More than a feeling........

Musings about the wonderful city of Boston. Bean town. Home of the marathon and the tea party! Ah, the lobsta! The chowda!! The beeya!!! Did the touristy thing and strolled thru Feneuil Hall and the Haymarket Square. Haggled with street vendors. Traveled thru "The Big Dig." Took a romantic horse drawn carriage on a midnight tour and fell in love with Nugget the horse. (I fall in love with ALL horses--no offense, Nugget!) Strolled cobblestone streets, (damn, my high heels), and saw the original "Cheers" bar. Ate fresh seafood outside while viewing various buskers ply their trade. Saw rabid Red Sox fans cheering on their boys. Historical Boston is cosmopolitan yet intimate with stunning old and new architecture. I love a walking town--again, damn my high heels! And I must share the BEST thing! There is a Dunkin' Donuts on every corner. Sometimes two. For a pathetically addicted person, this is truly nirvana. After a day and night, we moved the party to Rockport, Massachusetts. Noticed that gas prices were 25 cents cheaper than here! Not really knowing what to expect, we were pleasantly surprised to find a charming, picturesque, artsy, seaside town. Our bed and breakfast was everything it should be-- and more. Typical, gorgeous, large old New England style home with a beautiful ocean view. Our hosts were indulgent and accommodating. Wonderful breakfasts including yogurt parfaits and fresh croissants started our days. They thoughtfully even had a cat--named Blue--so I could get my dose of pet love. After walking and exploring the various shops and galleries, and stuffing ourselves with local delicacies, we would amble back "home". Many hours were spent on the large front porch, in rocking chairs, enjoying the view of the harvest moon over the bay, while sipping our nightcap(s). Among the most stunning sights we witnessed were children. Playing. Outside. It even seemed as thought they WANTED to. Real kids at the beach. Climbing on boulders, digging clams, searching for shells and snails and RUNNING. And not just to Blockbuster to rent a video game. Glad I didn't see one READING, cuz that would just be too much. Little Rockport chilluns' playin' and yellin' with that cute little accent. Should label them as a bona fide tourist attraction in the AAA guidebook. But, I rave. Then, more of the usual--fresh, whole lobsters and local brews to round out this lazy getaway. The new McNamara Terminal at Detroit Metro Airport eases the re-entry by being modern, efficient and clean. Back up 94 to home, I can only hope that visitors to Detroit can find the unique beauty in our fair city to take back with them. Be it ever so....um, well.....humble, it's still ours to call home. P.S. check out the groovy lid I purchased in Rockport. And, yes, Dad, I actually paid them for it!! xoox

Simply the best.....

Hey all y'all! I am on a long weekend in Boston with more deets to follow. However, let me take this moment to introduce you to a very special person. My sister-in-law Cheryl has joined the blogosphere! Pause for round of applause, whoo hoos, and wolf whistles!! With encouragement, she has started a sort of advice column for anyone with a question or problem. For as long as I have had her in my life, she has been simply the best listener and problem solver, margarita maker and secret keeper. All excellent skills to be shared with the world. I am lucky enough to use her multi tasking (usually a concept I hate) skills to advise me WHILE fixing me a cocktail! Now, that's a talent I can get behind. Her blog further explains her intentions, so I urge you to ask or comment away. You won't be sorry--girl has got it goin' on! xoxo P.S check her out at consultry-cheryl.blogspot.com xoxo

Black Betty R.I.P....

So, I have retired my old girl. After 5 years of faithful service, my dear Black Betty has been traded in for a newer model. (see 06/01 post for more deets on B.B.) Unlike women, the car version does not get better with age. She was tired and I had worked her hard. She has done her job well and deserves a rest. I hope she gets purchased by a caring person, who will treat her like the old queen that she is. Plenty of oil changes and visits to the auto spa, with only the top shelf "cocktail " at the gas pump. Rest well sweet girl. That said, there's a new sheriff in town! Meet Ruby Dee, my latest and greatest. She is a HOTTIE! My brother, Steve, at Dean Arbour Ford in Alpena, really hooked me up this time! Candy apple red with a black cloth convertible top. Tires and rims that are extra special, and will keep the dudes at Belle Tire from tryin' to upgrade me! The 45Th anniversary year warrants cool, limited edition 'stang symbols on floor mats, dash, etc. Many bells and whistles that I am still figuring out. The upgraded stereo bumps with Sirius radio and my ipod has a built in. Bigger body frame makes the front seat larger overall. Slick matte chrome fixtures and black leather, HEATED seats. Whoo Hoo! And she smells delicious! Mmmm.m.m.m Eau de new Mustang!!! She purrs like my my dear Lola on her faux cashmere blankie! And she is a ROCKET. The 350 horses plus engine gets outta bed quicker than Betty did, and makes merging and passing even more fun. For most of my driving life, I drove used, dependable, gas conserving cars that I could barely make the payment on. They served me well and were cost appropriate at the time. I've only had a few new cars in my life, so I realize my good fortune now. The fact that Ruby cost more than the first house I purchased, most definitely gives me pause. I don't ever take this luxury for granted and even feel sort of guilty about the money. Sort of. As an old hippie, this kind goes against my grain. How to justify? Decadence wears well on me? I am a "car person"? Okay, I really can't justify--only recognize. So keep and eye out for the Ruby chariot with myself and a little Bengal cat ridin' shotgun. Comin' to a city near you, soon! xoxox

Tattoo you...

I have a tattoo. Yeah. I had always wanted one, even growing up. But in Northern Michigan the only tattoos I had exposure to was some biker peeps and my uncle Jim's traditional Navy one--you know--the girl with the sailor hat. Thank the Lord, it was before excessive body piercing, because you can be sure, I would be the girl with all things pierced as well as probably too many tasteless tatts. I now realize that too much of a good thing is well, just too much. I love body adornment, but too often it can appear like body mutilation. My son, asked for a tattoo for Christmas when He was 17. I told him, that yes, I would be happy to pop for it as long it was something I approved of. How about a heart with a "Mom" banner on it? Perfect, in my opinion. Needless to say, He got his bass clef tattoo on his bicep, on his own. Playing the bass guitar inspired his choice, so it was a thought out idea that meant something to him. I doubt He will ever regret it. It gives me pause to see so many people employing this form of self expression--and the things they must be trying to express. Children's names, memorials of loved ones, assorted Disney characters, butterflies, roses, the usual barbed wire arm band, favorite bands, pets, and the such. I could only guess the impression that these themes must have had to prompt someone to have them permanently inked on. So, giving myself permission to get my own tattoo, gave me something to really think about. It had to be something profoundly meaningful. But what? I had no idea offhand. One evening at yoga class, I studied a poster explaining the 7 chakras. Upon reading, the second chakra hit me right between the eyes. It was an explanation that suited me EXACTLY!! So much that I instantly knew that I had found my tattoo. In a nutshell (I promise), the second of the seven energy centers is known as Svadhisthana--meaning sweetness. Awww. The chakra is located 2 inches below the bellybutton on the soft, vulnerable underside. It is the sign of creativity and sensuality. It's color is orange, and it's sense is taste. The element is water and it is ruled by a blue, crescent moon. When meditating, the chant is "Vam'--which is also my maiden name. This all perfectly coincides with my astrological sign of Cancer. I am a true cancerian with a tough exterior and a soft side, too. As a water sign and a moon child, the parallels continue. I love the 6 petal lotus shape of the symbol. So, this is it. Within days I had my appointment at Eternal Tattoo. A few glasses of wine made the whole thing go almost painlessly. My lower back (yeah, I know, a "tramp stamp") sports my yogic i.d. and I love it. It was the first chakra symbol that the artist had ever done. As a recently released guy, his practice on the "inside" did not include many yoga symbols! Imagine that. I only occasionally consider another, but probably will stay with just the one. Please let me know if you have a tatt or how you would represent if you were to get one. Happy thoughts. Peace. xo

Cheeseburger in paradise......

Today is our 3rd annual Tiki Bar Party at our beach house. Thankfully, it's a hot, sunny day with only a chance of some afternoon showers. The fliers have been designed and passed out describing the event. Ivan and Cory have generously cleaned up our shoreline, making the view even better than ever. Our neighbors picnic tables and tents have been rounded up. Around 5ish some 50 of our neighbors will descend down our hill on four wheelers, golf carts, etc. and join us on our beach for the festivities. Shawn may even bust out his old "Boss Hog" car. The beer is iced. The tiki bar has been decobwebbed and with Mark's always great tunes, will be rockin', and is a great place to belly up to and observe the day. It will also hold a champagne fountain flowing rum punch. (Heavy on the rum!) Much beer, rum drinks and, of course, the mandatory jello shots will be consumed. Cheryl will helpfully give lessons on the art of proper consumption of said shots, should anyone need assistance. Her execution is perfections!! The beer pong table is ready and our last years champs, the ever cute Nicole and Lauren, are ready to defend their title. Local friend, Lenny, and Randy promise to give them tough competition! We run a 50/50 raffle, but usually give 100% of the take to the winner. The "12'ves" gambling game is available for anyone interested in throwing in a buck. Sometimes a foursome will gather for euchre and will take on all challengers. My hot nephews will provide some eye candy for all and attract the younger crowd of local chickies to giggle at their antics. Matt may even provide a "gun show" after a few brews and a little coaxing. Menu plans do not vary. The Milo brothers will grill sirloin "chee" burgers and the hot dogs and corn on the cob for the gang. Local favorites such as Lori's taco salad and Margits special greens are always anticipated. Potatoes, bean and chips round out our menu. At some point, the Sirius Buffet channel, will switch to the Strobe for some crazy disco music, at which time Kirk can be counted on the bust out some of his moves that were well practiced in his day! And wife, Sue, can be counted on to roll her eyes!! It's hard not to join in for some of us old disco queens. (alright, alright, ME!) Our "moonrise" rivals a keys sunset and is usually bright orange in color. This with watching for satellites, shooting stars, and maybe a drunken inspired UFO sighting are also popular events that can be done with very little exertion from a lawn chair. The bonfire will get big and hot as the night cools off. The s'more fixins' will be brought out and we can argue who makes 'em the best. Sometime later, people will start fading off and maybe even nodding out bonfire side as the party slows down. Done till next years bash. Sunday morning can find us all straggling out to guzzle H2O and compare notes. Some of us will be feeling a little less than great. Clean up goes pretty well with friends showing up to help and reclaim forgotten coolers. The grill gets fired up and leftovers brought out. On full tummies, we are free to nap blissfully with no party worries till next year. Hope y'all can come!! xoxoxo

Oh Maybelline......

It is well documented that I am a crazy pet lover, so on Monday I received heartbreaking news that my sister's Yorkie, Miss Mabel, had narrowly escaped death at the jaws of a vicious Dalmatian. A Dalmatian? You gotta be kiddin' me. I have never thought of those dogs as anything but a hyper, yet docile mascot of the firehouse ilk. Or on the run from Cruella Deville. But, I was wrong. First, let me explain that Mable is an unusual type of Yorkie as she fearlessly swims, walks in the woods, chases squirrels and does many other non typical Yorkie behaviors. She is love able and sweet, neither yappy or snappy. Seems she was innocently swimming and playing with some kids in Hubbard Lake on Sunday, when said Dalmatian charged up out of nowhere to attack poor, unsuspecting little Mabel. Quite a commotion ensued while the owners clubbed the wicked dog with boat oars in an attempt to free Mabel. The Damn-nation finally tired of shaking and biting her, and threw her aside. My sister, Lisa, was able to pick up a distraught and bleeding Mabel, and rush her to the vet. An hour and a half of surgery was needed along with 100 internal stitches to a 9 pound dog. Shaved and weak, she has proved to be a tough little nut that is on the mend. It is still questionable as to whether one of her legs will be okay. Reports today is that she is eating yogurt and turkey and moving around a little. The owners of the devil-nation were concerned but explained that their dog just doesn't like other dogs. WTF? You KNEW this and still let it run without a leash! Idiocy beyond my belief as well as dangerous. Lisa has filed a police report, but who knows what, if anything, will come of it. At the very minimum the asses should be held accountable for the vet fees. Hopefully they will have learned a lesson. So in closing, please send positive, healing thoughts to poor little Miss Mabel. And to her mommy, Lisa. Also, please be a responsible pet owner and make sure your pet has had his shots and is on a leash. xoxoxo

Rock lobster... part deux

It's been a banner year so far. The lobsters are large and plentiful. The stone crabs offer another tasty treat and the picture shows some of the largest claws I've ever seen. You only harvest one of his claws and then throw him back to regenerate another one. Hey you veggie types, enjoy cuz no one has to die!! Locals have turned us on to a delicious mayo and mustard sauce that is the perfect dip for 'em. The weather is gorgeous as usual with very little wind making the water clear and the dives easy. This vaycay is flyin' by. I am totally fiendin' for my precious Lola kitty, and while shopping in Islamorada, I got to love on a rescue kitty, helping my "kitty jones". Spending money while petting a kitty all at the same time. Perfect multitasking effort! I have a big schedule today that includes starting on my third book--another memoir--, maybe some meditation, pool time, and of course mojitos around!! Another chance to showcase my multitasking skills! Tonight we are going to Braza Lena, a Brazilian steak house that has hunky servers serving hunky pieces of grilled meat!! I heard the salad bar is about 3 blocks long. Should be a treat... Whatever your day brings you, relax and find your peace. xoxox