Deep In The Forrest

Well, I have nothing to show today really--I'm out of ideas at the moment, and have lots of things to get done for my Dad's birthday 'shindig' tonight. Therefore, today's Full Frontal Friday is canceled. I could use the time anyway to think up more inventive ideas for FFF, so if you have any suggestions, feel free to pass them along. In keeping with my slightly debaucherous Fridays, however, I'll share with you a bit of pole dancing. Hope you enjoy!!

I have been contemplating posting up a picture of my ass. So I found this one, which is actually a photo of my ass as well as my sister, Vickie's. If you take a moment to compare our asses, seen in the photograph below, you'll notice that hers is considerably larger and smelly-looking, while mine is way smaller and whiter and has a bit more hair. Mine's cuter, everyone says so... Hahaha!! I got you Vickie! And I showed everyone both our asses!! I hope you all enjoyed seeing it as much as I enjoyed showing it. ;)

Well, I was graciously granted this wonderful "Nice Matters Award" award from a very entertaining and cool new blog pal, Speedycat Hollydale . He's a huge golf fanatic, and his blog is well worth checking out. He's the newest addition over on the sidebar there under "Family" of bloggers. Thanks again Speedy!!! Awards are always nice, and I never won much growing up... x To keep the love flowing, I hereby award Jinks at "Jinks Writes and Rewrites" with this wonderful award. Why? Because Nice Does Matter, and Nice doesn't mean pushover--she is never without something inspirational to say to me, she's always been a true friend as long as I have been acquainted with her, but will be ' straight up ' when she has to be. I'm glad to have her as a blogquaintance as well as a personal acquaintance. Cheers Jinks! You deserve this fine award. Now don't forget to post it up for all to see! *Pay a visit to my blog pals, you might learn ...

"My father didn't tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it." ~Clarence B. Kelland ( American Writer) We have had some wonderful times with Daddy, he's made us laugh hysterically, he's hugged us when we had rough times, disciplined us when we did wrong, made us "pull his finger", scared us out of our wits in the dark, supported us and kissed our "boo boos" and made them all better, he's been there for us through it all. I can't imagine a Dad better than the one we were lucky enough to have in this lifetime. I also cannot believe that he turned 80 years old today... He wears it well, even though he's been through so much and endured it all, he has hung in there and we're so fortunate to have him here to share his "Big 8-0" So here is a tribute to: Jack Cutler... Daddy... "Gangster" "Prankster" "#1 Greatest Truck Driver" "Father" "Grandfather" ...

Oh-my-gahhd... has it been an entire year already?? I cannot believe that it has so zipped by! Time flies so fast when we're having loads of fun, huh? You've shared some laughs with me, shared some tears, been heated up about some of my steamy stories (and who could blame you), and been there to lift me when I was down. It's that time to wish "Deep In The Forrest" Happy 1st Anniversary!!! Anniversary's are usually special, full of romance, flowers and we usually hope for it to end with some earthquaking, ground-shaking good sex, right? Well, although it's not THAT kind of anniversary, I still must show my love and affection the only way I know how, and that is through my love of music. Some of you like Rock, some are die hard Punks, some love R&B, Rap, Metal, Soul, 80s, or just about anything that gets you dancing, moshing or making a total fool of y'self! I, myself, am quite eclectic, if I haven't said it before, I'll say it now, I love A...

{breezy sigh} Are you happy?? I pretty much think I am happy in my life, but sometimes things do get hectic or depressing for me and I can't help but stop and wonder briefly if I have made the right decisions... Especially when those closest to us make it very hard to hold on to our self-esteem, and make us feel like we just can't seem to do anything right. What is happiness anyway , and how does one go about achieving total personal satisfaction? Like with marriage (if you're married or have ever been married): Is your marriage perfect? Is any marriage perfect? Do/Did you fight? If so, is/was it about stupid stuff? Do you think it is normal, maybe even necessary that couples fight sometimes? But where do we draw the line? Does anyone have a real true-life fairy tale, or do those even really exist?? What is the secret to a good, "lasting" marriage?? Does everyone have a top-notch perfect sex life? What do you consider perfect in that respect? If anyone has any in...

Happy Full Frontal Friday! Hope you guys might participate, if so, let me know! Tattoos. I love em'; I always have. I got my first one on St. Patrick's Day 1995, which is nothing even worth showing. I hate that one. But I thought for today's FFF, I would show a couple of my others... Not the most revealing FFF, but I hope you will enjoy. Taking up my lower back, Miss Panther resides there relaxing very peacefully, this was done in 1999 at "Ramesess Shadow" Tattoo in Memphis TN. Another fine piece that claims most of the middle of my upper back, is my Celtic Tree of Life, which was also done by Ramesses Shadow, October 2005. I have since had it filled in, but it needs a little touch up, so I don't want to present a final photo until I get the touch up. Other than that, Happy Friday Y'all!!! :)

*Updated throughout the day... (10:00 a.m.) Do you ever feel like no matter what you do, or say that it's just wrong and you keep screwing things up no matter how hard you try not to? Nothing is ever good enough for anyone else, why? (1:20 p.m.) Have you ever felt shunned or deliberately avoided by someone who you admire a great deal, and who's work, who's friendship and association you greatly valued (making you feel as though it was something you did or didn't do)? Did you let them know that they made you feel this way? (137 p.m.) Do you have moments when every little thing (noise, distraction etc) gets on your nerves and makes you want to go find a place to hide from it all?

Today, I was planning a big rant about people using their cellphones in an office environment, and how rude it is when they don't know how to put it on silent, or use an 'inside voice' when they are on the cellphone, or the "speaker phone". Either way, they are oblivious to the fact that there are others around them trying to get some work done, and that they are not, in fact, the only person in the office. I was also going to say that we, the others not constantly on the phone, who are trying to concentrate, are not interested in hearing the details of your private affairs, we don't want to know about your divorce proceedings, we don't want to hear you yelling at your child to finish her chores or else, and we really don't enjoy your less than amusing choices of ring tones. All this stuff should be 'personal stuff' and kept out of the office. That is, unless you have your own private office with sound proof walls, but that is not the case. No ...

August is quickly drawing to a close. We have only a few more short days left and September will breeze in , hopefully with a much-needed 'cool spell' to make up for such a hot month. September of course, is pretty much "Fair Time" around these parts. Remember Last Year's article on "Remembering The Mid-South Fair" ? It covered much of what goes on at one of Memphis' biggest traditions. We used to get so excited about the Fair coming to town, and there was something for everybody. The food, of course, top notch! Fiddlesticks, unlimited meats on a stick, frozen bananas, Pronto Pups (corn dogs), and much more! Music, rides, exhibits. I really miss those days. With the close of Memphis' own Libertyland Theme Park , and the decline of most of the surrounding neighborhoods, the Fair lost its fizzle. However, it has come to my attention we have a new kid in town... it's called the Delta Fair & Music Festival . It looks promising... and possibl...

Well, I'd started the week off with a little "Jack Black" and "John Cusak", and I guess the week continues to deserve some of Jack's most tenacious singing. No this isn't "Tenacious D", but it's really a great version of Marvin Gaye's "Let's Get It On". I'd say pretty good for a Tuesday. Another busy Tuesday at that, so I will let you guys enjoy this little video, and hope to be back tomorrow with a possible story. Have a good one!! -AJ

Mm mm mm.... M&Monday--Oops I think that was a typo, still, don't you want some M&M's now?? They're so chocolaty and delicious! Peanut, Plain or Peanut Butter, even with Almonds now right? Just a delicious little melty bite of chocolate. It truly does melt in your mouth, not in your hand! :) Anyway, chugging through Monday again... the weekend was not too bad. Rockdog didn't have a show this week, but Yas had hers . Unfortunately (and apologetically), I didn't get to listen in... so sorry Yas! Anyways, maybe this next Saturday. Rockdog's cousin, "J-Bone" is going to be testing out drinks, so get over and suggest a recipe, and he might just try it out on the air!! I am unable to think of anything inventive, but I haven't given up hope just yet. So that's Blogtalk radio news, for now. I've heard it said, if you're feeling irritable and everything is going wrong for you on a Monday that you have a "Case of the Mondays"....

Friday night, we threw various meats on the grille, and a few of Richie's buddies came by. All this was very "spur of the moment". Richie sprang it on me in mid-afternoon, and the house wasn't even properly cleaned. But oh well, after my long day at work I still had to spring into action once I got home and perform actions to the ill-fated bird that were so NOT for the faint of heart. Specialty du jour was "Drunken Chicken" so, my wuss of a husband hands me the full-bodied fowl, and the beer can and asked me to stuff an onion in its neck and a beer can up its ass, and give it a good rub-down with the dry rub. It was difficult for me, but I always have to do difficult things such as get rid of the cockroaches, touch frogs, clean up unholy hairballs... why?? Because my 'big, strong, fearless hunk-o-man is what?? Scared shitless of it all. It's alright, it is my fate... my cross to bear. ;) Anyroad, the night kicked off and we cooked up "kosher...

Well, I can think of no better day to do Blondie's Meme for me than on Full Frontal Friday. Especially because she was so excited about this new phenomenon that I put into action. So let me answer the "8 Facts About Me" (although I have done this before), and then I'll get to my very own FFF entry... Ok, here goes (copied Blondie's numbers). Also, I am not going to "Tag" anyone, because I know everyone gets tagged enough. You can do this though, if you like. One, Uno, 1, Un I'm an extreme procrastinator. I don't know where I get this from, but I would put off putting things off if I could only find a way. It does not enhance my life at all, but rather build up some stressful moments when I must make a deadline under pressure... luckily, I work well under pressure. Two, Dos, 2, Deux I was born with a broken collarbone, and so far I have not broken any other bones. I don't know how amazing this is, but to me it seems kind of lucky. Three, Tres...

Yogi Berra once said, " When you arrive at a fork in the road, take it. " Looking back, I think I did a pretty good job of that. I never worried much over decisions, I always tended to follow my big giant heart. Sometimes it got me into trouble, or didn't end well, but for the most part, things always turned out alright. I'm still kicking, and I haven't gone off the deep end... not yet. Remember those books where you could choose 'what happens next' and it determined the way the story would end? I believe in destiny, and I believe that everything happens for a reason. However, I still think each decision we make is a part of the lessons we learn in the big scheme of things, and we shape these destiny's by the choices we make... Just like our very own book... We choose our circumstances, and we control how we deal with life; we write the ending. Thinking on some of these 'forks' I've encountered on my own personal highway, I pondered some ...

There are people that revel in the summer heat... I am not one of them. This Memphis helter-swelter has been dragging me down. Our air conditioner has just not been able to cope, even when I walk into the house I'm not getting any relief. Last night, I took a cold bath. That's right, as much as I like a hot-boiling bubble bath soak, I reclined back, basking in the chilly water until I felt like my body temperature had significantly reduced. Also, I don't know if it is partially the heat, but I have just been drained of all energy. I've been Dog Tired... I don't feel like moving. I wake up and just want to lay there, not moving a muscle. But I force myself out of bed and drag my 'zombified' ass through the house, searching for clothes to wear, and knowing I'm going to sweat to death and smell like a swamp by the time I get home. I can't take it anymore. I am so ready for fall. Mr. J says I have been "extra-cranky" and irritable the last few ...

Sunday, Monday, Happy Days, Tuesday , Wednesday, Happy Days, Thursday, Friday, Happy Days, Saturday, what a day, Rockin all week with you. This day is ours Won't you be mine. (Oh Happy Days) This day is ours (Oh Happy Days) Oh please be mine. Hello sunshine, goodbye rain, She's wearing my high school ring on her chain. She's my steady, I'm her man, I'm gonna love her all I can. (Chorus) Gonna cruise her round the town, Show everybody what I've found Rock'n'roll with all my friends Hopin' the music never ends. These Happy Days are yours and mine (oh Happy Days) These Happy Days are yours and mine (oh Happy Days) These Happy Days are yours and mine, Happy Days

Ahhh it's Sunday night now. I am about to throw together something for supper--been to the gym, been good, been to see my parents today, took some more photos with my Nikon... Life feels good. It's not too above the line, not below average, I guess I can't complain. Sometimes I feel like everything is just middle of the road and I really want to bust out and just go crazy. I've never been one to feel cooped up and normal, I like mischief, I like a little wild side... I get bored and restless, it's only natural. I'm glad everyone seemed to enjoy "Full Frontal Friday"... maybe I'll take the challenge and find a respectful way to do the Knickers thing for Barnze next time :) We'll see. Guess you guys will have to visit again to find out. You never know what Jackie might do next eh?? I'm unpredictable, I'm silly, I'm childish, I refuse to conform... It's the way it is, and the way it always has been. Life is Ebb and Flow; Change is ...

I guess somehow I "promised" something in a notation about doing things for comments. Oh well... what the heck, it's the weekend. However, now I need a shot of tequilla. What do you have to say now, Rockdog?

Life is made of many roads, each with their own set of twists and turns. It is amazing sometimes to think on just how many changes we've been through. I'm certain that each of us has our very own private collection of laughter and joy, tears, sorrows, even naughty times, and of course dreams and hopes for the future. Sometimes, however, it is inevitable not to think about moments from our past, remember certain people and events rather fondly. Every one of them is a little part of who we have become, you know... who we are today. Do you ever wonder how those from your past remember you, or remember the 'good ole days'? Wouldn't it be cool to know what they thought about it all too? I am lucky to have so many good memories. Allow me to share a recent e-mail... ============================================================ Manny, Just 4 you! :) I have a memory... it started right here at this location in the photo (do you recall?). I met this guy named 'Manny' ...

News and such: My Friend Dinners is in the hospital, seems he's had a minor heart attack. Still, I'm concerned and I know he's been through the mill lately and also has been at it full-speed. 4D! You better recover, I'm thinking of you and your family... Don't you dare get ill on us!! We love our 'Dinners!! (More information is available on Cappy's Blog ). Thanks Cappy for the update! Everyone please say a prayer and send him your positive thoughts. Thanks for reading, as I always appreciate my blog visitors... new and old! If #1 doesn't work, then I must resort to #2... (no poop jokes please! Ok, go ahead!).

It is mid-week finally (or in a way you could say, "Already!?!?"). Because it seems to have passed off rather quickly, yet I can't wait for the weekend. I'm still having fun with my new camera, but haven't had the opportunity to take anymore really good photos. When I do, I will share. Parking Garages have always unnerved me a little, I've never liked them much at all. The garage that we park in for my office happens to be one of the worst I've ever seen. Worse in more ways than one in that not only does it look terrible, but it is a very badly planned garage. Originally, it was supposed to be office spaces I think, and then someone turned it into a parking garage--so the lay-out is all wrong, there are huge pillars and enclosed in walls that would strike fear in the engine of any Hummer or other large vehicle. I've seen drivers of vans scrape the sides of their vehicles and many car exteriors have been claimed by its pure evil. As well, the confusing...

Hey guys, I'll be pretty busy today... I'm going to try and concentrate and get a good bit done. I thought instead of "Mute Monday", that Mondays would be a hell of a lot better when set to music. Even better when it's set to the tune of Joan Jett and the Blackhearts' "Cherry Bomb". Hope you all had a fantastic weekend... do tell! Meanwhile, turn it up and Rock it!!

H aven't been around the computer much this weekend, and I was once again without internet connection to listen in to my favorite blog talk radio hosts. I guess they hate me by now. :( However, I have been taking some photos with my new camera, a present from Mr. J, and I thought I'd share a few with you. Enjoy these and come back again later for a more wordy post. Guess I just haven't felt much like writing and have been otherwise involved. Hope you like these. These the first one is my Mother's little bird nest exactly 1 week later (there are two in there-my first photo didn't come out well). Wow they grow fast!

Here's my very own weapon of mass destruction, Richie (Mr. J). It's a great country when you consider the pride and gonads a man must have to stand in front of a poster featuring our stars, stripes and the Statue of Liberty looking extremely fierce and wearing a shirt covered in Roses. Would YOU give him a hard time about his shirt?? America... F*&% YEAH!!! lol ;) Happy Friday Y'all!

Ahhh Romance is in the air, what with all the talk lately of vegetables and such. One might think it were spring around here. But it is not. Right now it is "smack dab" in the middle of a hot summer in Memphis, and we all know that means. If the humidity doesn't kill you, the mosquitoes will pick you up and carry you off! Yesterday, I was browsing around a few blogs and found the following few words just really made me stop for a moment and ponder. (Read the original post here, really I recommend it for you romantics!) Quoted from a Blog called " Over Coffee ," The perfect weekend destination , "What matters is not the destination, the places we go to, but the person who can take us anywhere, to any destination, when we actually remain in the same place!" How true is that?? Not everyone is lucky enough to experience that one person who can truly take you anywhere in the world, just by being with them. You don't have to do anything special, or go a...

So my morning started off kind of interesting. Nothing unusual about my 'road battle', or the struggle to get through the traffic or the irritation of the Memphis Drivers, no it was none of that. In fact, the same frustrating entry into the treacherous parking garage, you know the way that I always get behind "first timers" who have no idea how to drive through it, so they creep at 2 miles per hour so it takes me 15 minutes to park... that's nearly an every day occurrence. The strange part was once I got to my desk, I had a surprise gift from an unknown contributor... It was this beautiful, green zucchini squash. That's right, they knew that flowers were way too trite to present to someone as individual and off-the-wall a person as me, so flowers would never do. Instead, they decided to give the gift of vegetables... Who's ready for lunch?? :)