flying saucer?
Willing to relocate.
Will you marry me?
Why order a taco when you can ask it politely?
When I grow up, I want to be a waterbed.
Be gentle.
My other taco is a Chalupa.
Save a bun. Eat a taco.
Single hot sauce seeking friendship, maybe more.
Not to be used as a floatation device
....Tails.
You had me at taco.
Do you add sauce left to right, or right to left?
IM A HOT T R U 2?
Use your stomach, not your mind.

Source: www.clearfour.com/condiment/tbsauce.html

Family Vacations Rock!

A little video that I put together of the cruise we went on. We had a blast!

Back on Land - Karaoke Time!

The cruise was awesome. (Except for that old dude that called us girls - "Dirty Bitches." Actually, that was pretty awesome too.)

I know I said I'd put up the Roadtrip to Nashville video, and have yet to do so. BUT, I think this video will be easier to edit, and should be up soon.

For now, enjoy Aunt Becky and myself take on Karaoke at Finn's in Flagler Beach, Florida.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar By Eric Carle

How cute is the Google logo today? Celebrating 40 years!

Poisedon Look At Me

THE COUNTDOWN IS ON: THIS TIME SATURDAY NIGHT

Bank Robbers and NKOTB

This morning I heard police yelling through a megaphone. All the construction workers had to evacuate the site next door. News reports say that a bank robbery took place by a man in a construction hat, at a bank near the Hutton Hotel. That hotel is next door to my buiding. The news reporter went on to say "Oddly enough, the New Kids on the Block are staying at the Hutton Hotel." I knew I sensed a Wahlberg.

It Just Feels Good

It just feels good to know that the little things you do help people. Check out this email chain below. Background: Sometimes people send show pitches to my department's generic email address, or call the front desk. Rather than ignore the requests, I have them send a demo to the programming department or pass on the request.


Hey Chrystal,

I thought that I should reach out and formally thank you for your help in getting my program to Trevor. After a few months of staying in touch with him, he found a spot for my show on one of the Premiere/XM channels. However, I credit you for pointing me in the right direction from the beginning. Getting my package to him etc. It's probably small to you. But it's big to me.
And Mama raised me to say Please, and Thank you. You rock! And if I can ever do anything to return your efforts, write a letter of recommendation, or anything else let me know. You have 5 new allies on Capitol Hill. So consider it your key to the city. And let us know when you are on the east coast.
much thanks to you

Jason"tino" Anthony
The Capitol Hill Blues
Rock the Vote Radio


My reply:

Hi Tino,

Thank you so much for this email. It truly brought tears to my eyes, and is one of the most rewarding emails I have ever received. I'm "just an assistant," but it's nice to know that what I do does help in some way.

I'm so happy for you! Congratulations on the show, and your success!


And his reply:

again you rock,and I will echo that in my future conversations with Premiere.
In school, I had a rival who was "just someone's assistant" Sean P-diddy Combs". But he turned being an assistant into a springboard, by speaking up for himself! just a little FYI

Just feels good :)

We met Reba!

Robin was a sweetie and took me to a function promoting Reba McEntire's new album to radio stations. It was a listening party to get feedback on the 4 songs fighting for the first released single spot. After a brief interview with Reba, we were broken down into groups and taken into the plush studio where Reba recorded the album.

"Strange" was my favorite out of the selection, and it was the first played. It had a nice modern rock feel to it that could be attractive to a younger generation of Country fans, and maybe some crossover listeners as well. Now is the time to get a song like that out there, while CHR and Hot AC fans are finally giving Country a chance thanks to one Taylor Swift! The lyrics were great too. Definitely something that could be enjoyed by the whole family.

The last song they played had a cool Classic Rock hook that I loved, but it didn't switch up as much as "Strange." The other songs were good - but didn't stick out. They were geared toward the classic Reba fans, which works. Typical Reba is still the bomb diggity! Gotta keep it real - and she does.

Bob and Tom Jingle By Request

Sounds Like YouTellConcerts.com, Yeah?

I was watching the New Media Idea panel from the Country Radio Seminar at www.crb.org. Joel Burke of KYGO said this not even 10 minutes into the panel.

SpoofCard - For Business or Pleasure?

I purchased the SpoofCard (www.spoofcard.com) this weekend, so I could record a phone interview with an artist tomorrow.

You can also use it to do stuff like this:

Kaufman Kid Update

I guess his name is now...Casey Warren Kaufman.

6lbs 10onces

Quote from Daddy Kaufman: "Mom is well and the baby is cool!"

Snuggies and Babies

Scalla sent me this, knowing that I would appreciate such an event. I damn near wet myself laughing. Fabulous idea!

The 2-Armed Blanket, Booze, & You: It's the Snuggie Pub Crawl

That's not a religious figure enjoying a snack, that's a man with a Snuggie! (Screenshot from video on Snuggie's official site)"Blankets are okay, but they slip and slide, and when you need to reach for something, your hands are trapped inside," laments the TV commercial for the Snuggie--the blanket that comes with two arms. Never has "lying on the couch" been made so convenient as it has since the product's arrival on the market. And just when you thought you and your new best friend were relegated to the confines of your own home, an event slated to take place soon in Los Angeles can bring Snuggie-wearing booze-enthusiasts together, out in public.

The SnuggiePubCrawl.com Team is hosting the first-ever Snuggie Pub Crawl here in our fair city. The "Team" is not affiliated with the blanket-makers, just very fond of, it would seem, drinking while covered--but not restricted--by a blanket. And why not? If at the very least, it will make for some fun photo ops of people assembled in cult-esque robes moving from bar to bar (think SantaCon).

They haven't set the date yet, but plans are underway. You can sign up to be a part of the cuddly insanity, and as they encourage, "even though it's just a blanket with sleeves, we're sure that you'll enjoy a winter evening spent drinking with friends and the Snuggie." Winters being what they are here, and the warming effects of alcohol considered, you might want to dress light under your Snuggie. Proceeds from the event are going to help care for orphans at the AC-Orphanage in Arusha, Tanzania, which rescues orphans from the streets of Tanzania whose parents have been victims of HIV and TB. Donations will go directly to providing food, clean water, clothing and schooling for these children. (Perhaps they could use Snuggies, too?)

In other news - the Kaufmans are having their baby boy right now! Sources tell me he will be named Alexander Warren Kaufman. I shall call him A-Dubs :)

One Word

USING ONLY ONE WORD Not as easy as you might think!
Now forward, change the answers to suit you and pass it on.
It's really hard to only use one word answers.
Be sure to send back to the person you received it from!
Where is... your cell phone? coat
Your significant other? desk
Your hair? up
Your mother? adorable
Your father? generous
Your favorite thing? love
Your dream last night? nothing
Your favorite drink? soda
Your dream/goal? sing
What room are you in? office
Your hobby? concerts
Your fear? boredom
Where do you want to be in 6 Yrs? mother
Where were you last night? Josh's
Something that you aren't? hungry
Muffins? no
Wish list item? money
Last thing you did? email
What are you wearing? blue
TV? VH1
Your pets? saved
Friends? rad
Your life? happy
Your mood? decent
Missing someone? always
Drinking? water
Smoking? bad
Your car? tiny
Something you're not wearing? earrings
Your favorite store? dollar
Your favorite color? purple
When is the last time you cried? month
Who will resend this? Colleen
Where do you go to over and over? work
Five people who email me regularly? friends (Is this a trick question?. I thought we could only use one word)
My favorite place to eat? Mexican
Favorite place I'd like to be right now? Florida
Four people I think will respond: trick (Again...geez!)

XOXO

Guy surprised me at work today with these beautiful roses. The note reads:

"You asked for one. Couldn't do that, so I got you 12.
Thanks for being such a wonderful wife.
Love, Guy"

OMG - How Awesome!

Great idea...wish I thought of it:

Ramba-Lamba-Ding-Dong!

Every morning when we leave, Rambo jumps up to the window to see us off. He waits for us to tap the glass, and then tries to grab our fingers with his paws. It's like he needs us to do this everyday, or his whole routine is ruined.

What does Rambo do when we are gone? Run around? Try to jump on top of the fridge to get his treats? Steal my hair ties and hide them? I wish he'd lint roll his hair off the furniture and my clothes, or do the damn dishes.

When we get home, he is so tired. He either pops out from under the couch - eyes all red and sleepy, or we can't find him. Where is he? This only happens when the bed is made; He finds his way under the covers so he's just a lump on the bed under the blankets. FOUND YOU - LITTLE RASCAL FLATTS!

Obamaroo

If this stimulus business passes, it's definitely funding this. And I'm renaming it Obamaroo! :) OR I might win the tickets for having this posted on Chrystal Ball. Keep your fingers crossed.

Ready To Get Your Mind Blown?

The First Music Video in Excel Format!

The link to the actual file is here: http://www.acdcrocks.com/excel/

Here's a YouTube Video of the Excel Video:

Orange Tic Tacs Are My Nemesis?

So here's a series of strange coincidence: As the Jane's Addiction song goes: "Been Caught Stealing, Once When I Was Five." I was five when I first got caught, weird! The next and last time I was caught stealing, I lifted a bunch of Jane's Addiction CDs (hmm...odd correlation).

Obviously, this was before I had the option to download from Napster or burn a copy of a friend's CD. I didn't get caught with the Jane's CDs though. No alarm went off, so I went back in and snagged a couple copies of a Mariah Carey release. The alarm went off, and I motioned at my friend to "GO, GO!" She peeled off in the yellow Volvo. (AKA...THE LEMON) We were some wack-ass fugees. Ooo La, La, La!

Moral of the story...you shouldn't steal -especially music, or orange Tic Tacs. That shiz will haunt you for life.

Blog Worthy...

Porn interrupts Super Bowl for some in Arizona

For some viewers Sunday in Arizona, Super Bowl XLIII was briefly XXX.
About 10 seconds of pornographic material interrupted the Arizona Cardinals' loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers for some Comcast cable customers watching Tucson's KVOA-TV telecast of the game, according to the Associated Press.
Apparently, only those Comcast subscribers watching the game in standard definition -- as opposed to high-def -- saw the inappropriate scoring drive.
Both KVOA, which said the telecast was clean when it left the station, and the cable company are conducting investigations, AP said.

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Guy sent me a link to this today, and it gave me a chuckle.

Why I Love My Husband...

I SUCK

I've abandoned the blog....I know, I suck. But I have an excuse...I always do. :)
I have an hour worth of ridiculous road trip footage that I need to edit. I've been trying to use the editing software on Guy's computer, but it's very new and different to me. I promise, I'll get a segment up this weekend.

Things to look forward to in the road trip episodes:

• In and Out of Vegas in an hour or less
• Goofing around in the Grand Canyon
• Road Trip Games: such as, The Dirty Alphabet Game and Vocal Warmups
• Pappy and his crystal ball on Route 66
• And my personal favorite...having dinner at a Mexican restaurant next to the Days Inn, observing a middle school birthday party doing the Cha Cha Slide on the dance floor. Random and weird. (Totally reminded me of the time on the Magic Carpet Time Tour when John Foss and I crashed a high school prom in the middle of nowhere. God, we were ballsy.)
  

So far I'm liking Nashville, except for the fact that our pipes froze in our log cabin yesterday, which meant no shower for me.

I went to see Celine Dion on Tuesday. It was great. I worked my "concert gypsy" magic and scored a $10 ticket and walked my way to the floor. You know how I roll...and then brag about it. :)



Tonight, Guy and I are going to see Reel Big Fish.

Okay, I need your opinion:

Should Guy and I move into a High Rise Apartment Downtown (this is probably the only city we'll be able to afford one in) or should we go for a cottage type apartment?

Comment, and let me know...

Just a Few More Hours...

I finally got some free WiFi action at this hole of a Days Inn that we are staying at in West Memphis, Arkansas. Memphis, TN was out of our pitiful budget. Guy has done an amazing job driving, and we are only a couple hundred miles from Nashville. I can't believe how packed the car is. We left so much random stuff behind in the apartment lobby: painting supplies, a keyboard, my funky blue loveseat - and so much more. I give that stuff 2 hours...someone will pick it up.

I'm not going to lie...it's freakin' cold- and I've been sick the entire journey, but it's been fun none the less. I'm currently losing my mind because I haven't been able to check email since I left. Just checked it. Apparently, Mary has a very important project for me that needs to be done ASAP, and she hasn't been able to get in touch with me. Thank God for Michael and the reps. Hopefully, my computer will show up tomorrow.

Well, Guy's getting annoyed with my blogging, so I gotta get ready. We're going to drive by Graceland today. We woke up this morning with raised upper lips and a craving for peanut butter and banana sandwiches. Weird.

Just Dance

Special Dedication to J.Q.:
I wish Lady Gaga was big during my wedding. If you went, you know that I had string quartet versions of Guns N Roses, Elton John, and Queen playing before and during the ceremony.



PS. I've made myself sick stressing out about this move to Nashville. OMG - 2 days!

Will You Stay Here And Rock My World?

It's that time of the year again - Rock of Love. This is the 3rd season, and Brett is taking the girls on tour, and he said in the opening episode tonight that if it doesn't work this time...he is giving up. Do I believe that? Hells to the no.

So, here's my projection for Rock of Love 3 "winner:" Kelsey

However, I think these chicks will make it far:

Brittayna is fun and pretty, but I don't think she's that big of a challenge for Brett.

Taya is a great fit for Brett, but she doesn't party hard enough. She is super confident and wouldn't be cool to fans. She'd come off as a bitch, and would probably get sick of Brett's lifestyle in a minute.