Viva la Diva

I've Been Cheating

2007-08-14T22:40:00.001-04:00

Hi everyone,

I have a confession to make. It's been a while since I've posted because I've been cheating on this blog. Yes, with another blog.

I still have feelings for this blog, but I just needed to express myself in a totally separate way about this big thing that's going on in my life. A really BIG, exciting, wonderful thing that really deserves its own little corner of cyberspace.

Feel free to check it out at www.ruopoliadoption.blogspot.com

(Start at the bottom)

I'll be back soon with another posting about my recent stint as a co-host on ShopNBC. Not exactly David Letterman, but a very interesting live national TV debut nonetheless.

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And by the way... Happy 40th Anniversary Mom and Dad! You are so beautiful and I love you both with all my heart! I'll post photos from the big party soon, but in the meantime, below is my favorite picture of my lovely, loving parents.

Hugs,

Regina

Rodolfo & Christina Garza
Rocking 40 Years!

Happy Burfday Baby!

2007-07-03T11:06:00.000-04:00

Swoot-swoo!

Wunda Woman. Mmmm hmmm.

2007-06-29T20:09:00.001-04:00

Love this.

Uneasy

2007-06-18T11:27:00.000-04:00

I saw a car just like yours yesterday.
I imagined that it was, and that I walked over, opened the door
and gave you a good long hug.

Love you,
Regina

Start Spreading the News

2007-04-26T21:26:00.000-04:00

We recently returned from a fun little jaunt to New York/New Jersey. We attended our first Broadway show (The Producers) which made us positively giddy. It was so slick and remarkably funny. Even Frank was enthralled. It sure made me miss my old musical theater days.

We also tooled around Little Italy, ate cannolis and pasta, strolled through the quaint little city of Madison, NJ, explored Greenwich Village and got yelled at by a homeless lady in Penn Station.

We heard real live utterings of "Fuhgetaboudit" from mouth-breathing goombas. As we waited for our train into Manhattan, we watched in awe as a little Mario-like train conductor jumped off a stopping train and yelled "Hoboken! Hoboken!" in his best Jersey accent, while the train's white steam billowed out behind him. I expected to hear a director to yell "CUT," but on again Mario jumped and the train chugged off to Hoboken while we sat on a wooden bench waiting for ours in the lovely glow of the late afternoon sun, while tiny birds fluttered about. It was positive picturesque! The train stations were surprisingly clean and charming. Funny how their insignificant daily routine can be such a novelty to visitors.

Oh, I also managed to devour the book Marley and Me during our travel time -- a truly fantastic read, but tough when you're far away from your beloved pets! We had so much fun that I didn't even mind twisting my ankle in China Town and busting my poor knee on the dirty pavement. I guess the scar will make up for not getting a tattoo. I just have one question for you New Yorkers: What's with all the honking??? Seriously? I don't get it. It doesn't do a thing.

Life is good. Been so busy with some exciting things and hope to share them with you soon!

Do some good. Then do some great.

Loving spring,
Regina

Four of My Nieces

2007-04-12T13:38:00.000-04:00

Here are my four nutty Charleston nieces with Frank. L to R: Lauren, Kirsten, Gabrielle and Allison. They were hunkered down in their pajamas for a sleepover at our house last summer. We had quite the variety show on our deck that evening! They are something else! All so different and all so wonderful in their own ways.

Smiling,
Regina

Design Your Life

2007-04-05T23:22:00.000-04:00

The best way to predict the future is to create it.

-Peter Drucker

I've always believed that -- on the whole -- you are the master of your own fate. It takes work. I takes careful consideration. It takes action. But most of all it takes making decisions. That's the hard part for me. I mull it over and I sleep on it. I reconsider and I ponder. I research all the possibilities and I imagine the consequences of my decisions as far into the future as possible. And then one day, after there is no other way I can possibly examine it, I just know it's time to jump. I almost always jump exactly where I should. So at least I can take comfort in that when my head is spinning with decision making mayhem.

Thinking too much,
Regina

America the Beautiful

2007-03-30T12:12:00.000-04:00

Ain't it sweet?

2007-03-30T00:43:00.000-04:00

One of my wonderful nieces, Sacha, and her husband, Alan, just had a baby girl on Sunday. Carissa Nicole. 6 lbs. 3 oz. I can't believe I'm a GREAT aunt, but I can now tease my eldest sister about being a grandmother! And she's only in her mid 40's. I'll post photos as soon as I get them. This has been one of those weeks when I miss living in Indianapolis.

Warm & fuzzy,
Regina

Stu-Stu-Studio

2007-02-07T17:35:00.000-05:00

We’re going in.

Yep, my homies and I (http://www.vintagevelvetband.com) are finally submerging ourselves in the recording studio this weekend. When we come up for air, we will have recorded our first full-length CD. We should be selling them out of our trunks and trench coats by late March.

Just wanted to whet your whistle ... cause mine is drenched.

Impatiently,
Regina

Crush Confessions

2007-02-03T17:09:00.000-05:00

Happy 2007 amigos! Long time no type.

I'm tired of thinking about serious stuff, so let's start the year off right. Let's just have some fun!

If you would kindly indulge me in being a silly, shallow girlie-girl for a moment, I thought I'd share the secret corners of my mind with you, and reveal which celebrities and pseudo-celebrities I've been crushing on as of late.

Nothing serious here ... just passing fancies, as I am blissfully married to the man of my dreams. But little crushes are a normal part of being an aesthete, so -- only if you promise not to laugh -- here is the short list of the admittedly ODD mix of hotties who have recently invaded my fantasies.

#1 Stephen Colbert – His bizarre and contradictory blend of sarcastic wit, faux arrogance, brainy genius, suave sophistication, almost geeky humility along with his dark, aristocratic features makes me weak in the knees. WEAK I tell you! And just look at those hands. Those hands were made for caressing.

I am so proud that he is from Charleston.

#2 The “I’m a Mac” Actor – He is so hot in his trendy little outfits, being all clever, creative, prep-school adorable yet unpretentious as he verbally spars with "PC." I don’t know his name, but I’d love him and hug him and call him George.

#3 Lyle Lovett -- Yes, you read that right, amigos! The quirky Lyle Lovett. You simply must know his music and see him perform live to understand. Lyle is just so freaking talented, genuine, warm, funny, brilliant and elegant. Go see him and I promise you will be smitten.

But you see my crush on Mr. Lovett is not a "I want to lick every inch of your skin" kind of crush. It's more of a "Let's play music together as we lounge by the roaring fire in a mountain cabin, talk about the meaning of life and cuddle all afternoon until it's time to get ready for the Grammys because we're favored win three of them for that song we co-wrote last year while we were helping the orphans in Somalia" kind of crush. I'm sure it's the same way Julia Roberts felt, no? And then she realized that Lyle was really more of the friend type, and that she truly needed a hunky fleshfeast of a man more than she realized. I understand, Julia, I really do.

#4 Zach Braff (from Scrubs) – Cute, humble, boy-next-door actors with luscious lips, tousled hair and more talent than than ego (including the potential to become a great director) get me every time.

But I think maybe it’s the Scrubs writers I am actually crushing on. They're so damn clever.

#5 Mike Rowe (the “Dirty Jobs” guy) – I’m not usually attracted to older men, but Mike is an exception. It's not just his hot physique, great smile and tough-yet-tender persona. It's also not just that he likes to get reeaallly dirty. It's not even that he has the perfect amount of hair on his perfectly muscular chest. It's not even the eyes.

It's mostly that VOICE. Talk. To. Me.

Girl Crushes: (C'mon girls, you know you have them!)

#6 Jackie Warner (from the show Work Out on BravoTV) – She is a smart entrepreneur with fashion sense, a husky voice, amazing skin, to-die-for lips and a knack for making cliches sound much deeper than they really are. She's very pretty in an earthy way and has the presence put the smarmiest jock in his place.

Funny, my abs look just like that.

#7 Jo Frost (aka the "Supernanny") -- Ok, I know this one is from WAY out in left field, but Jo just seems like the coolest chick who would be totally FUN in any situation. I want to go out drinking with her at the pub and giggle about boys and sex all night, stumble back to her flat in London to crash, and then catch a glimpse of of her voluptuousness as she puts on her nightie and ...

Sorry... too much information. Well then. I just love it when she uses the word "naughty" on her show with her cute English accent. She's all, "yoah being gnaw-tea!" And I'm all, "Why yes. Yes I am."

#8 Marcela de la Vega Luna -- Marcela is the solo dancer in the opening "Wind" sequence in Zumanity (the Cirque de Soliel show in Las Vegas). Not only is this a fabulous show, this woman is the most sizzling, simmering, smoldering, sultry, hypnotic, lithe, flawless and utterly smokin’ hot human being I have ever seen.

She's so astonishingly sexy I don't even feel jealous of her, even though I have a sneaking suspicion she is on my husband's crush list as well.

So, whaddya think? Am I crazy? Who's with me?

Oh, and don't worry, Hal Sparks. I'm still crushing on you too, but what have you done for me late-leee???

Adoringly,
Regina

Special Request

2006-12-07T19:07:00.000-05:00

A note to my friends and family who send family photos in their Christmas / Holiday cards...

I absolutely love getting photos of your children. But it would also be nice to get a photo of you -- the adults. Whether it's of the entire family together, or a separate picture, please don't forget that you are just as important to me and I want to ogle your mug too!

Thanks,
Regina

Invisible Concrete

2006-11-30T10:57:00.000-05:00

My body isn’t taking instructions very well this week. A wave of extreme tiredness has set in, and I suspect my body is being dipped in a layer of invisible concrete while I sleep. It's as if I’m trudging through honey.

It was a rough Thanksgiving weekend, with distressing news flying at me from every direction. Perhaps now the stress has caught up with me physically. I don’t want to get into details at the moment, but several people whom I love dearly are enduring, or are about to endure terrible storms. It’s time to buck up and be strong for those who need my support, but what I really want to do is wrap myself up on a warm cocoon and hibernate in a blissful slumber.

On a positive note, our gig last Saturday night was quite fun. It was a nice escape from thinking about things too much, and I just enjoyed making music with good friends. And what an effective stress release singing for 3 hours can be! It is essentially controlled screaming.

Oh yes, and on another very positive note, Frank and I celebrated our 7th wedding anniversary Monday. Yes sireee, now we’re talking. Happy-happy-joy-joy! It’s been a great year, and just keeps getting better. My marriage has been my rock, and my hubby is good at keeping me from taking life – and myself – too seriously. Something I really need at the moment.

Cheers,
Regina

How can a person just cease to exist?

2006-11-22T16:16:00.000-05:00

An acquaintance of mine died of cancer this week -- a very dear man I worked with. He was one of the good ones.

I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to know someone so kind, generous and humble, who was a shining example that one does not need to compromise those noble traits in order to be successful.

So today I toast to you, Jay. And to the mysterious and precious cycle of life.

Sadly,
Regina

Fortune Cookies

2006-11-18T14:43:00.000-05:00

If I owned a fortune cookie company, I would make the fortunes evocative, something to excite the imagination so that people’s perspectives would shift after their meal.

I might put in something like, “You will see three beautiful things tomorrow.” Then the whole next day, the person would have their eyes open, looking for beauty. They would ask themselves, “What is beauty? Is that tree the beautiful thing? Is my spouse the beautiful thing? My hand?"

Maybe I would write, “Seven people love you madly.” You would look at each of your friends with a secret smile. “Are you one of them? I knew you liked me, but do you love me madly?” How about this one: “You will figure something out two days from now” or “They appreciate what you did.”

People certainly get slipped awful messages all the time. A partner says, “You don’t get it,” or “You’re just like your father.” We receive messages from bosses, parents, friends, and from that venomous voice inside. Why not interrupt the spread of discouragement? I would love to get a fortune that says, “Don’t try to improve yourself tomorrow.” What would it do to your perspective if you read, “The next two years are just for fun”?

Yeah, I'd like that a lot. And I'd make the cookies taste better too.

With my glass half full,
Regina

A Crock Pot For One

2006-11-13T22:38:00.000-05:00

is one of the saddest things I've ever seen sitting on a store shelf.

Ahhh...look at all the lonely people,
Regina

Worth a Thousand Words

2006-11-12T20:58:00.000-05:00

Two of my favorite bombshells

Comedy, Horror or Documentary?

2006-11-11T14:40:00.000-05:00

If you haven't yet, you simply must see the film Borat. It could fit into any of these classifications, because I've never been so scared while also laughing so hard at the brutal truth in the world!

We went with our friends Sean and Julia (or John and Shoolia as I sometimes catch myself saying). This is the first movie Sean had wanted to see in some time, so after a yummy dinner at the Mustard Seed in Mt. Pleasant (you've gotta have their tomato bisque), and a detour into Barnes & Noble (Grand Central Station and ultra-happening teen pick-up joint on Friday nights) we headed over to the big shew.

I hunkered down in my seat, and gingerly pulled from my purse the coconut cake I bought from the restaurant "to go" as my deluxe movie snack (yum!). Frank threatened to call security on me, but I hushed him with a mouthful of icing. The lights dimmed and after some promising trailers, the journey began!

I had very little knowledge or preconceived notion of what the film was really about, and my expectations were kind of low based on the previews. But boy, was I was pleasantly surprised. All four of us were impressed, horrified, entertained, enlightened disturbed and stunned by the end of the movie. Later on, as we were trying to fall asleep, Frank and I found ourselves randomly giggling to ourselves well into the night as scenes kept flashing back into our heads.

So folks, if you want to see how much impact a low budget, high talent film can have, then run to the nearest movie theater now to catch Borat!

Still hiccuping,
Regina

Coexist

2006-11-09T14:08:00.000-05:00

This is a bumper sticker I found online. Every letter has a symbol that represents a system of thought: The crescent and star for Islam; the pentagram for Wicca; the relativity formula for science; the star of David for Judaism; the Karma Wheel dotting the i for Buddhism; the Tao symbol for Taoism; the cross for Chrisitianity.

I wish we could,
Regina

I Yam What I Yam

2006-11-07T12:35:00.000-05:00

It amuses me that when people meet me for the first time, they often think I’m the “goodie-goodie” type. Even my husband did. But once they get to know me a little, they realize that I’m far from conservative. Not that I’m some kind of extreme biker chick party girl who’s hell bent for leather, but I’m no stick in the mud.

One example of this happened on a recent work-related trip. I carpooled with girl from accounting with whom, until then, I had only exchanged passing pleasantries with in the hall, but never had a real conversation. After our trip, which included many hours in the car and a couple of nights out for drinks and dinner, she said to me, “You always seem so professional and sophisticated at work. I didn’t realize you were so liberal!”

Gee, I’m not trying to come across any differently. Perhaps I should just get tattoos, combat boots and a nose ring and just be done with it. Ah, but you see, I rebel against having these symbols of being a nonconformist. It would just be conforming to another standard.

So I suppose I will just always seem like a bit of a paradox. My hubby says he thinks of me as the serious librarian who lets down her hair, removes her glasses and takes off her jacket to reveal the true woman within.

Too funny,
Regina

Stop Legalized Discrimination!

2006-11-03T16:35:00.000-05:00

You people who define marriage as simply 1 penis + 1 vagina are reeaally pissing me off. I think that your fear and repugnance are pathetic.

By definition, a marriage is simply a legal contract. That’s all … that’s it. A marriage ceremony is not required to have any religious elements in it, or to be endorsed by God. But many people choose to incorporate spiritual elements into their wedding, which is fine and good. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. In fact, it can be quite nice. But legally imposing your personal religious beliefs about marriage onto others is egocentric and immoral.

Just imagine that the majority of Americans were Mormons, and many of them made their way into political office. Mormons don’t believe in ingesting drugs of any kind, including caffeine. What if they made it illegal for all US citizens to drink coffee because that what their religeon warrants? You would say, “But wait! That’s not MY religion. Why should I be forced to follow that creed? Being a US citizen doesn’t mean I’m also a Mormon!” Ahem… Hello??? That’s exactly what is happening here with gay marriage rights, as well as with many other political issues today.

Do you really want a Theocracy? History has shown over and over again that it’s a tyrannical, oppressive and frightening thing. It can happen in America…it IS happening in America. The underlying thought behind it is “But it’s ok because it’s based on Christianity…the right religion.” Pleeease! The vast majority of the world’s population is non-Christian. We are a beautiful tapestry of diverse beliefs, and not a single one of them can be proven as right. Yes, to have social harmony, we must have a common code of morals, values and ethics. But you can have this WITHOUT instilling specific creeds into them.

Of course, even within Christianity, the rightness or wrongness homosexuality is a matter of interpretation. Not all Christians believe it's a sin. But if you choose to believe it is wrong, and you are worried about going to hell, then don’t do it! Why do you care if others believe differently? Why do you have to be a self-righteous, bible-thumping jerk who thinks everyone should be held by the same boundaries you choose for yourself?

I know of some male/female marriages that are a joke. There are big issues such as infidelity, lies, deceit, abuse, poor parenting… do you think these are still real marriages -- simply because of the couple has opposite private parts? I also know same-sex couples who have a relationship that is as honorable, loving and true. If they choose to commit themselves to each other, then they should have every legal right as any other couple.

I’d be willing to bet that if a God does exist, he does not want us to be prejudiced, judgmental and condemnatory bigots.

Please vote NO on Amendment #1!

Infuriated,
Regina

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2006-11-02T22:07:00.000-05:00

Halloweeen is by far my favorite holiday. I suppose it's because it speaks to the dramatic and theatrical side of me. Frank and I have a blast with it, although we usually spend way too much time and money on a costumes. This year was no exception. In fact, I think this peacock costume took the cake. I've wanted to be a peacock for 2 years (after falling in love with the ones at Magnolia Gardens). I knew it would be a lot of work and was afraid I wouldn't have time. Frank encouraged me to just go for it, so I dove in.

Here are some photos of my getup, along with Frank's hilarious flying chicken costume (aka the Bird Flu/Flew). We're proud to say these were 90% handmade. Yes, we worked our little fingers to the nubs and swept up feathers for two weeks for only a couple of nights enjoyment, but it was worth it. I was a top 10 finalist in a $5,000 costume contest, but lost to the ... shall I say .... more scantily clad (it's stunning how many people now see Halloween as an opportunity to dress as slutty as possible. If they're a nurse, they're a slutty nurse. If they're a witch, they're a slutty witch... Not that we minded oogling them with disgusted fascination.)

Anyhoo, in case you're wondering, the tail was very light and I could take it off easily. It had shoulder straps made of the same fabric as the dress, which was a stretch velvet. Overall I was pleased, and will even able to use the dress again. Cool.

Enjoy!

Haiku

2006-10-24T12:21:00.000-04:00

Hope rises slowly
like warm, soapy bathwater
inching its way up

Mots Puissants

2006-10-23T20:44:00.000-04:00

I recently came across this quote and simply must share it:

"Do not be critics, you people, I beg you. I was a critic and I wish I could take it all back because it came from a smelly and ignorant place in me and spoke with a voice that was all rage and envy. Do not dismiss a book until you have written one, and do not dismiss a movie until you have made one, and do not dismiss a person until you have met them. It is a f**kload of work to be open-minded and generous and understanding and forgiving and accepting, but, Christ, that is what matters. What matters is saying yes."
-Dave Eggers, The Harvard Advocate

The last sentence reminds me of a story I heard about John Lennon falling for Yoko Ono. He was attending one of her art shows, and there was an interactive exhibit with a huge ladder in the middle of a room that you had to climb to read something written in tiny print on the ceiling. Nobody would say what it said when they came down off the ladder, but everyone was grinning from ear to ear. So John climbed the ladder, and when he got to the top he found one simple word: "Yes"

That story alone kinda makes me forgive her for breaking up the Beatles.

Big love,
Regina

Intriguing

2006-10-12T16:08:00.000-04:00

I was rear-ended this morning. It was a minor accident, with no visible car damage. But it scared me, and jolted my head back pretty hard. My neck and shoulders feel tingly now, and I’m wondering if I’ll be able to move my head in the morning.

My point is … when I got to the office and told Frank what happened, he swore that he felt like something was wrong about the same time the accident happened. He just had this feeling that something happened to me – like a car accident.

That got me to thinking about things like mental telepathy and the sixth sense. Things like this happen to people all the time, but they usually dismiss it as coincidence, or they are just slightly amused and move on about their business. Did Frank somehow feel my emotions this morning?

My family has a history of this kind of unexplained telepathy or extrasensory perception -- like knowing when someone in the family has died before the news is out, or having premonitions about bad things happening. It’s strange and fascinating.

I am convinced that there are things in our world that cannot be explained by science... yet.

If only I could have foreseen that a woman talking on her cell phone was going to ram into me this morning.

Ouch,
Regina

Wanting

2006-10-06T12:48:00.000-04:00

I believe that in my life things have always happened how and when they are supposed to. If I didn't get something I wanted exactly when I wanted it, then later I was thankful because I would have missed out on something better or more fitting.

But my desires have only been fulfilled when I do my part to open up the possibilities. Everything good that has ever come my way is because I started a process, or I knocked on the door, made a call, took ownership or was pro-active in some way. I ardently believe that we are the ultimate masters of our own fate. And yes, good things will come if a path is created for them.

So about this thing that I want so badly right now. Why is it so hard to be patient? I’ve done my part.

Hmmm.... Or maybe I haven’t.

Fatefully,
Regina

Frost Free Lowcountry

2006-10-02T19:48:00.000-04:00

Ok kids, I've had it up to here with having to bring a parka and mittens every time I dine out. What is it with you restaurant people? I know that I am not the only one who has walked out of a dining room because I could see my breath. Sure, it’s 96 degrees outside, but that doesn’t mean it has to be 50 degrees inside. If the kitchen is hot, then cool down the kitchen, not the entire effin restaurant. At the very least, offer a cool section and a warm section. Hey, that's a damn good idea since you will soon need something to take the place of your smoking and non-smoking sections once that ban on public smoking prevails! www.smokefreelowcountry.org

Shiveringly,
Regina

What's your major?

2006-09-25T21:18:00.000-04:00

While downtown at the Francis Marion Hotel to do a site visit for an upcoming gig, we ducked into Milleneum Music to dine at the Five Loaves Cafe inside. I had heard good things about their soups, and I was not disappointed! The carrot ginger soup was to die for. Dare I say, better than Earth Fare's.

Once I stopped orgasming over the soup, I soaked in the cozy surroundings. I noticed a growing group of college students gathering around the comfy couch in the corner. "Bon jour! Ca va?" Ahh... the French Club! A fine mixture of good girl types, a redheaded earthy type with strange divots on her arm, a boy-next-door and a surprisingly handsome dreadlocked fellow. Our waitress trotted around nonchalantly in her ultra-mini denim skirt and slinky tank top. I couldn't help but reminisce silently about the times when my legs looked that good. Better, in fact.

I could overhear the conversation of a young couple at the counter considering their dessert options. "So what did you say your major was?" Oh, a first date! I could smell the anticipation/hope mixed with slight discomfort in the air. Smells like testosterone mixed with white lilies in case you were wondering. I peeked over at them. She had on the tightest peach velour pants you have ever seen, and her round peach of a rump filled them out completely and then some. And she was wearing yet another painted-on, tiny tank top. I just wanna say thanks to Britney Spears for bringing this "hooker next door" look to the masses. Hey, I'm no prude by a long shot. I've even been known to bare a little cleavage or perhaps sport some fishnet stockings. But c'mon girls, make them EARN the privilege of seeing your actual girly parts. Have some effin couth!

So anyway I felt only slightly old. But not in a "I wish I was back in college" kind of way. Just in a "these kids probably see me as old...but they are so wrong" kind of way. I felt wise, actually. I really don't miss college. Sure, I loved it at the time, but I've been there and done that. Had a blast and got the t-shirt. But I was broke, and I mean broke in college. I worked my little (at the time) ass off just to buy contact lens solution and gas, not to mention books and such. (Well, there was the time I blew $85 on a bitchin' Halloween costume, and then had to bounce a check for pizza because I had to eat. But I digress...)

I mused about my thoughts to Frank (who also worked his way through school). He laughed, "I don't miss college at all! Just remember, we don't have to worry about how to pay for our meal. We can have coffee and dessert without sacrificing beer money. We don't have $2 worth of gas in a clunker that we're hoping will get us home. And we can get lucky anytime we want." Wise owl he is. Yes, it is nice to be at a place in life where you have some cushion. Even if it means more cushion on your body parts too. But even better than that, there are things like true and lasting love, peace of mind, serenity, contentment, confidence, a deeper knowledge and sense of self. All the things that you think people say just to make them feel better about growing older. But it's true. I wouldn't trade it for anything.

Incidentally, today we made my FINAL payment on my 8 bazillion dollars worth of student loans. Yeah baby. 15 years later. Take THAT Marian College!!! Boo-yeah.

Still hot,

Regina

Hitting the books circa 1991

Random Happenings of Late

2006-08-29T12:08:00.000-04:00

I’m heading for Charlotte today for an educational conference. I look forward to getting away from the office and learning something new, but not looking forward to fighting with Hurricane Ernesto on the drive home Thursday. Yikes! I am going to miss my hubby and dogs madly. I loathe traveling without them. This former nomad has become such a homebody … and I love it.
I recently gave a stellar 30-minute presentation at my company’s annual strategic planning meeting. Yes, I am patting myself on the back because it’s a rare occasion when I am extremely pleased with myself. I have unreasonably high standards for myself. But I nailed it. I rocked. So I celebrated with a bubble bath, a tall gin & tonic and some good lovin’ from my honey.
We went to Magnolia Cemetery this weekend at my visiting cousin’s request. It’s such a beautiful and historic cemetery, and it also happens to be where Frank and I first kissed (long story), so we were eager to return. We made a point to venture over to the exact same spot we stood at nearly 10 years ago for our first kiss, and we kissed again. Blissful! (I’ll post the photo after I return from Charlotte).
Ask me how I feel about second hand cigarette smoke. Go ahead, ask me! ‘Cause I am up to here… So please join me in supporting the movement to ban smoking in public places in Charleston: www.smokefreelowcountry.com
The band performed 3 new songs this weekend, and they sounded pretty darn good: I Get a Kick out of You, My Baby Just Cares for Me and Blue Skies. Blue Skies is one of those songs that rings in your head once it digs its way into your cerebral folds. I’ve been humming it for weeks. Somebody make it stop!
Oh, and how could I forget our trip to Vegas. It was enjoyable, but not magnificent. In a nutshell we gambled, we won, we lost, we lost again, we saw great shows, we celebrated, we ate, we made love, we walked, and walked, and walked, we drove to Hoover Dam, we napped, we got inspired and we got disgusted. I actually found New Orleans (pre-hurricane) to be far more sultry than the dusty, dry, slutty city of Vegas. But there is great beauty hidden within the ugliness. Like digging through desiccated rock to find glittering gemstones. If I didn’t have to go there for work on a regular basis, I probably wouldn’t go back. It’s just not me.

Feeling caught up now,
Regina

Holy Short Bangs

2006-08-22T10:57:00.000-04:00

What is it about “just a trim” that hairstylists don’t understand? Really???
Do I have a strange accent that makes it sound as if I actually said “Chop away, missy! And make me look 12 years old while you're at it.”

That doesn't even rhyme with "just a trim."

Arrrggghhh...
Regina

Detox

2006-08-08T11:14:00.000-04:00

I don’t have many vices, but I’m currently trying to kick a very tough habit. No, it’s not alcohol. It’s not pot, coke, crack, meth, heroin or even tobacco. It’s chewing gum. Yes, sugarless chewing gum. Go on and laugh! Laugh at my pansy little habit, you hardened druggies! But it’s not easy.

Why have I been addicted for the last 20 years? I think it’s a little bit because of an oral fixation, but more than that, it’s having the assurance that my breath is never offensive. Hey, I like fresh breath! And being a person with an overabundance of dental work, I’ve stuck with the sugarless variety (Orbit being my latest favorite).

Why all the fuss about something as harmless as gum? Well, you see there is this chemical called aspartame (aka NutraSweet and Equal) that is used to sweeten sugarless gum. It is a neurotoxin that essentially metabolizes into formaldehyde. It’s suspected of causing many health problems, of which that I beginning to see the symptoms. My biggest symptom is memory loss. Yes, I know it’s part of the normal aging process to lose some memory, but you’re talking to the former memory queen here, and we’re talking about distressing amount for someone still well under 40. Short term, long term, medium term… The neurons are just not firing like they should.

Not only did I go through a large pack of gum per week, I used aspartame in my coffee regularly. Not to mention the occasional diet soda and piece of sugarless candy. That’s a lot of smack, and although over-indulging in anything is usually bad for your health, it’s especially bad when it’s a man-made chemical compound trying to replace something natural.

Bottom line… I’m going to kick synthetic sweeteners to the curb. Yes, it’s hard. And it’s more calorie-rich. So then I just need to exercise self-control … and simply exercise. It’s that simple. In fact, I think I’ll go to Earth Fare right now and buy some Stevia, a naturally sweet, low calorie herb that can be used like sugar.

Now where did I put my purse???
Regina

A Mighty Oak

2006-07-20T09:51:00.000-04:00

When you are nice, some people think you are weak, or obtuse. But I am no pushover. Don’t misjudge me, don’t manipulate me, and never underestimate me. I am stronger and sharper than you ever imagined a nice girl could be. And just because I have delicate leaves doesn’t mean my roots aren’t planted firmly in the ground.

Hardly a honeysuckle,
Regina

Hal Sparks Says

2006-07-19T21:46:00.000-04:00

"A genius is someone who can win a war without spilling a drop of blood. A genius is someone who can define a battle plan and execute it. A Genius is someone who can invent a new solution to an old problem instead of running the same old plays and falling into predictable traps."

Aieee Chihuahua!

2006-07-17T20:25:00.000-04:00

I am the proud mother of 2 adorable Chihuahuas. Chihuahuas have always been my family's dog of choice, long before Taco Bell mascots or Paris Hilton. People who see Chihuahuas as nervous, scampering, overgrown rats are missing out on a good thing. When trained correctly, Chihuahuas are the cutest, funniest, most lovable dogs ever. They have tiny bodies, but large hearts. They’re spunky, smart as a whip and extremely devoted. They are also absolute clowns and have a great sense of humor. Allow me introduce you to mine.

PACO: Paco is white and fawn, and is the smartest, funniest, silliest, smilingest, most love-filled thing that ever existed. He is a star, and really does smile when he’s happy. He is constantly cuddling and loves to press his face against my lips, so he often has red lipstick on his furry cheeks. He is an amazing athlete and can jump like some kind of alien. He is obsessed with babies and goes into a frenzy kissing and smelling them. His ears are huge and they have a pretty pink glow. But he can occasionally be an insanely barking beast who loathes strangers in his territory (but we’re working on that via “The Dog Whisperer” training)! For some strange reason, he’s afraid of plastic bags. He also goes by the nicknames Paco-Pecan, Pickles and Little Buddy.

LILA: Lila’s pretty coat is all shades of brown. You’d think she goes to the salon for highlights. She has the sweetest and most gentle disposition. She is very affectionate, sensitive and shy. She loves balls…especially tennis balls, even though her little mouth can barely grasp them. She loves to chase squirrels, birds and bugs, and begs to have her soft belly rubbed every chance she gets. When she hears a harmonica, she howls like a wolf. She also howls sometimes when the band is practicing and we hit a certain note. She is quite partial to culinary delights. So partial, in fact, that we had to put her on a diet! Her sweet brown eyes glow an amazing fluorescent green in some photographs. She also goes by the nicknames Lila-Bean, Baby Girl and Little Darlin'.

Lila is the bigger of the two and looks more like a boy, while Paco looks more like a girl. They love to play tug-of-war with socks, bask in the sun, curl up in our laps, go on car trips and burrow under the covers. They sleep in our bed with us every night, and are true members of our family. The house is always happy with their bright eyes, wagging tails and showers of adoring kisses.

Funny, my husband always had BIG dogs before. He never wanted a small dog, but agreed at first because it made me happy. But now, if you know Frank, you know how passionate he is about them now. They have utterly stolen his tender heart. He unabashedly says that he never thought he could love little dogs this much. And it takes a man who is very confident in his masculinity to say that! So for any doubters out there … never say never.

Now who wants a snack?
Regina

The Great Wordsmith

2006-07-14T10:19:00.000-04:00

The moon's an arrant thief,
and her pale fire she snatches from the sun.

-- Shakespeare, Timon of Athens

38

2006-07-12T19:59:00.000-04:00

I turned 38 on July 7. So far, so good.

I’ve decided I like the number 38. The numerals 3 and 8 are round, full and flowing. No sharp edges or pointy corners. The words also roll easily out off your tongue with a robust lingual sound. It looks, sounds and feels dense, dependable and comfortable, like a fat, purring cat curled up in your lap, or a thick loaf of warm honey wheat bread.

I have no doubt 38 will be a banner year. The last few months have especially been a time of reflection and introspection. I am more sure now than ever before of who I am and what I want. It’s hard to find solitude nowadays, but I believe a certain amount of it is necessary to really soul search. I intend to make even more quiet time for myself this year. My innermost thoughts and desires become so lucid when there is silence and spaciousness.

I received some very thoughtful phone calls and gifts from friends and family, and the day was capped by an elegant dinner with my hubby at "Circa 1886" at the Wentworth Mansion, which has some nice vegetarian selections (I highly recommend them if you can get past the drab green paint drowning the walls).

I received the most BEE-YOU-TEE-FUL bouquet of flowers from my sister, Sonia. Take a look and imagine the languid scent of those freshly burst stargazer lilies, which happen to be the flowers I carried in my bridal bouquet.

I felt special and loved, which is all a girl could ask for on her birthday ... at any age.

Purrr,
Regina

Let Them Eat Cake

2006-07-11T17:25:00.000-04:00

My sister-in-law, Rosie, and her longtime boyfriend, Fred, recently decided to get hitched. And in a jiffy.

No, she wasn’t pregnant. The reason for their sudden decision was actually a bit gloomy. Fred has been battling liver cancer and feels he doesn’t have much longer to live. I know, it’s rotten. But for practical reasons (his house, insurance, etc), Fred insisted they tie the knot to make things easier on Rosie when the time comes. I know it was a tough decision, because it symbolizes acceptance of the likelihood of defeat. But I’m proud of them for making this valiant choice.

So we set the date for Tuesday, July 4th, and with only four days to plan, I, along with another sister-in-law, Karla, got to swift work. We did our best to make sure it was not a somber, bittersweet day, but a joyous occasion … a true celebration of their love. And it was! It was a wonderful family day with lots of love, laughter, a few tears and many beautiful memories. I hope Rosie and Fred felt as special as they are. I think they did.

I decided to do the flowers and make the wedding cake myself, since I’m always up for a creative challenge. It feels really good to make a cake for someone special. Yes it sounds mushy, but you really do include a dash of love in your ingredients. I was pretty happy with the results, and now I can’t wait to make another one!

Bon Appetit,
Regina

Surprises

2006-06-26T21:59:00.000-04:00

I love pleasant surprises. Like driving through the countryside and seeing unusual dapples of light peeking through the trees, finding myself amused at the backside of the tractor going ten miles an hour, and somehow missing my destination by 10 miles only to meet this most incredible person by accident and happen upon the perfect little cafe for lunch.

Relax,
Regina

Tock

2006-06-23T17:29:00.000-04:00

There was a rip in the space/time continuum last night. Or at least a ripple.
You see, there is this proverbial dam that has been leaking for a couple of years. Just a gentle trickle of water. I’ve been patching it up all along, certain that would hold the enormous lake pushing against it. But then last night, something caused the gentle tumbling down of a large chunk of the dam. And the water has gone from trickling to pouring. The dam hasn’t broken. But it could. If I let it.

It might just bring a peaceful wash of refreshing, life-giving, hydrating, nurturing, sparkling, exquisite water to me. And I would happily drink it, frolic in it and float serenely in its beauty and comfort, wondering how I ever lived without it. Or it might be dark and murky, strewn with debris and with a swirling current that pulls me under over and over again.

But for the moment I’m just staring at this steady stream of water pouring through the wall. Feeling fear, excitement, hope, trepidation and love.

Tick,
Regina

Lucky Me

2006-06-22T11:04:00.000-04:00

I am happy. Really happy. And a large part of that happiness rests within my strong and healthy marriage.

I adore my husband of 7 years. He is amazing. He makes me laugh. He makes me feel safe. Gives me space. Inspires my creativity. Encourages me. Treats me like a queen. Respects me. Challenges me. Shares my values. Is loyal to me. Loves my parents. Is open-minded. Is a lot of fun. Brings me peace. Brings me coffee in bed. Is talented beyond belief. Calls me “darlin.” Massages my toes. Has a quiet confidence. Has passion. Makes people feel comfortable. Laughs with abandon. Loves me unconditionally.

I am so fortunate.

Sigh,
Regina

Sweet Land of Liberty

2006-06-21T12:46:00.000-04:00

I am grateful to live in America, yet I am wistful for some of the lifestyles and values of European and other cultures. The siestas, the non-workaholicism, the alfresco dining, the community pubs, the double-cheek-kiss greeting of total strangers, the appropriate priorities, the amazing art and history, the comfort with sexuality, the intimacy and open expression of emotion, and generally being more in tune with our body’s natural rhythms and with each other.

But I still love, and will hold out hope for America... the land of the free to be greedy, arrogant, over-consuming, ungrateful jerks if we want to be.

Grrrr,
Regina

He's an Old Soul

2006-06-20T17:27:00.000-04:00

Ok, I'm back now. Yes, it's been a while, but living life takes a lot of time, so there's not always time for randomly musing about it. I know, that's no excuse, so I'll try to be more consistent!

I was thinking today that it's interesting when people call someone an “old soul.” What does it mean exactly to be an old soul?

I think some qualities of old souls are:

1. Good intuition about people and human behavior
2. Wisdom beyond their years
3. Comfort with themselves
4. Good decision-making skills
5. Not in a hurry

New soul qualities:

1. Fascination with beauty and pleasure
2. Optimistic
3. Sweet natured, but selfish
4. A sense of whimsy and urgency
5. Quick learners

Sometimes I think I’m an old soul, and other times a new one. So maybe I’m a middle-aged soul. But that doesn’t sound as nearly as romantic.

Pensively,
Regina

Hello ... Hello ... Is this thing on?

2006-01-04T00:12:00.000-05:00

So here it is. My very own blog! It’s going to be decidedly random. I just can’t constrain myself to one topic, so I’ll write on whatever strikes my fancy, provokes me or amuses me at the moment. Could be anything, and complete candor will be my only directive.

This blog now gives me the power to … the power to what? Change the world? Gain widespread respect and admiration? Get rich? Share information with friends? Make new friends? Simply vent? I don’t know. What I do know is that there is immense power in words. And I think writing here regularly will be at least fun, if not therapeutic.

Speaking of words, those who know me know that I’m a grammar/language freak. (Umm… in a good way.) If anyone sees any errors or misspellings -- aside from any obviously done for effect -- please say something. Nothing can make a person look more dim-witted in my opinion.

I had to post a photo here to create the link for my profile photo. So here’s a random shot of my eye. It’s the left one. I like it because it looks like I’m dreaming of a Utopian society, coconut cake or Hal Sparks. Yes, I'm a blissfully married woman, but I do like me some Hal.

As Hal says, “If you see something fresh and pure and real in yourself…let it live.”

Good journey,
Regina