One Proud Momma!

Check out my little munchkin. Like, seriously? I am overwhelmed at how amazing she is.

Am I bragging? You bet your sweet ass I am.

Our Halloween

Even though Halloween is naturally my favorite holiday {have you seen me?} - this year was extremely low-key.

Which, I am fine with. But I always hope that the next year will be crazy, over-the-top.  And it will be. Oh, just wait, peeps! But, it's a secret until then... ;)

For now, we did the pumpkins. Very anti-climatic, I might add.
And then the trick or treating.

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!

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!

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!

 Until next year!

Parenting WIN

I have always been boy-crazy. Like, since the age of 3 or something. It's ridiculous.

I was curious when my own little one would start down that path. And, ladies and gents, I think it's starting....

Not only that, her taste seems awfully familiar.

Behold, Berlyn's first official crush:

And to show that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree? Here are MY first crushes:

 

Notice anything similar?

Netflix = Godsend or Curse?

We signed up for the “free trail” of Netflix on our (new, 42 inch flat screen) TV.

Little did I know what I was getting myself into.

Immediately I knew this was either the greatest thing to ever happen to us…or, a grave mistake.

Countless episodes of:

• Toddlers and Tiaras
• Clean House
• Hoarders
• Mad Men
• Law and Order
• Medium
• Ghost Adventures
• Criss Angel Mindfreak (drool)
• Heroes
• Parenthood
• Weeds
• Bones
• Reno 911
• Intervention
• Dr 90210
• Nip/Tuck
• Prison Break
• Breaking Bad
• Paranormal State
• The Wonder Years
• Psych
• Caillou
• Spongebob Squarepants
  
• Dora the Explorer

 AND MORE.....All at our little fingertips.

I could always watch Army Wives, Jersey Shore, Teen Mom or Pawn Stars…but, WHY?

I have already spent a few evenings (into the wee hours of the AM) scrolling thru my options.

God help us when the actual 'full blown membership' (and 1000s more to choose from) kicks in….

(Let me not forget to mention that there are MOVIES on there as well, not just TV shows. I am in so.much.trouble.)

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.” 

Scary, scary thought.

In Support

...of Mental Illness Awareness Week.

Be sure to visit www.nami.org

Banned Books Week

source: American Library Association

 Banned Books Week is coming to an end. I wanted to pay special homage to it.

I have long been a supporter of anti-censorship - in all forms of media. Music, film, literature, art. I've even written several papers/essays on the subject.

I just don't agree with "someone else" deciding for everyone else 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.

I was astonished to see some of these books on the list of banned material. Crazy!!!

Check out the list here at Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banned_books

 Also, here is the link to support the National Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC).
 http://www.ncac.org/Kids-Right-to-Read

Read on, peeps! 

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.*

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!

Okay, that was my 2 cents for the day!

10 Things I Love (March 2011 Edition)

These are always so fun to do. They help me realize how fun life can be and how blessed I am.

Enjoy!

1. Heart of the Dharma:

Attended my first Buddhist service and wow - it was super. I will be blogging about it very soon! 

(check them out, here --------> http://heartofdharma.org)

2. Target:

Seriously, I find the best stuff ever there. Got these items recently -

 

Groovy Lamp

Got 'em all: only $16.99 each - total steal!

3. Sensual Amber perfume from Bath & Body Works.

Yummmmmy. Bonus? It smells identical to my #1 favorite scent of all time (that I can never find anymore): Guess Marciano.

4. Fake palm tree?

Ever since leaving California, I miss palm trees more than just about anything. So, I finally broke down and bought one. It's tacky - sure. But I smile every time I look at it.

 5. The Strokes.

New album out sooooon!!! One of my guilty pleasures in music. I've really missed them...and the good times I had during their heyday :( I can never forget to mention that Julian kissed me back in 2001. *blush*

6. This little ragamuffin:

Pink!

Tiger!

Newsie!

 7. Anytime Fitness: 

Just joined. They are open 24/7. I can't imagine a better setting than an entire empty gym, all to myself. I plan on using it....for real this time.

8. Urban Outfitters....and this dress:

 9. My Bedroom.

Yep, I said it. I have a crush on my room. I have always been very bohemian and eclectic and my room definitely demonstrates it. Even if I do get told it looks like a bordello - haha - I love it. I can't wait until I have an entire house to decorate. Soon, soon! =)

10. Russell Brand.

I've been known to have some pretty peculiar taste in men. Even I can admit that. 

There is just SOMETHING about him.

Not sure what.

I'll let you know when I find out though.

Rawr!

Clean House has got nothing on me.

If you are like me, watching shows such as ”Clean House“, “Hoarders“ and “How Clean is your House?” is comparable to drinking 5 energy drinks and eating 3 candy bars in an hour. I get pumped. My adrenaline starts racing and I feel like springing off the sofa so that I too can tackle any piles, boxes, clutter. I am a neat freak, people. I freely admit it.

So, being inspired partly by these shows and also having a natural OCD tendency, I decided to start my New Year off right. Why? Well, for starters, I will be moving (out of my parents house) this year. Wahoooooo! It’s been a long time coming .

My “storage unit” has been neglected for far too long. Over these past few weeks I have taken on this massive project. And when I say storage unit, I really mean my parent’s barn which holds about 50 of my boxes and all of my furniture. Living with just the “bare essentials” this past year has been very freeing and I’ve enjoyed it. But I miss my “stuff.” More accurately, I miss being able to get rid of stuff.

So, I bought those monster plastic bins (20, to be exact) and dove in to all of my “past” that was collecting dust (and…other things) outside.

Only a few. I ended up with a total of 30 bins.

I wasn’t truly prepared for what I would feel. Call it a time warp, a flashback. Either way, I had to come face to face with parts of my past and it wasn’t pretty.

First order of business? My giant Motley Crue collection. Now, if you don’t know me, this sounds odd. But having been a Motley Crue fan since I was 11 years old, I obviously accumulated tons of stuff. And add in my “ebay blitzkrieg” a few years back and what you have is a lot of items most normal people would never dream of spending money on. But I did. And I loved those things more than anything. Until, I discovered – I grew up.

Last night, I was almost in tears. Sounds ridiculous, I know. But having to trash pictures and items that have long been a comfort to me and hold nothing but super, sexy and silly memories was devastating. I came to my mom and told her what I had just gone through and she actually was empathetic – probably because she knows what a freaking nut I was (and am) about Motley Crue. But I did it and I have to say – I feel like I’ve become a newer, better version of myself. FYI – I still love those boys, I just refuse to have little “shrines” of them any longer.

The next thing? I tossed nearly everything that was a hand me down. Of course I kept things that had some significance or were family related but other than that – garbage. I hope one day to actually purchase and own nice things, things that reflect who I am and that I can take pride in. I’m already on my way to picking out my dream purchases…..it’s pretty much more exciting than snorting meth.

Perhaps the most humorous part of this whole experience (besides finding that box of letters from my ex-felon, ex-boyfriend or, that long lost issue of Playgirl (lol)) is that my daughter, Berlyn has been by my side through the whole process. Within this year her and I will be moving. And she is extremely stoked about “our new house.” She talks about it every day. In the process, she sees some of my belongings and either wants to keep them for herself (oh crap, another pack rat) or she gets emotional. Wha???? Yeah – I found an old photo album of all the cats I’ve had in my life – 8 to be exact - and when she saw the photos of my past kittens, she started to cry because a) she knew I no longer had them and b) she wanted to just pet them so bad. Lol – poor little dear.

Let’s not forget the ick factor here. I live out in the “country” and a lot of my boxes have been torn into by….shudder…..rodents. Needless to say, I found a mouse skull and that entire box went buh-bye.

The coolest find? Since I’ve been working on my book, I have been in the process of gathering up all of my writings – and was surprised to find a lot of it was out in storage! So, good thing I went through this whole ”cleansing” because there was some gooo-goood stuff hiding in there!

My #1 best cleaning tip? I have found that the miracle product to clean virtually anything is: baby wipes. Seriously, I am obsessed with them.

*In addition to the storage debacles – another major change has occurred as of New Year’s. I am freely admitting it here – and am beaming as I say this – I no longer drink alcohol and I don’t even miss it. No – I am not pregnant. But I am trying to take control of my life and stop being a slave to addictions of any kind. (This would also include shopping.) Not only have I lost weight I have also felt stronger, clearer and 1000 times more motivated to reach my goals. Obviously I had to replace my old addiction for another one – so, energy drinks and coffee are now my bff’s. Thankfully, caffeine really has no effect on me so it’s more of a psychological dependence. Which – maybe not such a good thing. Okay, forget what I just said.

The Human Condition

Few things make me realize just how right on track I am in going into social work and psychology than watching the evening news. I have long avoided watching any news programs. In fact, if you ask my Dad about the time he brought up Waco, TX to me when I was a teenager, you’ll laugh.

After seeing the news coverage for the recent shooting of Arizona Congresswoman Giffords, I was barely able to contain my tears watching it. And the funny thing is, I don’t know these people. They are strangers. Yet I feel something so deep inside it nearly rips me apart. {The same can be said for child abuse, animal cruelty, the mentally ill or racism/prejudice in our society.} I feel not only a huge amount of grief and heartache, but also, pride in other humans who take initiative, sacrifice and put their lives in danger for the sake of another. I feel hope that the whole world hasn’t gone mad and that there are still good people out there. And I pray that one day I will be one of them.

I thank God everyday that He made me as empathetic, compassionate, caring, loving, sensitive and emotional as I am. Having been made fun of, criticized, dumped or cast off by friends or ex’s because I was “too emotional or sensitive” makes me feel sorry for those who can’t feel what I do.

I embrace it.

I am happy to feel such a full range of emotions. And I plan to do something with it – something constructive, positive and beneficial. I found my life calling and knowing most never find theirs, I know I am blessed.

I am dying to get started on my path into social service and helping those who need it. I used to hear the saying “One person can’t change the world” but I no longer believe that. It is in everyone’s power to do so. They just have to want it badly enough.

Every End is a New Beginning

“The object of a new year is not that we should have a new year. It is that we should have a new soul”

~G. K. Chesterton~

This is a good time to reflect on 2010, what’s happened and what I hope for 2011.

The word for 2010 for me was Change. Everything changed. My friendships, my family dynamic, my expectations, my beliefs. I started to think more about the big picture and how I could contribute to others, and not just what I could get for myself. Becoming a mother was definitely a step in the direction of being a more self-less being.

I have found myself within new surroundings, new ideas, new goals, making new friends and trying to simplify my life – in all areas. All of this has enriched my life greatly, and nourished my soul. I am deeply grateful for all the people I have met or grown closer to in 2010. They have played a huge part in influencing my evolution. I even learned how important it was to have self-control and to bite my tongue, at times. Two things I have always struggled with.

Some of the changes in my life this year have been grueling, painful, tedious. Others have been exciting and refreshing and give me hope that there is so much more for me out there in the world. In 2010, I have gained more clarity on who I am. I have given a lot of thought to the priorities in my life: what I want to stand for, what I won’t compromise on, who I want to spend time around, what I want my influences to be and what I will not allow myself to be exposed to. The biggest change has been in my attitude. I no longer carry grudges, resentments, chips on my shoulder – everyone makes mistakes, including me, and who am I to judge?

The moments I felt most like myself and most inspired in 2010 occurred internally. Usually brought on by spending time with my daughter, or close friends or even attending self-help classes. Going through school opened my eyes to the possibility that I could really, truly be whomever I wanted to be.

When focusing on my good traits – I could say that I have a heart as big as the ocean. I love people. I let people in, I let them be who they are and often times, I still love them regardless of the pain they have caused me. I know now this needs to change – especially to protect myself – but also, realizing others have a profound influence on your own well-being. Constant negativity or conflict leads to nothing good. But, I love that I have a kind soul and I am always batting for the underdog and the outcast. It’s no secret that it will make me a better social worker one day and I am grateful for that quality.

What do I do that makes people happy? Well, I am silly and often a little off the wall. I could even say I suffer from being an airhead every once in a while and a lot of people find this entertaining…or maybe they feel sorry for me. Either way, I am always comfortable laughing at myself. People always compliment me on my sweet nature. I rarely will be rude, mean or malicious to anyone. If I am – it means you’ve pushed me to my breaking point.

The wisest choices I made this year were about getting rid of the unnecessary. Getting rid of friendships that weren’t working, getting rid of stuff, and getting rid of the fear and attachment that went with each of those. I also reevaluated my own behavior and for the first time saw the mistakes I have made, over and over. The first step in correcting something is admitting it. So, I am on my way.

The lesson that has been the most valuable to me this year is that negativity is contagious. And, so is positivity. All I want to focus on in the future is putting out the good vibes and then, getting them back. The other lesson? There are some mean, judgemental, ignorant people in the world. Several times this year I got very very angry and upset about how people acted or responded to things. But in the end, no one can change someone else – they have to want to change. And it’s just not worth it sometimes to go head to head. Let them make their own bed.

What did I avoid this year? I avoided as much drama as I could. I kept mum about many things, I had my guard up around many people and I didn’t dare venture into the dating world at all. I am just not ready. I have some major trust issues because of the events of the last few years – key people in my life betraying me out of the blue. It is all I can do to not put my heart out there and hope it doesn’t get sent back shattered.

My advice to myself for 2011 is: to not look back, to dream as big as possible, to slow down and love each moment, to relish the simplicity of life, to take time out to achieve clarity and to consult the heart and soul when making decisions.

People I would like to thank:

*My parents. I never thought I’d be living with them at my age but they have looked out for me constantly. They always have my best interest at heart and I am thankful to have such dedicated parents.

*My brother and sister-in-law. I spent much of this past year in their company and found that I could laugh, enjoy myself , talk seriously, share my innermost feelings and never be judged. They also assisted me in times of need when I needed a place to escape and unwind.

*My best friend, Stephanie because she is always right there. Always. And she really hears me.

*Dawn because she continually gives me wonderful, encouraging advice and a laugh, when I need it.

*Some of my newer friends for showing me that new beginnings are possible and sometimes better than what you had before.

*My ex because he opened my eyes to how badly I was behaving and treating him in the past. I hope to one day rebuild that bridge and be a great co-parenting team with him.

*All of my longtime friends who are still a part of my life and show never-ending support and love. I love you guys!

*Last but not least, my professors at school who pushed me and criticised me and rewarded me for a job well done.

*And, of course, Berlyn. She is everything. She teaches me something new every day and the love I have for her is beyond anything I can describe. “Sometimes we love people so much that we have to be numb to it. Because if we actually felt how much we love them, it would kill us.”

What social event rocked your socks off in 2010? Oh – that is easy. Attending the Chris Isaak concert in August with my dear friend, Satya. Not only was it an amazing concert full of sexy music (and frontman) but at the end, Mr. Isaak invited me and my 2 friends on stage, to dance. What an exhilarating and spontaneous moment. I’ll never forget it.

What is my word for 2011? It’s Motivation.

In 2011, let me above all else, work hard, be focused, have my priorities straight and my heart wide open and one day, I am going to be exactly where I want to be.

What are 11 things your life doesn’t need in 2011?

1. Drama
2. Dating
3. Bills
4. Temper tantrums
5. Car trouble
6. Arguments and fights
7. Miscommunications
8. Bad grades
9. Bad hair days
10. Illnesses
11. Another baby {hahahaha}

And, hands down – the best moment of the year was the day Berlyn was finally, 100% potty-trained.

Our Christmas

So much has gone on these past few days I am not sure what to do with myself at the moment. It’s quiet and I took a nap today and I feel like this is the calm before the storm. New Year’s is looming, as is another packed semester and lots of life changes in the wings. Luckily, we had a great Christmas this year and I feel ready to launch my butt into 2011.
Last week, we held a Christmas Party, I finished my finals and as usual, had some funny (and not so funny) things occur. {See slide show below}. Among them, my car was stuck in a ditch on the morning of my last final. Luckily, I made it – and passed. But Berlyn was concerned that my car had been “stuck in the bitch.” Ahahahahaha! A few days ago I was approached by a talent agency wanting to represent Berlyn. I was sceptical, of course, and after talking to tons of friends about it, decided – not right now. And at our Christmas Party, she approached one of our good family friends and asked him “if (his wife) that lady was his daughter?” The entire party erupted in laughter.

As I get older, I realize the fewer items I own, the better my life is and I am more appreciative of everything around me. Some of the gifts I received really made me value the people in my life and what I already have.

Christmas Eve was nice. We shared it with my brother, my sister-in-law and a family friend, Matt. Berlyn continued to be a “naughty one” all the way until the end. Some things (and people) you just cannot change. She is a pistol. And I love her for it.

This morning we opened the presents and now all is quiet. Berlyn is with her Dad for their Christmas and will no doubt, make out like a bandit. Again. My big present of the year was a handmade purse from my sister, Michelle. It’s scarlet red and has an Edgar Allen Poe poem embroidered on it. She is a wiz at arts, crafts and design. Berlyn too received a handmade gift of groceries made out of felt with a shopping bag and my parents received hand loomed portraits of each of their mothers (my grandmothers). I even got a belated Birthday gift from my best friend in Texas! Dawn attended a Mickey Avalon show a few weeks ago and that little sneak got me an autographed t-shirt. Seriously – I could not ask for better friends.

Berlyn got everything she wanted. Everything. Lucky little stinker! This includes the Pillow Pet (thank you Jesus!), a Thomas the Train set and an “alive” baby – unfortunately the thing sounds like it is being murdered when it cries. I wish I were joking. And, Berlyn’s favorite gift? Wouldn’t you know it – it was a dollar store flashlight. Yep – my daughter was more excited with that and her magnifying glass than anything else.

I hope everyone had a fantastic holiday season this year! In true Sarah fashion, I am anticipating next year already. I seem to live my life with a “cart before the horse” mentality sometimes but, eh, I’m ok with that. Besides, it’s all about getting motivated to improve things – and “motivation” is my word for 2011.

Best B-Day Gift Ever.

Seriously....I am a lucky biotch. My best friend of 25 years PAINTED me a picture for my birthday. Like, really? Who does that?!
I am so flattered and touched. Not to mention, it turned out beautiful. Stephanie has always had a unique artistic style and she didn't disappoint. I only wish I had the talent to return back to her.

Thank you so much my loverpants, raccoon buns, squirrel toes, bestie boo! I love you! =)

My favorite flower (tiger lily) and color (purple).

10 Things

10 Things I really, really like:

1. The time I spend with Berlyn.
I've been staying at home full-time for about 2 months now, in the hopes that I could focus more on my studies. I have gotten so much more done (and better grades!) but I've also formed this unbreakable bond with my little girl and I treasure every minute I get to spend with her. Even the hair-pulling ones. And the ones full of tears and....poop.

2. My love/hate relationship with school.
I had my doubts. But then I felt like I was doing the right thing. And then I wanted to strangle my instructors. But I could see the bigger picture. Although it seemed like too much work. In the end, I enjoy being a student and working towards my ultimate goal(s). See? I'm a little indecisive about it all.

 3. "The Language of Letting Go" by Melody Beattie.
Best book I've ever read. It has helped me more than just about anything. I urge anyone who has ever had any kind of conflict or pain in their lives (and, who the hell hasn't? Unless you're an alien or something)...READ THIS.

4. Cats in sweaters.
(no comment necessary.)

5. Victor Webster.
(again...no comment necessary. Well, I take that back. He could change my mind about having more kids.)

6.  My new found self-confidence and assertiveness.
Basically. Not being a doormat any longer. I am not afraid to use my voice. Or, keep it quiet when it's pointless to answer an idiotic remark.

7. The sweet, encouraging comments, texts or emails I get from friends.
They are not as frequent as they used to be, but they now hold much more significance.

8. The Moon and the night sky.
I have been a night owl forever. But recently I have this crazy, unstoppable need to go outside every. single. night and stare at the moon...and stars. It leaves me with a sense of calm and hope.

9. Being Single.
Yes, I get lonely and sometimes envious of others. But I genuinely like my freedom. And I like being my own person. I believe in true love but I also believe in maintaining your own identity. Marriage seems a bit wonky to me. I am conflicted.  And I'm single by choice, not because I can't get a date. Trust me =)

10. Psychology.
What can I say? I picked the perfect major. Everything about it makes me excited. It has turned me into a true nerd. a screaming little 13 year old girl and I couldn't be more pleased.

Lynch-o-phile

I am pretty astonished I've had this blog for TWO YEARS ..(yep, Oct. 2008 was my first post) and I have never, ever mentioned my love and appreciation for director, David Lynch. Probably because most of you would be bored to tears. And, maybe have no clue who he is or why exactly I am obsessed with a director, of all things.

I grew up wanting to be an actress. I love cinema, theatre, you name it. I think it is a true art form. I also love when you can see someone's "vision" or take on the world by how they put something together. Like, a director does. Besides, a lot of people love Tim Burton (me too) so you can see the appeal a director can have.

If you are a true movie freak, you've no doubt heard of David Lynch. Most notably, he was the creator and director of the 1990 short-lived TV series, "Twin Peaks." Hands down, that show is like crack to me. I get completely consumed in the characters, the stories, the music (a good portion of my music player is TP music), the locations. I can't get enough. They even have created a "Twin Peaks Festival" in Washington (where the show was filmed) and it costs mega bucks...and I want to go. Badly. Maybe one day I will. It's on my Bucket List.

If you haven't heard of Twin Peaks, maybe you've heard of Blue Velvet? Lost Highway? The Elephant Man? Wild at Heart? Mulholland Drive? Eraserhead? Dune?......Well, do yourself a favor and check these out. They are definitely "odd" but this is WHY I love this man.

When describing him and his films to a friend once, this is what I said:

"It's like trying to solve a giant puzzle in your mind and I will dream and analyze and think on his plots for hours afterward. And, I always end up with a headache but it's a good headache." 

The coolest thing about David Lynch is that no one REALLY knows what his stories are about. They are either his own bizarre concoction (and thus, only make sense to him) or they aren't supposed to make sense...to the rest of us. 

Either way, I think he's brilliant.

BedBUGS and Ballyhoo

First off, Happy November! 

I love this month, mainly because it's one month closer to Christmas annnnd, it's also my birthday month. Although this year, not really looking forward to my b-day. Oh well. We all get old and then we die.

But, at least our Halloween was a success. Berlyn went as a ladybug, sans the wings...and because of my artistry on her make-up looked like a puppy. She was still adorable and everyone thought she was "the cutest bug they'd ever seen." {I'm not being biased, that was a quote.}

The best part was the fact that my daughter A.) thought she should walk INTO everyone's home simply because they offered her candy and B.) that it's politically correct to ask everyone if they have "babies in there"...ummmm. Yeah. Lots of fun. Add to that, the total inevitable MELTDOWN at 9pm when she was high on sugar and realized her day of decadence had come to an end.

Regardless, I enjoyed all of it. And, we got some really cute pics....so, enjoy!

Horror Kitsch

Horror movies are tops, in my opinion. The worse, the better. I really don't care about quality either. B or C budget? Sure.
I pretty much love anything and everything to do with horror, monsters, ghosts, supernatural, goth. You get my drift.

I compiled this list based on what I love and obsess over...and I make no apologies.

1. Vampires.



Oh, I know. I know what you are thinking. So "cliche, so trendy, so juvenile." Well, let me get something straight here. My love of vampires is not based on Twilight, True Blood or even, Buffy. It started way back, like 1985. I was weird; I loved horror movies even as a child. And, I rarely was scared. In fact, one of my earliest memories is watching "The Lost Boys" and being seriously pissed that Kiefer Sutherland got killed. Not that I wanted the "good guys" to die, just that I thought "Why are the vamps always getting picked on? They're just hungry!"

And, add to this I was reading Anne Rice years before the movie, "Interview with the Vampire" was even out. I go way back to the Bela Lugosi and the Gary Oldman's. Capiche?

But, I admit. Edward is yummy.

2. Crappy Horror Films

As I mentioned, the crappier the better. Seriously, I love bad acting, awful effects and fakeness. It makes for even more entertainment, in my opinion. I have a few that I love and they are beyond awful.
*Trick or Treat
*To Sleep with a Vampire
*Rawhead Rex
*Night of the Demons
*Fright Night 1 & 2
*any Elvira movie
*The Unnameable
*all of the Nightmare on Elm Street, Halloween and Friday the 13ths

3. Goth Music

I didn't truly get the "goth" title until I was about 10. But even then, Motley Crue was all I could see so I ignored just how much I loved The Cure, Sisters of Mercy and Bauhaus. Until I moved to Idaho. no clue why that happened then but it did and I spent many happy years, alone in my room, writing emo poetry and developing my now "tradesmark" eyeliner.

4. The "Look"

Which leads me to: The Look. Unfortunately (or fortunately) for me, I have always resembled a witch/vampire. No matter how I try to "tame down" my look, it really does no good. So, I just go with it. There are worse things, I'm sure.

5. The Guys


Yeah, yeah. I've been made fun of forever about this. I have never been a fan of Brad Pitt's or George Clooney's. Give me a Criss Angel, Brandon Lee, Marilyn Manson any day.

Years ago, when the Tom Green show was on, a friend of mine made fun of me relentlessly for a naive, air headed comment I made. Basically, on the TG show, he had a magazine called "Deathly Man Magazine"...it showed pics of guys who were pale, sickly and on drugs. Now, one of the guys I thought was cute and I was like "Where can I get this magazine?!" And...it was a joke. Not a real magazine and I was sad. My friend laughed so hard at me...I really don't blame her.

Before I Go...

THE BUCKET LIST

1. Learn another language. {Preferably, French.}

2. Travel....everywhere!

3. Write a book. Or, start one.

4. Start my own practice and/or business.

5. See the Mona Lisa at the Louvre.

6. Learn how to salsa dance, ballroom dance, belly dance and jitterbug.

7. Name a star.

8. Attend Coachella.

9. Truly save someone's life

10. See all 7 natural wonders

11. Help 5 people take something off their bucket list

12. Make someone laugh till they pee.

13. Plan my funeral, my wedding and any other large occasion/festivity.

14. Attend Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

15. Create a piece of art.

16. Marry a European.

17. Tour a Winery.

18. Play a musical instrument…..well.

19. Be in Playboy.

20. Have a zen garden.

21. Own a home with a "view to die for."

22. Donate to a charity I support.

23. Get my PhD in Psychology. Or, become a licensed Social Worker.

24. See Cirque du Soleil live.

25. Meet Lisa Marie Presley.

26. Be an extra in a film.

27. See an opera.

28. Run a marathon.

29. Fall in mad, passionate love.

30. Attend the Twin Peaks Festival.

31. Get closure on my past.

32. Go to DisneyWorld.

33. Learn how to do a somersault.

34. Gain enlightenment.

35. Start a social movement or cause of something I believe in.

36. Learn how to do origami.

37. Play soccer.

38. Achieve Financial Peace.

39. Be a mentor to someone.

40. Be happy with what I have.

41. See The Cure and The Rolling Stones in concert.

42. Read ALL of the classics in literature.

43. Go to the top of the Eiffel Tower….and make a wish.

44. Scrapbook all my photos.

45. Own a corvette.

46. House an exchange student.
47. Visit the Winchester House...and other Haunted places across the Country!

*I am adding to this constantly! =)

Far Away but not Forgotten!

I am either really lucky or really UNlucky to say that I have two amazing, beautiful, extraordinary best friends that live, oh, over 1000 miles away from me. One is in California, one is in Texas. It sucks....bad. I miss them all the time and rarely get to see them.

I was overjoyed to have one of them come back to Boise for a few days....I haven't seen her in a year and life has not been the same without her around. I also got to see some of our other mutual friends, some of which are no longer a part of my life. It was like going through a time warp and I really enjoyed seeing some of those old familiar faces. It was a great time! Took lots of pics and am *hoping* by next summer Berlyn and I can go visit Austin, Texas to see our beloved Dawn =)

Dawn and I

"Late night laughs"

Happy Halloween, everyone! ♥

20 Questions!

Saw this over at bucket-o-joy and thought it would be much fun!

1. Show us the inside of something cute.
I put together this cute, little French photo album for my daughter to look through - it's filled with pics of her and I...she loves pictures!

2. What's the last homecooking you had?

I now get home-cooking most every day, thanks to my Mom. She makes the best comfort food! (Because, God knows I sure can't cook!).

3. What do you miss?
Lots of things. But, I do really still miss California. I think I always will.

4. What makes you laugh often?
Berlyn. She's a total crack-up!

5. What's your favorite word?
Hmmm, that's a toughie. I'd say "non-chalant"...it sounds lovely and intelligent and it has a special meaning to me. Only my best friend, Stephanie knows why....teehee!


6. What are you trying to quit?
I probably should quit smoking...but, I enjoy it far too much. I know, I know....tsk, tsk.

7. What's your favorite commercial right now?
I'm totally cheating because I don't have a favorite commercial - but, this is my favorite tv show of the moment:

8. Whose style do you dig?
Hands down, Dita Von Teese.

9. Link to a great blog you've discovered lately...
Oh, there are so many!!! I get inspired daily by tons of blogs...I love that so many others out there are into things I am but also, exposing me to such wonderful things & images!

Here are two I love right now: this is glamorous ....and RetroModGirl.


10. What's the last craft you made?
Haha - me? Crafts?!
Well, I do enjoy making collages and inspiration boards. My board is still a "work in progress" but I will post a pic as soon as I'm done...promise! :)

{My father has always said I'm 'making paper dolls', when I do my collages. I've been doing it since I was very young - he obviously doesn't "get it", haha!}

11. A photo of the last happy mail you got :]
My best friend, Dawn moved to Austin, Texas a few weeks ago. I would have gone with her in a heartbeat!

I got this card & magnet from her today - and, it made me cry happy tears. Love you, Trixie!!!

12. Something you've got lately?
Such a great magazine!














13. What are you looking forward to?
School!!!


14. Post a recent snapshot of yourself.

15. Recent Favorite Movie?
I can't believe I'm saying this, but, it was "Twilight". I'm sorry - that boy (Rob Pattinson) is just too cute!


16. Something you're working on right now?
Too much to mention. I'm doing photo albums, scrapbooks, collages, Berlyn's baby book, and also, trying to teach myself to sew/mend. Thank goodness I have all this free time.


17. If a movie were made about you, who would play you?
I think Angelina Jolie should. Haha! But, seriously. I would love Drew Barrymore, Monica Belucci, Rose McGowan, Winona Ryder or even, Lisa Marie Presley. I'd be happy with any of them.

18. What gives you goosebumps?

Eeeewwwwww! :O

19. Share a new obsession.

My newest would be blogging. I can't seem to go one day without it!

And, the Angus burger from McDonald's. Somebody stop me!!!

20. What's the meaning of your life?

My daughter. Happiness. Peace . And, the pursuit of dreams.