River -Joni Mitchell-performed by Sarah McLachlan

A Christmas time favortie of mine -originally written by one of my musical loves, Joni Mitchell, but performed here beautifully by Sara McLachlan. She recorded this for a compilation of songs she did for her record "WIntersongs" in 2006.
A nice download for snowy ,snowed in ,relaxing, sexy days.
Happy Holidays.

Holiday Snack Overload

Holy mother of unhealthy chocolate snacks. Every hour I go back to the kitchen area of the showroom to get water, the mound of Holiday candy mysteriously grows. Homeless and cold NYC adults need treats--I think alot of this will be headed outdoors.

Easin' On Down Candy Cane Lane

Well....if I'm gonna be in a blizzard of more than 26 inches of snow, I might as well conjure up my tough Midwestern old school blizzard girl and do it with some style.

We really got rocked here in New York with snow. Holy mother!

Just When You Thought It Couldn't Get Any More Ridiculously Cute.....

....it does. I mean, come on. Who of you out there does not want to pick him up and cuddle him to death??

O-M-G Of Cuteness!!!

I am normally highly oppposed to dressing babies and animals in costumes--I think it borders on emotional cruelty. But I have to say, even I sighed a large "awwww" when my sister sent this photo of my nephew Jaxon in this fluffy Snowman suit she got him. I am going to insist that she put it on him when I go home next week, so I can cuddle and kiss him and snuggle him in it. It is so cute, it literally makes me giggle with delight! You must admit.

Staying Fit And Strong Is Easy When..............

...your Yoga studio is as beautiful as this. If you are in New York and do yoga-- I highly recommend my studio-
Om Factory
265 West 37th Street-8th Avenue
17th floor
212-616-8662

It really is a wonderful place to practice.

Mistake

I made a stupid life mistake.....and just when I thought I had learned all my lessons.

Fall 2010 Designing

Look at the girls.....while you are just putting on your winter clothes and enjoying winter style, our Alice & Trixie girls are sitting here conceptualizing the Fall 2010 collection this morning. See, here are a couple of the NYC designers that contirbute to your style, trying to think of all the ways we can keep you looking girly and pretty and cute! Any ideas...send em my way! ;)

We do not stop playing because we grow old; We grow old because we stop playing. Never Be The First To Get Old

Sometimes the really good things take time. :)

35 years after sitting in my mom's kitchen eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and listening to this soundtrack. 35 years after wishing I were a grown up and old enough go see a fun hippie musical where people got naked and sang about love. 35 years after wishing I lived in a groovy, artistic place like NYC, instead of Illinois so I could go to Broadway and see HAIR in the 1970's---it finally happened.

I am old enough, I live in NY, and it came back to Broadway 42 years after it's initial run, and yesterday I went. Smack dab in the 4th row and sang to my heart's content. Not only that, but a hippie chick from the stage came over to me, put a daisy in my hair and pulled me (among others sitting nearby) to the stage to sing the finale "Let The Sunshine In"

Things you think about happening DO happen guys. I felt the hot lights of Broadway shining right down on me as I looked out at a packed house of people with their hands in the air singing about love!

Again, things you really want to happen, as big or small as they are, as long as it takes, if it is significant to no one else but you...do happen. As small as going to see a musical may seem (I know it usually would to me) it was one of those moments that made me realize how grateful I was that I took a chance and came here at 18 years old, leaving behind everything I was familiar with for my whole life prior to that. Moments of grateful recognition, you know?

Please remember that you were born with specific desires because you are suppose to have them. Now, listen to me and just go get them!!

Peace and Love....and HAIR!!

Lost - Katy Perry (Cover)

I posted this song back in the early Spring. It is my favorite song from Katy Perry's "One Of The Boys" record, and I also TOTALLY relate to the lyrics, one of those, "I wish I would have written it" songs.
This morning as I was getting myself together for a fun Sunday, I was looking for the song on youtube to play in the background. And I can never resist listening to the ones that say 'cover' next to them, You can discover some wonderful unearthed talent out there in the world by taking a chance and watching an alternate version of a song you love. (I found Richard Clee this way- one of my guitar youtube idols).
This morning I found her. Beautiful rendition. Check out more of her singing on youtube at:
youtube.com --- her screen name is eradecastro
I hope you like her too!

Davy Knowles and Back Door Slam

Went and saw Davy Knowles and Backdoor Slam last night at The Bowery Ballroom in New York. What a sweet, talented guy. Here's just a couple of things that were great about it...and simply--this isn't going to be some long winded music review.
The Bowery Ballroom is a GREAT place to see a show, if you've been you know what I mean. 1/4 of the size of most Ballroom concert halls in the country. So intimate---and the musicians always mingle with you around the little couches and bars and talk to you before and after a show.
Another thing, Davy and his band total just 3 guys- like The Police. Paired down members and rocked out, it's truly amazing just how much you can jam with only three. How tight you must be because all they got is each other. A drum, a bass and a guitar.
Third, I hadn't listened to much Blues, or seen it live for that matter, in quite awhile You've gotta feel the blues, and boy--we saw some s'anging last night. Think Janis Joplin heartbreak schreeching or Chris Robinson Black Crowes 'Hard To Handle' hippie energy, or BB King guitar solos. It was nice to be in the presence of the Blues. Sometimes seeing it performed live, is the only way to really feel why they call it 'Blue'.
Davy is so young and so talented, and unfortuantley, we had to leave just 4 songs in to the set (it was super late for a working girl) But, he was awesome and I highly reccomend you check some of his stuff out. Here he is to get an idea. And you know me, paired down and simple so you can really see who he is.
Enjoy. **Join his myspace page or buy a cd if you like it--it's tough for the young, struggling ,musicians out there!

Marilyn Monroe Thread Piece

You know how you see something everyday and sometimes, because of that, you begin to pay not that much mind to it? Much like a relationship gone sour. You know, at the beginning, you just cannot get enough of one another, but if there is no real connection or chemistry, it just fades out. Or...if you are really committed to making it work, making it better, you change the whole dull thing by seeing it with new eyes, much like the eyes that were new when you first saw the other person. Well, that happened to me this morning. I always walk through 'One Penn Plaza' when I get off the train at Penn Station to get to my showroom. One Penn is a rather nice office building, right at the start of the fashion district. There is this really cool piece, above, that takes 3/4's of the wall inside the building and I just thought I'd post it, because it dawned on me how cool it was this morning after having passed it so many times without notice.
The above is 32x22 image of Marilyn Monroe made all out of teeny various colors of spools of thread. Sorry the image is not better, but I urge you next time you come into the city through Penn Station, take the exit to the left and check it out.

Drunk History - Featuring Jack Black

HEE-LAR-E-OUS! Just do yourselves a favor and watch it.

Christmas Dream

I want in on some of those 'secrets' for Christmas. Bikini clad on a remote island for Christmas....sounds alot better than a shopping mall and the snow.

A REAL Thanksgiving

My sister made the family dress (as a joke) as pilgrims for Thanksgiving and surprised her in-laws with the best joke ever when they opened the door. I mean, look at the hat on little Jaxon----that's crazy, hilarious and ridiculous. You gotta love a good (kind of f'd up) sense of humour. I think it would make Thanksgiving feel more 'real' in the traditional garb. I only wish I were there to rock a good Pocahantas!!! Well my niece and her boyfriend had the Indians covered.
Just too hilarious and weird--I LOVE it!

Levi's 501's-Girls Make It Easy On Yourselves

I tend to wear alot of dresses ( I love dresses) but I do very much love a good pair of jeans. I have said numerous times, much to the dismay of my readers, how much I loathe shopping. I know, I know, working in design-I just think shopping is such an unhealthy consumerism waste of time. But, that's just me. SO, when it comes to jeans shopping which must happen every couple of years, I know the deal, and I'm here to share it.

I know all the designer jeans that cost a ridiculous $220 a pair (ludicrous!) I know the designers and it is just denim y'all. Not only those, but one of my dearest friends, Teddy, was in PR for Calvin Klein 10 plus years, and I was blessed with numerous Brooke Shields 'nothing comes between me and my Calvins' over the years. So, I've worn them all.

Yet, nothing, and I repeat NOTHING, beats a pair of Levi's 501 jeans.

Every two years, when I need to re-new my jeans stash, I go into Levi's and grab a boot cut 501 and a straight leg 501. $39.99 a pair. Paid and out the door in 3 minutes.



Make it easy on yourselves girls. Stick with an original. You'll never go wrong in a good fitting pair of Levi's. Ever.

SOTD-The Man I Love- Ella Fitzgerald

It's that kind of a Sunday morning......

Bed

Lester Bangs-One Of Rock'sGreatest Writers

"Guys like us..we have the hardest time getting the girl. But, the good looking people, they've got no spine. We ache. Some of the greatest art and poetry come out of being the underdog. This strengthens your spine. We know the feeling. We are not caught up in love disguised as sex, sex disguised as love. There's just so much bullshit in the world...you must be careful who you trust."

-Lester Bangs. Creem Magazine 1976

Just reading his autobiography, and am coming across so many fantastic, jaded, 'could care less', too cool for anyone quotes, that are, ultimately, brilliant because of that attitude. I had to share the above one I just read. He quotes the band YES after he gets married to his great love Carol- he ends his reading by saying-

"Don't surround yourself with yourself"
'I've Seen All Good People'- YES

He claims she was the only woman that he felt both passion and unity with, yet still enough isolation in himself to continue feeling the rage he needed to feel to fuel his work. He says he would be a "dog" without her. I found that both beautiful and intriguing. That, it seems to me, is real love. But really, you only know real love when you're in it, so I am no longer interested in pontificating too much about it. It takes alot of courage, real love. And comes along, in a true sense only once, maybe twice in your life.
But it is true, the above---don't surround yourself with yourself.

Check Your Head Pillow Cases.

Check Your Head Pillowcases
$24.99
So what, so what, so what'cha want? You definitely want this funky, boss set of pillowcases! These fly pillowcases, named for the iconic Beastie Boys album, fight for the right to party with a black print of headphones on one pillow case and a turntable on the other. Give these as a gift to your favorite MC, or add them to your intergalatic, planetary-themed room. These pillowcases will make their owner the maestro of marvelous decor-yo, check it.

(Above was the actual photo and write up from a random catalogue-ModCloth- that we get in a pile of other fashion junk at the showroom- pretty funny. You best believe if I were sixteen, I'd rock these) and yo, if you really want them, go to modcloth.com ;)

Sarah Palin Drivel

I want to like ANY woman who runs for office, because, first off I am a woman. And, watching smart women say intelligent things and tackle a forum that is predominately men, is always exciting for a woman like me. I LOVE it.
After watching bits and pieces of the drivel that Sarah Palin was talking in an interview today , I believe more and more what Levi Johnston spoke of her in Vanity Fair a couple of months ago. Things that I didn't want to believe. How she would only go to events if there were free designer clothes, having her assistant call ahead to confirm all the comps she would get. Taking her daughter and using Alaskan tax payer money to stay at the Carlyle for weeks at a time--- laying in her bathrobe all afternoon, asking people to go out and get her McDonalds and Taco Bell. She even subtly threw John McCain under the bus in some of her comments. All 7 people in my office (and only three are artists/designers- the rest are business people) cannot stand her. One friend, whose mother was actually a Governor in his hometown of Eaton, Michigan for 12 years, thinks she is , and I quote, "Heinous". His mother told him at one point that it is good she quite her job in public office, because now she will make exponentially more with publicity and book tours than anything. (and I think to myself, is it all about money, AGAIN, over a real passion for public change?) Hey, maybe she will do Playboy. Don't think the offers haven't come in. But, it seems to me if you are under 50, a glasses wearing brunette, fairly attractive and relatively smart amongst a bunch of old fogies, there is no way you won't look good to a politically uneducated mass of people, right?

Read what an associate of McCain wrote:
V.P. McCain wanted Joseph Lieberman, a formerly Democratic Senator for Connecticut (and former running mate of Al Gore in 2000) who lost the Democratic senate primary to retain his seat in 2004. He successfully won it as an independent instead, and remains a third-party independent. He stumped quite heavily for McCain.
He would have made a far stronger choice for McCain, and perhaps he'd have retained many of the swing-voters who fled from the prospect of Palin.
McCain not having the ability to choose his own Vice President (I'm not convinced Palin was his choice at all) undermines the "maverick" title.

Another politician I don't trust. Another person I feel is in it for herself, before others...and who is lying. She talks in so many circles, I don't trust her. If any of you saw it, let me know what YOU thought. I am always open to amending my views. ALWAYS! And boys- hear her, do not be fooled because she seems hot in a political forum. Yes, all girls with glasses that are pretty will look hot in waders, hunting. A cute girl who can get dirt under her nails and can talk politics..that is nice, I suppose when most of them are 60 plus and men. But do you just want a chick who can wear knee length skirts and hunt, and talk manipulatively in a 'cute' way, in office because of those things, or because she really would be the strongest candidate. Please don't be seduced, especially when it comes to politics. It's your country and your life. But most of them are sneaky and money hungry, so who can you trust really?Convince me with facts other than those--please.

Rock n Roll Promises

I just read an email from a few weeks back from someone who reads my blog (I try y'all, but I rarely have time to read these as soon as you send them, so sorry if it takes me awhile to get back)
And I made him a promise----he wanted more music and 'random stories' as he called them--- and less spirituality on my blog for awhile.
Ok, ok, a little more of the former. I've got it. Even though you know you are just a big stoner(and you know who you are.)

Operation Shoebox

A couple of weeks ago in church,we were all issued memos to create a 'shoebox' for a little child in a third world (especially war ravaged) country. Many of you may have heard of these over the years. You get a simple old shoe box and fill it with items for the particular child of your choice. Of course, I chose a little girl. It's always easy for me to buy dolls and toys and things that are pink. :)
But, today,we were inspired to do another, for a soldier in Iraq. I loved this idea. So I am putting one together today. Just think about these guys over there for a minute, and all the creature comforts (as simple as good toothpaste and a new toothbrush) that they probably don't have. Think about how nice it is when you get something special in the mail. A trinket, a lovely handwritten card. Imagine then, how extra nice it must be for these guys who are in a desert environment, far away from anything familiar, fighting for us.
Send one of them something. You can, of course, keep it anonymous.
Here are some of things I put in (which boys always seem to like/need) Maybe it will give you some ideas.
*Toothbrush/ toothpaste
*Good Mach 3 Razor ( a boy needs a good shave)
*A couple of nice black and/or white cotton T-Shirts from Old Navy or Gap
*Nice white athletic socks. There isn't a boy I know who doesn't always need good athletic white socks.
*Chocolate or homemade cookies (yes these will preserve)
*A good, moisturizing lotion. The desert is dry and sometimes boys are not that best at taking care of their little old dry skin. Other uses are not of my concern. ;)
*And you know what I thought was a fun idea? I got two high thread count pillow cases and washed them with pretty smelling soap and made them soft. Sleeping on a pretty, fresh smelling pillow, over the startchy, basic cotton case the service gives you, may be a nice change.
*A flash drive with some of my Itunes new music on it. A boy can't have enough rock and roll.

Anyway- think about it. If it were you, you'd like it.
Go here for more info and mailing instructions:
http://www.operationshoebox.com/

Something else.
In the lesson this morning, the minister said something interesting and it really moved me. He was talking of how he had by chance caught the movie, 'The Passion Of The Christ" on a movie channel last night. He spoke of how he was again, moved by the scene where God was carrying the Cross up the mountain and had been- and was still being -terribly, terribly beaten. Yet still, when he got to the top of the mountain, he set the cross down and placed himself on it. For us. And then the minister said the thing that put it all together for me, and I wrote it down. He said:

"And do you remember what Jesus said? He said, 'Forgive them for they know not what they do.' Now I don't know about you, but I don't know many people that love like that. If you can strive to love beyond your own parameters, you may be living as this story has been trying to teach, and living the laws of God."

Isn't that moving? He knew that continuing to love although he was brutalized, and forgiving though he could have been angry, was the only was to save their souls and at the same time, keep his heart pure as well. Just thought I would share.

I Fear No Noreaster

Bring it on North East Noreaster. Me and my new knee high rainboots ain't scared of you.

But what does disturb me, is the cover of Newsday this morning. Not because he stands trial here, but because it reminds me of the poor state of affairs in this country. Obama's plan to pull at least (as he stated a number of months ago during his lies and empty promises campaign, as I like to call it) 130,00 troops from Iraq, has not come close to fruition, but if it had, there would be a full out civil war in Iraq. He doesn't know how to fight a war, how to keep democracy in the Middle East. And even though I do not wish for war, I am not a fool and I know that when it does occur, it is going to take time and effort and someone with war tactic experience to win one. They are training more men near Saddam's old palace daily, so don't be fooled-----more of our boys will be going over.

This country was fooled and seduced into this current Presidency and it scares me. There are more people in America who know nothing about this war than those who do know. And that scares me too. Life is more than a shopping mall. Wake up and fight for something.

September- Cry for you (acoustic)

SOTD-September - Cry For You -Acoustic

It's rare that I like a 'club' dance song. And even more rare still that they can turn one sucessfully into an acoustic version that still sounds sexy.
Well, September did it. I love the rhthym version AND this acoustic version. You should check it out too.
And remember, if you really need some dance music perchance, go European...it is always so much better than the American fuzz that gets released.
September is from Sweden. Go figure.

Video Dating - Found Footage Festival

This is G-R- Double O- Double S--GROSS--and reall!! Old found video dating service from 1986. Blarck!!! eeewwwww!
Note the old pervert who says he subcribes to both Playboy and The New Yorker. WTF kind of statement about his personality is that suppose to make?
And the guy who says "No Hamsters"-

Safety in Penn Station

I made a rule for myself long ago in New York City. When in doubt or scared (like late at night as I was last night) in Penn Station, I just stick close to the boys in the fatigues and berets for as long as I can while heading to my desired destination.

Then, I always feel safe

My Friend Paul, Director of The Nature Conservancy of Long Island

From Paul's blog today:

"I love the Biophilia Hypothesis. Hypothesis says that Humans are biologically programmed to love and need nature. Seems that education has come to teach that pollution is bad, recycling is good. That is definitely an advancement. What's missing for the most part is teaching interconnectivity between man and planet (as well as man to man) in all its forms: water cycles, energy cycles, air cycles, etc... That will be the key understanding that makes a difference when kids grow up and begin to truly think about tackling the tricky resource issues. That will be what they need to understand...are we preparing them to understand that?"

Wouldn't you agree? The Nature Consevancy is a great organization to be involved with if you are looking to donate to a worthwhile nature preservation organization. Over the past 15 years that I have known Paul, he has been part of saving so much land and so many lakes and rivers. In turn, also so many of the species that live there, that to watch him work and, at the same time, be so passionate about it, you cannot help but want to be a part. You can do this by donating, by recycling, by buying produce locally, etc..... there are so many ways. Just take care of the world around you. Try :)
(You can even start by not throwing something out of your window like a guy I saw yesterday. He was barreling down the highway and tossed his lunch wrapper out of the window like it was nothing. Like the world around him was his garbage pail. Seriously?)

http://www.thenatureconservancy.com/

The Big Decision

Strolling back from the Pier in Atlantic City today, I stopped for a bottle of water in this store, and right towards the front, a mother had just given her little girl a quarter to pick something from a cluster of gumball machines. The little girl stood there with her hands on her hips saying, "Hmmmm"... and I had to giggle to myself remembering what a monumental choice it was as a little girl, in front of those machines with a quarter. The quarter that felt like a shiny million dollars because you never had access to money.
So, think about things in that perspective for a moment. Actually think about things like that often. The big and small things in your life. I know it may sound corny, like the whole 'simplicity', think like a child philosophy. But it is so, so, damn true. You can get excited about anything you choose to, depending on your personal perspective. Try to look at things with that gratitude, joy and simplicity as often as possible. So many beautiful moments in nature and in life and with other people will start to become like little miracles to you.
xxoo

Another Day, Another Commute

High Heels- Check
New York Times- Check
Green Tea- Check
Book- Check
Extra Scarf incase train is cold- Check
Headphones- Check
Glasses-Check
Metro Card- Check

I've past my saturation point.

Daydreaming

Staring at the little statue on my desk.....daydreaming already. :(

NYT's Crossword

Attempting the NYT's crossword......with a pen. (You can get the Times anywhere in the world!)
How far will I get? ;)

Carolina

This is Carolina. She was at Joe's wedding a couple of week's ago, and she is close with him and his family. Because of that, I have been blessed to have known her for a little over a year. She is like an Italian mother figure type of friend, and the woman who inspired me to help at my church. She does so much community work and beautiful things for other people, that I couldn't help but be inspired by her and do what I could, also, for the people around me. She also lost her husband of 36 years just two years ago of an unexpected heart attack, and even though he was the love of her life, she presses on and does not feel sorry for herself. That too, is inspiring. Made me want to say to you---make sure to take heed of your elders. Their wisdom, their advice, their life stories. They have much to teach you. And you, in turn, can pass it down to the generations behind you.

Leann Rimes - Amazing Grace

One of the most beautiful songs ever written. DO you know the history of the song? If not, here it is:

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound...” So begins one of the most beloved hymns of all times, a staple in the hymnals of many denominations, New Britain or “45 on the top” in Sacred Harp. The author of the words was John Newton, the self-proclaimed wretch who once was lost but then was found, saved by amazing grace. Although he had had some early religious instruction from his mother, who had died when he was a child, he had long since given up any religious convictions. However, on a homeward voyage, while he was attempting to steer the ship through a violent storm, he experienced what he was to refer to later as his “great deliverance.” He recorded in his journal that when all seemed lost and the ship would surely sink, he exclaimed, “Lord, have mercy upon us.” Later in his cabin he reflected on what he had said and began to believe that God had addressed him through the storm and that grace had begun to work for him.

For the rest of his life he observed the anniversary of May 10, 1748 as the day of his conversion, a day of humiliation in which he subjected his will to a higher power. “Thro’ many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come; ’tis grace has bro’t me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home."

My Showroom Manager, Gregg Just Blew My Mind

So, sweet Gregg and I are sitting in the showrrom this morning, still waking up, and we were talking about the Spring collection as it hung on the racks. And I made a reference, as I usually do, to the looks of the edgier stuff as very rock-n-roll, but more Patty Smith than Deborah Harry. Trying to explain that it needed maybe less masculinity and more femininity. Maybe a ruffle here, or a slit up the leg there. And then....he blows my mind.
He is in his late 40's and grew up in NY, and he says-"So Trenny, you like Patti Smith?" I, of course, say yes and he goes on to tell me that he was good friends with the writer Joan Didion's daughter 'Quintana', and that when he went to her funeral (Joan Didion's husband and daughter both tragically died in the same year), Patti Smith sang the eulogy, which was a lullaby. I ask for details, being the story telling lover that I am.
As awful of a moment in time as that was, it was so interesting to hear the live tale of him describing details of words and emotions that he expereinced having been present with such influential women during such a tragic time. He said it was the month of October and especially cold in the church, and as he and his partner huddled together for warmth in the pew of the cold church, the whole place just sobbed and sobbed as Patti sang.
New York is just odd in that you never know what story someone has, or who has come along their path. His description of the song and the way Patti performed it, made me well up with tears.
Album #9 for your Library----'Horses'-Patti Smith

New York Yankees Playoffs-10/25/09

I am not into baseball at all. Which is why I forgot that every Yankee fan in the world would be converging on the subway downtown last nite. Yesterday, early evening, I took the train from Farmingdale to Penn Station, and then had to jump on the Bronx bound subway to head to Chelsea. Chelsea is where my girlfriend Melissa lives, and I am watching her dog for 2 days while she is on business in Chicago. As I descended the stairs from Penn to the C Subway downtown - I think it was around 5:15pm- I was basically pummeled and mauled by ferocious people making their way to the train like animals. I took a moment to look around, and when I saw about 15,ooo Yankee's jerseys, I remembered it was the last night of the playoffs in the Bronx, and that I was on the main subway, at prime time, headed also, to the Bronx.

Man. You've never seen a more rabid sports crowd than a group of half buzzed NY Yankees fans. It is certifiable craziness. Rabib sports fans need to calm the hell down. For God's sake.

But, I will say this. I have quite a crush on the coach of the NY Yankees,Joe Giradi. He's terribly handsome

Prince- Purple Rain

Was just catching up with emails with this as background music, and it inspired me to write about it.
Definitive, brilliant. How can one pick a favorite from this soundtrack? The ..."maybe I'm just like my father.....maybe your just like my mother" sentiment from 'When Doves Cry' was beyond the scope of what most songs were saying. Just forget about being 15 and watching the opening scene from this video, with Prince crawling out of a steamy bathtub, clothed with only a purple scarf wrapped around his neck. So, maybe that's the one. But then there's 'Darling Nikki' about a sexy girl masturbating in a hotel lobby and an unrequited one night stand. The grinding guitar riff suits the message well. Maybe that one? But what about the sad "Do you want him or do you want me"....from 'The Beautiful Ones'....and one of my close favorites (if I had to pick) 'Baby I'm A Star'.
I could go on. There is something truly special about each song from this soundtrack. And I gaurantee you, everyone from my generation could preach, word for word, the 'Let's Go Crazy' opening sermon ..."Dearly Beloved, we are gathered here today to get through this thing called life.....". Forever, that's a mighty long time. I once heard a homeless guy in Times Square preaching that at high volume and stood there trying not to laugh, in utter disbelief that noone was getting that it was Prince.
Though I recommend bands and albums to you all the time, I've always told you that someday I would finalize my top 100 definitive albums to have in your collection. So far, I've given you Seven:
1. Roxy Music-Avalon
2. Fleetwood Mac-Rumours
3. Led Zeppelin 1998 four disc box set (After all, how can you have just ONE Zeppelin record)
4. Neil Young-Harvest Moon
5. Joni Mitchell- Court and Spark (or Blue, if that suits you more)
7. Radiohead- Ok Computer or The Bends (with one you miss 'Fake Plastic Trees'. With the other you miss 'Karma Police'. Gotta have both---sorry)
Now, you have Eight
8. Purple Rain- Prince

~ And this our life exempt from public haunt, finds tongues in trees, books in running brooks, sermons in stones, and good in everything~

William Shakespeare.

Jenny My Friend- Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday my girl Jenny.
This was her Birthday Quote ..and all the more why we long ago befriended one another.

Jennifer Lee Laks

“The only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn, like fabulous yellow roman candle...s exploding like spiders across the stars.” — Jack Kerouac

...because really, that is the best way to live..to know you are alive.
I love you Jen

Garrison Keillor- Hallow's Eve

The Old Scout
A FINE day to be somebody else
October 25, 2005

People stood out on my front porch the other night talking about politics and inhaling the sweetness of fall, intimations of nobility in the air and also decaying vegetable matter. What we felt was the elation of a warm night in late October in the northern latitudes, when you can stand outdoors in your shirtsleeves after twilight. In these circumstances, even newspaper columnists feel the urge toward poetry: Across the street, the maple now is flaming yellow on the bough.It stands beside an evergreen,All dressed up for Halloween.Now of my three-score years and ten,Sixty-three won't come again.Subtract from seventy sixty-three—It scares the daylights out of me.And since to look at maple trees,I'd like more time (Lord, if you please),I'll briskly walk in admirationAnd stimulate the circulation. The smell of fall takes me back to fourth grade, the girls in their pinafores and the boys in plaid shirts, our hair wetted down and combed, watching Mrs. Moehlenbrock write the math problems on the board, thinking about What To Be for Halloween. Girls could, if their mothers had the time to sew, dress up as royalty, or as fairies, but for a boy, princehood was not an option in those days, nor was pixilation. You could smudge your face and be a hobo, or put on a red nose and fright wig, or you could be ghoulish and loathsome. Last year I succeeded in that, without meaning to. I put on a tuxedo and painted my face blue and handed out candy bars to a couple hundred kids and their parents before a kind neighbor informed me that the blue paint, in dim light, looked rather black, and then I remembered the pained looks on the faces of African-American parents who came to my door. I guess they figured Mr. Keillor, for reasons of his own, had decided to dress up as Al Jolson and might whip out a banjo and serenade them with a few plantation songs. No wonder they were so quiet as I doled out the candy into the children's sacks; they were wondering what this old booger might have put in the Butterfingers. "To be great is to be misunderstood," said Emerson, which does not mean that misunderstanding confers greatness. It does not mean that at all. Everybody is misunderstood most of the time. Back in my bohemian days, I liked to put on a flowery shirt and fringed vest, as if I were a true individualist, and now I wear a suit and white shirt and tie and try to impersonate a businessman. Either way, strangers take one look at you and with great confidence come to conclusions about you that are dead wrong. This happens to us all every day. And so we should celebrate Halloween. It's as close to a carnival as we Northerners have, and it's a chance to slip out of the stereotypes assigned to us and find truth and beauty in caricature. If you are pegged as a Midwestern mom, Monday is your chance to be Decadent Heiress, Transcendental Heartthrob, Taxi Dancer, Aviatrix, Lady Macbeth or the Goddess Athena, and break free of your family's low expectations - a chance to be something passionate. We made our choices in life, based on lousy information, and got stuck being who we are. You: attractive, impetuous, with bedroom eyes and a savage wit. Me: rumpled, preoccupied, shambling, dropping things. And do we regret this? No, not really. A person only needs to be truly understood by two or three people. Everyone else is audience. Passion is in your head. Two people can be married for a dog's age and despite all the years of matrimony, they still look at each other and get excited. That is true love. That is a real marriage. Nobody else understands this. Nobody else needs to. So, on the Eve of All Hallows, let us paint our faces and put feathers in our hair and venture off along the curve of the earth and be somebody else. I will go as a Special Prosecutor in a shiny suit, carrying a black briefcase, who after 7 p.m., turns into Raffaello, King of the Tango, with pointy shoes, trailing a cloud of lilac cologne. I will be a figure of stark terror and also a font of erotic energy, a scourge of miscreants and a friend of adventurous women. And when the candy is gone, I'll turn into your father and send you home: That's it, kid, the party's over.

© 2005 by Garrison Keillor. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Media Services, INC.

Loner

I've always been a bit of an outcast/loner type. It has (and continues to) serve me well in the sense that it has allowed me to be independent, adapt to change easily, not be afraid of new places, people, and experiences. I don't get attached too easily, which helps me live the Buddhist philosophy I believe so much in, which is 'letting go and living in the moment'.
Yet, I find it can be detrimental. I forget what intimacy and trust in another person is like, and that is not healthy. I don't want to get so used to sleeping alone or being a loner, that I become safe in it because it is what I've known for a long period, or because it allows me to do things my way.
'My Way' doesn't challenge me or make me learn new things. My way is, by no means, the right way-50 percent of the time. lol. My way doesn't have big strong arms and a sexy deep voice. My way can't carry me over a puddle or lift heavy things. My way can't make out with me or spoon me next to a fire.
Lord, help me to be careful with getting too used to 'my way'.

I Love The Poetry of Song Lyrics,As Much As The Music

*I just heard this new one on XM while working and it was so pretty, as a simple poem

'Answer'-Sarah McLachlan

I will be the answer
At the end of the line
I will be there for you
While you take the time
In the burning of uncertainty
I will be your solid ground
I will hold the balance
If you can't look down
If it takes my whole life -I won't break, I won't bend
It will all be worth it
Worth it in the end.
Because I can only tell you what I know,
That I need you in my life
When the stars have all gone out
You'll still be burning bright
Cast me gently
Into morning
For the night has been unkind
Take me to aPlace so holy
That I can wash this from my mind.
The memory of choosing not to fight
If it takes my whole life -I won't break,
I won't bend
It will all be worth it, worth it in the end
Because I can only tell you what I know
That I need you in my life.
When the stars have all burned out
You'll still be burning bright
So,cast me gently into morning,
For the night has been unkind

SOTD-John Lennon - Instant Karma

..."better get yourself together darlin' "......

Models and Polaroids

After I had to model 3 dresses for Spring yesterday(I hate modeling stuff) because the booked model didn't show up and we had a deadline, I volunteered to stay late last night and snap some potential girls. I scheduled them last minute for a test by posting a craigslist ad. Thank God it's New York-I had 7 girls show.
So, I need your opinions, via email, who should it be???? The first girl, Anna, above, was my favorite. I thought she was so sexy. But it is not really sexy I am trying to convey for this season. But, sex does sell. hmmmm......

Kind of plain-ish

This chick above looked JUST LIKE Tori Amos in person that I wanted to ask her to sing!

I liked her, she had a sweet all American girl look.
Hmm.. more like an actress look, I thought, than a model. But, I could be wrong.

This girl was pretty too. So, I will take the highest vote from your emails----be honest!!

Italian Wedding Overload

My boss's son John got married on Sunday. It was a Goodfellas, Italian, over the edge showdown. It is something to do at least once in your life. Go to a big Italian, family on both sides wedding, with alot of money in a catered hall being served with white gloves, wedding. Though complete night and day from what I would do (I'd be barefoot on the beach), it was quite spectacular in scale. And the bride, Maria, really did look like Cinderealla. I mean really. That was her intention I heard, and she more than accomplished it. She looked super sweet and girly. Like off the pages of a Disney book. Just look at that dress!

......and my other boss and I were on our 800th smile of the night, and in this picture we both laughed and said we look like the Brady kids when they are miserable and Carol and Mike tell them "Now let's see those smiles". I was tired....and full from pasta and Chianti and being swung around on the dance floor to old school Italian and Spanish music- that was a fake smile.

Meow

This is my friends friend Michelle's painted photograph of her cat. It's titled, "Meow". I want to buy it. I can't resist. I love cats and I love this painting. I grew up with at least three cats in my household since I was a baby, and have a hard time sleeping without at least one little furry baby nuzzled next to me when I sleep. Especially when a man is not nuzzled next to you. It's the best yet when it's man AND a kitty kat nuzzled next to you, together!

Anyway ,I'll try to cut a deal with her.

And by the way, if you are thinking about getting a new little meow(or dog) to add to your family, PLEASE do so from a local animal rescue league/shelter. Please! There are so many animals in need of love and a home that it is a beautiful thing to do. And the RIGHT thing to do. I know some can be pricey (which is horrible because you are performing a service for them), so I have listed a couple in the big cities that will either take a donation or not. And it can be zero or 10 dollars, as these places are just concerned with a good home, as should the focus be for the rest of the shelters who rob nice animal rescuers like us with much too exorbitant prices. Although it is nice if you can donate a bit more than you think you can as this does help keep these places functioning and gives food and supplies to the animals.

In Los Angeles-

www.laanimalservices.com/serv_adoptapet.htm

In New York-

www.animalshelter.org/shelters/New_York.asp

In Chicago-

www.yelp.com

SOTD-If I Fell - Across the Universe

Letting the cables sleep Bush

Letting the cables sleep Bush
Uploaded by cramchur. -

A Piece of Relationship Advice, Girls

This is funny, but true, and something I saw this past Monday night in NYC.
I had gotten out of work and as usual, headed down to Penn Station. As I was ready to go down the escalator, I remembered I had to go to the Chase Bank ATM which sits just atop Penn. Right next to this also, is the main, big outdoor entrance to Madison Square Garden. As I made my zig-zag way to the bank, I remembered that it was the pop artist 'Pink' that was playing there that night. And although I am not the biggest top 40 pop music fan, and this was not a concert I would buy tickets for, I still always enjoy watching the kinds of crowds that go to particular artist's shows. (ie- the big Italian goombas that go to Billy Joel shows, the razored eared girls that attend Nine Inch Nails, etc...) From a music and fashion perspective, it's always fun to see. From what I gathered from this crowd, it was predominately groups of 'girlfriends' or groups of gay men, with the occasional boyfriend/girlfriend couple inter-mixed, with the guy looking like he'd rather be anywhere else for 4 hours. I was lucky enough to see a funny scenario of just the sort play out right in front of me.
A girl in a black mini dress and knee high boots came dashing by me, chewing gum and texting on her IPhone. Just behind her, followed her boyfriend, completely disinterested, smoking a cigarette and wearing an AC/DC t-shirt. I knew immediately this was the last place he'd rather be. The 'girlfriend' turns around and says (all nag like and snotty), "come on!" Said boyfriend stops in his tracks, takes a drag of his cigarette, blows out the smoke, looks at her, and says ( I sware it's so perfect you'll think I am making it up) "I'm outta here", and turns and just leaves! Classic! I wanted to high five him. I took a picture to prove it.
So, moral of this storie's lesson is this. Girls, just because you are in a relationship and in love, it does not mean you are attached at the hip. If your boyfriend wears an AC/DC t-shirt, it is probably very likely that he doesn't want to go to a Pink concert. Bring a girl, go alone or bring a more 'feminine' male friend. :) Time apart, trips apart around the world even, are healthy! Keeps your desire alive and is healthy for when you do come back together.
I wonder what happened later that night. lol. Poor guy was gonna get railed by that nasty girl. Maybe he was smart and didn't go back.

My Beautiful Friend Erin on Her Blog Yesterday..Wow...I had to Re-Blog It.

*I had to cut and past, so my apologies for the odd layout.*

Erin McQuail

"I don't understand mean people. Or people who have no regard for hurting another person, or people that are insensitive, because they are so obsessed with themselves, they can't feel anything for anyone else... or because they are disappointed with the state of their life today (unfulfilled desires) because of the choices they've made so far out fear and insecurity and greed that landed them where they are. Be accountable for your life as it is today and move on. Just be accountable. It really is simple. There is time to re-do it and get those things they feel they lack. It is all a search for love in the end anyway. I honestly don't have insensitivity in me, because I worked very hard to change it. Why don't people believe they can change? They can! I have.
They are unhappy and it seems so obvious. I've been there too. Ahhh... let go of your obsession with your patterns and what you grew up with. If you run away from it physically, but yet carry the anger or act the same way...you haven't gotten away at all. You may as well be in the same room with them, face to face, everyday, because that is still how close their influence is when you live in the pattern of it. Don't keep doing something just because it's comfortable and 'what you know'. What your parents acted like. You didn't like it, and you complain about it, but yet you do the same thing? Awake. Don't believe the little things they taught you about yourself. You are not little, you are a child of God. You are perfect and beautiful and whole. You would be more attached to your usual way than to change? Because, even though it makes you unhappy, it somehow feels safe and familiar? When you could instead have joy? God forgave and loved, so he could teach you how to forgive and love. Don't look to heal your unresolved feelings with the past in someone or something similar. Similarity breeds the same results. You got rejected, you 'll find another rejector. The same thing over and over. Think more highly of yourself. Noone will 'fix it' until you heal your own heart and open it.
And this kind of life of change, and this kind of love, would make you feel more safe than anything in this world. I've changed 100 percent. Until then- your past, all the ugly things and anger- will inform your life today. What a waste, It's over. I've had many, many ugly things happen to me, and I have changed and left it behind. Noone owes me anything for what happened to me. As I said, I've changed, and you can too. Well, at least the bad things. There are good things I like to keep that make me, me.
God says-"Do not be hungry to anger nor carry vengeful thoughts"--John 2:12

The Great Escape and Channel 13

I have touted the virtues of PBS many times on this blog, and I am going to do it again. Even if you NEVER watch public television, just watch it every once in awhile. They have a show called 'American Masters', where they feature different musical artists up close- acoustic, speaking, etc.- such as Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, Pearl Jam, Ani DiFranco, and it is so wonderful. They have the truly inquisitive interviewer, Tavis Smiley, who has his own show where he does one on ones with actors and musicians of our day. He is the kind of interviewer who is, at the same time, intelligent but common man, and he asks those questions that you always wish the 'Jay Leno's' and David Letterman's' would ask, but never do because they are doing prime time fluff 'chit chat'. He did a wonderful interview with Prince a few weeks ago that targeted Prince's childhood in Minneapolis as opposed to the Purple Rain film/Soundtrack, which the movie and soundtrack storyline was supposedly based. I was riveted with his questions. Then there is, of course, News Hour and Charlie Rose. They have recently done an absolutely amazing documentary this past week on National Parks by Ken Burns that will replay throughout the Fall that you should try to catch. It is brilliantly done. You will appreciate the (very little, unfortunately, because of our destruction for industrial growth) natural resources and beauty in this country if you watch it.
Anyhow, they also have a program called 'Great Indie Film Shorts', and tonite they did 'The Great Escape' with Steve McQueen. Based on a true story of a prison breakout in 1944, it is a classic. And all I have to say is----Steve McQueen was a man. A man's man. Sexy as sexy can be, and what a man SHOULD be. Tough, gruff, sometimes problematic, begrudging and difficult. But convicted and protective and forthright. He wasn't putting up with shit. And though I have ranted (again) about PBS, this post was really, simply, inspired by how damn sexy Steve McQueen was.
Hell yes.

The Balance

My mentor through college was a hippie philosophy professor name Phillip Schlesinger. He was 'too cool', and the one who gave me the idea to write my senior thesis on John Keats poetry in relation to Bruce Springsteen lyrics. (I got an A... ahem.... :)
In his class, the more 'out there', crazy, stoned papers you could write, the better your chance to get a good grade. I used to slap together my philosophy papers for him the night before they were due, while playing Led Zeppelin and typing furiously and aimlessly on my word processor, and I always graded well. I thought they were bullshit at the time, but looking back, I had some cool thoughts. Stream of consciousness is usually the best writing anyway.
One thought about me and my life came to mind tonite, and I remembered a paper that I wrote that fueled my blogging about it. And it's brief.
It was on Emerson. And it was about finding the balance in the nature of man. I based it on comfort vs adventure.
And that's all I've wanted out of life and in a partner.
To share and find that perfect balance between comfort, safety and stability and passion, desire, love and adventure. With too much of one, you become bored, complacent, frustrated and unhappy. With too much of another you become lonely, isolated, heartbroken and ever seeking.
I've seen people and happy couples with both.
That's what I want. Both. The balance.

Cold Weather Denial

Today was cold. Not really temperature wise, but it was that first day of Fall when it's all gray and charmain blue, heavy clouds in the sky. There was no sun, it was chilly and terribly, terribly windy. It was that kind of Fall day when you know that there is no going back to the denial that Summer might not ever end if we continue to have those sneaky little 70 degree days in September and October. But, it's over baby. Fall is here and Winter is on it's way. Do not be fooled.
When I was a little girl, I used to cry when it was time to bundle up and go play in the snow. I really did. While everyone around me was twinklin' in their toes to go slide down a snowy hill or pale each other with rock hard snowballs , I stood, tear streaked face, at the window as my mom cinched my little fur lined 1970's cable knit hat under my chin. I remember staring out at the icicle dripped windows and the piles of thick Mid-Western snow like they were my most hated enemy. I HATE the Winter. I love being naked and I love being warm. I say all this because I finally had a physcological revelation about myself today. One that, mind you, has been pointed out to me by friends and family since I was a kid. I am a, what I am now going to deem 'Winter Denial Dresser'. I dress warm when I have to, because I hate to freeze, but if I can stretch out sexy, light, silky, gauzy, body being free clothing, I will. For as long as I can.
Example-today. I wore the above dress. I thought to myself (honestly) "It's nice Fall shades, it's heavy silk, it's long sleeve, I'll wear leather boots, all's well." Well, who forgot the middle of her legs? Me, that's who. But when I felt the breezy October wind on my legs, it was hard to deny the stupid move I'd made. I then thought- "oh, that's ok, because I have my big cozy wool wrap sweater. I'll just throw that on." Well, below is my sweater................

hahaha- what an idiot. Lotta good that did me! I'm going to do better this year. I sware I am.

Classic Battles: Fred Sanford vs Aunt Esther

Just incase you need a laugh.
Dammit- this is my FAVORITE! I cannot get enough!

Best line- "I don't know what's goin' on, but I know what's goin' out."

Watch for it. I'm gonna keep that in my reference file should I need it someday. hahahaha!

Watch it sucka!

A Buddhist Teaching from Yoga Class This Morning

My yoga teacher always gives out the reading that she reads at the end of each class. Sometimes I take them, sometimes I don't. Today I did. I thought it was quite poignant.


"Buddha taught very clearly about the dangers of greed, hatred and ignorance, what he called the three poisons, that some people seem to display quite frequently, usually to thier own life's detrement. Together, these three are like thieves in the night who rob us of our happiness. Where greed grabs our desires, hatred takes our fear and insecurity and blames everyone else for why we are miserable or wronged, while ignorance clouds our vision.Greed has many relatives, such as jealousy, addiction, ambition, self-centeredness, pride, grasping and clinging, giving rise to dissatisfaction, irritation, frustration, annoyance, even depression. Greed slips into our mind, unnoticed, unasked for. Desire makes us manipulate conversations and people. The craving to have and possess stops us from giving, it limits our generosity, it generates a fear of not having. Do not personify greed,in an illusory desperate desire to win, for you will destroy all the gifts that the heavens bring into your path should you do so. Get rid of it as soon as possible. What we call 'Satori'- 'instant awakening' "

Mad As Hell ...

Someday I'll be sittin' on a porch, in a hammock, reading poetry in the country, watching my little family.............and NYC will be a happy memory.

Stevie Ray Vaughan 1984 Texas Flood SRV LIVE

I just don't know what it is about sunny Sundays, but nothing but good old unpasteurized rock-n-roll is the only thing that will do for me. Been like that since I was a little girl. A long drive, maybe some grass...........just sometimes ;) , sunshine, someone you love, and rock and roll on a Sunday. Heaven.

I hope there are guitars in heaven for you Stevie and that you're rockin' everyone out with some cool jams up there. For my sake too!

What Made Woman Make Art (short film about artist Jim Gingerich)

My dear friend Jim is a wonderful painter based in Bridgehampton, NY. I was so blessed to re-connect with him recently on Facebook. Good ole Facebook. I am so looking forward to seeing some of his latest work in the city. Check out this video with some of his paintings and ideas. He LOVES women, and I was lucky enough a number of years ago, to be asked, along with my friend Kim, to pose for him. Sadly, I have never seen the completed work. But, I did see it mid-way through. Not only was it the size of a 1/4 wall, but somehow, she and I managed to lose most of our clothes. But, in all honesty, I didn't mind, because he makes women look so beautiful and you see his admiration in the curves and the softness he gives the forms.
Rock on Jim. xoxox
Below is what the filmaker said about Jim.....and it is so true and so perfect about him. You would never, ever get bored having a conversation with Jim about life.

"I had met Jim while working for Plum TV in the Hamptons (NY). His studio was next door to ours and we would often have long discussions in the parking lot. The topics ranged from, alchemy, occult, art, philosophy, psychology, phenomenon, basically pertaining to the esoteric and ethereal realms.

Then there were conversations about women, guns, and survival. I liked those too. That's the thing about Jim, if ever there was a man, he is Gingerich. " -Marlo L.Brown -

PS- here's the link to Part 2 of this interview, which is brief, but worth watching. He has really, really humble, interesting and true things to say about a man and woman in a relationship. He's working on a graphic novel using his artwork as a catalyst. This is gonna be one damn good, sexy, thoughtful book, and you better believe I'll plug it when it comes out. So proud of him and inspired to do my own work.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUlBrqLnrRU

(you have to cut and paste this link into your search bar to get there, sorry. I have to figure out how to let you just click my links and go straight there. Any reader tips would be greatly appreciated!)

Coffee Disaster

Just a tip- next time you are going to work and need a free hand, don't be a genuis like me and decide to put it in your bag, cleverly angled so as not to spill. That shit'll spill and get all over your pretty sketches for a meeting. I'm gonna look real put together at this meeting passing around coffee stained line sheets...what a drag

From My Friend Martin's 'About Me'

This is so true, what he wrote. Be careful and learn what life is trying to teach you, through your day to day interactions and experiences, as quickly as possible. Otherwise you will relive the same misfortunes again and again, and by YOUR OWN DOING! Don't be so foolish.
(*he's so happy he does handstands on Main Street in Sag Harbor*) lol

Martin Kaye-

About Me:

Life has funny ways of teaching us things, and it's sometimes hard to see the lessons straight away. But those lessons will keep coming back, until you learn for real.

The only way to live...is with positive thinking. It's just so easy to do, yet so easily ignored. Some people always seem to think negatively for some reason, and I don't get it. Since I've been thinking positively, my life just totally changed...it got more exciting and interesting and....most importantly, I'm happy :)

*As I mentioned in an earlier post, I have begun reading The Bible (just to finally read it as a story AND for spiritual and Sunday school teaching reasons), and just having read 1/4 of it, God's message is that he WANTS us to be happy. HERE AND NOW.He says that exact line in Genesis. "God claimed for his people to live a life of insurmountable joy and tireless service. This was his decree to man"
Our works of love (which is the main purpose of God's teachings-'Love') are to be done here and now. He claims it is a sin and that it is gluttonous thoughts of the self to wait for heaven to expect joy and withhold it in this life. He teaches that heaven is here. Read it. See it. God is in you now, not just in death in some cloudy after world.
Follow his teachings and you will find joy. Do not follow them and you will always run into problems and unhappiness. And if you believe in this joy in death that is promised, then also know that this is promised as well- the teaching that says the first thing that will happen is that you will be judged for your actions here first. Forgiveness, love, unselfisness........no manipulation in God's world. That is what he teaches. And the rewards are greater for living in love and smaller for living a life of suffering. By "The meek shall inherit the earth" (which I learned in the service today) he did not mean 'meek' to be living miserable and suffering, 'meek' means being humble, putting love first, kindness first. The opposite of being meek, is being angry, unforgiving, jaded, victimized and living unhappily.That is the opposite of meek and is very much self involved. And that is a sin. Being consumed with the self. It also states-"God gave the blood of his son for you, and in turn, your life that is a gift"
Considering some personal difficulties I've had recently- boy, did I need to hear that lesson today.

Man, everyone should read The Bible at least ONCE in their lives.