Lysa Rose

Seperation Anxiety

2007-09-23T20:14:00.000-04:00

Separation Anxiety
Well, I had it bad this weekend. You see, my baby is riding again! Many thanks to all those prayers.

Since he is a member of the Patriot Guard Riders, he decided he was going on a mission this weekend. TO VIRGINIA. Now, you know I worry about him being back on the bike. But, I was in a serious tizzy about the long hike to VA. But, it was for a good cause. There are currently only 2 surviving World War I veterans alive. Three. And my husband and his friends went down to VA to honor one of them. See, the Patriot Guard Riders usually accompany the soldiers and their families when they fall victim to wars. Someone decided it would be a good thing to honor one while they were still alive. Too cool.

So, he rolled on out of here at 2:30 am on Saturday. I made him call everytime they stopped all the way to VA. Prayed the entire time that all of them made it safely there and home. And, thankfully they all did.

They took the little old man (106!) for a ride in a motorcycle side car, and got to escort the liberty bell. The pics are amazing. And Mr. Buckles is about the cutest old man there ever was! lol. Frank Buckles. Youtube him. He is hilarious.

Anyways, back to the anxiety thing. I went out. Felt lost as all hell because we usually go everywhere together. Especially since the accident. Normally, I am the one who wants to hang out and have a good time. My ass came home after about 1 and 1/2 hours. That is sad. But, what can you do? I came home and went to bed. And, was up and down ALL night. I mean, I like my room in the bed, but there was TOO much room. I could not sleep without him, could not stay out without him. WTF? lol. I guess I love him more than I ever thought possible. Maybe I should get a pet.

So, there is the story of my weekend. Lame or what? First night out alone since getting married and could not wait to come the hell home.

Oh, well. Maybe next time.

Coming soon....Face off -Part 3!

Parenting and getting older..my view today

2007-08-29T20:15:00.000-04:00

Parenting and getting older.
It really hit me yesterday. Getting old is scarey! I was so happy when I sent my daughter off to 10th grade yesterday. That is, until she got home and told me that her first class this year is DRIVER'S ED! Oh,no! Not my baby. Behind the wheel? Hello? She still watches the Disney Channel. Scarier yet, I am going to have to actually SIT in a car with her soon. While SHE is driving. No one told me about this. They sure should have a parent manual.

Kids grow up so fast. It seems like yesterday, I was a struggling single parent, just trying to make ends meet. I was changing diapers. Giving Baths. Tying shoes. School shopping for crayons.Working 2 jobs. Here it is, years later. I married an absolutely wonderful human being who treats my kids as his own. No questions asked. We have a beautiful home. Nice cars. A motorcycle. Great Family.

Instead of tying shoes, I have to hide mine, so my teenager does not take them without asking and wears them to school. Instead of crayons, I am buying black eyeliner. Instead of giving baths, I am yelling for them to get out of the shower because they have been in there so long they are going to shrivel up. WHAT do they DO in there all that time anyway?

So, I have come to the conclusion that getting old sucks. Not because of age, but because in the grand scheme of things, you MISS out on so much of your children's lives and do not even realize it, until that time is gone. Gone are the days of teaching them to ride a bicycle and making sure that they are properly geared. Helmet, knee and elbow pads. Here is the time to prepare them for life. Replacing that bike is a vehicle with four wheels. No helmet, no elbow and knee pads. Just alot of patience and a whole lot of prayers.

So, my thought for the day is this....take the time with your children and remember every detail. From the tantrums, to the girly drama, to the boo boos. Let them know you love them every single day that goes by. Before you know it, they are teenagers and beginning on their own adventures in life.

Face Off..Part 2

2007-08-29T19:59:00.001-04:00

Face off..Part 2
Ok, well I went for my 2nd chemical peel. I was thrilled with the results of the Jessner's peel. Not too much redness or peeling from it.

Today, she did a glycolic peel. Let me tell you something...THIS ONE BURNED LIKE HELL! Last time, she just concentrated on the sun damage. This time she did my WHOLE face. Whoa! When I looked in the mirror, my whole face was red with a white coating. Kind of looked like melted candle wax. NOT the most attracting thing ever, but, hey, no pain, no gain.

It is about 8 pm, and the peel was at 3. My face is still burning and I look like someone punched me under my left eye. THANK GOD for aloe and this antioxidant cream. Young girls, listen up...STAY out of the sun, or at least wear sunblock. This is not the easiest thing that I have ever been through, but had I kept block on all these years, instead of soaking up the rays and laying in the tanning bed, I would not be going through this right now.

The doc told me I would hate her for the next four days. I think she may be right! She also told me after those four days, I would be loving her. Well, I hope so, because right now, my face looks like a bruised tomato!

Well, that is my chemical peel update, until the 12th when she goes deeper!

Face Off

2007-08-14T21:58:00.000-04:00

Have you ever watched the movie, Face Off, with John Travolta and Nicholas Cage. You know, the one where their faces are translpanted on the other's body. Have you ever thought, how cool would that be? Me, too. Well, not to THAT extreme, but a new face, or new skin, in my case.

A few years ago, I started noticing this dark mass on my upper lip. The skin there was much darker than the other skin on my face. Ok, to be blunt, it starting look like I had a mustache. I am Italian, and very proud, but hey, I am not THAT Italian!
Anyways, after seeing a dermatologist, he diagnosed it as melasma, or hyper pigmentation of the skin. The majority of women who develop this are either pregnant, on hormones, such as birthcontrol or too much sun exposure. I, fell into the latter. Once summer ended, it began to fade and I never thought about it again.

Last March, I began my yearly ritual of tanning. Yes, in the tanning bed. I was to be married in May and wanted to be as tan as possible to compliment the whiter than white dress I picked out. So, I tanned for 3 entire months, not missing a day. I also exposed my face in the bed, which is not something I normally do. I cover my face, then use make up to have the appearance of a tan. Not that time. I wanted to be as dark as possible, so I could wear the least amount of make up on my actual face for the wedding. It worked. I was browner than dirt. I loved it.

Then, one year later, I start my ritual again. This time in April. A month later, but then, I had no special plans. Just wanted to look tan, and no tourist white. I did cover my face again. Been on the bike a few hot days. The usual.

Well, I woke up a few weeks ago and just really looked at my skin. The pores I have always had just seemed enormous! I mean huge! So, I hook up with an old friend I went to elementary school with and she sells Arbonne Products. I ordered the ENTIRE anti aging line, and for the most part, I was quite happy with the results. On top of that, I only use the best make up out there..Bare Minerals. For my female friends, this is truly the best make up EVER.

Anyhow, I still keep noticing these pores. My dad has enlarged pores and they are hereditary, so I go with it. BUT, I cannot stand the way my skin is starting to look. Always dry, tight, and no matter how much make up I use, I still cannot help but notice these gigantic holes in my face. UGH> hated this. I do not think it really bothered me so much until we were at a function at my boss's house and my daughter was going on and on about how she wanted to go tanning before she went to Florida. I said no way. Then, my female boss says to my daughter, and I quote, "Tanning ruins your skin, look at your mother's face." I wanted to either smack her or crawl in a hole. I was speechless. I know she meant no harm, as I know the type of heart she has, but it really bothered me. Every day since, I was constantly in the mirror, checking to make sure what I had covered was still covered. Taking forever to get ready in the morning just to go to work.

Then, on my monthly visit to my doctor, I see this sign. Skin therapy! In my doctor's office. Microdermabrasion, Botox, etc. I was ecstatic! I could not wait to get in to see my doc. I flew in there and said, so, what is up with the botox? LMAO. He looked at me and my frazzled little self and said, wtf? (yes, he really said wtf?), Lysa you do NOT need Botox. I said, well ok, what is up with the skin care? He said go over and ask! But, I did not. I went home and discussed this with Mike. He said, if it means that much to you, call and find out the cost, etc, and we will make it happen. I heart this man!

So, last week I called and set up a consult. I did all the research and decided that microdermabrasion was my thing. So, I go prepared to tell the skin lady, I wanted it. Make the pores go away! No such luck. I have severe sun damage that it giving the illusion of the large pores. WHAT??? She had me look in a mirror at my face up. And sure enough there are brown spots everywhere, but especially in the area I swore were just enlarged pores. *Sigh* I felt like Ralphie when he asked Santa for the Red Rider BB Gun. You'll shoot your eye out, kid! HA! I was pissed.

Then, a ray of light! She tells me that she can fix me! whoo hoo. Turns out, I have too much sun damage for just microdermabrasion. SO, a chemical peel for me. Well, actually a series of 6 of them over a 12 week span. They literally burn off layers of your skin, until there is no visible sun damage, therefore reducing that enlarged pore look, clearing the melasma, and erasing all fine lines and wrinkles, that are a direct result of the sun damage. I know, sounds painful. But, God willing, it will be worth it in the end. And, to add to it, because I am a patient of the doc that her office is in, I get a 200.00 discount! EVEN BETTER. Oh, and BTW, she DID recommend Botox, for the constant wrinkle between my eyes that makes me looked pissed off ALL the time. This, also, was passed down from my dad. I think I will leave it alone for now. It is a good thing, when you are in a rage, people tend to think you are crazy and leave you alone. It has its' purpose. And, besides, I do not think I want my face stone cold.. I like being able to use my face to express things.

So, when the consult was done, I rushed to the front desk and asked for the soonest available appointment they had.

So, boys and girls, tomorrow at 3 pm, I will be getting my own 'Face Off'.

Will keep you updated on the results. Wish me luck!

Illegals In Delaware

2007-08-13T13:56:00.000-04:00

I do not have a whole lot of time, as I am writing on a break. HOWEVER, the amount of illegal immigrants in our small state is really starting to work on my last nerves. Yesterday, Mike and I went for a quick ride for dinner. On the way back I suggested a quick run through Banning Park. BIG MISTAKE. Those son of a bitches are EVERYWHERE. A beautiful park, where I used to let my kids play is now over run with illegals. How do I know they are illegal? PA tags. I counted them. 41 out of I would say 50 cars. 41! With PA tags?? Whats the matter, no parks in PA? It really pisses me off. They come here..ILLEGALLY..and are starting to take over everything. First, fast food places, then jobs that people say no one else will do, now our park! WTF???
Something needs to be done and soon! It is out of control. Ok, off rant. Gotta go back to work. Just needed to get that out.

MY STORY, MY WORDS

2007-08-07T13:09:00.000-04:00

My Story, My Words..
On February 11, 2007 my life as I knew it, forever changed. Who would have thought? No one would, until it happens to them. It was a lazy Sunday afternoon. Visibility..clear. Temperature..cold. I work for an accountant. During tax season, I have one day a week off. You guessed it..Sunday. My day to lay around, relax. Around 2 p.m., I decided it would be a good idea to take a nap. I spoke with my husband, and he said he would be on his way home shortly. He was at Mike's Famous in New Castle. Although, his motorcycle was still fairly new, he had been eyeing something more 'touring' oriented. He wanted to take long trips, just him and me. We had not even been married a year. Before his trip to Mike's, he woke at the crack of dawn, to bundle up and prepare for a charity run for Kids. Which is quite common in the motorcycle world. He had only been on a few, and this would be his last, for a long time to come...

Around 4 p.m., mid nap, I was startled when the phone rang. I had just missed the call. Thinking nothing of it, I lay back down. After a minute, it hit me. Mike was not home. I spoke with him 2 hours prior. Fear struck my heart immediately. I knew before I even looked at the caller ID. Christiana Hospital. There was a message. Mrs. K, we have your husband here in the Emergency Department of Christiana Hospital. He is fine, but we need for you to come. The doctor is working on him. That was it. I tried returning the call. In a panicked state, I desperately asked for someone to tell me what had happened. Nothing. They could not locate him in the data base. Next, I called my mother. I needed someone to drive me. I was a mess. I did not know whether to cry, call his parents, pray. All logical thought escapes you, when the sense of potential loss is looming. My mother was ill. My little sister, and nursing student, would be the one to transport me and my sea of emotions to the hospital, to either hug me when I was told he was alright, or hold me if my worst fears came true.

After what seemed like an eternity, we arrived and were told we would have to wait. The nurse would be out momentarily. Great, more waiting. I just needed to see my husband...ALIVE. Finally, a nurse came out to bring me to my husband. First question out of my mouth? Was he wearing a helmet. Yes, he was. Thank God above. Is he OK? Not sure. We are going to let you see him and talk to the Trauma team. Trauma? This was really bad, I thought. And it was. I approached the room he was being treated in. I took a deep breath and prayed for strength to handle the situation without falling completely apart. I had to be strong. I rushed to his bedside. A team of doctors were scurrying about. Some were looking at X-rays, others were busy hooking my husband up to machines. I looked down at him. He was alive. His eyes were dancing around the room. He looked confused, upset. The next thing I remember is the smell. The overwhelming smell of blood and flesh. The smell of death still lingers when I look back on it. Here lay my husband, blood covering his face, dripping from his ears. On his neck, a brace. Was his neck broken? No, just a precaution. Again, thank God above. I inspected him further. Where was all this blood coming from? There was a huge gash along his jawline, so much blood pouring from it, that there was no way to tell an untrained eye that it was the source of the blood. Skin was missing from his hands and his feet. More blood. Upon first glance you could not tell if his teeth were intact. His lips so dry, from breathing what could have been his last breath, he could barely speak. The first words he said to me? I am dying aren't I? No. I will be here every step of the way. You will fight, and when you can't, I will. I would have given my soul if someone would just tell me that he was going to make it. I did not want to lie to him. I smelled the death in the room. But, again, I had to be strong for him. Don't give up. Never give up. I pushed my sister. Please, call his parents. I cannot leave him. Not even for one minute. I looked at him again and thought to myself. You cannot die. We do not have children together. Crazy? Yes. But, that is what ran through my head.

I turned to the doctors and nurses. Anyone who would answer the crazed thoughts running through my head. Internal injuries? Yes. He was bleeding internally. Grade four liver laceration. He was waiting for a Radiologist to get him. They had to look inside. See how severe the laceration was. Surgery? Possibility. Depends. When they took him to the Radiology Department, they allowed me to go as far as the surgical doors. Then the wait. I went back to the ER. My heart so heavy I could barely breathe. I prayed. Please, God, don't take him from me. We just started our life together.

More waiting. I had to gather up enough strength to sit with his parents. To look at his mother. This, her oldest son. Her baby. Being a mother myself, I could not even begin to pretend that I knew what she was going through. I was just the wife. My emotions were quite different. This woman brought him into this world. Watched his first steps. Heard his first word. Bandaged his first scrape. And now, he was on a hospital gurney at the age of 36, hoping that a bandage was all it would take. His father, being so strong for his wife and for me, the new daughter. We are a family now, and we will do whatever it takes to see him through this.

Two hours later, the doctor came to tell us that Mike would not need surgery. The liver had embolized itself. The bleeding had stopped.

Mike would be admitted to the SICU for further observation. How long must he stay? No way to tell. It is up to him. Will he make it? Yes. He should do just fine.

Our prayers had been answered. For now.

He was diagnosed with a small hemorrhage in the frontal lobe of his brain. A concussion. Grade 4 liver laceration. Multiple facial fractures. Multiple rib fractures. Grade 2 splenic laceration. Facial lacerations. But, he would live.

After 2 days in the SICU, the doctors decided he was well enough to be moved to a transitional unit. He would still be watched, but not as closely as he would in the SICU. His parents and I wanted to celebrate. Things were progressing slowly, but he was improving.

On February 19, 2007, I decided to take a break from the hospital. His mother was more than willing to sit with him for the duration of visiting hours so that I could try to get some rest. I was going to need it. They moved him to a new room. This meant he would possibly be coming home soon. As I was leaving, I passed his mother on my way out. He does not seem to be improving to me. He seems to be getting worse. He is yellow. His mother and I agreed that the following day, I would ask for a consult with the Trauma team to get a complete update on his condition. I went home. I slept for the first time in days. Until the phone rang at 3:30 a.m. My husband went into a rage. Pulled all of his tubes out. His IV. It took five people to get him down to sedate him. My God. What is happening? I immediately called his parents, relayed the news and rushed back to the hospital. My husband had been placed back into SICU. The doctors were running more tests. They had no idea what happened. He got up, walked twenty feet down the hall, began removing the chest tube (placed earlier that day, due to an pneumonia he acquired in the hospital). Pulled out every IV he had in place. More waiting. After several hours, the doctor finally came to us. That night, when my husband arose from the bed, he suffered a pulmonary embolism. A clot had broke lose from the laceration in his liver and traveled to his lungs. It began to suffocate him. He turned blue. He coded. He flat lined. Last Rites were read that night. Twice. The doctor could not tell us if he would make it. They placed him on blood thinners to help dissolve the clot. But, because the liver laceration was so severe, it was a catch 22 situation. If they had to perform surgery, they needed his blood to be able to clot. If they wanted to dissolve the embolism, his blood needed to be able to not clot. I just wanted to see him. His mother and I went in together. The smell of death again clouded the room. He looked so pale. So weak. The neck brace was placed back on him. He was tied to the bed, hands and feet, for fear that he would get out of bed and hurt himself. The worst site of all? He was intabated. A tube down his throat. He was not able to fully breathe on his own. More IV's. More medications. Chest tube re inserted. Fresh bruises on his hands and feet during the struggle to get him sedated. More prayers for his life. More prayers for strength. More prayers for competence and skill for the Trauma Team. With all this a sense of relief that for the time, he was still here. He could not speak. He could not breathe. When he arose that night, he knew in his mind he was dying and that if he did not get up he would. Sounds crazy, but true. He fought for his life. He fought for our life.

My husband survived. He fought. We fought. He lived. So have others. But there are many who lose their lives due to carelessness. Why? Because they did not see them. No, we cannot make drivers pay attention always. Accidents do happen. But, they can be avoided.

We need awareness. Not targeting. I could go on and on. I think I may have already.

I do not need to use statistics. I am speaking from someone who almost lost my husband due to lack of attention. I will be damned if I want him in the 'target aggressive motorcyclist' campaign. We need to stop inventing campaigns and spend the funds on things such as awareness. Road signs. Tougher penalties. I, for one, am not happy that my tax money is being spent on this ridiculous campaign.

In closing, I just want to say that driving a motorcycle is no longer a stereotype. Riders are not just 'Pagans' anymore. They are your doctors, lawyers, government officials, salesman, blue collared workers. But, most importantly, they are someone's father, mother, sister or brother. In short, someone loves that motorcyclist, the same way someone loves the driver of a car.

Proud wife of a survivor.

WEDDING RECALL

2007-08-07T13:08:00.000-04:00

Well, last night was rehearsal dinner. And it was so full of emotion, it was crazy. I loved every minute of it. I have finally come to realize that this is it. THE BIG DAY will be here in 24 hours. The reality of it finally hit me last night. I think, so far, I have been a pretty calm bride to be. I just know tomorrow that I am going to be an emotional wreck. I better get to the store and get some heavy duty waterproof mascara!

I am going to go down the list, not in any order, and say something about the special individuals that were there.

Michael-The soon to be Groom- Each day that passes, I fall more in love with you. Your ability to make me laugh is unreal. You have to be the funniest person I know. And that is awesome, because I think only I get to see the unserious side of you. In your way. No one else would ever understand our inside jokes. From socks, to beaners, to Dave Chapple..I'm Rick James, bitch! LMAO. I am trying not to laugh as I type this. For the loving side of you that I know. The one you only allow certain people to witness. That is what I love you for the most! oh, and when 'you act like a kid again!'

Kayla-What to say? You are beautiful inside and out. Your speach knocked me and Mike out! It was amazing. But you are still grounded. LOL. I am sorry if I have not been devoted completely to you in these last few weeks. Lots going on, and I don't want you to ever feel left out of my life. EVER. Even when you are my age and start to realize, that parents tell you things ONLY because they love you. And we do. Mike loves you as his own. You know that. He is not trying to take the place of your dad. But, he is everything a father should be and the father that you deserve to have.

Katie- My beautiful sister. You looked absolutely amazing last night. The only girl that I know that could pull off a red dress like that and still look classy. I could not have asked for a more beautiful sister. Again, inside and out. You have a heart of gold. You are smart, sophisticated, and you have goals. You are a hero!

Mom-You looked beautiful last night. I love you more than words can say. Never think that you ever disappointed me. You were a rock from which I climbed. And I have finally hit the top. It can only get better from here. I cannot wait for you to give me away. You deserve that right.

Liz- Whoa. I am going to have the best mother in law ever. I cannot thank you enough for all that you have done and given to us! You give so much and words cannot say thank you enough. You reached your goal and you look beautiful. I can only hope that our marriage is as beautiful as the one you and Mike have.

Mike, Sr.-You are like a father to me. You have welcomed me into your family since day one. You do not even know how much that means to me. I will keep you in my heart forever.

Aunt Kathy-My true work of God. You are an inspiration. You have been through so much in your life, and yet, you still keep the faith and you keep it so strong. I hope, when times are tough, my faith keeps me as it has kept you.

Mom- Mom Rose- The pillar of our family and the meaning of true strength and perserverence. You are the person that I have most wanted to be like. No matter your pain, you never complain. You are special to each member of our family. And I am honored that you and mom are going to be the ones to give me away.

Chris & Missy- Your marriage is one we hope to follow. You have a great life. Beautiful daughter. Chris, you are the brother I never had. Missy, you are a beautiful person. You always have a smile on your face that can light up a room.

Tony- Your speach floored me. You are a good kid, and a great father. I am so happy that you are in our lives with Alyse and my chic. You are a beautiful family, and I hope one day to see you and Alyse as happy as I am at this very moment, and that it lasts forever.

My chic--I love you like you were my own. You will always have a special place in my heart.

Public - 11:53 AM - add eprops - add comments - edit it - email it

Sunday, May 14, 2006

Less then one Week....
It is getting closer. Nerves are frazzled. BUT-the wedding do has been confirmed! lol. And I finally found a purse!

And a thing that made me happy? My cousin Anthony was unable to attend because he was supposed to be on duty with the Guards. But, he wanted to be there so much, he got permission to go from his Superior! How awesome it that!!!

Tomorrow, we go make the final payment for the wedding, no turning back now. Not that we would. We love each other! duh!

And, it is gonna be a great day. Now, if only we can get Mike away from the Candy Drops game that day.....lol

Public - 9:54 AM - add eprops - add comments - edit it - email it

Saturday, May 06, 2006

Wedding eyes...

Public - 7:58 PM - add eprops - add comments - edit it - email it

Make up day
So, I go to get a trial for my hair and make up today, for my wedding. Of course, I wear my Bon Jovi T from the HAND tour!

The make up artist walks over to me and pulls on my shirt and tells me that she loves Jon. I say, yeah, me too! lol.

Anyway, she is a fanclub member too, but I dont think she posts a lot. I forgot to ask! Just thought it was cool to meet another backstager in Delaware.

See, everywhere you go right now, the band, to me, anyways seems to be a great topic of conversation. Always cool to hear other fan's stories of their encounters with the band. They are on top again and it is a great to be a part of it all.

Still rocking after all these years.

And of course, since we have the same tastes, I knew I could immediately trust her with my face..

KATIE JEAN GRADUATES

2007-08-07T13:07:00.002-04:00

Thursday, April 27, 2006

Katie's Graduation....You Go, girl!
I will have to say that the day my sister graduated high school, was one of the proudest moments of my life. She is only 4'11, but she stood tall that day. As well, she should. She is one of the most beautiful, smartest people that I know, and I am proud that she is my sister. I love you girl. Now hurry up and graduate college!

THE COUNTDOWN

2007-08-07T13:07:00.001-04:00

THE COUNTDOWN
Has begun. Wedding license- tomorrow. After that, it will be officially official. Nerves are on end! Guest list is up to 53, with about 50 more invites still out there! Let me tell you, if by May 5th, they are not here. You are not coming! Seriously.

Flowers- handled. Will be picking those out tomorrow, as well.

Flower girl's headpiece- DONE. Made by mom, and looks better than the one in the bridal shop. Way to go, MOM!

Flower girl's dress- being altered this week! Another thing-DONE.

Shopping today for a headpiece. Not done, but attempting to get r done!

MOM- She finally found a dress and shoes to match! THANKS BE TO GOD!

Trial hair and make-up---booked!

Transportation from the wedding..DONE...thanks to my other MOM! It is a surprise, so all we know is that we will be getting home safely.

Rings-DONE...although I will not see mine until the day of the wedding.

Bridal Party gifts, both sides-done! With the exception of my flower chic. I am still looking for the perfect gift!

Thanks to both moms. Without them, this would be a sad event. Cause everything would still be left waiting to get done!

Still trying to figure out how to fit a sixpence in my shoes. Mike says lets glue it to the bottom! May just work!

FIRST RIDE ON THE VOLUSIA 04/02/06

2007-08-07T13:05:00.002-04:00

FIRST RIDE ON THE VOLUSIA 04/02/06
OK, yesterday was one beautiful day. Only day of the week that I have off right now. Mike wanted to take me riding on the bike. To be honest, I did not really want to go. I was tired. Moody. Ya, know. The ususal. But, we have not spent that much time together since tax season began, so I reluctantly agreed. And I am glad I did. I have not been riding in a long time. SO I told him to drive slow in the driveway. Kinda in the Rainman tone. LOL.

And, he did. And with each turn we took, I was glad we went. It was amazing. What a stress reliever this machine is. No wonder he is on the thing whenever the weather breaks over 40. It was a great ride. We did not go far, I am sure to his disapproval, but I am not quite ready for the BIG roads yet. Hello? I think I need a passenger course! lol. I need to be a certified passenger. That is it. Certified.

We only road for a little while, but I enjoyed every bit of it. Beautiful day, great guy. Awesome ride.

Cannot wait for tax season to be over. This passenger is ready to ride, certified or not!

Thought for today..3/20/06

2007-08-07T13:05:00.001-04:00

Spend as much time with family and friends as possible. Even when you are tired, moody, whatever. Life is too short. Don't regret spending time. Because our time is limited, and we need to use as much of it as we can, before it is too late.

Spend time with your kids. They grow up too fast. Spend time with grandparents. They leave too soon. Take time to talk to your parents. They have a world of wisdom. Spend time with the one you love. That is what life is all about.

JULY 26, 2003

2007-08-07T13:04:00.003-04:00

JULY 26, 2003
This was one hell of a night to remember. Again, Bon Jovi! They were set to perform at the Vet Stadium for the last time before they tore it to the ground! I have no pics for this one, but the memories will last a life time.

I had promised my daughter that when she was old enough, I would take her to her first concert to see Bon Jovi. And the promise came to fruition on July 26, 2003. I got Melissa again, her daughter and a girl we worked with and her mom. But where to put all these people in my little car? No worries here. I did what any other person would do. I BORROWED THE MINI VAN! DO YOU HEAR ME?? A flipping mini van to pack us in to head to Philly. I will never EVER do that again. We looked like a rabid bunch of soccer moms! I was dying!

BUT, it was a great time. Great music, great friends, and my daughter singing along to the songs!

After the show, it was a mad dash to the MINI VAN, so that I would not die of embarrassment, and we were homeward bound!

FIRST NASCAR RACE 06/07/05

2007-08-07T13:04:00.001-04:00

Never had I ever been to see a live Nascar race. Michael got his dad tickets to see Nascar live for Christmas. 4 tickets. It was a great experience. Loud, hot and noisy as hell! We had great seats and burnt skin by time it was all over with!

And Mike Sr.'s face was priceless. Being an avid race car fan, this was also his first live race. Great experience!

FRONT ROW TO THE SHOW

2007-08-07T13:03:00.003-04:00

Tuesday, March 07, 2006
FRONT ROW TO THE SHOW 12/03/05

In all the years that I have gone to see BJ, I have never had front row seats. Ever! Until 12/03/05. While hawking ebayticketmaster, I stumbled across front row and third row seats! I called Ree and we went for it! I was never so damn excited in my life. We all met up at the show, hung out in the parking lot, on what I swear was the coldest damn night this year! I sold my eight row ticket, which Ree bought and gave to a girl from the boards, who just had a baby and could not have afforded it otherwise. So, alot of people were happy that night!

When we got in the Wachovia, I proudly out on my front row wrist band and stood my ground. It was the best. Surrounded by new friends and old, alike. I will never forget it. Now, this was THE first time I had ever been so close,

Finally, it was time. The lights went out, the screen dropped and they played the music to a song called Rock Superstar. It is one of those songs, that really pumps you up. It starts quiet and gets louder until you are just filled with anticipation for something you had waited for so long.

Then, from the back of the arena, there was the 'Last Man Standing'. IN the crowd, not on the stage. Best show ever!!!

Finally, he came to the stage and it was amazing to take in something, that I has always seen from a distance. Again, so close you could see the sweat. And he came over and sang right to me. One of my favorite songs on the new album. What a rush!

There were times I just stood there, just taking in such an amazing perfromance.

I will never forget it. And then the band did a time warp, and counted the years back, all the way to the 80's, and played one of the very first songs I ever heard. And it was the first time for me to hear it live.

Rock on!

ME>>>> ON THE JUMBOTRON!

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JENG AND HER LUCKY SHIRT
During the time of the Bon Jovi 2006 tour I entered trillions of contest for tickets, front row seats, etc. Well, as luck would have it, I won tickets for a ticket in OHIO. Umm. Guess I went a little too far with the contests! Anyway, I asked Ree what I should do. Believe me, I checked and a 7 hour drive was just not happening. So, Ree and I decided to give the tics to someone on the board from the area. We searched the board and came upon a single mom. She had to sell her tickets for the Ohio show, because she was a little down on her luck and her son's birthday was coming. So, I sent her an email and told her that I wanted her to have the tickets. Free. Just for her. There were 2. Thing was, the poor thing's car had also broke down. So, another good person from the board, offered to pick her up and take her. She was so excited and grateful, that it made me feel good, knowing I helped her get somewhere she really wanted to be, and she was still able to give her son his birthday, as well.

As a way of saying thank you, Jen mailed me a piece of her 'lucky shirt'. A shirt she had worn the very first time she had her pic taken with Jon Bon Jovi. Since the shirt is now out of style, she has cut it in pieces and distributes it to whoever she can, to pass on what she calls the Jovi Karma. LOL. You will understand the lucky shirt, when I post further stories.

December 12, 2002

2007-08-07T13:03:00.001-04:00

December 12, 2002
Mike and I were going through it. However, one night he called and asked to meet me to talk. On this night, he told me, for the first time, that he loved me. I will never forget it. We were in his Ford Explorer, in the parking lot of Zingo's, and in the background Kid Rock was playing. For those of you that are invited to the wedding, maybe after reading the lyrics, you will have a better understanding of why I wanted a certain verse from this song printed on our invitations!

"Lonely Road Of Faith"
Up and down that lonely road of faith
I have been there
Unprepared for the storms and the tides that rise
I've realized one thing, how much I love you
And it hurts to see, see you cryin'
I believe we can make it through the winds of change
God is great indeed
If you believe, in the everlife
Yeah we gotta
Make some sense of the piece that we've found
And if you just hold on, I wont let ya fall
We can make it through the storms and the winds of change
Though I walk through the valley of darkness I am not afraid
Cause I know I'm not alone
And if the wind blows east, would you follow me
And if the wind blows north,
would ya stay your course
And if the wind blows west,
would ya second guess
And if it blows to the south,
would you count me out
And if the sun don't shine,
would you still be mine
And if the sky turns grey, would you walk away
Would you say I do,
if I say I'll be
And walk this road through life with me
You know I love you

CROSSROADS TAPING 8/10/05

2007-08-07T13:02:00.001-04:00

ANOTHER Bon Jovi first for me. I joined the fan club and had the opportunity to go to a television taping. Another trip to NYC. This time to the Hammerstein Ballroom. When I came home and told Mike I wanted to go to NYC again, he looked at me like I feel and bumped my head. lol

He was okay with it, and Melissa and I took the day off and hiked it another 2 1/2 hours to the Big Apple. We had to be there early in the morning to get our free tickets, and we had alot of time to kill before we had to be back in line for the show.

This day was also special for me because I met a very good friend that day. Maria. She arrived by train, by herself from Philly. She loves herself some Jon Bon Jovi. This girl is a trip! I love her to death. I can't say that about too many people. She is my Jovi buddy to the end! lol.

Anyway, we got our tickets and headed down to grab some lunch and hang around with all the other women that were there to see the band perform with the country group, Sugarland. It was amazing to see all these other people that I had talked to from the website forums. To actually put names with their faces.

Well, it was time to go in and I was the only one there that had my special Jovi shirt with the album cover printed on the front of it. I had snagged the pic from a website, uploaded it and had it made online and shipped to me with the date of the video shoot printed across the back. It was a one of a kind. I am proud to say, out of all the people there, I was the only one with that kind of shirt. If I had a dime for every person that stopped and asked me where I got that shirt from...

Anyway, we were about 6th in line to get in. We had been standing in line for a few hours. When they announced that it was almost time to go in, I suddenly got sick. Literally thought I would toss my lunch right there. And, as my luck would have it, a TV camera, right behind me the whole time. I thought I would die of embarrassment. Finally, they let us in and man, was I never so happy to feel air condition in my life! I had to make a b-line for the bathroom. My one of a kind shirt was soaked with sweat. Oh, well, I brought an extra change of clothes with me. Always be prepared! Thank God for Melissa and Maria. Melissa took care of me in the bathroom, and Maria went and held our spots in front of the stage.

Finally, the band came out! Another awesome moment in my Jovi history. They rocked with the country band! The lead singer of Sugarland has an amazing voice and the show was unreal.

After the band was through, we all rushed the stage and tried toget autographs. Of course, Jon is quick and I could not get his. :(

BUT, I threw my one of a kind, now sweat soaked shirt up at the drummer and hit him in the head! lmao. He looked and was like, this yours. I laughed, shook my head yes and he signed it.

One signature down...three more to go.

At the top of the page is a screenshot of my hands from the TV show! I am thinking maybe I should have been a palmolive girl?

FIRST CAMP OUT

2007-08-07T13:01:00.002-04:00

FIRST CAMP OUT 10/02/05

So, I am a big dork and joined the Jon Bon Jovi fanclub. It is a great way to get the best tickets in the house, as well as other perks, such as being a part of the CMT television taping. In order to get the reserved seats, you have to sleep out the night they tell you, at the venue the band will be playing.

I was all set to go, then decided I was just too tired to go through with it. Until, along came Maria and she insisted I packed up my stuff and get a move on. So, at the last minute, I re-decided to go. I packed blankets and pillows and the daughter, and off to Philly we went.

And, it was not as bad as I thought it would be. Security allowed us to get our number in line, and we were able to 'sleep' in our cars. So, here we were, me and my chic, sleeping in my little ass car. And it was great. Serious mother/daughter bonding. We had a great time talking and attempting to sleep.

In the morning, we all had to line up. Pierre from WMMR came out with coffee and donuts and his little dog, Lucy, too. We ended up with 8th row, center seats and alot of fun memories.

The pic is of me, my chic, and my very good friend, Maria, or Ree, as I like to call her! If it was not for her, I would have not went and had such a memorable adventure! Thanks, Ree. Love ya, girl

HAVE A NICE DAY

2007-08-07T13:01:00.001-04:00

While surfing the net one night, I decided to check out Bon Jovi's website. I knew it had been about 2 years since their last album, and a new one should be coming out. I came across an article, asking to submit an email if you wanted to be picked to be in the band's new video. I thought, what the hell? Can't hurt to try.

The next day I went to work and filled Melissa in on the email I sent. She is a huge fan, as well. All day I kept checking my email to see if I had been picked. The last time I did, I jokingly told Melissa, that I just could not figure out why they would not have notified me already! LOL. I mean, it had been an entire day, for God sakes.

Then, there it was. I felt like Ralphie on Christmas morning looking for his Red Rider BB Gun. Whoo-hoo!! An invitation to go to New York and be a part of the audience for the video! I WAS FLIPPING OUT! I screamed so loud that my boss came running up the stairs to see what the hell was going on. I told her I needed to be off work, because I was headed to the Big Apple for my video debut! lmao..Of course, she allowed me to have the day off...

Next, it was on to mapquest to see actually how long it would take to get there. 2 1/2 hours. No problem. I could do that.

Next, I had to figure out a way to tell Mike that I needed to go to NY and be in a Bon Jovi video. Of course, I was so excited I started screaming in the phone. After he calmed me down, I had to think about this. Me? Drive to NY, by myself. Was not happening. I had never been there. And I sure as hell was not sure if I wanted to make the trip alone.

Bright idea. I see Melissa. I know she is happy for me, but I also know she is a huge fan herself. What to do? What to do? I go over, I ask her to go. Of course she will! Duh..

But, we have to figure out a way to ask Tina for the time off. We had the 'only one person can take time off at a time rule.' But, Tina loves me, so I made a deal. And it worked.

Melissa and I are set to go. But, there is one thing. I cannot leave out my best friend, Marconi, who I always went to the concerts with. Friends since we were 16. No way could I leave her out of this adventure. So, I called her and told her. She was just as flipped as we were. She arranged the time off. I called the person listed on the winning email and asked if I could bring along another person. She said sure!

Well, we were off to NYC on June 8, 2005. Man, are the people in NYC some crazy drivers. I thought I would have a nice panic attack. But, let's calm down. We were on a mission to see Bon Jovi. I was so excited, I took pics of the homeless with their shopping carts! It was a blast!

When we got to location, we were escorted to the back of this bar with about 50 other people. We signed a form and were brought over to the actual shoot. We tore off for the front row of the stage, and actually made it about 3 rows back! WE were so close that when Jon came out I thought I would die! Never have I been so close. He turned around and I could see a hair on his shirt! NOW that is what I am talking about. That is the best ever!

I have posted a link to the video shoot pics from that day. It was 8 hours of non stop Bon Jovi. Standing room only. To the same song. Over and over and over. And it was one of THE most fun times I ever had in my life.

When the world gets in my face, I say, 'Have a Nice Daaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyy!

http://photoshow.comcast.net/misunderstood421/bon_jovi

Song for Michael

2007-08-07T12:59:00.004-04:00

Thursday, March 16, 2006

Song for Michael
These are the words to our wedding song.

All About Loving You.
Bon Jovi

Looking at the pages of my lifeFaded memories of me and you
Mistakes you know I've made a few
I took some shots and fell from time to time
Baby, you were there to pull me through
We've been around the block a time or two
I'm gonna lay it on the line
Ask me how we've come this far
The answer's written in my eyes
Every time I look at you, baby, I see something new
That takes me higher than before and makes me want you more
I don't wanna sleep tonight, dreamin's just a waste of time
When I look at what my life's been comin' to
I'm all about lovin' you
I've lived, I've loved, I've lost, I've paid some dues, baby
We've been to hell and back again
Through it all you're always my best friend
For all the words I didn't say and all the things I didn't do
Tonight I'm gonna find a way
Every time I look at you, baby, I see something new
That takes me higher than before and makes me want you more
I don't wanna sleep tonight, dreamin's just a waste of time
When I look at what my life's been comin' to
I'm all about lovin' you
You can take this world awayY
ou're everything I am
Just read the lines upon my face
I'm all about lovin' you
Every time I look at you, baby, I see something new
That takes me higher than before and makes me want you more
I don't wanna sleep tonight, dreamin's just a waste of timeWhen I look at what my life's been comin' to
I'm all about lovin' you
All about lovin' you

Getting Engaged

2007-08-07T12:59:00.003-04:00

Getting Engaged

I warned Mike, that if he was ever to ask me to marry him, to please not do it on a holiday. Tacky. Everyone does that. I wanted my proposal to be different. So, instead of the essential Valentine proposal, my baby did it the night before. February 13, 2005. Which also happens to be Mom-Mom's birthday. But, we will let that slide. He had not a clue. Besides, her birthday, made this engagement all the more special.

He took me to the place where we had our first 'real' dinner date. Fairhill Inn in Maryland. He tried to do the same thing he did when he first took me there, and tell me we were going to TGI Friday's. He is just a silly. He was acting strange all night. Maybe nerves. And trust me, this guy is always so calm and collected. Or, at least he is very good at hiding it! LOL.

We were in a room by ourselves. After dinner, he came around to my side of the table, did the traditional kneel and asked me to marry him. Guess what I said???
Duh, I screamed yes, yes, yes and yes!

I love my Michael with all my heart.

Now, the wedding planning begins.....

Kayla Christine

2007-08-07T12:59:00.001-04:00

KAYLA CHRISTINE..ok, only one more birth story..maybe

Kayla Christine, January 26, 1992.

Here we go again. Another labor and delivery story from yours truly. At the time of my 2nd pregnancy, Bret and I were living with his father. We were house sitting for his mother who was about to embark on her yearly trip to Aruba. It was snowing and I had been having contractions all day. My significant other decided I was not in labor and it was the night before the Super Bowl and he was going out. I really could have cared less. So, can you guess what happened next..yup..mucus plug again. This time I was waiting until the very last minute until I would leave for the hospital. So, I showered, put make up on, did my hair and toes, ( that is right, folks, no neon socks this time!). I told grandmom to be that I was in labor. Needless to say, she was too busy getting ready for vacation that the birth of her grandaughter. So, I was off on a mission to reach their dad. Could not. Called my very good friend, Linda, whose boyfriend was out with mine. She drove me to the hospital and eventually he arrived.

Kayla was there in 3 hours. SuperBowl Sunday Baby! Beautiful, weighing in at 7 lbs, 13 ounces and 19 1/2 inches. I held her the entire night and cried. I had never felt so much emotion in my life. My life, so I thought, was complete. However, I was not speaking to my mom when I had Kayla. So, I called her. I had to have my mom back in my life. I missed her. And my daughter needed a real grandmother. Not one who was too busy heading off to Aruba. And I needed my mother. It was the best reunion ever. And all due to Kayla. She is my pride and joy. Except when she gets mouthy. But, she is a teenager now. And nothing will ever take those few precious hours after she was born away from me. They were the quietest, most peaceful, meaningful hours of my life.

Bret Christopher

2007-08-07T12:57:00.000-04:00

Birth..ugh, I may never get away from the subject
Bret Christopher ..November 16, 1989

After seeing your sister be born on the bathroom floor, at the age of 15, a parent may just think that would be the best form of birth control in the world. Well, not for me. I got pregnant at a very young age, 17, and well..here we go again. More labor stories!

I woke up in the middle of the night to a broken mucus plug. Although, at 17, I had no idea what the hell was going on, other than I was 9 months pregnant and not about to relive another bathroom baby. I lived with my Aunt & Uncle at the time. I slowly, very slowly walked down the hall to their room to let them know that I was in labor, or at least thought I was. We called the doctor and the doctor told me that since it was the first child, that I could wait until the morning before going to the hospital. Well, not this chic. It was off to the hospital. Me, Uncle Rich, and my bright peach socks.

Ok, so the socks and I were in labor. The reason for the whole sock thing, is this. I was sooo flipping scared, after the sight of my sister being born, that I refused to even change to go to the hospital. So, we went. Me, in a green night gown, a blue robe, and these bright, I am talking neon peach socks, that everyone in the hospital had to comment on. What did I care? I could not see my feet at that stage of the game. And color coordination at 9 months of pregnancy is pretty impossible, especially when it comes to the foot wear.

During my pregnancy, I was addicted to the Arsenio Hall late show. Every night, I would watch. And damn it, this night would be no different. I was in labor for 23 1/2 hours. Not hard labor. Just labor. About 4 hours into it, the nurses come in and tell me that I had to push. Me? Push what? Again, I was 17, and was not up to date on all this. I said, not right now. Arsenio is on. But, the powers that be, and the little one inside, were telling me it was time. So, I pushed and I pushed. Nothing. So, I did get to watch my show.

Finally, it was time. They induced labor and injected me with all the good stuff. I was feeling quite fine. I was numb from the waist down and wanted to just go to bed. But, then I dilated. And, this time, was THE time. I could not even lift my legs to push. So my mom, and my dad were on each side, and helped me. Now, don't get me wrong, they held my legs, I did all the pushing. And mom rubbed my aches the whole time. Of course, I spewed venom at the nurses, just like any person in excrutiating labor would. And, my mom, the angel that she is, kept trying to hush me up. I apologized later, and chalked it up to the drugs.

One more push. And there he was. Absolutely beautiful. 8lbs, 19 ounces of pure baby boy. I was exhausted, but proud. One of the brightest moments of my life.

Katie Jean..Parts 1 and 2

2007-08-07T12:56:00.000-04:00

Thursday, March 16, 2006
KATIE JEAN PT II
OK, picking up where we left off..that's right. The bathroom floor! LOL. Seriously, Katie was born on the bathroom floor, luckily, her dad was able to play a doctor pretty well under the circumstances!Although, it is fun too look back on, it was scary at the time. The funniest part of this whole story? Mom-mom Rose. She made it to the apartment minutes after Katie was born. While the attendants were getting my mom ready for the hospital ride, all I can remember is Mom-mom holding her, and me questioning why Katie's head was shaped like a cone, LOL! My sister, the conehead! Mom-mom was just perplexed as I was, and thought maybe it was because of the birthing process. (with her being born under strange conditions). Of course, I had to ask the ambulence attendance why her head was shaped so funny. Of course, they told me the truth. And of course, mom-mom and I just wanted to rub that baby's head right into shape! And every time I held her, I rubbed her head in circular motion. No baby sister cone head for me! And ya know what? Her head is perfect!I love you, Katie!You are the best sister anyone could ever hope for. And you can thank me for the great shape of your head!
Public - 7:15 PM - add eprops - add comments - edit it - email it
Katie Jean
Ok, this is one of the scariest, but now happiest moments of my entire life. The birth of my baby sister, Katie. This was not your average birth. I was 15 at the time. My mom was pregnant and decided she was in labor. Well, the hospital did not think so, and sent dear old Debbie (my mom) home. HUGE MISTAKE. She was groggy from the medication they gave her at the hospital. She had to go to the bathroom, and well, let's just say felt the urge to push. Low and behold, Katie was on her way! Can you picture it? A woman, 9 months pregnant, on the toilet, suddenly screaming that the baby was here? I know, traumatizing for a teenager, to say the least! We lived in an apartment at the time, and I had no clue what to do. So I ran upstairs to tell the neighbors. I have no idea why I did that, to this day! Katie's dad threw my mom's leg over the tub, and took over the role of the doctor. Scary stuff, here! I guess at some point, I came back into the apartment and called 911 to tell them that my mom was giving birth on the bathroom floor. I will have to continue this later. I am a working chic and have got to go back from lunch! The story gets better...

The Beginning

2007-08-07T12:53:00.000-04:00

Ok, well, I am in the process of moving my entire blog from Xanga to here. This ought to be fun.

Here goes.

March 14, 2006

OK, I have been asked to take a trip down memory lane and remember stories from my life that I will never forget. So, in a little time, with a little patience, I hope to acheive what I have been asked to do.