It's Totally Karma!

My dear, dear Debra Duchet sent this little email forward, and it totally slapped me in the face! Too often, email forwards hit us a a bad time,  when we are busy, or just checking mail, or whatever.  This could not have come at a better time!  I had just finished watching "Single Santa Seeks Mrs. Claus" on the Hallmark Channel (with a bottle of pinot grigio!) so I had been balling my eyes out! When the movie ended and I pulled myself together to check email, this is what I found in my inbox:

"Good Karma"

Take into account that great love and great achievments involve great risk.

When you lose, don't lose the lesson.

Follow the three R's: Respect thyself, Respect others, and take Responsibility for your actions.

Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck.

Learn the rules so you know how to bend them properly.

Don't let a little dispute injure a great relationship.

When you you realize you've made a mistake,  take immediate actions to correct it.

Spend some time alone everyday.

Open your arms to change, but don't let go of your values.

Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.

Live a good, honorable life.  Then when you get older and think back, you'll be able to enjoy it a second time.

A loving atmosphere in your home is the foundation for your life.

In disagreements with love ones, deal only with the current situation. Don't bring up the past.

Share your knowledge.  It is a way to achieve immortality.

Be gentle with the earth.

Once a year, go someplace you've never been before.

Remember that the best relationship is one in which your love for each other exceeds your need for each other.

Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.

Approach love and cooking with reckless abandon. (Miss Ginger says "insert appropriate craft/skill/ability here!)

The wisdoms in this forward were attributed to the Dalai Lama.  They certainly seem appropriate in light of Miss G's current set of circumstances!  It makes me feel good about the way I've been living my life,  and I hope you will feel the same way!

Love to all!

 

Miss Ginger goes through a process

Sorry it's been so long since everyone has heard from me,  but Miss Ginger has been busy going through "a process".  I didn't really realize that this was happening,  but I have been strangely disoriented since ex-hubby left. Don't get me wrong, I'm fine. I just feel sort of wildly driven to complete projects and get things in order.  Miss Tony described the process perfectly today when she said "I understand perfectly what you're going through.  You're decoupling!"  She's hit the nail on the head!  All of those decisions, comprimises and lost battles that accumulated over the last 7 years can now be undone!  I can put everything where I want it,  and screw anybody who doesn't like it there!  I can try things out,  and live with them for a while to test their longevity,  and no longer have to answer the question "you're not going to leave that there,  are you?!"  And,  I've got SO MUCH closet space!  Give me a couple more days to finish the final touches and I'll post photos of Miss Ginger's FABULOUS new private dressing room!

 

Pretty, Pretty, Pretty

I'll bet you thought I was talking about Miss Ginger!  Actually,  it's the weather!  It's beautiful here! Days like today are what the holiday time in South Texas is all about!  All weekend it was dreary,  humid,  drizzly,  and gross!  Some of the folks from the Krewe came over to work on chorus props,  and we got a lot done but our session was cut short when the rain started to fall.  The garage was too small for the whole group to work,  so we shut it down and the Kids and I settled down for a long winter's nap. We woke up to more dreary weather,  but we watched a couple of episodes of "Stylishly Late with Stacy London" to brighten things up. 

 

 

 

I just love Stacy because I think she is the coolest chick on Earth!  Anyway,  the kids and I finally went to bed,  and this morning we woke up and it was clear,  cold,  and breezy!  Winter weather for Texas!  It's brisk and fresh and comfortable and FABULOUS! So everyone put on your best outerwear that no one ever gets to see and hit the streets in style!!

Tags: Stacy London, outerwear, winter in Texas, Krewe

Drag Queen on the Loose!

Well, here's the answer to the cliffhanger ( that should be a porn name! "Cliff Hanger"?!)  ANYWAY- Miss Ginger Grant is once again on the market! That's right:  she's a single girl again! After 7 years Hubby is now Ex-Hubby and all is well in the universe! We've both been amazingly calm and adult-like through the whole thing,  but last Saturday was the day he packed up his Tahoe and left Houston for a new life.  I think the rigors of being married to a FABULOUS drag queen with a heavy performance schedule and a busy social life just took its toll on the poor guy! But there's no hard feelings and we both wish the best for each other.  Ginger actually kinda likes the idea of living alone,  but Friday and Saturday nights can get sorta boring without someone to pal around with.  So, if anyone knows any hot single guys who have been dying for the chance to carry wigs and dresses everywhere they go,  and stay up till the wee hours of the morning waiting for the second set to start,  give them Miss G's digits! So, it's out there now.  All you girls out there who are hosting shows and doing benefits: don't forget to let Miss G know what's going on!  She's all dressed up and looking for an escort!   Love to all!!!   ....g

Thanksgiving has come and gone!

Well,  Thanksgiving has come and gone,  and Miss Ginger has a lot for which to be thankful!  She's thankful first and foremost for the friends and family that shared her table with her for the special day! "Mom and Dad" where here, along with "the Girls", A and MA. Mr. Bill and Miss Tony were here,  and we shared a great meal, if I do say so myself.  The turkey turned out beautifully cooked outdoors on the grill!  I meant to snap a photo,  but I forgot,  so you'll just have to take a look at the cover of Martha Stewart Living next time you're in line at the grocery.  It looked just like it!  We ate way too much and had some great wine,  so everyone headed home to their recliners right before dark to hibernate.  It was a perfect Thanksgiving!

We've have rainy,  really cold weather today!  It's yucky!  Miss Ginger embarks on a new chapter in her life today,  and the change in weather I'm sure is just the first of many changes to come for her!  (No one panic: she's not having anything snipped or removed!)  Things will be different, though,  so watch the blog and I'll give you more details as I'm able!

How's that for a cliffhanger?

 

Miss Ginger goes all Martha Stewart on your ass!

Well,  the holidays have finally hit Miss Ginger.  She's decided to go all out and host Thanksgiving herself, along with the help of her favorite domestic goddess Martha Stewart.    This month's issue of Living has a recipe for a roasted turkey prepared on an outdoor grill,  so I'm ready to fire mine up! How appropriate is it in Texas to barbeque the turkey,  especially since it will probably be about 88 degrees that day anyway!  Albuquerque Brother will be here, along with my Local Brother and his 3 kids.  And, when my extended family is added in the head count rolls up to be about 14.  That's a good size group!  I guess I'll get up early Saturday and try to hit Sam's Club before the rush!  Hopefully I can get the shopping and some of the prep done this weekend so I won't be rushing around on Thursday.  I have to be able to watch the big event hosted by America's first choice for fashion and affordable luxury:  the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade!  Hopefully the balloons won't take out any spectators this year!

Watch the blog for updates on the progress! 

 

 

Can you believe it's almost THANKSGIVING?

I guess when mssngmysoldier said she was celebrating early Thanksgiving next we it really hit Miss Ginger:  she is simply NOT ready for the holidays!  Please don't think she is a Scrooge or a Grinch-  that couldn't be farther from the truth!  The truth is, they have really snuck up on her this year and her preparation level is zero!!!

First of all,  she still needs time to lose the weight she gained last year "because of the holidays". Secondly,  she has no idea where she wants to spend the celebrations, or with whom. And finally,  she is simply NOT prepared to deal with shopping,  decorating,  and the requisite merrymaking required for an appropriate observance of this festive occassion!  If she did it now the tree is sure to scream Charlie Brown!!

So here's her proposal:  let's push them back this year!  Think about it- there's not shit going on in say, March or April.  If we wait until then,  there will be  plenty of time to prepare a proper menu,  select perfect gifts for everyone,  and decorate Chez Ginger in the splendor of the season that her FABULOUS friends deserve!   All the retail queens could take the week for vacation,  the weather will be more predictable,  and we'll be able to give each other FABULOUS gifts because everything will have been on sale!

Let me know what you think!  I (and my 4 glasses of merlot!) think it is a BRILLIANT concept!

Holiday love to all!   ......g

"Mom" is always looking out for my safety!

My dear, sweet "Mom" sent me this article that is a great reminder for everyone:  girly girls,  girly boys,  and even boyly boys! ( is that a word?) 

Subject: Cosmetics Safety

Possibly something of interest for Miss Ginger!

 

Brush up on cosmetic safety

Many women wouldn't dream of leaving home without the help of a few creams, sprays or lotions. Even if you don't use makeup, you probably apply a deodorant or dab on a bit of your favorite perfume. And, maybe you polished your nails this week or highlighted your hair.

On average, men and women use at least seven different cosmetic products every day. Cosmetics rarely cause serious problems, but skin reactions or injuries sometimes do occur — even with products you've been using for years.

Look out for problems
The most common problem is contact dermatitis, either from direct irritation of the skin or from an allergic reaction. Both can cause redness, swelling, blisters or itching.

The culprit in the cosmetic usually is a fragrance or preservative. Problems can start quickly, though allergic reactions may take up to several days to appear.

If you know which product caused a skin reaction, your response is easy — stop using it. But, if the problem persists or you're not sure what caused it, talk with your doctor.

Skin reactions aren't the only risk. You could scratch your eye with a mascara wand (the most common cosmetics injury), damage your lungs by breathing certain sprays or even pick up an infection from sharing makeup.

Apply carefully
Despite the risks, there's usually no need to give up cosmetics. Just take a little caution to avoid problems. These general guidelines may help:

		Wash your hands before applying makeup.
		Throw the product away if it changes color or smells.
		Remove eye makeup before you sleep.
		Keep makeup containers tightly closed when not in use.
		Choose powder over liquid makeup, especially for sensitive skin.
		Try a patch test before using products that color or highlight hair.
		Don't share makeup.
		Don't breathe in while applying hairsprays or powders.
		Don't keep mascara longer than three to four months.
		Don't moisten makeup brushes with saliva.
		Don't use aerosol sprays near heat or while smoking.

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The Devil Wears Prada

 

                                                     

My Blog friend in Germany just had a birthday (Happy BD, Missy!) and since her husband is deployed,  she bought herself "The Devil Wear Prada" on DVD as a birthday present. (You go, guhrl!)  It reminded me of my "TDWP"story, and I promised her I would tell it on my blog.

Before I was promoted to my current job, I had to go through a series of interviews.  2 of the interviews were with people I had previously met, but one was a phone interview with an executive in Atlanta that I had never before met. Obviously, I was more nervous about that one,  but shortly after Renie and I began talking I felt like we had connected well and that we shared similar viewpoints on how to run a business.  I guess she agreed because I got the job.

 

                                                                      

Fast forward to a week later,  when I arrive in Atlanta for a meeting with my new peers and superiors,  none of whom I have ever met.  We are having coffee and getting aquainted when in walks this woman who tosses her bag and wrap aside and begins bossing people around as if she is the Queen of Sheba. I leaned over to the one girl I knew from Houston and whispered "who's Miranda Priestly over there?"  to which she replied "Oh, that's Renie.  You'd better hope she likes you!"

Well, I guess she does because A: I'm still employed and B: I'm running one of the best increases to planin our division.

So,  maybe Ginger needs to start buying Prada!

Love to all.... especially Renie!

Change is Good!

Change is a funny thing.... it seems to be cyclical.  It seems Miss Ginger's world is in a change cycle right now.  Everyone around her is changing things-  jobs,  homes, relationships.  It's very exciting but it can also be a bit unsettling!  Miss Ginger is all about change, don't get me wrong!  Miss Ginger has to "change" every time she appears! But, she's also a "nester",  so she'll be happy when some of the change settles down and things become a bit more routine for her again!

We've actually had somewhat of a fall here in Texas,  which is a nice change!  It's been dry and cool in the mornings and evenings,  and the afternoons are warm and sunny, but not in that oppressive summertime kind of way. 

 

                                                            

I guess this weekend when we set the clocks back, we'll be barrelling into the holiday season.  That will be another big change for Miss G's day job:  she won't be working nights and weekends, or all those wicked hours she's had to put in over the last 20 holiday seasons! 

Anyway, today I'm going to enjoy fall at it's best in Texas!  I've got projects to do around the house,  errands to run, and this afternoon I think I'll go get a mani and pedi (paws and claws, in kitty speak!)  And no shows or appearances this weekend,  so if you want to chat with Miss Ginger you'd better call,  email,  or leave a comment on her blog,  'cause I don't think you'll be seeing her out and about this weekend!

How to be politically correct with your partner

 

 

How to be politically correct with your partner 

he is not a BAD COOK - he is MICROWAVE COMPATIBLE.
he does not wear TOO MUCH JEWELRY - he is METALLICALLY OVERBURDENED.
he is not CONCEITED - he is INTIMATELY AWARE OF HER BEST QUALITIES.
he does not GAIN WEIGHT - he is a METABOLIC UNDERACHIEVER.
he is not DUMB - he is a DETOUR OFF THE INFORMATION SUPERHIGHWAY.
he is not TOO SKINNY - he is SKELETALLY PROMINENT.
he does not HATE TELEVISED SPORTS - he is ATHLETICALLY IGNORANT.
he does not WEAR TOO MUCH PERFUME - he commits FRAGRANCE ABUSE.
he does not GO SHOPPING - he is MALL FLUENT.
he is not an AIR HEAD - he is REALITY IMPAIRED.
he does not get DRUNK or TIPSY - he gets CHEMICALLY INCONVENIENCED.
he does not get FAT or CHUBBY - he achieves MAXIMUM DENSITY.
he does not WEAR TOO MUCH MAKEUP - he has reached COSMETIC SATURATION.
he does not NAG YOU - he becomes VERBALLY REPETITIVE

 

Miss Ginger Wins her 2nd Title!

Miss Ginger has been a busy girl this weekend!  After returning from OKC,  she had exactly one day to pull together 3 numbers for the Duchess of Darkness contest! She started early Saturday,  and by the time everything was together it was time to get on the face and go!  But it was worth it because I won!  This was the first year for the contest,  so it was kind of small,  which kept us running ragged to get changed in time for our next number!  It was lots of fun, as you can see by the pictures on my site at www.ggrant008.com.  I want to congratulate my Duke of Darkness,  Christopher Garrett,  and thank him for stepping up to run with me!  I also truly want to thanks all of my friends and fans who come out time and time again to support me and the causes we represent!  You were all truly generous last night,  and because of that Unhinged Productions (www.u-p.org) will be able to continue giving Houston a venue for GLBT theatre!

My site also has some shots of Josh Duffy,  the emerging musical artist from right here in Houston!  Be sure to check out the photos on my site,  and check out his music at www.joshduffyonline.com. Josh's performance at the show really brought the house down,  and I want to thank him for donating his time and talent to help support Unhinged!

After the show,  some of us headed over to EJ's for the announcement of candidates for Emperor and Empress 24 of ERSICSS.  I wasn't sure who was announcing,  so I was THRILLED when my dear friend Aurora Briar was introduced as candidate for Empress.  She's always out there doing great things for our community,  and I hope all my friends will help me in supporting her candidacy!  Watch my site for details of her campaign, and when it's time to vote I'll be counting on you all to get your friends and neighbors to cast a ballot!  All the candidates are outstanding, so it's going to be a great race!

 

Miss G is taking the rest of Sunday off!  The kids look they are ready for a nap,  so I think I'll snuggle up and join them!  Love to all!.......g

 

 

Tags: Unhinged Productions, Josh Duffy, ERSICSS, Aurora Briar,

Fwd: Bed Sheets

My friend Bill sent me this joke and it made me laugh out loud!

An extremely modest man was in the hospital for a series of tests, the last of which had left his bodily systems extremely upset.

Upon making several false alarm trips to the bathroom, he decided the latest episode was another and stayed put. He suddenly filled his bed with diarrhea and was embarrassed beyond his ability to remain rational.

In a complete loss of composure he jumped out of bed, gathered up the bed sheets, and threw them out the hospital window.

A drunk was walking by the hospital when the sheets landed on him. He started yelling, cursing, and swinging his arms violently trying to get the unknown things off, and ended up with the soiled sheets in a tangled pile at his feet.

As the drunk stood there, unsteady on his feet, staring down at the sheets, a hospital security guard, (barely containing his laughter), and who had watched the whole incident, walked up and asked, "What the heck is going on here?"

The drunk, still staring down at the bed sheets in amazement, replied: "I think I just beat the shit out of a ghost."

Happy Halloween

Tags: halloween, joke, ghost

More Pics!

For those of you out there in Gingerland who have already checked out the photos from the anniversary party,  you may want to check them again!  I found another camera with more pics on it,  and these are better than the first ones!  Check them out at www.ggrant008.com! 

What a Busy Girl!!!!

What a busy week Miss Ginger is having,  and it's only Tuesday!  I've finally gotten the pics ready from "Mom" and "Dads" 30th anniversary party!

There's lots more great pics on my website,  so check them out at www.ggrant008.com!

The weekend wasn't over after Saturday!  Sunday night,  Marcia Mink Gill hosted a great party and show at the BRB, benefitting PWA Holiday Charities.  Miss Ginger made a quick cameo in her Carmen Miranda garb,  but I think the hit of the show had to be Cravyn Morehead in her Betty Boop costume!  Here's a couple of shots!

It was a great party, and I wish I could have stayed longer,  but Miss G's day job called and she had a business trip scheduled the next day!

But, wouldn' ya know,  the girl I was supposed to work with took ill,  so my trip to Nashville got postponed.  I'm still headed to OKC on Thursday, but I'll be back for the weekend to compete in the Duchess of the Darkness contest benefitting Unhinged Productions.  I hope all my adoring fans will come out to support me, and maybe even buy a table and make an evening of it!  After the contest,  Miss Ginger wil be headed over to EJ's to find out who is announcing their candidacy for Emperor and Empress of ERSICSS.  Then Miss G's taking Sunday off!  She'll need to rest after that busy Saturday!

Hope to see you all Saturday if not before!  Love to all!   .....g

 

Tags: Miss Ginger Grant, Cravyn Morehead, ERSICSS, PWA Holiday Charities, Unhinged Productions

Almost time for the party!

Doncha just hate that lull before a party?  You know, the part where the house is all clean and arranged just the way you want it,  but the caterers and servers haven't arrived yet?  Miss Cravyn was here this morning to put togther the centerpieces,  which you see here tucked away in my office because the kitties are way too fascinated by them. (Don't tell them yet, but they'll be partying in the laundry room!) We're all set for "Mom and Dad's" 30th anniversary party,  and it's that boring part where you don't want to do anything, 'cause it would mess up the house;  you can't go anywhere,  'cause the caterers will be here in about 30 minutes;  and you can't start drinking, 'cause it's just not right to start before the guests of honor arrive!

Hey!  I just heard "Dad's" voice! The parties starting!  I'll see some of you tonight,  and I hope to see everyone else at the BRB tomorrow night for Marcia Mink Gill's show supporting PWA Holiday Charities!  See ya there!

Another Crazy Week!

You know it's going to be a crazy week when we start partying on Tuesday,  but it was a special occassion!  "Momma" Weldon threw a birthday gathering for "Daddy" Sands at Tia's,  and there were like 20 people there!  Margaritas and beer were flowing, the cards were passed (except for a couple that were censored!) and a good time was had by all!  And the week has barely started!

"Mom" and "Dad" have their anniversary party at our house this weekend,  and we're all looking forward to that.  Then, on Sunday Marcia Mink Gill and the gang from PWA Holiday Charities is having a Halloween themed benefit at the BRB with a $100 cash prize for the best costume!  Sound like a lot of fun, and Marcia is one of my dearest, sweetest sisters ( and a former Miss Mint Julep!) so of course I'm going to be there to support her!  Hope you can all make it out to get an early start on Halloween week! 

Finally, Unhinged Productions is looking for contestants and supporters for their upcoming benefit,  Duke and Duchess of the Darkness,  on October 27th at Rich's.  Miss Ginger will be running for Duchess,  so I hope you'll all come out and support her!  Tables are $100 and if you make your donation through Miss G she gets credit for the contest!

 

Love to all!

Tags: Halloween Drag Show, Miss Mint Julep

Sunday Knights

Miss Ginger pulled herself together and got out Sunday night to support Christopher for his 2nd annual "Knights of the Round Table" at the BRB.  Christopher started KOTRT last year as a reminder that HIV/Aids is still very much among us,  and even though people are surviving longer and leading more normal lives with the infection,  peoples' lives are still changed by the disease every day.  Last year Christopher invited HIV+ individuals to share the affect that HIV has had on their lives,  and this year he invited HIV- people whose lives have  been affected.  One of the speakers was my dear friend Sonna,  who took a moment to pose with me in the photo above.  Sonna works full-time with Legacy Commuity Health Services,  so obviously her life is affected everyday as she sees the impact of the disease.  She is an incredible supporter of the community and spends tireless after work hours supporting the causes and events that pull our community together.  Blame her for the existence of Miss Ginger, because it is largely due to Sonna that Miss G is out there in wigs and heels doing her thing!

I thought the show was great,  and Cravyn, Aurora, ShyAnne, Crystal, and Marcia were all fabulous! Unfortunately I had to leave a bit early because my Personal Assistant has a staff meeting at his day job early in the am!  One of these days Miss G is gonna hit the big time, and I'm gonaa fire that loser and hire a full-time assistant that only works for me!  What's a girl to do in the meantime?  I guess I'll get up and make my own coffee!  Love you all!

Tags: Legacy Community Health Services, HIV, Drag Queens

TGIF!

Tonight the Hubby and I had dinner at Cavatore with the LawnShark girls.  We love them,  and we love that place,  but tonight we had to wait for a table,  which is kind of unusual.  As soon a Federico realized we were waiting he got us a table,  which of course made Hubby swoon because Federico is right up his alley!  Lucky for me Mr. Fred  is straight as an arrow,  but I have to admit he is yummy eye candy,  and soooooo sweet to us every time we visit his establishment,  which is pretty much every Friday!  Anyway,  it was a lovely evening,  and we came back to the house and introduced the girls to one of our favorite shows through the miracle of DVR!  If you haven't seen Lisa Williams: Life Among the Dead you really must!  She is truly amazing!

http://www.lifetimetv.com/on-tv/shows/lisa-williams 

I never really believed in mediums and clairvoyance and all that stuff before Lisa,  but I have always believed in afterlife,  and that the people we loved in life are always with us after their passing.  Anyway,  Lisa can totally communicate with the spirits,  and proves every week that the afterlife is very interested in our lives on earth and that they visit us often!  This is really important to me, because I'm the youngest in my family,  and my grandparents,  both parents,  and one of my 4 brothers has already passed over,  and they are with me all the time.  I can feel it,  but unfortunately I can't communicate!  I would LOVE to meet Lisa,  so I could let the know I'm at peace and to make sure they are,  too!  I know it sounds flaky,  but she is SO awesome and sweet and amazingly gifted!  Maybe someday I  will get to meet her! 

Speaking of Life Among the Dead,  Miss Ginger is coming back to life Sunday evening in a benefit for Legacy.  Christopher is hosting a show at the BRB called "Knights of the Round Table".  It's been a couple of weeks since Miss G has been out in public,  so she's kinda looking forward to making an appearance!  I hear there's food at 7pm and the show starts at 8,  so headon out and support Miss G and the "merry men" at the round table!

Tags: Lisa Williams, clairvoyance, Legacy Communicty Health Services

It's my first YouTube thing!

As those of you who keep up with my blog know,  I've never had a YouTube link on here before.  Lots of people have sent me YouTube links, but so often I have either seen them before,  they are crude or juvenile,  or just kind of dumb.  If you've ever sent me a YouTube link, of course I'm not talking about yours.  Anyway,  my cousin sent me this one,  and it is hilarious.  I think anyone who is a mom,  has a mom,  or ever had a mom,  will appreciate this.  I don't know who  this woman is but I'll bet we see more of her!



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anSpBUxsgAU

Krewe of Olympus wins "Gayest and Greatest!"

For those of you who follow Miss Ginger's world regularly,  you know a month or so ago she was encouraging you all to go to the OutSmart site and vote for the Krewe of Olympus- Texas, Inc.  to win Favorite Community Organization.  Well,  you must have done it, because we won!!!!  We actually tied,  with the group that throws that silly little party every Easter,  but that counts!  I didn't learn much about sports from my sainted Daddy (not that he didn't try!) but he did say a tie is a win in his book! Anyway,  thank you all for voting,  and come celebrate with us tonight at the Fais Do Do!

Tags: Outsmart, Gay, Krewe of Olympus

Tags:

Getting ready for a busy weekend!

                        

Miss Ginger will be a busy girl tonight,  with all the chopping, slicing, and dicing she has to do to get ready for the Krewe's annual Fais Do Do party this coming Saturday.  Luckily she'll have lots of help from the other members of the Krewe!  Hubby is in charge of the shindig,  so it's kind of like we're preparing to give birth!  He's been working his butt off to get everything together,  and he's kind of a perfectionist and organization freak,  so we have lists and stacks and crates of all the stuff we need to make sure it goes off without a hitch!  I hope all of Miss Ginger's friends will make it by the party,  although Miss G. has to send her Personal Assistant since he is a member of the Ball Committee and his presence is required! 

The Krewe's First Friday Happy Hour is this Friday at JR's,  so anyone who wants to come join Miss G for a cocktail: that's where she'll be! The weather has been nice,  with cool mornings and dry afternoons.  It's the one of the 2 months of the year in Texas that Miss G. actually enjoys getting outside, so look for her on the patio!

Aurora's got a show in Galveston this weekend.  Miss G. can't make it because of Fais Do Do,  but I know most of the girls will be headed down there to support the Devil Girl! I'll be there in spirit, and I hope some of the girls can make it by Fais Do Do before they head down the Freeway to the Island! 

After the weekends events,  Miss G's P.A. has a business trip to Atlanta,  so she may tag along for giggles.  They'll get there Sunday night,  and maybe there will be time for a cocktail or 2 before bedtime?!

Tags: Krewe of Olympus, Drag Show, Aurora Briar

Miss Ginger learns she is a "fabulist"

Last night I discovered a word that just describes Miss Ginger perfectly!!  While playing Cranium WOW (you must get it!)  one of the words in a multiple choice question was "fabulist".  I thought it should mean interior decorator: "Gurls, this place is a dump!  We need to hire a fabulist!" but that's not it. The word means a writer of tales and fables,  and since Miss G's life is one tall tale,  I think it's a perfect word for her!

The game was really fun,  and we played it until way too late into the night.  Miss Ginger has been exhausted today,  so she's done nothing but take catnaps the the kitties all day.  Hubby's still out of town, so the house is quiet, and it's way too hot and humid outside to do anything anyway.

Article: When Is It Time To Toss Your Makeup?

"Hey! I know what's going on here! YOU are looking out for MY best interests!" - Karen Walker

One of my dearest drag "Mommas" sent me these tips on keeping your makeup fresh and healthy!

From: Sally Jessie Helms Lieberman Gore Kumoniwannalayu de Tejas
Subject: Article: When Is It Time To Toss Your Makeup?

Ginger, thought this article might be of interest to you.

 

Hugs!

 

 

  When Is It Time to Toss Your Makeup?

Posted by Leslie Baumann, M.D.

on Wed, Sep 26, 2007, 9:33 pm PDT

 

After spending half your paycheck at a department store makeup counter, the last thing you want to think about is throwing your hard-earned treats away!

But when it comes to beauty products, it's important to learn when to let go. Past its prime, the makeup that you love can actually cause acne and skin irritation.

First things first: Storage is half the battle. The less oxygen your makeup is exposed to, the longer it will last, so always screw those caps on tightly. And keep your cosmetics in cool, dark places - heat and light can cause makeup products' preservatives to break down.

Next, consider the following rules of thumb:

• If you use makeup with retinol, the retinol will "expire" and stop being effective in about a month. The makeup itself, though, should still be perfectly usable but you will not be getting the benefits of retinol.
  
• Mascara is the item in your makeup arsenal with the shortest lifespan and the highest susceptibility to bacterial contamination. Experts agree that you should replace it every three months. (And remember basic precautions: Never share mascara, and toss any open tubes if you've had an eye infection.)
  
• As a general rule, creamy products need to be tossed sooner than powders. Your cream blush, foundation, and concealer should last about a year. (Oil-based foundation, however, lasts longer than water-based - up to 18 months.)
  
• Powdered products - facial powder, eye shadow, and powder blush, for example - are among the longest-lasting items in your medicine cabinet, and should last for two to three years.
  
• When sharpened regularly, liners - eye and lip  are good for up to three years. Thank goodness for self-renewing beauty products.
  
• Lipstick is another one of the makeup world's great values, and should stay with you (barring any changes in fashion, of course) for a good three years.

These guidelines refer to the most common makeup brands. "Natural" products, however, have fewer preservatives and typically need to be replaced sooner. Another tip I've heard several times is that storing foundation and lipstick in the fridge can extend their shelf lives. So move aside, mustard and salad dressing!

Of course, all of these guidelines are trumped by common sense: If you notice any unusual odors coming from your makeup products, toss them immediately. Changes in color or texture (like clumping or separating) are also a sign that you're due for a trip to the makeup counter.

Finally, don't neglect the tools you're applying all these products with - makeup brushes and sponges can harbor bacteria that lead to acne. Some unconfirmed studies have also suggested bacteria may contribute to rosacea.

Wash your makeup brushes and sponges in mild detergent every week (and replace sponges regularly). Always lay brushes flat to dry - stand them upright, and water can seep into the metal bands that hold bristles together, causing rusting and damage to their handles.

Wishing you great skin!

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Tags: makeup tips, drag queen

Taking the weekend off!

It's been a week since Trash Disco and Miss Ginger is STILL tired!  So,  this weekend the wigs are staying in the closet and Miss G. is having a weekend off!  Don't get me wrong... I love doing it!  But a girl's gotta have some time to herself now and again,  dontcha think!? Plus, there's life chores to be done:  hair to reset,  lingerie to rinse out,  etc. And the new day job is kickin' my ass!  In a good way,  but there's much to be done!  And hubby's away,  so the Kitties and I have the house to ourselves.  Major catnaps, I promise!

So last night we kicked off the weekend with a little happy hour at In n Out, our neighborhood watering hole. "Mom" and "Dad" were there, along with some of the girls from the "Screw Krewe." Some of them were off to EJ's for an ICOH show,  and Cravyn and friends were having a show at George, but I was right here in the 'hood,  close to home,  with a Taco Bell between home and the bar screaming "Ginger!  Eat Me!"  So I did.  And that's the end of that story!

The Kitties and I went to bed at 9pm last night,  and slept until 6 this am.  We needed it!  They were tired after helping Celia clean the house all day yesterday! I woke up this morning realizing that the project I worked on all day yesterday at work would be so much better if I reformatted a couple of things and printed it on a larger scale.  Since I'm reviewing it with the Boss at 8am Monday,  I'm going to run in to the office this morning and redo it.  Don't feel sorry for me: 10 steps away from the elevator on the 1st floor is Starbucks, so I can kill 2 birds with one stone.  Plus, downtown is dead on Saturday so I can zip in and zip out!

Tonight is game night with the Girls.  They come up with the best board games,  and with some snacks and lots of Pinot Grigio,  we will all laugh until our stomachs hurt!

I'll catch you up on the happenings tomorrow!

Trash Disco was FABULOUS!

Sunday night's Trash Disco event was groovie,  outta site FABULOUS!  I think everyone had a great time and we raised lotsa money for the Krewe!  ShyAnne were her typically FABULOUS self as my co-emcee, and all the boys and girls on stage looked great! Check out the photos on my website at www.ggrant008.com!  I think the surprise hit of the night was the "Retirement Village People",  and I'm sorry I didn't get to snap any pics of them!  If anyone has photos they want to share,  email them and I'll add them to my website!  The next big event for the Krewe is Fais Do Do on October 6th.  We'll be drawing for the 40" Westinghouse flat screen TV with built in DVD player,  so get your tickets from a Krewe member or email me at ggrant008@aol.com or ginger@ggrant008.com and we'll get you hooked up with some!

A Very Sad Night for Us!

What sad news that Alice Ghostley has passed away!  All the boiz and gurhls who are my age grew up with her as the ditzy Esmeralda on Bewitched,  and we loved her all over again when she spoke her somewhat deranged (but always honest!) mind on Designing Women!  Whether she meant to be or not, she truly was a gay icon and Miss Ginger,  for one,  will mourn her loss and miss her talent!

 

What a GREAT Saturday this has been for Miss G, otherwise!  NO PLANS!  She slept late,  cleaned up her office (she REALLY needs a personal assistant!),  then spent the rest of the A.M.  snuggling with the kitties! After lunch, she and the hubby went to Sam's Club for supplies and then came home and had a nap!  After spending the early evening pulling oufits together for a big day tomorrow (Trash Disco for the Krewe followed by IPR Prom for ERSICSS) she made yummy steaks on the grill for dinner and spent the rest of the eve playing on her computer!  2 bottles of merlot later it's about time for bed but the Alice Ghostley news was Soooo blogworthy that Miss G decided to polish off the bottle!  Hope to see all the locals at Trash Disco tomorrow!

Esmeralda' on Bewitched dies

LOS ANGELES — Alice Ghostley, the Tony Award-winning actress best known on television for playing Esmeralda on Bewitched and Bernice on Designing Women, has died. She was 81.

Ghostley died Friday at her home in Studio City after a long battle with colon cancer and a series of strokes, longtime friend Jim Pinkston said.

Ghostley made her Broadway debut in Leonard Sillman's New Faces of 1952. She received critical acclaim for singing The Boston Beguine, which became her signature song.

In the 1960s, Ghostley won a Tony for best featured actress in The Sign in Sidney Brustein's Window.

From 1969 to 1972, she played the good witch and ditzy housekeeper Esmeralda on TV's Bewitched. She played Bernice Clifton on Designing Women from 1987 to 1993, for which she earned an Emmy nomination in 1992.

Ghostley's actor husband, Felice Orlandi, died in 2003.

Sordid Lives

Well,  tonight was the opening night of "Sordid Lives" by Unhinged Productions and I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised!  The VIP performance was themed as a "wake" for Peggy,  with Unhinged Creative Director Karen Hemberger playing the role of funeral director. She was a stitch and didn't step out of character for one moment!  Eric was GREAT as Ty,  and I also loved the portrayals of Latrelle, Brother Boy,  and Sissy!  Since the copper had been stolen from the air conditioner atop the theater (I'm serious!!!) the room was kind of warm,  but in keeping with the "funeral" theme,  parlor fans were provided to each guest to keep the air moving and add to the atmosphere!  The "White Trash Buffet" catered by Mike and Floyd, et al, was delicious and again, totally in keeping with the theme!  All in all it was a great night and definitely  a production worth seeing and supporting!

                                                           Speaking of productions,  don't forget Trash Disco this weekend at Rich's!  Your's Truly is hostessing along with the inimitable ShyAnn,  so you don't want to miss the party!  See ya Sunday!

Love to all!

Ginger

 

Happy Birthday, Southyrn!

Well, Southyrn's show was a big hit,  and event though we left before the final count,  I know we made a lot of money for Legacy! Sorry there's no pictures,  but Miss Ginger wore her blonde wig and forgot the extra batteries for the camera! ( If anyone has photos,  please send them!!!)  Southyrn started the show with her incredible version of Proud Mary, and, if I do say so myself,  Miss Ginger got quite a round of applause for her rendition of Big Time, by Linda Eder.  It was a great crowd and the show was close to it's goal of $1,000 just from table sales,  so I know the tips brought the total over the top.  Selena and Sofonda St. John were incredible as emcees,  and the crowds from both ERICSS and ICOH were there to support the common cause!  ShyAnn and John Paul had just come back from Waco with the exciting news that SweeLo had been crowned Empress of the court in that fair city, so it was a very upbeat night for all!  Cravyn, Alicia, Athena,  and Sabrina all had FABULOUS numbers prepared for the evening,  and it was great to see all the girl's out to support Southyrn on her big 4-0! Also,  big thanks to Steve,  Martha,  Donna, and Jody,  who all bought tables!   A great time was had by all,  and my love goes out to all who came to support Leagacy's Drug Assistance Program! Ginger has to go back to work at the day job tomorrow,  but she'll be back out Sunday raising fund for her own Krewe of Olympus at the Trash Disco party at Rich's.  Hope to see you there!  Be sure to click "add your own" below and give your comments if you saw the show!

Homecoming!

Miss Ginger is sooooo excited to be coming home tomorrow!! She misses her hubby and her babies!!  Atlanta has been great and her new job is FABULOUS, but Miss G needs to get home and prepare for Southyrn's show on Sunday!  She's got some great ideas, but until she gets home she really won't be able to put a "vision" together!  She's hoping her fans will come out and support her Sunday night!  Southyrn's show is a direct benefit for Legacy! Hope to see you there!

Love to all!!!

...Ginger!

Here's a new game I learned from a good friend!

My new "journal friend" in Germany turned me on this game called "Interview Me!".   She has emailed me 5 questions to get to know me better,  and here are my answers:

From: MssingMySoldier@aol.com
Subject: Fwd: AOL Journals Comment Added Alert ("Deployment Journal")

Okey doke. :) You can interview me, too, if you'd like.

 

1. What is the biggest challenge in being a drag queen? Definitely finding clothes that are large enough, appear flattering,  and cover everything that needs to be covered!  Thank goodness my Momma taught me to sew before she passed!

 

2. Who is your biggest inspiration in life?

My late mother and father.  They were so humble and loving,  and they allowed us each to grow up and form our own lives.  They guided us, but never forced us, and I think that's pretty special!

 

3. If you won $5,000 to apply to your next vacation, where would you go and why?

Italy.  I've been dying to go there and just haven't gotten to do it!  I'd take as much time as I could and "wine" my way through the country!

 

4. What got you started in charity work?

Lots of things.  I guess getting involved in the community first began as my job situation stabilized and time was more available.  I met a few friends who did this type of work, and that let to more friends,  and now an entire network.  We support each other's efforts and cheer each other on.  Although many of us belong to different organizations,  we work together with our groups to do what we can.  I get a good feeling from doing it.  It's opened my eyes to lots of different people,  and made me realize how important differences are to making a world for ourselves that is worthwhile,  interesting,  and, of course, FABULOUS!

 

5. Do you think you'll ever "settle down" or will you forever be a party gal?

I consider myself "settled" compared to where I was 10 years ago!  I have a great job,  a beautiful home,  a partner who keeps me grounded,  and a circle of friends that I could never replace!  I've been offered promotions a work  that I have passed simply because I don't want to leave the world I've created for myself.  I guess in a way,  that's the truest form of "settled".  So, as long as there's a party,  and as long as I can hobble through the door,  yea,  I'll be a party girl!

If you want to "interview" Miss Ginger,  click on the "add comment" button below and fire away with your five questions!  If you do,  she'll interview you back!

Fw: Wine or Water

Here's a great comment (and great advice!!!) from one of my co-lieutenants in the Krewe:

From: Michael McKeehen <michael_mckeehen@yahoo.com>
Subject: Fw: Wine or Water

Wine or Water

In a number of carefully controlled trials, scientists
have demonstrated that if we drink 1 liter of water
each day, at the end of the year we would have
absorbed more than 1 kilo of Escherichia coli,  (E.
coli) bacteria found in feces. In other words, we are
consuming 1 kilo of poop. However, we do NOT run that risk when drinking wine (or rum, whiskey or other liquor) because alcohol has to go through a
purification process of boiling, filtering  and/or
fermenting. Remember: Water = Poop, Wine = Health.

Therefore, it's better to drink wine and talk stupid,
than to drink water and be full of shit. There is  no
need to thank me for this valuable information:  I'm
doing it as a public service.

 

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Miss Ginger gets hit! In a good way!

Great news!  Miss Ginger's site is starting to show up in major search engines and web crawlers!  If you search Google for "Ginger Grant Krewe" or "Ginger Grant Olympus" it will take you to pages within my site!  But even better:  if you search Yahoo! for "Ginger Grant Drag Queen" or "Drag Queen Ginger Grant" it will give you my home page as the second listing!!!!  I know this may seem silly to some of you,  but it takes a lot of work to get web crawlers to find your page, especially when you're ditzy like Ginger and do everything by trial and error!

2 other pieces of good news!

Miss Ginger's cat bite infection seems to be on the mend! It's not so warm to the touch anymore,  and the swelling and redness are slowly subsiding!  The next time you see me I may be wearing long evening gloves, but it actually doesn't even seem to be leaving much of a scar!

aaaaand:  Miss Ginger won't be quitting her day job anytime soon because her bosses at "America's Department Store" have seen fit to promote her to a regional position!  In footwear and accessories!  Now she'll be able to paw through the clearance shoes and jewelry not only in one location but in 15! It's a young girl's dream come true!  (Okay,  a middle aged drag queen's dream come true! Damn those "complete disclosure" laws!)  Anyway, one more great thing:  no more weekends and nights!  Yea!!!  There will be some travel,  but Miss Ginger loves to fly.  Maybe in her next life she'll be an airline stewardess!  But that's another blog entry!

Anyway,  me and the hubby are off to meet the Sunday Morning Breakfast Club as we do every Sunday at 9:30!  Love to all!   ....G

September OutSmart Magazine

Hey Ginger fans! Don't miss the September issue of OutSmart magazine!  The last page features a smashing photo of yours truly and her mintly consort,  John Paul! Love ya!

What a night!

What a night Miss Ginger had last night!  It all started Wednesday night when the neighbor cat, Big Head Ted, sat at the back porch window looking all sad and lonely and cute and cuddly.  Now,  Miss Ginger can't stand a sad pussy, and, being the cat person that she is,  just knew she could cheer him up.  So, she spoke softly and offered her hand gently for a sniff,  which BHT obliged.  She stroked him lightly on the head, to which he agreed. Momentarily.  Then,  without warning,  she lept violently at Miss Ginger,  forcing her to let out a shriek that I'm sure was heard in Galveston!  He sunk his teeth, top and bottom,  into Miss G's bicep,  and shredded her forearm with his claws!  She won't be able to wear sleeveless gowns for months! Anyway, being a cat person in the know,  Ginger rushed into the house for peroxide and neosporin,  knowing that cat bites are notorious for getting infected.  It didn't help.  By the next evening,  our girl had a big red patch the size of a baseball,  and called the Dr. for a round of antibiotics.  The doc hooked her up with a next day appointment,  and told her if she got chills and fever,  or if it started swelling,  to get to the ER pronto.  Miss G was fine for a while,  but then after dinner: BAM! Body aches,  chills,  fever.  Ugh!  Her ever-trusty hubby loaded her shivering body into the car and off they went to the emergency room.  But of course,  it's only an emergency to Miss G.  To everyone at the ER, it's just another stupid queen with another stupid cat bite!  But Miss G charmed the lovely ladies at the front desk with her southern sweetness,  and they got her promptly in to see the incedibly lovely Dr. Jackson!  Not only did he give her antibiotics for the infection,  he offered her vicodin for the pain!  How's that for a good old southern boy knowing how to properly take care of a lady!  Anyway,  it's still red, swollen,  and hot,  but I'm taking my pills and laying low until I figure we've got this ugly bug on the run!

While I'm on the mend,  Miss Ginger would love to hear from you!  Click on the link below this post to add a comment of your own,  and let Miss G and her fans know what's on your mind!

Home at Last!

Well, Miss Ginger is finally home after a long day of traveling!  Thanks to a band of thunderstorms that rolled through Houston Monday afternoon,  Miss Ginger sat on the tarmac in New Orleans for 2 hours before her flight finally took off!  That was a planeload of tired 'mos after a weekend of partying,  but we made it home in one piece and everyone made their connecting flights!  Miss Ginge is headed off 2 bed with her sweet baby kitties,  and tomorrow she'll get up and get the photos onto the website for you to enjoy!  'Till next year:  Happy Decadance!

Checking in from New Orleans

My husbands are  still in bed (yes, that was a plural!) so Miss Ginger thought she'd take a moment to catch you up on the goings on at Southern Decadance.  We arrived Friday and almost immediately ran into Miss Delta Louise Carter, and we immediately began planning a sister act for Southyrn Comfort's upcoming birthday show!  Friday night we caught Lady Bunny's show, and she was her normal twisted self!  When she came on stage with choclate pudding smeared down the back of her legs I thought I was going to die of laughter! After LB's show Miss Ginger put one too many of those yummy 32 ounce daquris away,  so our girl didn't make it past midnight.  She left her husbands out drinking,  dropped Bill at the casina,  and headed off to slumberland.  Saturday she woke up feeling great,  so she headed off to the casina to run some 20's through the money shredders there. Once the gang all woke up,  we met Liz and MB for muffaletta's and headed back to Bourbon Street to see Miss Deborah Cox live and in person.  Only,  right before she was scheduled to perform,  the French Quarter got hit with one of those gully washer rainstorms that only happen in Louisiana.  It poured for hours,  so what's a girl gonna do but stay put and drink,  right? I'm not sure whether the show went on or not,  but the show on the bars at the Pub was all Miss G needed!  There was this one boy (photos to come) who is Miss Ginger's idea of absulute male perfection! All that drinking made Miss Ginger hungry,  so she and Bill cabbed it over to the casina to check out the new sushi restaurant there, Bambu. It was awesome!  Sunday morning,  the husbands are still snoring,  so Miss G's gonna take herself a shower and hit the breakfast buffet and then Starbucks!  A girls gotta keep  up her energy for all this drinkin!

Tags: Southern Decadance, Miss Ginger, Deborah Cox, Lady Bunny

Ready to go!

Terrible storms woke Miss Ginger from her beauty sleep last night!  I've never heard such thunder and seen so much lightening!  My precious kitties Jackson and Shelby were terrified!  Once the weather broke we catnapped a bit more, but the anticipation of Miss Ginger's trip to New Orleans (and her need to wash and pack her clothes!) made it hard to sleep so we got up!  Miss Ginger is only taking boy-clothes to New Orleans, but after several (many?) cocktails from her perch at the Bourbon Pub I'm sure she'll be mouthing the words and dancing along like the true star that she is!  Plus,  she has to wear her lucky underwear (Unico) to Harrah's,  'cause she knows she'll never win that big jackpot in a bra and girdle!  Wish our girl luck!

Fw: Southern Comforts Show on September 16th

From: "Sonna Alton" <salton@legacycommunityhealth.org>

Date: Wed, 29 Aug 2007 16:02:07 
To:"GEORGE BURCH" <ggrant0082003@yahoo.com>
Subject: Southern Comforts Show on September 16th


Hi George, 
I wanted to send you the flyer for the upcoming show on September 16th that is a 
direct benefit for Legacy.  It would be great if you could plan on doing two 
numbers and if you would like to purchase a table they are $75.00.  Thank you 
for all you do and I have enjoyed watching the evolution of Ginger. You’re the 
best, have fun at Decadence. 
  
Sonna Alton 
Director of Community Relations 
Legacy Community Health Services 
www.legacycommunityhealth.org <http://www.legacycommunityhealth.org> 
(formerly Montrose Clinic and The Assistance Fund) 
  
Extraordinary Healthcare for Extraordinary People 
  
  

Ready for the weekend!

Well, it's only Tuesday and Miss Ginger is already ready for the weekend!  Work is weird,  the weather is crappy,  and Southern Decadance is coming up!  Miss Ginger is ready for a road trip!  And she gets to see one of her favorite sisters, Lady Bunny, on Friday night at the Bourbon Pub!  Debra Duchet is going to be in NO with Ginger,  and ShyAnne and John Paul are going to court in Alaska.  So,  we're leaving Houston in the capable hands of the Mother of Montrose,  Morgan Fairview,  and her co-Countess Yorki Woods.  If you're in town on Sunday night,  be sure to catch their spaghetti supper at EJ's!  Be safe this weekend wherever you are!

Tags: Southern Decadance

Welcome to the blog!

I've decided to add a blog to my site to make it easier to add rambles and rants about what's going on in my life!  I started to use MySpace,  but I have decided that the AOL blog is easier to use and link to!  Feel free to add your comments directly to the blog,  or email me and I can add them if you'd like!  My friends and fans are my life,  so my blog is nothing without your input! 

Love to all!

...Ginger

Hello, Morgan here

From: Morganfairview@aol.com
Subject: Hello, Morgan here

It was so good to see you last night.
Sorry your going to be out of town Sept 2nd, I think it will be a real good Benefit for Bering Support Network.
Anyway im sending you the poster, please send me the address of the place you talked about last night, I need a new dress LOL
Morgan Fairview   (Skip Willett)
Countess XXIII ERSICSS
Mother of Montrose 2007


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Tags: Houston, Drag, Miss Mint Julep, Legacy, Krewe of Olympus