Where Fashion Meets Fitness

I heart Les Mills Body classes. My love afair began in the NRV with BodyPump. At Pump I discovered that weight rooms are not just for men. At Pump I realized that it is in fact testosterone that makes me look like a member of Olympic Team East Germany, not pumping iron.

I am slowing developing what I hope is a long-term relationship with BodyJam. Thanks to Carmen Electra, I am now able to find the base and master moves such as the "stripper dip" and some sort of "hip circly thing." While advertiesed as an exercise video, I found this "workout"  instructional rather than aerobic.

Though devoted to BodyJam, I have begun an illicit affair with BodyCombat. Its angry girl-power kickboxing, is dredging up feelings for my ex-heart throb, Aikido. While my relationship with Aikido had a bittersweet ending, I am hopeful that Combat and I have begun something beautiful.

I have never been a threesome kind of gal. And while I fully enjoy Combat, Jam, and Pump, they keep me constantly on my toes. So, here are a few tips and tricks (from woman to woman) if you, like me, are new to this lifestyle choice:

First. prevent workout injuries by incorporating trendy yet functional street shoes. If your tight on dough invest in a cheap "mat shoe". My ballet shoes cured my mysterious bruises and work well for both Combat AND Jam.

Second. BYOG to properly hydrate. Replacing your beverage with gatorade will help to replace the minerals that are lost when you sweat. It took me a month to figure out that my dizziness was a direct result of low electrolytes following an intense Combat/Jam session. Though it is bound to land you some weird looks, pound a sports drink so you can cage fight by day and cage party all night long.

Third. Master your trade and rehearse. Justin and Brittney weren't born hip. Embrace your newbie status. What you do in your bathroom (or backyard in my case) will get you praise at the gym and in the club.

Fourth. The only thing Fergie and I agree on is that it is important to "be up in the gym just workin' on my fitness." Mix up your aerobic and weight lifting routines to maintain muscle definition. Can't make it to the gym? A few reps of wall lunges and planks will kick your @$$ both at the gym and in your den.

Fifth. Do keep the "family" in American Family Fitness. Even if your Meghan Fox, I do not want to see your cooch. What turns on the hot guy in the weight room will make you look like a skank in Combat and Pump. So, for the love of all that is holy, invest in mini BIKER shorts not mini FLAP shorts.

Lastly. Remember ladies that prevention necessitates protection. I earned my porn star/hooker nickname Kitty. Do you deserve yours?



Slang courtesy of UrbanDictionary.com

The Art of Disclosure

As a youngster I was encouraged to keep many things to myself. As a result of this forced silence I have a skewed understanding of the difference between privacy and secrecy. My therapist tells me that privacy doesn't have the "burden of fear."

My recent unemployment status is closely linked with this revelation. The office dynamics mirrored the environment of my youth. As I have moved out of the office and am no longer burdened with the fear of losing my job, I have a clearer picture of how to distinguish between secrecy and fear.

Luckily, this employment experience has afforded me many insights. I have seen the light with respect to what I need to succeed professionally. Similarly, I have an increased awareness of how my body physically reacts to stress. For example, when I experience the "lump in the throat sensation" (click here), I know that I have time warped back to the coping mechanisms of my youth.

Apparently it is not helpful to use said childlike coping mechanisms. DUH! I am now embarking on a mental change of routine. I know LSO will appreciate my newfound understanding. Maybe, just maybe, I will cease outing his most embarrassing moments at just the wrong time.

Yes friends, disclosure is an art I intend to master. But keep that on the down low would you? I have quite a long journey ahead of me.

Fortune Is A Frame Of Mind: Luck School 101

Apparently luck isn't something you obtain at birth. Richard Wiseman, a psychologist at the University of Hertfordshire, explains in his book, The Luck Factor, that lucky people have more opportunities because they a) listen to their intuition b) expect to be lucky and c) are more resilient to bad luck. In this article at telegraph.co.uk (click here), Wiseman explains how luck can be learned.

Unlucky people often fail to follow their intuition when making a choice, whereas lucky people tend to respect hunches. Lucky people are interested in how they both think and feel about the various options, rather than simply looking at the rational side of the situation. I think this helps them because gut feelings act as an alarm bell - a reason to consider a decision carefully.

Unlucky people tend to be creatures of routine. They tend to take the same route to and from work and talk to the same types of people at parties. In contrast, many lucky people try to introduce variety into their lives. For example, one person described how he thought of a colour before arriving at a party and then introduced himself to people wearing that colour. This kind of behaviour boosts the likelihood of chance opportunities by introducing variety.

Lucky people tend to see the positive side of their ill fortune. They imagine how things could have been worse. In one interview, a lucky volunteer arrived with his leg in a plaster cast and described how he had fallen down a flight of stairs. I asked him whether he still felt lucky and he cheerfully explained that he felt luckier than before. As he pointed out, he could have broken his neck.

Like any skeptic, I mean researcher, I decided to test Wiseman's theories. I began exploring what it would be like to trust my intuition. I discovered that I not only ignored my gut but also chastised myself for thinking of such an absurd idea. I quickly discovered that trusting my gut was both empowering and adventageous.

With one theory proven I had positive expectations for my next trial: seeing the sunny side of my circumstances. It took some time to turn my woes to joy. However, I soon discovered that I AM truly blessed. This has had a profound effect on my turbulent mood.

I am currently learning how to change my routine to recruit opportunities. This is especially difficult because my habits are well-trod paths. My EMDR specialist suggested I begin with sitting in a different spot during my sessions. This is certainly my toughest assignment and has incurred the most discomfort. Luckily I will soon be opening new doors every day!

Set List of U2 360 tour with Muse

Muse
Hysteria
Supermassive Black Hole
Resistance (lyrics)
United States Of Eurasia
Starlight
Undisclosed Desires
Time Is Running Out
Uprising
Knights of Cydonia
Plug in Baby

U2
Beautiful Day
Breathe (lyrics)
City Of Blinding Lights (lyrics)
Elevation (lyrics)
Get On Your Boots (lyrics)
I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For (lyrics)
I'll Go Crazy If I Don't Go Crazy Tonight (lyrics)
Magnificent (lyrics)
MLK (lyrics)
Moment of Surrender (lyrics)
Mysterious Ways (lyrics)
No Line On The Horizon (lyrics)
One (lyrics)
Stay (Faraway, So Close!) (lyrics)
Sunday Bloody Sunday (lyrics)
The Unforgettable Fire(lyrics)
Ultra Violet (Light My Way)
Unknown Caller (lyrics)
Until The End Of The World
Vertigo (lyrics)
Walk On (lyrics)
Where The Streets Have No Name (lyrics)
With Or Without You
New Year's Day (lyrics)
Stuck In A Moment You Can't Get Out Of (lyrics)
Your Blue Room (lyrics)

Setlists
setlist.fm
u2setlists.com

Lyrics 
elyrics.com

The More You Mark The Worse You Drive

Apparently drivers with lots of vehicle flare are more likely to be aggressive. A recent study by Szlemko et. al, proposes that individuals with flare are more territorial (see excerpt below).

Aggressive driving may occur when social norms for defending a primary
territory (i.e., one’s automobile) become confused with less aggressive norms for
defending a public territory (i.e., the road). Both number of territory markers (e.g.,
bumper stickers, decals) and attachment to the vehicle were significant predictors of
aggressive driving. Mere presence of a territory marker predicts increased use of the
vehicle to express anger and decreased use of adaptive/constructive expressions.

Personalized plates are especially common in Virginia because they are so cheap ($10/year). Does this mean that more aggressive drivers live in this state? Probably not. I guess my need for privacy is not such a bad thing after all. Therefore, I am putting my flare here, where, hopefully, my territorialness is a bit less dangerous.

See notation below for full research findings

Territorial Markings as a Predictor of Driver Aggression and Road Rage

William J. Szlemko, Jacob A. Benfield, Paul A. Bell,Jerry L. Deffenbacher, and Lucy Troup

Colorado State University

Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 2008, 38, 6, pp. 1664–1688.

Images courtesy of Zazzle, Sticker Giant, Humper Bumper, Wiki List of Awareness Ribbons

Polictical Activista - California Girl meets Southern Belle

Okay, I admit it. I am a political activist. Today I am pondering how a conservative California girl became a liberal southern belle. Here in Virginia, I have found, that because I believe in God it is assumed that I am a) conservative b) agree with everything reported on FOX news and c) think Rush Limbaugh is God's political spokesman. As a Christian I am destined to swim against mainstream beliefs. But what am I supposed to do when the current includes fellow Christians and close family and friends?


It is said that it is rude to talk about politics. But that doesn't stop anyone does it? I really hate it when people assume I agree with what they are saying. Initially, I was an active participant in these discussions. I approached them with an open mind, ready to learn. I have recently discovered, however, that these conversations are usually more of a powwow designed to validate pre-conceived beliefs instead of an intellectual exchange of information. Finding a respectful way to voice my opinion hasn't been easy (for tips on dinner politics click here).


Now I know that not all Republicans and Southerners are close-minded bigots. Sure, our state capital, Richmond, was once capital of the Confederate States. But I like to think that we have evolved since the Civil War. I would not be here if I didn't firmly believe that most Virginians are as sweet as their iced tea. I have found the most peace since moving here to Virginia. I still cannot believe the same girl who planned on marrying her high school boyfriend picked up two degrees at VT. So, after a decade of life in Virginia, I am still very content to settle in this great Commonwealth. I am very blessed to have LSO, some wealth, and my health.


But settling in the South has been challenging with my increasingly liberal convictions. As a California girl I am very opinionated so I may be the pot calling the kettle black. I am a nut from the left coast who struggles with the concept of manners. However, I believe I could be totally wrong as a result of my personal bias (at least this is what I tell myself). In research disproving your hypothesis can be as valuable as proving it. When presented with overwhelming facts, a researcher must be willing to re-evaluate their theories. In life I am compelled to do likewise.

As I have grown more liberal I have also grown more gracious. While I do not hesitate to make my voice known to my representatives and the public media, I make sure to bite my tongue when the conversation turns to current events among my conservative relations. I have my time in Virginia (and with LSO) to thank for this. It really is amazing what a smile and no reply can do. And when my anger reaches a dangerous level I am saved by the following words: "Excuse me, I have to use the ladies room." After all, a southern belle never raises her voice.

I am proud of our melting pot, democratic nation where I can be both a southern belle AND a California girl.

Note
This post was brought about as a result of my recent letters pleading with Cantor and fellow Virginians to consider health care reform. Though I didn't get my letter published, I felt myself speaking through this man (see below). There ARE liberals in Virginia. Halleluja! Can I get an Amen!?!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Everything About Conservatism Is Wrong:


Your apology for Massive Resistance, "Our Past," was eloquent but incomplete. You trace its lineage only as far as Jim Crow. What philosophy gave birth to Jim Crow and slavery itself? It was conservatism.

Conservatism's goal is to maintain -- to conserve -- the status of an elite, mostly wealthy class. Its primary method is to pit other classes against one another, using deception to portray one or more as dangerous. Conservatism is selfishness disguised as a noble principle. It's all about "me" instead of "we." This is the creed that spawned slavery, Jim Crow, and Massive Resistance, and it's the same line of thought proudly sold by Ronald Reagan, Rush Limbaugh, and Ross Mackenzie. It's no coincidence that the former slave states remain today the most conservative.


Your essay speaks of "the attitudes informing" Jim Crow. Those conservative attitudes are still very much alive, and they appear daily on your editorial pages and elsewhere. Those same attitudes inform current conservative positions on health care, the environment, taxation of wealth, and government in general. And they are just as wrong as they were on race.



Conservatives were on the wrong side of the biggest issue in American history. You would think that would cause them to reconsider their doctrine. But even in the light of New Testament equality, they still preach Old Testament brimstone. Conservatives must know they are pushing a discredited dogma, so one must ask whether their apologies on race are really sincere. Your past is America's past, but, unrepentant, you continue to kindle its sparks.


William R. Melton
Richmond

Top 10 Signs You Have Reached Middle Age

No. 10: Your younger siblings are now adults and your parents are retired
No. 9: College students are indistinguishable from high school students
No. 8: Half your salary goes to the mortgage, life insurance, and your 401K
No. 7: Movies, concerts, and sporting events require earplugs
No. 6: Amusement park rides necessitate pre-trip aspirin and post-trip chiropractic adjustments
No. 5: You are saving for your face lift because laugh lines are no laughing matter
No. 4: Drive thru food consumption depends entirely upon guaranteed restroom access
No. 3: The only "parties" you attend are Pampered Chef and Mary Kay
No. 2: Dates and other things require scheduling
No. 1: Trips to the mailbox sans make-up or bra result in blood-curling screams from neighborhood children

B-52s concert Setlist

This may be my final concert of the year. I got free tix and am pumped to groove to the first B-52s album in 16 years!

Setlist
Pump
Mesopotamia (lyrics)
Ultraviolet
Private Idaho
Give Me Back My Man (lyrics)
Funplex
Strobe Light (lyrics)
Quiche Lorraine (lyrics)
Juliet of the Spirits (lyrics)
Roam (lyrics)
Party Out Of Bounds (lyrics)
Love in the Year 3000 (lyrics)
Hot Corner
Love Shack (lyrics)

Encore:
Planet Claire (lyrics)
Rock Lobster (lyrics)

Other hits:
Channel Z (lyrics)
Keep This Party Going (lyrics)

Lyrics by metrolyrics
Setlist from setlist.fm

Chronic Kidney Disease And The Fragility of Life

Today I am contemplating the delicate nature of life. A dear friend of mine (I’ll call him Tom) was recently diagnosed with IgA nephropathy or Berger's disease. As if this news wasn't bad enough, he was told he now has chronic kidney disease. When diagnostic symptoms for Berger's disease appear, kidney function is usually significantly decreased. In Tom's case they are now irreparable. He is on a strict diet to postpone his inevitable kidney failure for which transplant is the only cure. While I have dealt with death and chronic disease before, this is the first time someone my age has had to deal with a crisis of this magnitude.

The news dealt a crushing blow to my little world. I know it is fruitless to ask why. And yet I still find my thoughts moving in that direction. The strict nature of Tom’s diet has robbed him of most foods he really enjoyed. Tom would often accompany me to ethnic and whole-in-the-wall restaurants. I mourn this loss in his life. He was a true connoisseur of cheese. Who else would join a cheese of the month club but Tom? His new found vegan, low-protein, gluten-free, casein-free diet places this chapter in his life firmly in the past. I have no idea how he is embracing his life change with such grace.

I cannot even begin to ponder what the future has for my friend. I refuse to accept a world without him. So, I will cherish every day that I have with him. I will call and visit often to show that I love him dearly. I will cook him delicious foods every time I see him. I will focus on today, keeping conversation light and positive (getting a laugh from him is SO great). I will celebrate his life by enjoying his company. I will mentally photograph my time with him. I will savor each and every moment, especially those that are quintessentially Tom.

Life is precious and fragile... I don't fear my own death but I do fear a life devoid of those I adore. Thanks God for another day to spend with those I love.

Democracy Demands Choice

I am a reformed conservative. I hesitate to say I am a liberal but over the years my positions have become increasingly left-wing. As a young college student I was ultra-conservative due to influences from fellow members in my campus evangelical parachurch organization. My world view was black and white, full of absolute truths that dictated a clear right and wrong. My life experiences, however, have facilitated an ideological fade to gray. Living in the Middle East, travel abroad, and being a mental institution resident have afforded me many acquaintances (some more colorful than others). Through these experiences and friendships I have come to believe that my strong beliefs should not hinder the rights of others.

President Obama's commencement speaking engagement in May at Notre Dame caused me to pause and consider my faith journey. The controversy centered around the long debate on abortion. Pro-life individuals made their voice heard through protests, demonstrations, buttons, decorated mortar boards, and even a circling airplane with a pro-life banner. How dare pro-choice President Obama speak at a Roman Catholic institution. "Shame on Notre Dame!" Upon hearing all this I discovered an interesting self-truth. Despite my evangelical (and childhood Catholic) roots, I am unequivocally pro-choice.

I have walked the fence on this issue for many years. Whether you believe life begins at conception or at birth, the fact remains that abortion does remove, at the very least, the potential for life. But as an evangelical Christian do I have the right to inhibit another woman from the choice to abort? Should my belief prohibit another from making an informed decision? My Christianity keeps me from believing that abortion is altogether right. However, I recognize that in God's infinite wisdom (he is omniscient after all), abortion may still be a part of His plan; probably not His plan for me, but possibly His plan for another American woman.

I found myself uncomfortable, embarrassed even, at the antics of my pro-life brothers and sisters in Christ. I recalled my early college door-to-door salesman philosophy regarding Christian evangelism, and cringed. These abrasive, invasive, and histrionic tactics are more about impressing fellow Christians than showing the love of Jesus to the world. How does parading in front of Planned Parenthood, for example, show the love of Jesus to an already troubled woman? Didn't Jesus demonstrate His love by showing compassion and extending forgiveness to prostitutes and tax collectors?

This controversy has recently resurfaced with President Obama's visit to Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican. I find it interesting that while the Pope has taken it upon himself to find "common ground" with our President, American clergy such as Archbishop Raymond Leo Burke vehemently oppose this administration. Archbishop Burke has said the Democratic party, and therefore the Obama administration, "risks becoming the 'party of death'". Them there's fightin' words. It has been a while since Pope Paul VI ordained Burke in 1975. I dare say it may be time for His Excellency to recognize the gray areas of society (though probably not agree with them).

Permit me to travel a little off course to share my experience with recognizing (but not agreeing with) liberties in our Democratic nation. While I have peace regarding my stance on the abortion topic, I am still wrestling with my beliefs about homosexuality. Like a newbie pitcher who loses their balance because they lean towards their pitching arm, I lean right-wing because that is how I was initially taught. However, with Obama's promise to reevaluate the don't ask don't tell military policy and same-sex marriage gaining legislative momentum (for US map click here), I am running out of excuses to stay on the fence. I can't keep my "strong beliefs should not hinder the rights of others" mantra without seriously questioning my beliefs on this issue.

These questions are titanic and the debate (on abortion and "gay rights") is far from resolved. But as Obama said in his commencement speech "when we open our hearts and our minds to those who may not think like we do or believe what we do - that's when we discover at least the possibility of common ground." As a multicultural nation shouldn't we allow people the right to practice their individual culture, faith, and beliefs? Aren’t universal equality, freedom, and liberty at the heart of democracy? Hopefully this new found relationship between His Holiness and President Obama will help us strive for middle ground and not extremism.

Sources used for this post:
NPR's coverage of President Obama's visit to the Vatican (click here)
NPR's coverage of President Obama's Nortre Dame commencement speech (click here)
NPR's full text of President Obama's commencement speech (click here)
WIKI articles related to Prefect Raymond Leo Burke and Pope Benedict XVI

Thanksgivings

On Monday I was contemplating my inner critic. I spend much time pondering the woes of my world and not enough time being thankful for what I have. It is for this reason that I plan to post semi-regular thanksgiving ponderings. With this inaugural post I will delve into the definition of thanksgiving and the benefits associated with giving thanks.

From the definition, thanksgiving is an act of acknowledgment and celebration. Therefore, it must take energy, thought, and even planning to be full of thanksgiving. It seems thanksgiving is a choice. A choice to focus on the positive things in life. An attitude of gratitude. It seems cultivating this thought process is a chore that is best done daily. And hopefully through this act I will have increasing peace and decreasing anxiety.

I believe that sowing thanksgiving will bring peace and joy regardless of your spiritual beliefs. But, as a Christian, I want to do this not only to improve my outlook on life, but also to please my God. I do this because I believe that through obeying God's Word (the Bible) I show that I love Him who provides for me abundantly. Therefore, I must relinquish my cynicism and sarcasm to create thanksgiving. I must not wallow in my circumstances. Life happens. And I am grateful that I am alive.

And so I will focus on the positive and actively pursue limiting my complaints. I will take note daily of my "gratidudes." Though I will continue to wrestle with my world and lot in life, I will choose to be challenged and not discouraged. I will cheerfully give remembering that I am greatly blessed. Thank you God that I am alive. Thank you God for my health. Thank you God for family and friends. Thank you God for providing food, shelter, and clothing in a time of economic hardship.

Check out the references below. May they remind you that life is worth living. May they encourage you that dark days are fleeting. Join me in my attempt to enjoy the little, simple things in life. For it is through those things that we will obtain lasting peace.

thanksgiving:
1. the act of giving thanks; grateful acknowledgment of benefits or favors, esp. to God.
2. an expression of thanks, esp. to God.
3. a public celebration in acknowledgment of divine favor or kindness.
4. a day set apart for giving thanks to God.

Psalm 69:29-31 (NIV)
29 I am in pain and distress; may your salvation, O God, protect me.
30 I will praise God's name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving.

2 Corinthians 9:6-11 (NIV)
6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9 As it is written: "He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever." 10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.

Philippians 4:5-7 (NIV)
5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 5:3-5 (NIV)
3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a man is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.

Bible verses courtesy of BibleGateway.com
Definition courtesy of Dictionary.com

The Media Circus

While standing in the long lines at the grocery store on July 3rd my eyes caught a terrible photo of Michael Jackson as he was rushed to the hospital. I go out of my way to avoid the media circus and yet it is uninvitedly injected into my life. The photo, forced into my mind, will take months to dissipate. This invasion of privacy and the circling conjecture surrounding the life and death of Michael Jackson has reaffirmed my disappointment with American media and reporters in general. While searching for the "truth," integrity is discarded along with courtesy and decency.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states: "Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference, and impart information and ideas through any media regardless of frontiers." I am grateful that I can question our government and voice my concerns and disappointment. Whistleblowers are a necessity to encourage change and get the word out to "we the people." However, there is a line between investigative reporting and sensationalizing tragic events.

Tragic events put on a more captivating show than center ring at Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey. "The Greatest Show on Earth" has nothing on competing broadcast television stations and ruthless journalists. As an adult, I witnessed this first hand after the Virginia Tech shootings where hours after the massacre I watched newly empowered Katie Couric tear our local Police Chief apart. I saw none of her compassionate benevolent reporting that day. Getting the word out to the world may be good for ratings but I found it distasteful and disrespectful to our mourning community. Five days after the event (and my first trip to campus) news vans surrounded the drill field like flies on you-know-what.

My only other brush with disaster occurred in 1989. I wouldn't remember it except that in 2001 I happened to catch a natural disaster TV special while lounging at LSO's place. Fear was instantly upon me as I remembered consoling my younger sister in between dashes to the doorway during the several aftershocks following the quake. Our mother was commuting home from Berkeley where a double-decker freeway pancaked. We watched the coverage on TV worried that she would not be coming home. The 15 second, 6.9 Mw quake tested the engineering of structures in the greatest San Andreas Fault earthquake since 1906. Wiki sources say it "was the first major earthquake in America to be broadcast on live television." You can still view the Cypress freeway collapse here today courtesy of YouTube.

The Museum of Broadcast Communications succinctly states that (click here for source) "One of television's most basic applications lies in its ability to portray the devastation of a disaster, whether nearby or far away, both as it occurs and in its aftermath. Natural and manmade disasters are ideal subjects and settings for television which continually seeks the dramatic, emotionally-charged, even the catastrophic to capture audience attention." Disaster sells, spelling dollars to networks worldwide. LSO says media is ubiquitous and that by walking out your front door you have entered the public domain. OK. So I can't blame magazine editors for trying to sell their product. But believe me when I say I won't be tuning in at home any time soon.

Playing In the Dirt

Nothing soothes the soul like playing in the dirt. Lucky for me our heavy clay soil in Virginia requires a great deal of prep work before planting any sort of flower or vegetable garden. The laborious work of churning my dense clay soil and mixing in topsoil and compost is helping me work out a great deal of my building frustrations. I have 10,000 square yards of lawn and beds to improve giving me ample time to come to terms with life.

My recent post (click here) detailed my anxiety about the chasm between my health and pregnancy. Additionally, in the past week we discovered the purchase prices our new neighbors got on their homes. The husband and wife across the street are not only pregnant but bought their 4 bedroom house with a garage for the same price as our three bedroom no garage hovel. Next door the family bought a house like ours (a bit smaller) for 50K less than what we paid.

Not only did they get a a smashing price for our exclusive neighborhood but an 8K incentive bonus for being a first-time home-buyer. How about a bonus for those of us who paid fair market value and are now paying extra for a home that is worth less? I am not asking to make money on our house. But a little peace of mind that all the work (and money) we are putting into the house won't be in vain would be nice.

With all this on my mind I am finding it hard to be very neighborly (surprising I know). I suppose it doesn't do much good to say "welcome to the neighborhood" while I am brimming with jealousy and really want to say "thanks for lowering the value of the rest of our homes." And oh "congratulations on the birth of your baby." So I dig in the dirt. I know it is petty but maybe having a better yard will ease my buyers remorse.

Def Leppard with Poison and Cheap Trick Setlist

I am gearing up for this concert in July! "Do you wanna get rocked?"

Def Leppard

Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop)
Rocket
Let's Get Rocked
Too Late For Love
Nine Lives (lyrics)
Love Bites
Rock On (lyrics)
Two Steps Behind
Bringin' On The Heartbreak
Switch 625
Hysteria (lyrics)
Animal
Armageddon It
Photograph (w/ Taylor Swift)
Pour Some Sugar On Me
Encore:
Rock Of Ages (lyrics)

Poison

Look What The Cat Dragged In (lyrics)
I Want Action (lyrics)
Ride The Wind (lyrics)
I Won't Forget You (lyrics)
Your Mama Don't Dance and Your Daddy Don't Rock And Roll
Fallen Angel (lyrics)
Something To Believe In (lyrics)
Unskinny Bop (lyrics)
Every Rose Has Its Thorn (lyrics)
Talk Dirty To Me (lyrics)
Nothin' But A Good Time (lyrics)

Cheap Trick

On Top of the World (lyrics)
I Want You to Want Me (lyrics)
These Days (new)
She's Tight (lyrics)
Sick Man of Europe (lyrics)
If You Want My Love (lyrics)
Dream Police (lyrics)
The Flame (lyrics)
Surrender (lyrics)

setlist: blabbermouth.net
lyrics: elyrics.net and lyricfreaks.com

Jackson Still Reigns King of Pop

Where were you when you heard the news that Michael Jackson had passed away? I was sitting on my couch messing around on Facebook and watching a Firefly episode. My sister on the left coast heard the news locally and called me to share the news. I googled "Michael Jackson death" and came up empty. Apparently it was too early to push the news to the top ten hits. I tried CNN next and read that he had been rushed to the hospital and, according to local sources, thought to be dead. Like many others, I held out hope that since CNN had not confirmed the news, Jackson was still fighting for his life.

I turned on the radio this morning to hear the press conference by Jackson's brother confirming the news. What a sad day. I listened a little longer to the talk radio commentary and was discouraged that the media took the opportunity to cover the more controversial aspects of his life. Yet again I was glad I did not have television in my house. What is with (some) reporters? I will pass on the opportunity to go down a bunny trail here but look for a future post regarding press coverage of major current events. Bad form!

Michael Jackson's stardom was in full swing before I was born. At age 12 I finally joined the rest of the world in admiration because my seventh grade choir teacher was in love with all things Michael Jackson. My aunt gave me the Bad cassette and I listened to it until I knew all the words to every song on the album. One of millions, I eagerly anticipated his planned grand finale tour - 50 stops for every one of his 50 years. This tragedy robbed Jackson of the opportunity to go out like a king. As one of my journalist friend's described, Jackson's death truly marks the end of the 80's pop era.

As if predicting the future GQ pronounced Justin Timberlake the new king of pop in their February issue. Though Timberlake, 28, has a long and prosperous career ahead of him (inshallah), I doubt he will ever reach the pop icon status of Michael Jackson. While both began as child stars, Jackson in the Jackson Five and Timberlake in 'N Sync and on The Mickey Mouse club, the similarities end there. With 13 Grammy awards, two inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and 750 million records sold worldwide, I find it unlikely that a new king of pop will be crowned in the near future. Sorry Timberlake, you may be the new king of style but you're no king of pop.

Disappointment doesn't even begin to describe my feelings related to missing out on seeing Jackson live. Like Elvis, Jackson died young and secluded from the fame of their youth. Gossip and controversy may have created a haze around Jackson for many years but I think it is safe to say that with his death the fog has lifted. Tears filled my eyes this morning as I listened to the radio pump his music during my commute. Goose bumps raised on my skin as I heard testimonials of how others in my area are reacting to his death. It seems to say he will be missed is a bit of an understatement.

Salam. Sayonara. Arrivederci. Au Revoir. Aloha. Shalom. Adios. Do svidan’ya. Goodbye.

Join me in celebrating the life of the King of Pop by checking out the links below. Shamon!

For NPR's complete coverage of Michael Jackson's legacy click here
For Wikipedia's article including links to several other pages click here
Watch Jackson's ledgendary moonwalk here learn it here
For a few of my favorite Jackson tunes click on the song titles below
Thriller The Way You Make Me Feel in Centerstage Beat It Bad Man In the Mirror Black and White Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' with Akon P.Y.T. Human Nature SWV Remix Smooth Criminal Don't Stop 'til You Get Enough Remember the Time Scream You Are Not Alone Shoo-Be-Doo-Be-Doo-Da-Day My Girl I'll Be There ABC

On the brink... On the verge...

Have you ever felt like you are on the edge of an abyss? I hope not. After living with bipolar disorder for over ten years I have grown accustomed to the undulation of my emotions. However, over the course of the past few days the undulation has become increasingly unbearable. Our path to becoming pregnant has become a frustrating hurry up and wait. Just when we think we are ready to start trying for conception a wrench is thrown into our path dragging us off course. It is beginning to feel like that day will never come.

My recent distress stems from the crushing reality that I am the limiting factor in our quest for children by natural means. After months of cross-titration I am finally at a therapeutic level of my new medication. However, further cross-titration is needed to determine the best ratio of my new drug cocktail. As if finding the delicate balance of medication dosages isn't enough, emotions from the murky waters of my past have reared their ugly heads. I have never felt my biological clock ticking so loudly.

I am trying a new (to me) type of therapy in the hopes it will quickly scab over what I thought was a healing wound. It would be great to be able to ponder my childhood without feeling haunted. But without knowing what I may uncover, I find myself gazing into a black hole. The thought of stepping into that void brings my anxiety to an unbearable level. My instincts tell me to run away but hope keeps me trudging forward. My path to health and well-being has been an arduous uphill climb.

Some day I will reach the summit of my climb and gaze at my past with my head held high. Some day, with LSO smiling down on us, the nurse will hand me my healthy newborn. Today I am on the brink of what feels like disaster in the hopes that tomorrow I will be on the verge of greener pastures.

Thumbs down for Charlotte's Pie Town

If you're out on the town, Pie Town may be the yuppie place to be in Charlotte. In uptown Charlotte this establishment boasts it's new, hip, urban environment and locally grown artisan pizzas. Unfortunately, with a 7:30 PM event (No Doubt), LSO and I dined uncharacteristically early and thus missed out on the who's who of Charlotte. We remained the only patrons until a family joined us as we were leaving around 5:45 PM.

While it is undoubtedly popular, one taste revealed Pie Town was not "all about the pizza" but rather all about their image. Pie Town may be hip but its menu doesn't live up to the hype. If your goal is to spend your wad impressing others, Pie Town is the place to be. As far as the food goes though, unless you are a vegetarian or die hard local harvest enthusiast, I would stick to the cocktail menu. As LSO so eloquently put it "you can find better pizza at Sbarro's." Eek!

"The Irony of Satire: Political Ideology and the Motivation to See What You Want"

In discussing my recent post regarding President Obama's cameo on The Colbert Report, LSO brought up an article he recently read. A study published in The International Journal of Press/Politics presents an interesting finding regarding Americans, media, and politics. The Colbert Report has captivated audiences from Americans with political beliefs both right and left of center. According to the study "individual-level political ideology significantly predicted perceptions of Colbert's political ideology." Put plainly, regardless of political affiliation the American public believes Stephen Colbert is on their side politically.

The study further reports that both liberals and conservatives believe Colbert is funny "but conservatives were more likely to report that Colbert only pretends to be joking and genuinely meant what he said while liberals were more likely to report that Colbert used satire and was not serious when offering political statements." The study also reported that "Conservatism also significantly predicted perceptions that Colbert disliked liberalism." These findings support previous literature that television influences perceptions, attitudes, opinions, and behaviors on an individual level.

For a show that recently covered the don't ask don't tell issue in front of US troops in Iraq through the show's Formidable Opponent segment and President Obama's "murder" of a helpless fly on national television, I find the results a little surprising. Again, are we as Americans really that dumb? According to the study, the issue is not about knowledge or intelligence but rather human nature. A growing body of literature suggests that we hear what we want to hear "to maintain a favorable opinion of the self."

While this study applies to entertainment media, I find myself wondering if this type of thinking has broader applications. So, how many Americans honestly seek truth? Could unbiased information gathering for the purpose of decision making (political or otherwise) be the exception rather than the rule? Finding truth means laying aside previous notions and accepting the possibility of being wrong. It seems that when presented with ambiguous or seemingly contradictory information, Americans choose to interpret the message to fit their version of reality. What happened to seeking more information for further clarification? If this isn't mental laziness I don't know what is!

Admittedly, I was once a blind conservative. I wasn't into political comedy but I did support politicians solely because they had stereotypical Christian values (pro-life etc.). It was only after several years of marriage that I discovered my blindness. LSO easily wins debates because he can always think of 3 points to support his claim. Unfortunately my "because I said so" rebuttal held little water in our arguments even though his supporting evidence was clearly ridiculous. So I was forced to dig deeper and find a basis for my stance. In doing so, I often discovered several nuances to my black and white thinking. My core beliefs remained the same but the method in reaching those beliefs changed dramatically.

I am sure I am mentally lazy in other areas (LSO constantly reminds me of my selective hearing) but I like to think I have woken up out of my partisan stupor and gone politically solo. So it seems has Colbert. In an LA Times article Colbert admits "the truth of the matter is I'm not on any one's side, I'm on my side. The important thing is that the audience laughs." After 3 1/2 years of reporting it seems he is reaching his goal. And as the study firmly points out, Republican or Democrat, we find The Colbert Report hilariously entertaining.


For the full The International Journal of Press/Politics article click here


Information from this article pulled from the LA Times and New York Post

President Obama Captivates American Audiences: A Rant

There has been criticism for President Obama due to his popular media debuts on late night television. While some may find these appearances demeaning to the office of the President, I have found them refreshing. Not only does our Commander in Chief recognize the reality of the roasts broadcast nightly, he joins in the fun by taking the sarcasm, ridicule, and criticism in stride.

Similarly, the Obama administration, through mainstream technological culture channels such as Facebook and Twitter, has initiated an avant-garde relationship with America's young adult population. Their success has brought hope to a nation of young people frustrated with egocentric baby boomers. Spoiled by parents that weathered the depression and world wars, baby boomers refuse to take responsibility for our current national debt and polarized social classes. Their sophomoric, impulsive, and selfish policies have led to a national deficit resulting in economic hardship and the elimination of critical services.

It is time for Americans to quit whining like babies and take responsibility and pride in supporting government programs such as welfare and unemployment. How else will America remain the land of opportunity? Let's put aside our inflated ego's and get off this slippery slope that, if not changed, will lead to our demise. Hopefully this generation’s out-of-the-box thinking will cause revelation and not revolution.

Below are the clips associated with President Obama's cameo on The Colbert Report. I hope it brings a laugh to lighten your mood after my political tirade.

For the Facebook video where Stephen Colbert meets the President click here.

For the clip of President Obama's executive haircut order click here.

Queen Rania of Jordan Debunks Arab Stereotypes

Send YOUR You Tube videos to Queen Rania on You Tube

Queen Rania on Arab Women - 2.5 minute clip



Queen Rania's Top Ten - 2 minute clip



Queen Rania tell us how to get the word out - 2 Minute Clip

Check Out Accolade - The Rockin' Saudi Girl Band

Where Should I Eat in Charlotte?

Charlotte Eats
Bubba's BBQ - 704-393-2000 lunch 12.4
Pikes Soda Shop - 704-372-0092 lunch brunch 12.2
300 East 704-332-6507 lunch dinner 13
Pie Town - 704-379-7555 dinner 8.7
Thai Orchid 704-364-1134 dinner 18.4
Zink - 704-444-9001 brunch at 11 AM 8.3
Monticello - breakfast until 11 AM 8.3
Jackalope Jacks - 704-347-1918 brunch at 11 AM 9

Chains and Others Nearby
Ninety's Sandwiches and Ice Cream
Jimmy Johns
Jersey Mikes
IHOP
Starbucks
Chick Fil A
McDonald's

No Doubt with Paramore Concert Set List

No Doubt
Spiderwebs
Hella Good
Bathwater
Underneath It All (lyrics)
Excuse Me Mr.
Happy Now
Ex-Girlfriend
Simple Kind Of Life
Guns Of Navarone
Hey Baby
New
Running
End It On This (lyrics)
Different People
Don't Speak
It's My Life (lyrics)
Just A Girl
Encore:
Rock Steady (lyrics)
Stand And Deliver (lyrics)
Sunday Morning

Paramore
Misery Business
For a Pessimist I'm Pretty Optimistic
Pressure
Ignorance
CrushCrushCrush
Decoy
When It Rains
Where The Lines Overlap
Thats What You Get
Let The Flames Begin
Decode

Perfect Ten for Ten Top

Over the weekend, to celebrate our anniversary, LSO and I traveled to Norfolk, Virginia to see the show Wicked. This marked the furthest East I have been in Virginia. The show was at 2 PM and we planned to stop at Ten Top for lunch.

Our two hour drive turned to 2.5 hours due to traffic going through the tunnel. My anxiety grew as the car clock read 12:30 PM. I don't handle spontaneity well, especially if things don't go according to my plan. My concern we were going to have to skip lunch in order to make the show lessened a bit as LSO calmly suggest we at least stop by the restaurant to see if they could accommodate our schedule.

Operating from the information I received online and directions from google maps we turned into the restaurant parking lot. As you see below it didn't impress at first glance. The small seating area and deli-type environment suggested that our service should be quite efficient. I relaxed and was glad we could dine in after all.

I took a few minutes to absorb the menu. LSO immediately decided on the Crab Cake Sandwich and secured a table, leaving me to order. The waitress/cashier, recognizing my hesitation, asked what dishes I was thinking about ordering. She helped me decide between the Veggie Thai Noodles and Tomato Basil Mozzarella and Turkey Apple Club sandwiches. The personable service made me forget I was in a city.

Wanting something light, since I would be sitting most of the day, I ordered the Tomato Basil Mozzarella Sandwich. The oven toasted sandwich on french batard was delicious and nearly out done by the fabulous homemade potato salad. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. As you can tell by the picture below, I dug in forgetting to take an initial picture. We were out the door by 1 PM, wishing we had more room in our bellies for a homemade snickerdoodle cookie.

This deli off Colley Ave in the Ghent district of Norfolk is deserving of its self-proclaimed "locals favorite" status. Stop in Mon-Sat 11-9 PM and Sun from 11-3 PM for a local flavor that will last for weeks to come.

My Rainbow Color

This is a funky test that hits pretty close to home. Check it out to find your rainbow color.

Your rainbow is strongly shaded yellow, green, and violet.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is says about you: You are a joyful person. You appreciate beauty and craftsmanship. You are patient and will keep trying to understand something until you've mastered it. Those around you admire your fresh outlook and vitality.

Find the colors of your rainbow at spacefem.com.