tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16303844393838270402024-03-05T03:15:34.619-07:00And All That JazzAn honest take on motherhood, psychology, love, life and bohemianism. In support of music, film, art and the written word…and all that jazz!And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.comBlogger371125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-31441715952546226952011-11-25T09:21:00.000-07:002011-11-25T09:21:54.203-07:00Now, I want to puke...There are very few things in this world that disgust me. Rap-metal aside, I can stomach just about anything. And when I mean anything, I mean...I can watch back to back Tarantino, Rob Zombie and Hostel movies like they are Care Bear movies.<br />
Watching TV the other day with my 4 year old, a commercial aired that had me kind of grossed out.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>"Creepy Crawlers Incredible Edibles."</em></strong></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-grhDMO6JTKI/Ts_AGfql-oI/AAAAAAAADls/RmLKa6sfbYo/s1600/0039897275123-crop-325x325.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-grhDMO6JTKI/Ts_AGfql-oI/AAAAAAAADls/RmLKa6sfbYo/s400/0039897275123-crop-325x325.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Among the many great features, you can create <em>"disgusting and delicious body parts like slimy and gooey brains, hearts, eyeballs and more!" </em>And also, <em>"gross out your friends and family as you slurp and gulp down your hideous creations</em>!!" </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">No shit.</div><br />
Mission acomplished, Mattel. And what's funnier, these are sold at Toys R Us. Guess the ouija boards weren't selling like hotcakes anymore.<br />
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Am I a conservative mother? Ha! Hardly. Obviously, I understand this is a toy. But, really? <br />
I just cannot, for the LIFE of me, understand why children would want to eat body parts -- gummy or not. Why not just stick to the old time favorite (while still grossing people out) and just pick your nose?And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-47919741838560720912011-11-24T09:10:00.001-07:002011-11-25T11:32:18.365-07:00Thankful.<div style="text-align: center;">Hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This past week has reminded me of all the things I have to be thankful for. I am indeed grateful for the personal strength I have, the family and friends who surround me. the second (and third) chances I've been allowed and the life and opportunities I've been given.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Mostly, I am thankful for the gift of motherhood and my beautiful, little girl.</div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">XOXO,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And All That Jazz</div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-12600831819641151422011-11-11T05:50:00.000-07:002011-11-11T05:50:00.649-07:00One Proud Momma!<div style="text-align: center;">Check out my little munchkin. Like, seriously? I am overwhelmed at how amazing she is.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Am I bragging? You bet your sweet ass I am.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcHWtASOvR45JmW2ZrlnyY9KHMB2WuiYNv-iTo4SO-RaxPkY5zRro6KyQgmr8tQ-AehuwlzTiA9XoTCx0vRtf81eHJLZFYlbM9WdNdh6R-Fe7ppJ8v479OYyqMehqHgt79fe4jfIWIQiv5/s1600/383510_269550869756368_100001043727628_825360_1311137430_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcHWtASOvR45JmW2ZrlnyY9KHMB2WuiYNv-iTo4SO-RaxPkY5zRro6KyQgmr8tQ-AehuwlzTiA9XoTCx0vRtf81eHJLZFYlbM9WdNdh6R-Fe7ppJ8v479OYyqMehqHgt79fe4jfIWIQiv5/s640/383510_269550869756368_100001043727628_825360_1311137430_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-33809430421164811292011-11-07T05:33:00.007-07:002011-11-07T07:42:29.786-07:00November.November is a big bundle of feelings and emotions for me.<br />
<br />
On the one hand you have: Thanksgiving, the beginnings of Fall, the anticipation of Christmas and, my birthday. All fabulous things, obviously.<br />
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On the other hand, it's a time of sadness - there were two deaths (one 19 years ago, the other 14) that are still very poignant to me and make this month bittersweet for me, personally.<br />
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The death of a close friend who was a mainstay in my childhood, and, a musician who I'd loved for years; two people who I still think about a whole lot.<br />
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In remembrance of Stan Mason and Michael Hutchence ♥ Thinking of you both this November.And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-4406372317308213632011-11-06T05:34:00.002-07:002011-11-06T05:34:00.394-07:00Update: A Boy Called...Lucy.<div style="text-align: center;">On Friday night, we made a startling discovery.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Our new little kitten, Lucy - is in fact, <i><b>a HIM.</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Glad we found out now. I would hate for him to have "issues"..... </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So, let's try this again.... Welcome Ash to our family! =)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ilMXBjIZ4sk/TrVYIUk_QKI/AAAAAAAADhU/nLZigxPOtu0/s1600/IMG_1542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ilMXBjIZ4sk/TrVYIUk_QKI/AAAAAAAADhU/nLZigxPOtu0/s400/IMG_1542.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-1362715646384004672011-11-05T09:30:00.000-06:002011-11-05T09:30:54.021-06:00My Week With MarilynBy now, if you are a Marilyn fan -- or, you aren't -- you've heard about "My Week with Marilyn," the new film coming out November 23rd starring Michelle Williams as the late and great Marilyn Monroe.<br />
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What amazes me most is how much controversy this little film has stirred up in the entertainment world. People have gotten protective, vicious and judgemental real quick with any mention of Marilyn Monroe; or someone else portraying her. {Myself included.}<br />
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The buzz started real early on, with the casting of Michelle Williams and the age old question "Is she right to play Marilyn?" Honestly, who can decide that? Isn't an actresses' job to become someone else? It has everything to do with talent and less to do with the actual resemblance. <i>Or did I miss something in Theatre 101?</i><br />
<br />
I don't know a lot about Michelle Williams, acting wise. I liked her in "Brokeback Mountain" and obviously, knew she was the love of Heath Ledger's life before his passing.<br />
<br />
Do I think she is a good Marilyn? Yeah, I do. But that's beside the point. There is MUCH MORE to being Marilyn than the hair, the fashion and the voice. It's about attitude and believability. Judging by some of the clips I've seen, I think she's got it in the bank.<br />
<br />
My only gripe may be with the actual storyline of the film itself. It appears to be quite dramatic and sensationalized and frankly, the only "fictitious" film about Marilyn I enjoyed and felt did her some justice was "Norma Jean and Marilyn" from 1996 (must-see, by the way!).<br />
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I just hope this movie doesn't continue to propel the false beliefs about Marilyn and her life. But, if all else fails, it will surely be entertaining!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/zomNR0NZ_iQ" width="420"></iframe></div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-62587492291783009902011-11-02T06:15:00.002-06:002011-11-04T17:40:52.559-06:00Our HalloweenEven though Halloween is naturally my favorite holiday {have you seen me?} - this year was extremely low-key.<br />
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Which, I am fine with. But I always hope that the <i>next </i>year will be crazy, over-the-top. <b></b>And it will be. Oh, just wait, peeps! But, it's a secret until then... ;)<br />
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For now, we did the pumpkins. Very anti-climatic, I might add.<br />
And then the trick or treating.<br />
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That was it. No parties. No elaborate decorating. I didn't even have a "costume". Well, granted with my normal hair and make-up, people always think I'm "something or other." Halloween is the easiest day of the year for me to finally fit in!<br />
<br />
Berlyn's costume was bought a good 2 months in advance. I had to hide it so she wouldn't play dress up in it - it was fricking expensive!!! But it was worth it. SO CUTE!<br />
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I was especially excited about trick or treating this year because of our new neighborhood. We live in a historic district and the homes, trees, atmosphere is amazing for Halloween. We weren't disappointed!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KrZAqdt1lk8/Tq_55iJxo6I/AAAAAAAADaE/zA_NGg1xCwE/s1600/IMG_1576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KrZAqdt1lk8/Tq_55iJxo6I/AAAAAAAADaE/zA_NGg1xCwE/s400/IMG_1576.JPG" width="376" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_d8OwZF2-8mrCnXxElk2iHI8XQUkkkiowJCDygbtbmHM_Cen1jXwzFkXFDzgdy668WXwU3axh_KkIWGnAjRZD5WfAHX4F6XQkaVacjJ-o9xejL91JST_pqO4nqJttmUsmli2Vkqt-G1Um/s1600/DSC05091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_d8OwZF2-8mrCnXxElk2iHI8XQUkkkiowJCDygbtbmHM_Cen1jXwzFkXFDzgdy668WXwU3axh_KkIWGnAjRZD5WfAHX4F6XQkaVacjJ-o9xejL91JST_pqO4nqJttmUsmli2Vkqt-G1Um/s400/DSC05091.JPG" width="361" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7hiVtDGmX-Y/Tq_5VYXAIcI/AAAAAAAADZ0/X_f_5oINHzM/s1600/IMG_1580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7hiVtDGmX-Y/Tq_5VYXAIcI/AAAAAAAADZ0/X_f_5oINHzM/s400/IMG_1580.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDTuV3R1l-0Z41ajh_IEkY2_wJrtmBsm73wjim42drIT5X5BcwpF35Ul0Ha5cCACvQu0RNRDVfc-2dbpObyw9URD3uUtWuqcAX0ijJUmi1kFSzjVEp6jJsXlvt2a82q-BqiEIqlyz2xsPJ/s1600/IMG_157911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDTuV3R1l-0Z41ajh_IEkY2_wJrtmBsm73wjim42drIT5X5BcwpF35Ul0Ha5cCACvQu0RNRDVfc-2dbpObyw9URD3uUtWuqcAX0ijJUmi1kFSzjVEp6jJsXlvt2a82q-BqiEIqlyz2xsPJ/s640/IMG_157911.jpg" width="376" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Until next year!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kK-pZR7MTgI/Tq_7AqpVKyI/AAAAAAAADaU/7T7IyDB_zBw/s1600/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="91" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kK-pZR7MTgI/Tq_7AqpVKyI/AAAAAAAADaU/7T7IyDB_zBw/s320/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" width="320" /></a></div></div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-86267111909837428302011-11-01T06:00:00.005-06:002011-11-01T07:57:42.919-06:00Write a Book! No, seriously.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RtD5L0DQz64/ToDCwiwC_BI/AAAAAAAADMQ/oh533Iw5MQ0/s1600/218558454_05rIEkfj_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RtD5L0DQz64/ToDCwiwC_BI/AAAAAAAADMQ/oh533Iw5MQ0/s640/218558454_05rIEkfj_c.jpg" width="484" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I've been trying to do this for, like, 15 years. HA HA.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's hoping I actually make some strides (or strokes? teehee) this November!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I will post my progress for you all.....promise =) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vy279PCq1cE/Tq_6zZ1K8xI/AAAAAAAADaM/QeGQRS_EM0Q/s1600/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="91" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vy279PCq1cE/Tq_6zZ1K8xI/AAAAAAAADaM/QeGQRS_EM0Q/s320/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-8317129507781770822011-10-31T08:37:00.002-06:002011-11-01T07:59:28.834-06:00The New Addition!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This was a little unexpected but, well....not really. When could I ever turn down a sweet, little thing?</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b>Welcome LUCY to our family!</b></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ysbSKByQBg/Tq1tIcvsIsI/AAAAAAAADXw/VL_QtnUJVT4/s1600/IMG_1526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ysbSKByQBg/Tq1tIcvsIsI/AAAAAAAADXw/VL_QtnUJVT4/s400/IMG_1526.JPG" width="237" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eTJC1LDMiHw/Tq6ny50HSnI/AAAAAAAADYg/U7wNTVmX5gE/s1600/IMAG0113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eTJC1LDMiHw/Tq6ny50HSnI/AAAAAAAADYg/U7wNTVmX5gE/s400/IMAG0113.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdWbLZ7G2th5rhcme3J-siySsKl6G8EzqmbSuTEX8rqwz4W7SLT8MXGczA0nl8333v0torADCjCQ0zrTnfCwyR57VULfWOLZI72TeX6Utv1-mNTkksxjhyT7eNllp4vVSWK02TOjGK01i5/s1600/IMG_1557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdWbLZ7G2th5rhcme3J-siySsKl6G8EzqmbSuTEX8rqwz4W7SLT8MXGczA0nl8333v0torADCjCQ0zrTnfCwyR57VULfWOLZI72TeX6Utv1-mNTkksxjhyT7eNllp4vVSWK02TOjGK01i5/s640/IMG_1557.JPG" width="499" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VEgJ_rHfjJM/Tq_7OTagQtI/AAAAAAAADac/8saJqZM3u4Q/s1600/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="91" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VEgJ_rHfjJM/Tq_7OTagQtI/AAAAAAAADac/8saJqZM3u4Q/s320/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-55148928213010120802011-10-29T05:28:00.004-06:002011-11-01T08:15:16.146-06:00Parenting WIN<div style="text-align: center;">I have always been boy-crazy. Like, since the age of 3 or something. It's ridiculous.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I was curious when my own little one would start down that path. And, ladies and gents, I think it's starting....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Not only that, her taste seems awfully familiar. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Behold, Berlyn's first official crush:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vtp3vIZ3p44/Tqsg8SW_WkI/AAAAAAAADXE/mVUt6FeI53Q/s1600/David-Bowie-Labyrinth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vtp3vIZ3p44/Tqsg8SW_WkI/AAAAAAAADXE/mVUt6FeI53Q/s400/David-Bowie-Labyrinth.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">And to show that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree? Here are MY first crushes:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T3n5kEjfqcc/TqshgdIfHgI/AAAAAAAADXM/370K1LXIhhU/s1600/tumblr_lpf9iq37Ik1qbe80y.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T3n5kEjfqcc/TqshgdIfHgI/AAAAAAAADXM/370K1LXIhhU/s400/tumblr_lpf9iq37Ik1qbe80y.jpg" width="305" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wu5b0Cov7do/Tq_-kXL368I/AAAAAAAADak/0kkvzqxiqrc/s1600/vnglam.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wu5b0Cov7do/Tq_-kXL368I/AAAAAAAADak/0kkvzqxiqrc/s640/vnglam.bmp" width="388" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Notice anything similar?</div><br />
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</div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-70396298851234198262011-10-25T06:20:00.001-06:002011-10-25T06:20:00.418-06:00Lil Miss Sunshine<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/> <w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> <w:Word11KerningPairs/> <w:CachedColBalance/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">No matter what struggles or triumphs I face in my life, there is always one constant.</div><div> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>The love I have for my little girl.</i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W42sawAMFuM/TqSveblyYNI/AAAAAAAADWc/N-PsRxf4axk/s1600/311332_265140316864090_100001043727628_806525_99506784_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W42sawAMFuM/TqSveblyYNI/AAAAAAAADWc/N-PsRxf4axk/s640/311332_265140316864090_100001043727628_806525_99506784_n.jpg" width="542" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-30054359874425996002011-10-24T05:41:00.002-06:002011-10-25T06:53:00.823-06:00The Grass Really Is Greener...I made a huge transition recently. Or, really, just took a giant leap; into uncharted territory and I am tackling one of my greatest fears - self confidence and belief in myself.<br />
<br />
I recently changed jobs. Now, like many, many people out there, my jobs have been, well....JOBS. They paid the bills. They were a necessary responsibility and I did it. Would I have liked to be a stay at home mom, or a full time student? Absolutely. But I haven't been dealt those particular circumstances.....yet.<br />
In the meantime, I, like many of you have been searching for a job that I actually (gasp) ENJOY. Out of every job I've had, only 2 or 3 were something I didn't dread doing day after day.<br />
<br />
Finding myself unemployed a few weeks ago, I decided to be picky - for probably one of the first times in my entire life. The most important thing was knowing what I did NOT want to do - that was key. I interviewed with Macy's to do make-up. Even though that would have been a dream, it didn't pan out. Okay, fine by me. Let's move on. So, I applied with a local company that specializes in companion care and care-giving for the elderly and disabled.<br />
I was beyond blessed (and over-joyed) to be offered not only a position with the company, but, a very important position at that. I am now the Human Resources Manager and I am definitely in new and unfamiliar waters. BUT, they believed in me and, I am starting to believe in myself.<br />
<br />
This job is pretty close to being tailor made for me - I am good with people. I care. I want them to succeed. I want the clients to be well taken care of. I genuinely am compassionate about this new venture. I see it as an extension of psychology and social work and that is FANTASTIC. <br />
<br />
Am I scared, nervous, unsure? YES! But I know I am going to excel. And good things will come of this. What a wonderful gift I've been given!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S2-7W_ifEuE/TqaxHheocWI/AAAAAAAADW0/6YGNaiwq-z8/s1600/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="91" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S2-7W_ifEuE/TqaxHheocWI/AAAAAAAADW0/6YGNaiwq-z8/s320/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-49445155297591804022011-10-23T06:36:00.004-06:002011-10-23T09:06:33.900-06:00Pumpkin Power!<div class="MsoNormal">This weeked was a first for our family.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Berlyn had never, ever carved a pumpkin. Or, more importantly, seen the inside of one.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I bought 2 good sized ones for me, Berlyn and her daddy so we could have a pumpkin party last Friday evening.<br />
<br />
The end result? Berlyn's dad did all the drawing and carving, I took some pics and Berlyn kept trying to get to the knife - lol. In the background, we were watching one of my favorite 80s horror flicks "Waxwork." Not as "homey" as I had imagined but, it was still fun. Now, just hoping these things don't rot by Halloween..... </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished!<br />
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</div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-69373016105561022472011-10-22T08:29:00.000-06:002011-10-22T08:29:56.402-06:00Kid Stuff, Psychology and the Science of CartoonsThere is some weird shit out there in Kid-Dom these days. Sometimes I am just baffled by what I see. I often find myself wondering, 'who writes this stuff, who okays it and what do kids actually think about this'?!<br />
<br />
<b>What is appropriate and what is not appropriate?</b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">This began to bother me when I read about the iCarly episode that Nickelodeon aired. <a href="http://www.nami.org/">NAMI </a>was the one to report on it and this is what they said:<br />
<br />
<i>"iCarly, a popular comedy for “tweens” and younger kids, will air a show “I Lost My Mind,” w/a character who checks into a “mental hospital”; her friends try to “break her out.” Promo commercials use language like “crazy” and “insane.”</i><br />
<i>If inclined, contact Nickelodeon at: Nickprivacy@nickonline.com or: (212) 258-7579 or Nickelodeon Viewer Services, 1515 Broadway 44th Floor, NY 10036."</i><br />
<br />
I can't count how many times in my own life filled with television, movies, etc that scenes like this one have been rampant. and, we don't even bat an eyelash. Why is that? Maybe the perpetuation of this stigma is the PROBLEM. Hmm, ya think?<br />
<br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Then, a few weeks later, I checked out a book from the local library for Berlyn. It was called “<i>Don’t call me Pruneface</i>” and I thought it looked silly and amusing. Especially because of the title. Literally on the first page is this picture/caption:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OWd6p7M9RiM/TpWkD1u1I4I/AAAAAAAADQM/SScWwPHuRz8/s1600/IMG_20111009_205411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OWd6p7M9RiM/TpWkD1u1I4I/AAAAAAAADQM/SScWwPHuRz8/s400/IMG_20111009_205411.jpg" width="297" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I felt<i> really uncomfortable </i>even reading this to my daughter. I kept thinking to myself “what does she think this word means? Is this supposed to be funny?”</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Having been called many of these names in my own life by former friends, acquaintances, boyfriends - “crazy, lunatic, psycho, mental, nuts” – these are words that <b>HURT</b>. These are words that carry a very strong and negative connotation to them regardless of how you “mean” them. Most people are so ignorant or clueless that they think they are harmless. Or, don’t care. I’ve even caught myself referring to people with these words and I feel such a sense of shame. The most shameful part is that I don't even really MEAN it, it's just such a habit that they involuntarily come out. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
How do we break this cycle?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Next is a subject I definitely need to pay more attention to and be concerned with. Having a daughter is both a blessing and a curse. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I've really started to notice how females are portrayed in television shows, books, songs, movies, and our society. I am not a feminist by any means but I am also not a soccer mom. I am not married (I choose not to be), I am in full support of nudity, pin ups and burlesque; I <i><b>love</b></i> Motley Crue and 'Married with Children' (which are 2 of the most sexist. misogynist things out there) but, I am all about women's lib, women's rights, etc. I am a dichotomy, I know... Ha!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">So, I was really startled when, in a scene from Scooby‘s“Camp Scare” with Velma and Daphne, Velma is told by a male to <i>"just stand and look pretty".</i> Daphne's excited/giggly response?<i> "He thinks you're pretty!!!"</i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I had a “what-the-fuck” moment. I couldn’t believe my ears. The original Scooby is from 1969 (so, sexism might seem a little more fitting back then) but this movie was made in 2010.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Not good.<br />
<br />
Don't even get me started on Katy Perry. I truly love her (her style and her music) and so does Berlyn. A LOT. Do I think she's harmless? Yes, personally I do. But some of her lyrics are not appropriate for young girls. and kids <i>always</i> have a knack for picking out/hearing the worst parts. Recently, Berlyn said to me "Mommy, can I hear that 'Strangers in my Bed' song?" HUH?! Translation = "Last Friday Night". </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>I do not want to ever become one of those parents who uses the media as a "babysitter" and/or educator. I definitely believe in monitoring what my child is exposed to.<br />
<br />
At the same time, I don't believe in being TOO rigid and censored or denying my child the ability to discover music, art, books and film. <br />
<br />
It's a hard call.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BkcNUeHhV9I/TqLTLEJPMGI/AAAAAAAADUM/zdlFJAdr9jc/s1600/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="90" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BkcNUeHhV9I/TqLTLEJPMGI/AAAAAAAADUM/zdlFJAdr9jc/s320/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" width="320" /></a></div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-37109495785190279012011-10-21T10:08:00.001-06:002011-10-22T08:32:42.417-06:00<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>I have a TON of new posts coming SOON!!!!</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Thanks for being patient, friends! ♥</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> xoxo,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H0nyXjvXanw/TqGY945kayI/AAAAAAAADUE/V7D0SGtgS8c/s1600/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="91" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H0nyXjvXanw/TqGY945kayI/AAAAAAAADUE/V7D0SGtgS8c/s320/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-58555785310407872092011-10-21T10:05:00.000-06:002011-10-21T10:05:07.176-06:00Activism<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GEOCXAd58j8/TpWrjDngnTI/AAAAAAAADQk/L5d_jurfjhU/s1600/tumblr_lssz5mCLCh1qlolyqo1_400.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GEOCXAd58j8/TpWrjDngnTI/AAAAAAAADQk/L5d_jurfjhU/s640/tumblr_lssz5mCLCh1qlolyqo1_400.png" width="640" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This really says it all. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>BE A MOSQUITO!</b></span></div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-41615016789038240842011-10-17T09:37:00.000-06:002011-10-17T09:37:35.393-06:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IjM1en6rz9I/TpxKuV3fnzI/AAAAAAAADT0/Qklr2A6z35o/s1600/283407202_253f5xl8_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IjM1en6rz9I/TpxKuV3fnzI/AAAAAAAADT0/Qklr2A6z35o/s400/283407202_253f5xl8_c.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I posted this photo on my Facebook this morning. It really spoke to me and I felt like it was something others needed to see. It always amazes me how, when you bare your soul and your innermost feelings; most people are right there with you. Feeling the same thing, and happy to know someone else is as well. I have long kept my "feelings" to myself because I've been criticised for being too emotional or sensitive. But, I no longer apologize. And I know there are so many of you out there who feel THE SAME ♥</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We've all got obstacles....but how we tackle them and get through them is the <b>true indicator of our character. </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ffxUXA5HvCo/TpxLgXyDgbI/AAAAAAAADT8/KZYpVpWVejM/s1600/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="91" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ffxUXA5HvCo/TpxLgXyDgbI/AAAAAAAADT8/KZYpVpWVejM/s320/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-73274400859783794122011-10-15T08:11:00.002-06:002011-10-15T08:35:29.481-06:00Punching Bags are a Wonderful X-Mas Gift.<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">Expectations are useless. Especially if they are of other people. My new motto? <i> </i><br />
<br />
<i>“FUCK ‘EM. Take care of yourself. The end.”</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">{Sorry, that was a little harsh but, well, it needed to be said.}</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The list of “stresses” I have in my own life is about 5 pages long. Will I share them with you?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Hell no.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Sorry, no offense, but my problems are not YOUR problems and it’s pointless to burden others(you)with your (my)own negativity.</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><br />
Something to remember though, and I always come back to this ---------- ></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SCLiUxhPSHc/TpWc7YYx1TI/AAAAAAAADP8/lyPGAgRMOw8/s1600/tumblr_ll0552cZzS1qd99jgo1_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SCLiUxhPSHc/TpWc7YYx1TI/AAAAAAAADP8/lyPGAgRMOw8/s640/tumblr_ll0552cZzS1qd99jgo1_400.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(*There are so many people I wish I could share that above photo with. Seriously. Just cram it down their throat. I know, personally, it's made me stop short and want to slap myself upside my OWN head.)</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Let’s just say: Stress is NOT my friend. I got some advice from my nearest and dearest recently on how they deal with stress since I am so obviously clueless. My favorite response, by far, was from my sister in law. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">“Punching bags.”<br />
<br />
Oh, lord that would be heaven. Who wants to buy me an an early Christmas gift? Anyone?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">But, the one that kept coming up was pretty simple.... Breathing. Relaxing, Peace. Meditation.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Do you have any idea how often I’ve dreamed of this unattainable world of peace?!?!</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><b>*More times than I’ve thought of naughty time with Criss Angel*</b><br />
<br />
I have lingered around the Buddhist teachings (loosely) in the past and always, ALWAYS come back to them. I think it's a beautiful culture....a beautiful practice, and one that very definitely needs to be a part of my own life.<b><br />
</b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">So, today, at my own personal breaking point – I made a sign - and I am not sharing it with you because, well, it sucks. I have the artistic skills of a 2nd grader. It reads:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>"Mommy is Meditating." </b></span></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Will it work?<br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Let’s hope for the sake of all the little children (namely, Berlyn), it does.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Namaste!</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hchbcvDJe0A/TpmZdY20r-I/AAAAAAAADS8/-bAGQ_9heM0/s1600/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="91" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hchbcvDJe0A/TpmZdY20r-I/AAAAAAAADS8/-bAGQ_9heM0/s320/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" width="320" /></a></div></div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-83728867715563464202011-10-13T06:35:00.002-06:002011-10-15T08:34:26.505-06:00Netflix = Godsend or Curse?We signed up for the “free trail” of Netflix on our (new, 42 inch flat screen) TV.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><br />
<i>Little did I know what I was getting myself into. </i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Immediately I knew this was either the <b>greatest thing to ever happen to us…or, a grave mistake.</b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Countless episodes of:</div><ul><li>Toddlers and Tiaras</li>
<li>Clean House</li>
<li>Hoarders</li>
<li>Mad Men</li>
<li>Law and Order</li>
<li>Medium</li>
<li>Ghost Adventures</li>
<li>Criss Angel Mindfreak (drool)</li>
<li>Heroes</li>
<li>Parenthood</li>
<li>Weeds</li>
<li>Bones</li>
<li>Reno 911</li>
<li>Intervention</li>
<li>Dr 90210</li>
<li>Nip/Tuck</li>
<li>Prison Break</li>
<li>Breaking Bad</li>
<li>Paranormal State</li>
<li>The Wonder Years</li>
<li>Psych</li>
<li>Caillou</li>
<li>Spongebob Squarepants<br />
</li>
<li>Dora the Explorer </li>
</ul> AND MORE.....All at our little fingertips.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I <i>could </i>always watch Army Wives, Jersey Shore, Teen Mom or Pawn Stars…but, WHY?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I have already spent a few evenings (into the wee hours of the AM) scrolling thru my options.<br />
<br />
God help us when the actual 'full blown membership' (and 1000s more to choose from) kicks in….</div><div class="MsoNormal">(Let me not forget to mention that there are MOVIES on there as well, not just TV shows. I am in so.much.trouble.) </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">In the wise words of Al Bundy, “They will be able to find me by the butt prints on my couch cushion if I ever go missing.” </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Scary, scary thought.</i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-86572236135323137722011-10-12T06:07:00.012-06:002011-10-13T08:01:26.533-06:00Be Careful What You Say to Little Children.<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Seriously, folks.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">About a month ago, we had a little issue with Berlyn. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><i><b>Lying.</b></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Oy. Really? Already? She’s only four. I guess it starts earlier than I thought.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Her dad and I were watching 'Pan’s Labyrinth'. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">(If you’ve never seen it, there is a hideous monster in it. He has no eyes…well, he does. They are on his hands. And he eats little children. I am totally not making this up.)</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">This is a foreign film, fyi. And it’s pretty messed up but well, I typically like that sort of thing.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Anyways, one evening Berlyn had been grounded for about 3 nights straight. For lying. We had no idea how to convey to her the importance of telling the truth.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">I had already tried the Pinocchio tactic numerous times...."Your nose is growing, Berlyn." She would stop, feel her nose and yell "No, it's NOT!!!"</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">Fail.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">So, her dad says, “See that guy? (points to monster), he doesn’t like lying. His name is Frank. I have his number in my phone.”</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">You should have seen Berlyn’s face. <i>Priceless.</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Odd how we are trying to <b>teach </b>her the importance of lying, when, we - her parents, are…well, lying.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">So, over the next few days, here and there, when she was misbehaving her dad would say “Want me to call Frank?” and she would scream “NO!!!!”</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Today, she walked up to me with 2 strawberry hard candies on her hands, held them up to her eyes and said, “Mommy, I’m Frank.”</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MIVjloTO29w/TpWa3OuxDYI/AAAAAAAADP0/3Ipk19lYJ7M/s1600/IMG_1353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MIVjloTO29w/TpWa3OuxDYI/AAAAAAAADP0/3Ipk19lYJ7M/s400/IMG_1353.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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God, I <i>totally</i> forgot about that. Guess that sort of stuff does stick...</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FIWVva_iY3k/TpRAyFPxC4I/AAAAAAAADPk/eAw1AksEwKQ/s1600/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="91" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FIWVva_iY3k/TpRAyFPxC4I/AAAAAAAADPk/eAw1AksEwKQ/s320/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-37763217441001917832011-10-11T07:14:00.000-06:002011-10-11T07:14:28.780-06:00A Small MiracleI am sure that <i>many of you</i> in my personal life, as well as Bloggerland, have heard me this past year sob, moan and complain about "losing my entire life" earlier this year.<br />
<br />
Dramatic, much? No, never!<br />
<br />
Anyways, quick re-cap: back in January my computer decided to commit suicide....not once, not twice; THREE freaking times.<br />
Really? I have to mention this was also right in the midst of my COLLEGE courses.<br />
<br />
My brother is a computer whiz but even he couldn't stop the viruses and the ultimate death of my photos, music, videos and documents . To say I was crushed is an understatement. I honestly think I went into shock and<i> stayed there</i>. It never fully hit me that I'd lost the<b> first drafts of my book, my daughter's baby pics and VIDEOS </b>(these were totally irreplaceable; they weren't backed up or on the net ANYWHERE!) and of course, the<b> 12,000 + songs I had in my iTunes</b>.<br />
<br />
I just plugged along and thought, "Guess I am starting over. Again." *sigh*<br />
<br />
So, yesterday (after a week of becoming unemployed, being sick, having my landlord harass me about the stupid lawn, and going without heat in our house) this all sounds way worse than it is, by the way, trust me; I went to my parents house for Sunday dinner.<br />
<br />
My brother showed up and laid some news on me.<br />
<br />
"So, you know how you lost all those files? Well, I think I found them." <i>(my brother is always this blunt. I love it.)</i><br />
<br />
I think I just sat there, like a lump for a minute or two. I don't remember much after that. My ears were ringing and my head was floating.<br />
<br />
He plugged his external drive into my laptop and PRESTO! There were my videos, my awful poems, Berlyn's baby pictures and yes, all 12,000 songs I had lost.<br />
<br />
Seriously, that is some major LUCK. Or, as my mom (and I) would agree -<b> an answered prayer</b>. Maybe God feels bad for all the shit I've gone through in the last little while? (Just kidding, JC!) Or maybe, it's just time things start to go my way.<br />
<br />
Oh, and the first thing I looked at? Berlyn's videos.<br />
<br />
<i>Originally I was going to post a video of Berlyn from her 1st time to Disneyland when she was 1. But, I still have the same crappy PC (yes, unbelievable) and the video took FOREVER to load.</i><br />
<br />
So, instead enjoy the utter cuteness of newborn Berlyn and me, and my brother - being TOTAL dorks with her. The best part? My proclamation on "how heavy she is." Um, yeah. Pretty sure she only weighed about 10 pounds.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwNaUVkElUZiFe2cg2-g-VmIubb_TVJnbdh9wQbKaeVNiOBp-X8_a1d34m-0RLIrEQPKCM4Lh23B1DSWZPoBw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
<br />
Is there a lesson in all of this?<br />
<br />
BACK UP YOUR SHIT. Seriously. I can't believe how stupid I was not owning an external drive of my own before this.<br />
<br />
xoxo,<br />
<br />
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</div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-81664164779688680612011-10-06T06:04:00.015-06:002011-10-11T08:30:29.939-06:00The Can Food Drive.<div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VMNC4LyeJS0/TousH54TKeI/AAAAAAAADNU/0sisktPtJDk/s1600/canned-food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VMNC4LyeJS0/TousH54TKeI/AAAAAAAADNU/0sisktPtJDk/s640/canned-food.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>*This is the first installment in my "Flashback Project." Hope you enjoy it! And, don't write me any hate mail. These events happened when I was a KID.</i></div><br />
<br />
Long ago (in the mid 80s) I did a really stupid thing.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Granted, I’ve done <i>many</i> stupid things but, this one pretty much took the cake.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">On the whim of one of my “brilliant ideas” I talked my neighbor into doing a "can food drive around our cul-de-sac" one California afternoon. This actually translates into = we wanted free toys.</div><div class="MsoNormal"> </div><div class="MsoNormal">To fully understand why this was so awful, you need to know a few things first. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">One being, I was raised in a middle/upper class neighborhood. My parents did well financially. We had a swimming pool and a Mercedes and were definitely<i> not poor</i>.<br />
Another being, I was spoiled, truth be told. But as a child, you don’t realize those sorts of things. Until later, of course.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal">My next door neighbor, K* was a lot like me (although, her family had 3 Mercedes, not one.)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">K* and I got into all sorts of mischief over the years. But, to be fair, we were equally naughty. Once, we had drawn on the back of a neighbor girls dress with chalk, as she was headed to a wedding. Her mother, seeing the mess we made on her dress, marched down to our homes and demanded an apology. The little girl was a brat, but, we were definitely in the wrong. Even though, it felt so good at the time, haha!<br />
<br />
<i>(Interesting, random note - K* is now married to the former Cincinnati Bengals QB, TJ Houshmandzadeh.)</i></div><br />
So, on the day in question, I got this idea.<br />
<br />
I was about 8 years old and bored. I, along with K*, wondered if we could maybe get some free stuff by posing as supporters of our local church. (I realize, this is definite grounds for "going to hell.")<br />
<br />
We set out, going house by house, ringing the bell and putting our best "sweet, innocent little girl" voices/faces on. It worked. Well, sort of.<br />
<br />
At the end of the day, we ended up with about 20 cans of canned food. From our nice, trusting neighbors. We ended up with not one toy though.<br />
<br />
= FAIL.<br />
<br />
So, what to do? Instead of, oh I don't know, just throwing the cans away or something, we felt we had to get rid of the evidence. We targeted a neighbor's house - one we felt was unfriendly and "odd"- and decided our plan of action.<br />
<br />
We would toss the 2 bags of canned food over his brick wall and be done with it. Like, it had never happened.<br />
<br />
Wow, how stupid were we?<br />
<br />
I now see how wrong this was. But, at 8 years old, I just had no concept. {Trust me - a few years later, I went through many life lessons of my own and now shudder at this whole debacle.}<br />
<br />
We hoisted the heavy bags over the brick wall and immediately realized, we'd made a mistake - it hit his dog (or just scared it) - I'll never really know....and the dog immediately began barking like crazy. We sprinted off towards our respective homes (K's* was much closer than mine) and felt safe once indoors.<br />
<br />
Obviously, we weren't as quick as we thought we were.<br />
<br />
The neighbor saw <b><i>ME</i></b> (not *K) fly into my house and promptly rang my doorbell.<br />
<br />
I hid in my downstairs bathroom as I listened to the conversation between my neighbor and (gulp) my Dad.<br />
<br />
Long story short, K* and I both got called outside, in front of our parents/grandparents/neighbor to admit to our transgression.<br />
<br />
We then had to return all the canned goods we "stole" to the proper household and also, apologize for being bored, spoiled little brats.<br />
<br />
Yep, we were.<br />
<br />
I seriously can't even believe we did what we did.<br />
<br />
It just goes to show - you really have no concept of the real world around you as a child - until it is blatantly pointed out to you.<br />
<br />
The memory of this now makes me cringe. Not 4 years later, I was a runaway, living both on the streets of Hollywood AND in my parent's home (like a fricking ping pong ball) - I learned so much, more than any classroom or after school special could have taught me.<br />
<br />
Sometimes I think, the youth of our nation needs to experience something like being homeless. a runaway or poor to appreciate what they have. That may sound extreme, but, how else will children become adults? They have to be aware of right and wrong. even in the most extreme situations.<br />
<br />
I can laugh at this now. Kind of. I think my parents can too, even though it was probably mortifying to them at the time (and would be to me now, as a mother myself.)<br />
<br />
If it taught me anything (which, it DID), I became more aware of the social problems in the world. In a sort of reverse sense. I realized my true calling for social work, psychology, activism and such at a<i> very young age. </i>*I am so thankful for that lesson.*<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bGhplD_yHm8/TpRS3--x0tI/AAAAAAAADPs/hT93biIdAO4/s1600/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="91" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bGhplD_yHm8/TpRS3--x0tI/AAAAAAAADPs/hT93biIdAO4/s320/53C176D7EDA690CDDF1867B129CB5208.png" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-2346963258875261002011-10-05T12:50:00.000-06:002011-10-05T12:50:16.515-06:00In Support...of Mental Illness Awareness Week.<br />
<br />
Be sure to visit <a href="http://www.nami.org/">www.nami.org</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zydvmfhPSro/Toymq3MQnwI/AAAAAAAADNY/RwDy25HMGsg/s1600/tumblr_lset9zpDuy1qj2ld8o1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zydvmfhPSro/Toymq3MQnwI/AAAAAAAADNY/RwDy25HMGsg/s640/tumblr_lset9zpDuy1qj2ld8o1_500.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-5441585305164219702011-10-04T06:00:00.002-06:002011-10-04T06:00:09.425-06:00Probably the single most inspiring quote I've seen...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVY5FpidCwKADZy42PsGyOl9wbZwTN5K95Q9eNkNx-3_49R7cQfJ866hzmgtsFoDsgsAysctWEbfasME6RIia4CTDR-tD6nTGotkKDLnc8A8hPLZt-qE7VT1KZR5Z_1Xhqn0gUbYiYZBLB/s1600/47124638_o2jyXDW8_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVY5FpidCwKADZy42PsGyOl9wbZwTN5K95Q9eNkNx-3_49R7cQfJ866hzmgtsFoDsgsAysctWEbfasME6RIia4CTDR-tD6nTGotkKDLnc8A8hPLZt-qE7VT1KZR5Z_1Xhqn0gUbYiYZBLB/s640/47124638_o2jyXDW8_c.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630384439383827040.post-44333595265723281242011-10-03T10:26:00.002-06:002011-10-04T08:17:42.190-06:00Banned Books Week<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1y46OJqRNfw/Tonhivj2NsI/AAAAAAAADNM/giL6vMQ5Oc8/s1600/226440_20182271661_20181651661_752016_6622_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1y46OJqRNfw/Tonhivj2NsI/AAAAAAAADNM/giL6vMQ5Oc8/s640/226440_20182271661_20181651661_752016_6622_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">source: American Library Association</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<b> Banned Books Week</b> is coming to an end. I wanted to pay special homage to it.<br />
<br />
I have long been a supporter of anti-censorship - <i>in all forms of media.</i> Music, film, literature, art. I've even written several papers/essays on the subject.<br />
<br />
I just don't agree with "someone else" deciding for <i>everyone else</i> what is acceptable and non acceptable. Obviously, there are certain subjects (rape, child abuse, etc) that GO WITHOUT SAYING. But, I am talking about religion, sexuality, beliefs that do not hurt others.<br />
<br />
I was astonished to see some of these books on the list of banned material. Crazy!!!<br />
<br />
Check out the list here at Wikipedia: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banned_books">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banned_books</a><br />
<br />
Also, here is the link to support the National Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC).<br />
<a href="http://www.ncac.org/Kids-Right-to-Read">http://www.ncac.org/Kids-Right-to-Read</a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Read on, peeps! </b></span></div><br />
PS. For my own self, I have actually started to seek out the banned material (books, film) and experience it for myself. I recently watched "Lolita" and have to say, I don't see what the big deal is/was. *shrugs shoulders.* <br />
<br />
Guess it's true what they say; the more you make something "forbidden", the more curious people will be and the more popular it will become!<br />
<br />
Okay, that was my 2 cents for the day!And all that jazzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05745382389767261411noreply@blogger.com0