Vegas Baby!!

Coming back from a vacation is always a challenge. At least I seem to think so. Vacations are necessary in order to relax and rejuvinate, but eventually they all must come to an end and you have to get back to the "real world" I guess. This was one of the biggest vacations I have ever taken, and the best and most memorable. I love all my vacations I have been able to take and I carry memories with me forever, but this one was just so huge and one of the most costly. Was it worth it? Hell yeah! So here's my Vegas vacation in a nutshell. If you're thinking about going to Vegas, it comes highly recommended!

We hit the ground running in Vegas. Plane landed around 2 p.m., and with the 3 hour time difference, it was like 5 p.m. our time, which made for a long day since we were in the air at 6:20 that morning. We had to wait awhile for our pre-booked shuttle from the airport to the hotel, but we checked into the hotel around 3:30 p.m. We changed and got ready for an afternoon/night out on the town. We eventually found the bus and paid our $3 to take the bus to the strip (we stayed in a downtown hotel - cheaper and not as noisy at night). Then we went to the Caesars Forum Shops where we wandered around and found the Apple store so Rich could check that out. Then we went to the Fall of Atlantis Show which was very cool. We ate shortly after at the Cheesecake Factory. When we went back outside it was dark, which was great because it made for some great nighttime photos. You know how you see great nighttime photos of Vegas online? Well being there in person is 100 times better! I was like a kid at Christmas. I couldn't stop looking at everything. We wandered around for a bit and made our way to the Flamingo Hotel and Casino. There we found the Wildlife Habitat, which was cool. They had flamingos, different types of fish, ducks, lots of cool areas to wander and explore. After that we decided to do one last thing for the evening and that was to see the Bellagio Fountains. They are absolutely amazing! Nothing beats seeing those. It is totally and completely incredible! Nothing else I have ever seen compares to that.

The next day started out early. I think we weren't completely used to the time change yet, despite not going to bed until 10:30, which was like 1:30 a.m. our time. We got up at 6:30 a.m., took showers and went for our free breakfast at the hotel. Then it was time to explore again. The weather was calling for Temps in the 90s so it was time to lather up with sunscreen, grabbed our cameras, and out the door. This time we bought the 24-hour bus pas for $7, well worth it, let me tell you, you don't want to walk the entire time! We headed to the furthest end of the strip away from our hotel and got off at the Luxor Hotel. That's an amazing hotel to see from the outside. It's lined with egyptian items. We continued our way down, checking out the Excalibur Hotel and the New York New York Hotel. We then made our way to the MGM Grand, where there is a lion habitat. The lions were cool to see. The next stop was a must, the M&M World! 4 stories of M&M Goodness! Needless to say I bought some stuff from there and brought home stuff for the family (we actually went twice to the M&M World! - It was THAT good!) Following that we were both getting kind of tired and very hot, so we decided to stop at our final place for the day and that was the Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at the Mirage Hotel. This was what I was most excited about while visiting. I collect dolphin items so it was off we went to that. $15 to get in, but while worth it! I watched the dolphins play and swim for probably a good 45 minutes and got tons of pictures! Then we headed into the Secret Garden place. They took our pictures, which we later bought. They had lions, llamas, ducks, tigers, tons of cool animals in the secret garden. Most were trying to seek shade because they were hot. On the way out we stopped in the gift shop and I got a stuffed dolphin and a souvenir to go in my collection. Once we made it back to the hotel we immediately threw on our bathing suits and headed to the pool. Great day to lay out by the pool and cool down. We then showered and had dinner in the hotel before heading back out to go to our big show, Penn & Teller! It was a good show, funny, and Rich got their autographs so I think he was excited about that. That had to be his favorite part of the trip for sure.

For Monday, our last full day there, we began our day a little later, about 9:30 a.m., got used to the time change just in time to go back home the next day. We ate our free breakfast again and bought our 24-hour pass again. We started off at a huge gift shop and bought sovenirs for the family and friends. Then we visited Circus Circus Hotel. By about 11 in the morning it was already around 95 degrees so we were very hot. We climbed on the bus and I got off at the Fashion Show Mall while Rich headed to a ham radio shop out there. I promptly got a cold Starbucks drink and made my way to the Caesars Forum Shops where I sat in the air conditioning for awhile just people watching. Then I finally decided I was hot and miserable so I headed back to the hotel and told Rich I'd meet him there. I took a nice nap :) He didn't get back until around 3 so we relaxed for a bit before heading back out and going to dinner at Outback Steakhouse. We then made our way back down the strip to the Venetian, which is cool with the gondola rides and the Mirage, which starting at 8 p.m. every hour has a volcano show where a real volcano eruptes. That was amazing as well! After that it was time to head back to the hotel. We dropped off our purchases and changed before heading down to right below our hotel for the Fremont Street Experience. Cool lights, shows, and tons of people were down there. We hung out for awhile before heading back up to pack up our stuff. We were in bed around 11 p.m. and up at 2:30 a.m. We had to catch our shuttle to the airport at 3:30 a.m. We were sitting at our gate by 4:30 and our flight took off at 6:30. We were home safe and sound at 4 p.m. (our time)

We squeezed so much into those three days that if you go it is recommended to take a week to do everything. We hope to go back as we didn't do everything we had wanted to. Wish I had more time to do some gambling. It's always nice to be home, but vacations are necessary to stay sane with working ALL the time! Highly recommended with 5 stars!!

Dreary Monday

I hate days like this. It's a day you just want to be curled up in bed with the one you love watching TV or movies all day. I hate it especially on a Monday because it's hard enough getting up to go back to work, and the rain just makes me want to go crawl back under my covers. It's supposed to be a nasty week here, rain today, snow tomorrow and Wednesday, but Thursday there is supposed to be sunshine, which would be good. No walking this week I guess, unless by some miracle the forecast changes.

This is another week closer to the trip to Vegas. Can't wait, especially when it's nasty like this, it's in the 70's in Vegas, and we're stuck in the 30's and 40's so yeah as you can imagine, I can't wait! Only 12 days left, two weeks essentially and to say I'm excited is an understatement. I think I'm not even most excited about seeing Vegas. I'm most excited about going with Rich. We don't get to see each other much. Although after the trip things will go back the way they were which doesn't make me entirely happy but I don't know what else to do about that. I just wish it were easier and I didn't get as emotional as I do about it, but it is who I am and when I'm upset, you know. Not something easy for me to hide.

Ok, well no point in getting upset about it now, 12 days until Vegas! After the trip (which I'm sure will go WAY too fast) then I can go back to being upset about the way things are *shrugs* it is what it is I keep telling myself.

Busy day at work today so guess I should get going on work stuff.

Children's Miracle Network

Have you ever known a family who has a sick child? What about a family that has to travel to get care for that sick child? An hour of travel time could mean the difference between life and death. That's one of the many reasons I support the Children's Miracle Network.

Yesterday and today there has been a CMN radioathon on Lite, and it really is one of my favorite times of the year. The stories they put to music are heartbreaking. Can you imagine a doctor or nurse telling you they don't know if you're child is going to live? They live because of the community's support of Children's Miracle Network. I encourage everyone to support their local children's miracle network. Even if you don't have children or grandchildren in the area, someone else somewhere else is supporting the Children's Miracle Network where your child or grandchild lives and making sure they get care if they ever need it, so you can do the same for children locally. It could mean the difference between life and death for a child. Or imagine a child born 8 weeks early weighing just 2 pounds, your donation could help that child grow and have a chance to see the world.

Just a little bit can go a long way! So I encourage you to support the local Children's Miracle Network!

25 days until the trip of a lifetime!!

Ok so maybe it's not that great, but I need a vacation so I'll take anything I can get right now. 25 days seems like forever, but in reality it'll be here before I know it. I can't believe March will be over next week. Where did February and March go? It's flown by. So yes Las Vegas is only 25 days away. I'm looking forward to the visit, the sightseeing, spending time with my boyfriend (that probably tops it all) and even the flight. I'm getting excited just thinking about it. I'm not a flyer. I don't like heights or flying, but it's exciting!! Just to get away from here, if nothing else.

I'm kind of funny when it comes to vacations. I'm a planner (just ask my boyfriend) I'm crazy when it comes to planning things. I've already started a list of things I need to pack and started a list of things we need to do while out there and started to break it down by days. I'm just so excited about everything! I can't wait.

So I'm sure I will occassionaly update you as the time comes closer.

I lost another 2 pounds last week, so up to 32.6 pounds. Some people can't believe I've lost that much...others mention it and say I inspire them, while that's good, but to do it you really have to want to do it. I'm hoping by my Vegas trip I'm close to 40 pounds...see I take it week by week, or set short-term goals that are reachable, you can't think of everything you have to lose because then you'll just get frustrated. If I thought at the beginning that I needed to lose 80 pounds (which is what I wanted to lose) then it would just seem so far off, and not reachable. I've also run into people who tell me to keep the clothes I grow out of. My question is why? So many people say they want to have fat clothes and skinny clothes. I don't want to give myself any reason to go back up to that weight. I feel better about myself. It's getting easier for me, and I love the compliments I get from people. I said no to chocolate cake last week, and the cupcakes here at work don't look good to me this week, so it's getting easier. I even tried on a dress, YES A DRESS! I don't do dresses, but it didn't look awful on me. I might actually buy a dress at somepoint! I'm loving it! So I'm doing well. Between my mom and me we've lost a total of 66 pounds! Can you believe it? We're doing great! :)

But the bottom line is, I need my vacation! LOL

Cookies, Cake, Candy

It's everywhere! You can't escape it! It chases you down and makes you eat it!

Ok maybe it's not that bad, but as a person who loves sweets, it is awfully hard to say no to all the temptations around. That's why I wonder if when I get down to my goal weight (only 48 pounds to go!) I will be able to stay there. They say it takes about a year to completely change your eating habits. My problem is...if it's there, I eat it. Had halfmoons this week, a canoli, two slices of cake...I'm a sucker. I have to get back on track for next week. I'm really trying, but it is SOOOOO hard lately. People also talk about emotional eating, and I Can see that. If you're stressed, you eat, if you're sad, you eat, if you're tired, you eat...I think that's how I got where I did because I am an emotional eater. It's time to shake that habit. Sweets make me feel better for some reason. Maybe if I could eliminate some of these bad emotions I'm having it would help too. That's hard to do though. Stress is an inevitable for me, sadness is too right now unfortunately, tiredness I've gotten used to going to bed if I'm tired...not going to grab an ice cream or something.

I've been proud of my 30 pound loss so far, so I can't slip up now. After all that hard work I'm moving forward. I will reach my goal (hopefully) by the end of this year! It'll be hard, but I can't live like I used to. I wasn't happy with myself. I'm feeling better and loving it. Now if only some other things in my life would change for the better, it would be a wonderful feeling!

Stress rears its ugly head

I guess the title pretty much says it all. I have been beyond stressed lately. So much to do at work, never getting to hang out with my friends, hardly ever seeing my boyfriend all adds up to one stressed woman.

I went to the doctors last week. It was just a physical, but I had them look at my wrist since I sprained that about 3 weeks ago. I also mentioned to them that I have been getting chest pains. Chest pains are usually not good...so I have a stress test set for next week. I really don't think it's heart related, which is what a stress test looks for. I'm young and relatively healthy, so I think it's all in conjunction with the stress I've been under lately. I also exercise on a daily basis now and think that may have started it too. I used to get panic attacks when I was really stressed or really upset, but that seemed to stop after I left the job I had at that time. I hope those aren't starting up again. These don't feel like panic attacks, just chest pains. So we'll just have to wait and see what happens with the stress test I guess.

As I mentioned, work is beyond hectic. Every time I think I'm getting caught up more things come to me and people want them ASAP and it's hard to prioritize. I'm good on deadlines and I do things that need to be done, but when it's all at once I have to do the ones that are most pressing first. We are working on two publications at once now and I think that's causing a lot of the stress too. One of them is almost done, but everything seems to be neverending. I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel though as my vacation is (hopefully) going to be set for April soon. I need time away from everything!

So I hope you like the new look of my blog and the new title! I will be checking in again soon!

Do I have a life?

That question runs through my head at least once a week. What do I do on a daily basis? I get up, exercise, go to work, go home, sit and watch TV, and then go to bed. What do I do on the weekends? Get up, exercise, go to work, go home and usually watch TV or play on my computer, and then go to bed. Notice a difference? I don't.

I started working when I was 15 years old. Not a glamourous job of course, but part-time hours. I haven't had a break in school or work for the 10 years I have been doing it. I know I'm only 24 and have a whole lot more work in front of me, but I'm young and vibrant and should be out having more fun. There are the occasional days I go out to lunch with a friend. But my friends work too and our schedules are so hard to coordinate. I guess I should be counting my blessings now, with the economy the way it is, that I even still have a job. There would be thousands of people in line to take my job. Don't get me wrong, I love my job. Or jobs I should say. It's just that I look at myself and I never really got to have fun. There was hanging out with friends in high school and college, but it was never much. Well they were partying on a Friday night, I was in bed because I had to get up at 4:30 in the morning to work at 6 or had to pull an overnight shift at the radio station. I feel kinda jipped out of some of the fun that young adults are supposed to have. I was always the responsible one that wouldn't go out and party. I never really wanted to. It doesn't appeal to me to go get drunk for no reason and then feel awful the next day. Who would want that? But at the same time, I feel like I should have at least gone out.

I never had a boyfriend in high school, pretty much because I was so shy. The guy friends I had were just that, guy friends, and most I had known since I was little. The guys I liked I would have never thought about talking to. It was always just me and my circle of friends. Not a lot of friends, but we were happy and we went out occassionally, but in the end I always had to work.

So what's bringing on this thought? I'm thinking about how in 3 years we will have our 10 year reunion from high school. Can you believe it? 10 years! I'm interested to see where everyone is and what everyone is doing. I've kept in touch with many people via Myspace and Facebook. I wonder if they're doing what they want to with their lives? I am...I really am. I worked my ass off in college to graduate and loved college! Made some amazing friends in college. The entire time though I of course had to work, and I worked my ass off there too. Going from the radio station to the newspaper and radio station, to the radio station, and now to the Girl Scouts and the radio station. I admit I'm extremely lucky to be in a field I graduated in. Nowadays that is rare if not impossible.

Am I happy? Yeah...could I be more happy? I think so. The work part of my life is amazing right now. Doing what I love in both of my jobs. I have worked my way up to this position. My life is far from complete though. There are areas that just seem to be missing, one of those is my friends. Sometimes you just need to hang out, destress and relax a little. I just wish it were that easy...

Valentine's Day is on the horizon

So Valentine's Day is only a little over a week away. Are you dreading it because your'e single, or are you hoping you're man will finally say those three words that every girl loves to hear? I came across some articles that I think are great and wanted to share. Maybe they'll help you gain a little perspective or insight into your guy, or help you get over those single blues this time of year. Check it out.

18 Reasons to Love Being Single

Dateless on Valentine's Day? There's no reason to gag yourself with a box of chocolates. In case you need a reminder, here are several reasons why being unattached totally rocks.

1. You'll never waste a Saturday at a car show.

2. When it comes to movies such as Scarface, Star Wars, and Band of Brothers, ignorance really is bliss.

3. You have total freedom to adopt an adorable stray kitten and name it Fluffkins.

4. Power anthems like Beyonce's "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" are more fun when you really mean the lyrics.

5. It's totally fine to give the cute bartender/waiter/barista a napkin with your phone number and the message "call me!"

6. No one will ask you to don a jersey and root for a sports team that doesn't have a shot in hell of winning a game this season.

7. You don't need to ask permission to gon on a last-minute trip to Vegas with your girlfriends - or anywhere, for that matter.

8. Both sides of the bed belong to you.

9. You can devote hours to primping before a big night out - complete with a blow-out and manicure - without some dude constantly asking when you'll be ready.

10. Although you don't have a BF, you do have a collection of crushes, a.k.a The Bagel Guy, Running Man, Sexy Irish Bartender, and Mr. Good Hair.

11. When you aren't part of a duo, it's much easier to find the time to pursue your own interests, like training for a marathon or writing a screenplay.

12. The City and Gossip Girl are even more enjoyable when you don't have to flip to SportsCenter during the commercial break.

13. There's no need to stress about impressing a guy's mother, sister, boss, or any other VIP in his life.

14. With more time to work out and less temptation to chow down on guy-friendly junk food, you're more likely to squeeze into the skinniest of skinny jeans.

15. TiVo understands you - not someone with an addiction to Family Guy.

16. Without a guy on your arm, it's much easier to get into clubs without paying a cover charge. Not to mention scoring free drinks.

17. No one is keeping track of how much money you spend on shoes.

18. You never know who you'll have sex with next.

The Single Girl's Valentine's Day

Who says V-day is for couples? Defy Cupid by indulging in these sassy solo pursuits, inspired by e-mails from other single girls!

Just because you're single doesn't mean you're alone! Round up some unattached chicks and hit the bars, a restaurant, the local karaoke joint, the bowling lanes, whatever. Revel in your ability to have an amazing time, no men needed. - Katriona, 30

Whether it's George Clooney or Johnny Depp, spend the night with your ultimate celeb crush. Rent a handful of his movies and treat yourself to an eye-candy marathon. - Jillian, 22

Organize a Secret Admirers gifting sesh, a la Secret Santa: You and a group of friends draw names and then deliver items like chocolate, flowers, and teddy bears to each other. That way everyone can have a Valentine... - Mary, 23

Since you aren't spending your dough on some dude, might as well spend it on yourself. Give yourself some credit for how amazing you are and treat yourself to something special like a mani-pedi, a new necklance, or a blow-out at the salon. - Aubrey, 27

Ask a guy friend out for a platonic date and split a meat at a tasty restaurant. Make a game out of your dinner discussion by looking around the restaurant at all the couples (there will be a ton!) and guessing which ones will actually last, based on their body language. - Karen, 24

Be a rebel and convince your co-worker bestie to play hookie with you. Instead of sitting in meetings or watching other chicks get flowers delivered to their cubes, you and your pal can go shopping, take a day trip somewhere fun (like skiing!), or catch a new flick like Confessions of a Shopaholic or Bride Wars, sans the crowded theater. - Julie, 25

Party at your place! Invited friends over for wine, appetizers, gossiping, and good times. To mix it up, make it a theme party, like suggesting everyone wear all pink (or black, if you caught the "Singles Awareness Day" bug) and create an iPod playlist with songs like "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" and "Holding Out for a Hero." - Lauren, 21

What Makes Men Fall in Love

There's into you, and then there's head-over-heels gaga. These little things tip a man over that edge.

It's a baffling question: Is there some specific moment or event that makes a guy suddenly decide "Yes, I think I love her"? Well, the answer isn't clear-cut, but there are some general principles. "Men have certain innate needs that must be met before they truly feel connected to you," says Paul Dobransky, MD, author of The Secret Psychology of How We Fall in Love. "When a guy realizes, consciously or not, that you're ideal on all these levels, that's when he'll commit."

Boiled down, guys have four primal relationship desires that are sometiems sated by the tiniest of moves by you. Here, experts explain with examples so you can put these insights to use when your guy is at the brink.

The Desire: To Protect

Believe it or not, the so-called stoic sex is hardwired to nurture. Sheltering you from harm makes him feel studly, which makes him feel good. "Not that you should act helpless, but letting him see your vulnerable side will bring him closer because it unlocks his instincts to take care of you," says David Givens, PhD, author of Love Signals. So give him chances to take charge, and thank him after he does. When a guy associates you with feeling like Superman, of course he'll want to couple up. These little things can draw out his hero side.

Give him a job. Ask him to fix or build you something. Performing concrete tasks is a way of bonding that enhances his sense of success.

Ask his opinion. Whether it's about your 401(k) options or the best travel sites, it telegraphs that you value his brain as much as you do his brawn.

Wear soft materials. Delicate textures like rayon, silk, and fur trigger an intense response in men. These fabrics accentuate your softer, feminine nature, which heightens his amorous instincts.

Don his clothes. It shows that you've chosen him over other guys - sexy.

The Desire: Freedom

Even emotionally healthy men want assurance that their identities will stay put after they've become half a happy couple. "By making it clear that you don't expect your guy to change, he'll feel like you truly understand him but don't threaten his sense of self," says Dan Neuharth, PhD, author of Secrets You Keep from Yourself. "That leaves him feeling on sturdy enough ground to commit." The following moves let him know you're no ball and chain.

Blow him off. Men hate the idea of being tied down socially, so turn down occasional plans. He'll not only feel easier - and open up more - around you, but he'll also start to wonder what you're doing and pursue you more.

Share your own fears. Guys often hold back because they think most chicks are baby-hungry ring-hunters. So if you feel nervous about committing, let him know. He'll be reassured that you're navigating new waters too, not trying to trap him.

Reinvent yourself. Little changes in your appearance now and then - say, hair up in a ponytail one day, down the next, etc. - remind him that you've got zillions of facets to your personality too. Read: no rut risks.

Respect his privacy. A physical space that's totally his is a huge symbol of independence to a man. Signal that you respect that by, say, staying out of desk drawers and not peeking at his caller ID when his phone rings.

The Desire: To Shine

Maybe he's cocky, but he's still insecure. Trust us, guys need to know that they're respected and appreciated. "When being around you increases a guy's esteem, both internally and in the eyes of others, he'll naturally want to be attached to you," says Dr. Dobransky. Here, things that show your high value and nudge him toward love.

Make him happier. Laugh when one of you loses balance during sex. Go to stupid movies. Drag him out when he's crabby. If you can keep things light, even during stressful times, you'll become indispensable.

Be a social butterfly. Guys are good at left-brain stuff, like sales and sports, but can get awkward when it comes to social graces. Take the lead and charm the people you meet and he'll be extra grateful to have you. But he may take credit for making those new friends...whatever.

Play mind games. Activities that require mental prowess - like Scrabble, puzzles, and chess - can prod his passion. It sounds nuts, but proof of your problem-solving abilities subconsciously shows him you're a desirable choice for carrying on his genes.

Act like the grand prize. Seeing you through other people's eyes reminds him how special you are. Invite him to an event where you'll excel (whether it's karaoke or a fun run), or have him stand between you and another man you think is getting too close at a bar.

The Desire: Comfort

"Falling in love is a process of developing attachment, which happens when oxytocin floods the brain," says Alan Hirsch, MD, neurological director of the Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation. You can unleash those love hormones by making him feel like you two just "fit." When he's so comfortable with you that he stops thinking about your relationship and simply enjoys it, he'll find himself nudged into love territory. Take these tips.

Let him see you primp. Grooming in front of him enhances intimacy because it's something other guys don't get to witness. Just keep it goddesslike (applying lipstick or powder), not gross (bleaching your moustache).

Cook together. Bring around food spikes oxytocin levels in males. The more often you prep dinner a deux, the more he'll associate you with the good feelings he gets from eating it.

Stock your pad. When buying groceries you don't have a preference on, get a brand he uses. He'll subconsciously feel at home at your place. Sleep with him. Catnap near him or let yourself doze off in his arms so he sees you in your most trusting, completely relaxed state.

What Yanks Him Back from the Brink

Some factors can derail a guy who's about to fall.

1) They Get a New Opportunity. A promotion often means spending more hours at work or taking a schedule-chewing class. Instead of balancing that with their love lives, guys tend to prioritize their careers and believe that a solid relationship will endure the delay. So if something big is brewing, he may hold himself back.

You Never Fight. Sure, guys hate arguing, but it's worse if you don't react negatively at all when he's screwed up. A guy will worry that (a) you're doing to lash out later, (b) you're a doormat, or (c) you're not into him enough to care. Any of these will make him rethink your budding relationship.

Pure Panic. Many men worry that if they commit, they'll have to give something up - friends, dart night, something. So when a guy realizes he's fallen for you, he may freak out and pull away for a while. If you can weather his big-baby behavior without reacting in a way that confirms those fears, he should snap out of it.

Tired

Have you ever been tired? Not normal tired, but tired tired. The kind of tired that makes you forget what you were doing from one minute to the next? The kind of tired that makes you a little more irritable and snap at people if they rub you the wrong way? The kind of tired that although you're sitting with your eyes open, you're really not hearing a thing around you? The kind of tired where everything you say will be taken the wrong way because of the tone of your voice, or the implications behind it? The kind of tired where you just want to be left alone?

That's me today. I'm tired. When I get this way I wonder if anything will get done. I sit in my little area hoping beyond hope that noone comes over to bother me today. I've already been taken the wrong way. I stare at the computer screen just hoping something will jump out at me and wake me up. I'm careful what I say or how I say it because I KNOW that it will be taken wrong. I just know. I even sit here wondering what to say. It's one of those days. *sigh* Just one of those days.

Dating Guide: 40 Things You Can Learn About a Guy in 10 Minutes

I found this article online today and sometimes an article just kinda jumps out at me. So if you're new in a relationship or just want to find out some things, take a look at the below article...hopefully it'll halp ya.

Dating Guide: 40 Things You Can Learn About a Guy in 10 Minutes

By: Stephanie Booth for Cosmopolitan

If you're curious about the new dude in your life but know better than to grill him with 20 questions, you're gonna love our sneaky read-him tips.

You don't have to date a guy for six months to get the lowdown on who he really is. With the right clues, you can size him up in 10 minutes. "A man's actions - especially the ones you see in unguarded moments when he's not going out of his way to try to impress you (or doesn't realize you're watching) - can speak volumes about his character and personality traits," says Rita Benasutti, PhD, a psychotherapist who specializes in couples' issues. To help you decode a guy you've just started seeing, Cosmo called on a team of experts to tell you how to assess his actions and tap into his boyfriend potential, pronto.

His Favorite Sport

"Solo sportsment, like runners and swimmers, 1 savor their independence and relish spending a lot of time alone," says relationship-skills coach Steve Nakamoto, author of "Men Are Like Fish: What Every Woman Needs to Know About Catching a Man." Men who are fans of mainstream team sports, like football, basketball, and baseball, 2 tend to be competitive - on the field and in all aspects of their life - and they like to hang with their entourage. As for the guy who's just not into sports at all, 3 "he's an independent thinker, usually on the sensitive side."

How Long He's Been Hanging With His Friends

A guy who has been friends with the same posse since he was 10 years old can certainly claim 4 loyalty as one of his strong suits. But "you better like what you see, because he's probably not great with change," says dating coach Liz H. Kelly, author of "Smart Man Hunting." "And be patient, because it will take awhile for you to win his trust." If your date has buddies from all areas of his life - i.e., college, the gym, work - don't be afraid to drag him to your cousin's wedding. 5 "He has no problem schmoozing strangers and adapts to new situations easily."

Credit vs. Cash

A guy who likes to flash his plastic 6 craves status. "He may be ambitious and confident. He'll reach his financial goals," says Rob Ronin, PsyD, a licensed clinical psychologist and registered financial consultant. "If he always pays in cash, 7 he's self-sufficient and independent," which might make him a difficult due to corner. And if his wallet is dry? 8 Here's a guy who's dependent on others to take care of him.

His Bad Habits

Gambling men 9 are risk-takers, which can make them a lot of fun. "But their over-the-top optimism that they'll come out ahead makes it difficult for them to face reality," says Mitchell Parks, MD, assistant professor of psychiatry at Vanderbilt University, in Nashville. "Hard-core smokers 10 tend to be anxious," says Dr. Parks, so it can be hard to pin them down for couple-time. And if he's a boozer, 11 he could be hiding his insecurity behind his buzz.

His Communication Style

When your date opts to e-mail you - rather than call - 12 he could be a hard nut to crack. "The fact that he chooses a communication method that allows him to edit what he says signals that he might not want to show his true self," says Jeff Bryson, PhD, professor of psychology at San Diego State University. An IM addict 13 craves your nonstop attention and needs that instant assurance that you're there for him. And the phone fan? 14 He might be a little old-fashioned and likes to do things by the book. But, according to Bryson, "he's not afraid of intimacy."

The Clothes You Wear That He Prefers

If your fave T-shirt and jeans or a cute little sundress do more for him than your slinky black number, 15 you're dating an earthy, laid-back guy who likes equally laid-back, low-maintenance chicks. A man who's wowed by a woman who likes to get dolled up in high-end designer duds 16 places a high priority on prestige. "He'll probably make a lot of money, but it also might play too important a role in his life," says Los Angeles clinical psychologist Nancy Irwin, PsyD. And a guy who wants a Carmen Electra-sensual girl on his arm 17 is looking for an ego boost. "He places a lot of value on being admired and envied."

How He Deals With Traffic

If he constantly weaves in and out of cars, tailgates slowpokes, and glares at other drivers, 18 "it's pretty clear that he has a problem with aggression," says Leon James, PhD, professor of psychology at the University of Hawaii and author of "Road Rage and Aggressive Driving." While a forceful personality might take him far in the workplace, it could be difficult to deal with this argumentative guy in a relationship. If he's able to exude Zen-like calm when stuck in gridlock, 19 "he's likely to have more self-control."

What He Orders in a Restaurant

A meat-and-potatoes type guy 20 is usually steady and dependable, says image coach Dianne Daniels, author of "Polish and Presence: 31 Days to a New Image." "But he's also a little unadventurous." If your date goes for exotic dishes, 21 "you're with someone who makes spontaneity a priority and could easily get bored with the status quo."

Neat Freak for Messy Man

A guy who puts his dirty socks in the hamber is one thing; a guy who color-codes them in his drawer is something else. 22 "This man is way too fastidious to have fun," explains Daniels, "and he'll expect you to be just as neat." A mildly messy man 23 is looser and more open-minded. But if the inside of his shower has never seen a scrub brush, 24 he may be immature or just plain lazy.

Favorite TV Shows

Take note if he parks himself in front of one sitcom after another. 25 "Here's a guy who uses humor to defuse stress," says TV producer Hedda Muskat, author of "Dating Confidential: A Single's Guid to a Fun, Flirtatious and Possibly Meaningful Social Life." This can be a good thing, because he won't hold a grudge against you or lose his cool. But it also might be hard to get into a serious conversation with him, which can be frustrating. "The more you try to discuss something important, the more evasive he will become," says Muskat. A couch sleuth who's fascinated by CSI-type shows, on the other hand, 26 is analytical and thoughtful. "He prides himself on his problem-solving abilities and will be there for you when you need support," says Muskat.

His Birth Order

"The oldest child 27 is usually a responsible, take-charge kind of guy," says Nancy Fagan, author of "Desirable Men." If your babe is the baby of his brood, 28 "he's likely to be creative and a little rebellious." As for a middle man: 29 "He's a sensitive soul who needs loads of attention."

How He Approaches PDAs

When you're out in public and he's all over you like a rash, 30 "he's either trying to show you off or marking his territory, both of which are signs of insecurity," says Nakamoto. A guy who's allergic to body contact in public is 31 unsure about his feelings for you or your feelings for him. "PDAs are statements of togetherness," says Nakamoto. "If he has doubts, he'll keep his distance physically."

Whether He Always Drives or Wants You To

"A guy who doesn't automatically assume driving rights 32 is likely to let you steer the relationship at least some of the time," says Kelly. A man who hogs the wheel - even in your car - 33 is sweetly old-fashioned at best and, at worst, could be a control freak.

The Guy's Grooming MO

A guy who checks out his reflection in every store window you pass is obviously vain. But, interestingly, 34 it's also a sign of a dude who's intent on succeeding. "Presentation is everything to this kind of man," says Sheenah Hankin, PhD, author of "Complete Confidence." "He sees it as a measure of his self respect and success." 35 The low-key, less conceited guy might be less ambitious, "but he's easier to connect with emotionally because he's not as superficial," says Hankin. "What counts on the inside matters more to him."

If He Looks You in the Eye

"A man who doesn't make eye contact during conversation 36 may not be trustworthy," says speech coach Diane DiResta, author of "Knockout Presentations." "Meanwhile, if his eyes bore into yours as he's talking, 37 he might be trying to intimidate you." But a smoldering gaze - you know what that looks like - 38 means he's immensely fond of you.

His Speaking Style

If your man moves his mouth a mile a minute 39 you're with a spontaneous, high-energy guy who may be a little too self-absorbed. "Fast talkers get so wrapped up in making a good impression that they don't pay attention to their audience," says DiResta. Slow talkers 40 typically play it safe. "The way they deliberate every word before it comes out of their mouth is indicative of how they approach life: They look before they leap." So although you shouldn't expect a lot of surprises, at least you'll know he means what he says.

Things You'll Only Learn With Time

Your speedy profiling skills won't reveal these tidbits from psychotherapist Katherine Woodward Thomas, author of "Calling in 'The One'".

How loyal he'll be: Wait and see if you're shown the same allegiance as his buds are.

If he's a man of his word: Will he really keep those promises he made to you early on?

His little quirks: Time reveals the small details that really make a person tick.

If his parent's split haunts him: His broken home may have issued him some big-time emotional baggage.

Easier said than done

I've struggled with weight my entire life. Well my sisters had no problem eating fast food everyday and downing soda, every time I did, it showed. That's not to say I didn't eat fast food and all the chocolate I wanted, and not to mention the soda I drank. I take after my mom. I blame a lot of it on my jobs I had. I was stressed and I was upset and not happy with life, and therefore I ate. It always makes you feel better to eat, right? So I made a vow to myself. If I got this job (the one at the Girl Scouts) I would join Weight Watchers and start getting my act together. I got the job and less than a month later, my mom and I joined Weight Watchers. I'm still doing well, but I've been slipping lately with my eating, so I started tracking everything I'm eating again.

It's been 3 months and I've lost 21 pounds well my mom's lost 25 pounds, and we're still going. Last week was a bad week for me...you see my problem is I like food too much, especially sweets. My mom can't have chocolate and isn't a huge sweet eater, she just overate on things, so it's not as hard for her. If there's something in the house, I want it. I'm working on that. I compare it with quitting smoking. Not that I ever smoked, but you have to change your habits...completely. And you can't go back or it'll shoot back up again.

I've made a commitment to myself from this point forward. I'm tracking what I'm eating, I'm cutting back what I'm eating and going cold turkey (no more sweets for me!), and I'm going to start exercising twice a day, with an occassional break here or there so I don't kill myself by exercising everyday. I'm bound and determined that it's going to work. I'm happy with my job, happy with my family, happy with my friends, now it's time to take care of me so I become happy with myself. It will work and I will continue my quest towards my goal weight (only 59 pounds to go!)

Is there something in the air?

I don't know if it's happening to you, but it seems that everyone I know is breaking up. Couples that seemed perfectly happy together are no more. And it's people that have been together for many years. I started wondering if it's the economic troubles that are playing a role. Maybe people realize they would never be able to support a couple and it's over *snaps fingers* just like that.

It got me thinking the other day how lucky I am. Lucky to have found someone who seems to really love me. He does everything in his power to make me happy. I can be very hard on him sometimes, although sometimes I think it's allowed because he doesn't always take my feelings into account. It's not easy being so far away all the time, but we've made it work for almost 3 years now. It's also not easy dating someone who has children. I've never ventured into that world before. He wants me to be the "mother-figure" in his daughters life. I want to be her friend. Someone she can trust as she gets older and feel that she can talk to about anything. I know it also comes with "mother-like responsibilities" but I don't want to take on that role. Well it's not really that I don't want to...it's more like I don't think it's fair to her mom.

I often think about my future. With realignment coming up June 1 and having to apply for a job again, interview and *cross my fingers* get a job within the new council, I can't help but think about my future. I wish I had money to move out of my parents house. There's so many things I still want to do with my life and so many more career paths I want to follow. God has a plan for everyone and wherever I end up is where I'm supposed to be.

You never know what is going to happen with your life but with so many people I know suddenly breaking up, it's a time to reflect at where I am at the moment. I have a job, I have a family that loves me and helps me with whatever I need, I have an amazing boyfriend who is loving and supportive, I have a place to live. It may not be an extremely glamourous life since my life basically revolves around work, but it's my life, and it's a life I love.

So where will I be next year? I don't know...but half the fun is finding out.

Valentine's Day is coming up...

So the stores have started to pack Valentine's Day items in place of the Christmas ones which are now marked at 70% off. As soon as the Christmas ones go, hearts, candy, and red and pink is all you see down the aisles of the stores. I follow the crowd in buying a little bit of candy and of course Valentine's Day cards for my family and friends. The hype over the holiday however, makes my stomach churn, and not in a good way.

Flowers, candy, cards...it's all merchandise. Love...now that is all that should matter. Valentine's Day is definitely a retailers holiday, made up by candy and flower companies and Hallmark.

I've never been a fan of Valentine's Day. A lot of it has to do with the fact that for most of my life I never had a boyfriend on Valentine's Day, so it made me kind of sad in some way because it was like you were supposed to have someone to call your Valentine. Even though my boyfriend and I have been dating for almost 3 years now, I still haven't spent a Valentine's Day with him, because it was during the week and neither of us could do that. This year it's on a Saturday and we're falling into the cliche world of Valentine's Day because I want to spend it with him.

Why spend one day a year showing someone how much you love them? Why does there have to be a special day for it? After being in a long-term relationship I think I appreciate Valentine's Day a little more. The romance in a relationship dies down as time goes on. There just doesn't seem to be enough time from either of us to make time for romance. I think we made an effort in the beginning but as you become more comfortable with each other it doesn't seem as big of a deal to make time for that.

So although I think Valentine's Day is a commercial holiday meant to raise money following the after-Christmas buying season, I am planning on participating this year because I think we need to spend some romantic time together.

I have an article here that came from the U.S. Census Bureau, infoplease.com, New York Daily News, Hallmark research, Retail Industry Leaders Association that I think is kinda neat, so I'm gonna share it with you:

A number of reasons to love Valentine's Day

From candy and flowers to jewelry and greetings cards, love is in the air on Valentine's Day. Check out these numbers to find out some sweet details about Feb. 14.

14: Date in February about 270 A.D. when St. Valentine, a Roman clergyman was executed for secretly marrying couples. Some say that's why our Valentine's Day is celebrated on Feb. 14.

1,198: Number of locations that sell chocolate and cocoa products in the United States.

53: Percent of men who have Googled, MySpaced, Facebooked or done other online research about a potential date or significant other. Percentage of women who have done online research? 54.

180 million: Number of cards exchanged annually on Valentine's Day (exclusing packaged kids' cards).

21,135: Number of florists in the United States.

44: Percent of couples who celebrate Valentine's Day by going out on a date.

54: Percent of women who have lied to get out of a bad date.

81: Percent of men who have mementos from their exes.

26: Pounds of candy consumed by Americans, per capita.

Time has passed but the hurt and sadness hasn't

It's been almost a year...

Almost a year since I lost one of my best friends. As we approach the holiday season she has been on my mind more and more. I don't remember a holiday when she wasn't there laying at our feet as we unwrapped presents or trying to eat the wrapping paper. I was so excited about shopping for her last year and the gift I got her was only good for a month or so. I wish I had known at the last holiday that she wouldn't be around for this one. Then we could've done something special.

I know she's at a better place. I saw her that last morning before I went to work. I gave her a hug and kiss and deep down knew I would never see her again. I cried for days. I couldn't sleep, I couldn't eat, all I could do was think about her. She's done so much for us and we could do nothing for her. It seemed so unfair. What did she do to deserve this?

Throughout every major event this past year I still thought about her. We share memories and think about the good times we had. The first time we set our eyes on her at camp. She was just a puppy. Too shy to even come near us at first.

Sometimes I walk into the living room and feel sad that she's not on the couch cuddling with the blankets or she doesn't meet me at the door anymore. She's in a better place. I try to believe it, I really do. But I can't stop thinking about how unfair it is. She was our best friend. She cuddled with us when we were sick and played with us when we needed to cheer up.

As much as I know this is the best for all of us, my heart is still sad. I've been missing a part of my heart for almost a year. I hope one day it will be healed, but she will never be forgotten. The holiday won't be the same without her. RIP Bessie...we love you and miss you!

It's Christmas time...

So 15 days and counting until Christmas. I haven't really been in the Christmas spirit this year. I've done things I'm supposed to, such as put up Christmas lights outside and put up the tree and decorations. I even did some baking and went to battle the crowds to do Christmas shopping, not to mention listen to Christmas music. But, in the end, I'm just not as enthusiastic as I was last year. I am looking forward to Christmas, but this year there's nothing I need. I've asked people to give to some charities in my name. Those people need it more then I do. I'm looking forward to Christmas only because my sister is coming home for Christmas for the first time in 4 or 5 years. I can't wait. For me Christmas isn't about the decorations, the cookies, the music, or the hustle and bustle. It's about spending time with people I love. Maybe since my sister is coming home this year it hit me and is just making the whole holiday season not as exciting. It's not about receiving gifts, it's about the baby Jesus being born in a stable in Bethlehem. It's something to keep in mind during your holiday celebrations this year. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. Below are a few poems to maybe get you in the spirit of the season.

Christmas

Hustle and bustle and hurry and run

looking for gifts that bring so much fun.

A visit to Santa we also must make

because of our children for all of our sakes.

The food preparations must get underway

like cookies and candies for our special day.

Gifts must be wrapped and bows must be tied

and trees must be trimmed and lights hung outside.

Cards must be bought and then must be signed

and addressed and mailed to reach friends on time.

The kids must be bathed and tucked into bed

where they will wait to hear Santa's sled.

But when morning comes midst all the squeals,

faces depicting what our children feel;

it makes all the hustle and hurry and run

so very worthwhile for these little ones.

Now let's remember the child in our lives

given to us when God's son arrived.

to teach us to love each other and then

to die on the corss to save us from sin.

The True Spirit of Christmas

Lots of people

Crowds everywhere

Rushing and pushing and shoving,

Going nowhere.

It's Christmas time again

Have to get all those things done

Hustle, bustle, quickly,

We must beat the sun.

Must get this and must get that

Maybe this nic, maybe that nak

When did it happen?

When did we lose track...

It's a race, yes it is

We are running, yes we are

But lets not forget

Before we get too far -

What is really really important

Doesn't take much to figure out

Take time to love

and love from the heart.

The Most Joyful Time of the Year

Christmas...the season of love

Love of family, friends and people in need

Our hearts are happy. Our hearts are warmed.

As we give and as we receive.

And turn away all thoughts of greed.

Christmas...a time for joy

Sleigh bells ring. Skaters twirl.

Sledding glee for boys and girls.

Carolers walk in every town and sing.

Of Christ our Savior. Of Christ our King.

Christmas...the best time of the year

Time to share love from above.

Time for joy. Time for Cheer.

May we share the Spirit of Christmas

Forever throughout the year.

Top 25 Teen Idols of All-Time?

Well we'll see about that won't we? There's been a list released of the top 25 teen idols of all-time and you may be surprised at who tops the list and even who makes the list. Thought I'd share and get your input on it. So the list will be below and my notes for each artist will be at the end of the artist in parethesis ( ) with EDITORS NOTE by it, so pay attention to my thoughts! Enjoy and let me know what you think! This was posted on Monday, December 1, 2008 at 6:04 p.m. PST by Rob O'Connor in List of the Day.

With both Taylor Swift and Britney Spears releasing new albums, it's time we thought about teen idols, doncha think?

Who doesn't love a teen idol? After all, they're so young! And as we age and slowly become decrepit, we look back at our youth and wonder at the innocence of it all. For the most part, I tried to stick with performers who were actual teenangers when they inspired their peers. However, Davy Jones was clearly a bit older when he swooned Marcia Brady's heart and he is the very definition of a teen idol, as was David Cassidy. These days, we're much better at making sure oru teen idols are teenagers. Or at least were teenagers. Funny thing is they eventually grow up - like Britney. And develop into fine, fine citizens of the world. Or not.

Anyhow ranking them seems a little silly. I know from past experience that many of you dear readers will complain about someone's position on the list. I sympathize. If I woke up tomorrow to do this ranking system it would come out differently. There are no hard, fast rules here. Just me typing a name out and thinking that it looks nice in that spot. Or someone's got to be cut from this list. And since most of the people appearing on the list didn't get back to me about some "bonus" issues, well, we'll just let karma and fate and my accountant settle things once and for all.

No matter how you feel about these people, please remember to brush your teeth at least twice a day and stay away from those sugary snacks. Wheat thins are in! And careful with that cell phone. Who know if it really causes brain cancer? I'd hate tobe on the wrong side of that argument, which is why I prefer the U.S. Mail. Write a letter to your friends instead.

25) 98 Degrees: I remember when a friend of mine was telling me about these guys. His daughters were really into them. But he kept calling them 38 Degrees and I kept wondering what was the significance of being six degrees above freezing. (EDITORS NOTE: Ok so I was, as many teenagers were, a fan of 98 Degrees. Even saw them in concert, 4 rows back at the NYS Fair. Was it fair to say they should make this list? Yeah I think so)

24) Tiffany: We just featured Tiff in our "Where Are They Now?" column and she's still out there remaking herself as a danceclub diva. But back in the 1980s she was the girl next door singing at the mall, raking in the money and making you wonder why your band couldn't get that gig. After all, you didn't need Tommy James covers, you'd written an entire concept album called The Mind of Walter. (EDITORS NOTE: So I only know Tiffany through some of her music that I've heard but I've also read articles and see that she was a pretty big artist in the 80's and she may deserve the Teen Idol status)

23) Brandy: I went looking to find out more about this wonderful singer and came across this information: "She is the sister of singer and actor William Raymond Norwood and a cousin of blues singer Bo Diddley and rapper Snoop Dogg." Is this true? If so, is everyone in the music business related? I've heard we're each other's brother and sister, but this is taking things too far. (EDITORS NOTE: Brandy is a wonderful singer and artist, however making the Teen Idol list I think may be a stretch)

22) New Kids On The Block: These kids were huge in their day and these days they can't even get a reality TV show, can they? I'm told they released a new album this year. Did anyone notice? I'm told the album debuted at #1 on the charts and has gone Gold. But who bought it? Teens? Fully grown adults who remember them back when? Who are these people? (EDITORS NOTE: I remember when my sister was hooked on New Kids, I was still a little too young to follow them. Do they deserve this? Yes I think they do. But as for the comeback this year, what are they looking for Teen Idol status all over again? Give me a break)

21) Frankie Lymon: His life was tragic. "Why Do Fools Fall In Love?" guaranteed him success and then his voice changed and the people who managed him weren't very good to him and he was introduced to heroin and he died of an overdose at 25. Sometimes success isn't exactly success. Hey, Artie Lange, keep an eye on yourself (we went to high school together, this is true!) (EDITORS NOTE: Never heard of him, so Teen Idol status, think it's overrated for him)

20) Shaun Cassidy: His amazing version of "Da Doo Ron Ron" remains one of pop music's all-time classics and certainly everyone should own a copy. If you don't, do not pass. Go, do not collect $200 and go directly to jail!" (EDITORS NOTE: I haven't heard much about Shaun Cassidy, however what I have heard points in the direction that he deserve to be on this list)

19) Debbie Gibson: Deborah to us now. And recently featured in my "Where Are They Now?" column. She was the cleanest, most wholesome of the lot and then she poses in Playboy to shatter our image of her and to promote an album called Naked. You expect certain folks to do these things, but not our Little Debbie! (Great snack food, too.) (EDITORS NOTE: Debbie Gibson was definitely a huge pop star in the 80's and followed by droves of fans, so the recognition is well deserved I think)

18) Ricky Nelson: From The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet to more than 50 Top 100 Hits to "Garden Party" to siring two sons who would go on to '80's rock fame as Nelson, Ricky had done it all. He set the standard for others and yet never quite got the respect that many other less successful artists received. He should've filed a petition! (EDITORS NOTE: He didn't receive the recognition or the publicity, never heard a song from him)

17) *NSync: I guess any band with Justin Timberlake and Lance Bass should be considered a "Supergroup" of sorts. I mean, even I've heard of them and I wouldn't know these guys from Backstreet Boys, who I'm ranking higher because they have a better name, or 98 Degrees, who I ranked lower because of their lamer name. It's not an exact science, folks. (EDITORS NOTE: As a HUGE NSync fan and having been to 4 amazing concerts from them, I gotta say they deserve to be ranked higher. Maybe I'm a biased person, but anyone that can shut down every street surrounding the Today show building when they perform, or sell out a concert in a minute, or break records by the most one-day album sales ever, deserve a high ranking)

16) LeAnn Rimes: It's a shame she grew up because she made a great teenager. But we all knew it was bound to happen. We saw it happen with Alyssa Milano. So there was previous proof. She's currently 26! And she continues to have success - proving she wasn't just some teen flash-in-the-pan, but a force of a nature. (EDITORS NOTE: I have to agree with this one. LeAnn is amazing and continues to make albums and hits so this is a well-deserved recognition.)

15) Silverchair: I've already been taken to task for not realizing that these guys still had a career going after their first initial success. Damn. I should've known something was up when I saw they worked with Van Dyke Parks. That's not someone you call upon when you want a hit. That's who you call when you want prestige and to sell no records whatsoever. Unless you're the Beach Boys, then you call him because you want to get weird - and annoy Mike Love. (EDITORS NOTE: Can't comment on this one since I don't know this group)

14) Hanson: Who didn't think these guys were the best? They always looked uncomfortable and awkward and you figured the little drummer boy in the back would eventually become a terror. They had to know that "MmmBop" wasn't going to help them be taken seriously. Catchy tune. Big hit. But it's kind of like farting on your first date. Everyone remembers, but not everyone is impressed. (EDITORS NOTE: I'm a Hanson hater and think "MmmBop" was the dumbest song ever. They don't even deserve the title of musicians, let alone teen idol)

13) Backstreet Boys: Given the 13th position strictly because I like their name. They've sold over 120 million albums but not oen of them to me or anyone I know and I assume that most of those albums - CDs? - are now sitting in a landfill somewhere alongside my old computer and my Atari 2600. Damn, I miss that thing. (EDITORS NOTE: Backstreet deserve some recognition, but not this much - did they break any records? I think not)

12) Jonas Brothers: I've been to Wyckoff, New Jersey, so there's a chance that I once ran into these guys when they were little tykes probably trying to run me over with their tricycles. These days, they could buy and sell me. I just hope these talented young men are putting aways their money into smart, retirement plans because even though right now the horrors of old age may seem to be in the distant future it will come sooner than they think. But, hey, for now, let's celebrate! (EDITORS NOTE: Give me a break! The Jonas Brothers? Enough said...)

11) Taylor Swift: Maybe Joe Jonas can dump her in 27 seconds on the phone, but just for that we're putting her one spot ahead of those guys - to teach them a lesson! We here at List of the Day will not stand for guys breaking up with girls over the phone. That's what the mail is for! (EDITORS NOTE: Taylor is a talented young lady - just not when she sings Christmas songs - so recogntion while deserved)

10) Menudo: What I liked about this group was how you got kicked out after you got too old. It didn't matter what you had contributed, it was time to move on. Imagine if we could do that to all those old, senile high school teachers who keep reading from the same yellowed notes year after year. Or to the mail delivery person who no longer can remember which box is which and keeps giving my mail to the neighbors. Forced retirement at age 17 might seem a bit extreme, but reality burns sometimes. (EDITORS NOTE: Wasn't Ricky Matin in this group? Enough said...no recognition deserved there)

9) Donny and Marie: She was a little bit country and he was a little bit rock n' roll, and we do mean a little bit. These two had their own variety show that if I remember correctly was on Friday nights, which served as a reminder that you were HOME on a Friday night. They had so many teeth there should've been a dental inquiry. (EDITORS NOTE: Donny and Marie are very talented in their own right and I loved their show)

8) Lulu: I'm including her because of her name. It's a great one. And she was a teen star. And I'm figuring about 3 per cent of my reading public remember her. And the rest will just ignore this entry and move on to the one about Michael Jackson or maybe Avril. Our attention spans are like that. (EDITORS NOTE: Not one of the 3 percent, enough said)

7) Tanya Tucker: These days young ones are so much more commonplace but back in the 1970s, it was always as if they had "blue laws" stopping youth from happening. Tanya took over the country world with "Delta Dawn" at 13 and "Would You Lay With Me (In A Field Of Stone)" was among her hits that caused people to raise their eyebrows and wonder where the world was headed. They would've shuddered to learn about Gangsta Rap, that's for sure. (EDITORS NOTE: Never heard of her either)

6) Michael Jackson: Michael wasn't even a teen when he started his career. He had so much of a head start on everyone else it practically wasn't fair. That it turned out he had actual talent must've been a surprise to everyone. I mean, when a kid is nine, you can't map out what he'll be doing at 20 or 30. Weathermen can't even figure out what's going to happen in three days! (EDITORS NOTE: The "King of Pop" deserves to be recognized as a huge teen idol because that he was. If only he could stop turning white and keep his hands to himself)

5) David Cassidy: Another one of these guys who was a little old by today's standards. But he had that show - The Partridge Family - and maybe he wasn't always crazy about performing on the show but I'm pretty sure Willie Aames would've killed for that opportunity to perform regularly, as his band only got to perform once on Eight is Enough, which was a show that starred Dick Van Patten, an absolutely legend here at Y! Music. (EDITORS NOTE: David Cassidy was a teen idol in his day and I think he rightfully earned a spot as one of the top 25 of all-time)

4) Avril LaVigne: She made skater kids go mainstream and took the punk she found at the mall and went for it. I don't imagine she'll ever be teaming up with the guys from Fear or Black Flag, but then who knows? Weirder things have happened. And often do - if you live long enough. (EDITORS NOTE: Avril is a great artist and singer I think, but as for being this high up on the list, not so sure about that)

3) Miley Cyrus: I can't get over how much more teenager is left in this girl. It seems like she's been popular forever. I can baretly remember a world where she wasn't dominating the lunch box market. But then I can baretly remember where I put my shoes. (EDITORS NOTE: Give me a break! Miley this, Hannah Montana that, give me a break! See what happens to her when she grows up, another Britney perhaps?)

2) Britney Spears: Her song have always been catchy. Which when you're performing pop music really helps. And she's been controversial, which when you're performing pop music really helps. And she likes attention, which when you're performing pop music really helps. And we here at Y! Music really like her too which when you're performing pop music really helps. (EDITORS NOTE: Ok, so yes Britney deserve a spot on this list, but #2? Not sure about that. I've been second row at a Britney concert and do thinks she rocks in concert, but her life, not so much)

1) Davy Jones: This is where my own bias has to show. It's impossible to really determine a #1. So considering his A-1 performance of "Girl" on The Brady Bunch and his agreement to attend the prom with Marcia, well, what a swell guy. He did attend the prom with her, didn't he? (EDITORS NOTE: Not even close to being right on this one!)

Ok so that's the list...the only other things I have to add is, where are the other artists? You know The Beatles, The Monkees? The groups and artists who set the bar so high for some of these other so called "teen idols" Maybe someday I'll be inspired to put together my own list.

The holiday season

So it's been a long time since I've checked in...what a surprise there, right? Work and life seems to be keeping me pretty busy lately. I am, however, ready for my paid vacation next month. All of us get a week and a half off around Christmas, and it's really nice to be able to not have to go through the stress that comes with working around the holidays. It'll be a nice end to the year as well. Next week will be nice too though with only 3 days and then off, and paid, for Thanksgiving and Black Friday.

Well I'm suffering a pretty severe cold. Have been for almost a week now. It went downhill pretty fast but today I think I sense the swing around and hopefully it's moving toward the better end of things.

As Christmas fast approaches I have depleted my bank account pretty fast with the whole shopping thing, but the good news is I am almost done. I think I have one more thing to get and I will do that after I get paid sometime, so I'm excited about that. I love the holidays typically but this year I was already wrapping some of the gifts I got people and it took a lot to get me in the holiday spirit. I don't seem to be there quite yet and I'm not sure why. My sister's coming home for the first time in many years for Christmas, I should be in a good mood, right? I don't know. Some things that bother me around the holidays include the hustle and bustle at the store. I quite often walk by a couple people arguing ove the one item that is left. Is that the holiday spirit? Or you know those people practically running and pushing people out of the way or the long lines that people can't stand...then don't go to the store around the holidays! Don't act surprised that people are there. Then there's the kids. I love kids around the holidays. I think they look so cute in their little dresses with their hair done all right. But you know what I'm talking about, right? The kids with their parents in the store, saying I want that, I want this. I think every child should know the story of Christmas and know what Christmas is really about. Christmas has never been about the gifts. The gifts started when the three wisemen gave the gifts to baby Jesus after he was born. Christmas is about celebrating His life. I know it's in the back of some people's minds, but too often it's forgotten in the hustle and bustle of the store or decorating the house, or baking cookies. Take a minute out of your day and really remember. And maybe do something nice for someone this year. Give money you would have spent to a charity so kids who have nothing on Christmas can have just one gift. Make a child's face light up with one gift. Really think about how much you typically buy for family or friends. I'm guilty as well. Everyone gets many gifts from me, but I'm asking people this year to give to a charity in my name. I don't need anything, but some people do. Think about that when you start to get caught up in the hustle and bustle.

So I guess that's my message for the day. Wanted to get it out there early so when you do go out again you can think about something other then the wants. Have a wonderful week :)

Here I am

So it's been 3 weeks of me working at my new job. It's been very hectic. Both me and my boss came in at a very busy time. Our sleepover, called veni.vidi.vici, the biggest event of the year for the Girl Scouts, is tomorrow. I have to work it of course, so it's going to be a very long day tomorrow. Don't forget I get to see Carrie Underwood tomorrow night :) I'm so excited about that. I'm also excited about hanging out with my friend, who I haven't seen in a LONG time and haven't hung out with for even longer! It's going to be a fun time! I seriously can't wait!

The office is closed Monday so everyone can recoup from the sleepover, so that's a good thing. It seems to be a busy job with me writing grants, writing press releases, writing articles for our monthly newsletter and our quarterly newsletter, going to be busy busy busy, but that's ok. I'd rather be busy then not doing anything, like today. Pretty much everything is done for the sleepover so I sit here wondering what to do.

As for the radio end of things, haven't done that in awhile, and to be honest I haven't missed it. I think there comes a point in time when everyone realizes they have to move on and do something new. I did love what I did, but when it came down to it, they didn't give me what I wanted. I worked my ass off for them and never got the full-time that I needed and feel that I deserved. So they lost a good worker. I still talk to a couple people from there, and of course send out press releases, so keep in contact with the news department that way. I think I'll be happier not doing evenings very often, or not running ragged with a crazy schedule. For the first time in my life I'm basically down to one job. The occasional Saturday I'll work a radio shift but this month has been so busy I haven't been able to. Am I happier? I think so. Do I seem it?

Happier in the work end of things, yes, but in the personal side of things not so much. It's hard, and I people often as me how I do it living so far apart? My answer, I don't know. It's hard, and it doesn't get easier...just gets harder. Guess that subjects for another day.

I have to send out a media alert now, so I hope to be able to check in more often now, and I'm out at 12:30 today! That's a plus! Ok, until next time, take care.

Talking

Can't move, can't think, can't talk, can barely breathe.

It's intoxicating, the smell, the kiss, the touch.

I feel my heart beating faster and faster with each breath.

I feel it all when you're near.

When we're apart I'm lonely and feel lost.

Never knowing when I'll see you again.

I dream of the day when we get to go out again.

I dream of the next time I'll get to kiss you.

I dream of that next touch and the softness of your skin.

Until then I simply hope it'll happen.

Happy Birthday to Me!!

Celebrating my birthday on Saturday. Another year gone by...where's the time going anyway?