tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22205068568497818572024-02-19T04:03:23.363-06:00turned UP to ELEVEN!live, life, LOUD!Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.comBlogger343125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-38591627008757074492017-09-14T12:03:00.002-05:002017-09-14T14:43:10.447-05:00Your Milestone.You would have been thirty today. 30 years old. A newly minted "old man." I remember when 30 seemed so old, and here I am on the other side of my 30's. Now I know, 30 isn't old, it's frankly not old enough. Especially when you don't get the chance to gain this milestone in your lifetime.<br />
<br />
I haven't written here much lately, even with all the different words I've wanted to say. The past two years have taken a toll on our family. It's tough without you, there is no denying that. Long roads with battles, and recoveries, long roads with loss and pain. We find ways to fill our days, and our hearts but the hole is always there.<br />
<br />
There is faith, and praise, there is laughter and tears. We have waves of emotion and moments of celebration, but in the entirety of it all, we miss you John Oubre.<br />
<br />
You were always the light in any room, even on your darkest days. On days you didn't want attention, we know you still needed it deep down. Walks in the dark, smiles in the light - you always expressed your love to all.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>"And he just gives his love, he just gives it away... </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>the love he receives is the love that is saved." - Pearl Jam</i></b></div>
<br />
I can only imagine the celebrations we would have had this weekend on your 30th birthday, if you were still with us. Some dear friends told me today that they would have probably played a prank on you. That you were always a bright spot in their hearts and still to this day in their minds.<br />
<br />
Others told me how much their babies miss you as well.<br />
<br />
I know your family misses you, more than I could express for them.<br />
<br />
So on this 30th year of what would have been the rest of your adult life I need you to know how much <u>I miss you</u>, personally.<br />
<br />
I miss your smile.<br />
<br />
I miss your laughter.<br />
<br />
I miss the laughter you made other people have, with your whit and your charm.<br />
<br />
I miss your forgiving heart.<br />
<br />
I miss watching you play with your niece and how you used to rib her and drive her nuts with teasing but you'd hug her and tell her it was all a joke, and eventually... she's smile at you out of the corner of her eye.<br />
<br />
I miss watching you with your nephews. Much of the same, ribbing, and joking, rough housing and laughing. You were definitely a big hero for all children.<br />
<br />
I miss seeing you with your brothers, and your sisters. Laughing, hugging, playing basketball, playing NCAA Football, roasting marshmallows, scheming, plotting, joking and loving.<br />
<br />
I miss being your sister. And while I still am, I just miss you being here. Calling me a "Southern Yankee" and giving me hell for anything you could think of, in a joking way of course. And telling me things like how happy you were that Mike found me, and that we got married.<br />
<br />
I miss warning you about certain girls [the not so great ones]. And giving you advice on the good one, even if you probably never took it.<br />
<br />
I miss the few mini pep talks and discussions we had on our own.<br />
<br />
I miss cooking for you and your girlfriend. And the nights we'd spend joking at the dinner table.<br />
(And just so you know we still refuse to play Words with Friends with your parents! BIG NO on that one!)<br />
<br />
I miss watching you and Paden hunt for snakes at the creek for your mom.<br />
<br />
I miss watching you talk with your Mom in the kitchen. How you could charm her even when she was a bit upset with you. You always stood in the one corner and would give a side glance with a smile waiting for her to crack and give in.<br />
<br />
I miss watching you with your Dad. Even when you didn't see eye to eye, I could still see his pride in you.<br />
<br />
I miss seeing you and Jake hanging out together. Patting his head, rubbing his belly and running with him through the yard to play. All dogs go to heaven, and so do great guys. I know you are together today. You have to be.<br />
<br />
Most of all I miss you being here - holding us up, filling our hearts and that hole you left behind we will never be able to touch.<br />
<br />
You were taken from us too soon - I don't care what anyone says, or about any plans that others have for us in our lives. My personal belief is that you needed more time here on earth. And we needed more time with you! I will forever say, too soon.<br />
<br />
Thank you for making the years that I knew you as special as possible - you have touched so many lives and souls, we all just feel a bit lost without you by our sides physically. I know you are always here in spirit.<br />
<br />
Thank you for the quick visit today - in my moment of anger, and annoyance - your 'sign' fluttered over my head, did a few circles and took off into the sunshine. It made me smile, I wished you a happy day, dried my eyes and said 'So long for now, but not forever."<br />
<br />
You're with me, (us) forever and nothing can take that away.<br />
<br />
I miss you, brother. And I love you John Oubre.<br />
Happy Birthday!<br />
I hope they have Snickers Cake in Heaven!<br />
<br />
<br />Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-57776445994772853242017-07-13T16:38:00.001-05:002017-07-14T16:25:15.604-05:00I've been away for too long.... My last official post was in January of 2015... since then a lot of things have happened... Here's a quick rundown - and I plan to do a bit more detail on all of these soon!<br />
<h2>
Greatest Hits REWIND!</h2>
<b>Honorable Mentions I never blogged about: </b>Weezer Show in ATL Dec. 2014 and Pearl Jam in Memphis 2014. Sad I didn't write more about these - I may need to do a concert recap!<br />
<br />
<b>APRIL 2015</b><br />
Took a trip to Denver, Colorado<br />
I witnessed my first show at Red Rocks! [Disco Buscuits]<br />
And one more show at the Filmore! [The Replacements]<br />
Hit up Record Store Day 2015 in Denver, Colorado and also scored some amazing tacos too!<br />
<br />
Mike bought a new ride! His name is "Boom" and he's an awesome Jeep Renegade!<br />
<br />
<b>HAD A VERY BUSY JULY 2015</b><br />
We did US Tour so to speak in July - ever single weekend we were going somewhere and doing something. We put a lot of miles on "BOOM" this month!<br />
<br />
Celebrated July 4th, 2015 in Washington, DC with The Foo Fighters and a ton of great bands<br />
AND celebrated FF's 20th Anniversary!<br />
<br />
Spent the following weekend in Atlanta with Mike and went to see Anthony Bourdain speak!<br />
<br />
Went to the first ever Sloss Fest in Birmingham, AL<br />
<br />
Enjoyed a family beach trip to Orange Beach, AL.<br />
<br />
<b>AUGUST 2015</b><br />
I survived my first Whole30 and did 4 more after that!<br />
<br />
<b>SEPTEMBER 2015</b><br />
Started to work out again, take up running and purchased a bike all in the matter of months and stuck with the life style through 2016 and well into 2017.<br />
<br />
<b>NOVEMBER 2015</b><br />
As a family effort we took over Thanksgiving in 2015. Helping out Michael's mom.<br />
We ruled at making Turkey, and a ton of the other sides and were asked to bake the turkey again in 2016. It's amazing what some sibling team work and vodka can accomplish!<br />
<br />
New Tattoos - for myself and Mike, and his brothers and father.<br />
<br />
Discovered Pre-workout and a love for Rosé.<br />
Not at the same time mind you, or mixed together... just a general statement.<br />
<br />
<b>DECEMBER 2015</b><br />
Celebrated Christmas at our home, having Mike's family over for a change of pace after a long fall (see below).<br />
<br />
<b>FEBRUARY 2016</b><br />
Headed home to Maryland for a weekend to have a late Christmas with my father and friends. Experience a great afternoon in Downtown Frederick for their Fire and Ice Festival! Ice Sculptures and shots for all!<br />
<br />
Enjoyed a Chili Contest at our favorite Local Brewery [Singin' River Brewery] - Mike was able to judge. Our favorite didn't win, but they should have!<br />
<br />
<b>MARCH 2016</b><br />
Enjoyed a few weekends of day drankin' on patios downtown and just l-i-v-i-n'!<br />
The weather was so warm we actually took our first kayak trip at the end of March!<br />
<br />
<b>APRIL 2016</b><br />
Enjoyed the final day of our favorite local vinyl store Pegasus Records and Records Store Day all in one. We went all out - spent way too much money, got misty eyed, listened to live bands and got some great items from our friends and favorite music store the Shoals ever had.<br />
<br />
Fully ENJOYED JAZZFEST 2016 - Full recap to come. This was an extremely special Pearl Jam concert!<br />
<br />
<b>JUNE 2015</b><br />
Our Town held it's first ever Pride Fest - we were there!<br />
<br />
Traveled to Denver, CO again in 2016. We travel to visit my Sister-in-Law and her family.<br />
Hiked a mountain, ate great tacos, went to Red Rocks again! [Jason Isbell + the 400 Unit]<br />
<br />
<b>OCTOBER 2016</b><br />
Hit up the Alabama Vs. Texas A&M 2016 game! ROLL TIDE!<br />
We also celebrated our wedding anniversary that day as well!<br />
<br />
Had a fun trip to our favorite part of ATL to meet up with my Bestie from back home!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<b>NOVEMBER 2016</b><br />
Watched and Election unfold in the way I never thought imaginable.<br />
Let's NOT discuss here, m'kay?<br />
<br />
Witnessed quite a few great live shows here at home!<br />
John Paul White • Secret Sisters • The Pollies • Red Mouth • Willodeans • St. Paul and the Broken Bones • Space Tyger • Belle Adair (just to name a few).<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<b>DECEMBER 2016</b><br />
I TURNED 40!!! Holy shit! Michael threw me an epic surprise Birthday party!!!<br />
<br />
My office acquired a "work cat" - she showed up at our door cold, and starving and he's been with us every since. He was amply named "Buddy" after Buddy the Elf.<br />
<br />
Celebrated Christmas 2016 in Maryland with my dad and Friends!<br />
<br />
<b>MARCH 2017</b><br />
Finally watched Big Little Lies and was instantly hooked!<br />
I'm also obsessed with the soundtrack on Spotify (Thanks Hutch!)<br />
<br />
And watched a ton of other shows: Newest notes: Riverdale, iZombie and 13 Reasons Why.<br />
I loved them all - I'm a bit more addicted to television than I'd like to admit.<br />
<br />
Didn't celebrate St. Patrick's Day like we had hoped...<br />
<br />
<b>APRIL 2017</b><br />
Discovered a love for puzzles.<br />
<br />
<b>MAY 2017</b><br />
Witnessed Soundgarden for the first, and sadly last time in my life.<br />
Losing Chris Cornell in the music world is a bit unreal to me.<br />
<br />
Celebrated a 2nd, successful year of the John Oubre for Antiqua Charity Golf Tournament.<br />
It's hard work, but worth it to raise money for a cause he was passionate about.<br />
<br />
My father moved from Maryland here to Alabama to be closer to me and Michael. I think he's enjoying it so far!<br />
<br />
<b>JUNE 2016</b><br />
Discovered Wine in a Can = Life is Good!<br />
<h2>
And the Hardest Struggles: REWIND!</h2>
<b>AUGUST 2015:</b><br />
Dealt with the biggest loss I've felt since losing my mother, in losing Mike's younger brother John Oubre. The family will never be 100%, he was too important to all of us. We are all still taking this day by day, even though the event happened in 2015. Sometimes you just can't fix a hole in your heart, especially when someone left such a large tear when they left. I've been struggling with a post to honor him for almost two years now. I'm almost there, and hope to share, soon.<br />
<br />
<b>FEBRUARY / MARCH 2017:</b><br />
Also dealt with the joy of discovering I was pregnant this past February. After a little over a year of trying. That excitement was shortly followed by the loss of this joy, due to an ectopic pregnancy and emergency surgery. I have a lot to say about this journey as well, but I will have to complete my post.<br />
<br />
------<br />
<br />
These past few years have been filled with ups and downs. Most of which I do want to write a detailed post about, so please be patient.<br />
<br />
If you're still here after my long hiatus, thanks for sticking around, it's nice to have you back, and to be back!<br />
<br />Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-15881463155281686692017-07-12T11:24:00.001-05:002017-07-12T16:22:02.975-05:00Music Festival Checklist."Better to have that, and not need it, than need it and not have it." - Woodrow F. Call<br />
<br />
"Be Prepared" - Scouts Motto<br />
<br />
"Better safe, than sorry." - Mom<br />
<br />
The best advice in life comes from many places, well I'm about to give you some real world, sage advice about the most important things to bring with you and remember at an outdoor music festival.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCB8K9nZA6FRFx412XHjawqmN_h0LUPcLXgi_Vlatyh18tyKCpBfPIljBlDFhP78zwpbTC0eGAVTfpecl4yBMYfFciAQmw64EFBdir7GFi4971UBKUf7rlya_b_U0bGDHCsqhXiV814Sg/s1600/MM2013-Drivin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="589" data-original-width="593" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCB8K9nZA6FRFx412XHjawqmN_h0LUPcLXgi_Vlatyh18tyKCpBfPIljBlDFhP78zwpbTC0eGAVTfpecl4yBMYfFciAQmw64EFBdir7GFi4971UBKUf7rlya_b_U0bGDHCsqhXiV814Sg/s1600/MM2013-Drivin.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via <a href="http://www.instagram.com/turnedup2eleven" target="_blank">turnedup2eleven</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h2>
<b>BACK-PACK / BAG + STUFF THAT GOES INSIDE!</b></h2>
Always check the rules and regulations on the festival's website. Some will allow you to carry regular back-packs or bags of a certain size. Some of the newest security regulations have required us to carry <a href="https://www.amazon.com/MGgear-Transparent-School-Backpack-Outdoor/dp/B0017M87QO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499872202&sr=8-1&keywords=Clear+adult+backpack" target="_blank">clear plastic bags</a>, where all contents can be easily viewed by concert goers AND staff at the security checks. The bags come in all sizes. This is a bit annoying, but at the same time safety is a huge concern in places with this many people so please save yourself some time, read the rules and respect the requests of the venue and concert promoters. Other venues will only allow you to carry a purse, approximately the size of your palm, if it's not a see through material. All items are subject to search - just comply with security, and you'll get through the line much, much faster!<br />
<br />
<b>In this bag you'll want to keep some very important items:</b><br />
<br />
<b>SPF / CHAPSTICK / LIP BALM / GLOSS</b><br />
Sunburns suck, and skin cancer is even worse. Protect yourself. I apply my sunblock before leaving my hotel, and then take a smaller bottle for reapplication as needed. Most venues will not allow aerosol cans, so again, read the rules. Same goes for your lips! I always carry a spare SPF Lip Balm and a gloss.<br />
<br />
<b>Tickets</b><br />
Store these somewhere safe in your bag they are often needed for re-entry, if you are able to leave the festival and come back. If we plan enough ahead Mike and I always laminate our tickets, especially if we need them for two days. Thankfully some music festivals give you a wrist band, if you don't luck out and get a band, please keep your tickets safe, or keep a back up at the hotel.<br />
<br />
<b>Band-aids / Blister Block</b><br />
I can tell you from experience that even in the best worn in shoes, sometimes blisters happen. They are never comfortable but Blister block and band-aids truly help!<br />
<br />
<b>Bandana</b><br />
Great for fashion AND function. These come in very handy when a festival is held during the dry season or in a parking lot (thinking back to Warped Tour circa... 2002ish? my teeth were caked in dust and eventually became mud, thanks to my silva - yeah it's gross, so do us all a favor and save your lungs and your grill and wear a bandana around your face as needed.<br />
<br />
Protection from the Sun - I don't know about you but my forehead is always the first part of my face to show sunburn - I have been saved from a wicked burn a time or two by wrapping the bandana around the effected part of my scalp. You can also wet the bandana and use it as a cool cloth as well at a super hot festival.<br />
<br />
They also come in handy when it rains - but a word of advice, if you want to wear one in the rain, make sure you wash it before the festival. In a moment of desperation Mike (my husband for any new readers) and I grabbed some at the Music Midtown fest a few years ago, during a down pour, they were great to keep our hair back from the falling rain, until the red dye bled all over Mike's favorite shirt. Not to mention bandanas are way more comfortable, and soft after a good wash!<br />
<br />
<b>Poncho</b><br />
Weather permitting it may be needed in an instant and who wants to pay the over priced fee that concert places charge for these items. Hit up the camping section at Target and snag one for $4.00 or less, vs. the $7-10 at most venues).<br />
<br />
They are also a great way to not only keep YOURSELF dry, but all your gear - covering your backpack will ensure that your bag and items stay dry, AND your merch doesn't get ruined after purchasing it. We survived the downpour on July 4th, 2015 watching The Foo Fighters 20th Anniversary concert thanks to our ponchos, we might have had a ton of rain fall on us, but our posters and tshirts stayed super dry! My mascara on the other hand was a mess.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkorFjuVCq3fmMAx-f6nQ0-qcx1jpLCDRMkiOWFE0iCHbg5eM5pNwomaxoYqLwgSr5v2_4BS2H-EBMZnvN_6dPqrLzMaEiuq49Nf32P7Q0LBuFYpl58ZhEpITkY9eZVdhvI5VSX9ALmQ/s1600/FF-MeMike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="592" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkorFjuVCq3fmMAx-f6nQ0-qcx1jpLCDRMkiOWFE0iCHbg5eM5pNwomaxoYqLwgSr5v2_4BS2H-EBMZnvN_6dPqrLzMaEiuq49Nf32P7Q0LBuFYpl58ZhEpITkY9eZVdhvI5VSX9ALmQ/s1600/FF-MeMike.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foo Fighters July 4th • 20th Anniversary 2015 • via <a href="http://www.instagram.com/jamofpearls" target="_blank">jamofpearls</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivFuR4IR_8Z0UbU-xg7D1QOc3vf1wTUwEGIzRul6wF59KwBvcHZa-J6Tl-4JJjM7Dz4IP3tWatVQA1zG6MrdsV3kH9HOitxAHZlYGduyvPrldAyJTn_naEfTEdOOC2GzTLYErvtiutouE/s1600/FF+2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="582" data-original-width="585" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivFuR4IR_8Z0UbU-xg7D1QOc3vf1wTUwEGIzRul6wF59KwBvcHZa-J6Tl-4JJjM7Dz4IP3tWatVQA1zG6MrdsV3kH9HOitxAHZlYGduyvPrldAyJTn_naEfTEdOOC2GzTLYErvtiutouE/s1600/FF+2015.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foo Fighters July 4th • DC • 2015 • Worth the rain to catch this show! • via<a href="http://www.instagram.com/turnedup2eleven" target="_blank"> turnedup2eleven</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b>Hat</b><br />
You can be stylish or functional with these - either way - protect your eyes, and face from harsh rays with a hat! Bonus if it rains and you have a ball cap it will keep the rain out of your eyes so you can focus on your favorite lead guitarist, or drummer. Which ever. <br />
<br />
<b>Sunglasses</b><br />
BRIGHT RAYS equal tired and even often sunburned eyes. Protect your peepers people!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdGs7w23Tp6qsQthP-1jvSiH2saCHNm0gKSDtflNrBUQYHu7zfRr4Pe5gMaZ-OvD_Xsrmc8WHUxSYRwqUURYCx_yLN5rTwmH7p0lHNsmnqG9fZ9er8y_Wo7xcnWgGWB-uHKR7ICCcKrBk/s1600/SlossMeMike2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="588" data-original-width="589" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdGs7w23Tp6qsQthP-1jvSiH2saCHNm0gKSDtflNrBUQYHu7zfRr4Pe5gMaZ-OvD_Xsrmc8WHUxSYRwqUURYCx_yLN5rTwmH7p0lHNsmnqG9fZ9er8y_Wo7xcnWgGWB-uHKR7ICCcKrBk/s1600/SlossMeMike2015.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sloss Fest 2015 via <a href="http://www.instagram.com/jamofpearls" target="_blank">jamofpearls</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Small Wallet</b><br />
Dudes have it easy - they can usually hide a wallet in one of their many pockets. Especially in cargo shorts. Women we have to get a bit more creative. I usually tend to take a smaller wallet, and only carry vital items, ID - Credit Card - Cash - Insurance Cards (Guys, I'm 40, not an animal, I care about my health and well being). That being said - finding a small, secure wallet can be hard. I was lucky enough to find one that had a small strap. I like to put my wallet in my front pocket at shows. The wallet I have is tiny, it fits in the front of most of my shorts pockets - and I tend to loop the strap on my first belt loop then slip the wallet in my shorts pocket. This will keep the wallet secure, and when I head to the port-a-johns also keeps the wallet from falling on the ground in that nasty environment. I can't tell you the number of times I have had that wallet fall out as I hovered, thankfully the strap keeps it attached to me. Most festivals will say NO CHAINS for wallets, this is a small strap, much like some of the cute clutches women carry these days. Another great option I found <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Creek-Silk-Undercover-Stash/dp/B0054IH37G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499807209&sr=8-1&keywords=Bra+stash" target="_blank">here</a>. I am ordering this immediately! Sure your boobs will sweat but you will always know where your money, and important items are!<br />
<br />
<b>Small Wallet II - Electric Boogaloo</b><br />
Not saying your pocket WILL get picked, but I'm saying it might. Having your wallet in a safe place - front pocket, hidden part of your backpack (way deep), or even your bra is best. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Be safe... Better safe than sorry my momma always said!<br />
<br />
<b>Hand Wipes</b><br />
Remember those port-a-johns I mentioned a moment ago, yeah, the germ pools! Some festivals you go to have hand washing stations or at least some anti-bac hanging up inside. I by pass those lines and just carry some wipes in my bag. I also frankly like the idea of wiping OFF the germs and dirt vs. just rubbing it in with alcohol.<br />
<br />
<b>Water Jug</b><br />
Most festivals will allow you to bring in 1, factory sealed 12 oz. water bottle with water in it, others will request that you bring an empty bottle of your own. This a MUST in my book. I don't care how much you would rather have vodka or beer, STAYING HYDRATED is a must in hot weather months. I mean, I can't tell you the number of times it's been around 8 pm at a fest and I've seen men and women face down in their own muck, and their friends are pissed. Don't be the person your friends have to babysit and the one other concert goers laugh at and often post on instagram with a funny hashtag. Trade off. One drink, one water the entire day. You'll be way happier you dropped a ton of money to see your favorite band if you actually REMEMBER it. If you aren't having to go to the bathroom a lot - it's great if you're up front waiting to see a band but honestly, it also means you're dehydrated... you might want to drink some water, rather than pass out during your favorite band's set.<br />
<br />
<b>Gum</b><br />
Outside food and beverages are usually prohibited. Unless you're at Red Rocks which is strange but nice. I always carry some gum to help freshen my breath and often times handle the dust issue (refer to the bandana section). I mean, after a few IPA's, then sweating and being thirsty no one has fresh breath kids.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2POhlFdKDVAIzz8O1xcyDqNF6Ps4SMPeKhNqRgJF2QPmpy9nel0-GYw1VZLEcm1_XeiebpbAhYiZBNIpUN_IEN7spB5DrlZSTeUovNcEqfZGr1LLtAklmsXXOVsziqN7t3higNQvbLNU/s1600/Isbell+2016+Red+Rocks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="593" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2POhlFdKDVAIzz8O1xcyDqNF6Ps4SMPeKhNqRgJF2QPmpy9nel0-GYw1VZLEcm1_XeiebpbAhYiZBNIpUN_IEN7spB5DrlZSTeUovNcEqfZGr1LLtAklmsXXOVsziqN7t3higNQvbLNU/s1600/Isbell+2016+Red+Rocks.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit • Red Rocks, CO 2016 • via <a href="http://www.instagram.com/turnedup2eleven" target="_blank">turnedup2eleven</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Camera</b><br />
Please again, see guidelines for cameras and recording equipment it would suck to get yours confiscated or be told you have to take the item all. the. way. back. to. your. car! It's great to catch your favorite band live, and you want to document it. Cameras on phones have come a long way, I suggest using that. And I also suggest taking maybe 2-4 photos, but don't spend the entire time looking through your phone and missing everything happening around you! ENJOY the moment, not just the memories.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZPKFJ133Yr1ojY8FBnL9abQgPKEaKrh3euLBMkbSC4dzjCNt-5lUic3DkvbVg9PbtQyoew4BfBZjLfusJ5pdv5rS7wdQzetRqPG63WyV2iBZ4_fKzkRbEvdaG9P1dC_cPg8PRhIoM0yg/s1600/PJ+MM+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="593" data-original-width="594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZPKFJ133Yr1ojY8FBnL9abQgPKEaKrh3euLBMkbSC4dzjCNt-5lUic3DkvbVg9PbtQyoew4BfBZjLfusJ5pdv5rS7wdQzetRqPG63WyV2iBZ4_fKzkRbEvdaG9P1dC_cPg8PRhIoM0yg/s1600/PJ+MM+2014.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pearl Jam • Music Midtown • ATL, GA • 2014 • via <a href="http://www.instagram.com/jamofpearls" target="_blank">jamofpearls</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Long Sleeve Shirt / Jacket</b><br />
Depending on how hot it is, you may not need either of these but I have always found it helpful to have a light weight long sleeve shirt or button up shirt in my bag for an all day music fest. Once the sun goes down, if you've had too much sun it can help keep you warm. And in turn also protect you if you do get burt before the sun sets. It is also helpful when and if you are caught in a down pour to have a warm, dry shirt in your bag to make you feel better.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjASljrm0M54iJYmG8FkmnBX5WYqymh2NopvjYb1LlRUiO_V1hp4yUs2IZVQSxQdDCowfYT9OaB3LOE0m8ns9N7DyTT0JL7b-Aq-UxkhUz0OzeULL_9eZGu5ZPlc05IZmVcrX4TBI7cXVc/s1600/slossfest2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="588" data-original-width="591" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjASljrm0M54iJYmG8FkmnBX5WYqymh2NopvjYb1LlRUiO_V1hp4yUs2IZVQSxQdDCowfYT9OaB3LOE0m8ns9N7DyTT0JL7b-Aq-UxkhUz0OzeULL_9eZGu5ZPlc05IZmVcrX4TBI7cXVc/s1600/slossfest2015.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sloss Fest 2015 • via <a href="http://www.instagram.com/jamofpearls" target="_blank">jamofpearls</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Portable Phone Charger</b><br />
Most festivals have charging stations, but why chance it? If you know having a full battery on your phone is important to you - do this. Mike and I usually travel together and stick together, so we have one or the other to use, but if you plan to distance yourself from your crew at any time, please try to have a full phone charge to get back with them. *** Keep in mind often times in a busy festival setting, text messages might not send as well, and there is rarely wifi available. (See below for my note about Meeting Places).<br />
<br />
<b>Your Phone</b><br />
This is an obvious thing to bring, but I always suggest to bring it and download the festival APP if available. Not only will you be able to check the schedule, but also have access to a map. Some apps allow you to create your own schedule alerting you to when your next chosen band is ready to hit the stage and where.<br />
<br />
<b>Festival Map</b><br />
If you're a bit more old school and would rather conserve your phone battery for important stuff like photos and videos - I would suggest checking at the information tent at the festival and getting yourself a printed out map, or brochure. Most festivals, like <a href="http://slossfest.com/" target="_blank">Sloss Fest</a> will have people handing out maps as you walk in the gates. This might seem like trash to some of you but it's helpful to get a lay of the land before you commit to where you want to stand for the day. Important things to note are restrooms, hydration stations, merch tents as well as vendors for food and drinks! Most of these will be available to view on your phone, but I like having a larger version, that's easier to read, and let's me keep my phone in a safe place most of the time so I don't drop, or lose it. Or chance digging in my bag and leaving pockets open accidentally (see also be safe and wise about your belongings).<br />
<br />
<b>Plastic Bag</b><br />
It's helpful to have a plastic bag in your bag - sometimes you'll get one at the merch tent, others you won't. It's great to have them to protect your new shirts or items you buy, or simply cover items you want to KEEP dry, like your phone, or a shirt for later. Music festivals that get hot are notorious for spraying fans with water, you don't want that bit of water to ruin your phone or other items.<br />
<br />
<b>Ear Plugs</b><br />
Heading up to the front of the line? Want to be close to the action? Great, you'll also be close to the speakers blasting loud enough to get to the folks in the back. Prolonged exposure to this type of noise can cause serious hearing damage. Trust me, if my husband and I can go almost deaf for almost 24 hours after being front row a friend's show in a local bar, AND an AC/DC concert in an indoor venue FAR from the stage, you can totally do damage up front at a show outdoors! Just get some cheap ear plugs, no one will judge, everyone is beginning to wear them, including all our rock and hip hop idols!<br />
<br />
<b>Mini First Aid Kit</b><br />
Along with the band aids mentioned above, you may want to carry a small First Aid kit with items like ibuprofen, or your choice of headache cures. If you have allergies or any other medication you need to remember to take, I would suggest to take it before you leave for the show, but sometimes you have to take these things at certain times. It's nice to have a small bag in your pack to tend to these needs a head of time. Another option might be eye drops. I wear contacts and my eyes tend to get really dry and irritated during a dusty, or allergy ridden time of year. I carry drops to help with this. Maybe toss the Gum in this pack as well. Ladies it's nice to also have some type of a bag to carry your "firecrackers" if ole Aunt Flow rears her ugly head on the weekend of your festival as well - and the hand wipe will help with this issue as well!<br />
<br />
<h2>
<b>MEETING PLACE</b></h2>
As I stated, cell phones are often rendered useless at music festivals. Not only is LOUD and hard to hear, text messages tend to send really slow, and batteries die. It's always great to have a "meeting place" in case you get lost, or can't find your crew after running to get a drink. Mike and I always have one, in case we get separated. Find a good landmark upon entering and tell your crew to meet there after the show ends - especially if you are the driver it's your responsibility to get there and make sure ALL your friends are ready to roll before leaving, yes even Sally, she's been drunk all day but you have to be sure she gets home safely - even if that hoe was talking to the guy you were interested in all day!<br />
<br />
<h2>
TOTEMS</h2>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi695JxfLTq4lrufRGBWQ7HjIBhsF7L8K6R2tU9FOMhXPJolm3s4Im7oDTAWqkZGYz8mjZcXP1_AvlgldgadUW5LIYXpaWo_6jz9Y6Bc9KH_dlNZ2iDMb7ukTeXf84XxGpuN3l-Ft-xiAw/s1600/MM+2014+Totem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="597" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi695JxfLTq4lrufRGBWQ7HjIBhsF7L8K6R2tU9FOMhXPJolm3s4Im7oDTAWqkZGYz8mjZcXP1_AvlgldgadUW5LIYXpaWo_6jz9Y6Bc9KH_dlNZ2iDMb7ukTeXf84XxGpuN3l-Ft-xiAw/s1600/MM+2014+Totem.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via <a href="http://www.instagram.com/turnedup2eleven" target="_blank">turnedup2eleven</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I hate that most music festivals are starting to crack down on these items. Huge signs, or long tall poles with flags, although a bit annoying if they are up front waving in front of your view, they are VERY helpful in keeping crews together during a busy show. I can't tell you the number of times we were able to find friends of ours just by following their floating Husky head of their beloved dog Russo [pictured above]. Check with the concert rules, if they are allowed, I say go big or go home! It's so much easier to find your friends when you know what flag they are hanging under!<br />
<br />
My only note of consideration is this - during the show if are up front and center and NOT waiting for a friend to get back up to meet you - maybe keep the waving down to a minimum for the folks in the back. Everyone is there to enjoy the show!<br />
<br />
<h2>
<b>FASHION</b></h2>
<b>Basically be smart, but let your freak flag fly!</b><br />
BOHO, ROBO, DON'T KNOW? Follow your instincts, be comfortable but enjoy getting dressed. If you like comfort go for the old school t-shirt and shorts. Want more flare, go ahead and wear the flower head crown, when else is that going to be socially acceptable, am I right? Some shows are during Halloween, others are in the dead of the summer, the bottom line is, you do you. Be comfortable and enjoy yourself!<br />
<br />
<b>Proper Shoes</b><br />
I've seen this time and time again... a young woman walking like a baby deer for the first time. She's wobbling and having a really hard time getting around on the grass in her platform shoes. I envy her shoes but not her situation because girl, they cute, but you are having issues. And in turn I've seen dudes walking around with a broken flip flop, searching for his friends.<br />
<br />
I can't stress enough to wear COMFORTABLE and PROTECTIVE shoes. If you are a guy or girl that likes to sit on the sidelines, or a nice blanket in the back then YES by all means wear those flip flops. If you want to be up front, or in a pit, you should probably opt for sneakers or boots or something with a closed toe. I've had my foot stepped on before and it's painful, especially if the person doing it was dancing or jumping to the beat of the music. I usually opt for something like a slip on sneaker, or high top (<a href="https://www.vans.com/shop/mens-new-and-popular-arrivals/mono-chambray--slip-on-black-black" target="_blank">Vans</a>) or hiking type sandal like a (<a href="http://www.teva.com/women-sandals/hurricane-xlt/4176.html?dwvar_4176_color=SLF#start=1&cgid=women-view-all" target="_blank">Teva</a>) - or <a href="http://www.keenfootwear.com/p/W-CLEARWATER-CNX.html?dwvar_W-CLEARWATER-CNX_color=1014460&cgid=womens_footwear_sandals" target="_blank">Keen</a> - the closed toe in the Keen is great for times like this. They are a bit more expensive but hold up great over time. I've had mine for about 8 years now and other than fading in color, they integrity of the shoe is still intact. [Note: I had my last pair of slim strap Tevas for about only 2 years and they broke after Jazzfest last year - too much walking and dancing]. Basic sneakers, lace up boots, nothing too heavy. Remember you'll be walking... a lot. Sometimes more than you realized (again, Jazzfest 2016).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3II7wp2Xdy3nATxzD8TGvid811ORhKpOQCDrjuJyhUxWUHnr-Pe-_mtLZkCn1AAWBziy0ZcS9IyPqOFnvFfvCDdYpSoSwg5C4bBFWWOr-tA6M77HyH_ELndVRyHgqU3op0Sw56g9Vl10/s1600/PJ+jassfest+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="591" data-original-width="592" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3II7wp2Xdy3nATxzD8TGvid811ORhKpOQCDrjuJyhUxWUHnr-Pe-_mtLZkCn1AAWBziy0ZcS9IyPqOFnvFfvCDdYpSoSwg5C4bBFWWOr-tA6M77HyH_ELndVRyHgqU3op0Sw56g9Vl10/s1600/PJ+jassfest+2016.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jazz Fest 2016 • Pearl Jam • via <a href="http://www.instagram.com/turnedup2eleven" target="_blank">turnedup2eleven</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Make-up</b><br />
To each his or her own on this part, but at a festival if it's going to be 100+ degrees, I tend to go light on the make-up and wear as much water proof, and sweat proof items as I can. Unless you are going to an Alice Cooper Show or heading to 'The Gathering' to see ICP, it's really not a great look to have make-up running down your face, unless that's the exact look you're going for. Or it's VoodooFest in New Orleans, but again, to each their own.<br />
<br />
<b>Recreational Drugs + Booze</b><br />
Basically carry and use at your own risk. That goes for you trying to sneak in that flask too. I'm not here to harsh your buzz, man I'm just saying... I'd rather not get kicked out of a festival and miss my favorite band for something as silly as that. Did you know they make tampon flasks now? Insanity!<br />
<br />
I tend to like to be as clear minded as possible at a show. Mike and I have a few drinks before hand, but it's minimal, compared to any given Friday night. I paid good money to see a band that I love, and I don't want my mind clouded and I certainly don't want a black out to ruin my chances of seeing something epic. My point is, I would have been really, really sad if I was too drunk when I saw Soundgarden this year. I will never get to see them live again and I'm glad I can remember <u>EVERY</u> moment I had with Chris Cornell and the guys on stage. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidALEUSnS1j65VZPk9gvdBZ5JwT1Uf-7uFddi2wWK9yLCCzbqWMeLTcKHwnLdoEg5mveVF2ikMUMAwhHye1P29CFC0QQFpgLBnCcd5pOL1cjAVKauyhU_soqO24A_fxqtAU6PRoitVBWg/s1600/Soundgarden+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="590" data-original-width="591" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidALEUSnS1j65VZPk9gvdBZ5JwT1Uf-7uFddi2wWK9yLCCzbqWMeLTcKHwnLdoEg5mveVF2ikMUMAwhHye1P29CFC0QQFpgLBnCcd5pOL1cjAVKauyhU_soqO24A_fxqtAU6PRoitVBWg/s1600/Soundgarden+2017.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soundgarden 2017 • Tuscaloosa, AL • via <a href="http://www.instagram.com/turnedup2eleven" target="_blank">turnedup2eleven</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Did I miss anything? What would you add to the list? Let me know!</b><br />
<b>It's FESTIVAL SEASON - LET'S ROCK!</b><br />
<br />
<br />Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-87352968969026591012017-07-11T14:14:00.003-05:002017-07-11T14:16:31.188-05:00Summer's here and the time is right for dancin' at the festivals.That's right everyone... Summer is back in full force here in the south. My soul is happy but my sweat glands want to die. Seriously... how is it this hot.<br />
<br />
That being said, in these hot Southern months there are only three things that can be done for me to personally tolerate this time of year.<br />
<br />
1. <a href="https://turneduptoeleven.blogspot.com/2013/06/lets-hit-creek.html" target="_blank">Kayak</a><br />
<br />
2. <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/turnedup2eleven/i-gotta-get-my-drink-on/" target="_blank">Drink cool beverages</a>.<br />
<br />
and<br />
<br />
3. <a href="https://turneduptoeleven.blogspot.com/2014/11/planning.html" target="_blank">MUSIC FEST</a> MY ASS OFF!<br />
<br />
Mike and I are excited to be attending the SLOSSFEST this year. We went to the first ever SLOSSFEST in 2015 and LOVED IT! It was hotter than hades that weekend, but the music, food, drinks and location were amazing. Located at the historic <a href="http://www.slossfurnaces.com/" target="_blank">Sloss Furnace</a> in Birmingham, AL, the industrial area and buildings are a great back-drop for a Music and Arts Festival such as this one. I think the only true complaint we had that year was the lack of water stations. This has since been resolved to my knowledge so we are looking forward to another amazing (and hydrated) year at the Sloss Furnace with just a few 1000 of our closest, not yet met, friends.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This year promises to be a great one! Check out the line-up! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(PS Tickets are still <a href="http://slossfest.com/" target="_blank">available</a>).</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguuYkJ_JzECuCDqGJpyeM8WcwQ7EgkFRSsZ0tPo9BtbVL8hotTqlMnRbgBl98cFeEeVex3esZWlYbJXLfiSrignz3NiEEcxbtwO1Wx1c-3nZNrI63603olJNL1Ycwl3GR4qs71Q1pD4Y8/s1600/Slossfest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="924" data-original-width="1180" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguuYkJ_JzECuCDqGJpyeM8WcwQ7EgkFRSsZ0tPo9BtbVL8hotTqlMnRbgBl98cFeEeVex3esZWlYbJXLfiSrignz3NiEEcxbtwO1Wx1c-3nZNrI63603olJNL1Ycwl3GR4qs71Q1pD4Y8/s400/Slossfest.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://slossfest.com/">slossfest.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We're really, really excited to finally be able to witness the wonder that is The Alabama Shakes! They have always been on our radar, but they are a crowd favorite here in the Iron State, and sometimes it's hard to snag tickets. <br />
<br />
Our first year at Sloss we were able to catch St. Paul and the Broken Bones. Both bands are local Alabama favorites, and since that festival we've been able to witness St. Paul in a much more intimate setting, here locally in our home town! And it was amazing! It's nice to see a band play ANY venue like they are at Madison Square Garden, and playing for royalty, even when it's just every day people like us.<br />
<br />
This year seems to have a great mix of artists. One we have seen before, Sturgill Simpson (Sloss 2015), and even more we haven't and that we've been DYING to see live for a few years, such as the Alabama Shakes, as mentioned and Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats!<br />
<br />
I'm personally excited to witness Odesza and Run the Jewels and both Mike and I are curious about Widespread Panic - we have loads of friends that tell us great things!<br />
<br />
This year promises to be a wet one, which I'm not sure if I'm ready to deal with, but, with a prepared back-pack and some clever dressing, I am pretty sure it should still be an exciting weekend in Birmingham, AL!!!<br />
<br />
What is your favorite music festival to attend?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-72935978576486116112017-04-24T15:02:00.000-05:002017-04-25T11:46:58.425-05:00life after the mic drop.Hello? Is this thing on? Is there any body out there? Just nod if you can hear me. Is there anyone home?... wait, no, put down your lighter, let's get back to business. <br />
It's been a while. A long while. 1 year and 4 months to be exact, since I posted anything here. Somewhere along the way I lost my love for blogging. My desire to care about it, but it's slowly coming back to me. I've spent this time reading other women and men write these great stories, and in the process, forgot to tell my own.<br />
<br />
A lot has happened in the past two years. So many things I haven't even written about. Lots of heartache, and just as much joy. Milestones as well as disappointments, and frankly, near death experiences. I'll get to all that in the next coming months, I promise.<br />
<br />
I'm not sure how many of you are still following, but I'm going to try to get your attention again, very soon!<br />
<br />
If you're still around, thanks for hanging in there! I'm looking forward to hanging out again!<br />
<br />
ox KellyKelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-18134471003869844382016-01-05T14:36:00.001-06:002017-04-25T11:39:56.976-05:00small changes toward a greater goal.June (our dog) requested to go out this morning. "Jeeves, open the back door so I can run out and then run back in immediately as I do so delightfully, enjoy to do." I didn't hear her whine, I heard Michael (my husband) get up and stomp tiredly down the hall and steps to let her out. The double "BEEP BEEP" of the alarm for the back door was clear as a bell. At this moment I was sure it was only about 3:49 am. I rolled over and sadly discovered it was actually 5:16 am. NARDS! I didn't fall asleep very well last night. Stomach was in knots, my muscles were stiff and sore, and I just didn't have an overall great rest at all. I laid there, listening to Mike stomp around downstairs... getting June water, pulling on his track pants, putting on shoes, and probably a sweat shirt, then I heard the tell tale "BEEP BEEP" as he went out the garage door into our 'gym'. <br />
<br />
I must have dozed off for a split second, my alarm going off jolted me awake again. The delightful sound of horrible, 'Bro-Country' blaring [I always pick a station I hate] - I quickly slammed my hand down on it to turn it off. And then it started... the reckoning. You can either get up now, and do this, or you can wait until tonight. However, if you wait until tonight, you won't have time to run. You will tell yourself you will do both, but you know damn well when it comes down to it, you won't. You have to watch episode to of <a href="https://www.netflix.com/title/80000770" target="_blank">Making a Murderer</a> #priorities. Toss, turn, knowing I can't get back to sleep, I do what any rational adult would do, and I start in with the EENY, MEENY, MINEEY, MOE. Dammit, best two out of three... the damn outcome is the same... "You, Are, Not, It... laying in bed."<br />
<br />
Annoyed, I sit up and notice my back is very stiff... I shuffle to the bathroom to do my business. I wake up most days checking social media, in the crapper. There you have it folks, the absolute truth. Think about that next time you see a comment from me before 6 am. You're welcome.<br />
<br />
I finish my business and fumble around trying to find my damn sports bra, some shorts and where the hell did my my last precious hair tie go? I'm ready, I look at myself in the mirror and give myself a semi enthusiastic thumbs up, I am a vision... I then waddle down the steps to the living room.<br />
<br />
I know all of this sounds like it's a New Year's Resolution that's already become a chore. Like, Kelly it's only January 5th and you're already bitter? No, not a New Year, New Me BS trap, I didn't do that this year. I give all kudos for taking on the new year, new you stuff, but honestly, this has been about change for a while. You see I'm currently on my 3rd run of <a href="https://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/21-day-fix-simple-fitness-eating.do?code=BDL_21D_21DAYFIX" target="_blank">21 Day Fix</a>, once a day, 30 minutes every day for 21 days. I'm getting stronger every day, but still not firing to my full potential. I've been jogging 2.25 miles on the treadmill at night, as often as possible (roughly 2-4 times a week). Why? Part of it is for the hell of it, to see how much I can push myself, the other part is that I wanted to drop some weight, and gain some strength, but the most important part is that I was ready to make a change in my life.<br />
<br />
Mike and I did the <a href="http://whole30.com/" target="_blank">Whole30</a> this past summer. We both saw amazing results. I did my 1st round, alone, 2nd round with him. Between the two rounds I lost over 20 lbs. This blew my mind. No exercise, JUST diet. I always heard your body was built in the kitchen but I didn't believe the validity of that statement until after doing the whole30 program. Mike had great success too.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9UunupC1J3YHLlb8Y1iGtPf5mwq5q4mCHAFWQ8fDcQTlCoh4BjV8f6vXk1GO800-KuJ-1fataI9IFH62MLnoDltdIYvkVUOClagkVHukbcIgmQNeUuiKjvTH3Ql2_Pz3PiqNMqEeEbA/s1600/Whole30_NO1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9UunupC1J3YHLlb8Y1iGtPf5mwq5q4mCHAFWQ8fDcQTlCoh4BjV8f6vXk1GO800-KuJ-1fataI9IFH62MLnoDltdIYvkVUOClagkVHukbcIgmQNeUuiKjvTH3Ql2_Pz3PiqNMqEeEbA/s1600/Whole30_NO1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via <a href="http://www.gritandglamour.com/2012/08/02/smarter-better-stronger-the-whole30/" target="_blank">Grit and Glamour</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Sounds scary I know, but honestly, it's not. Tough yes, but there isn't much in life that isn't worth it, after a tough battle, right? Through Whole30 I discovered my sensitivity to gluten, sugar and dairy. None will send me running for the bathroom to get sick, or worse (think other end, sorry TMI), however they will cause me to bloat, to swell, to ache, often to itch (gluten) and feel awful after consuming them. What did this teach me, well that #1 the treat better be worth the issues afterwards, and #2 it should be reserved for mostly special occasions.<br />
<br />
I noticed I could breathe better. I wasn't getting winded walking up the steps, I wasn't getting the mid afternoon exhaustion issues I had in the past. My blood sugar wasn't spiking, I wasn't shaking, I wasn't as moody, and PMS was more of a breeze than EVER in my life. (Not easy, just MUCH better).<br />
<br />
Do I still want chocolate, yes, I'm human, duh. And I will NEVER give up pizza, EVER!<br />
<br />
After all of that discovery, I noticed that working out, while still hard wasn't nearly as bad as it used to be. We purchased a treadmill and one day I was like OK, let's do this. I walk/jogged my first full mile since high school without dying. I finished in 16 minutes. I bragged to my one running buddy and she said that was excellent so it made me feel wonderful. The last time I tried to run was about 2 year ago, when Mike and I entered a Mud Run. Needless to say he was like a beautiful cheetah and I was like a slow ass elephant trudging through the mud. I have never felt like I was going to die more than that day, in my life.<br />
<br />
So I made a change... We purchased bikes and started riding in the evenings after work and some days during the weekend. In approximately August/September or October, Mike made his own declaration to himself to do more moving, to try lifting weights again, and it went from there. He found a fitness routine he fell in love with and he's been getting up at 5:30 am ever since. He grumbles WAY less than I do. He's made amazing strides and floors me everyday!<br />
<br />
I joined him with the early wake-up maybe a week or two into it, I started to feel guilty and lame for not trying... I'm glad I started. It's been about a month and 3 weeks for me. I've done 21 Day Fix, did a bit of <a href="https://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/piyo-workout.do" target="_blank">PiYo</a> over the holidays and I'm back to the 21 Day Fix, just to even it out in the mornings. You really can't beat pushing yourself for 30 minutes, sweating like crazy and then getting on with your day. I actually look forward to my jog/runs in the evening on the treadmill, seriously, who am I?<br />
<br />
I haven't seen huge changes in my body as of yet, just small bits, some weight loss, some hidden muscles coming out to play, HOWEVER, I have noticed that I am getting into a groove, and making headway in the whole "It's time to workout" scheme of things. This morning was rough, but I got up, turned on 21 Day Fix, and worked out. I always feel better once I start and I've never regretted a workout.<br />
<br />
Mike and I started my 3rd and his 2nd Whole30 yesterday... I'm feeling much better already after all of the bad food we ate over the holidays. It's nice to get back to basics.<br />
<br />
All that being said, I feel like I'm working toward a greater goal. While I'd love to say I'll be bikini ready by this summer, I'm really not focusing on that. Instead I want to focus on my health, and feeling better in my own skin. Listening to my body, and hell maybe even attempting a 5K that hopefully won't kill me. Getting stronger and feeling better is my biggest goal. We'll see... 2016 is wide open, but for today... I'll stick with one mile at a time, one day at a time and one better chosen meal at a time! And who knows, maybe through all these changing habits, I'll drop some more pounds, but I don't want THAT to be my ultimate focus, because in the past, my vanity has always slowed me down.<br />
<br />
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!<br />
<br />
PS I am NOT a Beachbody Coach, or a Whole 30 expert by any means, these are just the programs and things that I'm loving at the moment!Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-36170130208122105732015-01-30T14:25:00.000-06:002017-04-25T11:40:59.406-05:00he's a musical genius....My love for Jack White is no secret. I've spoken about this <a href="http://turneduptoeleven.blogspot.com/2012/06/folky-little-white-boys.html" target="_blank">affection for Jack</a> before on this blog. However, until Wednesday night, I didn't realize how deep that love was.<br />
<br />
For our birthday's last year, Mike and I received tickets to Jack White's show, from his parents, and we finally got to use them Wednesday night.<br />
<br />
I'm not going to blab too much - just let the photos do most of the talking.<br />
<br />
<b>PLEASE NOTE:</b><br />
<u>All photos were taken by Jack White's personal photographers</u> and available for viewing via <a href="http://jackwhiteiii.com/live-photos/" target="_blank">Jack White's website under live shows</a>. (My seats were not this amazing and I can't take credit for a single photo in this post).<br />
<br />
At the beginning of the show the announcer instructed all of us to relax, and enjoy the show, without our phones. He stated that he understood we'd love to have keepsakes, or our own, but you miss the big picture when you're busy staring at a small screen. In order to keep us all happy, he let us know that Jack had hired his own personal photographers to capture the night for us, and that all the photos would be available the next day. And in turn we were free to use them and share them however our hearts desired! This is something Jack must do at all his shows, as well as ones he hosts at Third Man Records. We had a similar pep talk before the Mudhoney show we went to a year ago, and that is why I didn't have any photographic evidence of that either. And I'm ok with that.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">And Evening With Jack White + Loretta Lynn</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">1.28.2015 • Nashville, Tennessee </span></b><br />
<br />
<b>ONE//</b><br />
His opening act was the one and only Loretta Lynn. I am a huge, classic country fan (most of the new stuff is absolutely CRAP, yeah I said it). Her set was refreshing, very down to earth, sweet and so enjoyable. She came out in a beautiful ball gown, she was polite (even after having to blow her nose a few times for which she apologized, a lot), she was poised, and talked to the crowd the entire time. Often she would say "Yell out what you want to hear sweetie, and I'll sing it." Once a fan would yell, the band would start up a tune. I am really, really thrilled that I was able to see her. It was a joy to hear "Coal Miners Daughter" live.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
<b>TWO//</b></div>
<div>
Jack White and his band came out swinging and NEVER slowed down!!! I was floored by their energy, and the sound was ON POINT! And LOUD!!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">All Photos Courtesy of <a href="http://jackwhiteiii.com/live-photos/" target="_blank">Jack White's Website</a></span></b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9EaKVwNhyphenhyphenXjJFSVdYm3BDe_LkbW_mzdLrC9kw4XkuWCCVskMvip_ikjKKrxZ3HRpKY6nEf1Eifq1zyWvPFKG8M2-tVsww3QYy3dadpMYT-OIF61SBjMVwY6AI4KPz7wFXE0vajKOWPl0/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_0735-800x533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9EaKVwNhyphenhyphenXjJFSVdYm3BDe_LkbW_mzdLrC9kw4XkuWCCVskMvip_ikjKKrxZ3HRpKY6nEf1Eifq1zyWvPFKG8M2-tVsww3QYy3dadpMYT-OIF61SBjMVwY6AI4KPz7wFXE0vajKOWPl0/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_0735-800x533.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Could he look any more amazing? I loved his suit!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I loved the vintage vibe of EVERYTHING on the stage. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(Please appreciate the old television behind his head in the image below, more on this in a bit).</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXCF22u2lCiMugpyrhtnaC7mKdRcrbt0CaDNc-MOuxqoSxER0hnf7rXZGWVjSnPW9XRHVmakZvixMF0zhg9s_3yo01xYSSR_uJPeDBXL2XItIFOIgwWConezHzqZULcadKv9JVp9-0fVc/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_0795-800x533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXCF22u2lCiMugpyrhtnaC7mKdRcrbt0CaDNc-MOuxqoSxER0hnf7rXZGWVjSnPW9XRHVmakZvixMF0zhg9s_3yo01xYSSR_uJPeDBXL2XItIFOIgwWConezHzqZULcadKv9JVp9-0fVc/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_0795-800x533.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBGc_PxIv5gq06Q2RTjWDyAja4hJnEQbtPLyJnMY0KqcNELN86iGQIt0h2scLpEqyS6txEM0TgmkdHpubb5t4dLn6GKjWJgcPeoNM_l6k-OGfHZnb4rsY2vjbyCh6ZXgW178sVeOW_dw/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_0992-533x800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBGc_PxIv5gq06Q2RTjWDyAja4hJnEQbtPLyJnMY0KqcNELN86iGQIt0h2scLpEqyS6txEM0TgmkdHpubb5t4dLn6GKjWJgcPeoNM_l6k-OGfHZnb4rsY2vjbyCh6ZXgW178sVeOW_dw/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_0992-533x800.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's hard to see in this photo but this entire stand up bass was mirrored. VERY reflective and gave off an almost "invisible" vibe when he turned with it. SO stinking cool!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Below: The entire band switched to different instruments from time to time. Jack even played the piano for a song. The use of fiddles in rock n' roll was fresh, not the standard, Southern Rock vibe, and not entirely "folk driven" like so much that's on the airwaves today - the blended really well, like they were meant to be there in the song, but yet still stood out enough that you thought, Wow, that's so cool!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-sW-bXCp5Ee_6TKdClFOMy3_TKTuSQbv_RheRx5OP9_Mra1sV1lZH1yH5C4ZWcnIgid0Jn7HfW_Fi7E9SIeRnwd_2X-LGJcM1vtmo-H30SXcGAM3gOZ8LogJFuUeRARJ7ZURy8x7TiQQ/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_1289-800x533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-sW-bXCp5Ee_6TKdClFOMy3_TKTuSQbv_RheRx5OP9_Mra1sV1lZH1yH5C4ZWcnIgid0Jn7HfW_Fi7E9SIeRnwd_2X-LGJcM1vtmo-H30SXcGAM3gOZ8LogJFuUeRARJ7ZURy8x7TiQQ/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_1289-800x533.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I couldn't see the detail of the drum set from the angle we were sitting - and because there were NO big screens for this show (his drummer was set off to the left hand side of the stage instead of front and center, which was awesome. Being able to see him JUMP UP and down while playing was truly a sight! I dig the anatomical ear on the front of the main drum.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd2Ava6NKLs-xVzFMsm4Sv17YkM3Lt7Y0HrPWd1HuYylf0WJTCvtl-Ja7Hg8ESZwOnssIV7alVybwiG7S7S4t4WxEu8YJP8ytTNZWt7_I5bT1AZN2UlgNU55j_DsAKgPiqVY_K2jzMB_I/s1600/150127_JWIII_Starkville_Show_0691-800x533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd2Ava6NKLs-xVzFMsm4Sv17YkM3Lt7Y0HrPWd1HuYylf0WJTCvtl-Ja7Hg8ESZwOnssIV7alVybwiG7S7S4t4WxEu8YJP8ytTNZWt7_I5bT1AZN2UlgNU55j_DsAKgPiqVY_K2jzMB_I/s1600/150127_JWIII_Starkville_Show_0691-800x533.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>THREE//</b></div>
<div>
After the first set (about an hour into the show) Jack and the band took a break, pulled the curtain and gave the crew time to set the stage back up for the 2nd half of the show. Before the curtain lifted, his announcer came back out and introduced not only Jack, but also The Raconteurs! I was SO excited and floored. I didn't expect his other band to even be near the Bridgestone Arena - getting to hear them do 3 songs together was AWESOME! [As you can see he's all about not only giving you a great show musically but that the visual is just as important, for this set the lighting transformed the stage to be a much warmer, golden color. I love, love, love his attention to detail).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM3xcl_HwDunBwHPbzI-qjQKge-yl2grQ70GNTvUNAsaAi08r3P918SdNfhaXAfAH0Um9DlakDhR5KYsqtjpy4OOdcWzuFsV1nbbXeRve-NTOaEi2NUBGV50_WUz3y9Jsmx_hOUFo-lJA/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_0116-800x533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM3xcl_HwDunBwHPbzI-qjQKge-yl2grQ70GNTvUNAsaAi08r3P918SdNfhaXAfAH0Um9DlakDhR5KYsqtjpy4OOdcWzuFsV1nbbXeRve-NTOaEi2NUBGV50_WUz3y9Jsmx_hOUFo-lJA/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_0116-800x533.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAodJr3gbwyEheMQK97HEa7J6y58aDja5N8J1sIyxhWUSeETcXO8PoMxyafSfBv5CsA9teG7jVH1ROl_PVUWxlMU7kk-98aj3AWAo3z8feJHNzsar9jccw6JFqcx_aOUcWW4-g3QQv87w/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_0135-800x533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAodJr3gbwyEheMQK97HEa7J6y58aDja5N8J1sIyxhWUSeETcXO8PoMxyafSfBv5CsA9teG7jVH1ROl_PVUWxlMU7kk-98aj3AWAo3z8feJHNzsar9jccw6JFqcx_aOUcWW4-g3QQv87w/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_0135-800x533.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>FOUR//</b></div>
<div>
His set design was on point. Very mod, had a very 60's vibe to it, and his Powder blue suit complemented it so well! This man has an amazing eye for detail, and I love it! Remember that TV I mentioned above, and in the photo above this??? Well... </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
*** It totally reminded me of the scene from the original Charlie and the Chocolate Factory movie, where TV Stevie gets zapped into the television and made smaller. ***</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz90SstkG80XoTD09yJq1jfR0dURebXCtN5JWx4AY1PML8C9gK1qNM3ehfvqrE2vq_Gn3K4v46ExQ-CCcLlNq8_VI1Ce_yrR5d1N0nmh3yLSpPv5gwOv2b67HShcWPIwF-lbi-PdXOlx0/s1600/willywonka12655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz90SstkG80XoTD09yJq1jfR0dURebXCtN5JWx4AY1PML8C9gK1qNM3ehfvqrE2vq_Gn3K4v46ExQ-CCcLlNq8_VI1Ce_yrR5d1N0nmh3yLSpPv5gwOv2b67HShcWPIwF-lbi-PdXOlx0/s1600/willywonka12655.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Look Ma, I'm on Television!!!" • <a href="http://www.thrillist.com/eat/nation/scientist-debunks-willy-wonka-and-the-chocolate-factory-ruins-your-childhood" target="_blank">via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<b>FIVE//</b></div>
<div>
Not only was Jack joined by the other members of The Raconteurs, but Loretta came back out to sing their duet "Portland, Oregon". They were so sweet together and you could completely tell how much he truly looks up to Loretta, and respects her. He told a sweet, fun story about the first time he called her on the phone to discuss recording, and how she disguised her voice on the phone. She giggled and gave him grief. During her set, she said he couldn't sing a lick, and it was rather comical.<br />
<br />
Side Note: I think that having Loretta open the show was a special treat just for the Nashville, his 2nd Home Town. I'm really glad we got to witness this!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj_Szr2r8L0YiqvRUjI2s_vbEO9Cbx6xqOuwJfXaUJMGelclgTSSxxY9n6GFC4q2cWZbxOzho66sslAbRiZdNivB06MjZMwKhnvAuy522EnIukcp-YBZf-kLS3EY9gFTpI30QBSQq76QY/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_1547-800x533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj_Szr2r8L0YiqvRUjI2s_vbEO9Cbx6xqOuwJfXaUJMGelclgTSSxxY9n6GFC4q2cWZbxOzho66sslAbRiZdNivB06MjZMwKhnvAuy522EnIukcp-YBZf-kLS3EY9gFTpI30QBSQq76QY/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_1547-800x533.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB9_YRdN0ry7uW2KRUXWwiWqyv_KUgoGQvNf19KQyYMGIyrfNn9xg3_WmUmbneT7JInCMkQ2saP9Rf7dkena1J2d83bckhJL5b5UB8AxGY7ypMIvVc1zUcbK8EL38nv1lh0DK4cGlMDqI/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_1496-800x533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB9_YRdN0ry7uW2KRUXWwiWqyv_KUgoGQvNf19KQyYMGIyrfNn9xg3_WmUmbneT7JInCMkQ2saP9Rf7dkena1J2d83bckhJL5b5UB8AxGY7ypMIvVc1zUcbK8EL38nv1lh0DK4cGlMDqI/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_1496-800x533.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRAdOlc27IWFixpXnw0-QQtZu-aiwbcax0OtrxI2H39wrIhPHyapd_UBSMyDxRBulzNSlSXWk6NpJxhMPxfjgmFsCAP9oFqyN_5bVPzDeYLcT3t9bAsnRYRnERKgpLxAMMsFwWvbAjjc/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_1475-800x533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRAdOlc27IWFixpXnw0-QQtZu-aiwbcax0OtrxI2H39wrIhPHyapd_UBSMyDxRBulzNSlSXWk6NpJxhMPxfjgmFsCAP9oFqyN_5bVPzDeYLcT3t9bAsnRYRnERKgpLxAMMsFwWvbAjjc/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_1475-800x533.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhaxAnGpUK1hvZvLHWSFp4XJJzap1pGk6TrtnNitte1ISOTNsGNG2c1iVI5SjUm2FY4TULGtcmZgsbh45AG8-i-dmuyotw4K2LW2ll4mbUVcC2mMWqaVQRy6DnoloqrTZi0zdjvvwB8Q/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_1516-800x533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhaxAnGpUK1hvZvLHWSFp4XJJzap1pGk6TrtnNitte1ISOTNsGNG2c1iVI5SjUm2FY4TULGtcmZgsbh45AG8-i-dmuyotw4K2LW2ll4mbUVcC2mMWqaVQRy6DnoloqrTZi0zdjvvwB8Q/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_1516-800x533.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
<b>FIVE //</b><br />
I literally think I smiled the ENTIRE time I watched this show. Jack's energy and his entire band's energy was nothing short of amazing!<br />
<br />
<b>SIX //</b><br />
Jack finished off the night with a more recent, White Stripes favorite. "Seven Nation Army". The whole arena literally sounded a lot like a College Football stadium game. Everyone chanting the "Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, ohhhhh" together was MOVING and ugh, so, so good. At one point the entire band silenced themselves and let us sing it together.<br />
<br />
<b>SEVEN//</b><br />
The night wasn't just about them being on stage, Jack and his band were hell bent on making sure that we all enjoyed ourselves and that we wanted more. He asked us quite a bit... "Are you all still with me?" "Are you doing ok?" "Do you want more?" It reminded me of something that Johnny Cash, Elvis, or maybe even James Brown might do with their audiences back in the day. Mike also commented that the stage set to him, really reminded him of old school performances by Johnny, on variety shows.<br />
<br />
Speaking of Elvis and Johnny, can we appreciate these images below, and see where the Cash and King resemblance is strong? Maybe it's the hair, or the clothing or the stance, but either way, it's there. The music might be different but we can agree that all three were and are definitely pioneers of music in their time. And incase you can't see it - yes he's wearing white, leather shoes with his powder blue pants (and jacket) and a black shirt. The evening's color was mostly BLUE. I like that he's very into black, and one signature color. (Usually yellow, blue or red - primarily speaking) ;)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgziv6kSCX9kHG3tv6FgzPUv21heG-mpLgnLNWbRI5629RQsCgtNdINYykmDozxBDQYRt64H8es7s7eRhugxefvuZrQ-H4kzJi_XMbCDDuhhlO5wLMXA8fq3bKpF1aICBfV0SR9apBeTlw/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_1674-533x800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgziv6kSCX9kHG3tv6FgzPUv21heG-mpLgnLNWbRI5629RQsCgtNdINYykmDozxBDQYRt64H8es7s7eRhugxefvuZrQ-H4kzJi_XMbCDDuhhlO5wLMXA8fq3bKpF1aICBfV0SR9apBeTlw/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_1674-533x800.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEpgnHBYkPuYvCNq2cMDh5dOtyjL1AthbaZmpsQyzwfLAg5ZBy54PfA3KF3hx__u9Zw1iLLA3Bdv_g2VbvDYNDjBIKj0dQgVT_1UsVQCY3xAPRFCDXLqMj-Bnf4HNbltjsbMr67h1xRzA/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_1881-800x533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEpgnHBYkPuYvCNq2cMDh5dOtyjL1AthbaZmpsQyzwfLAg5ZBy54PfA3KF3hx__u9Zw1iLLA3Bdv_g2VbvDYNDjBIKj0dQgVT_1UsVQCY3xAPRFCDXLqMj-Bnf4HNbltjsbMr67h1xRzA/s1600/150128_JWIII_Nashville_Show_1881-800x533.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Anyone that says ROCK N' ROLL is dead, has never been to a Jack White show! If you are even remotely into his music, do yourself a favor and GO. Run to the box office and get yourself a ticket! You will NOT be sorry!<br />
<br />
Definitely a birthday gift that was WELL worth waiting for. I was running on less than 5 hours of sleep yesterday but I'm finally feeling human again today!!!<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-9473249871760813322015-01-15T12:28:00.003-06:002017-04-25T11:46:22.430-05:00new music: Sleater-KinneyI'll be honest when <a href="http://www.sleater-kinney.com/home/" target="_blank">Sleater-Kinney</a> was really popular, new, in the zone, I had no idea who they were. It wasn't until meeting Mike and him talking about the time he saw them open for Pearl Jam that I even had an inkling of the band. If I had known about S-K, in the 90's I would have been ALL OVER it. 3 Chicks, rocking out, RIOT GIRLS? Yes, please!<br />
<br />
Fast forward to these days - watching a show called Portlandia, I discovered that Carrie Brownstein was a member of S-K. Mike purchased some of their past vinyl records, and my love for S-K was born. I immediately fell in love with their sound. The vocals, the guitar, the angst, the anger, and the love. He has since acquired I believe all their albums and today his Christmas present finally arrived (it was a pre-order) from SUB-POP, S-K's new Album!<br />
<br />
In honor of this fun day - I saw this video that SK had posted on their instagram and I wanted to share it, even if you don't like S-K I bet you will enjoy some of their fans, and some of your favorite celebs singing along with the single "No Cites To Love".<br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
Happy New Music Day!!! It's not official or anything.<br />
<br />
PS Their tour date in Nashville can't come soon enough!!!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Cj2k3QsHmyM" width="560"></iframe></center>
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-19506884349282589742015-01-06T08:02:00.001-06:002017-04-25T11:46:45.370-05:00resolutions for 2015Resolutions, everyone has them, even if they don't admit it. Be honest, you know in your mind you've at least thought of one resolution for 2015, you just haven't spoken it out loud, or it would become a commitment. Am I right?<br />
<br />
I have a few I haven't really talked about (other than to my husband) the normal: eat better, try to be more healthy, drop some LB's but I feel like I say that EVERY year, and it happens for a while, then I go back to my old ways, and end the year feeling defeated, heavier, and less healthy than I started. I aim to stop that but it isn't my ultimate goal for 2015.<br />
<br />
A year or so ago I was resolving to "Do Less With More" and I still love that thought. Appreciate what you have, stop mindless spending, etc. And I feel like I did alright with that for the most part. Last year I did a bit of over spending, but we purchased a house, and with a new house comes new items you have to purchase. So you see, EVERY resolution has it's fine print.<br />
<br />
This year I want to keep it simple. Yes I will eat better, yes I will <strike>try to</strike> will lose weight, but I won't let that drive me, or be my only resolution for 2015.<br />
<br />
Instead I want to<b> slow down</b>. I want to relax more, take my time to do projects at work and at home. I want to slow down in life in general. I constantly feel like I have to be in 10 different places at once, mentally and physically - it's draining. Not to mention my parents were totally right when they said, the older you get the quicker time flies. Seriously, wasn't it JUST 2014???<br />
<br />
Slowing down means more time for my husband, family, friends, and just as important, myself. Slowing down also means trying to put down my phone while watching TV, during a meal or any other time I pick that damn thing up and miss out on something else that is right in front of me. Stop trying to do 10 things at once and maybe just narrow it down to 5. My line of work (graphic design) I often multi task and while it's really efficient, it also trickles down into my life outside of work. Basically in all aspects of my life I want to slow my roll. Slow and steady wins the race.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj65Z0IsR9O5nrEQdr3OKi55ixvzrCITg6xZ3-i8yTAZhJqQAb1r9y_ZTJ0tOcRLT02y6w7fiI8ugK69oIZlxszN_LTWgCc_zUkdY3E_h1lmuCOfLU3kjrHf0k13MfZoWEErV_uR87m0W8/s1600/quote6_slowdown-copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj65Z0IsR9O5nrEQdr3OKi55ixvzrCITg6xZ3-i8yTAZhJqQAb1r9y_ZTJ0tOcRLT02y6w7fiI8ugK69oIZlxszN_LTWgCc_zUkdY3E_h1lmuCOfLU3kjrHf0k13MfZoWEErV_uR87m0W8/s1600/quote6_slowdown-copy.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via google</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">So tell me, what is your New Years Resolution? </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">P.S. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!</span></b><br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-54648644812226932502014-12-19T08:29:00.000-06:002017-04-25T11:47:51.726-05:00christmas lyrics that make NO sense.<br />
Maybe I'm being too literal but often times when listening to classic Christmas music, I take a moment and think to myself... WTF? Some of the lyrics, while they make perfect sense for the flow of a song, literally make no sense to me, rationally. See below.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">"A child, a child, shivers in the cold. </span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Let us bring him silver and gold."</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Um, he's freezing, the last thing he needs is metallic items that serve no purpose other than to make him feel like a pimp. Save it for Kanye and get that baby another blanket!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUyDtspwUdpWxuH1HG-WtdFA7Abu8AZUZV55YWKPveyHU15-Baea1_bipoVQFq783y-fHZBjBi4c7ufQXR44YRW4QAXWcYLa5OgWgcJtJKhyphenhyphenXBqvrJQLufuvwDjGtzxRAXTJ_TJZgA2gw/s1600/url.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUyDtspwUdpWxuH1HG-WtdFA7Abu8AZUZV55YWKPveyHU15-Baea1_bipoVQFq783y-fHZBjBi4c7ufQXR44YRW4QAXWcYLa5OgWgcJtJKhyphenhyphenXBqvrJQLufuvwDjGtzxRAXTJ_TJZgA2gw/s1600/url.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via google</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Or this nugget...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">"He sees you when you're sleeping.</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">He knows when you're awake."</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Talk about a Big Brother moment. Sheesh! I know this song is meant for kids hear, so they are on their best behavior, but lets me real. If Santa can see me when I'm sleeping, that dirty old man can also see me when I'm showering and pooping! Do you know how much that bothered me as a little kid!!!?!?!? #problems<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">"What a laugh it would have been. </span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">If daddy had only seen,</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">momma kissin' Santa Claus last night!"</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Not really totally odd - I mean we know basically, or hopefully, Momma is just kissing her husband dressed up as Santa Claus, and it's sweet because the boy or girl doesn't realize it's daddy.<br />
<br />
The other day though a dear blogger pal of mine Lora posted on facebook how the Jackson 5 version of this song always makes her really uncomfortable and nervous. She imagines what might happen to momma if Joe Jackson actually caught her kissing Santa. I couldn't help but laugh but now I think twice about the song every time I hear it. Thanks Lora!!!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">"We won't leave until we get some. </span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">We won't leave until we get some...</span></b></i><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">"</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We Wish You A Merry Christmas starts off OK, but then the demands for figgy pudding set in, and they won't leave until they get some? WTF? Get off my porch, quit waking the neighbors you heathens!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">"There'll be scary ghost storys, </span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">and tales of the glories of Christmases long, long ago."</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Mike reminded me that this is probably talking about The Christmas Carol. The classic tale about being visited by 3 Ghosts. I for one think it's probably true but more literally who the fuck is telling ghost stories around a fire during Christmas. Morbid! Well, honestly, I probably would.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">"In the meadow we can build a snowman,</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">then pretend that he is Parson Brown.</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">He'll Say: Are you Married?</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">We'll say: No Man, but you can do the job while</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">you're in town.</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Later on we'll conspire,</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">As we dream by the fire,</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">To face unafraid,</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">The plans that we've made,</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">walking in a winter wonderland..."</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
More like realize we're insane, thinking a snowman could marry the two of you. When the ripple wears off, the dude is going to be like... shit, what did I just do??? This bitch is crazy! Or vice versa.<br />
<br />
So there you go... crazy people building snowman, ghost stories, freezing babies and carolers with demands. It's nothing like the Christmas season right?<br />
<br />
What is your FAVORITE carol? And does it have a strange lyric? Mine is "I'll Be Home For Christmas" and "Little Drummer Boy" they both slay me with welled up eyes EVERY. TIME. I hear them. Merry Holidays & Happy New Year!!!<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-79836602186233399832014-12-12T16:31:00.004-06:002017-04-25T11:48:19.949-05:00Christmas: love and dislike.It's the hap-happiest season of all... or is it?<br />
<br />
90% of the time I will go with YES, it is. Then there is that wee little grinch in my blood that wants to yell... 'Hated it!', in true Blaine Edwards fashion. [If you don't know who that is, google Men on Film In Living Color - I'll wait].<br />
<br />
I thought for fun I'd compile my most loved things about Christmas and my most disliked items - because let's be real, I could never HATE Christmas...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdMe4LrxDpKoRWccdf4vDnH3csxe2wfxBFvzOaXUdy-Yhsyrx83CGWTfxiJLv8vjEEG4pAJjnb1RJc2rAbk00jCmCh45NBG0m0-eCxmEjS5DyFWDa5W2Yr_R8-rnvoVrFpCSKN243rJkI/s1600/VintageD2BD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdMe4LrxDpKoRWccdf4vDnH3csxe2wfxBFvzOaXUdy-Yhsyrx83CGWTfxiJLv8vjEEG4pAJjnb1RJc2rAbk00jCmCh45NBG0m0-eCxmEjS5DyFWDa5W2Yr_R8-rnvoVrFpCSKN243rJkI/s1600/VintageD2BD.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Yes, that's me, many moons ago. I look like my dad.</b><br />
<b>Remember when my blog was called Dare to be Domestic!?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>See below, but yeah, fake beards on Mall Santas are whack!</b></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">LOVE IT!</span></b><br />
<ul>
<li><b>The smell of pine needles. </b>[Mike enjoys the smell of pine needles in the vacuum, it's his thing].</li>
<li><b>The smell of scotch tape </b>- I think I've discussed this before but one thing that blew my mind in talking about the holidays with Mike is that he shares the same affinity for the scent of scotch tape, and it immediately makes us both thing of Christmas.</li>
<li><b>Christmas Cookies </b>- although I never seem to leave enough time to bake them and enjoy it without being stressed.</li>
<li><b>Coca Cola cans with Santa on them</b>. LOVE! I think that Coca Cola's rendition of Santa is my absolute favorite.</li>
<li><b>Coca Cola + and Orange</b> = best snack ever. It reminds me of being a young kid. Every year, as we got off the bus for winter break Mrs. Hobbs would give us an orange and a coke and tell us to have a Merry Christmas. Nostalgia is king in my book!</li>
<li><b>EGG NOG!</b> Mike hates this stuff, just the word NOG alone grosses him out - unless it's heavily spiked with booze, then he'll reconsider. Myself, I prefer it without libations. Straight up.</li>
<li><b>Purchasing coordinating wrapping paper.</b> Mike and I make it a point to get seriously artistic with our wrapping paper choices. We usually purchase about 4 different rolls, all match in color scheme, but not in pattern. This year, it's all about the kraft like paper, with funny sayings and images, and deer and plaid and foxes and nature and - trust me, it's awesome.</li>
<li><b>Going through ornaments to hang them on the tree.</b> While I don't put all my old ornaments up, I do like to take time to think about when I got them all (most are from my childhood), others are ones Mike and I have collected over the years.</li>
<li><b>Christmas cards</b> - Making and receiving. I LOVE getting them in the mail.</li>
<li><b>CHRISTMAS MOVIES!</b> Christmas Story, Christmas Vacation, Die Hard, Home Alone, Bad Santa, Scrooged, Rudolph and many more are among my favorites!</li>
<li><b>Classic Christmas Songs</b> - I'm not talking like Ms. Carey - ugh I can't stand her Christmas songs, please don't play me any Michael BUBBLE (I know that's not his real name) I can't stand him either. GIVE ME THE OLD STUFF, the CLASSIC GOOD STUFF and if I have to go "modern" I won't go any further than Bruce Springsteen or RUN D.M.C.. No one does Hip-Hop Christmas anymore. PS I might even listen to some NKOTB for nostalgic purposes from time to time. I just don't love newer Christmas music.</li>
<li><b>Shopping for presents</b>. While I do enjoy receiving - I truly enjoy buying gifts for others more. Getting to see friends and family get excited about a gift I picked just for them, makes me feel amazing.</li>
<li><b>Giving back.</b> Giving to charity this time of year - it should be something we think about and do every day of the year, but right now, in this season of all seasons, it feels especially good.</li>
<li><b>Saying HAPPY HOLIDAYS!</b> I believe that all holidays this time of year are special to everyone for different reasons. Just because I don't say MERRY CHRISTMAS to all, 24/7, this time of year doesn't mean I love Christ any less, it just means that I am completely ok with all the other holidays that are happening all around us as well. PS One of my dear friends in elementary school was Jewish, and I enjoyed every year that we got to not only talk about Christmas but learn about her family's customs as well. I think all children should be fortunate enough to experience things like this, this time of year. Bottom line if I KNOW you celebrate Christmas, I will say "Merry Christmas!" if I am unsure, you'll get a smile and "Happy Holidays!" </li>
<li><b>Christmas Lights.</b> I love driving around seeing everyone's lights, helping put them all over the house, and the great feeling it gives me. Warm fuzzies!</li>
<li><b>Christmas Dinner.</b> Not to be upstaged by Thanksgiving, because it's just as delicious. This year Mike and I will be making dinner for my father and we're both pretty excited.</li>
<li><b>Remembering </b>what it was like to sneak downstairs before my parents on Christmas day to see my bounty before waking them.</li>
<li><b>Christmas Window displays at stores.</b></li>
<li><b>AMAZON.COM</b> best damn thing ever! (next to buying local of course).</li>
<li><b>Pinterest</b> - Mike and I use the website exclusively to make our wish lists to each other.</li>
<li><b>Santa hats for dogs and cats!</b></li>
<li><b>CANDY CANES!</b></li>
<li><b>I'll Be Home For The Holidays! </b>This song always slays me, I well up, and cry whenever I hear it. This year I can sing it, and be 100% right, because I will be home for the holidays. And it makes me SO excited!</li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>DISLIKE IT!</b></span><br />
<ul>
<li><b>Baking cookies when I'm stressed.</b></li>
<li><b>Christmas before Thanksgiving.</b> I get it, you're excited, but I, personally, literally "can't even..." until I've had Thanksgiving dinner, turkey coma and relaxed. I don't decorate, I don't sing songs, I don't listen to music and I most certainly don't watch movies. It's simply not my thing. To each his/her own, but you won't catch me doing it.</li>
<li><b>Black Friday</b> - I might change my tune when I have a kid. And I want to get the best deal on whatever their little hearts desire. I just don't have the want, or need to get out on Black Friday and shop. Thanksgiving eve - FORGETABOUTIT! Cyber Monday - you're my BFF and I love you.</li>
<li><b>Fruit Cake. Seriously wtf!?</b></li>
<li><b>Newer Christmas Music</b> - NO M. Carey, BUBBLE, or Lady Gaga please and thank you!</li>
<li>The fact that all too often Christmas becomes about THE GIFTS instead of the true meaning of the season.</li>
<li><b>Mall Santas</b> - that don't even have a real beard. Come ON - you gotta really sell this to kids these days with all the HD and WIFI... when did I become Drunk Uncle?</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Middle road:</b> that damn Elf on the Shelf. I think it's great, but also very annoying. I give full kudos to all parents who keep track of that little booger and keep him accountable for the kids. I am sure one day I will be that parent but for now I am content to just look at the photos, and laugh and wonder where you find all your amazing energy!!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
All in all this isn't too bad and just what came to mind quickly. More positive than negative. That's always a bonus in my book.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So tell me, what list did you make it on this year??? Santa's good list, or bad list?</div>
<div>
If you don't celebrate Christmas - what do you love MOST about your celebrations?? I'd love to hear!</div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-71978333130655313452014-12-10T16:01:00.000-06:002017-04-25T11:48:51.511-05:00an evening with weezer. 12.6.2014As you can guess from the title of the blog, I went to yet another concert this year. Mike and I are on a roll. The kicker to this concert was that it was a total surprise for me. I had NO CLUE they were coming to Atlanta (way to keep up with your 2nd favorite band Kelly), and Mike secretly purchased tickets for us, and reserved a room at a quaint little in located in the Highlands area of Atlanta (read: the really HIP<strike>ster</strike> part of town!) When I opened his gifts on my birthday (12/1/2014) I was so shocked, and excited and floored!!!<br />
<br />
We headed out of town on Saturday morning - arriving in ATL just in time to check into the awesome little Highland Inn and get our room. The best I can describe the place is that it's much like a boutique hotel, or almost like a bed and breakfast with your own private bathroom. And without all that awkward bed and breakfast feel (If you watch Gilmore Girls you get what I mean).<br />
<br />
We didn't waste anytime, we checked into our room, dropped off our bags and headed out into the street. We had about 20 minutes until the SEC Championship game started! We walked quickly down to the local pub, Manuel's. It was literally less than 2 blocks from our hotel. We settled into a booth close to the bar TV and prepared ourselves for the big game. We shared sandwiches and beers and cheered and chatted during the entire game. Those of you that realize, we were in "DAWG" territory, so I'm sure most of the patrons were cheering for Missouri to whoop our asses, sadly for them, happily for us, that didn't happen. It was a hell of a game, and thankfully we had one more Bama fan in the room with us. Air fives were exchanged, a lot that afternoon! We celebrated Bama's victory (RAMMER JAMMER YELLOW HAMMER GIVE 'EM HELL ALABAMA!), gave a hearty ROLL TIDE, finished off our beers and headed back to the hotel, in time to freshen up, and hop in the Jeep and head downtown.<br />
<br />
Can I just tell you how much I love Google Maps and directions given through your phone!!! I always scoffed at the idea, but now I'm like WE NEED THAT! It's great for last minute choices to go to dinner, or just to find out where the hell you are.<br />
<br />
The ride to the Tabernacle in downtown ATL was a short and pleasant drive. And we scored a parking spot RIGHT outside the venue. Perfect!<br />
<br />
This venue, is awesome. If you ever get a chance to see an act there go. It's standing room only, and mostly general admission, minus the balcony upstairs, but it's amazing!!!<br />
<br />
I thought I'd give you a recap of the show, but instead of my normal run down, I will share with you the email I sent to my bestie J, all about the show. He and I went to many a weezer show together ages ago. Mike and I made sure to text during the show to share some of it with him.<br />
<br />
<b>EMAIL TO BESTIE J: </b><br />
<b>[This hasn't been edited, so I might ramble, but pretend it was an email I sent to you!]</b><br />
<b>Items in <span style="color: red;">RED</span> I added for you!</b><br />
<br />
DUDE!<br />
So the show was legit awesome.<br />
<br />
We went to ATL's Tabernacle - small venue, much like 9:30 club, maybe a bit wider. It used to be a church years ago, I believe, so it has the really nice balcony up top, and the back drop for the stage is a HUGE set of pipes for an organ. (Covered mostly by Weezer's back drop).<br />
<br />
When you walk in there is a whole down stairs for the merch, and bathrooms and bars, then in the main hall there are three bars (only one was open) - I had 1 beer... at the price of $10.00 HOLY EFF... so yeah, I was like pass - I figured I'd only want water after it started anyway.
I was not impressed by the t-shirts. None were special to the show, and all are available on the website so I passed on getting anything - I did the same thing when they played Music Midtown. I didn't LOVE any of the shirts, and none were specific to the tour or the date.<br />
<br />
We got to the place, not really late, but most people had already filtered into the front of the stage so we hung back - I feared I'd have to pee and didn't want to fight to get to the front again - like I said in my text I had two total douches behind me that talked the entire effing time!<br />
<br />
While in line outside there were a few people behind us talking and one was like... "I hope they play their old stuff, like Island in the Sun!" and I thought... here it is my 38th birthday.. KILL ME NOW if you think that's the "OLD STUFF". <b><span style="color: red;">[FYI Weezer has been together since the early 90's, nothing released with a 00, 01, 02 etc is old stuff kids!!!]</span></b> Needless to say, I turned to Mike before it started and I said my only expectation or hope is that they will play at least 3 Pinkerton songs.... AND maybe do Only In Dreams to close out the show with confetti.<br />
<br />
When the show started I got really giddy when I saw some bit of confetti falling by accident from the ceiling... EEEE! Sadly it wasn't for Only In Dreams - I think that was a once in a lifetime thing <b><span style="color: red;">[Wish I could remember the year we went to that show, but the Final song being Only In Dreams, with the ceiling raining down confetti after the biggest part of the song, was pretty awesome].</span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: red;"></span></b>The only other disappointment - this is the 2nd show that they haven't used the Light up W at all. *sad*<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>NOT SURE WHY THIS IS GONE FROM THE SHOW, IT'S NEEDED!</b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7BI03MK7URuo6O7EwLAPKraYg8Cr5SlllbiaiGGeIIea3Cy7jBYmSaQuSEO85vSqgVorVvmEaRRY9VmQ7zUZ944URrwvb9fcvudxKoN4cTGHv9DLiOesZtCYdYUemrb233jC8AWfmrXo/s1600/bs-ae-charm-city-music-festival-review-2012091-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7BI03MK7URuo6O7EwLAPKraYg8Cr5SlllbiaiGGeIIea3Cy7jBYmSaQuSEO85vSqgVorVvmEaRRY9VmQ7zUZ944URrwvb9fcvudxKoN4cTGHv9DLiOesZtCYdYUemrb233jC8AWfmrXo/s1600/bs-ae-charm-city-music-festival-review-2012091-001.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.trbimg.com/img-50562bdf/turbine/bs-ae-charm-city-music-festival-review-2012091-001/600" target="_blank">via </a>• Charm City Baltimore Music Festival</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The whole show was really really awesome. Like I said [in my text] the first whole set was just acoustic instruments - single drum, keyboard a bit (not really acoustic) and guitars.<br />
<br />
The set began, the first song was ONLY Rivers. 2nd Song it was Rivers and Brian, 3rd Song Rivers, Brian and Scott, 4th Song Rivers, Brian, Scott and Pat - then the rest of the first set was all of them together.
You could tell that quite a few of the fans were like WTF? While I was like THIS IS FREAKING AWESOME!!!! Then again this was my what? Maybe 5th time seeing them live? How many times did we see them together? Plus Music Midtown for me + this show? Music Midtown was great, they slayed it in the pouring ass rain, I feared Rivers would get electrocuted because he just didn't care about the weather... they did a great set of greatest hits to make everyone happy from day 1 until the current album.<br />
<br />
So yeah... total acoustic set - and I got my 3 Pinkerton songs, + the B Side to El Scorcho (first song in the set). PLUS December which he said they haven't played live since 2002 - which honestly Maladroit is honestly one of my favorite albums. I know it was one that most fans really were meh about but the more I listen to it then more I loved it.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5tg4TOKcQzSsO3QhzGAfriq4OPMH4Nd1ernNK9cbLAMlV_TdJE8MkybLF8xs4VLBlzO_3bFh-weH-8HYxFUEtj_rRhXhDVK5A83VnlGQr7-TFnQiWzoNichhNlFuRuayC6ZuccJ9KH_Y/s1600/weezer1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5tg4TOKcQzSsO3QhzGAfriq4OPMH4Nd1ernNK9cbLAMlV_TdJE8MkybLF8xs4VLBlzO_3bFh-weH-8HYxFUEtj_rRhXhDVK5A83VnlGQr7-TFnQiWzoNichhNlFuRuayC6ZuccJ9KH_Y/s1600/weezer1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Acoustic Set Via <a href="http://instagram.com/turnedup2eleven/" target="_blank">My Instagram</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Acoustic was a great, a little bit from each album but I was happy the Pinkerton was so heavy, maybe that was due to it being an acoustic set but even the fast pace "tired of sex" and "good life" were awesome.<br />
<br />
The lights went down - they dropped the plain black back drop curtain - and all came out in different gear - Rivers was in a "boat captain / sea navy looking suit" All the people setting the stage were in lab coats... the lights came up and you saw the back drop being the new album cover and BAM they went right into the new album song 1 thru the end - it was awesome!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfbTArgBiYrAcKNa47ej4EGV9FDSaBxqB328smtPsGillSEYJhYt-xrd02DM2hFYiPFrZWVdKSiznLuNRhwUIZRvF71aJLDxPewDTNPjQBh-u5N9u0w5EdL7jtpBzBCukqeTbQQL_SCEo/s1600/weezer2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfbTArgBiYrAcKNa47ej4EGV9FDSaBxqB328smtPsGillSEYJhYt-xrd02DM2hFYiPFrZWVdKSiznLuNRhwUIZRvF71aJLDxPewDTNPjQBh-u5N9u0w5EdL7jtpBzBCukqeTbQQL_SCEo/s1600/weezer2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everything Will Be Alright In The End Set Via <a href="http://instagram.com/turnedup2eleven/" target="_blank">My Instagram</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I can understand some fans being miffed about it - but honestly ... if I had been touring and playing for over 20+ years I'd want to play new shit too! Pearl Jam does the same thing... very heavy on new material, but I sort of like that. If it was years ago I might be upset but honestly I love the new album so getting to hear it start to finish was awesome.
The confetti came during the ending of Either Foolish Father or Wasteland I can't remember. Not ONLY IN DREAMS awesome but still so fun.<br />
<br />
They also dropped balloons out in the audience during the 1st or 2nd song of the set.
They closed the night out with Surfwax America and it was great!!!
I was smiling from ear to ear, and Mike was super excited that I was so excited. I think he literally told me "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!" about 10 times, and I laughed and smiled bigger EVERY time.<br />
<br />
It was as TON of fun.
I wouldn't doubt if they do more touring this winter / spring for the album. This was clearly a small venue, and it was a small show... only went from like 9 pm - 11 pm (when we saw Pearl Jam it was 8 - 11:30 ONLY pearl jam. There was no opener for Weezer and I see that most of their other dates were music festivals - short sets. And this one was for a Radio show in ATL.
I noticed that Foo Fighters are doing a TON of small pop up shows like the one in DC and the one in Nashville that sell out in no time flat. I think they are all trying to not only get back to their roots but also trying to drum up excitement about the new albums which I think is great.<br />
<br />
-Kelly<br />
<br />
********<br />
<br />
<b>OFFICIAL SET LIST: WEEZER • ATL • 12/06/2014</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Acoustic SET</b><br />
You Gave Your Love to Me Softly<br />
Why Bother?<br />
King<br />
El Scorcho<br />
December
(First performance since 2002)<br />
The Good Life<br />
Island in the Sun<br />
No One Else<br />
Buddy Holly<br />
<br />
<b>NEW ALBUM SET:</b><br />
Everything Will Be Alright in the End<br />
Ain't Got Nobody<br />
Back to the Shack<br />
Eulogy for a Rock Band<br />
Lonely Girl<br />
I've Had It Up to Here<br />
The British Are Coming<br />
Da Vinci<br />
Go Away
(with Anna Kramer)<br />
Cleopatra<br />
Foolish Father<br />
The Waste Land<br />
Anonymous<br />
Return to Ithaka<br />
<br />
<b>Encore:
Surf Wax America
</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>I had an amazing time in ATL with Mike, for my birthday and with Weezer. Mike you've really outdid yourself this time... I guess I better start planning our birthday weekend 2015!!!! Thank you again, love you babe!</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>*** For a quick video visit my instagram: <a href="http://instagram.com/turnedup2eleven/">instagram.com/turnedup2eleven/</a></b><br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-24992986648344028032014-11-12T10:56:00.002-06:002017-04-25T11:49:19.093-05:00planning...I already have plans for July 4th, 2015. Did you read that right... I'm actually making plans almost 8 months in advance... who am I? To be honest, I had to... I couldn't miss a chance to be a part of the festivities that day, in 2015.<br />
<br />
In honor of my plans for July 4th and because I'm tired as hell today... I present to you... (and oldie but goodie) Coffee video.<br />
<br />
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/fhdCslFcKFU" width="560"></iframe>/</center>
<br />
What are my plans for July 4th? Well, I'll be seeing the guy featured above, his band and a slew of his besties in what I consider to be my "hometown" (close enough if I still lived in Maryland I'd be going to concerts in DC on the regular, and used to all the time). I'm pretty freaking stoked and ready to break my Foo Fighters Live virginity AND celebrate their 20th Anniversary with a TON of fans!!! CHEERS TO PLANNING! [I'm over the moon excited about Heart!!!!]<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tonight I shall purchase the vinyl for FF's new release... oh yes... I shall!</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVq9LUxJ90yMivYeOy7LLtthKV2P_fniVbXTikid6SlAXPnUkgOUXoCDSpmFIsJlX6myC6EbUEHgxDotfsoEXKBVaPdQCw02JwZ80D3yGtd32MllJZHhWje4T5TyqtJuj8mxy0r2CSHR4/s1600/FooFightersPoster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVq9LUxJ90yMivYeOy7LLtthKV2P_fniVbXTikid6SlAXPnUkgOUXoCDSpmFIsJlX6myC6EbUEHgxDotfsoEXKBVaPdQCw02JwZ80D3yGtd32MllJZHhWje4T5TyqtJuj8mxy0r2CSHR4/s640/FooFightersPoster.jpg" width="479" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via the internet, duh.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-64443989180391110772014-11-03T16:56:00.002-06:002017-04-25T11:49:49.881-05:00halloween recap... 2014<b>Halloween 2014... <i>we came, we saw, we kicked it's ass!!!!</i></b><br />
<br />
For the evening, Mike and I joined our friend A for a fundraising event her company was putting on. Basically you ride a trolley all over our downtown area and hop off at certain participating bars, grab yourself a free drink, and another drink if you want and then hop back on the trolley and head on to the next stop. The final stop was our local brewery (the first of it's kind here in town) for the after party.<br />
<br />
It was a blast. We rock our costumes to the fullest and at the end of the night took home the prize for "BEST COSTUME!!!" I didn't think we'd even have a chance but apparently I was wrong.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVDcho_kEuj_S45a9ZpwZ9HMfLRvsRgHMr2P5Jo0LYiwzulQ_OqDI9HiPpWx5-sfIKT7aH68YWGJoJsve_FB8x02qKSJzLQzyw6754E1tw3r4XKpinZPbLEIXqmklO5SUdAhyphenhyphenCUK63IEA/s1600/10686625_10154796448740597_2083627760400577691_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVDcho_kEuj_S45a9ZpwZ9HMfLRvsRgHMr2P5Jo0LYiwzulQ_OqDI9HiPpWx5-sfIKT7aH68YWGJoJsve_FB8x02qKSJzLQzyw6754E1tw3r4XKpinZPbLEIXqmklO5SUdAhyphenhyphenCUK63IEA/s1600/10686625_10154796448740597_2083627760400577691_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who you gonna call?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In honor of the 30th Anniversary of Ghostbusters, and well just because who wouldn't want to dress up as a ghostbuster, am I right? We got ourselves all geared up, and I must say rocked the looks completely. Yes those are personalized name badges on our uniforms and military issue flight suits AND belts. Mike was more legit with his elbow pads and cool old googles, but I still had a blast dressing up my costume with make-up, a cute Rosie the Riveter style bandana AND my Ouija necklace (I had to connect with the spirits somehow, right?).<br />
<br />
I hope you all had a fabulous halloween, this one was tops in my book... I just wish I could remember most of the evening. (Free drinks, I swear had very little alcohol in them, and yet Mike and I can't seem to remember all the details of the night.. thank God for cabs!).<br />
<br />
Happy Halloween Hangover to all and to all a good night!<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-25927646702873354482014-10-22T11:52:00.000-05:002017-04-25T11:50:12.246-05:00three years and counting.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc-8yJfb3oVfATmbVcb4lfQJQKPFToM1GYTbbkyhQMaJRRBPcWIAHvdGux7QX_3tR8SBTRvgshKpiBm6lee_ggNNmmpIAZOlrA_rV0I9a9j6EOdD3PMY6b7oHdt6xma5A5p9Home-Z9d4/s1600/134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc-8yJfb3oVfATmbVcb4lfQJQKPFToM1GYTbbkyhQMaJRRBPcWIAHvdGux7QX_3tR8SBTRvgshKpiBm6lee_ggNNmmpIAZOlrA_rV0I9a9j6EOdD3PMY6b7oHdt6xma5A5p9Home-Z9d4/s1600/134.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Dear Mike,<br />
Husband of mine. That sounds so formal. Babe, that's better. I'm shocked that we've been married three years, already. Where has the time gone? Some days I look at us and think it's been a lifetime, then I stop, and remind myself that we have so much more to experience together, and it makes me thankful, and extremely happy.<br />
<br />
I couldn't have asked for a better partner in life, and love.<br />
<br />
I am always thankful, and happy when I am with you.<br />
<br />
I'm always excited to start each day knowing I'm your wife.<br />
<br />
I am also very proud of all that you do for us as a couple and as a family. I know our two small fur babies will agree.<br />
<br />
Thank you for being the best husband a girl could ask for.<br />
Happy Anniversary babe! I love you.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0px !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-81936324621794014242014-10-21T15:54:00.000-05:002017-04-25T11:58:54.231-05:00an evening with pearl jam... memphis, tnThe date was October 14, 2015, yes, just last Tuesday, one week ago, and I'm still slightly floating from the experience. My husband, Mike has ALWAYS been a huge Pearl Jam fan. I will admit, I too have always been a fan, although somewhere in the mid 2000's I sort of lost my way not listening to them as much as I did in the beginning, shame on me, not for lack of liking, just not following as closely as I should have. I lost a lot of valuable time with the band and I admit it was a complete mistake.<br />
<br />
For many years, Mike was an on again and off again Ten Club member (fan club for those of you wondering what that is). After the release of Pearl Jam's latest album, Lightening Bolt, they announced they would be going on tour. Their first show was revealed that they would headline Austin City Limits. Mike and I have always wanted to go to Austin together (he's been once many years ago for his sister's wedding), and add to that PJ in concert, YES PLEASE! We held off purchasing tickets, we were still waiting to hear the line up for the Music Midtown Festival in Atlanta this past summer, the concert promoters were very late this year with their announcements, so we nixed plans to hit up Austin, hoping, praying that PJ would come somewhere close to us for a show. The wait was painful, I was anxious, and in the end the line up for Music Midtown, totally sucked this year. I kicked myself for not securing ACL tickets, and for not trying to purchase tickets to the 10.22 show in Colorado, more on that in a bit.<br />
<br />
Mike and I waited and then the tour dates were released and the angels of rock sang, and said "Memphis, TN had a date, a special date just for the two of you!" Ok they didn't really sing that but that's what I heard. As a Ten Club member Mike was also able to enter a lottery for tickets. He entered us into both categories, seats (2 tickets) or General Admission Pit (2 tickets). And we waited as patiently as possible for the results to come in. Either way we would win out - a chance to have decent seats, or standing room only to see Pearl Jam live, I'd happily take either option. I was so ready for another show, it's been 2 years since my FIRST and only PJ concert, this would mark I believe Mike's 5th or 6th. I have no desire to stop seeing them live, I hope he doesn't either. I could go a million more times and still be floored. After what seemed liked forever, the lottery results were in, and HOLY EFFING HELL - we got General Admission PIT tickets. Even after the show I'm still in shock... this was our first lottery, we got PIT, and I was blown away!!!<br />
<br />
<b>And then we waited for the show date... <i>the waiting drove me mad</i>.</b><br />
<br />
Mike and I will be celebrating our 3rd Wedding Anniversary this month, and this concert was our way to celebrate, and our gift to each other. Much like our first anniversary, tickets were purchased with our anniversary in mind. So finally October 14th arrived, and we were headed to Memphis.<br />
<br />
That morning we both worked a partial day and hit the road. We arrived in Memphis, to the Fed Ex Forum at about 2 PM I believe? Time is sort of a blur at that point. Immediately we saw the merch trailer, and a MASSIVE line that wrapped half way around the building. We quickly rushed to claim our spot in the line. It was a cold and semi wet day out, but I didn't care. I had a jacket, and determination to get the merch I wanted. Can I just say I think it's genius and awesome that we could purchase our shirts, posters, stickers etc BEFORE the show started. Allowing us to put them safely in the car, and not have them get ruined during the show. Downside to this, I stood in line for over an hour waiting to get a shirt. This did give us time to do a few things... Mike checked into our hotel, and was able to wait to get our wristbands for the pit at will call, and then have time to come meet me, to get his shirt, and poster, and stickers, and my tank and my scarf. Yep, I got a Pearl Jam scarf and it's awesomeee!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibDBfHkZCJRl_KlkU8oqAvGj4Lw7WL76kTJt9vo9paf5Czi9xit-jwmuRY4x5SnExP7wCcMj5DicsPJZobOjYNAWaev8BLr2xecZwuD4orIMwC7ASbbTMn8s4JxyBzmZHDQmdThzGFuVo/s1600/merch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibDBfHkZCJRl_KlkU8oqAvGj4Lw7WL76kTJt9vo9paf5Czi9xit-jwmuRY4x5SnExP7wCcMj5DicsPJZobOjYNAWaev8BLr2xecZwuD4orIMwC7ASbbTMn8s4JxyBzmZHDQmdThzGFuVo/s1600/merch.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via • <a href="http://instagram/turnedup2eleven" target="_blank">turnedup2eleven</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After securing our loot - the poster was the BIGGEST score, and what we wanted the most, we met up with a friend from back home "What up Phil!" and Mike's Aunt and Uncle who flew in for a visit from Cali, and honestly, go to go the show, their first, for the record. We dropped our items off at the car and hit Beale Street for some beers and FINALLY food. My biggest worry with being in the pit was that I was going to have to wait in line ALL. DAMN. DAY, and possibly NOT get to eat. I had original plans to meet up with Misty of <a href="http://www.handbagsandhandguns.com/" target="_blank">Handbags and Handguns</a> and Natalie of <a href="http://www.mycrazybusylife.com/" target="_blank">My Crazy Busy Life</a>, I still hate we couldn't work that out but unfortunately, I had to head home the next AM right after waking up for work - I promise girls, next time!!! [Yes, I went to bed at 2 am in Memphis, and was back to work in Northern Alabama by lunch time the next day - and yes, I am aware that I'm crazy].<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>FIRST BREW STOP:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhach056FQJyAkFxvyDsrkDlw8ZeIDIZdog0Ile-kXk3rgAWRxB1G_ddM4bzpn48aGdPLLx7SnahiW2RrX7bKlKqU9Lo8OK9I-0N5G13PAx3GOAU9x5mAifwJvilOxVpotTJ6IeAB3kPnA/s1600/clubhandy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhach056FQJyAkFxvyDsrkDlw8ZeIDIZdog0Ile-kXk3rgAWRxB1G_ddM4bzpn48aGdPLLx7SnahiW2RrX7bKlKqU9Lo8OK9I-0N5G13PAx3GOAU9x5mAifwJvilOxVpotTJ6IeAB3kPnA/s1600/clubhandy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We hit up a little bar on the corner for some local craft beer, and then wandered over to <a href="http://www.dyersonbeale.com/" target="_blank">Dyer's</a> for what I thought would be a simple cheeseburger, and it ended up being the best damned greasy burger ever. If you are in the mood for a good old fashion, slider style burger, a bit like Five Guys but WAY less commercial, way more delicious and with a sweet set of servers, hit up Dyer's next time you're there. We loved it, and almost had it again for dinner (more on that later). FYI - I was so hungry taking a photo wasn't happening, sorry!<br />
<br />
After filling our guts, and having a beer or two, we decided it was time to get in the General Admission line. It had been forming all day long, but honestly, the weather was crap, we got in line and probably waited another 45 mins before getting to go inside. Longest day of waiting ever.<br />
<br />
Once inside, we were instructed to take our time, not to run, and be orderly. So we did... as we walked through our gate doors to the pit, I got really anxious, then I saw how small the pit was. Not tiny mind you, but in relation to the rest of the room, fairly quaint, small, cozy, and thankfully not a ton of people had made it down to the pit, so Mike and scurried down and got ourselves a nice little spot, on the right hand side of the stage where soon Stone would stand to play. While waiting for the show to start (another hour), we made friends with our surrounding Ten Club pals and settled in for a great night.<br />
<br />
There was no opening act, literally just an evening with Pearl Jam which was better than I could have asked for. Standing by the stage we realized, we were indeed, only three rows back from the security barrier in front of the stage. Literally, third row. HOLY FREAKING AWESOME! Now, our trade off for this awesomeness is that I had to deal with a drunk, older woman, doing her "sexy" dance for Eddie any time he came to our side of the stage. I get that there is ONE person in every crowd that pisses the masses off, but why the hell do they alway have to end up next to me?!?! She had wormed her way up front, through all of us that were waiting there a FULL hour for the show to start, right before it was time for the show to begin. My first instinct was to tell her off, but I noticed that others were annoyed but trying to be cool about the situation. I watched a few dirty looks in which she was oblivious too, and finally a couple in front of me, the man looked her dead in the eye as she tried to push to be 2nd row from the stage and pretty much told her "fat chance, move back!" Whew, I really thought no one would say anything. We had just been told by two girls from Pittsburg about 20 minutes prior that everyone in the pit is respectful, and cool and then THIS happens and my inner ghetto fab wanna be gangsta alter ego just about lost it... I might also note I had PMS really bad so it could have been REALLY ugly. Thank you PJ for making me realize I'd rather not be kicked out before the show even started, and thank you to my husband who helped me navigate dealing with her ALL. NIGHT. LONG! Tolerating her was a chore but eventually I was able to worm my way away from her, put my back to her and enjoy the show with Mike, and the rest of our new found crew. Minus the super tall Tennessee Fan [who was a rather cool guy, just too tall] in front of me who I had to duck and weave a bit to avoid having my view of the guys blocked it was perfect.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">SET LIST • MEMPHIS, TN</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">OCTOBER 14, 2014 • PJ FALL 2014 TOUR</span></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1O7Jk0SSjew-xM_4qGpXCLp2dAl3rbLDxncSAZB-PeB_YwTOLDj7sjGO1EUmJYsGCCVgdNpTD1AN7NfIbYpXv9_Cc4TQTAHMln_4FauK43pJgYYqZo9rC6UHgVkcE7onuuwD2zwroKA/s1600/MemphisSetlist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1O7Jk0SSjew-xM_4qGpXCLp2dAl3rbLDxncSAZB-PeB_YwTOLDj7sjGO1EUmJYsGCCVgdNpTD1AN7NfIbYpXv9_Cc4TQTAHMln_4FauK43pJgYYqZo9rC6UHgVkcE7onuuwD2zwroKA/s1600/MemphisSetlist.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via <a href="http://instagram.com/pearljamofficial" target="_blank">pearl jam's instagram</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pendulum </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Wash </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Low Light </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Why Go </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All Night </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mind Your Manners </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Even Flow </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lightning Bolt </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sirens </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 Full </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Garden </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Alone </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Wishlist </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Given to Fly </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let the Records Play </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Spin the Black Circle </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Black </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rearviewmirror </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Encore:</b> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nothing as It Seems </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Come Back </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Elderly Woman Behind the Counter in a Small Town </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Do the Evolution </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Breath </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Porch </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Encore 2: </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Once
Crazy Mary
(Victoria Williams cover) </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Better Man </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Alive </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rockin' in the Free World
(Neil Young cover) </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yellow Ledbetter
</div>
<br />
29 Songs... 29 SONGS! From all different walks of their 20+ Year career. Some rarely performed and all of which blew me away!!! [Photos in NO particular order, and these were all taken by Mike (<a href="http://instagram.com/jamofpearls" target="_blank">his instagram</a>)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSIp2DEBO9VySokPVrQtEOGdiGlnRI2uol6G_VD6jUIHRv8SVDXmPRw65xFtjgjWstWoMbrQaQQoH46QD-xgaEnBiQu-LzU1txqyoZHCkg2DQUSIowirQYPkn3P79NQ5O7q9RA_GrXOlg/s1600/IMG_20141014_225905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSIp2DEBO9VySokPVrQtEOGdiGlnRI2uol6G_VD6jUIHRv8SVDXmPRw65xFtjgjWstWoMbrQaQQoH46QD-xgaEnBiQu-LzU1txqyoZHCkg2DQUSIowirQYPkn3P79NQ5O7q9RA_GrXOlg/s1600/IMG_20141014_225905.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was most likely at the end of the night - one of the encores!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizESgxA-9sCM2VqSIWc7FSNrwk9DgKQZCFwUXOEWPd-tth8Rk-XL_7lUa8OwrzkRb8TaL5usfpsIh3MK40zEHk0nyBlM5RRYsyRhry2dDgNKnnJvH00-_bGcEP0mqvZp2cVqeD7vOW8XA/s1600/IMG_20141014_212518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizESgxA-9sCM2VqSIWc7FSNrwk9DgKQZCFwUXOEWPd-tth8Rk-XL_7lUa8OwrzkRb8TaL5usfpsIh3MK40zEHk0nyBlM5RRYsyRhry2dDgNKnnJvH00-_bGcEP0mqvZp2cVqeD7vOW8XA/s1600/IMG_20141014_212518.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmz_xdCnOO-S6RtsxHXLSXKfHYE1_h0-4USSrSXxlHiOo6UqDeB48OupAW8Y9uPRrUd8c7wh9JpuYjKXCNkBadE-3fSkQ0aG3Au92FsZd0z_vitfXLHoQuJtBDGRZFOccxx3IVF6pw99k/s1600/IMG_20141014_212320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmz_xdCnOO-S6RtsxHXLSXKfHYE1_h0-4USSrSXxlHiOo6UqDeB48OupAW8Y9uPRrUd8c7wh9JpuYjKXCNkBadE-3fSkQ0aG3Au92FsZd0z_vitfXLHoQuJtBDGRZFOccxx3IVF6pw99k/s1600/IMG_20141014_212320.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Eddie preparing to share wine with the masses, or at least the front row!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3yOjVzp_OceNk9VSNwljXVk_D2xdVccANrtJdqO7YOV3f6P1Ku-HhfMk9paDUxoEHz9wS7HVIg0fNuKm1GAv3DCnXtWdzswYJf6d0ED91jo4AIO5fvjiIN9soZT7Z0j102uOaoq_7m4/s1600/IMG_20141014_203756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3yOjVzp_OceNk9VSNwljXVk_D2xdVccANrtJdqO7YOV3f6P1Ku-HhfMk9paDUxoEHz9wS7HVIg0fNuKm1GAv3DCnXtWdzswYJf6d0ED91jo4AIO5fvjiIN9soZT7Z0j102uOaoq_7m4/s1600/IMG_20141014_203756.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jeff & Stone rocking out.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGrbRKW4ymPReh-h1LNdeedkJFiqU8q4VfDDveLP03EB1EgKDKz3PxNBDdlp1F8trC3PvME-cSHG4rAkEY75DbYtY0PxlXYKu4nyLJujZHlYn4KrROqtIAZl6Q-KezwaFSp_wffwWjr0/s1600/IMG_20141014_201504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGrbRKW4ymPReh-h1LNdeedkJFiqU8q4VfDDveLP03EB1EgKDKz3PxNBDdlp1F8trC3PvME-cSHG4rAkEY75DbYtY0PxlXYKu4nyLJujZHlYn4KrROqtIAZl6Q-KezwaFSp_wffwWjr0/s1600/IMG_20141014_201504.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Like I said, no particular order, this was early in the evening, lights were still low, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and little to none of the "set" was revealed at this time.</div>
<br />
<b>Huge highlights: </b><br />
<br />
Eddie took time to walk all over the stage, and jumped into the crowd (sadly not on our side, I think he sensed all the women in the pit surrounding us might not be able to hold him up and might in fact, rip him to shreds... lovingly of course).<br />
<br />
Lots of guitar picks were tossed by Mike, and 10 tambourines by Eddie.<br />
<br />
Fans brought gifts for the guys, which they accepted, some put on t-shirts, others handed up items for Eddie to sign which he did gladly and handed back to the crowd, it was awesome, the love for the fans is HUGELY evident in all they do.<br />
<br />
Eddie donned Elvis like shades (circa his Vegas like days), and then tossed them back into the crowd, as well as a hat and oddly enough someone handed up (tossed up) their cell phone, Eddie then proceeded to take a video of him singing, and all of us in the pit singing and then handed it back to security to give to the kid. How cool is that???<br />
<br />
Eddie pass around a bottle of wine to the front row and sadly I didn't have a cup and it was almost gone by the time it made it to our side of the stage, but it's one of his trademark things he does at each show. And very cool.<br />
<br />
I was excited to hear lots of their new songs live which they performed seamlessly, even though Eddie was under the weather and feeling sick, he had more energy than anyone in his same shoes. I never thought I'd see EV blow his nose, but stars, they're just like us right?<br />
<br />
<b>BIGGEST KICK!</b><br />
I believe it was after they did the cover of Neil Young's Rockin' in the Free World and the lights were up to see the entire stadium of people, that Mike shared a moment with Eddie. Ed was scanning the crowd, waving to folks, giving thumbs up to others, smiling and taking in everyone in the room, and I mean EVERYONE he could see high or low, and he paused, he made a face like he had a question in his mind in my direction, but I could tell he wasn't looking straight at me, as he kept singing he pointed, gave a nod like, yeah!, and then gave a thumbs up... I was like who is he looking at? I turned around and Mike yelled "Did you see that?" and I said "Yeah, what was he doing?" Mike beamed... "He was looking at me, and gave me a thumbs up for my Mudhoney shirt. UM, HOW FREAKING AMAZING IS THAT??? In the 20+ years that Mike has loved this band, he goes to this show and gets a nod of encouragement AND a thumbs up from none other than Eddie Vedder! They shared, a moment. Ugh, so cool!<br />
<br />
<b>Seeing Jeff Ament smile, up close. I die.</b><br />
The man in front of us that mentioned had stood up to the drunk chick (I wish I could describe all she was doing that drove me bonkers but it would take up TOO much space), he had a t-shirt that he was holding up at the end of the night, politely, below his field of vision and all of ours (drunk chick, not so much, she hit us all in the face at least once with her damn shirt... no clue what it said). This dude's shirt was a Luv Co. shirt - which Mike discovered later, was a cover band that Jeff and Mike were in back in the day. Jeff saw the shirt, and pointed to the guy smiling that he liked it, and the guy gave it to him. Jeff quickly put said shirt on and played the rest of the set wearing the Luv Co. shirt. After the final song, Jeff carried over the handwritten set list (by Eddie) and gave it to this guy. SUCH an amazing thing to receive. I might not have anything physical but I have these memories that will last me a lifetime.<br />
<br />
After the show, we went into a few places on Beale to get some liquid refreshment, as well as something to eat again... it was now almost midnight, most places weren't serving... so we hit up the <a href="http://www.bluescitycafe.com/" target="_blank">Blues City Cafe</a>. I wanted diner food, sadly they didn't have burgers etc, but they did have MASSIVE cheese fries. I settled for regular steak fries smothered in cheese and jalapeños, Mike, Phil, and Tony opted for the Cajun fries... yes you guess it, same as mine but smothered in Gumbo! HOLY HELL, it was spicy but awesome! Warning, this place is a "dive bar" of sorts, but it's a delicious one!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzrtvb-z9OCnBP8ZArre3Ur7LvVC92_WbWBV7ShVxdMbFD_FrmFob-TRmgSD8TgvvV1_6_yBe088DBl_wUrmM-EE7pk4I_h0qqGUFqqhg5htAtD3ppUMnvnDiSNNqspRb1PRa_v4Upqs/s1600/cajunfries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzrtvb-z9OCnBP8ZArre3Ur7LvVC92_WbWBV7ShVxdMbFD_FrmFob-TRmgSD8TgvvV1_6_yBe088DBl_wUrmM-EE7pk4I_h0qqGUFqqhg5htAtD3ppUMnvnDiSNNqspRb1PRa_v4Upqs/s1600/cajunfries.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The perfect end to a great day... cheese and fries... YES PLEASE!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After I ate, my eyes were heavy, my throat was sore, and my legs were tired from jumping, and standing and line, I was ready for bed. My brain was still buzzing from the show, but I knew work was calling the next day.<br />
<br />
I enjoyed EVERYTHING about the Memphis show, and while I'm a bit jealous of all the Ten Club fans that have been literally following the band from town to town, seeing every show on this tour (how cool is that?), and I'm a bit envious they got to hear them play Yield in it's entirety last night, and a few nights prior all of their album No Code, I am so thankful we secured the place we did on the floor, had the opportunity to be that close, and celebrate our 3rd year of marriage like this. I wouldn't want it any other way!!! We had even considered flying to Colorado when they FIRST mentioned the tour, because 10.22.14 is the Denver show. That is our anniversary, and I know I've mentioned it before, but it's also Pearl Jam's official anniversary of their first show, as a band. How amazing would that have been. Expensive, but amazing. To all fans that make that show, I am envious, but I will take Memphis with me forever.<br />
<br />
Pearl Jam, thank you for all the memories! Thank you for returning to the south for shows and happy anniversary!!! Let's make it another 20+ years!<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0px !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-51812300743322514512014-10-01T15:13:00.001-05:002017-04-25T11:52:11.793-05:00Swamp Romp 2.0 [aka huff n' puffin' with my stuffin']So it's been a very long time since I last wrote on this blog. As I stated yesterday, look at me 2 days in a row, RECORD! My last post was a re-post so I won't even count that as a dignified entry. That being said I guess the last time I actually took time to add something to this little corner of the internet was June. To be honest, not a ton has happened since June. Ok that's probably a lie. I've been to concerts, I've been kayaking a few times (not enough though), and I went to the beach for a glorious week with Mike's immediate family. It was great, but nothing I was overly wanting to blog about... until this weekend.<br />
<br />
A few weeks ago, Mike and I innocently said yes to an invite to team up with some friends and compete in the 2.0 Swamp Romp 5k/3k Mud Run. A few of our dear friends from our 2 favorite watering holes were starting teams and running in the race. Mike and I figured, what the hell right? I will be the first to say it wasn't exactly Warrior Dash status, although to me it might as well have been. Did I mention I have never, in my life, ran a single mile? Not even since elementary school. I always walked the mile in gym class. I did win a blue ribbon for a dash, (I forget how long) in Elementary school during our annual field day. I was like lightening that day, I also broke a school record but to be fair I think I was among one of the first of three classes to "graduate" from that school. It was fairly new so it wasn't like I broke a friend's grandmother's record or anything.<br />
<br />
That being said, I'm not really athletic. I took dance classes growing up and was on the dance team in high school (brag: captain my senior year), and the only sport I was even close to successful at in school was volleyball, but it was a total popularity club, and well, it wore me out (again, not athletic).<br />
I loved to dance so weezing during a kick line or dance routine never bothered me. I was probably in the BEST shape of my life my senior year. I ate like a horse, increased my ability to dance, run, kick and smile without dying, success! Running? OH HELL NO. Like I said, I walked the track 4 times around in high school with the cool girls, they smoked on the furthest area of the track and then snuffed out their cigs as they came around the bend near the teachers. I just followed along and laughed and chatted, and didn't push myself in the least during that time in my life.<br />
<br />
Anytime I tried to be athletic, I got hurt. Gym class was my least favorite. 3rd Grade, basketball, straight to my face. I sneezed for 45 minutes straight. On the plus side, my nose didn't break. Middle school, field hockey, no pads, destroyed my shins left and right. Even dance team, practice on the hard ass concrete floor in the cafeteria, resulted in shin splints from the wrong type of shoes. To say the least, I was a hot mess.<br />
<br />
Why on earth did I think I could tackle a 3k mud run? Well, for starters there was beer at the finish line, and secondly I have friends back home that do it all the time [read: very in shape friends that can at least run a mile and for some reason I thought I was like them - yeah no]. I also thought I'd be among a few other people such as myself that weren't exactly stellar athletes but, just wanted to have fun. I was half right. I forgot how many of the servers at The Pie Factory and On the Rocks actually work out when they have off time, and others that don't smoke, and others that well, frankly just kick ass.<br />
<br />
Mike and myself - aren't as buff. Yeah, I've done P90x-P90x3, I've done TurboFire and Chalean Extreme, I've dabbled in Insanity and even a few other workouts... but never stuck 100%. After the wedding I just got lazy... I'm still lazy... and it shows. I can lift weights all day long, I love it, but cardio, NO! Just... no. Mike likes video games, and relaxing and once said, and I quote "I am only going to run if a bear is casing me". We were the two most unlikely people to do this race, but again, figured you only live once, right?<br />
<br />
SOOO we entered. And this past Saturday was the day it all changed.<br />
<br />
<b>SWAMP ROMP 2.0 / SEPTEMBER 27, 2014</b><br />
We arrived early, really early, too early. Miscommunication. The day started at 8 AM we didn't know our team's race time, again, miscommunication. We didn't run until 11 am. Last heat of the races. Plenty of time for my nerves to build and to become VERY anxious before we started. I won't lie, I enjoyed a beer before. Not the WISEST of choices but I was thirsty. Note: Event people please have lots of water for sale next year... if it was out there I didn't see it, and I quickly slurped through my 32 oz I brought with me (because I thought I was running at 8 am, not 11). My bad.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWQRgFUbYj_j8eifjdlZhJCB7bBt2kkmSkTjZ9UaTW-kp7_MzLlm_4zfM6mhEl7wI5EX_KvgpV13vl2YJfVlE83waQnqy2FZZvVIKoK0x_3c7TAQ-vUAoIz7C_2koqhykmCqXkMkODzL0/s1600/numbers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWQRgFUbYj_j8eifjdlZhJCB7bBt2kkmSkTjZ9UaTW-kp7_MzLlm_4zfM6mhEl7wI5EX_KvgpV13vl2YJfVlE83waQnqy2FZZvVIKoK0x_3c7TAQ-vUAoIz7C_2koqhykmCqXkMkODzL0/s1600/numbers.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early Check In, Early Numbers. His and Hers.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our team was awesome. The peeps at OTR and PF came up with the idea that since one of the businesses is a Pizza joint that we would wear Ninja Turtle colors, and they made tshirts that were awesome. It was so fun to get to put on all the gear and suit up to our hearts content. We even had a "mascot" for the day, our friend's puppy Ruzzo who is "festival famous" around these parts.<br />
<br />
We took a group shot before... we are quite a crew are we not? (Mike and I are on the far left).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSzdFtd2RgAE9_Gy8ISC9Qmfj9pF_FWmVix0FYEmEoN62C1j0Da2P3mGvnljqBqQJkMGHErA5mykKojKebyGe3bsWtj4rjmtzRQDvQH_WQKcseRZD6VM33KBGePX6UDDtsyzIBAN61Kig/s1600/1797967_10152567183308600_3796682267198763549_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSzdFtd2RgAE9_Gy8ISC9Qmfj9pF_FWmVix0FYEmEoN62C1j0Da2P3mGvnljqBqQJkMGHErA5mykKojKebyGe3bsWtj4rjmtzRQDvQH_WQKcseRZD6VM33KBGePX6UDDtsyzIBAN61Kig/s1600/1797967_10152567183308600_3796682267198763549_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HEROES IN A HALF SHELL • TURTLE POWER!!!! • OTR / PF 2014 Swamp Romp 2.0 Crew</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>10:45 Time to prep!</b><br />
We all stretched together - and made jokes about how we thought we'd do. I was happy to have such a HUGE group to run with, and a group of folks I knew. It made me feel better to know Mike and I since we were so inexperienced would have friends around us to lend a hand if needed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0AVjl6I6zzoo57WcMVf2FcVzR7xL2iVUYvgobPrzb-lrRNuwCDk-QMABmR8Y2_4bPjhsaMKr9lZeIlDiK7THxOCBB1vN-8qo8knEnvQfiEV9w3HwM6uWxbfyJeDyPIdYfBzRDrYEr4Kc/s1600/1622795_10152567182903600_6532007462388036354_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0AVjl6I6zzoo57WcMVf2FcVzR7xL2iVUYvgobPrzb-lrRNuwCDk-QMABmR8Y2_4bPjhsaMKr9lZeIlDiK7THxOCBB1vN-8qo8knEnvQfiEV9w3HwM6uWxbfyJeDyPIdYfBzRDrYEr4Kc/s1600/1622795_10152567182903600_6532007462388036354_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFPfZA0aAXKh4l3ER9wwUn_946Iu38E-GmeqRPgrMNM4J2fRh73Lk14dev9BSuEfpuyPzx803W8f8N2HsPqyz2gAA4NSwAyx4wiFnS8Tl9WYC5WqWVjsMnputpxkMYyqO1NWJnoa3R2hE/s1600/1969366_10152567183648600_3833724479180530062_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFPfZA0aAXKh4l3ER9wwUn_946Iu38E-GmeqRPgrMNM4J2fRh73Lk14dev9BSuEfpuyPzx803W8f8N2HsPqyz2gAA4NSwAyx4wiFnS8Tl9WYC5WqWVjsMnputpxkMYyqO1NWJnoa3R2hE/s1600/1969366_10152567183648600_3833724479180530062_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xceRO9c-gb_8f8Uw4hoqDYdsVCbmHRpNWrSOBWkZrHe-CTTo77weBB4oTfpCaFF0yLQcmnbyxYApjv_1jUVtQUOW6IMNFevLgOT1-wnoSCvZDJdN8oN5OzyLbLNEIhVmc7hTalUCb8c/s1600/10641061_10152567183568600_2586338515496520443_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xceRO9c-gb_8f8Uw4hoqDYdsVCbmHRpNWrSOBWkZrHe-CTTo77weBB4oTfpCaFF0yLQcmnbyxYApjv_1jUVtQUOW6IMNFevLgOT1-wnoSCvZDJdN8oN5OzyLbLNEIhVmc7hTalUCb8c/s1600/10641061_10152567183568600_2586338515496520443_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>11:00 AM - TIME TO RUN!</b><br />
We lined up and the DJ gave us a big introduction, well gave THEM, all the hard workers at the Pie Factory and On the Rocks [they were also big sponsors of the day]. Sent us off with a good luck and we were wide open.<br />
<br />
I will try to remember all of the events we had to complete along the way of the 3k. I tried to take mental notes but to be honest I think my brain said only one thing over and over "Holy shit, holy shit, what did I get myself into? Why do people do this for fun? What was I thinking? How is Mike running so well? He plays video games... maybe I should play video games... how did he just clear that hurdle? Holy shit, I can't breathe, focus... you can do this... stop being a slacker... I wanna go home... No, gotta push, I can do this... OH shit, I did it! I'm a beast!" etc. etc.<br />
<br />
<b>#1 ICE BATH</b><br />
Right off the bat we dove into an ice bath - thankfully it was later in the day (racing started at 8 am), so most of the ice was melted and they ran out of ice to dump on us, but it was still cold, and deep. I was worried I'd slip and fall getting out but I did ok.<br />
<br />
<b>RUN/WALK</b> - still feeling OK.<br />
<br />
<b>#2 HAY BAILS</b><br />
There were about 8 bails of hay, huge round bails we had to climb up and then jump down. I tried to take a running leap and my foot sunk... lovely. Note to self: Nike Tempo Shorts suck ass for Mud Runs, next time wear some biker shorts under them. I made it.<br />
<br />
<b>RUN/WALK</b> for longer... huffing, and puffing the whole, damn way... I finally walked. Mike kept trucking but he kept me in his sights, thankfully.<br />
<br />
<b>#3 TIRE PILE</b><br />
Looks pretty innocent, but then you start stepping on the old ass tires and some of them are dry rotted and brittle... joy to the world. I have scratches from that event, or maybe it was the rocks later... not sure. <br />
<br />
<b>RUN/WALK/WALK/WALK</b> - at this point I was a little frustrated with myself. I should have prepared more.<br />
<br />
<b>#4 HURDLE / MUD HILL</b><br />
As I'm walk running, panting and seriously thinking about giving up, yes this early, I see Mike just leap over the hurdle wall like it was NOTHING. Seriously, two hands on the top, and jump, cleared it... I thought to myself MAYBE I could do that, but then got closer and figured I better not try. I climbed over it, tried to joke with the college girls there to help out with the event and then went on.<br />
<br />
<b>RUN/WALK/BACK EFFING TRACK</b><br />
The lovely college girls that had plenty of time to encourage Mike, and talk to him and tell him where to go didn't tell me jack shit. I saw the CAUTION TAPE but thought it was to avoid a huge hole (there was spray paint lining the track where we had to run to avoid holes). He made a hard left, and I missed it, I finally turned around and the 3 girls behind me, looked just as confused. Finally the three of us found the opening, and then I was dead last... And pissed.<br />
<br />
<b>#5 HANGING TIRES</b><br />
This seemed really tame, I guess if you are running full force with other people it would be intimidating. I just shoved through last of the group... and then I finally said OK I need to get up again, and get ahead of these girls and over to Mike.<br />
<br />
<b>WALK/RUN</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>#6 BEAMS BETWEEN TREES</b><br />
I jogged to Mike who had already cleared the tall beams we had to climb between two trees. I quickly learned as I climbed and then went to swing my leg over the top that my legs aren't as long as I thought, I had a bit of trouble getting footing to swing the other leg over but recovered ok.<br />
<br />
<b>WALK/RUN</b><br />
Here is where we made a mistake, again I think that we weren't looking for our directional signs as well as we should have, I was following Mike's lead. At this point I saw the water station and thought... OK I'll run to the water station, it's close. So I took off jogging, then I saw that the jogging track was REALLY LONG, twice the distance I thought it was and for a minute I wanted to cry, and then I wanted to cheat and just run half the course to get to the water, but then I remembered that cheaters never truly win and started walking faster to catch up with Mike.<br />
<br />
Note: I clearly don't know how to A) Pace myself and B) Breathe properly while running. I am going to work on that from here on out.<br />
<br />
At this point my calve muscles were really starting to kill me. I stretched before hand but I think that because I wore "cross training" shoes for this run (they were older and I didn't care if they got destroyed) + my lack of experience was really starting to wear me down.<br />
<br />
<b>WATER</b><br />
Oh the sweet refreshing nectar of the gods.<br />
We realized after taking the long way around that we went the wrong way and missed out on probably 1 event in the woods for this run. Mike was like do you want to go through the woods and I probably said in a greatly bitchy, winded voice... "Hell no! Keep going!" Sorry babe if I was bitchy to you at all.<br />
<br />
<b>RUN/WALK</b> for what felt like the longest distance yet.<br />
<br />
<b>#7 UP THE HILL</b><br />
The course was made on an old golf course so we were running on a lot of greens up and down hills at this point. Once you crest the top of the hill, Mike had already gone further than me, so I was hanging with a woman who's husband left her in the dust. When we got to the top of the hill we were greeted by about 10 different directional arrows... I stopped and said, do they expect us to go in circles? Are we supposed to weave around the trees? Her words were as colorful as my own and we decided to bump that and just run straight through.<br />
<br />
<b>RUN/WALK</b> - Kill me now!<br />
<br />
<b>#8 MINI MUD PIT HURDLES</b><br />
Well, I guess we were supposed to jump over the flags? Maybe it was a crawl event but honestly no one was there, and the low laying flags had almost all fallen in the mud, and most of the prints in the mud pit resembled feet, not knee marks. So I pretended to jump hurdles just did a high knee movement until the end of the mud. At this point the three ladies behind me seemed to be cheating and just not competing anymore. Lame!<br />
<br />
<b>WALK/RUN</b> around the small pond, on an incline. I picked a bad time to feel like I had a 2nd wind, my calves didn't like me running on a slant at all.<br />
<br />
<b>#9 MUD PIT #1</b><br />
I saw Mike climbing out of the pit as I rounded the corner. He was covered at a slant in mud. He yelled back to me to be careful, it's really deep. I grabbed the guide rope and tried to walk gingerly down the small muddy hill... Since I'm so graceful I landed in the mud like a total lady... soaking myself from almost shoulder to toe in mud. After that all that was left to do was tromp to the other side, and try to climb out. Done. Finished it, did OK.<br />
<br />
<b>WALK/RUN</b> down a bit and to the next MUD PIT.<br />
<br />
<b>#10 MUD PIT 1.5</b><br />
Same pit, further down the way, and more water, I thought this might be easier, Mike warned me not to JUMP in, so I held on to some thick weeds (averted my mind away from all the ticks hiding in there) and slid into the mud and then it happened... OH EFF, my shoe was stuck... I tried not to panic but tried to remember what I learned about being stuck in quicksand... seriously, this is where my mind went. Instead of trying to pull my foot straight out, I wiggled it a little, and then pointed my toe and the shoe slid out... You know the saying "Sounds like a boot in mud." yup, just like that. Sick I know sorry...<br />
<br />
Huffing and puffing I made it across the mud, and followed Mike on. He was still way ahead of me and I'm thankful he waited for me. I didn't want to go it alone.<br />
<br />
<b>WALK/RUN</b><br />
At this point I was pretty exhausted, and my feet weighed a TON. We had a HUGE and long run ahead of us, and finally I believe made it to the next event. (Please note this is all a bit hazy at this point I might have left some out).<br />
<br />
<b>#11 UP HILL TIRE RUN</b><br />
You know the tires that football players use for conditioning? The run through them back and forth with great speed, that is what this event was, but UP HILL. I tried to show that hill my moves and almost fell, I was tired yo! So I walked up them as I should but it's OK... I admit it, I'm out of shape.<br />
<br />
<b>WALK/RUN</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>#12 SLACKLINE</b><br />
If you don't know what <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slacklining" target="_blank">slacklining</a> is, you're not alone - I just googled that shit because I didn't know how to explain it to you. We have a group of kids here - I think it's college funded that do "Outdoor Adventure" stuff and slacklining is one of the events they do. I wish I wasn't so shaky at this point in my run. Mike seemed to do well, I watched him as I came down the hill toward the trees. Basically it's like a high wire act, but close to the ground. I climbed up and was shaking and fearful I might fall but finally I righted myself, and did well. I almost wanted to try again - I wish this was at the finish line so I could play all day... but I had to move on.<br />
<br />
<b>WALK / RUN</b><br />
End of the line, I see a beautiful water stop again. SO happy... and even more fun once I got close I realized my little-brother-in-law was there with his puppy Suzy. I was so happy, I yelled "HEY PADEN!" and then in a higher voice said "SUZY Q!!!!" And commented had I known she was here I would have ran the whole race (not!)... I chugged water and we were instructed if we went right it would be the last events of the 3k, or if we went Left it would be the 5k. We opted for 3. I was done.. toast... but I had Suzy to run with me so it made it fun, most adorable puppy ever (next to our June).<br />
<br />
<b>#13 CLIMB THE WALL</b><br />
Let's just say that my shoes were wide so trying to cling to these 2x4 type chopped bits of wood was difficult for me, my upper body strength is great for lifting weights other than my OWN body weight. Grunting and all I cleared the wall, splinter free I might add.<br />
<br />
<b>WALK/RUN</b><br />
<br />
<b>#14 SLIP N' SLIDE TO FREEDOM!</b><br />
I missed Mike going down the slide, I got to the top and it seemed rather dry, not nearly enough water and I laid down and tried to go... I looked like a beached whale I'm sure... but... I rolled a bit got up and ran to the beer tent. I gave Mike crap for not waiting for me, he said THIS is the finish line Kelly, THE BEER TENT! Touche, he was right.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>WE WEREN'T FIRST, BUT WE WEREN'T LAST and WE SURVIVED!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>That's all we wanted!!!</b></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWC4uBbS0nzYmqmzqpNaAolJ39Dohbh31geyEbrWSAlWnOTWSxx4uaO4ItBIka02hb2-Ge_hj1JQC_24aziG7HnB9GYuP_nzSz6VOyfx7i13gYWgrPxLnwo1015N37d2KQmcy-K8iqZp0/s1600/SwampRomp2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWC4uBbS0nzYmqmzqpNaAolJ39Dohbh31geyEbrWSAlWnOTWSxx4uaO4ItBIka02hb2-Ge_hj1JQC_24aziG7HnB9GYuP_nzSz6VOyfx7i13gYWgrPxLnwo1015N37d2KQmcy-K8iqZp0/s1600/SwampRomp2014.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SWEET DELICIOUS BEER... YOU ARE MY FAVORITE!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I am almost positive there was another obstacle in this event that I forgot but you get the idea. We are planning to walk/jog as much as we can in the near future, to build up endurance and maybe even have more of a fighting chance next year. I would do this again for sure, but if you asked me that when the above photo was taken, I'd say no way in hell. When the endorphins kicked in, I was loving it though.<br />
<br />
That afternoon... we drank beers, hung out with our team, watched some beer pong, listened to some great old school rap music and then decided to stuff our faces at On The Rocks, our FAVORITE bar in town (Pie Factory is our favorite bar/pizza joint). Yes, we went into the bar, with mud still on us, but we did hose of a bit and we brought beach towels, we aren't total cave people. We headed home and took showers and then I crashed in bed, and Mike crashed on the couch. I woke up that afternoon around 4 PM with a massive headache - I took some meds and drank some water and laid back down. By the next morning I think I was mildly dehydrated, my eyes were dry, my throat was sore, I just felt awful. I'm finally feeling better and will remember next year to bring myself more water, some possible gatorade and to drink less beer (I drank that Mich Ultra like it was water when we finished). LUSH.<br />
<br />
All in all even with my disappointment in myself I had a great time and can't wait to try again next year! Maybe I should have started with a level 3k, or basic 5k - but I guess I wanted to GO BIG or GO HOME!<br />
<br />
PS I'm also glad I didn't do the 5K apparently at the end when you crawl under the chicken wire obstacle there were rocks where your knees were, I would have HATED that.<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-23703108033251578962014-06-20T09:52:00.001-05:002017-04-25T11:52:46.764-05:00Repost: Let's Hit The CreekIt's a new season, and a new year and since I was giving a co-worker some tips on what to take on her first canoe trip, ever - I thought why not share this again with my readers... all 6 of you that are still with me after all this time. Just in case you decide you want to hit the creek, or river in canoes or kayaks this season.<br />
<br />
<b>Originally Posted July 2013</b><br />
Summer has finally reared it's brutal head here in the South. I guess I shouldn't say finally, that makes it sound like I wanted it here. Those that know me well know I get really excited for warmer weather, in the past that meant beach trips, and being outdoors. Now that I'm living in North Alabama, summer weather means extremely hot temperatures, and lots of sweat. I'm all for a good sweat session when I workout, but when I'm dressed up, my make-up is fixed and it's 104+ degrees outside, I'm miserable. Give me a kayak, and a cold beverage and let me float, otherwise I will be a beeotch to deal with.<br />
<br />
One of my favorite bloggers, <a href="http://www.livinginyellow.com/2013/06/the-best-and-worst-day-of-my-life.html" target="_blank">Miss Erin over at Living in Yellow</a> shared what she called "The Best and Worst Day of her Life" to me, it looked like an amazing weekend on the lake with 40 of her friends. They do an annual canoe run, which is amazing. They even made commemorative koozies. How cute is that? Read about this years annual canoe trip <a href="http://www.livinginyellow.com/2014/06/canoecruisin2014.html" target="_blank">here</a> - it's even more epic! Commemorative shades, yes please!<br />
<br />
Erin's post made me think a lot about how many times I've been out on the creek in my canoe, or kayak with my husband and friends and how even when you're wanting to have a great time, you must always put safety first.<br />
<br />
I thought I'd take a moment and feature some safety tips, and items that are must haves for a float down the river or creek. Be it for 2 hours or a full day. So here are my personal must haves for a fun creek run!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzX_P9OK7JWXfMyDaFDE_qfXdUhFmXg3STTQFqK09vrJAn8wmRGozYLD1lXPEb0Oqo6IoNtX-uQKxxELGaiyM9r7wZrtrWvFlSU9ZAs_aZskC6gPpVLZkqdGzvQKv-38A73qd682CMPAA/s1600/CanoeKayakItems.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzX_P9OK7JWXfMyDaFDE_qfXdUhFmXg3STTQFqK09vrJAn8wmRGozYLD1lXPEb0Oqo6IoNtX-uQKxxELGaiyM9r7wZrtrWvFlSU9ZAs_aZskC6gPpVLZkqdGzvQKv-38A73qd682CMPAA/s1600/CanoeKayakItems.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>1 // SUNBLOCK</b><br />
I can't stress this enough. If you burn easily, or are a bit like me (OCD about burning and causing damage to my skin for cancer and vanity reasons) you must bring sunblock. I usually put some lotion on 20 minutes before I head out the door. Asking Mike to get it all over my shoulders and back. I recently started bringing spray sunblock with me for re-application. Just because it says SPF 120+ doesn't mean you don't have to reapply. Say it with me people, REAPPLY. If you aren't a freak about SPF, then by all means bring your tanning oil, I like to smell you as you float down the creek and pretend I'm at the beach. [Please note: I didn't reapply enough on my first run this season 2014 and I got crispy and red - lesson learned!!!!]<br />
<br />
<b>2 // HAT</b><br />
This one isn't a NEED, but more of a suggestion. Again if you worry about your face burning, or the sun in your face, or just want to sport a fun accessory, the hat is the way to go. Be it a cowboy hat made of straw, a fun trucker cap, or just your favorite old ball cap. Rock it out. I'd suggest bringing one you aren't head over heels in love with. Better yet don't wear anything you couldn't bare to lose. Mike still has regrets of losing a Pearl Jam tour shirt he can't replace once while canoeing. [And forgo jewelry if it's important to you - not to mention necklaces make strange tan lines folks]. Hats are very handy incase you encounter a storm as well. They make it easier to see through the rain. Trust me on this one.<br />
<br />
<b>3 // SUNGLASSES</b><br />
Who doesn't want to keep the sun out of their eyes. Bonus, when you can't wear full make-up on the creek they hide your tired eyes. If you wear full make-up on the creek, I have to ask, what's wrong with you? Ain't no body got time for dat! [I usually put on some concealer for my dark circles and some mascara, otherwise, it's SPF and sweat baby!]<br />
<br />
<b>4 // CHAPSTICK WITH SPF</b><br />
Are you sensing a trend? The sun is brutal people, and your lips are fragile. Pucker up those puppies and coat them with some protection. If you must wear lip gloss fine, but don't cry to me when your canoe tips and you lose your most favorite shade that cost you $7.00+! Get some cheap lip shit, and if you lose it, no big - get some more at the gas station next time you get ice for your next trip down the creek.<br />
<br />
<b>5 // GOOD WATER SHOES</b><br />
I can't stress this enough. If you are going on a big lake, or gentle waters while kayaking or canoeing then by all means sport some flip flops, or cure sandals that show off your pedicure. If you are however going on a creek that is often times rough, ever changing and there's a good chance you will either have to walk through the creek bed, pick yourself up after falling out of a canoe, or do some moving IN the water with rocks - get some good shoes with a closed toe, preferably with a reenforced toe. <a href="http://www.keenfootwear.com/us/en/" target="_blank">Keen's</a> are great. The pair shown above are just like mine and I've had them for 6+ years now. I literally only want new ones because mine have become so old, and dirty (love you creek water). You'll pay a lot up front but they will last. Other sandals will work, most will stay on your feet but some will slip, and it's hard to walk in the water when your feet are slipping. There is also the fear of stubbing your toe on rocks mid flip, no one wants that. Just a safety tip from me to you.<br />
<br />
<b>6 // BUG SPRAY</b><br />
No one wants ticks, or bites from other random bugs while kayaking. So if you are one of those people that bugs seem to LOVE, get yourself some spray for the trip. Take it with you (put it in the dry storage bag - see below).<br />
<br />
<b>IMPORTANT ADDITION: LIFE JACKETS</b> My husband, Mike added in the comments the importance of having a life preserver / vest in the canoe / kayak at all times. And he's SO right, and I'm sorry I forgot to mention that. You don't always have to wear it but most state laws will insist you have one in the boat. Better to be safe, than sorry OR finned for not having one. Mike and I usually strap our vests to the back of our kayaks (with the cords on the boat), when we canoed we would strap and clip the vests to our seats and have them within arms reach to show cops on the creek, or incase the water got too rough. Side note, ladies if you get a chance to lay back and relax in the canoe while your partner steers (or gents) the vest makes a really comfy butt cushion for the bottom of the boat. Also, one more note - if you leave these in your car after a long trip on the creek your vehicle will smell to high heaven the next day. Always remove them, and let them air out!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrcvGvzT28PKAHNVEZZ8svegoZiRjAfZe5I6mRq0fE7PzNGkv92PvwcdMdcbQ1YVoxbbsqsFgoL_sZ0pMbiDEvi8gUVZDe-orsRmtP7ALY-EJeKbhfJtdcPjx-w5wN0Wh10eaILXlLZws/s1600/CanoeKayakItems2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrcvGvzT28PKAHNVEZZ8svegoZiRjAfZe5I6mRq0fE7PzNGkv92PvwcdMdcbQ1YVoxbbsqsFgoL_sZ0pMbiDEvi8gUVZDe-orsRmtP7ALY-EJeKbhfJtdcPjx-w5wN0Wh10eaILXlLZws/s1600/CanoeKayakItems2.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
You've got your cooler, and your hands full of all the crap you want to take with you. So let's load up the cooler with beer, food and ice. If you're kayaking it will be a small cooler, think lunch box or 6 pack size. If you're canoeing, you can bring a HUGE cooler and carry more stuff for yourself and your friends. Don't be rude, carry stuff for your friends, seriously. Besides they might even share some beer and snacks with you. You might also want to bring one of the canoe straps you used to tie your canoe to your vehicle. If you rented a canoe, maybe invest in a strap or two to bring with you. Belting the cooler to the canoe center seat will ensure you keep most of your drinks and snacks, in the cooler, if you should flip. (You can strap the lid shut if you get close to rough water). No one wants to lose precious brews on the water. <b>ALSO: Please bring a "trash bag" - Do NOT Litter in the water. Put your cans, bottles and wrappers in the bag and dispose of it when you get back to dry land (in a trash can).</b><br />
<br />
<b>7 // DRY STORAGE BAG</b><br />
These are great and come in a ton of different sizes. There are some big enough for you to bring a dry tshirt, some towels etc. I wouldn't suggest bringing a towel WITH you, but instead leave it at the pick-up vehicle so it will be warm and toasty when you get out of the chilly water. Usually we haven't had a need for that, but these bags will double as a great way to take along all the items listed above and keep them dry PLUS if you get smaller versions you can put your cell phone and wallet inside. I URGE you to invest in a hook that will attach your car keys to your belt loop, or your partners. That way that if you flip the canoe you don't lost your keys to the car you are supposed to be riding home in. [ALSO before leaving on the water, check to be sure your pick-up driver HAS his/her keys before you leave - it's a long ass walk home if they leave their keys IN the drop off vehicle]. If you have a small cooler, feel free to put some snacks in the dry bag that don't need to be kept cold. This is also a great place to store your toilet paper. You never know when you're going to need to pee. (Or you could just hang your booty in the water, just saying.)<br />
<br />
<b>8 // WATER and or HYDRATION DRINKS</b><br />
Depending on how long you are out on the water it's always a good idea to carry a few bottles of water or hydrating drinks. Beer is great but when it's very hot, and you're sweating a lot you're only making your situation worse by dehydrating yourself further with alcohol. It's great to party. I've been there - 3 beer bongs deep and countless numbers of vodka shots on the creek - <strike>no problem</strike>. Thankfully I always carried some water too, and had a husband to care for me. Come to think about it he was my boyfriend at the time and I'm really lucky to be married to him now.<br />
<br />
<b>9 // REFRESHMENT</b><br />
To drink or not to drink on the creek, that is the question. The answer is only if you can hold your liquor and don't put others in danger. It's hard to navigate a canoe with one person, it can be done but it's sort of a dick move to leave one person piloting the boat while you sleep it off. Drink responsibly. My other suggestion is try to find drinks that come in cans vs. bottles. Bottles can shatter, and also take up a lot of space in a cooler, and in a bag when you are finished drinking them [can't stress this enough]. Cans can be smooched, and won't break. Bonus points if you pick small brewery made <a href="http://www.oskarblues.com/" target="_blank">Craft Beers</a>. Ladies, I have the best thing for you. If you love frozen drinks, go a head and get some of the pirate bay or whatever brand the make now (Mike's Hard Lemonade) frozen pouches. Put them in the cooler and get some LONG STRAWS. You can treat them as your adult Capri Sun's going down the creek. Cool and refreshing. Just make sure they don't melt too much.<br />
<br />
<b>ONLY YOU CAN PREVENT WATER POLLUTION:</b><br />
**** PLEASE PLAN TO BRING A TRASH BAG OR USE YOUR COOLER FOR EMPTIES. SO HELP ME IF YOU LITER WHILE CANOEING I WILL HUNT YOU DOWN AND BEAT YOU WITH YOUR OWN ARMS ***** You've been warned. [Sensing a trend, told you I couldn't stress it enough!]<br />
<br />
<b>10 // SNACKS</b><br />
For short trips, or folks that are always hungry (like me) bringing some snacks on the trip are a must. Try to pick snacks that don't need to be chilled, and that are sturdy. Think Pretzels vs. chips. Chips will get all broken if they get shoved in dry storage and bounced around. Granola bars or Cliff Bars are great snacks to take. Both are dense, keep you full and are really, really good when they have the suns heat baking them, trust me, so good. You could also bring beef jerky or anything else your heart desires that won't perish outside of the cooler.<br />
<br />
<b>11 // MEALS</b><br />
If you're going on a longer trip, think 3-4 or more hours, you may want to think of a meal. Your meal could be as simple as a sandwich with your pretzels or as extravagant as hamburgers. Yes, I said hamburgers. Let's start with the sandwiches. Pick a sturdy bread, you don't have to do this, plain old white bread / wheat bread is fine but keep in mind the longer it sits the longer your condiments are going to soak into the bread. Again be sure to keep your sandwiches cold, especially if you are using mayo. Nothing ruins a float more than a rancid sandwich except maybe a drunken boat buddy.<br />
<br />
Now I say hamburgers because once Mike and I went canoeing for an entire day and he made a makeshift grill using the grate from our grill and some charcoal and branches. I pre made the patties with all the ingredients we needed and we kept it chilled in our cooler. They turned out amazing but it was one hell of a thing to do. Mike is a grill master. If you are a bit nervous brats and hot dogs work well too. Easy to tote a long and the hot dogs cook up in NO time. Just remember to keep your charcoal dry during the trip.<br />
<br />
<b>12 // KOOZIE</b><br />
While this isn't a necessity, it makes for a fun addition to your snacks and refreshment. Mike figured out a way to use a kooz as a drink holder on our kayaks and I love it. Besides keeping your drink cold, it helps you to grip your drink if you have to set it between your legs while you paddle. Even better are the koozies that go around your neck, but I always feel silly wearing those. If you're a mixed drink kind of person a drink around the neck jug with a straw is perfect! Just try to remember to search for a plastic bottle for your booze and your mixers!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7I427YHaJ5h8wD7dzuYzfwm4vmAuvz1JtPMLrM0kN239pZOL_WiQve4AGjdocomKBbhEFkoSx2UrI9XpdYBLFDqff9Bl_j8-peEbgwperMei-0fP5_0RFqq6Nd5vEHpL0WVMUpwaRBQw/s1600/CanoeKayakItems3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7I427YHaJ5h8wD7dzuYzfwm4vmAuvz1JtPMLrM0kN239pZOL_WiQve4AGjdocomKBbhEFkoSx2UrI9XpdYBLFDqff9Bl_j8-peEbgwperMei-0fP5_0RFqq6Nd5vEHpL0WVMUpwaRBQw/s1600/CanoeKayakItems3.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
So you survived the creek/lake/river. Your muscles are screaming, you're head might be aching and for some reason eating 4 Clif Bars suddenly has you feeling a bit queasy. No worries, once you've loaded up your boats, tossed away your trash in the PROPER place you can climb into your vehicle and head home. Hopefully you'll remember when I say this, stash some towels in the pick-up car, or your car if you rented a boat. Your car seats will thank you. I always forget to bring them and I'm sure my leather seats hate me for it. Sometimes you get off the creek and you're burning up, other times you're freezing. Having a nice, car warmed towel after a long trip is heavenly [see I told you]. And they make your car smell fresh if they were just washed and dried.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
So what to do now? You can go home and pass out (like a bitch), or you can invite your friends over for some grilled food and drinks. Usually this is exactly what Mike and I do. We are usually planning our dinner as we float down the creek. I don't know about most people but after a long day out in the sun, paddling left and right, I crave one thing - CARBS! Usually in the form of mac n' cheese or mashed potatoes.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<b>13 // ALOE VERA</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
After you shower you'll realize how much sun your skin has taken on. For the reddest spots you might want to dab on some Aloe. It helps hydrate your parched skin and sometimes even helps from having too much peeling happen later down the line. I swear by this stuff.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<b>14 // BBQ "AFTER FLOAT" ATTIRE</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
COMFORT IS KEY! You've been on the water all day, taking in the sun, the water and the elements. You've been suck in a swim suit that's been tied around your neck, or your manly jewels and you just want to feel relaxed. I always toss on my favorite comfortable pants, or shorts, a loose flowing tank-top or long sleeved t shirt (depending on how much sun I've had) and a pair of super easy flip flops. Doing your hair and make-up at this point is truly optional. I mean these people have seen you all day sweating and they still love you, forgetaboutit.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Now all you have left to do is bring a side dish to the hosts house, sit back relax, chat some more, laugh a lot, stuff your face with grilled goodness and give those muscles in your body a rest.</div>
<br />
<b>CAN'T FLOAT? NO ACCESS TO A KAYAK OR CANOE? NO WORRIES!</b><br />
You can still enjoy the water, just swap the kayak/canoe for a beach chair. Gather your friends, their kids, your dogs and head to the nearest creek, or water way. Set up a day picnic and bring all the stuff I mentioned above. You don't have to float to enjoy the water, although some floats to put in the water, with cup holders would be excellent. Relax and enjoy the rays and your FREE Stay-cation afternoon.<br />
<br />
<b>BEWARE ON LAND OR WATER:</b><br />
Be mindful of Snakes, Turtles, other wildlife - RESPECT NATURE!!!! They are everywhere. Study up on your poisonous varieties and also double check your knowledge on poisonous plants. And leave the critters alone, I don't care how cute they are - would you like someone interrupting your bath session?<br />
<br />
All in all, be safe, have fun and keep your skin protected! I hope this helps anyone wanting to try kayaking or canoeing. I think my next write up should be about camping, what do you think?<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-63419781913156472092014-06-12T12:29:00.000-05:002017-04-25T11:53:03.542-05:00A note to my 17 year old self...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHyCW7vRTCpZAlgeLRpwNa-JmxwFmTcl3_BanYw3-GbbW5yPo7Cb_P-MNxZnY9oeMV1LAkCtni4U2I_pzzWKyHd7mS9bVX_qupbp3N5UvYm7N4VU1Qxl4okhnkS04o6APM3XwDme_pTdc/s1600/LHS-Classof1994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHyCW7vRTCpZAlgeLRpwNa-JmxwFmTcl3_BanYw3-GbbW5yPo7Cb_P-MNxZnY9oeMV1LAkCtni4U2I_pzzWKyHd7mS9bVX_qupbp3N5UvYm7N4VU1Qxl4okhnkS04o6APM3XwDme_pTdc/s1600/LHS-Classof1994.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seriously, this was only yesterday • GO LANCERS • SENIORS!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
20 years ago this week, I stepped onto my high school's football field in front of friends and family, and received my high school diploma. It was bitter sweet. Lots of kids, my husband included, hated high school. The drama, the angst, the bullies, the heartbreaks. Myself? I embraced it all, good, bad and ugly. I was sad on graduation day. I recall crying through the entire ceremony. One lone tear ever few minutes escaping from my left eye only. Of course it would be the eye facing the crowd in the stands, cheering us on. I remember the speeches, although not word for word. I remember the music, although not the actual solo that was sang. I also remember hugging the director of athletics really tight before walking up the steps to the stage. Long story short there was a lot of drama surrounding the dance (pom squad) squad. I was head captain, and my co-captains and I were forced to be coaches as well that year since our actual coach was MIA. He helped a lot and I guess my emotions got the best of me.<br />
<br />
I can remember walking across the stage, praying I wouldn't trip in my white woven flat sandals. I remember getting the faux diploma, and my empty diploma frame case as I walked off stage and I remember walking back to my seat. I always thought it was odd, that we got to walk down the isle with our best friend as our mate, and then we had to separate to sit on opposite sides of the field. I hated that, I wanted to sit by my best friend, not someone I barely knew. It was oriented boy girl / boy girl, so that the rows would be black and red alternating down the line. Girls wore red, boys wore black. I was thankful, I didn't want to sit in that hot summer sun, in a black gown. Girls had to wear white dresses, so they wouldn't show through the red - I was a rebel, mine had a black print on the white - I was full of school spirit (red / black / white). Or maybe it was just because the dress was cute, and not too short - I was still a bit of a tomboy at this point in my life and hated dresses.<br />
<br />
You know the moment when you're supposed to toss your hat? I chickened out. I didn't want to lose MY hat. I waved it up in the air. I remember that the girl one person away from me tossed her hat and then it came down and hit her in the head, and I laughed at her (or with her I guess). Mostly because I always thought she had some secret thing with my boyfriend, maybe she did who knows but that moment felt pretty good. There is a photo of this moment, and my big full belly laugh immortalized in the local newspaper. I still have the clipping, and it still makes me giggle.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEcLekG6xTvLlM7kyZrqXn3n7MGv5OVXLVNGohFn9udMi0uKj5pST4pRvkeGxIzGQJC1vEsArKWDGK8S98M78nwjwy23BcWl4im6Rrc8rsHZllhQGtSDbCvo8xSF91Am53GjKx4azJEP4/s1600/10426712_10154251693755597_5974626355501083156_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEcLekG6xTvLlM7kyZrqXn3n7MGv5OVXLVNGohFn9udMi0uKj5pST4pRvkeGxIzGQJC1vEsArKWDGK8S98M78nwjwy23BcWl4im6Rrc8rsHZllhQGtSDbCvo8xSF91Am53GjKx4azJEP4/s1600/10426712_10154251693755597_5974626355501083156_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sorry for the poor quality • Me and Katie June 1994 • SENIORS!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I remember friends and family flooding the football field to hug and kiss and take photos. My mom and dad didn't take any photos down there on the field with my boyfriend, or my friends or my grandmother who traveled from PA. I always thought that was odd, but we were never a family with photos everywhere in our house. I said good-bye to my pals, and we went home to have lunch and swim and celebrate and so I could pack for SENIOR WEEK.<br />
<br />
I seem to recall us making a brief stop at the "SAFE AND SANE" party for my senior class but we didn't stay. And the next AM one of my best friends Amy and I headed to the beach with our boyfriends for what was really the most boring week at the beach I've ever had...<br />
<br />
Looking at all the new graduates of 2014, I can't help but see myself. After all 20 years ago, which seems like yesterday, I was doing the same thing. Flying full speed into adult hood and thinking I'd never look back and miss it. I was wrong. I thought I'd take time to write my 17 year old self a note, 20 years after graduation, so here goes.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****</div>
<br />
Dear Kelly,<br />
Well, you did it. You've graduated high school. You've survived so much, but I'm here to tell you there is still so much ahead of you. Just want to give you a few hints, and tips to make your future much easier.<br />
<br />
<b>#1 - You really should dump your boyfriend.</b> He's no good for you. So far you've only found out about 2 girls he slept with behind your back, trust me, there are more, but you won't discover all that there were possibly until your about 22, or 23. I'd tell you to get out now, but I know you won't listen. You love him. He was your first love. And as blind as you still are, I get why. I just wish you would have wised up sooner. All I can ask is that you LEARN LESSONS from this. Never trust a dude like him, ever again. (Don't worry you will, and you will get hurt again, it's life).<br />
<br />
<b>#2 - Keep in better touch with Katie. </b>The two of you will lose each other midway through your second year of community college. She's found a great new guy, and fell off the radar, but keep trying to find her, trust me you'll lose precious time. The only bonus is that if this doesn't work, a great invention called Facebook will exist and you will find her again and it will be like time never moved. You'll still love each other and be BESTIES!<br />
<br />
<b>#3 - Trust me, Amy is the keeper</b> - she's a dear friend, a best friend you will never want to let go of. She tells it like it is, and that's what you need. She will be the one person you stay in very close contact with from high school and are still friends with to this day.<br />
<br />
<b>#4 - You and Tammy will be BFF's.</b> Yes, you read that right. I know you think that you hate each other now because your BFF's like the same guy but TRUST ME. When you and Katie lose touch, and you're single again (side note: You and the HS boyfriend DON'T GET MARRIED, thank God that engagement didn't stick! Yeah, he cheats on you again, but this time for good and moves in with the girl RIGHT after telling you, classy right? You don't need that negativity in your life.) Where was I, oh yeah, you're single again - depressed, sad, eventually you start to move on, you start to hang with your girlfriends who are single, Tammy is one of them and her BFF as well. You have the summer of your life. Tammy and you find out you're meant to be pals, and it's epic. She ends up being your Maid of Honor in your wedding - can you believe it? Oh yeah, you get married, more on that later!<br />
<br />
<b>#5 - Heartbreak</b> - you're going to have a lot of it and you will also be the heart breaker as well. Just go easy on yourself. And the other guys would you?<br />
<br />
<b>#6 - Speaking of heartbreak, be prepared at age 19</b>, your parents are going to split up, this is going to directly happen at the same time you and the HS boyfriend/fiance break up. Your mom is going to be very frank with you, and tell you that "Boys are like buses, a new one comes a long every 15 minutes." You take this hard, like she doesn't care about you, but she does. She always loves you, more than herself. She just had a lot on her mind with the split from your father. Try your best NOT to let this hurt your relationship... you'll lose precious time.<br />
<br />
<b>#7 - You have a rough time with this break up, and this divorce</b>, but you will realize 1 thing, your father is the coolest dude ever. You were never close because he always worked but once forced to live together without your mom, you realize how much you've missed out on. Maybe try to foster that relationship sooner, before the fall out ok? You are bitter with your mom, but please realize, it has nothing to do with you, only them, even though you feel abandoned. Remember you're 19, not 5!<br />
<br />
<b>#8 - The summer before your 21st birthday</b> will be one of your favorites. While the divorce sucks ass, your mom has moved to NC. She's taken up a temp home right near where your beach house is. You are working every other weekend, and working 3 jobs, just to stay busy... thankfully every other weekend you have off. You will spend your weekends off between OC Maryland hanging with Tammy (who moved there to work for the summer) and then NC to visit your mom! Talk about a great tan, and tons of miles on your Eclipse. Please note you also at this time move in with your friend Stephanie and her brother for the summer. Looking back it was fun but you should probably spend more time at home, with your father. I worry he felt abandoned even though he won't say so. Remember he's everything to you.<br />
<br />
<b>#9 - Remember when I said time was important.</b> Soon you will discover after a few years of divorce that your mom's doctor has discovered she has lung cancer. All the time in the world you thought you had, is slowly going away. Don't take it for granted. She will go into remission, and it will be joyous, but soon after that, she will decline and you will lose the most important woman in your life, forever. She's still with you in spirit but those nights when you lay awake and wonder how the hell she made her famous spaghetti sauce, no one can tell you. And those days when you freak out because you're 32 and haven't had a kid yet, and that's the magical age, because that's when she had you... she won't be there to walk you through it, you'll have to remind yourself that in due time you will have kids. She'll also be able to tell you stuff you never thought to ask.. but now she can't. CHERISH WHAT YOU HAVE WHEN YOU HAVE IT and please ask her questions before she goes. Lastly, remember to look for the Amish Butter print Pyrex bowls when you collect items from her home, I still kick myself for missing those. Lastly, that day when you rushed to leave, when she was getting better in the hospital, please stay at least another hour. Work will wait, she won't. You lost her three days later. I wish you would stay longer and hold her, and talk.<br />
<br />
<b>#10 - Boys will come and go, but your girls are forever.</b> I never realized that until I was older. I always was so close with guys, and not girls. I've come to learn that my best friends span my life. QUALITY OVER QUANTITY.<br />
<br />
<b>#11 - Remember I told you this, when you're clubbing with friends you are always the DD.</b> Thanks for being responsible and safe, but there is one night that you're going to try to stop a drunken friend from driving - do so <b>verbally</b> not physically. Trust me on this, please don't end up as road kill and toted off the hospital in the ambulance with a head injury, ok? Don't worry you and that bitch aren't friends anymore.<br />
<br />
<b>#12 - I'm sure you're wondering about marriage again.</b> Be patient, that's my biggest lesson to tell you.<br />
<br />
<b>#13 - College is a blast - enjoy it.</b> And for the love of Pete get off your damn cell phone and enjoy time with your friends and roommates. Stop being so up your boyfriend's asses! And really, can you start noticing the signs that possessive guys are the worst! You will only live away from home for your junior semester of college, try to enjoy it with your roomies! Those girls are amazing and you didn't' get nearly enough time with them!!!! (Stop going home for the weekend so much!)<br />
<br />
<b>#14 - You graduate college with 2 degrees!</b> AA: Early Childhood Development, and BS: Graphic Design/Creative Arts. I know your entire school career in HS you were sick of always being grounded for bad grades, but then you applied yourself and got great grades, KUDOS! You will keep this up through college, you will realize that it's important and then it will become a competition with friends to get great grades. Who is this nerd? It's you! Embrace it!<br />
<br />
<b>#15 - The internet is invented.</b> Holy shit I feel old saying that. But it's a great tool to meet new people. You meet a boyfriend in a chatroom, and eventually move to Florida for 6 months. The hardest 6 months of your life. You've never had to fight that much with a boyfriend (possessive issues). After that 6 months I really wish you would let him go. I know you love his friends but seriously, let him go. You dated for almost 6 years, long distance by the way, insane. You are so stubborn.<br />
<br />
<b>#16 - At the end of the 6 months you'll be bored one night, home alone in FL</b> - and in a Maryland chat room, you'll start talking to someone who has the same interests as you, and become fast friends. Once you move home you both decide it's time to meet in person, because Weezer is doing a show locally and you want to go - so why not go together. You set a date to meet and hang out close to college, I mean who knows if you could end up dead in this guy's basement, right?<br />
<br />
<b>#17 - You set the date for lunch to be September 10, 2011</b>. You have a great day, have lunch this guy becomes one of your best college friends and you go to lots of shows together. You're still friends. AND he teaches you how to snowboard. He's friends with your husband, but was never friends with the ex from Florida. That's telling you something. He was a bit smarter than you and saw signs way before you did, just saying.<br />
<br />
<b>#18 - You remember the date of when you met clearly</b> because well, September 11, 2011 was the next day. You'll learn soon enough why that date is so tragic and significant to history, and your life.<br />
<br />
<b>#19 - Myspace is invented </b>- what a cool concept, you're immediately hooked. Finding friends from all over. On random nights you'll do searches for random people, read profiles, stalk friends, and just enjoy the entire website. One night you find a photo of an attractive guy, his screen name is AC/DC, and he reminds you of Johnny Knoxville. You're immediately curious and read his ENTIRE profile and comments in one sitting. You finally work up the nerve to message him, saying he has great taste in music, and keep it light. After all you're still dating the dude from Florida... and he's moved to Maryland to live with a friend of yours, and it's not going well but still you're in a relationship and care about the guy. AC/DC messages you back, and you start messaging daily. Friendly, nothing over the top, he has a girlfriend too, so it's ok.<br />
<br />
After about 4-6 weeks of talking, chatting, you eventually talk on the phone. You realize quickly you're falling for this guy, and you start to feel awful. Most nights falling asleep he's the last thing you think about, and the first when you wake up in the morning. It's a wake up call about how miserable you really are in your love life. <br />
<br />
Myspace and the internet opened you up to a lot of new friends with common interests, and after one night of heading out with some new friends from a car forum you were apart of, you have a blast, you finally meet dear pals in person like <a href="http://runsaltrun.com/" target="_blank">Salt</a> of Run Salt Run and others. You have a blast, smile the whole night - and find yourself talking about Myspace guy to them all. You go home feeling on cloud 9. Your boyfriend comes by, he had been at a bachelor party for a mutual friend... the accusations of flirting with dudes at your meet up start, the fight begins, and finally the words come out of his mouth... "Do you want to break up with me?" and for the first time in your life you finally answer honestly to this question (because you've had these fights multi pal times before) and you will say... 'Yeah, I am.' He storms out, and you realize your shoulders feel 100 lbs. lighter. You followed your gut for once, and it was relief. Final good-byes will be said about a week later to him, at a friends BBQ - you will cry on the stoop because of guilt and hurting someone, your pal Tammy you never thought you would have as a BFF, holds you and hugs you. She'll also be the person in a few weeks from this date, that will help you plan a road trip, to Alabama to meet Mr. AC/DC in person. [Be warned, this ex, will pass away in a terrible motorcycle accident many years later after your break-up, and it will be awful and, extremely sad. This also tells you not to take things for granted, and to make peace before losing people you've known]. This is getting very Debbie Downer, trust me there are rainbows in the future!].<br />
<br />
<b>#20 - You finally find your prince </b>- I won't give it all away, it's too fun to experience for the first time but this Mike guy, Mr. AC/DC - he's your future. You'll find him, love him, he'll love you, and you'll move to Alabama after only dating for about 6 months. To be fair you'll be dear friends for over a year before taking the "official girlfriend title" but you will love the ride, no matter how crazy it makes you. You will love fully, you will not worry about a safety net and you will find out sooner vs. later that you will be meant for each other. You will make great friends a long the way that he will introduce you to, and you will eventually walk down the isle together!!!! And all those girls I told you to trust, and ones that have come into your life, will all be there on your special day standing next to you, along with other quality friends you've made over the years. <br />
<br />
Promise me something though... about a month or two before the big tornado storms in Alabama that rip through Tuscaloosa hit in 2011 - please don't drink too much and cause a scene in the parking lot at the bar about not being married yet to Mr. Myspace. IT"S REALLY embarrassing... and trust me everything happens in due time and when it's meant to!<br />
<br />
<b>#21 - Lastly... maybe check the weather before planning your honeymoon!</b><br />
<br />
In closing - trust your instincts, stop ignoring your gut and realize that all the happy times and the shit you go through growing up, are all apart of life. You are stronger for going through all you have, and I wouldn't change that - just promise me you'll take time to appreciate all you have in front of you when it's right in front of you!!! And lastly, don't doubt yourself, you rock!!! And thank you for realizing that life isn't just about finding a man to settle down with, or having babies, they are great achievements but you've got so much more to accomplish before that!!!<br />
<br />
Congratulations for graduating high school!!! Enjoy the ride, it's all up hill from here, but it's one hell of a journey!!!<br />
<br />
P.S. Hydrate more before going out for the night, you'll thank me in the morning!<br />
<br />
P.S.S. I'm very happy you stopped perming your hair - maybe get a time machine so you can NEVER do it to your hair, EVER!!!! Also, don't let anyone highlight your hair - it never turns out right.<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-62028965147824116952014-05-30T09:29:00.003-05:002017-04-25T11:53:25.816-05:00A Night With Pearl Jam<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ1MOPOyeYhITGJ5yzreDv652fWXqYvFMSay483Fj6sBkqz-fblihkiJ7NZSVbdDHibtsGfigtI_dtDHEXE3Z4GCgHxbXXCkt4thdmmS_PI9i5dpr4oFwc5a0i-KWtREpuLrTXiE9okCc/s1600/PearlJam-new-FULL-2013.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ1MOPOyeYhITGJ5yzreDv652fWXqYvFMSay483Fj6sBkqz-fblihkiJ7NZSVbdDHibtsGfigtI_dtDHEXE3Z4GCgHxbXXCkt4thdmmS_PI9i5dpr4oFwc5a0i-KWtREpuLrTXiE9okCc/s1600/PearlJam-new-FULL-2013.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://jpsmusicblog.blogspot.com/2013/10/concert-review-pearl-jam-performs-epic.html" target="_blank">via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I'm not trying to brag, but I'm going to go ahead and brag. My husband rocks. The week before our 3rd Wedding Anniversary he and I will be heading to Memphis for the evening to see Pearl Jam!!! I'm so stoked. Mike is a Ten Club member, and put his name in the running for either Pit General Admission, or Reserved Seating lotteries. After a few long days of watching our chances, we finally got the information that we had indeed won PIT AREA TICKETS!!!! I'm over the moon excited. This will be our second anniversary spent with the dudes of Pearl Jam - which is fitting since we indeed share the same anniversary as they do, as a band.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLJfBShvS2w_UBUzj9N8uA4RUeBv06d4vcU6goWRSuAwImo0GqSf22UTZeY8FVd9giGK8g-6sy7H8OxfFAhoFNnrBwN7-reTlTUyRHNAVKJbUxlRqqTur-cwry0nb-d9yshtF1YWczZEs/s1600/PearlJamSeats.tif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLJfBShvS2w_UBUzj9N8uA4RUeBv06d4vcU6goWRSuAwImo0GqSf22UTZeY8FVd9giGK8g-6sy7H8OxfFAhoFNnrBwN7-reTlTUyRHNAVKJbUxlRqqTur-cwry0nb-d9yshtF1YWczZEs/s1600/PearlJamSeats.tif" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via <a href="http://ticketmaster.com/">ticketmaster.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I hope we can worm our way close enough to snag a swig of Eddie's wine that he so often shares with the crowd. And/or maybe snag a drum stick, or even a guitar pic, but the most important thing is that I will be there with my husband, who's the biggest Pearl Jam fan I know, and swaying to the music of one of my all time favorite bands, ever. Bonus, Mike's Aunt and Uncle are going to try to snag tickets and come hang with us all the way from Cali for the show! SCORE!<br />
<br />
The only other show I'd rather be at, vs. this one, would be their 10/22 Anniversary show in Denver, Colorado. As I said, that is our anniversary too and that would have been epic! However, seeing as how we just purchased a new home (more on that later), and have to be responsible adults, we opted for going to a date closer to home. Our other idea was Austin City Limits where PJ will headline both weekends, BUT... again, being responsible and lucky, having PJ come to the South is really a treat, they don't get down this way often.<br />
<br />
SO I'm anxious for October but I'm going to try not to rush the summer!!! I'm still waiting to hear about Music Midtown this year, and ComicCon line-ups. Yes ladies n' gents I'm a big ole' music and pop culture geek!<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-87268611250881633412014-03-20T09:46:00.006-05:002017-04-25T11:54:24.657-05:00to thine own self be true, but thou shan't be a doucheSometimes you find an article and it really makes you think. Sometimes you want to share that article with your readers, even if your readership is only currently dwindling to maybe 10 active people max. Who cares right, at least I get my message out to 10 people. And they'll tell 10 more people, and those 10 people will tell more people, and so on, and so on. Where was I? <br />
<br />
Today in my Bloglovin' list was an article from my new favorite blogging website <a href="http://sweatpantsandcoffee.com/" target="_blank">Coffee and Sweatpants</a>. I'm totally in love with all the articles they post, especially the <a href="http://sweatpantsandcoffee.com/?s=supernatural" target="_blank">Supernatural Recaps</a> (yes I'm that girl). It's almost like a female geek domain and I adore it. Don't pigeon hole them into just that though there's lots of great uplifting stories.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM9KvoDryYBtcdcNM4xWYmHJ6JE38gHBm5_NCtFqkGruP0HyXtYQtKna1KIjLF9gpAlLJcOoR8kv8VXD7U3Ztl-t2FP8DKpxY77OXGSOcfwx6E1a62V2a_-nOYTl_hmGdh6yfVXNXqC7U/s1600/Unless-You-Suck-600x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM9KvoDryYBtcdcNM4xWYmHJ6JE38gHBm5_NCtFqkGruP0HyXtYQtKna1KIjLF9gpAlLJcOoR8kv8VXD7U3Ztl-t2FP8DKpxY77OXGSOcfwx6E1a62V2a_-nOYTl_hmGdh6yfVXNXqC7U/s1600/Unless-You-Suck-600x400.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via <a href="http://sweatpantsandcoffee.com/inspiration/why-accepting-yourself-doesnt-give-you-license-to-be-a-douchebag/" target="_blank">Coffee and Sweatpants</a> • I AM A TOTAL JOSS WHEDON FANGIRL!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I read this article today <a href="http://sweatpantsandcoffee.com/inspiration/why-accepting-yourself-doesnt-give-you-license-to-be-a-douchebag/" target="_blank">Why Accepting Yourself Doesn't Give You License To Be A Douche Bag</a>. It's so true and so on point. Why do people think that just because they let their freak flag fly, they're better than anyone else. Furthermore, where did all this sense of entitlement come from? It's horrible.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>"Being yourself doesn’t mean walking around without a filter or disregarding the feelings or boundaries of others. That’s not being yourself; that’s being a toddler." <a href="http:///" target="_blank">via</a></i></b></span></blockquote>
Take time if you like and check out the article. It really resinated with me so I thought I'd pass it on to all of you!<br />
<br />
In other news... <b>Happy First Day of Spring Everyone</b>!!! Hope you're as excited as I am. If you're in the North East I'm no longer jealous of your snow, and I'm sorry it's still cold there. And I'm sorry that I'm just over here enjoying the 60 degree temps and my windows down in the Jeep, yo!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s1300.photobucket.com/user/kittenfantastico76/media/get%20animated/superexcitedkiddo_zps34b9d159.gif.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="excited baby photo superexcitedkiddo_zps34b9d159.gif" border="0" src="http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag81/kittenfantastico76/get%20animated/superexcitedkiddo_zps34b9d159.gif" height="325" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this gif always makes my day - so happy!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-55398649251122285512014-03-13T15:15:00.001-05:002017-04-25T11:54:59.033-05:00Things you can't unlearn.<center>
<a href="http://s1300.photobucket.com/user/kittenfantastico76/media/get%20animated/parents_zps5915b5c3.gif.html" target="_blank"><img alt="parents photo parents_zps5915b5c3.gif" border="0" src="http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag81/kittenfantastico76/get%20animated/parents_zps5915b5c3.gif" height="334" width="640" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
OK, here's the situation<br />
My parents went away for a weeks vacation and<br />
They left the keys to the brand new Porsche<br />
Will they mind? Mmm well of course not.<br />
<br />
I'll just take it for a little spin and maybe show it off to a couple of friends<br />
I'll just cruise around the neighborhood,<br />
Well maybe I shouldn't,<br />
Yeah of course I should.<br />
<br />
Pay attention here's the thick of the plot<br />
I pulled up to the corner on the end of my block<br />
Just when I saw this beautiful girlie girl walking<br />
I picked up my car phone to perpetrate like I was talking<br />
<br />
You should have seen this girls bodily dimensions<br />
I honked my horn just to get her attention<br />
She "Was that for me?"<br />
I said "Yeah!"<br />
She said "Why?"<br />
I said Come on and take ride with a hell of a guy<br />
<br />
She said "How do I know you're not sick, you could be some deranged lunatic."<br />
I said "Come on toots my name is the Prince besides, would a lunatic have a Porsche like this?"<br />
<br />
She agreed and we were on our way<br />
She was looking very good so as I must say - WORD!<br />
We hit McDonlad's pulled into the drive we ordered 2 Big Macs, 2 Large Fries with Cokes<br />
<br />
She kicked her shoes off on to the floor she said "Drive fast speed turns me on!"<br />
She put her hand on my knee, I put my foot on the gas<br />
We almost got whiplash we took off so fast.<br />
<br />
The sun roof was open the music was high<br />
and this girls hand was steadily moving up my thigh<br />
She had opened up three buttons on her shirt so far<br />
I guess that's why I didn't notice that police car.<br />
<br />
We're doing 90 in my mom's new Porsche and to make this long story short, short<br />
When the cops pulled me over I was scared as hell I said...<br />
"I don't have a license but I drive very well officer!"<br />
<br />
I almost had a heart attack that day<br />
Come to find that the girl was a 12 year old run away<br />
I was arrested, the car was impounded<br />
There was no way for me to avoid being grounded<br />
<br />
My parents had to come off of vacation and get me<br />
I'd rather be in jail than to have my father hit me<br />
They came in and I got my grip I said...<br />
"Mom! Dad! How was your trip!"<br />
<br />
They didn't speak I said "I wanna plead my case!"<br />
But my father just shoved me in the car by my face<br />
It was a hard ride home, I don't know how I survived<br />
They took turns one would beat me while the other was driving<br />
<br />
I can't believe I just made a mistake<br />
Well, parents are the same no matter time nor place<br />
So to you other kids all across the land<br />
Take it from me Parents Just Don't Understand....<br />
<br />
---<br />
Can we just discuss that I didn't look this up, and I typed this freehand word for word. How the HELL is that I can remember all of this information from The Fresh Prince and DJ Jazzy Jeff but I can't for the life of me remember important dates in American History???<br />
<br />
I could literally rap the entire song, add to that Summertime - forget it I can rap that too. My mother always said that she wished all my studies in school were rap songs because I'd get straight A's. And it's true.<br />
<br />
Seriously folks, how is it that I can free style type all of this, and I haven't heard the song in AGES and still remember it, but I can't remember simple items on a grocery list?<br />
<br />
That being said - I always loved this song because my parents both owned Porsche's when I was growing up. (Not bragging, my father busted his ass, and my momma did too, in order to afford the nice things they wanted in life). I always had this little mini dream of sneaking a drive in them when they were out of town, but thanks to Will Smith and his rap, I learned a valuable lesson and I never got arrested, wrecked my parents cards or picked up 12 year old runaways - Hell I never even sat behind the wheel in either of those vehicles.<br />
<br />
"THE MORE YOU KNOW!"<br />
<br />
There was no real point to this - only that I had it in my head, wanted to get it out and wanted to see how much of this I remembered without looking it up. I'm totally impressed with myself, and yet still disappointed that I forgot to purchase croutons at the store. Lame!<br />
<br />
P.S. How is it that his momma takes him to go shopping for school clothing at what seems to be a thrift store, but her ass just bought a brand new Porsche and went on vacation??<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-46884496630295352222014-03-12T09:56:00.003-05:002017-04-25T11:55:21.552-05:00Spring is trying to get SprungThe weather here in Alabama is always unpredictable, to say the least. Yesterday we had an amazing high of about 76 degrees, sunshine, a mild breeze - literally perfection made by Mother Nature. This morning, the weather is in the 60's, with a chance of rain, and a forecast that calls for the temps to drop in the 30's this evening. BOO! You really can't set anything in stone when it comes to the weather here, but with that being said Spring is trying her hardest to get sprung.<br />
<br />
Mike and I took our first walk of the season around our hood last night with June (or dog), and it was so enjoyable. I noticed I felt less winded, and that made me happy. I've sort of fallen off the P90X3 wagon, it's been a week and 2 days since I've worked out, SHAME SHAME! I know. The time change has tossed me for a loop and laziness has set in. I am going to get back on that horse next week for sure.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Spring FEVER!</span></b></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ-ZT9fJq2-Sttamf7yXu3TaZqzwC8Zif7fxfe4Ll75XiHlJQNz9Sn1vNcpPXRHo_XRFRqQYI3_TODelRn9FyMyXvfaRS4MLjkJLkJQXFUkvP_6NdDp0J3XP_kA9AZKb469Cs00amor4s/s1600/00d447fea70d11e3b39d12b0d45f6887_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ-ZT9fJq2-Sttamf7yXu3TaZqzwC8Zif7fxfe4Ll75XiHlJQNz9Sn1vNcpPXRHo_XRFRqQYI3_TODelRn9FyMyXvfaRS4MLjkJLkJQXFUkvP_6NdDp0J3XP_kA9AZKb469Cs00amor4s/s1600/00d447fea70d11e3b39d12b0d45f6887_8.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via <a href="http://instagram.com/jamofpearls" target="_blank">Mike's Instagram</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm happy the earth is waking up again - I'm completely suffering from spring fever. This past Saturday it hit hard. The weather was amazing and the only cure was day drinking on the patio at our favorite new place to eat in town. I'm happy to say it was the first Saturday that the NEW patio was open and we broke it in right. We got there at opening, and spent nearly 4 hours chatting with our friends and soaking in the sun, breeze and lots of booze. It was glorious.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRLQMgGGk-JRKo-lIX-qndOQxJNjefBQEHOKuzoRHn05FMFpYxeGaNCPEKDsZOaitROnRYPcmLFtnILRx4_XmbhDUZfMOaCqnIDs_fddZAQLmGH4iBCghOEmTAOE43WgiAfXFduIpXEzo/s1600/16fe2faca6ec11e3afd412824b243569_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRLQMgGGk-JRKo-lIX-qndOQxJNjefBQEHOKuzoRHn05FMFpYxeGaNCPEKDsZOaitROnRYPcmLFtnILRx4_XmbhDUZfMOaCqnIDs_fddZAQLmGH4iBCghOEmTAOE43WgiAfXFduIpXEzo/s1600/16fe2faca6ec11e3afd412824b243569_8.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via <a href="http://instagram.com/turnedup2eleven" target="_blank">my instagram</a><br />
check out that sweet ass logo, designed by yours truly - and the sweet ass menu designed by <a href="http://jamofpearls.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Mike</a>!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After a mid afternoon nap fest, the evening was spent with our dear friend AK hanging on her patio and sipping on some more beverages, conversating the night away and I'm happy to say getting nature in on an early high point of the season was a success.<br />
<br />
Then the time change hit and while I love having the SUN at 5:00 pm for my ride home, I miss that hour of sleep I lost!<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-8188105737875060842014-03-04T10:01:00.002-06:002017-04-25T11:55:58.129-05:00loving lemon.Right now, I'm loving lemon. No, not Liz Lemon, although I love that woman more than life can say.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://s1300.photobucket.com/user/kittenfantastico76/media/get%20animated/LizRunning_zps3fab80b6.gif.html" target="_blank"><img alt="YEAHHHH photo LizRunning_zps3fab80b6.gif" border="0" src="http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag81/kittenfantastico76/get%20animated/LizRunning_zps3fab80b6.gif" /></a></center>
<br />
I'm talking about fresh, squeezed lemons. It's amazing what a big difference a little change can make. For weeks, or maybe even months I keep reading about the benefits of drinking fresh squeezed lemon in your water. Not just your ice water but also hot lemon water in the mornings. For added health benefits and overall wellness. Mike is a huge fan of lemon in his ice water. I'm still not sold on it. Yes, I like it, but I don't like it when I'm eating. If we are at a restaurant it's easier to just both order our water with lemon, I then give him my slice when his runs out of flavor. Note: We get refills a lot through our meal - we are water fiends.<br />
<br />
For the past few days - I've been taking some time to fix myself a cup of hot lemon water. I usually workout in the morning so the last thing on my mind is often a hot cup of anything. Usually I'm still battling leftover sweats even after getting out of the shower. I probably should take more time to cool down but time is limited in the morning. I try to give myself ample time to stop sweating before applying my make-up but there isn't always time. (TIME... just thought I'd drive that word home, I need a thesaurus). The kicker, when I put on moisturizer it gets worse, especially when there's sunblock. Where was I? You'd didn't come here to read about me sweating in the morning did you?<br />
<br />
So yeah, I make myself a fresh cup of lemon water. It's pretty simple. I know a lot of people will boil water to make this like they would tea, but I don't have time to think that far ahead in the morning. OK I have time, but I don't want to. Instead I use my <a href="http://www.keurig.com/march-spring-sale?cm_mmc=pdsch-_-HQ-_-gog-_-HQ_Trademark-Core&utm_source=gog&utm_medium=pdsch&utm_term=HQ&utm_campaign=HQ_Trademark-Core" target="_blank">Keurig</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://res.mindbodygreen.com/img/ftr/LemonWater-start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://res.mindbodygreen.com/img/ftr/LemonWater-start.jpg" height="401" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://res.mindbodygreen.com/img/ftr/LemonWater-start.jpg" target="_blank">via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Making Lemon Water using my Keurig...</b></span><br />
<ul>
<li>Get your favorite coffee mug, and squeeze in some fresh lemon. I've seen some people use half of a lemon, but since I'm still new at this and working my way up the ladder I take 1-2 slices (disc shaped like shown above) and squeeze the juice into my cup.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Turn on the Keurig and get annoyed that it takes "forever" to heat up. Wait for the little mug lights to pop on to tell you it's ready.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Trick your Keurig into thinking you're making a mug of joe by opening the compartment where you set your instant tea or coffee cup and then shut it. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Wait for the coffee size lights to light up and flash - then choose the amount of water you'd like to add to your lemon juice.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The machine will go through it's cycle and then shoot out hot water for you to enjoy with your lemon juice. Simple, right?</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Enjoy.</li>
</ul>
<div>
I usually do this after I take a shower, before I've eaten anything (and usually after my workout) sipping on it while I'm doing my make-up. I usually brush my teeth first, if you have sensitive teeth maybe wait to brush after you finish your lemon water.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm not a fan of REALLY hot drinks, I usually wait for my coffee to cool a bit, or my tea, and same goes for this - it's still warm but I can sip it without worrying I'm going to burn my mouth.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">****</span></b> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">10 Benefits of Drinking </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Warm Lemon Water Every Morning</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b> <a href="http://tasty-yummies.com/2013/03/18/10-benefits-to-drinking-warm-lemon-water-every-morning/" target="_blank">via Tasty Yummies</a> (side note: I'm currently obsessed with this blog)</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 1.571em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">1) <b style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Aids Digestion.</b> Lemon juice flushes out unwanted materials and toxins from the body. It’s atomic composition is similar to saliva and the hydrochloric acid of digestive juices. It encourages the liver to produce bile which is an acid that is required for digestion. Lemons are also high in minerals and vitamins and help loosen ama, or toxins, in the digestive tract. The digestive qualities of lemon juice help to relieve symptoms of indigestion, such as heartburn, belching and bloating. The American Cancer Society actually recommends offering warm lemon water to cancer sufferers to help stimulate bowel movements.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 1.571em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">2) <b style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Cleanses Your System / is a Diuretic.</b> Lemon juice helps flush out unwanted materials in part because lemons increase the rate of urination in the body. Therefore toxins are released at a faster rate which helps keep your urinary tract healthy. The citric acid in lemons helps maximize enzyme function, which stimulates the liver and aids in detoxification.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1.571em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">3) <b style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Boosts Your Immune System.</b> Lemons are high in vitamin C, which is great for fighting colds. They’re high in potassium, which stimulates brain and nerve function. Potassium also helps control blood pressure. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) found in lemons demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects, and is used as complementary support for asthma and other respiratory symptoms plus it enhances iron absorption in the body; iron plays an important role in immune function. Lemons also contain saponins, which show antimicrobial properties that may help keep cold and flu at bay. Lemons also reduce the amount of phlegm produced by the body.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 1.571em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
4) <b style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Balances pH Levels</b>. Lemons are one of the most alkalizing foods for the body. Sure, they are acidic on their own, but inside our bodies they’re alkaline (the citric acid does not create acidity in the body once metabolized). Lemons contain both citric and ascorbic acid, weak acids easily metabolized from the body allowing the mineral content of lemons to help alkalize the blood. Disease states only occur when the body pH is acidic. Drinking lemon water regularly can help to remove overall acidity in the body, including uric acid in the joints, which is one of the primary causes of pain and inflammation.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1.571em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
5) <b style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Clears Skin.</b> The vitamin C component as well as other antioxidants helps decrease wrinkles and blemishes and it helps to combat free radical damage. Vitamin C is vital for healthy glowing skin while its alkaline nature kills some types of bacteria known to cause acne. It can actually be applied directly to scars or age spots to help reduce their appearance. Since lemon water purges toxins from your blood, it would also be helping to keep your skin clear of blemishes from the inside out. The vitamin C contained in the lemon rejuvenates the skin from within your body.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1.571em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
6) <b style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Energizes You and Enhances Your Mood.</b> The energy a human receives from food comes from the atoms and molecules in your food. A reaction occurs when the positive charged ions from food enter the digestive tract and interact with the negative charged enzymes. Lemon is one of the few foods that contain more negative charged ions, providing your body with more energy when it enters the digestive tract. The scent of lemon also has mood enhancing and energizing properties. The smell of lemon juice can brighten your mood and help clear your mind. Lemon can also help reduce anxiety and depression.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1.571em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
7) <b style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Promotes Healing.</b> Ascorbic acid (vitamin C), found in abundance in lemons, promotes wound healing, and is an essential nutrient in the maintenance of healthy bones, connective tissue, and cartilage. As noted previously, vitamin C also displays anti-inflammatory properties. Combined, vitamin C is an essential nutrient in the maintenance of good health and recovery from stress and injury.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1.571em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
8) <b style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Freshens Breath.</b> Besides fresher breath, lemons have been known to help relieve tooth pain and gingivitis. Be aware that citric acid can erode tooth enamel, so you should be mindful of this. No not brush your teeth just after drinking your lemon water. It is best to brush your teeth first, then drink your lemon water, or wait a significant amount of time after to brush your teeth. Additionally, you can rinse your mouth with purified water after you finish your lemon water.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1.571em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
9) <b style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Hydrates Your Lymph System.</b> Warm water and lemon juice supports the immune system by hydrating and replacing fluids lost by your body. When your body is deprived of water, you can definitely feel the side effects, which include: feeling tired, sluggish, decreased immune function, constipation, lack of energy, low/high blood pressure, lack of sleep, lack of mental clarity and feeling stressed, just to name a few.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1.571em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
10) <b style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Aids in Weight Loss.</b> Lemons are high in pectin fiber, which helps fight hunger cravings. Studies have shown people who maintain a more alkaline diet, do in fact lose weight faster. I personally find myself making better choices throughout the day, if I start my day off right, by making a health conscious choice to drink warm lemon water first thing every morning.</div>
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">****</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">I am honestly not sure if all this is true - but it's a really simple thing to do in the morning AND why not try right? It's been two days and I have NO complaints. I guess I'll check back and let you know how it goes after continued sipping. Cheers to see if this will help all of the above!!!</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>What have you tweaked or changed in your daily routine to make your health a little better?</i></span></b></div>
<br />
<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" />
Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2220506856849781857.post-86924281334815260702014-03-03T15:38:00.001-06:002017-04-25T11:56:21.043-05:00things we do / don't doIn our lives there are things we do, and things we don't do. It's a personal choice and one I'm really thankful I have in this life... so I thought I'd make a list of things Mike and I DO and DON'T DO...<br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">THINGS WE <u>DO</u></span></b><br />
<ul>
<li><b>Purchase as much as we can from local shops vs. the big box stores</b>. Supporting local businesses is what helps your local economy. Win/Win right? For every dollar spent in a local establishment that isn't a chain you're are most likely going to find that money will filter back from that business into your own community. Spending money at big box stores and chains and usually guarantee that you will spend money there, that money goes back to the employees pockets who will then most likely get a huge discount and then spend it back at the same company and that money goes into the big company's higher up's pockets in another town, in another state, far, far away from your little town center. BUY LOCAL!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>We Recycle </b>(Paper, plastic and aluminum) - if there was an option to recycle glass we'd be the biggest supporter of that in our area. I mean, all the <strike>beer</strike> <strike>wine</strike> <strike>booze </strike>soda we drink, we'd do so much for the environment if we could stop tossing those bottles in the trash. Seriously there is only so much DIY you can do with beer and wine bottles people! </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Eat Vegan</b> as much as possible until 6:00 pm (<a href="http://markbittman.com/i-answer-frequently-asked-questions-about-vb6/" target="_blank">VB6 diet</a>). It feels amazing to not be weight down, or slowed down by meat and dairy. I always thought it was total BS but I am a true believer now. Just don't take away my bacon yet, ok? We usually have meat at dinner. Truth is during the day I don't miss it and often times I opt to eat a vegetarian meal at dinner. If I can still have cheese I'm happy. Every once in a while I will revert to NEEDING meat. It's happy medium. Eating less meat is better for the environment too but I won't get into all that right now.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Enjoy the great outdoors. </b>Winter is rough (mentally) here in Alabama. Until recently I didn't know there were ski slopes in the area, I may need to take full advantage of that next year. I hate that the weather here is cold, bone chilling cold and wet, with little or no snow (last month's "blizzard" for AL and GA not included). I <u>need</u> snow in the winter, it makes me happy. So while this girl hates to sweat I'm itching for Spring and kayaking and camping again.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Watch LOTS of TV and MOVIES.</b> I'm ok with this. Some might say it rots your brains (that's what my parents always told me), but I think it stimulates my mind. Maybe not as much as reading a book would, but I'll be honest, Netflix is my BFF right now. Between that and Hulu I'm a happy camper.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>We don't use cable TV.</b> We cut cable quite a bit ago and neither of us has missed it since. We still get basic local channels, and have internet but literally other than 2 shows on CW we watch NOTHING live, unless it's a football game. Everything was DVR for us, and we slowly made the choice to switch and haven't looked back.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>We collect vinyl.</b> We've been doing this for years. When I first moved in with Mike he had a few albums and I brought mine from home, given to me by my father. Together that totaled maybe 30-40 records. He had a great turntable given to him from a co-worker, that worked so well. We've since amped up our collection bordering on over 100 different albums and upgraded our record player as well. I'm happy to have something to get me jazzed about searching for music again. I feel like a teenager again when searching for vinyl, even though I just used the term jazzed which I'm pretty sure my nearly 70 year old dad wouldn't even say (he's too cool for that).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Spend frugally. </b> We try our best not to over spend for anything. Clothing, groceries, shoes, etc. That doesn't mean we don't treat ourselves from time to time. I am also learning that if I want a quality product, or say something I want to last a very long time, that I need to save my money and make a large purchase (say for a nice pair of boots) - that will last me for years to come.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>We like to day drink.</b> And we honestly like to drink period. I don't drink nearly as much as I used to. Usually one night a week, on the weekends. We may have a bottle of wine on Thursdays (TV night). And sometimes we'll have a few drinks on a Saturday afternoon. Since I've been back on the workout wagon, I realize I can't drink a lot on Friday night and function through a workout the next day. Both acts will hinder any progress I might make. I'm mindful and think it's OK to unwind with a few stiff drinks. Who's with me?</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>We don't discuss politics with family.</b> Or at least we try not to. Usually because most of us don't see eye to eye on most issues.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>We believe Love is Love.</b> PERIOD!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>We try to be as positive as we can.</b> To BE THE GOOD in the world. But let's be honest sometimes we're negative, cynical, and sometimes down right sarcastic as hell. It's just who we are.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>THINGS WE <u>DON'T</u> DO</b></span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><b>Shop at HELL-mart.</b> Aka the big W. It's a personal choice, one I constantly hear people say they can't always make. "The food is so much cheaper at Wally World." or "Everywhere else is too expensive." I used to think the same thing. Sure it's convenient, you get everything under one roof, but in the end I don't find that it's always cheaper. Mike and I make 2-3 stops on shopping night. Yeah it blows driving to more stores but I'd gladly hit up Target for paper goods and beauty stuff, and then hit up Publix or a Mom n' Pop grocery store for food than suffer even one second at Hell-Mart. Bottom line, I hate the company, I hate their policies, how they treat employees is awful and frankly the quality of their shit is well... shit. Besides why would we get produce from there when we could go to our local farmers markets AND a local hydroponic farmer to get REAL, FRESH, non-pesticide ridden produce that's from our own backyard and never trucked in from across the US and who knows where else? We wouldn't, that's why.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>We don't watch the Olympics.</b> Yep, I said it. Blast me, call me un-American I don't care. I just have never gotten into the Olympics. Yes I love snowboarding, and I like figure skating OK but it's never truly been my thing. Gymnastics is sort of entertaining but if I'm being honest, we just don't watch this stuff, or give it much thought, honestly. Sorry Olympic hopefuls I know you work hard and I am VERY proud of you but I just don't have the desire to watch the games. Unless of course you're talking about X-Games - then I'm all in. Unless you count Shawn White I have no clue who any of the Olympic athletes are this year other than him. I've watched Shawn's career since he was a wee baby snowboader. I big puffy heart him.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>We don't watch Award Shows. </b>I used to be huge into award shows as a kid. American Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, MTV Movie Awards, I always wanted to tune in. These days, not so much. I mean the only thing currently making me want to watch this stuff is when awesome women like Amy P. and Tina F. are hosting Golden Globes, but even then I'd rather just catch up on re-caps after it happened. It's not to say that I don't think it's great - movies should be awarded. Actors should be praised for doing well in their roles. Hell I've enjoyed in the past when I've discovered some of my artwork won an award. I just don't have the patience to sit through it all, or listen to the red carpet banter. What I do love, is catching the BEST parts THE FASHION blogged to me (and everyone) by two of my favorite Hollyhood bloggers <a href="http://www.handbagsandhandguns.com/" target="_blank">Handbags and Handguns</a> and <a href="http://www.dayoldnews.com/" target="_blank">Day Old News</a>. These ladies always do awesome coverage of ALL award shows and all the clothing. Not just for the women, but for the men too. So keep it up ladies!!!! Your recaps are all I ever worry about come award time. So can you all tell me who got Best Picture? I was happy to hear Matthew got Best Actor. "Alright, alright, alright!"</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Attend Church.</b> I know that will bother some people, and others will be like big deal. Living here in the Bible Belt it seems like it's sort of a big deal. I'm ok with this. I know in my heart I'm a good person. I am very spiritual and have my own beliefs. Mike is a very, very good and honest person as well. We enjoy ourselves, do unto others as we'd have done to us. We respect people, we are compassionate, giving and caring. We abide the law and we don't take. I know there are many other lessons to be learned both in life and in church, I just don't see the reason to force ourselves to go to church ever week. There is more to it than that but let's not get into a religious discussion here. Bottom line - I respect others beliefs, and religious practices and I'd ask the same of them when considering my personal beliefs and my own way of practicing. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Have children yet, and we are OK with that, currently.</b> One day we'll be parents, that day isn't today.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>We don't cause trouble and we don't bother no body. </b>If you know the song this lyric is from, you're awesome!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Drink Budweiser products if we can help it.</b> We love beer. We recently have fallen into the craft beer obsession. Trust me once you go craft, you'll never go back. I try to sip on my old faithful Mich Ultra but it's just not good to me anymore. I also discovered that it was to blame for most of my headaches from drinking. (That's my one Budweiser exception, Michelob is brewed by Budweiser - and now it's safe to say all Bud products give me a headache). If you haven't seen the movie <a href="http://beerwarsmovie.com/" target="_blank">Beer Wars</a> you may want to check it out. Budweiser to me is the Walmart of Beers. They are shady, and often dishonest to the public. I'm not sure how they treat their employees - but let's just say I'd rather buy from a small time craft brewer (or even a large one like Sam Adams) than sip on Budweiser. And let's be honest, most beers taste 100% better and ole' Bud. I swear I'm not a beer snob either, our other exception to the Bud rule, Natural Light. It's the best damn creek beer there is out there. Especially ice cold on a blistering hot day kayaking. On tap? Forgetaboutit - DELICIOUS! SO yeah, we love our "trash" beer as much as our high end beer. Not snobby, just picky.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Agree on EVERY TV show. </b>There are quite a few shows I watch that Mike thinks aren't great at all, but it's all good. There are few he loves that I'm not that into. Biggest ones that stand out, He's not going to sit and watch Supernatural with me (though he's tried) or Hart of Dixie, but at the same time I'm not really going to sit and watch and entire episode of WWE RAW with him either. I used to, and I was a pretty big Wrestling fan in the late 90's early 2000's, but I'm just not as into it now. Most TV we agree on, often times there are ones we don't.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Eat at Chain Restaurants / Fast Food. </b> I won't say we NEVER do this, there have been times it happens. Most recently, while Christmas shopping (not really recent) we ate at Chili's. Let's be honest, I like the Southwestern Eggrolls and while it's not awesome cuisine it's passable bar food. That being said we would MUCH rather support local eateries in our area. Downtown alone we have a great pizza joint, a great place to get a burger (best burger in town), a Thai and sushi place, one to get a good steak, one that's all italian food and awesome, and a new high end meat n' three type place as well. Add to that a small sandwich shop with speciality items, a Chicago style deli with subs and pizza that's open late after hours on Saturdays and a Tex-Mexican joint that is a local to AL chain and we've got EVERYTHING we could want. If none of that is exactly what we need we have quite a few authentic Mexican places sprinkled throughout town, and a few Japanese and Chinese places. I ask anyone, for the love of it all - if you had all of this LOCALLY sourced good food to eat why the hell would you to go Olive Garden? Or Outback? Or Applebees? Why would you travel twice the distance to eat previously frozen food that the cooks microwave or reheat for you? Why on earth would you pay top dollar for that stuff? We also had a great seafood place that closed shortly after Olive Garden opened. To be fair, we always had a great experience there but others complained. We are still depressed it's closed. I haven't had a notable meal at a chain restaurant in years, so why subject myself to that again? That being said, I will be honest, I sort of miss the deep fried green beans from TGIFriday's. Not enough to go back... and every once in a while this girl craves Hooters. Yes, you got that right. As far as Fast Food goes, it's usually when we are short on time, or traveling that we decide to eat at any fast food place. It's another never say never but we try to avoid it at all costs if at all possible.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>He doesn't use Facebook. </b> I still have mine, however aside from a status update, or checking in on my best friends from back home and their kids I really don't use it. Mike has canceled his all together. He was over the political BS, and other BS posted by people. I can't say I don't feel the same way. I am literally sick of hearing about every bowel movement. I just can't seem to delete mine, yet.</li>
</ul>
<div>
So there you have it... a few things we do, and don't do on a regular basis. Is there anything you passionately DON'T participate in?</div>
</div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/386/63BBBC5AFA7FB7DFA0138BDCECFF6F6A.png" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 0px !important;" /></a>Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17316990503032552760noreply@blogger.com2