As you are all aware, my satellite dish is dead. Many of you have been kind enough to offer suggestions on how to pass the time and deal with the withdrawal symptoms. For that I am grateful.

One such suggestion led me to my closet and the collection of old junior high and high school memorabilia kept in old Adidas boxes. I thought it might be fun to reminisce about a time when I was still convinced boys were worth dating but couldn't figure out why I got butterflies in my belly when I talked to some of my female friends. It was a time of parachute pants and big hair. Yes, ladies, I'm talking about the 1980s.

Going through my pile of '80s junk could only be complete with some tunes to help me through the process. Naturally, I picked some of my favorite ladies. Some of these women are still selling records and concert tickets; some can't escape their one-hit-wonder status. But they all brought a smile to my face while I sifted through memories in my basement. So I couldn't help but send a little '80s nostalgia your way. Here are the rockin' women who have helped me stave off my TV withdrawal for yet another day.

Cyndi Lauper — I'm a girl. I just wanna have fun! No matter how many hair color transformations she goes through, to me she will always be that girl dancing through her house, happily rebelling against all things parental. You've gotta love the fact that Cyndi's definition of fun includes cool shades and conga lines through town. … continue reading