Category: Music

On Friday, I’m in Love

Leave a comment

This week I’ m in love with…

Writing and receiving thank you notes. Make this a habit if you haven’t already added this practice to your life. Gratitude is the new black. They can totally match your style and personality since there are a huge variety available at all price points. I tend to collect them from Target, Paper Source, and Hallmark. Please know that you can make any blank card a thank you card simply by altering your personal handwritten message.

Top center- Paper Source, Middle row- Target, Bottom row- Paper Source & Target

Top center- Paper Source, Middle row- Target, Bottom row- Paper Source & Target

My new Kate Spade coin purse. I purchased it on a whim and it was on sale. I love the stripes and sometimes all you need are the essentials as opposed to the pieces of luggage I carry around called “purses”. Also, great color scheme so it is perfect for games in the fall :). Go ‘Dores!

Coin Purse

The new Civil Wars song, “The One That Got Away“. Just listen. Also, if you ever have the opportunity please see them in concert.

Hoda Kotb and this picture of her displaying her love of Delta Delta Delta.

Check out #4! DLAM

Check out #4! DLAM

A good breakfast. Thanks Sky Blue CafĂ©. If you’re ever in town, check this place out for delicious food and a charming atmosphere. I chose to create my own omelet with spinach, cheese, and chicken. It was delivered with breakfast potatoes, a small cup of fruit, and one of the best biscuits I’ve ever eaten in my life. Yum! East Nashville does food well.

Photo c/o Sky Blue Cafe's Website

Photo c/o Sky Blue Cafe’s Website

The new buddy comedy, The Heat with Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy. I was able to see a sneak preview and did nothing but belly laugh the entire movie. Love these two sharing the same screen.

What are you love with this week?

Later Y’all.

Music to My Ears

Leave a comment

headphones

Here’s what’s on my fun summer list right now:

Blurred Lines by Robin Thicke, Pharrell, and T.I.–I fought it but I can’t help but move to it as soon as it pops up on my Spotify.
Cruise (Remix) by Florida Georgia Line and Nelly–It’s just pure fun.
Tonight I’m Getting Over You by Carly Rae Jepsen–Yes, the Call Me Maybe girl
My Songs Know What You Did in The Dark (Light Em Up) by Fallout Boy
Done by The Band Perry
Heart Attack by Demi Lovato
I Love It by Icona Pop feat. Charli XCX
Can’t Hold Us by Macklemore and Ray Lewis feat. John Legend
Next to Me by Emeli Sande`

I’m also pretty obsessed with Lady Antebellum’s new album Golden and One Republic’s new album Native.

In the next few weeks, I’m seeing Humming House (I’ve heard great things) and of course some girl named BEYONCE is coming to town ;). I’ve got to get some more shows on my agenda.

Give your ears some lovin’ and let me know what you’re listening to this summer.

Nashville 4 Free

1 Comment

Confession: I’ve been feeling a little blah lately. I’m good at not falling prey to everyone’s highlight reel but I can’t help but wonder if certain things will happen for me in my life or if I’ll ever understand how to make those things happen. I know that I live a blessed life but we all wonder sometimes, don’t we?

Post dinner Friday night, I came home and blogged. I fell asleep with intentions of doing absolutely nothing the entire weekend. When I feel this way, I hibernate. However, I guess God had a different plan because I popped up at 7am on Saturday morning. After as much defiant laying as I could muster I ventured to the gym and then because it was such a beautiful day I made my may to the pool while reading my new book club selection, Wife 22.

I decided to go through my email and I found the world famous “Work Life Balance” sent out by one of my colleagues. It pretty much chronicles all Nashville happenings. Basically, if you want to know what to do in the city then you should get on this distribution list. I wasn’t in the mood to spend money so I scanned through and thought, “What could I do for free?” This got me thinking about possibly adding a feature to the blog called “Nashville 4 Free”. I don’t have buckets of disposable income so being able to do things for free or at a very minimum cost is super important. Luckily, I live in Nashville and there are actually free things going on all the time especially during the summer. I made a plan and then got myself ready for my “free” day. If I’m going to get out of this funk then I’ve got to be active and not be a sloth.

Day 1

Musicians’ Corner in Centennial Park featuring Westbound Rangers, Striking Matches, Skyline Hotel, Jess Bostic, and a couple other artists on the acoustic stage. On Saturdays from 2-5pm for the rest of June you can hear FREE music in the park. All I needed was a lawn chair (sit under one of the big shady trees) and I took my Baggu filled with other desirable items like a bottle of water, blanket, and sunscreen. Food trucks, a beer garden, and music are all a part of this event. I’d never heard of any of the musical acts before but left a huge fan of Westbound Rangers and Striking Matches. I also enjoyed the blueberry and lemonade shaved ice from Blue Monkey Shaved Ice that I indulged in for a hot weather treat. So many people and so many cute dogs. Centennial Park is beautiful and you can take a look at the lovely Parthenon and feed the ducks while you’re there. Planning on going back next Saturday to see Ben Sollee, Mat Giraud, and Humming House. Cost:$4.00

Check out the schedule for upcoming performers.
Westbound Rangers on stage
Yummy!
Beautiful day for an outdoor concert
Belcourt–the big white box is the screen

Belcourt Theatre Saturday Outdoor Cinema: Batman at Sunset
Now, this was a bit of a disappointment simply because the ’89 version was advertised but they ended up showing the original Batman, like black and white with super racist attitudes towards Asians and Asian Americans. Some of the dialogue actually led to people making audible comments of discomfort. However, I’m sure when you show up and see the movie you expect to see then it has the potential of being a grand time. Food trucks (a staple of any event), beautiful weather, a free movie, and once again all you need is a chair or blanket (you’re sitting on gravel so I would bring a chair). I would also bring a cardigan in case of chill. Cost: $0.00

I’m excited to continue this adventure. It just made me think about all of the money I spend on fun when I have the great fortune to live in a city that creates affordable options for folks like me.

Oh, and I took this really good selfie. Cost: PRICELESS

IMG_2238

What can you do in your city for free?

Later Y’all

The Thrill

Leave a comment

So, I needed a pick me up on Friday and a buddy of mine let it be known that tickets had been released for the previously announced as SOLD OUT The Black Keys concert.

bk

I breathed for about two seconds before I went online in search of a treat. I put one ticket in my Shopping Cart–thought, “no, I better not buy this ticket.” I then looked at my list of things to do and immediately went back to search for another ticket that was a bit cheaper and closer to the stage. Well, I ended up getting an obstructed view seat and felt a bit peeved but then thought, “whatever, I get to hear The Black Keys live and that is enough.” I felt good about Section 108 Row GG Seat 8. I was off to the side of the stage which is quite an interesting perspective and turned out to be quite a blessing.

I saw the band enter and exit, I saw Dan Auerbach’s little girls watch Daddy at work on stage, I saw them exit the stage and then re enter for the encore. Dan waved at us as he walked past and had a face full of gratefulness as we were screaming for his attention. Patrick isn’t much of a waver. I saw the videoscreen up close and personal but never really saw the seldom used backup band.

What got me–the thrill was when I finally looked out into the audience. From my vantage point I could see the entire arena staring back at me. Not really at me, but you know what I mean. It took my breath away. To see all of those people just loving what was happening on that stage. I got to thinking, “How does it feel to know that all of those people are there for you?” Now, many of the audience members were high off of various substances, but every time I looked out into Bridgestone Arena, I got high off the thrill of being in a place with that many people and the opportunity of looking back at them. Imagine holding that crowd’s attention. Chills, I say, chills! It was one of those times that I paused, breathed deeply, and took in as I wanted to remember what I felt like at that very moment.

I’m a fan of the stage. I love a microphone. I love the opportunity to speak to the masses. It is a place of comfort for me and where I’m at my best. I could have looked out into that audience the whole night without issue. The two large disco balls that appeared prior to the encore added to the beauty of the moment as everyone was sparkling in the audience.

I’ll never be a rockstar. I don’t have an inkling of musical talent that extends beyond middle school show choir. However, something about that moment charged me up to figure out how can I get back on a stage (large or small) and experience the best high I’ve ever known.

bk 2

Later Y’all.

Leave a comment

Krystal Love You

Check out DahliaLynn authored by the incredible blogger, jewelry designer, fashionista,Student Affairs Professional, and just all around human being Jessica Reasons.

I had the privilege of being featured in her “Love You” series. It is a pretty powerful moment to sit down and reflect on what you love about yourself. That power is only intensified by putting it on paper and sharing it with readers. This is quite helpful for this newly minted 30 year old ;).

I enjoyed the experience and I think you should consider writing your own “Love You”. Believe me, it can only help and whenever you’re feeling low just pull it out and remind yourself that you are beautifully and wonderfully made by His hands.

My trip to Austin, TX (details soon) afforded me the opportunity to grab a pic by this ever popular wall.

Thanks for reading!

Later Y’all

Music To My Ears

Leave a comment

My current faves

1. “Mirrors” by Justin Timberlake –I’m certified obsessed with him. Looking forward to his return to SNL!
2. “When I Was Your Man” by Bruno Mars –I want to dance with him and his band.
3. “Special Delivery” by Bridget Kelly
4. “Fumble” by Trey Songz–He actually gives a great live show.
5. “I Like It” by Sevyn Streeter
6. Trouble by Taylor Swift –she isn’t really a fan of the Spotify 😩
7. Stay by Rihanna ft. Mikky Ekko–apparently she isn’t either 😩
8. “Love Interruption” by Jack White–To be honest, I’m not a Jack White follower BUT his performance of this song on the Grammys with Ruby Amanfu pulled me in a bit.
9. “Merry Go ‘Round” by Kacey Musgraves –Sad and beautiful song
10. “Sweet Nothing” by Calvin Harris & Florence Welch from Florence & The Machine –Elliptical worthy
11. “Best of You”, “Dream On”, and “Wonderwall” as performed by Anastacia — She is a total throwback but do you remember the MTV show, “The Cut”? Anastacia was the winner but kinda disappeared to Europe after “I’m Outta Love”. I stumbled upon an album she did of covers of songs originally performed by male singers called “It’s a Man’s World”. I’ve always loved her voice and I’ve always loved these three songs so for me, it is a match made in heaven. Now, did these songs need to be remade? Nope, The Foo Fighters, Aerosmith, and Oasis did a fine job BUT I’m still okay with new twists.

Gotta love Spotify. Easy and economical access to music. Check out the 3/5/13 playlist.

Later Y’all.

Krystal

Oh, when the Saints go MARCHing in…

Leave a comment

March is here yet again…February is a mere 28 days of love and Black History.

What’s on my plate for March? Well, so happy you asked.

1. Reviving “On Thursday, We Give Thanks” and “On Friday, I’m in Love”. Sorry to leave you hangin with those series. Life happened and blogging was put on the backburner.
2. Office of the Dean of Students Movie Day (Argo) and Junior League Book Club in the same day. I can’t take the excitement!
3. JohnnySwim at Music City Roots at Loveless Cafe. Love this duo so very much!
4. Kairos’ Girls’ Night Out
5. JLN Kids in the Kitchen
6. Cultivating Excellence: Women & Gender Leadership Symposium. I’m a panelist with some really hotshot ladies.
7. 2 Girls on the Run Nasvhille Friend/Fun Raising Events
8. Flashdance at TPAC
9. Cross Point moves to its new location. Chapter 2 begins!!!

Whoa! Great times are ahead in March. It is going to be busy BUT I gotta step back and take in the whole picture. This month is a plate of incredible and I’m ready to dive in :).

Later y’all.

Leave a comment

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

 

I looked at my calendar and realized that I have an event every night of the week for the entire month. I don’t have any “couch” time. A part of me is excited about my involvement and another part of me just wants to have time to watch Hulu Plus and sit in comfort while wearing oversized sweatpants and munching on Welch’s Fruit Snacks.

A buddy of mine helped me reframe the month by listing the three things on my calendar that I’m most excited about occurring. Sure, I’ll buy into that. Here we go:

1. My So-Called Band at Cannery Ballroom -90’s music, festive beverages, and friends. Nuff said.

2. Emancipation Proclamation Viewing- The actual document is coming to the Tennessee State Museum located in downtown Nashville. The history nerd in me is geekin’ out. Wait, you didn’t know that I was a history nerd? I went to college in Colonial Williamsburg and actually went to the exhibits. Shh! Don’t tell my friends.

3. Melissa Harris Perry is coming to Vanderbilt. She’s legit. I’m not a publically political person but she fires me up. Love strong women!

4. KAIROS Women- I love KAIROS at Brentwood Baptist Church. This is their first women’s night and I’m excited to be a part of the experience. Worship and the word with women in Christ. Sign me up!

Okay, so I listed four things. My blog, remember? This is a great way to reframe the chaos of my everyday. I’m getting to do things that make me happy and grow me as a person. I’ll take it. I no longer tell people that “I don’t have time”. Instead, I tell them that I’ve prioritized my time elsewhere. We all have time when we really want to do something and for everything else we make tons of excuses. Admit it, if I asked you to help me move you’d totally be busy BUT if I asked you to go see Beyonce with me the same weekend you’d all of a sudden be free as a bird. Totes fine, no judgement.

 

“The bad news is time flies but the good news is you’re the pilot.” – Michael Altsuler

 

What are you up to this month?

Later y’all.

 

On Thursdays, We Give Thanks.

Leave a comment

It’s that time again amigos!

1. Free concerts. Working at a University, I often get perks like attending free shows. Last year, Trey Songz, My Morning Jacket, and Karmin. This year Childish Gambino and J Cole. Let’s not forget White Panda and Milly Badison. I love music even more when it’s free.

2. Laughing with students. They come in and chat. We speak real life language. We laugh. Feels good. They come back for more because they enjoyed the interaction. Relationship building occurs. The conversation gets richer. Learning occurs. Let’s call it a win. Best part of my job. The end.

3. My overly large Duke sweatpants. Go Duke! My couch, those pants, and a snack make the world a better place.

That’s all for now. Have a lovely rest of the week.

Later y’all.

Babel.

Leave a comment

Mumford & Sons.

I don’t need to say much else about that matter.

His (Marcus Mumford) voice burrows its way deep down inside of me. I am transported to the core of my feelings and am made to face them head on. This is quite a powerful impact to have on a person, especially on her morning commute to work. “Music is what feelings sounds like.” Amen! I don’t like to be made to think about how I feel but for some reason I keep coming back to this music and going on that journey. It is actually healthy but hard.

In case you were wondering my favorite songs (so far) from Babel are “Holland Road”,  “Ghosts That We Knew”, “Lovers’ Eyes”, “Reminder”, “Not With Haste”. For those of you, like me, who never really know song titles anymore, that woud be #4,  #5, #7, #8, and #12.

I would like to be Carey Mulligan for a day. I mean, in the past it was because of her haircut and style, but now I must add to the list that she is married to This Voice.

Jon Acuff wrote this blog, “God or Girlfriend” about “I Will Wait.” Just adds to my love of the band and the song. Seeing them live was quite the privilege. I hope I get to do it again. Fingers crossed!

That is all for now.

Later Y’all.