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Little Red Riding Hood
When I was a little girl, one of my favorite songs was “Little Red Riding Hood” by Sam the Sham and the Pharoahs. My Daddy liked to listen to KLUV out of Fort Worth. I was delighted a few years ago when I heard the Flametrick Subs in Austin playing their own version. Then I came across another version by the Meteors that is equally awesome. So, today, I thought I’d have fun and share both the old version and the new one by the Meteors. I couldn’t find a clip of the Flametrick Version, but it’s good too.
“Little Red Riding Hood” - Sam the Sham and the Pharoahs
“Little Red Riding Hood” - The Meteors (live version)
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Me wear Ed Hardy? You betcha.
What’s the deal with Ed Hardy stuff blowing up lately?
I first noticed his tattoo flash merchandise about a year ago. In the past year, it’s popularity has done nothing but blossom. I was at the Richland Mall Saturday night, and it seemed to be everywhere. And, I have to admit, I like it - at least some of it. In fact, I’m going to start saving my money right now for a couple of things: sunglasses and shoes are at the top of my list.
I mentioned something about it to my ex-husband yesterday and he just groaned. Too popular. You won’t see him sporting that brand. I’m sure many of my Austinite friends are in agreement.
However, I just plain like it. So, I will rock it. Yes, I will. I like it, because it reminds me of the good ‘ol days in Fat Cat’s shop on Alexander when I was 18. I used to love to just sit in the shop amidst all the tattoo flash.
It also reminds me of good times spent with me ex with Zac, owner of Southern Culture. I’ve been friends with him through his opening of at least three different shops. And it’s always fun to see what he puts together. He has a real talent for it.
Unfortunately, Ed Hardy products are EXPENSIVE - at least for my meager journalist salary. A pair of underwear is $35 off his Web Site. Want a pair of jeans? Over $200. But, hey, sometimes, it’s worth it. (>:
So, who is Ed Hardy? According to the Wikiedia: An Iowan born in 1945, Don Hardy revived a childhood determination to become a tattoo artist and underwent a tattoo apprenticeship while simultaneously receiving a B.F.A. degree in printmaking at the San Francisco Art Institute in 1967. Tattooing professionally since then, he developed the fine art potential of the medium with emphasis on its Asian heritage. In 1973 he lived in Japan, studying with a traditional tattoo master he was introduced to by his primary mentor in the medium, Sailor Jerry Collins of Honolulu. He resumed these studies in Japan throughout the 1980s. Since 1974 he pioneered the emphasis on unique tattoo commissions at his San Francisco studio. In 1982 he and his wife, Francesca Passalacqua, formed Hardy Marks Publications and have written, edited and published over twenty-five books on alternative art. They moved their primary household to Honolulu in 1986, where Hardy resumed painting, drawing, and printmaking. He maintains the studio Tattoo City in San Francisco, with younger artists continuing to evolve and carry on his work format. Hardy’s primary focus is on creating and exhibiting works in more traditional mediums, including porcelain painting. He began developing this body of work in 2006 in a traditional Japanese setting. In addition to showing his own works, Hardy has curated a number of exhibitions for both galleries and nonprofit spaces and frequently lectures at museums and universities. His work has appeared in numerous periodicals, books, and films internationally. In 2004 “Ed Hardy”, a major fashion line featuring his artwork, was launched internationally. Today Hardy is retired from doing actual tattoos, but oversees and mentors the artists at his San Francisco studio, Tattoo City. Since the 1980s, he has concentrated heavily on non-tattoo based art forms, especially printmaking, drawing and painting
Shop online for Ed Hardy products here. I’ve also seen his products here in Waco at Dillard’s, The Buckle and Spencer’s. But I think the best variety of stuff is online.
Here are a few examples from edhardyshop.com:
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‘08 Wasn’t So Great - A bawdy ode
Ode to ‘08
Thank you for all I’ve learned this year: For the hard kick from reality right in the rear.
Thanks for all the hard, hard lessons taught: Not to tattoo names on me that are there till I rot.
For all the bartenders who got past the bar: Ditching me at a pig roast never got that one very far.
For the weekend at the R.O.T.: I’m so glad there weren’t many witnesses to see.
Thank you for the wreck I walked away from: Sometimes, we need a dose of pain to stop being dumb.
Thank you for the Greyound ride from hell: What prompted me to go, I sure won’t ever tell.
For the nights at Oakleys, Chapter and Shame: All the tuaca lemon drops, Patron and pool games.
Thank you for my piercings all over my face: Without them I’d be bored and fit in any place.
Thank you for relationships that fell to bits: They taught me to appreciate “just kicking it.”
For the Eclipse I loved that blew up in my yard: I took the four speeding tickets and burnt clutch a little hard.
For the good times, the bad times, all of the tears: Without them I wouldn’t have so much yet to fear.
Love you guys! Happy New Year’s 2009! Maybe we’ll all grow a little this year. Everybody be safe! I’m not partying tonight. It’s amateur drunk nite, so be safe!
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Sex in the City? Not exactly
Well, I haven’t shared my most recent roller coaster with you guys, and I won’t go into great detail. But December’s been yet another month of ups and downs. Thrills and disappointments. Falling in and out of love.
I was looking back at my calendar this morning and I seem to have a pattern of this. Reading my blogs, you guys may see it even more than I do. I guess you can say that I’m the kind of girl who (at least used to) love to be in love. It’s not only that. I just like people. I love my girlfriends. They mean the world to me. I just get attached to people. And if you happen to be the guy in my life, well, I’m going to be attached to you if I like you. If I don’t, I’ll move on.
But most likely, if I deem someone worthy of my attention, I’m going to get attached. That just sets me up for getting hurt. And let me tell you, this latest edition was the most painful by far. And birthday break-ups have to be the worst!
So, I’ve heard the definition of insane is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. And I think I’ve finally been burnt enough times to stop the pattern. I need to guard my heart and not fall so quickly.
I do want to date - eventually - once I get past this pain. I’m too social not to do so. But, I just want to have fun and enjoy being by myself. Do you guys want to take bets on how long I can date without getting my heart involved? Any takers?????
Pink: “Sober”
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME! I’M BAAAACK!
Today seemed like a perfect day to come back from my blogosphere vacation. Today, at 4 something in the morning I turned 30. Whew! I thought I would dread today - but now that it’s here, I’m actually glad it’s here so I can stop worrying about it.
What is it about us women and turning 30, 40, 50? Those milestone birthdays are killers. After 21, I was ready to stop celebrating them. But I have to admit that there’s something really nice about getting a bit older. I actually like the person I am now a LOT more than I liked the person I was in my early twenties. I have more of a backbone for sure, and I’m not near so dramatic. The passage of time has a way of putting life into perspective.
And at least having my birthday lumped in with Christmas and New Year’s gets the holidays over all at once. I actually got a Merry Christmas, happy birthday, happy New Year’s card in the mail from my Granny. I actually cracked a smile, something that doesn’t normally happen before 8 a.m., especially on my (choke) 30th birthday.
Here’s a big happy birthday to my bestie. You know who you are. You get to join me on the 30 bandwagon tomorrow! Ha! At least I’m not doing this alone!
Glad to be back you guys!
Tim McGraw: “My Next Thirty Years”
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Christmas vacation
I have had a wonderful year in the blogosphere. Those who follow my blog know that this has been a year of many changes for me. I’ve gone through a divorce, got my own place and am learning a whole new way of life. Thank you guys for all the support and for reading my blog through my ups and downs.
I wil be on vacation until sometime in the new year. I’m looking forward to spending time with my boys, finishing my shopping and making candy. I will also overload on Christmas movies.
I’m including videos to some of my favorites and a couple of my favorite Christmas songs, too. May you guys all have a Merry Christmas! God Bless and see you all in 2009!
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation squirrel clip: MY FAVORITE!
A Christmas Story trailer:
Bing Crosby in White Christmas:
A Christmas Carol:
Brian Setzer orchestra: “Boogie Woogie Santa Claus”
Doris Day and Bing Crosby: “Baby, It’s Cold Outside”
Vince Vance and the Valiants “All I Want for Christmas is You” (MY FAVORITE):
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Cowboy fan all the way…
I let my older son open a Christmas present early yesterday. It was a Tony Romo shirt. We were going to a barbecue at my boyfriend’s house, and the Cowboy game was going to be on the TV. However, I was not to be surrounded by fellow Cowboy fans. No, my boyfriend is a hardcore Titans fan. His best friend is a Miami fan. And the other people there for the most part seemed apathetic.
So, we watched the game. And wouldn’t you know, they lost this one. Drat!
But did I switch my allegiance? Heck, no. Will I? Heck, no. Ladies, this is important. Be loyal to YOUR team. Don’t switch for any man. And true fans don’t walk away when their team loses.
So, why the Cowboys for me? I’ve been watching them my whole life. I love seeing those stars on their helmets. It brings out my Texas pride. And I’m from Weatherford, which is close to Dallas. Those are three good enough reasons for me!
So, wow. I think Black Sheep Betty just blogged about football. That’s a little scary. Lol. And no “Tony Homo” jokes, please. I heard enough of those yesterday!
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Santa line no place for BSB
How many parents out there like the Santa line? How many actually go through with the torture of it?
I took Lane one time - and one time only. He screamed when he sat on Santa’s lap. For some people, this is a cherished tradition. But standing in line to see Santa is the LAST place you will find me and my boys!
However, rather than a poor reflection on mall santas, it’s actually a poor reflection on me. I just don’t have the patience. So, to all the mall santas out there who make this tradition possible, thank you.
And to my Daddy growing out his Santa beard, I love you and your beard! But watch out for crumbs!
Stewart meets Santa:
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Baby Mama
On my single journey this year, I’ve made a few new wonderful buddies in addition to my old and dear friends. One of those buds is Kristen, AKA “Baby Mama.” “Baby Mama” is a new blog on wacotrib.com. I am very excited that Kristen is blogging and I want to get everyone else pumped up, too!
“Baby Mama” is one of my “younger” friends who helps keep me from feeling too old as that dreaded “30” creeps up on me this month. Lol. Ironically, she also gives the best dating advice of anyone I know. She’s been steering me away from shallow thinking for months now. I’ve talked to her on a daily basis about my man drama. And she’s always there for me - sometimes to verbally slap me out of being stupid and acting, as she puts it, “too much like a girl.”
And she’s actually very proud of my choice in my new boyfriend. I really do have a good one this time. Aha! I know you’re all skeptical, but it’s true! Time will tell.
Anyway, “Baby Mama” is blogging about dating and her life as a young mom. Try her out and please don’t judge her too harshly for being my friend and dating guru. (>:
For “Baby Mama” from BSB:
Beyonce: “Girl”
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Property? Not anymore
Last week, while on vacation, I got the scrolls shaded in on the tattoo on my arm. Specifically, I had the words “Property of Spider” blacked out. Zac Colbert, owner of Southern Culture Kustom Tattoos, did the original artwork and was kind enough to do the coverup for me also. We have possible plans of covering the banners with roses in the future.
I seem to make a pattern of going on vacation and starting new beginnings. The night I got my banners covered I also met a great guy I’ve started seeing. So, here’s to vacations and new beginnings!
I know we’ve had the name tattoo discussion before, but anybody have any coverup stories they care to share?
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Turkey Day and vacation time!
I can’t believe Thanksgiving is upon us again. This year the holidays mean so much more to me. This is a year for mixing new and old traditions. I’ll be with my parents and brother for turkey day. My boys will be with me. I’m looking forward to being surrounded by my loved ones and digging in to some good food, too!
I’m making my big bro a pecan pie for his birthday this week. That should prove interesting. (I’m bad about burning the edges). I’ll need all day tomorrow to do it, so it’s a good thing I’m on vacation. I hope you guys will bear with me. I won’t be back until Tuesday of next week - a very long vacation for Black Sheep Betty, but one I’m very much looking forward to.
So, in honor of Thanksgiving. Some things for which I’m very thankful:
- My God, who never gives up on me and my salvation that I could never earn
- Two handsome, healthy sons
- My friends. Old and new. I don’t know how I would have made it through this year without you all. I’m truly blessed.
- My parents, who taught me to be strong and independent
- My stepfather, who bought me a car and fixed the heater. I love being warm!
- My grandmother, who’s my hero and biggest fan
- My big brother, who wanted me to move to Tyler so he could protect me
- My nieces, nephews, cousins and all my family who enrich my life
- My health and resilient spirit. God knows I need both.
- My job - I’m so lucky to get to make a living doing what I love. I never dread waking up and going to work.
- Good books
- My new duplex - my sanctuary
- Texas. I’m so proud to be a sixth-generation Texan. I love this state. I’ve lived elsewhere and nothing comes close to the spirit we’re born into under the Texas sky.
- Dr Pepper
- Peanut butter M&Ms
- Netflix
I’m digressing. But as you guys can see, I have so much for which to be thankful, as I’m sure you do too. Try listing it out. Share with me. It really makes you feel good!
When I was a child, one of my favorite movies was The Sound of Music. And this is one of my favorite songs. I still sing it to myself when I get down. It’s hard to remember all the words though!
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“Let it Go” and begin the journey
Thank God for new days and new beginnings. Yesterday was a bit of a mixed bag for me. I was struggling with some issues in my past and a few things bothering me in the here and now, but I had some good friends helping me through it.
I had a wonderful get together with my “wise ladies” last night. My wise ladies are about twenty years older than me. They’ve been where I’m at, and it’s so encouraging to see that they’ve come through it with their beautiful souls intact, stronger than ever. They’ve known me since I was 18 and continue to try to guide me back to my path.
Life’s a journey. I’m on mine. I just keep getting distracted by the poisonous flowers on the roadside. But today I’m just going to “let it go” and move on down the road.
How’s that for a “deep” Monday post? Lol.
Have a blessed day everyone! - Especially my wise ladies.
Tim McGraw: “Let it Go”
Gary Allan: “Life Ain’t Always Beautiful”
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Sassy women art
Writing about calendars in my last post got me thinking about an artist whose artwork has become popular in calendars. There’s already one out for next year. Her name is Anne Taintor. Paper Bear here in Waco sells a lot of her products. I’ve also seen magnets at Books a Million. Her products include magnets, aprons, flasks, notepads, stickers, towels, etc. and can all be purchased here on her Web site. Below, I’ve included some samples of some of my favorite stuff. These items would make great Christmas gifts.
Click on images to enlarge.
Button:
Mini-notes:
Flask:
Coin purse:
Compact:
ID holder:
And my favorite: Magnets:
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Pinups for Pups
Dogs and pinups … could their be a better combination? (>: There is a group out of California who uses pinups to gain attention for the cause of responsible pet ownership. With many shelters out of space, and some even turning dogs away, there couldn’t be a better time to be involved in this mission. These ladies have a fantastic calendar for sale for 2009 and I plan to buy one for myself. Go here to learn more about the organization and also to view some fantastic pictures.
Pinups for Pups mission: To educate people about responsible pet ownership through our events and example. We work hard to raise money and awareness for animal rescue groups, promote responsible pet ownership and to advance the practice of spaying & neutering.
Pinups for Pups 2009 calendar promo:
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Where’s my poker night?
I’ve decided to get over my fit of jealousy and selfishness and go out in the community and get involved - of course Black-Sheep-Betty style. Since I’ve been single, I’ve noticed that most of my guy friends have guy nights - usually these involve poker. I love card games, really games of any kind. And I admit I’ve been seeing green.
So, today I’m contacting a lady about a Mah Jong group that meets twice a month. I’m going to be doing research to see what other kind of game clubs are out there for ladies. And any suggestions you guys have would be fantastic! I’d also like to get involved in a gun club of some kind. I’ve wanted to learn how to shoot competitively for years. I think it’s high-time I do so.
On my lunch break, I’m going to MCC to get a Continuing Education brochure. I miss school! I want to learn something new! I also contacted Happy Endings Rescue - a place in Hewitt where pit bulls and other “dangerous” breeds are provided safe haven - about volunteering. The Texas Ranger Museum also got a phone call from me this morning.
I never do things half-measure. I decided I’m tired of being bored. I want to stimulate my brain and give back to society. So, watch out!
I’m also going to try to get my son, Lane, back in his guitar lessons and back in church on Wednesdays. I want to be BUSY!!!!
Boredom leads to trouble, people. And God knows I can stir enough of that up.
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But I’m no sheep (Well, at least not a white one.)
I feel the need to add an amendment to my previous blog about standing by your man. My parents did raise me to be an independent woman and not a blind sheep, which is why I went to college and am able to provide for myself. I think my father may have been gagging a little when he read my last post. (Sorry, Dad.)
I am not advocating staying in an abusive relationship or following a man who constantly makes poor decisions or puts you in danger. That’s why it’s VERY important to find the RIGHT man to stand beside. And notice the song I posted was “Stand by your Man” not “Stand BEHIND your Man.”
And a friend brought up an important point to me this weekend. A good man stands beside his woman just as constantly and brings out the best in her. It’s a partnership.
I just hate the loss of femine art. As long as you have the right man, who knows what you’re worth, acting out the traditional role of a woman can be a beautiful thing.
Alicia Keys: “A Woman’s Worth”
Usher and Babyface: “Cater 2 U”
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A good woman
What makes a good woman?
One of my favorite Bible verses is found in Proverbs 31:10-30. I’ll paraphrase the qualities listed here.
A good wife:
1) can be trusted 2) satisfies her man 3) helps, not hinders her man 4) stays busy doing useful things 5) is energetic and a hard worker 6) gives to the needy, does charitable works 7) wears purple (>: 8) is a woman of strength and dignity 9) speaks wise words and is kind 10) knows what goes on in her home 11) is blessed by her children and husband
Proverbs 31:30 sums up: Charm can be deceptive and beauty doesn’t last, but a woman who fears and reverences God shall be greatly praised.
Many women have lost the art of being women. Somewhere in the feminist movement we’ve lost our femininity. Sometimes to be strong we have to be soft. Sometimes we have to appear soft while straightening a spine of steel.
Man-bashing does us no favors, and being a helpmeet to a man does us no disservice. It’s OK to be girly girls!
And even though my marriage didn’t work out I at least can take pride in the fact that I stood by my ex-husband as long as I could, was faithful and helped him in every way I could. And I refuse to be bitter and decide to do things differently the next go round. That’s just who I am.
And as Tammy Wynette put it, “Stand by your Man.”
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Glitter Covers Darkness
It’s finally here: The time of year when glitter’s in season. And even if it wasn’t, I’d still wear it, because I’m cool (or not cool) like that. (>: I don’t wear glitter on my eyelids every day, but at least twice a week it ends up there. It makes me feel sparkly. Even if I’m in a bad mood, I feel like I look a little happier. We all need to feel special. I tell my boys the fairies dust my eyelids with fairy dust at night. I don’t think they buy it, but it makes them giggle.
According to EHow.com, the following is the correct way to wear glitter as part of your regular eye makeup routine:
Step1 Apply your daily eye makeup as you normally would. Do not overdo it by using glittery eye shadow in addition to the body glitter. It’s better to be subtle with your shadow, as the glitter will provide a dramatic effect. Step2 Once your regular makeup is on, dip your forefinger into your tub of body glitter. The glitter should be silver, iridescent, or gold— not bright blue, black, red, green etc. Step3 Gently sweep your forefinger from right below brow to tip of eyelid. Do not apply glitter to eyelid. Repeat on other eye. Step4 Remove any excessive glitter with your finger or a cotton swab with baby oil. Step5 Your final look should have a subtle, shimmery feel. You’ll receive compliments all night long!
Go here for tips on how to properly apply glitter for more dramatic occassions.
Hannah Fury: “Girls that Glitter love the Dark”
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Screaming children? Deal with it
A letter to the editor in today’s Trib flat rubbed me the wrong way.
In it (read by going to above link), the writer complains about a screaming 5-year-old at Wal-Mart. He says the parents appeared to be ignoring the behavior and it wasn’t fair to the other shoppers. The parents should’ve disciplined their child or removed him from the store.
Well, might I suggest that this reader take into account where he’s shopping? WAL-MART! This isn’t a high-end store like Neiman’s. This is a public grocery/retail store. These parents were probably grocery shopping. And imagine how miserable those parents must’ve been.
I have been in that very situation. I did end up dragging my kid (Lane when he was 5) out of the store (happened to be Target) tucked under one arm. And I was VERY pregnant at the time. He screamed all the way to the car. It was horrible. But did the fact that I removed him from the store endear me to the other shoppers? I don’t think so. They looked horrified that I was carrying my son out of the store like a sack of potatoes.
However, it isn’t always practical to remove your child. Sometimes, there are errands that just have to be done. And disciplining your kids is not as easy as it used to be. People are just as likely to get upset with you for spanking your kid as ignoring them. After verbally correcting my older son in public one time, I finally spanked him on the bottom - barely. There were two older women behind me. They started whispering and giving me dirty looks.
So, it takes a village people. We should try to be supportive of each other and sympathetic to the nature of the times in which we live. It is very difficult to raise kids in our permissive, undisciplined world. We do the best we can.
And may I suggest that if peace and quiet is on your agenda for a particular day, you avoid large retailers like Wal-Mart and other grocery stores. Try a bookstore, library, coffee house or spot by the lake. And if you hate noisy children but have to buy groceries, why not go at off hours?
“There’s Room for Everyone”: Pete’s Dragon
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Forgive me. I put up my Christmas tree!
I know my friend (you know who you are) is cringing reading this right now. But I committed a sin. - One of the worst in her book. I put up my Christmas tree before Thanksgiving!!!
My boys begged me to get out the Christmas stuff last night. And I thought, “Why not? If it makes them happy, let’s do it.” So, we did. And we had a fabulous time!
I have a gigantor tree and it takes FOREVER to put up. Each branch has to be pulled apart and “fluffed.” Then we go through adorning it with lights, wooden beads, garland and hundreds of ornaments, balls and bows. Whew! And topping it with an angel. And I’m short! Five feet 2 inches just doesn’t cut it for this activity.
But we had fun, and it’s a wonderful, traditional bonding experience. Nevertheless, it does break the before Thanksgiving rule. Is anyone else horrified that I did this? (>:
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Church hunting with tattoos
I’ve decided it’s time I get me and my boys back in church. The problem is that I don’t know where to attend. I have a phobia of being rejected by other Christians. And my tattoos and piercings make it a little hard to fit in with certain crowds, particularly religious ones.
Does anyone have any suggestions on where I should try? I was raised Baptist, but I was confirmed in the Episcopal Church. I pretty much consider myself non-denominational or a back-row Baptist at best. Where do other tattooed people go? I’m ready to get out and meet new people.
Here lately I guess I’ve been living with one of my wings in the fire, but I love the Lord and want to find a place where I’ll feel comfortable praising him. A little help?
“One Wing in the Fire,” Trent Tomlinson:
Latest comments
Glad you’re back Duchess! Good to have you state-side!
... read the full comment by Black Sheep Betty | Comment on '08 Wasn't So Great - A bawdy ode Read '08 Wasn't So Great - A bawdy ode
BSB. Truth can be hidden in sarcasm. Yes, I knew you were being sarcastic, but much of what you wrote in this blog was bothering you at the time (notwithstanding the crash) (ouch). Guess I was on a personal roll. Thanks.
And Dutchess,
... read the full comment by KDF | Comment on '08 Wasn't So Great - A bawdy ode Read '08 Wasn't So Great - A bawdy ode
Of course I caught it,and I loved it ..ahhh this big washing machine of life…
I’m home now.
... read the full comment by Dutchess | Comment on '08 Wasn't So Great - A bawdy ode Read '08 Wasn't So Great - A bawdy ode
Thank you, KDF. Of course you couldn’t be more right. And I hope everyone caught the sarcasm in this post. (>:
... read the full comment by Black Sheep Betty | Comment on '08 Wasn't So Great - A bawdy ode Read '08 Wasn't So Great - A bawdy ode