Category Archives: A Couple of Things…

A Couple of Things…

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Angel Devil Clipart

1. This morning while going over my bank accounts, including the one I still have from my dad, I noticed something quite wrong, but in my favor.  While the Federal and State income tax refunds were correct, there was a third deposit. The IRS had direct deposited a stimulus payment to my dad’s bank account. Think of an angel on one shoulder and the devil on another.  I kid you not I had a check made out to the the IRS and in my neighborhood mailbox within the hour. #DontMessWithKarma

2. I freakin’ love Dave Grohl.  I bawl my eyes out every time I hear this #StayAtHome

3. In my last blog post, I listed the following ten jobs I’ve had, one of them was a lie:

1. Radio DJ
2. Editor-in-Chief National Magazine
3. Inspector Construction Management
4. Clothing Store Clerk
5. Newspaper Columnist
6. Webmaster
7. Bob’s Big Boy Waitress
8. Sandpaper Sales Rep
9. Private Investigator
10. Concert Photographer

I never worked as a clothing store clerk, though I did work at Music Plus as a seasonal worker during Christmas for a couple of years to make some extra cash for presents. I really learned to hate the alphabet as I mainly had to restock the merchandise…in alphabetical order.
I was surprised that a few people thought it was the P.I. job which has to be the most boring work in the world. You sit there for hours at a time waiting for your target to leave their home or work. The stupidest case was when a psychiatrist had us follow her boyfriend to prove he was cheating on her.  He was, but the kicker is that she was married.
Of course my favorite jobs had to do with music. My last full-time position in radio, I earned my Program Director stripes where we flipped an oldies radio station to alternative rock in the mid 90s.
All the other positions sort of speak for themselves, except maybe the sandpaper sales rep. After the radio station got sold and flipped to Spanish (I should have paid attention in class), I found a job through a temp agency and they hire me full time.  It was honest work, my boss was great, and I got paid to go to North Carolina for some training at Klingspor Abrasives. And no that’s not where I got my “abrasive” personality.

cereal boxes

4. It’s been years since I’ve bought cereal, and correct me if I’m wrong, but the packaging is shrinking, right? Same price, smaller package.  #Capitalism #CheapBastards

 

Maroon 5

5. Awhile back, I posted this photo on Facebook as a Throwback Thursday pix with the boys in Maroon 5. I have to share the backstory: So we were launching a national music and entertainment publication called Buzzine Magazine and our launch party was at Deep in Hollywood.  It has since burnt down, I think it’s a parking lot now. Deep was located at the corner of Hollywood and Vine just down the street from Capital Records (Deep in Hollywood…get it?).  In fact, if you’ve ever seen Ocean’s Eleven, they film the card game where Rusty is teaching the Hollywood youngsters how to play poker there.  In any case, we had a step and repeat red carpet leading to the entrance with lots of paparazzi and young and upcoming stars who walked the carpet with myself (Editor-in-Chief ) and Aaron (Publisher) as a ways of getting in the magazine and gaining some publicity for themselves. These guys showed up and owned the red carpet and with a little nudging from the record company we did a small write up on this “up and coming” band, though no one knew who they were.

About a year later I’m looking at the issue with the photo and I went “Holy Moly! That’s Adam Levine and Maroon 5!”  Their record, Songs About Jane, was a huge hit once they released it a couple of months after our launch.  #WeHaven’tStayedInTouch

6. By the by, if you’re so inclined, do what you can and make a donation. #VCStrongDonate to FoodShare.com  or text VCStrong to 41444.

Donate to FoodShare

Robert

7. After reading this comic, henceforth, all my plants shall be named Robert. #WhatIsAndShouldAlwaysBe #RambleOn

8. I’m really enjoy working from home. I find I put in more hours, but I don’t mind. I don’t bill for them either. I really hope all businesses that can do so will learn from this experience and allow their employees to work remotely at least a few days a week. An office job should be based on production and not hours put in.

Mother's Day t shirt

9. Mother’s Day was lovely enough. My daughter is still hundreds of miles away (682 to be exact) in Oregon but we got to video chat and yes, her gift did arrive in time!  I love you Sydney Rose!!

The rest of my day was spent relaxing, taking long leisurely walks with the senior pups and treating myself to some Chinese take out.

10. From my favorite quotes file, “What you do makes a difference. And you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” – Jane Goodall

Thanks for listening!

A Couple of Things…

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Italy

1. Just to review, I was suppose to be in Italy in mid March, at exactly the same time that  everything was shutting down. Even if we hadn’t voluntarily pulled the plug on the vacay, we couldn’t have flown into Italy anyways at that point. In my disappoint and frustration I found myself texting a friend or two every day or so, “I WAS SUPPOSE TO BE IN ITALY RIGHT NOW!” including Linda whom I was scheduled to travel with.  We’re not looking at this as a cancelled trip, but rather a postponed one. #WineWontSpoil #CheeseMight

2. I must confess that during this Stay Home Order I’ve become quite adept at ordering using DoorDash, GrubHub, Postmates and UberEats.  I tend to use the one that has a “no deliver fee” offer because…well, there’s no other way to put it, I’m a cheap bastard.

3. It should come as no surprise to anyone that my baggy jeans, well, are no longer baggy. #ThanksDoorDash #ThanksGrubHub #ThanksPostMates #ThanksUberEats

press conference

3. Please explain to me during this time of social distancing how at official press conferences people in authority are still sharing the same microphone. Even without a pandemic, that’s just gross.

4. I realized something was shifting dramatically in my universe when I had the fleeting desire to go shopping; it went away thank God.  #I’mNotYourTypicalGirl

Bob's Big Boy story

5. I almost want to take the hour and change and drive to Burbank to check this out.  I remember the car hops at the Bob’s Big Boy on Whittier Blvd when I was a little girl. As an aside, Actor Danny Trejo admitted he once robbed this particular Bob’s. #AncientHistory

ducks in pond

7. I took this photo up in Ashland, Oregon, Christmas morning while taking a walk with Sydney Rose.  I’m thinking this would make a great puzzle. 

8. I’m one of the lucky ones who gets to work from home. That being said, I’m putting in more hours than ever just because I can.  I don’t bill for that extra time, but if there’s an email, I’ll respond.  If someone sends over request for information, I’ll provide it. It’s not that I’m a workaholic, it’s that I can’t stand being idle! I enjoy being productive!

9. I like looking at those lists people will post on Facebook where it’s 10 famous people they say they’ve met, but one is not true. The same with concerts, and now jobs they’ve had. So here goes, a list of jobs I’ve held, but one is not true.

1. Radio DJ
2. Editor-in-Chief National Magazine
3. Inspector Construction Management
4. Clothing Store clerk
5. Newspaper Columnist
6. Webmaster
7. Bob’s Big Boy waitress
8. Sandpaper sales rep
9. Private Investigator
10. Concert Photographer

10. I always thought that there should be a fragrance that smells like sugar cookies. If you know of one, do tell. #NotKidding

11. At least once a week while walking the senior pups, I’ll put on a plastic glove and I’ll reuse a plastic produce bag to pick up trash, mostly cigarette butts. I can’t believe people are still tossing their butts on the ground.  All trash eventually ends up in the storm drains which eventually drains directly into the ocean.  There are no filters, and it’s disgusting. Tonight’s take was over 50 butts. #EarthDay2020

12. From my favorite quotes file: “The Earth is what we all have in common.” – Wendell Berry

Thanks for listening!

A Couple of Things…

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With the Governor’s Stay at Home mandate for COVID-19 crisis I find I have a little more time on my hands, so I thought I’d share a thought or two.

1. I find it takes tremendous discipline to get dressed in the morning. I get up no problem, the two senior pups see to that, but pulling on a pair of jeans is a different story.  Luckily I am able to work from home and do video chat meetings; I do my best to at least wear a new shirt every day.

Cheers artwork

2. My friend Linda sent me a link to a Cheers snippet.  I feel like that’s how we were at our public counter at City Hall…before we closed to the public, and before we were told to stay home.  Give it a watch, just click on image:

3. I really do find it therapeutic when I take control on my Facebook news feed and I  Hide posts that are about the Coronavirus, especially the ones designed to spread fear.  I feel even more empowered when I Unfollow, even Unfriend those folks who are fear mongers. #TakingControl

4. After only two weeks of trying to fill the time, I got out my favorite old jigsaw puzzle. I use to do this nightly while pregnant to take my mind off what I knew would not be a walk in the park, the birth of Sydney Rose. I would time myself each night. I started at a couple of hours and eventually got it down to about 45 minutes. It’s like an old friend this 500 piece puzzle of stamps, which if you do the math, is over 25 years old.

Salmon dinner

5. I plan on cooking more, though I also plan to support restaurants that are trying to keep open for business by offering curbside pick up or delivery.  But I have to say I am super proud of myself.  I took out this salmon I bought a couple of weeks ago, defrosted it, and followed a recipe to cook it.  First time I’ve attempted Salmon.  OMG, Yum!!! #TryingNewThings

6. I thought I was being clever and so I didn’t worry so much about the toilet paper shortage because I could use the facilities at City Hall during the day.  Now that I’m home for the duration, I am mindfully rationing because of FREAKIN’ HOARDERS!!! #ShitJustGotReal

photo of toilet paper roll

7. When I hear of someone knowing someone who has contracted COVID-19, I can’t help but wonder what the degree of separation is between that person and me.  Was the person I know in contact with the ill person and when?  And of course, when did I last come in contact with the person I know?  Being isolated for two weeks should alleviate any concern.

8.  I’ve been looking up more things I’ve been curious about since I have more free time on my hands.  Case in point, why do dogs display their bellies?

I learned when your dog displays his tummy for a rubdown, he is performing an act that is, at its core, submissive. Rolling over to show you his belly leaves him physically vulnerable, and represents a strong degree of both trust and submission to you.  But I also learned, this behavior differs for cats when they expose their bellies. Cats often lie on their backs in a defensive posture, which shouldn’t be interpreted as an invitation for a belly rub. #ScratchesToProveIt

9. Molly, by the way, has always practiced social distancing. #MeanCat #AmIRightSydney

book cover artwork

10. I use to call Molly a little fluff muffin…that is, until I looked it up. The Urban online dictionary has quite the graphic bothersome definition, ew! I will not share it here.
But then I got confused when I also saw Fluff Muffin is the name of a cute and hefty kitty that was adopted from a shelter in a series of children’s books.  HOW CAN THAT BE SO THE OPPOSITE?

11. You know that sudden burst of energy when your dog suddenly starts dashing about the house or the yard?  It’s commonly known as “the zoomies”. #Didn’tKnowThat
The reason is simple – happiness.  #ThatIKnew
According to Veterinarian,Dr. Jakubowsky, “It’s a way to release pent-up energy, but only happy, healthy dogs get the zoomies.”
So, if your pet is doing the zoomies then you are doing everything right.

roof top
Roof top

12. The mystery of the Airpods:
The other day I walked out my kitchen door (second floor of duplex) and while waiting on the senior pups I heard something drop on my neighbor’s roof, I turned in time to see the item roll to a stop.  I drew on the second photo to draw your attention to said item. The mystery is that I DON’T KNOW WHERE IT CAME FROM!!!  Look at third photo and its clearly Airpods.  Either someone threw them up there, my neighbor says it wasn’t him, or a bird, most likely a seagull, dropped the item having thought it was food. #WillNeverKnow #MustBeBored #SeagullsAreTheWorst #TooMuchTimeOnMyHands
 

Airpods

 

 

 

It took my neighbor almost a week to go up there and retrieve them. Sydney Rose tried to goat me into sneaking up there and nabbing them…but you know me. #OnTheSideOfGood

13.  I swear, some of the homemade masks people are sporting these days look like they might have had a previous life as a speedo. #RepurposingFail

14.  Mine, by the way, is a repurposed sarong. I have no bandanas on standby, nor speedos.

face mask

15. I CAN’T BELIEVE HOW BADLY I NEED TO STOP TOUCHING MY FACE!!! #WorkingOnIt

16. And finally, to help pass the time I came up with what I thought was a totally brilliant drinking game. I proposed it to a friend but she suggested everyone would get alcohol poisoning and die.  It would go like this, you take a shot of your favorite liquor every time the President uses the word “tremendous.”  #CantDisagree

15. From my favorite quotes file: “This too shall pass.”  – author debated…unknown.

Thanks for listening, and for the love of all things good, wash your hands!!

A Couple of Things…

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1. The senior pups I adopted last summer are an endless source of entertainment. Both dogs have foggy looking eyes in certain light, but Barney seems to have worst sight and has tumbled off curbs and this morning next to the gate, stood and faced the fence waiting for me to open it as Missy and myself stepped through the gate next to him.  Sad, but honestly, a little funny too.  #BadMom

Barnie Baumgardner

2. That being said, I do carry Barney down the stairs as he has previously stumbled down several steps at a time, because not only is he slightly blind, but he’s extremely bow-legged. I carry him much more than Missy, and I have turned him into such the momma’s boy!

3. Random nick names for the dogs include, Barnasourus (a lesser known creature from the Mesozoic era), and Missylaneous (because she’s a little of everything, a busy-body, a snuggle bug, and Barney’s face cleaning machine).

Yeah, I know, I’ve become one of “those” dog owners.  #DontCare #CrazyDogLover

snaggle tooth dog4. I can’t help but think of a baby sloth when I’m holding Missy.  She also makes little gurgling sounds sort of like a small pig and she has a snaggle tooth which juts out when she’s really comfortable. #FreakinAdorable #SnoresWhenSheSleeps

cat lounging5. Molly is none too happy with the senior pups. I have to speculate they would have been best friends if she hadn’t been such a snip when they arrived.  #MeanCat

6. Our first Halloween was quite fun dressing Missy as a folk singer. Not only did her picture make the local paper in the Ventura Breeze, but we won honorable mention at City Hall’s photo contest. I’ll get Barney next time. #WorthHerWeightInGold #MissyBaumgardner

7. After I first got the senior pups, I would give them baths myself, but then I had them “professionally groomed.”  I’m going to wait for it to warm up again before their next visit.  Can you believe they’re 12 and 11 years old?  #LookWayYounger

8. It couldn’t be helped, I started an Instagram account: AdoptedSeniorDogs.  Follow us!!

watching tv

9. Watching the Big Bang Theory with me.

dogs on lap10.  I can only extend my arms so far, but this is how I must now work at my computer. #TwoDogsOneLap #ReallyDontMind #SeniorDogLife

dogs wearing raincoats11.  I found out after the first shower, the senior dogs don’t do rain; but they actually like their raincoats and will wear them when it’s cold outside. #HighMaintenance

12. Home movies:  I call this one, “Couch Time with Missy and Barney.”

12. These two are extremely close. There is speculation that Missy is Barney’s mom (apparently mated with Maltese), as their white patches are exactly the same though he’s obviously tan and she gray.  Their foster mom thought Missy might have been a puppy mill mom as she wasn’t fixed when she was surrendered. Missy is always grooming Barney and cleaning his ears and he’s content to let her do so.  They’re always by each other’s side when I return home and are never more than a few feet away from each other when I’m there.
I’m trying not to think how one will do without the other when the inevitable happens, but I’ll be there to comfort and care for them when it does.

From my favorite quotes file: “I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me, they are the role model for being alive.” – Gilda Radner

A Couple of Things…

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So…Happy New Year!  As I write this, today is January 1, 2020. I have not written a blog since last March for a number of reasons but mostly because I lost my father on April 9, 2019.  What I’ve learned is that you can’t really predict how you’ll handle a death.  I thought I had it figured out as we had time to prepare.  He had been diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer the previous spring; it was a long year in many ways, yet a short year in many ways as well. I’ll be honest, I feared and dreaded that my dad would succumb to bitterness and anger, something so many people faced with pain do.  But he remained dignified and always looked strong while his body betrayed him.  Even during his final days I thought we had another month with him.

My dad, less than a week before he passed away.

I was with him his final night.  He had grown weaker and hospice supplied a hospital bed that evening at 8:30 to make him more comfortable and so I wouldn’t have to worry about him getting up in the middle of the night and falling.  The last thing anyone wanted was for him to end up in the hospital. We had spent the previous day together indoors and then outdoors in the sunshine in the backyard.  He talked about many things, I tried my best to alleviate his worries he had about those he was leaving behind.  In any case, that final evening, I slept on the couch with the hospital bed nearby in the same room.  I knew immediately something had happened. It was about 12:30 am and I got up, and saw he was peaceful with no pain in his face. He had passed.  I kissed his brow and said, “Good job Dad.”

The next few days were a blur, but I was surrounded by loving family and friends who I am indebted to for their kindness and support.

I compiled photos and short stories and anecdotes dedicated to life and created a website for him:  www.GilbertRSanchez.com.  He was 84 years old.

After writing the above, and then reading what I wrote, I’ve taken a deep breath and know that 2020 is the year to move forward.  Not necessarily to “let go”, but I have to confess that I’ve had this thought in the back of my mind that it would be disrespectful to be joyful and happy, but you know that is exactly what he would want for the ones he loves, for Sydney, for Carol, for all his family and friends, and of course for myself, so onto 2020 and creating that life he thinks I deserve.

A Couple of Things…

1. Last July, the day after my birthday, I adopted two senior dogs. They came as “Bambi” and “Lady” but I immediately dubbed them “Barney” and “Missy.”  They are 11 and 12 years old respectively and Barny, the tan one, is a Shih Tzu Maltese mix and Missy is a Shih Tzu (she may have been a puppy mill dog, and I’m pretty certain Barney’s mother).  I melt every time I open the door to these faces.

Barnie and Missy

2.  I got a promotion at work!  I’m a Management Technician, no longer a Secretary.  That’s quite a title, right? I get to handle all the Engineering Capital Improvement Project files for Design.  I make sure contracts, insurance, terms and payments are handled.

3. I will be traveling abroad this year with Linda.  We are going to Italy.  I got my passport a couple of weeks ago in the mail, we’re working with a travel agent to line up our flights and hotels but most importantly, I need to learn key phases such as “Where is the wine?”
Thank god for online translators, I now have the following phrase embedded in my mind, “Dov’e il vino?”

4.  A couple of highlights from the past year were being asked to emcee shows: the Topa Mountain Music Fest at Libbey Bowl in Ojai, and the fundraiser for Tommy and Paddy Marsh at Oak and Main.

5. I spent Christmas in Ashland, Oregon, with Sydney Rose as she has to work (I have time I can take off), it’s super cute there, and home just reminds me too much that this is my first Christmas without my dad.  We had a blast as always talking about everything under the sun, taking walks, playing backgammon and on Christmas we took in a movie (our tradition) at the local theater.  We saw Bombshell and settled in with a tub of popcorn knowing that would be our dinner, but the butter flavored oil they used could not have been further from butter tasting if you tried.  It was made out of soy which I guess Vegans would love.  I had to move the tub two seats down so I couldn’t smell it anymore!

6.  Back to Bombshell, the movie is about taking down Roger Ailes for sexual harassment at Fox News. We both really enjoyed it. Charlize Theron needs to be nominated for best actress portraying Megyn Kelly as well as Chalize’s make up artist.  I didn’t even realize it was her until she spoke!

7. I would venture to say this is one of my top peeves: when listening to the personal recording of the person I want to leave a phone message for and they say, “I will get back to you at my earliest convenience.”  I’ve even seen that in an automatic response on emails when the person is away from the office.
That’s just rude!  You’re suppose to say, “I’ll get back to you as soon as I can” or something along those lines.  The correct way to use the phrase is the other way around, “Please get back to ME at YOUR earliest convenience.”   Of course, these folks could actually know what they’re saying and just be that rude!  My Water Store has that greeting.

8. You know I’ve had my own music scene column in the Ventura Breeze newspaper for over five years, but I always get a kick when I get quoted every year in the VC Reporter

9. You’re not one of those people who thinks 2020 is the start of a new decade are you???

10.  From my favorite quotes files: “Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” – Oprah Winfrey

Thanks for listening!

 

 

 

A Couple of Things…

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1. Apparently I’m not the only one, but I am so relieved for Daylight Saving Time.  Sure I miss that hour like crazy, but I’ll have the correct time in my car again, at least for six months. One of these days I’ll figure out how to adjust the time in my VW, but probably not before I turn it in as my lease is up in September.
Side note: As I searched for an image, I found a tutorial on “How to set the clock in your Volkswagon” #NeverTooLate

2. I’m still working on one of my New Year’s Resolutions this year, which is to copy-edit before sending text messages, or emails, or social media posts, or blogs.

3. Here’s my opinion regarding low self-esteem.  I think one earns esteem.  Self or otherwise. It’s not a birth right.

4. Funny story: a co-worker confided in me while discussing going to mass for Ash Wednesday that she sometimes has to say an extra prayer afterwards…on a count of swearing to herself about how much ash was put on her forehead.  #ThatWouldBeMe

5. At first I thought it was a satirical website, but CBC Radio out of Canada isn’t. So this makes the headline even more hilarious! Headline on the story read: “Man angry his photo was used to prove all hipsters look alike – then learns it wasn’t him” – CBC Radio

  • Saw Captain Marvel. Nothing like a girl-next-door being a super hero.  Such a great role model for young girls everywhere!  #CantWaitforNextAvengersMovie

    My only questions regarding the movie evolve around the cat. WTF
  • Years ago I enjoyed the movie with Mel Gibson, What Women Want.  That being said, I couldn’t muster the energy to go see What Men Want, because seriously, don’t we already know?
  • As much as I enjoy Glenn Closes’ acting skills, her performance in “The Wife” resembles how most wives conduct themselves…stoically. Is that really digging deep? Poetic ending though; liked it.
  • I recently watch the 1943 version of Lassie Come Home.  I figured it was safe because you know, Lassie never dies. Unfortunately I didn’t account for other dogs.

7. Kerfuffle is one of newest favorite words to use, especially since it is found in the dictionary. I always thought it was a made up word, but no!  Its from… “1945–50; < Scots curfuffle < cur- (< Scots Gaelic car ‘to twist, turn’ |< Old Irish cor ‘a turn’) + fuffle ‘to disorder, confuse’ (of imitative origin)”

8. Do you ever find yourself mimicking the walk of someone ahead of you?  Yeah, me neither.

9. If I ever write a book, I think I’ll call it, “But I like my Turkey dry”.

10. So I hate to say it, but I was sexually harassed last year. Someone sent me a vile photo along with gross description of what they wanted to do with me.  They used my name too.  I thought about posting his face, but what if this person used somebody else’s photo? I did not recognize the number nor the person in the dick pick. Creeped me out, so I blocked the number, but then thought maybe there is a proper protocol to handing the smut of the earth, so I called Ventura PD and the detective told me to unblock, and to send a text explaining to that person that they should never contact me again, in person, via text, phone, email whatever.  So I did, then blocked him again.  This way if they continue to contact me, PD then has a case and will hunt him down.  My only regret is that I didn’t use a hashtag, #NotMeTooSUCKER

11. I saw somewhere that for $45, the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing will sell you a 5-lb bag with $10,000 worth of shredded U.S. currency. Bargain!  My question is, “How could they possibly prove it is $10,000?

12. Time really flies.  You realize that when you hit certain milestone anniversaries…such as VenturaRocks.com serving Ventura for ten years!!

From my favorites quotes file: “Time is a created thing. To say ‘I don’t have time,’ is like saying, ‘I don’t want to.”  – Lao Tzu

A Couple of Things…

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I spent Valentine’s Day with my Dad and Carol, we had a delightful time at The Water’s Edge with a table overlooking the Ventura Harbor.  #TwoMartiniMeal

I had my hair done last year and I mentioned to a friend that I thought the highlights were a little too blonde.  He told me I looked 10 years younger, to which I asked (without missing a beat), “I really look 25?!?”  That got a good laugh. #NotThatFunny

Every time I think I’m not “high maintenance” I remember how particular I am about ordering eggs in a restaurant. #HateCrustyEggs #PanTooHot

Or french fries for that matter #HateColdFries

And now that I think of it, “Crusty Eggs” might be a good name for a band…well at least a song!

https://www.facebook.com/PamVenturaRocks

I totally recognize the helpful and important function of social media for promoting one’s business.  I no longer recognize social media for connecting with others.  There are so many vile points-of-view, and ignorant posts that tear at my inner core, and so I do my best to no longer read my news feed. #SadButTrue

Also, the problem with those fake news stories spreading like wildfire is that most of the people spreading them think they’re helping!

Something to know about me.  I don’t like to be poked.  Not physically, not metaphorically and especially not on freakin’ Facebook!

I read an MSN article called, “50 Awesome Facts About Everything.”  One of my favorite facts was that Selfies kill more people than sharks.  Comforting about my chances of not getting eaten by a shark, but tickled we’re thinning the herd.

That moment when you’re caught watching one of those YouTube videos that make you tear up…and you’re supposed to be working.

May I just say that I never miss the opportunity to view photos of firemen with puppies or kittens.  That’s just hot, and probably sexist. #ImOkayWithThat

Actually, I prefer the real photos of firemen who have actually saved animals than those from staged photo shoots, most likely for a calendar, with good looking, buff men with their jackets open, or shirtless showing off  their sculptured abs, and…um…nevermind. #LikeEmBoth

Another fun fact? There are over a million ants for every person on earth.  I totally believe this one.

I came across another article entitled, “116 Amazing Facts for People Who Like Amazing Facts” and number seven made me say out loud, “I KNEW IT.” (See previous post from 2015: https://acoupleofthings.us/2015/12/20/a-couple-of-things-75/)

It’s a myth that no two snowflakes are exactly the same. In 1988, a scientist found two identical snow crystals. They came from a storm in Wisconsin.

VenturaRocks.com is coming up on it’s 10th anniversary. I seriously contemplated pulling the plug, but then I put out a call for help on financing the domain name, hosting, security, even my fee for hosting my radio show on public access radio, and the response was tremendous. So here’s to another year of supporting Ventura’s music scene! #VenturaRocks

From my favorite quotes file, “The entire population of the universe, with one trifling exception, is composed of others.” – John Andrew Holmes

Thanks for listening!

A Couple of Things…

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So it’s been a year now since my last post. I trust you’ve been good. Thanks for checking in and I hope, if necessary, you’ll forgive my absence. As for an explanation, well someday I’ll explain.

Meanwhile…

Sydney Rose was home for the past month arriving a few days before Christmas. Unfortunately she missed out on this all important photo shoot at our local Wharf store, the one that caters to animals. Santa was there patiently taking photos of locals with their animal friends. I’m still not sure how I got roped into this one, but you can’t say I’m a poor sport. I love the dog’s expression. To me she’s saying, “Really?”

Preparing for Sydney’s visit, I managed to drag the Christmas tree upstairs and get it set up. First time in years, and apparently Molly was fine with it.

 

On Thanksgiving, my dad decided we needed to go see The Blue Man Group, so Carol and I arranged a family trip to Las Vegas in January. We flew out of Burbank on one of those private jets, JetSuite X (I highly recommend it); staying two nights at the Luxor. It turns out, The Blue Man Group was a lot of fun! Afterwards in the lobby we enlisted some stranger to take a photo of us and lo and behold, one of the Blue Man members stepped in just in time for the shot! And I can’t stress enough, once again, you can not say I’m a poor sport as I wore that blue shirt provided to me by Carol…and Sydney to wear as a group to the show.

Sydney Rose and I decided to participate in the local March for Justice held here in Ventura. Several thousand residents showed up along with Assembly member, Monique Limon, Congresswoman, Julia Brownley, and Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson. Also in attendance were all four of the women on Ventura’s City Council. Yep, we now have a majority of women two of which are minorities! In any case, we march along with everyone else, and it was a few days later that Sydney spotted the front page of the Ventura Star on her grandpa’s coffee table and exclaimed, “Mom! You made the cover!!” Yes she was right, but just barely.

Sydney is one proud woman stating it like it is.

Jumping around just a bit. This year for Halloween, my group in Transportation at City Hall decided to dress up after taking a hiatus last year. The theme? You guessed it, the Addams Family.

This past fall, the Breeze celebrated their ten-year anniversary, and Sheldon took his staff to lunch. I’ve now been writing my Ventura Music Scene column for five years and I’m proud to report that I’ve never missed a deadline.

Mimiaga took me to a Dodger game last summer. We had great seats too. Little did we know they’d go to the World Series this year!

Just a few friends to help celebrate my birthday.

Sydney Rose sent me this photo…or I stole it from her FB page. In any case, I had it, and I’m sharing it! She’s been a baker on bread detail at St. Honore French Bakery in Portland. This is from last spring or early summer. She’ll be taking some time off soon to return to school moving to smaller town in Oregon. She’ll be going for a Food Science degree. Ain’t she cute?

 

I believe this past year was the first time I didn’t actually ride my bike to work on Bike to Work day. We are a motley crew, no?

Okay. I think I covered, a lot.

Thanks for checking in, I hope to get back into the swing of posting my silly observations and such.

A Couple of Things…

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1. I can’t even put into words (though clearly, I’m attempting to do so) how much it meant to me to be asked to emcee the 805 Love Notes Thomas Fire Benefit concert at the Ventura Theater.  I’ll be honest, I wasn’t nervous about being in front of a large crowd, but I was nervous about crying in front of a large crowd as we reflect on what so many friends and family have had to go through after losing their homes and how our community has come together to help, well, it just moves me to tears. My voice did crack a couple times, and I had to stop briefly, but I held it together.

Many thanks to local musician, Bill Benson, for the candid photos from back stage.
The artists were Glen Phillips (Toad the Wet Sprocket), Shawn Jones Trio, Shades of Day, Franklin for Short, Chris Pearce, Jesse Siebenberg, Todd Hannigan, Shane Alexander, Max Kasch, Leslie Stevens, Shelby Figueroa, The Pemberton Sisters (Jamie Drake and Justine Bennett), and Brother Sal. It was a long day, but so many heart-felt performances from all the artists who donated their time. #VenturaStrong #805Strong

2. I have to continually remind myself that life is too short to wear uncomfortable shoes.

3. Some mornings start better than others.

4.  It’s really quite disconcerting how many conversations I’ve had with different men I know that believe women are going too far on “this sexual harassment trend.” For starters, it’s not a trend, it’s a notion whose time has come. It’s time for women to band together and demand their dignity.They shouldn’t have to live in fear or shame. Yes, women are coming out of the woodwork to speak up, finally, and I’m glad. It makes me smile how many men are living in fear that they could be called out for past bad behavior.

That being said, this isn’t just a women’s problem. Men are abused as well, sexually and/or mentally belittled; they too have suffered in silence. It’s time we talk about this, because the more we do, the more future perpetrators will think twice before acting on their evil impulses.

I would also like to promote goodwill and good relations between each other. I do not support man bashing. I LOATHE generalities. I hope we never lose the art of seduction and being attracted to one another. What joy there is in finding good companionship (short or long-termed).

5. Last month while visiting my daughter for Christmas, I made it go right to catch up with a dear old friend of mine, John Nyman. He and his wife moved to Portland about a year ago.  It’s been way too many years since the last time we saw each other, I think it was at my wedding in 89.  In any case, we yapped it up with Sydney Rose in tow for over an hour in a coffee shop, and afterwards I kicked myself for not having Sydney take a photo of the two of us.  So I did the next best thing.  I grabbed a photo of him from his FB page and a photo of myself and photoshopped them together.  He has not changed at all, except for the beard!

6. The other thing that happened while visiting my daughter in Portland over Christmas is that I visited my first strip club, apparently the oldest one in Portland called Mary’s, or Mary’s Club or St. Mary’s or something like that.  Sydney actually was taking me to her favorite Mexican restaurant but warned me that the diner shared a bathroom with Marys.  I swear I tried to hold it in, but finally gave up and timidly made my way to the back, through a heavy door and around a sharp corner where yes, a woman was dancing on a pole.  But now that I think about it, and as God as my witness, I couldn’t tell you whether she was naked or not….so yeah, no photo for this one 😉

7. I love that my dad and Carol “Represent” when they step out for jazz.  This is Nate Birkey from NYC.  My dad came to know him when he played here in Ventura in the 90’s at a popular hub for jazz, California 66 (now Cafe Fiore)..

8. While taking a walk out to the mermaid statue down at the Harbor’s entrance on New Year’s day, just as I was arriving at my destination, a man walking his dog said hello to me and asked me where my better half was.  The fact that he thought I should have someone with me didn’t bother me as much as assuming that this “other person” would be the better half. What the hell, right?

9. I came across an article online called “8 Things InStyle Editors Actually Bought Without Hesitation in December.”  So yeah, I was intrigued because I used to peruse the mag back in the day when I cared a little more about fashion.  So I figured they’d know what is hip or not, right?  NO THEY DON’T!  WTF, Really? And…wait for it, they cost $695.  Click for article source.

10. Back when I was working on Buzzine Magazine, we shared an office space with Lin Milano, Alyssa Milano’s mom.  I always enjoyed working with her as she was a strong professional woman working in a tough field representing actors.  She once told me she would represent Sydney Rose (who was around 7 at the time).  I was thoroughly touched by that gesture.  So I asked Sydney if she would like to look into becoming an actress.  She didn’t even have to think about it.  She just flatly said, “No.”  I’ve always respected her for that. Smart girl.

11. Another Thomas Fire Benefit is lined up for Saturday, February 3, and this one headlines Kevin Costner and Modern West along with Olivia Newton John, Colbie Caillat, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and more. I was asked if I wanted to do any interviews and all I really needed was a couple of quotes for an article about the event, so I submitted questions for Kevin Costner, who said he would rather have it be more personable and preferred speaking with me instead. So yeah, me and Kevin are tight now.
Seriously, he was warm and had true concern for our community (he grew up here and lives just up the coast). He totally reminded of Ray, the character he portrayed in Field of Dreams.

12. From my favorite quotes file, “How far that little candle throws his beams! So shines a good deed in a weary world.” – William Shakespeare (The Merchant of Venice)

A Couple of Things…

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I was working on this post entry for my blog, “A Couple of Things…” when Ventura was hit by the Thomas Fire (December 4, 2017). Little did we know that horrific night that this fire would take over 400 homes in our town alone, continue up the coast to Santa Barbara and end up being the largest fire in California history (at that time).  As I write this on New Year’s day, the fire is about 92% contained.

For two weeks we were in a thick haze, literally.  The smoke was so harsh and thick, and toxic that everyone in town wore safety masks.  People were keeping indoors as much as possible and sealing up their homes to try to avoid contact from all the ash, especially those first few days.  Smoke and ash from forest fires are different from smoke and ash from homes that have burn. Houses contain asbestos, aluminum, copper, and all kinds of ugly toxic materials. The City was giving out boxes of masks for free.  I wore a mask outdoors at all times as the air did not clear until Sunday, December 17.

It’s been a privilege to work for the City and to work in the EOC (Emergency Operation Center) and help out with the Community Meetings to keep Venturans informed. I know so many people were trying to figure out how to help.  As a civil servant, I had more opportunities to do so.

Just about four weeks later, there are so many lessons learned. Lessons for citizens, lessons for the City, and continued lessons for first responders. I personally know fifteen people who lost their home during what should be the most joyous time of the year including one of my best friends Eve. She honestly thought they’d be back in their home that next morning.  They still don’t know if they’ll rebuild.

I took myself off social media for several weeks as the images and sad stories became overwhelming. That along with working at City Hall with these industrial strength, incredibly LOUD air purifiers blowing 24/7 for over four weeks, trying to help frustrated citizens, and then walking out everyday to a view that made my heart fall, every single day. (I took center photo, the two others are from social media).

I’m so grateful to our firefighters for protecting so many properties and lives.  Yes there was an incredible amount of destruction, but it could have been so much worse. And to see our community bond and rally and help one another made me proud.

This image still makes me smile.  Yeah, I may know who placed the mask on the Father Serra statue out in front of City Hall…but I’ll never tell.  (photo credit: Sheldon Brown)

And now to lighter fare:

It was the perfect way to end 2017.  We met for early evening cocktails which evolved into a three hour dinner at Lure…where the service was superior, the food delicious and the libations spot on. The conversations were witty, inspiring, and soul soothing.  It’s so important to surround oneself with people who uplift and empower others.

I spent Christmas in Portland this year with my favorite girl in the whole wide world, Sydney Rose.  I was only there for four days, but we made the most of it, spending much needed time out of Ventura, and as if on cue, it magically began to snow on Christmas Eve.  It was perfect!

They call it “The Social Event of the Year” with family and friends strolling downtown Main Street, live music, snow fall, crafts and food booths, and a Wine Walk for those who enjoy the fermented juice of grapes. It seems to me that the more you partake the less you care about that initial, sometimes sour sensation on the palate.
Here we are hanging with Mr. and Mrs. Claus; Susie and Loree are attempting to get Mrs. Claus drunk.

Two days later, the Thomas Fire would upend our City.  It started in Santa Paula as our City Council was in the council chambers for their weekly meeting in Ventura They were notified of the fire as the winds were about the worst they’ve been in a long time. The entire area was  under red flag alert. Their fears were quickly realized as the fire progressed and hit our City within a short time.  The meeting was adjourned as council members raced to protect their homes.

I would like to move that we remove the expression “Things happen for a reason” when referring to tragic events. Screw that. “Shit happens” and that’s that. Confront and handle and come up with “lessons learned” to help prevent “Shit” from occurring again.

I am not agnostic. I believe in a higher power, but I also believe in the strength and bond of a community and helping one another through the worst of times. #VenturaStrong

I am so looking forward to 2018 and putting this year behind me.

I wish you a safe, prosperous and harmonious New Year.

Thanks for listening!