Hey, friends, family, people who happen to stop by and see what this crazy girl has on her mind.
I finished my first quarter of classes as a returning student, and there was something noticeably different about the finals process. Finals meant three things (in the following order) when I did this the first time:
1. studying your ass off until your face turned blue
2. lots of beer and partying when complete
3. sleep for a week after partying dies down
This time, I accidentally did the whole thing out of order. You see, I studied for about two weeks straight, and as timing would have it, the company I am working for had a kick-ass party in the middle of the day at a superb local seafood joint on the same day as my last final. Free booze. I can't pass it up. Don't worry, mom, I only had one Tom Collins...and a glass of champagne. All that said, I managed to sneak away before my Russian coworkers made me take Vodka shots with them, and was able to recoup before my final in Developmental Psychology. Very anticlimactic: it only took me 20 min. Anyhow, since I did they whole ritual out of order, I immediately went home and slept. The first time I have slept past 7am in months. I don't remember my first time at college ever waking up before 7am on purpose. Times they are a changin'.
Next week, I head to my home town for the REAL party to begin. My parents house will be full of great grub, old friends, family, and of course, a top notch bar provided by my old man. Rick and I are looking forward to being away from our crazy schedules before we have to jump back in for the New Year.
I wish any and all who reads this that you have safe travels and a wonderful holiday with the people you love.
Friday, December 16, 2005
Saturday, December 03, 2005
A Little Mindless Fun
Sometimes I like to have fun without using my brain.
Ohmigod, this is so frickin' hilarious.
Let me know what you made him do.
Just a hint: Ask him to sing.
Damn, I love the internet.
Ohmigod, this is so frickin' hilarious.
Let me know what you made him do.
Just a hint: Ask him to sing.
Damn, I love the internet.
Back on the Left Coast
Last week, Rick and I made a trip back to Connecticut for family, friends, turkey and the annual Risk tournament. We had a delightful time and it was difficult to come back to work.
On Thanksgiving morning, we woke up to four inches of snow on the ground. You know, that stuff is actually really beautiful when you don't have to drive in it for six months out of a year! Rick, his brother and father ran 5K that morning in the snow in another annual tradition for the Manchester Road Race. As if running in the snow isn't crazy enough, there were fellas wearing grass skirts and coconut bras in 28 degree weather. Overall, it was a wonderful time even though my wimpy ass had to run into a heated building after five minutes when I couldn't feel my feet. I suppose I've been in California too long.
Speaking of East Coast...
I have a dear friend in NYC who has created a website of his new clothing line he has been working on. His innovative scarf collection and custom-made jeans and shirts are worth looking at. You can view his collection at: www.godspeedthewelldressedman.com
Okay, I have to stop procrastinating now...back to leafing through info on Bipolar I Disorder.
I love my life. :)
On Thanksgiving morning, we woke up to four inches of snow on the ground. You know, that stuff is actually really beautiful when you don't have to drive in it for six months out of a year! Rick, his brother and father ran 5K that morning in the snow in another annual tradition for the Manchester Road Race. As if running in the snow isn't crazy enough, there were fellas wearing grass skirts and coconut bras in 28 degree weather. Overall, it was a wonderful time even though my wimpy ass had to run into a heated building after five minutes when I couldn't feel my feet. I suppose I've been in California too long.
Speaking of East Coast...
I have a dear friend in NYC who has created a website of his new clothing line he has been working on. His innovative scarf collection and custom-made jeans and shirts are worth looking at. You can view his collection at: www.godspeedthewelldressedman.com
Okay, I have to stop procrastinating now...back to leafing through info on Bipolar I Disorder.
I love my life. :)
Friday, November 18, 2005
Wedding Reception Gifts
No, I wasn't looking up wedding stuff online. I was actually avoiding doing the whole homework/study gig and started looking up beer stuff (don't ask), and I found the best damned wedding reception gift...in all the land.
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Governator Can't Make This Blue State See Red
Let's hope Cal-EE-fawn-ya learned its lesson. It was a mistake to elect an official who played a pregnant man in a Hollywood film.
Friday, November 04, 2005
I Like Beer
About a year ago, Rick and I formulated a Beer Ratings List, complete with a key of how one should rate a beer according to taste satisfaction on a 1-10 scale. (with 1 being the yuckiest and 10 being the bestest) This is what we came up with:
10. Can't live without it
9. Beer-brewing excellence
8. Fabulously refreshing
7. Good food companion
6. Buy only if on sale
5. Party beer
4. Drink only when drunk
3. And you drank this because???
2. Horse piss
1. Poison
Any comments to make our list more accurate or any beers you consider to fit any of these categories???
Cheers!
10. Can't live without it
9. Beer-brewing excellence
8. Fabulously refreshing
7. Good food companion
6. Buy only if on sale
5. Party beer
4. Drink only when drunk
3. And you drank this because???
2. Horse piss
1. Poison
Any comments to make our list more accurate or any beers you consider to fit any of these categories???
Cheers!
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
Yes, "Memories" is that song from "Cats"
I got this off a friend's blog, who probably got this off a friend's blog...
If you read this, if your eyes are passing over this right now, even if we don't speak often, please post a comment with a memory of you and me. It can be anything you want- good or bad. When you're finished, post this little paragraph on your blog (if you have one) and be surprised (or moritified) about what people remember about you.
If you read this, if your eyes are passing over this right now, even if we don't speak often, please post a comment with a memory of you and me. It can be anything you want- good or bad. When you're finished, post this little paragraph on your blog (if you have one) and be surprised (or moritified) about what people remember about you.
Feeling Not-So-"Handy"
I honestly don't remember much of this month. It's been another one of those tough builds. We just opened "West Side Story" at AMTSJ, and after several weeks of continuous work, I am taking a much needed week and a half away from sewing.
The good thing about taking this time off is that I can finally start physical therapy; a task that I have needed to begin over the past year. Yesterday, I met my regular therapist who told me that my scoliosis has complicated my carpal tunnel syndrome, so we have to correct my neck/back/shoulder problems on the left side of my body. I went through a series of strength tests which pretty much revealed that my left hand has the grasping ability of a wet noodle. This became more clear to me when I dropped a glass of juice I was enjoying at lunch today. :(
In hand therapy this morning, the PT performed some more tests on my hands and likened my hand flexibility to that of an octopus. Apparently, there is a such thing as being too flexible and using your hands in ways that cause strain over a long period of time. She made me a custom-fitted removable arm cast out of moldable plastic that I can comfortably work with, type and sleep in. It's not the prettiest thing in all the land, but I've cut up some fashionable tube socks to cover it with, so I'm rockin' it.
Oh, and I bought a Tempur-pedic pillow to correct my sleeping posture. It seems ludicrous to spend $100 on a pillow, but when I tried out that billowy wedge of heaven yesterday, I slept better than I have in years. It's the second best sleeping companion a gal can have.
The good thing about taking this time off is that I can finally start physical therapy; a task that I have needed to begin over the past year. Yesterday, I met my regular therapist who told me that my scoliosis has complicated my carpal tunnel syndrome, so we have to correct my neck/back/shoulder problems on the left side of my body. I went through a series of strength tests which pretty much revealed that my left hand has the grasping ability of a wet noodle. This became more clear to me when I dropped a glass of juice I was enjoying at lunch today. :(
In hand therapy this morning, the PT performed some more tests on my hands and likened my hand flexibility to that of an octopus. Apparently, there is a such thing as being too flexible and using your hands in ways that cause strain over a long period of time. She made me a custom-fitted removable arm cast out of moldable plastic that I can comfortably work with, type and sleep in. It's not the prettiest thing in all the land, but I've cut up some fashionable tube socks to cover it with, so I'm rockin' it.
Oh, and I bought a Tempur-pedic pillow to correct my sleeping posture. It seems ludicrous to spend $100 on a pillow, but when I tried out that billowy wedge of heaven yesterday, I slept better than I have in years. It's the second best sleeping companion a gal can have.
Friday, October 07, 2005
Random thoughts by Curly
I have finally done it. I have become a student again. Although it has been awhile, I feel like I still have the ability to work a full-time demanding job and take two psychology classes. The readings are interesting, but I have found that reading about Schizophrenia right before going to bed has its own unique consequences. I have also realized that this returning student needs some sort of bookbag after carrying a stack of books around downtown SJ and onto the lightrail.
Oh...and I finally got a haircut. Every time I go to a new salon for a trim, they take one look at my weave and ask me how long it's been since the last time. It's almost been six months. I had a 'fro, but now I feel much lighter...and my hair looks really hot for the next 24 hours. Then, I will go back to my throwing-it-up-in-a-hairband routine.
I read this when I woke up this morning, and wanted to go back to bed and pretend it wasn't true.
Yesterday, when I found out about Tom's and Katie's baby, and secretly hoped the poor kid would be spared inheriting the crooked smile and nose genes.
The NHL is back and I am going to my first SJ Sharks game October 15 @ the HP Pavillion aka "The Shark Tank."
On Tuesday, I am going to a touring musical production from the recent Broadway run of "Little Women" at the San Jose Center of the Performing Arts. My work is giving all staff as many comp. tickets as we want, (seriously, they said, "Take 15 if you want them.") since ticket sales have gone to the shit can.
And, I am learning to make crepes from one of my Russian co-workers.
Peace out.
Oh...and I finally got a haircut. Every time I go to a new salon for a trim, they take one look at my weave and ask me how long it's been since the last time. It's almost been six months. I had a 'fro, but now I feel much lighter...and my hair looks really hot for the next 24 hours. Then, I will go back to my throwing-it-up-in-a-hairband routine.
I read this when I woke up this morning, and wanted to go back to bed and pretend it wasn't true.
Yesterday, when I found out about Tom's and Katie's baby, and secretly hoped the poor kid would be spared inheriting the crooked smile and nose genes.
The NHL is back and I am going to my first SJ Sharks game October 15 @ the HP Pavillion aka "The Shark Tank."
On Tuesday, I am going to a touring musical production from the recent Broadway run of "Little Women" at the San Jose Center of the Performing Arts. My work is giving all staff as many comp. tickets as we want, (seriously, they said, "Take 15 if you want them.") since ticket sales have gone to the shit can.
And, I am learning to make crepes from one of my Russian co-workers.
Peace out.
Saturday, September 24, 2005
"Rick's" link
I just wanted to share with anyone who isn't aware that my fella, "Rick", has a website. His random updates include his love of the Patriots and the goings on in our lives in his own words.
Enjoy.
Enjoy.
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Lovely Spam?
Spam, again.
Damn.
Anyone who comments anonymously from now on will be asked to type in a "word notification". I just received two comments from an advertising agency ala spam onto this blog, and I had to change my settings a bit. It's just a way for the system to know that actual people are commenting and not an internet advertiser promoting their product.
Just a heads-up.
Damn.
Anyone who comments anonymously from now on will be asked to type in a "word notification". I just received two comments from an advertising agency ala spam onto this blog, and I had to change my settings a bit. It's just a way for the system to know that actual people are commenting and not an internet advertiser promoting their product.
Just a heads-up.
Flying monkeys, Winkies and Pregnant Nuns, OH MY!
My goodness, it's been awhile.
As my job goes, I have been working near the sixty-hour-a-week mark for over a month now, but things have finally come to a halt for the time being. We at American Musical Theatre of San Jose just finished a rough build of "The Wizard of Oz." If I see another Winkie, Munchkin, Jitterbug or Flying Monkey I'm gonna chaunch.
This experience has been full of stories, I must admit. On first dress, the Wicked Witch of the West went flying out from house left and then taking a dramatic spill into the wall, breaking the molding, sending it bouncing into the seats, almost hitting my co-workers. Fortunately, this was only a dress rehearsal, so not many people were sitting in the audience, so no one was hurt. Then we had a flying monkey with a much too tight costume split the ass out of his pants while in midair. Assless monkeys exist in reality, but onstage it's a rather unfortunate sighting...much like assless chaps. Not pretty.
The best creativity in theatre arts comes to us when we screw up or are faced with special circumstances. Another co-worker of mine told me a story the other day about when they built "The Sound of Music" and their Maria turned out to be pregnant. She was honest about her pregnancy, but the stage manager, a man, misunderstood her and thought she said she was five weeks pregnant. She was actually five MONTHS pregnant. A pregnant nun. That is the ultimate special circumstance in costume building.
Now that my life is somewhat normal for a few weeks, I promise to catch up with friends, grocery shopping and a normal eating and sleeping schedule, away from the land of Oz.
As my job goes, I have been working near the sixty-hour-a-week mark for over a month now, but things have finally come to a halt for the time being. We at American Musical Theatre of San Jose just finished a rough build of "The Wizard of Oz." If I see another Winkie, Munchkin, Jitterbug or Flying Monkey I'm gonna chaunch.
This experience has been full of stories, I must admit. On first dress, the Wicked Witch of the West went flying out from house left and then taking a dramatic spill into the wall, breaking the molding, sending it bouncing into the seats, almost hitting my co-workers. Fortunately, this was only a dress rehearsal, so not many people were sitting in the audience, so no one was hurt. Then we had a flying monkey with a much too tight costume split the ass out of his pants while in midair. Assless monkeys exist in reality, but onstage it's a rather unfortunate sighting...much like assless chaps. Not pretty.
The best creativity in theatre arts comes to us when we screw up or are faced with special circumstances. Another co-worker of mine told me a story the other day about when they built "The Sound of Music" and their Maria turned out to be pregnant. She was honest about her pregnancy, but the stage manager, a man, misunderstood her and thought she said she was five weeks pregnant. She was actually five MONTHS pregnant. A pregnant nun. That is the ultimate special circumstance in costume building.
Now that my life is somewhat normal for a few weeks, I promise to catch up with friends, grocery shopping and a normal eating and sleeping schedule, away from the land of Oz.
Thursday, August 18, 2005
The People's Team
Tonight, the New England Patriots played a preseason game against the New Orleans Saints. The game was a bust 37-27. A loss for the Pats, but a chance to weed out some of the new, inexperienced players, and give some rookies a chance to prove themselves.
I've been around football all of my life. Being from small town Texas, you can't avoid the Friday night games. No one misses them and businesses would schedule their hours so they could close early and ensure a good seat at the game. I must admit that I miss live football. I catch it on t.v., cozied up to a frosted beer mug, but it's not the same.
I always had a soft spot for pro Texas football teams. No one can deny the talent of the Dallas Cowboys in the Troy Aikman days. And Warren Moon of the Oilers was bad ass. I kept my eye on those teams throughout the years, then lost interest in football, and then after dating Rick and becoming obsessed with player stats and what it means to be a fan of such-and-such team. A year ago, I declared myself a New England Patriots fan. Not because they are the winning team, but because there is no star, no egos (the players take pay-cuts to continue playing there) and they have smart players. (yes, football players CAN be smart) Most people tend to stick with the team that they have long supported through thick and thin. That would mean that I would have to stick with Dallas after all of the drugs, Quincy Carter *shudder* and Parcels calling his players "stupid." It's embarrassing to support a team with egos that can't back-up the hype. I tried, but I'm afraid I had to turn my back.
Am I a traitor, or is it that I have based my support of the Pats on more carefully calculated information?
Or do you just not give a rats ass about football?
Just wondering.
I've been around football all of my life. Being from small town Texas, you can't avoid the Friday night games. No one misses them and businesses would schedule their hours so they could close early and ensure a good seat at the game. I must admit that I miss live football. I catch it on t.v., cozied up to a frosted beer mug, but it's not the same.
I always had a soft spot for pro Texas football teams. No one can deny the talent of the Dallas Cowboys in the Troy Aikman days. And Warren Moon of the Oilers was bad ass. I kept my eye on those teams throughout the years, then lost interest in football, and then after dating Rick and becoming obsessed with player stats and what it means to be a fan of such-and-such team. A year ago, I declared myself a New England Patriots fan. Not because they are the winning team, but because there is no star, no egos (the players take pay-cuts to continue playing there) and they have smart players. (yes, football players CAN be smart) Most people tend to stick with the team that they have long supported through thick and thin. That would mean that I would have to stick with Dallas after all of the drugs, Quincy Carter *shudder* and Parcels calling his players "stupid." It's embarrassing to support a team with egos that can't back-up the hype. I tried, but I'm afraid I had to turn my back.
Am I a traitor, or is it that I have based my support of the Pats on more carefully calculated information?
Or do you just not give a rats ass about football?
Just wondering.
Friday, August 12, 2005
Poop on this guy
Unfortunately, I happened to watch the Today Show the other morning when they had a less-than-intellegent guest on. Bernard Goldberg came out with a new book: 100 People Who are Screwing Up America (and Al Frankin is #37) , and his list contained all of the usual liberals who stand for "corruption" and "immoral values." Basically, this guy shot down anyone who is anti-violence, anti-Bush, has sex, and wants to save a puppy.
Allow me to go off on a tangent for a moment...
I am baffled by the whole idea that our society will shelter their kids from sex on t.v., but they buy them a violent video game, which they let them play...until they find out there is a hidden sex scene somewhere beyond the violence. WTF?
Anyway, Goldberg goes on to say that this book displays the anger and meaness in the world that he is so whole-heartedly against. To me, most of the list are people he is annoyed by or simply doesn't agree for what they stand for. Homey needs to take a chill pill...these so-called "annoying" people have no power to screw up America.
Here are some people who made the list:
(99) Rick and Kathy Hilton, because they raised Paris, who made a sex tape
Howard Stern is somewhere on the list because he makes dick jokes on the radio
(49) Ingrid Newkirk of PETA...damn her for saving the puppies
(20) Howard Dean, because he tells the truth
(16) John Edwards, because he ran with Kerry
(12) Dan Rather, because he had a whoopsie
and drum roll...
(1) Michael Moore (surprise, surprise, surprise)
I don't know any of these people, so I don't know if they are mean, and I am sure that Michael Moore is pleased as punch to be at the top of this list...his career thrives on it. None of these people are physically or psychologically hurting anyone that I know of. I'm more pained by the price of gas and oil, but no one in charge of these industries was mentioned in his book.
This fella just must have some ego to make such a list, and a lot of MEANESS to feel the need to write it.
Allow me to go off on a tangent for a moment...
I am baffled by the whole idea that our society will shelter their kids from sex on t.v., but they buy them a violent video game, which they let them play...until they find out there is a hidden sex scene somewhere beyond the violence. WTF?
Anyway, Goldberg goes on to say that this book displays the anger and meaness in the world that he is so whole-heartedly against. To me, most of the list are people he is annoyed by or simply doesn't agree for what they stand for. Homey needs to take a chill pill...these so-called "annoying" people have no power to screw up America.
Here are some people who made the list:
(99) Rick and Kathy Hilton, because they raised Paris, who made a sex tape
Howard Stern is somewhere on the list because he makes dick jokes on the radio
(49) Ingrid Newkirk of PETA...damn her for saving the puppies
(20) Howard Dean, because he tells the truth
(16) John Edwards, because he ran with Kerry
(12) Dan Rather, because he had a whoopsie
and drum roll...
(1) Michael Moore (surprise, surprise, surprise)
I don't know any of these people, so I don't know if they are mean, and I am sure that Michael Moore is pleased as punch to be at the top of this list...his career thrives on it. None of these people are physically or psychologically hurting anyone that I know of. I'm more pained by the price of gas and oil, but no one in charge of these industries was mentioned in his book.
This fella just must have some ego to make such a list, and a lot of MEANESS to feel the need to write it.
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
MAN Jose?
How does one define a city?
In the Bay Area, you have San Francisco, known for the Golden Gate Bridge, beautiful views, Alcatraz, Pier 39, etc..., Berkeley is known for its hippies and political movement, and again beautiful scenery...Oakland: gangs...San Jose, well, most critics have said that SJ has been struggling to find itself. Sure there is Silicon Valley, but what do tourists get?
A recent article in Metro Magazine named San Jose, or rather MAN Jose, the bachelor capital of the world. Apparently, men out number women 3-1 here, so it should be easy for women, right? Wrong. These men, as described in the article, are the fruits of Yahoo!, Google and Adobe. Not all computer geeks are bad, but I suppose if you are accosted by five men who spend fifteen hours a day in their cubicle staring at a computer and haven't seen a woman in months, that would seem a little disheartening to me.
I avoid the night scene myself. I haven't visited a "Sausage Bar" in San Jose and don't intend to. I like avoiding those lines like: "Hey, baby, let's play house. You can be the screen door, and I'll bang you all night long."
Gross.
I'm so thankful I have "Rick" by my side. I was lucky to find such a fella. :)
In the Bay Area, you have San Francisco, known for the Golden Gate Bridge, beautiful views, Alcatraz, Pier 39, etc..., Berkeley is known for its hippies and political movement, and again beautiful scenery...Oakland: gangs...San Jose, well, most critics have said that SJ has been struggling to find itself. Sure there is Silicon Valley, but what do tourists get?
A recent article in Metro Magazine named San Jose, or rather MAN Jose, the bachelor capital of the world. Apparently, men out number women 3-1 here, so it should be easy for women, right? Wrong. These men, as described in the article, are the fruits of Yahoo!, Google and Adobe. Not all computer geeks are bad, but I suppose if you are accosted by five men who spend fifteen hours a day in their cubicle staring at a computer and haven't seen a woman in months, that would seem a little disheartening to me.
I avoid the night scene myself. I haven't visited a "Sausage Bar" in San Jose and don't intend to. I like avoiding those lines like: "Hey, baby, let's play house. You can be the screen door, and I'll bang you all night long."
Gross.
I'm so thankful I have "Rick" by my side. I was lucky to find such a fella. :)
Sunday, July 31, 2005
San Jose Grand Prix
Even though I'm not into fast cars, and I turned down a chance for a free weekend pass, I figured it was obvious that I post something about the Grand Prix.
I'm close enough to hear the cars, but not so close that the city would put "Rick" and I up for the weekend in a hotel...a hotel that surely rivals our 100+ degrees sauna. All of the nearby restraunts have almost doubled their already lofty prices, and the traffic is ten times worse than normal.
I spent most of my weekend cleaning and then to see "Hustle and Flow." The movie had the same feel as "Boyz in the Hood," which I loved when it came out. Both movies have a lot of heart, but are realistic in their struggles. The old women behind kept me amused...they giggled at all of the dirty stuff like 12 year old girls. So, if you are in for a good gangsta/rap flick with fine acting, check it out.
I'm close enough to hear the cars, but not so close that the city would put "Rick" and I up for the weekend in a hotel...a hotel that surely rivals our 100+ degrees sauna. All of the nearby restraunts have almost doubled their already lofty prices, and the traffic is ten times worse than normal.
I spent most of my weekend cleaning and then to see "Hustle and Flow." The movie had the same feel as "Boyz in the Hood," which I loved when it came out. Both movies have a lot of heart, but are realistic in their struggles. The old women behind kept me amused...they giggled at all of the dirty stuff like 12 year old girls. So, if you are in for a good gangsta/rap flick with fine acting, check it out.
Wednesday, July 20, 2005
Hard-up for news?
Jesus. With all the crap going on in the world this had to make headlines.
I was innocently watching the news this evening, wearing a skirt, tank-top and *gasp* flip-flop sandals, when news reporters began to question an award-winning high school lacrosse team about their choice of footwear while visiting "W."
Who gives a shit?
Sorry. I'm on a bit of a tear tonight.
I was innocently watching the news this evening, wearing a skirt, tank-top and *gasp* flip-flop sandals, when news reporters began to question an award-winning high school lacrosse team about their choice of footwear while visiting "W."
Who gives a shit?
Sorry. I'm on a bit of a tear tonight.
Tuesday, July 19, 2005
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Yes...I have been a total child this past week, sue me. Between the new Harry Potter book and "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory", I have been living as a seven year old. But I love it.
My fella and I watched the flick at the IMAX at the Tech Museum of Innovation in downtown San Jose. I have seen short 30 minute nature films at the IMAX, but nothing that would constitute as a full feature-lengthed film. Nothing would prepare me for the motion sickness that followed me well into the night...but the movie was fun, and that's what I was going for.
I was very impressed with the visual effects of the film. Very bright and fun like the original, but updated, of coarse. The Oompa Loompa dances and songs were very funny, and the minor characters (Veruca Salt, Violet, etc...) were all very good. Johnny Depp was frickin' hilarious. I saw him as a Michael Jackson tribute with major social anxiety. The back story was an interesting touch, and Charlie...he was very pure. The way that Roald Dahl intended for him to be.
What surprised me most is the lesson that the movie taught about the importance of family. I don't recall that being in the original. There were so many references to drugs that the purity may have been washed right out of it, which made it the dark success that it was.
Some remakes, such as "Psycho" were too close to the original. I believe Gus Van Zant redid the movie shot by shot, which was a waste of time. I applaud "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" for giving us a new take on a story we all love.
By the way, my fella just told me he would like to be referred to as "Rick" during my postings. He's obsessed with that name.
Weirdo.
My fella and I watched the flick at the IMAX at the Tech Museum of Innovation in downtown San Jose. I have seen short 30 minute nature films at the IMAX, but nothing that would constitute as a full feature-lengthed film. Nothing would prepare me for the motion sickness that followed me well into the night...but the movie was fun, and that's what I was going for.
I was very impressed with the visual effects of the film. Very bright and fun like the original, but updated, of coarse. The Oompa Loompa dances and songs were very funny, and the minor characters (Veruca Salt, Violet, etc...) were all very good. Johnny Depp was frickin' hilarious. I saw him as a Michael Jackson tribute with major social anxiety. The back story was an interesting touch, and Charlie...he was very pure. The way that Roald Dahl intended for him to be.
What surprised me most is the lesson that the movie taught about the importance of family. I don't recall that being in the original. There were so many references to drugs that the purity may have been washed right out of it, which made it the dark success that it was.
Some remakes, such as "Psycho" were too close to the original. I believe Gus Van Zant redid the movie shot by shot, which was a waste of time. I applaud "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" for giving us a new take on a story we all love.
By the way, my fella just told me he would like to be referred to as "Rick" during my postings. He's obsessed with that name.
Weirdo.
Harry Potter
Many of you will attempt to avert your eyes if you have not read the book, so let me assure you right now: I will not give away anything of the plot in this post, but I must talk about my thoughts on Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, of which I consider to be J.K. Rowlings best book yet.
The read was very fast. I continue to be impressed with the ability Rowlings has to follow the students as they grow. They are 16 in this book and undertones of sex are apparent, as well as drinking. The kids have stronger vocabularies and more adult problems. The history of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named was covered in a very clever way, and nothing will prepare you for the climax...which by the flow of the book, I really didn't think would ever happen.
The way the sixth installment ended, I am left of believe that there is a possibility of more than seven books in the series. It is clear that the sixth book feels more like Book 7, Part 1. But that's just my take.
Here are my favorites of the book in order:
1. Book 6
2. Book 3
3. Book 4
4. Book 1
5. Book 2
6. Book 5
Harry Potter frickin' ruless!!
The read was very fast. I continue to be impressed with the ability Rowlings has to follow the students as they grow. They are 16 in this book and undertones of sex are apparent, as well as drinking. The kids have stronger vocabularies and more adult problems. The history of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named was covered in a very clever way, and nothing will prepare you for the climax...which by the flow of the book, I really didn't think would ever happen.
The way the sixth installment ended, I am left of believe that there is a possibility of more than seven books in the series. It is clear that the sixth book feels more like Book 7, Part 1. But that's just my take.
Here are my favorites of the book in order:
1. Book 6
2. Book 3
3. Book 4
4. Book 1
5. Book 2
6. Book 5
Harry Potter frickin' ruless!!
Sunday, July 03, 2005
War of the Worlds
As if I hadn't already seen enough of Tom Cruise on the news, I agreed to accompany my boyfriend to see the new "War of the Worlds." I wasn't surprised that I was disappointed. I knew what I was getting myself into.
I wish I had seen the original. And my fella said that it was more scientific ala X-Files if you will. I wasn't expecting anything of the sort. It's Stephen Speilberg. He hasn't made a movie that didn't depend or special fx and emotional manipulation since....since....well, I can't recall. I just have two letters for you: A. I. 'Nuff said.
Tom Cruise portrayed a one-dimensional dead-beat dad trying to save his kids. Dakota Fanning was your typical smart-ass-knows-everything-so-you-gotta-think-she's-cute-8 year-old. There was an entire scene where she chose take-out from a health food store. What 8 year old eats hummus and pita bread on purpose? Of coarse, this was before the world went to the shit-can.
It just seems that the only movies out there right now are rehashes of old TV shows or old movies. I must admit, I want to see "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory." And I'm dragging my fella there for payback. And we will be seeing it at the IMAX. I just hope it's not as much torture as the crap-ass alien flick I sat through today.
I wish I had seen the original. And my fella said that it was more scientific ala X-Files if you will. I wasn't expecting anything of the sort. It's Stephen Speilberg. He hasn't made a movie that didn't depend or special fx and emotional manipulation since....since....well, I can't recall. I just have two letters for you: A. I. 'Nuff said.
Tom Cruise portrayed a one-dimensional dead-beat dad trying to save his kids. Dakota Fanning was your typical smart-ass-knows-everything-so-you-gotta-think-she's-cute-8 year-old. There was an entire scene where she chose take-out from a health food store. What 8 year old eats hummus and pita bread on purpose? Of coarse, this was before the world went to the shit-can.
It just seems that the only movies out there right now are rehashes of old TV shows or old movies. I must admit, I want to see "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory." And I'm dragging my fella there for payback. And we will be seeing it at the IMAX. I just hope it's not as much torture as the crap-ass alien flick I sat through today.
Friday, July 01, 2005
Jumping the Shark
The term "Jumping the Shark" comes from the infamous "Happy Days" episode where Fonzi jumps over a shark while skiing. The phrase is still used to highlight when television series take a turn for the worst.
My fella and I went to Best Buy tonight to take advantage of our reward zone points, and I bought the third season of "All in the Family" vol. 3 for $1.06. On the car ride home, we started discussing when the series jumped the shark. I think that it falls somewhere in between Gloria and Mike leaving and when Archie buys the bar. I can't remember which one comes first.
We then went on to discuss other popular/horrible sitcoms from our childhood. Like, "Family Matters." Anyone remember when Urkel's alter-ego is introduced and he gets the girl? "Saved by the Bell" jumped during the college years. And then there was "My Two Dads" that jumped on the first episode. BOOO!!!
Some series stop while they are ahead. I believe that "Sex and the City" was one of those shows. It didn't go on long enough to go stale and they didn't do anything too inconsistant to push it in a strange direction. I think that it was a blessing that Kim Catrall hated Sarah Jessica Parker enough not to make the movie. It would have lost what the finale gave us in my opinion.
Check out www.jumptheshark.com . You can find any t.v. show under the moon. It's very interesting what people believe ruined their favorite shows or made other shows bomb. Let me know what you think.
My fella and I went to Best Buy tonight to take advantage of our reward zone points, and I bought the third season of "All in the Family" vol. 3 for $1.06. On the car ride home, we started discussing when the series jumped the shark. I think that it falls somewhere in between Gloria and Mike leaving and when Archie buys the bar. I can't remember which one comes first.
We then went on to discuss other popular/horrible sitcoms from our childhood. Like, "Family Matters." Anyone remember when Urkel's alter-ego is introduced and he gets the girl? "Saved by the Bell" jumped during the college years. And then there was "My Two Dads" that jumped on the first episode. BOOO!!!
Some series stop while they are ahead. I believe that "Sex and the City" was one of those shows. It didn't go on long enough to go stale and they didn't do anything too inconsistant to push it in a strange direction. I think that it was a blessing that Kim Catrall hated Sarah Jessica Parker enough not to make the movie. It would have lost what the finale gave us in my opinion.
Check out www.jumptheshark.com . You can find any t.v. show under the moon. It's very interesting what people believe ruined their favorite shows or made other shows bomb. Let me know what you think.
Thursday, June 30, 2005
I'M MELTING
It is officially the 7th circle of hell here in San Jose, CA. I just checked the thermostat on weather.com and it tells me that it is 87 degrees, but it feels like 500 since we are in the valley. Combine the heat with an unairconditioned apartment and a headache and you've got buckets of fun. I believe I would rather freeze my pahtootie off during a harsh Noreaster.
Oh, and I would like to take this moment to welcome my mother to blogland. I promise to keep things moderately clean. :)
Oh, and I would like to take this moment to welcome my mother to blogland. I promise to keep things moderately clean. :)
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Frickin' Viruses
It's been a long, long time. It almost feels like it's been since 1927. Much has happened to my poor little lap top since then. It's been sick. Really sick. Like, Trojan Horse Virus sick. Yes, that's right. My month old computer was sent back to Best Buy thrice to get rid of the crap. Finally, the people at Best Buy had to whipe the system clean and start with a clean slate. Hence, the reason why there is such a massive gap in my posting. If anyone has any advice on good anti-virus software, please pass it on. Once our Norton Anti-Virus is out of date, I would like to have software that actually WORKS. What a concept.
So, just a warning: Be on the look out for suspicious windows that look like an actual warning telling you that you need to remove spyware from your computer. It creates a system-eating virus that doesn't go away. Not only do you have pop-ups every second, but you get a lot of porn, too. But, not good porn...computer-killing porn.
Happy surfing...say no to "the horse."
So, just a warning: Be on the look out for suspicious windows that look like an actual warning telling you that you need to remove spyware from your computer. It creates a system-eating virus that doesn't go away. Not only do you have pop-ups every second, but you get a lot of porn, too. But, not good porn...computer-killing porn.
Happy surfing...say no to "the horse."
Monday, June 06, 2005
"This is it!"
Everyone struggles with who they are at some point in their lives. I have been in a fight with myself for the past eight years over this, with fleeting moments of clarity, but none of my career choices have given me enough satisfaction for me to have the "this is it" moment that I have been waiting for.
Until this past month.
Since I have been unemployed, (which comes with the territory in the arts...another reason why I have been seeking another path) I have made it my mission to find ways to stay motivated about my career change. Through a career counseling class, I determined my path would be Occupational Therapy. It had everything I was looking for: helping others in the community, work stability, independence in the work place, ability of starting own business, flexibility in work schedule, better pay....but was it really for me? Am I ready to try graduate school again? Do I really have what it takes to treat the sick/injured? Do I have the patience to better the lives of children with developmental disabilities?
Apparently, yes, yes, yes, and yes.
About a month ago, I spent the morning with an OT (Occupational Therapist) at an elementary school. Her main objective is to help develop motor, developemental and communication skills of autistic children. That particular morning I spent with her, she had three different cases; all three were different levels of autism. I was extremely nervous because I haven't been around small children in years, and I thought I was going to appear awkward and uncomfortable. It took me awhile to warm up, but once she started blowing bubbles with the second child, I started connecting with the kids and felt completely at ease. The morning consisted of obstacle courses of jumping through hoops, playing fireman, coloring pictures, lifting objects, climbing ropes, spinning on tire swings and blowing bubbles. All of these activities help these children redevelop parts of their brains that are wired differently and improve communication skills. When the parents come to pick them up, they meet with the OT and discuss the day. Some parents are desperate to do anything to help their child have a normal life inspite of their disability. They want their children to have better social skills, but run into problems with scheduling play dates with other kids. Two weeks in advance, only. I couldn't believe it!! When I was growing up, we couldn't keep our friends OUT of our house long enough for quality family time...is it life in the city? or is it parents keeping their kids so busy with soccer, piano, dance, etc...? Other parents...well, you can only imagine that they are in denial or do not take the advice and their children do not get the full affect of the treatment. The OT expressed that it is very critical to get as much therapy in ages 3-5 to get better results. After that, the brain is more difficult to penetrate.
This morning, I ventured in a different setting: a hospital. This is territory that I haven't ventured in much since I was in high school visiting sick grandparents. The smell alone was always enough to make my stomach turn. I thought I would be on the floor in minutes, but there was so much to concentrate on that I forgot about all the things that made me queezy about the white hospital walls. The first patient was a real piss-cutter. Male, 50's, knee injury, bitching incessently about waiting on a banana for his cereal...basically, my father. Stubborn, cussed like a sailor, everything had to be his idea. I felt at home immediately.
Everyone in the unit from Physical Therapy/OT/Speech Language Pathology was very helpful, friendly and really liked their jobs. A stark difference from some of the things I run into in my field. Don't get me wrong: I have liked doing my job. Many of the people I have met have become life-long friends, and I never would have met them if I hadn't chosen the arts. I never would have met my boyfriend. I never would have learned to sew, which I truely love doing. Many people fit the arts beautifully, and I still strongly believe that the arts are underappreciated and very needed in our society. And then there are those who grow so bitter of the same thing and feel so trapped, that no one around them can enjoy their job. This is surely true in many other fields, and I have felt myself becoming that bitter person working with physical pain every day. Instead of feeling sorry for myself, which can be easy to do, I decided to take the scary, difficult route of changing my career entirely.
I want to be an OT.
I am very excited to say that I have officially had my "this is it" moment. Wish me luck.
Until this past month.
Since I have been unemployed, (which comes with the territory in the arts...another reason why I have been seeking another path) I have made it my mission to find ways to stay motivated about my career change. Through a career counseling class, I determined my path would be Occupational Therapy. It had everything I was looking for: helping others in the community, work stability, independence in the work place, ability of starting own business, flexibility in work schedule, better pay....but was it really for me? Am I ready to try graduate school again? Do I really have what it takes to treat the sick/injured? Do I have the patience to better the lives of children with developmental disabilities?
Apparently, yes, yes, yes, and yes.
About a month ago, I spent the morning with an OT (Occupational Therapist) at an elementary school. Her main objective is to help develop motor, developemental and communication skills of autistic children. That particular morning I spent with her, she had three different cases; all three were different levels of autism. I was extremely nervous because I haven't been around small children in years, and I thought I was going to appear awkward and uncomfortable. It took me awhile to warm up, but once she started blowing bubbles with the second child, I started connecting with the kids and felt completely at ease. The morning consisted of obstacle courses of jumping through hoops, playing fireman, coloring pictures, lifting objects, climbing ropes, spinning on tire swings and blowing bubbles. All of these activities help these children redevelop parts of their brains that are wired differently and improve communication skills. When the parents come to pick them up, they meet with the OT and discuss the day. Some parents are desperate to do anything to help their child have a normal life inspite of their disability. They want their children to have better social skills, but run into problems with scheduling play dates with other kids. Two weeks in advance, only. I couldn't believe it!! When I was growing up, we couldn't keep our friends OUT of our house long enough for quality family time...is it life in the city? or is it parents keeping their kids so busy with soccer, piano, dance, etc...? Other parents...well, you can only imagine that they are in denial or do not take the advice and their children do not get the full affect of the treatment. The OT expressed that it is very critical to get as much therapy in ages 3-5 to get better results. After that, the brain is more difficult to penetrate.
This morning, I ventured in a different setting: a hospital. This is territory that I haven't ventured in much since I was in high school visiting sick grandparents. The smell alone was always enough to make my stomach turn. I thought I would be on the floor in minutes, but there was so much to concentrate on that I forgot about all the things that made me queezy about the white hospital walls. The first patient was a real piss-cutter. Male, 50's, knee injury, bitching incessently about waiting on a banana for his cereal...basically, my father. Stubborn, cussed like a sailor, everything had to be his idea. I felt at home immediately.
Everyone in the unit from Physical Therapy/OT/Speech Language Pathology was very helpful, friendly and really liked their jobs. A stark difference from some of the things I run into in my field. Don't get me wrong: I have liked doing my job. Many of the people I have met have become life-long friends, and I never would have met them if I hadn't chosen the arts. I never would have met my boyfriend. I never would have learned to sew, which I truely love doing. Many people fit the arts beautifully, and I still strongly believe that the arts are underappreciated and very needed in our society. And then there are those who grow so bitter of the same thing and feel so trapped, that no one around them can enjoy their job. This is surely true in many other fields, and I have felt myself becoming that bitter person working with physical pain every day. Instead of feeling sorry for myself, which can be easy to do, I decided to take the scary, difficult route of changing my career entirely.
I want to be an OT.
I am very excited to say that I have officially had my "this is it" moment. Wish me luck.
Saturday, June 04, 2005
Here, Kitty, Kitty
Last night I decided to reread the entire Tres Navarre series by Rick Riordan...this time in order. When I woke up this morning, I decided to do a little investigative work of my own and found out that he has a new book coming out. I love this Navarre character. Who doesn't love a guy who would name their cat with a first AND a last name (Robert Johnson)? It reminds me of a dear friend of mine who named her first horse after her favorite Jr. High School janitor, Mr. Sanchez.
Know any other good pet names?
Know any other good pet names?
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
Blog me??? BLOG YOU!!!
You know, this is always something I have wanted to do, but for some reason it scared the crap out of me. The only reason I was pushed to do this is because ADoD forced me to comment and defend my sense of direction.
I turned 26 yesterday, and for the first time, my birthday just seemed like another day. Was it special? Yes. But, I still didn't have that childhood expectation that comes with turning one year older. Maybe that's because I spent the evening with my boyfriend and dozens of senior citizens playing banjos at "Strawhat Pizza." I never reckoned my fella for the sing-a-long-with-banjos type, but "Irish Eyes are Smiling" was all his. It was a great time, and I'm sure we'll be back next Tuesday.
So, now, ADoD...I've created this freakin' blog, so it's on like donkey kong!
I turned 26 yesterday, and for the first time, my birthday just seemed like another day. Was it special? Yes. But, I still didn't have that childhood expectation that comes with turning one year older. Maybe that's because I spent the evening with my boyfriend and dozens of senior citizens playing banjos at "Strawhat Pizza." I never reckoned my fella for the sing-a-long-with-banjos type, but "Irish Eyes are Smiling" was all his. It was a great time, and I'm sure we'll be back next Tuesday.
So, now, ADoD...I've created this freakin' blog, so it's on like donkey kong!
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