We're All In A Pink Collared-Ghetto

This one is for you NB-C & Vee...

Fonda, Tomlin, Parton remember '9 to 5'

MICHAEL CIDONI
Associated Press

LOS ANGELES - Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin and Dolly Parton were back on the job, working the arrivals line at a party celebrating the 25th anniversary of their 1980 workplace-comedy smash, "9 to 5."

"Well, it's always fun, this movie, what it's done," Parton told AP Television News at the Thursday night affair. "It's just amazing to me that it's 25 years old, and how long it's lasted, and the fact that it had a good message then, it has a good message now."

It also created strong bonds between its three leads, who have kept in touch over the years.

"Lily was honored at Lincoln Center, the Mark Twain Award - Dolly and I went for that," noted Fonda. "And then Dolly's been honored. And, so, we keep showing up for each other's honors ... We always have a good time."

Clearly, the three had a blast filming "9 to 5."

Held atop the Hollywood and Highland complex, the anniversary event also served as a premiere party for a new DVD version of the film, "'9 to 5': Sexist, Egotistical, Lying, Hypocritical Bigot Edition," due in stores April 4. Among the bonus features are numerous outtakes, with the three stars cracking up and wrecking takes.

While no critical darling, the film did earn some warm reviews. For Tomlin, the most meaningful critic was an uncle in Kentucky.

"He was a pig farmer, he lived way out in the country," she recalled. "And my aunt . . . called me up and said, 'Wallace put on a suit and tie and drove all the way to Paducah last Saturday night to see "9 to 5." And he said he laughed so much that he's going to go back again next Saturday.'"

Other ticket buyers apparently made repeat visits, too, boosting the film's North American gross to over $100 million - an astounding figure for 1980; only "The Empire Strikes Back" grossed more that year. And yet there was never a "9 to 5" sequel.

"We felt we'd said what we needed to say," says producer Bruce Gilbert.

But he also suggested the time may be right for an updated approach. "Now, I think there's a whole new dynamic and you see series like 'The Office' and 'Dilbert' in cartoons and things like that, and with the Internet and everything else, there's a whole new dynamic - outsourcing - there's room for a sequel here that would be interesting to do."

Once the three stars made it to the end of the red carpet, they united onstage for a rendition of Parton's Oscar-nominated "9 to 5" title tune, which still has some life in it after all these years. Expect it to be among the dozen Parton-penned compositions in a "9 to 5" musical, expected to hit Broadway late next year.


HA HA!!!
I'LL SEE Y'ALL IN NEW YORK CITY!!!!!

Random

Um, to sorority sisters - this message is specifically for you -

You remember that Japenese girl (name withheld intentionally) that couldn't speak any English but we pledged he anyway? And then she dyed her hair pink and when we asked she goes "Pink for Phi Mu!"

Ya, that one.

Um, so ya. She apparently works at my place of employment now. Now the two people in our sheltered school whose first language wasn't English, work with me.

It's not like I could get Buxton or Compton or who was that dark dreamy guy? OOH, Long...
Nope. Not a chance.

Spring Has Sprung!

You know what that means! Time for a pedicure! I'm so giddy I can hardly stand it. Time for pretty toes!!!

Aye Carumba!

Good morning my sweet,

I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed our visit last night, albeit a bit brief. I know that you were singing that rendition of Creed's "What If" for me...What if we could be together. What if your wife didn't have bad hair. What if I came down to North Carolina (really, it's not that far of a drive) after American Idol is over and we ran away together. What if I had your love child. <sigh> So many what if's to consider...I know. Don't worry, I'll make sure there is not an ounce of doubt in your mind.

I haven't told you in a week or so that you are HOT. So there it is. I love your smokin' hotness. You are the perfect man. I love your lips, eyes, and bald head.

Until tonight...

XOXOXO,
N

Abby weighs in...

I asked My Girl Abby what she thought about the boys in her mother's life and this is what she has to say:

Now, I know some of you have accused the Wonder Dog of not being the sharpest tool in the shed, but for this particular situation, I think she is quite right.

The Forgotten One

A Synopsis of My Weekend, courtesy of Jeff Buckley:

"looking out the door i see the rain fall upon the funeral mourners
parading in a wake of sad relations as their shoes fill up with water
and maybe i'm too young to keep good love from going wrong
but tonight you're on my mind so you never know

when i'm broken down and hungry for your love with no way to feed it
where are you tonight, child you know how much i need it
too young to hold on and too old to just break free and run

sometimes a man gets carried away, when he feels like he should be having his fun
and much too blind to see the damage he's done
sometimes a man must awake to find that really, he has no-one

so i'll wait for you... and i'll burn
will I ever see your sweet return
oh will I ever learn
oh lover, you should've come over
'cause it's not too late

lonely is the room, the bed is made, the open window lets the rain in
burning in the corner is the only one who dreams he had you with him
my body turns and yearns for a sleep that will never come

it's never over, my kingdom for a kiss upon her shoulder
it's never over, all my riches for her smiles when i slept so soft against her
it's never over, all my blood for the sweetness of her laughter
it's never over, she's the tear that hangs inside my soul forever

well maybe i'm just too young
to keep good love from going wrong
oh... lover, you should've come over
'cause it's not too late

well i feel too young to hold on
and i'm much too old to break free and run
too deaf, dumb, and blind to see the damage i've done
sweet lover, you should've come over
oh, love well i'm waiting for you

lover, you should've come over
'cause it's not too late"


Sometimes, you just gotta let the music say it best...More later. I'm spent after a long weekend of wading through suggestive messages and empty promises.

B L A H

One Year and Counting...

"You are the only person alive who has sole custody of your life. Not just your life at a desk, or your life on the bus, or in the car, or at the computer. Not just the life of your mind, but the life of your heart. Not just your bank account, but your soul." --Anna Quindlen

The Compliment Giver sent me flowers today.

He did so for the anniversary of leaving the husband-formerly-known-as-mine. As one of The Boys said this morning..."you spend your time chasing one when it's clear that you should be going after another." He's probably right. But, I also had lunch today with Mr. Penny.

Perhaps, I am now a player. Well play on play-a...

These are the things I love about the last year. Despite all of the drama, I love being single. Despite some of the tears, I still wouldn't have it any other way. Despite all the changes that have come, I still don't regret one day I've had over the last year.

It's funny, I have spent the last couple of days trying to figure out what I would write about today, this, the one year anniversary of leaving the husband-formerly-known-as-mine. I read through lots of my favorite inspirational books looking for just that, inspiration...not for me, but for what to write today. I waded through the journal of quotes I have been keeping for the last ten years (I'm a sucker for a good quote), and found so little that actually expressed everything I wanted to say neatly and succinctly.

I'm also a sucker for flowers.

And suddenly, it's not important to recount what I have learned and who I have grown into over the last year, it's just important to acknowledge that I have. Suddenly I realize that what today is, is just a time to celebrate renewal. Saying goodbye to the past, and cherishing those memories. It's a time to move forward, thankful for all I have learned in the last twelve months. It's time to say thank you to NB-C, Vee, SEDW, Julia, Amer for reminding me of that person I knew I was all along. To all my friends for helping me along the way.

I've learned and I have grown. I think that, especially in the last four months, I've really started to figure some things out. And I think more than ever, I have peace of mind. I've never regretted the decision to pursue my own happiness. I've never felt like it was the wrong decision. I've never cared what anyone else thought either. I didn't do it for anyone other than me. I've never regretted being married to or leaving the husband-formerly-known-as-mine. He is a good person and I will always hold him in my heart, I will always carry him with me. I made all of the decisions over the last year on my own and can only hold myself accountable. I don't regret my choices and I know that I am still learning.

The last year has renewed ME.

I was lost for so long...For so many years, I was a shell of myself. Me, the happy-go-lucky-glass-half-full-girl who got by solely on smiling through the tears that flooded my entire being. I was not the person my friends and family really knew me to be. I was no longer me. So I've spent the last year trying to get back. Trying to get home to myself.

And now, one year later, I have arrived. I can say undoubtedly that I am back.

And it feels good.

I Love You More Than Last Week

Hello, Lover.

I almost fell off my couch last night because of your hotness.

I think I will become your groupie. Really. I was good at it back in the day when I was in that ugly awkward stage with braces and big hair. I am a good groupie and now that I can drive, I will stalk you all over the Mid-West and the Psuedo-South. I would very much like to see if your ass does indeed look as fine in person as it did last night when you sang that rousing rendition of Johnny Cash's "I Walk The Line." Yes, I noticed you were all in black like the man himself and mmmmrraarrrr...you were looking awfully fetch. Your hotness, you have inspired me to talk to myself outloud, with only the crazy dog-child to hear about how sexy your bald head is, and ooooh those eyes and lips. I wish your wife didn't have bad hair. In fact, it would make it a lot easier if you weren't married, but well, we all make mistakes...bygones. I actually think I got giddy last night when for those 4-minutes of splendor your face was the only thing I could see. You are the best thing to happen to my Tuesday night in a long time. Yes indeed. You are Hot. Hot. Hot.

So, I'll see you at our regular time and I'll try not to drool...but I can't make any promises.

Love,
N

Tag you're it.

I've been tagged by SEDW...so here are my replies. Now it's my turn and I'm tagging NB-C, JAB, Vee, & FlyingSalser. You lurkers out there can play too, perhaps reveal your anonymity...It's fun, I promise.

Four jobs you have had in your life:
1. Cashier & deli clerk at the big ole Cub foods
2. Pharmacy technician
3. Account executive for a staffing company - big old BLECK
4. Marketing guru

Four movies you would watch over and over:
1. Shakespeare in Love
2. Forrest Gump (watched this weekend!)
3. The Godfather 1 & 2
4. Sense and Sensibility (watched this weekend!)

Four places you have lived:
1. Louisville, KY
2. Clarksville, IN
3. Columbus, OH
4. LexVegas, KY

Four TV shows you love to watch:
1. Sex in the City
2. The Sopranos
3. Project Runway
4. Nip/Tuck and Rescue Me (tie)

Four places you have been on vacation:
1. Paris, France
2. Anytown, New Hampshire
3. Kauai, Oahu, & Big Island, Hawaii
4. Gulfport, MS

Four of my favorite foods:
1. French fries
2. Macaroni & cheese
3. Breyer's strawberry ice cream
4. Anything at my favorite Mediterranean restaurant

Four places I would rather be right now:
1. Kauai, Hawaii or anyplace sunny & warm
2. Winning the lottery
3. In my bed
4. Anywhere with my friends

There's a Wedding in My Future...

...And it happens to be that of one of my very good friends...My dear friend Jaynie got engaged this weekend to her beau Mr. T!

Jaynie is a fellow partner in crime and otherwise guilty by association friend of mine that I was lucky enough to meet through my place of employment. One of the fringe benefits of my job is that I have made friends all over the country. Jaynie and I have known each other for about four years and may have become instant friends on that one fateful journey to Anaheim...(C, C, C!) Since that time, we have laughed away countless hours, given each other great advice, secretly loved a few of our fellow troublemakers, and partied like the rockstar's we are. It's been a fun ride and I'm looking forward to knowing her in this new chapter of her life. What is really the best part is that I know in Mr. T she has a best friend who compliments everything she is and everything she is yet to become. I know my Jaynie is happy, content, and filled to the brim. I know that Mr. T loves her like she deserves to be loved. I know she has found nothing less than enough.

And I am glad for that.

There's a wedding in Pennsylvania in my future and I can't wait.

Congratulations my friend...

A Mighty Fine Day!

To all my Irish blooded friends and those like me who can only claim an honorary association...Many blessings to you this fine St. Patty's Day! (it helps if you say St. Patty's Day! with an accent to get the full effect)

NB-C and I are on a quest today to find some green beer at ye 'ole Shamrock. Who knows...perhaps this is the day my luck changes with Mr. Penny who might very well be in attendance this evening...more on that later...

To my friends an Irish toast on this fine day!

Here's to the old lady up the hill. If she won't drink it, I will!

(Just kidding, mom)

Really, a blessing for all you friends, family, and other lurkers out there...

May the road rise to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face.
May the rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.

Johnny, I know you're smiling down on me today--perhaps you can ask St. Patrick to send a little luck my way...

Feels Like Home to Me

"You know that point in your life when
you realize the house you grew up in...
isn't really your home anymore.
All of a sudden, even though you have
some place where you put your shit...
that idea of home is gone.
Just sorta happens one day, and it's gone.
You feel like you
can never get it back.
It's like you feel homesick
for a place that doesn't even exist.
Maybe it's like
this rite of passage, you know?
You won't ever have that feeling again until
you create a new idea of home for yourself.
You know, for...for your kids.
For the family you start.
It's like a cycle or something.
I don't know. But I miss
the idea of it, you know?
Maybe that's all
family really is.

A group of people that miss
the same imaginary place."

So I was watching Garden State the other night and I don't know what it is about that movie that resonates so profoundly in me, but its something, and perhaps maybe it's this...perhaps it is in trying to define what home is. Trying to find your place in the world and letting go. Ever since I moved to Kentucky in 1994, I have struggled to define where my "home" truly is. In conversation I still refer to my sweet Columbus as home. But when I drive home at the end of everyday, it isn't to a Hobbit house in the 43214 zip code. It used to drive the husband-formerly-known-as-mine crazy. He would say "this is your home." But during those years, I never felt that it was. I always longed to be some place 200-miles away. I never felt home.

I still drive North on I-75 with the same anticipation, the same welled up feeling in my gut...that same feeling of familiarity. Home to me is familiar. Home is family. (The irony is that those words are only one letter short of being the same). What I still really love about Columbus is that my family is there. Or most all of them anyway. Every once in awhile when I am within the city limits, I will close my eyes and remember those years past when I too, lived there. I remember the people, places, family, who all left their mark--who shaped me into the person I would become. I recall all the memories that are now emblazened into me. Each time I cross over the Franklin county line, it's like putting on my favorite sweater. It's the illusion of the past. It's the safety and security of being close to people who just love you because you are their's. There aren't many things in life that make you feel that way.

In the years since my leaving, My Sweet Columbus and I have both continued to move on and grow, inevitably, without each other. We've both gotten bigger. We've both welcomed new people in our lives. We've both loved those within our arms reach. We've both said goodbye to those we tried to hold tight. And yet that familiar feeling holds her to me as strong as ever...she is always calling me back.

My struggle for home lies simply in that stretch of highway that brings me to her and leads me away from her.

Now, the same sense of familiarity washes over me when I cross the Scott county line. Leading me back, to this home. My heart has bound me to the new familiar. To Lexington. To the blue sky and rolling bluegrass. To the new tradition of blue & white vs. scarlet & gray. Here to the call to post at Keeneland each April & October (what is it about Keeneland!) Back to the friends who have become a family to me over the years and to those friends whom I have yet to meet. Right back to this quirky little city, trying to make its mark, struggling to hold on to the illusion of the Old South (yet really only 60-miles from those Northerners they'd like to keep out). Back home, to the city whose traffic problems rival those of L.A. or NYC. Right back to that place that so lovingly has drawn me in, who has said "stay."

Back to the arms of this new old place that just seems, well...familiar.

I Love This Man

Ok, as if there were not reason enough to watch American Idol, Chris Daughtry has given me the ultimate reason. HE IS FREAKING HOT. HOT HOT HOT. I am in love...Hello lips, hello eyes, hello bald head. Yum-O.

COULD HE BE ANY HOTTER!!!!???? I bet he even smells good...OMG, dying...

Crossroads?

Kate's blog today on love has really struck some kind of chord in both me and NB-C.

(if you haven't read it, now would be a good time)

The premise: Choosing love that looks good on paper, or love that fills you up.

My vote for all the rest of my days: Love that fills me up.

It's odd, because the interesting turn of events has had me thinking quite a lot this week. I think I may soon be at a place that I refer to as "A Life Moment." A Life Moment to me is one of those times when you have two paths in front of you and which ever one that is chosen may be one of the most monumental decisions of your life. It's a Moment when you look back in time and see how clearly your life could have gone in a different direction had you simply made a different choice. Life Moment's are when you put your feet down on the floor like in the movie Spanglish...

NB-C and I were talking the other night and she pointed out what I didn't realize had been in front of me for a long time...another Life Moment is upon me. And, well...I'm scared. There is something happening with Mr. Penny and there is something happening with the Compliment Giver. Only thing is, I am not sure what it is with either of them. Right now there is no decision that has to be made, but the day will come...and maybe what's gotten me about Kate's blog & NB-C's observance is that ultimately I've got to choose--and maybe I just don't want to. Maybe I'm too scared too.

Let me back up...

I would consider myself a person who wants nothing more in this life than to find "the One." I am the hopeless romantic of my group of friends...You know the type....the one who loves nothing more in the world than a mixed CD, the one who loves poetry or dialogue from a movie, the one who could listen to love songs on repeat until mild depression sets in. I am the one who would probably move Heaven & Hell for the opportunity to be loved in the way I feel I deserve to be loved. Alas, I too am a person who most often settles because I am caught up in the moment, or by what feels right at the time, I fall fast and I fall hard, I don't want to disappoint, I don't know how to communicate, and I hurt myself by making poor decisions.

I am working, this time around, to not be that person.

I know now that it is easier to be alone than unhappy. That's a step. But, being a 29-year old divorcee has given me something that I never think I felt before. Call it jaded, call it pessimistic, but I think it's something different...I think I am scared. Scared to love. Scared to lose. Scared to make the wrong decision. Scared to hold on and scared to let go. Scared to open up. Scared to feel, anything. Scared to wish for someone who I can't be with or who doesn't want to be with me. Scared to be trapped. Scared to ever have to say goodbye.

So, I know there are Life Moments upon me. It tightens my throat and it puts a rock in my stomach. I know those Life Moments of the Past...I know where my life turned. I know what I would have done differently.

1) Taking the husband-formerly-known-as-mine to my senior spring formal instead of Buhl. I chose to go with the new boyfriend who later became the husband instead of the one whom I had spent years loving and pining over. I doubt I would have ended up with Buhl, but the next few years could have been a very different outcome.

2) The T-shirt guy whom I had a crush on for practically my entire college career called me one night my senior year. I was too scared, too flustered, too something to call him back. The attraction between he and I was just there, from the first to the last of our encounters. The life moment came and went because I didn't think it was possible that he could actually feel the same...that I was unworthy and that I might disappoint. I didn't do anything because I was paralized by fear. To this day, I have never felt a stronger connection to anyone in my life. I should have called him back.

Thankfully, I am not quite at the crossroads, but I know it is soon to come. These are men, very different and each with their own complications. Learning to make better choices may have it's kick off on this decision. Then again, maybe not. Nonetheless, a decision will have to come one day. It calls to mind a song by Vince Gill that might just say it perfectly...

I've got two lovers in my life now

A true love and one that's brand new

I'm not really sure that I know how

To love one and tell one we're through

I can't sleep at night, I toss and turn

I keep losing sight of lessons I've learned

I'm standing at the crossroads with just one concern

Which bridge to cross and which bridge to burn

To be continued...

An interesting turn of events

I got paid a great Compliment the other day.

The Compliment Giver said to me "I just love being near you." And at the time I kind of laughed...but when I let it sink in, when I added it to the noise, it said something to me that I may consider profound.

I think it might have been one of the nicest things anyone has ever said to me.

The road trip to Atlanta with The Boys was filled with compilations of Limp Bizkit, Coldplay and 80's hair bands mixed with laughter and revelations previously unknown but filed into memory under "for later use as serious teasing and harassment."

Bowling turned out not to be too bad.



Had fun hanging out with English Andy whom I haven't gotten to play with in a long time.

...Drank Miller Lite out of cups that were probably no bigger than a large shot glass and later paid $5 for one in a bottle. Didn't make an ass out of myself.



Got paid an incredible compliment.

Saw pear trees in bloom and felt the warmth of a 70-degree day.



Saw Mr. Penny who was at my place of employment this morning on business.

That darned old Mr. Penny...

All in all, not a bad way to start the week. Of course, I do have to pick up My Girl Abby (yay!) from the husband formerly-known-as-mine tonight and don't forget I have to PAY him for watching her (in cash, not in trade). Mr. Penny who happens to live, I don't know, like right across the street from the husband-formerly known-as-mine, wants me to come over for some crazy concoction of raisin pie that his sister made for his birthday. Of course, when asking him what the hell raisin pie was he says, "You could come over for a piece." UM, OK??? WTF. I just don't get it.

Oh, did I mention that this week is All The Pisces Men birthday week...Or should I say, All The Pisces Men birthday 24-hours. I mean is it really possible they could have been born within 24-hours of each other? Within One day! ONE!


PS: The Compliment Giver is not a Pisces.

It's coming...

Trees were in bloom from Chattanooga to Atlanta...spring is indeed springing and I can't wait until it makes the 300 mile journey North...

Since I be gone...

.... In homage to Mardi Gras...Me enjoying a Hurricane at Pat O'B's last year in NOLA....

Well kids, I'm headed to Hotlanta for a fun couple days of intense product training and will likely not be able to delight you with the great stories of my life until sometime later next week. I know you are sad and will miss me, terribly.

Some parting randomness to tide you over and to ponder ::

• Mr. Penny = odd turn of events. I guess he's sensed that I've rid him from the noise. Yet again worse than deciphering the DaVinci Code...No I don't want to greet you at the airport at midnight...No I will not do that...Strange. Fascinating. Odd.
• Julia & NB-C and I are going out for a fun night in the big LexVegas tonight. Can't wait because my little Julia has been MIA for a few months due to a new job. Hope to have pictures and no broken bones next week...
• My girl Abby went to the spa today with her girlfriends Sadie & Annie. I just realized that not only do NB-C and I get our hairs cut on the same day, but now our dogs do too.
• Pray that UK can rally on and beat Florida on Sunday. I have to drive down to Hotlanta with a Florida fan...uuuggghhhh....Also, crossing my fingers for the Buckeye b-ballers.....shoop shoop!
• What's playing on in the Accord this weekend : a little Zero 7, Destiny : mmmm...word.

Hope ya'll have a great weekend and days after XOXO...CHEERS!

Next

Well, it's March 1 and as of today, it's also officially time to say a bientot to Mr. Penny.

I've spent the last several weeks trying to decipher and decode a relationship that has come close, but has fallen short of being just that. I'm not sad. I'm not upset. I'm just done. Don't get me wrong, I still want to be his friend...but I ain't gonna waste the time playing mind games. Nope. Not gonna spend another phone call asking NB-C, Vee, or SEDW what they think he means. I just don't have the energy. So on to greener pastures. If there is one thing I have learned in the last two months its that it just shouldn't be this hard. If people like each other, than why not say it. If you don't like each other in a GF/BF sort of way, than say that too. If you want to be my buddy, I'm cool with it. I promise, I will be OKAY. Just say SOMETHING. Women are a different breed, yes, but men give us too little credit when it comes to hearing the cold hard truth.

I myself am not always good about confronting people because I don't want to hurt anyones feelings...ever. But one thing I have learned over the last year is that I have to be more direct in acknowledging the way I feel or the way I want to be treated. I have learned that it is okay to say what I think. I have learned that sometimes its better to put it out there, or take the step that from far away looks so hard. I've also learned that sometimes it's better to just shut up. I've learned that if I don't acknowledge whatever may be bothering me, the only place I am is in a consuming world of ever wondering. I'm not great at this yet. But I have realized it. And that is a start.

So here's to Mr. Penny. (And a promise to not go all post-Mr. Potential-oh-my-God-Nat-has-lost-it-again-psycho-on-your-ass). You and I will still be friends and I will be glad for that. But you are, indeed, a Pisces, and it will serve as a final lesson for me not to get involved with another one. Done and done. I sincerely hope you find whoever and whatever it is you are looking for. I hope you know that it's okay that we didn't work out. I hope for the sake of all the others to come, they clearly define what it means (or doesn't mean) to text or instant message in the next addition of HJNTITY. This whatever of ours tells me it should be its own chapter. You are a good soul and I have a damn good time when I am around you. I hate this only because I liked the way you were completely yourself around my friends. I liked that they liked you. That's hard. I apologize again for the JS comment. It wasn't a comparison, nor was it fair. I have learned my lesson. Yes, I sure have. It has been a fun couple of months. You made me laugh when I needed to laugh most. I found out that you love silver shorts and remote controls and not to get in the way of either of those. You are wicked funny. I really liked kissing you. I liked how you looked in jeans and a button down shirt. Alas, you wear great shoes and that is very important. What sets you apart is that I know I can still enjoy you and be your friend and thus I will not recount what you are not. What is obvious to me today, is what should have been obvious before...You are not right for me. If you were, you wouldn't have made me doubt. All is not lost. After all, you have put the exclamation point back at the end of "Nat's ready for a relationship!" Thank you for confirming that I am indeed. As I rid you from the noise (not rid you from my life), I must say...I have enjoyed laughing with you.

Mental Health Day!

So I played hookie yesterday afternoon. I left early and enjoyed a perfect 65 degree day in February. I drank a beer at 3:00 for no reason at all other than it was nice outside and warm. Yay me.

Should only be a few more weeks until my beloved spring blooms...I can't wait.

3 meals and $30 later

Thanks to today's lunch with NB-C, I am yet again in post Qdoba bliss.

I love Qdoba.
I love the naked steak queso burrito.
I love Coca-Cola with my naked steak queso burrito.
I love quacamole on my naked steak queso burrito.
I love it on Friday, Sunday, and Monday.
I love it even when it makes you smell like you've been to a barbeque in February.
I love love love it.

I don't love that it's $9.30 each time.
I don't love that after this weekend I could reasonably add it to my monthly budget as it's own category.
I'm quite certain that the next time I put on my favorite pair of GAP Long & Lean's, I'm gonna be hating that wonderfullydeliciouscompletelysatisfyingnothingbetter naked steak queso burrito.

Finally!

I'm totally stoked because today I recieved my copy of He's Just Not That Into You. I have been anxiously awaiting this book for the last week and a half, well ok, since Valentines Day. Being one who hates to be too quick to jump to conclusions, I guess I just needed further proof.

Just a nice bit of light reading to thoroughlly remind me that:

1) I am single.

2) I am ridiculous about giving people the benefit of the doubt.

3) I deserve nothing short of enough.

4) You have to kiss a lot of frogs. (Not entirely bad!!! Tee hee...)

5) When you are lucky enough to lose, your life becomes filled with mystery again.

I also got a copy of The Year of Yes, to remind me:

1) I am single.

2) I am happy for the first time in many years. And content (most of the time).

3) You never know who is around the corner.

4) Love is like a butterfly, the more you chase it the more it eludes you.

5) I deserve nothing short of enough.

You know you're tired when...

I Did It For the Cake

11 months ago today I left my ex-husband. Time sure does fly when you've never been happier. Further proof that your sisters/best friends will be there long after the divorce is final...Givin' a shout out to Vee, Rebekah, SEDW, Julia, & NB-C all prominately displayed in the background!

Damn

I wish I would've gotten my hair cut yesterday. I tossed around the thought a couple weeks ago to let it grow out a bit and finally committed to the effort on Monday. I think a nice long (ok, shoulder length is even going to push it) bob will be a fun change of events. So I cancelled my appointment.

I missed terribly the hour recounting all the tumultuous events of the last five weeks with my Hair Chick and NB-C more than I thought I would. Now, I'm kinda in a post/what-woulda-been- my-hair-day funk. The thought of growing my beloved short hair really disturbs me. I can already see split ends from the 7 day a week fry job I do with the straightening iron. The back is unrulie. No haircut - no trip to my beloved Hair Chick - for another five weeks.

Damn.

John Vincent Reynolds 1934-1991

Remembering my grandfather who died 15 years ago today...

Johnny...

My good friend and my honorary Irish blood...I can't believe it's been so long already. I have now been without you for as long as you were in my life...and miss you stilll as much as the day you left. Never will I forget the trips to New England, playing UNO with Slugger, the Irish festivals, the Shasta on our trip to California, the Shamrock necklace you bought me and made me promise to wear every March 17, the book of Catholic prayers you inscribed how you wished to be there for all my graduations, NPR on in the kitchen, driving home each day from WHS, how you took care of me and Beck, the sound of your voice, the sound of your snoring, your laugh...the walk home on February 21, the black jeans and blue hoodie I wore that night at the hospital, seeing you for the last time and not saying goodbye, losing it at the funeral home, learning to drive a stick shift in your cemetery...

Fifteen years.

To Johnny Reynolds the real fiddler on the green. I love you and miss you so much, still.

HUH?

So my Nana sent me this email this week and I think it's been the groundwork for what has been kind of a crazy and confusing few days. I've spent the better part of the week trying to figure out what men really mean. For example, I believe they may say they are "what you see, what you get," however, I think in reality they have problems just being honest. Maybe it's just the men I get involved with...Maybe it's MSN Messenger or text messages. Maybe it's all three.

Why can't there just be a dictionary. Why are men and women so easy to figure out separately, but so hard to figure out together. Maybe that is my winning ticket--my big idea that if I could answer I would be a bizilionnaire. Still waiting for my copy of "He's Just Not That Into You" to arrive from Amazon...

This is as close as I have found, however, I might argue that it works both ways, pal:

Now here are the rules from the male side. These are the man rules! Please note.. these are all numbered "1" ON PURPOSE!

1. Men ARE not mind readers.>>

1. Learn to work the toilet seat. You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down. We need it up, you need it down. You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.>>

1. Sunday sports. It's like the full moon or the changing of the tides. Let it be.>>

1. Shopping is NOT a sport. And no, we are never going to think of it that way.>>

1. Crying is blackmail.>>

1. Ask for what you want. Let us be clear on this one: Subtle hints do not work! Strong hints do not work! Obvious hints do not work! Just say it!>>

1. Yes and No are perfectly Acceptable answers to almost every question.>>

1. Come to us with a problem only If you want help solving it. That's what we do. Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.>>

1. A headache that lasts for 17 months is a problem. See a doctor.>>

1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument. In fact, all comments become null and void after 7 Days.>>

1. If you won't dress like the Victoria's Secret girls, don't expect us to act like soap opera guys.>>

1. If you think you're fat, you probably are. Don't ask us.>>

1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one .>>

1. You can either ask us to do something. Or tell us how you want it done. Not both. If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.>>

1. Whenever possible , Please say whatever you have to say during commercials.>>

1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.>>

1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings. Peach, for example, is a fruit, not! A color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.>>

1. If it itches, it will Be scratched. We do that.>>

1. If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing," We will act like nothing's wrong. We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.>>

1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer > you don't want to hear.>>

1. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear Is fine...Really.>>

1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball, the shotgun formation, or golf.>>

1. You have enough clothes.>>

1. You have too many shoes.>>

1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!>>

1. Thank you for reading this. Yes, I know, I have to sleep on the couch tonight; but did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.

A Perfect Beginning

I have to say that there is little better in this world that incredible food, cheerful conversation and my favorite red wine. When all three are intracately merged together there may be nothing better. I believe Thursday is becoming my second favorite day of the week. A nice evening out to one of my favorite restaurants with good company is quite possibly a perfect way to begin the weekend...

(Of course I did once again miss my favorite night of TV - and alas I have no Ti'Vo or DVR...bygones...)

You've figured it out

Congratulations.

You win.

Tips for a Successfuly Single Valentine's Day - a reminder for 2007

For all of you who wondered if I might jump off a bridge, I can profess that I am indeed, very much alive on this fine day after Valentine's Day. Here's the official single survivors guide to the dreaded V-Day 2006.

• Start day out with positive attitude and outlook. Remind self that it is indeed just another day.
• Wear great outfit. Look fabulous.
• Receive email from interested party wishing me a Happy Valentines Day. Smile.
• Have lunch with work friends at great restaurant. Have crinkly fries. Announce plans for the evening consist of frozen Lean Cuisine and exercise.
• See that arch nemesis Mr. Potential has decided to return to the world of internet dating. What an ass.
• Patiently IM with current "FWB" and try to decipher why he suddenly cares about his indecisiveness and Piscesness. Wait. Wait.
• Have happiest moment of the day.
• Receive IM from FWB stating how funny he is followed by "I'm going to the gym, you?"
• Leave work madder than hell.
• Complain wildly to best friends about statement.
• Get really mad, turn red, and cuss a lot. Smoke a lot of cigarettes.
• Take obnoxious barking dog-child on long walk and state out loud why men are bitches and why I deserve better. Reiterate over and over, outloud, frighten those driving bye.
• Have canned Italian Wedding Soup for dinner. Open bottle of Shiraz. Sigh. Loudly.
• Take long bath and listen to music that was made for me. Read. Smile. Relax.
• Watch American Idol. Notice happy smiles.
• Smoke.
• Receive Happy Valentine's Day wish from ex-husband. Get propositioned by ex-husband. Laugh at the thought.
• Talk to interested party. Make plans for dinner. Laugh with possibility.
• Get into bed. Sigh. Smile.

Happy.
Content.
Strong.
Fulfilled.
Enough.

Soul food

Decided last night while watching American Idol that the most beautiful thing in the world is seeing someone smile. There is nothing better, nothing more genuine. You've seen it... the kind that just lights up the world. It's something that leaves no doubt about that person's feeling even if for only one split second.

It is like exposing your innermost soul. Beautiful. Happy. Real.

To pass the day...

I might as well try to be positive today...I am looking a pretty fetch so why not. It's a sunny day, spring should be around the corner in the next six weeks, and I have plenty of friends and family who love me. Today, that is enough.

Today, in acceptance of this otherwise completely-ridiculous-utterly-horrific and absolutely-depressing day, I'm throwing out my two cents on what quite possibly might be the best love songs of all time...or at least in my opinion. These songs make me melt, lose all sense of reality, and make me think back to a time, a place, or a person as if it were the here and now.

10. Fade Into You - Mazzy Star

9. All I Want Is You - U2

8. Luna - Smashing Pumpkins

7. Say Goodbye - Dave Matthews (close tie with Crash)

6. In Your Eyes - Peter Gabriel

5. Always on My Mind - Willie Nelson

4. My Immortal - Evanescence

3. Lover, You Should Have Come Over - Jeff Buckley

2. Cannonball - Damien Rice

1. Slave to Love - Bryan Ferry


Now this is the time where everyone chimes in...This is the time when all you reading my blog identify yourselves and agree or disagree...what are your top 10 love songs of all time?

Eight Hours & Counting...

...To what has to be the single most depressing day of the year.

I hate Valentines Day.

I hated it before I was married, while I was married, and I hate it even more this year after being married. This year after the seven years past, should be a great Valentine's day, but do you think that it will be? No. Theoretically, there should be some man out there who wishes that he were with me on that day. But, um...no. That's even more depressing. It is a useless holiday and serves only as a thorough reminder that I am indeed, single and still very much alone. It is a stupid day to make all people feel bad about themselves, their signficiant others or their lack there of.

So I'm resolved that I will continue to remind myself that it is just another day and that it is stupid to care that much about it. I will make a promise to myself to be content with just loving ME tomorrow. I will be content to spend the time loving myself and cherishing who I am rather than with someone who doesn't deserve to be with me. I will remember how lonely Valentine's Day felt in the seven years past - how much I dreaded it each year and how much more satisfying it is just to be content with me.

The hopeless romantic in me makes me continue to hope that maybe this year my expectations might be fulfilled...Current status: Right now there is a Big Pink Valentine's Day Elephant in the room staring at me but avoiding my gaze...so if that damn elephant continues on this path rather than take me out or bring me flowers, well, then I guess that's why they made Golds Gym, Rosemont Shiraz, Marlboro Lights, and Stouffers Mac & Cheese.

Yay, Me.

(NB-C, don't even say a word...this is one day/36 hours that I can legitimately be depressed)

Fun with Celebrities Day

Ok, I've spent a bit of time looking at the photos and reading the follow up from last night's Grammy's. I have to admit, I'm a bit of a celebrity freak...I watch Extra and Access Hollywood. I am up on the latest gossip, I like to know what and who they're doing. I'm quite sure that it's my voyeuristic tendency. So today, I thought I'd make a list of the best and worst - celebrities I love and loathe. I reserve the right to add...Feel free to join in.

LOVE (in no particular order)

The men:
1) Ben Affleck. If this man ever knocks on my door, I'm gone.
2) Matthew McConaughey-hey. I don't care if he's a stoner-cowboy. That man is smokin.
3) George Clooney. Good KY boy who still has a wicked sense of humor. Wouldn't he just be fun to hang out with?
4) Joseph Fiennes. Hello Shakespeare in Love. Hello eyes. Hello British man. Raarrr!
5) Dave Matthews. Just sing to me, please.
6) Tom Hanks. HAS to be the nicest man ever.
7) Colin Farrell. H-O-T. H-O-T. H-O-T.
8) James Gandolfini. Italian. Mobster-esque. Love it.
9) Patrick Dempsy. I loved you when loving you wasn't cool.
10) David Beckham. Devastatingly handsome. British. Yum-O.

The women:
1) Julia Roberts. She just seems nice, plus I adore all of her movies.
2) Drew Barrymore. I want her to be my friend.
3) Diane Keaton. Could she be any more timeless?
4) Kelly Clarkson. She can wail and she's just so perky!
5) Kate Winslet. I love her hair, I love everything about her.
6) Gwyenth Paltrow. Timeless beauty, classic actress.
7) Sarah Jessica Parker. My Sex In The City hero.
8) Rachael Ray. Annoying EVOO comments, but how can you not like her?
9) Anne Curry. Ready for her to replace Katie.
10) Joan Cusak. Freaking funny, especially in 16 Candles....mmmm...aaaaa ya.


LOATHE

The men:
1) TOM CRUISE. Get over yourself. No one cares.
2) Russell Crowe. Anger Management. You're also ugly.
3) Michael Douglas. One word: creepy.
4) Kanye West. Yes, GW does hate black people, but dude, that's no way to make friends.
5) Joaquin Phoenix. Your brother was better.
6) Jim Carey. Except for ESOTSM, you are annoying and so not funny.
7) Tom Cruise.
8) Tom Cruise.
9) Tom Cruise.
10) Tom Cruise.

The women:
1) Mariah Carey. Who is Mimi and is she the one who made you fat?
2) Angelina Jolie. One word: Homewrecker.
3) Campbell Brown. Everyone knows you are mean.
4) J-Lo. Used to love you, now I hate you. You're still pretty.
5) Britney Spears. It's your husband, babe. He's bringing you down.
6) Tara Ried. You make me look sober.
7) Joan Rivers. Just annoying.
8) Katie Holmes. He's gay!!!
9) Anna Nicole Smith. You are so dumb it makes me want to vomit.
10) Meg Ryan. What happened? You used to be my favorite but now you look like the Joker. It freaks me out.

Remembering Him

Authors note: I debated whether or not to put this up on my blog because it truly reveals what a psycho I am... Ok, maybe I'm just a hopeless romantic. When I wrote the "What is Enough" post I remembered that I had written this many years back. I believe I wrote this the year after I graduated from college, inspired after reading Alice Hoffman's book, "Here on Earth." The funny thing is, I was seeing my now ex-husband at the time I wrote this. Perhaps that should have been a clue. Although I have moved forward and no longer spend time remembering my first love, I suppose it still has a familiar echo...I think it can still resonate a bit inside all of us.

If I would have known that he would be in my life for 359 days, I would have remembered everything about him.

I would have remembered the way he smiled, the color of his eyes, the sound of his laugh. I would have remembered the way he held my hand and I would have let it linger on mine longer so never to forget the imprint it made on my heart. I would have remembered how he held me close to him, how he kissed me and made the world disappear. I would have remembered how our bodies intertwined and all of the love and desire that together flowed through them. I would have remembered every flower he brought me. I would have inhaled the air and remembered the smell of the day. I would have remembered each day for all that it was. I would have stayed awhile longer in the sunlight, felt every raindrop, and admired every snowflake. If I would have known that this love was the greatest and purest of it's kind, I would have remembered what it felt like to feel the sun from both sides.

There is something to be said for your first love. It never leaves you. No matter the time that goes by nor the distance that separates you, it's always there, somewhere in your heart. No matter how tainted the relationship or the years that go by after your last encounter, you always remember him. You see him in the man you love but can't remember what it is you see. You see him every night as you drift off to sleep hoping that he'll come to you in your dreams so that you can be together again. You wonder every day where he is and if he is successful...or married. You miss his family, that family that became yours. And no matter how much time passes by, it never gets any easier. You still cry when you are in your parents house, where he is still part of your last memory of what home is. You still ache when you drive past the spot that you called "yours." And you know that you can never go back to the place where he told you it was over.

You always remember him when a familiar song is on the radio, wondering if he hears it too and thinks, just for that minute, about you. You see an old movie on television, one that the two of you saw together, and you remember everything about that evening and how good it felt to have him next to you. You remember him when you are in the car, for no reason at all, you remember him. You smell him when a man walks by and tears well up in your eyes. You think of nothing else but him every time you drive through the city you last knew him to be in. You dress a little better when you go shopping, to the movies, to dinner, or to a club in the chance that he will be there. You worry that if he is he will think you look fat. You want him to be there every time you think it's possible. Somewhere, deep down, you wish he were there.

Just that one time, just for that night.

In everything you do, you remember him. His soul is entangled with yours and it never leaves. It is almost as if your souls are still together, that there is still some part of you and still some part of him that wants to hang on...wants to go back. You never are truly able to let him go and you never really want to.

Sometimes it seems as if he still haunts you only because it is all that you remember from your last days of having the most beautiful idea of what love is and all that it could be. You know that after this love, there may be no other chance to love this way again. You find yourself looking for him in your dreams only because you want to know how he is and you want to know he's still there. You hate waking up; you resist the daylight but finally succumb and lose him again. You wonder if he dreamt of you that night, if his subconscious found yours. You wonder if for those few seconds, minutes, or hours that you were together again...if he missed you when he awoke.

And you remember and you remember until suddenly you can't remember anymore. You laugh at yourself when you think about the loss. You begin to remember all the years that have passed, without him. And you feel foolish because you are obsessed with the man whom you have spent more time remembering than you actually spent with. But no matter how far you move on, no matter how many miles you may go, you always think about your first, perfect love. Whether it was perfect or not, you never stop hoping, believing, or enduring. You begin to feel that it's not because you are in love with him anymore, but because it is just so much easier to hang on than it is to let go...

And you remember.

16lbs of LOVE

Happy 4-Month Birthday to the Chunk-a-Muffin!
Too busy to blog today, but I had to give a shout out to the cutest man in the Metro DC area...
Merriwether, your aunt Natalie sends much love and lots of kisses!!!

10 Reasons I'm Happy It's Monday

10. Went to Nordstrom's yesterday - successfully bought nothing. (Significant Accomplishment).

9. Spent time in the former hometown with family and had a rockin' good time.

8. Daniel will be four months old tomorrow.

7. It'll be spring in about 7 weeks. Thank God.

6. Have the best co-pilot & wonder dog ever.

5. Only 4 days until Friday.

4. I get to go to the gym this week and I'm euphoric about that. ROF LMAO.

3. I can laugh when I think about a man and his remote control.

2. Stayed up so late last night and drove home so early this morning that I am not sure if it really is Monday?

And the number one reason that I'm happy it's Monday:

1. Because I can be.

An Ode to Mr. Potential

Here's my Angela Basset ala Waiting to Exhale "It is trash" moment...Here's my ode to the smallest man I've ever met.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I am tired of short men and their complexes of being with a taller woman.

Get over yourselves.

If a woman can look at you and find you attractive, smart, sexy, funny and worth her time don't you think you could just let if freaking go? Don't you think that perhaps that a woman doesn't really care if you rival her height, or that you don't for that matter? Do you think you could maybe try to get it? Try to understand that for as short as you are and as much as it bothers you, that the fantastic woman sitting across from you doesn't give a shit that you are not her equal when it comes to height.

Here's a clue:

Don't make jokes. Don't think its the first time we've ever heard them either. Don't think that if this girl had a dollar for every man who was shorter than her she wouldn't be rich. Don't contstantly ask if it bothers us that you are shorter than this fabulous chick who is with you. Don't make self-depriciating remarks about your stature. Just don't. It's annoying, it's tedious, and it makes you look like a total ass.

Just realize that it's you we like. We have our own vices, far too many of them, to worry about yours.

So here's to you, smallest of small, shortest of short Mr. Potential...Time to rid you from the noise. I hope you have fun sailing your boats and building your houses. I hope that another one of your "girls" isn't swayed into Starbucks or reminded of your last name everytime she watches UK play anytime soon. I hope you figure out that fine balance between wanting a girlfriend and being haunted by your woman-loving ex-wife. Don't worry, next time I will be sure not to confuse Potential with Promise. I used to find you charming. Now I find you pathetic. Hat's off to you, Mr. Potential. You played a good game.

By the way, I do have your number and no, no..I won't be calling.

Cheers.

Memoirs of a would-be-Parisian, vol. 2

Bonjour mes amies!

Well, my second day in Paris faired much better than the first. All in all, I have decided that I could, indeed, see myself living in this city. After meeting a new friend, Dominique (ok, not her real name but doesn't it sound fabulously French?!), I have found that having a translator is the way to do it. Just know someone who speaks the language, and you’ll be just fine. Dominique and I are working together on our European conference and I have decided that she is my new hero.

She is 33 and very hip (and not in the traditional brown, blah Parisian thing they’ve got going). Dominique and I went on our visit to the hotel where the conference is being held, yesterday. It is nowhere near downtown Paris. Following our 5 hour trip, we came back—the best of friends—and she offered to take me out and live the Parisian life for a night.

C’est tres bonne! We went to a bar called “Footsies” in the opera district and shared a bottle of wine. There I proceeded to find out that her boyfriend of 16 years is a paparazzi. Apparently he is very good. She also told me how she knew one day it will have to come to an end with the paparazzi boyfriend, even though she still finds him sexy. I asked why and she said, “Because you can’t be with one man for your whole life.”

I love this woman.

Following our pre-dinner drinks we went to a small café where Dominique proceeded to convince me that our waiter was in love with me, instantly struck by me or amazed I think she said. I laughed, until he came over, moments later with the change from another table. That was funny. He was cute, but about 21 and spoke not a lick of Anglais. Best quote of the night is when my new friend said “if you lived here you would be my friend.” How appropriate! I told her that is what my friends and I always said.

That was it for my glamorous night out, however, it did leave me with that “oh I could live here” feeling. No French fries for dinner, in fact, none at all yesterday or today. But well, I haven’t had dinner yet.

Today we went to the Musee du Vin. Or Museum of Wine. Typically I would think that this place was heaven, given it’s name. However, imagine the most dark, dank, humid cave you could ever go to. That was the Musee du Vin. We went on this tour that our customers will go on and Dominique and I were scared because of these strange old people that were like replicated and hanging out in these coves. It was really strange. I think I saw something like it in Charlestown in this old dungeon I went to once. Weird. It smelled.

Following our interesting visit to the innards of Paris we walked across the Seine and saw the Eiffel Tower. My Paris visit is now complete! I’m staying tonight at the conference hotel where I’m being treated like royalty. Of course, had this hotel been in downtown, I wouldn’t have ever come home.


Random thoughts for the day: 1) Paris is great because people still smoke here. I saw three old ladies yesterday at my hotel who could barely walk, but had no problem getting up from their Heineken’s & red wine and wobbling over to a trash can to empty out the ashtray. 2) I must look really funny to French people. Everyone stared at me when I would go anyplace. Not sure if it’s the boobs, the butt or just me in general??? Perhaps the bright colored clothes that NO ONE wears. 3) When on Metro be sure to people watch. Dominique and I laughed so hard last night about a man sitting on the metro in a red velvet jacket with matching red plastic tennis shoes (or trainers as they are referred to). Be sure to laugh hysterically about that. Maybe it was just one of those things you must see in person, but it was freaking hilarious. 4) When going to lunch with French co-workers, let them order for you. We went to a Spanish restaurant and everyone ordered these great looking meals—I inadvertently ordered tapas—which came to nothing more than 4 slices of baguette with olive oil, garlic and some sliced chorizo sausage. Everyone else had like, I don’t know…a meal? 5) You think pink, red, or blue Converse tennis shoes are out of style, but no. They are the HEIGHT of Paris fashion. Don’t ask me why, but apparently they are all the rage. And what is worse is that Dominique said the trend carried over from last year??? 6) When getting cash out of ATM look out for small Romanian kids who hit you with these magazine things and even after a French person tells them “NOH!” continue to berate you and then hit the French person. Instead of getting 40 Euros, I ended up with 140 Euros and a violent Romanian girl who almost walked away with it. I’m sure my checking account will bounce.

Well, I’m back in the US of A tomorrow and I will be arriving without any shoes or good Parisian wares in my luggage. I’m hoping to hit up the duty free store tomorrow in the airport for some new perfume and maybe, in a last ditch attempt, a Parisian (or just European) man in tow.

Au revoir et a bientot,
N