Time for some Concert Etiquette 101

After my recent Bonnie Dune excursion with my bestie and music-loving friends, it came to my attention that while at the concert, there were a few fans who really disappointed me in their conduct towards band members, completely disrespecting and embarrassing the guys while on stage. With many disgruntled fans stepping up to voice their disdain for the situation, I had an idea. In an effort to make this negative part of the experience a positive, I decided to create a "guidelines" list for anyone who plans on attending concerts in the future. I've also included a few pointers based on my experience of dating a musician. Granted, this is not for everyone, since most people can be civilized, but for those who apparently don't know how to act and behave when seeing a band they like. 

1) Respect the band members. Granted, in some bands, there are certain members fans gravitate to more than others, but that's no reason to be mean or rude to other band members while they're putting on a show. Keep in mind that all the musicians/performers on stage are working hard to give you a great time, so don't give them any lip for it. For example, telling the lead singer to move so that you can look at the drummer? Not cool. Screaming out for only one band member the entire time? Disappointing. If you really loved the band, you'd be cheering hard for every person....instead of just the one you think is hot. So while you may be in love or crush on that hot guitar player/bassist/keyboard player/drummer/lead singer....just be mindful that that one musician wouldn't be there without the rest of their band backing and blending that music harmoniously for you. 

2) Don't be "that fan." You know the type of fan I'm talking about....the annoying one who shouts stupid crap when the audience is quiet or the musicians are trying to talk and connect with their fans during the show. Frankly, hearing someone scream "Did you read the sign?" over and over while a lead singer is talking about the significance of a song is hardly appropriate. Of course they read the sign, they get it. Now move on and let the band do what they were meant to do....give the audience a great show!

3) Be enthusiastic and energetic (when the show calls for it)! While you shouldn't be annoying, don't be afraid to have a little fun....especially if you're at a rock concert! Dance, sing along, tell the musicians you love them at the top of your lungs, cheer loudly at the end of each song, hold your phone up like a lighter, paint your face with the band name, wear the band t-shirt....whatever strikes your fancy! The whole point is to have a good time, so why not?!? 

4) Don't be trashy or slutty, especially if a musician has a significant other. I speak from personal experience on this, especially since my bf is in a cover band. (And yes, this concept applies across the board, so listen carefully.) There have been many moments where while at a show, a girl has thrown herself at Matt, flirting and giggling and slipping him their phone number in hopes that he'll call her. (A few have even called him out on not calling at the next show they attend.) I know he won't, unless this girl has proven herself to be chill and into the music more than anything else. But there is that small percentage of girls/guys who don't care that the significant other may be there in the audience and would love nothing more than to prove they're a "better fit" than the musician & their partner. So a word to the wise: do not venture down this road. Keep your self-respect and self-worth intact. Granted, I'm the chill gf who enjoys seeing Matt talk to the adoring fans and keep them coming back out for more. I encourage conversation and casual flirting if it means they'll come out to the next show. Hell, I've even become friends with a few of the cool girls, especially when I've won them over with my charm, kindness, and sweet dancing skills. But some significant others aren't as chill and won't hesitate to draw blood over the girls/guys that disrespect them and their relationship. (And yes, from time to time I have wanted punch a girl that disrespects me.) Remember this the next time you flirt inappropriately with a taken band member. 

5) Keep in mind the type of audience you're a part of. I've had my fair share of concerts where I've seen the various posters saying "Marry Me" or "[insert band/performers here] Rules!" Or people shouting how much they love the band. In fact, I've even made a few of those posters when attending concerts (and screamed a few "I LOVE YOU"s in my day!) For the most part, I think it's cool that fans take the time to make posters and things of the like, even if the messages can be a little bit much. But if you're at a concert where a good portion of the audience members came with their parents or look like they're still in high school, please refrain from any obscene phrases or sexual offers. If that's your angle, check out when Def Leppard or Whitesnake will be in town. The audience will be suited much more to your liking.

6) Don't get upset if a band member doesn't contact you. Sometimes upon meeting your idols/favorite musicians, you may give them a letter or token of your appreciation. I'm even guilty of doing this. And in those letters or little gifts, a way for them to contact you has been provided. Now, I know this is going to sound mean saying this, but please know that while you think this may be the beginning of an epic friendship, 99.999999999% of the time....they will never contact you. While you may be mad, consider that you're A) 'not the only one who has thought of this idea' and B) 'they may not have the time to respond to you'. But do know that they're appreciative that you've taken the time to give them a part of you, especially since they give you a part of themselves every time they perform or release new music.

7) Get creative with your gifts! Bands do love receiving cool stuff from their fans. Like in my previous listing, giving a gift is like giving a part of yourself. It's meaningful and extremely touching. So if you're going to give a gift, feel free to have some fun with it! I've seen fans make bracelets/t-shirts, bake treats, make scrapbooks, etc. Don't hesitate to brainstorm and dig deep for a cool gift idea. Sometimes, it's those fun, unique gifts that get you noticed.

8) Be yourself. This is hard to do sometimes, especially when there's a chance you may get to meet the band/performer, but it's extremely important to remember! Combined with the above guidelines, just remaining chill and calm will gain you the opportunities you desire. For example, one of my favorite bands in college (Jupiter Sunrise) hung out with me and my friend Colleen just because we were cool. We joked around, I complimented the lead singer on his awesome Weezer shirt (and was rewarded with a hug), and didn't try to be anything we were not. I consider those band members friends to this day. Even when I went to see Bonnie Dune, my bestie Vicki & I just talked to the guys about how we had done karaoke the night before and only had three hours of sleep under our belts before driving out for the concert. Result? Cory Monteith asking my friend & I where this karaoke existed, sounding interested in participating in said activity. The point being, if you can just be you, band members will appreciate you more for it. Besides, aren't we always told that it's great when others can accept you for you?  

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I hope that these guidelines have been helpful. They're not rules, but just some friendly tips to remember. But the most important one? HAVE FUN! 

Thanks for listening. 

~Jenny Rockstar

Susceptibility to commitment....catching "the bug"

As of late, almost everyone around me has caught what I will call the marriage bug. It starts like this: when you hit your mid to late-20s, it feels like every other day, there's a friend either getting engaged, getting married, or on the verge of expecting. Escape is futile while those announcements clutter the Facebook news feed at an alarming rate, your texts from friends sharing the great news, or the phone calls that never end.

I won't lie, in a way, it makes me sad. Here I am at 27 years old, waiting to be bit by the bug once again. It's not a necessity to be married right here right now, but it has become something that no matter how much I try to tune it out, it's there. And for most of us that are still not married or in a relationship, this can become disconcerting....and at times, depressing.

Granted, after my previous failed attempt at being engaged, I made a decision to really get to know the next person I would be in a relationship with. I not only wanted to be in a relationship for a substantial amount of time, but also be around them long enough to really know what I was getting into. Less time would go into expensive gifts, more time into appreciating the simple things in life. I wouldn't settle for always scheduling time together, but rather being able to see someone just about any time that I wanted at a moment's notice. And most important, I wanted to be able to be myself with this person, not just feel like I had to be what they wanted me to be. Because let's face it, if you can't be yourself with the person you want to spend your time with, then what's the point of even living? The right person will accept you for who you are and desire to be around you for that.

As fate would have it, I found these very traits and 3.5 years later, it still feels like I'm falling for the first time. Recently, my friend Rhiannon reminded me that I shouldn't feel like I'm being pressured into taking the next step, but more that I should be patient with whatever comes next. And that above all else, as long as there's true love there, everything will come in its own time. I know she's right, especially knowing that what I knew before this relationship wasn't exactly the real thing. True, there were moments, but my relationship should be more than just the moments. I want the whole thing, not just little bites here and there. 

Vacations and dinner dates are nice to have, but that day-to-day interaction is what matters. The ability to have a casual conversation that engages you. Cooking dinner together as much as possible. Rubbing one another's feet after a long day. Going to the store together to make decisions on either what to eat or what would look great in a certain room. Just sitting in the same room not talking, but feeling comfortable in that silence. Never forgetting to say every single day just how much you mean to each other, even if you're fighting or just in a bad funk. Sharing a smile or a look across a crowded room, showing appreciation and love. 

These are the things that matter most and while I haven't reached that next step just yet, I know it won't be taken out of obligation or pressure. It'll be done because it's meant to happen like that. My day may not come anytime soon, but I don't discount that it's coming. While it makes me a little sad that it hasn't come yet, the patience will be rewarding in the end. 

For those who are either in the same boat as me or still searching, here's my playlist of hope:

Jenn's Hopeful Playlist:


1) Bigger Than My Body - John Mayer
2) Marry Me - Train
3) Falling In Love At A Coffee Shop - Landon Pigg
4) Look Straight at Me - Dave Pittenger Band
5) Thank You - Led Zeppelin
6) Sweet Thing - Van Morrison
7) Vienna - Billy Joel
8) Only You - Yaz
9) Let It Be Me - Rosie Thomas
10) Someone Like You - Adele

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Being patient may not always be easy, but I have hope for my future....even if it's not exactly where I want it just yet.

~Jenny Rockstar

Grabbing life by the lapels....

This time last year, I wrote something really special and meaningful for my father: the songs that reminded me of my fondest memories of him. This year, as I contemplated what to say about my awesome father on a day designed just for him, tragedy struck in our family. Yesterday afternoon, my cousin Anthony suffered a major heart attack and passed away. He was only 55 years old, so many years of life left and love to give. 

While Anthony and I shared very few words, the news hit me very hard, especially knowing that my two cousins Nicole and Toni Rose lose out on the opportunity to share their love with their father on this special day....and that my Aunt Annie in a little over a decade has had to bury a husband, all her brothers, and now her son. 

It got me thinking about how precious life truly is. Sometimes we spend all of our time putting off things that we should have done sooner for a later time. We procrastinate, we laze around, and we take those simple moments in life for granted. I'm always trying to remember how many things I have to be grateful for, which is what prompts my playlist for this entry. 

Jenn's Life Playlist:

1) Life - Our Lady Peace

2) Hear You Me - Jimmy Eat World

3) Wish You Were Here - Pink Floyd

4) Home Again - Carole King

5) Homeward Bound - Simon & Garfunkel

6) Take Me Home, Country Roads - John Denver

7) When We Were Younger - Lakes

8) Memories - Weezer

9) With You In Your Dreams - Hanson

10) The Other Side - David Gray

Life is meaningful, so don't waste or ruin it. Enjoy the lazy Sundays and the crazy-filled days. Take random road-trips or international adventures as much as you can. Dress up for a romantic dinner for no reason or snuggle up on the couch with some ice cream and a good movie. Don't count all the calories, nickels and dimes, or schedule every single detail of your life. Be spontaneous and breathe in everything you can. 

As an added bonus to this entry, I'd like to share a poem by Walt Whitman in honor of Anthony. 

My Departure

by Walt Whitman

Not in a gorgeous hall of pride,
   Mid tears of grief and friendship's sigh,
Would I, when the last hour has come,
   Shake of this crumbling flesh and die.

My bed I would not care to have
   With rich and costly stuffs hung round;
Nor watched with an officious zeal,
   To keep away each jarring sound.

Amidst the thunder crash of war,
   Where hovers Death's ensanguined cloud,
And bright swords flash, and banners fly,
   Above the sickening sights of blood;

Not there—not there, would I lay down
   To sleep with all the firm and brave;
For death in such a scene of strife,
   Is not the death that I do crave.

But when the time for my last look
   Upon this glorious earth should come,
I'd wish the season warm and mild,
   The sun to shine, and flowers bloom.

Just ere the closing of the day,
   My dying couch I then would have
Borne out in the refresing air,
Where sweet shrubs grow and proud trees
      wave.

The still repose would calm my mind,
   And lofty branches overhead,
Would throw around this grassy bank,
   A cooling and a lovely shade.

At distance through the opening trees,
   A bay by misty vapours curled,
I'd gaze upon, and think the haven
   For which to leave this fleeting world.

To the wide winds I'd yield my soul,
   And die there in that pleasant place,
Looking on water, sun, and hill,
   As on their Maker's very face.

I'd want no human being near
   But at the setting of the sun,
I'd bid adieu to earth, and step
   Down to the Unknown World—alone.

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Happy Father's Day to all of the dads out there and to my own father, who continues to be the greatest dad in the whole world. I love you, Dad, and I'm grateful I still get the chance to tell you that.

~Jenny Rockstar (aka Honeybunch)

Coming home....

Home.

I've been contemplating that word a lot as of late, especially since Matt and I have finally moved out of our winter rental on the beach and into a year-round house. For many, home is just a place where you go at the end of the day, rather than a frame of mind. Four walls, the necessary rooms, and a place to put all of your stuff. But not for me. Home, to me, has become something more than just a place....it has become a frame of mind.

Throughout my life (so far), I have had quite a few places that I have lived. Some more temporary than others, but each with their own flair.

In childhood, home was always the place I could return to at the end of the day. True, there were rules and chores and consequences for breaking rules, but I was always welcome there. Even during my college years, I could always return home and feel at ease. But of course, as it always goes, you outgrow your childhood home.

When my friend and I moved into our own place, it was heaven. No more curfews, no more rules, no more responsibility to anyone but ourselves (and our landlord). If we wanted to have a get-together at our house, we could plan one without permission. Walking in the door at 4 am was no issue either. And even if I felt the need to lounge in my underwear, I could do so without much fuss....and within reason. When I was 22 years old, the notion of home was a place where I could do anything I wanted to do, not really feeling consequences for any of my actions. By 24, however, home became more of a place where I could sort out my life.

I will never have any regrets moving out of Northern New Jersey. In fact, while the job situation down here may not be as plentiful as closer to Manhattan, getting away from all of the painful memories that I had endured prior to this move was much needed. I desired a place to clear my head, a place where I could still be who I needed to be and do everything necessary to figure out my life. And getting the chance to live with Matt? Perfect. I know a few of my friends didn't agree with my decision to live with him so soon, but I made the right choice for me.

By 25, Matt and I had agreed that it was time for us to move into a place of our own. And now home became a place that I could share with someone else, a place where Matt & I could test and work on our relationship....another decision I was proud to make. Granted, it was only a winter rental, which are popular with places near the beach, but I enjoyed the solitude of walking in the surf in the off-season. Hearing the waves crash into the surf from my front door was soothing, in more ways than most can imagine. And for two years, with at least one temporary summer move for 6 weeks, our beach haven gave us the time to figure out the next step.

Which brings me to now, 27 years old, and we have finally found a year-round home. So many different definitions of the word, but I think I get it now. Home isn't necessarily just a place, it's who you're with, your own level of comfort, your life. It's all of those definitions I came to know and yet none of them. It's the existence you create in the world....and I'm proud that in my life, I found home.

As a special treat from our moving endeavors, here are some of the top songs that I can include in my moving playlist:

Jenn's Moving Playlist:


1) Two of Us - The Beatles
2) The Cave - Mumford & Sons
3) Haunting - Bonnie Dune
4) So Caught Up In You - 38 Special
5) Hello - Martin Solveig
6) Land-Locked Blues - Bright Eyes
7) Settle Ancient Mind - Jupiter Sunrise
8) Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous - Good Charlotte
9) Memory (Acoustic) - Sugarcult
10) Home - Michael Buble

~Jenny Rockstar

There's a better view....especially in the way of music

For a while, I've been wanting to share with all of you about one of my new favorite bands, Bonnie Dune....yet the words have continued to fail me every time I sit down and try to sort through my thoughts. True, they've been on my current playlists, yet where do I start to talk about an up and coming band that most people outside of the West Coast and the Glee community have never heard of? 

But then as I was working on my "to-do" list for our impending move, I had the chance to talk with a fellow Bonnie Dune fan that I randomly befriended, Alison. She asked me about my intent to see the guys in Hershey Park at the end of July, which I was more than excited to talk about! In turn, she shared her own Bonnie Dune experience when she saw them in Canada in May. The way the band members took the time to go out into the crowd and mingle, talking with fans in the audience, even their graciousness at receiving gifts from their adoring fans. Needless to say, it sparked my inspiration and so here I am, ready to share the awesomeness that is Bonnie Dune. 

To most people, Bonnie Dune may just be considered the band that Cory Monteith drums for. And of course, because of this reason, fans show up by the thousands just to catch a glimpse of the Glee star rockin' out on stage. But to those who have really taken the time to listen to the music and get to know the other band members, Bonnie Dune is an experience filled with warmth, friendship, and most important....incredible music!

When I first started finding their music online, I was taken back quite a bit. Lately, I've been missing that music scene that really connects with the audience and proves that real musicians are still out there. In college and for a year or so after, I had Jupiter Sunrise getting me through life. After their first show, I had the opportunity to talk with them and share stories, many hugs, and love of life! Their music was inspirational and different from what most bands were releasing. Granted, I do love music and I'm on iTunes daily trying to find stuff to add, but I haven't found the new artist/band that grabs me at my very soul....until now.  

Originally the brain-child of lead singer Justin Wilczynski and Jason Massey, Bonnie Dune is finally picking up the momentum with the addition of band members Seth Roberts, Joshua Kerr, and of course, Cory Monteith! Jason is no longer performing with the band, but still contributes as a producer/co-writer. Each musician is a powerhouse in their own right, with their various side projects, TV shows and movies, etc.   

While most performances can be found on the West Coast, I'm definitely planning a mini-road trip when the band takes their show to Hershey Park on July 31st. (As I've stated in recent posts!) I may never get my dream of a NJ show, preferably in Asbury Park or at the Starland Ballroom, but I'll take what I can get. My real hope is that I get to meet the men who have continued to restore my faith in the music scene. From what I've heard from their community of fans through various tweets/pictures/conversations, they're very sweet and probably the most down-to-earth individuals one can know. I'm sure the west coast Bonnie Dune fans will miss their boys for this performance, but the east coast promises to share the love....and possibly some hugs! 

And so, in my typical rockstar fashion to fit my life lately, here is this week's moving/excitement playlist! 

Jenn's Moving Playlist:

1) You Are A Tourist - Death Cab for Cutie

2) Better View - Bonnie Dune

3) Rainy Day Women #12 & 35 - Bob Dylan

4) The Lazy Song - Bruno Mars

5) Little Lion Man - Mumford & Sons

6) The Chain - Fleetwood Mac

7) Daylight - Matt & Kim

8) Run Like Hell - Pink Floyd

9) Life is Beautiful - Watashi Wa

10) Heroin - The Velvet Underground

I hope everyone has a wonderful week and if you can, check out Bonnie Dune Fans for the most up-to-date info on the band, as well as listen to tracks and get links to other important websites! Also, a special thanks to Alison for her stories, as well as my Twitter/Facebook friends who have shared their Bonnie Dune experiences! 

~Jenny Rockstar

If you want to view paradise....simply look around and view it....

With more downtime coming up, I've been thinking more and more about what my plans are for this summer. While I want to hone in on my creative ventures, this year has also been about learning to appreciate my life. Because let's face it, most of us wish we had more things going for us. In fact, I admit to being one of those individuals who always tries to push beyond the boundaries and find better things out there. In some respects, this has helped greatly in me finding out who I am. But at the same time I've come to the realization that sometimes, what you're looking for is right in front of your face.

Last night, after a long day of work and such, I came across free music downloads from my favorite show, Glee. Luckily, the songs are from next week's episode aptly titled Funeral. So, being the big fan that I am and a HUGE lover of new music, I just had to have the downloads. Among them was the song Pure Imagination, which was originally (and eloquently) performed by Gene Wilder in the classic film Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory. This song has always been inspirational and uplifting to its very core, the words simply implying that there are moments we need to dig deep and believe in the things we dream.

While listening to Chris Colfer's character Kurt (and cast) singing the classic tune, one line in the song struck me like it never had before: "if you want to view paradise, simply look around and view it." For a moment, it almost felt as if time stopped and this great epiphany came to light. I had listened to this particular song hundreds of times before, yet the meaning hadn't caught on.

It's weird how I never got it before, but in that little moment, I finally understood what Gene Wilder's character was trying to tell the winners (and us) in the movie. Life isn't always about the grandeur and reaching for perfection....no. Instead, try to view your life as perfect in those little imperfections and nuances. Paradise is not something to be found outside, but rather inside. We spend so much time thinking that "having it all" entails a big prize, lots of money, that cushy 6-figure job, etc. Yet if we really think about what makes something perfect, the answer to achievement is a lot simpler....in my case, he was sitting right on the couch next to me.

I glanced over at Matt watching tv while the rest of the song played out....and I smiled. He's always told me that he doesn't believe Heaven is up above us, but rather we're living in it. Sure, there are times that things can get rough and take a while to get back to being ok, yet I got it. Life in itself is Paradise....and oh, it is truly beautiful! Our paradise is here....I couldn't be more grateful for that.

On a different note, as stated in my previous entry, I've been spending a lot of time focusing on finding new music for my collection. And while part of me wishes I could share all the new stuff that I've added, I know that to mention it all would take me forever and a day! Yet, in discovering this new music, I have found a certain calm and balance to life.

In an effort to share what's been playing non-stop on my iPod, I would like to share my Top Ten songs on my playlist at least once or twice a week, depending on my mood. As of late, it's been mainly new music and some classics with a modern twist.

Jenn's Most Played This Week:
1) Pure Imagination (Glee Cast Version) - Glee Cast (if nothing else, listen to this song!)
2) Someone Like You - Adele
3) Threw It On The Ground - The Lonely Island
4) Pretending - Glee Cast
5) Oh Lovely - Lakes
6) Drunk Girls - LCD Soundsystem
7) Eclipse (feat. Henry Rollins) - The Flaming Lips & Stardeath and The White Dwarfs
8) I Need A Doctor - Dr. Dre (feat. Eminem & Skylar Grey)
9) Harvest Moon - Neil Young
10) Vienna - Billy Joel

I encourage everyone to realize their own version of 'paradise' in life....even if it takes you a while, I hope you find it. Have a great weekend!

~Jenny Rockstar

Making a comeback....Jenn style!

Life. What a funny way it has of taking your time and speeding it up in the blink of an eye. While I've always tried to make time to share what's on my mind, lately I've been finding less and less time to figure out how to put my thoughts into words. But for now, with mere minutes before I have to head out in the midst of another crazy weekend, I felt it was necessary to sit and process everything in my life.

I had decided 2011 was going to be the year of accomplishing some of my biggest goals. Of course, every year is a year to tackle something I have never attempted to do before, but I had had enough of feeling like I wasn't getting into some of those more meaningful goals....that needed to change. Instead of focusing on purely writing and focusing solely on those huge goals, I wanted to tackle the simpler tasks. 

In January, Matt and I celebrated our anniversary by actually going somewhere out-of-state for an overnight, complete with a day of shopping/sight-seeing, a delicious dinner, and a night in a cozy B&B in New Hope, PA. Taking the time to appreciate those moments that we sometimes take for granted was really nice. Both of our schedules never really allow for going out and doing the normal couples stuff, yet we manage to take the time for those simple moments. This year has brought with it a need to continue down this particular path, taking more pictures and having more adventures that push beyond our normal routine. And getting to do this all with my best friend....priceless.

After receiving a new program for photography for my 27th Birthday, I've also been itching to take more pictures. It feels like so many people are finally starting to get more into their picture-taking, so upping the ante on my computer and trying some new techniques with my photos seemed appropriate. While I may just be starting out with Lightroom and finding ways to make my flash work in low light settings with uneven ceilings/surfaces, finally accomplishing those shots that I've wanted to capture will happen now. I can't wait for this summer when I can try out a few of those tricks at more shows, especially the Bonnie Dune concert I want to attend at Hershey Park in July. (And for those of you looking for an awesome concert this summer, Bonnie Dune at Hershey Park on July 31st is the place to be!)

Then, just when I thought it would never happen, I actually had the chance to go into the city and watch my favorite show Glee being filmed. Completely random trip to the city, but well worth the experience! I took some pretty sweet pictures of the actors and filming, including some close-ups of some of my favorites. The experience alone validates the importance of being able to do what you love in life....and doing a damn good job of it! Those actors work so hard, starting super early in the morning and going until late at night, they are just as much of an inspiration in their work as anyone else who works hard at what they love. It reminds me that it doesn't matter what your calling may be, just as long as that calling means something to you. I'm surrounded by people who pursue their dreams just by doing them and not caring about the outcome. As long as you continue to do what you love, everything will fall into place. 

And of course, I can't forget to mention that I've also taken my music project to newer levels and really branched out of my shell with some of my iTunes finds! Granted, the writing it hasn't been very forthcoming, but the experiences of adding different types of music to my playlist has proven fruitful and worthwhile. When one continues to strive learning more about things they love, the outcome can be quite exhilarating and exciting, which brings me back to now. 

Here we are, at the beginning of May....and I feel like while there's still so much more for me to accomplish, I know that the rest of this year will give me the opportunity to make more of those goals a reality. And so, as an added treat to show the progress of my music project, I want to share with all of you my current most-listened to songs on my iPod. I'll be able to give a more proper update when time permits, but it's about time I started writing more and focusing on reaching for more of those simple goals that I hope to cross off my ever-growing list.

Jenn's May Playlist:

1) Sailboat - Bonnie Dune (If you haven't heard their music....do check them out!)

2) Never Going Back Again - Fleetwood Mac

3) Bloom - Radiohead

4) Things We Do For Love - 10cc

5) Icky Thump - The White Stripes

6) Tris In Haze - Jupiter Sunrise

7) Rolling In The Deep - Adele

8) Half Life I - Arcade Fire

9) Season of The Witch - Donovan

10) Barbra Streisand - Duck Sauce

~Jenny Rockstar

To Make An End Is To Make A Beginning....Saying Farewell to 2010

As we prepare to say goodbye to 2010, I can't help but feel blessed at all this year has given me! Through the good and the bad, I have experienced more love, laughter, friendship, smiles, and moments that I wouldn't trade for anything in the world!

On the flipside, I've also experienced loss, heartache, and pain that I had never thought I would need to go through again. Yet here I am, stronger and more vibrant than ever, reflecting on all of the memories that I've been a part of. 

Now every year, I've been known to go through my list of people that I'm grateful for and thank everyone in my life for being there, yet this year, I'm deciding to change things up a bit. Of course, I am grateful for everyone and everything in my life, because where would I be without all of it? I would definitely not be where I am today....feeling like a part of something important. 

Instead, I can't help but focus on all of the negativity, hatred, stubbornness, laziness, greed, and spite that seems to exist. Frankly, it breaks my heart that people just can't seem to put aside their differences and show some compassion for one another. Instead, there is mud-slinging and throwing blame on each other....totally not necessary, especially during the holiday season! 

The whole concept of this anti-cheer really got me thinking about some of my own hopes and dreams for the upcoming year. I have my own to focus on, yet I do have some resolutions that everyone can be a part of! Wasn't it John Lennon who said, "All we are saying, is give peace a chance?" I think for once, let's all put our differences aside and create some hopes and dreams for this upcoming year:

1) Ban all personal hatred and negativity online. Frankly, I'm getting tired of watching others fight over a public forum about who slighted who. If you're going to fight, unfriend one another. A social network should not become The Jerry Springer Show. If you really don't have anything nice to say, just remember that success is the best revenge. Retaliating with nasty words only perpetuates the notion that you are just as immature as the  person you fight with. Unfortunately, if you really feel the need to fight, do it in private....I'm sick of being subjected to it.

2) Music should re-establish its relationship with emotions, not the Benjamins. It saddens me that nowadays when I listen to popular music, all that I can gather from it is its ability to generate money for banal, clichéd lyrics and over-played beats. Really? Can we only re-use classic songs and interject a techno rhythm in there....and call it music? I miss the days of less blingy hip-hop and more garage bands. I want that rise to the top, the feeling of music that touches you with its words and raw emotion, the way one feels when they connect with the music and focus only in on that moment. Music that makes me shed a tear means more than music that is fist-pump worthy. 

3) Everyone should smile more. In a time of economic crisis, I can empathize with the inability to see the silver lining in life. Yet smiling is a simple way to turn the tough times into something more bearable. Life is too short to go through it frowning. And you know what they say....smiling can be contagious. 

4) Don't be afraid to speak up against things that bother you. For this one, I see way too many people that don't open up their mouth when they feel the need to say something. For the new year, I want to see more people speaking up and fighting for what they believe in! We all talk a big talk....but walking the walk is much different.

5) Sharing more love and kindness with one another. Yes, this could fall under the whole need to smile more, yet I'm talking about how we communicate with one another. Whenever I'm in a store, I make it a point to always ask the clerk how they're doing, say "thank you" and "have a good day," and especially during the winter months where the weather is less that favorable, wish them a safe trip home. Those few moments of kindness really do resonate with people. (On a side note, reminding your loved ones just how much you love them is important....you don't always get a next time to say it.)

6) To not be afraid in changing the world. Let's face it: our government may put certain things into effect, but we have the power to change it. Sometimes one voice is all it takes to be the catalyst....so don't shrink in fear of being someone greater than you are. That one moment you try to make a change, something wonderful could happen. You never know.

7) Spend more time writing more snail mail letters. Yes, snail mail. We spend so much time writing e-mails and text messages that we forget what methods we used before that. I used to love the idea of walking up to the mailbox and finding a letter addressed to me. So, if you must, find a pen pal and break out the pen and paper. Just because some may find letter writing a little antiquated doesn't mean that it won't touch the heart of the letter recipient. (Also, a phone call never hurt anyone either!)

8)  Appreciate the simple things in life. The trend that I have noticed is that we're a selfish, greedy bunch. Material items mean more than immaterial, a video game replaces a good old-fashioned game of hide-and-seek. Whatever happened to a walk in the park or running through the rain? (Even in super snowy conditions, snow angels and a little snowball fight?) The simplest things can be just as fun as amusing one's self with video games and HDTVs. 

9) Be more considerate of those in the spotlight, especially if they are out in public. When I see people post videos of running into celebrities and the celeb tends to ignore them....I watch the person who was trying to gain the attention blast them like no other! Celebrities are people too, ok? It really makes me sad to see that if someone doesn't get a piece of memorabilia from someone like Johnny Depp or Kim Kardashian, that they'll automatically burn them on television or viral video. Would you like it if someone stuck cameras in your face all the time, demanding you give them something? It's not all about you, so give it a rest and respect the fact that they may be out to dinner with friends or walking their dog....not really wanting to put on that showface just for you.

10) Never stop learning. This feels silly saying this, but sometimes, I feel like most people forget this simple lesson. In order to continue living, we need to keep learning each and every day. It can be something as simple as attempting to cook, or complicated like emotionally connecting in a relationship. Whatever the case may be, no one should ever think that they know it all....because they don't. One person or thing cannot solve all the world's problems, only though trial and error can it happen. 

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I wish everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year! Let's see if we can truly become the individuals that we strive to be in 2011. And if we can't, to at least take steps to getting there.

~Jenny Rockstar

Memories, Christmas Memories....they're the sweetest ones I know....

When Thanksgiving ends and the countdown to Christmas begins....my mind goes into holiday overdrive. Where many dread the holiday season, I love everything about it! 

Every year, I make the tree-decorating process as fun as possible, complete with Christmas music (or possibly a great holiday-themed movie).

Little holiday knick-knacks adorn the tables, as well as sugar cookie scented candles.

Multi-colored lights around the windows and cheesy Christmas decor hung up on the walls.

Christmas shopping and gift wrapping becomes a sport....a very fun one, at that!

Writing out Christmas cards becomes an all-day event, complete with cute, personalized messages for as many as I can come up with!

I always manage to give a few dollars to the Salvation Army whenever I hear that familiar bell ringing and see the red collection bucket.

Driving around and admiring the lights on homes and decor in front yards makes me light up with glee.

Sharing a smile and 'Happy Holidays' with anyone I encounter/talk to makes me feel all warm inside.

A great night consists of a nice glass of red wine and admiring the lit (and beautifully decorated) tree.

Catching the smile when someone opens up your gift and realizes just how important they are to you.

And last, but certainly not least, the mistletoe carefully hung right by the front door, signaling the world to acknowledge that hugs and kisses are required upon entry.

Yes, I haven't lost that Christmas spirit, even though for many, this holiday is viewed as 'too commercial' or 'all about gifts'. Instead, for me, it's a time to share kindness and joy with those around you (and those you briefly encounter.) 

In the spirit of Christmas, I've chosen to share my ten of my favorite Christmas songs....because what holiday season would be complete without them? Let's face it, the familiar notes of Nat King Cole crooning The Christmas Song is enough to fill my heart with more love and warmth than any cup of hot chocolate any day! 

1) Nat King Cole - The Christmas Song: The quintessential holiday classic! This song just oozes yuletide cheer with a crooner's feel. Every time this song comes on, it reminds me that it is finally the holiday season. Those opening strings, coupled with that velvety voice....my heart melts. 

2) James Taylor - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas: There is something about James Taylor that is synonymous with warmth and cheer....this song just furthering his image. HYAMLC has always made me tear up ever since I could remember hearing the song for the first time. A song that talks about wishing the best for others during the holidays and reminding us that if the fates allow, we will get to share another holiday season with those we love and care about.  

3) Vince Guaraldi Trio (& Cast) - Christmastime is Here: Let's face it....Christmas is not right without watching A Charlie Brown Christmas. And while I could go on & on about the entire soundtrack, this song in particular makes me really think about Christmas. Charlie Brown and his friends truly know how to make me get into the holiday spirit. (And for those who have no clue of what makes this special one of the best....watch it, especially Linus's big speech.)

4) The Carpenters - Merry Christmas, Darling: True, my fave show Glee did cover this song (and it was wonderful), but the original is always the best. Karen Carpenter's melancholy makes me realize that the holiday season would be better shared with the one you love rather than apart and dwelling on the sadness. (And Rachel's performance moved me to almost as many tears as I watched her pine for the one person she couldn't have this holiday season.)

5) Dean Martin - Baby It's Cold Outside: Ooooooh, this may be one of the most fun/romantic songs I can think of! What better premise is there than a woman trying to head home in the chilly winter season, meanwhile her lover doing his damnedest to make her stay? Of course, in the end she gives in, but that playful back-and-forth banter is just magical! Damn near perfect.  

6) Bing Crosby - White Christmas: Ah, Bing! There's something about the crooners at Christmastime that fills one's heart with that love and cheer. Of course, Bing Crosby is at the top of this list with two classic holiday movies: Holiday Inn & White Christmas....both having performances of the latter's title. For those who have never experienced a Christmas with snow....you're missing out on one of the key elements of what makes this holiday so special to many. It's more than just the presents, the tree, and sharing time with loved ones....it's also about the perfect setting for such a warm & loving season.

7) John & Yoko & The Plastic Ono Band - Happy Xmas (War is Over): What kind of Beatles fan would I be if this song was not included on my list? Aside from that fact, this song is awesome. The full band performing, the talent, and more importantly, those iconic words: war is over....if you want it. John & Yoko were truly onto something when they wanted to spread the message of love and peace in the world. If we want something to begin or end, we need to be that change in the world. A truly powerful and profound message to share during the holiday season.

8) Frank Sinatra - I'll Be Home For Christmas: Yes, trigger the waterworks....but what a beautifully crafted song to shed a tear for. Someone singing that even if they can't be where they'd like to be for Christmas, they're there in spirit regardless. 

9) Alvin & The Chipmunks - Christmas Don't Be Late: For all of the romance, you sometimes need one completely cheesy and child-like song for the Christmas season. Enter Alvin & The Chipmunks with one of the best songs about toys and hoping that their favorite holiday arrives right on time! (Side note: yes....I even make the 'hula hoop' motion in time with the song.)

10) Johnny Marks (Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer) - The Most Wonderful Day of The Year: Last, but certainly not least....another song to bring back those vivid childhood memories! With what other song could you sing about spotted elephants and misfit toys? But in the end, the message is clear: at Christmas, even the misfit toys are important, because there will always be someone grateful to have them.

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And so, in the spirit of the holidays, I wish you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy Holidays! Never forget that this season is important in remembering to share love, joy & laughter with those nearest and dearest to you. 

~Jenny Rockstar

Accomplishing the possimpible....

I started thinking about this past year in reference to my personal goals. While the year itself has been one of great change and many wonderful memories made, I realize that when it comes to my own personal goals....I probably didn't achieve nearly as many as I had wanted to. 

I've always been taught that patience is a virtue when it comes to achieving goals, but even more importantly, taking that first step towards them needs to happen as well. So, in an effort to push toward my personal goals, I decided to list them. Enough is enough....I need to stop letting myself down and start pushing myself forward more! I'm tired of disappointment and hurt....it's time to keep up the joy and happiness in my life.

1) Write for a website other than my own blog. 

2) Continue to seek out new and interesting music....and write about it.

3) Take more walks on the boardwalk (even during the chilly months)....preferably with headphones.

4) Continue to write my book of letters to people that inspire me.

5) Take more pictures outside of shows.

6) Make peace with my fears.

7) Enroll in a college course....monetarily permitting.

8) Learn a new language (or brush up on a previously learned one).

9) Try to cook more ethnic dishes.

10) Write snail mail letters to a friend (or two).

11) Go back to California....Los Angeles (monetarily permitting).

12) Visit New York City more.

13) Visit Philadelphia.

14) Read more books.

15) Have more coffeehouse outings.

16) Keep pushing through my music project....and write more about it.

17) Stop feeling sad when people push me out of their big picture. (Because there are plenty of people who want to include me in theirs.)

18) Get onstage and sing a song with a band....at least once.

19) Get married and have children (not necessarily anytime soon, but in the future).

20) Go skydiving.

21) Take more random day trips....preferably with company.

22) Be more daring in what I decide to write about.

23) Save money.

24) Piece together my family history and learn more about my heritage.

25) Try snowboarding.

26) Find at least ten reasons to smile every day.

27) Learn how to play guitar.

28) Write more poetry.

29) Forgive more to those who deserve to be forgiven.

30) Never stop adding new things to accomplish in life.

~Jenny Rockstar