Where would I be now if it wasn't for discovering Celtic Woman 4yrs ago. I think about this quite often.
Before CW came along, I pretty much had a routine life, and it is still at times pretty routine. I would get up on Monday's, go to work, come home, cook dinner, watch tv, and sometimes lay on the couch and take a nap, or I would read a book before going to bed. The weekends pretty much stayed at home, once in a while would drive in the car just to get out, but with gas going up, it's harder to do that. I do love just taking long rides in the car. I miss that.
I didn't really have a lot to look forward to. I did have my vacations, mostly to Disney World or Vegas, so that helped keep me sane at work at times. Gave me something to focus on.
As far as my work place, I wasn't much of a socializer. Co-workers would say Good Morning to me, and they were lucky to get a grumble out of me. I loved my work, just not people. I didn't want to talk to them unless I needed to. I pretty much am a loner, having been an only child and not having friends growing up, tends to make one an introvert. When I did go places with others, most of the time I would just sit there, not talking, as I just didn't have anything to add to the conversation, plus I tend to have Fumble mouth, and it's better if I just keep quiet.
Then in March 2005, I discovered Celtic Woman on PBS, and things slowly changed. As I constantly would listen to their music, especially at work, I became a little more socialable, though I still can scare off people when I want hehehe, I actually started talking with coworkers, joking around. When I started going to Concerts, I even had coworkers mention to other new employees, that I am actually more mellow than I use to be. Yes I can still be a big grouch, and have my Taz Spaz, as my guys on my team at work like to call my tirades. I try to get those out and done before the start of the work day, so then I can just put on my headphones and work. Doesn't always work ;).
Now, since I discovered CW, I have not only my regular vacations to look forward to, but CW Tours when they are in the U.S. I find that planning is one of my favorite parts. Seems I am not quite so shy when it comes to talking about CW. Or Vegas or WDW for that matter.
So then I think, where would I be if CW had not come into my life, and at times think, I would of just given up on life. As each year passed, I would of sunk deeper into a depression, as I have these bouts with it during certain times of the year, because of unsolved issues with my mother, I was in a rut in life. Except for my trips, which may have again, kept me sane, I know that now, I am sure, I possibly would not care what happen to me. I still get this way, but it's not as bad as it could be if I didn't have CW and the friends I have met thru them. Some of the most exciting times is when a new Tour is announced, and we all start planning what shows we want to go to. You have that excitement building. Getting to hang out with friends, seeing things you probably wouldn't have even thought about prior to CW, such as The Sears Tower, or San Francisco, or Red Rocks in Colorado.
I know I tend to go on and on about Celtic Woman, and Lisa, and Chloe and Mairead and the rest of the Girls, but I am SOOOO grateful to them. They could never know how much they mean to me, as it's just not possible to put it into words.
For this, I am FOREVER, and EVER Thankful to Celtic Woman.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Bored
Bored...Bored...BORDED. At work, with no real work in the next 3 weeks or so, and now instead of doing ECN's (Engineer Change Notes), we have been downgraded to Official Battery Changers in a diff department, only right now THEY don't need us for that. Now we are Board Scrappers...or should say BORED scrappers, cause it's very boring when your only removing 2 parts, both of which take less than a minute to do, and so you resort to staring at the same board for half an hour just to make the work last all day. The company won't let us take a VTO (Volunteer Time Off), which would save the company money during this slow time, yet they rather have us sit here bored to death and get paid. Granted I can't afford to take several days off with out pay, but least at home I could be doing something constructive, like clean house, work in the yard, keep busy. The days are dragging by. And now today, I have to deal with the fumes from the idiot who waxed the breakroom floor overnight and still isn't done. Great, now I will have a headache and be bored....
Celtic Woman...Take me away!!!!!!!!!!!
Celtic Woman...Take me away!!!!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Friends and Vacation
Friends. It's a simple word, but means so much. I just wanted to thank all my friends who supported me thru my, well, down and out bad mood. When I wrote my previous blog, I really didn't intend or even think anyone would read it, I was just finding a way to get my thoughts out of my head. That helped a great deal. Also my impending, and since passed, week long vacation, helped me to keep other things in my head. Like planning, packing, repacking, replanning etc. Spending 4 wonderful and relaxing days in Vegas, at The Orleans is just what the doctor ordered. Lounging around the pool, or in the pool, or the hot tub pool with it's palm tree, did a world of good. I did do some gambling, mostly either in the early morning (when I like it best), cause it's less crowded. I will have to say that I HATE the Star Trek slot machine!! It sucks you in and assimulates you ;). I did resist it on my last day though, and concentrated on video poker, of which by the time I went to bed, I was up $400. I had 2 Quads (4 of kind) each for $100, and then hit for the Quad Aces, for $200. I did think it was funny on my first night, I had asked the waitress for a Bud Light with Lime. She comes back with a Bud Light...with a Lime stuck in the top...ROFL!!! Seems I have to ask for Bud Light LIME, not with Lime. Did get my beloved BLLime at the pool each day though..nice and icey cold...hmmmmm. Since I didn't have a rental car this time (didn't want to spend over $200 for a 4 day rental), I pretty much stuck to The Orleans. I did get a ride with a friend to a informal Vegas Friends get together at the Voodoo Lounge at the top of the Rio. Never been there before, but loved the outdoor area, even if we did have to endure some very gusty winds at times. A really nice turn out too. But no way was I going to drink one of those Witch Doctor drinks...holy moly they are huge!! Look like it had everything in it but the kitchen sink. This was on Tues night. During this trip I also had a slot tourney to play in, but it was just a one day affair, with 2 sessions. I decided I rather have the 2 day tourney with 2 sessions on one day and a final one on the second day. You have a better chance at the money. Unless you do very well in both sessions, you out of luck. But it did pay for 3 nights at The Orleans, so I was still happy ;). On Wed morning, first I caught the bus to get to the Peppermill for our breakfast get together. Now I remember why I liked having a rental car. I hate using the Strip bus, especially with all the construction going on. Speaking of which, I hate all the new stuff going in. That City Center looks like Downtown LA or NYC. I liked the themed hotels better. Makes Vegas, well Vegas. Now Vegas just looks like another city. Anyways made it just in time at the Peppermill, though I did have a bit of sadness, as it is or was across from my beloved Stardust.... Now the interior of the PM is really cool. looks like your in a courtyard with all these small blossoming trees. And the Peppermill's Fireside Lounge it AWESOME. I love the firepit!! Would love to hang out there, but I am sure that place gets packed, and its not big in the first place. Next we headed to the Excalibur for our Poker Tourney, which is becoming a tradition, we even had a small trophy. Course I knew I would be the first out. Won't mention what my prize was . It was kind of cool using the new Video poker tables. No real dealers, cards or chips. But I miss the chips. Something very soothing when you play with a stack of poker chips. Alas, this new electronic age is approaching on some areas such as poker, roulette and BJ, that I hate to see go. Means more people with out a job. I then headed back to the hotel and one last Pool time. Next day, Thurs morning, I was up early as I had a flight to West Palm Beach, Fl. Would be spending my last 3 nights of vacation with the Girls of Celtic Woman, and some Forum friends of course ;). Seems me and Sara are very good at arrriving at the airport around the same time. We both flew to Ft. Lauderdale, since, least for me, it was cheaper. Then we took the Tri-Rail to WPB. Sara's younger brother, Richard, was flying into WPB. We all met up at the Marriott. Then the fun started. Playtime in the Pool, eating at Cheesecake Factory, City Pizza, O'Sheas, all accumulating into 2 Fantastic CW shows, of which the Sat WAS THE BEST EVER!! The energy was amazing. The CWF had all of the front row, except for one section on the right end, which later me, Sara, Kathleen and Richard took over since our other front row seats, least my view was blocked by one of the stage speakers. So glad we moved! The interaction with Lisa and Chloe especially was simply amazing. All the girls were feeding off our energy as we them. Poor Chloe was breathless at the end of Sing Out...really, don't know why. I know it wasn't due to me and Sara ;) hehehe...after all we are the Fun and Good Time Instigators. What a way to end a very, much needed vacation. Since being back to work, I haven't had one Taz Spaz, as my coworkers like to imitate me as being. Stress at work is still here, and at home, but right now, I am just not letting it get to me....yet.
I know this started out speaking of friends, but you need to understand, I was among some good friends the whole trip. Jason says I give good hugs, which is an odd statement since I am really not a huggy person, but it was nice to hear. When I hugged Rich goodbye on Sunday, I had to try hard not to break down, though I did have a few tears. He just doesn't know how much he has done for me. He is a good person, with a good heart. He knows how to treat the Girls right. Most of us will give our right leg to make sure that CW gets the respect they deserve. For we all are just Friends.
I know this started out speaking of friends, but you need to understand, I was among some good friends the whole trip. Jason says I give good hugs, which is an odd statement since I am really not a huggy person, but it was nice to hear. When I hugged Rich goodbye on Sunday, I had to try hard not to break down, though I did have a few tears. He just doesn't know how much he has done for me. He is a good person, with a good heart. He knows how to treat the Girls right. Most of us will give our right leg to make sure that CW gets the respect they deserve. For we all are just Friends.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Life sucks
Most days I think why am I here, why was I even born. I have never done anything worthy of being remembered, nor will I ever be part of something worthwhile. At times I think, if I was to get hit by a bus, no one would even notice. Most times I am considered as heartless, cold, emotionless, and I am. I rarely have feelings about anything or anyone. Most times I just don't care. I am a loner and always will be. Its just who I am. People say you can change, and for some that is possible. I just don't have an reason too. No family, no friends. Alone in the world. Being a accidental unplanned child, growing up with a single mother, in the 60s with all the stigma that goes along with it, having to endure teasing about having no father, then later being fat, or ugly, turned me into someone who is shy, self conscious all the time, constantly putting myself down to the point I just don't care for life anymore. I have no motivation, no soul, no nothing. Always on the outside looking in. When I am in a group of people, I don't fit in, rarely talk, again cause I just feel that I don't belong and have nothing worth contributing. Most times I can't get out what I want to say, comes out wrong, then I feel even worse. Days like this, I feel like crawling back under the rock where I belong. I am tired of the stress, worries and feeling of doom looming over me.
Most people have seen the real me, but at times I have to put on this Happy facade, so people don't try to have me talk. I don't want to talk. I like being silent and reserved. When I have my 'Don't bug me' look, it means just that, leave me alone. Unfortunately, at times I still have to let people bug me, since I do have a job and have to communicate with others. Being team leader sucks. I get bitched on about everything from the supervisor, yet if he would just leave US alone, we get the work done. Stop changing things. The morale around here is already low, so putting us down, never sticking up for us, isn't helping. This is when I just want to chuck it all and run away. But instead I just go home, down into my basement and stay till I have to leave my hole again.
Some people are just born to have good things happen for them all the time, others, like me, get the short stick of life, always struggling thru life, never finding true happiness. Sure, I have had very short bouts of it, but am I truely happy? content? at peace with my self? No. Nope, Nada. I watch shows where people are working with animals, don't make alot of money doing it, and are truely happy with where they are at. But that will never be with me. I will always have a sense of guilt about my mother, that I wasn't the daughter she wanted. We had our issues, and I would just go to my room and stay. During Mom's last weeks, before passing, I was her only caregiver except for the Hospice nurse who would come a couple times a week. I know I should of stayed by Mom's side more than I did. But it was just so hard for me to see her wasting away like that. And doing it for 8 weeks, non-stop, lack of sleep, checking on her every hour during the night, it was just so hard. None of her family even tried to come help. Oh, yea, one sister came for a quick visit, but no one even tried to give me some relief for a few hours. The day when Mom passed (Mother's Day), I was so relieved to have it over. Mom was at peace finally, and I hope she finally has found happiness, cause I know she didn't have it while on earth. I definitely didn't bring it. So now, during this time, Spingtime, every year, I feel this overwhelming sense of guilt about not being the compassionate, caring person I should of been when Mom needed me most. And for that, I can never forgive myself.
Before anyone gets all worked up, I am just venting some feelings. I just will crawl back into myself, and revert to souless self.
Most people have seen the real me, but at times I have to put on this Happy facade, so people don't try to have me talk. I don't want to talk. I like being silent and reserved. When I have my 'Don't bug me' look, it means just that, leave me alone. Unfortunately, at times I still have to let people bug me, since I do have a job and have to communicate with others. Being team leader sucks. I get bitched on about everything from the supervisor, yet if he would just leave US alone, we get the work done. Stop changing things. The morale around here is already low, so putting us down, never sticking up for us, isn't helping. This is when I just want to chuck it all and run away. But instead I just go home, down into my basement and stay till I have to leave my hole again.
Some people are just born to have good things happen for them all the time, others, like me, get the short stick of life, always struggling thru life, never finding true happiness. Sure, I have had very short bouts of it, but am I truely happy? content? at peace with my self? No. Nope, Nada. I watch shows where people are working with animals, don't make alot of money doing it, and are truely happy with where they are at. But that will never be with me. I will always have a sense of guilt about my mother, that I wasn't the daughter she wanted. We had our issues, and I would just go to my room and stay. During Mom's last weeks, before passing, I was her only caregiver except for the Hospice nurse who would come a couple times a week. I know I should of stayed by Mom's side more than I did. But it was just so hard for me to see her wasting away like that. And doing it for 8 weeks, non-stop, lack of sleep, checking on her every hour during the night, it was just so hard. None of her family even tried to come help. Oh, yea, one sister came for a quick visit, but no one even tried to give me some relief for a few hours. The day when Mom passed (Mother's Day), I was so relieved to have it over. Mom was at peace finally, and I hope she finally has found happiness, cause I know she didn't have it while on earth. I definitely didn't bring it. So now, during this time, Spingtime, every year, I feel this overwhelming sense of guilt about not being the compassionate, caring person I should of been when Mom needed me most. And for that, I can never forgive myself.
Before anyone gets all worked up, I am just venting some feelings. I just will crawl back into myself, and revert to souless self.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Celtic Woman; Isle of Hope Tour
I was really looking forward to the new Celtic Woman Tour, Isle of Hope. With new songs, new staging, new dresses, and best of all Lisa Kelly would be BACK!. After a 15 month absense, due to maturnity leave, and then just being a Mom to 3, Lisa would be back on Stage with Chloe, Mairead, Lynn and Alex. We would all miss Orlagh, as she is taking a well deserved break to be with family and work on some solo projects. Good Luck Orlagh!!
So course my first show would be in Chicago, as I had decided I wanted to be spoiler-free, not wanting to know anything about the new show, such as which songs from ANJ would remain, what the new songs were, who was singing what, the look of the new dresses, staging. I also decided to do Chicago cause it was such fun last year with my friends, especially Kathleen and Sara, that wanted to do it again. Plus the Chicago show was early on so I wouldn't have to wait too long with out cracking and finding out what the show was about ;D. I would have 2 shows in Chicago, and with about week of that, CW would be returning to Columbus, where it all started for me, least for the live shows, 2 yrs ago.
Back to Chicago. IOH (Isle of Hope), would be in the Chicago Theatre, and what a lovely venue it is. I love seeing CW in these old theatres. Just a lot more intimate, plus all the history these places have seen, just is a perfect match. I lucked out in getting second row seats, opting to sit next to Sara, who is worried CW will not let us sit together anymore, cause we have so much fun. Yea..right..I think Lisa and Chloe would be sad if we didn't sit together ;). All I can say is the new Show is AWESOME! I was so glad I went in not knowing. All during the show, I was either WOWing, AWEing, Jaw-dropping, and just sheer Grinning, ear-to-ear, the show was just amazing. From Lisa's new solo, Fields of Gold, Chloe's When You Believe, which was originally recorded by her on her first CD when she was like 12yrs, her voice is just gorgeous! It has really matured in the past year. Seeing Lynn get to sing her own song, Carolina Rua, just tickled me, as that is my fav off her new CD. Then Alex with 2 new songs, True Colours, and You'll Be in My Heart, both with a tropical beat. Mairead is well...just Mairead!! Still moves faster than lightning. Some of the new group numbers, like Isle of Hope, Isle of Tears, and Oh, America, are very dramatic, and just will move you to tears, especially Oh, America, as that is a special song written just for us, American, audiences. Thank you Girls for this one!! Then a new lullbye, Goodnight My Angel, with Lisa, Lynn and Chloe is just sooo sweet. And the new rendition of Danny Boy, with all four singing A Cappella...simply, pin dropping in silence at the end.
I am so glad I have 6 more shows, cause once is not enough. So much to see, to hear. Each time I see them, I hear more of the words, and associate it with the theme of the Tour, the Irish/American ties, with the immigration of Irish to America, to our embracing of CW, just you have to see it!!
So if please, if you can, Check out Celtic Woman. You won't be disappointed. And say Hi to the Girls from me :D.
Mel
So course my first show would be in Chicago, as I had decided I wanted to be spoiler-free, not wanting to know anything about the new show, such as which songs from ANJ would remain, what the new songs were, who was singing what, the look of the new dresses, staging. I also decided to do Chicago cause it was such fun last year with my friends, especially Kathleen and Sara, that wanted to do it again. Plus the Chicago show was early on so I wouldn't have to wait too long with out cracking and finding out what the show was about ;D. I would have 2 shows in Chicago, and with about week of that, CW would be returning to Columbus, where it all started for me, least for the live shows, 2 yrs ago.
Back to Chicago. IOH (Isle of Hope), would be in the Chicago Theatre, and what a lovely venue it is. I love seeing CW in these old theatres. Just a lot more intimate, plus all the history these places have seen, just is a perfect match. I lucked out in getting second row seats, opting to sit next to Sara, who is worried CW will not let us sit together anymore, cause we have so much fun. Yea..right..I think Lisa and Chloe would be sad if we didn't sit together ;). All I can say is the new Show is AWESOME! I was so glad I went in not knowing. All during the show, I was either WOWing, AWEing, Jaw-dropping, and just sheer Grinning, ear-to-ear, the show was just amazing. From Lisa's new solo, Fields of Gold, Chloe's When You Believe, which was originally recorded by her on her first CD when she was like 12yrs, her voice is just gorgeous! It has really matured in the past year. Seeing Lynn get to sing her own song, Carolina Rua, just tickled me, as that is my fav off her new CD. Then Alex with 2 new songs, True Colours, and You'll Be in My Heart, both with a tropical beat. Mairead is well...just Mairead!! Still moves faster than lightning. Some of the new group numbers, like Isle of Hope, Isle of Tears, and Oh, America, are very dramatic, and just will move you to tears, especially Oh, America, as that is a special song written just for us, American, audiences. Thank you Girls for this one!! Then a new lullbye, Goodnight My Angel, with Lisa, Lynn and Chloe is just sooo sweet. And the new rendition of Danny Boy, with all four singing A Cappella...simply, pin dropping in silence at the end.
I am so glad I have 6 more shows, cause once is not enough. So much to see, to hear. Each time I see them, I hear more of the words, and associate it with the theme of the Tour, the Irish/American ties, with the immigration of Irish to America, to our embracing of CW, just you have to see it!!
So if please, if you can, Check out Celtic Woman. You won't be disappointed. And say Hi to the Girls from me :D.
Mel
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Coffee
Coffee.....
What is it about Coffee...
For years...never touched it. I did think it smelled great as I walked past the coffee aisle in the stores. Tried it once along time ago, didn't care for it then. Guess I just wasn't ready yet. I also loved walking past the coffee shops in the malls...it always smelled SOOOOOOOOO GOOOOD!!. Mom drank it, but she mostly had the instant, as back in the 60's/70's...brewing a small pot was just not practical, took too long in those old percolators. Later on, this would change.
Then something happened. In 1992, I discovered Coffee. It was odd how I found it. I was at the Ohio State Fair, and Maxwell House came out with their 1892 Blend to celebrate their 100th yr. They were giving out free samples, plus a free cup of coffee. Well I tried it, with lots of cream and sugar...and OMG...BABY!! WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ALL MY LIFE!! I ended up going back a couple times that day, getting another free cup. Next thing I know, I am stopping at a local Frisch's Big Boy, for a Pot of coffee and pie...at night even!! I just wanted an excuse to get the coffee lol!!
Then when I went to the local malls I finally stopped in and got a like a Venetian something or other, basically espresso with some flavoring..anyways..it was very strong...but I loved it. Seems I like my coffee strong. I can't stand the weak stuff they use to make at work.
Since that time, I have come to be what I call a coffee connoisseur, in others, I drink, but I can't drink all day, but I do love to have my moments with special coffees, such as lattes, and such. I do have to have my morning cups of coffee, typically no more than 3. But usually, rarely do I have it later on. Exceptions are Starbucks for a Lisa Special (Grande, non-fat, no whip, White Mocha) except I have mine Venti size and add an Orinoco Kicker (extra shot of espresso). I also love Iced Lisa Specials and other Iced Coffee concoctions during the day, especially on a warm summer day, or if I am in Vegas. Vegas is where I really treat myself with Coffee...I need the extra caffeine buzz to keep me up and going.
Back to Mom for a second, now that I loved coffee, I ended up buying a coffee maker, so when Mom would visit (at the time lived in an apartment) she would have me make her a cup. Then when we purchased a house, she would have me brew her a cup on the weekends. She still had her instant on the weekdays, as it was just too complicated for her to run the coffee maker, Mom wasn't the most technical savvy person around, I tried to teach her how to use the computer...that didn't fair too well.
Anyways back to my Coffee Buzz. Some of my fav places for coffee are Starbucks, Panera Bread (love the Hazelnut), and Tim Horton's (Canadian's make a goood cup of Joe), Cup of Joe's is also a fav for some unusual blends, such as Milky Way and Mounds Bar. But my trip to Ireland found me my fav. They brew it strong, but it is goooood. My flight over on Aer Lingus, the brew they brought with my dinner was wonderful!!! I had to get a second cup. Then the B&B I stayed at, Pauline also made a great cup of coffee, and I would start out my day with 2. Someday hope to go back just for the coffee HEHEHE!!
Anyways, my love affair with the Coffee bean will continue. As I am writing this, I am at one of my favorite places, Panera, with my Hazelnut Blend next to me.
Ahhhhh...Coffee...The Elixr of Life...
What is it about Coffee...
For years...never touched it. I did think it smelled great as I walked past the coffee aisle in the stores. Tried it once along time ago, didn't care for it then. Guess I just wasn't ready yet. I also loved walking past the coffee shops in the malls...it always smelled SOOOOOOOOO GOOOOD!!. Mom drank it, but she mostly had the instant, as back in the 60's/70's...brewing a small pot was just not practical, took too long in those old percolators. Later on, this would change.
Then something happened. In 1992, I discovered Coffee. It was odd how I found it. I was at the Ohio State Fair, and Maxwell House came out with their 1892 Blend to celebrate their 100th yr. They were giving out free samples, plus a free cup of coffee. Well I tried it, with lots of cream and sugar...and OMG...BABY!! WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ALL MY LIFE!! I ended up going back a couple times that day, getting another free cup. Next thing I know, I am stopping at a local Frisch's Big Boy, for a Pot of coffee and pie...at night even!! I just wanted an excuse to get the coffee lol!!
Then when I went to the local malls I finally stopped in and got a like a Venetian something or other, basically espresso with some flavoring..anyways..it was very strong...but I loved it. Seems I like my coffee strong. I can't stand the weak stuff they use to make at work.
Since that time, I have come to be what I call a coffee connoisseur, in others, I drink, but I can't drink all day, but I do love to have my moments with special coffees, such as lattes, and such. I do have to have my morning cups of coffee, typically no more than 3. But usually, rarely do I have it later on. Exceptions are Starbucks for a Lisa Special (Grande, non-fat, no whip, White Mocha) except I have mine Venti size and add an Orinoco Kicker (extra shot of espresso). I also love Iced Lisa Specials and other Iced Coffee concoctions during the day, especially on a warm summer day, or if I am in Vegas. Vegas is where I really treat myself with Coffee...I need the extra caffeine buzz to keep me up and going.
Back to Mom for a second, now that I loved coffee, I ended up buying a coffee maker, so when Mom would visit (at the time lived in an apartment) she would have me make her a cup. Then when we purchased a house, she would have me brew her a cup on the weekends. She still had her instant on the weekdays, as it was just too complicated for her to run the coffee maker, Mom wasn't the most technical savvy person around, I tried to teach her how to use the computer...that didn't fair too well.
Anyways back to my Coffee Buzz. Some of my fav places for coffee are Starbucks, Panera Bread (love the Hazelnut), and Tim Horton's (Canadian's make a goood cup of Joe), Cup of Joe's is also a fav for some unusual blends, such as Milky Way and Mounds Bar. But my trip to Ireland found me my fav. They brew it strong, but it is goooood. My flight over on Aer Lingus, the brew they brought with my dinner was wonderful!!! I had to get a second cup. Then the B&B I stayed at, Pauline also made a great cup of coffee, and I would start out my day with 2. Someday hope to go back just for the coffee HEHEHE!!
Anyways, my love affair with the Coffee bean will continue. As I am writing this, I am at one of my favorite places, Panera, with my Hazelnut Blend next to me.
Ahhhhh...Coffee...The Elixr of Life...
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
My Journey with Celtic Woman
I don't remember the exact date when I first encountered something that would transport me on a New Journey, but I do remember it was a friday evening, sometime in March of 2005. I was doing the usual channel surfing when I heard something, a tune that was familar, so I back channeled to find it. The song I heard was Orinoco Flow (sometimes called Sail Away) by Enya, which at the time I thought was Enya. As I had never seen her perform before, I wanted to watch. Well it wasn't Enya, but 3 lovely women singing the song. They were not familar to me, but I kept listening as they were doing a FANTASTIC job on the song. I was captivated. I should mention that this was on a local PBS station, so of course I realized it was one of their Pledge Drive shows, so at the Pledge break I was informed that the group, of which there are 5 women (Lisa, Chloe, Mairead, Meav and Orlagh), was called Celtic Woman, and they were from Ireland. So I would flip channels during the Beg-a-thon, then go back when the Girls (as I have come to call them) were back on. I was particulary captivated by two of the Girls, Lisa and Chloe. Something about both of them just drew me in, especially Lisa. She has such a warm smile, she seems to really project a special presence that just seems to envelop and draw you in. With Chloe, it was her eyes. She just has the most beautiful eyes. I didn't know till much later that at the time they taped the show, she was only 15yrs old. She just carried herself so well, that she seemed much more mature. Later on, as I got to know Chloe...well, at times..she showed her teenager side :D. It would take me three airings that weekend before I would see the whole show.
About 3 months later I found both the DVD and CD of the show (I didn't want to pledge $$ for either) at Barnes and Noble. I have been hooked on their music ever since. Then one evening, I was at a company Christmas party, and had reserved a room at the hotel so I would have to worry about driving home, when I retired to my room around 8:30. I was relaxing in bed, once more channel surfing, when I come across this image of a castle, all lit up, and a small person coming down a ramp, when I realized...she looked very familar. It was Mairead!!...It was a new CW show!! I was literally pumping my fists in the air!! Once more I was taken in on how talented these women were. Their individual voices were beautiful, and then when combined in either duets/trios or all 4 with Mairead on the fiddle...just pure heaven.
I had missed what I later found to be their first Columbus appearance (Oct 2006), just about a week before they were to come to Columbus, I heard about it and it was too late to find a Good seat. So when I again watched another replay of ANJ (A New Journey), I found out they were coming BACK to Columbus in April of 2007. At the time I had no desire to Pledge $$$$ for tickets thru PBS, so I waited till Jan 27 when the tickets would go on sale to the public. At 10am I ordered my ticket thru Ticketmaster and that was the happiest day!. Shortly after that, I was looking for an online CW group to join, and found Celtic Woman Forum.
I never dreamed that by joining this group, I would have some of the best opportunites to see the Girls. Not only did I get to see them in my first show, on April 5th 2007, which was just a emotional show for me, but since then have seen them quite a few times, and even having the opportunity to go to Ireland to see them tape their highly anticipated A Celtic Christmas DVD. I had never even been out of the U.S before. I will save that story for another time. But I also had a chance to go to cities I had never been too, and as a travel nut, it was awesome! I mean, for instance, the Bridgeport CT show, I had to fly to Long Island, then took a ferry to Bridgeport, then the next day I took a train to Philidelphia for another show the following night. That was just too awesome!. Spending 4 days in San Francisco was another great trip. Never been there, and just using the cable cars, or street cars for getting around, again was great! Plus all the seafood ;D.
The best part of it all is not only meeting quite a few friends along the way from the forum, I mean nothing is more fun than going to a CW show with others, as a group and just having a blast. I think the Girls enjoy it too ;). But never, did I think back in March 2005, that I would someday have the opportunity to meet Most of the Girls. Since my first show, I have met Meav, Chloe, Mairead, Orlagh and Lynn. And hopefully, Finally, after 2yrs, I will be meeting Lisa in 2009. I also hope to meet the newest full time member, Alex.
As a note here, The Girls are fantastic, they are very humble, not stand offish, but most of all they make you feel like a friend, not a fan. I have never thought of them as celebrities, and after meeting and talking to them a few times, I have come to know THEM as friends. When I see them at a show, and I am in the first few rows, where they can see me, and I get a smile out of them, knowing its me being there that made that smile come out, just really makes me feel that maybe, just maybe, I am here on this good earth for a reason, even if it's just a familar face in the audience.
I look forward to the New Tour this Spring, and the return of Lisa, after her year off for maturnity leave, then being a Mom to a new baby girl, plus her two sons. Orlagh will be missed, as she is taking some much deserved time off to be with her family and her much loved gardening, plus maybe a new solo CD :D. We welcome Alex, and will be fun to see her AND Lisa in the same show. Can't wait to hear the new songs, see the new dresses, see Chloe smile and giggle, Mairead fly around the stage as usual, and Lynn hopelly singing some new songs of her own.
It's almost here, Celtic Woman Season... :D :D :D
About 3 months later I found both the DVD and CD of the show (I didn't want to pledge $$ for either) at Barnes and Noble. I have been hooked on their music ever since. Then one evening, I was at a company Christmas party, and had reserved a room at the hotel so I would have to worry about driving home, when I retired to my room around 8:30. I was relaxing in bed, once more channel surfing, when I come across this image of a castle, all lit up, and a small person coming down a ramp, when I realized...she looked very familar. It was Mairead!!...It was a new CW show!! I was literally pumping my fists in the air!! Once more I was taken in on how talented these women were. Their individual voices were beautiful, and then when combined in either duets/trios or all 4 with Mairead on the fiddle...just pure heaven.
I had missed what I later found to be their first Columbus appearance (Oct 2006), just about a week before they were to come to Columbus, I heard about it and it was too late to find a Good seat. So when I again watched another replay of ANJ (A New Journey), I found out they were coming BACK to Columbus in April of 2007. At the time I had no desire to Pledge $$$$ for tickets thru PBS, so I waited till Jan 27 when the tickets would go on sale to the public. At 10am I ordered my ticket thru Ticketmaster and that was the happiest day!. Shortly after that, I was looking for an online CW group to join, and found Celtic Woman Forum.
I never dreamed that by joining this group, I would have some of the best opportunites to see the Girls. Not only did I get to see them in my first show, on April 5th 2007, which was just a emotional show for me, but since then have seen them quite a few times, and even having the opportunity to go to Ireland to see them tape their highly anticipated A Celtic Christmas DVD. I had never even been out of the U.S before. I will save that story for another time. But I also had a chance to go to cities I had never been too, and as a travel nut, it was awesome! I mean, for instance, the Bridgeport CT show, I had to fly to Long Island, then took a ferry to Bridgeport, then the next day I took a train to Philidelphia for another show the following night. That was just too awesome!. Spending 4 days in San Francisco was another great trip. Never been there, and just using the cable cars, or street cars for getting around, again was great! Plus all the seafood ;D.
The best part of it all is not only meeting quite a few friends along the way from the forum, I mean nothing is more fun than going to a CW show with others, as a group and just having a blast. I think the Girls enjoy it too ;). But never, did I think back in March 2005, that I would someday have the opportunity to meet Most of the Girls. Since my first show, I have met Meav, Chloe, Mairead, Orlagh and Lynn. And hopefully, Finally, after 2yrs, I will be meeting Lisa in 2009. I also hope to meet the newest full time member, Alex.
As a note here, The Girls are fantastic, they are very humble, not stand offish, but most of all they make you feel like a friend, not a fan. I have never thought of them as celebrities, and after meeting and talking to them a few times, I have come to know THEM as friends. When I see them at a show, and I am in the first few rows, where they can see me, and I get a smile out of them, knowing its me being there that made that smile come out, just really makes me feel that maybe, just maybe, I am here on this good earth for a reason, even if it's just a familar face in the audience.
I look forward to the New Tour this Spring, and the return of Lisa, after her year off for maturnity leave, then being a Mom to a new baby girl, plus her two sons. Orlagh will be missed, as she is taking some much deserved time off to be with her family and her much loved gardening, plus maybe a new solo CD :D. We welcome Alex, and will be fun to see her AND Lisa in the same show. Can't wait to hear the new songs, see the new dresses, see Chloe smile and giggle, Mairead fly around the stage as usual, and Lynn hopelly singing some new songs of her own.
It's almost here, Celtic Woman Season... :D :D :D
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Bleary Sat Evening
It's been a yucky day all day. Woke at 7am, to head one of my favorite places, Panera Bread. Well it was nothing but a sheet of ice. So I sat in the car for about 15 mins while it heated up. I am still a little miffed at PB for getting rid of my favorite bagel, the French Toast Bagel. I do like the Gingerbread one, but know that will not be around all year. But at least they still have the Hazelnut coffee, which is the best. I brought my laptop, since PB has free Wi-fi, and I still have dial up at home. I mainly brought it so I could look for Hatchlings faster :D. What can I say. Since about a month ago when I finally started using my Facebook (though I had had the account for almost a year and half). I love Scavenger Hunt, and Hatchings is really addicting. Also it nice to send and recieve things like Plants, Fish, Coffee, Sweets etc to friends. I have 4 catagories of friends. CW (Celtic Woman), Xena, Vegas (friends I met thru a Vegas website: http://www.whatbrianthinksaboutlasvegas.com/ ), and now my Hatchling friends. Anyways back to this morning...(now you know why I call this my RANDOMNESS :D ). Spent about 2hrs there, the headed to the bank to deposit this weeks Vending money (another post some day), then too the library to again use the free Wi-fi. Stopped afterwards to get some Orange Chicken at Panda Express, then home. Had a mini NCIS marathon with my 1st Season DVD set I purchased last weekend. Now just chilling watching tv, blogging, and Facebooking. Also checking in from time to time on the Celtic Woman Forum, but I have to keep away from most of the posting so I don't get spoilers for the up and coming NEW Tour Show Isle of Hope, starting Feb 11th. Thats about it, thinking of what to snack on here in a bit.
Blog again soon I hope
Mel
Blog again soon I hope
Mel
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