IF YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN

Time keeps on slippin....

2010-11-30T00:00:00.003-05:00

Some time has passed. I've been gone, but I haven't forgotten. I've been a bit busy living the best year of my entire life, but it's no excuse. Look for a highlights reel of 2010 starting soon. Then, maybe some revelations on some of the things I've learned this year. Back in the saddle, we ride, El Guapo.

Chew on it

2009-04-14T15:44:00.002-04:00

Life is a pain in the ass. But life also has pizza, wine, friends, craft beer, people who cheer you and love you, ice cream, sunny days, coffee, music, laughter, and joy. To name a few. So I guess the pain is worth it in the end.

I'm throwing it out there, Universe. Throw something back - preferably not a curve ball. A home run would be nice.

Mem'ries, CNG Style

2009-03-22T11:20:00.004-04:00

I've been thinking a lot about my college years recently, and don't know why. Maybe it's because things seemed so much simpler then and the hardest decision I had to make on a daily basis was "Which of the three bars in my college town am I drinking at tonight?" Maybe it's because I have been going through old junk, trying to clean out and find a home for cards, mementos, jokes, etc. that I want to keep, but maybe don't have a daily place in my life anymore, simply because I don't have the room for it.

When I moved into my off-campus house my junior year, we had a town person as an across-the-street neighbor. He was a special case to put it delicately, and really grooved to his own drummer. I had a nice big porch at my house, so on our first night in the house, a group of friends gathered on the porch for some drinking and socializing. We soon realized that the man who lived across the street was flashing us through his window. It never happened again, and in retrospect, maybe he wasn't really naked, but it became lore, and for the next two years of college, my friends and I referred to him as "Crazy Naked Guy" (aka CNG).

For the last two years of college, my friend Jason and I had a radio show on WUSO 89.1 FM (thank you Springfield!). We held the 10PM-12AM slot once a week. We brought our humor into the show, and instituted a "Top 11 at 11" List, similar to Letterman's Top 10. Because CNG was a fixture around our part of campus, especially on Friday and Saturday nights when we partied, we tried to work CNG into our Top 11 list weekly. In fact, many of our lists centered around him.

I bring this up because I found three lists the other day. They weren't as funny as I remember, but it was fun to share them with my co-host and wax nostalgia. We also generally winged these lists on the show and put about five minutes thought into them. It's funny the things we focus on when we don't have much to worry about, and I need to remember that now - a little laughter and joy goes a long way, no matter how stupid it is. And long live CNG....his window-driving, Esiason-jersey-wearing, football-throwing self.

My Country Tis of Thee

2009-01-19T21:54:00.003-05:00

We're on the cusp of history. And we, as a country can do better. We can be better. We will be better.

I think my favorite part of Obama's vision for a better America is his call to service. In the last year or so, I've realized my life is not as fulfilling as it could be, and I think it's because I had not taken the time to volunteer. I finally started doing it (granted, only about 6 hours a month because of my busy work schedule), but it felt good to give back. I think this is important part of the reason we've lost our way. We've become materialistic and anti-social, living in McMansions and gated neighborhoods and sprawling suburbs with little interaction with our neighbors and community. I think the internet has helped bring together, as is obvious from this past Presidential election, and I think it will continue to move us all closer together.

Only time will tell what this Admininstration will bring, but it has already brought us one thing - a common excitement and devotion to our country that this nation hasn't seen in decades. Let's make it work for the greater good.

Save America

2008-11-19T13:51:00.002-05:00

Since my uncle put it so eloquently, I'm cribbing it from him and pasting verbatim. He's a lifer at Ford, 33+ years and born and raised in Dearborn, MI...the family grew up in the house where Henry Ford's chauffer used to live. For all my own qualms and misgivings about the American auto industry (I, too, have said "they've done it to themselves"), I think it is ABSURD to let a homegrown, American-as-America-is industry die like this, especially when we bailed out Wall St and insurers who knowingly made bad decisions and kept doing it until the bottom fell out.

America is Cars, America built this industry, and I think America is willing to (finally, hopefully) bring it into the modern era. Please don't let the auto industry die. Otherwise, I really don't know what we'll do. It will touch every single sector even more than the financial industry did - the ramifications could be worse on a real level than the banking crisis.

But perhaps the more pressing question, is, how did we come to be in such dire straits in the first place? Don't have an answer for that, and will save my opinions for later.

Friends and family,

I'm not much of a political activist, but I am writing today to ask for your help. This week, Congress will be asked to vote on a financial assistance package for American automotive manufacturers that will allow GM, in particular, to continue to operate. I've been frustrated by the lack of, or misinformation being spewed by politicians and talk show hosts over the past several days. I am writing to give you the facts, and ask for your help. If you agree, please forward this e-mail to your friends, and please write your congressman or senator expressing your support. (E-mail addresses can be found at www.congress.org.) I am particularly disturbed by how many Republicans have made this a partisan issues. Most have not bothered to learn the facts, and are strictly voting along party lines. Even those from Ohio, which is surprising given the manufacturing base there. So, here are some things to consider:

Some say we should let GM and other manufacturers go into bankruptcy so they can fix their problems. That simply won't happen. Recent customer research indicates consumers will not buy cars from a bankrupt manufacturer, so sales will dry up. If sales dry up, GM goes bankrupt, then their suppliers go bankrupt. If their suppliers go bankrupt, Ford (and Chrysler) can no longer build cars, and it goes bankrupt as well. The manufacturers will not come out the other side -- they will eventually be dissolved. Independent studies estimate that if GM goes bankrupt, the ripple through the industry will result in no cars being built (by domestics or Japanese transplants) for at least a year. Imagine what that will do for the economy.
The impact to the economy will be felt broadly. 1 in 10 Americans are employed in jobs dependent on the auto industry. This includes suppliers, dealers, nearby restaurant owners, etc. Local and national government stand to lose billions in tax revenue, which will affect all Americans. In addition, the government will have to take on unemployment, pension guarantees, and health care for all those former automotive retirees and employees. Bloomberg News estimates the cost to the American economy will be $200 Billion in the first three years. This will be funded by all taxpayers, or America goes deeper in debt. $25 Billion in loans seems a small price to pay to avoid a $200 Billion near term cost.
Critics say the American Auto industry "deserves to die", and a loan is "throwing good money after bad". Really?
They say we haven't invested in new technology. Really? Next month, Ford launches its 3rd Hybrid, which gets 6 mpg better than the comparably-sized Toyota Camry. In one year, GM will launch the Chevy Volt, the first plug-in hybrid available to mainstream consumers.
They say "they make cars Americans don't want". Really? GM and Ford combined sales continue to significantly exceed Toyota and Honda combined.
They make big gas guzzlers. Really? Yes, we make big vehicles customers need! The contractor who built your house needed a truck. So did the farmer who harvested your food, or raised livestock. So did the plumber, the landscaper, the carpet layer. Ambulances? Built from Ford chassis. Delivery vans? Not from the Japanese. And in segments where the Japanese do make big trucks and SUVs, the domestics get better fuel economy.
American manufacturers have poor quality. Really? Consumer Reports and JD Power both have confirmed Ford's quality is now on par with Honda and Toyota.
American cars get poor fuel economy. Really? GM and Ford are best in class or tied with best in many vehicles categories. Further evidence: Ford will introduce the 2010 Fusion this week that get 2-3 mpg better than Camry and Accord.
American manufacturers have not done enough to restructure. Don't know. What I do know is that we have let go approximately 40%of our work force in the last couple years, have reduced costs by $5 Billion a year, and have given up pay raises and matching 401K donations for the future. Of course more can always be done.
Auto Workers receive unfairly high benefits and health care. This has changed a lot over the years, with dramatic reductions in benefits. Since the last contract, it is estimated UAW worker benefits are now in-line with transplant workers. And while we may have paid more than typical benefits in the past, it kept the cost of healthcare, retirement, unemployment, etc for these employees off the government's (taxpayer's) bill. The Americans don't have a plan to improve. I can't speak for any others, but at Ford, we will be leveraging our global vehicles to bring our best product line-up to the US that I've seen, and our plan allows us to make money, even on small cars.
What will the elimination of American automotive manufacturer's mean to national defense? We can't be a superpower without a manufacturing base. The automotive industry and its suppliers are the backbone of manufacturing in this country. If they are eliminated, along with the tool and die makers, engineers, laborers, etc. that go with them, who will build our tanks/humvees/guns/planes/missiles if we need them in a war? Will we ask China? Korea? Eastern Europe? What if they are who we are fighting?
And last, beware of personal agendas -- Some of the congressmen who are the most strongly opposed to providing aid stand to benefit personally. Clearly the State of Michigan representatives are voicing support, and all recognize Detroit stands to benefit. However, a Republican Senator from Alabama, who has been one of the most vocal against the package, has Mercedes, Hyundai, and Honda plants in his state. If the domestics go under, the foreign companies in his state stand to benefit. This is something he failed to mention on Meet the Press as he trashed the American manufacturers.
Have we made mistakes in the past? Absolutely. Should we have been quicker to adapt? Yes. And, one could argue we (GM/Ford) are still not doing everything we can to improve our competitiveness. If so, provisions could be placed in the funding to drive further improvements. Suggesting that funding not be given to "teach us a lesson" is a disgrace. Even if that were true, given the state of the nation's economy, now is not the time to let the industry fail.
The American automotive industry needs your help to secure a $25 Billion loan, not a handout. AIG, just one insurance company, has already been given $150 Billion and counting. The U.S. spends $25 Billion in a few months in Iraq. Is $25 Billion really too much to ask to save the future of an entire industry?
Given the complexity of issues faced by congress, they cannot be expected to be knowledgeable on every issue. They should, however, be expected to be open minded and willing to learn the facts. Please encourage your congressman/senator to do so, and voice support for the package if you agree.

Thank you for taking the time to read my point of view

Michael Pollan is the Smartest Man Alive

2008-10-15T00:26:00.003-04:00

And this, my friends, is why I made the decision to eat as little meat as possible. Michael Pollan opened my eyes. He is my guru. Try to read The Omnivore's Dilemma and NOT change. I dare you.

No matter how green you are, if you eat meat like the average American (190 lbs a year, according to the above article, ick!), you're contributing to global warming. I'll go hug a tree while you try and shop at your local farmer's market.

I made veggie chili 2 weeks ago consisting of come canned tomatoes and sauce, and 10 other veggies fresh from the farmer's market. I have to say, it's probably the tastiest chili I've ever had. I'm not a strict vegatarian. But I do limit myself...and would rather eat a slice of bacon or piece of chicken when it comes from a locally-raised source.

Peer pressure made me post

2008-10-05T22:03:00.002-04:00

I got a few jabs this weekend from the Kopelmans at my lack of posting, so I've been kicking a few things around in the ol' noodle for a bit. In no particular order:

1) I saw a dude riding a bike and smoking a cigarette. The ash was about 4 inches long. That can't be an enjoyable way to smoke, but I guess that guy was desperate for some nicotine. I don't know if this is worse or better than those bikers on cell phones. Bikers plural. I want to toss a stick into their spokes. Do they realize how douchey they look?

2) Today waiting for the bus, I saw a rather elderly lady who was dressed to the nines in her wool hat with brim, sharp tweed jacket and....leather pants. Yes, folks, an easily 70+ year-old-lady in leather pants. On Michigan Ave. Also waiting for the bus.

3) I think ugly freaky people are the new black. They're everywhere. I'm sick of them.

4) I'm turning into an old person sooner than I thought. I prefer low-sodium foods now, especially Trader Joe's Roasted Red Pepper soup. mmmmm.

5) What is with that crazy-ass wiry black hair that grows out of the middle of my neck? It usually comes out of hiding once every 2 months, but one day it's not there, and the next day it's about 6 inches long. Where does it come from? Does it grow internally and break through the skin? Is my esophagus hairy?

6) Entourage has jumped the shark. However, thank god for Mad Men and Little Britain USA. It's brought Sunday night back to a happy time.

7) I love yoga. It's amazing. And I have arm definition again because of it. Woo!

Discuss.

Blargh

2008-07-03T23:18:00.002-04:00

Officially braindead. Luckily, officially on vacation. Wonder if one has something to do with the other.

I do have to give some love to Chicago, now that I'm a 90-day resident. It's such a great town. My commute takes me down Lakeshore Drive every morning. And the ability to watch the sun rise over Lake Michigan on my way to work every morning definitely does something for my soul.

Tomorrow, I head to the other side of the Lake, in Michigan, north of Traverse City on Grand Traverse Bay (for those of you familiar with the hand map of MI, it's about 3/4 of the way up Mr. Pointer). It's my favorite place in the wide world. A week on the beach is just what the doctor ordered.

Also, Sephora is my new favorite online shipper. Somehow, UPS left a package from Sephora in my unlocked lobby and it's MIA (aka stolen). I called, UPS said I would need to call the shipper (Sephora) to "start an investigation" and that did not sound positive. I called Sephora, they talked to UPS, and offered to send me a new package. Um, ok. Awesome. I LOVE YOU SEPHORA!

Me=officially old

2008-06-06T22:12:00.002-04:00

Flipping through the channels this evening, I started watching "Clueless" and got all happy because it's one of my favorite movies. Then I thought about it, and I realize it was made 13 years ago, in 1995. When it was my favorite movie when I was in high school.

Yep, the 30 club is kind of a bitch.

Can I get a...for universal healthcare

2008-05-28T22:53:00.002-04:00

Long story short, I have to get some personal health care. This after I just denied coverage from my new job for 2008. Thank you, Steve Truman at Anthem, for screwing me over.

I think I have found a decent alternative here in Illinois. It will cost a bit more for less coverage, but I'm a healthy person. This is where all the what-ifs come in. And then I start thinking, what if something happens...then do I want to pay a $2500 deductible, or $5000. It's like trying to decide between the lesser of two evils. Never fun, never rewarding, and stuck rolling around in the back of my head like a broken record. I can't focus on making the decision, but it doesn't quite leave the old noodle, either. I sit there, unfocused.

I think I'll go read some of the new James Frey book right now. The people in there (not to mention Mr Frey, whom I love anyway) have some way more effed up issues than the difference between $2500 in health care deductibles.

Also, like anything that you need "approval" for, I freak out that it won't happen. Then what? Due to a previous medial condition that happened 15 years ago, I can never be without coverage. Barack/Hillary, please save us.

And my million-dollar question - why can't health insurance start focusing on preventative care? I'm sick to death of paying out the schnoz when I work out 4-5 days a week and have been doing it for more than a decade, walk 2 miles on my commute to work each day, and lead a relatively healthy lifestyle, yet I am supporting the fatwads who troll around Wal-Mart on their obesity chariots buying loads of processed foods and eat every third meal off the Dollar Menu at McDonalds. Oh, and not to mention the fact that health care companies are like Big Oil and Big Pharma - making records profits, while not actually really helping anyone, or coming up with a plan for the future.

Last random thought...my refrigerator moans. It sounds like someone is having sex in there. Pickles and apples, away from each other!

Ladies, puh-LEASE

2008-05-16T15:31:00.002-04:00

Come on, ladies. What are you thinking? How does Drew Peterson keep hooking up with the 20-something ladies? It must be the mo-stache (short for molester mustache, dead giveway in thie linked pic). Or maybe it's his van with the round window on the side, with coyotes painted on the back. I mean, he must have one of those, right? Very kidnapper-esque. Also, the man TANS at a tanning salon. He's admitted this is where he met his latest "friend." I mean, it's not LA, dude. You're in a southern suburb of Illinois, a solid hour outside Chicago. Practically farmland.

The dude creeps me out on every level. He's just this side of a pedophile. So what gives?

Something wicked this way comes

2008-05-12T22:36:00.004-04:00

This poor globe is disturbed right now, and it's starting to freak me out a bit. Let's recap some of the major news in the past week:

Cyclone in Myanmar - possibly 100,000 people dead. And they're just now, a week later, accepting aid. Never has American freedom seemed so sweet.
Tornadoes in the Midwest - we're on par for the 5th deadliest tornado season since they started keeping track.
Massive 7.9 earthquake in China - 10,000 feared dead.
Food shortages.
Record oil prices.
New fighting in Gaza.
Rain, rain, rain. Do the locusts come next?

What have we done to piss off this planet? Oh, wait.... SUVs, material excess, fossil fuel consumption...

On a positive note, the Red Wings are kicking some serious ass in the Playoffs this year. LET'S GO WINGS!

OMFG I'm a sucker

2008-04-19T23:04:00.002-04:00

OK, I first saw the new "Gossip Girl" ads last week, just about the time I was realizing I thought I had actually missed the "new" episode (not to mention the fact that I missed the previous 2 in January, so I'll come in Monday absolutely clueless).

I'll just come clean - this is one of my few trashy pleasures. I loathe reality TV, as well as tabloids, and refuse to watch or pay for that drivel. Maybe I'm a snobbish moralist. However, "Gossip Girl" is my one completely trashy allowance. I love the show. It whimsically reminds me of growing up watching "90210" (don't get me started about the comeback because I don't know if I'm for or against).

But back to the point of my post...I have to say, I adore musical marketing these days. Apple really brought it back for commercials, and I have Google'd and then downloaded my fair share of commerials tuneage. So the new OMFG (which was recently PG'd up to OMG) "Gossip Girl" commercial just made me download the new Kills song "Sour Cherry." It's good - or maybe just sexy because it's attached, in my mind, to the commercial. Regardless, it will help power me through a run.

Ch-ch-changes

2008-03-28T23:06:00.002-04:00

Rarely do I post anything highly personal on here, so here's a share for ya'll. Seems I know a lot of people going through some major life shit right now. Must be that 7-year itch or the approach of the big 3-0, but shit is going down (all in a good way)! RFW just switched jobs and is going to art school, hurrah! The Kopelmans are moving to the Midwest (now I get to see them more!). Unsouthern Belle had Lasik! My friend Jason started a new gig, his own business taking a sidecar to the new full-time rotation.

And then there's me. In about 14 hours, I will be a Chicago resident. This past week I've kind of had to pinch myself, and thank my lucky stars about a million times. I know that I made this giant leap on some unknown faith and major self-esteem high back in November that leaving Manhattan would be easy and getting a job in Chicago would be a piece of cake. While February basically licked my ass as far as just being a downright shitty month (housebound for 3 days, snow or rain all 29 days, damn you leap year!, temps in the teens for most of the month), I made it through, and in retrospect, getting a job all worked out much easier than I should have ever expected or hoped for. There's a big person out in the universe looking out for me. I thank you.

So, riding a wave of nostalgia/excitement/nervousness/etc., I ride off into the wild Midwest yonder tomorrow morning. I swear that moving to NYC at age 22, knowing 2 people, and earning a pittance (literally, I worked in publishing, my starting salary was laughable), was a million times easier on a whole different level. I had this insane overconfidence, or delusions or grandeur, or both that made me Teflon to worry - I saw it as a giant adventure. I have no doubt this next phase of my life will be wonderful...but this feels more for keeps. I guess because I moved to NYC knowing I was never going to stay forever made it all the easier to just take things as they came and have the best time possible, knowing it would end at some point.

So to NYC, while I don't necessarily miss your noise, dirt, grime, annoyances, I miss what you gave me. A group of amazing people who have truly shaped who I am today and a life that I lived to the fullest. I was one of the lucky ones who got to build a life there when I was young enough to have no worries and I will always have it. It's a city that will chew you up and spit you out if you're not cut from the right cloth. I'm glad the coat fit me for 7 years.

Here's to a new one....

Attention, Drivers

2008-03-23T10:40:00.002-04:00

Just a refresher, drivers, for those of you who are too preoccupied to pay attention anymore. Left lane is for passing. Right lane is for driving.

Again, LEFT LANE, PASSING. Meaning, you should NOT (and especially if you are driving less than 10 mph over the speed limit) drive along in it like it's your own personal lane. You should refrain to use it solely so you can chatter away on your cell phone without having to think about passing on the left. I remember taking drivers ed and sitting in a classroom for several hours, 3 times a week, including Saturdays, for 2 weeks or a month. Granted, maybe I was one of the few who actually paid attention. But that's a credit, since I am an excellent driver, an aware driver, a driver you need on the road to watch out for all the idiots who have no idea what they're doing. NOTE: I scored a 99% on my written test, only missed one. Holla.

Having driven more than 1600 miles in the past 3 weeks (to and fro Chicago and Detroit for job interviews and apartment searching), I have witnessed the horrible driving skills of Americans. Yet another thing to be disgraced with about my country. Add it to the list.

Ho fo' sho'

2008-03-19T11:00:00.004-04:00

Well, here's a good message for young girls. If you want to be rich beyond your wildest dreams, just go ahead and be a whore. That's what is happening to Eliot Spitzer's ho...she got a $1 million offer from Hustler, and there's bound to be more where that came from. And don't forget her foray into the "Girls Gone Wild" empire when she turned 18. Lovely lady, I'm sure.

Such great role models...thank you, tabloid culture, for destroying decorum in this world.

A 90+ badass

2008-03-11T12:00:00.003-04:00

Jack LaLane is a major badass, and basically my hero. Here is a man, who, at 93 (93!!!) looks like he's about 60. As this picture from the New York Times shows, the man has more strength and stamina than most people, and can probably hold his own among Olympic caliber-athletes.

If there was ever a reason to get fit, Jack is the poster child. I want to age gracefully. Here's my role model.

Suck it, snow

2008-03-05T11:05:00.002-05:00

I cannot continue to wake up every morning and see snow on the ground. Even if it's just an inch, like today.

Come on, March, you know you wanna be spring-like. Let the flowers grow and the sun shine. I know Smarch is Smarch, and wind and rain, fine. But the white shit needs to go.

Hilarious

2008-03-03T10:16:00.000-05:00

I think these ladies are my new faves....

Quarterlife

2008-02-27T09:59:00.003-05:00

Granted, I am beyond my quarterlife at this point, but am still in the throes of the crisis (probably more so than ever right now). So flipping through the channels last night I came across the new NBC show "quarterlife." It was written by the guy who did "My So-Called Life" and since I was a giant fan of that show, I thought I'd tune in for a few to see if he nailed it.

Oh. My. GOD. The show was horribly, unbelievably awful. It was just so phony and angst-y, I couldn't even bear it. And it reminded me nothing of my life at 25. "How I Met Your Mother" does a better job of that (with some laughs to boot. NOTE: If you have not watched HIMYM yet, do not pass go, do not collect $200, TUNE IN - Mondays, CBS, 8 PM).

But I couldn't even like the characters. I turned it off after about 10 minutes, hoping the whole time that it would get better, but it just got worse. It's set in LA, so has the typical players - magazine editor, actor, film students turned video producers, all over-talented, under-employed people. The only thing I could relate to was that they lived in a smallish apartment (thank you, at least, for being realistic about that). But the under-decor was almost too much, especially since it was an apartment shared by females. It looked more like a bachelor pad. And of course, everyone is in love with someone they shouldn't be. And the main character is a "writer" and video blogs about her life and her friends on some Beta site she invented called "quarterlife." Way to lamely bring technology into the mix.

So why did I just spend an entire post ranting about a show I never want to watch again? Because I hope to god that this does not become the "generational" show that MS-CL did - that show was realistic and dealt with some real issues. This show is not (can anything set in LA really be, come on?!), and just seems whiny. And if his show is going to make the rest of the population think that this is how people near my age act, I'm appalled.

Ralph Nader is...

2008-02-24T17:41:00.002-05:00

a giant steaming pile of shit. Thanks, Ralph. With your help, we might luck out with a repeat of the 2000 election, when you stole the race from the Democrats.

All your consumer goodnik-ness has been lost, especially if you force another GOP in the big house. Quit while you're ahead.

Plastic Surgery Gone Bad

2008-02-22T14:29:00.003-05:00

Please Donatella, stop with the surgery, Botox, etc. Otherwise you'll have to accept that you're an unemployed Muppet (from the looks of you these days).

Snow - close 'er down

2008-02-22T12:31:00.002-05:00

I'm officially sick of winter in the suburbs. It makes me realize that I must live somewhere you can walk around where sidewalks are shoveled and commerce can be had easily when bad weather rolls in.

I've been housebound for two days this week, meaning I did not leave to work out, or do anything. It's just not worth the hassle to try and drive around, especially when the temps have been in the teens and 20s and the ice on top of the snow is treacherous. And our street is the last one in the city to get plowed. Luckily I work from home, so this has not affected my livelihood (although Yahoo! did the other day. To their partial credit, they fixed it, but that was scary).

I'm jonesin' for some Szechaun chicken for lunch today, and it just won't happen. The place is too far, and the only thing that can be delivered around here is pizza. And, sorry Domino's, I don't want it.

I do, however, enjoy the mob mentality at the grocery stores the day before a big storm. It's like Armageddon....the shelves are wiped clean. It feels like you wake up in Whoville on Christmas morning ("...The Grinch even took the last can of Who-Hash").

Also, I miss you, NYC, because you never let a little nor'easter get you down. And if you did, you slapped on your snow boots and walked to the park. There is definitely something to be said about underground transportation as well.

Please spring. Come soon.

The douchebagginess begins

2008-02-12T10:39:00.000-05:00

Seriously, how unoriginally lame can one be?

And later, the story of AVD and how it became a tradition.....

On purpose?

2008-02-11T15:50:00.000-05:00

So why is it that every picture of a campaigning candidate is Hilary with some unfortunate candid look on her face. Like this, from the New York Times today.

Where are the funny glimpses of Barak or McCain? Is it because she's a woman? Or is it because she's a polarizing woman? Or is it because her tough facade is hard to crack, and the media wants to do all they can to abuse her? I mean, what woman likes a bad picture of herself? (Britney Spears, you are hereby removed from this conversation).

Is the media ganging up on her? Hilary is a fairly photogenic person (let's try to forget about her first few years as First Lady, before the hair cut and makeover). So why do they pick on her with bad photos? Or is it only a bad photo because she's a woman?

I mean, there are plenty of stupid-looking pictures of George Bush with his little cowboy sneer or monkey lips. But it never makes me think of him differently politically. This photo of Hilary annoys me and it makes me dislike her just a bit.

Is this on purpose? Talk amongst yourselves...

The election plot thickens

2008-02-07T14:15:00.000-05:00

So Romney's out. Huh. Now unless Huckabee blows ahead in some crazy blaze of scary insanity, I could actually tolerate having McCain in office. I won't vote for him, and am still pretty turned off by his move to the evil bedsheets of our current president, after said President royally screwed him over in the 2000 GOP nom, but IF he happened to be elected, it definitely would not be the worst Republican that could be in the White House. He is moderate on many issues, and has done some good things in his tenure in the Senate. He also fought in Vietnam and was imprisoned and tortured as a result, and I'm all for anyone with an actual service background (at least in the GOP), who didn't try to get out of actual fighting with the help of his powerful father.

However, I will vote democratically, but am very down the middle as to which candidate I prefer at the moment. Since I'm no longer living in NY and was only a registered party member there, my vote won't count in the primary this year, which is fine. I'm actually so firmly against the primary/electoral college/delegate process, maybe I should register as an independent from now on anyway.

So, I've kind of passed my civic buck at the moment, not voting in a primary. But whichever Dem is on the ballot in November gets my tick.

I'm just saying, in a worst-case scenario for me, as a democratic voter, McCain is not the scariest option (thank goodness Rudy is out. Yikes.).

I'm just waiting for Bloomberg for Prez. Then we'll talk.

The Dark Knight

2008-02-06T13:54:00.000-05:00

Batman returns, and
I
Can't
WAIT...

Dark Knight Trailer

Like mother, like daughter

2008-02-04T20:42:00.000-05:00

Does anyone else agree with me in that the new Kate Hudson/Matthew McConaughey vehicle, Fool's Gold, look surprisingly like a less-good version of the classic Goldie Hawn/Kurt Russell vehicle Overboard. However, the fact that they're keeping it in the family I can appreciate.

Premise: Rich blonde woman attempts to screw over dull poor guy, who then proceeds to screw rich lady both literally and figuratively. However, in Overboard, we have a dash of amnesia suffered by Goldie, so she doesn't actually remember screwing over dull guy, but he doesn't soon forget. Hijinx ensue at her expense, but then the poor schlub falls in love with her. And...scene.

It looks like Fool's Gold is a poor man's imitation, since I'll take Goldie Hawn with plates glued to her hands while helping design a miniature golf course any day of the week (you must see it to believe it). Also, I get sucked into watching it every magical time it's on TNT or TBS.

There's this thing called the internet...

2008-01-29T13:21:00.000-05:00

There are two parts of the internet that literally astound me every time I sit down to actually think about them. Sure, emailing is key, and getting information is wonderful. But those things were easy enough before (remember actually writing letters and reading the newspaper? Yeah.)

The two most amazing occurrences on the internet are Maps and Job Searches. I was just chatting with my friend and wondered, "How did anyone find a job before the internet?" He aptly replied "It's probably why people stayed at the same company their whole lives." This, I think, is true. I think it's also why urban areas are being revitalized and former dead zones in the US are now booming (case in point, the good ol' desert of the Southwest). There are more opportunities for people to move out of their comfort zone of home, and see what the world has to offer. As I am currently self-employed (fancy terminology for being broke, but loving it), I can literally pick up and move anywhere. With the beauty of Craigslist, I can find a sublet or temporary housing with the click of a mouse.

As far as maps, sure I can read a map. But ohmigod, mapping things on Google Maps or MapQuest is so beyond better, because it's a no-brainer, and it tells you exactly where to go. And you know we all love those faux-directions they give like "slight left at ramp" which literally means, merge onto the ramp. A little less specifics wouldn't be so bad, but still. And I know that in maybe the next 10 years, we're all going to consider the Google Map satellite function as an invasion of privacy, it's pretty sweet to be able to check out IN REAL TIME what a neighborhood looks like. I checked out a new Google Map function today while perusing Craigslist for an apartment. They now have a little tab called "Street View." I can click on that, zoom in, and voila, look at THE BUILDING I AM THINKING OF LIVING IN.

Holy fuck. I just reblew my own mind. God love you, dear internet. Now, bring me some cake, dammit!

Over the Rhine redux

2008-01-21T22:57:00.000-05:00

I happened to have "Brothers and Sisters" on TV last night (I have heard good things about the show, but cannot commit to another drama for the season - I am fully stocked with "Gossip Girl" and "Law & Order: SVU") and I was beyond thrilled to hear an Over the Rhine song playing in a scene! It's not one of my favorite songs by them, but a good one nonetheless, and it was playing loudly enough that it didn't fade into the background.

SIDENOTE: "Felicity" wins, hands-down, for having the best OTR song in one of the most appropriate scenes. I think it was in the second-to-last season and one of the cast members leaves a goodbye video. You'll have to traverse IMDB for the full details.

If you'd like to check it out, it should be on iTunes or their website. Title: "Born."

More on my misadventures in Michigan very soon!

CNN.com foils me again!

2007-12-21T10:25:00.000-05:00

Well, at least it's not my home page on my personal computer. However, the lame headlines at CNN.com do intrigue me at times, and I cave - even if it's just clicking through to read the lame first 3 sentences (I don't mess with the crap "Story Highlights" mumbo-jumbo). But the one feature that I find myself obsessed with and not being able to turn away from are the photos. When I see that arrow within a story that shows more than one picture is available, it's the jackpot.

I guess since I don't read tabloids (I refuse to pay $4 for a magazine that is all pictures of celebs, although I will glance at one now and again at, say, the gym, or on a long flight), it's my fix.

Sidenote: It's the darkest evening of the year. And The Darkest Night of the Year goes to Over the Rhine, my favorite band's lovely holiday album. Their original song "Mary's Waltz" is gorgeous.

Rip Van Winkle

2007-12-19T17:20:00.000-05:00

These days, you can call me Rip Van Winkle or Sleeping Beauty. Basically, I have been back to the humbling midwest for 49 days (more than a month, not quite 2). The New York pining has begun....in bits and pieces. There will always be things I miss about New York - the pizza, the bagels, my friends, the food choices, the walking everywhere, running in Central Park, NYSC, 3 Banana Republic's with amazing sale selections within a 10-block radius of my apt, etc.

Sidenote: Bagels are so mediocre here, and just not quite "right" that they must be toasted. And I have caved in to this.

But back to my post. The thing I absolutely, in no way whatsoever, don't miss is lack of sleep. I actually never really realized how sleep-deprived I was in NY until I came back here. In NY, I would get up one, sometimes two times a night to go to the bathroom because I was awakened by something - car, alarm, loud building tenants, dog barking, garbage truck, yelling, etc. I was in a constant state of exhaustion, no matter how much sleep I got.

Now, in the 49 days that I've been back, I dream again (I kind of want to stop remembering them, as they are fucked up and very macabre. I am positive that Tim Burton directs them), and sleep soundly. In fact, I'm so rested, I don't find myself needing that mid-afternoon caffeine fix anymore. It's quite pleasant.

All said, I do look forward to the day when a 4 AM sanitation truck rumbling my windows wakes me again. I do love me some big-city-livin'. But I also like catching up on 7 years of sleep deprivation.

QVC

2007-12-18T16:52:00.000-05:00

Lately, I have been flipping through the 5 or so TV shopping channels that are at the beginning of the channel lineup these days. This was the predecessor to internet shopping. Now, having worked in the book biz, we like these shows - they still sell a crapload of books. Who's buying, who knows? I don't know how you can even watch these channels for more than a minute because they stuff they sell is some of the most hideous garbage I have EVER seen.

Ok, to their credit, there is some decent stuff for sale. The skin care lines and make-up lines seem to be doing well. And at least it's name brand stuff. But who thinks the jewelry is attractive? The clothing? It looks old-ladylike and costume-y. Maybe it's just because I'm over gold jewelry. But the combinations of stones they put together...they must be designed by someone who's color-blind.

This is what my life has bubbled down to. Blogging about QVC. Yikes.

I'm back!

2007-12-18T16:30:00.000-05:00

More in the next post...at least it's not a New Year's Resolution this year! I'm going out with a bang, baby....

Save the books!

2007-04-24T09:00:00.000-04:00

Books are an endangered species. Well, not books per se - believe me, we publish more and more of them every year. But book coverage is shrinking - already in the last year we've (collective we, as in "the book publishing industry," of which I am part of) seen 4 major metro newspaper nix coverage altogether. And now, the latest casualty, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. But finally, an uproar!

The industry will not take this. Already I see more reviews and coverage of video games than books anymore. It's an uphill battle that I wage daily, as a publicist who's main job description is to get review coverage for books. In the more than 6 years that I have been in this industry, I've seen it change dramatically - for the better and worse. I won't get into the boring details here.

But, if you read books, as I do, or you like books, or even if you just use them to wipe your ass (blasphemy!), sign the petition to save book coverage (and perhaps, books) here.

And after that, read a hilarious posting from one of my favorite all-around great authors (and people) George Saunders, certified genius. And join his Army here.

CNN NOT Breaking News

2007-04-10T16:32:00.000-04:00

Contrary to popular belief, this is not breaking news, CNN. Or anyone else for that matter, unless you're a tabloid.

Are we fighting a war here, people, or what?!

Happy 20th, Fox!

2007-04-05T16:17:00.000-04:00

Dear Fox,
Thank you for bringing us Married, With Children, the Gary Shandling Show, the Tracey Ullman Show, and the Simpsons (and more recently Arrested Development).

Sorry you ever went to the dark side and had to bring us Bill O'Reilly and Geraldo, and Joe Millionaire, and I Want to Marry a Millionaire and other crappy reality shows.

So fondly I remember Al Bundy and Francesca. Happy birthday!

The Latin Mint

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

So who knew? Tic Tacs are a product of Ecuador (says so right on the package).

Damn I love the orange ones. So un-minty, but sweetly delicious for just 1.9 calories per mint! Sugar kick, hi-yaaaaaaaaaaaa!

Crap, I also can't stop eating them.

I love you FCC!

2007-04-04T10:33:00.000-04:00

Finally, the FCC does something smart by banning cell phone use on airplanes!

Just having to deal with morons talking on their cell phones on city buses, which is the most annoying thing ever (and don't even get me started on the dumb girl behind me in the lunch line yesterday who was talking to someone about what to get for lunch...lame!), the air travel cell phone debacle would be disruptive an unbearable. Especially when you think about how loudly people would have to talk to be heard over the plane noise. I know I have to crank my headphones when I'm on a plane because of this large, noise-inducer called an engine.

Let's hope this rule sticks (and if the FAA can please just relax the damn carry on rules so I don't have to check everything? Thanks).

Crazy Train Rides Again

2007-04-02T11:18:00.000-04:00

I'm just thrilled (sense the sarcasm) to see that batshit Judith Regan is back. And clearly more childish and moronic than ever. Goodie gumdrops! Crash and burn, lady, crash and burn!

Regan Launches New Venture
Judith Regan, whose publishing company was shut down last December by imprint HarperCollins, has founded a new publishing venture. Like ReganBooks, Chutzpah Press will specialize in what Regan, in a long, rambling statement, called "books that go to the edge, call into question, get in the face, never surrender and are distinguished by utter originality."
Chutzpah's first title, scheduled to be released in the second half of July, is called Harry Potter and the Secret of the Purpose-Driven Da Vinci Code Life.Chutzpah's literary imprint, Schizophrenic House, has already signed up several volumes of poetry and thoughtful first fiction.
In her announcement, Reagan also complained of being unfairly forced to stay after school one day in fourth grade.

JT brings sexy, etc. back

2007-03-26T20:51:00.000-04:00

So I am clearly way slow on the curve here (and I'm still one of the people who generally watches SNL), but this is some of the most hilarious shit ever.

Checkit.

Oh happy day!

2007-03-01T12:52:00.000-05:00

Well, I sure as hell wish I was in Iceland or Scotland today, because they have some stellar holidays today:

Scotland: Whuppity Scoorie
Iceland: Beer Day

Well, Iceland's holiday is self-explanatory. And I like it! But what is this "Whuppity Scoorie" in Scotland? These are the people who came up with haggis and kilts, so lord knows.

Well, after some sleuthing, I discovered the basic gist of Whuppity Scoorie:

It's an ancient Scottish custom (possibly Pagan) marking the rite of spring, and youths celebrate it by running around the church three times, while swinging balls made of paper round their heads, and afterwards, pick up coins being thrown to them by the organizers of the festival (aka the church). Also, the balls are called widdershins. The lingo is all very Harry Potter or Dr Seuss (speaking of Dr Seuss, today is the 50th Anniversary of The Cat in the Hat!).

Balls and coins? Sounds like Mardi Gras to me.

Spamburger Hamburger!

2007-02-26T11:20:00.000-05:00

Who knew Spam was so revered! I mean, it's not as good as bacon, but I've been known to enjoy it in days of yore...and had the t-shirt to prove it.

From Reference.com
Fact of the Day: Spam

SPAM, the treat made from pork shoulder and ham with secret spices, was invented in Austin, Minnesota, in 1937 by Jay C. Hormel; his father, George A. Hormel, was founder of the company that produced the food. Since its introduction, more than six billion 12-ounce cans of SPAM have been produced. J.C. Hormel wanted a unique name for the product, which was originally called Hormel Spiced Ham, and held a naming contest. Kenneth Daigneau, an actor and the brother of a Hormel vice president, won the $100 prize for the name SPAM, which he made by combining the words spice and ham. The number one SPAM-consuming state in the U.S. is Hawaii, whose residents eat more than four cans per person annually. Nikita Khrushchev, leader of the former Soviet Union, credited SPAM for saving his army during WWII. SPAM is the butt of many jokes, but is taken seriously enough by some to have inspired a 16,500-foot SPAM museum in Austin, Minnesota (opened in 2001) and an official SPAM Fan Club.

Make fat lazy kids even lazier (but sans fat)!

2007-02-07T12:55:00.000-05:00

Now this is ridiculous on many levels. First, why would you put your child at risk for this type of surgery? Second, get off your couch and exercise. I am sick of an easy fix for everything in this country. What happened to the old American motto of work hard for what you get?

We're a coddled, overmedicated, overfed, overindulged, lazy society who thinks everything is owed to us and should be served on a silver platter. Holding some extra weight? Don't try to eat healthier, or exercise, exert some effort or some control over your appetite. Just go under the knife! Easy-peasy!

Aw, you went to college, and now have a lame entry-level job? Sure, have mom and dad support you while you live in a major urban area and drop cash on bottle service at clubs and cabs, so you can wear your $500 Manolos to work (that your parents also paid for).

You know, some of us still have to work, and work hard for things in our lives. I will never take for granted the weight I'm currently losing, on my own, through a combo of diet and exercise. I want to do it on my own. How much sweeter it will be when I've reached my goal. And it's hard. But life is.

And I've been living in the most expensive city in the country (and one of the most in the world), where I started on a $25,000 a year salary. Sure, I've run up credit card debt and have struggled every minute I've been here, even taking a part-time job and babysitting gigs. And I'm currently sick of being poor. But through actual hard work, and fighting for what's deservedly mine in my job, I've been promoted, and my salary has increased. It's so much better having earned it on my own merits. My parents would never let me starve, but they didn't have the means to pasome exorbitant rent for me, just so I could live in a hip neighborhood, or a doorman building, or a huge swanky loft.

I'm glad I at least have a reality check. I'm sick of people who don't. They're detrimental to society.

The least of our worries

2007-02-01T10:01:00.000-05:00

Ok, perhaps this stunt by the Cartoon Network was in poor taste.

But I think it is absolutely absurd that the two guys (who are probably lower level employees with the marketing firm) who were chosen to place them in locations are being arrested. I mean, the were just the messenger - I think the big guys should be more resposible than the poor worker bees.

Also, isn't this just a bit overreacting? I mean, it was basically a flashing Lite-Brite. Come on people, paranoid, some?

The Super Bowl drivel begins

2007-01-31T10:06:00.000-05:00

You know who's not funny? Mo Rocca.

You know who has a Super Bowl column in USA Today? Same un-funny man.

I guess I have to give the guy credit for becoming an ultra-talking head. I mean, he comments on everything from Iron Chef to the Super Bowl. Too bad none of it is worth listening to.

Say it ain't so

2007-01-12T10:31:00.000-05:00

Sadly, I don't generally care about celebrities. I hate tabloids and reality TV (though on occasion, have been known to leaf through a tabloid when faced with no other option, hypocritcial, I know).

However, the official break-up of Cameron Diaz and Justin Timberlake saddens me a bit. They were the long haul (3+ years). They seemed like the real deal. And I basically think the both of them, for celebrities, seem fairly grounded and are really funny (JT kills when he hosts SNL, Cameron is goofy in a funny way).

Another one bites the dust...

De-Pants

2007-01-11T09:31:00.000-05:00

I'll make sure I'm not on or near the 6 train tomorrow afternoon (from DailyCandy):

Annual No Pants Subway Ride
What: Wear normal winter clothes, swipe your MetroCard, ride the 6 train, then take ’em off.
Why: You’ve seen London. You’ve seen France.
When: Sat., 3 p.m. sharp!
Where: Meet near the black sculpture at Foley Sq., b/t Centre & Lafayette Sts.
Click here for a map.

Snow!

2007-01-10T09:50:00.000-05:00

Finally, snow! Well, it lasted a total of about 3 minutes, but there were definitely flurries coming down.

We finally broke the record of most days without snowfall in 128 years (January 4 was the day).

So fleeting, but a nice sight!

Oh happy day!

2007-01-05T09:17:00.000-05:00

Just scored a total coup on concert tickets, and couldn't be happier this Friday morning. Arcade Fire, here I come on Feb. 13! 5 shows sold out in 10 minutes.

Of course, in hindsight, I probably should have bought an extra ticket, and could have sold it for a profit. Not so together after all this morning, I guess.

Moron of the Week

2007-01-03T13:10:00.000-05:00

So soon into the new year, and we already have a moron for the week!

Don't people check their airline tickets before clicking on submit???

Supermorons

2007-01-01T22:29:00.000-05:00

So I was just futzing around my pad on this ultra-lazy last day of vacation (so very very sad) and happened to start watching the TV show "Supernanny." And holy shit. These kids are bad. But the parents are IDIOTS. I mean, it's really appalling how clueless they are and how they let their kids walk all over them. And let them get away with so much.

It's frightening that they're allowed to parent - I can't even imagine how these kids act in school. I would hate to be that teacher. Yikes!

2007 is almost a day old!

2007-01-01T22:28:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! Let's hope it's a good one!

So long, 2006

2006-12-31T14:21:00.000-05:00

Another year over. Aside from some unforeseen expenses courtesy of my crappy dental insurance and the removal of my one and only wisdom tooth, the year was fairly good and practically uneventful. Some observances:

I saw more friends get married and got to spend some time in the stupendous Pacific Northwest because of it. Two cousins also got hitched. It was my ten-year high school reunion. I saw friends I hadn't seen in a while. I spent some time in northern Michigan, which is quickly becoming one of my favorite places on the planet.

I saw my grandmother surprised on her 80th birthday, and welcome her 4th great-grandchild into the world. I watched my younger brother and his wife buy their first house. I saw my dad become jobless for a few months for the best possible reason - standing up for himself and personal pride. He's my hero. I heard of home improvement stories from my parents in Ohio, and enjoyed them during my 11-day stay over the holidays.

I read 31 books. I watched numerous movies from Netflix. I got hooked on "Veronica Mars." Gray's Anatomy wooed me all over. I drank lots of wine and visited vineyards on Long Island (NY), the Leelenau Peninsula (MI), and Columbia Valley (WA). I found new exercise loves in spinning and pilates. I gained a little weight - and will remedy that in 2007. I chopped my hair off.

I spent time with those who matter - boyfriend, friends, and family. Nothing earth-shattering or really life-changing. But it was a good year. I look forward to ringing in 2007 (that one will be earth-shattering/life-changing) at a good friend's apartment tonight. I'll toast with some bubbly at midnight. And smooch my boy.

And tomorrow, I root for U of M in the Rose Bowl.

Happy New Year!

Home Sweet Home

2006-12-18T20:01:00.000-05:00

Well, I have little to blog about as I'm home for the holidays. No crazies on the subway, no bitching about inanities special to the city, barely reading the news or surfing crazy shit on the internet.

However, I will say "Schadenfreude!" to that whoremonger Judith Regan.

Oh, and I'm drinking lots of wine. And I got a delicious Mocha Porter from Rogue Brewery as well.

I also saw "The Holiday" this morning - a matinee for only $6.75, woo! And it was just delightful. For those of you who have seen it, I thought the Iris-Arthur friendship was just the most endearing thing. Kudos to Nancy Meyer for that.

My boring life. I love it at the moment. Days of doing nothing, a cure for the blahs indeed!

Best Christmas Story re-enactment ever

2006-12-12T20:59:00.000-05:00

Enjoy - profusely.

I love those bunnies!

Happy Birthday Bob!

2006-12-12T10:34:00.000-05:00

Don't forget to get your pets spayed and neutered....

It's my favorite game show host's birthday today!

Bob Barker was born on this day in 1925.

Spin the wheel!

Conan Rules

2006-12-11T22:19:00.000-05:00

I am behind on this (the Times beat me to it, perish!) but I don't watch late-night TV. However, I do think Conan's show is brilliant and witty, and he epitomizes that with this, his new kitsch, Horny Manatee.

Check the site above. Do not attept this at your place of business.

This day in history

2006-12-08T09:51:00.000-05:00

Jim Morrison was born. (1943)

John Lennon was killed. (1980)

The Grateful Dead broke up. (1995)

The U.S. entered WWII after the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. (Dec. 7, 1941)

Quite an eventful date, especially for the music world.

nacHOS...in Diff'rent Area Codes...

2006-12-06T16:54:00.000-05:00

It's time again. To travel to New Jersey for nachos. To go from 212 to 201. From 10014 to 07032.

Lisa and I will make the pilgimmage. And come back deliriously happy, courtesy of the LBC (aka The Black Bear).

Moron of the Week Award

2006-12-06T11:13:00.000-05:00

Granted, I probably run into someone deserving of this distinction several times a day, but this woman really wins.

You just don't mess around with matches on a plane these days, even to curb your poopypants stench. Just apologize to the person rolling in after you. Don't disrupt the flight.

Weeds

2006-12-04T21:33:00.000-05:00

For those of you have not had the pleasure of tuning into Showtime's new-ish series "Weeds," do it this minute. The second season is available on-demand for those of you lucky enough to have it (I catch up on Season 2 while babysitting, since I don't have cable - for the best really), and the first season you can rent on DVD.

It's hilarious, edgy, dark, wacky - and follows a pot-dealing suburban widow on her quest to keep her family thriving with her business.

Mary Louise Parker carries the show brilliantly, but the ensemble cast is key. If Elizabeth Perkins does not get an Emmy nod for this show, there is something wrong. Kevin Nealon is great as a major jack-ass pothead.

I really can't say enough - if you're a fan of Entourage, The Office, Little Britain, Arrested Development, hit it. It's more twisted, but great satire and really smart writing.

Rose Bowl-bound

2006-12-04T14:23:00.000-05:00

I just have a small comment t0 finish my U of M rant for this season.

Michigan was robbed of a rematch for the BCS National Title game against OSU.

I thought I would never say this in my whole life, but I hope OSU slays the Gators. Like, wins by 40 points. Florida's only loss was to a #11 ranked team - Michigan's only loss was the to the #1 team in the nation (OSU), and by a measly field goal. Michigan deserved the Buckeye rematch in Glendale.

However, it's now a rematch in Pasadena against USC, a team I hate almost as much as OSU (and forevermore now, Florida). USC beat the crap out of us in 2004, so now, let's show them who really deserved to be in the BCS game.

Hail to the Victors.

Clinton '08

2006-11-30T16:11:00.000-05:00

How much more love can I have for Bill Clinton? He's just cut a deal to make HIV drugs more affordable for children around the world, especially in third world countries. That's noble.

He's almost even better not as a president. I'm sure people will say that about GW, but for completely different reasons.

I think it should be a family ticket in '08 - Hill for prez, Bill for V-P.

And by the way....

2006-11-30T10:43:00.000-05:00

Paris Hilton is a skanky homewrecker.

But that's not really news...neither is the fact that Brit herself has had her ups and downs. But come on....nothing good comes of being friends with that lazy-eyed ho.

When I wake up in the mornin', the alarm gives out a warnin', I don't think I'll ever make it on time...

2006-11-30T10:30:00.000-05:00

Come on, you all know those lyrics! It's from "Saved By the Bell!" We all watched it on Saturday mornings. Best. Show. EVER.

Well, I just might have to check out the new musical this weekend.

Rid yourself of junk mail!

2006-11-29T10:22:00.000-05:00

Greendimes has an utterly brilliant idea. Considering I am in a constant state of poor, I am considering throwing them $36 a year to deal with my junk mail and plant a tree instead. Especially because yesterday I got some random sports equipment catalog, courtesy of my name being sold to this company from some random list. At least spam doesn't waste paper.

I'm also sick of shredding all that crap, especially credit card applications. I get like 4 a day.

Give the gift of green!

It's gonna rain on my parade

2006-11-22T14:22:00.000-05:00

Well, the parade is out. The Thanksgiving trifecta, me, Jason, and Lisa, were going to venture to 76th and Central Park West to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, per tradition for us New York Oprhans (as I affectionately call us). Last week, all was looking good, weather-wise. 52 and sunny. NICE. Yeah, not so much anymore. It's gonna rain all damn day.

I'm a little broken up, but not overly so. I have seen this parade LIVE 5 times now. And I just won't be able to deal in the freezing rain, with umbrellas. I don't want to lose an eye - I have cooking to do.

So instead, Jason and I will sleep in after our Thanksgiving Eve drinking night out, and perhaps watch some of the parade on the couch in our PJs with some caffeine, to gear up for the day of drinking, movie-watching, and all around gluttony that awaits us at our gracious host Lisa's apartment.

I am so very excited. Especially for the holiday movies. And did I mention the drinking?

Happy Turkey to all!

The shit finally sticks

2006-11-20T15:47:00.000-05:00

Finally, the disgusting fembot Judith Regan jumps the shark, after NewsCorp. cancels the farce she called a book, O.J.'s pseudo-hypothetical "confession."

Now that's justice!

Blame It On the Rain

2006-11-20T11:49:00.000-05:00

On yesterday's date in history (November 19):

1990 - The pop duo Milli Vanilli was stripped of its Grammy Award because other singers sung the songs on their "Girl You Know It's True" album.

I still have the tape. We had a little Friday afternoon sing-a-along resurgence in college with a few of the tunes also. Good times.

Heartbroken

2006-11-18T23:51:00.000-05:00

But they'll be back next year. And OSU will be at a loss.

Bo Knows...it's time to kick some Nuts

2006-11-17T13:45:00.000-05:00

My friend Dan sums it up best here.

A fond and sad farewell to one of the greats. We love ya, Bo!

Rivalry Rages On

2006-11-17T09:47:00.000-05:00

A good piece on NPR this morning about the clash of the Titans this weekend.

Also, my mom informs me she had the joy of listening to OSU fight songs all morning on our local radio station (my parents are, unfortunately, transplanted Michiganders living in Ohio - unfortunately for sports and political reasons). I mean, come on! Their fight songs aren't even that good. And they totally stole "Louie, Louie" as their "theme song."

And pathetically enough, dotting the "i" is the most orgasmic moment an OSU tuba player can have in his life. I mean, after that, your life is done. Lame!

POSTSCRIPT: I realized my mistake last week in claiming "Louie Louie" was the theme song. I stand corrected, as my sis-in-law Sarah pointed out, it's "Hang on Sloopy." Then they do that "O-HI-O" thing after the refrain. Similar to "Cherry Cherry" and the LetsGetDrunkblahblah chant.

Those Scary Buckeyes

2006-11-16T10:46:00.000-05:00

My avid Michigan fan Lisa sent me something from her mother this morning, detailing cautions that the University of Michigan is passing along to those attending the big game at Ohio State in Columbus this weekend. She writes:

"Did you hear about the email that U of M sent out? They're urging people not to drive cars with Michigan license plates, urging them not to wear any maize and blue, and to ignore any provocations. In addition to that, Ohio State is organizing volunteers to escort the Michigan fans from the tailgate area to the stadium and back. U of M campus police are going to Columbus this year to protect the Michigan fans--who have been given their cell phone numbers and are being told not to wait, but to call 911 at the first sign of trouble."

This sportwriter in Ann Arbor, and in Detroit detail those scary Bucks fans even further.

And to add my own footnote, we were practically thrown into a brawl 2 years ago at an Upper East Side bar that had been Michigan-friendly the previous year. But in 2004, the OSU alumni association had decided to make that bar one of their "OSU bars," thereby letting all OSU fans know they would be in good company.

While one group sitting next to us (they were older, and therefor a bit more mature) were perfectly fine, reasonable, even nice people, we were mocked, threatened, and goaded just so the Bucks fans could be assholes (as U of M was losing most of the game) and seriously were a bit afraid of what those crazy shits would do to us, whether U of M won or lost. It's just dispicable behavior, and truly unsportsman-like. I find Yankees fans to be of the same vein when I attended a game this summer, bearating a 60-year-old man with profanity for wearing a Tigers hat (which he played off very well and made them look ignorant, as they clearly were).

A good rivalry is fun, but when you start fearing for your life by showing team spirit, there's a bigger problem. Maybe it's because their mascot is a giant HAIRLESS NUT, and they feel inadequate. I guess to be fair, it's poisonous - just like the fans behavior.

Nice necklace, by the way. I've always wanted to hang a bunch of nuts around my neck. But then again, those OSU fans are used to nuts up in their grill.

Down with O.J.

2006-11-15T10:42:00.000-05:00

Wow, lots to blog about today!

I guess if you're guilty as sin, it would be pretty easy to write a book about how you killed your ex-wife and her lover.

O.J. is one crazy dispicable shit. But Judith Regan is utterly abhorrant and lives up to her crazy train billing for publishing the book and producing this mini-series. Let's hope it doesn't sell - hasn't he profitted enough from their deaths, not to mention the fact that he got off scot-free?

A Buckeye is a Hairless Nut

2006-11-15T10:20:00.000-05:00

For what's turning out to be the biggest game in UM-OSU history (based solely on rankings), I pass along a little joy as we gear up for some old-school Wolverine ass-kicking on Saturday.

Three football fans were on their way to a game when one noticed a foot sticking
out of the bushes by the side of the road. They stopped and discovered a nude
female, dead drunk. Out of respect and propriety, the Michigan fan took off his
cap and placed it over her right breast. The Michigan State fan took off his cap
and placed it over her left breast. Following their lead, the Ohio State fan
took off his cap and placed it over her crotch. The police were called and when
the officer arrived, he conducted his inspection. First, he lifted up the
Michigan cap, replaced it and wrote down some notes. Next, he lifted the
Michigan State cap, replaced it and wrote down some more notes. The officer then
lifted the Ohio State cap, replaced it, then lifted it again, replaced it,
lifted it a third time, and replaced it one last time. The Buckeye fan was
getting upset and finally asked, "What are you, a pervert or something?" "Why do
you keep lifting and looking, lifting and looking? "Well," said the officer.
"I'm confused; normally when I look under a Ohio State hat, I find an asshole."

American Un-Idol

2006-11-15T10:03:00.000-05:00

On what was destined to just be one of those awful commutes this morning, where everything was running slow and stupid, of course I had to deal with the world's most confident bad singer.

After waiting for 3 packed trains before finally boarding, I was lucky enough to be just a few seats away from a teenager who clearly thinks he is the next American Idol, since he did not stop singing for the entire, long, slow, painful 30-minute train ride.

Problem was, he sucked. AND, he couldn't even keep a rhythm - I don't think he could have snapped his fingers to the beat had a gun been pointed to his head. I have new respect for subway muscians, who, while often annoying and loud, at least can hold a tune (especially those mariachi guys, they're my guilty pleasure!). Granted this kid wasn't looking for cash, just a major amount of attention, but please, not at 9 AM on a crowded 6 train.

Lap of Luxury

2006-11-06T10:04:00.000-05:00

9:22 AM (approx), Houston and Thompson St, West Village.

Lexus SUV NYC Yellow Cab.

So now you can literally ride in luxury in a Yellow Cab in NYC? I'm intrigued.....and totally want to ride in one!

On an unrelated note, Bridget Rockstar finished the NYC Marathon yesterday!!!!!! She's my hero!!!!!!!

Words that need to be resurrected

2006-11-03T15:09:00.000-05:00

Bitchin'
Boss
Heebie Jeebies
Righteous

More to come....

Crazier than a shithouse rat, Part 3

2006-11-02T21:17:00.000-05:00

How in THE HELL does shit not stick to this man?

Even I'm starting to think maybe there's something to this Scientology mumbo-jumbo....

From Sea to Shining Sea (until they tear a hole in an oil tanker)

2006-11-01T09:43:00.000-05:00

Let's just discuss one of the most under-reported story from the last 2 weeks or so. The fact the Exxon Mobile, in a quarter where gas prices were the highest they've ever been, earned near-record profits of $8.4 billion.

There's a problem here. But I'm sure there's absolutely no WAY that the oil lobby is putting dimes in the GOPs pockets. Why, that would seem unethical, no?

Sad end to a grand era

2006-10-31T21:23:00.000-05:00

Game shows are over as we know it. Bob Barker is retiring from "The Price Is Right" in June, at the ripe young age of 83.

I used to watch this show with my grandpa - he loved it. He'd work on his Rubik's Cube while watching. It was always our bonding time. I still watch it today if I'm home during the day.

I am truly sad.

Shake Your Money Maker

2006-10-25T10:20:00.000-04:00

This is quite possibly the most amazing thing ever:

http://www.dancesisterdance.com/myvid/index.php?v=c893e48c39e90

Make your own here!

Who knew?!

2006-10-24T11:00:00.000-04:00

Fact of the Day: (from reference.com)

Lincoln Logs were invented by John Lloyd Wright, the son of famous American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The inspiration for Lincoln Logs came in 1916 when 24-year-old John took a trip to Tokyo, Japan, where Frank Lloyd Wright was building the Imperial Hotel. John watched workers build the earthquake-proof structure using the revolutionary technique of interlocking beams. When John returned to America, he created Lincoln Logs, which were named for President Abraham Lincoln and originally made of redwood.

Karma's a bitch, ain't it?

2006-10-23T16:25:00.000-04:00

Former Enron CEO Jeffrey Skilling has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for his role in one of the biggest corporate scandals in U.S. history, CNN confirms.

It's a shame he couldn't suffer as much as the people's lives he's ruined, but I'll say that's a bit of retribution.

Mind-boggling

2006-10-18T10:45:00.000-04:00

You wanna hear something fascinating? Of course you do, why else do you read this blog?!

The Peter Cooper Village housing complex here in New York City was just sold to a private management company for $5.4 BILLION dollars (no, this is not Austin Powers). It's claimed to be the largest real estate sale in U.S. history.

Let's just put that into perspective. On this day in 1867, a mere 139 years ago, the U.S. took formal possession of Alaska from Russia. It had cost $7.2 million.

So, not taking into effect inflation (which, somehow, I still think might be less), we bought an ENTIRE GIGANTIC COUNTRY for $800 million LESS than an 80-acre apartment complex in the East Village in Manhattan, where only one subway goes.

Crazier than a shithouse rat, Part 2

2006-10-17T10:45:00.000-04:00

Huh. We all knew Mike Tyson was a total nutjob, but this brings him to a whole new level of crazy.

Fighting women? Well, let's just hope if any female takes him up on it, they kick the shit out of him, scumbag misogynist wifebeater.

So do you think he believes in Title IX, or just wants some publicity in order to get a new reality show, "Fight that Bitch"?

Show some love for the D (and get your mind out the gutter)

2006-10-16T14:21:00.000-04:00

This simply can't go without being mentioned:

The Detroit Tigers are going to their first World Series in 22 years!

A nailbiter until the very end, they won the game with a 3-run homer, sweeping the A's in the series. It was the way a baseball game should be won.

I want to see a Mets-Tigers series - perennial underdogs making good on the season. I'm a Mets fan until they face off against the Tigers. Then, it's ROWR!

Dove Keeps it Real

2006-10-13T15:24:00.000-04:00

Now this, I love. Not to mention it's importance....

Go Tigers! Go Blue!

2006-10-13T10:31:00.000-04:00

Another fantastic sports weekend! Tigers play in Detroit this weekend. Let's hope the freak cold snap scares those Californians all the way back to the left coast.

Who's with me on a Tigers-Mets World Series? Bring it on!

And #4 Michigan at unranked Penn State Saturday night. Joe Paterno still kickin it. Right now, they're 3-0 in the Big Ten (#1 seed), 6-0 Season. I want an undefeated Michigan to meet an undefeated OSU on Nov. 23 and show those Thugeyes where it's at. Hail to the Victors!

My namesake, therefore, I make it

2006-10-11T10:46:00.000-04:00

Oh, it's ON.

The Tourist Trap of Texas

2006-10-11T10:10:00.000-04:00

I am sold on this place. Scuba diving in the desert?!

Now, just how difficult is it to get to far west Texas?

Crazier than a shithouse rat

2006-10-10T17:12:00.000-04:00

Well, as if the original flight and story she made up wasn't enough to convince us she was little less than sane, Runaway Bride Jennifer Wilbanks is now suing her ex-fiance for $500,000.

Thanks god he finally dumped her ass. Better off without her. Is is bad that I have no sympathy for this woman and think she absolutely deserves nothing from him. He became a laughing stock - all for the glory of love. She's just apeshit.

Ah, pre-feminism

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

This is rich. (Click on photo to enlarge)

Prize-Winning Indeed

2006-10-07T15:03:00.000-04:00

Check out the balls on this Ram - it won a prize at the Ohio State Fair. Must be for his sperm count.

Conundrum for Michiganders

2006-10-06T14:26:00.000-04:00

Actually, this is possibly the biggest conundrum in sports history (well, my sports history at least). And the Red Wings are playing at 7:30, althugh that won't really be televised out here in NY, where there are basically 4 local teams (Rangers, Islanders, Devils, and even Flyers).

Not to mention that my boyfriend is a monstrous Notre Dame fan, which poses its own problem, playing at 2:30. Stupid daylight savings time, Indiana.

Looks like another delicious fall Saturday stuck on the couch watching sports. I mean, what's better?!

And before you tell me I spelled Michiganders wrong, you're wrong.

Pot or Kettle?

2006-10-03T13:51:00.000-04:00

Isn't this statement from our pathetic president kind of like the pot calling the kettle black?

At least we (meaning dems) don't have a Representative on the committee for exploited children writing lewd emails and texts to undeage and impressionable pages on Capitol Hill. Nor do we have Jack Ambramhoff, lobbyist and lawbreaker extraordinaire. Nor do we have religious leaders confusing the voters into thinking that church and state actually, rightfully belong together. And don't even get me started on how Rumsfeld has zero business in the Pentagon.

Canada beckons....although their bacon isn't quite the same.

Why must people make airports MORE difficult?

2006-09-29T12:01:00.000-04:00

Now, who's the real idiot here?

My new love

2006-09-27T22:32:00.000-04:00

My current obsession, on the fantastic recommendation of my friend Lisa, is the TV show Veronica Mars. I'm currently halfway through Season 1 and am utterly hooked. Lisa told me to give it until at least the third episode, but I was enthralled after about 10 mins.

It's like a cooler, hipper version of Nancy Drew, another obsession I had as a kid. I think I read about 100 of the "new" Nancy Drew books between ages 10 and 13.

It's just a well-written, funny, smart, brilliantly woven show about a teenager who happens to be a detective on the sly. But it's got the rich-suburb setting that we all love in our teen dramas these days (see "The OC," "Laguna Beach," etc. But come, on, we know it all started with "90210").

Anyway, highly recommended if you like anything remotely intriguing and sassy, without having to be all Law and Order or CSI gruesome - a little more fun than that.

Fabu-bet!

2006-09-22T14:32:00.000-04:00

I opened a new mascara this morning, since my old L'Oreal Voluminous got the funk smell, and needed to be tossed. So I went back to a tube I had previously purchased, Revlon's Fabulash. You know, with Halle Berry in that lame commercial?

Regardless of the lameness of the commercial, I'm astounded once again at how much I love this mascara. It does everything I want it to without clumping, and looking natural, but better. It lengthens, and lushes, which is what I want my mascara to do. And at $7 a tube (or so), it can't be beat.

I love expensive mascaras. Lancome has THE BEST. But I, unlike many people, actually toss mine after the allotted three or so months (or funky smell). So I stick to drugstore brands instead of tossing $20 with the tube.

If you're looking for a good cheapie tube, go Fabulash. Try to ignore the commercial.

And wedding pics and more to come on Seattle in my next post...