Spotlight, please

Karaoke. The word makes some people cringe, but it always gives me a thrill. I remember when I was first introduced to its hypnotizing power in college. Several local bars would hold weekly contests, and my fellow choir members and I would go in groups to try and win. I won several times: Sometimes the prize was dinner for two, once it was $50, and once just a lame t-shirt.

I went out with my new co-workers last week to bid farewell to one who has decided to take a new direction in his life. (Get out of the agency business? Who would ever consider leaving this?) We began at a nice bar not far from the office, but it soon became the site of an Obama rally, and while most of us were supporters of the candidate, we weren't thrilled with the prospect of listening to local organizers' speeches. We wandered over to a second place, which has A KARAOKE SYSTEM! Wee!!!

I sang Sweet Dreams (Patsy Cline), La Bamba and Something to Talk About (Bonnie Raitt). The sound system wasn't great, but I just can't pass up the opportunity to perform!

I know from family stories (and personal experience) that I get this personality trait from both sets of grandparents. My paternal grandfather was quite the entertainer in his small town, and my maternal grandmother still enjoys commanding the attention of others. Her vivaciousness is especially evident in her retirement community, and she recently has gained some local notoriety with her Wii bowling. (She's not familiar with the brand "Wii," but describes it to me as "very technological.")

You can see in this video that the camera loves her. Perhaps I'm biased, but I think she really shines in this local news piece. While on occasion my Grandma has embarrassed me, I am proud of her accomplishments (in Wii bowling) and her continued zest for life. I also realize I'm probably going to be just like her in my later years!