Black Cat

Jeans for skinny tall chics like me

2010-08-15T21:29:00.002-04:00

Don't hate me because I am skinny (size 2) and tall (5'11"). If you are built like me, finding pants that fit is always a challenge. With the help of a Nordstrom sales lady I discovered Rock & Republic jeans. If you are able to handle the price tag ($200 and up) they are a skinny girls dream. The small back pockets, particularly ones with flaps and buttons like you see on cargo pants, are perfect for the booty challenged. All the jeans are a 34" inseam which are perfect length to accommodate my 3 inch heels.

Now, if you can't foot the bill for these awesome bottoms (who can really?), I found a pretty good substitute at Old Navy. Unlike many other retailers Old Navy carries the small sizes in a long. Banana Republic, for example, does not carry long jeans in sizes smaller than 4. With this cheaper jean, you will be sacrificing with your backside a bit. But what you lose to what I call "flat butt syndrome" you will make up for by having jeans that are the right length.

No receipt? No problem.

2010-08-15T12:18:00.000-04:00

After many years of debate with LSO, I have finally discovered a legitimate reason to charge all of my purchases. Some stores such as Lowes and Old Navy keep a record of your purchases when you pay with credit. So, if you have the credit card that was used to make the purchase, you can return an item without a purchase receipt.

If you despise tying up your money in store credit gift cards as much as I do, I don't recommend using this as your primary return policy. However, it may ease your mind a bit the next time you are frantically digging through your purchase in search of a receipt you know you threw out yesterday with your gum.

Update: Crops In Pots

2010-06-30T08:52:00.002-04:00

I would like to expand upon my container planting Frills Thrills and Spills post. Container planting is fairly easy but there are a few tricks I learned a little too late. Thankfully, all my pots are doing wonderfully despite my learning curve. Check out my favorites in the photos below.

Drainage
Make sure your container has proper drainage holes. If it does not make them.
Place a layer of gravel or small rocks in the bottom of the container.
Viewpoint
Consider how your container will be viewed. With a 360 view your thrill will be in the center. With a 180 view your thrill will be in the back.
Planting
Choose plants that fit your area. If your container is in shade you will need to purchase ferns or other shade loving plants like impatiens and begonias.
If you are planting vegetables place a stake in the pot that will support the mature plant. Use good new potting mix to give your plants a fresh start.
Soak your container plants thoroughly the first day you plant.
Maintenance
Keep an eye on your container and water when needed. If the soil is dry add some water. If the soil feels wet wait another day and check again. Fertilize your container plants regularly. I mix a bit of miracle grow into my watering can once a week. Read the directions on the back for instructions.

Marinara Sauce in a Pot

Bra Care Instructions from Dillards

2010-06-25T17:10:00.000-04:00

I just returned from the Semi-Annual Dillards intimate sale where I picked up 3 undies and 2 bras for $32. During my post-purchase, pre-tag removal shopping review I discovered a bra care flyer in my shopping bag. The flyer is clearly a marketing strategy but it does provide some useful info that may extend the life of your bra.

Bra Care Instructions

Bras are only made to last 3-6 months. Of course, the more bras you have, the longer your bras will last.

Bras maintain their shape best when hand washed in a gentle soap. Only soak for three minutes.

If machine washing, hook bras closed and place them in a mesh laundry bag. This prevents them from being tangled in the agitator and distorting their fit

Always hang to dry. The heat from a dryer destroys the spandex in the back of the bra.

Do not use any type of bleach.

Try not to wear the same bra two days in a row. Normal body oils break down the spandex in a bra. Allow 24-hours between wearings.

Navigating the Outlet Mall

2010-06-24T19:41:00.000-04:00

Outlet malls gives shoppers a false sense savings. Therefore, it is imperative to be a shrewd shopper. Below are a few guidelines from one slum stylin' gal to another.

First, make a prioritized list of the items for which you are shopping. Straying from your original plan leads to temptation.

Second, set a time limit for your shopping excursion. If you require anything more than a light snack or caloric beverage you have been shopping too long.

Third, bring backup. Having a witness often helps to steer you away from items that will never see anything beyond your closet.

Fourth, be a comparative shopper. Know what you would pay for similar items at your local shopping mall (full and clearance price) and in discount retail stores like Walmart and Target. Save yourself from purchase regret.

Fifth, be honest with yourself. There is nothing that you "just can't live without." Items that are "just okay" should be $15 or less.

Finally, come to the outlet with a budget. If you struggle with sticking to a set amount and are prone to putting items on credit, do yourself a favor and shop with cash.

Summer Concert Kickoff: Barenaked Ladies Setlist

2010-06-02T15:13:00.002-04:00

         1. Testing 1,2,3
         2. The Old Apartment
         3. Every Subway Car
         4. Another Heartbreak
         5. Home
         6. Break Your Heart
         7. I Can, I Will, I Do
         8. Ordinary
         9. Hello City
        10. When I Fall
        11. Running Out Of Ink
        12. What a Good Boy
        13. Lovers in a Dangerous Time
        14. Brian Wilson
        15. Four Seconds
        16. I Saw It
        17. You Run Away
        18. Too Little Too Late
        19. It's All Been Done
        20. One Week
        21. Pinch Me
        22. If I Had $1,000,000
        23. Oh, It's Magic

        Encore:
        24. I Have Learned
        25. Golden Boy

Meeting Your Maker

2010-05-12T16:52:00.001-04:00

While shopping at one of Dillards' sales I found a fabulous dress that fit me like a glove. It filled the little black dress void in my closet and, according to Glamour, is very stylish due to the ostentatious side zipper. Whatever. It makes me look hot and is $20. Totally a no brainer.

So, I go on my merry way and return to Dillards a few months later at their next sale. After a few visits to the dressing room I discovered a wonderful truth; Michael Kors makes clothes with me in mind. His line makes skinny little me suddenly looking curvy, boobalicious, and generally all things fabulous. Who'da thunck it?

Fast forward to the here and now. I am finishing off a wonderful visit with my mother. The highlight of her annual trip to check on her rental property in Williamsburg is always outlet shopping for clothes (her treat). The day was looking like a bust until we discovered the Michael Kors store. It was our last stop. Our last hope.

$200 later, I am walking out with some fabulous clothes. Thanks to Michael Kors, Mom is reassured that her visit was not in vain and I have two tops and three bottoms to add to my empty closet. Don't you just love successful shopping? So, what are the lesson here for us slum stylin' gals?

1) Discover your designer
2) Take note of your size(s)
3) Keep a look out for sales (online and in stores)
4) Buy with confidence
5) Find a benefactor (aka Mom)

This Just In! I am apparently a size 2 in some of his clothes. That is one size away from size zero. Pretty soon I will be fitting in with Hollywood's most famous neurotic stars. I am so now! And I don't even have to starve myself!

Note: This is sarcasm ladies. Do not try this at home. I cried the day I discovered I was no longer a size 8 and a 36 C. Thankfully I already snared my husband . Like most guys, he appreciates a woman who looks like, well, a woman.

Kitty out.

Fills Thrills and Spills

2010-05-03T09:16:00.000-04:00

I am currently working at a nursery. I baby sit plants not children. Through this job I am learning a lot about plants and garden design. With summer approaching folks are eager to fill containers with plants to hang from their porches and put on their decks.

Container planting seemed useless until I discovered the fabulous book "Crops in Pots." This has brought container planting towards the top of my landscaping lists. Additionally, creating containers with functional plants seems practical. For example, basil keeps mosquitoes at bay and marigolds keep aphids away from my precious eatables.

Now to the point of this post. When creating a container filled with plants it is important to include 3 sections. First, one needs plants that fills the pot. Second, including a taller eye catching plant that creates a focal point that thrills. Third, placing a trailing plant that spills over the pot adds an element that completes the look and draws attention to your lovely container.

With all that in mind container planting is guaranteed to be a success. Now all you have to do is choose your plants and color scheme. Happy planting!

Where Fashion Meets Fitness

2009-10-30T16:58:00.000-04:00

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: Secrecy Vs Privacy

2009-10-22T16:26:00.167-04:00

There is a difference between secrecy and privacy. As a girl I kept many secrets. Therefore, as an adult, I have been making up for my silence by openly sharing intimate details of my life. There have been consequences, some pleasant and some not, to my inability to evade questions and maintain the privacy of myself and others. Here is what I have learned thus far:

Disclosure is always a choice
Privacy does not have a burden of fear
Diplomacy is an art worth mastering
Evasion prevents invasion
Girl talk does not equate gossip

Of course this is all easier said than done. So, when all else fails, just ask to use the restroom. It has saved me on many occasions.

Fortune Is A Frame Of Mind: Luck School 101

2009-10-21T11:10:00.000-04:00

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

2009-09-30T10:09:00.012-04:00

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

2009-08-19T08:50:00.127-04:00

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

2009-08-13T11:50:00.073-04:00

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

2009-08-10T11:19:00.021-04:00

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

2009-08-10T09:13:00.018-04:00

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

Democracy Demands Choice

2009-07-10T10:33:00.051-04:00

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

The Media Circus

2009-07-05T13:00:00.014-04:00

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

2009-07-04T15:33:00.007-04:00

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

2009-07-01T12:20:00.042-04:00

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

2009-06-26T10:05:00.039-04:00

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...

2009-06-25T13:43:00.002-04:00

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

2009-06-23T12:35:00.010-04:00

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"

2009-06-23T10:36:00.002-04:00

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

2009-06-19T11:24:00.010-04:00

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

2009-06-05T10:01:00.007-04:00

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

2009-06-05T09:52:00.002-04:00

No Doubt with Paramore Concert Set List

2009-06-03T11:22:00.063-04:00

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

2009-05-31T15:26:00.015-04:00

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

2009-05-29T10:21:00.003-04:00

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.

Tell the truth America, I dare you

2009-05-06T12:06:00.010-04:00

Why do we consider politicians liars and thieves when we the public are responsible for creating the language those in government must use? Remember the blunder President Obama made on Jay Leno comparing his poor bowling skills to the Special Olympics. "It's like -- it was like Special Olympics, or something." Was what President Obama said wrong?

I have on many occasions in my lifetime thrown out a "Special Olympics" or "short bus" crack. My statement, though not politically correct, was said without any malice to the Special Olympic program. It is common American English slang. It is true that my audience was significantly smaller than the millions watching the President on Jay Leno. But who’s to say you wouldn't say the exact same thing under the microscopic media lens used to magnify everything you say and do. After all, he had been in office for 56 days. He should know better!

Was his comment in bad taste given his large audience? Probably. But surely not deserving of the media circus following what was a great interview. Isn't Special Olympics known for having athletes with disabilities? I didn't hear any news of Simon Cowell baulking at his comment about Washington being "like 'American Idol,' and everyone is Simon Cowell." No statement was released saying how President Obama really appreciates Simon's forthright opinion and didn't mean to tarnish his name. Simon is known for his blunt statements. Duh!

Was the released statement that President Obama "...made an offhand remark making fun of his own bowling that was in no way intended to disparage the Special Olympics...," really necessary? As Americans do we really take everything said in the media literally? Surely not. What person in their right mind would actually believe that an educated man (and a minority no less) would purposefully and maliciously make fun of handicapped individuals? Oops! I mean individuals with disabilities. Are we as American people really that dumb?

How can we hold our President responsible for saying a slang remark when we do this regularly? Who doesn't watch South Park or quote Rainman and laugh? We "handicap" golfers who are really good in order to level the playing field with other players who aren't as skilled. Could it be that the problem isn't with crooked lying politicians? Rather the fault lies with "we the people" who can't handle seeing our own reflection in the politicians that WE elect.

Consider our two most recent presidents. Yes it is true folks; Bill Clinton had sexual relations with women outside of his marriage. As an evangelical Christian, I was outraged when this news hit the press. I was living in the Middle East at the time. While we attempted to impeach Clinton for perjury regarding his "I did not have sexual relations" statement, the rest of the world laughed at us. I would later come to agree that Clinton's sexual life had little to do with his ability to run our nation. Come to think of it, wasn't America doing quite well when George W. first took office?

And what about George W. Bush though? It is clear that the state of the union is suffering following his two terms as president. No one will deny that as a nation we are struggling. Will you Republicans cry out against the man you didn't vote for while turning a blind eye to the state of the union left by one of your own? President Bush spent billions of American funds in Iraq (where a weapon of mass destruction has yet to be found) but thank God he is loyal to his wife! I still shake under the weight of my decision to elect him for a second term.

OMG! President Obama is aware of current events and speaks his mind openly and honestly. Yet again, Obama stated the obvious in an interview with Matt Lauer. Matt pointed out that a shot of Obama and his family was removed from US Weekly to make room for a headline regarding Jessica Simpson's weight. Obama replied that Jessica was “in a weight battle, apparently.” The Februrary 16th 2009 cover picture of Simpson carried the bold title "bullied for her weight."

How dare our president speak his mind without the crutch of a prepared speech? How dare he use language that is understandable by the public at large? How dare he tax his wealthy constituents and pump money into the economy in order help the poor? To bicker about these details is to prove the very things that we so vehemently deny.

Will you really whine because a president you elected is doing his best to tackle serious issues left by his predecessor? Wake up America. We are not accepting, tolerant, or forward thinking. Maybe it's time we stepped away from the distorted concave glass at the circus and took a cold, hard, look at ourselves in the mirror.

Tell the truth America, I dare you.

Am I a crazy cat lady?

2009-03-30T12:11:00.030-04:00

I have two cats that I adore. In the absence of children, Tylor and Kyoko are my "babies". Tylor is "mama's boy" and my "black panther". He won my heart when he lept out of his cage at the animal shelter and gave me kisses. My "favorite boy," to my delight, is a lap cat and loves attention. He likes to curl up on my lap and makes his disappointment known when the laptop is in his spot. He is the favorite to all because he is so friendly.

Kyoko, on the other hand, is much more distant. Affection is accepted occasionally and only on her terms. She will let you know when she is ready for some attention. Unless dinner is on the table, she is generally curled up just out of reach. At only 8 pounds, she is my "baby girl." My heart melts when she rolls over for her weekly belly rub.

Both cats are playful and enjoy the outdoors. Kyoko generally doesn't go past the front stoop and loves being outside regardless of the weather. Her favorite toys are a stuffed fish, q-tips, and nail-files. Her favorite activity is watching the squirrels in our back yard. Tylor, on the other hand, is a fair-weather outdoorsman. He likes feathers, plastic spiders, eating bugs, and loves to jump. Thankfully, both cats remain timid of cars and do not stay outside for long. I leave the door open a crack so they can dash in if something scares them.

All is not catnip and treats though. Kyoko despises having her freedom taken away and will shred anything in her way. This has won her the gift of getting declawed. She opens doors that are not latched and likes to eat fiberglass insulation. Tylor leaps up on everything. Just yesterday we caught him lounging on our dining room table. "No." "NO." "NOOOoooooo!"

After this diatribe, it comes as no surprise that nearly every greeting card I get has a cat theme. I also have a ton of pictures of them. Doesn't any proud mom? Any photographer knows it takes a lot of pictures to get the few that make it into the album. I don't carry pictures of them in my wallet. I know, I know. Excuses, excuses. I guess I really am a crazy cat lady.

Below are some of my favorite pictures. You will fall in love, I just know it.

Recession hits home

2009-03-30T11:06:00.005-04:00

We received news Friday that LSO was taking a 10% pay cut. My initial reaction was outrage. My anger turned to pride, however, when I heard he was taking the cut in order to save the jobs of others in the company. Does his pay cut suck? Sure. We have many things on our "to do" list that required those funds. But I am happy to put our wish list on the back burner in order to prevent another rise in unemployment statistics. Sadly, this salary cut isn't the only thing hitting home in this sour economy.

Due to all the foreclosures on the market pulling down house prices, our house has dropped in value. The fact that we are not alone in this brings little comfort. Our assessment feels like a low blow to our already troubling buyers remorse. Should we have spent more on a house with less fixes and a garage? Should we have waited to buy a little longer in order to take advantage of the current market? Maybe.

For now, I rely on faith that this recession will end. Who knows, if the housing market allows for more first-time home buyers and bailouts bring more responsibility to executives and wall street, then maybe, just maybe, this collective tightening of our belts is worth it. America must remain a place where opportunities are present for anyone to succeed. Our future as a country depends on it.

Being a responsible adult is overrated

2009-03-22T12:27:00.002-04:00

I have wanted a family of my own since I played house in my sandbox as a little girl. Now at 31, I am blessed with a husband who is supportive, loving, and my best friend. We have spent 8 wonderful years together. We have grown closer with each year and have hurdled many challenges. Our biggest hurdle is our deepest desire; to have children by natural means.

The most frustrating and painful element of this process is the fact that there is nothing biological preventing us from having children. An ectopic pregnancy in 2007, though tragic, proved we could have children. My two hospitalizations later that year, however, cemented the reality that bearing a child is risky for both me and our child.

Tears run down my cheeks as I deal with the truth that in keeping myself healthy I must risk the health of our baby. Anger runs through LSO's veins. Bitterness creeps in as we hear the news that many families are choosing to abort in such financially uncertain times.

Life is not fair and being a responsible and educated adult is overrated.

My Hubby Rocks!

2008-09-19T16:27:00.002-04:00

I started working retail to help pay bills. Check out what my awesome husband gave me my first day at work!

An Unexpected Blessing

2008-09-08T12:03:00.005-04:00

My birthday fell on a Thursday this year. To celebrate on the actual day LSO and I decided we would go out to dinner. As we were walking out the door we received a panicked phone call from his mom. Their neighbor's daughter "Sarah", who is like a sister to LSO had an apartment fire. The fire was early that morning but they needed help cleaning up the rest of her stuff as everyone was pretty worn out. So LSO and I quickly changed clothes and made our way to his parents home to carpool to her west-end apartment.

The smell of smoke and lingering gawkers made the apartment easy to spot from the frontage road. Once we were up close and eying the damage we were relieved to learn that none in the building (including pets) were harmed. Apparently the fire started in the attic of one of the second floor apartments. An electrical fire. Fortunately Sarah's apartment was on the first floor and suffered minimal damage in the form of smoke and water only. Apparently firefighters now have a special unit that deploys to other places to put personal belongings under plastic to help protect them from the water used to hose down and contain the fire.

So instead of going out to eat I spent the evening helping load cars with stuff, giving encouragement, and listening to survivors of the fire. I spent the night with friends and family; one who we were all grateful was alive. Out of this experience we learned a few things; 1) test your smoke alarms even if they have been given a clean bill of health 2) have a practiced evacuation plan for all people, pets, and valuable/irreplaceable items and 3)spend the money for good renters/home insurance.

Thanks Lord for this birthday blessing. I can't think of a better gift nor a better way to have spend my birthday.

Our Neighborhood

2008-08-28T11:26:00.004-04:00

LSO and I are loving our neighborhood. The house may be a bit old and fraught with much TLC and repairs but our community is wonderful. The 11+ miles of wooded walking trails with views of the water are breathtaking. I can't wait for fall to turn the landscape color palate into yellows, oranges, and reds.

Proud To Be An American

2008-08-15T14:53:00.006-04:00

Like millions of people I have been watching the Olympic games. My initial reason for tuning in was to see Michael Phelps crush Spitz's 7 gold medal in one Olympic games record. True, the journey with Phelps has been amazing but I can't help but turn my attention to two Americans who don't embody the apple pie Americana image.

Lopez Lomong and Nastia Liukin. The Sudan and Russia. If you have not heard, Liukin just won gold in the artistic gymnastics all-around event for the US. She out performed America's sweetheart Shawn Johnson who holds the all-around US and World Champion titles in 2007 and 2008. Lomong will race in the 1500 M run semifinals tomorrow. Known as one of the Lost Boys of Sudan, Lomong was voted by his fellow Olympic athletes to carry the American flag at opening ceremonies.

I have to admit at times I am not proud to be an American. Living overseas taught me that many see Americans unfavorably. However, we are still one of the few countries that has an open door policy to refugees and immigrants of which I am very proud.

It is wonderful to see the many colors and ethnicities of America represented at these Olympic games. I do hope Phelps goes all the way with 8 gold medals and 8 world record times. But I would be proud to see Lomong on the winners blocks representing a country that still can bring opportunities to individuals from any lot in life.

NBC Article: Land of Hope and Dreams

Andrew Shelley - A True Superstar

2008-08-14T21:12:00.008-04:00

Yes, it is true I am a star gazer. No, I am not talking about the constellations. If I saw an actor or a music star I would totally embarrass myself (and annoy them) by asking for an autograph and, of course, a picture. But what is even more embarrassing is that I don't even know these people and yet I revere them. I must. Why else would I want their autograph and picture? Therefore, it is no surprise that I write about a man I crossed paths with while I lived overseas.

I first met Andrew Shelley at a desert picnic in the Middle East. His father worked with mine and every Boxing Day the company got together for some recreational off-roading or desert duning. Everyone would meet up alongside the road and let air out of their tires. Then we would head out in our SUVs into the desert. Inevitably someone would get stuck and while the vehicle was engineered out of the sand, we non-engineers would chat and munch. It was great fun.

I learned early that I did not want to ride in Andrew's vehicle. This was because he was quite the adventurer and had previously rolled his dad's SUV. SUVs were more status symbols with me than sport utility vehicles to be used for, well sporting. It is disconcerting, initially, to be at a 45 degree angle going down a dune. I did enjoy riding his family’s ATVs though.

That was my introduction to the vivacious young Andrew. Only later did I learn the name of the disease that he refuses to let slow him down; Emery-Dreifuss Muscular Distrophy (EDMD). EDMD is a progressive muscle wasting disease that affects voluntary muscles. Cardiac arrest from the weakening of the heart is life threatening and can sometimes be avoided by the timely insertion of a pacemaker - not something to look forward to.

Yet, ten years later I still hear about the vivacious individual I met who loves and cherishes life and the outdoors. Honestly, I don't know Andrew. But, I have been blessed to watch him and his family from a distance. They truly live life to the fullest. Our families still keep in touch and that is how I learned about his amazing beyond the chair journey.

Andrew had been working as a system engineer and decided he was bored with work and wanted to see the world and do something exciting. So he and his souped up frontier wheelchair with ATV wheels embarked on a journey to places including Dubai, India, Indonesia, and Australia. He included not just the tourist spots but places that others cannot even imagine. And you can join him in this journey by watching his upcoming documentary called Beyond the Chair.

Unlike many acting and music stars, Andrew is not seeking fame. He is living his life, having fun, and maybe challenging some thoughts and beliefs along the way. Wouldn't you stare in awe if you saw a wheelchair bound individual climb the stairs to a temple in Indonesia? I would. Now that's history in the making and a true star worthy of our reverence.

Way to go Andrew! Oh and would you please autograph this picture? :)

Dragonflies and Crepe Myrtle

2008-08-11T20:49:00.001-04:00

There are many differences about our new environment and our old home. The temperature is hotter and muggier making the soil hard and dry. The people move faster and complain louder. Everything is more crowded; stores, restaurants, and roads. Yet this move is still showing some unexpected pleasantries.

The cicadas are much louder, serenading those of us with time to listen. The crepe myrtle are in full bloom giving shade with blossoms of pink, white, and red. Dragonflies display their colorful tails and buzz around eating the mosquitoes that plague us this time of year. Tall trees give greenery and the lake water a feeling of peace.

I am comforted that this move was a good decision.

Miracles

2008-08-07T21:47:00.007-04:00

After being in our new home just under two weeks God has been working in many ways.

Miracle 1: Am still welcome at my in-laws
Moving closer to family seemed like such a good idea. When we have kids we will have willing babysitters. We don't have to travel for family gatherings and holidays. Yet I did underestimate how uncomfortable it is initially to set up the boundaries or visitation "rules and regs." I love my in-laws dearly and thankfully they have continued to welcome me as we get used to this new geographical living arrangement (we are 20 mins from them). They are ecstatic that LSO has "come home."

Miracle 2: Did not ruin work computer
LSO has been working from home. I have been unpacking. This has often occurred in the same room. One fine day while LSO worked and I unpacked on the same kitchen table a box fell on his glass of ginger ale. Miraculously the box balanced against the already tipped over glass and avoided spilling anything on the open laptop inches from said box and glass.

Miracle 3: Found a church home on first try (I think)
Looking for a new church was third on my list for things I was not looking forward to about this move. We so loved our church family in the New River Valley I have been dreading the search for a new church home. I looked at churches near our new house and eventually found a church that was linked from another site. How I found this link I have no idea. Honestly, I don't think I could find the link again.

Thanks Jesus!

Weighty thougths

2008-08-07T20:37:00.004-04:00

I am a size 12. I have an ample behind and curvaceous hips. I am beautiful.

Until recently I would not have even considered stringing these thoughts together about myself. Other people are beautiful at any size, sure. But not me.

I have a condition that requires a metabolism slowing medication. Not taking this medicine is non-negotiable. As a result, I am no longer a size 6 or less. Many would say this is actually positive as I am quite tall at 5'11". However, convincing myself of that fact has proven to be most difficult. I need to be comfortable in my own skin no matter what size I am.

Ironically, I have spent all of my higher education studying nutrition. I know how to counsel an otherwise healthy adult how to maintain and even lose a little weight. However, I have yet to fully apply these principles to myself.

If I am honest with myself, I am probably a nutritionist poser. I like the idea of eating healthy but fall short at actual practice. At my highest weight ever, I can no longer afford to cruise in this area. Emotional and instant gratification eating practices and an increasingly sedentary lifestyle are now luxuries I cannot afford if I want to remain a healthy adult. My health and the health of my family depends on it.

Finally, as I look to finding work in my field and desiring to be an individual with integrity, I must resolve this incongruity in my life. Tomorrow is day one of the new, healthier me. Jesus give me strength and courage to accomplish this goal of following my own advice. The battle is about to begin.

Pondering

2008-08-04T15:44:00.003-04:00

I am a great driver.
I am a most unpretentious person.
I would make a great manager.

Do you hang on to compliments people have given to you? The three statements above were stated about me at one point in time. Upon reflection they were given by a person who didn't know me well or during a time when I was acting the role to impress.

In reality, the statements should say something like this:

I am a need for speed and aggressive driver.
I am a people pleaser and designer label show-off.
If I had to listen to people complain all day I would probably kill them.

I guess I can add these three things to my list of things to work towards.

Melancholy

2008-07-09T14:23:00.007-04:00

Red bud blossoms in the Spring
Trains carrying coal
Wild turkeys in the Fall
Fall colors in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Loving Church community
Friends who are dear
Sunsets from my deck
Watching my garden grow

I will miss you New River Valley
Thanks for giving me many years of joy and the love of my life

Thelma's Chicken and Waffles

2008-07-09T14:01:00.005-04:00

Before I head East I had to pop into Thelma's Chicken and Waffles to grab some fried green tomatoes. Unfortunately I learned one has to come on delivery day (Mon or Thurs) to get those sought after southern fried delicacies. After some encouragement I decided to try another fried delicacy: fried chicken livers. I bit into what looked like a hush puppy and almost spat the thing back out. Usually I am good to give things a pretty decent tasting but one was my limit with these babies.

Since I failed at the chicken livers I asked a friend what some other typical Southern foods are. He suggested I try peanuts and coke, pickled okra, chow chow (which he suggested I get from a good home church recipe), sweet potato pie, and of course fried collard and beet greens.

I have a long way to go before I can say I have tasted the South.

Scooby Gang Sock Wars

2008-06-19T15:33:00.004-04:00

This is what happens when nerds get together. It is beautiful.

Texas Tavern Experience a Must

2008-06-19T14:27:00.008-04:00

When visiting Southwest Virginia don't miss the Texas Tavern experience in Roanoke, VA. In what can only be explained as a diner hole in the wall, this joint is guaranteed to give you your daily dose of grease. No need to call ahead for reservations or restaurant hours because it closes only on Christmas. However, do plan to wait awhile for a seat as there are only 10 stools available. And expect to vacate your seat when you finish eating as well.

I ordered a western with cheese egg over hard and a milk. The waiter explained that eggs went from medium to burnt. When I didn't respond he grunted this order to the chef "cheesy western burnt." As I waited for my order I took a second look at the joint. The foot rests are worn through with use. Service is to the point and even brusque, especially if you are a tourist or are enjoying this experience for the first time. Maybe I should have left my camera behind, NOT!

My cheesy western was a wonderful combination of a fried egg sandwich and cheeseburger. A culinary masterpiece if you don't mind the heaviness in your stomach afterwards. Other menu items that have been touted are the chili and hotdogs.

So for a cheap, greasy, Southwest VA experience, Texas Tavern (click here for website) is a must eat and see!

Here are a few pictures from this eating adventure.

A New Home for Kitty

2008-06-18T15:00:00.005-04:00

We have had an adventurous summer with the sale and purchase of a new home. We closed on our home Monday and today (Wednesday) already have a contract on a new house. We have felt homeless for over a month though technically it was only a day.

We are living out of boxes and have most of our furniture stored at our families house closer to our new house. Our kitchen and bedroom are the only partially unpacked living spaces in our apartment in the NRV. I finally cleared all our living spaces of boxes only to learn that in a few weeks I will have to box it all up again. Thank goodness I am not working because this move is a full time job.

Below are a few shots of our potential new residence. We close mid July according to our current contract. Hopefully, things will go well and we can start painting soon. Our sense of style is different from the previous owner.

Nerd Love

2008-05-06T09:26:00.003-04:00

Thanks Left Sock Olly. I love you too.

The Leet Street Boys performing Yuri the Only One music video courtesy of YouTube

Sushi in the NRV

2008-04-09T11:56:00.004-04:00

One of my favorite foods is sushi - or so I thought. It turns out the "sushi" I liked such as California Rolls and Philadelphia rolls are simply look-a-like versions that cater to the American palate. I suppose I knew this all along, however, when I attempted to look knowledgeable during my first visit to the Kabuki sushi bar I made a complete fool of myself. From this point I decided to at least try different types of sushi AND even be open to learning something. I did discover that I like yellowtail sushi so all was not lost.

A few months later another sushi outing occurred to a renovated and renamed Blue Ribbon. Left Sock Olly and I were pleasantly surprised by the personable service, ambiance, and great use of space in for a relatively small restaurant. As we waited for friends I laid out my order and plan of attack to broaden my sushi palate; the chef's choice of 8 sushi and some of my failsafe California rolls - just in case.

From that culinary experience I discovered that I enjoy most tuna with the exception of red tuna. It is also possible that I do not like sushi where the fish is cut up. The texture was most unpleasant to the point where I had to spit the food out. Since the cut up fish was also a red tuna I will have to try it again with a fish I like. Our lovely and adventurous meal was finished off with a bit of ice cream. Of all the choices (green tea, ginger, and red bean) I would go with red bean in the future. Ginger is great as a salad dressing, tea, in many foods, and certainly with sushi. It is not great as an ice cream. The green tea was just ok.

A visit to wikipedia following the visit let me know these general items: 1) sushi is rice and fish, 2) sashimi is raw fish alone and 3) nori is various edible seaweed species. The night at Blue Ribbon I had nigiri (hand formed clump of rice with topping on top) and maki sushi (rolls of sushi inside nori). The red tuna where the fish was chopped is a specific form of maki called gunkan-maki sushi. The California rolls are another type of maki called uramaki where the rolls of sushi have the seaweed on the inside and the rice on the outside.

The picture shows the 7 nigri sushi pieces around the outside and the California uramaki sushi pieces in the middle. The piece of sushi closest to the wasabi and ginger is the gunkan-maki red tuna piece.

Black Sabboth's War Pigs

2008-01-29T17:22:00.002-05:00

Isn't it interesting how history repeats itself. It turns out a new favorite song of mine from Guitar Hero II is a commentary about the role politicians play in wars. Though the video footage may not be the intended meaning of the song it struck a chord with me.

Generals gathered in their masses
Just like witches at black masses
Evil minds that plot destruction
Sorcerers of deaths construction
In the fields the bodies burning
As the war machine keeps turning
Death and hatred to mankind
Poisoning their brainwashed minds, oh lord yeah!

Politicians hide themselves away
They only started the war
Why should they go out to fight?
They leave that role to the poor

Time will tell on their power minds
Making war just for fun
Treating people just like pawns in chess
Wait till their judgment day comes, yeah!

Now in darkness, world stops turning
As the war machine keeps burning
No more war pigs of the power
Hand of God has sturck the hour
Day of judgement, God is calling
On their knees, the war pigs crawling
Begging mercy for their sins
Satan, laughing, spreads his wings
All right now!

A new reason to dislike McDonald's

2007-12-06T14:37:00.000-05:00

With McDonald's new health campaigns I ended my year long boycott. However, this article gives me new reasons to avoid their tempting french fries. Surely there are other ways for them to support community education. I guess it just goes to show that above everything the fast food industry is out for number one - money and themselves.

Click here for article on Ronald McDonald on report cards and free happy meal coupon for good grades.

Escape Your Shape

2007-09-19T11:03:00.001-04:00

In my quest to find a personal clothing style that flatters my body type I came across an interesting article. The apple and pear shape that I am used to (and don't fit at all) was substituted with Hourglass, Spoon, Ruler, and Cone (click here for article).

The article is meant to help persons escape their shape. Personally, I like my shape. With the exception of some extra inches on my belly and behind, the only thing I have really wanted is calf muscles. It was actually a relief to hear that us Rulers struggle to get and keep muscle mass.

Will this article provide the knowledge behind the drive to get to the gym? Guess we will just have to wait and see.

Excuses or evolution?

2007-09-06T09:52:00.000-04:00

An article from the New York Times (click here) speaks to a shift research is taking in the fight against obesity. Dieting, increasing exercise moderately, and even calorie counting took a back seat in this article to brain chemistry and prenatal maternal habits such as eating and smoking. Are these latest developments a measure nearing truth in the obesity epidemic or just an excuse that Americans are lazier and less active than yesteryear?

How to get fat without even trying

2007-07-20T14:48:00.001-04:00

In thinking about my upcoming speaking engagement I came across this clip from the nightly news with Peter Jennings. Isn't it interesting how government officials easily spot the problem and knowingly avoid it.

Nightly News Courtesy of YouTube

Teaching Doctor's to be Nicer

2007-05-31T15:55:00.000-04:00

A broadcast on NPR (click here) challenged me to act when I feel a provider is giving second rate health care. While it seems intuitive that our health care provider's are working for us since we pay them, brining up concerns is not easy. I have been considering the following questions.

Will a doctor decrease his care for us if we bring up a complaint?
What makes a doctor a good doctor?
Is positive bed-side manner an important skill for a doctor to have?
How can I as a patient be ensured that a doctor is really listening to me?
What can we as patients do to get the best care possible from our doctors?

These are online resources for "thinking errors" brought up in the broadcast:
heuristics and bias
attribution error
satisfaction of search error (this is specifically done by radiologists)

Also see Resonance Partnership Blog (click here) for full article entitled "Teaching Doctor's to be Nicer." Click on blog link WSJ (Wall Street Journal online).

How do YOU pick a politician?

2007-04-12T15:27:00.000-04:00

My methods failed me in the last election. Bush guessed my logic and won my conservative evangelical vote. DARN HIM!

News of the "money primary" and presidential campaign events are throwing me into voter depression. Who actually likes sorting through the globaloney, bomfog, and snollygosters (click here for definitions)?

Though I am keeping tabs on the election, I have yet to begin educating myself on individual candidates. So seriously, how do you pick your candidates?

Everyone Dies: Why not plan for it?

2007-04-05T09:23:00.000-04:00

Long term care insurance has become increasingly popular. Many adults choose not to burden family with the personal and financial costs should they require intense care as they age. Similarly, why would I want to burden family and friends with expenses and funeral details when I am gone? Three stages of planning are necessary.

Keep my estate in order and as I age take steps to condense
Declare how I would like my body handled postmortem
Set aside money so I can have the ceremony I desire without burdening family

Point 1
AR, at 70+ years old, is taking steps to inventory her household and clear her basement. She is purposefully saving her children the headache and heartache of a posthumous division of her estate and assets. Her actions and several family deaths, began my recent thoughts about preparing for the inevitable. Dividing my estate would be difficult if I don't remember what "earthly treasures" I have.

Point 2
All doubt of the necessity of planning my funeral was eliminated when I saw the movie Elizabethtown (2005) starring Susan Sarandon, Orlando Bloom, and Kirsten Dunst. The film captures the angst between the widow and her in-laws regarding the burial and preparations. I would rather save my loved ones the arguments and stress regarding how best to say farewell. I am sure each individual will have a different and equally valid suggestion. There is no sense adding to their grief over my demise with unnecessary decisions. I will boldly state and record my wishes in my will. I guess I had better have one drafted...

Point 3
Heaven only knows where life will take me and my family. Though decidedly morbid, saving for my funeral expenses is a wise choice. Preparation and education will be needed to not only ensure the funds are accessible but also that they are available. Save, save, save....talk to bankers and lawyers regarding what happens to bank accounts and estates when I die.

Final Thoughts
I hope to designate a well thought out place for my descendants to pay their respects. I don't want my kin paying respects at a "Kwiki Mart" because I wanted to be buried at my childhood home. Also though my husband swears he will never remarry if I die, I don't hold any notions of planning what to do with his remains. I do like the idea of having a single urn buried with a small bit of each of our ashes. The symbolism is good but doesn't take into account an early death. I guess I will just have to wait and see. Better to spend time figuring out how to live than analyzing all the ways I could die :)

Here is some material I found useful as I pondered death...
Planning for Funeral Services
Green Funeral
Virginia Living Will Links
Medical Care at End of Life

Fashion Bans Gaunt Models

2007-04-02T09:59:00.001-04:00

Okay Men...Is this woman attractive?

I thought boobs, butts, and hips were a part of a woman's allure. Thin is in and has been in for a long time... How thin translates through the media to our youth has recently made global headlines.

Model's such as this one from New York's Spring 2007 Fashion Week have been the subject of much hoopla. Much criticism of the use of ultra-thin and under-age models has arisen following two industry deaths last year. Uruguayan model Luisel Ramos died in August 2006 of heart failure during a fashion show in Montevideo and 21 year old Brazilian model Ana Carolina Reston died November 14 2006 from a generalized infection caused by anorexia.

Partially due to these recent events, Italy and Spain have led the fashion industry with formal bans on under-nourished and -aged models. "The agreement is the result of a common effort ... to share and to communicate to our young people the importance of positive models of living," Milan mayor Letizia Moratti said in a statement. Brazil and India have also made formal policies regarding weight among models. New York is currently discussing this issue as it pertains to fashion week.

Reston, who weighed a mere 88 pounds for her 5' 8" height, had a BMI of 13.5 when she died. This fell well below the WHO BMI criteria of underweight (18.5) and starvation (15). Reston used her modeling money to help her family. Mother Miriam Reston told O Globo newspaper “Take care of your children ... no money is worth the life of your child, not even the most famous (fashion) brand is worth this.”

France announced today it will not place restrictions on models that are too thin. Instead an effort will be made to educate the design industry of the health complications due to extreme dieting through a voluntary program. No details as to how this program will campaign awareness and information have been released at this time.

For more information see these NPR links or google "thin models ban" for recent headlines.
France rejects ban
Italy joins bandwagon to ban underweight models
Spain starts ban in 9/2006

Are You A Female Chauvinist Pig?

2006-11-28T19:25:00.000-05:00

Female Chauvinist Pigs: Women and the Rise of Raunch Culture by Ariel Levy was recently featured on NPR's Fresh Air with Terry Gross. In the interview the author defines the terms in her title. Ariel also explains the dichotomy between feminism of the '60's and the feminism of today: the faux empowerment of sexiness, sensationalism, and exhibitionism.

In the not too distant past Vanessa Williams was decrowned her beauty title because of a photograph of her kissing another women. Recently, Paris Hilton was catapulted from a common name to superstardom as a result of her porn star fame. How has pornography gone from shame to fame? See the link below.

Women in the 'Girls Gone Wild' Era

Body Image Blues

2006-10-25T16:40:00.001-04:00

Kudos to Dove and their recent ads regarding models and the importance of a healthy self image. Though I purposely do not have television in my home I have to admit that some advertisements these days are doing some good.

Now that I am totally addicted to YouTube here are a few ads that I thought were worth taking a look at.

LittleGirls
RealBeauty

My Dad is top gun!

2006-10-22T20:44:00.002-04:00

I always thought my dad was a little off his rocker but this is crazy! Check out this short account of traffic congestion gone bad on an aircraft carrier. Yikes!

Check it out...

Forget the Gym! Try jeans that are uplifting

2006-10-18T13:57:00.000-04:00

Are you tired of constantly battling your body to fit into that pair of jeans? Forget buying another "fat pair," as disco diva has coined. Try the new stretch jeans that don't dig into your ever growing belly. OR make your jeans work for you by trying VS new uplift jeans. Yes folks no need to do lunges or squats because you now can rely on technology and innovation to pick your sagging behind off of the floor.

Have any of you actually tried this as a part of your work out strategy? As if Mickey D's is not adding to our fat phenomenon enough - we now have jeans that substitute your daily physical activity.

Too much of a good thing

2006-09-28T16:35:00.000-04:00

Are you a drug addict? Hopefully, your initial answer is no.

Consider the recent Allison Aubrey NPR feature - "Coffee: A Little Really Does Go a Long Way"
Link

News flash: The headache that you get from lack of your morning coffee is in fact WITHDRAWAL! Therefore, you are in fact addicted to a legal substance.

The infamous THEY gave recommendations to limit your caffeine intake daily to under 100 mg.

So have your Venti Caffe Mocha but ask for one espresso shot. You'll be pleased with the results for your mind but watch your waist...

Serving Size 20 fl. oz. Amt Per Serving Calories 390 Fat Calories 110 Total Fat (g) 12 Saturated Fat (g) 7 Trans Fat (g) 0 Cholesterol (mg) 50 Sodium (mg) 230 Total Carbohydrates (g) 56 Fiber (g) 2 Sugars (g) 43 Protein (g) 19 Vitamin A 15% Vitamin C 0% Calcium 50% Iron 20%

*http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6155178

Fun in the mud

2006-09-19T11:49:00.000-04:00

Who says that paying to get sweaty and dirty is not fun? Raising money for kids while being yelled at and crawling through the mud is AWESOME! I dare you to disagree or give comment.

Dared to say NO in Jamaica

2006-08-29T13:19:00.000-04:00

On a recent holiday to Negril, Jamaica I learned the following:

Ganja may be illegal but it supports 50% of the nationals
Mary Jane is the national plant of Jamaica. Every day we were offered this drug in various forms. This was the only 'product' that vendors accepted a simple no.

Don't swim if you are algae phobic
The entire 7 mile beach stretch in Negril has two feet of green algae along the shoreline. After a storm the algae bits are completely one with the ocean water. It is a bit slimy and may have benefits to your skin and hair. Showering off after swimming is recommended if you do not want to bring the ocean and algae back to your room with you.

Off-season the clothing optional beach has a few topless females
Most of the beach patrons kept their clothes on. Sadly the ones that choose to be 'free' are old women and small-chested women with nothing really to show. So you are either running away scared or having to get out binoculars...

Ideal vacation spot
If you are white, your best bet is to stay in a private resort with a private beach access or to vacation elsewhere. However, if constatly bartering and fending off locals selling their wares is your idea of fun, then this is the place for you. I would recommend Jamaica for urban Americans, biracial couples, and black- or African-Americans.

Fabulous Fish
The fish was fantastic! Whether you ate it at a restaurant or picked it up at the local Hi-lo grocery it was good eatin'.

Trapping Tourists
The best place to find tourists are at the famed Spring Break hot spots: Margaretaville and Rick's Cafe. If you love loud music, druken youths, exorbitant prices for mediocre foods, and large crowds then these places will rock your world! Some fun things featured at each are Margaretaville: climbing wall, MC with embarassing games to earn a free crappy T-shirt, ocean trampolene, cool gift shop
Rick's Cafe: Cliff diving for amateur's and professionals, own bottled water, great view of sunset if you can see over the hundred people cramming for the photo-op (I missed it...that is how bad it was)

Just say YES
Dining at the Rockhouse was fabulous. The view was fantastic and the food was divine and at a reasonble price ($12-$24 USD). We came to dinner at an early hour for international standards. This was great because the restaurant was virtually deserted and for us nonsmokers the air was clean on the terrace overlooking the gorgeous coral reef. We had real coconut shrimp not some Outback substitute!

Best cup of tea to date
Our last morning we ventured down the beach to a lovely hotel that served breakfast food we recognized. I had three cups of delicious black tea with milk and brownish Jamaican sugar. The environment was perfect with a bass cello and drum set serranading us. The restaurant was not crowded and we sat facing the ocean under the shade of an awening. The food was also wonderful. I had french toast that was light and very cinnamony and left sock olly had pancakes. It may have been the view and the company but either way the tea was first class! Kuyaba on the Beach will treat you right for any meal!

Scuba Dive Negril
Getting back into diving was great! We saw an eel and I saw a turtle. Though left sock olly will not be joining me in the deep in the future the dive was still great. The clear though a little rough seas were beautiful and the reef was excellent. For those of you that are in need of a good snorkel, I am told the reef at Xtabi is perfect. And you can't beat the price. Buy a coke and utilize their services.

Respect the locals and wear clothing!
Contrary to popular belief the locals are actually pretty modest. Though we stayed on the largest clothing optional beach in Jamaica the locals all kept their clothes on. In fact on Sunday I observed many locals swimming fully clothed. I observed one vacationer playing with local children while topless. This seemed very disrespectful. I would suggest if you want to be sans clothing that you head over to Hedonism where they have private nude beaches. Otherwise please respect yourself, fellow vacationers, and the locals that have to service you and keep your clothing on!

Heat Wave

2006-08-03T08:54:00.000-04:00

Thanks to current circumstances I am reminded of my early marriage days in a home with no AC. When you go to bed curled up next to a pack of frozen peas you know that it is too hot for comfort.

How can anyone deny global warming when the temps nationwide are reaching record levels? Please let me know what the arguments are against global warming as I am totally naive to them.