Monday, December 29, 2008

Sassy Sister (aka Taryn)

For the first two years of her life Taryn would not let me do her hair. I might be able to get it into a ponytail... but 5 seconds later she would pull it out again.
Something happened when she turned two. She found her inner sass... her girly side. She wakes up every morning and asks "Hair pretty?" Then she wants to wash her hands, put gloss on her lips, and have me pretend to do her makeup. She refuses to go to bed with no less than two blankies, a pink care bear, and a stuffed puppy.

After she's ready for the day she wants her picture taken. Now I know she's my child=)

The only downside is she refuses to let me take her hair out at night... so she wakes up with wild woman hair. She will have dreads some day...

She needs no coaxing to pose. I think we can thank her hams-for-brothers for that. The bonk on her eye is from one of her famous tantrums in her room. Apparently all that sass builds up from time to time and leads to a meltdown?!

She is now, officially, "miss pussycap"... self proclaimed title. She loves to match the caps with her outfit for the day. Doesn't always get it right... but I guess that's "the look."

Just like the boys she inherited the dimples from Trent and I. My mom and dad also have them on both sides... can't think if Trent's parents do or not??

I was cornered in the bathroom the other morning for yet another picture opp... how lucky am I to have such a star in my own home=)

Can you hear her saying "Mommy, I pretty. Take my picture!" Man she's cute!

Saturday, December 27, 2008

A Little Night Music

After reading Erica's blog earlier today I had to laugh at how true it is that music is involved in everything we do. Granted, I think I listen less since I've had Taryn (the house is usually too noisy to hear music) but it doesn't mean I'm not thinking about it constantly. I've tried leaving my play list up for the past few days and the kids seem to like the variety...
So, I thought I'd give you all a little taste of the music that soothes my savage beast...
Enjoy!
I remember always knowing who The Doors were as a kid and loving their music. It wasn't until I got to high school that I bought my first CD (thank God for lunch money) and it was the Best of the Doors that I purchased. I listened to those CD's non-stop for months on end. It could be that these guys either spurred on my sexual revolution, or that the two just happened to coincide. Whichever way it happened, I put them on (any album) and am automatically taken to a carefree, sensual, soulful place. Jim's not bad to look at either...
Supertramp came along my Junior year in high school. And yes, I realize they were a band much earlier than that... but for the sake of this blog I'll refer to bands when I first "met" them. My boyfriend at the time loved the song "Give a little bit" and he spent the summer dropping hints as to what the song was. A first love never quite fades... and for me the music never really faded either. I don't love all of their music, but there are a few tunes that mellow me out and make me joyful.

Sia I've only heard recently with here new song "Breathe me." Erica played the song for me and the love was instant. She has a beautifully haunting voice. As I listened to more of her music I realized how talented she is. I'll have to get back to you on her... our relationship has just begun... chances are you'll be hearing her on my blog for a while.

Oh Led... mmmm... here's another group that I've been aware of for as long as I can remember. Nothing compares to their sound. Their persona as individuals and as a band is legend. The first album of theirs that I fell in love with was The Song Remains The Same. The versions of No Quarter and Stairway on that album are hands down the best. Also a very sensual band for me (and billions more, I'm sure) they also allow you to explore your thoughts and feelings by just listening to the music. And no, you don't have to be high (though I'm sure it wouldn't hurt). We bought one of their DVD's a while back with a bunch of remastered concert footage and that was a trip! I'd only ever listened to them... but watching them perform... I can see why so many women wanted to bear their children... and I think it's safe to say that Robert Plant "wears to the left."

Joss Stone is another that Erica got me hooked on several years ago. I couldn't believe that she was white! I couldn't believe she was so young! She is incredible. Fabulous, soulful voice. She can sing the blues along with Roberta, Aretha, and Gladys. We saw her perform up at Deer Valley last summer and it was an amazing show. My respect always doubles for a performer when they can blow me away in person as well as on their record.

John Mayer wasn't that hard to hear of. He's been popular since he first came out and I enjoyed his songs then but wasn't by any means addicted to him. With his album Continuum I officially became a fan. I can honestly say that I put the album on and just let it cycle over and over because I enjoy each song wholly. I find myself insanely jealous of the many women he dates and wish that I could find myself lost in the sheets with him singing to me from above. Too much? Tough... it's the truth... and it'll set you free.

Erica and I started listening to Joan Osborne in high school. I wasn't crazy about her "what if God was one of us" song... but as soon as I listened to the album I knew I was in love. It will forever be a deep dark dream of mine to sing "Dracula Moon" in a smokey little blues bar. When I've got a cold and my voice is scratchy... you'll often find me belting it out in the car (solo performance only) The woman has soul... and it oozes out when she sings... covers you from head to toe... and leaves you wanting more.

Fiona, Fiona. I'm happy to say that Fiona is incredible whether she's horribly depressed or incredibly happy. You go girl. So many people thought she was just a whiny girl when she came out but that just made Erica and I love her all the more. Her songs make me want to rip off my clothes and grab a man! You think I'm lying... just try it. Wickedly talented, devastatingly sexy... we love her.

Can you guess? I couldn't tell at first... but it's Eric Clapton. I think it's safe to say I have a thing for men with lots of hair. Maybe one of those weird Daddy things that most girls grow up with. Oh well, I don't care... Eric Clapton joins the list of those that have been around forever for me. My mom's favorite song was always Layla and I heard a variety of his stuff growing up.
"Wonderful Tonight" took on a special meaning for me during (you guessed it) high school when it contributed to my new found awareness of my 'sassy' self. I think of two guys when I hear this song... and I don't regret either. He absolutely takes you places with his music, evoking emotion you didn't know you had...

Oh Bob Dylan... he's one of those I melt to. I also have to thank my first love for introducing me to Bob. What's there to say that hasn't already been said when it comes to him? I love that in this picture you get a taste for just how original his style was at the time. He was (and is) a bit geeky, crazy sexy, a little James Dean, amazing with words... you never had to wonder what was on his mind... he wrote it down and sang it to you. If you're feeling something and want a song to match the mood... he's got it. I've heard people say that he's a great songwriter but not a great singer. I would disagree. His voice intoxicates me. And I doubt that will ever change.

I didn't mean to put the Bob's together... but together they are. Bob Marley has also been around for me for a long time. I get to credit myself for him. I knew when I first heard him that I liked what I heard. Even if I couldn't explain why. As I got older I began to understand his message and the vehicle in which he chose to spread that message. You could just stereotype him as reggae, but I've heard other reggae and it doesn't move me like he does. Also beautiful, passionate, deep... his wonderful smile and large hands reach out as you listen. Even if all you do is move your body to his music... you have to agree it's perfect.

I love the Beatles, but I chose to use the version's of the songs from the movie "Across the Universe" because I enjoy the movie so much. Whenever a filmmaker can take a song and put it into context that brings out the meaning of that song... I'm a fan. This movie is so beautiful! The Beatles have always been there for me. The first album I bought of theirs was The Magical Mystery Tour. I've since acquired a few more and even turned Trent into a follower. Whatever adventure those boys were on they took you along with their music.
I know this doesn't cover everyone on the play list... but I'm sure I'll get to the rest soon...
Hope you discover something new, something old, something to chill to...

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Bastards of Emotions

Have you ever found yourself saying "I'm too old to be going through this?"

If not, thanks for your time... you can quit reading now.

If you've found these words milling around in your head, you may continue reading...

Recently I've found myself having emotions that cause me to say... "I'm too old to be going through this"

I realize that I may not be 65 years old, but when it comes to matters of life experience, I've had my fair share and there are certain emotions which I thought I had left behind in High School. Apparently not. It's unsettling on some level I guess because I tend to go through an experience and attempt to learn something from it. If I was an obsessive idiot during one relationship I really worked on being present and accepting during the next. I hate to use the analogy but it's like a zit. The majority of us had to deal with them on some level during puberty. That should have been enough. But lo and behold even my parents are still plagued by the little bastards! And little bastards they are (zits, not my parents). Along with the little bastards of emotion that have been popping back up for me!

BASTARDS!

That felt good=) Thanks for indulging me. I guess part of maturing emotionally (for me) will be realizing that any and all emotions can be experienced at any time during life depending on what situations we find ourselves in. That will be a hard pill for me to swallow... a difficult lesson to learn. I'm trying desperately to not have a breakdown over it. Apparently there are still emotions I have yet to master...

Til next time...

Auri

aka Mom, Wife, lover, sister, friend, daughter, HLP, queen of the broken heart, not-so-master of my emotions, slightly on edge, always grounded, forever yours

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Our Holiday Party


And no, I'm not saying holiday to be politically correct... I'm saying holiday because I think I have one or two friends who celebrate more than Christmas and I thought we'd celebrate every body's holidays, not just the one I grew up with.


Whew, now that that's out of the way...


I think I should just start by saying that we have such fabulous parties! I can't take all the credit. If the people were shithead's that came to our parties they wouldn't be fun. If I tried to over plan the parties they wouldn't be as much fun. I just figure that I invite a lot of great people, tell them to invite their great people... and add a lot of alcohol=) As I've said before, isn't alcohol fun?


I don't think you have to be drinking to enjoy our parties though... but I wouldn't know... so ask someone who wasn't drinking if they had fun! I think the kids would say yes.


As a testament to what a great photographer Erica is... I don't think I have many pictures of this party because she wasn't taking them religiously like she often is. What was she thinking? Perhaps she was having too much fun to take pictures? Or she was too busy feeling queasy to hold a camera? I'm not sure which... but we can ask her later.


As the party started dying down in numbers it got stronger through liquor. Matt pulled out my unopened bottle of Patron from Vegas and challenged Rory, Ben, Genny, Krystal, Trent, and I to a shot. Well, you all now how difficult it is for me to take a shot of Patron=) hahaha. It was a party, and party we did.

Merry Christmas!
Happy Chanukah!
Happy Kwanzaa!
Happy Festivus (for the rest of us)!








Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Feelin' Groovy


I really am feeling a bit groovy tonight. I think, if you're lucky, you have those times in your life where something exciting, new, or interesting happens and it changes your attitude. Sometimes it changes just your inner iPod, if you will. Over the years I have been lucky enough to surround myself with wonderful family and friends. I work hard to make myself the best person I can be so that my life will be enriched with new people who broaden my horizons. I'm reminded daily that I must not be so bad because the people that surround me are pretty damn amazing. So, it's because of you that my play list is on groovy today. I feel alive, spunky, daring, sexy, inviting, and yes... groovy.

xoxo


Auri

Sunday, December 14, 2008

Viva Las Vegas!


No ranting tonight... sorry kids. Since I know Salti will more than tell the story of Vegas... I'll save you all the details. What? You say you'd like to hear my version of the story?? Oh you are too kind. Well, okay. But it'll be short, sweet, and to the point.

WHAT HAPPENED IN VEGAS, STAYS IN VEGAS... AND IF SALTI DIVULGES TOO MUCH I SWEAR I'M GOING TO BEAT HER.

How about a picture montage? Everyone enjoys pictures, right?!


Here's Salti and I under the gorgeous evergreen arch in the Atrium at the Bellagio

Oh how embarrassing! I put a picture of my shower on here;) Just playing with ya... part of the chocolate fountain at the Bellagio

Because Erica is such a thoughtful birthday girl she attempted to give us all lap dances at the Carnival Court....The bar outside of Harrah's

Oh Miss Rose, you're so sassy! This was also at Carnival Court where Rose used her charms to snag many a beautiful man to surround us...
So, you'll notice that's a penny in my hand...Let's just say that I was going to throw it down someones trousers that were half way down their crack!!

Here's the other b-day girl, Noelle, looking tres sassy in this fab hat we found! I'm sure the vendor was like "buy it or stop trying it all on ladies!" We were having fun... and that's what girls do!

Odum's going to kill me for putting a pic on here where his eyes are closed, but this is just too cute of a picture not to share. Lisa, Odum, and Holly. Just for the record... Holly is a freaking party animal.

Here's me in my new Hollywood sunglasses (and yes, I wear them at night) and my $10 margarita! I can't believe I spent $10 on a drink either... oh well, the price we'll pay for a little social lubricant.
This is hands down my favorite pic of Rose and I from the trip! I think we were rubbing boobies... what's there to say? It was hot!

I grabbed this cute little policeman and "made" him pose with us. I'd like to see him try and wrestle any of us into handcuffs... no really, I think I might pay money for that. We seemed to be making friends with all of the security at the bar.

They couldn't get enough of the mojo, baby!

See... I don't think this security guard REALLY needed to frisk Holly... I think he WANTED to frisk her! hahaha! Such a bad girl!Tata in her new glasses. You look so fab woman! No wonder senior Joseph wanted a piece of the Salti pie;)
So we're all sitting there and we see these two crazy cats walk by so Erica grabs them for a pic, which they were happy to oblige. We come to know them as "Starsky and Hutch"... more in a few pics...
This is my favorite picture now of Odum and I! Doesn't he have the most incredible smile!? Major props for coming to the "straight" bar... turns out you can have fun anywhere you go as long as you take the party with you. Love you Odie!
I knew I was going to love Lisa from the first time we met at Rose's b-day party! And sure enough, I was right. I think we affectionately became known as the MILF's (a title I'm quite proud of!). Here we are looking particularly lovely... trying desperately to fend off the many callers... hahaha!
Okay, so their names aren't really Starsky and Hutch, Duh! The dark one (as Rose calls him) is Mike, and the light one is Greg... his younger brother. They were there celebrating grandma's 70th b-day (thus the 70's attire)... Talk about working the party. I wonder what Mike is looking at?
Oh... that's what he was looking at! There was this hot young blonde that was smitten with him. Not that we could blame her. I swear I didn't take this picture... but the whole group was having fun watching her molest him!
Here's the local B boy... I think I'd had a bit to drink because I was trying to dance like him. He was doing a much, much, much better job than I...
I tried to stay away... but apparently there was just too much fun to be had;) I love that these guys not only dressed up... but completely took on the persona of sleazy 70's porn stars! Seriously! Check out the look on their faces. Priceless!
I'm not sure how my legs always end up wrapped around people... but who better to be wrapped around than my new lover Holly! Ok, she's not really my lover... but she's sure a good snuggler/party animal!
I think it's safe to say that Rose and I are obsessed with our boobs. Then again, if I were you I'd be obsessed with my boobs too=) ???
I would like to say, for the record, that although I am on the end of this train, and my leg is once again wrapped around someone, I do not think I caused a gay man to molest a straight woman. Although that would be like some kind of superpower I think.
Any thoughts on a name?
By this point in the evening I had tried to find women for Mike and Greg numerous times! Tell me I'm lying! But we were just having too much fun to be split up. I think my leg is wrapped around someone again... I just can't keep them down, man! They have a mind of their own. But really, who would want to control their legs when they always manage to wrap themselves around beautiful people? Not I, said the fly... And yes, that's my new party sign.


This first night finally came to a close at 5 a.m. Oh you've gotta love Vegas! This pic is of me attempting to sleep whilst being harassed by my roommates! I think I somehow got all tangled up in my sheets?!Sun morning we went to brunch at the Bellagio where I actually tried to catch a few winks while leaning up against the wall in line! Didn't work so well. The big meal was good though and we tried every dessert they had to offer. We almost got in a fight with the asshole couple sitting at the table behind us but Lisa was awesome and stared them down;) Way to go MILF!

My mom and Jim were staying at the Luxor to run the marathon. After breakfast we headed over to see them... not without stopping to molest the Pharaoh though. Unfortunately Noelle and I could not get far enough up his skirt to figure out what his grin was all about! Oh well...

Here's my mom and Jim... I'm so proud! They rocked that marathon... blisters and all=)

Look who we bumped into at the Luxor! No joke, we were walking toward my parent's suite and these guys come walking in the opposite direction... do you recognize them? Okay, I'll give you a hint... 70's porn stars... that's right! Mike and Greg! Had to stop and introduce them to mom and dad and let them chat about how much better Steamboat is than SLC. Whatever! It was an awesome coincidence! By the way... Happy Belated Birthday Greg!!

I thought this was a fun pic... And Erica would kill me if I didn't throw it in at this juncture. Sorry, one of those "you had to be there moments"... I promise I won't have any more!

Somehow Mom and Jim lucked out and were upgraded to one of the suites on the top floor... Aren't we a sassy bunch!

I told you she was a good snuggler!

The girls all gussied up to see "O" at the Bellagio. By far the most amazing show! Not that I've seen a lot, but it was dark, sensual, wet... did I mention we had front row seats? Wow!

Our homage to Ocean's 11...

No trip to Vegas is complete without a little room service in bed! The Westin's french fries were divine...

As was the chicken noodle soup! We tried to have the bartender, Joe, deliver it to our room (for Erica's sake) but were told that he didn't "do deliveries"...oh well... some other time;)



There goes Vegas... a little blurry, 500 mph, but fabulous, bright, and colorful nonetheless. Thanks to Erica, Noelle, Rose, Odum, Lisa, and Holly for making it such a wonderful trip! And to our new friends Mike, Greg, Mark, Andy, and Dave for adding to our experience! We'll take each of you home with us in one way or another:)

Til next time...





THE END