Vote Mallahan for Mayor ...

The following quote comes from some "Ning" thing on the interweb.
All I know is that I admire Mallahan. I know his wife, as she's been a long standing client of the salon and I have done her hair when her stylist, my "husband", was out of town.
She's so down to earth and easy. She's one of those people that makes you enjoy your job. They also are involved in a cause close to my heart, as they have adopted two children from Russia.
As many of you know, I've spent the past few months nannying Xander. My nephew ... my charge ... Silas' cousin. He's such a dream. And he has come home (after spending two years in a Russian orphanage) to dreamy parents. I saw how hard that process was. Robin and Noel worked so, so hard to bring him home. And he is THRIVING, now. So, I know what the Mallahans had to go through. It ain't easy. It's a labor of love and commitment.
After seeing what Mallahan has accomplished in his professional life and what he (and his sweet wife) has committed to in his personal life, I choose him.
I hope you do too.
Thanks ... and vote with your heart.
xoxo
Anna

"The Mallahan for Mayor campaign is proud to announce Governor Chris Gregoire’s endorsement of Joe Mallahan to be Seattle’s next Mayor. Gregoire highlighted Mallahan’s experience, his understanding of how transportation and job creation go hand in hand, and his determination to rebuild Seattle’s economy as reasons why he is the best candidate to lead Seattle forward.

“Seattle’s next mayor needs to be someone who understands that rebuilding Seattle’s economy and creating family wage jobs must be the top priority of their administration. To do that, the mayor must be someone with proven experience and a willingness to work closely with Seattle’s diverse citizens, businesses, unions and state and local elected officials. The candidate in this race who has those qualifications is Joe Mallahan,” Gregoire said.

“I am deeply honored to have the Governor’s endorsement,” Mallahan said. “Governor Gregoire is right – voters have a clear choice in this race. We have an opportunity to move forward together to strengthen our economy, create new jobs, improve our transportation system and create safe neighborhoods. I will work effectively with the Governor to create jobs, make sure our transportation projects are built on time and on budget, and ensure Seattle city services work for all of us.”

“We took enormous steps in the last legislative session to invest in building a transportation system that will create thousands of new Seattle jobs, and help us emerge stronger from this recession” added Gregoire. “What we did was truly monumental – not just for Seattle, but for Washington’s economic future as a whole. Joe understands the importance of this investment and the need to turn those dollars into jobs now.”

Mallahan added, “Governor Gregoire has shown principled leadership to lead the state through difficult economic times. She has had to deal with the harsh reality of how to lead when tough economic times cripple a budget and she knows the next mayor of Seattle is going to have to do the same thing. I appreciate the governor’s support and leadership and look forward to partnering with her to revitalize Seattle’s economy.”

Joe Mallahan has a history of finding innovative solutions to difficult problems and knows we need to learn how to do more with less. Mallahan has a long track record of finding ways to trim the fat off budgets while still improving services. He will use this experience to make sure Seattle’s budget has more resources available for our priorities. Joe is the only candidate in this race rated "Outstanding" by the Municipal League. He has been endorsed by the King County Democrats, 36th, 37th and 46th District Democrats, Seattle Police and Fire Fighters, King County Labor Council, Alki Foundation, and received all "A" ratings from SEAMEC. Mallahan’s list of group and individual supporters represent the diversity of Seattle.

A few more pics from girls' night...

Considering that my camera is dead, I'm beholden to dear friends that have good aim. Enjoy.
xoxo
Anna

Night at our impromtu pizzeria ...

First off ... here are some pics of our fabulous ladies night. One includes the adorable John Howie, himself. What a love that fellow is. So generous and so kind. A real gem.
Secondly, my house smells like Italy.
I awoke last night (or rather, this morning) ... at 1:00am ... to Silas yelling at Tootsie. At any other time, this would not have been an anomaly. But, at 1:00am it was perplexing.
I got up to find that Mosey had (while I was sleeping) gotten into my drawer-o-herbs and proceeded to dump them into the pets' water bowl, Tootsie's food dish, and the fish bowl. Not only that, but he had emptied 3 containers of fish food into the fish bowl. OH, and he dumped a bottle of this naturopathic calming shit (for kids) into the the fish bowl as well. Needless to say, I ended up with a floater. Poor little Cheryl. At least she passed in a "calm" manner.
After unloading on Silas and making him watch me pull all of the, ten, empty herb containers out of the trash where he so stealth fully placed them, I put him back to bed. There were herbs all over the carpet, kitchen, animals' food dishes, fish bowl, counter, etc.
It smells like Pasta Bella in here. I am now certain that oregano is the strongest smelling herb on earth. I thought that garlic was the king. Garlic just got trumped.
At least it covers up any pee pee smell from Tootsie's potty training. Oh, and it makes us appear to be fabulous cooks. Not bad...
xoxo
Anna

Long, lovely night with the girls ...

What a great night. Some of my dearest ladies and I got together tonight. We needed a ladies night out and wanted to support some establishments that are honoring Breast Cancer Awareness this month. So, off we went ...
First up: John Howie's new restaurant in Bellevue. Not only was the place gorgeous, but they had created a signature drink (with the help of Colie) to honor the breast cancer cause. John Howie, himself, was there and came out of the kitchen to chat with us and take some pics. He was a doll and so, so gracious. It was such a treat to meet him. No pretensions, no attitude, no "hurry it up ... I've got better things to do, like yell at my minions." He took his time and chatted with all of us. Carrie told him that she'd like him to get hooked up with an interview on Q13, as they have been huge advocates of ours. He seemed very interested. So, if you're in Seattle, do visit one of his establishments ... and he owns many. The food is always fantastic and the staff is ALWAYS amazing. What a stellar man.
Then: off to Palomino. We visited this restaurant this very same time last year. They have their own signature "pink" drink there as well during the month of October. Last year we had a huge table reserved for the "Cancer Club." This year, we bum-rushed the bar. Just grabbed some booths as people were leaving. It was, again, an amazing night.
K-Dawg wasn't there with us tonight. It was surreal. She gave me my beautiful "two-bird" necklace last year when we made our first trip to Palomino. The same necklace that broke (as I slept) the night she died. Though she wasn't there, physically, I cannot help but believe that her sweet spirit was there the whole time. We all felt it.
xoxo
Anna

Another blast from the past ...

Ani DiFranco ... one of my favorites since the ol' college days ... her songs meant so much to me and my best girlfriends back in college. She's still one of the creators of our lives' soundtracks. My best girls from college and I have dealt with much, much, much. Life, death, birth, and rebirth...
Tonight, I wanna send my crazy girls some love. We're all, now, on the fifty-plus corners of the universe. In the past and present, we've lived on many coasts, boats, in African villages, in the farthest corners of Alaska, in NYC, in LA, in Seattle, in corn fields, on farms, high-rises, basements, houses, and dorms. But, we're still as thick as thieves. We may only talk or get together here and there. But, those little ladies are stuck to me like glue. Maybe cobwebs grow upon us when we get busy with life's whatnots. But, in a pinch, we'd find a way to rip those cob webs off and settle in and chat, giggle, hug, smooch, and blast music and dance on whatever beach is available.
I miss them, madly. I love them dearly. They are brilliant ladies. And, I am today and forever blessed to have them in my life. The following was one of our theme songs when we were seniors in college. On the verge of spreading our wings. Funny how it all comes full circle.

32 Flavors, By Ani DiFranco:

squint your eyes and look closer
I'm not between you and your ambition
I am a poster girl with no poster
I am thirty-two flavors and then some
and I'm beyond your peripheral vision
so you might want to turn your head
cause someday you're going to get hungry
and eat most of the words you just said

both my parents taught me about good will
and I have done well by their names
just the kindness I've lavished on strangers
is more than I can explain
still there's many who've turned out their porch lights
just so I would think they were not home
and hid in the dark of their windows
til I'd passed and left them alone

and god help you if you are an ugly girl
course too pretty is also your doom
cause everyone harbors a secret hatred
for the prettiest girl in the room
and god help you if you are a pheonix
and you dare to rise up from the ash
a thousand eyes will smolder with jealousy
while you are just flying back

I'm not trying to give my life meaning
by demeaning you
and I would like to state for the record
I did everything that I could do
I'm not saying that I'm a saint
I just don't want to live that way
no, I will never be a saint
but I will always say

squint your eyes and look closer
I'm not between you and your ambition
I am a poster girl with no poster
I am thirty-two flavors and then some
And I'm beyond your peripheral vision
So you might want to turn your head
Cause someday you might find you're starving
and eating all of the words you said.

Love you girls.
xoxo
Anna

Old school...

This one is really hard to see, as it's from college. A dear girlfriend of mine, actually, did the "right" thing by taking pics during college. I ... did not. I've no pictures or albums by which to remember that wonderful time.
In any event, she has been kind (or evil) enough to have held on to all these pics of all our old theatre peeps from the College of Charleston. This happens to be one of them.
To set this up, we were doing a "mock" beauty pageant during an awards ceremony for the theatre department.
All I can decipher from the pic is that I'm wearing my Paw Paw's plumed hat that was stolen from my locker, my prom dress from '93, my aunt's cowboy boot (on right foot), and my favorite platform wedge bought from a thrift store (left foot). Oh, and that ivy was a decoration in my own bedroom ... I guess I figured it would look good as a sash.
What in the hell was I doing up there?????????
Don't remember.
All I remember is that it was a fun night.
Sure wish I was a drinker at the time and had an excuse!
xoxo
Anna

Night investigating family lore ...

And boy, what a blow. Throughout all of our lives, we hear all of these amazing stories about our ancestors. Some make us so proud to have been born of such a family ... others, make us believe that there is NO way that we could be related to such monsters.
Well, tonight, after doing a bit of investigative interweb work, I have officially confirmed a horrific story about one of my family members. After growing up hearing about this individual's general nature, I do not doubt that he is guilty of said actions.
My mother's father, my Paw Paw, was a wonderful and kind man. He grew up in Hickory Grove, SC. His mother was a dear and kind person ... I was named Anna after her. Unfortunately, Anna McGill fell in love with and married a man with the last name Pratt. He, too, was a great soul. They lived there in the big family home with her other siblings: Maddie, Belle, Tommy, and Meek.
Stories abound about Meeks ire, attitude, and hatred towards the black community. He was an eternal bachelor that was rumored to have had affairs with several of the married southern bells there in tiny Hickory Grove. The irony in that is that Meek was an asshole (not at all meek) and so ugly he'd make a freight train take a dirt road. I guess it was the "bad boy" syndrome. Why are we women such idiots sometimes?
Apparently, brother Meek was a hand-full and, basically, ran her husband off ... leaving her to raise 3 boys (John, Marvin, and Marion). John being my Paw Paw, Marvin and Marion being his twin brothers. We're not certain what other family members were involved in the ostracizing of the kind and gentle Pratt.
Pratt moved on to remarry and start an amazing family in Florida. I have, by the way, met them. They are such lovely people. And, I am so proud to call them family.
However, lore tells me ... and the few of us that have spoken about it ... that my great, great Uncle Meek was involved in a lynching. Rumor had it, he had killed a black man for having "relations" with a white woman.
WOW! The lore is enough to put ones heart into overdrive and to want to disown such a filthy beast. I don't care if he was sweet Anna's brother.
And, after doing some research tonight, I fear that the "lore" isn't so much an unknown. It seems to be, on some level, the truth. The circumstances are unknown, as I've not been able to unearth them. I, personally, doubt it had anything to do with race-relations, as that was oftentimes an easy excuse for KKK pussies.
But, I looked ol' Meek McGill up on Google.
Low and behold: a publication written by the NAACP (founded in 1910) called "The Crisis" states:
"By the decision of the Grand Jury, Postmaster Meek McGill and Carson Lattimore of Hickory Grove, S.C., have been put in jail for complicity in the murder of W.T. Simms, a colored preacher." Seems it was quoted from local paper, or the like.
MURDER. My great uncle MURDERED a black man. I do believe this. And you best believe he would have NEVER murdered a WHITE preacher.
I'm in awe. Nauseated. I've not been able to find anything out about that poor man, W.T Sims ... God rest his soul.
I wonder if he was married ... or left children behind ... or a Mama ... or siblings.
I imagine that didn't matter to Meek and Carson. I imagine that their God complexes firmly held the blinders over their eyes as they harassed the community and, eventually, took the life of an innocent man. They were and still are cowards and evil, evil men. I may be related (by blood) to this man, but I will NOT acknowledge him as human. He is, truly,a MONSTER.
I need to add that the man that brought this publication (The Crisis) to the forefront of America in the early 20th century was a brilliant African American man named William Du Bois. He spent his entire life fighting for freedoms for blacks and women. He was the first African American individual to graduate with a Ph.D from Harvard. He was integral in many equal-rights causes.
I thank him for allowing me to, finally, know the truth about this horrific family secret. I'm glad that it's secret no longer.
Sims, that poor soul, deserves to have his truth told.
It is the "truth" as far as I can tell. And, I believe it as such.
So, I'd like to personally apologize to him and all of his family for the horrific crime committed against ALL of them. I do this on behalf of everyone related to Meek McGill. My family is chock-full of amazingly loving, kind, and fair individuals that would NEVER accept this act.
I never met my Uncle Meek. Probably a good thing. I feel honored to have NOT met him. He better hope that I don't get an inkling to hunt down his grave when I have a full bladder.
At least, now I know. After all these years of wondering ...
The truth WILL set you free.
xoxo
Anna

Update on Mama and Angus...

Well,
The Ol' girl is doing just fine. She's 4 days out and, basically, asked me today, "Is this it?" Other than a headache the day after her treatment, she's as good as gold. Her appetite is just fine and she's not dealing with any nasty side-effects. I cannot tell you how thrilled I am about that. Her treatment ends up being a bit different than mine. She's on a relative of adriamycin in combination with the Cytoxin. But, it seems to be working just fine with her system and she is tolerating it splendidly. I'll keep everyone updated regularly. Thanks so much for all the e-mails and calls to check in on her. It means the world to me and my family.
Angi/Angus/Sister-Cousin had knee surgery on Friday. She's laid up and has to deal with not being able to run around and juggle the three kids. She's doing just fine ... other than some burning in the surgery site. But, it's driving her nuts to have to sit still and let others "do" for her. Matthew is an amazing man and has held the fort down brilliantly, as he always does.
I'm pissed to be so far away when two of my dearest family members/friends are going through all this. They have both flown up here ... incessantly ... for me during all my surgeries and treatments. To not be able to be there for them is quite the downer. A girl can only make those two laugh so many times on the phone before feeling a burning desire to jump through the phone lines and grab them both up and kiss their faces off.
But, alas, I'm here.
Here is fine. Just wish, no matter where I was, it was with the two of them right now.
I love you girls.
xoxo
JR

Summer fun ...

I know it's been a while since the scorching summer was upon us here in Seattle ... but, I just got these pics from a beautiful day spent at Zoo Tunes (in July) with my girlfriend Kate and her gorgeous daughter Sophia. Kate and I met when she cast me in her amazing show "Lilac Winter" during the Seattle Fringe Fest." It will always be one of my favorite theatre gigs. The cast was stellar and we laughed incessantly. It was one of those amazing experiences that actors happen across once in a blue moon.
Silas and Sophia had so much fun together during the concert. It was stifling ... and we kept rubbing ourselves with ice cubes. Thanks to the wine we smuggled into the zoo, Kate and I could have cared less about the heat.
It was a beautiful evening...
xoxo
Anna

They're Baaaaacccckkkkkk....

Didn't think that the little (and big) guys had it in them. But the family of raccoons that made their home in our back yard last year are back. They showed up tonight. Who in the hell knows what they spent their time doing all summer. I imagine they were at Bumbershoot and must have ridden "The Duck." In any event, they came "home" tonight. And, they were quite congenial.
I was fortunate enough to sit and "chat" with them.
So, so, so weird.
But, I'm sure they have much better stories to tell me...
xoxo
Anna

Tomorrow, Mama begins chemo...

And, as much as I was hankering for her to start after all these damned medical snafus, I cannot begin to tell you how unhappy I am that I'll not be there for her first treatment. Luckily, Allison (my sister) will be there with her. Allison was such a great help with us when I was going through treatment. So, she knows the ins and outs, the side-effects, the nausea and pain that one goes through during chemotherapy. The family is blessed to have her there to help with Mama's process.
I remember chemo days. As much as you'd think that it was AWFUL ... it really wasn't too, too terribly bad. I mean, the process itself. You know that you're fighting and killing a beast. I quite liked going to Dr. Fer's office and settling into my lazy boy and chatting with all the other ladies while we got poisoned. Granted, I was about 30 years younger than most of them at the time. But, in that moment, in those lazy boys, age alluded us. Because we were all fighting the same enemy. And our nurses and doctor were (and still are) our saviors. My Tuesdays were the highlight of my treatment period.
I DO know what "Nam" was like. I know this because I fought a battle that I was fortunate enough to share with other cancer survivors. And, in the aftermath, have remained close to these women. As much love and support that we got (and get) from family and friends, no one will ever really know what it's like to go through that war and come out on the other side.
My wish for my Mama is a smooth ride on the chemo-train. I wish for her to maintain a high and healthy white blood-cell count, an appetite, a high red-cell count, an appetite, LITTLE pain ... or as little as possible, her positivity, her love for life, to know that we all love her so much and are with her during and after this battle, to remain cancer-free until she's WAYYYYYYYYYY too old to be here on earth, and to know that this shit is just a speed bump. That's it.
Cancer, you're the nastiest speed bump of them all.
And ... my sweet Mama is gonna beat your ass to a bloody pulp.
Nighty night!
xoxo
Anna

Open letter to Sarah Thompson...

You walked into the party
Like you were walking onto a yacht
Your hat strategically dipped below one eye
Your scarf it was apricot
You had one eye in the mirror
As you watched yourself gavotte
And all the girls dreamed that they'd be your partner
They'd be your partner, and

You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
I'll bet you think this song is about you
Don't you? Don't you?


You had me several years ago
When I was still quite naive
Well, you said that we made such a pretty pair
And that you would never leave
But you gave away the things you loved
And one of them was me
I had some dreams they were clouds in my coffee
Clouds in my coffee, and


You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
I'll bet you think this song is about you
Don't you? Don't you?


I had some dreams they were clouds in my coffee
Clouds in my coffee, and


You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
I'll bet you think this song is about you
Don't you? Don't you?


Well, I hear you went up to Saratoga
And your horse naturally won
Then you flew your Lear jet up to Nova Scotia
To see the total eclipse of the sun
Well, you're where you should be all the time
And when you're not, you're with
Some underworld spy or the wife of a close friend
Wife of a close friend, and


You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
I'll bet you think this song is about you
Don't you? Don't you?

xoxo
Anna

Tribute to Young Survivors...

Check out this sweet tribute to young survivors. Many of my girlfriends ... and yours truly ... are there...

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Wonderful Weekend...

Working 6 days a week ... in a row ... doesn't afford much play-time. But, We got in quite a bit on Sunday.
Marco's birthday party was held at Chuck E. Cheese's. Yes, I just couldn't go another year without visiting THAT peaceful haven. So, off we went: at 10:30. That was key. There were barely any kids in there and we had access to most all of the games without having to see any crazy old ladies ride that life-sized horse and an overly seductive manner ...
So, we ate some pizza, I drank a beer with my new Chuck E. Cheese cup, and we played lots and lots of games.
That afternoon, Grammie and Grandaddy drove up from Yakima to celebrate my belated birthday with us. As always, they came bearing wonderful gifts of fruit and veggies from their garden, lots of treats for Silas, and a great birthday gift for me: a fabulous (and plush) vest for winter. Fashion AND function!
We took them (or rather, they-us) to Fremont to Kevin's restaurant. It was, as usual, a wonderful visit. We hope to make it back to Yakima soon. Our schedules are so, so crazy right now that it's hard to even get a moment to sit here at home. But, today I have a day "off." Meaning, a day of running to the bank, spending half the day on the phone with my damned insurance company fighting with them about why they are not paying bills that should be covered by them, and continuing this fight against the army of fruit flies that have taken over this house.
What is it with the little shits this year? I mean, I've set all sorts of booby traps and sweet (toxic) drinks out for them. Not doing a damn thing. And, how are they multiplying so quickly?! I mean, with all that procreating, you'd think they'd have very little time to be buzzing around and driving one mad.
Back to google I go!
xoxo
Anna

From Wikipedia...

"Healthy narcissism has to do with a strong feeling of “own love” protecting the human being against illness. Eventually, however, the individual must love the other, “the object love to not become ill". The person becomes ill, as a result of a frustration, when he is unable to love the object.[6] In pathological narcissism such as the narcissistic personality disorder and schizophrenia, the person’s libido has been withdrawn from objects in the world and produces megalomania. The clinical theorists Kernberg, Kohut and Millon all see pathological narcissism as a possible outcome in response to unempathetic and inconsistent early childhood interactions. They suggested that narcissists try to compensate in adult relationships.[7] The pathological condition of narcissism is, as Freud suggested, a magnified, extreme manifestation of healthy narcissism. With regard to the condition of healthy narcissism, it is suggested that this is correlated with good psychological health. Self-esteem works as a mediator between narcissism and psychological health. Therefore, because of their elevated self-esteem, deriving from self-perceptions of competence and likability, high narcissists are relatively free of worry and gloom.[8] Other researchers suggested that healthy narcissism cannot be seen as ‘good’ or ‘bad’; however, it depends on the contexts and outcomes being measured. In certain social contexts such as initiating social relationships, and with certain outcome variables, such as feeling good about oneself, healthy narcissism can be helpful. In other contexts, such as maintaining long-term relationships and with other outcome variables, such as accurate self-knowledge, healthy narcissism can be unhelpful."

xoxo
Anna

When will Ann Coulter shut her face????

From Wikipedia:
"Coulter's fifth book, published by Crown Forum in 2006, is Godless: The Church of Liberalism. In it, she argues, first, that liberalism rejects the idea of God and reviles people of faith, and second, that it bears all the attributes of a religion itself. Godless debuted at number one on The New York Times Best Seller list."

Wow. She's such a transparent attention whore. This woman is brilliant ... intellectually. Otherwise, she's a total douche. If you're going to hold others to the "ideals" of the bible, then you should follow suit. Right?
Not so for Miss Coulter. Not only is she "casting the first stone", as a sinner, but she's berating others for their beliefs and telling the world that those of us that are liberal are "Godless." Wow. I'm sure, one day, she's gonna have to answer to that. If Ann Coulter is my judge and jury, I best start fashioning a space-craft and find a new planet upon which to live. Since when did she become God? I know I didn't vote in THAT election.
She's unbelievably attention-crazy.
Considering that she is "THE" go-to girl and truth seeker on the Republican side (media wise), it's so confounding to me that she has lied about her age and won't admit to having those HUGE implants. Hell, I've got 'em ... thank you cancer. But, if you're gonna spew "truths" and rail against others that aren't as bold as yourself, at least have the balls to own up to your own age and plastic surgery(s). You're the one, after all, that has sought the spot-light. If you're gonna incessantly judge others, why be shocked and awed that others will, eventually, know your truth(s). And to be so bold to say liberals are "Godless" ... well, good luck to you ... Hope your "judgment day" goes okay ~ after all, you ARE a "believer" ... right?
Is it just me, or is this nonsense becoming common place? Narcissistic disorder. Look it up.
xoxo
Anna

Next week Mama starts chemo!!!!

I know that, generally, the exclamation points wouldn't be desired. But, considering the arduous process that she's gone through, IT'S ABOUT DAMNED TIME. She wants nothing more than to start chemo and get this nonsense behind her.
Her port was placed yesterday and she's feeling just fine. She will begin her treatment at 3:00pm on Thursday, October 15th. As all chemo patients are, I imagine that she'll be a bit nervous. But, at this time, she is not. Just as I was three years ago, she's ready to make sure that Cancer gets a good ass whoopin'. So, onward she marches. I'm so proud of her bravery, her patience, and her drive. But, this is no shocker to me. She's always been a tough as nails lady.
She'll, actually, be doing the same chemo drugs that I did. However, she will be doing treatment every three weeks as opposed to my every two weeks. This will afford her an extra week of recovery ... and she's gonna need it, as she's planning on continuing teaching her 3rd grade class ... FULL TIME. I don't know if she's amazing or just plain crazy. I have a feeling it's a bit of both, but weighing more on the latter.
My family has been handed the shit end of the stick quite a bit within the past few years. I'm constantly in awe of their strength and fortitude. They don't falter ... no matter what. I'm certain that Mama's process and healing will prove just another example of why I'm so proud of my family.
I'm so, so honored to have been born into the fold.
I love you, Mama. You're gonna kick ASS, my girl!!!!!!
xoxo
Pussy Willow

True Blood at 2:00am...

Yep ... that's right. Just introduced Kevin to True Blood. I started with the second season, as it was on "On Demand" whilst house sitting. So, we're borrowing Sandi's copy of the first season to catch up (for me) and to be introduced (for Kevin). As hokey as this show might be, at times, it has some pretty organic characters and some good adult material ... if you know what I mean.
I'm not a fan of all that "Twilight" nonsense. Cannot get into the high school vampire stuffs. But, to be able to watch a show and hear cicadas and crickets in the background is pretty real for me, as it breathes "home."
So, Kevin spent his first hour(s) making fun of the show. Now, he's hooked and still playing episodes as I type. Sucker!
I've not seen this side of 2:00am in some time. Ouch. But, a fun night, nonetheless.
xoxo
Anna

New article highlights YSC Seattle gals ...

We were honored to be covered in a local journal recently. If I were more interweb savvy, I'd be able to post the exact link. But, alas...
If you go to "http://www.journal-newspapers.com/" and then click on the "Young and Surviving" article it'll take you there.
xoxo
Anna

RIP sweet Pop ...

My heart is terribly heavy tonight. My "Pop" passed away this afternoon. He was surrounded by dear family and the spirits of his friends and family. His death is not a surprise. But, man what a blow. I, fortunately, had the chance to have a heart to heart with my buddy in June. When I flew home to help out with Mama, I spent quite a bit of time with Pop, as well. He wasn't doing well. At that point, I thought that he might pass while I was there. But, as he always has, he rallied.
I spoke with him this weekend. Thank God. He sounded VERY, very tired and listless.
For the past week, he has been saying that he is "crossing the bridge", out of the blue. He had also been speaking of his mother and his brother Toots ... who have both died. I find no irony in that. I KNOW that they were there ... with him ... comforting him ... welcoming him during this transition.
My Pop was an amazing man. He was stern, loving, not so stern, crass, an animal lover, an extremely hard worker, strong, not so crass, hysterically funny, simple, complex, an amazing friend, an amazing grandfather, AN AMAZING FRIEND to his grandchildren and son, a brilliant craftsman, an eater of squirrel (don't ask), a savior to wounded animals, grew the most beautiful gardens I've ever seen, a straight shooter ~ with game and with words, a great snuggler.
Last time that we made it home, Silas and I spent the night in Pop's bed with him. I laid there with my son and my grandfather ... all night. Silas was sandwiched between the two of us and our arms were around one another. All night long. That was one of the best night's sleep I've had in years.
I miss you already, Pop. And, as I said in our "heart to heart", I will be talking to you ... probably too much. But, you told me that you would be fine with it.
So, if you're out at the local pub or riding a motorcycle right now (do angels do that?), I hope I don't interrupt your much deserved moment.
God's speed, my dear friend.
My heart's broken.
xoxo
Anna

Happy Birthday Sarah...

Yeah, you ... with the boobs ...
Happy Birthday, dear girl.
Love you to bits and pieces.
xoxo
Cooch

My Three Year "Cancerversary..."

Three years isn't a LONG time, to most. But, to a cancer survivor, it can seem like a life time. Especially in retrospect. The fact that I've been lucky enough to thrive for these past three years is huge to me. I've, probably, experienced more of "life" in the past three years than most people my age. I've had a baby, nursed a baby, baby weaned himself for no apparent reason, my breast (after his weaning) looked odd, I got diagnosed with cancer, I had a mastectomy and lymph node removal, I had my port placed, I started chemo, I finished chemo, I started radiation, I finished radiation, I was being supported (infinitely) by my family, friends, and my new friends from the YSC, I did the Breast Cancer 3-day walk, I entered menopause, I chose to remove my healthy breast and had reconstructive surgery, I began the "fills" to stretch my chest in preparation for the permanent implants, I had my exchange surgery and got those nice squishy implants ... I LOST A DEAR, DEAR GIRLFRIEND ... what a loss ... what blow ... the aftermath, astounding. My son celebrated his 3rd birthday, my husband, his 32nd. My body began to heal, the implants began to "settle", I did the Race for the Cure, I was honored with being named "Survivor of the Year" ... and, considering that I had campaigned SO hard for it, I'm glad that ALL my "hard work" paid off! Honestly, I didn't even know there was such a thing as "Survivor of the Year" until I was called with the news. I'll take it ... it was a great opportunity to raise more money: Salon Joseph raised over a thousand dollars in one day for the cause. I'm so, so proud of my co-workers/family. June: my Mama was diagnosed with breast cancer, I flew home (thanks to my brother's generosity), Silas got to spend much time with my wonderful family while I helped out with my Mama and my Pop who has prostate cancer. I celebrated my 35th birthday. Oct. 3rd: I was able to spend an amazing night with the YSC-Seattle raising nearly $10,000 for the cause.
I am blessed beyond belief. I am alive. I have the most amazing family, friends, clients, and support network a girl could EVER imagine.
Though it's been a very long three years, it's been beautiful. That I have made it to the three year mark is fantastic. That I have been able to go through this experience whilst being supported so graciously by others is amazing.
There have been some very rough times. We've all been there. But, today, on my Three Year Cancerversary, I'm feeling pretty damned thrilled to be here and surrounded by such amazing people.
Thank you all so very much for all the love and support you've given. It's NEVER lost on me.
Kiss my ass Lil Miss Cancer...
xoxo
Anna

DBP PICS ...

DBP PICS...

Additional DBTP pics...

Drink Beyond the Pink was a HUGE success...

Preliminary counts are in. At this (early) count, we raised upwards of $8,600.00 last night at the DBTP event. To say that this event was spectacular would be a huge understatement. The evening was magical. The pics shown here are from early in the day when were beginning the set-up. There will be more to come.
I've never been a part of an event where the planning, set-up, and follow-through ran like a perfectly oiled machine. Last night was the first time that I experienced this. It was, simply, magical. The girls of the YSC proved, as usual, to be an amazing sisterhood and partnership. These ladies were ON FIRE!
Havana was PACKED ... to capacity, I imagine. We were so blessed to have so many people come and bid on EVERY single auction item. And there were a TON. Raffle tickets were being bought left and right. The caterer, Neil from Eleanor's Catering, was a doll and they donated all the food. My pals Sandi and Jeff were AMAZING DJs. And the staff at Havana was simply stellar.
I cannot imagine this event going any better than what was experienced last night ... unless someone would have chosen to do an impromptu strip-tease. I would have, but I had MC duties ... along with Kevin. If I'd done that, I would have cleared that place in a heartbeat. Seeing as how we needed people there to bid, it's probably best that I kept the ol' clothes on.
We did a tribute to our K-Dawg and raised a shot of Patron in her honor. She was missed ... terribly. But, on my way to the event (as soon as I cranked my car) a Tom Petty "marathon" was on the radio. I had to laugh. If that's not a sign that she was with us, I don't know what would have been...
There will be more pics to follow ... as soon as the other ladies wake up from their "fog."
Thanks to all that participated and came to this first-annual event. If the first went this well, I cannot imagine what the years to come will provide.
xoxo
Anna

I talk to The Dawg when there is no one to talk to...

I have to admit that losing a dear girlfriend has been harder than I thought I ever expected. I don't know WHAT I expected. But, it's quite the blow. The aftermath after losing a dear pal is never easy. And, sometimes, the reverberation is deafening.
I find myself talking to that Sweet Girl, nearly, every night while sitting in our beautiful garden. It's so peaceful and lush. It's quiet. And, it's gorgeous. All things that exemplify her. I speak to K-Dawg as if she's sitting right there with me: about my life, my concerns, my joys, my fears, my ire, and the fact that I miss her terribly and wish she that she were here ... with us ... with her girls ... able to have a bit of a chat with all of us. Just for a moment.
But, unfortunately, we don't have that.
However, we have the memory of her. What we knew of her. And the amazing presence that she was AND still is.
I miss you, terribly, dear girl. Wish you were here to be with us on Saturday.
We'll be raising shots of Patron for you, honey. And, ACDC and Tom Petty are on the DJ's list.
I love you.
xoxo
Anna

WTF Roman Polanski...

Well it's been many decades since Roman Polanski was arrested and plead guilty to lewd acts with a minor. In the actual court transcript he plead "guilty" to raping a 13 year old. He drugged this poor girl and raped her. Yes, RAPED.
Now, "Hollywood" is running to his defense because he has created some cinematic masterpieces.
I CALL BULLSHIT!
Ted Bundy was a brilliant man, intellectually speaking. Does that negate his acts?
I don't care if you are the second coming. If you drug and rape a 13 year old ... and ADMIT to it ... be a fucking MAN and deal with the consequences.
I know the victim has said that she has forgiven him and wants to move on. And she should if that's what she feels is best thing to do. Bless this woman's heart. She will, forever, be know as "that" girl.
Polanski, however, has been living it up over in Europe. He's directed some phenomenal films. Does that negate this atrocity? Hell NO. He made a choice. A disgusting act on an innocent 13 year old. He needs to own up to this horrible, horrible offense.
I'm appalled that some of the major players in Hollywood are standing up for him and defending him. It's nauseating.
He is brilliant. He's an amazing artist. AND, he has proven that he is incapable of dealing with the truth. The truth is that he drugged and raped a 13 year old.
So, deal with that Polanski. No amount of art will EVER allow my conscience to defend him.
Artists aren't above reprimand when it comes to such a heinous crime.
As an artist, I'm tired of being tied to these assholes.
xoxo
Anna