ClayManiacs

Welcome to CM Discussion number 31.  This is the official Clay discussion thread at Claymaniacs.com. 

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Thanks and have fun!

Glory wrote:
:lol :lol

MORNING--

I HAD A VERY THOUGHT PROVOKING POST THAT GOT LOST IN CYBERSPACE IN RESPONSE TO SUNNY'S LAST POST.  POOF.  GONE. :bduh :para :roflmao

ANYWAY, FUNNY POST SUNNY.  YEP.  IN LOVE WITH A GAY GUY WHO EATS PICKLES WITH CHOCOLATE CAKE.  EEEEEEWWWWWW.

GOTTA GET MYSELF TOGETHER THIS MORNING.  TRY TO LOOK PRESENTABLE FOR THE RICH AND FAMOUS IN THE HAMPTONS.  THANK THE LORD MY BROTHER HAS A POOL CAUSE THERE AIN'T NO WAY THIS BODY IS GOING ON A BEACH FULL OF SIZE 0'S. :wink

WONDER IF CLAY HAS EVER BEEN TO THE HAMPTONS. 

GWENN

                                     GWENN WHO DO YOU KNOW IN THE HAMPTOMS THE CLINTONS LIVE THERE AND SOME KENNEDY'S I THINK.


                                   SURELY CLAY DOESN'T LIKE PICKLES AND CHOCLATE CAKE. THAT SOUNDS DISGUSTING. :roflmao WONDER IF HE LIKES SWEET OR DILL.------------THE CAKE.

The Obama's will also be vacationing there this weekend.....

The Hamptons!!  Billy Joel I think is out there too!!

Peeking in quick from work- havent been able to fix my computer at home, demmit!! I am transferring all my clack, my financials, my writings, to a hard drive. I may have to take it in to the computer geek squad, ACK!!


I may have already posted this, so chalk it up to CSR disease
Speaking of the Hamptons, my younger son was a manager of a car rental place which more or less demanded
he work 60 hrs with pay for 40. He has been with them several years. He also bartends at a popular restaurant in Patchogue.
Anyway, a week ago, he quit the car rental company. He is going to grad school and will be studying SPECIAL EDUCATION! I am so very proud of him. He is going to put more hours in as a bartender.

He rents a small apartment in the basement of his friends house. I told him if he was tight with money that he could move back home with no strings attached. He told me that he had sat down and worked it all out and he is going to be just fine!!

Back on track to the subject of our thread...
I think Clay may be "outgrowing" some of his allergies. He said that he can eat shrimp now-perhaps chocolate cake in small doses is good. Maybe the pickle acts as an antidote for the chocolate?? Anyway, my opinion is......YUCK!!!

I would love to see a picture of how he looks now. Since he said he is blonde and in between length hair, I am wondering if a publicity shoot will be happening? I mean, the Gala is still a little way off, so I need to see this hair to let him know if I approve or not.

The questions- he is such a tease!!

I have bad luck because whenever I ask a question, its days before he comes back and he just doesnt go back that far.  Or else he hates my questions and feels they are stupid. In that case-a Bronx cheer to him. I won't ask any more.

I really must be working. Ta Ta for now!!

Gwenn-enjoy the Hamptons!

Why, Gwenn! You mover and shaker, you. :wink

Yep, he likes sweet pickles with chocolate cake, Glory. Apparently, it's a southern thing. :shrug

Hmmmmm.....Is the President going to be hosting one of those infamous Town Hall meetings in the Hamptons?  Will Gwenn be in attendance there?  Shall we look for you on the news, GWENN?   :hypno

Woo! Good for him! :bouncy


Yeah! :lol

DON'T GET EXCITED LADIES.  MY BROTHER AND HIS PARTNER HAVE A HOUSE THERE.  IT IS NO MANSION BUT ON A VERY SECLUDED LOT.  DOWN THE STREET FROM P DIDDY AND DONNA KARAN.  HIS HOUSE IS SMALLER.  I HAVE SEEN A COUPLE CELEBRITIES,( MATT LAUER AND YISAK PERLMAN) BUT NOT MANY.  MY BROTHER ISN'T THAT IMPORTANT EVEN THOUGH IN HIS OWN MIND HE IS.   :slick  AND THE HAMPTONS ARE KIND OF VAST.  DEPENDS ON WHICH ONE.  WE WILL BE IN EAST HAMPTON.  MAYBE THE OBAMAS ARE VISITING STEPHEN SPEILBERG OR SOMETHING. 

MARILYN--CONGRATS TO YOUR SON.   :clap :clap :clap  HOW IS YOUR LEG?

HE HASN'T ANSWERED ANY OF MINE EITHER.  OH, ONE.  THE FIRST NIGHT WHEN I ASKED IF HE WOULD TELL US WHEN HE WAS DONE.  HE DID.  OUR MS. SUNNY HAD A COUPLE OF HERS ANSWERED.  SHE RATES.  MUST BE A SOUTHERN THING. :wink :wink :wink 

PEOPLE DO GROW OUT OF ALLERGIES.  MY BROTHER USED TO BE ASTHMATIC AND ALLERGIC TO ALMOST EVERYTHING.  NOW, ONLY DOGS AND CATS.  I DO BELIEVE CLAY IS STILL TERRIBLY ALLERGIC TO TREE NUTS.  OBVIOUSLY NOT CHOCOLATE ANYMORE IF HE CAN EAT ALL THOSE PEANUT BUTTER OREOS IN 2 DAYS. :yum :yum :yum

GWENN

Oh, is that all? And here we were thinking there might be famous people around! :wink


Bring the binocs! Maybe you can read their lips and find out some national secrets. :giggle

and maybe she will "read" something that she REEEEEAAALLLY didn't want to!! :smile

This has been a really rough week for me ..I have spent a lot of time feeling sorry for my self and in general disgusted with what seems to be such a sloooow recovery...however it just takes one trip to rehab to make me quit thinking about my pain & discomfort...There are so many people who are suffering, and with long term problems, so it just puts everything in prespective , because its not all about me.

I am trying hard, but some days I ask myself ,why in the world did I do this?and this week has been one of those times...so after I went to rehab this past Thur. I have decided to try extra hard and get this leg a goin' again.:bigsmile..After all Ive got 57 days until the Gala, so hopefully I will have done away with my cane,but if not, thats still OK, at least I will be in the same room with Clay,and hopefully hear him singing again...

On RR Show today she had KG(this was a rerun) but there was a Clay mention & picture...R asked KG who she would prefer to be stuck in an elevator with ,Clay & his CD or Paris Hilton and her CD....Of course she said Clay...and that she would spend most of her time "trying to do Clay"....R said ,I like him, and KG said she liked him & his music,but that she would still pick on him.

On another board someone made a good analogy about Clay...She said, he's the Pied Piper, leading us who knows where,and we willingly follow. Its like a mystery tour--You just enjoy the trip.,never knowing exactly where you're going to end up.

I thought that was cute....

Bring the binocs! Maybe you can read their lips and find out some national secrets.


I think she'll need very strong binoculars. The Obamas are vacationing in Martha's Vineyards!!! :lmao

Have a great time, Gwenn!!!

                                   WELL NO POST SINCE LLAST NIGHT ARE WE GOING FOR A RECORD :para :bduh :lol

Hi    :wave

For Gwenn--here's the current hair:

IN ATLANTA (http://mypict.me/upload/0/6/44/6044942-500x500.jpg)

yup, blonde and in between-not too bad-a casual moment! Thanks, Sunny

Maybe we will see the On My Way Here hair by October

I am on my old work computer- no speakers. After I am on it for about 45 minutes the fan goes on and sounds like a jet plane warming up. I need to take it apart and clean it, but I am afraid I will kill it.

My other computer is infected and I cannot get on the internet to download stuff to fix it. I was able to transfer financials, word docs- and more importantly pictures and CLACK but I am really ticked off because none of my programs play properly except quick books. BUT I can still burn to my external drive. Go figure.

My ankle- this cellulitits scares me, being a diabetic. Its all red around the wound. He dug stuff out with his scalpel and tweezers on Wednesday, but he just wants me to take the antibiotic three times a day and clean the wound with clean water. Keep it wrapped. When I read that its a bacterial infection that can get into your lymph nodes and blood stream, I dont mind telling you it scared the hell out of me. This was just a scratch, people!! It didnt even really bleed and at first I didnt even feel it much.

DONT use peroxide on wounds. It burns the new skin forming. I did it for a week and I think I hampered the healing. Just gold old soap and water will do it.

On a lighter note- so far we have not received the thunder storms promised, and its been beautiful out, so Gwenn should have a nice time out in the Hamptons.

Me, I slept this afternoon. The medication makes me drowsy. What a waste of a day!!

Not a bad look at all, MS SUNNY!   :wave MICKI and MARILYN!

The new hair looks OK.  At least it is natural and not stiff like the On My Way Here hair.

Marilyn, Marlene and all others who are under the weather -  feel better soon   :ghug

MARLENE, I continue to be amazed at how you all keep track of Clay's hairstyles.  I think I lost track after he surprised us with the dark "emo" style he had during his surprise AI finale appearance a few years ago.   :bduh  I can always depend on all of you to keep me up to date!!  :lol

Thanks for the email letting me know about the ticket transfer.  I'm glad you got the check!!!

Feel better, everybody!!!

Anybody else HATING this East Coast weather as much as I am???  It's like living in a SWAMP!!!

Couldn't go walking by the shore today and am waiting to see if it is possible to do it tomorrow... I hear the waves are awful thanks to BILL!!!!So HUMID and HOT...         :fan2        So unhealthy out there....

Maybe I'm cranky but to me the hair is  nothing to get excited about!!.. :soapbox

MORNING FROM THE HAMPTONS.  IT IS HUMID HERE BUT NOT RAINING.  WE HAD A WONDERFUL DAY YESTERDAY.  POOL.  SUN.  GREAT FOOD.  TIME PEOPLE WATCHING.  MY FAVORITE RESTAURANT.  FUN.  TODAY, WE LEAVE AROUND 1 SO I CAN FINALLY GET HOME AT A REASONABLE HOUR.  THE TRIP INTO THE CITY DID ME IN SO ER AND I ARE TAKING THE TRAIN HOME.  NO TRAFFIC CRAP.

NOW, ONTO IMPORTANT MATTERS.

THANKS MS. SUNNY FOR THE GIFT.  MARION SAYS HE WAS SPOTTED IN ATLANTA. GOTTA GO GET SOME INFO ON THAT.  WILL CHECK THE CH TO SEE.

I LIKE THE HAIR.  NATURAL LOOKING.  AMAZINGLY STRAIGHT CONSIDERING THIS DISGUSTING HUMIDITY.  HIS FACE LOOKS TOTALLY BACK TO NORMAL.  LOOKS THIN.  WOULD LOVE TO HAVE SEEN THE WHOLE BODY.  <<<TAKES A MOMENT>>> BUT HE LOOKS WELL AND HAPPY.

GOTTA GO SNOOP AROUND.  WILL BE BACK.  MY BROTHER IS OFF TO THE GYM AND ER IS SLEEPING.

GWENN

HE MAUY BUT I DON'T.   :bigsmile  SO, HE WAS ON A "MAN DATE".  WHAT THE HELL IS THAT?  WE DON'T KNOW WHO HE WAS WITH.  COULD BE ANY MAN.  MAYBE EVEN REED.  ALL I KNOW IS THAT WITHOUT A DROP OF MAKE-UP. THE MAN IS ADORABLE.

HOW CUTE IS THIS? THERE IS ANOTHER SPAMALOT BEAR- THE DRUNKEN GUARD- AUTOGRAPHED BY CLAY AND PROCEEDS GO TO THE INCLUSION PROJECT. LOVE IT!!

SPAMALOT BEAR AUCTION (http://cgi.ebay.com/Clay-Aiken-SPAMALOT-Drunken-Swamp-Castle-Guard-Bear_W0QQitemZ320415241563QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item4a9a3c955b&_trksid=p3911.c0.m14)

 :lmao  MARION, you absolutely crack me up!  Yup, I'm sure Bill is making a lot of waves out in the Hamptons.  Or is he retired from that activity these days? :slick

GWENN, I love Clay sans make-up too, esp the guyliner.  Is that too much to ask of him that he lose the make-up? 

MARILYN, zip up your wallet and put your checkbook and Visa card in the freezer.  Don't even consider bidding on the Spamalot bear!  :wink  But it is tempting, I must admit...

Off to be church lady.  Talk to ya'll later.

Doesn't make much difference to me about Clay's hair.. I love him ..WHATEVER! 

I'm just glad to see a new picture, and that gorgeous smile...It looks like he is at the Varsity Restaurant..Thats a fun place...Roger & I ate there one time after a NCSU Football game....Great hamburgers & hotdogs.

Not feeling the hair so much.  For me, his best look was at the golf benefit earlier this year, and in LA with the red/orange sweater.  He looks too washed-out with blond hair.  But, that's just my opinion.  I know many love the blond hair.  I wouldn't mind seeing him with "snowflake" hair again.  That was hot! 

Gwenn, glad you had a nice time with your brother.

Marion, I know what you mean about the weather here on the east coast.  You don't even need to take a shower.  Just stand outside with a bar of soap and you're good to go.   :lol

Marilyn, hope you're feeling better.   

Nope, it's mine, too. I don't get why his peeps keep giving him light hair. His complexion is so light, it washes him right out. :shrug


Ohhh yeeeaaahhh... :slick

OK, now I'm totally clueless.  What is/was "snowflake" hair????  :scratch 

Snowflake Hair - 2006 UNICEF Snowflake Lighting Ceremony (http://www.wireimage.com/itemlistings.aspx?igi=246171&cl=1)

MOONIE!  :clap :clap  I knew exactly that it was the UNICEF event and I had one of the pictures for my desktop for a long time.  When Clay was wearing his hair long, THAT night it looked perfect!  Thank you for finding and posting!  :hugg

THEA!  Has Clay been seen with guyliner lately??  I was under the impression that we only saw that at the stage door during the Spamalot run.   I never noticed make-up in any non-performing pictures. 

MORNING---

I AM SO TIRED.  SLEPT ALMOST 10 HOURS LAST NIGHT AND STILL AM BEAT.  ALL THAT TRAVELING IS JUST TOO MUCH.  BUT IT WAS A LOVELY WEEKEND.

HAIR--I HAVE 2 FAVORITES.  THE HAIR FROM THE JNT06 WAS INCREDIBLE.  AND THE HAIR FROM LAST YEAR'S GALA.   :thud :thud :thud  THIS HAIR IS FINE.  HIS EYES LOOK SO PALE CAUSE HE HAS NOTHING ON THEM.  BUT EVEN WITH THE DARK HAIR, WHEN HE HASN'T HAD HIS BROWS AND LASHES DYED, HE LOOKS SO PALE.  AT LEAST HE LOOKED PUT TOGETHER, HAPPY, AND MODERN.  I DON'T EVER, EVER AGAIN WANT TO SEE THAT OUTFIT/DO/MESS WITH THE BOWTIE. :bang :bang :bang  I DON'T MIND THAT SHADE OF BLOND.  KIND OF REMINDED ME OF THE PRIMETIME INTERVIEW BLOND WHEN I FELL IN LOVE WITH THIS ADORABLE GAY GUY.  WHO KNEW?

MICKI--I LOVED YOUR WEATHER AND SOAP ANALOGY.  I HAVE ABOUT HAD IT WITH HUMIDITY.    I CAN TAKE HEAT BUT NOT HUMIDITY.  THIS HAS BEEN AWFUL.

GOTTA CHECK MY FB AND AROUND.  HEY, I AM GETTING ADDICTED.

GWENN

Moonie to the rescue! :giggle

Amen!

Yup!  Thanks, MICHELLE!   :hugg

Yup, MICKI and GWENN.  I absolutely loathe the humidity, as well.  Plus, my "sleek" shoulder length bob looks a mess when the humidity goes above about 50%.   It looks like a big dark brown bush.   :lol

My son and DIL who just moved to VA are having a really tough time adapting to the humidity, as well.  They are used to the dry heat and cool nighttime temps of California.  But one thing they don't miss are the wildfires all around that part of CA.  Unfortunately that often comes with the very low humidity.

Today is gorgeous in Raleigh..Our humidity is not real high today,and it mades it very pleasant

At the AE Finley Y for the next two weeks the indoor pool is closed for cleaning maintance, so our water aerobics classes will be at the outdoor pool during that time...It was very nice this morning(class is 10:00-11:00) and I am hoping to be able to go all this week.

I will start back to work next Monday, and I believe my knee will be OK,because most of what I will be doing,is just driving. During the summer Rebecca has learned how to program her insulin pump, so this year I will not have to go back to school when it is morning snack time, because she can check her own blood sugar, and her parents write the amount of carbs she has in her snack...Also the asst. health nurse is also the third grade asst,and she is in the area where Rebeccas room is,in cause she should have a problem with the pump. What this all means is I go pick Rebecca up at 7:00am, take her to school, and then I don't have to go back to pick her up until 300Pm so I am free from 8:00-2:30...but Dr Campbell is going to pay me for the whole day..Suits me fine ,and now I can go to water aerobics almost everyday.  :shappy

I still have three more weeks of Physical therapy..hopefully the knee will quit feeling so tight by then..Last week the theraptist showed me an excerise to get rid of the tight feeling in the back of my knee...this week it has moved to the front,so if she can show me a "miracle" excerise for the front...then there's no where else for it to go(hopefully)except, away.

I am trying to concentrate now on losing 10 more lbs...Yogurt, here I come.  :lol

 
    MIMI,
                Dr Campbell must think very highly of you to treat you so well, it must be a great comfort
             to them to know Rebecca is in caring,capable hands.

                IT"s wonderful you will be able to have more time for water aerobics, they are very good.

                    Good Luck! with losing 10 more pounds.
               
                                      Betty

Yup, you're right BETTY.    MIMI! It sounds as if  your boss Dr. Campbell knows he has found a gem and intends to hang on to you!  It sounds like a great deal for both sides!!!   :clap

MARLENE--YOU ARE AN INSPIRATION.  REBECCA IS LUCKY TO HAVE YOU.  :hugg :hugg :hugg

WELL, THE DAY WAS GREAT.  SPENT IT WITH A GOOD FRIEND.  GOOD TO BE HOME.

THE CLOSER TONIGHT.  I NEED MORE SLEEP.  BUSY WEEK. 

THEA--MY HAIR IS SO BAD, I JUST PIN IT BACK AND WAIT UNTIL THE HUMIDITY LEAVES.  OY

GWENN

Back to the hair discussion of earlier today --

I also loved the UNICEF Lighting hair.  It was my desktop at home and work for a loooooong time.

I like the hair from this weekend for another reason other than the color of the hair.  It is the first picture I have seen taken of him in a long time with such a naturally happy smile.  The smile went all the way up to his eyes and they were open and not squintting like they have been in so many recent pictures.  Of course, this picture was taken without so many lights so that could be the reason--his eyes may be sensitive to bright lights.

Whatever the reason -- it is a wonderful picture of great looking man looking very happy.

mimi,

What kind of doctor is Dr. Campbell?

Sunny ~Dr Campbell is a cardiologist at Wake Med.  His wife is a gastroenterologist at the VA in Durham

Barbara, I agree..Clay looked very happy,and I love the smile.

Thank ya, mimi. I'm glad he takes good care of you. Surely, the man recognizes quality when he sees it. :bigsmile

Oy, I try that sometimes but it still looks terrible!!!  Sometimes I think I should just go with the flow and start wearing it wavy again. 

BARBARA, it will be nice to see that again!  I am looking forward to seeing Clay all "aglow ".  I think he will definitely be in his "element" at the Gala, as he seems to be so proud and happy about the NIP. 

I think you are right -- and I'm ready to see it again, too     :shappy       :shappy

Speaking of the Gala....I still need to make my plane reservations.  Here's hoping there are still some low rates available.  :cross

UPDATE AT 9:25 CDT:  DONE!  :thumb :bigsmile

MORNING--

QUICK DRIVEBY WITH A GIFT FROM CH VIA NATACANUCK AND EMERALD EYES.--

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v623/EmeraldEyes508/Misc/AtlantaAirport_8-23-09_cropped.jpg

HE LOOKS SO GOOD.  JAW BACK TO NORMAL. 

OFF TO BREAKFAST WITH A COLLEAGUE FROM MY OLD SCHOOL.  THEN, QUIET DAY.  MUST GET SOME PHONE CALLS DONE.  ENJOYING THE BEAUTY OF A NOT HUMID DAY.

GWENN

WOW!! Clay looks GREAT!! and slim, too!!

shhh- I am at work. Dont tell!!   :lol

And hopefully that means the return of a gorgeous singing voice just in time for the Gala!!!

Today is a more humid and hot day.  Well, at least the tomatoes will get a chance to ripen some more.  I think I'll eat one for breakfast.  I like to eat them just like an apple standing over the kitchen sink.  TMI????   :lol

Ugh, painter, bug man (ants periodically invade my kitchen), and furniture repair guy are going to be trooping in and out of my house today.  As GWENN would say, most definitely "ANNOYING"!   :pullhair

GWENN, have fun with your old work friend.  Always fun to catch uip on gossip!


P.S.  MARILYN, we won't tell if you don't tell!!!  And yes, Clay looks like he is once again in good "fightin' form"!  :purpbana

Have a good day, one and all!

THEA--I LOVE TO EAT TOMATOES THAT WAY ALSO!!!!  MY DAD USED TO.  SNIFF.

I HAVE BEEN SEARCHING FOR A NEW HAIR STYLE.  I THINK I FOUND THE RIGHT SALON.  RECOMMENDED BY A FRIEND'S DAUGHTER.  ER AND I ARE GONNA TRY THIS DUDE.  ALL THE REVIEWS SOUND LIKE HE IS A GENIUS.  GONNA MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FOR MID SEPTEMBER.  EXCITED.

MARILYN---YEP.  THINNER THAN WE HAVE SEEN HIM IN AGES.  HHHMMM.  WONDER WHAT THAT MEANS?

GWENN

clay aiken is back i really mis you clay

It means he's not eating chocolate cake and pickles.   :lol

(http://i31.tinypic.com/2ex93ld.jpg) i made this for all of you guyzz

http://tinypic.com/?t=postupload (http://tinypic.com/?t=postupload)

:thumb :lol

Hey arlo! :wave

I think that would be a little devil with an angel face and an angelic voice. :wink

JOHANNA, I am speechless.  And I am very, very sad for you.   :comfort :comfort :comfort  I'm so sorry that you had to come face-to-face with such ugly people.

   
   Gwen,
                Thank you for giving us the link to that lovely picture. I thought Clay looked
 
                 so young and very, very happy. Made my day to see him so relaxed.

                     Roll on October!!!             
                                                                   Betty   

Johanna,

What a horrible situation! Is there nothing you can do?? Surely, you should be able to sue for your father's possessions. This woman sounds unbalanced and used to pushing people around to get her way. It could be important for you to stand up to her and defend your father's memory. :hugg

       JOHANNA,
                             I"m so sorry you have had such heartache. People don"t seem to

             understand it"s not the money but the precious memories of our loved ones

             that count.What a mean hearted greedy   woman the daughter must be.
   
                                                                        Betty

   
     Thea,
                 So glad you got your flight, hope you got a good deal

             I will PM you about a transportation service that will drive you

             from the airport at Raleigh, to the Marriott and return, for half the

             cost of a cab.
                                                     Betty

Johanna   :hugg  So sorry you are experiencing emotional pain.  My symapthy to you and your family.   :comfort

Does anyone know where that pic of Clay was taken or what he was doing or who took it?  Just curious. 

Jill, I read somewhere that it was at the airport in Atlanta. :shrug

Thanks, Sunny. 

I am here to serve. :wink

Then serve me up some Clay, please- that will satisfy my hunger! FOR NOW!!

OMG.  SERVING CLAY.  I CAN HANDLE THAT.  :wink :naughty :bigsmile

I AM STILL TIRED FROM THE WEEKEND.  GOSSIP THIS MORNING FROM MY OLD SCHOOL.   :naughty :naughty :naughty

GONNA WATCH SOME CRAPPY TV AND RELAX.

GWENN

Another day -- another gorgeous picture of Clay.  I don't know what he was doing in Atlanta (we can only hope it was career related) but it must have gone well because he looks so darn happy.


Johanna -- I am so sorry for all you are going through.  Why is it that most families disintegrate at the times in their lives when they should be drawing closer together.  I have been there, done that and it certainly isn't one of the most pleasant memories I have.  That said, it was about 40 years ago and it was the last time I saw some members of my family but it's a dim memory now.  I guess I chose to remember the better times of my life and not dwell on the people that couldn't see beyond their own self-serving actions.

I hope with a little time things may work out better -- if not, please try to remember the good times you and your father shared and what great memories they will make.   :hugg

do you think? hayyy i thought it was ok ^^

Johanna I had more time to read back. I am so sorry for what happened with your family.

I remember when my ex's older brother decided to put their Mom in a nursing home- she had Alzheimers and would wander. They started cleaning out the house and selling things. She had a beautiful matching dining room set that I had always loved- it was over 30 years old but still in good condition. I offered them $500 for it (I know my MIL would have GIVEN it to me). They( my BIL and his wife) would not sell it to me for that amount either- they said someone else had offered them $900 so they sold it to a stranger rather than me. That cut deeply. At least my older son got a bed out of it ( I think it was his Dad's) but I dont even know if my youngest got anything.
But you can bet your bippy my SIL got dibs on anything she wanted. There were beautiful trunks missing, other knick knacks, and lord knows what happened to her jewelry. Its very sad.

I wish that you could get the photo's back- they are priceless. And the piano- the beyotch cant play but wouldnt give it to you? What a selfish moron!! I am so very sorry you had to go through that,

I somehow think that my sons will not fight over my stuff- I mean, its 90% Clay anyway  :lol , Maybe they will donate it to a museum.

I have been going to bed early lately (before 1 a.m.) This antibiotic combined with the humidity and heat makes me tired.  Tomorrow I go back to the doc so he can check the progress of my ankle healing. Yeah, and the co-pay went up to $50 for a specialist!! Arent I lucky!!

I am praying that my printer part comes in tomorrow as I have to finish my Gala donation stuff. It sure picked a great time to flake out on me!!

Still hoping to lose 100 pounds by Oct. 15th. Perhaps if I chop off my head!! 
Think I will make it  :lmao

I havent even thought of what to wear yet. I sure am not wearing the same thing I did last year. Turns out 5 other people wore the SAME top!!

Maybe I will make like project runway and make something out of silk sheets and duct tape. What??

Marilyn~ I love your outfit.. :lmao  It sounds like it would go good with my walking shoes that will have glitter :bigsmile

Marlene

I think that, for evening, something in paper clips and tea bags would be lovely. :wink

Here is some food for thought.

There is an item in our local newspaper today saying that the musical stage version of Irving Berlin's White Christmas will open at the Marquis Theater on Broadway on November 13th and run through January 3rd. It states that casting will be announced at a later date.

Could blonde hair be for a return to Broadway?

That would be nice!  :yes


Welcome to our newest members, Ms. Phyl and Arlo.   :hello2

WHAT A WAY TO GET UP THIS MORNING.  SUNNY, YOU ARE TOO MUCH. :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao

I AM WEARING WHAT I DID LAST YEAR.  I DOUBT CLAY OR ANYONE ELSE WILL REMEMBER. :naughty :blush :para

JOHANNA---FAMILY IS USUALLY ANNOYING ESPECIALLY WHEN THERE IS ILLNESS OR DEATH.  SINCE MY AUNT PASSED AWAY, I DON'T SEE ANY OF MY COUSINS.  SINCE BARRY'S AUNT PASSED, WE DON'T SEE HIS.  IT IS VERY SAD.  THAT IS WHY OUR FRIENDS MEAN SO MUCH TO US.  YOU CAN PICK YOUR FRIENDS, ETC.  MY PARENTS LEFT SO LITTLE THAT MY BROTHER AND I DIDN'T FIGHT OVER ANYTHING.  THAT WAS FINE.  BUT I DO REMEMBER WHEN MY GRANDMOTHER PASSED AWAY, THERE WAS ONLY 1 THING I WANTED AND MY UNCLE WOULDN'T GIVE IT TO ME.  MY MOTHER DIDN'T FIGHT HIM FOR IT FOR ME.  LIFE WENT ON.   :hugg :hugg :hugg

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS. :bigsmile

I DON'T KNOW IF BLOND HAIR IS A RETURN TO BROADWAY, BUT MY GUT TELLS ME IT IS A RETURN FROM A YEAR OFF.  HE IS LOOKING MIGHTY FINE.  :yum :yum :yum :yum MAYBE HE WILL TELL US SOMETHING AT THE GALA.

GOTTA GET SOME COFFEE.

GWENN

Okay- I tried to quote Sunny and it said "Session Verification failed" 2 times. If I just hit reply it works.

ANYWAY.....I think your idea is great- but I will have to go to Costco to get enough teabags. I think 50 boxes might do it- thanks for the idea!!


Here is some WONDERFUL news:

US Lutherans affirm gay/lesbian clergy and allow blessings of same sex unions



 BLOG HER (http://www.blogher.com/us-lutherans-affirm-gay-lesbian-clergy-and-allow-blessings-same-sex-unions)

I really think that Clay would be a good candidate for the Danny Kay Role EXCEPT they would probably have to eliminate the tap dancing (or then again, Clay could surprise us!!!)

We can dream................

Welcome Ms. Phyl and Arlo

I DON'T CARE WHAT CLAY DOES.  JUST DO SOMETHING.

GWENN

RIP SENATOR KENNEDY. 

I think you're right, Gwenn. It's sort of like picking up where he left off--at least, looks-wise.

Johanna,

I don't think The Daughter has any interest in learning to play that piano--her satisfaction is in keeping it from you. Hopefully, after a while, she'll decide it's too big, taking up too much room, or is too expensive to move to some new house she's getting, and she'll give it to you.

Good afternoon!

My condolences go out to the Kennedy's on their loss.

I'm glad you're back home safe and sounds, JOHANNA!  And I wish you were coming to the Gala, too!  :hugg


I think you're right on the money there, MS SUNNY.  There's a Greek word for people like The Daughter that I am tempted to repeat but won't in case somebody knows Greek around here.  :wink

Welcome to our new members  MS PHYL and ARLO.  :wave :wave

Back from early lunch out with friends.  Now back out to run errands as long as I'm all "gussied up".   :bigsmile   :wave

 

 :lmao  :clap  GWENN.  Had to respond to this.  Priceless!  :lmao

Bitch-apolis?

 :lol  MARILYN, how about if you lose 25 lbs and I lose 25 lbs by October 15?  Then each of us could invest in a good Spanx bodyslimmer to lop off a few more inches around the derriere.   That's a good start and methinks it's doable!!!!   :bigsmile


GUFFAWWW!, MS SUNNY!!  :lmao :lmao

tnx for the welcome :wink im a late fan of clay aiken.bcoz  here in the phillipines they did not coverage that season 2.how sad

arlo,

The Philippines? Cool! How did you come to be a Clay fan?

I CANNOT STOP PLAYING JY.  OMG.  I LOVE THAT SONG. 

GONNA MAKE BARRY SOME DINNER.  PLAYING MAH JONGG TONIGHT.  I REALLY DIDN'T THINK I WOULD.  ONE OF MY DEAREST FRIENDS IS IN THIS GROUP AND HER DIL WAS DUE TO DELIVER ON MONDAY.  WELL, SHE DIDN'T.  POOR THING.  WHEN I SAW THE MOM-TO-BE IN JUNE, SHE WAS ENORMOUS.  ALL BABY.  NOT ANYWHERE ELSE.  THIS KID MUST BE HUGE. 


DID YOU SEE CLAY IN LAS VEGAS IN THE DAVID FOSTER SHOW?

GWENN

 
       Hello Arlo and Welcome,
                   
                                  It"s always good to meet a new Clay fan. You will enjoy these ladies.
 
                            My name is Betty and I am originally from England.     

                                                                                                     

its funny coz i accidentally watch his video hehe.but when i heard his voice wow his awsome .
@corvet txt mam
@gwen nope i hope ido  :smile

now i know why are asking if i watch clay bcoz there is charize ^^

ARLO - Welcome to Claymaniacs.  I am one of the fans named Barbara who post here.  Unfortunately, I don't post real often - - but the people who dwell here are a wonderful group of smart and witty women . . . and we are very fond of Clay Aiken.

Even tho' we live all scattered about the USA, many of us were lucky to meet each other while attending Clay concerts and also traveling to New York when he was in Spamalot.

Drop in anytime . . . .  :bouncy :bouncy

Barbara

OH . . . . . the dreaded "double posting"!  :para

JOHANNA -  My heart felt so heavy when you told us that you had completely lost some very meaningful remembrances from days gone by  . . . things that meant so much to you and connected you to your father - because of the selfish acts of others.

I am so happy that at least some of these memorable family pictures and such have been "found".  You never can put a price tag on something that can fill a void following the loss of a loved one..  Too bad that some people see only the $$$$ and not what can fill someone's heart. :hugg   As usual, through all of this . . . . you remained a woman of class!  :hugg

MORNING--

YUCKY OUT BUT I DON'T MIND.  PLAYING MAH JONGG LATER.  GONNA DO SOME HOUSEWORK.  WASH.  NOT FUN STUFF BUT IT HAS TO BE DONE.

NO CLAY CONTENT.  WISH THERE WAS SOMETHING.

GWENN

Welcome Arlo~ My name is Marlene, and I live in Raleigh NC.,the hometown of Clay Aiken,the object of our

affection  :heartburst

Gwenn, it amazes me how busy you always stay.


Just 51 days until the Gala    :fruit

Only 2 more weeks of physical therapy   :shappy

WELL, LADIES, MY MAH JONGG TOUCH IS FADING.  I DID WELL LAST NIGHT, BUT TODAY---A TOTAL BOMB.  :bang :bang :bang

I DO TRY TO KEEP BUSY.  IF IT ISN'T FOR ME, IT IS FOR BARRY.  WE ARE USUALLY BUSY DURING THE WEEK.  NOT SO MUCH WEEKENDS CAUSE I REFUSE TO PAY BIG BUCKS FOR DINNERS.

TOMORROW WE ARE GONG TO VISIT BARRY'S BEST FRIEND AT THE SHORE.  NO BEACH, BUT A POOL.  SINCE THE WEATHER IS NOT GONNA BE GREAT, THAT IS FINE SINCE THE POOL IS PARTIALLY INDOORS.  NOT MUCH ON THE WEEKEND FOR NOW.

WE NEED ANOTHER PEAK AT THAT MAN.  WHERE IS HE NOW?

GWENN

 :thud :thud :thud

Thank You Decca. :notworthy

OMG, HE LOOKS AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!  AND THIN!!!!!!!!!

GWENN

Arlo -- Hello and welcome    :wave

We love new Clay fans around here.  Just make yourself at home and have a great time.



OMG!! How many gorgeous pictures can my heart stand in one week.  Oh wait, the doctor said there is nothing wrong with my heart -- good thing or these pictures would kill me.   :lmao

This is just the beginning of bigger and better things.  GO CLAY

!!!!!!!!S-T-U-B-B-L-E!!!!!!!!!!

 :yum   :heart

Barbara ~ I agree...but it definetly made my heart go pitter patter :heart, and my blood pressure I'm sure is up...

 :wow   and    :thud  is all I can say.   He is handsome and  :hot2

GO TO P 102 AT CV AND LOOK FOR THE HUGE PIC.  YOU WILL PASS OUT.

GWENN

   

     He looks FABULOUS......   very hip!!!! :goo

 
        GORGEOUS!  GORGEOUS! GORGEOUS MAN.  WOW!!!!!!!!
   
                                 Betty

And Clay doesn't look too bad, either.

 
       SUNNY,
 
                    I CAN ALWAYS COUNT ON YOU TO MAKE ME LAUGH.

                                               THANK YOU!!!!!!
   
                                              Betty

HOLY CARP! (quoting Aikenseeker from days gone by)!  The freckles, stubble, hair, smile, eyes  . . .   :thud

Yep . . . . I still have a pulse and a "hankerin'".  :bigsmile

Clay may think twitter is the devil, but right now I'm lovin' it...

The devil for me is Oreo Peanut /Butter cookies :bigsmile  How I am suppose to lose 10 more lbs with these in the house?

Make note to self: DO NOT sent husband to grocery store again.


Just checked out the twit site and it has had 4033 views so far...Clay Nation is showing Decca some love.

IF HE SHOWS UP AT THE GALA LOOKING LIKE THAT, WE MAY ALL PASS OUT.  I DON'T THINK HE HAS EVER LOOKED BETTER.  OMG.  I AM JUST TOAST.

GWENN

Barb,~ I agree with you that picture about took my breath away...my goodness the stubble, his mouth, the smile, his eyes ,his hair, the hair pulled back /with sunglasses on his head .

He has definetly been scrutinized by me and  :wow   :explode

I am also loving Decca right now, and the respect they are showing our man.

Gwenn ~ If he should show up looking like that at the Gala Betty assured me she has smelling salts :bigsmile

So, David Novik (you know, the other guy in the picture) is the head of A & R for Decca. Isn't/Wasn't that what Jaymes did for RCA? Does this mean Clay will have to have a new EP? :pray

 :music "Let it be, Let it be."... :music   :please

(http://img37.imageshack.us/img37/1005/decca.png)

Lookin' good, honey buns!   :slick :wiggle

(I figured this picture was worth taking up extra bandwith)...

:cross "Whisper words of wisdom...." :cross

     
        I"m bringing revival kits for everyone at the Gala. If Clay turns up looking

        as hot as that picture they will be needed.
 
                                         Betty

]LET IT BE, YOU HEAR THAT CLAY?, LET IT BE!!!  

                                               GULP :lol HE SURE DID GROW UP DIDN'T HE.

This has been such a fun evening...but I've been sitting with my new knee down for to long & thats a no, no.  I just couldn't seem to drag myself away from all the excitement, but I want to be able to walk tomorrow, because I'm going to water aerobics early in the morning (9:30) I love it because we are at the outdoor swimming pool,( they are doing maintance on the indoor pool.)

Nite all,and pleasant dreams.   No telling what may show up tomorrow.

He's the yummiest thing I've ever laid eyes on.  :thud

Nice eyes, great smile, hip look with the sunglasses.........


SLENDER, Check out those BICEPS straining the hem of the short sleeve shirt. And doesnt he look a little tan, too?***


hummina hummina!!

**eta- just checking to make sure the arm fuzz is still there!!! :lol

Gee, all I saw was that he was smiling and hadn't shaved. :blush

I wondered the same thing when I saw his title      :smile

LINDSAY -  You have said it all !   A picture is worth a thousand words.   :bigsmile    And ends up with a THUD!  :thud

                                            I THINK I LOVE DECCA. :hugg EAT YOUR HEART OUT RCA

MY INCREDIBLE LUCK WITH THE SHORE CONTINUES.  TERRIBLE WEATHER, BUT OH WELL.  THERE IS THIS HOT DUDE WHOSE LATEST PIC IS BURNED INTO MY BRAIN.  AND GOOD FRIENDS.  LATER LADIES.

GWENN

From your post to God's ears!   :please


Stubble sure does make the man, doesn't it?  This is one supper-hot picture!   :thud  I wasn't really crazy about the Atlanta pic, but this?  Holy Crap!   :wow :flame :shower :hot2   I just want to see him look like this on tour.  Hurry, Clay!  Get that CD out and get on that tour bus! 



Oh, and don't shave!   :blush

OMG, I killed the thread!!!   :para

Or, did that last picture of Clay kill everyone?   :bduh

Personally, I think it was you, Micki. :wink

Could be that we are all just hyperventilating    :bigsmile

BACK FROM THE SHORE.  WE HAD A VERY NICE TIME ALTHOUGH IT ABSOLUTELY POURED MOST OF THE DAY.  BUT OUR FRIENDS HAVE AN INDOOR POOL.  AND THEY GAMBLE A LOT SO WE GOT A FREE DINNER  AND DRINKS AT THE TAJ.  WE ARE HOME SAFE SO IT IS ALL GOOD.

I SEE WE ARE ALL STILL THUDDING.  GOOD TIMES.

GONNA GO CHECK AROUND.

GWENN

A VERY YOUNG FAN PASSED AWAY THE OTHER DAY.  THE NAME SEEMS FAMILIAR FROM WAY BACK IN THE EARLY DAYS OF OUR FANDOM.  ANYWAY, I THOUGHT THIS WAS QUITE A LOVELY THING FOR FAYE TO DO.  SHE ISN'T MY FAVORITE PERSON, BUT IT WAS LOVELY OF HER TO SEND SUCH A WARM CONDOLENCE MESSAGE TO THIS GIRL'S FAMILY.


GWENN

What's better than a new photo of Clay to play with!!

Lots of Clay with Sally's Claze and a Rebus puzzles, plus a couple of exciting favourite videos to create some more enthusiasm:

Clay-The Man Fans Share Enthusiasm (http://ashes-clay-theman.blogspot.com/)

Yeah to Decca! It's neat they promote their artists, and noticed the response to their Tweet on Clay! Last time I checked, the photo has been viewed over 20,000 times..

 :hugg  to you for your visits to my blog .

Ashes

Johanna~ GOOD FOR YOU, & CONGRATULATIONS.    :yay

 

Gwenn~Thanks for bringing over the article about Khrystna, that was such a shame . There is also a video from the TV station that is very touching,which also includes a Clay mention.
This has been a great loss to her family.friends & community.


I am going "SHOPPING" today with my GD...This will be an adventure for me, as it will be the first time I've been shopping since my surgery...Hope I haven't forgot how :bigsmile
My GD is turning 10, and I am taking her B/D shopping..I no longer know how little girls like to dress, in my opinion to sexy & to funky..but thats JMO.
 I'm prepared~ I've got my ankle & knee braces on ,and have taken my pain medicine,have my cane, so I'm good to go. :lol Wish me luck!

 
           Gwen,
                           Thank you for bringing Faye"s message about Khrystena.
                    How very sad for her family, her parents must be devastated.

                                                Betty

         
       mimi,
                   You sound like bionic woman with all your equipment!
 
                  Enjoy your day out and good luck finding clothes for your
                  G/D, I agree, today"s teen clothes are much too revealing.
             
                                                         Betty

My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family of  Katryna (sp?)  And I agree that it was lovely for Faye to comeforth and offer her public condolences.  Thanks for posting this, GWENN

JOHANNA, I am beyond thrilled for you as you move to your new retirement home!!!!   Bless your heart, you deserve all of the happiness your heart can hold!   :hugg :hugg

MARLENE, good luck on your first "solo expedition"!!!  And I agree with BETTY that today's teen clothes are way too revealing.  Do they really need to show their belly buttons and what little cleavage they might have at that age???  Does anybody need to do that, for that matter???  IMHO a little "mystery" is always good  :slick

MORNING---

OMG, IT IS RAINING YET AND STILL.  I AM SO SICK OF THIS SOGGY CRAP.  IF WE HAVE A WINTER LIKE WE HAVE HAD A SUMMER, THE ENTIRE NORTHEASTERN PART OF THE US WILL BE UNDER SNOW AND ICE.

NOTHING ON THE AGENDA TODAY.  HOPING ER STOPS BY.  I NEED SOME FB HELP.  MICHELLE--- :hugg :hugg :hugg

JOHANNA--BEST OF LUCK ON YOUR NEW HOME.  IT MUST BE INCREDIBLY EXCITING. 

MARLENE--ENJOY YOUR DAY WITH YOUR GD.  IT WILL BE FUN AND EXHAUSTING, BUT SO WORTH IT.  BE PREPARED TO BE TOLD THAT YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT IS IN, ETC.    :bigsmile :naughty :wink  JUST ENJOY HER.

SO, I SEE THERE ARE OVER 22,OOO HITS ON THE DECCA SITE FOR THE PIC.  I AM SURE THERE IS SPAMMING GOING ON, BUT AT LEAST DECCA KNOWS THAT THE CLAYNATION IS ALIVE AND SOMEWHAT WELL.

GWENN

Johann, Congratulations!! Good luck with your new home!!

Marlene, take it easy but enjoy!!

Gwenn, I think this is the wettest summer I have ever experienced!

OOPS!! Forgot it was Saturday and news time!! Bad Marilyn!!

..

'Same thing here in the Midwest, MARILYN.  But at least the tomato plants have thrived as a result.   I just put a bunch from our garden in our freezer.  It tastes so good to add fresh frozen tomatoes to chili and spaghetti sauce in the middle of the winter. 

GWENN, I saved a couple to eat over the kitchen sink, though!   My dad, also,  is the one who taught me to do that!
:wink
Off for the day's activities.  Have a great day and TTYL!  :sonic

P.S.  Clay mention:  My new avie is in honor of the National Inclusion Project.  I tried to fit Clay's picture in there, as well, but "no dice".   :no

THIS IS TOTALLY O/T BUT I FEEL COMPELLED TO WRITE THIS.

I JUST FINISHED WATCHING THE FUNERAL OF TED KENNEDY.  I LEARNED MORE ABOUT HIM THIS MORNING THAN I KNEW.  MUCH WONDERFUL STUFF.  A GREAT MAN NO MATTER WHAT YOUR POLITICS.  A MAN WHO LEARNED FROM MISTAKES AND SOUGHT TO HELP THOSE WHO WERE UNABLE TO HELP THEMSELVES.  A MAN WHO WAS AN AMAZING FATHER.  A MAN WHO COULD HAVE SAT BACK AND FELT SORRY FOR HIMSELF BASED ON ALL THE LOSSES HE EXPERIENCED BUT CHOSE TO RISE ABOVE.  A MAN WHO HAD ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD BUT WORRIED ABOUT THOSE WHO HAD LITTLE.

NOT A PERFECT MAN FOR SURE.  WE ALL KNOW ABOUT HIS YOUTH AND HIS MISTAKES. EVEN IN REMEMBERANCES IT WAS ALLUDED TO. I GUESS WHEN SOMEONE DOES SOME AWFUL STUFF AS A YOUNG PERSON AND STRIVES FOR THE REST OF HIS/HER LIFE TO MAKE IT BETTER, THAT PERSON DESERVES SOME PROPS.

I DIDN'T KNOW THAT HE CHOSE TO TAKE ON THE ROLE OF FATHER TO JFK'S AND RFK'S CHILDREN.  HE DIDN'T HAVE TO DO THAT CONSIDERING THEY HAD MOTHERS.  BUT HE DID.  AND THEY WERE INCLUDED IN THE PROCESSIONAL ALONG WITH HIS CHILDREN.

I WAS TOUCHED BY SO MANY THINGS.  IT FELT GOOD TO SEE AND HEAR THAT FAMILY COME TOGETHER.  IT FELT GOOD TO SEE A MAN WHO WAS STRONG AND A LEADER.  IT FELT GOOD TO BE PATRIOTIC AND APPRECIATE HIS ACCOMPLISHMENTS.

I WATCHED THE FUNERALS OF BOTH OF HIS BROTHERS.  IT WAS FITTING THAT I WATCH HIS.  HE HAS LEFT QUITE A LEGACY.

GWENN

GWENN - I watched the funeral also.  Very meaningful.  He had his flaws (as we all do) but he was a strong political leader . .  right to the end.  He certainly was no stranger to family tragedies and loss.  His committment to all the members of his family was so commendable.  The next generation seems to have drawn strength and wisdom from him.  R.I.P Senator Kennedy.

I just finalized my flight plans for the weekend of the Gala! I sure hope we will have the opportunity to spend some Claymaniac time together!  :bouncy :bouncy   

BTW - Just talked to Marilyn on the phone.  She is having computer problems with her "other" computer right now  . . . so she said she may not be posting this weekend, but she is working on it!  :smile

It is raining and dreary here.  I probably should get some serious housework done.  :para

:cheer2 Johanna!!!!! Congrats on the move! Hope you love it.

Clay was spotted seeing 9 to 5 in NY last night by this blogger. http://lapbandcub.blogspot.com/2009/08/40-days.html Loving all these sightings.

I also saw him write on Trenyce's wall on her Facebook today. The real Clay, not the fake one. I have her as a friend. He was guessing something that she was doing that's her 1st love. He just said theater.

Speaking of FB, Gwenn I wanted to add you as my friend but not sure if you seen it. Just wanted you to know. Michelle went away to the beach for a few days.

 :wave  Hello Hello! Its been a while but I wanted to post a quick picture of Ava and a quick post? hehe...

(http://i307.photobucket.com/albums/nn303/Beenclayed/Avalyn/100_0701.jpg)

She's wearing her baptismal gown. We had her christening on August 8th. Been a busy few months and as much I wanted to post here, things were just popping up!

I'm happy like everyone about the news of Clay's new record label :fruit I swear I cannot wait to hear his voice again and OMG that man just looks better and better!!!

 :thud Is it me or does he look leaner and just downright good enough to mmmm mmmm! :bigsmile LOL

Okay well I posted another picture of me and hubby on my birthday @ OCD if you guys want to look there but I know I have some catching up to do here. I hope everyone has been well and have missed reading your posts..

Jules :bigsmile

SHE IS GORGEOUS, JULES.  GOOD TO SEE YA. :hugg :hugg :hugg

GWENN

 
     Jules,
                 What a beautiful baby you have. She looks like she is a
               very happy little one, you must be very proud!!!

                    Her eyes are gorgeous, so big.

                                                         Betty

Jules...what a cutie patootie your little Ava is!  And her christening dress is magnificent!   Is it a family heirloom or did you buy it brand new (for Ava's little brothers and sisters to come... :wink?)

While Phil and I were out and about today I mentioned to him about Clay's being signed on with Decca Records.  Phil was very impressed, which when it comes to Clay is pretty unusual. 

OK, that's about the extent of my Clay mentions.  Sorry...next time I'll try to do better!   :lol

P.S.  The fact that the late Senator Ted Kennedy and  Senator Orrin Hatch  of Utah could be best friends speaks volumes for the fact that there was a whole lot more to him than ever met the eye.  Both are very devoted to their families and their ideals. It's obvious that something brought those two together as lifetime friends.  I believe it was their love and devotion to our country.   R.I.P, Senator Kennedy.  You were a great American. 

MORNING TO EVERYONE.

IT ISN'T RAINING.  THAT IS NEWS.

QUIET DAY HERE.  BUSY WEEK AHEAD.  GONNA JUST FINISH CHORES AND READ.

GWENN

IT HAS BEEN ALMOST 8 HOURS.  AM I LIVING ALONE HERE???????

GWENN

:wave :wave :wave

Hey Gwenn! I'm around; I just don't have much to say. :shrug

And I can't get into my facebook page cuz I can't remember my password. :bang

MAYBE YOU CAN GO ON MINE AND CLICK ON YOUR NAME?

GWENN

              Gwenn,


    I think we are all recovering from looking at the new Clay!!  Knocked us all
      speechless.
   
                                        Betty

I'll give it a try, Gwenn!

Hope everyone has had a great weekend.  Kinda quiet here but that is nice every now and then.


Johanna - congratulations on your new home.


Marlene - I hope you survived the shopping trip


Dare we hope for another great picture this coming week    :shappy      :shappy

Or we won't be picky -- any Clay news will do just fine    :clap

I did SURVIVE.  Surprisingly I didn't lose my ability to get the most for my money..

I took my GD to Kohl's, and we were lucky because they are having a big sale now, and I had a coupon for an additional 30%.
I decided to also shop for my other GD while everything was on sale. I spent $301.00, but after all the sale items, and my with my discount ,I saved $575.00..My DH , son, and DIL were quite impressed.   
The girls loved their new clothes, and put on a "Fashion Show" today for their Mom & Dad.
When I talked to them late this evening they were trying to decide which outfit to wear tomorrow.  My GDs are 8 ,and the other soon to be 10...Cute as can be.

I got tired & knee started stiffening up while shopping ,so the store had a wheelchair available and I took advantage of it.(Where theres a will ,theres a way) My GD enjoyed pushing me around the store.

I'm getting excited about going back to work tomorrow...Getting up at 5:00am, will be hard since I've become a lazy bum,and have been sleeping sometimes until almost 9:00.

Hope everyone had a nice weekend...Maybe we'll get another pretty picture this week, at least we can hope.

Marlene :hugg

OH MY GOD I THINK I'M IN LOVE!!! :thud

MORNING--

BARRY GETS HIS EPIDURAL TODAY.  PRAY THAT IT WORKS.  ONE STEP AT A TIME.  HANDS LAST WEEK.  BACK THIS WEEK.  VERTIGO NEXT.  OY.

LORI--SO, YOU SAW IT??????   :bigsmile AND LIKE IT?????? :blush

MARLENE---YOU AND YOUR GD'S HAD SO MUCH FUN.  AND YOU DID IT ALL BY YOURSELF.   :clap :clap :clap

LATER.

GWENN

Marlene, good luck on your first day back at work.

Johanna, congrats on your new home.

Jules, Ava is a living doll!  And, her dress is gorgeous! 

Lori, I was beginning to wonder if I'd ever see the hot man I fell in love with again.  Damn, he pulled it off with that picture!  I think Decca should cut that other man out of the picture and use it for his NEW CD COVER!   Clay looks too hot and cool for words!   :thud  And he said he couldn't pull off cool. 

This has been an interesting morning..I went back to work today...

I left for work at 6:15am, drove to Rebecca's..left for school,and dropped her off at 7:45am. Now I'm off for the rest of the day until 2:00...I tell you this is rough work but someone has to do it :bigsmile

I just finished doing my excerises, so now I'm just waiting to go back to work.

I was going to go to water aerobics but it would be in the outdoor pool,and it's raining & and only 68 degrees, so no water aerobics for me today.

What a great idea Micki to make that his CD cover.  My God the man is hot!!!  So glad to have him back!!!!!

Gwenn - oh yeah I definitely 100% like it!!   :clap

LOVE THE IDEA OF USING THAT PIC FOR A CD COVER.  HONESTLY, HE NEVER LOOKED BETTER OR HOTTER.  WHEW.  I AM STILL SIZZLING.

WELL, BARRY HAD HIS EPIDURAL.  THE DOCTOR SAID TO EXPECT TO FEEL SOME RELIEF IN A DAY OR 2 SO I FEEL FREE TO GO TO THE SHORE TOMORROW WITH ONE OF MY DEAREST FRIENDS.  PRAY IT DOESN'T RAIN.  SHE IS TAKING ME TO A RESTAURANT FOR LUNCH AS A BELATED BIRTHDAY GIFT.  I HAVE ALWAYS WANTED TO GO TO THIS PLACE, BUT IT IS NOT CHEAP AND WE HAVE NEVER GOTTEN THERE.  SO, THIS WILL BE A TREAT.  I ALSO AM HOPING TO WALK IN THE OCEAN AND FEEL THAT SEA BREEZE IN MY HAIR.  CAN'T WAIT.

GONNA GO SIT IN THE SUN AND READ ON THIS PRETTY DAY.

GWENN

Wow.

Doesn't it blow you away?  When you think about being here and the hours you've  been here and the friendships you've made?   

Lori...hope to see you Claytrekking... Hi Pam...and Pamela.... I so enjoyed our time Pam.....so where is your next solo getaway?  Are you and Moonie keeping it up?

xoxo

me

I SEE THINGS ARE CERTAINLY QUIET HERE.  WOW.  TOO QUIET FOR ME.

HER---GOOD TO SEE YA.  HAVEN'T SINCE FLORIDA 2 YEARS AGO.  WOW.

WELL, I WILL BE OFF TO THE SHORE TODAY FOR AN OVERNIGHT.  IT SEEMS THE SUN IS SHINING AND NO RAIN.  A FIRST THIS SUMMER FOR ME.  CHILLY IS OK.  WILL BE WITHOUT INTERNET FOR ALMOST 2 DAYS.  MAYBE WHEN I GET HOME, I WON'T BE THE LAST TO POST? :wink :naughty :para

GWENN

Her!! :bouncy :purpbana :hugg

I've been thinking of you! I thought you had left the board because I hadn't seen you around in so long. I miss you. I'm so glad you popped in! :bouncy

Moonie and I are still partners in crime. :wink  And I'm going to be taking a few days and heading out west, just for a break, in a few weeks. I'm really looking forward to it. :bigsmile

Please drop in and post more! :hugg

Hi too you Miss Gwenn.   :hugg

Sunny, I read almost every day...just don't post so much-maybe once a week on OCD.  So, when are you coming down again???   Would love to do lunch.  :hugg

Hi HER,
I will always remember how thoughtful you are when you sent me a CD that  you did at one of Clay's concert's! :hugg

ROSEMARY

Ohmygosh, I wish I'd known that! I would have been in touch! :hugg


Well, now that I've got an invitation, I'll have to figure something out. :bigsmile

:wave  Haven't posted lately 'cause I don't have much to say.  I'm sure you don't want to hear about how I had my carpets cleaned today and how all of my furniture is clustered in one spot in our foyer.  :lol  Tomorrow we get to move everything back into place now that the painting is all done.  Next step is having the new dining room, foyer, hallways light fixtures hung.  Just a work in progress.   I often think we're crazy for having gotten involved in this project, :bduh  but I know the results will be striking. 

 'Looking forward to the Gala!  I'd love to hear about what everybody will be wearing.   :bouncy

'Never stops me. :wink

I don't have much to say either because just going to work and back home each day is not all that interesting.  I'm not complaining though because at least I am still able to do that.

Thea, I have no idea what I am going to wear to the Gala.  Last year I just wore a pair of navy slacks and a top that at least wasn't a T-shirt  :bigsmile.  I have a black skirt if I can find a top to go with it.  There are people there dressed in all types of clothes (except maybe jeans).

 
      Barb,
                Hello, how are you? I am really looking forward to seeing you again.



       Thea,
                    Last year I wore a long black skirt and a black top, this year I am
 
                  going to be original and wear a long black skirt and a black top.

                      As Barbara said people wear all kinds of things, you might see a
                   young man in flip flops and cargo pants!!!
                     
                                                        Good Night  Sweet Dreams

                                                                                   Betty

 :wave   Hey Betty

I'm looking forward to seeing you again also.

It sounds like your wardrobe is about as varied as mine   :bigsmile

See you soon.

Hi folks...just a one second post...lol!...no internet hookup yet...lots and lots to share, soon as I'm 'connected' to you all again. Sunny, are you headed out CA way?  That'd be terrific!!

Hi, Jayne!  Good to see your post!     :wave

Have fun at the shore, Gwenn!  Say hi to Nicki for me (that's where you're going, right)?

Pam, if it kills me, I'm coming to NC next year! Hopefully, I'll have my new motorized scooter, and I'll be able to keep up.  I miss you guys!   

Well now....so far it's 2 black outfits for the Gala.  Black is always appropriate IMO.  I think I'll probably wear my brown (a.k.a. "the new black"?) dressy crepe pantsuit (wore it for son #2 wedding reception).  Not really that dressy except for the fabric.  I'll keep it non-glitzy with some more casual jewelry.  Thanks, BETTY and BARBARA for the input! 

I have to be honest about the Gala.  Yes, I'm excited to see Clay after all of these years, but my main reason for attending is to see all of my dear friends that I've made over the years.   :ghug2

MICKI, I truly wish you could attend this year, but certainly mobility problems are a huge impediment to travelling.  I hope that motorized scooter materializes.  I understand they are absolutely Godsends to so many people.

JOHANNA!  So have you moved in?  Are you posting at a nearby WiFi cafre (Panera's? Starbucks?).    I am so excited for you.  I trust you're not anywhere near all of the crazy CA wildfires???

GWENN, I agree that the latest photo of Clay would be spectacular for a CD cover.  Do I dare say that finally Clay's now looking like a real man instead of a boy????   Although that boyish look always melted my heart.    :slick  Have fun at the shore.

SUNNY , have fun "out west".  Wherever that may be.  Heck, that could even mean Tennessee or Nebraska.  :lol  So enjoy wherever you go!

Have to get my day started.  Thank goodness I have a cleaning lady here to whip my house back into shape.  Haven't cleaned in almost a month.

Only as far as Arizona, Johanna. This time, anyway. :slick

If I do get a chance to get out your way, I'll definitely let you know so we can get together! :bigsmile

Well, don't let it kill you, Micki! That would spoil all the fun of seeing you again--which I do want to do! I'm already looking forward to next year. :hugg

You're right, Dev--from Raleigh, Tennessee could be out west! :lol :lol

I'm just going to AZ for a couple days. :wink

I love AZ.  Enjoy!!!  :hugg

Will do! :thumb :hugg

      Thea,
                 I agree, Clay's new look makes him much look more mature.

                 IMO he is a wonderful man and a far better man than his

                  biological  and stepfather ever were.

                                     Betty

Hi BETTY!  :hugg  No arguments from this camp!

 :lol  Betty, thanks for the chuckle. 

Micki.....  :hugg   

 :wave Jayne  It's been too long...hope you'll keep in touch here.

I'll be wearing black to the Gala, also, Thea....sounds like we're going to a funeral.  :lol

Jill, you sure don't need it but, in my case, they say black makes you look smaller --

and I need all the help I can get.   :bigsmile

I'M  BACK!!!!!!!  I HAD THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME.  THE WEATHER WAS SPECTACULAR.  THE BEST IT COULD BE.  DID THE BEACH TWICE.  YESTERDAY WE WALKED SOME AND SAT FOR ALMOST 3 HOURS. WALKING IN THE OCEAN IS JUST HEAVENLY TO ME.  TODAY WE DID THE WALKING AGAIN AND THEN WENT OUT FOR A WONDERFUL LUNCH IN A VERY CLASSY RESTAURANT.  GLORIOUS FOOD.  BEAUTIFUL ATMOSPHERE.  THEN A LITTLE SHOPPING AND BACK TO REALITY.  I FEEL REFRESHED.

MICKI-- GET THAT THING AND LEARN HOW TO USE IT. :hugg

WELL, I WILL BE IN BLACK ALSO.  THE SAME THING I WORE LAST YEAR.  SINCE WE DON'T GO TO MANY AFFAIRS LIKE THAT, I HAVE ONE BLACK TIE TYPE OUTFIT.  THAT IS IT.  BLACK OR NOT, I WILL NOT LOOK SMALL ENOUGH. 

THE IDEA OF JILL LOOKING SMALLER--- :bduh :bduh :bduh  NEVER IN MY LIFE WAS I AS SMALL AS SHE IS. 

THEA---YOUR OUTFIT WILL BE PERFECT.  BARB IS RIGHT.  SPOOKY LAID OUT ALMOST $100,000 AND LOOKED LIKE SHE WAS GOING TO WALMART.  THEN THERE WERE LONG GOWNS BUT MOST WERE APPROPRIATELY DRESSED.  EVEN JAYMES JUST HAD ON A BLACK DRESS.  SHE LOOKED WONDERFUL  YOU SURE COULDN'T TELL SHE JUST HAD A BABY 6 WEEKS BEFORE.  OF COURSE, THE MAIN GUEST LOOKED ----HOT. :wink

ANOTHER BABY WAS BORN.  MY DEAR FRIEND BECAME A GRANDMOM YESTERDAY.  BOY, THESE GIRLS TODAY DO IT RIGHT.  THE NEW MOM GOT AN EPIDURAL AT 4 CM AND SLEPT THROUGH HER LABOR.  GOT UP AT 5 AND DELIVERED BY 5:50.  NO PAIN.  OY.  SO, I HAVE SOME SHOPPING TO DO.  I DON'T BUY A GIFT FOR A BABY UNTIL AFTER IT IS BORN.  NOW THAT JACK IS HERE, I AM GONNA TAKE MARION'S IDEA AND GET A SERIES OF CHILDREN'S BOOKS.  THE KID HAS MORE CLOTHES ALREADY THAN A DEPARTMENT STORE.

JAYNE--L0VED SEEING YOU. :hugg ATCHA

BETTY--YOU DID LOOK LOVELY IN BLACK.

GWENN

Gwenn, it sounds like you had a wonderful time.

I'm not a great beach person but I do love to walk about ankle deep in the water in the morning or in the early evening -- feels wonderful and so peaceful.

Jill and Betty could wear anything they want because they are both so small.  If I was ever that small it was more years ago than I care to count.   :lol

Then you definitely had a good vacation, GWENN!   :clap :hugg

   :yeahthat    2 Jills = 1 Thea

I love the idea of buying books for new babies.  I have always bought books like Mother Goose collections. .  My kids grew up on nursery rhymes.  I wonder sometimes if I warped them by  reading to them about Humpty Dumpty falling down and breaking into a lot of pieces.....or cows jumping over the moon and dishes running away with spoons???    :para  :bubble :dust

 :wave BARBARA!!! 

Question:   Will all of you stil talk to me at the Gala if I'm the only one not wearing black????  :lol

We'll certainly consider it   :lol.

HI!!!!!

BUSY MORNING.  MY SURROGATE GRANDSON CAME TO VISIT.  HE IS SO SWEET AND SO CUTE. SMILING AND MAKING SOUNDS.  GROWING LIKE A WEED.  I GOT TO FEED HIM, BURP HIM, AND HE SLEPT IN MY ARMS FOR ALMOST A HALF HOUR.  I LOOOOOOVVVVVVEEEEE BABIES.

THEN THIS AFTERNOON, I AM OFF TO BARNES AND NOBLE TO GET ANOTHER BABY GIFT FOR A GOOD FRIEND WHO BECAME A GRANDMOM ON MONDAY. 

THEY ARE ALL AROUND ME. 

SO, WONDER WHAT IS NEW WITH CLAY.  SAW PIX OF REED WITHOUT A SHIRT.  SOME ABS ON THAT MAN.  WHEW.  JUST TOO NARROW FOR MY TASTE.  I AM SO SURE CLAY LOOKS SO BUFF CAUSE HE HAS BEEN WORKING OUT WITH REED.  WOULDN'T MIND SEEING CLAY WITHOUT A SHIRT. :blush :naughty :bigsmile

GWENN

You ladies crack me up!    :lmao :lmao  I'm sure whatever you girls decide to wear, be it black, blue, brown, purple, red, you'll look fabulous!  I wish I was going.  I have the perfect outfit sitting in my closet collecting dust.  And, it's black.   :lol :lol

Clay without a shirt?  Dream on.  I believe hell will freeze over before we see that.   :lol

Gwenn, you're so lucky to be surrounded by so many babies.  I wish there were some in my family.  I believe it will be years before I see that.  None of my nieces and nephews are cooperating.   :bang

Hence, the name. :rolleyes

MICKI--I AM LIVING VICARIOUSLY THROUGH MY FRIENDS AND ER'S.  SHE IS IN NO MOOD TO HAVE ONE.  SHE IS NOT MATERNAL LIKE I AM.  SHE CLAIMS SHE WILL ONE DAY.  RIGHT NOW, SHE JUST WANTS TO HAVE FUN AND WORK ON HER CAREER.  THANK GOD SHE AT LEAST HAS ASSURED ME THAT SHE WON'T HAVE A BABY AT THIS POINT UNLESS SHE IS MARRIED. 

GWENN

But we'd melt it quickly, wouldn't we? :slick

That's a lot to be grateful for, GWENN!  :wink


GUFFAW!    :roflmao

MICKI, put a plastic bag over that black outfit and plan to wear it next year at the Gala!   :hugg

 
      Thank you GWENN,
           
                              I thought everyone looked lovely last year, we did Clay proud!!!

                    Seeing as I am wearing a repeat performance of last year, maybe I will

                   mail myself in.  FAT CHANCE!!!!

      THEA, 
                 Your pant suit sounds perfect. There were a lot of very attractive pant

                suits last year.

                            I am getting excited and looking forward to seeing  everyone.

                          Don"t know any Clay fans here, most people think I"m an eccentric
                        old lady!         

                                      DO I CARE???   NAAWH!!!!!
 
                                                    Betty
                                                         

           

Well folks if I'm lucky, I'll be back into the cyberworld in time for the Gala...!!! :bduh :slick  The move itself went fairly well...hooking up my essential electronics...omg!!!  Some really bad news red tape...those stories will wait until I've got an easier place to type...I'm sitting here in the local Starbucks attempting to connect with you all!  Starbucks has a pretty good deal going on with wireless routers et al...hey, it gets me out of the house...hee. 

Again, I can't wait to give in to my verbosity and describe my new lifestyle and abode...amazing, actually...the only thing I need, is you all to be near by, and of course Clay could come too!  lol...he'd not be a happy camper if he hates the heat...I think Reed would like it...Palm Springs area...the usual desert pros/cons.

I surely wish I were joining you all for the festivities...in NC!  I look forward to vivid recaps/splendid photos/video...and will be grateful for that.  Can't get over how hot our Clay is...I agree...I think he's made friends with weight machines...isn't that too cute. 

BTW...the Oak Glenn fires were really close to my family and I...and my brother almost had to evacuate from La Canada...my cousin was very near by as well up where the La Canada/Angeles Crest fire went next...we were all so fortunate.  The smoke was so thick at my brothers house that they couldn't see their mailbox, just 5 yards or so from their door!

Take care everyone...and thanks to whomever is pitching in to do my turn at the news until I get back.

And...lastly Michael, if you read this...I'm now your neighbor...looking forward to coffee!!...maybe the Gods will give me a cybersmile and I'll have TV, telephone and internet in my life once again! 

It doesn't seem possible that I've almost worked a week.  Last night I didn't even turn on the computor,and I was hoping I would find some Clay news tonight ,but no such luck.

I just finished checking the back posts, and the comments about the Gala, and the various
outfits that are going to be worn, well I'm going to be different, I'm wearing a three piece pant suit,and the color is petunia...it is also very dressy. I bought it because I am also going to wear it to the Juvenile Diabetes Gala later this year.

I went to rehab today,and only have 2 more appointments next week.
I'm able to stay on the bike machine for 15 min. now ,and have been able to lift 95 lbs on the weight machine with my new knee. I have also achieved the Drs goal of bending my knee to a 120 degrees...
I sometimes get very distressed & down, because it still has some pain,and just feels so strange(still is numb in a few places)and I am so slow getting things done,and just getting around in general, but everyone that has had the surgery & the theraptist all tell me I'm doing great...

Johanna~ Hope you don't have to wait to long for your computor, but at least you have Starbucks.  Congratulations on your move.

   MIMI,
               Your outfit sounds lovely and you won"t be "A LONELY LITTLE  PETUNIA" because we
                all love you.

                      Yor rehab  work out sounds very intensive and painful, I do admire you for working
               so hard.These things do take time.

                                  Keep your spirits up, you will need them for the Gala.

                                                                   Betty

Betty~I may be slow, but I ain't dead yet..I've been looking forward to the Gala for months.

I'm sure everyone has hear by now that Diane Sawyer will be leaving GMA  :cry..and I hear that Kelly Ripa is one of the front runners to replace her   :pullhair.If thats true then we won't be seeing Clay on GMA for a long time.  I sure hope this isn't true because GMA has always been one of my favorite morning shows, and if KR is on, then I won't be watching it anymore.

Is Brett still in the military? I have not heard him mentioned lately.

MIMI, your petunia-colored pant outfit sounds gorgeous!  I'm sure you'll look lovely in it.  Now I'm think I may "glitz up" my brown crepe pant outfit with some dramatic earrings or something.  I love to dress up, especially since I have so few occasions to do so these days.  I believe PRISSY from the OCD is also wearing something "glitzy" with sparkles in a pretty bright color. 

BTW,  when I had tissue debridement surgery on my right knee a few years ago, I also had to go through physical therapy.  I'm sure it wasn't 1/2 as stringent as what you've gone through with a knee replacement, but believe me it was agonizingly painful at times.  I can only imagine how tough this rehabilitation has been for you.  You should be very proud of yourself for having endured this so well.  :clap  You are a better and stronger woman for having gone through this. Never forget this, OK?   I know this from my various health issues.  Celebrate your triumph and your courage!  :wheee

 I can't wait to meet you and so many others!  Each of you has such a special inner beauty and strength about you that I have grown to admire and appreciate!

Going to finish watching "The Mentalist", then  off to bed.......Night all!    :dust zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Thea~I very rarely have a chance to really dress up,and I enjoy it too. I go once a year with my Rebeccas family to the Juvenile Diabetes Gala (which is a black tie affair) I have so much fun just looking at the beautiful gowns the women are wearing..The men all basically look the same, but the women really shine in all their finery & jewels.
My pantsuit has a calf length jacket that goes over the top & slacks..It has a lot of sequins.  I saw on another thread that Prissy had posted a picture of her outfit..She said it had glitter,and you could follow her all over the building by her trail of glitter..that was me last year... I had glitter on my body for weeks, and in some very strange places :lol

I think its up to the person of what they prefer to wear, but like you, I don't have the opportunity that often to dress up.

Shoes are going to be my biggest problem as I have practically lived in walking shoes for the last few months...so when you see me just don't look down :bigsmile

I WATCH GMA EVERY MORNING.  IF THAT B^TCH IS ON, I WILL NEVER WATCH AGAIN.  EVER.

I HAD PT FOR MY ANKLE AND SHOULDER.  DID VERY LITTLE FOR ME.  I AM LEFT WITH SCAR TISSUE ON MY ANKLE.  I NEVER HAD NICE LEGS TO START WITH, SO, DRESSES ARE A NONO FOR ME.  WHEN ER GETS MARRIED, A GOWN TO COVER THEM UP.

SEEMS LIKE DEMI MOORE AND KIRSTIE ALLEY HAVE WAGED WAR ON nonameblogger.  GOOD. HE IS SUCH A MEAN *********.

GWENN

GOOD MORNING- A QUICKIE - LURKED AND READ BUT DIDNT POST- HAD TO TOTALLY WIPE OUT MY COMPUTER AND START FROM SCRATCH-AND I DID IT ALL WITH THE HELP OF A FELLOW CLAY FAN WHO HAD INFINITE PATIENCE AND WE LEARNED AS WE WENT.

WHO NEEDS THE GEEK SQUAD, HUH??

MIMI-GLAD TO HEAR ALL IS GOING WELL WITH YOUR KNEE. SUNNY-HAVE A GREAT VACATION
GWENN- I AM ENVIOUS OF YOUR EVENT FILLED SUMMER.

MY SCHEDULE-WORK, EAT, WATCH TV OR READ, SLEEP- OVER AND OVER. PRETTY EXCITING, ISN'T IT.

I AM DEFINITELY LOOKING FORWARD TO MEETING SOME OF YOU NEXT MONTH.  STOCKED UP ON THE DUCT TAPE READY FOR MY OUTFIT. I MAY GO FOR THE CURTAINS INSTEAD OF THE SILK SHEETS-THEY DRAPE BETTER AND HAVE LESS MATERIAL TO PLAY AROUND WITH-

ALTHOUGH, THINK SCARLETT O'HARA AS PLAYED BY CAROL BURNETT. MINUS THE CURTAIN RODS

MORNING--

IT IS GORGEOUS AND WILL BE ALL WEEKEND. :purpbana :purpbana :purpbana

GETTING A MASSAGE THIS MORNING.  THIS GUY SEEMED TO HELP MY LEFT SIDE WHICH REMAINS WEIRD FROM LAST YEAR'S FALL.  THE PT DID LITTLE SO I HAVE TO TRY AN ALTERNATIVE.  ANYWAY, IT FEELS GREAT.

MAH JONGG LATER.

WONDER WHAT CLAY IS DOING THIS WEEKEND.  SOMEONE AT CV SAID THAT REED'S BIRTHDAY IS AROUND NOW?  MAYBE CLAY IS OFF TO EUROPE TO SPEND IT WITH HIM.  SPECULATION.

LATER.

GWENN

Oh, but the curtain rods made the outfit! :wink

I really don't "get" what's so hot about her. I think she comes across as an airheaded idiot--definitely not someone who can handle serious news issues with any kind of credibility.


I believe he got out a few years ago, after his second tour in Iraq.

I don't get it either, Pam.  I don't think she's all that great as an interviewer.  I much prefer Oprah or Barbara Walters.  I still remember the interview she did with Clay about one of his Unicef trips (I believe).  Practically in mid-sentence, she cut him off to reshow a video of some lunatic dancing or whatever.  It was a true WTF moment.  :bduh   I can't imagine her taking Charlie Gibson's place.   

Even if  KR does get the job at GMA, that doesn't mean Clay won't be able to get on the show again. She would just be a host; she wouldn't be responsible for booking guests. Basically, she would do what she's told.

And Clay has people on his payroll whose job is to get him on shows. They work with bookers whose job is to get people on GMA and other shows. So, KR would be outside of the booking circle.

I AM IN A VERY ZEN PLACE ABOUT CLAY RIGHT NOW.  I THINK HE IS TOTALLY FINE IN BOTH HIS PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LIFE.  HE WILL ENTERTAIN US.  I AM ACTUALLY LEARNING SOME PATIENCE.  AS LONG AS I KNOW THERE WILL BE SOMETHING, IT IS ALL GOOD.

RUBEN WILL BE TRAVELING WITH THE DAVID FOSTER SHOW.  GLAD CLAY ISN'T.  THE OTHERS ON THE CAST LIST AREN'T ANY BIG DEAL.  BUT, DF WILL HAVE SOME SPECIAL GUESTS.  MAYBE CLAY WILL SING AT ONE LIKE HE DID IN VEGAS, BUT HE WILL BE BILLED AS A "SPECIAL GUEST."  DIFFERENT VIBE.  ANYONE ELSE FEEL CLAY GOT RUBEN THE JOB?

I AM STILL HOPING THAT CLAY SHOWS UP ON THE BOCELLI CHRISTMAS SHOW ON PBS.

THERE IS NOTHING LIKE A DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE TO CURE WHAT AILS YA.

GWENN

  :thud

 :wave Good Afternoon!

I hope everyone is enjoying their day so far and happy three day weekend to you all. I started mine yesterday. Decided to take two additional days off because Josh is going back to work come Sunday after taking two months off to take care of Ava, so I wanted to have some family time with the both of them before his schedule goes back to being hectic again. He'll be working from 9pm to 6 a.m five days a week. We will be two ships passing eachother during those days until he gets two days off. It will be interesting to see how our schedules work out. But its all for Ava.

GWENN- Okay I must've missed a lot but what do you need PT for? I hope you're doing alright.

 :bduh Damn GMA would be crazy if they take KR in @ GMA. She's terrible. I've seen her interview and I don't know why she got that job in the first place. She needs to just stick to her soap opera acting.

 :bouncy I'm looking forward to hearing stories from the Gala whoever is going! Heck I'm just excited with looking forward to new projects for Clay period.

Jules

Hi batchya Miss Micki, Jill and Rosemary.

OMGoodness Rosemary, I await the day I'm able to make more Clay DVD's, though I fear, by the time it rolls around, I'd forgotten how to clip those scenes, add on extras, etc.  :lol

Happy Friday to all.  Enjoy the three day weekend and be safe!

xoxoxo
Jayne

PS  Boohoo, wish I were Gala bound  :bang

LOVE SEEING MORE FACES. :purpbana :purpbana :purpbana

JULES--I FELL LAST SUMMER AND EVEN THOUGH I DIDN'T BREAK ANYTHING, MY LEFT SIDE, MY ANKLE IN PARTICULAR, WERE BRUISED.  I WILL LIVE.  I HAVE SCAR TISSUE ON MY LEFT ANKLE DESPITE THE PT.  WON'T LET IT STOP ME IF I CAN HELP IT.

I AM GETTING VERY EXCITED ABOUT THE GALA.  NOT ONLY TO SEE CLAY, BUT EVERYONE ELSE.  IT HAS BEEN TOO LONG.  WE JUST AREN'T USED TO IT.

GWENN

I GUESS EVERYONE IS AWAY FOR THE WEEKEND.  ANYWAY, I SAW THIS POSTED AT CV.  IT IS A NEWS REPORT ABOUT THE YOUNG GIRL WHO PASSED AWAY LAST WEEK.  HER FRIENDS HAVE ASKED TO SHARE THIS.  IT SO TELLS ONE OF THE MANY REASONS I THINK WE LOVE CLAY.

http://www.action3news.com/global/video/flash/popupplayer.asp?ClipID1=4103957&h1=Remembering%20Khrystyna&vt1=v&at1=News&d1=244500&LaunchPageAdTag=News&activePane=info&rnd=54078475

LUNCH AND AFTERNOON WITH ER.  DINNER WITH FRIENDS.  NICE DAY AHEAD.

GWENN

I FIXED THE LINK.

http://www.action3news.com/global/video/flash/popupplayer.asp?ClipID1=4103957&h1=Remembering%20Khrystyna&vt1=v&at1=News&d1=244500&LaunchPageAdTag=News&activePane=info&rnd=54078475

I didn't have much to say before, but after watching that little clip, I am totally speechless.  What a beautiful "love story".   IMO You can't fake genuine compassion for others  as a PR stunt (as many other "stars" continue to do)....Clay truly does have  a heart of gold.  The real thing!

Thanks for posting the link, GWENN!   :hugg

Gwenn, thanks for bringing that link over.  It was very touching.  

 :lmao   Love your siggie line, MICKI! 

Thanks, Thea!  I kinda liked it myself.   :lmao

Thanks Gwenn for bringing that link over.  What a touching story.  This is why we love Clay.  Besides the HOT BANNER PICTURE!!   :bigsmile

   
     Gwenn,
                      Thank you for bringing the video over about the dear young
                   girl who passed away.
           
                         How wonderful of Clay to bring so much love into her life.

                                  The true MOAM !!!!               

                                                    Betty     

Gwenn - thanks so much for bringing us the link for a very special girl and an even more special man who made her last years so much happier.

Hope everyone is having a great Labor Day weekend.  I could get use to three day weekends.

GWENN

Thank you SO MUCH for the link you brought to us, featuring the very special Ucranian girl and Clay.

I am so glad that was played on TV so that other people could see what we've known for a long time , that Clay is an exceptional caring & compassionate person.
It would be wonderful if it would be played for the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon on Monday..Just think how many people would see that.

Thanks Gwenn~ that was well worth watching,loved the music too.  :heartburst

OMG, I AM SO TIRED.  WHAT A LONG DAY.  ER AND I HAD LUNCH AND DID SOME SHOPPING.  THEN I GOT TO FEED MY SURROGATE GRANDSON.  I LOVE THIS LITTLE BOY.  HE IS ADORABLE.  THEN COMPANY AND I MET OUR FRIEND'S NIECE FROM ALASKA WHO IS DOING HER MASTERS AT NYU.  VERY SWEET GIRL.  NOW I MUST GET SOME REST.  WE ARE GOING TO OUR NIECE'S AT THE SHORE TOMORROW.  FAMILY CAN BE EXHAUSTING.

I AM GLAD YOU ALL ENJOYED THAT NEWS CLIP.  OUR CLAY IS A VERY SPECIAL MAN WHO HAS TOUCHED SO MANY LIVES.  I HOPE HE GETS TO SEE THIS CLIP.

GWENN

Leave it to Gwenn to find  bring that  link over to us..Just like a mother HEN....

I sure am proud of our Clay....and you too, Gwenn!!! :hugg

HOT BANNER!    :shower :flame :towel :hot2

So... what might be a good name for Clay's new CD? I figure that it's kind of a return to the spotlight after what will be a yearlong hiatus, so I like Come Again? :giggle

I'll vote for that Sunny and put that new picture of Clay on the cover and we have a winner!!!!

WE JUST GOT HOME.  IT WAS A VERY WINDY, WINDY DAY.  TOO COOL TO GO SWIMMING BUT A LOT OF FUN.  WE WENT EARLY AND GOT HOME EARLY.  STILL SOME TRAFFIC.  TOMORROW WILL BE A NIGHTMARE AND I AM GLAD I WON'T BE IN IT.

THAT PIC SHOULD BE ON THE CD COVER.  TITLE---FINALLY FREE.

OR--MAYBE SUNNY WAS BEING SMUTTY?  I COULD LIVE WITH THAT. :wink :slick :bigsmile

GWENN

CLAY HAS A PROFESSIONAL FB PAGE.  NO NEW INFO, BUT YOU CAN BE A "FAN" JUST TO SHOW SUPPORT.  ALMOST 6000 SIGNED UP SO FAR. 


http://www.facebook.com/clayaiken

GWENN

HOPE EVERYONE HAS A WONDERFUL LABOR DAY.

Happy Labor Day, one and all!   Personally, it certainly isn't turning out to be a rest from any labors.  :pullhair

There has been a new Clay sighting via Twitter at the CV, in the UK..Can someone bring the picture over.

You've got to love him...only Clay would go out in public in that outfit. What happened to the handsome man in the banner...Could it be sleepy head or jet lag ? He's still got that beautiful smile, and appears to be very happy.
Thats all that matters .. even though it appears he has on his favorite shorts :bigsmile

A NEW SIGHTING.


THE CV'ERS DID SOME RESEARCH.  AHEM.  ANYWAY IT APPEARS HE IS IN FRONT OF A RESTAURANT IN OLD MONTREAL.

3 LAYERS.  AND IT LOOKS LIKE THOSE STUPID CARGO SHORTS.

SOME THINGS JUST NEVER CHANGE.   :bigsmile

SOMEONE CROPPED IT AND ENLARGED CLAY.  HE LOOKS GREAT.  AND HAPPY.  CV P 28.

GWENN

Thanks Gwenn for bringing over the link.

What a gosh awful outfit, two different stripes, Oh well ,he looks happy,and that makes me glad.
I'm just getting excited and curious to see what he will look like at the Gala
Only 39 days left until we will be seeing for ourselves. :shappy :bouncy

HAPPY LABOR DAY, CLAYMANIACS!   :yahoo

Hope you are all doing more of this..... :nap than laboring.   :smile

Thanks for the video, Gwenn.  Krysta sounds like a lovely girl.  Prayers to her family. 

Nice to see you, Jules.  Sounds like you enjoyed spending quality time with Ava and her Daddy.  Best of luck to your family with the new schedule.   :hugg

As for gala wear...I hope you all won't be too embarrassed to be seen with me...I won't be fancy or glittery.   :blush  Maybe I'll give you a big hug, Mimi, and steal some of your sparkles to spruce up my plain dress.   :giggle


I hope this is a joke and a cruel rumor (KR being the replacement).  It's a tragedy....the influence that powerful TV executives have on the dumbing down of America.  KR should fit right in with the direction GMA has taken over the last 3 years.  I lost my faith in that show in 2006 when they began showcasing and interviewing editors and writers from tabloid publications.  Seeking their expert opinions on the troubles and downfalls of celebrities.  :rolleyes The segments were presented as if they were interviewing Nobel prize winners.  WTH?  Unfortunately, too many Americans are content to stand on the lowest rung of ignorance.   :blah   :soapbox

'Boy's always been a snappy dresser. :wink

Thanks for the pic, Gwenn. 

Looks all comfy, like a guy on vacation.  Cute.  The poor dude can't escape the devil...Twitter no matter where he goes.   

 :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao

JILL--YOU ARE GONNA LOOK STUNNING.  HOW CAN YOU NOT?

GWENN

Very true. :yes

A LITTLE CLOSE-UP.  NOT HOT LIKE OUR BANNER BUT STILL VERY CUTE.

GWENN

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a254/Beagle3/Montrealcrop090709.jpg

Aww... :bigsmile

Actually, I don't like the banner pic that much. I'm all for a little stubble ( :purpbana ), but he just looks too scruffy in that shot for me. :shrug

 :wave  Hello hello hope you're all well and keeping cool!

I know I should be out there washing my car since I can't remember the last time I washed it or planting those new flowers I bought yesterday instead of letting them die..but geez it feels like the sun is going to melt me on the spot if I even so much as put a toe outside my door :lol

Oh well, I will have to wait and see if it cools down some and then bring my butt outside. Josh is snoring away after having survived his first day back at work. Thank god it was a holiday today so that I can be home with Ava while he tries to get sleep.

 :roflmao How funny is the comment of that gal who posted the latest picture of Clay..yeah I guess I'd be pinching myself or something too if that happened to me. Now as far as his outfit..oh well its better to not understand how he goes from being glam to looking like he has bed head the next :bduh But we still love him.

Jules

At least that great smile shows up in the new picture.     :clap

How did Clay got to Montreal without me knowing it???????I live here for crying out loud!!!!!! in fact we were in that restaurant a month ago...aaaargh ! :wahhhhh I am so stupid I can't even put an icon to discribe  how I feel !!!!!!

        I  READ THERE IS A REQUEST FOR KHRISTYNA"S STORY TO BE
 
              ON THE JERRY LEWIS MARATHON TOMORROW.

                    I HOPE IT'S TRUE!                       
 
                                    BETTY

Quick note -- Clay answered more questions at the OFC last night

Start with 10161

MORNING--

I WAS JUST GONNA SAY THAT, BARB.  THANKS.  SNARKY SOB ISN'T HE? :lmao :bduh :slick  LOTS OF INTERESTING STUFF.  THAT BOY BETTER START PRACTICING.  HE ONLY HAS A FEW WEEKS UNTIL HE HAS TO SING TO US.  OY.

TODAY IS THE DAY BARRY GOES TO THE ENT TO FIND OUT WHAT WE ARE GONNA DO ABOUT THIS VERTIGO.  I CAN'T WAIT.

LATER.

GWENN

Good morning Ladies!  :hugg

Just wanted to stop by and tell you that my baby girl, Diana, starts her first day of Kindergarten today! I can't believe it.  Where has the time gone.  It seems like just yesterday, I was worried about missing Clay's concert 'cause I thought that I was going to have Diana on the stadium floor!  :para  :lol

Good Morning Everyone,

I loved all the questions and answers(quite a few this time around),also loved the fact Clay commented on his latest picture.  He is just to cute!

Beth ~It has been so long ago that my children started kindergarten..I know you are probably anxious, but believe me, it all turns out fine.

Gwenn~ Hope Barry can finally get relief from his vertigo problems...Good luck to you both today.

Betty~ I think the MDA Telethon was over yesterday,and they showed a old clip of Clay singing BOTW from right after AI2.

Hope everyone has a great day..I love these short work weeks. :purpbana

Marlene :hugg

Comment on pics- Clay had several pics taken recently that were on the spot "will you pose with me" from various sources. It was not a formal photo shoot or a scheduled appearance. Therefore, scruffy is ok for me. And though I am rolling my eyes at the striped shirts and khaki shorts (again)- he was not dressed to have his pic taken. BUT- he is still willing to stop and take a pic for fans & folks. What a guy!!

I just want to go on record as saying I am not a stubble fan!! I DID however love his UNICEF beard look- totally different person.

And in the Q & A- his hair is different already. One of these days its going to fall out with all the processing!

I read those answers last night and they are hysterical.
Not for a moment do I beleive he sounds like a dying mule- he sang at DF AFTER the surgery and his voice sounded OK.
Now, if he would just listen to Sunny and PRACTICE using those vocal chords he should be ok

As you all know, I'm a huge fan of "the scruff and stubble" so I love the banner picture.  I also like that his hair is somewhat darker.  Never really like the super blond look.  And, I also loved the bearded look, Marilyn.  From someone whose hair has been every color in the spectrum, one of the things I really like about Clay is that his look is always changing.....never boring. 

AGREE ON EVERY WORD, MICKI.  I DO HAVE TO SAY THAT MY 2 FAVORITE LOOKS ARE THE BEARD AND THIS BANNER PIC LOOK.  I DON'T THINK HE EVER LOOKED BETTER.  YUM.

JUST REREAD THE Q&A'S.  I LOVE THIS DUDE. 

OFF TO THE DOCTOR.

GWENN

GWENN, hope the doctor can finally get to the core of what's causing Barry's vertigo.  So frustrating, I have no doubt!   :comfort

I'm not extremely attached to any of Clay's looks.  As long as he doesn't go back to his pre-AI geeky look, I'm OK!!!  :lol

Hugs to all.  Have to get ready to go to lunch with a friend.  I'd actually rather stay home today to catch up on more chores, but she needs somebody to talk with about some problems.  She's been there for me so many times, so I will be there for her.  That's what friendship is all about.   :hugg

BTW, I've pretty much decided to back off from Facebook for a while.  I've been wasting waaaayyyyy too much time over there.  I've decided that Claymaniacs will be my main internet circle.  Real life is so busy and I have so many things I want to get done.  One is getting all of my family history records in order.  A daunting task, esp. with my Greek heritage.

Have a good one, ladies! 

I'm getting ready to go to my rehab treatment. After today I only have one more on Thur.,and that will finish me up.
I am trying not to be dicouraged,I would have thought by now(nine weeks today)that the knee would feel much better..It feels like it has a vise around the knee cap..However the therapist assures me I am doing great,and have achieved what the Dr had wanted.
The funny thing is that people who have had the surgery never mentioned what they had to go through to get to where they are now. Guess that is best or I probably would have never had it done..I'm not a very tolerant person to PAIN.
Wish me good luck. I'm going to need it I fear today.They will put me on every machine known to man, and will stretch my leg out,which I hate with a passion.OUCH!!!

Talk with you later, if I'm still alive & breathin' :bigsmile

WE ARE BACK.  GOOD AND BAD NEWS.  BOTH THE SAME.  THE GOOD NEWS IS THAT HE CAN'T FIND ANYTHING MAJOR WRONG.  THE BAD NEWS IS THAT IT WILL TAKE TIME UNTIL HE FINDS ANYTHING WRONG SO HE IS TAKING SMALL STEPS.  SOME ALLEGRA FOR NOW.  ANNOYING BUT IT IS WHAT IT IS. 

MARLENE--YOU ARE STRONG AND BRAVE.  IT WILL ALL WORK OUT.  I AM JUST LIKE YOU.  NOT INTO PAIN. AND NOT PATIENT. :hugg :hugg :hugg

THEA--I GIVE YOU CREDIT FOR THE HERITAGE THING.  I HAVE THOUGHT A LOT ABOUT THAT.  I JUST DON'T KNOW MUCH ABOUT BEFORE MY GRANDPARENTS TO DEAL WITH. GOOD LUCK.

SOME PAPERWORK AND THEN I AM GETTING A MUCH NEEDED MANICURE.  I CAN'T GET THE CUTICLE THING RIGHT AND NOW THEY ARE A HUGE MESS.

LATER LADIES.

GWENN

good morning to all and gudnite to me.

   
    Thea,
               Good Luck with the heritage foraging.     

            My cousin in England is doing a family history,he is very in to it.
           
          He bought a house that was built in Queen Elizabeth  the First"s time 
           !550 and has traced some amazing stuff. I think he thinks I was born
           then ,and keeps emailing me for information.

               Went for my annual mammogram this morning, great fun!!!!

                                                           Betty

   
     Marlene,
                   I"m so sorry you are having to go through so much pain. You must
                dread going to rehab. I hope  you don"t have to go much longer and
                you see a big improvment.

                                      Betty

MARLENE, I feel so bad for you but I also appreciate your honesty about what you are going thru.  I do hope things get better for you.

GWENN, sorry that Barry still doesn't know what is going on with his health.  I have been experiencing some of that myself and with all the doctors and all the tests not to be able to diagnose is frustrating to the patient.

PEPE--YOU ARE SO RIGHT.  YOU WANT ANSWERS.  WE DON'T HAVE ANY.  IT IS VERY FRUSTRATING.

SO, NOTHING NEW TODAY.  I DON'T EVEN KNOW WHERE THE DAY WENT.  TOMORROW---NOTHING MUCH.  I NEED A CHILL DAY TO READ AND DO PAPERWORK AND RELAX.

HOPE ALL ARE WELL.

GWENN

Gwenn :hugg


I wonder what Clay sang at karaoke, when he sounded like a dying mule. :dunno

I WOULD LLLLLOOOOOOVVVVVVVEEEEEEE TO HAVE BEEN THERE.

GWENN

Hi Gwenn, for your husband's vertigo, find a good accupuncturist in your area and have Barry try it. The accupuncturist will assess him first to see if this will help him. At least he should try since practically everything had been ruled out by an M.D. I've had some problems that was too annoying like facial tic and humming in the ear and both disappeared after several treatments. Most insurances cover it ..at least here in Canada. Good luck!

I SURVIVED thanks to all of you..Your good wishes worked today.

As I was going through the door to rehab, the power went off..It was dark and the staff was using flashlights and some of the machines would not work without electricity,and they had also loss the use of their computors. They were frantically calling the power company to see what had happened, and how long before the power would be restored.
The power was off for several blocks and the stoplights were also not working..This is a busy part of town , so it was causing a lot of confusion.
They told everyone to go home and that our appointments would be rescheduled.
So thank you ClayManiacs for your help  :lol
I did however enjoy having lunch with DH,and went shopping for awhile,so it turned out to be a good day after all.

Gwenn~ I'm sorry you all didn't find out a solution for Barry's vertigo.I know you both must really be frustrated...I'm sorry!

Just got an email from my mother. My 7 year old nephew has just been diagnosed with H1N1 (swine flu). He had been staying with my mom and stepdad when he became sick. He is going to continue to stay with my parents until he is well so as not to infect his parents (his dad is diabetic so more susceptible to illness).

Please keep him in your prayers. Also please keep my mother and step-father in your prayers. I'm so worried that they will come down with it.

Michelle, I'm so sorry to hear about your nephew.  Prayers going out to all involved.   :hugg

Marlene, from what I understand, knees take a while before you're feeling 100%.  My cousin had both hers done, and it took a good 6-8 months.  I'm confident you'll be fine.

Hi, Arlo!   :wave

Gwenn, I know it's frustrating about Barry.  But look at it this way.....at least there's nothing seriously wrong.  Hopefully this new medicine will work some.   :hugg  Give him my best.   

Goodmorning to all!   :wave

God, I hope it wasn't Solitare!   :eek

Micki ~ I guess I just need to be more patient with my recovery.The Dr told me the recuperation would be around 12 weeks,(at least thats when he gives permission for patients to go back to work).So far it has only been 9 weeks...It seems like months ,but it really hasn't been that long.
I was lucky to be able to go back to work last week, because my job consists of mostly driving Rebecca to & from school,and I don't have to lift anything heavy, so the Dr let me go back a little earlier than normal. The surgery was on my left knee so it doesn't bother my driving.  I know one thing for sure, it was wonderful to get out of the house. :bigsmile
 
It is beautiful today in Raleigh..clear blue skies, low humidity, and temps in the 80's.

I hope it will stay nice for all that are coming to the Gala & Fair.

MORNING--

YUCKY OUT HERE.  I GUESS WE GOT A REPRIEVE OF A FEW WEEKS AND THIS WEEK IS BACK TO THE GRAYS.  LONDON ANYONE?

QUIET DAY HERE.  I NEED TO JUST VEG AND DO HOUSE STUFF.  MAYBE SOME COOKING FOR THE HOLIDAY.  LORD, I HAVE LOST MY MIND.  I HAVE INVITED ABOUT 22 PEOPLE. :wow :eek  I DECIDED TO SERVE BUFFET.  CAN'T HELP IT.  THE SOUP IS DONE AND I THINK I MAY MAKE MY BRISKET TODAY.  FREEZE THEM.  CAN'T DECIDE IF I AM GONNA MAKE STUFFED CABBAGE BUT I MAY.  I LOVE HOLIDAY COOKING.  I COULD USE A MAID THOUGH FOR CLEAN UP.

NO CLAY NEWS.  OK.  I CAN LIVE  FOR TODAY.

MICHELLE--- :hugg FOR YOUR NEPHEW.  I HEARD ON GMA THIS MORNING THAT FLORIDA IS ONE OF THE STATES WHERE THE SWINE FLU IS HITTING HARD RIGHT NOW. 

GWENN

Prayers and hugs for your family, Moonie. I hope the little guy gets over this quickly and easily. :hugg

    :spit

I know now why I missed Rebecca so much..
The first thing she said this morning when we got in the car was "can we listen to Clay", and she wanted to hear MOAM..She knows all the words to all the songs,and sings along with Clay. When we got to school she said, lets remember what the next song is so we can play it going home..it was ISY, so I was more than happy to oblige her :bigsmile    You've got to love the girl.

 
                             :yay      IT'S ALMOST TIME       :yay


Well, ladies we only have about five more weeks to wait until the Gala.  While the reason most of us are going is to see and support Clay and the National Inclusion Project, the added bonus is that we get to see and visit with friends we have made because of Clay. 

I know there are people coming and going at different times during the weekend but I hope to have an opportunity to meet some of you that I have not had the pleasure of meeting before.  For this reason, Marlene and I have been talking about how nice it would be to get everyone who will be in town and would like to get together on Friday night, to all go somewhere for dinner.

We have been researching downtown restaurants and there are a lot to choose from.  Sadly, a lot of downtown restaurants are not open at night.  Before we go much further, we need to know who will be interested in going to dinner Friday night.  THIS IS NOT JUST FOR PEOPLE ATTENDING THE GALA.  EVERY ONE OF YOU FANS WHO LIVE IN THE RALEIGH AREA ARE INVITED AND ENCOURAGED TO JOIN US.

Please either leave a message on this site or PM Marlene (“mimi”) or me and let us know if you would like to go so we can get a count of how many we will have.

The reason we chose the downtown area is that we might not have a lot of transportation available to get people to other parts of Raleigh.  The nice thing is--not just for dinner, but for you who want to look around downtown Raleigh during the day--Raleigh now has a free bus service through a lot of downtown Raleigh.  It operates from 7:00 am. - 2:15 am Thursday and 1:00 pm - 8:00 pm Sunday.  It has about 20 different stops to various parts of downtown and you can get on and off whenever you like.  It is called the “R” Line and I’m sure every downtown hotel will have information.

This is more than long enough so I better stop for now.  I hope a lot of you will join us--we’d love to have you.  See you in October!!!

YIPPEE!!

Thanks for thinking of this Mimi and Barbara!  Count me in for whatever is happening Friday night.   :bouncy :bouncy

Also . . . my Sunday departure flight doesn't leave until mid afternoon   . . . . so maybe we could do a breakfast or brunch visit on Sunday.  Maybe somebody should let Clay know of our plans!  :bigsmile

See y'all in October!  :clap :clap   I only have to lose 15 pounds and about 20 years!!  :wink  I should have started sooner.  :para

:lol

Count me in, BARBAR!.  If all goes well my flight will be arriving @4:35 on Friday.  Could we please gather a little later in the evening/  Maybe around 7:00 or 7:30 to allow for flight delays or people who weren't able to get earlier flights???

As to a breakfast gathering on Sunday, I would enjoy that, as well.  My flight leaves at 1 p.m.

Thanks in advance for getting this organized!   :hugg

 
     Barbara,
                       
                    I definately want to join in with whatever is decided for Friday night.
 
                  Getting together down town is a very good idea, as not everyone will

                 have transportation.

                           Has this been posted on the OCD?
                                                                                                Betty

Betty~ Please check your PMs  Thanks!

SADLY JILL, MARION, AND I WON'T BE GETTING IN UNTIL SATURDAY MORNING AROUND 9.  COULDN'T GET IN FRIDAY CAUSE JILL HAS TO WORK. BUT I AM SURE HOPING WE CAN DO LUNCH LIKE WE DID LAST YEAR.  THAT RESTAURANT WAS GREAT AND ONLY 2 BLOCKS FROM THE HOTEL.

OF COURSE, I AM HOPING FOR BREAKFAST SUNDAY.  THAT IS A MUST.  AND WHOEVER IS AROUND, THE CORNY FAIR AFTERWARD.  CANNOT WAIT FOR MY DEEP FRIED SNICKERS.  GOTTA GET OUR TIX SOON.

THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE IS THE BEST.  SEEING EVERYONE IS WONDERFUL.

BTW---REBECCA IS A VERY SMART LITTLE GIRL WITH GREAT TASTE.

GWENN

Betty - I did not post it on the OCD only here and the Gala thread.  Do you think I should?

Gwenn - we'll miss you but I'm sure we will have lunch Saturday.  BTW before you buy your tickets for the fair - "seniors" get in free.  I don't know what the age limit is but at my bank it is 49.  I'll try to find out the age at the fair.

Sorry, Gwenn, you have to be 65 or under 5 to get in the Fair free.

I like Ellen DeGeneres, but... :doh

Barb,
             I"m not really sure. I know some of the Gala treckers had mentioned a get together on Friday night.
                                                              Betty

This really doesn't make much sense to me.  Personally I'd rather hear Paula Abdul babbling with an occasional brilliant comment about music than watch an Ellen DeGeneres'  comedy act after each contestant performs.  IMO Ellen is wonderful as a comedic talk show host, but as a  judge on AI?  Huh???  :bduh

I'm with you, Dev. I saw her judge on So You Think You Can Dance one night, and not only did she have nothing to say of any use to the contestants, but her forced jokes after each performance grew tiresome quickly.

I don't know why AI is so convinced they need 4 judges anyway--especially to the point of adding one who knows little or nothing about being a singer. :hypno

I really don't understand this either, SUNNY.  AI has extremely high ratings already.  What is Ellen going to contribute other than her predictable comedy routines?   The only thing I can think of is that possibly they're hoping for some playful banter between Ellen and Ryan Seacrast.  But personally this would be enough to make me change the channels.  I may finally start catching up on my reading...

EDIT:  As to needing a 4th judge.....I agree there is absolutely no need.   Three talking heads are enough!  More singing and less talking is a very good thing!!!  (most of the time.... :para)

IT IS THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT AND I AM UP.  FELL ASLEEP WATCHING THE PRESIDENT.  HHHMMM.  ANYWAY, I TRIED GETTING BACK TO SLEEP AND SO FAR, NO LUCK. ANNOYING.

ELLEN AS A JUDGE?  I DON'T THINK SO.  I HAD DECIDED NOT TO WATCH THIS YEAR AT ALL AFTER LAST YEAR.  NOW, I AM PRETTY SURE THAT THE CHEMISTRY WILL BE GONE.  WHY ELLEN?  SHE LIKES A CERTAIN TYPE OF MUSIC.  NOT THE KIND I LIKE.  TO ME, AI IS KIND OF OVER.  ONCE A CONTESTANT IS RECRUITED BY A JUDGE, IT IS ALL OVER FOR ME.

I LIKE ELLEN AS A COMEDIENNE.  GEEZ, ARE THEY NOW LOOKING FOR GAY FOLKS FOR SOME REASON?  NOTHING ELSE MAKES SENSE.  SHE HAS NO MUSIC BACKGROUND AT ALL.  NONE.  NOT A SINGER.  NOT A WRITER.  NOT A MUSICIAN.  NOTHING.  WHATEVER.

ALL THIS GALA TALK IS MAKING ME EXCITED.

THAT AND STRESSING OVER HOW I AM GONNA FEED 20 PEOPLE NEXT FRIDAY.  NOT ENOUGH SILVERWARE AND PLATES. :bduh :bigsmile  IT WILL BE A LOT OF FUN, THOUGH. 

GWENN

Don't know why AI added Ellen as a judge.  I'm sure there are plenty of people with musical backgrounds they could chose from.  Sometimes, I wonder.   :bduh  I will watch this year, as usual.  I thought last year was one of the best.  The concert was great! 

Gala excitment!   :purpbana  Fun times, I'm sure, for all attending.   

Gwenn, it's this time of year I wish I was Jewish.   :wink

I think AI is on its last legs.

 :lol  MICKI, ah yes, the food is to die for!   Potato pancakes. Matzoh ball soup.   Yummmm!!!   :bigsmile

.

I couldn't agree more, SUNNY.  And if it wasn't before this "big decision",  in my books it is now! 

I GOT TALKED INTO WATCHING AI THIS YEAR.  IT WILL NOT HAPPEN AGAIN.  I FEEL BAD FOR PAULA.  WASN'T NUTS FOR KARA.  RANDY SEEMED OVERSHADOWED.  ELLEN HAS NO EXPERIENCE WHATSOEVER WITH MUSIC.  INSTEAD OF AI, MAYBE IT SHOULD BE SIMON AND FRIENDS.

WELL, I BOUGHT 17 LB. OF BRISKET.  WILL COOK IT TOMORROW OR SATURDAY.  I LIKE TO LET THE FAT SOLIDIFY AND REMOVE IT SO YOU CAN ENJOY THE GRAVY.  BARRY WILL SLICE IT DOWN AND IT WILL BE FROZEN MARINATING IN ITS JUICES.  YUM.  THE SOUP IS DONE.  I AM MAKING A JEWISH APPLE CAKE THIS WEEKEND.  THE RECIPE WAS GIVEN TO ME BY AN OLDER WOMAN I USED TO WORK WITH.  IT WAS HER GRANDMOM'S FROM RUSSIA.  THINGS ARE MOVING ALONG.

WHERE IN THE WORLD IS CLAY AIKEN? :bduh :bduh :bduh  THESE DAYS, YOU JUST NEVER KNOW.   :bigsmile

GWENN

Or maybe just Simon.

You know, Simon was talking about quitting AI because he had several other shows going on, a couple of which are in England. Maybe AI's folding in on itself will take care of that problem for him.

MAYBE, SUNNY.  WHAT IS INTERESTING IS THAT EVEN THOUGH THE OVERALL TALENT SEEMS TO BE BETTER----THERE ARE NO MORE PASTY BOYS OR NAZIS---- MOST OF THE WINNERS DON'T FARE WELL IN THE LONG RUN.  KELLY AND CARRIE ARE JUST FINE.  BUT RUBEN, FANTASIA, TAYLOR ARE JUST HANGING IN.  JORDIN WAS DOING OK AND NOW I UNDERSTAND HER CD ISN'T DOING WELL AT ALL.  I DON'T HEAR ANYTHING MUCH FROM EITHER OF THE DAVIDS.  FROM THE FORBES MONEY, THEY SURE DIDN'T DO ANYTHING EVEN REMOTELY NEAR THE EARLIER IDOLS FOR THEIR FIRST YEAR.  I GUESS IF A FEW REMAIN THE  ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS, THAT IS GOOD.  IT WAS A GREAT WAY TO GET STARTED FOR SOME TALENTED KIDS.  I JUST THINK SOMETHING FEELS WEIRD WITH PAULA GONE.  WHO NEEDS 4 JUDGES?  TOO MUCH TALK AND NOT ENOUGH SINGING.

WHATEVER.

GWENN

Just had to stop by and tell you how good all that food smells GWENN.  I always know when the food is being prepared.  Hubby and I was hoping that KARA would disappear from AI this  year and now we have added a new judge.  I like Ellen I think she has a good heart, would be happy to keep her and get rid of Kara but would love to just get Paula back. 

Counting down with baited breath the days until the Gala...

MARION, MY LOVE, SOMEONE JUST HAS TO PHOTOSHOP A MORE RECENT PIC WITH CLAY.  YOU ARE LIKE 35 LB. LIGHTER.

GWENN

I'm totally okay with Paula being gone. I thought she was a blithering idiot most of the time, and provided nothing of value in her critiques. And her weekly spats with Simon were just juvenile.

As for the whole 4th judge thing, if Randy, Kara, and Simon are so sharp, why not just rely on them?

Because AI is sinking and Ellen has a good following?
Her contract is for FIVE years- sheesh. I like her too, but to me, she is way out of place.

And last year, because of four judges, they kept going over time.

Truthfully, I do NOT see any constructive criticism from Randy- its all the same, pitchy, dawg, etc etc yawn. BORING!

Simon and toolcrest should just get a room!!

And Simons going to have a 50th birthday party- his current GF Mezghan whatever, who was/is the hairdresser on AI (and who just happened to have a hands on moment with Clay) is going to be there, along with several of his FORMER girlfriends. Whoop de doo!!!!

Boorish, rude, and totally not worth the money he is being paid.

I have to say, though- I watched him on Britains got talent, and I liked him a whole lot more.

Claaaaaaaaaayyy- come out and PLAY!! I have some dots I want you to connect!!  :)

and OT and more personal. Please keep fingers crossed for me. I got a second call from a guy I used to work with who desperately needs a compliance person. He has offered me a substantial amount of money more than I am earning here, although the drive is a little longer (Sunny- I work in Bohemia by McArthur Airport and this would be in Melville).
Pluses- more money- shared responsibility- working with two people whom I worked with for several years.

Minuses- travel is about 30-40 minutes longer- I love the folks I am working with.

BUT I started at a lower salary than my position is worth because I needed the job. I took an involuntary 10% pay cut in November, along with the other managers, and I havent received that back YET (it was only supposed to be for 6 months) AND I have passed one year and did not get a salary review, which normally you do.

I have done many good things for this company, and I am proud of doing it. But I have to think about myself and my future, and this position sounds good.
The Mortgage industry is still shaky, and there is a danger no matter where you work, but I have to take that step now or I am sure I will regret it.

so- fingers crossed

Gwenn - your menu sounds great.  You can cook for me any time.  Hope you have a wonderful time.  As far as the plates and silverware are concerned, there are usually rental companies that rent things like that for large parties.  We even have one here in Wilson, so I'm sure you have several in your area.

Michelle - I sure hope your nephew is on the road to recovery from the H1N1 flu and that he'll be feeling much better real soon.

Marilyn - I'll keep my fingers crossed for you and the new job.  I can relate to your feeling like you have to take care of yourself and your future.  I was in that same position two years ago and so far the change has worked out well.  You never know about job stability these days but we just have to take a chance sometime and hope for the best.  I'm sure you will make the right decision when the time comes.   :cross

Don't have an opinion on Ellen joining AI.  I do have to agree with whether or not a fourth judge is even necessary.  I think they are grasping at straws the last couple of years.  It is not the show it use to be.

I just received next week's TV Guide and read Clay's horoscope with great interest.

You've been in the shadows too long; make center stage your own this week!  Let the world know you exist.  A new moon at the mid-heaven angle of your chart will give you the confidence to put yourself out there--and put your critics in their place once and for all.

Talk about a horoscope I hope comes true.  It may not come true next week but we can sure hope it does next year when the new CD comes out.

AI will fix that. Next thing she knows, her show will be canceled.


5 years?? :eek That's rather ambitious--not that I think it'll happen.


:yeahthat


:yeahthat too


Just ew.


:shocked


30-40 minutes is not necessarily a little longer. Would the increase in pay make up for the time and trouble?


:cross :cross

hey there..

are you gals all voting for clay on worl idol on tweeterwall?? :)

 :yay  Just wanted to let you know I finished my rehab today :bouncy :shappy  Now its up to me to keep my range of motion, so it's back to water aerobics for me tomorrow.

I also have been trying to watch my weight ,I sure don't want to gain back what I had lost before the surgery.
The only problem is DH has been feeding me very well during my recuperation,but it did help by not being able to get to the refrigerator :bigsmile

I have found some very good yogurt at Krogers..it is their brand,and is called CarbMasters. It has only 80 calories, and they have a big selection of flavors, my favorites are blackberry/pomegranate, stawberry/pomegranate,& peach pomegranate.  It also only has 4 carbs,and Rebecca can eat it because with her diabetes we have to really watch her carb intake. It is very filling for those who are trying to lose weight.


Marilyn~ Good luck on whatever job decision you do make

Gwenn~ You make me tired. :lol

MARILYN----GOOD LUCK.  YOU HAVE HAD A TOUGH ROAD THESE LAST FEW YEARS.  YOU NEED A BREAK.

SIMON AND A PARTY WITH PAST GIRLFRIENDS?  GOTTA AGREE WITH SUNNY.  JUST EW.

5 YEARS MORE FOR AI?  WILL THERE BE ANYONE LEFT IN THIS COUNTRY WHO CAN SING? :bduh :para

MICHELLE--HOW IS YOUR NEPHEW?

MARLENE--YOU ARE AN INSPIRATION.  I NEED SOME INPUT.  I NEED TO LOSE WEIGHT.  LIKE BADLY.  AND, TODAY, I AM TIRED.  LIKE LOTS.

GWENN

Ah, yes.  Quite a titillating moment in the fandom.   

Marilyn... :cross

Prayers for your family, Moonie.   :hugg

Gwenn, you are so good at keeping up the traditions.  Your holiday dinner sounds heavenly.   :yum

WooHoo, Mimi!   :wheee

 :giggle

I assume he'll "re-emerge "in Raleigh on the evening of October 17???   :para

GWENN, I had no idea you were such a master chef!  Marinated brisket, apple bread from Russia.....and then in a subsequent post MARLENE talks about low-carb yogurt.  Right now I am very conflicted!!!   :lol

MARILYN, things have a way of working out.  I'm sure when the time comes to make a major career decision, trusting your "gut feeling" will be the way to go.  Good luck!



EDIT:   :wave JILL!  Good to see you!!!  :hugg

He's doing much better but his mother just found out she has breast cancer. And my BIL is a :censor And my Mom had to put down one of her dogs this afternoon. Hasn't been a great week.

   
      :bighug

Most DEFINITELY-

Michelle, I am so sorry that your week is going badly.   :hugg and prayers for your family

Well, in that case, Go Marilyn! :cheer :cross

Is your computer at least working well, Moonie? :hugg

MICHELLE, you know where I stand on the behvaior of your "dear" brother-in-law!  :slap  I'd like to think that such tragedy would change him for the better, but some people just don't "get it".   Prayers continue to go out to your Sis and your nephew.   :comfort  And I'm so sorry to hear about your mom's dog. 

Michelle~ I'm glad your nephew is better ,but hate to hear you are having such a rough time.
You & your family will certainly be in my thoughts & prayers
  :comfort

Like lightning! I just want to open up a bunch of programs at the same time to see how much faster it runs :lol And it only cost me $26 total and I used the gift card I had! Being nice to geeks definitely pays off :woohoo

You are awesome by the way! :bighug

:yeahthat   :purpbana :purpbana

Yay for faster computers!!!

Nah, just happy to help. :bighug

You can say that twice and mean it!

Hi folks...another quick post...omgolly...it sucks the big one...oops! :blush...to be without a landline, internet and cable  :bang :bang :bang  and...the latest from Verizon is a wait until mid October, if you can believe that.  I'm a bit flabbergasted just now.   I don't think they have a clue what the isolation is like...before the dumb digital TV, at least one could get basic channels...now it's cable or nothing...I found the converter box thing useless.  Why the delay some might ask...you've got me...but the alternate options are suppose to be nightmares...so I wait.

With any luck, I'll be back up in time to celebrate all the wonderful Gala doings.

Good going Mimi...knee fixes are all about the rehab...a distant relative of mine never got his range of motion back...his knee replacement has not been much help to him, it seems.

Good luck Marilyn...hope your opportunity pans out...these days any extra moola really helps...and maybe they'll be some decent ways to manage the additional commute time...

Mimi and Barbara times two and Thea, Gwenn, Sunny and the rest of you going to NC...sure wish I could join the party...at least there will be great fun to enjoy vicariously!

And the bestest reason? I can play Clay on my iPod all the way to work!! Right now I am at work in approximately 7 or 8 mins so I dont bother!!
But he can keep me company!!

Johanna, I am so sorry you arent hooked up yet! GRRRR!

I hope you DO get everything squared away so you can be ready for the Gala!!

Happy Friday one and all.

Moonie, so glad to hear that your nephew is doing better.  Prayers and positive thoughts to your family.   :hugg

AI will be interesting.  I think it's great that Ellen will be there as her point of view comes from being a fan.  A fan knows what they do and don't like.  A voice from the ordinary, perhaps.  I agree Sunny about Paula.  Though she gave the singers a "motherly" (as many of them have said) comfort, I too was worn from her idiot behaviour.  Kara, I can take or leave, though sometimes she actually has constructive criticism.  Oh well, I guess we'll see what the future brings.

On that note, to the coffee mug I go....

xoxoxo
Jayne

MORNING FROM SOGGY AND STORMY PHILLY.

MICHELLE---OMG, TALK ABOUT A BAD WEEK.  THAT BLACK CLOUD HAS TO MOVE ON.  GEEZ.  BUT HURRAY FOR YOUR PUTER.

JAYNE--SO GOOD TO SEE YA. :hugg

THEA--I AM A GOOD COOK BUT NOT A MASTER CHEF.  THESE RECIPES I USE FOR THE HOLIDAYS WERE PASSED DOWN FROM MY GRANDMOTHER TO MOM TO ME.  I DON'T EVEN TRY TO "MODERNIZE" THEM LIKE MY BROTHER DOES. I DON'T EVEN TRY TO MAKE THEM HEALTHY.  IT IS ONLY ONE TIME A YEAR. I FEEL LIKE MY PARENTS ARE AT MY TABLE WHEN I SERVE THE DISHES.I AM BLESSED THAT MY FRIENDS WHO COME, BRING GOOD STUFF TO HELP ME OUT.  MY SIL IS BRINGING NOODLE PUDDING (KUGEL) AND MAYBE SOME MATZO BALLS.  SHE MAKES THINGS HEALTHY.  IT WILL BE A MADHOUSE HERE.

JOHANNA---IT MAKES NO SENSE THAT YOU HAVE TO WAIT SO LONG FOR CONNECTION.  JUST WEIRD.  GOOD LUCK WITH IT.

JILL--YOU ALWAYS CRACK ME UP. :bigsmile

COFFEE CALLING.

GWENN

REMEMBERING 9/11.  SUCH A HORRIBLE DAY IN OUR HISTORY.

Michelle, I think you and your family need some hugs right now.   :hugg :hugg

This morning on my way to taking Rebecca to school,there was a car in front of me that had a license liner that had,"I'd rather be at a Clay Aiken Concert"...Who was this person I wonder?
Whoever it was, she was a very smart lady.

Hope you all have a quite & restful day, with maybe the exception of Gwenn,(who always has something goin' on.)There never seems to be a dull moment in her household.

I have spent sometime today reflecting on 9 11, and what a sad day it was for our country. I can remember coming home,and hearing the news on the radio. I immediately called my friend and went to her house to watch the events taking place with her on TV...What a shock to see the second plane crashing into the 2nd tower,and the Towers both falling..We felt so helpless...such a sad day!

God Bless America

I love this! :bigsmile

GWENN, this sounds like a wonderful gathering....kind of a Jewish "Norman Rockwell" scenario with a lot of drama and "Oy's" sprinkled in for good measure!  :lol Phil and I wish we could come crash your party.   BTW, I am the same way with my Greek recipes.  No butter substitute or sugar substitutes in my baklava, pastitsio or spanakopita!   :no  Which is why I don't make these recipes very often!

I also have been thinking about 9/11 today.  They were showing a clip on our local Fox affiliate about the Chicago firemen (many of whom helped out in NYC) honoring this day with a moment of silence.  To me this was the day that our American bubble was broken.  We are no longer safe from attack from foreign enemies.   For me personally, as I think about my children and future grandchildren, this is a bitter pill to swallow.  God bless America, indeed.  :pray :usa

Off for the day.  Have a good one!   :wave

P.S.  JOHANNA, how about going with another internet/TV/wireless provider?  We have AT&T and the service and quality of products couldn't be better.  But then again, you may be locked into another provider already???

Clay blogged! :bouncy A short one.  It's about nominating fans for an award for the NIP. I think the winner will be announced at the Gala. I think Meesa should be up for it. :bigsmile

Michelle-Your family will be in my prayers. :hugg

:cross for you Marilyn getting that job.

A QUICK HELLO.

AFTER 6 MONTHS OF ANNOYING THE CAR DEALER, WE FINALLY GOT A CAR.  LONG STORY.  I AM JUST THRILLED IT IS OVER.  BARRY IS SUCH A BABY WHEN IT COMES TO HIS CAR.  I AM THE BAD GUY.  THE NEGOTIATOR.  BUT IT IS FINISHED FOR 3 YEARS.  THANK GOD.

GWENN

Rosemary, I don't how big a fan Ellen is of Clay.  I believe she goes more for the "cool" types like Justin Timberlake (who she adores) and Adam Lambert.  I doubt she'll  have much influence on getting him on the show.  American Idol has made up it's mind about Clay.  I'd be surprised if we saw him on that show again (but, I'd love it if we did)!   

Tiffany, has Meesa been nominated?  I'd vote for her. 

AGREE WITH YOU, MICKI, ON BOTH COUNTS.  CLAY HAS ONLY BEEN ON ELLEN 1 TIME.  HIS MUSIC IS NOT HER CUPPA AT ALL.

MEESA HAS WORKED VERY HARD FOR THE BAF.  I HOPE SHE HAS BEEN NOMINATED.  MARILYN----HAS SHE?

17 LBS OF BRISKET ARE IN MY OVEN AS WE SPEAK.  2 LB. CARROTS AND 5 LB ONIONS.  NOT TO MENTION GRAVY.  THE HOUSE SMELLS AMAZING.  GOTTA DO SOME SHOPPING LATER.  ER'S BIRTHDAY IS THIS WEEK.  MY BABY IS GONNA BE 27. 

IT IS STILL YUCKY OUT.  ANNOYING.

GWENN

OkAY GWENN whenever you talk food you know I am going to be around.  Even though at this time I can not eat much I still love the subject matter!!  How long does the brisket cook and at what temp?  Do you cook it in the gravy or put it in the gravy after it is sliced.  Oh Yes what time is dinner served???  I agree your house smells fantastic!!!!!!!!!!! 

 :lol

Gwenn, I'll take a pound of that brisket, and a serving of anything else you're preparing.   :lol

I FIGURED YOU WOULD SEE THIS.   :lol :wink

I COOK THE BRISKET (NOT CORNED BEEF BRISKET.  JUST PLAIN UNSEASONED) IN THE OVEN AT 350 FOR AT LEAST 3 HOURS COVERED TIGHTLY WITH ALUMINUM OR A TIGHT FITTING LID.  I PUT THE FLAT CUT BRISKET IN A LARGE TURKEY SIZED THROW AWAY PAN THAT I GET AT THE DOLLAR STORE. THIS WAY I CAN FREEZE IT IN THE PAN AFTER THE FAT SOLIDIFIES IN THE FRIDGE AND I TAKE IT ALL OFF.  BARRY SLICES IT FOR ME TAKING OFF ALL THE FAT AND WHEN I NEED TO USE IT, I DEFROST AND RECOOK FOR ABOUT 1 HOUR.  I USE HEINZ AU JUS GRAVY. THE NUMBER OF JARS DEPENDS ON THE SIZE OF THE BRISKET. I LIKE THE SEASONING.  LOTS OF CARROTS AND ONIONS.  SEASONED WITH LOTS OF GARLIC, PEPPER, AND PAPRIKA. BECAUSE YOU SEAL THE PAN SO TIGHTLY, THERE IS TONS OF GRAVY.  IF I MAKE A SMALL ONE, I PUT POTATOES IN IT ALSO.  BUT FOR THIS MANY PEOPLE, THERE ISN'T ENOUGH ROOM SO I MAKE MASHED POTATOES AND THE GRAVY WITH THE CARROTS AND ONIONS MAKE IT SOOOOO YUMMY.  WHAT IS SO INTERESTING IS THAT JEWS ALL OVER THE WORLD WILL BE EATING BRISKET FOR THE HOLIDAY.  SOME MAKE IT A LITTLE DIFFERENT, BUT IT IS A STAPLE.  I REMEMBER WHEN MY BROTHER LIVED IN BRAZIL, HIS SECRETARY WAS JEWISH AND HAD HIM FOR THE HOLIDAY.  SHE MADE THE SAME STUFF AS WE EAT HERE AND SHE WAS NATIVE BRAZILIAN.  KIND OF NEAT.

GWENN

JUMP IN YOUR CAR AND COME ON OVER.  YOU KNOW YOU ARE ALWAYS WELCOME.   :hugg

GWENN

 :lol  MICKI!  GWENN, make that "to go" for me!

MEESA most certainly deserves a nomination. :clap  MARILYN, I'll bet you could write one heck of a nominating letter.

Have to go now....

GWENN, good food and good friends, you will have a wonderful day!!!  I use to bake a brisket in that order and slice it ahead with gravy when we had a boat and took weekend boat trips.   You can truly feed a lot of people with the brisket and it  is always good. Although I never see it in the meat counter I always have to ask for one.  Thanks for explaining your way of cooking. 

 

Oh wow, my mouth is watering! Sounds absolutely lovely!


Being somewhat out of it lately (and not having OFC membership anymore) I've never heard of the NIP award. What exactly is the NIP Award and what do you have to do to deserve it? Who nominates, where do you nominate, and what is the nomination process?

http://www.inclusionproject.org/

 :wave

Thanks for the link. I knew BAF changed it's name to NIP but hadn't heard anything about the award. I looked on their website but couldn't find anything about the award. Where is that info? It's probably right in front of me but I'm a little worn and scatter-brained from 4 jobs :lol Could someone help me out and point me in the right direction?

PER CLAY'S BLOG. HERE IS THE LINK.  I DON'T KNOW MEESA'S LAST NAME OR I WOULD NOMINATE HER.  I THINK MARILYN  SHOULD DO IT SINCE SHE KNOWS MORE THAN I DO ABOUT WHAT MEESA DOES.

http://www.inclusionproject.org/nip_userfiles/file/Nomination%20Guidelines(1).pdf

THE BRISKET IS COOKING.  BARRY JUST FINISHED MAKING A CAKE FOR ER'S B'DAY WHICH WE ARE CELEBRATING TOMORROW NIGHT.  WE GOT HER A PAIR OF ONYX EARRINGS AND MATCHING NECKLACE AS A GIFT.  MY BABY IS GONNA BE 27.  OY.

GWENN

Me too.  Also, where do we go to vote and how do we do it? 

I've never eaten brisket, Gwenn, but it sounds yummy.

What makes y'all think that Marilyn isn't working on this already??

I am waiting for info and then I will submit by email.
Not sure how the voting will go- or if they just take the info and choose. Will let you know

Thanks Gwenn!

Is there a secret recipe for Kool-Aid, or can anyone make it?

meaning...............?

I think you just add water.   :wink

                                 MY KOOL=AID TURNS OUT BAD PUTTING SUGAR IN IT HELPS. :roflmao :roflmao

If the late Reverend Jim Jones of Guyana were around, he could give you a great recipe.....   :eek  (this may pre-date some of you young'ns.)

 :naughty :naughty :naughty :bigsmile :bigsmile :bigsmile

I FINALLY OPENED UP ALL THE WINDOWS.  BARRY'S EARS HAVE NOT BEEN CLOGGED IN DAYS.  THANK GOD.  HOPEFULLY, ALL WILL BE WELL.

MAKING A JEWISH APPLE CAKE TODAY.  I LOVE THIS CAKE.  TAKING ER AND HER BF TO DINNER TO CELEBRATE HER B'DAY.  OTHERWISE, RELAXING AND READING.

GWENN

If the late Reverend Jim Jones of Guyana were around, he could give you a great recipe.....     (this may pre-date some of you young'ns.)



Some might say in observing the political arena that his recipe is still around!! :wink

 :thumb  Whoa, MS MARION!   :lol  (rim shot)

'Sounds yummy. I didn't know apples could be Jewish. :wink

Afternoon all  :wave

FYI:  Less than 3 days to go and no need to register.  Please share the love and VOTE FOR CLAY in the World Idol competition!
Click here--->   TWEETERWALL (http://tweeterwall.mallplace.com/tw/worldwide/world-idol) 

Votes can be cast every 20 minutes and every vote counts. 

GO CLAY!!!!!
 :cheer   

     

 :lol It's just sugar and water anyway right?

Thanks Marilyn. Hope it's ok with Meesa. :cross for her to win.

Gwenn- :birthday to Erica!

I've been voting Cindy. Just a few votes in everyday. Not doing it all day and all night like some people are obbessed with it. Just voting to show my Clay support. Since you mentioned Twitter you might want to register to be on now cause Clay is on there now. :slick The devil made him do it. Just kidding. :lol It's really Team Clay doing the tweets. They'll post news and updates on him. Just posted his blog the other day and they link the OFC. Great way now IMO to promote him. If anyone is interested here's the link.

http://twitter.com/clayaiken/

OMG, SUNNY, YOU ALWAYS MAKE ME LAUGH..THE RECIPE, NOT THE APPLES.  GEEZ. :wink :wink :wink

DON'T HATE ME, BUT I AM NOT VOTING.  <<DUCKS>> I DON'T KNOW.  I AM JUST OVER THE FAN WARS AND IT IS AL VS CLAY.  FOR THOSE WHO ENJOY VOTING, I AM NOT PASSING JUDGMENT.  JUST ME.

I AM THRILLED TC IS TWITTERING.  THE MAN HAS TO GET INTO THE 21ST CENTURY. 

CAKE IN OVEN.  I NEED TO GO WASH MY HAIR.  I AM TIRED.

GWENN

Gwenn, why would anyone hate you if you don't vote? Its all a matter of preference. Some folks think its a fun thing to do to get Clays name out there on the twitter wall of fame. But heavens to Betsy no one HAS to do it!!

And can you mail me a piece of cake? I love cake.

My youngest son came over. He is the one that is going to post grad school for special education. He has painted most of my fence, my front deck, he is painting the concrete foundation around the house. He fixed the concrete wall in the front of my front yard. (MY oldest had to rescue it from collapsing and dug it all out and straightened it two years ago) The blocks were all old looking.
He is doing a lot for me and I really appreciate it.

I downloaded some good videos of Clay from the you tube. I sure miss the concerts and the banter. Hope this will all come to fruition next year and there WILL be a tour or two!!

I miss the Christmas concerts too. I just wish he would do a TV special for CHristmas- I love his Christmas voice too.  But this time invite younger, cooler guests and have it more like his concerts.

Guess I can dream.
\
Well, I am feeling a bit dizzy so I am gonna go sit in my recliner, put the telly on, and see what happens.

C U later

Jewish apples!!!    :lol :bduh :roflmao  GWENN do you put a icing on this cake?  Is this a layer cake or like a bundt cake????  Sounds very, very good!!!  Oh, when is dinner I see you are taking ER to dinner tonight and here I thought you were feeding  us tonight!!!! 

Speaking of voting...  Does anybody know where and when we can start voting for MEESA for the NIP award???

The submission (nomination) gets emailed, but I don't know that we get the votes. I dont recall seeing that. I think that we nominate and the committee decides. If anyone sees anything to the contrary, please let me know.

Also, since the word NIP has negative connotations due to World War !! (I read this elsewhere) Aron is calling it the Inclustion Project and that would be IP for short.
Dont kill the messenger, this is what I read.

MARILYN, thanks so much for sharing what you know with us.  And I most certainly understand the negative connotations of the abbreviation, so I will try to remember to call it the Inclusion Project/IP!   :wink

Hope everybody has a good evening.  Right now I'm am feeling so happy over some good news I just received.    :wheee :wheee :wheee

I had a very busy weekend granddaughter sitting.  She will be 12 this Friday so she is not any trouble but she is so active I get tired watching her.  We spent yesterday and today at the soccer field.  They won both games but it was so very hot sitting out in the sun that I think it has caught up with me now.  I ended up with one arm and both knees sunburned. 

Gwenn - your menu just keeps getting better and better.  Apple cake sound yummy. 

Marlene - I don't usually watch Ch. 17 but since the tennis matches were still on I watched the news there tonight.  They showed a clip about some teens in Knightdale and interviewed Hunter Crowder.  That is your grandson, isn't it.  I know you must be so very proud of him -- he seems like a very special young man.

Marilyn - interesting about the new name for the BAF.  You would think if it had a negative connotation they would have picked something else.

Everyone have a good week.

Since I didn't get much done this weekend, I need to go wash some clothes and get ready for another week.

BARBARA, it sounds like you had a very busy weekend being a wonderful grandma!!!  :bigsmile

I did, Thea, but she is so worth it

Thank you Barbara about the nice comments about Hunter. He is a very special young man. All his senior year he was attending evening classes to become a Paramedic,and he recently got his certification papers. Since he has gratuated he has been working during the day as asst. manager of a AutoBell car wash, and working with the Paramedics after work.
He was recently on a call to a accident, and unfortunately one of his long time friends was the accident victim..He was in the back bed of a pick up truck,and the driver was impaired,and made a shape turn throwing out the passengers...Hunters friend hit his head on the concrete,and suffered brain damage...It sounded similiar to Natasha Richardson injury, because Hunter said when they answered the call,the guy was laughing and telling everyone he was fine..then he went into shocK,and by the time they transported him to the hospital he was not in such great shape.The Drs put him in a coma induced state, to try and get the brain swelling down,but he was declared brain dead,and died several days later.

Hunter decided to help sponsor a blood drive with a local church this weekend..and the last time I talked to him he had been able to get  over 70 volunteers to donate blood.
  It is very hard for young people to see friends their age die in such untimely manner,and he just wanted to try help out the best he knew how.
Yes, we are very proud of him.

Marlene, congrats to your grandson Hunter's accomplishments AND  to his parents and grandparents for raising such a fine young man with compassion and a desire to make a difference in this world!   :clap

BACK FROM DINNER.  IT WAS FUN.  ER IS GREAT.  I LOVE HER BF.  BARRY IS JUST NUTS. 

PEPE--NO ICING ON THE CAKE.  YOU MAKE IT IN A TUBE PAN.  THE BATTER IS VERY THICK.  BATTER, APPLES, BATTER, APPLES.  THE APPLES ARE SLICED AND SPRINKLED HEAVILY WITH CINNAMIN AND SUGAR.  IT BAKES FOR ALMOST 1 1/2 HOURS.  SO GOOD.

BARB AND MARLENE--SOUNDS LIKE YOU HAVE SOME VERY SPECIAL GRANDKIDS.

THEA--CONGRATS ON THE GOOD NEWS WHATEVER IT IS.

AS FOR THE NEW NAME, IT WILL ALWAYS BE THE BAF TO ME.

WISH YOU ALL COULD JOIN WHAT IS TURNING OUT TO BE A HUGER DEAL THAN I EXPECTED.

GWENN

Barb, its not the name, its the abbreviation of the name. I guess they didnt thing of that- acronym.

APPARENTLY SOMEONE AT CH IS FRIENDS ON FB WITH ARON HALL AND CAN SEE SOME STUFF ON CLAY'S FB PAGE.  I DON'T GET THAT BUT HERE IS A PIC HE POSTED.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y83/canuck2010/ClaysFB.jpg

WHAT IS ON HIS SHOULDER?

IT GOES TO SHOW THAT NOTHING ON THE INTERNET IS PRIVATE.

GWENN

I bet that changes pretty soon.



A scarf? :shrug


Amen!

Thank you Thea & Gwenn

Marlene :hugg

Hi everyone!  :wave

I have something to share. I know a few of you know because it got leaked by a co-worker on my Facebook, but I want to formally let all my Clay friends know .... I'm getting married!  :smile

Joe proposed to me on Thursday night and of course I accepted. He is everything I've prayed for and more. We set a tentative date tonight : March 13th. We will be getting married in my home church here in South Hutchinson which is just down the street. We will be living in my house and Joe is of course making sure I quit my second job. He doesn't want me to have to work two jobs. I

I would love it if anyone that can would attend my wedding but if you can't, I understand. I'll fill you all in on the details when we know more.

This is a picture of us and then my ring!

(http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y27/KSChristian4Clay_3/Me%20and%20Joe/081109_230400.jpg)

(http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y27/KSChristian4Clay_3/Me%20and%20Joe/091109_003600.jpg)

 :bouncy :bouncy :bouncy :bouncy :clap :clap :clap :clap :shappy :shappy :shappy :shappy :cele :wow :wow :bighug :wheee :wheee :wheee :wheee :flower :confetti2 :confetti2 :yay :fruit :fruit


:congrats2

MEESA THATS WONDERFUL!!!!

 :whoot :dancingparty :yay :congrats2

I am soooo happy for you Meesa!!! It is so wonderful indeed when you finally find that special someone.

You're right even if not all of us can't be there personally for your special day, please don't hesitate to give us every detail. I'm sure we would all love to be in on every planning, step by step.

Jules :bouncy

 :yay :fruit :bighug :wow :ghug2 :cele :confetti

MEESA--THAT IS SUCH WONDERFUL NEWS.  I COULDN'T BE HAPPIER FOR YOU.  I WILL GIVE YOU A BIG HUG AT THE GALA AND I CANNOT WAIT TO HEAR DETAILS. 

GWENN

MARELNE, what a wonderful grandson you have.  He must have been born with a good heart and am sure he will do a lot of good in his life.  He sounds like he is truly special.  Hope you are feeling some better.  Keep up with your therapy exercises.

MEESA, posted to you on the OCD I think I need to come to Kansas so I can interview Joe to see if he is worthy of you!!!!   :roflmao

GWENN, I can smell that apple cake!  Apples, cinnamon and sugar!  Love bundt cakes, YUMMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!   

Meesa~ What wonderful news to start the day.  CONGRATULATIONS!!

I wish for you many happy years together.It is so important to have someone that you can love, & be loved  right back.
Can't hardly wait to see you, & your lovely ring, at the Gala.

Thank you Shirley..Hunter helped a lot of people yesterday. There were 115 units of blood donated...and a lot of these were young people. Hunter has had 3 friends die this past month,( 2 by  accidents,1 suicide)so that is an eye opener for a lot of young people...Hunter just turned 18.

Last night before I went to bed Clay was #1 on the Tweeterwall poll..This morning he is back to # 2,and behind by 456 votes.. It was a lot of fun to watch the #s change,(though I didn't chose to vote)
The Adam fans sure want to win this badly. They have even asked for help on Craig's list.

HOW SILLY!!!  :lol

They better watch out or they will get a reputation like the ClayMates :bigsmile

    Marlene,
                   What a wonderful son you have,  you must be very, very proud.
           
                 It"s  such a treat these days to hear of young people caring enough to

                 give of their time to help people in need. There is a big shortage of blood
                  now.

                      The whole voting thing on Twitter is rediculous and does"nt mean a
                      thing.    So Why am I voting????? I need to get a life, as they say!!!

                                                               Betty
                   

Thanks Betty~ actually it was my GS but, I appreciate the fact that you thought I could have a 18 yr old son :bigsmile

Meesa, I am soooo very happy for you!  Congratulations!  You'll make a beautiful bride, and your honey is a cutie!  Best of luck to both of you!   :cele

Marlene, the world needs more young people like your grandson.   

Gwenn, I don't layer my Jewish apple cake.  I just mix the apple and cinnamon mixture right in with the batter.  Try it that way sometime, and let me know how you like it.  It's a big hit with my family.  I also use Granny Smith apples.  I like the tartness with the sugar and cinnamon.   

MEESA, do you know hard it was for me to keep my cyber-mouth closed about your good news?   :lmao :lmao  I finally did "spill" a little bit here on the CM about "getting some good news".  I know GWENN was curious!   :lol

All I can say is, I AM SO HAPPY FOR YOU!  Prayers have been answered, you sweet young lady!   :hugg :hugg   




Actually for a moment I thought Clay had a parrot on his shoulder!    :bduh

Today Phil and I are travelling across state to visit my mother and to give her a couple of end tables from our "old decor".  They are brass and glass, and she has always admired them, so it pleases me to no end that somebody will be enjoying our old furniture!!!  :bouncy 

Mimi will be dropped off at "Camp Bow Wow" for her "slumber party".  Oy, what we do for our dogs.  We will be back tomorrow afternoon.  I'm not taking my laptop, as the car is already too crowded with the furniture and our suitcases.

So....have a good day, ladies!  TTY tomorrow!!!! 

BETTY, are you actually "twittering/tweeting"?  I'm very impressed.  You go, girl!!!  :lol :hugg

THERE IS SO MUCH GOING ON TO COMMENT ABOUT.  KAANYE WEST IS AN ASS.  CAN'T EVEN BEGIN TO THINK OF WHY HE WOULD DO SUCH A THING AS HE DID TO TAYLOR SWIFT.  BEYONCE IS A CLASS ACT.  LIFE GETS MORE AND MORE WEIRD.  DID ANYONE SEE A PIC OF THIS LADY GA GA PERSON AT THOSE AWARDS. :bduh :bduh :bduh  AND KELLY BLOGGING ABOUT KW WAS SPOT ON.  I AM NOT A HUGE FAN OF HERS, BUT SHE IS RIGHT.  THIS DUDE HAS ISSUES.

SUCH INCREDIBLY SAD NEWS FOR THE FAMILY OF THE YALE STUDENT.  YESTERDAY WAS SUPPOSED TO BE HER WEDDING DAY AND NOW THIS?  AWFUL STUFF.

TOP IT OFF WITH SERINA WILLIAMS GOING OFF ON SATURDAY?  I DON'T KNOW LADIES.  CLAY BEING GAY IS SO MILD IN COMPARISON TO ALL THIS CRAP.

ERRANDS TODAY.  I NEED A BREAK FROM THE KITCHEN.

GWENN

 
           
 Marlene,
             
                Nutty me! of course I meant you GS, why would"nt I think it was your 18year old son???
                   
                       He is a very wonderful boy anyway.
 
                  I"m so confused because last week I had bloodwork done, mammogram and saw three
                  different doctors. One a day, I hope to finish it off this week. No wonder I am twittering??
                 Actually, I"m not ...just voting for fun.Clay has fallen back

                                                               Betty

   
     Gwenn,
                     Such very sad news about the young Yale student, her parents and fiancee

              must be devastated.  There are so many monsters in this world.

            Being a big tennis fan I saw Serena loose it .Very bad behaviour, she deserved
              to lose.   I think she would have lost anyway.
 
                                                      Betty

 
     MEESA,
                       WHAT EXCITING NEWS!

            I'M SO HAPPY FOR YOU, IF ANYONE DESERVES HAPPINESS IT'S YOU.
 
                HAVE YOU COME DOWN TO EARTH YET?????
 
                     LOVE YOUR RING AND YOUR FIANCEE LOOKS LIKE A VERY NICE MAN.
           
                            WE EXPECT ALL THE WEDDING NEWS AT THE GALA.

                                                              Betty :hugg

The tips of their stems are removed, Sunny.   :tomato

MEESA!
 :cheer :wow :wow :bighug

WHEW!!   Great news!  Joe is a very lucky guy!   :clap :clap

I have so much more to say . . . . .  about lots of things . . .  but I was gone all day yesterday and I am at work right now.  Tonight I have a dinner meeting!!

BUT . . . .  Such great news!  :bouncy :bouncy

JILL!   :lmao :lmao :bigsmile :bigsmile   Just read your Jewish apple response!  :lol

Just catching up......

Congratulations, MEESA!  :dance  Fantastic news on your engagement.     Finding love is so special.


Come back soon, Barb.  Can't wait to hear what's on your mind.

Marlene - Loved the story about your GS.  There are so many great kids out there, unfortunately the news is usually about the one's who've gone astray.  Be proud!  :hugg

JILL--SERENA CURSED AND THREW A FIT LIKE NUTS AT A TENNIS MATCH ON SATURDAY WHEN A JUDGE SAID HE FOOT WAS OUT OF BOUNDS.  WENT NUTS.

KW--TAYLOR SWIFT WON AN AWARD AT THE VIDEO AWARDS AND WHEN SHE CAME UP TO ACCEPT IT, KW GOT ON STAGE AND SAID IT SHOULD HAVE GONE TO BEYONCE.  CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT?  BEYONCE BEING A LADY, WHEN SHE GOT ANOTHER AWARD, ASKED TAYLOR TO COME UP AND HAVE HER TIME INSTEAD.  IT WAS TOUCHING AND CLASSY.


THIS JUST MADE ME SPIT MY WATER OUT.  YOU ARE TOOOOOO FUNNY. :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao

GWENN

I just went to read about this, Gwenn.  KW continues to publically display his ignorance.  Can't say that I'm surprised.  Sounds like he could use some classes on anger management, manners and appropriate social skills along with a prescription for Prozac.  Geez, what an ASS.


And it wasn't even full moon!   :para

Gwenn wrote:So true, Gwenn! :lol

I was actually wondering about that! :lol

Congratulations, Meesa! :bouncy

Beautiful ring! I hope you two are in love forever. :hugg :bigsmile

WE DID A TON OF ERRANDS TODAY.  I AM NOT TOO NUTS ABOUT DOING THEM, BUT.........

WHAT IS ANNOYING IS THAT I HAVE TO CALL OUR PRESCRIPTION PLAN CENTER TOMORROW.  NO ONE SPEAKS ENGLISH.  I HAVE A STUPID SITUATION TO DEAL WITH.  I WILL BE ON THE PHONE HOURS.  ANNOYING.

I AM ALSO STUPID.  WHY IS USING THE ACRONYM FOR THE NATIONAL INCLUSION PROJECT OBJECTIONABLE?  I REALLY DON'T KNOW.  HELP SO I CAN STOP BEING STUPID.

GWENN

MEESA - Congratulations.  What wonderful news and this world needs all the good news it can get.  You and Joe are certainly a great looking couple and I wish you all the love and happiness you so richly deserve.  And, yes, we want all the details.   :bigsmile

I think Kanye West is over impressed with his own importance.  This isn't the first time he has made a fool of himself on the air.  Someone needs to take him down a notch or two--or better yet, just quit supporting him.

Gwenn, you're not stupid. I think some people just go around looking for things to get in a snit over.

"Nip" has been used as a derogatory term for Japanese people. I don't use it myself, nor does anyone I know... nor has a Japanese friend of mine ever been called that. But somewhere out there, someone has decided to police the world for political correctness, thereby making a problem where none existed. And that, if you ask me, is stupid.

                          MORE THAN A NOTCH OR TWO IN MY ESTIMATION, NOT TO SMART IS HE. I AM WATCHING DREAMGIRLS. NOTHING TO DO WITH KW

  Glory -- I'm watching DREAMGIRLS too.  That music almost makes me want to get up off the couch.   :roflmao

 :wave Hello Hello


Wow nutty news today or what? I didn't see the Video Awards but I did see a banner about Taylor Swift being cutoff..so I guess that's what that was all about. How rude can KW be? :bduh What did Kelly say in her blogging (we are talking about our Kelly Clarkson right?)

MEESA~I forgot to ask..you need to tell us how Joe proposed!! You're just gonna have to spill that detail :bigsmile I love hearing engagement stories.

GWENN You're not stupid, so don't even say that! Plus as I learned in school, no question is ever stupid.  :bigsmile

Well I just got home from work whew! Eating Chinese food when I should be trying to lose some of this mama gut I got from Ava but nooo..the damn Chicken chow mein had to tempt! :lol

Jules

                                       BARB I WOULDN'T KNOW WHAT TO DO IF I GOT OFF MY COUCH. :roflmao :roflmao

                                  RIP PATRICK SWAYZE SAD.

RIP Patrick Swayze,age 57   He sure did put up a brave fight.

  :spit

Just saw the news about Patrick Swayze. He was an excellent dancer and a very talented man. So sad. God comfort his loved ones.

I will never forget the 1st time I saw Dirty Dancing..I loved that movie,and have seen it more times than I would like to admit...Also a big fan of Ghost.

RIP PATRICK SWAYZE.  SO TERRIBLY SAD TO LOSE SUCH A TALENT AT SUCH A YOUNG AGE.  TERRIBLE DISEASE.

GWENN

Meesa,..What wonderful news.. Congratulations and much happiness....


The term "NIP" I believe was very much used during the WWII period. Perhaps that is why so many younger folk have never heard it before. If it is insulting to some, it should be addressed. Personally I really don't see why the name had to be changed at all. I know why he  did it, but I don't feel it was really necessary. After all it is his popularity that he counts on to help support the organization and it was his brainchild. Anyone who knows Clay knew that the BAF was never about him.. JMHO..

Saddened by the loss of Patrick Swayze. He fought the battle so heroically.

 :wave I ended up bringing my laptop on my trip....


MARION, so true.  But IMHO there are more than a few career decisions Clay has made over the years that I don't feel were "really necessary".  I've given up trying to figure him out.   :lol  :dust


I am saddened, as well .  And I was pleasantly surprised and impressed to just hear that he and his beautiful wife Lisa had been married for 34 years!  To me, the longevity of their marriage is a testament to his character.  I'm sure he had many, many Hollywood "babes" throwing themselves at him over the years.  BTW Barbara Walters had just done an interview with them shortly before he died.  It was just aired on "Nightline".

And yes, he succumbed to his cancer with dignity and grace....RIP, Mr. Swayze.  You were a good man and you left this earth all too soon.

Talk to everybody tomorrow afternoon! 
 

Thanks everyone!  :bouncy

He proposed on Thursday. I was getting ready to leave his house (we had gone to Jonathan's football game, Dylan's practice, dinner and then to my sister's house). He said he had something for me. He said he was going to wait until Valentine's Day, but couldn't wait that long, was going to wait until the KU/Missouri football game in November but couldn't wait that long ... so he was going to ask me then. He pulled the ring out of his pocket and I couldn't say anthing. I was in shock. I did finally manage to say yes though.  :lol

I know it was awfully quick, but when it's right ... it's right.  :bigsmile

Now the planning begins. We are very excited!

MORNING ALL--

TODAY MY BABY TURNED 27.  I CANNOT BELIEVE IT.  HER BF HAS TO WORK TONIGHT WHICH IS WHY WE DID DINNER ON SUNDAY.  BUT, SHE IS COMING.  I CANNOT WAIT TO HUG HER UP.  BARRY AND I ARE BLESSED WITH A WONDERFUL DAUGHTER.

HE IS MAKING CHALLAH AS WE SPEAK.  OMG, HE MAKES THE BEST.  THIS DINNER HAS TAKEN ON A LIFE OF ITS OWN.  GROWING.  I HOPE I LIVE THROUGH IT ALL. :bigsmile :para

SAW KW ON LENO.  HE IS MORE THAN AN ASS.  HE IS A STUPID ASS.

GWENN

 :lol GWENN.  Yes, indeedy, on the Richter scale of Assdom, Kanye West is definitely a 10+! 

Happy Birthday to your "baby girl", ER!  It sounds like she is a wonderful person and has done you and Barry proud!

Well now, I never would have pegged Barry for a challah-making kind of guy!   :wink

Hey everyone! :bouncy Today is our beloved Moonshot's birthday! I started a thread for her in Clay Daily, so you all can go and wish her a happy birthday. :bigsmile


Gwenn, Happy birthday to your 27-year-old baby, too. What did KW say on Leno? Did he have the nerve to defend what he did??

  :lol

Good Morning

I must be recovering much better than I thought..I left for work this morning,and realized I had forgot my cane, so I had to turn around, and come back for it :bigsmile

I kept flipping channels last night ,and what few minutes I did watch Leno,it seems to be pretty lame to me..What did you all think?

I did see some portion of Jay interviewing KW..Of course, he apologized he was on national TV.  He's willing to do anything to help Taylor(WHAT!),he is going to try and do better,going to take a break, he will seek help...BLAH! BLAH! BLAH!
Then he sang ? with JayZ, & Rhinanna if thats what you want to call it..What ever it was..it was dark.
For such a pretty woman to show up on TV looking like that is beyond me..
If this is going to be the type of show Jay is going to have then he won't have to worry about me ever watching again.


I'm curious to know what the critics thought.
 
Today is a beautiful day in Raleigh,the sky is a Carolina blue,sun is shining( could it be because its Michelles B/D)and the temperature is suppose to be in the upper 80s..Gorgeous

Lasagna is baking in the oven,and my house smells yummy.

Marlene :hugg

Rest in peace, Patrick Swayze.  You were a good man and you fought a hard battle.  You will be missed. 

Pink stated it perfectly.  Kayne West wanted attention......and he got it.  Sad that he is so insecure that he had to steal someone else's thunder.  Beyonce is one classy lady, and Taylor Swift handled the situation with dignity and grace.  For one so young, I applaud her.

Happy Birthday to Gwenn's daughter, Erica.  Enjoy, sweetie! 

Marion, I can't understand the name change of the BAF either.  He always said he wanted to use his celebrity to help others.  The Buble/Aiken Foundation did that.  It's part of who he is, and people should know that.  He can call it the NIP, the ABC, the XYZ for all I care.  It will always be the BAF to me.  It was his idea and his passion.  He should be associated with it. 

TONS OF CELEBRITIES HAVE COME OUT AGAINST HIM.  I SAW THE "APOLOGY".  HALF HEARTED IS PUTTING IT MILDLY.  SOMEONE TOLD HIM TO SAY SOMETHING.  HE COULD HAVE CARED LESS AS IS EVIDENT BY TAYLOR HERSELF.  SHE WAS ON THE VIEW THIS MORNING.  BARBARA ASKED HER IF KW APOLOGIZED OR TRIED TO CONTACT HER   NO.  NOT ONE WORD.  CLASSLESS BASTARD.  AND I DIDN'T EVEN WAIT TO HEAR THEM "SING."  NOT MY CUPPA FOR SURE.  JERRY SEINFELD WAS GREAT AS USUAL.

BARB--SEND SOME OF THAT LASAGNA OVER.  YUM.

LENO IS NOT ON MY LIST UNLESS CLAY IS ON.  I WILL WATCH HGTV OR SOMETHING.

THANKS FOR THE GOOD WISHES FOR ER.  GOTTA RUN ON OVER TO MICHELLE'S THREAD. :sonic :sonic :sonic

GWENN

FROM CV--


GWENN

Meesa  :hugg  congratulations to you on such wonderful news!!!!
My husband and I knew each 5 months when we got married - that was 33 years ago!!!

 :wave LORI.  Always good to see you here!  :hugg  Phil and I only knew each other 8 months when we got married.  That's a little over 30 years ago, and we've never regretted one day of our marriage.   Sometimes you just "know" when you've met the right person!!!

MEESA, I know that you and Joe will be very happy together!   :heartburst

                              WELL ANYBODY CATCH WHITNEY ON OPRAH. WEINER FACED, DUMBASS,DRYED UP FACED, SCRAWNEY LEGGED,PERSON NAMED CLIVE WAS THERE I COULD NOT WATCH I JUST HEARD HIS VOICE AND GOT SICK. :lol  SORRY I COULD NOT COME UP WITH ANY NAMES THAT DESCRIBE HIM BETTER. :bigsmile

Fear not, MS GLORY.   :lol  Those were very descriptive words for Ole Man Clive! :lmao

                                    I FORGOT PRUNED FACE :lmao :lmao

Glory:  prune face is good to. :lol

Meesa:  Im so happy for you :purpbana :purpbana  congratuations and much happiness to both of you.  Joe is one lucky guy.


Sasha

Glory, we'll have to start calling you the Adjective Queen.   :lol  I saw the very end of Oprah today and saw Clive up on his pedestal.   

Lori, it's nice to see you here. 

Whitney's new record if I'm not mistaken has gone from # 1 last week, to 4 this week.
 I have read some good & not so good reviews about her comeback.     

MIMI, interesting facts!  All I know is that the new talk show hostess Wendy Williams is chomping at the bit to get Whitney Houston on her show!  :bigsmile

DEAR THEA

I AM FOLLOWING YOU.

CANNOT ANSWER YOUR PM JUST NOW. FINISHED PACKING FOR MY GRANDSONS WEDDING AND AM POOPED. WE LEAVE EARLY MORNING BUT HAD TO GET ON MY LAPTOP AND TELL YOU THAT I WILL ANSWER WHEN I GET BACK. I AM ON MY STUBBORN LAP TOP.

YOU ARE A DEAR FRIEND, AND I UNDERSTAND YOUR PM TO THE FULLEST. :hugg :hugg

GOODNIGHT ALL YOU DEAR LADIES, I AM BACK.

JAN AKA JEANNE

Just a quick post to let you know I am still around.  Moved the wrong way a little while ago and my hip is not feeling too great.

Gonna go back and rest and hope it is better by morning.

I'm really looking forward to the Gala and seeing so many of you again.   :clap

JEANNE, my dear friend, thanks for following me here.   :hugg :hugg  And no need to reply.  Just enjoy your big day as Grandmother of the Groom!!!

BARBARA, I'm sorry to hear about your hip.  :comfort   Bengay or Jointritis and a heating pad could be your best friends right about now.

I'm watching the Barbara Walter' interview with the late Patrick Swayze.  I'm already about to cry....

P.S.  BARBARA, I'm one of the few who hasn't had the pleasure of meeting you.  I'm so looking forward to the Gala to finally connect with you and the others I've never met, as well reuniting with long-time friends.   :ghug2

                            THEA YOU ARE IN FOR A TREAT BARB,IS THE BEST :hugg


                                QUYNN I'D LIKE NOTHING BETTER THAN TO KNOCK CLIVE OFF HIS PEDESTAL CAN YOU TELL I REALLY DISLIKE THE MAN. :lmao
                               

                                   

MORNING--

CRAPPY OUT BUT I DON'T CARE.  GONNA START GETTING MY TABLE READY FOR FRIDAY.  CLEANING LADY COMES TOMORROW SO THAT IS ONE THING I DON'T NEED TO DO.  LAUNDRY.  READING.  DON'T PLAN ON LEAVING THE HOUSE.

WHITNEY---SAW A SMALL BIT OF THE INTERVIEW YESTERDAY.  SHE IS ON SOMETHING EVEN IF IT IS PROZAK OR ZOLOFT.  HER VOICE SOUNDED KIND OF RASPY WHEN SHE TALKED.  I DIDN'T WAIT TO SEE CLIVE.  COULDN'T STOMACH THAT.  I HAVE TOO MUCH VENOM TOWARDS HIM.  DON'T NEED TO FEEL THAT.  BUT SHE IS A STAR AND OPRAH SURE DOES LOVE HER.  WHEN OPRAH LOVES SOMEONE, WELL..........  WISH SHE LOVED CLAY BUT SHE DOESN'T.

SO, KW FINALLY APOLOGIZED TO TAYLOR AFTER THEY BLASTED HIM ON THE VIEW.  TOO LITTLE TOO LATE.  WHAT AN ASS.

GWENN

I heard somewhere that Whitney's voice has been damaged by all the drugs she did. :shrug

                       
                                I HAD A TERRIBLE TIME GETTING ON THE SITE SAYS MY LINK IS BROKEN I GOT NEWS THEY CAN NEVER BREAK MY LINK. :roflmao :roflmao  I HAD TO GO THROUGH OUR OLD SITE TO GET ON. PURPLE REMEMBER.

I HAD THAT TROUBLE YESTERDAY, GLORY.  COULDN'T UNDERSTAND IT CAUSE CM IS ALWAYS OPEN. WEIRD.

GWENN

I couldn't get on at all this morning..Started to get worried. I even went to the old site and Johanna was also having problems and had posted.

The weather is cool & rainy here today, so I decided after I dropped Rebecca off at school, instead of going to water aerobics ,to come home and do laundry,and to prepare a couple of meals in advance for the remainer of the week.
My house is smelling goood! I made spaghetti sauce,and I have a meatloaf in the oven.
Tonight we will have the meatloaf, twice stuffed potatoes, green beans, & DHs home grown sliced tomatoes

I am making my ownself hungry, so I think I will go fix me a Kraft Mac & Cheese :bigsmile

This morning on the way to school, I played Clay & KLs duet of Without You..Now Rebecca has decided this is her very favorite song, so I heard it 5 times before I finally got her to school.
I have hummed that song all morning long.
I'm hoping by the time I pick her up that she may have forgotten about it. Don't get me wrong I love the song ,but I need a little break from  it

KW has shown truly what he is about. He has been rude and inappropriate on several other occasions that the media and his  music community have let him have a pass on. I remember for the Katrina Fundraiser when the whole country was trying so hard to all pitch in and be helpful to aid those victims that he  used the opportunity on stage to be rude, hateful and devisive. What I don't understand is why people still support his career and reward him. I'm glad he is being chastised by some....I would like to see more of the Black community of rap artists speak up as well. Why did Rhianna and Jay Z perform with him??  They could have stood up for what was right and not done so.   It was a matter of RESPECT for another artist....So what if she was a young white girl. Racial tensions will never get better until ALL people truly speak up for what is right no matter what side or color they are ......No double standards...JMHO

Our host provider has had a few issues with their servers the past couple of days. They are working on getting all the bugs out so hopefully all will be well soon!

MARLENE--I CAN SMELL THAT MEAT LOAF RIGHT NOW.  YUM.

MARION--I DON'T GET WHY JAYZ AND COMPANY DIDN'T SPEAK UP EITHER.  JAY Z DID WITH THE CHRIS BROWN THING.  BUT THIS IS JUST ALL KINDS OF WRONG.  IT DOES SEEM TO SMACK OF RACISM.  OR STUPIDITY.  OR BOTH.

I AM PARTICIPATING IN A MARKET RESEARCH THING LATER TODAY.  POOR BARRY HAS TO SIT AROUND FOR ALMOST 2 HOURS.  HE CAN READ.  THEY ARE PAYING ME $100 FOR MY OPINION.  I DIDN'T TELL THEM THAT I OFFER MY OPINION AT THIS CLAY AIKEN WEB SITE DAILY FOR FREE. :wink :bigsmile :blush :naughty :angel

GWENN

 :clap :clap Thank you, MARION, for your boldness and courage in expressing what needs to be said.  I  look upon KW's uncouth, inexcusable outburst as a mixture of racism and   bullying of a  basically defenseless young girl.  Both are wrong and inexcusable in this so-called "enlightened" society.   I'm angry.  Why isn't somebody officially censuring Kanye West?  Why isn't there an apology coming from the CEO of his record label?    ~~now ducking for cover~~ 

 :chair

GWENN, when younger son still lived in the LA area, he would frequently participate in these market research focus groups.  It is most certainly an excellent way to make some quick cash!  :wink

DON'T HIDE, THEA.  I WOULD BET MOST OF US FEEL THE SAME WAY AS I POSTED ABOVE.

GWENN

Thea & Glory    Thank you   :ghug

I absolutely agree with all the comments about Kanye West.  Why do people keep supporting him   :bduh
If he is not going to be the center of attention at a function, he just takes over and bullies his way into the spotlight.  How can anyone like that be entertaining.  He obviously has some serious problems and I've got better things to do with my hard earned money that support a jerk like that.

I also watched Barbara Walters interview of Patrick Swayze last night.  Now there is a class act.  He had to be in a lot of pain but he still carried on and did that new series last year.  And on top of that, a 57 year old man who was married for 34 years   :wow

I sware I think I can gain a couple of pounds just by coming hear and reading about all the food you girls are cooking.  It's really a shame that we don't all live closer together because we could get together and have a pot luck dinner because it sure sounds like we have a lot of good cooks.

THINGS ARE SURE QUIET HERE.  I DID MY SURVEY THING AND THAT WAS FUN.  WE WATCHED DR. OZ AND I DECIDED I NEED TO REALLY WORK ON STAYING ALIVE.  MY ROSH HASHUNAH DINNER IS GROWING AND SEEMS TO HAVE A MIND OF ITS OWN RIGHT NOW.  MY SIL CALLED TO ASK IF SHE COULD BRING HER 100 YEAR OLD AUNT.  OMG, WITH A BABY, 24 PEOPLE, AND 2 DOGS, I AM SCARED TO DEATH.  I TOLD HER IF SHE BRINGS AUNT E, MY SIL AND BIL HAVE TO BE IN CHARGE.  I HOPE SHE DOESN'T COME.  MY HOUSE IS CRAZY ENOUGH UNDER NORMAL CIRCUMSTANCES.  OY.

SO, CLAY----WHERE THE HELL ARE YA SWEETIE?

GWENN

Sorry I haven't been posting much today.  I think I'm getting another sinus infection and bronchitis.  This will be the 4th time this year.   Sigh.

 I'm just chilling watching "Glee".  Based on the show so far, I think Josh Grobon is going to make a cameo appearance.  He's a good singer, but why oh why couldn't it have been Clay?   :bang

EDIT:  BARBARA, how's your hip doing today?   :comfort

GWENN, it sounds like you will be a hosting an "eclectic" group for Rosh Hashanah! 

2 dozen people, a baby, 2 dogs, and a hundred-year-old auntie.... Gwenn, your "little" dinners crack me up! :lol :hugg

Thea, it's doing better today--thanks.   I did the heating pad thing last night.

I'm going to get shots in my knees again next week and maybe I'll walk a little more normal and that will help.

I ALWAYS SAY I WILL NEVER DO IT AGAIN, AND THEN I DO.  PROBLEM IS THAT MY FAMILY IS SCATTERED AND NOT ALL JEWISH.  MY SIL USED TO DO THIS SOMETIMES BUT HER DAUGHTER, THE NIECE I AM CLOSE TO, CONVERTED AND DOES THE CATHOLIC THINGS.  MY BROTHER HARDLY EVER COOKS HOLIDAY MEALS.  BARRY'S OTHER BROTHER IS IN FLORIDA AND THAT SIL HASN'T EVER USED HER STOVE IN 20 YEARS.  2 OF MY CLOSEST FRIENDS ARE MARRIED TO NON-JEWS SO THEY ALWAYS COME HERE.  HAVE FOR YEARS.  MOST IMPORTANTLY, I WANT ER TO KNOW HOW IMPORTANT HOLIDAYS ARE AND THAT THEY SHOULD BE A BIG DEAL.  WITH THE WAY THE WORLD IS TODAY, ALL SECULAR AND SPREAD OUT, SOMEONE HAS TO DO IT. 

I  DO GET HELP WITH THE COOKING.  MOST EVERYONE HELPS WITH CLEAN UP. 

AND MARION AND HER FAMILY ARE COMING ALSO. :purpbana :purpbana :purpbana :purpbana :purpbana :purpbana :purpbana

NOW, WE COULD USE A LITTLE VOCAL ENTERTAINMENT.  :wink :bduh :slick

GWENN

I think that's great. :bigsmile

I couldn't agree with you more, GWENN.  And IMO a mother's example is the best teacher for her daughter.  I have no doubt that ER will carry on the traditions you have shared with her.   :hugg

I'm having a hard time dealing with this Josh Groban appearance on "Glee".  And he mentioned that he was just inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.  Congrats to him, but.....sigh......I wish Clay were getting the same accolades. 

EDIT: I've been trying to confirm this Josh Grobin thing on the net, but so far no luck.  Anybody???

Josh Groban? Rock?? Doesn't sound... kosher to me. :hypno

Me neither, SUNNY!  :lol  Upon further "investigation", I think the "Glee" mention was about Josh Grobon performing at a concert honoring the 40th anniversary of Woodstock.  It was held at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. 

But again., as you said.....Josh Groban?  Rock?  Huh? 

Oh yeah, when I hear "Woodstock," I automatically think, "Groban!" :lol

     :lmao          :lmao         :lmao          :lmao

Maybe he was conceived there????? :blush

Yeah.. we are.....And I'm bringing  my home made stuffed cabbage and mandel bread (Jewish biscotti)

Why, we are having our own mock  NC STATE FAIR!! A regular jewish eating orgy!!!   you'all  :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao

MORNING--

JOSH GROBAN AND ROCK AND ROLL?  OXYMORON FOR SURE.

WELL, I FIGURE CLAY WILL HAVE HIS DAY SOONER OR LATER.  HE IS SUCH A TALENT IN SO MANY WAYS.  I AM TRYING TO BE PATIENT.   NOT A STRONG POINT HERE.

MAH JONGG MAYBE LATER.  LONG STORY.  HOUSE IS BEING CLEANED AS WE SPEAK.  SETTING UP THE TABLES LATER.  MOST OF THE COOKING IS DONE FOR NOW.  MY FRIEND EMAILED ME THAT SHE IS MAKING 10 LB. OF POTATOES AND HERS ARE FILLED WITH SO MUCH GOOD STUFF.  OY.  LOOKING FORWARD TO MARION'S STUFFED CABBAGE.  I FIGURE WE WILL ALL JUST SPONTANEOUSLY COMBUST AFTER ALL THIS FOOD.

GWENN

I am getting excited about this dinner at your house GWENN, ahd I do love stuffed cabbage.  I add a little sauerkraut to mine as it cooks and love sour cream on top of it as I pile it on my plate.  Is the brisket thawing now GWENN?  I imagine the apple cake is very good and moist now.  Wished I could taste it!!!!  How wonderful to have lots of family and friends to gather and share a wonderful meal together, sure wish I could coime!!!!!  Make sure you come and share how full and miserable you are tomorrow after you have eaten!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

 :lmao :lmao MARION!!!   Except where are the matzoh balls on a stick????? 

 :hugg  JOHANNA.  Thank you, I try,.... But ,  I'm considering going out of the "suggestion business"!   It leaves me too vulnerable.  These days I try to avoid stress and confrontation.  It's just not worth it.  Instead, I am focusing on the positive things in life......which includes friends like you.   :hugg

So when are you finally going to be hooked up to the internet at your new home????   We miss you!   :hugg

GWENN, only you would be able to go out to play mah jong a day before the major onslaught of dinner guests.  I so admire you!   :notworthy

Talking about all this food is making me hungry...

On the Fun Stuff Thread, there is a Recipe Swap, where I found a recipe for a Upside Down Apple Pie..Sounds delicious..I'm going to attempt to make it today.


I just realized that Clay and I have something in common...
My new knee is titanium.. Clay's.....hummm! well you know what I'm talkin' about.:bigsmile
As you can tell I've got to much time on my hands :lol Shame on me :naughty

WELL, I AM NOT PLAYING TODAY.  EVERYONE ELSE IS TOO BUSY AND NO ONE IS HAVING AS MANY AS I AM.  SISSIES. :bigsmile :naughty

ANYWAY, SAW THIS AT THE CH AND ON MY FB.  IT IS EASY AND SO WORTH IT:


IF THE CLAYNATION CAN VOTE ON STUPID  POLLS, THEN THE INCLUSION PROJECT SHOULD GET THIS.

JUST SAYING.

GWENN

ETA--ANYONE ELSE HAVING ISSUES WITH CV?  SAYS IT DOESN'T EXIST.  HUH.

Gwenn~ I didn't have any trouble getting on CV.

I also voted.

CV IS FIXED.

I HOPE EVERYONE TAKES THE TIME TO VOTE.  I JUST READ THAT THIS CONTEST HAS BEEN GOING ON SINCE JULY SO WE HAVE CATCHING UP TO DO.  I WISH ARON HAD TOLD US EARLIER.  I SENT THE LINK TO EVERYONE IN MY ADDRESS BOOK.  IT CAN'T HURT AND MAY HELP.

GWENN

:word

PEPE--THIS IS FOR YOU.  BARRY JUST TOOK A BAILEY'S IRISH CREME CHOCOLATE TORTE OUT OF THE OVEN.  OMG.  THIS HOUSE SMELLS AMAZING.  HE WILL ICE IT WITH A CHOCOLATE GANACHE.   :thud

GWENN

 :word

GWENN, could you please PM me the link to vote?  I don't know my way around Clayversity.   I will PM you my e-mail address.

THEA-  HERE IT IS AGAIN:


GWENN

FROM CH VIA FCA.  SEEMS BF IS WORKING.


NOW, UNLESS CLAY HAS EATEN KRISPY KREMES NONSTOP SINCE THAT HOT PIC A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO, THIS DUDE MUST STILL THINK OF CLAY AS THAT SKINNY LITTLE BOY FROM AI.  DOESN'T HE KNOW CLAY IS NOW A HOT MAN???????

GWENN

Thanks, Gwenn.  I didn't see it.  :bduh  I'm not the sharpest knife in the drawer today because  I'm running a fever .  I think my sinus infection and possibly bronchitis have returned with a vengeance.  I have a Dr. appt. in less than an hour.  Here's hoping it's not pneumonia.  I also will be rechecked for diabetes.  If I've gone over the "borderline" status, I'll be taking meds until I can get myself under control with diet and exercise.   :pig

I'm going over to vote right now.   :sonic

 I knew Barry baked ER a birthday cake and now this torte??????  I bet it does smell wonderful at your house now~~~  GWENN the apple cake now the Bailey's cake!!!  Is that it ?????  Love that type of icing just pour it on and let it slide down the cake!!!  chocolate and whipping cream!!!!  I know all of you will have a fantastic time and I have so enjoyed reading about all the preparation!!!!!

Back from the Doctor.  Thankfully his office is only a few miles away from our home.  Diagnosis is a recurrent sinus infection and bronchitis.  Back on the Avelox, which I guess is a very heavy-hitting antibiotic.     Will be rechecked for diabetes in a month or so.  He indicated that since I am still "borderline" as of my last checkup, he wouldn't feel right about putting me on medication.  Off to take a nap.

Already voted for the National Inclusion Project on the christiecook.com website!  :thumb :bigsmile

    Thea,
                 I"m    sorry to hear you have a sinus infection, they can make you feel really miserable.

                  Hope the  antibiotics work quickly and you feel better soon.

                    I have not been posting much because I am not feeling well, my silly old heart     
                     is giving me trouble.

                   Did vote for the National Inclusion  though.

                                                               Betty

BETTY, please feel better very soon.  :comfort We have a lot of celebrating to do at the Gala next month!   :dancingparty

BETTY, bless your heart was wondering where you were.  I was afraid you weren't feeling up to par.  I will certainly include you in my prayers tonight, just lay around and get lots of rest. 

THEA, so sorry you are sick too.  My goodness to many things are going around awful early this year like all this flu. 

OMGoodness...need a laugh???

Click    www.dailymotion.com/video/x9euvd_oldgirlsparty_fun

OMG IS RIGHT, JAYNE. :lmao

THEA AND BETTY--YOU GUYS HAVE TO GET WELL.  YOU HAVE 1 MONTH TO BE PERFECT. :wink

AND IT APPEARS THAT OUR BF IS SINGING IN A STUDIO IN NYC!!!!!!


 :purpbana :purpbana :purpbana :purpbana :purpbana :purpbana

GWENN

Well now....If Clay is, in fact,  recording now then possibly that "early 2010" new CD just might happen!!!   :purpbana

 :clap :clap :clap :bouncy :bouncy :bouncy

 :pray

Eeeeeeeeeeeeee That's so exciting. :bouncy :bouncy :bouncy Hope he can tell us what kind of CD it will be soon. Can't wait! :shappy

I don't mean to rain on anyone's parade, but I have a feeling this one will be fairly similar to his other ones. He keeps saying he likes to sing old songs and slow songs. :shrug

MORNING--

A BUSY DAY HERE.  GOTTA GET THAT COFFEE GOING AND GET THINGS GOING.  I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO TONIGHT.  TOMORROW I WILL BE STUFFED AND TIRED.  BUT, IT IS A NEW YEAR.  HOPEFULLY A HAPPY AND HEALTHY ONE FOR US ALL.

CLAY---I DON'T CARE WHAT HE SINGS AS LONG AS HE DOES AND HE FEELS HE CAN TOUR WITH IT.  THAT IS ALL THAT MATTERS TO ME.  SEEING CLAY LIVE MAKES ME HAPPY.  HE CAN SING ANYTHING AND JUST BE CLAY AND I AM HAPPY.

29 DAYS UNTIL THE GALA.  SOMEONE AT CV COUNTS IT DOWN DAILY.

GWENN

 
Gwenn,

                 Enjoy your coffee and have a wonderful  time tonight. A wonderful year to come!!

               The thought of that Baileys Irish Cream Torte  in driving me crazy. Baileys is one of
               my favourites!!!!!
 
                I am on a four week heath improvement drive. I don"t intend to miss out on any
                 Gala festivities!!!!
                                                                                Betty

I just wanted to pop in to wish our Jewish friends a good holiday.  I have always found religious celebrations of all faiths to be interesting and I like to find out more about them.  Here is just a little bit I found about tonight's celebration of Yom Kippur:


I'm sure there are much better explanations of this holiday on the web, but I just thought I'd quickly find one, as I was very curious.

GWENN, MARION and our other Jewish friends, may this be a wonderful day of reflection and quiet joy for you and your loved ones.

I am still not feeling the greatest.  But I can tell the Avelox is doing it's thing.  I made the mistake last night of checking out the side effect of this drug;   it's enough to make you want to flush these pills down the toilet!  :para However, over the past few years I have come to understand that although a very small percentage of patients may experience some serious side effects, overall the chance of benefitting from most FDA-approved meds far outweigh the risks. 

CLAY CONTENT:Sorry , Clay there's not a whole lot to mention about you except we're all hoping you will be careful to select at least some songs for your album that will be potentially marketable.  Other than that, just do your best and then tour in 2010.  That, and please be in your best form for the Gala.   :please 

EDIT:  BETTY,  PLEASE GET WELL FOR THE GALA.  I'M COUNTING ON IT!!!!  :hugg

OOOOPPPPS, Phil just corrected me....Today is Rosh Hashanah.  Yom Kippur is on Monday, September 27.  DOH!!!  :bduh :doh  :lol

Oh well....Joyous Rosh Hashanah, all!!!!

http://judaism.about.com/od/holidays/a/roshhashanah.htm

THANKS, THEA AND PHIL.  YEAH, PHIL IS RIGHT.  I DON'T MAKE A BIG DINNER FOR YOM KIPPUR BECAUSE TO ME IT IS AN INTENSELY PERSONAL TIME FOR REFLECTION AND THOUGHT AND PRAYER.  IT IS THE MOST HOLY OF ALL DAYS IN OUR YEAR.  BUT TONIGHT IS THE NEW YEAR AND IT IS A JOYOUS TIME.  MY HOUSE WILL BE LOUD AND NUTS.  FESTIVE.  EAT, DRINK, AND BE MERRY FOR TOMORROW, I WILL BE ABSOLUTELY EXHAUSTED.  AND STUFFED.  ER AND GABE ARE GONNA COME OVER AND HELP WITH THE LEFTOVERS.

I WISH YOU ALL COULD JOIN US.  THERE CERTAINLY IS ENOUGH FOOD.

GWENN

 
                   Thea,
                                   Glad to hear you are feeling a little better, those antibiotics do
                   work but the side effects are scary. They all have them and as you say
                     only a few people have the severe side effects.

                                     Working on having energy to keep up with you at  the Gala.
                   
                                                                   Betty :hugg

GWENN -  Enjoy your celebration tonight with family and friends.  I have been very interested when you share with us the information about the food preparation and how you are carrying on this important tradition.  I've learned so much about the Jewish faith and culture from your posts over the years.  Happy Rosh Hashana to you and your family. . . . and also to you, Marion!

CLAY CONTENT - I am thrilled that he is in rehearsal.  It means he is "SINGING"!!  I have been listening to music on the radio over the past few weeks instead of always playing CD's.  For instance, I found out that the first single on Mariah Carey's new CD is "I Want to Know What Love Is".  The stations I listen to are mostly Pop and Soft Rock.  I even venture over to the "Top 40".  My point . . . (and I actually have one) is that most of the songs on Clay's On My Way Here CD would have been very typical for Pop and Soft Rock stations.  They play lots of Daughtry (who does have a few ballad-type singles being aired) and David Cook, James Blunt,  Mariah, Usher, Black Eyed Peas, John Mayer, etc.  I would love it if Clay's next CD would include more upbeat music . . . but I believe MOST of the songs on On My Way Here could have become popular IF THEY HAD BEEN PLAYED ON THE RADIO.  Hopefully, DECCA (and Clay) will promote the upcoming CD.   Lots of promos . . . AND A TOUR, PLEASE!

Any verification of Josh Groban being inducted into the ROCK N ROLL Hall of fame?  That seems so unlikely.  I enjoy Josh.  I have his CD's and have seen 3 of his concerts.  He is a talented and hard working performer.  He was lucky enough to have David Foster take a big interest in his career - very early on.  He, like Clay, probably jumped at the opportunity to play a cameo role on a TV show (GLEE) earlier this week.  There are no guarantees in the music business lately. :para

I am so looking forward to seeing many of you in Raleigh quite soon. Hope everyone is hardy and healthy for the Gala weekend.  I think I'll double up on my vitamins.  :bigsmile

Whatever Clay wants to sing is fine with me. I miss that voice and personality like crazy!!

Ok so I am a tad stressed out. I went for my pre-op clearance for the cataract surgery. The nurse did an ekg. Doc didnt like it so she wanted it redone. A different nurse (once who has been there a while) did another, then another reading.
Doc says something about do I get palpitationsyup, sometimes. She didnt like the readings-said it looks like my heart isnt getting enough oxygen and that there is possible damage. She asked me if I experienced dizziness- well, I do a lot but I thought that was my vertigo. Sooooo- I have to go to a cardiologist next Thursday.

I hope I can still have the surgery because my eyes are getting really bad. Everything is blurry or has a haze or a shadow.

B ut ENOUGH about me!. Less than a month until the Gala- I cannot wait to see Clay again (if I COULD see from a distance!!) and to give all you folks a big hug!!

Gotta work now, dang it!!

MARILYN - Good luck with your Cardiology appointment!! :hugg   We know you wear your heart on your sleeve  . . . but that should be a big plus!!!  :wink   Hoping you can have your eye surgery ASAP.  Stay strong!!

WOW, MARILYN, YOU MUST GET THAT TAKEN CARE OF.  JUST BRING YOUR BINOCULARS IF YOU HAVE TO.  I WILL AND I DON'T CARE IF I LOOK STUPID.  I HAVE TO SEE THE MAN.  AND I DON'T MEAN A LITTLE.

GET THIS.  MY SIL JUST CALLED TO TELL ME HER SON, DIL, AND THE NEW 6 WEEK OLD BABY ARE NOW COMING!!!!!!!!!!  I INVITED THEM WEEKS AGO WHEN HE BROUGHT THE BABY TO SEE ME.  THEY SAID IT WAS TOO MUCH FOR THE BABY AND HIS WIFE.  (HEY, SHE IS PRETTY, SMART, AND TALENTED BUT A BIT OF A PRINCESS.)  NOW WE HAVE 2 DOGS AND 2 INFANTS ALONG WITH A GAZILLION PEOPLE.  THERE WILL BE PLENTY OF FOOD, BUT THIS HAS GOTTEN OUT OF HAND.  OMG.

GWENN

GWENN!   :lol  A cast of thousands celebrating Rosh Hashanah in your home!  I know this crosses over into the New Testament of the Bible, but are you familiar with the parable of the loaves and fishes?  :lol   Somehow when many people are gathered to celebrate an important occasion, the food is even more plentiful!!!  I have no doubt that will be the case in your home this even!  P.S.  Nothing adds to an family occasion more than crying babies.  I am so looking forward to such noise in my home someday in the not-too-distant future!

MARILYN, I am sorry to hear of your continuing health challenges.  Makes my complaints about my sinus infection and bronchitis seem pretty trivial in contrast.  You have to be able to see well at the Gala, binoculars or not.  I'm certainly bringing mine, as most likely I will be seated even further back than most of you because of my procrastination in signing up!   :bang

WISCONSIN BARB, it will be good to see you again.  I understand we're going to be "suitemates", of sorts!  :wink

New Lighting fixtures have arrived.  They will be installed Monday morning.  Half of new furniture is arriving this afternoon.  Everything but one end table, a sofa and a chair/ottoman!!!  Things are coming along finally!   :bouncy

   
            Marilyn.
,
                                       Sorry to hear you are having possible heart problems. Try not to worry

                             it could be a mistake.I have had a heart condition for eleven years and have lived
                     
                              happily enjoying life     my life completely. Prayers for you!!!


                                 I am also bringing binoculors to the Gala, they will think it"s this year's

                                                  Fashion Statement!!!!

                                                                  Betty
                               

 :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao :lmao

GWENN

ETA--IF YOU HAVEN'T VOTED ON THE CONTEST I POSTED YESTERDAY, PLEASE DON'T FORGET TO DO THIS.

Someone at CV needs to get a life. :hypno

Guffaw!!!!!     :lmao :lmao SUNNY, I was SOOOOOO hoping somebody would say that!!!!    :lmao :lmao

Gwenn - Happy Rosh Hashana to you and your family!!! 

I'm missing for a day and too many things happened to my friends here.

First on a happy note - Gwenn, I hope you, your friends, family and all others joining in your celebration of Rosh Hashanah will have a wonderful time.  It sure sounds like you have more than enough food to take care of everyone. 

Marilyn, Betty and Thea - girls please take care of yourselves and get back to good health soon.  Betty and Marilyn, you two please listen to what the doctors say and take care of those hearts.  My thoughts and prayers will be with all of you as you go through these challenges.  I also know, first hand, how relieved you will be when the problems have been dealt with and you start feeling better again.

I am so glad that Clay is singing again.  I just hope he listens to Decca and takes their suggestions.  He needs, and we need it for him, a good CD that with proper promotion will put him back where he belongs.  I also believe that Decca will recommend and support a tour to get the music and himself back in front of the public.

Better go for now because I have to be at my son's at 8:00 in the morning to go out of town for GD's soccer game. 

Hope everyone has a great, restful weekend.

To all our Jewish friends a Blessed Rosh Hashanah!

IT IS MIDNIGHT AND I JUST CAME UPSTAIRS TO GO TO BED.  I AM NOT TOTALLY CLEANED UP BUT BARRY AND I HAVE HAD IT.  IT WAS ONE OF THE BEST DINNERS AND TIMES EVER.  LOTS OF FUN.  AND I NOW KNOW THAT ER'S FRIEND'S BABY IS GONNA CALL ME BUBBIE.  THAT IS YIDDISH FOR GRANDMOM.  I AM BEYOND THRILLED.  ONE OF MY FRIENDS WAS HOLDING HIM AND HE WAS GETTING FUSSY.  I TOOK HIM FROM HER AND.........HE SMILED AT ME AND SHUT UP.  WHATEVER HE WANTS, HE HAS.  I LOVE THIS LITTLE BOY.

I HAVE ENOUGH FOOD FOR ANOTHER DINNER, SO WE ARE DOING IT AGAIN TOMORROW BUT FOR A WHOLE LOT LESS PEOPLE.

LIFE CAN BE SO GOOD SOMETIMES.

GWENN

It looks like the feeling is mutual. :bigsmile

Had a wonderful time at Gwenn's tonight. She and Barry are such exceptional  hosts. One more night to go. I am having my kids and a few friends whose families have settled across the country in California and Washington. We don't let people be alone. Another night of ethnic  foods made with our mom's treasured recipes.This is what is at the core of tradition.It really fills a place in your heart.
Thanks for all your good wishes. It is so nice to be the recipient of them. :ghug

Gwenn, it looks like your dinner was a big success.  Happy RH to all our Jewish friends! 

Marilyn, Thea, and Betty, good wishes coming your way.  You ladies need to take care.....you have a Gala to attend. 

 

IT IS GORGEOUS OUTSIDE.  GONNA RELAX SOME AND JUST ENJOY.

CLAY CONTENT--AIN'T GOT NUTTIN'.

GWENN

Thanks so much, MICKI.  I appreciate the well-wishes.  Wish you could come join us at the Gala.   :hugg

I felt well enough to go outside and do a little bit of yard work.  Outside we discovered a lot of moss growing on the north side of our house on the little walkway.  Poor Phil had to take the brunt of my frustration.  :para   We poured  a weak bleach solution over it, swept and scrubed the sidewalk.  Hope it kills all of this crap.  I especially don't want Mimi tracking it into the house.  Mold or fungus is a "dirty word" in the world of real estate. 

After blowing up over something so relatively inconsequential,  I realized that I NEED A BREAK.  'Can't wait for my October 16-18 getaway!   :wink

GWENN, enjoy "the morning after".  Bask in the glory of a successful gathering at your home!   :bigsmile

MARION, enjoy your guests this evening!

Off to get ready for the furniture delivermen.  After waiting all afternoon into the evening yesterday, they called and said they had to reschedule the delivery for today because the truck had broken down.   :bang  I hope I can control my tongue and not start venting at those  poor guys.  I'm truly on a roll today!   :cuss :lmao  :para

THEA--TAKE SOME PIX OF YOUR NEW ROOM.  I WOULD LOVE TO SEE IT.

I AM ALMOST CLEARED UP.  BARRY HAS FOLDING CHAIRS TO PUT AWAY AND THEN WE CAN TAKES THE LEAVES OUT OF THE TABLE.  THEN, DONE.  UNTIL DINNER TONIGHT.  BUT ONLY 6 OF US.  I CAN LIVE WITH THAT.

GONNA LAY DOWN AND WATCH SOME HGTV.  I AM NOT MOTIVATED TO DO ANOTHER THING.

GWENN

'Will do when the rest of the furniture is delivered.  Today's is only a partial delivery.  Everything should be in place towards the end of October.  However, since I'm refusing to pay the ridiculous prices for lamps at Ethan Allen, I've yet to get a chance to shop for those.   Hope to buy those soon.  It's amazing what great things you can buy at TJ Maxx Home goods and Marshall's.   Maybe last year's merchandise or overstocks, but when it comes to lamps that doesn't make a whole lot of difference. 

Sorry, no Clay content today.   :naughty

GWENN, yep I can tell you are tired but very content!!  I am sure you made a lot of people very happy and content last night.  Did you really have a lot of food left over?  How many people did you end up having?  Wish  you another evening of good food with good friends and a relaxing evening. How did that torte go over????????? 

Gala Trekkers!!!!
   
    The taxi fare from Raleigh airport is $45 to $50, so I did some checking.

    Super Shuttle known as Blue Van is $16 one way and $28 round trip.  Tel.  1 800 258 3826  

    White House is $35 one way.  Tel. 1 888 624 6773
       
    I think I will try Blue Van, it"s right there at the airport and you can make reservations.

                                                                                       Betty

I'm signed up for the Blue Van to pick, me up at the Raleigh Airport on the 16th. , Betty.  Thanks for doing the research!  :hugg

  Thea,   
                You are very welcome, keeps me out of mischief!!!!!

                Just noticed I said WHITE HOUSE instead of WHITE HORSE.
             
                  I hope you are feeling better  and have calmed down, We

                  all have days like that.
             
                    I am feeling better today, just had a walk this morning and

                      then sorted clothes out for the Salvation Army.

                    Corina is on call this weekend  so could not go out of town
                     to watch the Gators play .She is a big fan.Tennis is my game.

                                               Take care,
                                                                Betty

I JUST READ THIS.  REMEMBER THE CONTEST I POSTED ABOUT 2 DAYS AGO FOR THE $10,000?  WELL, IF YOU ARE A MEMBER OF THE OFC, YOU HAVE ANOTHER EMAIL ADDRESS.  I NEVER KNEW THIS.  YOU CAN USE IT TO VOTE AGAIN. 


THIS IS SOMETHING TO VOTE FOR THAT MATTERS.  IF YOU HAVEN'T VOTED YET, PLEASE DO.  IT ONLY TAKES A MINUTE.  AND IF YOU ARE AN FANCLUB MEMBER, USE THAT EMAIL TO VOTE AGAIN.

http://www.christiecookies.com

PEPE--THE TORTE IS ALMOST GONE AS IS THE APPLE CAKE.  BOTH ARE NOW IN THE FREEZER OR I WILL PICK UNTIL GONE. I ENDED UP WITH 26 PEOPLE.  I HAD A TON OF FOOD LEFT BUT TONIGHT WE DID PRETTY WELL.  STILL A LITTLE SOUP LEFT.  ENOUGH BRISKET FOR A MEAL FOR BARRY AND ME.  I GAVE ER AND MY FRIEND THE REST OF THE MASHED POTATOES.  I HAVE A WHOLE NOODLE PUDDING WHICH I WILL FREEZE FOR ANOTHER TIME.  WE CANNOT EAT THIS KIND OF FOOD ALL THE TIME.  TOO HEAVY.  TOO FATTENING.  TOO GOOD.  ALL I HAVE LEFT THAT IS NOT FROZEN IS FRUIT AND CHALLAH.  THANKS FOR ASKING.

GWENN

Good morning, ladies! 

Johanna, so good to hear from you.  :hugg  Your green posts are missed.  I always need to reread your posts a few times to glean all of the information and wisdom in them.   Sorry you are running into so many obstacles.  It is always one d#$% thing after another, isn't it?   :lol

I am going to stay home from church today just to sit back and chill.  I have been wound up like a top lately.  Too many family members to worry about.  My mom, my aunt, my cousin, my brother and of course my dear younger son and his wife. I lie awake nights worrying about everybody these days.   Thankfully older son and his wife are doing well.    Also, this antibiotic seems to be messing with my other meds, which doesn't help.  Hopefully just quietly sitting out in the sun and puttering around the house will help.  I need to get a grip....STAT!  :hypno

Thanks for listening to me complain!   :ghug2

Gwenn, that noodle pudding sounds especially good this morning.  I love to eat leftovers for breakfast! 

I hope Clay has been vocalizing every day.   Ideally he should be working with a vocal coach on a regular basis.  He needs to strengthen those vocal chords after his surgery in order to get back into singing shape for a tour!!!

Have a good one.  I hope to check in later...