The World According to Jess....it's much smaller than it seems.

2008-02-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

Holy Long Hair Batman!

For the first time since I was about 11, I have what stylists consider "long" hair. It's a whole new phenomenon to me. I've always let my hair get to a certain point, then I cut it. Usually not past my shoulder. But, now it's gone far past my shoulder, and I love it. So I think I'm going to keep it. I'm also going to be in a wedding in September, and the bride would like everyone to keep their hair down. So, I definitely want to have long hair for that. Maybe I'll just see how long it will grow before I start looking ridiculous.

2007-10-17T10:56:00.001-07:00

Dog Days

Brady (my new puppy) is doing so well. She has adapted to a whole new lifestyle rather quickly. She has met about 30 new people in the past week, and she is doing a great job.
My only problem is that the dog is too attachted to me! When I leave, ifeven just for a minute she gets depressed. I am hoping that this will fade with time. I just feel awful that when I leave the house, she mopes around and just lies down on top of my sweatshirt. It's kind of pathedic. :-(

2007-10-13T19:29:00.000-07:00

Drastic life changes in only 48 hours....

It's amazing what yo can do in 2 days....For about 2 weeks I have been looking for pet. All my life I have always had a pet. So, for the past 2 years, I have felt something was missing.
I was looking for a kitten. I have never been a huge cat person, but I figured if it was my own, I couldn't help but love it. IN the process of looking, I found a post for a puppy. So, thinking that I had nothing to lose, I replied. Next day- as I figured- got nothing.
Wednesday, I look in my inbox. There are 7 e-mails with the subject "Kitten", and 1 e-mail with the subject "Puppy".
I immidiately got SO excited. The woman proceeds to say that the family that was supposed to adopt 'Winnie' didn't show up. So, she was still available to a good home. Since they were getting ready to go out of town, they needed her to go to a new home that day.
So, needless to say, I fell in love with her. And, now I have a puppy. I changed her name. So, now I have a 10 month old Maltese named Brady, (after Tom Brady,duh)

Friday I went with my friend Christina to get her tattoo...and yup, guess what I did.....

I love it! :)

2007-10-03T11:19:00.000-07:00

I’m doing just fine

So the past two weeks have been nothing but emotionally draining for me. I was awaiting news that would inevitably change my life. Nothing would be the same. It's amazing how just a few words can change your entire life and those around you forever.

The anticipation was overwhelming. My thoughts were racing, heart constantly beating, I found myself not being able to concentrate on much of anything. I rarely talked about it. I shared minor details with those who are closest to me. And that was really to justify my abnormal behavior. I guess I thought if I didn't talk about it, it wasn't really happening. I know that is not the best way to approach a situation, but it's all I knew how to do.

Thankfully, the news was positive. Currently there is nothing to be concerned with. The relief itself caused tears to form. Throughout the whole waiting process, I had yet to cry. Because, I knew if I started, I wouldn't stop. And, I refused to succumb to the thought that this was possible.

Thank you for the calls, texts, e-mails & prayers. They did not go unnoticed. I appreciate you all more than I can express. I couldn't imagine going through this alone. So, thank you again. Knowing that there are people there for me no matter what the circumstance is so comforting. I love you all. (That is as mushy as I will get ever)

Go Patriots

-J

2007-09-26T10:51:00.000-07:00

Updating my Life through bullets.....

. I love my new posistion. I get to do office work, and hang out with kids. It's perfct for me.

. I am obsessed with football. I look forward to every Sunday an so I can watch the games. And the Patriots are kicking butt. I feel bad for any of my friends that aren't Pats fans, because I torture them.

. "My Boys" is one of my new favorite shows. I think it's the smartest thing TBS has ever done. (Besides have "The Office" re-runs) The show is my life played out in a sitcom.

. I am getting a tattoo on Friday. I'm scared out of my mind of the pain, but I am going through with it in 2 days. I finally found the perfect one for me, I'm in love with the picture. I think the pain will be worth it.

. I finally have some geat friends at work. And, I love it. We get along so well, and it makes work fun. AH,finally.

. I'm going to Missippi for my birthday and Thanksgiving this year. This will be the first Thanksgiving that I've ever spent away from my family. But I will be with special people who like faimly to me. I am looking forward to it.

. I'm going to try to blog more frequently.....it's kinda cool. :)

2007-07-26T12:25:00.001-07:00

2 Weeks of Rock & Roll

The last 2 weeks were the most stressful, intense, draining and amazing weeks of my life. I found out what it would really be like to be on the road....and do I want to do it still? Absolutely.
We started our adventure in Vienna with Sons of William on Wednesday the 11th. The sons were opening for Michelle "Moaning" Malone. The Jammin Java isn't really my favorite venue, but I can't complain about the distance.
The next show was Saturday in Va. Beach. This show billed Sons of William opening for The Clarks. I've seen The Clarks several times, so I was much more familiar with their fans than I was Michelle. Clarks fans always turn out. No matter where the show is, they all flock out of Pittsburgh, support their hometown boys. It was a great show for Sons of William and The Clarks. My main complaint about the Jewish Mother was the temperature. It was SO hot, and there wasn't ever relief.
We got home on Sunday, and from there drove to DC for our first Marc Broussard Soul Revue tour.
I had heard SO much about this tour. I was ridiculously excited to finally experience this show. And man, I am SO glad we went to this one! I already love the 9:30 club. It's just a great venue for a concert. And from the second Marc walked on stage, the energy in that room was amazing. Even though it was the first show of this leg of the tour for me, it was by far the best. Having Joe Stark play on stage with Marc and the guys was such a treat, and added so much to the show.
After the 9:30 club show, we had only 2 days to prepare, pack, clean, and hit the road for a week.
The second stop brought us to Sayerville,NJ. Home of Jon Bon Jovi (all of you that know me well, can smell the irony) Sayerville was the epitome of "the middle of nowhere". We arrived at The Starland Ballroom just before the doors open. We walk in the door, and immediately jump behind the table and get to work. The outside of this venue looked like a barn. I was a little nervous to see the inside. Ironically, it was gorgeous inside! It was nice and intimate, with perfect lighting. It seemed like a short show, but spectacular, none the less.
Thursday, we head on up to New York City. (the part of the trip I was the most excited for) We headed up there early so that we could meet up with Scott and go to the afternoon Yankees game. Of course, they lost, but I love just being at Yankee Stadium. After the game, and dinner, we got on the subway for the Irving Plaza show. Within seconds of walking in the door, we're put right to work behind the table, and didn't leave for the rest of the night. I love going to any show in NYC. The vibe/energy in New York is just amplified. I especially loved this show, because some of my best friends were there. :) I was excited for Jamie to go to her first Marc show, after being a long time fan. After the show, we headed back to Amelia's apartment on Bleecker, where we were staying for the night. (thanks Amelia! :) )
Friday, was a day off. We meet up with Katy and Matt at Abounding Grace, and went over to the outreach they were working. I love that we were all in the city at the same time! I bought an awesome hat on St. Marks. Woo:)
Then, Ali, Amelia & I headed out to Brooklyn to see Will Hoge play at SouthPaw. I've heard SO much about Will Hoge, and have listened to him for a while, but have never seen him live. So, I was particularly excited for the last minute decision to go to this show.He was amazing. His voice is flawless, and that band in ridiculous. They definitely rocked it.
Saturday, we headed out of Manhattan, and were on our way to the Hamptons. (that sounds so snobby, ha) Eventually, after getting through that Long Island Expressway traffic, and the insane 27E traffic, we arrive at The Stephan Talkhouse in Amangsett. This place was SO small and apparently legendary, and I immediately got super excited for this show. We met up with Brian, and headed in before the doors open. We chilled with him for a while before the show started. The show was spectacular, as expected. After the show, working was very hectic. It was so dark, and SO cramped. I started to get a little stressed out. There were so many people, and I felt like they were just circling me.....kind of intense.
Sunday, was the Xponential music festival in Camden,NJ. There were way more people there than I expected. But as soon as Marc took the stage, it was like one big party. He has this amazing ability to change a dull boring crowd into a huge dance party. They definitely dug it. People were chanting his name, praying he would come back on stage. Awesome.
Monday- day of rest. (definitely needed)
Tuesday- I was dreading Tuesday, July 24th since the beginning, because I knew it was my last show. I love Ram's Head live...it's such a beautiful venue. And, of course, Marc brought his best out to Baltimore. I brought some of my friends that have never seen Marc before, and they were definitely impressed. He is just an incredible performer. And he has the talent to back it up. A lot of "artists" are amazing performers, but aren't that talented when you strip everything down. But this band is just so ridiculously talented, with the personality to back it up.

I had SO much fun during my week on tour. I just felt at home, and I was doing what I love to do. I was surrounded by great music, and wonderful people.
Now, I have to get back to real life......

2007-06-27T20:07:00.000-07:00

Summer, Summer, Summertime

I don't know about everyone else, but I LOVE summertime. I know that as a teacher, I am legally obligated to love the summer for the mere fact that I have off. We count the days down from spring break. But, that isn't even the only reason I love this season. (Although it is enough of a reason) Summertime is just so nostalgic. Every time summer hits, I remember my summers as a kid. We packed up the ol' van and squeezed 8 people in there, and headed to Florida. I LOVED that my grandparents lived in Florida. The choice to drive, however, was not my favorite. But, with a family of 8, our options were slim. Anyhow, we would go to the beach everyday, No matter the weather......everyday. And our trips to the beach were always the same. Wed relax for about 15 minutes, then my dad and I would go in the water. He'd splash and dunk me in. I pretended to hate it, but really, it was the most fun I'd have with him. Then because I am his daughter, and can't sit still, we'd go on a walk to find seashells. I'd come back to Pop's house ever day with a bucket full of shells. I loved it. And that was every summer for me from as far back as I can remember until I was 15.

Summertime is also great for eating outside. I don't know why I get such a thrill from eating outside, but I absolutely love it. Anytime I have the opportunity, I will always opt to eat outside.

2007-03-01T06:34:00.000-08:00

American Idol
Well, it happened. I got sucked in.....again. I promised myself I wouldn't get too into American Idol this year.......but, alas, I am. But, in my defense, this years' contestants are incredible. (Well, some of them, anyway.
I have my top male & female picks.
Female: LaKisha Jones
Good Lord, she can flat out saaang. She is in a different league than anyone out there. "Good lookin' out LaKisha." (I have no idea what that means.
Male: Blake Lewis
He is so original!! He has more flavor and is more diverse than anyone I've ever seen on this show before. He earned MAJOR points for me when he sang "Somewhere Only We Know" by Keane. But, then to cover "Virtual Insanity", on Monday, took him to a whole new level. I love this kid. From his beat boxing to his choice of clothing.....love it.

2007-02-28T08:28:00.000-08:00

(Brendon with his very excited older sister Brianna (Nanna)

This never gets old.....

No matter how many times it happens, I never get sick of having a new niece or nephew. so far, I am at number 11, and yet still I can't wait for the next one.

Brendon Connor-Jospeh Gagnon was born on December 18,2006, weighing in at a whopping 9lbs 6oz.

2007-01-25T10:17:00.000-08:00

The Rock Boat VII

The decision to go on TRB was a very last minute and spontaneous. But, nevertheless, I went and I had a fabulous time. This boat is unlike any normal cruise. Relaxation and rest made no appearance. Those looking for a quiet calm vacation need not embark. This cruise is dedicated to the crazy life of musicians and their even crazier fans. Considering I am an avid concert goer, this was right up my alley. I was introduced to many new bands, and saw a lot of my favorites.
Sons of William are one of many bands that were along for this journey.
I met a lot of new people. The dynamic is interesting on this ship. We all will admit one thing, we are addicted to live music, and will go to extremes to feed our addictions. A lot of people don't understand wy I go to shows so much. And, that's OK. But all the people on this ship.....Get it. The saying for the Rock Boat goes as follows: "The place where strangers become friends, become family."
The boat was filled with many surprises. I was able to go to a secret show with 19 other people to enjoy the music of David Ryan Harris. (He, in my opinion is the next Lenny Kravitz) Also, one of my favorites, Marc Broussard was there. He also shared a few major milestones with us on the boat. Not only did he celebrate his 25th birthday, he also got married, and announced that he
and his new wife are expecting a girl! (they have 2 boys already)

Overall, I would have to say, this trip was the most fun I have ever had in m 24 years.
Between constant amazing music, awesome friends, gorgeous weather, breathtaking beaches, and a never ending supply of food, I couldn't ask for more!
I'll most definitely be aboard TRBVIII headed from Miami to....Jamaica!! :)

2007-01-18T09:40:00.000-08:00

Bring on 2007!!

I'm ready for big changes, and bigger and better things!! bring it.

2007-01-03T08:36:00.000-08:00

November & Birthday Recap

The last 2 weeks of November, I attended 6 concerts. (I think I have a problem). The shows that I had lined up to work for Marc Broussard were awesome. Unfortunately I wasn't needed at the merch table. But, I did get to enjoy the shows. (for free :) )
My birthday, was probably the best birthday I've ever had. I got to spend it with some of my favorite people in the world. Flying up to New England brings two folded excitment. Not only do I get to see my family, but also some of my best friends.
I flew up the day before my birthday. Ali, Kristen and I went out to dinner at Margharita's (only the best Mexican restaurant ever!).
Tuesady (my brithday) morning, we woke up and headed down to Boston to pick up Marcia.
We got ready for the show, then took the T in to the Avalon. I love this venue.
We got our tickets, then headed to a sports bar down the street to get some food/drinks before the show.
The show was insane! I have never seen that many people in there before!
Marc was awesome as usual, with a surprise new cover of Genuine's "Pony". That song is always good for a laugh.
After Marc's set, we meet up with Roper, and hang out in the back for a while.
G. Love came one and tore up. After the show, we hung out outside for about an hour. Then we headed over to the bowling alley next door. Some random guy gives me his backstage pass because it's my brithday, and he wanted me to meet G. Love.
Then the next thing you know, Marc and Byra come down the stairs, and chaos breaks loose.
Marc and I talked and laughed for a good 20 minutes.
Then we headed upstairs for some bowling. Roper, Arik ,and all the guys were already there, and had been for a while.
After the bowling fiasco, we all headed downstairs, (Roper was singing happy birthday and almost fell down the stairs, which was the highlight of my night) and then we all went our seperate ways.
Finally getting home around 3am.

2006-11-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

No Deal.

Last night, because of lack of good programming, I got sucked into an episode of the the game show, "Deal or No Deal". This show has been on since the summer, and I have tried very hard to avoid it. Because, I know, 5 minutes into the show and I am captivated.
Last night, the contestant intrigued me. His name was Kevin Shine. He is a police officer for the New York City Police Department. Right away I admired him. Yea, he lost all that admiration in due time. First off the bat, he told Howie Mandel (host), that he would like to be referred to as "Shinebox". Which I personally thought was odd. But I just figured that he thought about this well before the show, and thought he would be funny. Didn't work,there, Shinebox, leave the comedy to the host....He's the comedian.
This man was a tad ridiculous. Everytime he turned down the banker's deal, he made everyone in the crowd be quite, so he could say some stupid meathead speech (that usually rhymed), and slammed the box shut. He ignored his wife the entire show. He made a joke about leaving her for a "briefcase girl" (I have NO idea what to call them, so I made that up). He and his entourage of douchebags (all wearing the same shirt in different colors) were loud, obnoxious and an embarrassment to humans.
This man ended up being SO greedy, that at one point he turned down a $215,000 offer, because there was 1 briefcase with a lager number than that. (and 4 with smaller numbers).
He ended up leave with $100,000. (which is A LOT OF MONEY), yet he was still disappointed.
Maybe he was disappointed that he just made a turd of himself on national television. (yes, I said turd.)

2006-11-13T14:03:00.000-08:00

anticipating 2 weeks of craziness:

Today and tomorrow are going to be my last 2 days of sanity before a whirl wind of events occur. Wednesday, will be work as normal, followed by a chiropractor appointment, (which they told me allot 2 hours for).
Thursday after work I am immediately headed down to DC to work merchandise for Marc. I am meeting Bree down at the 9:30 club. I am so excited for this show cause he is opening for G. Love. They toured on the west coast with G. Love, so now I am so excited to attend. And, it's been since August since I've seen the Broussard boys. So, I am anticipating a fun time, and lots of awesome music.
Friday-I took off work, cause I know Thursday is going to be a late night. Friday Bree & I are headed back to Philly to go to the Dashboard Confessional show is both our birthday presents from Scott.
Saturday- I think I am going to stay in Philly and go out downtown to celebrate my birthday...Should be fun :)

Sunday- Mel and I are headed down to Annapolis cause I am supposed to work for Marc again. I am VERY excited for this show cause it is the only one on this leg that he is headlining. It's strange cause it is an afternoon show, but should be lots of fun nonetheless.

Monday(11/20)- I am catching flight to Manchester at 3:30, then headed out for a birthday dinner with Ali and Kristen. My 2 favorite NH girls . :)

Tuesday (11/21)- um...Duh it's my birthday! We plan on picking up Marcia around 10am, then head back to Ali's to chill for a little while. Around 5 we are going to head down to Boston, and take the T to the Avalon. (one of my favorite venues of all time!) There we will see Marc and G. Love, yet again. I am not working that show cause I figured I might not be there on time, and kinda just wanted to enjoy the show and celebrate my birthday. :) After the show we will hang in Boston for a while then head to Jenn's apartment and crash.

Wednesday(11/22) once we wake up we are going to head to Nashua, and drop Jen off at her parents' then Ali will drop me off at my sister's house. I am SO excited to see my family! It has been since June, and I miss them all so much. I get to see Josh!!!!! I love all the kids equally, but he and I have a special bond. I will also get to see my VERY pregnant sister, who is due anytime now with my godson, Connor.

Thursday(11/23) I LOVE thanksgiving! It is my favorite holiday. What is better than a TON of food, and family getting together? Nothing! My mom and Jerry should arrive early in the morning, then we shall eat. My sister is one of the best cooks I've ever known, so I am super excited for her to cook. (plus she is pregnant, so she is hungry all the time!)

Friday- Ali and I have to catch an early flight from Manchester to Baltimore. We will get in around 9:30 and get home to rest for a while. Then we shall head up to Philly for the finale of "concert week". We're going to the Electric Factory to see G. Love and Marc. Should be an awesome finale. G. Love is filming a DVD that night so I'm sure the energy will be kickin.

I'm sure that I will take Saturday and Sunday to recoop and get ready to start work again on Monday. I am so excited for my week of family, friends and awesome music. I will definitely recap when all is said and done. woohoooo

2006-11-13T10:53:00.000-08:00

What American accent do you have? Your Result: The Midland "You have a Midland accent" is just another way of saying "you don't have an accent." You probably are from the Midland (Pennsylvania, southern Ohio, southern Indiana, southern Illinois, and Missouri) but then for all we know you could be from Florida or Charleston or one of those big southern cities like Atlanta or Dallas. You have a good voice for TV and radio.
The Inland North
The South
The Northeast
Philadelphia
The West
Boston
North Central
What American accent do you have? Take More Quizzes

2006-11-10T07:02:00.000-08:00

Fergalicious?

So, there is a new phenomenon that is swiffering the country known as Fergie. She is everywhere! Whether you are listening to the radio, watching TV (even the news), you can't escape her. It first started with the hit single, "London Bridges", which most of us aren't even sure what's going on in this song.
When did acceptable music become a seductive girl talking to a beat in the background? If we are getting away from singing all together, and talking is the new thing, I will be first in line for the James Earl Jones record entitled, "Bubalicious".
Here is some lyrical masterpiece from Fergie's new song: (warning* you might be moved to tears)

"I'm Fergalicious (so delicious)
My body stay vicious
I be up in the gym just working on my fitness
He's my witness (oooh wee)
I put yo' boy on rock rock
And he be lining down the block just to watch what I got (four, tres, two, uno)"

I know, I know, lyrical genius, exactly what I was thinking. Did you happen to see the mini Spanish lesson in there. (why couldn't they say "dos" why "two"?)So, not only is this music moving....it's educational!So, if you have the ability to rhyme like a 1st grader, than you two can be 'Fergalicous'. Yay!

2006-11-09T14:48:00.000-08:00

I just noticed that I have yet to post anything clever/witty.....in due time.

2006-11-09T06:15:00.000-08:00

Veteran's Day

Yesterday here in school we had a veteran's Day chapel service. Each grade did a special presentation in admiration of any veterans and current military. A member of the Air Force was in attendance and scheduled to speak for a few minutes. He came up to speak after the last grade finished their presentation. As he walked up to the microphone, he was wiping his eyes. As he started to speak he became choked up. I thought the kids did an amazing job. But, I was not moved to tears. So, I awaited his explanation of emotion.
He began to speak of freedom. The freedom that we are all used to. He explained how other countries do not have such freedom. Of course, at my age, I have heard many times of how privledged we are as Americans. I have been told of the horrors that citizens in other countries must endure. But to see grown man and member of out US military shed a tear when speaking of our freedom got me thinking.
I have always been an admirerer of those in the military. They are strong courageous men/women who risk their lives on a daily basis. But my respect grew a lot more when I began to think about their passion for our freedom. These men/women work everyday to protect our freedom.
I also began to think about how I really don't even appreciate the freedom we have. Sometimes it is hard to appreciate something you've always had. Something that will probably never be taken away. But after yesterday, I have a brand new appreciation for the freedom I have. The freedom to vote, to pray, to worship publicly without persecution. Such freedom comes at a great cost.

2006-11-08T15:35:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday!

Today is my brother Jeff's 31st birthday. It is getting weirder and weirder how my siblings are in their 30's. It keeps reminding me that it is coming for me soon enough. (and that terrifies me) It is not the fact of being 30 that scares me, but it's the fact that I had all these plans when I was younger about where I would be when I was 30, and I don't know if any of these will come into play before then. I really have to stop planning what I think is going to happen, and just let it happen. Tough truth that is.So instead of getting down on myself for the things that I have yet to do, I'm going to start encouraging myself with how far I have come.

2006-10-30T08:34:00.000-08:00

Things (people) aren't (always) what they seem..

I keep going back to how disappointing it is to discover that someone is not who you thought they were. Even if you have only known them for a short time you still feel let down - as if they've misrepresented themselves and you totally bought into it.
Yet, I can't help but wonder if I brought this on myself. I'm always one to give the benefit of the doubt. To look past things, that others might judge. Because I have my own issues that I would want people to look past, and not get judged for.
So that's what I try to do. And sometimes people are genuine. The way they portrayed themselves is the way they are. But sometimes, I feel as though their portrayal was all a facade. A way to make them appear better than their character actually is. And this is so frustrating. You want to be able to trust everyone, and give them a chance. But then there are those that prove why you should be guarded and protected.
It is almost as if these people wait until you've let them in, for them to show their true colors, so it's hurts you more. But, I'm not going to play the victim anymore. I don't enjoy that role. I guess it's just another brick on the wall.

2006-03-05T14:37:00.000-08:00

Unusally, I had some energy to spare today. So, I went for a walk by the water, with my camera and took some pictures.