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Guess What?!?!

2009-07-07T15:33:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I are engaged!!!!! AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!

And I must say, the Groom-To-Be is quite the sneaky one. Because I had NO idea it was coming. NONE! He caught me completely off guard and had me thinking it would be a couple months since he wanted to save up for a ring. Little did I know he was just throwing me off!!!! Oh, he's GOOD. REAL good ;)

So, last Thurs. 7/2 (one of THE best days of my entire life) I worked a half day and then came home so Ryan and I could spend the latter part of the day together. I knew we were going on a picnic (one of our favorite dates at the beginning of our relationship) but didn't know where. He wanted it to be a surprise where we were going. The whole drive down the 405 S, I was joking with him asking "is this the exit?" and "so where are we going and when will we be there?" He wouldn't budge.

We pull up to the Casa Romantica in San Clemente (pictured above) which is this amazing beautiful historical site that overlooks the ocean and pier. It's breathtaking. So we had our lovely picnic that Ryan prepared complete with yummy cheeses, figs, bread, crackers, wine (shhhh), and electrolyte water to keep us awake...hehe. And enjoyed each other and the beautiful views and our day together. It was PERFECT!! And I STILL had no idea. The thought crossed my mind that "Wow, this would be the most amazing place for him to propose...maybe he'll TAKE ME BACK HERE someday." Ironic, right?

Then, he cleared the table and we went into this amazing conversation expressing our appreciation for one another and how lucky we are....yada yada. Nothing out of the ordinary or formal, per se. But THEN.....he pauses and says, "I brought you here for another reason," said some really sweet things that I OF COURSE can't remember it all, reached in his pocket, got down on one knee and proposed!!! And I was BLOWN AWAY!!!!! So happy and ecstatic and speechless and it was just so surreal.

The way he proposed was perfect, the location was perfect, what he said was perfect....I just feel so incredibly lucky :) Good work Mr. Wagner. Love,your soon-to-be Mrs. Wagner....ah!! Crazy.

Then we had dinner reservations at Vine which was superb. Yummy food and wine and dessert and it was just so lovely. He selected that place specifically so we could return there for anniversaries and special occasions. So thoughtful.

I am incredibly blessed to have Ryan as my partner for life and best friend. I CAN'T WAIT until June 2010!!!!!!!!!!!

King of Pop (1958-2009)

2009-06-26T11:35:00.001-07:00

It still hasn't sunk in that Michael Jackson is actually gone.

Rest in Peace, Mr.Jackson. My heart goes out to his family and kids. THE ultimate dance AND music icon. A true legend. Despite the scandals surrounding the latter part of his life, there is no denying his unparalled talent. He will truly be missed.

What is YOUR favorite MJ song? Mine is "Smooth Criminal." Loves it.

P.S. How CUTE is that baby tiger in the pic above?!?! I WANT one!! I would totally take it out for walks and snuggle with it. Sure, I might lose a couple body parts, but it would surely be worth it ;)

Um...yeaaaaahhhh...

2009-06-24T12:19:00.000-07:00

Remember when I said I'd wait until AFTER I read my next book club book before I started the 4th and final "Twilight" book? Um...yeahhhhh, so, the next book selected for our book club is called Shantaram...and it's 900 FREAKING PAGES!! I've never read a book that long....the only thing that compares is the last Harry Potter book which was 800 something pages.

Well, we have until the end of September to read Shantaram, so...I thought it wouldn't be a problem to buy "Breaking Dawn" at the aiport the other week to occupy myself until I got home to buy my book club book. Yeah, I'm on page 500 something of "Breaking Dawn" and STILL have not made it to the book store to get the book club book. Whoops! Ohhhhhhhhhhh wellllllllllllllll. haha, I seriously have a Twi addiction...I may need an intervention....

My predictions for the best show EVER!!

2009-06-24T12:07:00.000-07:00

I'm loving the new season of SYTYCD! So good. I really liked the disco number from last week with Brandon and Jeanette especially. RiDICulously fast!!
I also loooooved the contemporary dance that Jonathan and Karla did. Especially that song. It's so beautiful!
So, my prediction is the following 4 will make it to the end: Ade, Brandon, Kayla and Karla. I may change this prediction every week of course...but that's where I'm at for now.

SURE, I'll call you right back.

2009-06-05T13:03:00.000-07:00

I just love it when evil ad sales reps (no offense to anyone reading this that may be an evil ad sales rep) call me at work and say, "This is so-and-so, and you can reach me at 123-456-7890, look forward to hearing from you!"

Really, these types of people should teach classes in ad sales. Because, what could be MORE compelling for me to call an ad sales rep back than them NOT telling me what company they're calling from or WHY they're calling/what they're offering. Great work. GREAT work. Not that I get hounded by sales reps EVERY DAY and therefore, never answer outside calls while at work. But sure....I'll make an exception and call you RIGHT back because YOU'RE special. Promise ;)

I'm a TWI fan

2009-06-04T10:59:00.000-07:00

Yes, I admit it. I was resistant for SO long. I didn't care to read about stupid stupid vampires in high school. Not my thing, sorry. Most of my friends have read the Twilight series and have raved about it. And I still declined.

Until my birthday, when my friend bought me the first two books. Game OVER. I'm so addicted. It's not even funny. I get made fun of by my man relentlessly. And I don't even care; I am SO into these books, it's a problem. I stay up way too late reading them. I read them INSTEAD of my book club books. Such a rebel, I know. I need to buckle down and read "Memory Keeper's Daughter" since our meeting is next Thursday. Yikes! I don't regret finishing the 3rd book, Eclipse, of the Twilight series instead though.

So....freaking....good! Can't wait to read the 4th. May need to wait until AFTER I read my next book club book ;)

THAT'S healthy!!

2009-06-04T10:55:00.000-07:00

So I'm leaving the gym this morning and I see this woman walking up the stairs to the gym's entrance, puffing on a ciggy. Really?!?!? You think that's the best idea, lady? That can't be good for you. I equate that with gobbling down a Big Mac burger right before working out. Kind of defeats the purpose in my opinion. I'm sure she's gonna have LOADS of fun doing cardio. Bravo, chick. Bra-vo.

Ahem...."shaving tips"

2009-05-27T16:52:00.001-07:00

Alright guys....in case you've always wanted to know the right way to shave "down there" here's an informative instructional video! Yes, I'm not even kidding. Gillette is hilarious.

"Trimming the bush to make the tree look taller"....LOL! What other related "sexual similes" are there?!?!

I love PASO!!

2009-05-27T12:10:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend was stupendous! Made plans to go to Paso Robles a few months back, and decided to make a mini-road trip out of it. Stopped in Los Alamos to feast on some of the best pizza I've ever had at "Full of Life Flatbread." It was so incredibly tasty and fresh and inventive. And the town itself is super small and quaint, but the restaurant was bustling. Quite a reputation.

Then we stayed in Morro Bay for the evening and spent the morning there. Got to see the illustrious "Morro Rock" which was pretty cool. Also browsed an ArtWalk while there and got this cool funky wind chime made from 19th century silverware...I love all of the creativity at those fairs!

We made a stop in Cayucos next which is a cute, saloony beach town. All of the beach towns in Central Coast have their own flavor. Had lunch at Hoppes outside in their garden which I also highly recommend.

Paso was AMAZING!! We totally are going to live there some day. We stayed at the B&B Hollyhock Farms and they had chickens and roosters and rams and cats and dogs....so adorable. And the freshest tastiest eggs ever! Ate dinner at awesome restaurant called Artisan.....all I can say is YUM!! And their trio of creme brulees were the BOMB!!!

Wine tasting was fun, but, I learned a lot for THE NEXT TIME!! Like, I should pace myself and not slurp down EVERY wine that Tobin James Cellars gives me (eventhough it was quite delicious) and drink more water, and plan for lunch in the middle instead of only eating the "cleanse your palate" bland crackers...and, we went to 6 wineries....yeah, I would have been good with 2 or 3. The wino nap afterward was divine though :) I definitely would love to go to a "olive oil" tasting next time too!! Discovered I absolutely love the 2006 Opolo Mtn. Zinfandel too. Soooooooo good. Good we got a few bottles to take home from Long's Drugs there too!!

On the way back, we stopped in Avila Beach and got some of the freshest fish tacos ever at Pete's Pierside Cafe....Wahoo's has some competition in my eyes now ;) Then we took a drive through Arroyo Grande and saw Huasna Farm (Ryan applied for an internship there a while back) and it was breathtaking.

Then we spent 2 1/2 hours on the "101 parking lot freeway" near Santa Barbara. Fun fun! All in all, such an amazing trip.....I want to be back there now :)

Oh, IT'S ON!!!

2009-05-21T13:22:00.000-07:00

Finally! My most favorite TV show is back on the air for it's Fifth Season!!! Oh, how I missed you so, SYTYCD!! In honor of the season premiere, I've posted one of my ALL time fave numbers back in Season 3. The Samba routine by Lacey and Danny (actual routine starts at the 1:00 min mark). H-O-T!!!

And, another fave from Season 4, with Mark And Courtney doing Jazz to "Garden." So creative and twisted. Loves it!

Ok, ok, one more....the "Pas de Deux" by Katee and Will to 'Imagine'...simply breathtaking!

Mother Lover!!

2009-05-20T15:07:00.001-07:00

Wow, I just discovered this snl digital short and IT IS SCANDALOUS!! I can't believe NBC got away with airing it. Way worse than both "D--- in a box" and "J--- in my pants." Pretty freaking funny though. Enjoy!!

No Doubt? Really??

2009-05-05T15:46:00.000-07:00

So I was at PT (Physical Therapy) the other day, and No Doubt was performing on the Today Show. We were all rocking out to it (Patients, Aides, and Therapists alike). And then a 16 year old patient states, "So who is No Doubt anyway?"

Wow, really?!?!? I was shocked to find that this seemingly normal teenager had no idea who No Doubt is. And then it occured to me. I am THAT old. I remember when I was a teenager and my Mom would rattle off bands I had never heard of and I would think to myself, "Omigosh, my Mom is SO out of it and likes all these old-fashioned bands." Now, I'm in the generation where teens will have never heard of Sublime, Nine Inch Nails and Soundgarden (also bands this kid had never heard of by the way). Wow. The time has come, hasn't it?!?!

Speaking of PT, it's been going really well. Love the office and the people that work there. Except...I got the "lazy" therapist. I see all the other therapists really connected to their patients and focused on what they're doing when they're working on them. Not mine. He'll start doing work on my knee for all of 45 seconds, and then zone out, start a random conversation or watch TV, with no focus on what he's doing.

It drives me CRAZY! And, he's been away on vacay for the past week, so I've had a fill in therapist work on me. She was SO much better. I get to have a nice little talk with this dude tomorrow. Fun fun! I'm paying for this though....the least he could do is...I don't know...DO HIS JOB maybe?!?!

The Wonderful World of Arugula

2009-04-29T14:19:00.001-07:00

So this may sound strange, but I just discovered my love for arugula. This past weekend.

Ryan got some to garnish with, and I've always been familiar with the taste, but have really only had it mixed in with salads. And I kid you not, whenever I've had salads with arugula in it, I've thought to myself, "Wow...what IS that delightful leafy green in my salad?" I never pinpointed the source until now.

I find this so bizarre considering I must have ingested arugula 473 times...atleast! I guess I never cared enough to dissect a mixed green salad to find out what the source was for the yumminess on my palate.

So...since this recent discovery, I've doused every meal with a ton of baby arugula on top. It's almost comical. But, it really enhances food in my opinion. Cilantro too. I'm a cilantro fiend!

The reason for all of this "herb" talk is I'm on Day 10 of my two week (Phase 1) Fat Flush Plan and I'll take any seasonings or herbs I can get! It's been a journey for sure, but I'm really glad I've been doing it. Nice to cleanse the system and it's been a huge wake up call to how poorly I had been eating. Lots of processed crap! No more. I'm all about fresh foods and really limiting the salt and sugar I put into my body.

Amazing Lemur Rescue!

2009-04-17T14:17:00.000-07:00

This story is incredible!! So these lemur parents were playing with their baby in Little Rock Zoo, and then the baby fell in the water and couldn't swim! So two of the zoo keepers jump in the water, and one of them gives the lemur baby mouth-to-mouth and resucitates the little guy. There's video too.

Makes me think of that one scene in "Something About Mary" when Matt Dillon gives CPR to the dog. Hehe.

Tantalizing "Tide Table"

2009-04-17T13:59:00.000-07:00

Does a memory ever pop into your mind from a completely ambiguous train of thought? This happens to me all the time. The human brain is truly fascinating in that way.

Anyway, I saw something animation related, and it triggered this memory of my most favorite artistic animated piece that resides in SFMOMA. It's by the South African artist named William Kentridge and the film is called "Tide Table." When I lived up in SF, I would always visit this exhibit, and watch the 8 minute piece over and over again. I'm completely captivated by the beauty and rawness. It's haunting and poetic. And the music that accompanies the film takes my breath away. I'm so glad the memory of this piece popped into my head today!!

Here are a couple links to it...
1) A two minute clip of the film
2) A live musical performance accompanying the piece
3)Artist's discussion of the film

Here's some info about the artist...
South African artist William Kentridge is widely regarded as one of the world's most influential artists making work today.

He was born in Johannesburg in 1955 where he continues to live and work. An exploration of the human reality of South Africa's political situation has been at the core of much of his practice and his work presents an arresting and forceful commentary on the contemporary cultural and socio-political issues in South Africa. Inspired by music, opera, literature, and banal or troubling everyday events, the artist creates highly personal and often haunting works in a variety of media.

Gorgeous Gardens

2009-04-15T15:49:00.000-07:00

So we went to the Huntington Library out in San Marino on Monday for my birfday and it was glorious! Beautiful sunny day outside and gorgeous weather. We liked both the Desert and Japanese gardens the best. It really motivates me to have my own garden one day. It's amazing how greenery and nature and plants can make me feel so happy and refreshed!

Then we finished off the day by going to the Spaghetti Factory which I hadn't been to in ages. The Mizithra Cheese spaghetti dish is RIDICULOUS!!! So good. I could totally eat that every night for dinner. Granted, I'd probably be 400+ pounds in no time, but it'd totally be worth it ;)

Marvelous Meniscus!!!

2009-03-30T22:09:00.000-07:00

So, I went to the ortho doc this morning, and I felt like I was awaiting serious test lab results...the suspense was killing me! Surgery or not, surgery or not...just tell me already!!

He brings up my MRI scan on the computer (pretty cool) and said my MCL is SEVERELY sprained and inflamed...it looks ballooned 5x the size it should be. Probably why I can't straighten my knee all the way, huh?!?!

And....the Meniscus is FINE! Thank you for holding up Meniscus. You're one tough cookie.

So, no surgery required which is great. No TRI either which is poopy, but hey, there are other TRIs out there this year. It's all good. It will be 3 whole months before I'm able to do normal physical activity though. So I get to be super patient. And, I'm thinking milking this injury for all it's worth and having Ryan wheel me around in a wheelchair at Disneyland for my bday (since bday peeps get in for free!!!) so we get to the front of the line. Shhhh, don't tell!

P.S. I totally have the same injury as the Lakers Center, Andrew Bynum. Yeah, I keep up with NBA athletes so I know all the scoop...haha, yeah right. I didn't even know who Andrew what's-his-name was until today. But, it is quite glamorous we share the same injury. I wonder if he's sporting the gimp walk too!?!?

Mighty Meniscus

2009-03-23T12:15:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I wasn't familiar with the "meniscus" either until only recently unfortunately. Went to Mammoth last weekend and had a fabulous day skiing. On Day 2, which would have been a 2nd fabulous day of skiing, I instead did a not-so-graceful splits in my skis (1st run of the day mind you on a "green" trail) and my left knee twisted underneath me.

After I balled my eyes out for 3 whole minutes (not because of the pain but the thought I may not be able to participate in the TRI I've been training for), I skied down the rest of the run, and my knee has NOT been feeling too hot ever since. I walk with an awesome limp. It's great. My new nickname is Gimpy. Loves it.

I went to the ortho surgeon this morning and he said it could be two things: (a) just a sprain/tear to the MCL which would require no surgery, or (b) MCL tear AND Meniscus tear which WOULD require surgery...but only a few weeks rehab. I'll know next week after the MRI scan. Woohoo!!

Although I'm hugely disappointed about not being able to participate in this upcoming TRI, I consider myself lucky considering other injuries to the knee could require 6+ months of rehab. And my ski accident could have been A LOT worse. A LOT. My heart goes out to Natasha Richardson's family and friends. So tragic.

Quackity-Quack

2009-03-12T16:31:00.000-07:00

So, aside from our neighborhood feline, Max (who we call Maximus, Maxxy, and when he's bad....Maxi-pad)...we now have two new animal residents of the bird variety in our apartment complex. A ducky couple! They're pretty darn cute. And they hang out by our pool all the time. I make "quacking" noises whenever I walk past them. I'm totally THAT girl.

And each time I see this cute duck pair, it brings a smile to my face. They're adorable. However...they weren't so adorable at 7am this morning! Granted, I should have been awake anyway and been throwing on my gym clothes for my daily TRI training session, but heck, I'm entitled to snooze atleast 15 times, and, the "cute" ducky duo were NOT helping. The first couple "quacks" I heard were endearing. And when it reached about the 50th quack, I was ready to throw a shoe out the window at them. I was NOT happy.

Is there a way to remove a duck's voicebox by chance? Only kidding!!! I would never even fathom such a thing. Geez. Relax. Hehe. If they could just schedule their "quacking" sessions between the hours of 10 am and 5 pm, that would be much appreciated though.

I'm a fan of stones

2009-03-02T16:30:00.000-08:00

Hot stone massages that is. We had a girls' spa day and I decided to change it up and go with a hot stone massage. I had never had one before...I usually go with the standard "use and abuse" you deep tissue massages to work out the knots in my back.

And let me say...I LOVE hot stone massages. I thought it'd be really gimmicky...like, ooooo, let's slap these hot stones on you and charge you $50 extra bucks for leaving pock marks essentially all over your body and the stones stay hot for all of 7 seconds. And I was pleasantly surprised because the masseur kept reheating the stones and actually massaged WITH the hot stones which felt so freaking cool. I may just have discovered a pricey indulgence. Oh geez.

So, I've gotten a lot of massages in my day...especially given my chronic shoulder injury...and I always feel weird with male masseurs. I had a dude who gave me the hot stone massage...and he was probably in his 50s or 60s....I couldn't decide if that was more or less creepy. And he wasn't inappropriate in any way (if he had been, he would have received a welcoming knee to the groin region). Oftentimes, I'll request a female masseuse so I don't feel weird in any way, but male masseurs can typically apply more pressure.

Maybe next time I ask for a flaming male masseur, so I get the best of both worlds?

Oh, they're BACK!!

2009-02-11T13:19:00.000-08:00

I never thought I'd see the day where Hyper Color Shirts were brought back!! I thought that was a fad that was sure to stay in the past. Apparently not.

Because now YOU can buy your very own Thermochromatic t-shirt from American Apparel too!

Personally, I think they were a lot more exciting the FIRST time around.

Halo

2009-02-05T11:36:00.000-08:00

So, I must admit...I've had mixed feelings about Beyonce. In her Destiny's Child days and when she released her first solo album, I was ALL about her. Strong, independent woman with a breathtaking voice and curves to admire. Awesome.

Then she became all diva-ish and the radio and TV were both saturated with Beyonce. So, I've been pretty OVER her for a while now.

Even the "Single Ladies" song...while it IS admittedly catchy, it also makes me kinda want to scream and hurdle something across the room.

But....her song "Halo" is one of the purrrdiest songs I've heard in a long time. It brings tears to my eyes. It's truly beautiful.

Check out the video here.

I especially like this verse here: I found a way to let you in; But I never really had a doubt; Standing in the light of your halo; I got my angel now

So Beyonce...we cool for now ;)

Don't hate the gamer, hate the game

2009-02-02T12:48:00.000-08:00

It's official. We have become "gamers." We would rather play our Wii than do outdoor activities a majority of the time I'd have to say. Lovely.

We did manage to make it outside Friday night to grab dinner and do some awesome shopping at Whole Foods (I could spend hours in that grocery store by the way). But really, I think we both secretly couldn't wait to get home to play Mario Kart for the first time.

My awesome coworker lent me the game (steering wheels and all) and we had A BLAST playing it!! It's so freaking fun. I really don't like the "Ghost" race though...I think it's in the "Shell Cup" maybe? Yeah, that one is ridiculously hard.

Ryan was making fun of my "racing skills" since I seem to think I have more control over my driver when I really lean to one side with my arms and put my body into it...almost hitting him in the face...several times. He's says it's a "chick" thing. Whatever. I can totally kick his butt, any day of the week. Bring it.

Wii Be Fit

2009-01-27T22:59:00.000-08:00

So with all the great things I've been hearing about Wii Fit, I had already been thinking of this really convincing argument on why we should TOTALLY buy it and why the value would be much greater than some other game my guy would probably want more.

And just when I thought I'd be throwing on my negotiation gloves...guess who was on the phone hunting down Wii Fit at nearby stores when I got home from work last week one night? You guessed it!!

The game FREAKING ROCKS! And, um, yeah, it's pretty fun and entertaining to play after having a strong margarita with dinner too. Yup. Especially the hula hoop balancing game. All I gotta say is the vision of Ryan hula-hooping with an imaginary hula hoop will stay with me for a LONG time.

LOL.

Say My Name!

2009-01-27T22:48:00.000-08:00

So I just went on to yahoo to check my e-mail and the following headline caught my eye: "Cows with names make more milk." Wow, really? Yeah, I had no choice but to click on the link. Article here.

Turns out,some research study conducted in the UK discovered that cows "with names" make 3.4% more milk than cows without names. Golly gee, ain't that somethin?

The article goes on to say that it isn't simply the name, per se, but the "personal touch" and attention that keeps these cows happy, thus producing more milk.

Wow, I guess happy cows DO make great cheese...and milk, apparently!! Yeah, I TOTALLY went there.

Back to Gymmy

2009-01-21T12:34:00.000-08:00

So, I may have snoozed 4 times, but I finally made it to the gym this morning after my much needed hiatus (which may have last 1 month too long...but we don't have to get technical).

Anyway, dragging my sorry behind out of my comfortable bed in the morning is BEYOND challenging. And, it really just is a mind thing. And I need to constantly remind myself of that. Because once I actually get to the gym, it feels freaking great!

I went and worked out at the 24 hour fitness near our apartment for the first time (on 19th Street near Triangle Square in Costa Mesa) and it's an awesome facility. Me likey.

What I don't likey is how my cardio endurance went waaaaay down during my hiatus. Meaning, next time I take a break, it better be a bit shorter! I just need to upload some new tunes to my iPod and I'll be set! NB Triathlon...here I come :)

P.S. That pic is totally of me at the gym. It was really early in the morning...that's why it's so dark ;)

It is SO on!!

2009-01-20T15:22:00.000-08:00

Guess what Ryan's parents and sisters got him for his birthday this past weekend? I'll give you two hints...(1) I am so pumped on his gift that it was like it was MY birthday too!, and (2) my right forearm and bicep are ridiculously sore from playing with it the past few days.

Yes, you guessed it. We got a Wii!!!!! I guess the accompanying photo may have been a 3rd hint.

I'm convinced that Wii and 24 Hour Fitness, Bally's, LA Fitness and other gyms across the country should partner with one another and have "Wii" stations where people can work on building up their "Wii arms" and various machines. Granted, I guess the same could go for improving one's game at "actual" tennis (like the kind you play "outside"), but, let's be honest, I'm most concerned with improving my Wii tennis game.

Welcome to Office!

2009-01-20T15:04:00.000-08:00

What a magical historical day it is. Obama exhibited honesty, inspiration and greatness in his speech. This particular part gave me chills.

"This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed -- why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent Mall, and why a man whose father less than 60 years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath." - Barack Obama

Glad to have you here, Mr. President.

P.S. Did anyone catch Arethra's performance? Hrrmmmmmm...nice...hat?

Helloooo, Mr. President (elect)

2009-01-14T12:42:00.000-08:00

Is it wrong and totally inappropriate that I think our soon-to-be Prez is....I don't know...kinda...fairly attractive?!?!

Yeah, that's what I thought...forget I said anything ;) Hehe

Speaking of Obama, has anyone read "The Audacity of Hope" or "Dreams from my Father?" Trying to decide which one to read first (and how I will fit them in between book club books!)

Tomorrow, Tomorrow, I Love ya, Tomorrowwwww!

2009-01-14T12:31:00.000-08:00

So we went and saw the musical Annie last night at the Kodak Theater in Hollywood. And, can I just say, it was FAN-FREAKING-TASTIC!! I loved it. So cheery and light and fun and happy. Don't get me wrong, I love the emotional, epic, heart-breaking, gut-wrenching musicals like the rest of them (Les Miserables being my favorite), and, it was a nice change to watch a production that was just so...so...fun!

I love the songs "Tomorrow", "Maybe" and "Hard Knock Life"...they have all been in my head on rotation since last night actually. Such classics. And, I'm not accustomed to seeing a musical with so many adorable kiddies in it! The kids playing the orphans were so talented and precious! Especially the smallest one, Molly. The Playbill claims she's 7, but she looked about 4. We were giggling every time she was on stage....cute as a button.

The Miss Hannigan and Grace actors were the best by far. Outshined Annie and Warbucks actually. All in all, great production, great time.

On TARGET!

2009-01-13T10:08:00.000-08:00

I never get sick of Target. It really is a "one stop" shop.

So, the apartment decorating is coming along, slowly, but surely. And, Ryan's Momma suggested that instead of putting another painting up in our room, we get a vase and stick a bundle of those "stick thingies" in it.

I was thinking I'd be making a trip over to Pier 1, but thought I'd try Target first...just in case.

To my surprise and delight, I found EXACTLY what I was looking for!!! I found this vase and this bundle, and it looks AWESOME!! So, if you're ever in the market for a vase and "stick bundle" thingie...check out Target ;)

You say Po-tay-to, I say Po-tawt-o

2009-01-13T09:58:00.000-08:00

Yeah, so remember when I was all inspired and working out every morning for the triathlon? Well, after all of that hard work, a bit of a break...a "hiatus" if you will....was definitely in order. I was figuring a few weeks or so...then, I'd be getting my butt back to the gym.

Umm....2 months later...HAVE NOT been to the gym yet. The couch is just too comfortable! What can I say? My bed is too comfortable in the morning, and the couch is calling my name after work. I really have no choice in the matter if you think about it, right? RIGHT?!?!?!

Oh geez, I really do need to get back to a work-out schedule....next TRI is in April!!! Let's get'er done.

P.S. I SO wish I had that green fancy couch like the one pictured above!!

You did WHAT in your pants?

2009-01-08T14:13:00.000-08:00

One of THE best SNL video shorts of all time.

Loves it!!

Yum Yum, you Chez?

2009-01-08T11:03:00.000-08:00

So when we went up north for the holidays, Ryan was all about us going to the famous Chez Panisse for dinner in Berkeley. What makes this dining experience unique from your typical "fine dining" eatery is that the food there is local produce that is organically grown and harvested in ecologically sound ways (I totally got that from the website by the way).

I was a bit skeptical walking into it...thinking it would be one of those "shi shi foo foo" restaurants that gives you portions the size of a post-it note and is way over hyped. And, I must report that the restaurant delivered! Way beyond my expectations!

Let me start off by saying that even though Ryan had an "in" (one of his friends is a waiter there)....we couldn't get a reservation until 9:45 pm on a Monday night! And....the place was PACKED when we got there. A good sign I guess, right?

Very earthy, rustic, homey ambiance....waiters were extremely attentive. We split the following dishes...
-Oysters on ice (decent...nothing special)
-Handmade pasta with fancy mushrooms, peas and sauce (excellent!!! so delish)
-Oven baked caramelized squid (it sounds gross but was sooo freaking good)
And....three desserts...
-Apple tart (of course I loved it....it's pie!!)
-Lemon sorbet (super refreshing)
-Chocolate ice cream with hazelnut (chocolate heaven)

Granted, the descriptions they had were waaaay fancier than what I described above...that's just my "layman's term way" of describing everything.

So, if you're ever in the Bay area...I encourage you to check out Chez Panisse....and might be a good idea to make a reservation a month in advance! The next "shi shi foo foo" place we want to try is French Laundry in Napa. Or...I could just have a special certain chef just cook me an AWESOME meal so we don't even NEED to go to Napa!!!! (wink wink)

Let's Bookity

2009-01-07T17:34:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Everyone!! Wow 2008 was freaking great! And 2009 is going to be just as great...if not the GREATEST-EST!! Cheers to that :)

Okay, so I have sooooo NOT been keeping up with my Book Club posts. So....a year in review.....we read....

1) Eat, Pray, Love (excellent...highly recommend it)
2) What is the What (too long...didn't finish it....it's alright)
3) Skinny Bitch (interesting read...influenced me to stop eating poultry/meat)
4) Three Cups of Tea (couldn't really get into it...really inspiring story but dragged a little)
5) Tortilla Curtain (decent...I'd recommend others over this one)
6) Devil in the White City (LOVED IT......it's a historical thriller and one of the best books I've read in a long time)
7) Snowflower and the Secret Fan (I was a total slacker and didn't read the book for that month...it's on my list though!!)
8) The Other Boleyn Girl (fascinating and SUPER long...highly recommend it though...I hear it's much better than the movie).

So, onto 2009, our next book is "The Last Lecture"....and, thankfully, it's only about 200 page (vs. Boleyn girl which was like 600+ pages). I just finished it the other day and it was just beautiful. It's a book filled with short stories from a computer science professor by the name of Randy Pausch who taught at Carnegie Mellon and it contains ways to "live out your childhood dreams." Very poignant and insightful.

And touching and sad at times because Randy was actually diagnosed with pancreatic cancer at age 47 (with 3 small children) and was told he'd have about 6 months to live, thus the "Last Lecture." He passed away in July 2008, and left such an amazing legacy for his wife, kids, friends and students. Truly inspirational.

It's a beautiful book. I absolutely recommend it. Quick read, great nuggets of wisdom in there. You can check out video for the actual lecture here.

Ahoy, Matey?

2008-12-01T14:00:00.000-08:00

Ok, I thought modern day pirates only existed in the form of Johnny Depp and at Disneyland. Apparently, I was mistaken.

I read this article today that a cruise ship was almost OVERTAKEN BY FREAKING PIRATES!!! I couldn't believe it. That is insane. And I'm wondering....are these pirates real "authentic" pirates, or, are they modernized pirates that have a GPS tracking system and iPhones on board. I'm curious. Not curious enough to take a cruise and hope we're overtaken by pirates to find out curious of course.

I wonder if they dress like Johnny Depp too??

Triathlon Enthusiast!

2008-12-01T13:55:00.000-08:00

Ok, the triathlon was freaking awesome! Even riding a beat up mountain bike and borrowing a friend's wet suit, I enjoyed every minute of it. One of the biggest stretches of my entire life. Loved it!

And now I'm pumped for the upcoming triathlon in Newport in April. Anyone wanna train?!?! It'll be soooooo fun :)

Guess where I'm going on Friiiday?

2008-11-05T12:19:00.000-08:00

Yup, it's triathlon time baby! And that means I am headed to Catalina Island. I'm super excited. A bit nervous...but, mostly pumped.

I'm feeling prepared for the most part. Although, I'm a bit leary about Catalina being all hilly and stuff. I ran up and down Edwards Hill in Huntington Beach a couple times. I should be set, right? Sure, I may be cursing the last leg of the race (the run) the whole way through, and I'm completely at peace with that. Hehe.

So one thing I totally didn't even think about until I did a run through....yeah, the transition from the swim to bike, involves lots of sand on the feet. Not so fun putting socks on sandy feet I've discovered! I read online that it's wise to bring a bucket to rinse off after the swim portion. Who knew?

Wish me luck on my first ever triathlon, peeps! Woot wooooooooot!

YES WE CAN!

2008-11-04T21:24:00.000-08:00

Change is a coming!!!

Here I come TRI & GMAT!!!

2008-09-09T18:01:00.001-07:00

So, for the next three months, I've set two lofty goals for myself. To participate in and complete the Catalina sprint triathlon AND to study for and take the GMAT and get a good score.

I'm super pumped for both of them. It's gonna take a lot of dedication and hard work. And...I'm thinking my napping days are over for the time being. So, if I sound like or look like a zombie for the next few months, you'll know why ;)

P.S. That's totally me in that photo up above. Except for the fact it looks nothing like me. But, it TOTALLY is anyway ;)

Fainting Goats

2008-09-09T17:44:00.001-07:00

Yeah, you read correctly. This is just.....BIZARRE. There is a such thing as a "fainting" or myotonic goat. Interesting video footage here.

Can you imagine if we all tensed up and fainted whenever we got startled or excited? While it wouldn't be so humorous if someone was, say, driving on the freeway or performing brain surgery...it sure would be pretty entertaining if it occured with our normal day-to-day activities. Now I SOOO want to meet a fainting goat!!

Baby MANIA!!!

2008-09-05T11:50:00.000-07:00

It seems as though everyone is popping out babies around me! I'm flying up North this weekend for my cousin's baby shower who is having twin identical boys. I'm sure raising two bundles of joy at the same time will be a piece of cake!

And, two of my coworkers are both having babies within the next few months, not to mention Ryan's sister, and my other cousin too! AND two of our fam friends have had babies in the past month. What's up with all the babies?!?! Looks like lots of couples were getting busy during the holidays last December ;)

Could ya keep it down in there?!?!

2008-08-15T12:47:00.000-07:00

Wow, I've never heard of a restraining order like THIS before?!?!

Apparently a 32-year-old British man has been banned from his girlfriend's house because of their "noisy lovemaking." First off...how loud could they really be? I mean, when you live in an apartment complex, it kind of goes with the territory. Back in college, when I'd have "noisy humpers" nearby that I could hear, the only time it REALLY bothered me was when I wasn't getting any.

So basically, that entire apartment complex needs to get laid. Then they wouldn't be so bitter. Granted, I'm sure this couples' noises are probably excessive. But, come on....is a restraining order really necessary? They don't seem to be the most considerate couple...or the most considerate tenants for that matter...so, why not evict them? A restraining order to keep two horny sex-crazed lovers apart is pretty much worthless in my book. I think they'll find a way to get the job done regardless.

The whole thing makes a mockery out of restraining orders, I say. Those crazy Brits ;)

WHAT THE F%*&?

2008-08-11T14:13:00.000-07:00

Ok, what the heck is going on? I just heard the news that both Bernie Mac (50) and Isaac Hayes (65) passed away over the weekend. Two legends...of comedy and music. Such tragic losses.

And what's so bizarre....is that both men were making the movie Soul Men together which is about two former backup soul singers who haven't spoken to each other in 20 years reluctantly agree to travel cross country together to a reunion concert to honor their recently deceased lead singer.

This is just crazy! They're both starring in a movie together and they die within a day of each other. It blows my mind. So tragic and senseless. Life is unbelievably fragile. Further evidence we all should live each day like it's our last.

My heart goes out to the friends and families of both of these magnificent men.

Top 6 Results Show!!!

2008-07-31T14:38:00.001-07:00

WARNING -- SPOILER FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN'T SEEN THE 7/30 SHOW OF SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE. DON'T READ ON IF YOU HAVEN'T WATCHED THE EPISODE YET WITH THE TOP 6 DANCERS, LIVE IN A DIFFERENT COUNTRY, OR COULD REALLY CARE LESS WHAT HAPPENS ON SYTYCD.

So, last night's episode was awesome. I don't even know what's going to happen. Mark and Courtney really stepped it up. Twitch and Chelsie together...wasn't feeling it as much. Joshua and Katee are a dream together. I want either of them to win. I wouldn't be surprised if either Twitch or Mark went home and if Courtney goes home tonight.

My prediction....the top 4 are Joshua, Mark, Chelsie and Katee. And Joshua wins it all!

We see what happens!!!!

Bug Bites are the BEST!

2008-07-31T14:28:00.000-07:00

So I woke up Monday morning this week to find a bug bite on the middle finger of my right hand and the forearm of my left hand. Bugs just LOVE me. When I went to Lisbon, I had a friendly bug that gave me a love bite, and the next day, my forearm had swollen to the size of Popeye. That was a lot of fun.

On our senior trip after we graduated high school, I spent a night outside with a couple of friends, hanging out and chilling. The next day, I had about 20 mosquito bites on each leg, and due to allergic reaction, they looked like giant welts all over. Really quite lovely.

This time around, the bites were itchy and a bit tender, but nothing that a little benadryl and hydrocortizone couldn't cure, right? Wrong. I woke up Tuesday morning and my entire right hand was completely swollen. You couldn't even see my knuckles and I lost a great deal of mobility in that hand. Pesky bugs! What's the deal?!?! I went to the doctor and got a prescription for steroids AND I got to have a steroid shot in the arse. Actually....the nurse technically said, "Yes, we'll be giving you your shot in the gluteaus maximus." FABulous!

So, I took it easy on Tuesday and now the traces of both bites are almost gone. Yay! No more this year. Thanks.

Six Words

2008-07-17T11:07:00.001-07:00

So You Think You Can Dance.

Best show EVER! No need to respond with what YOU personally feel is the best TV show ever, because you're not changing my mind. Nope. I LOVE this show. I literally cannot contain my enthusiasm when it's on Wednesdays/Thursdays. It makes me so happy. If I can help it, I watch it the night of. No sense waiting until the day after when I can watch all of the excitement as it unfolds.

Last night's episode featuring the top 10 dancers was interesting. Kherington and Mark used to be strong, but as a pair, they weren't at their best last night I have to say. I think they're both going home tonight. Katee and Will rocked it together. So did Chelsea and Gev. And Joshua and Courtney come to think of it. Twitch and Comfort were on point as well...especially their hip-hop routine!

My prediction....top 4 will be Will, Joshua, Chelsea and Katee. Winner will be Will. Which I'm fine with. But, I just love Joshua's humor and stage persona, so would prefer for him to win. We see what happens. Can't wait!!!!!

Smarty Pants

2008-07-17T08:52:00.000-07:00

Ya, I'm on a roll with posts today. Probably due to the fact that I've been up since 5 am for a board presentation we had, and now that it's over (phew!) I'm ready for a nappy...and it's not even 9 am. Blogging totally will help me stay awake.

So did you hear this story about UFC Fighter Rampage Jackson? Turns out, he was involved in a hit-and-run incident, right in Costa Mesa/Newport Beach area.

Not the smartest decision, buddy. Next time you intend to break the law...it might be wise to drive a more discreet vehicle...say, oh, I don't know....a truck that DOESN'T have your face plastered on the side of it? Not the brightest crayon in the box, now, are we? No siree. I think Rampage may have been punched in the face one too many times.

If he had been smarter, he should have been riding a truck with Chuck Liddell or Anderson Silva's face on it ;)

More Tees Please!

2008-07-17T08:37:00.000-07:00

So I'm a fan of these message tees. It makes us all not take ourselves too seriously I say ;)

I discovered DeezTeez recently, and here are some of my faves....

1) Gotta love the Mom jokes...
2)What every guy WISHES he could say
3) Shout out to "Office Space"
4) When Jen & James have a kid, they need this shirt (They should have a kid just for that reason).
5) I wouldn't put it that way exactly....
6) 40 Year Old Virgin rocks!
7) If you don't understand this shirt, it totally applies to you.
8) Although seemingly appropriate at my place of employment, somehow I don't think wearing it would go over well.....
9) Ah, yes, some "Wedding Crashers" action

And finally....
10) Might as well throw in something completely PC, right?

This is just WRONG!

2008-07-17T08:03:00.000-07:00

Call me old-fashioned, but when did it become OK for a 3-year old to dress and pose as a 23 year old seductress? A copy of Kids LA Magazine arrived at our office this morning, and my coworkers and I can't help but wonder what the photographer and art director were thinking during the photo shoot of this cover.

This is a LITTLE GIRL, people! Why is she wearing an itsy bitsy bikini, with her arms held up in a surrendering way and a kissy face?!?! The little girl is beautiful without putting make-up on her face and making her out to be a pin-up model. It just feels....dirty! Very reminiscent of JonBenet Ramsey I have to say.

We all agreed this is the type of stuff that child predators are after. Great that magazines like Kids LA are feeding into that. Listen up editors....next time, maybe you should make the kids look like ACTUAL kids. Heck, I wouldn't even wear a bikini top that skimpy. However, I do walk around with a "sexy kissy face" expression from time to time. No harm in that. All in a day's work.

Widdle wabbit

2008-07-08T12:28:00.000-07:00

So I was walking down 2nd Street in Belmont Shores yesterday, and I notice a teenage girl carrying something around in a pink bag.

I assume that it's a little mini "rodent like" yappy pooch, but to my surprise, the beast in no way resembles a canine of any kind. Wanna know why? Because, this teeny bopper was carrying around a freaking BUNNY RABBIT in her bag. Is it Easter? No. It's July, kid.

The bunny was pretty cute I have to admit though. It was just so.....bizarre! Not a sight you see every day. So, I decide to follow right behind her on the street back to where my car is parked to see other peoples' reactions to this oddity. It was quite interesting to witness actually. Most passerbyers did double takes like I did. Most people actually smiled and pointed. A few rolled their eyes. And a handful of people looked straight ahead and didn't appear to notice.

I ask you though....how do you NOT notice someone carrying around a freaking bunny rabbit in a pink bright bag in public? I wonder what type of response this girl would have gotten if she had been carrying around a kitten instead? How about a turtle or a ferret?

Who knows? What I DO know though is that the gigantic bunny pictured in this post will surely give me nightmares this evening! Look at the SIZE of that thing!?!?

Too much time on his hands

2008-07-08T12:16:00.000-07:00

So have you heard about the guy who is attempting to sit IN EVERY SEAT of the Rose Bowl Stadium in a matter of 2 days? Story here.

The guy's name is Jim "Mouth" Purol. Why does he have the word "mouth" in his name, you ask? Well...reason being is that he holds a Guinness World Record already for fitting 280 straws in his mouth (pictured in this post). Wow, buddy...that's quite a feat, I must say.

Good 'ol Jim actually holds 22 Guinness World Records. And he insists that he will sit in all 92,542 seats of the Rose Bowl stadium by 10 a.m. tomorrow, Wednesday.

Jim is quite a catch, wouldn't you say? Brace yourselves ladies because he IS single. There is still hope for some lucky woman out there to snag this guy. One can only dream.

2nd guessing this whole kayaking thing

2008-07-03T09:53:00.001-07:00

So the man and I have been talking about taking some kayaking lessons together this summer. This all sounds great in theory....until I hear about this story.

Yeaaaaahhhhh, that is freaking INSANE! A woman is minding her own business while kayaking in Catalina...and she feels a little "tap tap," right? She thinks.... "oh, it must be a whale,"...yeah, that ain't no whale, lady! It was a freaking GREAT WHITE SHARK!!!! If I had been her, I would have hyperventilated, passed out, and quickly became that sharky's lunch.

This lady is one tough cookie. After sharky catapulted her out of the kayak, she landed on the shark's back and then swam as fast as she could the other direction to safety. Geez, I'm thinking maybe we take some classes ON LAND instead after that story!!

I KNEW I liked Watermelon!

2008-07-03T09:44:00.001-07:00

So I'm listening to the news this morning, and two words grab my attention..... "Watermelon" and "Sex." I'm intrigued. Please continue!

Apparently, according to a recent study, watermelon may spice up your sex life! Full story here. Reason being is it contains a nutrient called citrulline that relaxes the body's blood vessels....similar to Viagra!

Oh, reeeeeeally? I bet you that watermelon sales will be spiking considerably over the holiday weekend. Yesiree! Maybe I'll be swinging by the grocery story on my way home today actually....you know...just to pick up some necessities ;)

P.S. I sooo want to learn how to make the fun watermelon flower sculpture thingy pictured above!

Guess what I did last night?

2008-06-17T17:14:00.000-07:00

Yes....EXACTLY!!! I DID go to Drag Queen Bingo last night! Wow, you must be a MIND READER or something!!! How DID you know?!?!

So that handsome lady to the right is INDEED a man, believe it or not. It was quite the adventure and I would love to go again. Tons of fun. We all had a "gay" 'ol time. Tee hee!

It was Jen, Christine and some of Christine's friends that took advantage of Paradise Bar's 2-for-1 entrees special as well. Everything was pretty good! We had the chicken apple salad, chicken marsala and pasta primavera.

And, it was Jen's FIRST TIME playing bingo....EVER!!! If that isn't THE BEST way to introduce a newcomer to the game of bingo (ala drag queens)...I don't know WHAT is?!?! And, they gave us paper bingo sheets and these fun colored ink blotters to use when a number we had was called....bingo has come a long way since I played it last.

Although Jen and I weren't fortunate enough to win any games (we will next time for sure, don't you worry), Christine won some free Internet gay porn AND some measuring tape.

It's every girl's dream, really ;)

Shiba shiba shiba!

2008-05-09T17:17:00.000-07:00

And, so we don't end today's blogs on a sad note, I thought I'd throw in some adorable pictures of some Shiba Inu puppies. My coworker was just telling me how her friend brought one over to her place last weekend. I want a Shiba Inu puppy. Sooooo bad. I neeeeed one!!! If I whine enough, do you think one will fall magically into my lap? And, while we're at it, take care of itself too? It could happen?!?

Myanmar Cyclone

2008-05-09T16:42:00.000-07:00

The cyclone in Myanmar (Southeast Asia) is absolutely devastating. Over 20,000 have been killed and over 40,000 people are still missing. What a tragic natural disaster. Just awful. My heart goes out to all of those affected by this deadly event.

Call me naive, but I wasn't entirely sure of the differences between a cyclone, hurricane and typhoon. I knew they all deal with fast winds and water and what not, but wasn't sure of what sets these disasters apart. So I Googled it. I love Google.

In case anyone is interested....

The terms "hurricane" and "typhoon" are regionally specific names for a strong "tropical cyclone".

Once the tropical cyclone reaches winds of at least 39 mph, they are typically called a "tropical storm" and assigned a name. If winds reach 74 mph, then they are called (depending on the region in which they occur):

-"hurricane" (the North Atlantic Ocean, the Northeast Pacific Ocean east of the dateline, or the South Pacific Ocean east of 160E)
-"typhoon" (the Northwest Pacific Ocean west of the dateline)
-"severe tropical cyclone" (the Southwest Pacific Ocean west of 160E or Southeast Indian Ocean east of 90E)
-"severe cyclonic storm" (the North Indian Ocean)
-"tropical cyclone" (the Southwest Indian Ocean)

Now, you'll totally get that answer right if you're ever asked on Jeopardy.

If you're interested in helping those affected by the Myanmar cyclone, I found a couple of good sites to check out...

World Vision
Red Cross
International Rescue Committee (IRC)

Are you KIDDING me with this stuff?

2008-05-09T15:41:00.000-07:00

Ok, all I gotta say is "Frozen Hot Chocolate" should be made illegal. Because it is THAT good.

I had a fabulous time back east. I wish I was back there now actually. I'm sooo not in work mode. Highlights included....

-Family fun day in the city with the cousins and our trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art
-Cousin Annette's 90th birthday
-Celebrating a little Cinco de Mayo action at that one bar I can never remember...something like "El Norte" or "El Toro" or something...
-Going on the fabulous "Sex and the City" bus tour which I highly recommend to ANYONE who is a fan of the show and included pit stops at a the Pleasure Chest, Magnolia Bakery for some scrum-dilly-umptious cupcakes, Carrie's front door stoop, and Aidan/Steve's bar "Scout". So amazing.
-Seeing 4 foot Danny DeVito on the street. I'm not even joking. He can't be taller than 4 feet. Crazy
-Exploring the Central Park Zoo....I'm such an animal geek
-Shopping in SoHo...dangerous, but OH so fun!!!

One of the BEST parts was going to Serendipity and savoring the frozen hot chocolate though. I'm not even big on desserts, but MAN!!! That stuff is good. It's like liquid crack. So tasty. Made with 12 different types of chocolate. I know "frozen hot" is an oxymoron and all, but I don't even care. All I know is....it's GOOD! Do it. Do it.

P.S. Major diet time. Who's with me?!?!

Laryngitis Lady

2008-04-30T13:47:00.000-07:00

So, yeah, who gets laryngitis anymore? Apparently.....I do! Does this mean I talk too much or what? Yeah, you can keep your response to that question to yourself. Thanks. I had a sore throat a few days ago, and while I feel much better, I was left with no voice. This stinks. It is so frustrating not being able to talk! I feel like I'm playing charades with my coworkers instead of actually communicating!

I went to the doctor this morning and he strongly recommended that I refrain from attempting to talk AT ALL for all of today and preferably tomorrow too. Do you know how hard that will be?!?!? I have to carry around a silly notepad everywhere and text, IM and e-mail instead of use the phone. Grrrr...so frustrating! Hopefully my voice will be back by Friday when I fly to NYC for the fam reunion. Can't wait! And I get to see Gabi too. Yay!

By the way...."laryngitis"...impossible to spell....except for just now. I totally had to google that. I started with laringytus...and then gave up. Hehe.

Poor man. Poor sharks.

2008-04-25T10:27:00.000-07:00

Early this morning, a triathlete was fatally attacked by a shark in Solana Beach just near San Diego. Article here.
I feel so sorry for this man and his family. How awful. He was just going about his business...training for his race. And this freak accident occurs. He was even with several other swimmers as well. Why him? Why anyone at all? Shark attacks are just so unpredictable. And rare too.

While my heart goes out to this man's friends and family, this is NOT good PR for sharks. Shark attacks really are rare. There are so many statistics out there backing this statement up (my favorite is that you're more likely to be killed by a vending machine than a shark....this is actually quite relevant at my office considering we work at a place that houses sharks...and, food constantly gets caught in our vending machine...so it's much more plausible that a coworker could get smashed by a toppled over vending machine...fo real!)

And news stations have been calling our PR department all day to comment on this freak attack. I'm so glad I didn't go down the career path of becoming a news reporter...these people can be vultures! One woman demanded to speak with our shark expert. When my coworker said he is currently in the water, she demanded, "Can you go get him then? Just pull him out of the water!!" Yeah lady, we'll get right on that. Because the world revolves around YOU and your news story.

Poor triathlete. Poor sharks. And boo to all the pushy pushy news reporters.

When you got it, flaunt it

2008-04-17T14:20:00.000-07:00

I love these shirts. They're freaking hilarious! Snorg Tees rocks!!

- My Butt Hurts
- Wheel...of...FORTUNE!!!
- Double Entendre
- The Chicken or the Egg
- Call me big daddy wanna...
- Like a record baby
- Say cheese!
- Miss new bootie

Little Bunny Foo Foo

2008-04-02T10:25:00.000-07:00

So I went to this fantastic little French restaurant called Pescadou Bistro in Newport and it was so charming and delish!

And...I tried Escargot for the first time! It was actually quite tasty believe it or not. It came as an appetizer simmered in garlic and butter and they looked and tasted like button mushrooms. Same consistency as a mushroom too.....come to think of it...maybe they were mushrooms disguised as snails? Hehe.

I was feeling quite adventurous, so, I tried the rabbit. And while it did in fact taste like chicken...I couldn't get the image of "little bunny foo foo" out of my head...don't think I'll be ordering rabbit again any time soon, but snails...oh yeah, sign me up!

Popped into Goat Hill Tavern after dinner, which I hadn't been to in atleast 5 years. I remember it being this chill divey bar. Yeah, it was hoppin on a Tuesday night! Luckily, we were able to find a shuffle board tucked away in the back. So fun :)

Familyyyyyyy Feuuuuuuuuud!

2008-03-26T17:53:00.001-07:00

So, I've been teased relentlessly for liking Family Feud. But how can you NOT?!?! I mean, it's a wholesome family game show that involves some friendly competition and fast thinking tactics. What's not to love?!?!

Well, apparently I'm not alone with my love for the Fam Feud. Because, guess what?? It's coming back on air...and now on PRIMETIME....with celebrities! That's right, baby. Check it out here. They're going to pit castmates against each other...like the Lost and Heroes casts.

That would be sweet! I think Jack/Sawyer/Kate would totally kick Peter/Hiro/Sylar booties. Granted, Heroes have special powers and all...but the Lost peeps...they are survivors who deal with crazy island crap all the time!!!

We've got some newbies!

2008-03-21T09:38:00.000-07:00

Check out our new sea lions Harpo and Milo. Aren't they cute? I love them.

If you ever wondered what the difference is between a seal and a sea lion, the main distinguishing characteristic is that sea lions have small external ears, while seals just have holes for ears. Isn't that fascinating? Yeah, I know you learned something amazing today. No need to thank me ;)

Career switch?

2008-03-19T12:09:00.001-07:00

So after many weeks of planning, Jen(ni)'s bridal shower finally took place this past Sunday. Everything came together and Jen(ni) seemed to really enjoy herself, so I'm happy.

Definitely a lot of coordination involved and collaboration from all of her friends. Elsja, Christine, Shannon, Leslie, Nicole and I all did our parts and had fun with the prep work the Friday before. Especially when "someone" did an excellent job at counting. You know who you are. I'm soooo calling you out! Haha, j/k, relax.

And a thank you to Jen(ni)'s soon to be groom,Jamesy-poo as well for moving all of the living room furniture. Couldn't have done it without him.

We all love Jen(ni) and are so excited for her big day next freaking weekend! I can't believe it's already here. Actually, I can since we didn't have long to wait (i.e. 2 months in between proposal and wedding). All of the recent quick turnaround planning I've been submerged in has me thinking....should I switch careers from Advertising to Event Planning? All I gotta say is Abso-eff-ing NOT! haha

Very Bear-y

2008-03-19T11:58:00.000-07:00

So a friend showed me this video the other day, and it caught me by surprise. Very clever. Definitely check it out.

It makes you realize how easy it is to miss certain things when your focus is elsewhere. Good message.

Care for a glass of drugs with your drugs?

2008-03-10T12:23:00.001-07:00

It seems like nothing is safe to eat or drink nowadays. After reading the Skinny Bitch book for my book club, it made me want to cut down on my intake of red meat and poultry.

Now, I'm thinking, I probably should stay away from tap water unless I feel like having some yummy mood stabilizers or sex hormones with my meal. Article here. A vast array of pharmaceuticals have been found in the drinking water supplies of at least 41 million Americans. Wow, this is sure comforting. Apparently the presence of so many prescription drugs in so much of our drinking water is heightening worries among scientists of long-term consequences to human health. Faaaaabulous. Great news, right?!?!

Now, we won't have to pay for our medications. Free drugs! Of course....we don't get to "choose" our prescription medications in this scenario either. So, the next time you have strep throat...just drink a nice tall glass of tap water...and...there may be a .000003% chance you'll get the right stuff in there to cure it right up. Thank goodness for contaminated water! Drink up kids.

Casa Vino Review

2008-02-22T12:29:00.000-08:00

So last week, I went and saw "Definitely Maybe" starring Ryan Reynolds and it was quite enjoyable surprisingly. The fact that he's incredibly dreamy and charming probably helped matters I'm sure. Scarlett Johanson is one lucky girl.

Afterward, we hit up Casa Vino down the street on Pine in Long Beach. And it was absolutely delightful! Nice artistic ambiance and we had both white wine and red wine flights. Very tasty. My fave was the Gerwurtzraminer. So delish.

Can't give up the cheese.

2008-02-22T12:23:00.000-08:00

Yeah, so I tried the whole "vegan/vegetarian" diet for a whole week. Or I tried to. Vegetarian, no problem. But, I just love me some cheese. I can't be a vegan. I'm sorry. Just can't. Cheese is just too good. Who was I kidding with giving up on pizza?!?!

And, my excuse is I'm STILL making up for lost time since I was allergic to cheese (and all dairy products for that matter) for my entire childhood. I deserve cheese. And our boss just ordered us pizza for lunch today, and by golly, I'm going to enjoy them. So there.

I'm still going to try and cut down on my intake of poultry and red meat to avoid consuming all the hormones and chemicals and stuff. But I love fishies (marketing them AND eating them). That, I can't give up.

You can call me that ANYtime ;)

2008-02-11T13:30:00.000-08:00

I joined a fabulous book club a few months back, and so far we've read two excellent books: Eat, Pray, Love (by Elizabeth Gilbert) and What is the What (by Dave Eggers).

For March, our book club is reading "Skinny Bitch" by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin. It's a book that encourages being not only a vegetarian but also a vegan.

The book definitely has some convincing arguments I must say. And some of my best friends are either vegetarian or don't eat certain meats. I've often wondered if I could have enough will power to resist chicken and red meat. Everyone pretty much knows animals are mistreated in slaughterhouses, right?

Well, actually reading specific examples and quotes from these workers, I was literally ready to vomit. It is a disgrace how humans can treat animals in such cruel ways. And, all of the hormones and chemicals injected into these animals, and then in turn, entering our body when we eat the meat, CANNOT be good for us!

So, I'm conducting a mini-experiment and eating vegan for seven whole days. I had a field day at Whole Foods yesterday. So much fun. I just want to see if I feel fantastic physically by ridding meat and dairy from my diet for a week. If it improves my sleep and I get less headaches....heck, maybe these skinny bitches are onto something!

I won't give up sushi though. Just because I work at an Aquarium, DOESN'T mean I don't enjoy me some Hamachi!!

You're doing WHAT to WHO?

2008-02-01T13:31:00.000-08:00

This video is simply brilliant. Pure comedic genuis. Sarah Silverman created it for her boyfriend, Jimmy Kimmel, on the 5th anniversary of his late-night talk show. If you're ever in a bad mood, I think this video could lift your spirits every time.

And this background video, will make Sarah's tribute video make more sense ;)

P.S. And here is Jimmy Kimmel's rebuttal to Sarah's video.

Enjoy!

Nudist Flight?? What the FKK?

2008-01-29T12:00:00.000-08:00

So I was listening to my trusty daily news show KTLA this morning while getting ready for work, and all of a sudden, I hear the headline: Nudist Flights Now Offered. I really can't believe my ears, so I rush to my TV screen, and yes...there are now flights that nudists can take out of Germany. Full article here.

Basically, passengers are required to board and leave the plane with their clothes on, but while in flight, they can strip down to their birthday suits! How freaking bizarre, right??

I've heard of nudist colonies before, but apparently it's also referred to as "Naturism" and "free body culture" (FKK) in Germany. I mean, different strokes for different folks...I respect the fact that some people may feel "constrained" by clothes and want to exist day-to-day as nature intended...but, really? Why do people find it appealing to be nudie ON A PLANE?!?!

I just don't understand the draw?!?! Do they have disposable seat covers and change them each flight? Because, yeah, that doesn't sound too hygienic if ya ask me. Are the pilots and flight attendants naked as well? I just can't picture it.

Actually....I CAN picture it since I did a quick search...ummm....yeah, I don't need to look at the image again, but if YOU'RE curious, click here.

Britney Spears needs to be KEPT AWAY from this airline....please!!!

Off to a great start!!

2008-01-22T09:33:00.000-08:00

So 2008 is off to a great start so far I must say. Congratulations Miss Jen(ni). I am so very happy for the both of you :)

2008 is shaping up to be a fantastic year so far and it's only January! Holla.

2007 Send Offf - Slinky Style

2007-12-28T16:21:00.000-08:00

I can't think of a more appropriate way to send off 2007 than exhibiting this profound human specimen. Click here to view the "Human Slinky." Words just can't describe.

Can't wait for 2008 baby!!! Woot!

How Squirrely!

2007-12-20T18:09:00.000-08:00

Ok, when I read this headline, I had to re-read it because it was just too bizarre to be true: Snakey smells help squirrels stay safe. It sounds repulsive, yet strangely intriguing, right?

So I read the article, and it's literally as strange at it sounds. Apparently, squirrels have become rather crafty, and have discovered if they chew on shedded rattlesnake skin and then lick their fur, it helps mask their "squirrel scent" and makes them "smell" like snakes! So....WEIRD!

How in the heck did that first squirrel figure this out? And what was he doing chewing on the shedded snakeskin? I mean, I know beggars can't be choosers, but I'm thinking the little guy had to have been pretty dang hungry to resort to eating DEAD SKIN! Okay, now I'm grossing myself out. I'll stop. Goo.

I know what I want for Christma-kwanza-kah!

2007-12-12T15:02:00.001-08:00

Okay, seriously?!?!? Could this puppy BE any cuter? I really need a Chug (the half chihuahua/half pug mix). And it ties in with my last blog entry quite nicely, don't ya think?

That wasn't even planned. It must mean I am MEANT to have a chug puppy for Christma-kwanza-kah. I will name him Skyy. Or Grey Goose....or....Patron? Cervesa? So many good ones to choose from....

Now THIS guy could drink you under the table!

2007-12-12T14:50:00.000-08:00

Okay, we all know that security checks at the airport have gotten pretty absurd. But someone needs to tell this guy that he can probably get that vodka somewhere else. Or, I don't know, maybe ship it to his home? Not sure what possessed him to pound 2 pints of vodka. He's either way too cheap to waste it...or way too much of an alcoholic to waste it.

Either way, it usually takes me a good 15-20 minutes or so to finish off 2 whole pints of vodka. Geez, this guy must have a liver of steel!

All Hail Helio

2007-11-28T15:53:00.000-08:00

So Helio the Indy 500 race car driver won Dancing With The Stars last night. I'm so glad that Marie Osmond was voted off. I'm sorry...I know she's good for 70 years old or whatever....but Helio and Mel B were SO much better.

I would have been happy if Mel B won as well, but Helio and Julianne took it home at the end of the night. Pretty impressive that three male athletes won the title the past few years. Fans really come to play in this competition.

I was procrastinating earlier today and was doing some searches on youtube....yeah, stumbled across a video of two of the male professional ballroom dancers from this season of DWTS doing something other than ballroom dancing. Click here to check out an "interesting" singing attempt by Mark Ballas (Sabrina's partner) and Derek Hough (Jennie Garth's partner and Julianne's brother). It's....ummm, interesting.....

Persi-wha?

2007-11-28T15:43:00.001-08:00

So, maybe I've been living in a bubble for the past 27 1/2 some odd years, but I just discovered what a Persimmon is today.

I admit I was a bit skeptical to try it when one of my coworkers brought a bag full of the fruit into the office this morning. But to my surprise and delight...it was quite scrumptious! Looks like an orange tomato, but is sweet on the inside like honeydew. It's quite unique. My taste buds don't quite know what to make of it!

Now I must look into recipes for Persimmon bread and cookies. Fun fun!

Some more funny photos

2007-11-15T17:28:00.001-08:00

TeeHee

2007-11-15T17:22:00.000-08:00

This photo made me laugh so I thought I'd share. Hehehe. Ya, so it's been a while since I've made a post. So what?!?! This dog butt face should get me through the end of the year....AT LEAST!

Vera Bradley. Vera Cool.

2007-10-01T13:03:00.000-07:00

So I recently discovered the brand Vera Bradley when I received a cute little coin purse as a gift.

Ever since then, I've been really digging their designs in purses and fun accessories. But they're much more accessible in the East Coast apparently. Boo. But, I have found a small selection in the Crabtree & Evelyn store in Crystal Court. And, I bought a super cute Vera Bradley checkbook (pictured above) yesterday which brightened my day. Now, writing checks will be THAT more exciting instead of using the ugly WAMU one.

Hey, I'm easy to please...what can I say?

Hola Kitty Kat!

2007-09-26T17:30:00.000-07:00

Wow, Hello Kitty is quite a blast from the blast, eh? We received a donation of a bunch of Hello Kitty loot today to use as giveaways for an upcoming event. All of us girls were "ooo-ing" and "ahh-ing" over all the fun stuff inside as we reminisced on fond childhood memories filled with pink pencils, erasers and trapper keepers covered with the friendly kitty face.

One of my coworkers, however, was NOT THRILLED about the donation we received. Reason being: we got a hello kitty vaccuum cleaner and kitchen set. Harmless I felt at first. But not to her. Well, she was actually joking...but brought up an interesting point. She argued that products like these just worsen gender stereotypes even further and keep women "barefoot and pregnant" in the kitchen. She said there needed to be a "GI Joe" vaccuum to even out the score. Now THAT I would buy. I do love a vaccuum in uniform ;)

Yeah, bad joke. I know. Give me a break though, it's the end of the day.

My My Milo

2007-09-24T15:18:00.000-07:00

Oh Milo. I am so excited to see you tonight. I am also thrilled that Heroes is coming back on the air.

I admit, I was resistant to the powers of Heroes at first. Why would I want to waste my time watching a TV show about silly super heroes anyway? That's LAME, right? Ya, just about as lame as watching shows about castaways on a magical island, incestuous doctors who say "seriously" way too much, and a washed up rocker's escapades with some of the trashiest women in America. I would never subject myself to THAT mindless drivel. Seriously.

But, needless to say, I got sucked in...like the rest of the world. And now I'm hooked. And, Milo is fun to look at too. But if he really is dating Hayden, that grosses me out. An 18 and 30 year old together? Ew. He needs a mature woman. Say, someone who's about 27, lives in Huntington Beach, works at the Aquarium in Long Beach, and is named Lisa. Hypothetically speaking...

Coochie coo

2007-09-20T17:41:00.000-07:00

Have I ever mentioned how obsessed with puppies I am? Yeah, I didn't think so either.

The latest hybrid puppy I've fallen in love with....the "Yorkie Poo." I think if everyone had a Yorkie Poo in this world, there would be no war. They would be too busy "ooo-ing" and "awww-ing" over this precious little thing.

Unskinny Bop Bop Bop Bop

2007-09-20T17:20:00.001-07:00

Yes, I was a Poison fan back in the day. I totally rocked the slap bracelet with the band's name in 5th grade. While all the other girls listened to the silly New Kids on the Block, I was digging the zexy 80's rock bands. I suppose that's why I liked all the cheesy boy bands so much later in life.

Anyway, I used to be IN LOVE with Bret Michaels when he looked like this. Nowadays, he's looking like this. Not quite my taste anymore personally. But with "Rock of Love" on the air, I am addicted to his show. It is TRASHY! Pure filth. And I love it. It used to be that show I wouldn't admit to watching....but lately, so many of my friends have come out of the closet, admitting they TOO love the show. Who knew?!?! Can't wait for the season finale this Sunday. And I'm so happy that crazy #%@$ Lacey got kicked off!!

As Bret would say, the show "kinda turns me on"

Gotta Love Jury Duty

2007-09-20T17:07:00.000-07:00

Yes, although I thought I would hate it...it ended up being quite an experience I must say.

You gotta love jury duty....yesiree. Especially when you meet a cute boy. Even more so, ESPECIALLY when the creepy defense lawyer that looks and talks like he should work at a mortuary tracks you down at your work and inappropriately asks if you want to "get lunch some time" when you're pretty sure he told the entire courtroom how he enjoys taking "his wife and kids" to your place of employment.

Yup, that doesn't cross ANY weird boundaries, does it? Didn't think so.

Ewwwa. Ew.

It's All in the Family

2007-08-21T11:51:00.000-07:00

So over the weekend, I met one of the writers of Family Guy at a house party. And I totally geeked out with him. I asked him all sorts of questions about how the show came about, what it's like in the writing room, how does their camp feel with South Park taking jabs at them, etc. I also learned that the random "vignettes" throughout the episodes are referred to as "cutaways."

And it was truly fascinating! Very down-to-earth family man. Didn't have a Hollywood sized ego. It made me like Family Guy EVEN MORE. And who would have thought my middle aged Uncle would be the one who first introduced me to the show years ago. What a hip dude.

And I was sooo invited to go see a live read of a future episode. Yes, I accept bribery in many forms.

I'm glad they're not MY brothers!

2007-08-21T11:44:00.001-07:00

So I recently went to Portugal and Spain. Amazing trip, all around. Except for the part when I was bitten twice by a Portuguese buggie and it made my arm swell like Popeye's...that I could have dealt without.

One of the highlights of the trip, I must say, was our last night in Madrid when we went to see the performance "Los Vivancos Hermanos". Now, I have seen A LOT of musicals and dance performances. I'm not easy to please in these genres. But, hot damn, this was one of the best performances I've ever seen. These guys are multi-talented. Play instruments beautifully and are some of the most gifted dancers I have ever seen. They do it all.

And, it doesn't hurt that they are gorgeous and half naked the whole time. Nope, you don't see me complaining.

Still puppy obsessed

2007-08-21T11:32:00.000-07:00

Are you kidding me with this face? I just recently discovered yet another adorable hybrid puppy: the Chug (half Chihuahua, half Pug). If I'm not careful, I might end up like this crazy dog obsessed socialite!

Why Woman Think They Like Pink

2007-08-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

Okay okay, so my blogs are infrequent. But when I do make time to blog...dammit, I'll hit you with a couple. So deal with it. Danke.

So, I just came across this article I found quite intriguing. There is a study that claims there is a biological reason why women like "pink" and men gravitate more towards blue. This didn't sound entirely scientific so I read further. Here is the article.

Apparently, when women and men were shown a series of colored shapes and asked which they preferred, then men chose shades that were on the blue spectrum, and the women were drawn towards the "pinker" end of the spectrum. But this begs the question, are we shaped to prefer these colors by society? If a guy says his favorite color is "pink"...well, he is deemed a huge woosy and playing for the other team essentially.

The article goes on to say that as a whole, there is a universal preference towards blue for both sexes, but in addition, women like red as well. So, they deduce that red and blue are a combination of a woman's preference in colors...thus...purples and pinks. I dunno, London....you Brits are crazy with these studies!

My favorite line in the article is "For men, thinking about colours was less important because as hunters they just needed to spot something dark and shoot it..." Hehe.

Designer Puppies

2007-07-11T13:25:00.000-07:00

So I recently discovered an adorable breed of puppy: the Chiweenie! It's a hybrid of a Chihuahua and a Dachshund and is JUST the CUTEST!! I looooove it. I have been puppy crazy for just about 5 years now. I must get a little poopy soon so I do not borrow someone else's poopy and "conveniently" forget to give it back.

Do I get a Chiweenie, or a Puggle, or a King Charles Cavalier or a Klee Kai? Such a hard decision!!

Settle down Sam-whore-a!

2007-06-08T13:04:00.001-07:00

I was relieved to find that it was Richie Sambora, not my beloved Jon, who was admitted to rehab.

What an idiot. They were reviving MTV's Unplugged and he had to go and ruin it all by getting tossed beforehand. My class act Jon would never do such a thing of course. But Richie...geez, homeboy needs to get a grip. He is just going downhill by the second. He had Heather Locklear, then downgraded to Denise Richards, and now apparently is having a love affair with whiskey. Poor guy. Hopefully he'll get out of rehab in time to go out on tour so I can see my boyfriend. Mmmm, yummy.

What happens when you use the "F" word...

2007-06-08T12:10:00.000-07:00

Apparently you can say "Fuck fuck fuck" to your hearts content on the set of Grey's Anatomy. But if you use the OTHER "F" word (which shall not be named...but I'll give you a hint...it rhymes with Saget)...well, then, you get the axe. Yup, Isaiah Washington is outskies. And to be honest...I don't really care. I like Grey's and all, but Christina is way more interesting then stupid stupid Burke.

Do I think he should have been fired though for saying that? Well, that's up for debate. The man may never work in Hollywood again. Maybe if he went to homophobic rehab they would let him return?

I remember reading something from a blog that said the ultimate payback would be if Isaiah Washingon had to play a gay man on the show. That would be quite interesting.

Needless to say, that trophy is the only love he'll be getting for a while.

Lovin Lipstick Jungle

2007-06-04T20:28:00.000-07:00

So I've been getting into books on CD recently. I used to read all the time while living in San Francisco since it was the best way to pass the time on the bus to and from work (and a great way to avoid human contact with the "characters"[aka nut jobs] that would sometimes get on the bus). Atleast I never had a bus weirdo flash, pee or puke on me...and yes, I have heard of that happening. Only in SF...and I would imagine NY, and Chicago, and Boston...any big city that has a public transportation system I suppose...but I digress.

Anyway, so I just finished listening to the "Lipstick Jungle" CD book and it was fantastic! It was light, fun and entertaining; really helped pass the time spent in the car. Candace Bushnell, author of Sex and the City, wrote the book and Cynthia Nixon narrated (who played Miranda on SATC). It's about 3 high powered women who "own" Manhattan. Wendy is the President of a movie studio, Nico is the editor of a powerful magazine, and Victory is a high-end fashion designer. And their lives are fabulous and juicy and dramatic and it's all good fun. Highly recommend.

They are making it into a TV show soon too. Check it out here. It stars Brooke Shields, the chick from 24, and that other chick who played Ian Ziering's gf on 90210.

Won't be seeing you "Sunnin"

2007-06-01T15:08:00.000-07:00

Now that we've had the debut of our new summer exhibit Catch A Wave that features all you would ever want to know about waves, surfing and tsunamis (shameless plug), my coworkers and I now have time to actually leave the office to feed ourselves.

So 5 of us trapsied on down to 2nd Street to try the Lebanese restaurant Sunnin. And I have to say, not too impressed. It took almost an hour for us to get our food! I had the chicken kabob sandwich which was decent, but I am sporting some strooong garlic breath right now...a bit much I have to say. Call it karma or delayed indigestion, but my tummy isn't feeling too hot right now either.

Best bet, take your bootie down the street to Open Sesame instead. They don't disappoint over there. Oooo, and get their fried potatoes made with cilantro, garlic, roasted chili and lemon juice. Delish!

It's Amaaaa-zing

2007-04-16T18:11:00.000-07:00

That was my attempt to sing the "Amazing" song by Aerosmith. I am referring to the fan-freaking-tastic reality show "Amazing Race."

It was on last night and entertaining as always. It's down to 4 teams. The team who are cousins and one is tall, blond and skinny and the other one is a "little person" is still on the show. I want them off. Not because of the little person. She's cool. Her tall skinny cousin NEEDS TO GO though. Pronto. She is so friggin annoying and puts on this weird "accent" whenever she talks to locals...it's just so insulting! And she's manipulative. She makes my skin crawl.

Just like "Sangina" from American Idol. Uggghhhh! I know these are "reality" shows and all, but if these producers could just conveniently rid of the annoying people on them, it would please me mucho.

What is wrong with people?!?!?!

2007-04-16T18:01:00.000-07:00

OK, seriously...what is wrong with people? Why are there these crazies that think shooting a bunch of people is a good idea?

By now, I'm sure you've heard about the crazy nut job who killed 32 people at Virginia Tech. This just infuriates me and makes me so sad at the same time. It's just so senseless and tragic. What made the shooter so unhappy and miserable? Why was he so messed up? I just don't get it. If he was that unhappy, he should have just sucked it up and gone to Disneyland...or gotten his frustrations out with a good kickboxing workout...or go to a shooting range and shoot paper targets for crying out loud!!!

33 people (including the shooter) gone, just like that, making it the worst shooting in the U.S. Such a shame. My heart goes out to the friends and families of the victims.

So I know it's been a while...

2007-04-16T17:41:00.000-07:00

Yes, ok, ok....I haven't updated my blog in a while. I lag.

But I am back on the wagon...atleast for today...and have decided to post a photo of the surfboard I painted at my work. Employees were given the opportunity to design their own surfboards for our new "Catch A Wave" exhibit which debuts Friday, May 25th (and which you should all check out...but not Memorial Day weekend because it will be a madhouse!!)

So I'm dedicating my surfboard to my Dad, and the artist Magritte was my inspiration. Here is an example of Magritte's style and where I got the idea to paint the elements (although he depicts 6 and I'm pretty sure we only have 4 elements buddy). This painting is one of his better known pieces (and it was featured in that movie "Thomas Crown Affair").

I really enjoyed the painting process. Maybe that means I should take some painting classes to nurture my artistic side. Or...maybe this means I should stick to my day job.

Actual POSITIVE news

2007-03-01T09:55:00.000-08:00

I'm always a sucker for an uplifting news segment. In a time where we can't escape some mention of Anna Nicole hearings/hoopla or Britney's ridiculous head shaving shenanigans, it's nice to hear a story that is actually heart-warming.

I enjoy the Today Show now because that awful nasty beeyatch Katie Couric has been replaced with Meredith what's her face. Such a relief. Anyway, this morning they covered a story about Toby Dawson the U.S. Olympian skier that was reunited with his birth father after more than 20 years! His parents lost him in a Korean market at age 3 and he was placed in an orphanage. He was eventually adopted by two American skiers and went on to win the bronze medal in freestyle skiing at the Turin Olympics and his real biological Dad was able to find him.

Just so touching. I love stories like this.