If You See Someting, Say Something

The terror threat is heightened in New York City. It has been for a few months now. You can tell just by the police presence everywhere you go and down on the subways they are holding machine guns once again. I, of course, am always on guard. I look people up and down and stare at them till they get really, really uncomfortable. I secretly think that I am an undercover FBI agent while doing so. How are they to know that I’m not? I could be. No one would suspect it.

So the other day on my daily packed subway ride home on B train I gave the car my once over. There was an extra seat in the middle of two people so I squeezed my J-Lo bootie right in-between them. I read a “how to survive a terrorist attack in a subway” that there is a higher survival rate if you are sitting due to debris. So I sit any chance I get on crowded cars.

(Do we need to go back to the fact that I read articles and books on this matter? I can’t help it, I always want to be prepared. And I find them completely interesting.)

It was packed. More than usual. Must be the holiday season. I noticed a man, fitting the profile (sorry, but there is a profile to be aware of, not being racist just stating a fact). He was holding a backpack in front of him and looked nervous. He was shaking and sweating a bit and seemed to constantly be looking in the bag. It was like he was holding on to it for dear life. My heart began to race. Everything fit the list of what we are to look for. I turned to the woman sitting next to me and said, “You see that man?” She was already aware of him and told me that she was getting off at the next stop. The people standing by us heard us and pretty soon we all were either about to take action or get the heck off the train. Problem was, we were on the express train and the stops are less frequent. We had to wait and endure the train ride all the way from 34^th St stop to West 4^th St.

I decided that as soon as I get off the train I would run and find a NYPD and make them aware of the man while telling people to NOT get on the train. I didn’t want to run and scream frantically or other people would think I was the crazy one. So off the train and out of the subway I flew taking 2 stairs at a time in heels. When I go to the top of the stairs I looked behind me and noticed that the Terrorist was behind me. He was running just as fast as I was and still holding on to his bag for dear life. I waiting and let him pass me and then followed him. I followed him out of the turn stile and up to the street. I noticed 2 NYPD officers outside and walked over to them and right at that time the man sets his backpack/bomb down on the ground…..unzips it…….and…………..

Out ran a little puppy.

Yep, seriously. I over reacted once again. But hey, I was not the only one this time. I explained it to the cops, as they were wondering why I ran up to them out of breath. They laughed but said that I was a good New Yorker for reacting the way I did. Thanks cute NYPD dudes!

We have signs everywhere that say, “If you see Something, Say Something.” 65,000 New Yorkers last year followed those rules and reported suspicious actions. I think I single handedly reported 54,000 out of the 65k.

NYC Snow Day of 2009

Here is what I got to enjoy this morning. After a night of being out in the Blizzard all night this was a great way to spend my day today.

I know I know

I said I was going to stay on top of my blog and I lied. Ok, I promise I will give a proper update tomorrow. We are in the middle of a big snow storm and tomorrow I will hopefully be snowed in. Except for the little shopping i have to do tomorrow. Thank goodness I have snow boots.

Quick update:

1. Yankees Won the World Series. Was an Amazing night here in the city. I even have video that I will post.

2. Not going home for Christmas this year. It's kinda depressing. But there are a few of us that will be here so we are all going to celebrate together. Could be fun. There might be more of us in town than we think because...

3. There is a huge snow storm that will be here tonight and tomorrow. All the flights at every airport in NYC are already cancelled. There is about an inch of snow already on the ground.

4. I have been dating. Very interesting. Have had at least one date every week of some sort. Sure they are not all winners, but at least I am out there. I have one set for the week after Christmas that I am kinda excited about. Only because he looks like JFK Jr. and Paul Rudd combined. At least it will be easy on the eyes.

5. New Years Resolutions are being decided this week. I am not so good at keeping these but I will look at them as Life's To-Do's. That will make me stick to them a little better rather than things I HAVE to do this year. I don't deal well when I'm told what to do. Duh.

Ok, on my way to have dinner with friends and fight through the snow. I will not be wearing my snow boots tonight of course. It's Saturday night, must wear heels. Wish me luck that I don't fall on my face. Oh who am I kidding, we all know I will anyway.

Bye!!

Why Women stay single !!

Yes, this is real. I think I have met a few of these guys actually. The ones that think they are Gods gift to men. I had this same thing happen to me except the guy didn't stop after 2 calls. He called every 2 weeks for a year. Unreal how woman are always labeled as the dramatic ones. Here's one for you guys.

Who knew?

I knew mom and dad have been working out. I guess I just wasn't sure how.

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

I have talented Guy Friends

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Long Over Do...

Here is the second version of my family reunion down South. Sorry it's taken me so long to post it. I've had it made for a while.

It was great to go back to Houma. It's so much smaller than I remember. But It was neat to see the house I was born in and my first church. Also, going back to Grandmother and Poppers house brought back so many great memories on the farm. I miss those days of swimming in the horses troth and dodging snakes on the way to the chicken coup. And who can forget Susie Moo Cow, Sparky the Duck, Freckles the dog and the horses Tee Tot, Misty, Mokey and King.

Enjoy!!

Halloween 2009

Another year another Britney. At least this year I had hair this year.

This year I was Circus Tour Brit. I made the whole costume by hand. It took a while but it was worth it. I was afraid that people wouldn't know who I was but that ended up not being an issue.

We started at Tim and Rachael's Apt for the pre-game round up. Our Neighborhood was insane of course. We stayed there till 11 and later continued at the Bower Hotel for a private party. It was full of dancing and crazies. Overall the night was a hit and I am getting ready for next year.

Here are some pic of our crew:

Britney, Debbie Harry (Blondie) and the scary dead Groom creeping behind.Margo and Richie Tenenbaum

Brit and one of the Ramones

Concert of a lifetime, Lady Ga Ga, Britney, the Ramones and Blondie

Gwen and Gavin

Foxy

Penny Lane and Go Go Shannon

Monkey, Kenneth from 30 Rock and the 70's Perv

Dead Bride and Groom

Good News, We found the Balloon Boy!! He's ok.

So Behind...

I know I have been a slacker with my photos and updates. I am so behind. But with Halloween and this World Series, GO YANKS, I can not find the time to even play on my laptop at home. I will try to get everything on here soon.

So much to catch you up on.
1. CA trip
2. Halloween
3. World Series Craziness
4. Dating life, yes I'm getting back out there.
5. Fall in NYC

I will update you all very very soon.

KXVO "Pumpkin Dance"

There must not be that any news worth reporting in Omaha. Haha I kind of want to learn this routine.

Bellyrama

Oh please don't let this be me in a few years. When I watched this I just cringed and thought that this woman does not get out that often. And who knows when the last time she had contact with someone from the opposite sex. Oh so sad.
It is worth watching the whole thing.

Rachael's Bachelorette Party!!

I am back tracking a bit so get ready for tons of pictures.

Back in early September we had a NYC Bachelorette Party for the Bride to Be Rachael Grey. She had one in Vegas with her LA friends and we had one in NYC with her NYC homies. It was a great night full of girly girl adventures and shocking NYC moments.

We started the night at a local bar in Union Square called Lillie's. Very Victorian and feminine. Gold sconces and tons of crystal chandeliers. A perfect place to start the night.

This is just 1/2 of the crew. The rest joined us later. From Left to Right: Caitlin, Bonnie, Heather, Meredith, Rachael, Claire and myself.We had one guy with us, Jamie Gordon. He was not able to make it to Tim's Bachelor party in Vegas that weekend so he came with us. Such a sport. He even wore all black sticking to the dress code.
While walking to our next location we happened upon an old white carousel horse. How it got there and where it came from we have no idea. But it was too good to pass up.

The Next location was Lucky Changs. It's not a place that I would take my mom but it was very entertaining to say the least. The place was full of Bachelorette parties and birthdays.

Rachael got her very own "show" from this Woman/Man. I am not quite sure what to call her/him. Interesting.My Favorite was Cross-dresser Carl. No, that is not his real name but that is the name I gave him. He was clearly your next door neighbor and looking like he drove a Volvo. And then at night he had a secret life. He made me laugh and feel sorry for him at the same time. Off to the next place to get our dance on. Thanks to Jamie Gordon for getting us the hook up in one pretty cool place in the lower east side. He knows all the places.

I danced so much that night that I worked off my meals for the week. We ALL had an amazing time and had so much fun celebrating Rachael's last days of being a single lady. Thank you New York for never disappointing me.

Single Ladies for a Reason

Why is it so funny to me when people fall or get hurt? I fall and get hurt ALL THE TIME. I am sure people are making fun of me too. I know I am.

Double Star Sightings

A little over a month ago I had the best star sighting that I have ever had and probably will ever have. For the past 5 years that I have been in NYC I have wanted to see Harrison Ford. Why? Well because he IS Han Solo and Indiana Jones. He has been my heart throb since I was young and now I can check him off my list.

I was on the phone with my mom, per usual, and I just start screaming, "NO WAY". She of course knows that I have either seen a star or have been grabbed inappropriately by a homeless man. I could not believe my eyes, it was the one and only Harrison Ford.

He was filming a movie and they were right in the middle of shooting. After gazing at him I realize that he is filming with Rachel McAdams, one of my favorite actresses. It was a double star sighting. I quickly looked around to see if anyone else good was there and if I knew the director.

I watched them film a few takes. The paparazzi was all around getting their shot and I had wished that I had my camera on me at the time. I usually do but I was charging it at home. Luckily, and no shock, I had my blackberry on me. I wish these were better but they were trying to run us off. I told the man that was NOT leaving until I was good and ready. I know how shoots go and I was not in the way. He doesn't know how long I have waited to see this man.

So here are some pics from it. It's a romantic comedy and Diane Keaton is in it as well. California Pics coming soon!!

Laura's New Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-479ojoLgxg

Some of you know my friend Laura Jansen. She is an amazing singer/songwriter and I adore her music. This is her new video Single Girls. The first time I heard the song it was a little over 2 years ago when I was going through a little break up. It touch me and pointed out exactly what I was going through at that time. Now 2 years later and going though yet another break up this video just speaks volumes. I hope you like it!!!

How Do I Fit In Here?

I have SO SO SO many photos to catch you all up on but I HAD to blog about this right away.

Last night I attended the Paper Magazine 25th Anniversary at the NYC Library. It was beautiful. I had no idea what I was getting into. I soon found out once I arrived to the Red Carpet and swarms of paparazzi.

Here is a list of who was there and who I saw and WHAT I saw: (Video to come)
1. Tyson Beckford was there with a beautiful skinny in need of a burger model. They came on a motorcycle and held their helmets all night. I would of been mad to have to hang on to that.
2. All 3 Hanson Brothers. I have to say, 2 out of the 3 are looking pretty good. Who would have known that the older brother would turn out cute.
3. Sean Lennon. Yes, John's son.
4. Lydia Hearst - she's in Gossip Girl and a model
5. Amerie - Singer
6. Estelle - Singer
7. Isaac Mizrahi - Designer. He was not looking his best. His outfit had this white thing tied around his neck like he just went to a barber shop for a shave. And he had Nike flip flops on. WITH A SUIT. We all know that is a no no.
8. Patricia Field - Designer for Sex and the City. I was happy to see her and she did NOT disappoint. Her shoes were to die for. I am going to run out and try to find them right away.
9. Nicole Miller - Designer. I did a party with her before and she is always nice.
10. Mark Ronson - DJ. He was spinning which was pretty amazing.
11. Lindsey Lohan - She showed up and ran upstairs and that's all we saw of her.
12. The Entire Cast of Project Runway - I tried to find out who won but I wasn't able to. I think I know a few who didn't for sure though
13. Brad From Rachel Zoe - I love that show and he was adorable
14. The Virgins opened the night and played. Rock out!
15. Kayne West with his entire entourage. He didn't wear his glasses inside which was nice of him.
16. Queen Latifah Sang/Rapped
17. Liza Minnelli Sang. I have video of this that I will post. Pretty unbelievable. I have video of her singing New York New York.
18. Gossip Girl People that I don't know
19. Betsey Johnson - Designer. She didn't do any cartwheels.
20. Every transgendered man in NYC. Some were a little scary. There was one that looked like a beaten dirty rat. I will try to find a photo of that guy.
21. Mischa Barton - She's been filming her new TV show in our neighborhood a lot and frequents our Dog Park. That is when she is not in rehab.
22. Cynthia Rowley - Designer
23. Charlotte Ronson - Designer

These people don't eat a thing but they sure can drink. There was broken glass everywhere at the end of the night. The Library was trashed. So sad. Also sad that on my way to the bathroom there were 3 kids, and I mean age 14-16 or so, drunk out of their mind and I am sure on something. I wanted to grab them up by their ears and kick them out. Do these parents not know where their kids are on a school night? Not to mention what I saw going on in the bathroom. I know I am in NYC and drugs are the norm here, but I am very happy that I am not normal. I don't think I will ever be ok with seeing things like that. Just makes me cringe and feel so sorry for the people that feel that they need to do it.

Regardless of all the messy people it was a fun night of people watching and people watching you. Great music and entertainment. And to hear Liza, the daughter of Judy Garland and MJ's BFF mind you, sing New York New York in the New York City Public Library, one of the prettiest buildings in NY, made the night a night that I will remember.

Now all I have to do if find a time to sleep but from the looks of it that will have to wait till after the weekend. Next Stop California!!!

Say NO to Crack!!

I have hit rock bottom. Hi my name is Jamie Chitty and I am a blackberryolic.

I knew I was addicted and I have admitted it in the past. I have to have it in my hand constantly. I sleep with it under my pillow so I can feel it buzz at 3 in the morning. It's an obsession, a safety blanket. I can not function unless it's attached to me. I should wear one of those holster thingy's but fashion gets in the way of that idea. So instead I carry it around, always looking down.

Today, on my way to work, my life almost ended all due to a little red device.

Every morning on my way to work I walk and check all my emails that I have received throughout the night. My boss wakes up early so there is usually several work related ones that I get an early start on. So there I am, walking down Bleeker and up MacDougal, in Starbucks, order a Chai and then on the way to the subway and never once looking up. Email after email after email. Text after text after text. IM after IM after IM. Somehow managing to avoid cars, people, poles, potholes and bums along the way.

This morning, while taking a different route on 6th Ave, I was right in the middle of reading a new bio on a client. Now, this totally could have waited till I got to work but to make myself feel more important, as people tend to do when they purchase a tiny high tech machine, I felt that I had to read it then and there. Walking, Reading. Reading, Walking. My head so far down it could have look as if I were asleep or praying. Then I hear in the background, "Miss, watch out, Miss Watch it! MISS STOP!!!" I am grabbed my a man in a yellow hard hat and look in front of me. A HUGE hole where the Subway grate was missing. I walked Right into their construction site and never even noticed.

"Oh my, thank you SO SO much! Whew!" So I turned and continued to walk on. My head returned to praying position. After all, I wasn't done reading.

"MISS MISS LOOK UP!" I looked up with an abrupt stop and there was another huge Subway grate missing. Seriously? 2 in a row? I looked back at him and smiled and said, "You are a hero. I'm an idiot" and then thought to myself, I need to stop reading this and pay attention.

Did I stop? Of course not because I received a little but powerful BUZZ on the Crackberry. More to read. Standing on the corner of 6th and Waverly I stood back to let the sweeper truck pass by. I hate those things. They are giant and loud and scary. And they tend to spit out street juice on you which makes me want to vomit.

It passed by but stopped at the light. I walked behind it to cross the street. Must Get to Starbucks. But then, BUZZ, another important message. I look down and began reading away. At this time i am right behind the sweeper truck not even noticing that it is backing up. There was no Beep Beep Beep that you normally hear, or maybe there was, How would I be able to tell after all I almost fell down 2 deep dark holes 5 seconds ago.

When I DID finally look up the truck was actually touching me and I was being pushed back. Once I realized what was going on I cartooned jumped out of the way and stood there watching it to continue to back up. I walked over to the man driving the truck and said, "Dude you just hit me!" He didn't even care. And he shouldn't care because it wasn't his fault.

Walking in Starbucks I made myself put my Killing Device in my bag. I was almost killed or worse, on crutches in NYC. I made myself focus.

That lasted till I got out of the Subway and began walking along 42nd street along side Bryant Park and over looking the4 Crystler Building. You would think that would have been enough to keep my attention. Nope, not at all. Back to the "important" messages and head back down.

I guess I really need rehab. My goal this weekend is to put it away. Leave it at home ONE day. Thinking about it makes me cringe. Or maybe I will start with turning it off at night and NOT sleeping with it under my pillow. Why do I need to email at 4 AM anyway?
Do I really care the someone updated their Facebook status to, "I can't Sleep"?

No Time for a Manicure

The past 2 weeks have been so busy I am having a hard time fitting in my TV/Sunflower Seed sessions. I asked for help to keep me busy and that is exactly what I got. I am wondering if I will ever have down time again.

First off I want to say thank you to all my blog friends out there who have said so many kind words, and some just plain funny. When there was ever a time that I was feeling down, stressed or lost, I got a buzz on my blackberry and there was a message to bring a smile to my face and strength to shake off the drama. It completely reset my mind. Thanks so much!!

So So SO much has been going on I don't even know where to start. I'll start with the fun stuff: Saturday night we had Rachael's Bachlorette Party. Ummm, ya, fun would be an understatement. She looked like a princesses. We were all in little black dresses and she was in a white darling dress. They attempted to decorate her with embarrassing flashy garb but little by little it disappeared. Thanks Meredith for flushing the sash down the toilet, I am still convinced that toilet must have been powerful enough to swallow a small child.
I have pictures from this that I will edit and post. It was my first drag show and am still picking my jaw off the floor.

We fly to California the weekend of the 12th for the wedding. I am so excited about going. I have never been to CA before and I heard a rumor that Disney Land might be in the works. I am fine with whatever. Hotel and car all booked. We are debating whether or not to get a convertible. I vote both hands up double yes! I am just excited to get away and travel with all my NYC girlfriends. We laugh about the NYC girls competing with the LA girls. There WILL be a dance off and I know we will take them down. After all, their fake boobs and extensions might get in the way of them doing a proper worm.

This weekend will consist of being in the sun all weekend. I know we have a rooftop BBQ and hours of brunching with mimosas planned. The rest will be me on the beach or at the pier.

Every single night this week and next week there is something planned. I have no idea how that happened. It's like the city and everyone in it is panicking for the change of season and rushing to cram all Summer activities in before Fall arrives.

Now the Interesting/odd things: The past 2 weeks I have meet so many new and interesting people that just get me. I have found myself saying the phrase, "ME TOO!" over and over again with every conversation. How come I am meeting them now? It's almost like I am opening myself up to new possibilities and they are just rushing in. Kind of amazing and weird at the same time. I am so interested to see what I learn from these people and where it takes me.

Another interesting note, an old boss called me and really wants me to write for him again. I have been able to write a lot more lately, just more coming to mind i guess, that I have been wanting to get it all down. I also have signed up for a writing class for kicks. Ironic that he calls out of no where.

So in a nutshell things have been busy but very good. I am so surprised how good they actually are. Every day I wait for the relapse and it never comes. It's been a week since I've even shed a tear. Is that mean to say? I have just been so distracted that I haven't even been given a chance to deal with it. Or maybe I am done dealing with it. Regardless what it is, thank you guys for keeping me in your thoughts. I think it's working ;)

Ch-Ch-Ch- Changes

Yes there are tons of things in my life that are changing right now. When it rains it pours. It's like my life will be calm and settled and then BAM! everything changes. I long for the day that I have a little bit of stability and know that each year is going to be the same. No, I don't want boring, that I will make sure of, but knowing that each morning when you wake up there will be no drama and stress. Does that ever happen?

When I was younger I thought when I turned 30 I would have everything figured out. Heck, when I turned 30 I thought that I would have everything figured out. I was excited about leaving the craziness of my 20's behind me and ready to move on to a more adult life. I am starting to realize that this may never happen.

I recently started a new job. When I went to London I had to give up work here. Although that was a risky move and I took a HUGE chance, at the time it was the right thing to do. So when I came back, during the beautiful economy crises, I had to start over. I got out there and went to interview after interview. It took about a month but I finally found something. Nothing that I really see myself in the future but a GREAT company that maybe can help me out down the line. Ever heard of the Rockefeller's?

With this job I can still do PR and side projects if I want. It also gives me time to really focus on what direction I want to take next. The people here are amazing and extremely intelligent. I know that I will learn a lot from being here and the next step will be a great one. I have really enjoyed going to work rather than working from home. Sure waking up at 6:30AM is tough but I am adjusting and growing to like getting my day started early. I've even been waking up on the weekends before 8am without an alarm. Some of you will be very impressed by that.

Another change is I am getting a new roommate. Ashlee Williams never came through, if someone hears from her let me know. I am a little worried.
I would rather not have a roommate at age 33 but unfortunately I live in the most expensive city ever and living in Greenwich Village is not cheap. Yes, I know it is my choice and I wouldn't change it. This new girl is from Canada and is in Grad school at NYC and I am happy that I found a normal and cool person to live with. I am 11 years her senior. She is sweet and adorable and I will take on the roll as her big sister. But again, I did not see myself living with a roommate at this age. It makes me evaluate everything.

The major change, and I will keep it short, I am single again. I won't go into too many details because I don't really have too many details to give, I am still trying to figure it all out for myself. It came out of no where and I was caught completely off guard. Shocked really. It's been a week and I am surprised of how well I am doing. Yes, it is still extremely hard and there was a while there that I was not sure if I was going to be able to function. I still wonder if I will relapse. But I do know that I can do this. I have done it before. There are just so many questions still and maybe one day I will get answers. But for now all I can focus on myself and keeping busy. Thanks to a few people for keeping my mind on other things.

With all these changes comes new adventures and new people. I am trying my hardest to be optimistic. I have my days. I have heard EVERY cliche in the book and frankly am a little sick of them. The phrase, "Everything happens for a reason" was totally made up by a woman going through a break up trying to convince herself that she was ok, you know it was.
I don't handle changes well, good or bad. And right now everything about my life seems to be changing. It just sucks (sorry mom, I know you don't like that word). The best advice I had was from a friend that just said, Deal with it!". I laughed and was a little taken back but thought, "Yep, that's all I can do." I washed my hands of it and that is just what I am doing. Dealing with it.

So here we go. Another adventure. Let's hope that the next year is even better than the past 2 were.

Just call me Grace!

I swear that I am getting clumsier in my older age.
We all know that I am Queen of falling. I have been since Jr. High. Danielle Turner can remember the time in 6th grade when I accidentally slipped and fell on all 4's which lead to me flashing some of the cool 8th grade boys that we all had crushes on.
Well my clumsiness has spread throughout my body and has now gone into my actions.

Yesterday I received an email from a friend about cool shopping deals. You can pick your sizes and stores you like online and it sends you updates on all the sales they have for you. I thought this would be something that a few of my girlfriends would like. So.... I was given the option to send this email to people in my Yahoo contact list. I click "yes", thinking I was going to get to pick who I sent it to. Next thing I knew it read, "You have successfully sent an email to all 264 people in your Yahoo contact list". WHAT?????

No No NO!!!!! Having no idea who I have in my contact list I go to my list page and see who it was sent to. Yep, you betcha. It was sent an email stating, "Jamie knows how much you like shopping deals", to EVERY ex-boyfriend or love interest that I have had over the past 8 YEARS!!! People who I haven't talked to in years and don't really want to talk to. I can only imagine the feedback I am going to get from this.

And just when you think your great day is over I pull another move.
I went to Bryant Park to meet Meredith for Movie's in the Park Monday. It felt great to unwind and lay on a blanket in the sun in the open air of New York. For a good 15 minutes I was laying on my stomach. We were noticing a bunch of guys staring over in our direction. We just thought maybe we looked good today. When Meredith sat up she noticed something. Something that was for sure the reason we were getting little smirks. The slit in the back of my dress was a wee bit too high. So high that my entire butt was there for all the world to see. How could I not feel that? Seriously?? Really?

I am hoping that today is going to go a little better than yesterday. Maybe I will be able to get through the day with grace. Yeah right, who am I kidding. Get ready New York it could be full frontal at the rate I'm going.

Family Reunion Down South

This past weekend we had our annual Chitty Reunion. This year we took it back home to HOUMA where it all started. Houma is an hour South of New Orleans. Didn't think you could get much further South right?

I was born there and it's been a while since I was there last. After we moved to Shreveport I would go down to stay with Grandmother and Popper for the Summer's. I have a LOT of great memories. Most have to do with my cousins, two of which were no shows, thanks a lot Hollie and Heidi. We usually have a huge turn out but for some reason we were missing half of the family. It was still good to be back home and see all the old sights.

(Don't worry, Hollie and Heidi, I will write you a very long email of all the drama of this years reunion. There was tons tons tons this time around)

Here is a quick video that I put together. I have Part Two coming soon.

KIng of Pop will always be my PYT

I am shocked beyond belief. Yesterday while walking from the local coffee shop to the apt  I received a text from Ayla stating, "Michael Jackson Died". I FROZE. I called her immediately and got all the details then ran home to see what was on the news. At that time not all papers and reports were releasing that he had died. But soon after the reports came in. I called Jon, my parents and my brother. I was sad. Everywhere I went in NYC last night you could hear his music playing all around. All the chatter on the streets made strangers talk to each other and every single person that you did speak to was shocked and sad. We ALL loved his music and what he brought to the Pop world. His music is timeless and will remain to be.

In 1984 I was in 2nd grade. I remember the Thriller album coming out. It was huge. It was the first time that I was hooked on a musician. The photos on the album fascinated me. I would spend hours looking at the veins on his wrist popping out while petting the tiger. 

Remember when you sold those candy bars, America's Finniest or something like that, in school and then you win prizes for how much you sell? Well I used all my rewards on Thriller album cover iron-on's. He was IT! Every kid wanted to be him. 

Rick and I would stay up on Friday nights to watch Friday Night Videos (before MTV) and the Billie Jean video was the coolest thing ever. I wanted to walk on that sidewalk and make them light up like he did. 

 

I also remember when MTV was going to air Thriller for the first time. Rick and I stayed up to watch  it. It was worth it. The video scared me but also fascinated me. I was amazed how real the zombies looked. I immediately started trying to learn the dance. 

In 3rd grade my cousins, Hollie and Heidi, and I made a routine to PYT and performed it for our families. We charged 5 cents to come to the show. We also sang the entire song We Are The World. It was a Michael Jackson tribute night I guess. They have that on video. I would love to get it online.

Say Say Say with Paul McCartney is still one of my favorites of MJ. 

Of course there is Beat It and Man in the Mirror. The list goes on and on. Pretty much every single song of his was a hit. 

At Harding my 2nd year we had a Kojie Halloween party. We were just supposed to

 come dressed up. I had to go the extra mile and got 5 of us together to be the Jackson 5 and have a routine as well. We had a dance and lip sync routine to ABC. Fro's, paint and all. After that "the Bazaar Band Bash" was formed. The following year I had to make a comeback and I was not about to let anyone beat the King of Pop so we with more people involved we did a tribute to Motown Records. Jackson 5, Supremos and Gladys Night and the Pips. I wish I had photos of this but they are back home in Shreveport. 

Senior year it was tough to get a comeback of the Jackson 5 so I took it upon myself to make sure that Michael made a last appearance.  I needed a little work on my moon walk for sure.

Michael Jackson has been through a life that non of us can identify with. He troubled, abused in many forms and confused. He was a very lonely man and never grew into a man. He chose to remain a child in his mind which is where all the controversy began with his relationships with kids. I like to believe that he really thought of those kids as his friends and that he never hurt them. I know a lot of people disagree with me. But what we can all agree on is that he was a music and entertainment Genius. 

I will always be a fan of him and his music and it will constantly inspire me to get up and dance no mater what age I am. 

We will Miss you Michael Jackson!

Tears for Fears

I have tons more photos from the trip to post but right now I will just update everyone of my first week back.

It was a long flight back and I cried the whole way. Of course it didn't help that I watch romantic sappy movies the whole way either. By the time I landed in NY it was 3 AM London time. I was exhausted. I hopped in a cab and headed to the city. 

For the first time in my life I was not happy to see the city skyline. I actually resented the Empire State Building. I could have been the jet lag or the fact that I just left Jon. Probably a little of both. So the cab drops me off right in front of my building and I

 manage to get ALL my bags up the stairs. By this time it is 4AM London time. I open the door to my apt excited about sleeping and what do I find? A war zone!!

The place was a mess. A disaster. It smelled of Cat poop and cigarettes, stuff thrown everywhere. I immediately busted out in tears. I noticed that my Dad's painting (that is supposed to be hanging on my wall in my bedroom) was in the living room on top of the book shelf with something touching the front of it. SO not cool. When I picked it up there entire back of it was infested with roaches. More waterworks. When I expressed my concern to my

 roommate she said, "I can't deal with this right now, I'm tired". It was only 11 NYC time and your apartment is infested with roaches and you 'can't deal with it'???? Really??

When I walked in my room it reeked of mildew. Soon I find that all my bedding is in a box and covered with mold and soaking wet. Tears Tears and more Tears. I could not believe it. Also, a couple of bags of clothes were soaking wet as well. I sublet my room to a girl and when I left it for her it was nice and clean. It was left a wreck for me. So Nice. And also on a side note, when you sublet a space from someone that does not mean that you redecorate and move furniture around. You bring in your clothes and whatever you need to survive for the time being. You don't bring your own art work for the walls.

Here are a couple of the pillows at their best.

So after running to the store to buy cleaning supplies, bug spray, trash bags and a gun (that one a joke of course) I was able to get my room somewhat decent to cry myself to sleep. By that time it was 5 AM New York time. What time does that make it for my jet lag clock??? Wait for it, wait for it.... 10 in the morning. 10 in the morning and no sleep. I am just now getting myself on schedule. 

So to sum it all up, I am slowly getting adjusted to being back in the city, slowly adjusting to life without Jon, Slowly getting my apartment back in order, Not having to cry myself to sleep anymore and looking for a new roommate. 

WELCOME HOME!!!

Back to Life Back to Reality

Well it's time. The end of my trip is now here. I leave Sunday and can't seem to believe it.

This had been the best 3 1/2 months ever and I am SO happy that we did this. It showed us a lot about each other and helped us have a bit of normalcy. 

I love the funny and annoying quirks that I have learned about Jon. What are these quirks you ask? Well...

- When he's watching TV he gets so into it that sometimes he nods along in agreeance with something on the screen.

- When he wants something he asks it in a question form rather than directly, i.e. "Should we make some tea?" Rather than, "I would like some tea"

- When we are walking holding hands he uses my hand almost like a joystick for a game to control the direction.

- His perfect Saturday morning is Eggs, Coffee, Paper, Video Games.

- He sings in a Dean Martin type of voice to do EVERYTHING

- His ability to rhyme does not exist but does not stop him for trying.

- He is a great but very loud flosser

To name a few. Sorry sweetie for telling but I really DO love them. 

I have already packed so I don't have to worry about it this weekend when he's home. I think the bags are lighter this time which does not make any since. Maybe I just did a better job at organizing.

SO back to NYC I go. Am I excited? Eh. Not that much. I feel bad for not wanting to go back to the city that I love so much but knowing that I am having to leave here makes it hard. Also, going back means having to job search, roommate search and back to real life. One thing I am looking forward to is Summer in the City. It's the best time to be there. Hopefully Jon will be moving back sooner than later. It's in the works.

So blog friends I sign off from being a Londoner and will resign on as a New Yorker again. I will have more pictures to post from here though so I guess it's not all over.

Have a great weekend and keep my flight in your prayers!

Move to NYC

For all of you who have wanted to move to New York and never have nows your chance. I am looking for a new roommate. 

Leave the husband and kids and come live with me. 

Sure there is no backyard or front yard for that matter but you are just steps away from Washington Square Park. 

We may not have any malls but who needs them when you live a block away from Soho. 

What would you do with your car? 

Sell it, you have your personal chauffeurs to take you all around the city. 

Come enjoy the tight living quarters where you can hear your neighbors yell at their dog Mr. Peanut Butter at 7 in the morning. Yes, the restaurants may be a little more than what you are used to but where else can you have food from every country delivered to your door at anytime during the day. Even Mc Donald's.

So if this sounds appealing to anyone please let me know. I will be needing someone in July or August.

Rag Doll

Ok, I know this is probably the stupidest thing you will ever watch in your life but I think I have found my new hobby. Making Music Videos!!!! Last week while Jon was playing video games I was being bored and playing on my computer. I was fooling around with the imovie feature and was trying to download the videos from my camera. Soon I realized that I was able to film myself with the computer. After a few hours of being silly and stupid I ended up with this. No, I am not trying to dance and be serious and sexy. Just good ole' fun. Enjoy!!

A Night Out With the Boys

A few weeks ago we hit up the club Jewel. It was lovely with chandeliers and crystals everywhere (which I didn't take a picture of). I was the only girl out with 3 men. 3 Players. Out on the prowl. Well, Jon wasn't looking but he still had his swagger with him. Tom and Tony are both looking for that perfect someone and I was their wing man.

Here are the 3 guys. Jon, Tom and Tony.

Ladies, Tony is newly single, 38 years old, successful, kind, tender hearted, a great personality and an awesome new convertible (not that that matters but guys tend to think that it does). He lives in London and has a great accent. If there are any takers out there let me know and I will set it up. 

This picture makes me laugh because it looks so posed. Can you tell I am a photographers daughter? Both of our heads are tilted perfectly. So cheesy.

This picture really didn't capture what I was trying to get. The outside, in Piccadilly Circus, was so lit up and bright from the lights and white marble buildings that it almost looked like a fake movie set. I just couldn't stop staring out the windows. 

I apologize to Tony for this shot but it cracks me up. The contrast of Tom and Tony is so funny. Overly excited and asleep. He looks asleep, right? Nope, he wasn't. So if he's not asleep then he much be depressed then? Nope.

He just is not aware of the camera, ever. 

Ciao Italia!!!

Last week Jon and I went to Italy. I was so excited because it has been a while since I was there last. We decided to go to Southern Italy so to get better weather and sun. I think we were a week too early for that. Regardless, we had a blast and it was so beautiful. We stayed on the island North of Capri and West of Naples called Ischia. I recommend going there if you have a chance. It's not a very touristy island and is usually full of locals and Italians coming over from the mainland for a long weekend. So you could imagine I had to brush up on my Italian, or lack there of. I did have a refresher course with some Italian friends here in London before I left though. I wish I had more time. 

At the airport in London early in the morning having my first cappuccino of the trip. Since we were in the Alitalia section of the airport I assumed that the great coffee would start right when we passed through security.

After a cab ride, 2 planes, a bus and a boat WE MADE IT!!!

This is at our hotel. We were the only ones there from Saturday to Wednesday. It was quiet and lovely.
You could walk down right to the Mediterranean. The water was so amazing and blue.It was called the Pagoda. It was kinda odd being the only people in the place. Like it was our own palace. After Thursday all the mainland Italians came over for a holiday weekend. It was a completely different place after that. 
Another beautiful view from our place. I never got sick of just staring out to the ocean. 

Jon found a store he was excited about: Bimboland!! I think he thought it was something for the men folk when really it was a baby store. 

Our first night for dinner this fish look familiar to me. 

I soon realized it was Jar Jar Binks from the first Star Wars.

Back to the beauty that is Italy.

This is a castle that is on the island. Castello Aragonese d' Ischia. It is said that at the start of the island ALL of the people of Ischia lived in this castle. Then later rumor has it that Michelangelo secretly lived there and had a secret love on the island. He would sneak her into the castle through an underground tunnel. 

Some of the views of Ischia

Jon didn't believe me that these fountains were for public drinking. All in Rome you are supposed to drink from them and Ischia is the same. The island is full of fresh hot springs.

Enjoying our Limoncello at the Pagoda over looking the sea at night. 

As you can see the weather was not great. We had a few days of sun but it rained a bunch. 

We attempted to rent scooters but the Italian man that we originally rented from had a problem with me driving. I kept trying to explain to him that I grew up with one and knew how to drive it. But to him it looked like I couldn't control it. Sure the first scooter he gave us was WAY to big for me. It was almost a full motorcycle. But the second one was a normal vespa. He wanted me to test drive it in an area that barely had room for the scooter itself. With one tiny rev of the engine he stopped me and said, "No, No NO!" I was mad. 

So we rented bikes. Still, I was mad. The island is FULL of mountainous hills. Not to mention it started raining. 

So we decided to make the most of the rain and stop in our favorite place for some fresh red wine and huge lemons.

We had a day where we thought we were going to be able to lay out. It was still kinda cool out and the breeze from the water didn't help. I was out there in my swimsuit trying to pretend that it was warm. Jon was a little smarter.

This sign in one of the bathrooms made me laugh. Where are you supposed to put the toilet paper if not in the toilet? There wasn't a trash can or anything.

On our way to Capri!!!!

I apologize to Jon for posting this but it makes me laugh so hard when I see it. I was standing out of the cool wind and when I looked back at Jon he was sitting there by himself with this Elvis smirk on his face. I couldn't stop laughing. 
Oh Capri!! How I love you!!!



Chair lifts to the top of Ana Capri to over look the island. 

SO SO SO Beautiful!! Just how I remembered it. 
There were HUGE rolly poly's. 

The colors were just AMAZING! 


More of Capri....



Jon walking through all the high end shops.
Lemon Tree. I loved seeing the lemon trees and the orange trees just lining the sidewalks. You could pick right from the trees.

Back on Ischia and YES... We passed the scooter test and got a scooter!!!!
The town of St. Angelo on Ischia. 

Jon working when he's not susposed to. Shame on him.
Walking up the little mountain out in the water in St. Angelo to watch the sunset.
Waiting for the sunset

Scootin' around the island!!
The island had so many stray dogs. We say them all the time and they always were in a hurry to get somewhere. We wondered where they were going. From the speed of their walking and the dog smile of their faces it looked like they were going to a party. This dog was our favorite. He would appear out of no where and we would see him several times every day. He was a magic dog. This was my favorite kitty on the island. Chi Chi was his name and eating pasta was his game.We were on the isalnd so long that we made friends with several locals. Our favorite was Mr. De Fazio. That wasn't his real name but I thought he looked like Frank De Fazio from Laverne and Shirley. We were there ever day. 

Over all we had a great and relaxing time. I was excited about getting back to English speaking television and eating something besides pasta. But I LOVE LOVE LOVE Italy and it will always hold a special place in my heart. 

Love to all my fellow HUFers who read my blog. I thought about all our memories while we were over there.