The album "KISSWORLD" by KISS is an absolute treat for rock fans. It compiles some of the band's biggest hits and fan favorites, taking listeners on a nostalgic journey through their iconic career. From the electrifying "Rock and Roll All Nite" to the anthemic "Detroit Rock City," this album captures the essence of KISS's rock 'n' roll spirit. Each track brings back memories of wild stage performances, larger-than-life personas, and the raw energy that made KISS a household name.
One thing that stands out about "KISSWORLD" is its perfect mix of well-known classics and lesser-known gems. It doesn't just stick to the hits everyone knows; it dives deeper into the band's extensive catalog, offering a well-rounded listening experience. Songs like "God of Thunder" and "Shout It Out Loud" remind us why KISS is so beloved by rock enthusiasts. The album not only showcases their musical talent but also their ability to connect with fans on a personal level.
The members of KISS, including Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss, each bring their unique flair to the album. Their chemistry and dedication to their craft are evident in every song. The production quality is top-notch, thanks to the efforts of their record label, Universal Music Group, ensuring that both new and old fans can appreciate the timeless quality of these tracks.
"KISSWORLD" is a must-have for any KISS fan or rock music lover. It's a celebration of the band's incredible journey and lasting impact on the music industry. Whether you're rocking out to the classics or discovering some hidden gems for the first time, this album delivers a fantastic listening experience that will have you playing it on repeat.
Back when my sister and I were too young to stay home alone, we were always dropped off at Aunt Joan's whenever my parents went out for the evening, usually to the Mobile Greyhound Park. I never understood their fascination with the dog track, but I always looked forward to spending the night at Aunt Joan's house. She knew how to make sleepovers special for me. As long as she had plenty of Coca-Cola and potato chips, I was set.
When we arrived, Aunt Joan and her daughters would usually be putting the finishing touches on dinner. It was often fried chicken or pork chops, accompanied by fried okra or fried squash, cornbread or biscuits, and fresh peas or beans from Joan's fields, all served with a big glass of sweet tea. My mom's cooking was hit or miss, aside from a few dishes she did well, so Aunt Joan's meals were always a treat. Her fabulous country cooking filled the void.
Aunt Joan was one of the most special people I've ever met, showing unconditional love for her kids, siblings, and their kids. Growing up, I often wished my mom could be more like Joan, especially when it came to cooking. We were a close-knit family back in the day, despite some unfortunate incidents involving unruly family members. I'll touch on those stories, including holiday brawls, in future posts.
After dinner, we kids would hang out on the patio, play in the fields, or jump on the trampoline. Being the smallest, I mostly got bounced around by everyone else. We had free rein of the 13-acre property, except for the swampy area known as "The Branch," which was off-limits due to snakes and other dangers. As night fell, we'd take turns in the two bathrooms. I can still remember the smell of Aunt Joan's soap, similar to Coast Pacific Force. Once clean, we’d head to the den, a large, cozy room with minimal light, a TV in the corner, a fireplace, a huge console stereo, and a Fun Machine Organ. We’d make pallets on the floor with blankets and pillows, play board games, and watch TV with an endless supply of chips and soda. Friday nights were all about watching "Dallas," to see JR’s next move and if Sue Ellen could stay sober for an episode.
At some point, Aunt Joan would bring out the pickles—her bread and butter pickles were the absolute best. She grew her own vegetables and preserved them, filling a small room with mason jars of pickles, blackberry jelly, and other goodies. I wasn't big on veggies back then, but at Aunt Joan's, everything was delicious. By 11 PM, I’d usually pass out watching TV, except for one memorable time when my cousin Lynda’s hamster, Herman, escaped. Waking up to my sister and cousins trying to catch Herman was quite the adventure.
The next morning, I'd wake up to the smell of bacon or sausage and eggs, signaling that mom and dad would be picking us up soon. Those mornings always passed too quickly. When my mom arrived, she never asked how our night was—probably because she didn’t want to hear how much more fun we had at Aunt Joan's compared to home. Our routine at home was similar, minus the den, soda, chips, great food, pickles, and the occasional hamster on the loose.
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I try not to share my political views often. As the upcoming election approaches, I find myself reflecting on the importance of making the right choice—not just for ourselves, but for the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals like me. Although I may be a high school dropout, I have always had keen observation skills. Growing up in an area heavily influenced by the mentality that could be seen during the J6 events, I witnessed firsthand how many of my classmates seemed to always get excited when it came to our teachers admitting they voted George Bush back in the 1980s. Many of these same individuals as adults voted for the last president as well as Matt Gaetz, as it is his district. I understand cult-like political behavior, not because I was born into it, but because I was thrust into it when my family moved to that part of Florida. As an outsider, I could see what motivated individuals who unknowingly vote against their own best interests.
I can still hear the sound of his voice 32 years later
Having been subjected to abuse from people who hide behind a biblical or political facade, it's important to recognize that many criminals, including preachers, congressmen, and senators (Lindsey Graham, I remember you), use religion and political views to solicit children or engage in other harmful activities. I make no secret of the fact that during my time as a homeless teenage runaway, I made money in ways that many people would cringe at just thinking about. Often, I found myself propositioned and haggling prices with individuals who, in their public professional lives, used their positions of power to manipulate and control, all while masking their true intentions. It's crucial that we don't let beliefs of bigotry passed down from previous generations and immediate surroundings cloud our judgment. We need to focus on what we can do for others rather than what one man can do for himself and those who scratch his back to enrich themselves.
Let's bring empathy and understanding back to our nation. We need to make choices that protect and uplift everyone, regardless of their background or identity. Use your vote, not to make a statement, but for the interest of a brighter future for us all. It's time to stop electing criminals and start electing leaders who genuinely care about the well-being of their constituents. Together, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate society. If anyone would like to write me in as their congressman, I would be more than willing to move to your district. ;-)
Matilda's journey began with her friend Golden Kat (Charli Haynes) introducing her to the GLOW auditions. They were apartment-style wrestling buddies and did everything together. The idea of a television show combining comedy, music, and wrestling was a dream come true. Matt Cimber, the show's director, appreciated Deanna's creativity and excitement. She even contributed her "Raw Meat" song to the pilot.
Deanna's Book GLAMAZON Queen Kong
In Vegas, Deanna met all the original girls, including Tina Ferrari and Tammy Jones. Pepper, also known as Princess Jasmine, was their trainer. The pilot was a huge success at the NATPE television convention in New Orleans, securing funding for the first season. Auditions in LA brought in Fiji, leading to some debates over the show's image, but Matt knew the diverse cast was key to its success. The team trained and lived at the “classy” Riviera Hotel.
Matilda's wrestling persona, crafted by Matt, was born with a German accent, making her seem more evil. Her background as a professional dominatrix helped shape her fearsome yet humorous character. Inspired by Lynda Carter's Wonder Woman and Maureen O'Hara, Matilda blended fearsome and funny, priding herself on never actually harming anyone and being a skilled storyteller.
Despite the show's success, frustrations grew over injuries and management issues. After two seasons and the prospect of being sold to the Harlem Globetrotters, Matilda and others left GLOW for the newly formed POWW. Legal disputes with GLOW made it hard to succeed, but they had a great cast and some success. Deanna eventually returned to the fetish business, starting slam-o-grams, and pursued Hollywood auditions, appearing on shows like "Mama's Family" and "Married with Children."
Unfortunately, lifting men for slam-o-grams took a toll on her health, and Matilda had to let go of Hollywood and slam-o-grams. She focused on producing and directing, hiring other girls. I had the pleasure of meeting Deanna in 2016 and have to say that she was as funny in person as she was on TV and super sweet and very warm and generous. Matilda passed away on January 7, 2022, but her legacy as an unforgettable GLOW villain, and her impact on wrestling and entertainment remain cherished.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to Hollywood, Jeanne Basone, for her invaluable help with this tribute to Matilda Deanna Booher. Hollywood was not only one of Matilda's co-stars during their time together on GLOW, but she also remained a loyal and loving friend to Matilda until her passing. Hollywood's unwavering support and friendship are a testament to the strong bonds formed within the GLOW family. Much love and appreciation to you, Hollywood, for your kindness and dedication.
If you thought that cruise ship shows were basically souped up versions of amusement park productions, think again. For many years, the high-energy, rock 'n' roll experience, the "Rock of Ages" production on the Norwegian Breakaway was where it was. The show transports you to the wild 80s with its classic rock hits, big hair, and even bigger personalities. From the moment the lights dimmed and the guitarist walks on stage to rock out a killer solo before the real music starts, you know you are in for a ride through one of the most fun and nostalgic musical journeys.
The first time I saw the Breakaway production, during my cruise from New York to the Bahamas in 2018, I was blown away by the talent of the cast but unfortunately, I had no idea what any of their names were. The sad part of the Norwegian productions was the fact they didn't distribute cast lists or post the names of the cast members in a conspicuous place. I found out on the cruise I took the following year there was a monitor near the box office that showed the names, headshots and bios of the main performers. The 2018 cast brought so much energy to the stage, making you feel like you were right there in the heart of the 80s rock scene. The lead performers nailed their roles, belting out anthems like "Don't Stop Believin'" and "Here I Go Again" with such passion. It was impossible not to sing along and get caught up in the excitement. The choreography was tight, and the costumes perfectly captured the era's flamboyant style.
The following year, I took photos of the box office monitor featuring the cast so I could look them up and try and follow their rising stardom. Sherrie, played by Emily Griffiths was AMAZING and Drew, played by her real like boyfriend at the time, Tommy McGowan had perfect chemistry with Miss Griffiths. The standout for me though was our Lonny Barnett played by Shaun Espedido, he was hilarious, his vocals sat exactly where they needed to be, sounding natural and effortless with the iconic musical numbers he presented, his acting was spot on and he was also super cute for those of us who crushed on the rockers of the 1980s. Speaking of hot rockers, Joshua Woodie as Stacee Jaxx left everyone wanting more. Each time I saw the show during the 2019 cruise, at the point in the show where his character splashes his "vodka" in the audience, I was in the lucky seat where most of it ended up. The rest of the cast was solid and made me wish the show featured the full score as it was presented on Broadway and National Tour rather than the abbreviated 90 minute version. Speaking of the Broadway production, Norwegian didn't scrimp when it came to recreating the show, the set and costuming were almost exactly as it was in New York.
Emily Griffiths as Sherrie
The story is a delightful mix of love, dreams, and rock 'n' roll, set against the backdrop of LA's Sunset Strip. The humor is spot on, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments that keep the show light and entertaining. The production design is top-notch, with impressive sets and lighting that add to the overall immersive experience. It's clear that no detail was overlooked, and the result is a show that's both visually and musically spectacular. Unfortunately, this fantastic production closed to make way for "Six," another highly acclaimed musical.
If you enjoyed the "Rock of Ages" movie or are a fan of 80s rock music, you will love this production. It's an exhilarating show that captures the spirit of the era and leaves you wanting more. The cast recording is a great way to relive the experience and keep the rock 'n' roll vibes going long after the curtain falls. So grab your friends, your best rock gear, and get ready to rock out on the Norwegian Breakaway!
"Fairy Tale" by Stephen King is a captivating blend of fantasy and horror, though in a light sense, that takes readers on an unexpected journey. The story follows Charlie Reade, a high school senior who inherits a magical portal from his reclusive neighbor, Howard Bowditch. As Charlie navigates this new world filled with dark forces and epic battles, he grapples with themes of courage, friendship, and the power of good versus evil. King's masterful storytelling and rich character development make this novel a thrilling and heartfelt adventure that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
King's ability to create vivid, immersive worlds shines in "Fairy Tale." The magical realm Charlie discovers is filled with intricate details and compelling characters that draw readers in from the start. The narrative is both enchanting and chilling, with moments of levity and warmth balanced by the darker, more sinister elements that King is known for. Charlie's journey is not just a physical one but also an emotional and psychological exploration of his own strengths and vulnerabilities.
One of the standout aspects of "Fairy Tale" is how King seamlessly blends elements of classic fairy tales with his signature horror style. The story feels both familiar and entirely new, as King pays homage to the timeless themes of good versus evil, bravery, and sacrifice while infusing the narrative with his unique voice. The result is a book that feels both timeless and contemporary, offering readers a fresh take on the fantasy genre.
Overall, "Fairy Tale" is a must-read for fans of Stephen King and anyone who loves a good fantasy adventure. It's a story that lingers long after the final page, leaving readers pondering the nature of heroism, the power of storytelling, and the magic that exists in the world around us. If you're looking for a book that will transport you to another world and keep you hooked from beginning to end, "Fairy Tale" is definitely worth picking up.
I wasn't born yet in 1970, but it was the year my sister Becki was born, and I have always been fascinated by the past. Growing up, I developed a love for all things retro and found myself drawn to the history and culture of eras gone by. 1970, seems to be a remarkable year filled with significant events, unique trends, and unforgettable moments. Let's take a trip down memory lane and explore what life was like in 1970, a half a decade before I was born.
The cost of living in 1970 was quite different from today. The median yearly income for all families was $9,867, and the minimum wage was $1.60 per hour. The median cost of a new home was $23,400, and a postage stamp was just $0.06. Gasoline cost $0.36 per gallon, and everyday items like VO5 shampoo (15 oz.) were $0.99, Kleenex (200 ct.) was $0.25, and margarine (1 pound) was $0.39. Pork chops (1 pound) cost $0.79, a movie ticket was $1.55, and an ounce of gold was valued at $37.44.
The year was filled with significant news events. In February, the five-month trial of the Chicago Seven ended with all seven acquitted of criminal conspiracy, though five were found guilty of crossing state lines to incite a riot. In March, New York postal workers went on an eight-day strike, resulting in collective bargaining rights and increased wages. April saw the explosion of an oxygen tank on Apollo 13, leading to a miraculous return to Earth for the crew led by Jim Lovell. Americans celebrated the first Earth Day in April, founded by Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson. President Richard Nixon authorized U.S. troops to cross the border into Cambodia. In July, British soldiers enforced a curfew in Northern Ireland following clashes with the IRA. September witnessed Palestinian militants hijacking planes, triggering the Black September conflict. Finally, in November, Pope Paul VI survived an assassination attempt during his visit to the Philippines.
In 1970, Richard Nixon was the President of the United States, with Spiro Agnew serving as Vice President. The U.S. population was approximately 205.1 million, while the world population was around 3.7 billion.
The Isle of Wight Festival, Europe's answer to Woodstock, took place for the final time until 2002, featuring performances by Jimi Hendrix and other legendary artists. Tragically, Hendrix died of an accidental drug overdose shortly after the festival, followed by Janis Joplin's death the next month. Both were just 27 years old. The Doors' lead singer Jim Morrison faced legal troubles and was sentenced to six months in jail for indecent exposure and profanity during a Miami concert, but he died the following year before serving his sentence.
In sports, umpires went on strike for the first time in Major League Baseball history, and Patricia Palinkas became the first woman to play in a professional football game. The New York Times pioneered its op-ed page, and Simon & Garfunkel released their final studio album, "Bridge Over Troubled Water," before breaking up.
The 1970-1971 TV season featured popular shows like "Marcus Welby, M.D.," "The Flip Wilson Show," "Here's Lucy," "Ironside," "Gunsmoke," "ABC Movie of the Week," "Hawaii Five-O," "Medical Center," "Bonanza," and "The FBI." Notable series premieres included "All My Children," "McCloud," "The Flip Wilson Show," "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," "Dan August," "Make Room for Granddaddy," "The Odd Couple," and "The Partridge Family."
In 1970, several beloved TV shows came to an end. On March 13, "The Ghost & Mrs. Muir" concluded on ABC, having initially premiered in 1968 on NBC. "Land of the Giants," which also premiered in 1968, aired its final episode on ABC on March 22. "The Flying Nun," a show that began in 1967, wrapped up on April 3 on ABC. The long-running "Petticoat Junction," which debuted in 1963, ended its run on CBS on April 4. "Dragnet 1967," which started in 1967, concluded on NBC on April 16. The adventure series "Daniel Boone," which began in 1964, ended on NBC on May 7. The spy comedy "Get Smart," originally airing on NBC in 1965 before moving to CBS, had its final episode on May 15. Lastly, the magical sitcom "I Dream of Jeannie," which also premiered on NBC in 1965, concluded on May 26.
Some of the popular movies of 1970 included "Airport," "Catch-22," "M*A*S*H," "Ryan's Daughter," "Love Story," and "Tora! Tora! Tora!" The Oscar winners for movies released in 1970 included "Patton" for Best Picture, George C. Scott for Best Actor in "Patton" (though he refused the award), Glenda Jackson for Best Actress in "Women in Love," John Mills for Best Supporting Actor in "Ryan's Daughter," Helen Hayes for Best Supporting Actress in "Airport," and Franklin J. Schaffner for Best Director in "Patton."
The Baltimore Orioles won the World Series, while the Baltimore Colts were the Super Bowl V champions (determined in January 1971). The New York Knicks were the NBA champions, and the Boston Bruins won the Stanley Cup. Other notable sports achievements included Nebraska Cornhuskers winning the NCAA Football Championship, Billy Casper winning The Masters Tournament, and Jim Plunkett receiving the Heisman Trophy.
Some of the top Billboard hits of 1970 included
"Bridge Over Troubled Water" by Simon & Garfunkel "(They Long to Be) Close to You" by The Carpenters "American Woman/No Sugar Tonight" by The Guess Who "Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head" by B.J. Thomas "War" by Edwin Starr "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" by Diana Ross "I'll Be There" by The Jackson 5 "Get Ready" by Rare Earth "Let It Be" by The Beatles.
Popular books of the year included
"Love Story" by Erich Sega "The French Lieutenant's Woman" by John Fowles "The Godfather" by Mario Puzo "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret." by Judy Blume "Jonathan Livingston Seagull" by Richard Bach "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison "Ringworld" by Larry Niven "Fantastic Mr. Fox" by Roald Dahl "Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee: An Indian History of the American West" by Dee Brown.
Popular toys in 1970 included the Mystery Date game, G.I. Joe, Tonka trucks, Karate Robots, Hoppity Hop, Walkie-talkies, Aurora cars, and Betsy Wetsy dolls.
Popular cars of the year included the Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang, Mercury Cougar Eliminator, Dodge Charger, Plymouth Barracuda, Pontiac Grand Prix, Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Torino, and Pontiac GTO.
The year 1970 saw the birth of many notable personalities. Skeet Ulrich was born on January 20th, followed by Minnie Driver on January 31st. March brought the births of Julie Bowen on the 3rd, Rachel Weisz on the 7th, and Mariah Carey on the 27th. Queen Latifah arrived on March 18th, and Vince Vaughn on March 28th. May celebrated the births of Will Arnett on the 4th and Tina Fey on the 18th. June welcomed Leah Remini on the 15th and Nick Offerman on the 26th. In August, Anthony Anderson was born on the 15th and Melissa McCarthy on the 26th. October saw the birth of Matt Damon on the 8th, and December welcomed Jennifer Connelly on the 12th.
The year 1970 also saw the passing of several notable figures. Bertrand Russell died on February 2nd, followed by Alfred Newman on February 17th. March brought the deaths of William Hopper on the 6th and Erle Stanley Gardner on the 11th. On April 28th, Ed Begley passed away, and on May 14th, Billie Burke died. June saw the loss of E.M. Forster on the 7th and Abraham Maslow on the 8th. Preston Foster passed away on July 14th. In September, the world lost Vince Lombardi on the 3rd, Jimi Hendrix on the 18th, and Erich Maria Remarque on the 25th. Janis Joplin died on October 4th. Charles de Gaulle passed away on November 9th, followed by Rube Goldberg on December 7th and Sonny Liston on December 30th.
On the Newsstand Robert Redford lassoes his way to stardom following his turn in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Life, Feb. 6, 1970 The Ohio National Guard opens fire on student anti-war protesters at Kent State University, killing four. Life, May 15, 1970 "Masters of Sex" William Masters and Virginia Johnson continue their groundbreaking sexuality studies with the publication of Human Sexual Inadequacy. Time, May 25, 1970 Fans are quick to blame Yoko Ono for the Beatles' split. Hit Parader, August 1970
Jonathan Frank's "Sleeping in the Arms of Love," released in 2000, is a captivating blend of pop and cabaret, perfect for cozy evenings. The album features Frank's smooth vocals accompanied by a 23-piece orchestra, creating a rich and lush soundscape. With contributions from some of Los Angeles and New York's finest songwriters, such as Francesca Blumenthal and Amanda McBroom, the album effortlessly bridges the gap between familiar classics and fresh new compositions.
What stands out about this album is its ability to transport you to a different time and place. Frank's voice has a warm, comforting quality that makes you feel like you're wrapped in a cozy blanket. The orchestration is top-notch, adding depth and emotion to each song. Whether it's a lively tune or a slow ballad, Frank's delivery is consistently engaging and heartfelt from start to finish.
Overall, "Sleeping in the Arms of Love" is an underrated hidden gem that deserves more recognition. It's the perfect listen for anyone who enjoys a mix of pop and cabaret. This album will undoubtedly leave listeners with a smile on their face and wanting more. If you're looking for something delightful and new to add to your playlist, Jonathan Frank's "Sleeping in the Arms of Love" is definitely worth a listen.
Given the fact that this album is now out of print and unavailable from anywhere but third party sellers, Jonathan has given me permission to share a digital edition of his album on my blog. I hope you enjoy this great album as much as I do.
In the past, I've shared recipes from the old ham store where I used to work, Heavenly Ham. Since recipes use common ingredients and aren't protected by copyright, and because Heavenly Ham didn't have proprietary formulas, it's all fair game. Heavenly Ham closed its doors years ago, and though Honey Baked Ham acquired the properties, they didn't continue using the original recipes for some of the amazing fixings Heavenly Ham offered. I worked there long enough to learn every aspect of the business, including all the ingredients, to the point where I could walk in and prep salads and the sandwich station by muscle memory.
Since sharing the Heavenly Ham recipes for both Turkey Salad and Ham Salad, or at least as close as you can get with items easily acquired from most grocery stores, I have received requests for the Potato Salad, Pasta Salad, Chicken Salad, and Tuna Salad recipes offered by Heavenly Ham. This one is all about tuna. While I didn't care much for Heavenly Ham's Tuna Salad because I prefer chopped pickles or relish and hard-boiled eggs in my tuna, it was a breeze to make due to the few ingredients. We made ours in large batches that wouldn't freeze well, and I wouldn't recommend storing it in the refrigerator for more than five days.
Here’s the recipe: 2 cans of tuna in water, drained 1 tablespoon of dried chopped scallions 1 teaspoon of lemon-dill seasoning 1/2 teaspoon of white pepper 1/2 cup of mayo (add more if it’s too dry for you, but wait until everything is blended to make that call)
Stir, refrigerate, and enjoy up to five days. Don't forget a slice of Havarti cheese, which was the cheese we used in the late 1990s. If you don't have or can't find lemon-dill seasoning, you can use dried dill and lemon pepper seasoning, but forgo the white pepper since lemon pepper already contains pepper. I've heard that some of the franchised locations used different recipes, but this was the one we used at the Buckhead location and taught franchise owners. If you're interested in the other Heavenly Ham salad recipes, I only have one more to share—Pasta Salad—since I don't remember how to make the official chicken salad. I blocked that memory out because it contained grapes, and I don't like chicken salad with grapes. The potato salad wasn't made in the store; it was actually Reser's Deviled Egg Potato Salad scooped from a carton and repacked into plastic containers.
I've tried to keep most of my posts positive, but since this blog is about things I love and elements of my life, it can't always be cheerful. So, here I am, sitting at Kaiser Permanente, waiting for Terry as he gets the first of two lumbar facet nerve block diagnostics. Hopefully, this will lead to lumbar ablation and some relief from his years of pain.
Last year, I injured my back at work. Even though I like my job, Georgia's workers' comp laws aren't the best. I've endured pain while receiving treatment and working my normal schedule. I had similar procedures done and they offered a lot of relief, but I feel like I'm due for another round of ablation as the pain is starting to creep back.
This past year has been a medical nightmare for both Terry and me. If it wasn’t our backs, it was something else. I've struggled with weight loss for years. Over 20 years ago, I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism and low testosterone, but I lost my insurance when I was laid off. Working in restaurants and hotels meant no insurance, so I couldn't get treatment. Med-Afford clinic in Fayetteville has been a lifesaver, helping me with blood pressure, ear infections, and sleep issues. Terry’s been lucky with continuous insurance coverage.
For my back issues, workers' comp covers the costs, but everything else falls under my regular insurance. My work plan is decent, with lots of preventative care covered and a low deductible. But, as I sit here, I'm thinking about the past few months. Respiratory issues from the chlorine plume at the BioLab fire in Rockdale led to pharyngitis and a middle ear infection. This Thursday, I’m having my 7th myringotomy.
My ears have always been a struggle for me. I’ve dealt with ear infections as far back as I can remember. An old doctor my parents took me to for the typical "swimmer’s ear" sort of infection told my mom to put alcohol in my ears when they bothered me. So that's what she did, not realizing that not all ear infections are the same. Most of my issues were middle ear infections, and as noble as my mom’s efforts were with the alcohol drops, it couldn’t treat an infection on the other side of my eardrum.
My first-grade picture shows bags under my eyes because I spent most nights with my head on my mom's heating pad, trying to alleviate the pain and pressure from my left ear. Despite the colds, flu, and ear infections that followed, I had perfect attendance throughout my elementary school years. My mom eventually took me to a doctor who recommended a myringotomy in his office but warned that he wasn’t an ENT, so there was a chance I could go deaf. He suggested a specialist for a second opinion.
This was one of the rare times our family had insurance through my dad’s job. When my mom discussed it with my dad, he thought the doctor didn’t seem confident, but both of them were hesitant to seek a second opinion, fearing the original doctor would get mad. This was a thing for my parents—they firmly believed seeking a second opinion could be upsetting if the doctor found out. They didn't realize how crucial a second opinion could be.
Despite their reluctance, my middle ear infections would eventually resolve themselves, although they were particularly tough when I was working as an actor or singer. Not getting proper treatment earlier damaged the nerves and bones in my left ear, leaving me with only 5% hearing in that ear. Luckily, my right ear functions well, and I can rely on it. If only my parents had understood the importance of second opinions back then.
Eventually, I got a myringotomy, which helped for years, but I lost most of my hearing in my left ear due to untreated infections. Luckily, my right ear is mostly fine though I have had a few middle ear infections in it also. Recently, I got my testosterone levels tested again and I finally saw the specialist and I am now on testosterone therapy, currently on 2 pumps of gel a day and within a week or so I noticed a difference in energy as well as other things higher levels of testosterone bring 🍆💦💦💦 if you catch my drift.
Despite good insurance, co-pays and co-insurance add up, especially with taking time off for doctor's visits. Taking time off work for both my own doctor visits and Terry's has really eaten into my paychecks, thanks to using up all my sick time throughout the year. I'm determined, after this week, to be that person who shows up to work no matter what's going on. But trying to line up doctor visits on my only weekday off, Monday, is a real challenge.
One of the coolest things in modern medicine is the ability to do virtual and e-visits. Up until a few months ago, I had never done one, but I've had three over the past month: one with a specialist, another at 3:00 AM, and the third at 4:30 AM just before heading into work. I saw my parents struggle with their health when they were my age, and I vowed never to get that way. Here I am now, but luckily, access to medical resources has become a bit easier, depending on your insurance situation.
I really appreciate having Kaiser for insurance, especially with a few full-scale facilities near my house. They function like a factory assembly line: see the doctor, get labs done, and pick up meds at the pharmacy on the way out the door—no need to go anywhere else. I just wish they could cover time lost at work. I vowed never to let my health get as bad as my parents' did, and I'm grateful for easier access to medical resources.
So, that's what's been going on and those are my thoughts for the day. Sorry, nothing too exciting to report today though in a couple of hours, I'll share something a little more lighter.
When I was a little kid, besides December for the obvious reason that Santa Claus was coming to town, I looked forward to the month of October. Not only did it mean the fair would be going on during the month, but it also meant Halloween was upon us. The older I get, the less interested I become in Halloween. I never fully understood it other than it was a chance to score free candy while dressed up as something fun. I loved to dress up, but I never really got into the Halloween party spirit.
Elvira WAS Halloween when I was a kid
Growing up, I wasn't allowed to watch horror movies because they COULD give me nightmares. My parents thought my overactive imagination would turn those spooky tales into sleepless nights. So, while my friends were watching "Halloween" and "Nightmare on Elm Street," I was stuck with lighter fare like "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" and other kid-friendly shows. Even without the scary movies, October still held an air of mystery and excitement.
When Terry and I lived in apartments, we always bought candy just in case trick-or-treaters stopped by. Sometimes they did, and other times we ended up eating all the candy ourselves. When we bought our house, we went all out with decorations from Target, Walmart, Garden Ridge, and wherever else we found cool stuff. For the first few years, we really got into the spirit of handing out candy. Instead of using a bowl to hand out random handfuls of candy, we made individual bags of candy that I heat-sealed, and Terry finished with a sticker. Kids knew our house was the place to be because we handed out bags with Fun Sized chocolates, gum, jawbreakers, gummies, and a sucker of some sort. Unfortunately, the next day, I'd find our bags, minus the contents, strewn around the neighborhood. I guess parents don't really monitor their kid's candy like they did in the 70s and 80s.
You too can be a makeup artist, lol
Speaking of the 1980s, I remember we didn't have as many choices for Halloween costumes as there are now. We didn't have Party City or Spirit Halloween; we had K-Mart, Woolworth, TG&Y, and True Value hardware. Yes, True Value did sell costumes at one time, they also had one hell of a toy set up during Christmas. As a kid of the 70s and 80s, you either had store-bought costumes or something homemade. Looking back, the store-bought costumes were horrible. I had a Superman Ben Cooper costume in preschool and still remember the plastic mask with eye holes that didn't align, a mouth slit that could cut your lips and tongue, and nostril holes that weren't big enough to let your breath escape. We were walking nightmares, smelling our breath and sweating in our vinyl jumpsuits with pictures on the front of who or what we were supposed to be. For the life of me, I can't remember if the costume was supposed to be worn over clothes or if you were only supposed to wear it with just underwear. Homemade costumes were nice if your parent was interested in creating one, but mine wasn't. My mom made her own costumes a few times, but for my sister and me, we used stuff from around the house. One year, my sister was a “hobo,” and I was a ghost covered in a pastel green sheet that had a seam sewn in the middle along with three holes cut out, 2 uneven eye holes and for some reason, my mom also cut a hole for my nose, I guess she thought I might suffocate. I hated that costume; I wanted to be Peter Criss from KISS or Wonder Woman, but neither was in the cards for me. In all fairness, it may have been slightly better than the costume's my mom's coworkers threw together one of the years the Pensacola Interstate Fair offered free admission to anyone wearing a costume. Ten of us showed up at the fair wearing paper grocery bags from Delchamps and Food World cut with "fringe" and each of us with a feather poking out of our hair posing as half baked Indians. By the time we entered the gates, we were all already stripping off the grocery bags and left the Indians in the trash cans next to the Beer Garden before making our way to get our 8 or 10 buck "G" (for Goodings) handstamp so we could ride whatever we wanted all night.
I got even in the 9th grade for all of the costume craziness of the past when my mom wanted me to come to her Ala-non Halloween party at the library in Milton, Florida. I convinced my sister and her best friend to dress me up as a hooker. With my mullet that looked like a shag haircut when feathered back, I wore my sister’s friend's shoes (a size too small and too narrow), black spandex tights, a silver vest and a bra. I discovered during the summer of 1992, I looked better than most of the New York City hookers, and I was better dressed and way more conservative. My mom was horrified when her friends came up to introduce themselves to me and said they had heard so much about Dee’s daughter, prompting my mom to say, "This is my SON."
My sister had this costume
Looking back on these memories, October is still a special month full of magic, creativity, and a bit of spooky fun. It's a reminder of the joy in simple traditions, the excitement of dressing up, and spending time with family and friends. Even though my enthusiasm for Halloween has changed, the nostalgia from past Octobers keeps the season bright. Here's to making new memories and keeping the October spirit alive, no matter our age. 🎃✨
In 1988, during the OP Surf Contest in Huntington Beach, CA, a huge riot broke out, grabbing national headlines as cop cars were flipped and chaos ensued. Interestingly, Christy Smith was down the street at a friend's house, enjoying a Corona on the front porch when millions of people swarmed the street. Little did she know, this chaotic event would be just one of the many wild experiences she’d encounter.
At the time, Christy was working as a delivery driver for Beach Auto Supply. She often drove around with a bumper sticker that read, "I Survived the 1986 Riot." Evangelina and her friends had sued the police department due to injuries sustained during the riot, and after a long class action lawsuit, she received a settlement. With dreams of doing something big, she moved to Hollywood and found herself in a studio apartment where the cast of "I Love Lucy" once stayed. The Golden Girls were filming there at the time, and she often saw them as they arrived at the studio across the street.
Skateboarding around Hollywood, Christy decided to pursue acting. She picked up a copy of the Drama-Log magazine, where she found auditions listed. After a mix-up with addresses, she ended up at an audition she hadn’t planned on attending. After securing headshots and body shots for $35 at the farmers market, she returned to the casting office. Thanks to her athletic background, she was offered a spot to train as a wrestler with GLOW, Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling. After a few months, she was cast as Evangelina, a good girl mingling with the bad girls, preaching repentance.
Evangelina & Hollywood
Performing in season three of GLOW, Evangelina brought her Roman Catholic upbringing and knowledge of other religions to the character. She even drew inspiration from televangelists like Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker. While it was a challenge to balance her spiritual beliefs with the character’s semi-evil persona, she embraced the role. Steve Blance, their writer, helped craft her character’s storyline and wrestling moves, making Evangelina a memorable part of GLOW history. Though she eventually left GLOW and moved on to other ventures, her time as Evangelina remains a cherished chapter of her life.
If you're in the mood for a campy, hilarious Western, "Lust in the Dust" is a must-see. Directed by Paul Bartel and released in 1985, this film stars Tab Hunter, Divine, and Lainie Kazan. The movie follows Rosie (Divine) and a cowboy named Abel (Tab Hunter) as they venture into a wild New Mexican town, filled with characters that make Divine’s presence seem normal. It's packed with over-the-top personalities and outrageous situations that will have you laughing out loud.
I had the pleasure of being friends with Tab Hunter during a brief time in the 1990s. Funny thing is, I didn't know who he was back then. It wasn't until many years later, when I watched the film "Polyester" for the first time, that I realized I had known a Hollywood icon. This was a regular occurrence in my teen years, probably because I didn’t have much exposure to pop culture outside of what was popular in Pace, Florida. "Lust in the Dust" is another gem that showcases his talent and charisma. Tab Hunter and Divine share a unique chemistry that makes their scenes together incredibly entertaining.
The supporting cast is equally memorable. Lainie Kazan's portrayal of Marguerita Ventura is larger than life. She’s an absolute riot, and hearing her belt out a hilarious musical number makes you wonder how good her performance as Barbra Streisand’s understudy for Fanny Brice might have been. The film is full of absurd yet hilarious moments. Other stars featured in this film are Nedra Volz, known for her performance as sweet Miz Tisdale in The Dukes of Hazzard as well as the original Joker in Batman, Cesar Romero. Don’t go into this if you're easily offended by politically incorrect humor, because this was created in the spirit of absurdity. Many people confuse this for a John Waters film, no doubt because the most iconic star of his films was the leading “lady” of this one. The humor is unapologetically campy, which might not be for everyone, but it's perfect for those who appreciate this genre. The film doesn't take itself too seriously, and that's what makes it so enjoyable. It's a great escape from reality and a fun trip to the wild West with a twist.
If you enjoyed movies like "Polyester" or anything by John Waters, "Lust in the Dust" is definitely for you. It's a unique blend of Western and comedy that stands out for its creativity and humor. Plus, seeing Tab Hunter and Divine on screen together again is an absolute treat. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and get ready to laugh your way through the wild antics of "Lust in the Dust."
Enjoy the wild ride through "Lust in the Dust"! 🎬✨📖
"Heartstopper: Volume 1" by Alice Oseman is an adorable graphic novel that beautifully captures the ups and downs of teenage life. The story is all about Charlie, a shy gay student, and Nick, a cheerful rugby player, and how their friendship slowly turns into something more. Oseman's artwork is so expressive and sweet, perfectly matching the heartfelt story. It's not just another love story—it's a genuine portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships that feels both relatable and uplifting.
One of the best parts about "Heartstopper" is how real the characters feel. Oseman really nails the excitement and nerves of first love. The way Charlie and Nick interact is just so cute and authentic. The book is packed with adorable moments, thoughtful conversations, and meaningful character growth. You'll find yourself rooting for these two as they navigate their feelings and the challenges of coming out and being true to themselves.
Overall, "Heartstopper: Volume 1" is a heartwarming read about friendship, acceptance, and love. Oseman’s storytelling is both touching and entertaining, making this book a must-read. Whether you’re a teen figuring out your own identity or an adult reminiscing about your first crush, "Heartstopper" will leave you smiling and feeling warm inside.
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