All Around Listener

What kind of a music lover are you? That's what I rated as in the title. Take this quiz:

http://www.gotoquiz.com/what_kind_of_music_lover_are_you

and comment on the type of music lover you are.

What are you listening to?

This week, I am listening to:

Contra la Corriente Marc Anthony
A Song for You Michael Buble
Stay in Love Mon A Q
Yo Si Me Enamore Huey Dunbar
Inside Out Odyssey
The Most Beautiful Girl in the World Prince
Shy Guy Diana King
Mystic Love Los Pericos
Big Poppa Notorious B.I.G.
Just Dance Jamiroquai
All and all Joyce Sims

If you've never heard of some of these songs, listen to them. Expand your musical tastes. I'd love to do that. Tell me what you're listening to.

I Hate to Admit it, but...

There are things that each of us enjoys that we would hate to admit to anyone. Why? Because, we would be totally embarrassed by it. I will be the first to admit a couple of mine. I hate to admit it but I love orange juice and chocolate chip cookies. I know. That's not so bad. OK, here's another one. I hate to admit it but I love to go to a store, fill up my cart with stuff I want, and leave. Weird, but true. What do you hate to admit?

Reunion Chat

Tonight's the night! Our reunion chat will take place at 9:30 pm. If you would like to participate, there is still time. Just send a quick email to me or Cathy so that we can get your AIM address. No AIM address? Just go to aim.com and follow the steps. Hope to talk to you tonight.

Car Personality

I love being in my car. I love driving anywhere, listening to loud, old school music with the windows open, going very fast. It's awesome. There's such a freedom in being able to get in your car and go. But, my car does not reflect my personality. It is a gray, Nissan Altima, so not me.
I've often heard that cars reflect your personality. If that's true, then I should be driving a black, convertible Mercedes from the SL series. Oh yeah. That is so me. Does your car reflect your personality? If not, which one does?

What do you remember?

We are such an interesting group. We were so different in so many ways, and yet band brought us all together. I can distinctly remember certain aspects about each of you. I won't say what yet. How about you? What do you remember the most about someone who was in band?

The Big Crush

Recently, while talking to another band-ee, she mentioned how all of this talk of the old days, has caused her to think a lot about an old crush she had. She said something that I'm sure we can all identify with, " I had this overwhelming, all-consuming, totally unfufilled crush." I know I've been there. How about you? Tell us about your crush/es, and if you're brave, tell us who it was!

Nostalgia

According to Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia, the term "nostalgia" was originally coined by Johannes Hofer, a medical student in 1678 to refer to "the pain a sick person feels because he wishes to return to his native land, and fears never to see it again". Its original meaning--referring to a serious medical disorder--has been lost as the word nostalgia entered everyday language.

Cases resulting in death were known, and soldiers were sometimes successfully treated by being discharged and sent home. Receiving a diagnosis was, however, generally regarded as an insult. Cases of nostalgia, which sometimes occurred as epidemics, were less frequent when armies were victorious and more frequent when they suffered reverses.

Today, nostalgia is more commonly referred to as a feeling that any normal person can have. (Phew!) Nostalgia can often be associated with a fond childhood memory, seeing old friends, or a treasured personal object. How many of you are feeling nostalgic? What are your symptoms?

Where's George?

I'm glad I've been back in touch with many of you. I'm still wondering where George Mayor is? Have there been any George spottings? (and I also wanted to see if I could post)

Two Truths and a Lie...

I liked this one a lot and we had fun with it... you know the rules; though, wait a few days before posting the correct answer. Keep us guessing.

Incase you need a refesher:Here's how you play: Write two truths and one lie about yourself in random order and see if we can figure out which one is the lie. You may choose to write them based on your time in high school, or about your life.

Ginger or Mary Ann? (Celebrety Slugfest)

Sick, inquiring minds want to know and totally unrelated to band but who cares? So we can do this for guys and girls (and others....Mike). Let's alternate sitcoms and cartoons.

Guys
Round 1: Ginger, Mary Ann, or if your just sick Mrs. Howell
Round 2: Jessica (Roger Rabbits Girlfriend) vs. Lola (Bus Bunny's Girlfriend)
Round 3: Elly Mae Clampett vs. Daisy Duke,
Round 4: Belle, Little Mermaid, (or if your really sick) Sleeping Beauty
Round 5: Marsha Brady, Laurie Partridge, or Blair Warner (Facts of Life)
Round 6: Daphne vs. Velma
Finals! : Girls of Petticoat Junction vs. Girls of Hee Haw

Girls
Round 1: Skipper, Professor, Gilligan, or (if u b a golddigga) Mr. Howell
Round 2: Fred Flintstone, Barney Rubble, or the Great Gazoo
Round 3: Jethro Bodine vs. Bo and Luke Duke
Round 4: Aquaman, Batman, Superman, Shazam, Spiderman, or The Flash
Round 5: Richie Cunnigham, Potsie, or Ralph the Mouth
Round 6: Dick Tracey, GI Joe, Mr. Magoo, or The Hulk ;>
Finals! : The Brady Boys vs. The Partridge Family Boys

The thing about band...

How many times have you heard the word band geek and thought, they just don't understand? I think people have such a misconception about band and people in the band. If you had one chance to explain how awesome being in the band was, what would you say?

Psyche!

Anyone else remember saying that? I loved it. Psyche wasn't so bad. It just meant that someone lied to you or tried to trick you. But, pranks were worse, much worse. There sure were a lot of pranks played on people back then. Was one played on you that you can't believe you fell for? What were some of the best?

Perspective by John Bender

In the Breakfast Club, John Bender (Judd Nelson) states, "Being bad feels pretty good, huh?" When has this been true?

Is this us?

I read some interesting statistics about our generation, Generation X. We have been referred to as the "Slacker Generation," that grew up in the 'Me Generation' of the '80s. We are now able to see that it was not all it was cracked up to be. We grew up with the highest divorce rates ever and most of us were "latch-key kids." We have been described as "underemployed, overeducated, intensely private and unpredictable." We have a tendency to pick apart, often in minute detail, all aspects of life using half-understood pop psychology as a tool.

What parts of this definition do you think are acurate? Where do you think it is way off?

Top 5 Lies of the 80's

No idea what they are. Just like the title. Any suggestions?

Now that's a Funny Theory

Here's another crazy theory for you: First answer this question. What was your favorite cartoon character as a child? Well, the theory is that, now as an adult, you look for those qualities/traits of that character in your mate today. For example, one person I talked to said Patrick from SpongeBob. That would mean, that she likes guys who are kind of chubby, sweet, but a little on the dumb side. What do you think? Is this theory true?

S.O.A.P.

Snakes on a Plane. Does anyone else find this a totally ridiculous concept?! What is all the hype about? Why would someone want to see snakes on a plane? Why ARE there snakes on a plane? I don't get it. Maybe I will just have to see it for myself...

Plan B

My church meets in a movie theater. So, sometimes, things happen that are completely out of our control. This morning, I showed up for work at my usual time, 7:30 a.m. I was so excited. We were going to start a new series, and I was anxious to put our new set together. But, as soon as I walked in the door, I noticed something was wrong. There were no lights. Think of how dark a movie theater is when the movie is playing. Well, now imagine it that dark, without the movie.

Anyway, it was business as usual for us. We had to set up the four theaters we use for our children's ministry, in total darkness. It took us an extra hour, but we did it. FPL informed us there was no way they could have the power going by 10:00, so we came up with a plan B. We quickly brought in 3 generators to power up the main theater and the cafe. All of the kids (close to 100) went into the adult service. It was actually kind of nice.

Sometimes, we grudgingly have to go with a plan B, only to find out it's not so bad after all. When in your life have you been pleasantly surprised by a plan B.

Who wrote what???

I just got an email...I thought was kinda cool. The person told me what I signed in their yearbook. If you can dust it off and find some of the peoples writings...can you share? Did their wishes for you come true come true?? Was the message for your eyes only?? Was it a generic yearbook signing? Do tell.

Double Dutch Bus

We spent so much time on a bus. We went to games on Cheese Wagons and kicked it up a notch when we had long road trips. We didn't have dvd players like they have today for road trips. We had to be a little more creative. On one of the road trips, I remember that Byron played Superstar by Luther Vandross from Hialeah all the way to...that, I don't remember. But, it was for hours! No one even complained. I also remember everyone shouting, "See Ruby Falls!" What creative things do you remember being entertained by while riding on the bus?

Regrets?

A good friend of mine who shall remain unnamed (ok fine, Elliott Kampert) once told me:

"You will never regret what you've done, but you will probably regret what you didn't do"

Who has regrets over what they didn't do?? Or what they didn't say??

Computer Games

My sons have or have had every version of Playstation and Nintendo ever made. I have tried to play with them, but I can never figure out the function of each of the buttons on the controls. Usually, I'll sit there and just watch. It's incredible! Then, after awhile, I'll go into the, "when I was little, we played..." and talk about Pac Man, Frogger, Space Invaders, Donkey Kong, and my favorite, Joust. They just laugh at the simplicity of these games, but man, were they fun. What do you think?

Reasons for People of the 80's to Feel Old

I came across this post on another blog. It was hilarious! One comment hit close to home, "I went to Tower Records to find Rio by Duran Duran, and the store attendant told me that "most of those CD's are in the oldies section". Ugh. That hurts. What have you seen or heard that makes you feel old?

What happened to all the Valley Girls?

Remember how popular Valley Girls were? So many girls tried to talk like them, they were in a lot of the 80's movies, heck, there was even a song featuring them. Well, what happened to them?

Well, isn't that special?

Since we've been getting together to talk, chatting it up in the chat rooms, and emailing back and forth, we've all learned some interesting things about each other. Joe told us that he's learned that we are a very positive group. I've learned that Kara and I work in the same field, Jeff is incredibly brave, Sonia attends the church that has its office right next to ours, and most of us are doing what we love! What interesting fact have you learned about one of us, since our little reunion?

HML Band Alumni Web Site Update

Hey Gang!

There are three new sets of pictures in the Gallery from Kara Allaire (Madden), Gina Darmanin, and Justine Hyle. Additionally, there are previews as to what pictures are in the pipe to be loaded.

As far as the new blog goes, I have installed the blogging engine and and have done some configuration. Fairly soon (probably within 2 weeks) we shall need to start thinking about a cutover date to give me some time to convert over the existing content to the new blogsite so nothing is lost. But more on that as we get closer and we've had some time to work out the kinks!

Enjoy! E!

www.hmlbandalumni.com

My best move

Some people are really good flirts. We have some who were in band. I, on the other hand, have no clue when it comes to this. The funny thing is, is that with my job, people come to me and ask me for help all the time. So, I've taken to studying body language. And, from what I've seen people do some strange things when it comes to flirting. What is your best move?

My favorite things

Oprah has her list. Here is mine:

music-any kind, but done well.

M & M's-only plain

beautiful shoes-it doesn't matter if they hurt

baseball

the beach

So, what are your top 5 favorite things?

Fun-doo-doo

As a teenager, my sister Lisa, loved to talk on the phone. She talked with all kinds of people, for all hours of the day and night. One guy she talked to had the last name of Fundora. For some reason, we started referring to him as Fun-doo-doo. We just loved saying his name and laughing. I don't know why. One day, while saying his name over and over again, it started to rain. Of course, we attributed the rain to the two of us saying Fun-doo-doo many times. So, we decided that we would use this information again, when we needed it.

Well, the time came soon enough, while we were in band camp. We REALLY did not want to be there that day. It was too hot, Mr. K. was very grouchy, and we just wanted to go home. Lisa and I shared the history of the Fun-doo-doo with a select group of band-ees, who we knew didn't want to be there either. Along with the history, we added a ritual to the story. We said that in order for this to work, we had to lock pinkies, walk in a straight line, and repeat the word, Fun-doo-doo over and over again. To our amazement, they didn't think we were crazy, and actually thought it was worth a try. So, while Mr. K. was up on the observation tower, we tried it. We locked pinkies, walked across the field in a straight line, and said, "Fun-doo-doo, Fun-doo-doo" over and over again. And guess what? It rained. It poured. Band practice was cancelled, and we all went home, playing in the rain. It was awesome.

Of course, knowing now what the weather is like in Florida in the summer, it rained as it always does at 3:00. But, it sure was fun thinking we caused it. What have you done to get out of band practice? Were any of you a part of the Fun-doo-doo gang?

Things that sound REALLY weird if said outside of band.

May I inspect your instrument?

Have your tongue make light, quick movements.

Grease your valves.

Your fingering is off.

Any others?

Blog Fodder

People are always asking me how I come up with the stuff to post. So, I came up with an idea. While I was on the plane last night, a whole bunch of topics came to mind. I could write on each of them, but could any of you? Let's make it more interesting. Now, it's your turn.

Pick from any of these topics and create your own post.

Fun-doo-doo
The thing about band...
I will never forget...
Strange, but true
Creeping Flamingoes
Band Fact of the Day
Candy Girl
The Double Dutch Bus
Dancing Machine
I wish I may...
Who was Joe's crush for two years? :) Sorry Joe, I'm dying to know.
HML Band: The College Years
Psyche!
What happened to the Valley Girls?
There's No Stoppin' Us
T.P. & Me
My Best Move...

Why Would I Want to Hang Out With You?

I talked to someone this morning, who shall remain nameless, and she brought up a good point. This person said that by reading this blog, she has no clue who we are today. She knows pretty much who we were then, but would like to know more about us now, like what we do, what we like and so on. So, here's the question: What makes you so interesting today? Briefly tell us one thing that makes us want to hang out with you.

Two Truths and a Lie

Perceptions. Someone told me right before the reunion that this was what high school was all about. This person nailed it. We each had certain perceptions of everyone else. Admit it. So, let's play a little game. It's called two truths and a lie. Here's how you play: Write two truths and one lie about yourself in random order and see if we can figure out which one is the lie. You may choose to write them based on your time in high school, or about your life today.

The Three Jorges

Who remembers the 3 Jorges? Everyone. Jorge Balleste, Jorge Perez, and George Mayor. Each of them is memorable for their own reasons. Some of these reasons have made them infamous. Two were present at the reunion. We never found George Mayor. Where is he? Can you name 3 other famous Jorges (or Georges)?

Pizza and Corn

I was thinking today about school lunch. Why is it that they always served pizza and corn? You know, to this day, this still do that? Where is it written that pizza and corn should go together? Why would you even serve them at the same time? Weird.

Thinking along those lines, it made me think of other strange combinations in high school that I would never picture working together, but did. What two things would you never work together, but oddly enough wouldn't seem the same if they weren't paired?

Who is going to DCI Thursday August 10th?

Hello everyone...

I am starting my first post. Let me say it continues to be a trip in a "time warp" with all of you. I thank you all for your time and dedication to each other and the group. Now that the mushy stuff is done....

Here are the details...
Starts @ 6:00 PM Sharp
Live broadcast of DCI Quaterfinals
Ends around 11:30 PM

South Beach Stadium 18
1120 Lincoln Road Mall
Miami Beach FL 33139

Go to http://www.bigscreenconcerts.com/
Enter: DCI for the event
Choose: The South Beach Lincoln Road Mall location
Buy Tickets: They are $18.00 each

People have asked about kids?? I am taking my 15yr old and my 12yr old, they can hang!
If you choose to bring your kid or anyone for that matter, it is a 5 1/2 hr show, about silly "bands" like they say....They will never understand!

I put up the post for a roll call as to who will be there. I will look into places in the area and maybe those that get their early can go eat somewhere, and for those that want to get together after we can do that too!!

I have gotten several RSVP's, please post here so everyone knows who is going. Remember buy your ticket(s)!!!

When you post if you could put down your fave corps thats kewl 2!
I can't wait to hear Madison in surround sound!