End o' week musings

Last week I left you hanging as Friday was my birthday and I didn't get to my computer.. hey, I had to make time for my massage, right?? OK, so now I'll make it up to you with bits and pieces of my exciting life and some cool photos...

For the past two Saturdays I took a raku class with Pasadena artist Dave Lovejoy. Raku is a form of pottery crafting based on the ancient Japanese tea ceremony. I learned how to use a pottery wheel, a special kiln and assorted glazes to create two items that actually look useful. It was intense and relaxing all at the same time. I would definitely do it again. Dave offers classes every month at McGinty's Gallery at the End of the World in Altadena. For more information and to see some of his work (in ceramic and other media), visit http://www.lovejoyart.com/

The 1st was Labor Day and instead of barbecuing I was working. I was asked by my friend Gus to do some vocals for a demo he was making. Gus is an established songwriter, composer and arranger, but this project is a little hush-hush so I'll keep his anominity. Any way it's been a long time since I was in the studio and it was a challenge this time as I also had to sing in several foreign languages. I must have done well, as I have been officially hired to do the final product!

My birthday was easygoing. My friend Louise came over and we sipped wine while waiting for my massage therapist, Sydney, to arrive. Then he gave us both a nice rubdown with some lively conversation. I felt sooo good and I know Louise did too. She's been working in the Flower Pavilion at the Los Angeles County Fair and even brought me a few orchids fronds that had broken off from one of the arrangements. The flowers are beautiful and I can't wait to see their home!

After Louise left I decided to run a couple of errands, have a nice lunch and get a pedicure. In the evening, I went to the Dockside in West Covina to hear The Subs. The minute I walked in the door they launched into "Happy Birthday"! There were two men from Budweiser who are tending to the horses at the Fair and they came over to my table and gave me hugs and kisses and congrats. I'll have to stop by and say hello to them when I go to the Fair tomorrow. The Subs spoiled me by playing lots of my requests, plus some other tunes they thought I would like. They'll be back at the Dockside tonight and Saturday and then on Sept. 26 and 27. The denouement of my evening was the current special guy in my life joining me at the lounge and giving me two dozen red roses. He is truly my "Honeysuckle Rose"-- so sweet I don't need sugar in my coffee... if you know the classic jazz tune, feel free to sing along... lol!

Over the weekend I babysat my friend's dogs and cat. Have you ever tried to do yoga with your pets? OK, now have you tried doing yoga with your friend's pets? I had one dog putting toys on my back every time I posed, the other dog tentatively licked me as if to say "it's OK" and the cat sat watching me quizically in between rubbing up on me. Too funny!!

On Sunday I went to the International Secret Agents Concert in San Gabriel. It was an Asian American music, dance and film event to benefit two different causes. The headliner was Far East Movement, a hip-hop group. It was a lot of fun. The best part, for me, was watching the Quest Dance Crew-- their moves were awesome!

This week I've been practicing my dancing a lot, as I will be performing at the Fair tomorrow. Here's the skinny:

Los Angeles County Fair

Performance 2:15 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13

Pepper Street Stage

Fair is open 10 a.m.-midnight

Fairplex

1101 W. McKinley Ave.

Pomona

$17 adults, $14 seniors, $12 children 6-12 and free for children 5 and under

http://www.fairplex.com/

If you come out, please don't hesistate to say hello.

The rest of my week is going to be filled with interviews, just how I like it! I am working on stories on I Am Ghost, Thelonius Monk, Echolyn, Dave Morrison and the play "Sequence." Also, I am slated to co-host the cable television and Internet program "Marty's Corner" on the 20th. Is that enough excitement for you??

In rotation this week: Mystic Groove, Tribe of Gypsies, Tom Petty, Judas Priest, Offspring, I Am Ghost, Valencia, Sound and Fury and Shakira.

Photos we got 'em: Finally, I have some photos of the Metal Masters Tour taken by my brother Jason Mills, plus a couple of cute pet pics. Enjoy!

Thought of the week: Not to sound petty, but I was really disappointed that neither my mother nor my brother called or sent me a card for my birthday. I know they're busy, as my brother is looking for a house and planning his wedding and working, but still, they're all the family I have and it hurt. Instead of being cruddy and nasty, I've called them both just to chat and see how they're doing without bringing up their faux paux. It didn't dull the pain, but it made me feel a tad better to rise above my hurt and be a decent person. What also helped is all my wonderful friends who remembered me with kind words, text messages and thoughtful gifts. It's nice to know that people care about you. So my thought this week: Don't meet something that hurts you with anger and retribution, instead focus on the good things in your life and find happiness where you are and in the people who surround you with love.

Keep on rockin'

Mickie