weird...i have a blog.

Cheese Balls and Sunshine

2010-10-23T20:13:00.000-07:00

As a child I always knew I was an outsider, even inside my own family. There are countless stories my mother would tell me that didn't feel right but weren't exactly wrong.

I maintain an attitude that even though life isn't perfect, it could always be a lot worse. So be thankful for what you've been given. I didn't get to grow up with my biological father, but my adoptive father is the best of the best. I don't have any full-blood brothers or sisters, but my half-sisters and step-sisters and -brother are all I could ask for. My maternal grandmother passed very young, and I was never close to my maternal grandfather...but my other grandparents were always nice when I came around. At least that's what I remember.

As I've gotten older, I realize that my other grandparents weren't really that nice. That my sibling/s have often left me out when recalling their childhood stories. And that my dad gets upset when my mom helps me financially (which is hardly ever).

I'll admit I get sad for a split second when I reflect, but then I remember that auntie on my mom's that introduced me to womanhood. She helped me get birth control when I was nervous to ask my mom. She bought me my first matching set of underthings. She taught me to never let anyone see my toes without polish. My other auntie has never forgotten a birthday and gives me back in money what I have sacrificed in age. Another auntie, who always makes me feel special and missed every time I see her, is so sweet--the minute I see her if feels as though we've never been apart. My great aunt drinks coffee and eats sweets with me everytime I visit. We used to sneak to the coffeehouse to smoke cigarettes, drink our lattes, and read whatever novels we could get our hands on. My uncles are elusive, but always fun. And my mother? She really tops the cake. Teen mother who had been orphaned at the age of 14. I learned my work ethic and morals from her. We have become great friends since I've hit adulthood. Becoming a mother is the only way to completely understand motherhood. And I now appreciate her a million times over.

To this day, I often appreciate my outsider status. It's where I feel most comfortable. I think I'll stay here awhile longer, and when I emerge again I will be bright and glowing and absolutely radiant.

don't get tricked

2010-07-29T22:55:00.000-07:00

one of many that i started but never finished:

"To my ladies

Who truly love life and revel in the blessings that lay before them

The women who recognize that a billion lies will never buy lasting freedom

Who keep their ears open instead of their legs,

We’re unclear merely because we smear our image

And we fear looking too closely that we might see exactly what we look for.

Please don’t mishear my words.

My dear sisters,

don’t get tricked."

scrub-a-dub-dub (on my soapbox)

2010-04-28T17:09:00.000-07:00

for everyone insinuating that sandra bullock is racist....................

and for everyone judging her on the blind side...........................

watch the movie. it's not as bad as the previews make it out to be. it's based on a true story. this really happened. don't be so afraid to admit that we can use some help sometimes. even if it is by a "white" person. guaranteed that each and everyone of you would take the help of white folks, if offered. think about it.....if you've ever received a federal grant, financed a car, sought a recording contract, took a tax break--then you've accepted this help that you so hate to admit we sometimes need.

speaking of sides that are blind, love makes you do really crazy things. love makes you blind sometimes. maaaaaaybe sandra's lover covered up his neo-nazi-isms enough for her not to notice. and maayyyyyyybe she was feeling him so much that she didn't do enough of her homework about him. i mean, there are STILL things i learn about my husband that i didn't know before i married him.

not long ago, i found myself questioning a group of white folks in north carolina that all decided to start adopting african children. although i knew it was with good intent, i kept wondering things like "how will the psyche of these black children be affected by being raised in white communities?" but really i should be wondering if it's better for the same children to grow up in a community/family that cannot feed, clothe, or educate them.

i guess i say all of this to say, we CAN put our egos and pride aside and accept help.

as far as sandra's marriage is concerned, we all make mistakes. he has obviously made huge mistakes. and she made a mistake as well. but to judge her character based on the fiasco at hand, is just cruel and unnecessary.

"No person is your friend who demands your silence, or denies your right to grow." ~Alice Walker

2010-04-25T23:54:00.000-07:00

I'm baaaaack!!! For many months I didn't write because I couldn't write truthfully with the intentions of not hurting someone I thought close to me. But now, after shaking the dice and rethrowing, we're all the same people from different angles. Now some that were turned up are now turned away. With that, I have an entirely new perspective. Still though, I will write like I always have.

Good to be back!

my electric fence, part deux

2010-01-26T23:16:00.000-08:00

i once wrote about the cycles of life pertaining to friendship.

this is the addendum. because just when i thought i would have to completely revamp my list, i have been both reinforced and proven wrong.

see, i do a lot of research. when i became a mom, one piece of research told me that i need to find other mom friends and ditch the others. but really all one has to do is be open-minded and considerate of the other's place in life. if i'm a mom (which i am), i encourage and respect the lifestyles of my single friends. and vice versa.

but really the person who taught me this lesson, is the person whose friendship i thought i had lost. the person who will always be able to make me laugh. the person to whom i have always been telepathically connected. the person who also moved across the country to start a new life. SHE showed me, through her own actions, to be happy for those you love and always celebrate them. despite your own positioning in life.

but while i have regained, i have also lost. i have lost due to the same exact reason i gained. if one can never look past her own situation in life and rejoice with those around her, she may never be content with herself.

i realize that it's not only my electric fence that governs my friendships, but theirs as well. keeping the fence powered will keep one feeling isolated. but shutting that sucker off to live? that just may be the answer.

Good Morning, Sunshine!!

2009-04-15T11:16:00.000-07:00

I haven't been the first one out of bed in my household for weeks. But today I'm up at 10:45am. No alarm. No dentist appointment.

"Awww, what's the joyous occasion?" you may ask.

Oh boy....I WISH it were a "joyous occasion" for my first major early-morning experience.

Instead, it was a nightmare that went something like this:

I am still living in LA but in a house that is identical to my grandma and grandpa's house in South Dakota. My entire family was over playing Nerts (happy face!!), when there's a knock at the door. It's an old friend, who for the sake of confidentiality we'll call Suzie and who in real life I'm not on speaking terms with. She had on a fall jacket, several suitcases in tow, and a certain stench about her that suggested she wasn't clean. And not in a she-needs-a-shower kind of clean, if you know what I mean. Immediately she starts mumbling stories about shopping trips and reasons how she ended up on my front stoop. Her last words, "....so can I crash here for a couple of weeks?"

pause

The words that escaped my mouth were an automatic sensory response and as soon as they left my lips I wanted them back, "Of couse, Suzie."

I asked how she got to my house from the airport, and she fumbled over some words that sounded like this, "I came to see my friend Tanya and we stopped the gas station, the one that is like the SuperAmerica back home, and Tanya had some things to do."

We went to the basement where my cousin Eric was. We all sat and talked for awhile, but Suzie could barely keep her head up. She popped up suddenly mid-conversation, ran over to where the stairs start, and knocked on the wall thinking it's the entrance to the bathroom. We all automatically started laughing (because it was funny lol), but then Suzie slumped to the floor. Her was hair covering her face, and the muscles in her arms and hands were cramped up making her limbs look deformed and her skin tone was turning blue.

I ran upstairs to find a phone, borderline panic. Should I call her mom or 911???

When I circled back through the kitchen in pursuit, Suzie had made it upstairs and was drinking water from the spout of the kitchen sink. Interrupting the person who was brushing his teeth. I stand there looking from her to him and back. He has a mouthful of foaming toothe paste, toothe brush in hand. Her head is buried in the sink. All I see is her hair.

Writer's blocK

2009-04-08T01:26:00.000-07:00

1. Too much to write.

2. Too little to write.

3. Computer's too moody to remain functional.

4. Not sure if I want my readers to know my thoughts anymore.

THE END

WallowWorld

2009-02-26T17:00:00.000-08:00

"You could snap out of it, but you just dont want to. Sometimes you gotta wallow." ~my baby sister

This proves to me that some people really do enjoy the pains of life.

Or maybe it's a form of grief--wallowing.

I'm personally not a fan of WallowWorld. It's like slow motion to me. Like in those dreams where I want to run as fast as I can...but my legs and arms are like lead and my running turns out to be that scene in a movie where the frames are slowed down to increase the intensity.

Great on-screen. Real sucky in real life.

circles in the sand

2009-02-26T15:07:00.000-08:00

the topic of mystery came up again. i often talk about this with my guuurls...how important mystery is in a prospective relationship. don't give too much too soon. as a matter of fact, as a shield, a lady should probably never get to a point of comfort before there's a mutual agreement to never leave each other. that looks funny when i type it...like everybody has to believe in marriage. but in general girls want to give so much and so fast, and we are so quick to assume that it's all being reciprocated or will last forever. *sigh*

anyways....back to me. hahaha

i've been wondering. how does one keep a healthy mystery in a marriage? is that even a viable concept to fathom? i mean, marriage is an entirely different ballgame. when once there existed balls and hoops and wood[en floors] (use your imagination)...i mean there're still all those things, but all of a sudden the hoop's on the ceiling dealing with her crazy emotions and the woo[den floors] and balls are playing video games. hehehe.

seriously though.... i realize that each relationship is unique in its own rite, but after you take 100% of the mystery out (now that he knows that i really do boo-boo, that i sometimes like to take a break from shaving my legs for a couple weeks, and that i can't just disappear once a month for 5-7 days) what's the next level of making the relationship exciting for a man? The thing that will keep him coming back for more and more and more? of course aside from sheer love.

men typically want something more tangible--but elusive at the same time.

hmmm....the wheels are turning, my friend. the wheels are a-turnin.

say my name, say my name...

2009-02-23T11:08:00.000-08:00

I'm still getting used to hearing my name called in airports and other common places. Going from a 10-letter last name to the most common name in America. Takes a little getting used to.

I was checking into my hotel over the weekend, and the lady at the front desk says, "Looks like we have two rooms for you tonight." Instinctively, I look around to make sure I was still the only person standing there. So far that evening I had 2 legs of a very long flight and a rookie cab driver (2nd night on the job. Took us an hour for what should've been a 15-minute drive.) At one o'clock in the morning, my sleepiness is becoming apparent.

"Just me. Just one room," was all I could muster.

"Oh! Looks like we have TWO Mandy's staying with us tonight with the same exact name!!!" She was so excited, and I wish I could've shared it with her.

Truth is...I love the perks of a short last name: filling out paper work, pronunciation, never have to spell it out for folks, the anonymity--I'm literally one in a million. And I am quite honored that my husband has offered his last name.

But I kind of miss the oohs and aahs over my old last name. "Wow what kind of name is THAT??"

Upon some deliberation, I think I'd like to legally change my first name now too...to spice things up a bit. I have an idea of what it might be, but I'm also taking submissions. :)

GO!

kid cudi's day n nite video

2009-02-19T18:55:00.000-08:00

Yayy!!!

Toofesis

2009-02-19T15:33:00.000-08:00

I'm doing video research on a project at work today, where I'm trying to find as many episodes of Starting Over as possible. While watching them, I came across a dream analyst working with the women and their dreams. All of a sudden the scene moves to the dream worker and a bunch of women around a campfire. He asks, "How many of you have had dreams about your teeth falling out?" Sitting at my office chair with my big huge headphones on, indulged in the program, I raise my hand.

See I have this same type of dream about once a year, maybe less, but it's a very distinct dream with intense emotions. In it my teeth are crumbling and falling out into my hands, usually one at a time and starting from the back of my mouth.

I did a little research but find that online gives a LOT variations on the interpretation of this type 0f dream, so I was amazed to hear the man speak so bluntly about it on Starting Over. He said that teeth falling out is a dream of insecurity.

Hmmm...interesting. I'll have to keep that in mind for the next time I have that dream. Try to figure out what I might be insecure about!

Just when I think things couldn't get ANy worse...you TOTALLY redeem yourself!

2009-02-11T11:34:00.000-08:00

So funny how life works!!

See...I haven't cooked in ages. I mean, really cooked. Of course we eat every day, but more often than not it's a result of a fast fix. Last night I decided to semi-cook, and made chicken fettucini alfredo with peas and garlic bread. It was pretty tasty! Then this morning I came across a link for soup recipes, and I've been wanting to learn to make my own soup for months. THEN a coworker walks into the room on a mission to destroy the hardcover book in his hands by replacing the actual pages with blank sheets of paper (for some pitch idea).

"What was the name of the book?" you ask.

It's called Cooking from the Hip by Cat Cora! lol Sounds mad cheesy (no pun intended), but the recipes looked phenominal. So I rescued the pages and the leaflet and created my very own FREE book!!!

This is extra-freakin great because I've been craving a new book! Now I have 244 pages of Mmm, Mmm Good. :)

Almost Time for a NEW CAR!!!

2009-02-04T12:15:00.000-08:00

In the next 8 years, California wants to cut emissions by 30%. This means all new cars would have to average 42 miles per gallon. Since the trusty ol' Jetta only gets about 25mpg, I will

soon be saying goodbye. AND since my [dream car] Aston Martin averages 12mpg (along with the Lamborghini Marcielago @ 8mpg....sorry Tiny!!), I will DEFINITeLY be revising my car endeavors. So far my options are the Toyota Prius or the Audi A3 1.9TDIe. Sad face because they are to cars what pugs are to dogs. I want to say they're cute cuz they're small-ish, but really their smashed faces (or back ends) are a bit too.....well....smashed, for my taste. I need something more sleek. More sexy. That's the new market. Sleek, sexy, and green. Ready? ... GO!

Harder Better Faster STRONGER

2009-02-02T21:43:00.000-08:00

I've been kind of joking about my OnDemand workouts that I've been
doing off the TV, but seriously!!! After I do a workout, I walk around
with some CRAZY sore muscles. I decided that instead of getting that
gym membership I've been talking about, I'm on the OnDemand
regime.

Next time you see me....? Harder Better Faster STRONGER!

The Straw that Broke the Camel's Back

2009-02-02T14:13:00.000-08:00

I've been working on a project and have had to ask a bunch of men what their deal breakers are when it comes to dating and relationships. The most surprising, yet most practical, deal breaker I've heard so far is "if she has a major STD, like herpes or AIDS." I actually laughed out loud. I don't know why, but I thought it was really funny. But in this world today, you can never be too careful. No!!! I forgot. .... the most surprising was the man who said that a woman with a terminal illness is a deal breaker. He ultimately changed that answer with the fear that people would think he's an @sshole. Ya think??? I've been getting such a kick out of hearing the perspective of all these guys that I was thrown for a loop when one guy asked ME. What are YOUR deal breakers?? As I've been out of the dating loop for 2-3 years now, it took me a second. Then I found myself stating MY dealbreakers, as follows:

1. A man with an unwillingness to travel.

2. A man with no ambition/drive.

3. Someone who has no desire to expand his horizons to have empathy towards other walks of life.

4. A person who is generally mean and/or rude to/towards servers, homeless people, and animals.

5. Ummmmmmmmmmmm....aaaaaand a man with smaller hands than me.

I feel like all mine were the same. Same theme. Well 1-4 at least lol.

So tell me....what are YOUR deal breakers???

Bag Lady

2009-01-28T22:10:00.000-08:00

...you gon' hurt yo back. draggin on dem bags like that. i guess nobody ever told you, all you must hold on to, is, is you, is you.

~Eryka Badu, Mama's Gun, 2000

The first and only time I've lived out of my suitcase lasted about 3 months.

The amount of stress that accompanies a situation like this is inexplicable, and only folks who've endured various forms of homelessness truly understand.

For those of you who don't know, "couch surfing" is one form of homeless that is seemingly less severe than other types, but homeless nonetheless and prevalent among homeless teens.

Granted, during my time of living on the edge, I still owned a house and a car half way across the country and had a lover occasionally pluggin funds into a dry account. Not having a home was a conscious decision until I got my feet on the ground. But let me tell you! Not having money to rent, not having a job to get money to rent, not knowing where you'll rest your head that night, not getting a full night's rest because you must be the last one asleep and the first one awake as the guest in someone else's studio apartment, no privacy, dirty/smoggy skin from taking the bus everywhere, eating when your host eats, always being on another person's schedule. It's what we call hard times.

Would I do it again?

Heck yes.

As a trade off, I explored a city, met good people I never woulda met, lost about 20 lbs (ha!), became tight with Solar de Cahuenga, got out of my comfort zone, got a low-level job in the tv industry learning the ins and outs, and most importantly, minimized my lifestyle. We all need to minimize sometimes. Shed some lbs and realize all you need to hold on to. Realize life isn't always about building and building and building. Sometimes it's about deconstructing and seeing how you can handle a re-build.

it feels so much better. so much better baby.

bag lady, let it go, let it go, let it go, let it go.

no...you don't need it.

Tuesday before 28

2009-01-27T14:30:00.001-08:00

Wake up 5 min prior to leaving for work.
Laundry strewn in the living room from night before.
Stagger out of bedroom in bra and sweats.
Glance in dining room mirror at disastrous hair.
Approach pile of clothes to pick day's wardrobe.
Drop pants for quick exchange.
Glance over at forgotten about sleeping Bill that stayed over the night before.

"OH SHHHHIIIooooot...."

Run back into bedroom with no pants on.
Confused.
Try to figure out how to get back into living room for change of clothes.
Confused.
Try to figure it out.
Is a towel enough?
2 minutes before take off.
Confused.
Run! Grab! Retreat!
Change clothes.
Kiss sleeping husband.
Find keys.
Off to work.

LA likes its People, like it likes its Bagels

2009-01-23T11:14:00.000-08:00

Since we're on the topic of food...I will tell you the funniest thing I came across not long ago and was reminded of this morning.

So LA people are weird about food--everything should be all-natural, fat-free, sugar-free, gluten free, carb-free, and organic. I get down with that some of the time, but if you make my latte with skim milk instead of 2% or whole milk....we're gonna fight.

Anywho. When I started working at the Paramount Lot, I found out the company has two special days where they bring in breakfast and coffee for the staff: Muffin Mondays and Bagel Fridays. I've been know to eat a muffin or two lol but I've never been fond of bagels....until now. Now I faithfully eat a Noah's bagel every Friday morning with a cup of their magnificent house blend. Très magnific!

(Getting closer to the funny part.) My first day at the bagel stand, I see a woman huddled over the garbage can working frantically at something. As I get closer I can see she's ripping and tearing away at the bagel and throwing pieces into the garbage can bit by bit.

I approach asking, "Dang. Is there something wrong with today's bagels?" Typical Mandy-approach to the situation.

Startled, she looked up at me with wide, darting eyes. "No. I'm hollowing out the bagel. Less calories."

.....

Silence.

"Oh..." I begin slowly. "Why don't you just cut it in half and take half a bagel, instead of the whole thing? Or a fourth?"

She looked up at me, shrugged her shoulders, and scurried down the hall.

Back to the present. This morning. So today I was telling the guys in my office, "You know...I think I'm over the bagels. I may have eaten my last bagel. If I have one it'll only be as a last ditch effort at goodbye. And because I just like eating." Smile.

And as I left the office for the bagel stand, I sigh, "Here I go...I'm gonna have a bagel." With feigned dissatisfaction in my eyeballs, I pass a colleague.

She picks up on my vibe and yells after me, "JUST DIG OUT THE MIDDLE...LESS CALORIES!"

Popped My.....Taco?

2009-01-23T10:31:00.000-08:00

Today is a very anticipated day for me....my FIRST TACO TRUCK experience! I don't know whether to be scared or excited. lol I'll let you know how it goes....!

I give it a B-/C+...but in a good way.

2009-01-22T23:41:00.000-08:00

I just finished reading this book and I have to say....I was pleasantly surprised!! Keyes, a writer out of Ireland, has a writing style very similar to Anna Maxted (Running in Heels). She sets this novel in Los Angeles so I was able to visualize the lounges/restaurants/neighborhoods in which she based her stories. Also, the characters are so typically Angelino, it's nuts! Because people who've lived here long enough know that Angelinos are a DIFFERENT BREED of people.

Another reason, the main reason, I liked this book is that it approached the issue of marriage from a very interesting perspective. Keyes shows the complexities, hardships, craziness, and pleasures of being united through marriage, and she reveals it in a retrospective fashion. This way, the reader comes the realization of the story at the same time as the main character, Maggie, does. It makes you feel like you are experiencing things right along with her.

I won't give away the book in case you wanna read it...but one thing I did NOT understand was the title! It didn't go along with the book at all! I kept thinking, "When do we get to the part about angels???"

"The Girlfriend" is getting to be a bit "Annoying"

2009-01-22T22:36:00.000-08:00

Men are so easily pleased!

Give them an at least half-way beautiful woman with a european accent and some cleavage talking about how she accepts all of the short-comings of man... et voilà! Instant boner! lol

Every man's fantasy:

The accent is sexy because it means she is from unfamiliar lands. The accent also means he doesn't mind when she's talking to him because it doesn't really matter what she's saying....it simply SOUNDS sexy! And more than likely she won't be very good at talking in English anyways...the less talking, the better.

The boobs are nice due to their seeming perkiness, and they are a nice distraction from her face.

Let's face it, men just wanna be men. So if that means going to strip clubs or being fat and harry, so be it! All they want is endorsement of the lifestyle they love.

I applause Jim Beam on appealing to their key audience....American male sports enthusiasts. Nice work!

The only thing that sucks is watching the broad during EVERY commercial break!!!!

hel-LO Mr. President!

2009-01-20T18:32:00.000-08:00

More than a President,

and more like a role-model.

More than likely,

an approach to world

that's a bit more "kindly".

A bit more like ME. :)

A Hundred Million Gazillion

2009-01-20T11:30:00.000-08:00

Today I signed up for Twitter....and it makes me wonder: How many social networking (SN) sites will I join in my lifetime? There will always be something bigger and better and completely irresistable. If SN was the only temptation to man, I wouldn't feel so bad, but we all know this is simply a reflection of humanity.

My other observation? The Social Networking Divide. Similar to the Digital Divide, but to another degree. Is it because I'm getting older that many of my friends aren't as plugged into the world of SN? Or are my friends the kind that don't "play the game" of SN? Or perhaps, just perhaps, at the end of a work day, some people have better things to do than be glued to their computer?

I do know this, though. I've always walked a fine line between being a SNW (use your imagination) and continuing to be a bit elusive.

Once again, elusivity prevails, as I've never been known to wear my heart on my sleeve.

Don't Be A Snitch!!

2009-01-16T19:38:00.000-08:00

Upon reading the 3rd chapter of the book of Genesis, I realize that Adam is a snitch!! Yes I know that Eve was the one who took the forbidden fruit and ate it, but A. Adam did NOT complain that she was offering him forbidden fruit and B. He ate it! Even though it was forbidden!

Forgive me if I'm a little salty that Adam spilled the beans the way he did. In Genesis 3:12 Adam says, "The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat." Now typically there would be nothing wrong with this answer, if God would've asked where he got the fruit. BUT God did not ask that! He asked, "...Hast thou eaten of the tree, wereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat?" (3:11) A simple YES would've sufficed! He threw Eve under the bus! He didn't just nudge her into the street into oncoming traffic. Dude grabbed her by the ankles and swung her around and around, doing the Pamchenko Twist (think The Cutting Edge 1992), and lobbed her underneath the city bus that is double the length of a normal bus...you know, the one that has a rotating disk in the middle? And when you sit in that portion of the bus you are contantly being turned for different points of view? Yeah, one of THOSE busses.

But I digress...

I mean, Adam and Eve were supposed to be in it to win it. Eve was created out of one of Adams ribs, for crying out loud! I'm not so sure God's verdict would've been any different, but I will say that the whole scene says something of Adam's character. Does it not?

Moral of the story: JUST ANSWER THE DARN QUESTION. No more, no less.

It's All Love

2009-01-07T11:42:00.000-08:00

I haven't quite figured out why I agreed to do this, except for that I'm a sucker and haven't been inspired to write about anything else lately. So Tasha did this weird writing exercise and suggested I do it too. Something about tell all of the people you've come across in life what you think about them without mentioning their names. Supposed to be therapeutic somehow. So here I go. Splat.

1. I wonder how life will treat you in the long-run. You can be so giving and loving, but when you choose to turn it off you really do. What makes me worry is that your survival mechanism will never allow you to learn compromise or forgiveness or conflict resolution. However, I think the off-switch was best, otherwise we might've had it out in the streets of Mpls. lol It's all good though. I forgive myself and I forgive you.

2. I think you're happy, and you've known what you wanted far before most others. When you get what you want, you are enjoyable. But when you don't (didn't) you let go. I believe you are one of those people who, although we could've been very close friends, would not have helped me grow creatively. You have a beautiful family though, and I'm happy for you.

3. You are the mister of my life (remember that? lol), and we always have a ton of fun. Thank you for many things, but mostly for making me think before jumping. Although I still love to jump unexpectedly sometimes to mix things up. I love you so much but can't get into it without being super mooshy. Your creativity is immeasurable and admired, but what I love most is your faith. Oooh I just LOVE you! lol

4. I never got the chance to know you, but thanks for taking that extra few minutes in the 80s to have a little fun and create such an intriguing piece of art. I look at it everyday and wonder how much of it is a reflection of you. Maybe some day you'll sit me down for an art lesson?

5. Man...where do i start??? You are amazing, in that you give physically, emotionally, verbally, etc. I try to be like you when it comes to giving. You are one of very few people who knows me well, which brings extra comfort as of late, and who didn't pre-judge me when we first met. You balance my quiet, intense, South Dakota demeanor with fun and jokes and style. When you make a conscious decision to take control of your life, you are strong, decisive, and beautiful. I hope to see nothing but that in the future.

6. YOU, my dear, are a bit elusive, which is the secret to your mystery. You are good at heart, and I wish I knew you better. I think our lives now are compensating for how much time we were forced to spend together as children! But I trust all will come full circle, much like you and your travels. You always manage to swing through to say hi for a quick hug and a shower.

7. You are someone that I admire very much. I aspire to be like you in the kitchen and in my values and approach to life. You are such a good person! I was sad to move mostly because of what you helped me accomplish. Thank you!

8. And I come to you...Miss Bossy. Thanks for agreeing, for once, with something you don't understand. You often explain and define your life in reference to the man of the moment, more so than anyone I've ever met, which I never understood until a couple years ago. The intensity of your relationships is shaped by your only-child personality traits and the blame you put on your father. Only when you stop blaming will you be able to find peace through love. Your ability to so intensely verbally articulate your thoughts and observations is intriguing to me, but also goes hand-in-hand with your tendency to take life so literally. Our friendship is definitely unique. Different than I've ever had.

9. I haven't spoken to you much as of late, besides the random text, but you seem so much more peaceful now since you've expanded your family. I am really happy for you. Try not to THINK so much! I believe that is what gives you an almost somber appearance. Your life is beautiful! Family, friends, success...what else could a man ask for? Ha! Silly question...since man's appetite is never full.

10. You've provided for me what many young ladies in my circumstance can only imagine. We gone through rough times and you've gotten me through rough times....and You have no idea how much I love and appreciate you.

11. Girl....you stress me out!! Get it together. Stop wearing your heart on your sleeve, go to school, and stop making excuses!!!!!!!!!

12. I respect your game! You always have a man in love with you and you always know when to stop the relationship before you get fully sucked into something you don't really want. This is a great quality! You recognize when love is good for you and when it it not. You have mastered what many women never will.

13. You are the strongest person I know, and I try to be the same. And of course we are the same in many ways. There was a moment when I wondered who you were, but I know we all go through things that are inexplicable. Nonetheless, you have my heart.

14. I remembered when I was younger, I wanted to be like you. I learned a lot about music from you believe it or not. That first Erykah Badu CD that I'd listen to for hours on end while locked in my bedroom? That was yours. And I remember very vividly how devastated/shocked you were to find out Tupac was killed. You allowed me the space and independence I so craved, so I thank you. Even despite the time you whacked me over the head with the telephone receiver because I wanted to call Jeanne and tell her you were being mean. LOL Now, though, I think you feel trapped by your family. I wish that you would find how to turn your passions into profit because then I know the wine and weed would no longer be your refuge.

15. I feel like you gave up on success somewhere along the way. Or perhaps you're simply another person who has always had it handed to you and will always expect it to be handed to you. But you have a good heart and a great family. I'm excited for the day that we can be friends again.

16. Man you've got some issues. Perhaps psychological. Maybe you are aware and maybe you're not, but I can see it in your eyes. I never really knew what to believe when you talked.

17. Marriage and motherhood has treated you well!! I know, though, that you will find that missing link. Maybe you'll open your own business, or start doing photography? I'm excited to find out what it'll be!

18. You crave success, and your hard work is paying off. You've done almost everything you said you were going to do, or at least you're on your path to doing it. I like that in a peson. I wish you well. For some reason, I still think about your dad(s) and his motorcycle, and your mom, and your sister.

19. You handle the crinkles so well and set yourself up for success. You say you're not a very passionate person, but you are a planner and I respect that. You weigh your options and make very responsible decisions. I love how you are smart with your money and how you get to travel and be young.

20. And to all the rest I can't think of right now: Thank you! Every person I have met has taught me some life lesson and has made a large impact, which is probably why I only let a small amount in. If not, I might go into overload!

2 Days in Paris

2009-01-07T10:04:00.000-08:00

I watched half of this movie last night, and I was pleasantly surprised. I used to watch a lot more independent films so was excited to try one out again. My plans tonight are to go straight home and finish it. A quote:

"It always fascinated me how people go from loving you madly to nothing at all, nothing. It hurts so much. When I feel someone is going to leave me, I have a tendency to break up first before I get to hear the whole thing. Here it is. One more, one less. Another wasted love story. I really love this one. When I think that its over, that I'll never see him again like this... well yes, I'll bump into him, we'll meet our new boyfriend and girlfriend, act as if we had never been together, then we'll slowly think of each other less and less until we forget each other completely. Almost. Always the same for me. Break up, break down. Drunk up, fool around. Meet one guy, then another, fuck around. Forget the one and only. Then after a few months of total emptiness start again to look for true love, desperately look everywhere and after two years of loneliness meet a new love and swear it is the one, until that one is gone as well. There's a moment in life where you can't recover any more from another break-up. And even if this person bugs you sixty percent of the time, well you still can’t live without him. And even if he wakes you up every day by sneezing right in your face, well you love his sneezes more than anyone else's kisses."

La La La....So Ghetto!

2008-12-16T18:11:00.000-08:00

The MN guys are doin the darn thing. Like the new video!

Have you seen...?

2008-12-15T09:37:00.000-08:00

A trip to Blockbuster ensues the following convo:

Blockbuster guy: Have you seen 'Raising Victor Vargas'?
Me: I have!
Blockbuster guy: Is that you??
Me: [laughing] No. No it isn't me.

Close. But not quite.

I Likie Lykke Li

2008-12-09T12:20:00.000-08:00

Lykke Li - "I'm Good, I'm Gone"
by

Reverse Sexism?

2008-12-09T11:38:00.000-08:00

(Response to a friend/coworker's blog about Beyonce's "If I Were a Boy")

The trick here is that her lyrics may be taken as a broad stereotype, addressing the likes of what is believed to be the nature of man–conniving, carefree, and unknowing towards a women’s perspective. OR the lyrics could be addressing a very personal, intimate relationship between a man and woman, but generalized in the the attempt to make it LESS personal. This way more folks can relate. Sometimes writers will come out and say, “Peter is a low-down, dirty, non-committing bastard who turns his phone off at night” while being sure to throw in some rhymes, but like you stated…this is pop culture. Appeal to the masses. Generalize. Broaden. Almost every straight woman has had her heart broken by a man, so why not speak to that? True, many women may not have been deceived or cheated on, but I can almost guarantee she feels “taken…for granted” in some sense of the word.

Now, my favorite part. Don’t confuse Beyonce the artist with Beyonce the person, hence the name of her album “I am…Sasha Fierce”. Beyonce didn’t even write this song; she just recorded it and now performs it. She probably doesn’t even WANT to leave the house without makeup, her oversized LV bag, and designer sunglasses!! Ok, I’m speculating now, but seriously. Of COURSE she’s going to be a sexy cop and have men hope to see her in her panties…how ELSE is she going to get that other half of the population to watch that stinkin video????? lol

And since I can, I will take the argument of all the misogynist artists out there with airplay: This song isn’t referring to ALL men, just the men who suck (We’re not saying ALL women are b*tches and hoes, just the ones who are). And like the women who feel berated by afore mentioned music, I encourage all the men who feel slighted by this Beyonce track to get a men’s group together and talk about how it makes you feel. And BE SURE to talk to the young men coming up behind you. Tell them that although Beyonce stereotypes men in this song, this is no reason to fall into the trap of being a “bad man”. And let them know that the writer of the song may have some personal issues that she needs to deal with. AND tell them that music labels are all about the dollar, so we can’t expect much from them.

Don’t get me wrong, I believe and support you when you deliberate “Why can’t she take the lyrics of the song a step further, beyond cliched stereotypes of gender roles in America? She has the voice. She has the audience. What more is necessary?” Much like how a friend of mine feels about Michael Jordan…not making any sort of public statements that give back to the community after we have helped make him the billionairre that he is. This is the business of entertainment, people. In America! While we would hope entertainers would give an eff, often times they don’t.

I’m not saying it’s right. I’m just saying….it is what it is.

TrAsh Talk

2008-12-08T16:34:00.001-08:00

i came across an old video that we posted on youtube a couple years ago. it made me smile, so i thought i'd share.

Christmas Wish List....starting NOW!!!

2008-12-04T14:20:00.000-08:00

Tell me this necklace isn't FREAKING GORGEOUS!!! Pretty sure if you do, then you are officially not cool lol -- since I am overseeing the "cool cards" today. Sorry Charlie.

But seriously, this is the new line of jewelry Super Fertile by Kali Arulpragasam, MIA's seeester. "A politically-conscious jewelry line", as misscrew reports, is the best I've seen in awhile. AND Kali is giving 7% of profits to Oxfam, to help support the line's latest feature: hunger. Kali says, "Everyone has the right to eat." And I couldn't agree more. So go on out, and buy me that necklace. ;)

Jesus!!

2008-12-04T11:31:00.000-08:00

See more Jack Black videos at Funny or Die

Strangle His Balls

2008-12-03T11:54:00.000-08:00

LOL I'm gonna use that....strangle his balls.

But the most racist mom on television? Check it out.... Mama's Boys

Whoa Nelly!

2008-12-03T10:06:00.000-08:00

It’s December! Only 28 more days in the year and what have I accomplished? A few things:

Travelled extensively: LA, Palm Springs, Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis, Pittsburgh, Bronx, Miami, Tampa, San Francisco, Washington DC, South Bend IN, Chicago, and every state in between Mpls and LA!!!

Got engaged.

Got married.

Moved to Los Angeles, which means new people, new apartment, new everything.

Started a new job.

Major hair cut, color, texture changes lol

Actually, I don’t know how many of those are “accomplishments” as opposed to blessings and just needing a gosh darn change! (That Beverly Hills haircut still has my bank account in shambles!)

However….BOY am I looking forward to 2009!!!! I see financial affluence and overall pride and happiness. I celebrate a birthday early on in the year, which always sets the stage for goal-making. I only have 2 years before I turn 30, so I must make them good ones!!

My first goal is to get myself together! A major move is always a bit difficult, depending on how well-planned it was. And my move was barely quasi-planned, to say the most. So you can imagine why I feel rather discombobulated.

My second goal is career oriented. I can’t say where I’ll be, but I hope to have moved up a notch or two by the end of next year.

As far as fitness, I definitely would like to tone some things up before March rolls around. Then it’s all about maintenance!

Travelling goals?? I’d like to go to Seattle to visit my brother and TRY to get to Hawaii in the summer/fall.

I have a couple other ideas simmering, but I’ll like to keep those in the pot for awhile longer before I reveal them.

2009 will be a great year, I just know it.

Jumpin Da Broom (JDB) Lesson #1

2008-12-02T18:46:00.000-08:00

Being married. I’m obviously still new at all this—not even four months in yet—but THIS I will tell you. There will always be somebody of the opposite sex mingling, intentionally or unintentionally, with your significant other. By mingling, I mean hanging around, being a casual “friend”, always talking about getting together for a drink, etc, etc.

Now, is this bad?

Depends on how it presents itself in the relationship.

If this person, is single and wants to hang out alone? Potentially, this could be bad.

If this person is a random, never heard from or seen prior to either person in the relationship? Again this could be potentially bad.

If you see a text message to your wife/husband that says, “Hey gorgeous…..I can’t wait to meet you!!!!” This COULD be bad. Lol (I’m just sayin….!!)

On the other hand, if the person has been around for awhile (i.e. YEARS), and you’ve all hung out before in a social setting—without feeling weird….I wouldn’t sweat it.

Or if this is (a) coworker/s who always include(s) the spouse in the plans….don’t worry too much.

Or MAYBE the other person is simply a rad person, who you KNOW is cool peoples, who respects the institution of marriage, who is a God-fearing individual, and would never reduce his/herself to home-wrecker status (which YES, should be a status setting on all social networking sites!!!). Home free.

All I’m saying is THIS:

To all the people in the world who are married or who aspire to be or who once (or twice) have been,

KEEP THE FAITH.

Marriage is bomb! Pick someone you trust, and it’ll be jam-packed with fun and adventure! J

And To all random chics in the world who may want to meet or get to know my handsomely sexy and mysterious husband,

BUG OFF.

And I’ll only say it once.

I got sucked in....but only cuz I had to!

2008-11-17T17:25:00.000-08:00

Since I know that hundreds of thousands of people read my blog everyday (or just Tasha), I'd like to give my opinion on the "momification"-slash-Michelle-Obama exigency.

Raise your hand if you knew, prior to now, that Michelle Obama has a degree from Princeton.

Now, raise your hand if you knew that she is a Harvard Law School graduate.

Again, raise your hand if you were aware that she was the vice president of community and external affairs at the University of Chicago Hospitals?

If you raised your hand all three times, good for you! That means you care enough about the first family-elect (and life, in general) to do your own research. Or you may read the Times. Or MAYBE your cousin is the niece of Michelle's best friend's sister.

If you didn't raise your hand at all, that's ok. Maybe mainstream media has tricked you, once again, into having a one-track mind. Or maybe you don't follow much in the world of politics.

My point is mostly that...who cares if mainstream American media focuses on the fact that Michelle is a mother over the fact that she is a hard-working professional?? Mainstream American media represents a very broad view of America. We already know that...so what's the big deal?

A friend IM'ed me today suggesting, "Women should still be able to be seen as individuals right? For their own qualifications..." Of course they should be. That seems to be a silly question, much like "All individuals deserve healthcare as a natural right, correct?" YES, THEY SHOULD!

My question though is this....Why are women so reluctant to admit that they are WOMEN?? We give birth and contribute to creating life, therefore we must help to maintain that very life. which IN TURN means, we must also sacrifice, to some extent, some aspects that we have previously prioritized. If women don't wanna have to sacrifice financial independence to have a child...you better save up and plan well! If women don't wanna sacrifice their career to have a family, they better find a husband (or baby daddy or significant other) that will! Shooooot.....there's a gazillion people on earth already, so there's yet another option: choose not to have a child--this will allow woman to rule the world! If you are a woman with a career and want to have a child, you are forced to make some very important decisions in life. That's what makes it LIFE. Yeah, I kinda wish I would've stuck it out and went to medical school, but something in me at that time urged me not to. Now I can say I have impacted the lives of several young people in the role of mentor and teacher, instead of having my nose in the books for the past 4 years. I'm still happy.

I admire Michelle Obama for being willing to experience a new life, as first lady and stay-at-home mother. And I respect her for being able to make a sacrifice to her family and to her husband. Historically, Black women have been portrayed as the backbone of the family in multiple ways; and the Black family in America has been broken, and still suffers today, because of the American institution. The opportunity for President-elect Barack Obama to take the spotlight is not only a landmark for Americans or for minorities, but it represents a turning point and provides a role model for the Black family (besides the fictional Huxtable's). A husband and wife must support each other in different ways, and this is one way that Michelle is supporting her husband, even though it means making a career change.

The average person changes careers 4 times during their life, and it's not always because that person initiates the change. Sometimes events happen that we don't plan. That's what makes it LIFE.

You know that Michelle is in no way going to be JUST a mom. I foresee her having plans, big plans, that will make major impacts on how America functions in the area of women, families, and healthcare. She's a hard worker and a fair person, so I just know.

So for all of you who are freakin out about Michelle being a mom....relax. She'll make you proud of her. So now you can each go about your own lives, forget about the how-come's and the what-if's of Michelle and her choices, and trust that in the long run we will all become better off because of them.

Oooooweeeee!

2008-11-06T12:27:00.000-08:00

Same Bag Much????

2008-10-31T10:50:00.000-07:00

Maybe not exactly....but you get the point. :)

Celebrity Sightings

2008-10-30T12:09:00.000-07:00

People always ask "Now that you live in LA, do you see a lot of celebrities???"

My answer has historically been, "No. Because I can never recognize them."

In the past week, I've seen TWO celebrities. lol Cheesy right?

Tom Arnold and Molly Shannon.

It can only get better from here. :)

Uggggghhhhh!

2008-10-30T10:07:00.000-07:00

Tyra Banks is just HORRIBLE at hosting a talk show, it's quite surprising to me she has lasted as long as she has. Prime example.....watch the 2 clips below, and you tell ME.

(Chelsea Lately is SO FUNNY!!)

DISCUSS.

I Want It.

2008-10-30T10:02:00.001-07:00

Kanye found this bag for me. Thanks sweetie! :)

Barack & Curtis: Manhood, Power, and Respect

2008-10-30T09:49:00.000-07:00

Take a little peeker. Then click here to read more about the creator and his vision.

Hop up out the bed (YEEEAAHHH!!) Turn my swag on!

2008-10-29T10:35:00.000-07:00

Being a seasoned player of polyphasic sleep, the practice of sleeping multiple times in a 24-hour period, I have MULTIPLE opportunities in one day to do the new soulja boy :)

(Don't hate, ok?)

Soulja Boy Tell' Em - Turn My Swag On
by BlackAndree

Thinking of Joining

2008-10-16T09:37:00.001-07:00

Is Palin Qualified to be Vice President??

2008-10-13T17:45:00.000-07:00

PBS has a poll.

Click here.

Do It.

So Fast.

Boo.

2008-10-13T10:29:00.000-07:00

Tara Wall is so wack to me. She has a story on CNN on ways in which Obama is like Bush. Half of her arguement is like a big smack on the forehead because any reasonable person in today's time would support various educational options for their children, more thorough healthcare for minorities and the poor, helping resolve the worldwide AIDS crisis, and more innovative energy creation/use. Granted there are some valid points, and it's always nice to get comparison notes on the strengths AND weakness of your party leader. As we all know, no candidate is going to have EVERYTHING we want in a president. We have to decide which viewpoints are deal breakers. All in all, especially after watching her on CNN the other day talking about race and the campaign, I can't help but think that Tara Wall is the tattletale, whiney type. Come on now, when Palin says she appeals to the hockey moms of the country, she is certainly not speaking to the majority of non-white mothers in the US. Get outta here with that crap, Tara.

Can of Worms

2008-10-08T12:45:00.000-07:00

This is the start of a blog I never posted from January 2006, Enjoy!:

Who would have ever guessed that a phone could be so high-tech,
high-profile, and addictive? I recently purchased the black Sidekick-II, not
sure if it's one of the stupidest decisions I've ever made--or if I truly
enjoy my new toy. Perhaps a little of both....

Of course, in the beginning, I had to take the "2way for Dummies"
introductory class on how to work the damn thing--from a friend who still so
graciously answers questions and gives me pointers and updates. And from
the beginning it was quite a pain in the ass, talking about it was going to
take up to 48 hours to get initialized??? I soon learned that getting my
"G" was much like getting my "O"--exhiliaratingly able to open me up to new
experiences every time, if I wanted it too. If you lose your "G" for any
extended period of time, you feel like a lonely little puppydog wandering
foreign streets, searching for a familiar face.

I have to admit that taking my 2way out in public with me is no small feat.
When I feel the buzz in my backpocket or catch Kelis' "Trick Me" ringtone
escape from my purse, I certainly think twice about whether or not i want to
check which form of communication is knocking at my door.

Target Practice

2008-10-05T22:30:00.000-07:00

Living in LA has got me even more torn than ever before. Do I fondle the desire to be glamorous, hiding behind my designer sunglasses and enormous handbags? Or be plain ol' me, South Dakota born and raised? I've always been able to transition my style, as it was quite simple from country to small city. However, expensive shoes and fancy pants salon treatments have come to a halt since they have surpassed my budge. It feels a little like I've lost my aim.

ummmm......yeah. Silverman, ladies and gentlemen.

2008-10-02T14:57:00.000-07:00

The Great Schlep from The Great Schlep on Vimeo.

It's Not Polite to Hit a Lady

2008-08-07T14:35:00.000-07:00

Wonder Woman trailer :)

a little shaky

2008-07-29T12:34:00.000-07:00

i've been living in LA for exactly one week. i like to come to the Coffee Bean to check my email and search for jobs and apartments, but this time is a little different. let me tell you!!

a flippin earthquake!!!!!!!!!!

yes. CNN is saying a magnitude of 5.8 .... moderate.

i'm saying.....WHOA BABY. that was crazy. the whole building was swaying back and forth for about 5 seconds. my husband's friend paul was on the 9th floor of a downtown office building when it happened (closer to the heart of the earthquake). he said things were falling off the walls and his file cabinets drawers came open, and the whole building was swaying back and forth.

i have to admit. i a had it a bit easier. but i'm still a little shaky.

Ha!

2008-07-09T20:02:00.000-07:00

Into Thin Air

2008-06-06T08:17:00.000-07:00

I'm sad to announce the loss of a close and dear friend. My MacBook Air lived a fulfilling 4 months: travelled extensively with me, kept my deepest secrets, and diligently worked by my side. She was admired for her ability to easily fit into most bags. On June 4th, my MBA was taken from my desk, never to return. The aspect she was most noted for became the reason for her demise. I can only hope she's in a better place now.

Survived by its InCase pouch and its external SuperDrive.

A private memorial service has already been held in her honor.

A special thanks to Serena for her friendship and support through these difficult times.

Don't Judge a Book by Its.....

2008-06-03T06:43:00.000-07:00

Man.

Seriously.

Don't let the 900 pages discourage you.

Or the frickin babies on the front cover.

Or the Oprah's Book Club sticker.

Hurry!!

Before the movie comes out.

A Special Engagement

2008-05-21T06:49:00.000-07:00

America has been duped!! Engagement rings date back hundreds of years, but DIAMOND engagement rings weren't poppin until an American advertising scheme was launched. Genius, actually....

"The diamond engagement ring did not become the standard it is considered today until after an extensive marketing campaign by De Beers in the middle of the 20th century, which came to include one of the most famous advertising slogans of the 20th century: 'A Diamond is Forever'.

In the early 20th century, the United States jewelery industry attempted to start a trend of male engagement rings, going so far as to create a supposed "historical precedent" dating back to medieval times. The attempt failed, although the industry applied lessons learned from this venture in its more successful bid to encourage the use of male wedding rings." (Wikipedia)

ALSO....

"A conventional buying price ranging from two to three months wages for a ring guideline originated from De Beers marketing materials in the early 20th century, in an effort to increase the sale of diamonds." (Wikipedia)

AND.....

"The double-ring ceremony, or use of wedding rings for both partners, is a relatively recent innovation. The American jewellery industry started a marketing campaign aimed at encouraging this practice in the late 19th century. Learning from marketing lessons of the 1920s, changing economic times, and the impact of World War II, led to a more successful marketing campaign, and by the late 1940s, double-ring ceremonies made up for 80% of all weddings, as opposed to 15% before the Great Depression." (Wikipedia)

Funny how we blindly follow tradition that isn't even tradition!! Americans are so easily brainwashed. Too funny.

Anywho.....my engagement-slash-wedding band below. :)

My Little Willie

2008-05-20T06:37:00.000-07:00

If any of you know William (formerly known as Bill) and his signature note....you'll enjoy this:

It's the Small Things

2008-05-10T23:54:00.000-07:00

At work today, I was able to witness something that the average person will never be able to see. I saw, laid out in front of me, a skeleton of a person who had lived 5200 years ago! A man who teaches anatomy at Berkeley was kind enough to share the story of the person laid out before us:

The skeleton was found beneath (or in, I'm not sure how all that works) the largest pyramid in Egypt. I guess the pharaohs in Egypt were intrigued by dwarfs, more commonly known as midgets, and they were collected and employed as money counters and such. Well this particular skeleton was one of the helpers in the kitchen of this huge pyramid.

According to the guy at Berkeley there are two main kinds of dwarfism, and this specimen was representative of neither of those types. He pointed out so many different elements, like how all the joints and the skull were the size of a normal-sized human. The parts that were small were the length of the legs and arms. And the feet and hands were tiny!!! One thing that was extra crazy was that the bones were very light weight--hardly any bone density. He was saying the this was the only specimen like it in the world!

It's so important to recognize little moments like these and be proud to witness them.

I'm telling you, it's the small things like this that make a difference (pardon the pun lol).

Oh my gosh!...I almost forget to mention the Neanderthal skeletons he was scanning not long ago from France. He said it was a whole family that had been EATEN....by other Neanderthals!!!

Apparently you can tell how a bone is broken by the way it fractures. That's one way they could tell they had been eaten. Also, he said it couldn't have been by an animal because the animal would have gnawed away at the bones, and they didn't see that in this case. Almost make you wanna be an architect, huh? :)

Scary....CLEARly

2008-05-10T23:42:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, I travel at least twice a week to various cities in the US. The last time I was in San Francisco, a kiosk caught my attention so I grabbed a pamphlet. Apparently airports are adopting a new VIP-identification line, by a company called Clear. To any avid traveler this may seem appealing to not have to wait in line….Sorta like the club. We’re not going if we have to stand in line. Lol The catch? (There’s always a catch.) You must go through two main procedures:

1.You have your fingerprints taken. No biggie. We all, or most of us, have to get our fingerprints taken at some point. 2. You must have your irises scanned. If you’ve seen Bourne Identity and/or that YouTube video featuring the family from Florida who had a travel identification chip implanted into their bodies then you’re more than likely having the same reaction I had. “Huh???”

At the risk of sounding old skool, I think “Fine. New technology. New procedures.” Most of you already know I LOVE new technology. But hold on…scanning my irises?? No thank you. Besides…the ClearCard does not skip you through security. It simply gets you to security. Last I checked you get to skip to security when you make it to Elite WorldPerks status. Shoooot. I think I’ll wait. I’m almost there anyway. ;) WAY better than letting people have pictures of the inside of my eyeballs.

Aunt Dolly

2008-05-09T14:59:00.000-07:00

SO.....my sisters and a couple friends came to visit this week, and we all went to see Dolly Parton in concert. Yes...the country singer. Yeah, she's the one with the boobs. Yep, blonde hair. And lovely enough, her new album is called "Backwoods Barbie".

It's amazing how superficially silly she can appear, but Dolly is quite an inspiration. And she's so humble. AND she put on one of the best concerts I've seen in a long, long time. Played 10 instruments in 2 hours. 2 HOURS!!?? This woman is over 60 years old and putting on better shows than most artists in their 20s.

Her numbers speak volumes for her work....check it out:

Dolly had 26 #1 singles
She's had 42 top-10 country albums. Let me say that again.....42 top-10 ALBUMS. What!?!
Dolly has published almost 600 songs with BMI and has earned 37 BMI awards for her material.
Rumor has it that she made $6 million off Whitney Houston's cover version of "I Will Always Love You", a song Dolly wrote in 1974 and has all the publishing rights to!
Dolly's been in movies, on TV shows, and owns her own theme park DollyWood.
Inspiration Library is her international organization that gives books to children every month of their lives from the time they're born to the time they enter kindergarten.
Dolly's estimated worth is between $300 million and $500 million.

So NEXT TIME I tell you I'm going to see Dolly Parton, please don't seem so alarmed lol.

We love Dolly!!

wanna make LUV in the club....in the club.

2008-04-28T21:05:00.000-07:00

Friends don't let friends go to the club....WITH ONLY THEIR UNderWEAR.

Dope Sick Love

2008-04-12T16:31:00.000-07:00

You've heard about the reality television show on VH1 featuring the stories of drug addicts in relationships? Well, it shows the lengths to which these people go to get their next high and how they are willing to jeopardize their relationships with their loved one in order to be satiated in a physical sense.

Now take out the drugs.

MY reality TV show is going to be about people who let LOVE ruin their lives. It will show the lengths to which people go to be and remain in love and how they are willing to jeopardize their own life and dreams and goals to be satiated in an emotional sense.

At what point did it become okay to do this?? There seems to be a rampant epidemic among women I know--and yes, men too--who have tunnel visioned their way into a relationship, often times a horrible one, and in the process completely left their person in the past. Unfortunately, women are typically the ones to experience this the most frequently and the hardest, lending themselves to lifestyles that cater to the life-living men they love.

I'm not judging. Shoot. We've all been there before--at least once.

My answer? Love Rehab.

Yes.

"Suckin too hard on your lollipop...Love's gonna get you down."

~Mika

Stay tuned...

Frump

2008-04-11T07:54:00.000-07:00

My internet video debut. Don't be jealous... lol

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1321252671/bctid1491726993

I'm Straight...

2008-03-20T18:54:00.000-07:00

On a whim the other night....I decided to get a hair cut. For the past several years, I've been a spur-of-the-moment, find-a-hair-salon-with-an-opening, "I-don't-care-do-whatever" type of lady. Sometimes I end up saying, "Shoot!!"(kinda like my last short haircut.....it was aaiiiight lol) But this time I really like it! Well, I can't speak on the curly quite yet.... right now it's straight! And if you know me you know I don't do straight very often. Not too shabby, huh??? I just might invest in one those hot hair straightener tools that's sorta like a curling iron but not. hahahha AND I really enjoyed the salon....Mel at Evolution Experience off Lyndale hooked me up! You should definitely go.... they even have a couple of nice looking young men that work there (not that I'm looking....because I'm taken. Yessir!) Just FYI.... :)

Oh Deer!

2008-03-05T16:36:00.000-08:00

Eric and I went out for dinner last night...wanted to check out a restaurant we haven't yet gone to. Lo and behold! We stumbled upon the Red Stag Supper Club in Minneapolis. One of those places that makes you wanna go hmmm....It had the feel of a midwestern Legion or VFW with brick red interior and random looking tables all over. We ordered tempura broccoli (yum!!), a petit teres, and deer stroganoff. Yes....we had Bambi for dinner--yikes!! And boy-oh-boy!....the chocolate brownie at dessert was mmm mmmm good. Overall the food was decent, but we agree it was our mousey little bartender and his wooden nickels that bumped our experience up to 8 points out of 10.

Air Bags Save Lives

2008-02-20T10:41:00.000-08:00

As you all know, I got that new MacBook Air (wuhhooo!!). Yes I love it....and I'm the type of person who would like to whip it in my purse and be gone. I've been learning though that if you take care of your stuff, it lasts a lot longer!! lol So I'm looking for a little bag for the MBA....this is what I've found so far at etsy.com, two of my faves

Backstretch....

2006-06-01T17:09:00.000-07:00

I'm building a webpage!!! I am an English teacher, so would never be expected to do something like this, but I'm really getting the hang of it. AND it's kind of fun. (Don't tell anyone...)

So now how do I incorporate this into my classroom or school structure? Haven't QUITE figured that part out. I feel like I have become a resource for my students who are figuring out how to present projects. About 3-4 months ago, a student came to me and told me he wanted to rebuild the school's website because it's boring. I got the deer-in-the-headlights look and referred him to the tech-guy. At least now, I can guide students in using Dreamweaver! A beautiful thing.

I'm not sure what else I can do with this knowledge. This summer during staff development, though, I will be able to apply this knowlege to my coursework during the curriculum development section.

Like Dana states in her blob, I really enjoyed and connected with the article "Constructivism in the Classroom: If I Teach This Way, Am I Doing My Job?" by Debra Sprague & Christopher Dede. My school's philosophy is based in Constructivism and is project based in a small community, so everything the article said made sense to me.

Out of the Blocks...

2006-05-25T15:16:00.000-07:00

This week has been some review for me. I have worked a little with Inspiration and PowerPoint but never too extensively. The idea I like about PowerPoint is that it doesn't necessarily have to be used as a presentation tool, rather it can be used as a sort of WebQuest. I teach a class called 'Literature and Social Movements' and ended up doing my PowerPoint assignment on the charter school movement. It worked out perfectly because I want to show how the students enrolled at my school are part of the movement naturally, but I find it a little difficult to make it exciting in the classroom. So I decided that would be a perfect opportunity to include some technology!

Actually....I learned how to possibly incorporate blogging into my classroom. I've always thought it to be very important that students utilize the web somehow in discussion because my students seem to be reluctant to journal. Ever since watching a presentation at Avalon School on Japanese fashion and the young lady told how she learned a lot from using discussion boards, I've been wanting to do something like this in my classroom or with students who may be working on a project. I think I will require blog entries next year, and also responses to other student's blogs in the class. To spice things up a little (and since my classes tend to be pretty small), I might allow the students to respond to blogs that they might find on the internet that pertains to classroom material. Always an option...

The readings were rather insightful, I enjoyed "Computer Delusions" because it gave an interesting perspective on the effectiveness of using technology in the classroom to help students engage in meaningful learning. While I wonder how the heck I would be teaching in a completely different manner in which I was taught, I always just thought that given the state of technology use throughout society today, it seems ludicrous that it NOT be used in an educational format. And I completely agree with the "PowerPoint is Evil" article! My goodness, I am sick of seeing the typical student PowerPoint presentations. They seem so predictable. I feel now I have another way to show students PowerPoint, and this way I will be able to potentially use their work to show future students.

I was looking at Robyn's blog, and I see that she really likes the idea of using Inspiration IN her classroom. Like Robyn was observing with some of the other blogs, I would be unable to use programs in my classroom due to a lack of equipment in the classroom. We have computer access almost EVERYWHERE else in the building, so that's something I would have to work around.

Stay away....

2006-05-23T16:44:00.000-07:00

.....I've been doing entirely too much the past week--travel, work, school, work, work. I'm getting sick. Boohoo. My roommate is on her way to the grocery store to get me orange juice because I can feel my lymph nodes growing. Gross, I know. So like I said...stay away. Any suggestions on saving my health, let me know. Until then, peace. 1