Where The Blog Things Are

WAAAHOOO, Thelma & Louise!

2009-07-24T02:27:00.007-06:00

Until tonight, I hadn't watched the movie, Thelma & Louise, since it was new to VHS. I downloaded it and watched it on my computer here, when toward the end of the movie, I started recognizing some of the geography. I travel by road a lot, probably up and down and across most states in the lower 48. It was around the last few minutes of the movie that I just KNEW, and had to dig up a photo my dad took of me last October when we took a last-second vacation down to Moab, Utah. We spent an entire day driving through Canyonlands National Park so I could take some photos, since it's not a very well-visited park, seeing as how Arches Nat'l Park is across the main highway into town.

I found the photo (below) and compared it to a screen shot of a scene in the movie...and voila! I was SO THERE!

(click on image for larger view)

At the end when they're about to drive off the cliff, "Louise" mentions that she thinks they're at the Grand Canyon, and a shot of a deputy's arm patch says Arizona, but this location was actually in Utah at a much prettier location than the Grand Canyon, IMO. Gotta give props to the location scouter.

(click on image for larger view)

I can't wait to go back again and spend more time there. I felt such peace, and a connection to the stunning, grand vistas. Fittingly, it was also a beautiful end in the movie. Long live Thelma and Louise!!!!

Grocery Produce? We Don't Need No Stinkin' Grocery Produce!

2009-07-22T01:43:00.002-06:00

I've never been a big fan of vegetables, no matter how much my mom instilled their importance throughout my youth, but one can't help oogling at a masterpiece like a well-designed urban garden....so I went into a neighbor's backyard (with permission, of course) and took some video.

I don't know about you, but I'm inspired. And now I want chickens!!

Bifold Love

2009-07-21T02:34:00.003-06:00

So I was lurking around the world wide web for regional small businesses that are unique and fun, and I came across dbclay. It's a Portland-based manufacturer of one-of-a-kind printed wallets. Literally hundreds of wallets to browse on their site, and once you buy it, you'll have the only one like it around.

This is just a small screen shot of their endless designs. Tell me this isn't kinda' cool.

P.S. Yes, db clay, I will accept an uber cool wallet from you as payment of your gratitude for my shameless plug of your product :-)

Good Things Come In Small Packages

2009-07-17T16:25:00.003-06:00

Lookie at what the UPS Fairy just brought me!

*squeals a little*

Human-Powered COOLness

2009-07-09T14:35:00.007-06:00

My friend, Rebecca, posted this link on Facebook today, and I liked it so much that I couldn't wait to pass it on! It is seriously the coolest thing I've seen and heard in ages. Perpetuum Jazzile is an a cappella jazz choir from Slovenia.

After the first video, I'll include a few more fun and inspiring videos powered by humans :-)

KER-SPLAT!

2009-07-09T01:50:00.002-06:00

And you wonder why I'm such a big fan of AwkwardFamilyPhotos.com??

Concert In The Mountains

2009-07-06T19:51:00.004-06:00

I'm catching up on blogging here, and I've discovered how to create little videos put to music. I plan on learning more about it so they aren't so lame.

My friend, Rochelle, who works for the radio station that put together this shindig, informed me of a cool event coming up on Sunday, June 28th. For only $35., I could get a free bus ride from Eagle to Horseshoe Bend and back, a scenic train ride along the Payette River in the Thunder Mountain Line, alcoholic beverages for 94.9 cents, lunch and an acoustic concert by Serena Ryder at the old Banks,Idaho train depot.

Let me say it. WOW!

It was a cooker outside, but everyone involved had a great time. Again, special thanks to 94.9 The River/KRVB, the Boise Co-op and The Modern Hotel for sponsoring such a neat and affordable event! Check out my lil video below.

KRVB-FM 94.9 The River

Boise Co-Op

The Modern Hotel

Official Website: Serena Ryder

Myspace: Serena Ryder

Video Music by the OH so talented, Chris Bucheit

#July4th

2009-07-06T19:28:00.003-06:00

It was a pretty low-key Independence Day for me. No BBQ, no pool party, no keg stands and no fireworks in the driveway.

I decided to take a short drive up to Table Rock in Boise. If you live here or have visited, you'd probably recognize it by its gigantic florescent Jesus cross. Fortunately for my legs and lungs, a security guard at the gate informed us that we could drive all the way up (which is COOL because that gate is never open anymore).

So, instead of battling the crowds at the old Boise Depot hill or in Ann Morrison Park, we got an AMAZING view of the city lights throughout the Treasure Valley, our fireworks as well as distant fireworks on the horizon AND we had perfect weather with no strong winds.

I put together a (bad) short video put to music. Tada!

DIY Pop-Up Camera Flash Diffuser

2009-07-06T02:17:00.015-06:00

Sometimes I'm all about "DIY"...after all, it saves $$$, and most of us can agree that the legal tender is in short supply these days. So, thanks to Photojojo.com user natuurplaat, there's a simple and surprisingly effective way to soften the normally harsh effects of a photo taken with a pop-up flash on many consumer SLR's and what I call "wannabe SLR's."

Note: Go to your local Walgreens, Walmart, Fred Meyer, Kroger or any store that has a photo processing dept. You can usually get the translucent film canisters free. They want to get rid of them anyway.

Another Note: Don't try this on a Canon 40D. I tried and I was disappointed that the pop-up flash is too wide for the canister *pouty face*

THE INGREDIENTS LIST:

* Camera with a pop-up flash
* White film container
* Ruler (or whatever)
* X-acto knife (regular scissors work fine, too, I found)

Step 1: Measure your flash

Measure the width of your flash so you’ll know how wide to make the cut in your film container.

Step 2: Cut the film container

Using a sharp blade, carefully cut a notch in the side of the film container (take the lid off first). Make the notch just slightly wider than the depth of the flash. Click on the photo to see the finished result.

Step 3: Slide it on

Slide the film container onto your flash, and put the lid on to hold it in place. If the fit is too snug, make the cut a little wider. If it’s too loose, a little tape should keep it on.

Step 4: Go take pictures!

Take photos as you would normally. The film container will diffuse our flash’s harsh light. Your camera should automatically adjust exposure to make up for the reduced light output.

You’ll be everyone’s favorite photographer once they see how good you make them look!

Before: Shiny & Pasty

Harsh flash washes out skin and highlights flaws. Seriously, you can see stains on somebody’s soul with that thing.

After: Lovely & Pleasant

Photo/Content Source: Photojojo.com

The End of An Era: So Long, Farrah and MJ...

2009-07-01T22:30:00.003-06:00

On the 25th, we all received word that the legendary Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson died...Farrah from her long battle with cancer and MJ from cardiac arrest, possibly from medications administered to him by his personal physician. Just a couple of days prior, on June 23rd, Ed "Heeeeeere's Johnny!" McMahon also died at the age of 86. The news of Michael's death spurred a fury of online searches causing a virtual web traffic jam. Our Charlie's Angel and our King of Pop are now gone, may they finally rest without pain and paparazzi.

Yesterday, as I was on the way back from a fun event...I was called and told that the iconic pitchman for so many of our "as seen on TV" miracle products, Billy Mays, had died the day after a hard US Airways landing. I was able to catch his most recent episode of "Pitchmen" which I found to be funny and enlightening to the true gentle nature of this loud and seemingly annoying personality on tv. He was anything but. He was the father to a 20-something step-son and a 3 year old daughter that adored him as much as he did her.

This is not to say that I feel more sorrow for celebrity deaths as I do for those closer to me, as this isn't the case at all. They are simply shocking losses of people very much in the public eye, especially as I was growing up (except for Billy Mays). I feel so sad for their family and dear friends, and it brings many things into perspective for me. What will it be like when I lose someone close to me, now that I am an adult and can truly understand the reality, impact and emotions behind it? I don't look forward to that day.

P.S. if you Twitter, you probably encountered some serious Fail Whale.

I've Got a Pillow With YOUR Name On It!

2009-06-05T18:24:00.007-06:00

11:59am, Saturday May 30th, 2009.

It was a bright morning and already warm enough to break a sweat doing small chores. Downtown Boise's Saturday Market spanning 8th Street all the way down to The Grove was bustling with foot traffic. Everyone examining, taste testing and purchasing local faire, from baked goods to freshly-grown produce to handmade glassware and crafts. People were happy to be out among the living, soaking up the sun and enjoying the casual atmosphere. Few were aware and observant of the growing unsettledness nearby that would quite suddenly erupt into chaos at the stroke of twelve noon.

GRAB YOUR CHIL'ENS AND GET OUT 'THE WAY!!! PILLOW FIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGGGHHHHTTTT!!!!

No innocent people or participants were injured, however the inner remains of a pillow or two were found at the scene concluding the event.

If You're Not A Cat Person, Do NOT Read This.

2009-06-01T20:50:00.004-06:00

My cat, Smokey, came in from a few hours outside in the sun, laid down next to me on the floor while I was sitting in my desk chair in the office bedroom. He 'pet' my feet with this tail softly and looked up at me lovingly with a breathy purr. Smokey is 10 years old this month (or next, I can't remember that far back) and he's still the love of my life.

This beautiful, gentle and loyal creature is less a cat in my eyes than he is a son of my own flesh and blood. He and I seem to understand each other, much like the bond many people have with their dogs. To some, their pets are their kids, their family, their siblings. It's not weird. If you have any respect at all for them, you'd raise them like you would your own child... manners, punishments, spoils and all.

- "What is 'overboard' ?"

Everyone has their opinions of what could be considered going overboard on the care (or exploitation) of your fur kid. I, personally, would never consider clothing my cat simply because it's adorable or stylish. He already has a coat. I don't teach him party tricks for the entertainment of others. Not that he would, because, c'mon...he's a cat. They don't partake in such 'foolish' triflings. (his words, not mine)

The most we spoil him is with an enclosed pet stroller so he can join us at the park and outdoor festivities. I tried training him on a leash when he was a kitten, but he never took to the idea. Dogs are good with the collar/leash thing, which makes me wonder why those pet strollers are really designed for dogs? Shouldn't they be WALKING by your side if they physically can? I also got him a $27 white leather blinged-out collar that makes him look like Elton John in a cat suit.

Because he was practically raised on the road, he gets full roam of the car when I go on trips. It's convenient because he's pretty much self-contained during travel. I rarely take food and bathroom breaks and Smokey just uses the portable kitty litter box when he has to go. He also bathes himself and always smells good. The really nice thing about him is that he doesn't have fleas, puts me to sleep when he purrs by my head, is great to cuddle with, hasn't had any health issues, never once has scratched anything up or 'sprayed' on anything AND he doesn't bark. Barking is bad for my P.T.S.D., so he really fits my personality and my lifestyle. Independent, chill, loving and low maintenance. Anyone that meets him instantly loves him. My upstairs neighbor, Astrid from Venezuela... she always calls him "DELICIOUS!!" because he's so squishy and soft. At least I *hope* that's what she means by it.

I say all of this in a blog because I love him more than anything and it's his birth month (I think), so this is in honor of the greatest guy in my life, next to my Dad. Thanks for being so awesome, Smokey...Mokey...Moke Moke...Bitty Bo....Buddy...Beautiful Boy.

Shamwow Dude Photo Comparison

2009-05-24T04:27:00.001-06:00

Discuss.

Cape Cod & P-Town Weekender

2009-05-16T19:37:00.002-06:00

[REPOST from my MySpace blog on Jun. 20, 2005]

Ohhhhh sweet recovery! I just drove over to Cape Cod to visit a friend for the weekend and I somehow made it back alive. lol The first day was reserved for hanging out at her restaurant and helping her cook dinner for her patrons. The restaurant sits right on a big marina near Hyannis and Yarmouth overlooking a river that comes off of the Atlantic Ocean. Must be tough going to work, day in and day out, getting a tan, feeling a nice breeze off the deck as the water in the marina twinkles with each ripple.

Anyway, for the first afternoon/evening on Friday, I helped her out at the restaurant and got to know her employees. They are a great group of people and they've all been with her for all 8 seasons. For dinner, I had Alaskan King Crab legs, special-ordered for me (plus she got a great deal on them thru her supplier) and, since she got several pounds of it, she also made it a dinner special... and it has been a hit with customers so far. When her over-the-top flamer gay guy friend stopped over at the restaurant around closing time, he gave my friend the keys to a little resort room nearby so we wouldn't have to stay at her cottage with her roommate and another friend who is sleeping on the couch (going thru a bad breakup). Apparently her gay guy friend uses that room from time to time because there were no towels for a shower or the jaccuzi and his swim shorts were sopping wet on the floor of the shower. Oyyyy... LOL Before heading to the room, though, we stopped by a couple of bars. Her best friend's car was parked outside of a chinese restaurant/bar, so she turned around to go see him. Some drunk guy from South Carolina tried flirting with me with no success. Her bud was in a crabby mood so we left to check out another bar she knew well. There was a cover band playing and I wished I had taken pictures of the musicians -- the electric guitar player and lead singer both looked like they were straight out of an '80s hair band, the drummer looked 80 years old and the bass player was as nerdy as they get. They were pretty bad but after two drinks and two large Cuervo shots, they were sounding damn good. LOL By the end of the night, I can honestly say I have never been so drunk!

The next morning, she got in touch with a couple of her friends and we drove up to Provincetown (aka: P-town...aka: Gay Town USA) at the end of the Cape, which was only maybe 40 miles tops. We all got a room above the Vixen night club (which, btw, only has a one-night minimum) right smack in the middle of downtown. Wow, was that a shameless plug or what! After walking up and down Commercial Street, checking out shops and bars all day, we decided to go back to our rooms and take naps. My friend napped but her friends and I didn't... so when my friend woke up, she was ready to hit the clubs again but we weren't. We ended up getting talked into going out for a little while but our friends went back to the hotel after only half an hour or so. So while the bars and shops were closing up, my friend and I decided to walk around a little more. She saw a big ship at the end of a pier that she wanted to check out earlier in the day, so we walked out there to see what it was used as. The night watchman at the marina there told us that it was a soldier's barracks boat in WWII that was pushed or pulled by a tugboat where ever it went. My friend tried and tried to let the guy allow us on the ship to look around, but to no avail. While chatting with the marina guy, another man who was hanging around found out that my friend owned a restaurant that he knew of... so despite his wanting to go to bed, he instead invited us on his yacht where his wife and another couple were aboard just winding down the evening. We took our shoes off before entering the "livingroom," they offered us a glass of wine and we sat down to chat for a good hour. My friend and everyone on board had some mutual friends and enemies, so they talked about that for much of the hour. It seems like everyone I met while in Cape Cod owned some kind of company or business. I suppose that's how they afford to live there. I think I was the only one who had a regular little job, but that was cool with them. I didn't sense any snobbery...really nice people, all the way around.... even if some of them were on the tipsy side.

I woke up the next morning on Sunday before my friend did, so I took a shower and went into town for breakfast at the Post Office Cafe. Met up with the other friends while walking around and we shopped for swag. After my friend woke up and our other friends had left P-town for an appointment, we hopped in her truck and headed to a couple of beaches...wishing we could've used the firewood in the back of her truck for a beach fire under the stars with our friends, but due to fog, we cancelled those plans.

All three days on the Cape were, for the most part, absolutely gorgeous and I hope to go out again soon. They're trying to contact their friends with boats so we can have a big party out on the water one of these days, and I am SO in! I'm happy to be back home, though. It was a wild weekend and it's just nice to be back to some normalcy again but, unfortunately, back to the grindstone, too.

O Canada!

2009-05-16T19:11:00.003-06:00

[REPOST from my MySpace blog on May 9, 2005]

Took my first roadtrip to Canada (specifically Quebec) last week. Val met me at the border around midnight or 1am to have me follow her to her house about 45 minutes towards Montreal. The weather was pretty crappy most of the way, but I made really good time, considering. What was so cool about visiting Quebec was that it felt like I was somewhere in Europe instead of North America because of the french signage. Basically, I was able to visit "Europe" in 5 hours' time without crossing the big pond... and that's really convenient. lol

That Sunday (my first full day there), we took a trip into nearby Montreal to check out her stompin' grounds. We parked in a vacant lot and walked to the subway station, passing a poor and unfortunate discarded umbrella in the lot garbage can. *sigh* First stop was the old port of Montreal where we strolled the cobblestone streets, took pictures of the old (very french) architecture and had lunch at a quaint little place with a hot waitress. Again, we both witnessed yet another gruesome discovery; a skinless umbrella laying lifeless in a dry fountain. *shakes head* Not far off in the distance, I saw some blue and yellow-striped big-top tents -- Val said that's where Cirque du Soleil is based, and where they practice their routines before touring...which I thought was super cool. I'm pretty easy to impress that way.

The second half of the day was spent in the Gay District down St. Catharine's Street. She took me to her favorite club, The Drugstore, where I commenced to kick her booty at pool and she returned the favor with a mean game or two of foosball. The rooftop bar/balcony seemed like a great place to relax and get a tan while cruising for unsuspecting victims.

On the way back to the subway station, we stopped in Mado's club (infamous local drag queen) to see if the bar served Buttery Nipple shots. Actually, during the whole trip, we couldn't find a single bar that carried butterscotch schnapps. Val still has yet to try one, but I'll probably end up making her one the next time she visits Boston. Muuwahahaaa!

I forgot to mention that, while walking from one end of the city to the other, we encountered a huge Union protest march, though it wasn't exclusively for Unions, apparently. There were labor Unions, teacher and student Unions, political groups and just plain hate groups. Once this group of "Communists" wearing red bandanas over their faces, holding red flags (with the old CCCP hammer & sickle) chose to occupy the corner we were standing on in order to spout their banter over an amp. Val and I thought it best to start walking elsewhere. Down the street a ways, a separate group of Anarchists, wearing black, decided it would be fun to throw rocks at police officers. Large numbers of police in riot gear were convening at the intersection we ended up at, so we (along with other innocent bystanders) stood still, under the cover of a construction walkway, until the coast was clear. What fun!

On Monday, Val wanted to take me to an "Artsy" area of town where I had yummy poutine, saw numerous futon stores and had pie to die for. "What's poutine?" Well, I'm glad you asked. Poutine is to Quebec as chili cheese fries are to the USA. Simply put, you generously pour special hot brown poutine gravy over cheese curds and hot french fries. What you get is this enormous pile of fries under hot, gooey deliciousness. Try it sometime. The "pie to die for," by the way, was at a little place called Rockaberry. A friend of ours on a chat program told us that we MUST go to it and have some pie, so, naturally, we did. I'm thinking that I'll visit Montreal every month just for the pie and poutine alone -- no offense, Val. I can't remember what she got at the shop, but I had something called the Chocolate Cheese pie and brought home a slice of the Caramel Fudge Cheese pie *drool* Val brought home Chocolate Truffel pie and it was JUST like the inside of a truffel. Sooo rich that my taste buds were almost in pain. Mmmm. Got Milk?

Tuesday was spent mostly relaxing and watching movies. We did a lot of walking the first couple of days; more so than we did in Boston. Wednesday was relatively short, since I had to drive back home in the afternoon. Val's parents are wonderful people and I hope to meet up with them at least once while they're visiting Boston soon. Her mom makes the most incredible hot dessert EVER - seriously, EVER. I pigged-out up there, so I'm in for a grueling health/exercise regime ahead, I'm sure. Must... keep my mind... off... of.... Rockaberry.... and...mom's...hot....dessert.... (help meee)

MA Blizzard of '05

2009-05-16T18:59:00.003-06:00

[REPOST from my MySpace blog on Jan. 31, 2005]

Is it any coincidence that just after I move to Boston that the Red Sox win, we get a record blizzard and the Patriots are poised to become an NFL "Dynasty"?? Hmm.... yeah, probably just a coincidence. Here at the house, we had 36 inches (3 feet) of snow...not including the snow drifts....over a matter of a night and a day. Two days later, Mother Nature dropped about 7 inches more on top of that.

Needless to say, the city has been a mess. No where to park!!! Even still, a week or so later, the mountains of snow that the plows have pushed to the curbs of the streets are sitting there on top of good parking spaces. Salem got a ton of snow, too. In one day, they blew through their entire snow budget for the year. And poor Cape Cod... I feel for them. Some might say that 3 feet is a drop in the bucket compared to the snow you might get if you live right by one of the Great Lakes. That lake effect snow is a bitch, I know. 90 inches of snow in one night up at Lake Tahoe is impressive, also, but they aren't at sea level, either. We are, and it's highly unusual to get this kind of snow out here. My mother tells me that we made front page news in the Idaho Statesman newspaper. Now the New England Patriots football team is going back to the Superbowl for the third time in 4 years. Stop the insanity!!!!!

Anyway, I still can't get out of my back door, but at least the driveway was plowed. There is no effing way that even a couple of us using "ergo" snow shovels would've tackled that task without getting broken backs in the process. I think even a snow blower would've gone on strike. It's times like these that makes you really appreciate having a two-car garage... among other things. I will hand it to the people of these bitterly cold and snowy states -- they know how to make good out of a nasty situation. On my way in to Cambridge the other day, two ladies were nordic skiing on the sidewalks around here. In any weather, people will be out hiking, biking, walking their dogs, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, kayaking or jogging. It makes me smile. Smiling is all I'll do right now because I haven't gathered the guts to do these things in this kind of weather yet. For now, we have a home gym in the finished half of the basement to use until the weather gets slightly tolerable in the Spring. Maybe by the time the nasty weather comes back for the next round, I'll be in good enough shape to brave it recreationally.

Cheers from the Great White North!

Catie Curtis & Patty Larkin: Music To My Ears

2009-05-16T18:52:00.004-06:00

[REPOST from my MySpace blog on Jan. 28, 2005]

Well, I just got home from a Catie Curtis & Patty Larkin concert at beautiful Sanders Theatre on the Harvard campus. We took the "T" in (subway), tried not to slip on the sidewalks walking through Harvard Yard and I somehow made it to the venue without my ears falling off or my cheeks enduring frostbite. (Note to self: Remember to have a scarf handy on Winter nights here) Fortunately there was hot cocoa and chocolate chip cookies waiting there for this tired and hungry girl before the show began.

We got front row center and I managed to not get a kink in my neck from looking up for so long. Sometimes I prefer 3rd row over front row for that very reason. I don't know why, but I had thought Patty Larkin was opening for Catie. Turns out, it was the other way around, but I convinced Lisa to stay and watch the second half (Patty). After my ignorance had worn off, I realized that Patty Larkin has something like 20 years on Catie as a singer/songwriter, AND she's on a major record label. What was I thinking!? This was our first time seeing either of them, and I'm sure glad we decided to go.

Catie did a full set and her special surprise guest was Mark Erelli. He's one of the few male singer/songwriters that I really enjoy. Catie gave us the news that she and her partner were able to adopt a 7 or 8 month old little girl last week, an addition to their other 2 year old daughter. Coincidentally, Patty Larkin (who is in her 50's) also has a little one... and they were both oogling throughout the night about their kids. Now, I'm not one for mushy stories about people's kidlets, but some of them were downright hilarious. Patty had me ALMOST falling off the bench onto the floor laughing with her tales of the recent blizzard here in Eastern Massachusetts (she lives out on the Cape) and other subjects. If it weren't enough that she was a virtual "comedienne," she is also an amazing guitar player and singer/songstress.

I got to meet Catie and Patty after the show, too. I also couldn't resist getting a couple of things signed by them. It must be the kid in me. What a great threesome of musicians tonight, though! The only thing that almost ruined the evening was when we had to wait for the "T" for 45 minutes afterwards. Grrrrr!!

Michelle Malone Sleep-over

2009-05-16T18:48:00.001-06:00

[REPOST from my MySpace blog on Nov. 4, 2004]

Michelle Malone, her drummer and her roadie spent the night at our house last night after their concert in Boston. Linda and D took the two guest rooms upstairs and Michelle crashed on the futon in the livingroom....too tired to go upstairs. This morning we distributed computers and laptops so everyone could check their email, we tinkered around on my collection of guitars and other instruments, then I cranked up some Aretha, Etta, Ella and Billie and we got to watch Michelle sing and dance around in her jammies. Come to find out, Linda is multi-talented...she can play the guitar, drums, mandolin and sing all quite well. Last night at the show, she had a mandolin in her lap, one foot was doing the kick drum, the other foot was doing the high hat cymbals, she was singing backup vocals AND she was playing the drums (when she wasn't jammin' on the mando). All she needed was a flute and then why have Michelle around? Just kidding.

Aside from getting lost in Boston trying to find our way to the venue and getting our car towed, everything went smoothly. Word to the wise: If you ever travel around Boston, DO NOT use MapQuest.com or a GPS unit -- neither will get you where you need to go...I promise. Do the old fashioned thing and consult an updated map and give yourself some extra time to drive around aimlessly.

Thanks for such a fun Wed/Thur. gals!

After the Euphoria

2009-05-16T18:29:00.003-06:00

[REPOST from my MySpace blog on Oct. 21, 2004]

It's 48 degrees on a dreary Autumn day here in Eastern Mass. By now, the clean-up crews have tidied up Kenmore Square outside Fenway Park in town (Boston) and a couple of unfortunate merchants have begun to place orders for new signs outside their businesses, after a handful of immature knuckle heads decided it would be fun to destroy some property while celebrating the Red Sox victory. There were a couple of cars overturned in the streets, as well - poor bastards -- is there insurance to cover something like that? Under the title of 'vandalism' maybe?

Anyway, it's almost 1pm and I'm still barely waking up after a couple of weeks of late nights and up & down emotions. I've never been known to be a sports fan. Well, men's sports. Personally, I'd rather PLAY than watch a sporting event. That all changed since I moved to Boston....a bit. This is a baseball city, no question about it. It was easy to get caught up in the excitement of the Playoff's when your hometown boys are fighting ever closer to the title.... but battling the Yankees?!? Sit down, my children. The biggest baseball rivalry in the history of the sport (or just about any other sport, for that matter) is held between the Boston Red Sox and the NY Yankees. By now, that's a pretty well-known fact. Even though I'm still generally not a big pro baseball fan, I have never ONCE liked the Yankees. I think they're arrogant, whether they win or lose a major game, they still get plastered all over the television in their Visa commercials, they pay the highest dollar for the best players in the world and they are USUALLY in the playoff's, if not the World Series. If you ask me, I'd call that pretty unfair. Once in a blue moon, though, the Yankees get their tushies kicked by the underdog, like the Arizona Diamondbacks or the lowest-paid team in the MLB, the Florida Marlins. That's always a joy to watch. Yeah, I know the Yankees pay that much because they "play to win" but give someone else a chance once in awhile, will ya??

On a similar note, Yankees fans are frightening. (present company excluded, if that applies) Not as scary as Raiders fans, but scary nonetheless. If you root against their team, it's like saying something negative to George W. Bush about the way he's handling Iraq. Run fast, run far....and lay low for at least a few more days if the Yankees were to lose a major game or series. Word to the wise, don't start an argument with a Yankee fan - you will NOT win. You'll either lose their friendship or they will whack you. LOL Just be careful, ok?

Back to the subject at hand. The Red Sox made history on Tuesday night by being the first MLB team to force a Game 7 after a 3-game deficit in a series. Last night, they made history yet again by being the first MLB team to win a Playoff after a 3-game deficit. For those of you that have no idea what I'm talking about, I'll explain in plain English: There are 7 games in a Playoff game before you move into the World Series (another 7-game series). In order to win QUICKLY, a team has to win 4 times in a row and then the whole series is over. If both teams win back and forth, the series will obviously last longer until one team wins 4 total games out of 7. The Red Sox lost the first 3 games...badly. All NY had to do was win one more and they were headed to the World Series. The Yankees and their fans were convinced that they would easily win, while Red Sox fans were going in to work everyday moping and embarrassed. Something happened, though, and the Red Sox finally showed up to play some baseball. In order for Boston to win, they had to win 4 consecutive games, period. Guess what? They did! I almost feel a little sorry for the Yankees fans.

So the Red Sox are headed to the World Series this Saturday and we're waiting on one more game to find out which NCLS team (Astros or the Cardinals) are going to play against us in the Series. I know I shouldn't think too far ahead, but IF the Sox won the World Series, it will have been the first time since 1918. That's a long-ass time. So, even if you could care less about baseball, or your favorite team didn't make the cut this year, join us in watching the World Series and root for the underdogs. That's always fun.

GO SOX !!!

You Know You're From Massachusetts If...

2009-05-16T18:17:00.002-06:00

I lived in Mass. long enough to relate to almost all of this. Trust me, it doesn't take long.

YOU KNOW YOU'RE FROM MASSACHUSETTS IF...

You think crosswalks are for wimps... (no, they're just inconvenient to walk to sometimes)

You think if someone is nice to you they either want something or they are from out of town and lost...

You know how to cross four lanes of traffic in five seconds (weee!)

You think it's not actually tailgating unless you're touching the
bumper of the car in front of you...

You know that a yellow light means that at least five more people
can get through and a red one means two more can... (no kidding here)

The public transportation system is known as the "T" and you'd
rather drive in bumper to bumper traffic for 4 hours to get to
Boston than be caught dead on the "orange line"... (amen)

You could own a small town in Iowa for the cost of your house... (this is the truth!)

Subway is a fast food place...

There are 24 Dunkin Donuts shops within 15 minutes of your
house and that is how you give directions...

When people talk about "The Curse Of The Bambino" you know what they're talking about and used to believe it, too

You believe using your turn signals gives away your plan to the enemy... (omg..lol...yes)

If you stay on the same road long enough it eventually has three different names... (mapquest doesn't have a chance!)

Someone has honked at you because you didn't peel out the second the light turned green... (many times)

You have honked at someone because they didn't peel out the second the light turned green...

All the potholes just add to the excitement of driving...

Stop signs mean slow down a little, but only of you want to... (lol)

Six inches of snow is considered a dusting... (yessahhh!)

Three days of 90 degree heat is definitely a "heat wave"

53 degrees is "on the warm side"...

You've walked to Brighams for an ice cream cone "to go", in the snow...

You cringe everytime you hear some actor/actress imitate the "Boston Accent" on TV or in a movie, if you don't have it then you're never going to get it even if you were born here...

At the ice cream shop you call chocolate sprinkles "jimmies"...

A Water fountain is called a Bubbler. Say it, "Bubbla"... (this is true, too)

You can go from one side of town to the other in less than fifteen
minutes and see at least fifteen losers you went to high school with doing the same thing they were doing when you saw them last...

The person in front of you is going 70 MPH and you're cursing them for going too slow...

You know how to pronounce towns like Worcester, Haverhill, Peabody, Scituate, Chatham, and Leominster... (yay, me!)

You know what they sell at a "packie"... (oh yes!)

You have never been to Cheers...

You've slammed on your brakes to deter a tailgater...

You keep an ice scraper in your car all year round... (yep!)

Paranoia sets in when you can't see a Dunkin Donuts, ATM or CVS...

You've pulled out of a side street and used your car to block
oncoming traffic so you can make a left...

You've bragged about saving money at The Christmas Tree Shop
(don't cha just love a bargin?)...

You know what a "regular coffee" is!...

You can navigate a rotary without a problem...

You feel the rest of the world needs to drive more like you...

When someone calls you a "Masshole" you take it as a compliment...

You use the words "wicked" "pissa" and "good" in the same sentence, and often in the same compound-adjective...

You know what a frappe is...

Saint Patrick's Day is your second favorite holiday...even when
you're not IRISH!...

You drink tonic and would never consider using it on your hair...

You never say "I'm going to drive to Cape Cod," you say "I'm going down the Cape."

You went to Old Sturbridge Village and Plymouth Plantation at
least once, in elementary school, but never to Bunker Hill...

You can drive to the mountains and the ocean all in one day...

You have a special place in your heart for the Worcester Firefighters... (*softly nods*)

You know the Mass Pike and 495 create some sort of strange weather dividing line... (so true!)

You almost feel disappointed when someone doesn't flip you off when you cut them off or steal their parking space...

As Seen on T-shirts

2009-05-16T18:10:00.001-06:00

- Everything I say is fully substantiated by my own opinion.

- I never make mistakes. I thought I did once, but I was mistaken.

- Don't do what I do, but do do what I don't do.

- Doesn't expecting the unexpected make the unexpected the expected?

- I've stopped listening, why haven't you stopped talking?

- Jesus loves you...but I'm his favorite.

- It's not hard to meet expenses, they're everywhere.

- Put on your big girl panties and just deal with it!

- So this isn't Home Sweet Home...Adjust!

- Chocolate...the catnip of the female world

- Just be happy I'm not a twin.

- Authentic Redhead: Keep out of direct sunlight!

- I'm confused...wait...maybe I'm not.

- They say I have A.D.D. but they just don't understand. Oh look! A chicken!

- My life is an endless battle against maturity.

- 333 - I'm only half evil.

- Rated OC: Overly Caucasian - please do not place on dance floor

- I'm only wearing black until they make something darker.

- (On green tee) Mom, Dad...I'm Gaelic.

- I'm sorry, but I don't know any words small enough for you to understand.

- Yet, despite the look on my face, you're still talking.

- Good Morning is an oxymoron.

- Even if the voices aren't real...they have some pretty good ideas

- Has anyone ever just hauled off and hit you?

- On the journey through life I chose the psycho path.

- DANGER: Mouth operates faster than brain.

- I have multiple personalities and none of them like you.

- The difference between genius and stupidity is that genius has its limits.

- It matters not whether you win or lose. It matters whether I win or lose.

- Make it idiot proof and someone will make a better idiot.

- Nobody knows the trouble I've been.

- AntiCrombie

- Who are you and why are you reading my shirt?

- I'm not bossy. I just know what you should be doing.

- Keep staring at me. I might do a trick.

- I don't suffer from insanity, I enjoy every minute of it.

- Some days it's just not worth chewing through the restraints in the morning.

- Is it me or is this place a festival of idiots?

- It's better to have loved & lost, than to live with the psycho the rest of your life.

- A wise man washes his hands after he pees. A wiser man doesn't pee on his hands.

- I'm not mean. You're just a sissy.

- The beatings will continue until morale improves.

- Silly boys. Trucks are for girls!

- I didn't say it was your fault...I said I was going to blame you.

- God wants spiritual fruits, not religious nuts.

- Here I am...now, what are your other two wishes?

- A team effort is a lot of people doing what I say.

- Raising teenagers is like trying to nail Jell-O to a tree.

- The problem with Italian food is, 3 or 4 days later, you're hungry again.

- Having kids is like being pecked to death by a duck.

- National Sarcasm Society. Like we need your support.

- Here's a little hint...I DON'T CARE!

- The villagers are coming with torches and pitchforks. Please hide me.

- You're not the boss of me. My cat is.

- Have you seen my marbles?

- I'm not bald. Heavy thinking burned my hair off.

- Hear it let's for dyslexia.

- I hate the fact that people don't salute me.

- A simple "Your Grace" will suffice.

- I love my country, but I think we should start seeing other people.

Have any more t-shirt or bumpersticker sayings that are equally as hilarious? Post a comment with it!

Wolves, Dolphins & Fairies...OH MY!

2009-05-16T17:33:00.001-06:00

Can someone tell me what it is about lesbians and wolves, dolphins and naked glitter fairies? I can't count the number of lesbians I know with dolphin tattoos or wolf posters or elaborate nude, sexy fairy art. Now, I can understand if you're a descendant of Native American culture and you feel spiritually connected with wolves... but what else could it be about?

I can also understand if you went snorkeling in the Florida Keys and swam with dolphins... but the only other reason I can understand why such a large number of lesbians are so dolphin-crazed is that they realize that when you pet certain dolphins on their belly, they get really really horny. Maybe there's something in common? I would think that applies more with gay men. lol

Naked fairies that resemble Angelina Jolie... now wtf is up with that!? I've seen them as tattoos, general sketches, webcam overlays, glitter graphics for myspace pages and so on. Maybe I'm just a pathetic lesbian and I could care less if I saw a naked woman (unless it's my girlfriend, of course), let alone one with WINGS and shiny lipstick. Someone help me make the connection here.

On another note, in chat rooms, I've noticed an enormous number of women with "sexy" and "angel" and "blue" in their screen names. It's so common, in fact, that I have to go out of my way and think of unique nicknames for those individuals so I don't confuse people...or just type out their entire screen name. Call me lazy, but that's just too much work. lol Nine times out of 10, those with "sexy" in their screen names are not sexy at all... usually it's quite the opposite, but hey, it's only my opinion. I'm certainly not one to talk! lol

I'm done ranting now. Please comment this blog if you have insight.

Spoiled Spud

2009-05-16T16:00:00.004-06:00

Ahh, Stanley, Idaho along the Salmon River. This is where I was just about the same time last year. Ugh, make that 2 years ago. Where has the time gone? Anymore, my favorite vacations are really "staycations." I'd honestly rather take my breaks within my own state. How many people can say that? It's super convenient because you don't have to worry about the cost of flights and all the headaches that can come with that whole experience. You don't have to deal with making detailed travel itineraries or paying for a travel agent to do it. The list goes on.

I have nothing against people wanting to get away from it all by taking a cruise, going to Mexico or Disney World or any number of other tourist destinations. I just have no desire to do those things. I might take a cruise once...who knows. But when I can drive just a short distance and soak in natural hot springs, swim in clean, cold water on a hot summer day, ski/snowboard/snowmobile on some of the best powder in the U.S., go boating or kayaking, ride on a series of zip lines within the treetops of Ponderosa pines, sky dive, parasail, explore canyonlands, go panning for gold or hunting for opals, take a scenic train ride, surf on a perfect freak wave in the river, mountain bike/atv/dirtbike/hike among the hundreds and hundreds of miles of trail systems, go camping, catch some trout/bass/salmon/steelhead/etc and much, much more.... why would I want to go elsewhere?

I've seen the entire lower 48 United States in detail from a car window, and I've lived in all corners of this nation. This land is amazing and diverse and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else. I know this. I pinch myself everyday that I live in one of the most incredible states for sheer variety of recreation. I'm only a day's drive or less from Seattle, B.C., Reno, Vegas, Salt Lake City, Portland and San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean.

Anyway, enough blogging about how spoiled I think I am... it's 76 degrees, sunny and I'm wasting time inside the house!!

Did a survey. I was bored.

2009-05-16T05:17:00.004-06:00

My uncle once: slept with my mom. No, seriously. I should be fair and say that he's not *reeeeally* my Uncle. He was my mom's ex-boyfriend before she dumped him for his best friend, who became my dad.

Never in my life: have I died.

When I was five: I got my first guitar for Christmas!

High School was: 4 years of pure HELL! Wait, 5 years. That's how Hellish it was, folks.

I will never forget: my name. I hope. My memory doesn't have a very good record up to this point.

I once met: my belly button years ago. I haven't been able to find it again since adulthood.

Once, at a bar: I did a triple flip dismount and won a silver medal. Not really...but it would be cool if I did.

By noon, I'm usually: waking up on the weekends. Yay for sleeping in!

Last night: I have no idea what I did. See, I told you my memory left much to be desired.

If I only had: pade attenshun in skool.

Next time I go to church: I'll be unconscious, being dragged in by my hair.

Terry Schiavo: was a goner.

When I turn my head left, I see: a small Asian woman.

When I turn my head right, I see: a snack bag of Animal Crackers, with a convenient resealable strip!

What I miss most about the eighties: is parachute pants! MAN I wanted a pair of those! Red with black zippers, to be exact.

If I was a character in Shakespeare, I'd be: looking gayer than I already do.

By this time next year: hopefully be able to see my belly button again.

A better name for me would be: LaQuisha (that's luh-KWEE-shuh)

I have a hard time understanding: why us girls can bleed like a stuck pig every damn month and still not die!

If I ever go back to school I'll: remember to sleep with my professors to get good grades. All that time in high school, I thought STUDYING was the key, but I was so very wrong. It's a good thing, too, because I'm much better when it comes to sex than studying. (thanks for the great idea, Heather!)

You know I like you if: I comment your myspace. Mahahaha!

If I ever won an award, the first person I'd thank would be: my parents for giving birth to me, for without that first step, the award would probably have to go to someone else...and that would just suck.

Darwin, Mozart, Slim Pickens & Geraldine Ferraro: should have babies so we can find out what they'd name 'em.

Take my advice, never: get me drunk and force me to stay up later than I want to, because I can become a cranky-ass jack bitch. "Really? You!?" Yes, so don't try me.

My ideal breakfast is: best eaten after noon...when I wake up on my weekends, of course.

A song I love, but do not own is: every song out there. If I owned them, I'd be rich with royalties.

If you visit my hometown, I suggest: practicing your alcohol intake and retention skills, because you'll need it in Austin.

Tulips, character flaws, microchips & track stars: "What are the Gay Olympics of 2034, presented and sponsored by Home & Garden Television, Alex!?"

Why won't people: just use their damn turn signals?! It's not like it's a hassle or exercise or anything!!

If you spend the night at my house: bring your flight line-rated ear plugs. I snore and I can snore loud.

I'd stop my wedding: if I saw my girlfriend making out with a bridesmaid. Just a head's up, honey.

The world could do without: The Bush Family. I'm just sayin'

I'd rather lick the belly of a cockroach than: wait...I'd rather not do that AT ALL.

My favorite blonde is: my mom :-)

Paper clips are more useful than: other things when it comes to breaking and entering. I mean...organizing stacks of documents and stuff.

If I do anything well, it's: breathing. DAMN I'm awesome at that.

And by the way: I just passed gas. I suggest opening a window. Hey, at least I claim mine.

Kitty Wigs!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-05-16T05:01:00.001-06:00

You really have to see these. *stifles laughter* I swear someone stole my cat, Smokey, for the photoshoot with the blue wig and then gave him back.

KittyWigs

Olan Mills portrait photos LOL

2009-05-16T04:44:00.001-06:00

*Actual* Olan Mills photos...

Those glasses came free with a purchase of Brut cologne.

Thoughtful Lance. Mirthful Lance. Two sides of a delightful coin.

Drake won "Bitchin'est Senior Mullet" by a landslide.

That dude wore a tie for nothing.

The Purvis family made several stops along the Oregon Trail to document their six month journey. This photo was taken just two weeks before the dysentery took Momma to Jesus.

Wanted a shot like this for a future wedding. The girlfriend said no.

It's called a leisure suit, ladies and germs, and if you didn't have one in the early '70s, you were a big fat loser. Mine was teal. I wore it with a silk floral shirt and a long necklace with a football player pendant that we all got at that year's team banquet. I was THE MAN!

Once they had two or three, how did they ever find enough time alone to have more?!

No comment.

Olan Mills backdrop 4: Bucolic Meadow with Split Rail Fence. Is that an animal carcass behind her?

A pose like this will get you kicked right out of the Convention.

Oh, this is super. What better way to capture the charm and innocence of a child than to plunk him down amid the coarse trappings of a life lived in pursuit of wealth -- oversized bills, an adding machine and the Wall Street Journal -- and make him sit inside a briefcase? The finishing touch is the globe, which completes the portrait of the young Antichrist in Chess King vest and Red Goose loafers, plotting his takeover of the world (insert maniacal laugh). That is, as soon as someone changes his poopy diaper.

Bobbi isn't the first waitress to fall for the manager, but she and Dale both got fired from the Shoney's.

Rejected Toby Keith album cover.

Just a typical afternoon down on the plantation. In a business suit. Y'know, for a budget meeting with the slaves.

Dawn and her recently exhumed sister, Gorgotha, posing with Scraps.

This photo isn't discolored. The '70s really were that orange.

And don't miss the First Presbyterian Players as they perform "Godspell" next Wednesday night in the Fellowship Hall. Childcare will be provided. Please bring a covered dish.

At the Southern Baptist Convention?

Olan Mills Backdrop 11: The Library, one of their most popular themes, as seen in this photo of the young Unabomber and his wife.

The Library might be more believable if the shelves weren't sloping downhill.

Olan Mills is all about versatility. The simple addition of a column turns this generic plantation into Tara, where, apparently, someone opened a Hair Cuttery.

Patrick broke ranks and chose drag over the bow tie.

You'd think Pearle Vision would throw in another 2 pair for free.

Grapefruit smuggling isn't a crime, but posing it in profile should be.

Kenneth and his prom date.

I got a 20 that says this guy drives a Camaro.

Hiroshima, 1945. The last known photo of Kelli and Senor Loco.

Someone spent money on this.

It's so cute when couples have matching hairdo's.

Talk about a third wheel...

Nothing says 1973 quite like denim and helmet hair.

I'd hide my face, too, little girl.

B-52's, the early years.

She's looking for the speaker that's piping in "Muskrat Love" so she can blast it with her laser eyes.

Freak Dancing

2009-05-16T04:39:00.002-06:00

[REPOST of my MySpace blog on May 4, 2008]

So, there's this "style" of "dancing" called "Freak Dancing." Have I used enough quotation marks yet? I was just perusing through videos on myspace and saw someone's default GIF...as in the pic moves like a video for a short time. What struck me about this tiny morsel of 1"x1" sin is that she was showing everyone on myspace what HER version of dancing is...probably with a boyfriend or one of her boyfriend's dawgs or even quite possibly a cousin.

This is "freak dancing," my friends. I prefer to call it "mostly-clothed vertical doggie style dry-humping to a hip hop beat" but someone who thought he or she was CLEVER chose to shorten it to "freak dancing." I like my version better, personally.

Now, don't think I'm some Grandma fuddy duddy. I'm keeping a sense of humor about this, not to mention I never said "whipper snapper" in this here blog thing-a-majigger. This time doesn't count because I was making a point, shut up!

As an example of my openmindedness, I invite any of you to go out dancing with me at the clubs some night for some mostly-clothed vertical doggie style dry humping to a hip hop beat. It'll be a hootin' good time!

About "God Damn It" and Other Cuss Words

2009-05-16T04:29:00.003-06:00

[REPOST from my MySpace blog on Jun. 28, 2008]

I was on my way home today and I think I hit about every red light. One light shy of home, sweet home, I finally came out with a good "God fucking damn it!" Just one of those little moments of zen one encounters in life. As soon as I said it, I almost felt bad, but then I remembered something that I always feel the urge to correct others for when they let something regretful like that phrase slip out of their perfectly innocent lips -- the words "God damn it" aren't really horrible, afterall.

It really bugs me when someone blurts out "Damn It isn't God's last name" or "Don't use God's name in vain." The reason is because the phrase doesn't frikken mean that at ALL! Think about it. You're asking "God" to "damn it"...whatever "it" happens to be. So, in my case, I wanted God to damn that last red light...not that it would've helped, nor am I a Christian. The point is that people completely take the phrase the wrong way because... well, let's face it...they don't know any better.

Which brings me to my next point. Just like the phrase "God damn it" is somehow inherently BAD, so are other expletives such as "fuckshitdamncuntassbitchfag," etc, etc. Did any of those words (once separated) offend you? If it did, then you were taught that those words surely mustn't be used in your daily vocabulary. Now, think about THIS -- what makes a word bad? Someone at some point in history decided to make up a word and use it in a derogatory or offensive way towards something or some one. That word spread from person to person, generation to generation and eventually became a cuss word. I could make up a word like... oh, I dunno... "bunt"... look at a developmentally disabled person, and in a mean and mockingly retarded tone, yell "BUNT!!" right at him/her. Eventually, if the word caught on, that, too, would become something your mom would wash your mouth out with soap over. Get me?

So, the moral of the story is... when you feel the urge to let a curse word slip out in the heat of the moment, DO IT...however, you still must be mindful of your environment. Work, church or school may still not be the best place to let'r rip. Other people just don't understand like you or I.

Best Fuckin' Wishes,

Lynne

Recipe For a Stress-Free Life

2009-05-16T02:29:00.004-06:00

I'm a pretty laid-back type. My life and my friends reflect that, for the most part. People ask me how I maintain a pretty stress-free life, so I'll tell you what my personal secret is. Gather 'round reeeeal close, now.

1. Live somewhere you love. For me, growing up in Austin was completely awesome because I loved live music, I got to meet and hang out with COOL (not snobby) "famous people" in my teen years seems like every week, amazing thunderstorms (if you like that sort of thing) and living out in the Hill Country was nice, too. Now I'm living in Idaho where the foothills of the Rocky Mtns are right outside my door and a short drive will take you to Heaven and back.

2. Choose your friends wisely. Seriously, this one's a biggie. I know so many people who are miserable all the time because they or their friends have dragged them into drama, getting stuck in a cycle that never ends. I've never been one for cliques. They can be a lot of fun, but they can also be a ticking time bomb.

3. Dress comfortably. You know those types...the ones that dress for "the look" and dress for high fashion to keep up an image. I've never cared about that. Sure, I can clean up really well when an occasion might call for it, but that's rare for me these days. This is a girl that went to the VIP post-Grammy's party in jeans and a t-shirt, while observing women in gowns trying to pry off their high heels to slip on the freebie fuzzy slippers in the gift bags given out. Sucks to be them!

4. Find a hobby. MY hobbies, however, tend to be expensive. I keep telling myself that I need to find cheaper hobbies that are just as enjoyable, but...nahhhh!

5. NO KIDS!! Okay, I realize this isn't going to fly with everyone. My personality and lifestyle is as such that kids just don't fit into the picture very well. It's not something I need to fill a void in my being like it is for others. I don't have to worry about poopy diapers, screaming, first dates, the expense, babysitters, waiting for them to move out, etc. If you think that's the spice of life, then more power to ya!

6. Live within your means. Yes, it IS humanly possible to own no credit cards! Wait, let me offer one suggestion, though -- have 1 credit card with a max limit of $1000.00 and occasionally buy small things and pay them right off. This will maintain you some sort of credit history. It's a catch 22. I never wanted a credit card but HAD to break down and get one to build any sort of credit. It may take longer to save up for the things you want and need, but it sure feels good to OWN them (without interest).

7. Invest in a COMFORTABLE BED. Tempurpedic, Sleep Number, Simmons Beauty Rest... whatever feels amazing to you, is made well and will last a long time...BUY IT. You'll thank me the rest of your life.

8. Buy/create/acquire *things* to surround yourself with that make you happy. You can call me materialistic, but, honestly, if you have things in your home that remind you of a place, a time or a something that brings joy to your life...how could you argue with that?

9. Laugh a lot and love yourself. This needs no elaboration. Interpret the latter part however you wish. heheh

As you can see, none of the above include massive amounts of caffeine, tobacco, narcotics, feng shui, spa retreats, yoga lessons or shopping trips to the mall. AND YET I keep my sanity! Wondering why I left "Get a job you love" out of the list? Yes, it's important to like the work you do, but it's equally important that IF you don't like the work you do, don't take it home with you when the work day is over.

And there you have it. Take what you will from my recipe and run with it. Keep me posted :-)

And You Thought WE Were Effed Up...

2009-05-16T02:15:00.003-06:00

[REPOST from my MySpace blog on Aug. 26, 2008]

Now, I don't mean to put focus on a middle eastern country, as it's SO easy to do with all the generalized and baseless hatred running rampant in America...but I thought I'd share snippets of an article I read today on AOL about the ban on female drivers in Saudi Arabia.

When Ruwaida al-Habis' father and two brothers were badly burned in a fire, she had no choice but to break Saudi Arabia's ban on women drivers to get them to a clinic. Using the driving skills her father taught her on the family farm, al-Habis managed to reach the clinic's emergency entrance without a hitch. "When I pulled up, a crowd of people surrounded the car and stared as if they were seeing extraterrestrial beings," the 20-year-old university student told The Associated Press. "Instead of focusing on the burn victims, the nurses kept repeating, 'You drove them here?"' Saudi Arabia is the only country in the world that bans all women - Saudi and foreign - from driving. The prohibition forces families to hire live-in drivers, and women who cannot afford the $300-$400 a month for a driver must rely on male relatives to drive them to work, school, shopping or the doctor.

Can you believe that? Paid live-in drivers. Hell, if I were a man living in Saudi Arabia, that would be an awesome job! An easy $400/mo!

Previously, women who spoke out against the ban paid heavily. In November 1990, when U.S. troops were in Saudi Arabia following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, some 50 women drove family cars in an anti-ban protest. They were jailed for a day, their passports were confiscated and they lost their jobs. The reaction was so harsh that lifting the ban was barely broached again until recently. Supporters of ending the ban on female drivers point out that the prohibition exists neither in law nor in Islam. There is no written Saudi law banning women from driving, only fatwas, or edicts by senior clerics that are enforced by police. No major Islamic clerics outside the country call for such a ban. Conservatives say women at the wheel create situations for sinful temptation. They argue that women drivers will be free to leave home alone, will unduly expose their eyes while driving and will interact with male strangers, such as traffic police and mechanics.

Are you shi**ing me? I'm sorry, I don't mean to sound anti-religion or anything...afterall, if it's not affecting ME PERSONALLY, why should I care what others believe, enforce, do, etc? (with the exception of crimes against humanity, of course.) Anyway, I'm all about freedom of religion...and freedom FROM religion. The whole idea, though, of men being able to wear what they choose, do what they want, go where they want to go, work where they want to work, marry who they want to marry.... but women have to cover up with long robes, veils over their eyes, do not have the right to choose, own land...DRIVE? My opinion is that it's STUPID. That's just me. I'm sure the women there feel that it's a stupid rule but wouldn't dream of arguing against it or their religious belief system. Fight, for so many of them, has been bred out of them through example and tradition and punishment.

Kudos to the men and women who are trying to change the obviously ridiculous "rules" in their respective countries. Afterall, it was only 80 years ago that women were not allowed to vote in America, and in this country's youth, any women showing ankle or above were considered harlots. A lot has changed, thanks to liberal-minded, level-headed people in this world. America still has a long way to go, though. In some ways, Canada is even leading the way with laws that allow things that just seem so common sense, yet we lag behind and still reflect a very patriarchal a repressive governmental system. Democracy is regressing here and is PROgressing in other countries. Have you looked around? Haven't you noticed? If you haven't, then you're not paying close enough attention.

Believe it or not, the world and society hasn't always been in the charge of power-hungry men. In America, it has...but not in much, much older cultures. The Maori people, for instance, shared decisions, land, even battle with their women. This blog is not to say that I am a separatist. I believe, though, that women should be equal, and even in 2008 we are not. Can you believe there are still people, including Barack Obama, still fighting to give the right of equal pay for equal work to women? This is STILL a problem!

I am a gay woman, and that makes me a double minority in this country (let alone Idaho), but that won't stop me from fighting for my human rights. For the men out there who are fully aware of their advantages simply for being the sex that they are, and are working hard at bringing equality, at all levels, to the table...I applaud you. I will applaud until my hands bleed because, to me, men fighting on our behalf are just as heroic, if not more, than women today and those before us that took a stand against inequality.

There are so many causes to fight for, so many wrongs to right. I don't think "fairness" across the board will become a reality in my lifetime, but I hope we provide a leap forward for our future generations. That's all I can wish for. All things considered, I feel very fortunate to live in a country with, say, a lot fewer problems than other countries. We still have our fair share and we have a long way to go before we are, indeed, the greatest nation in the world that we CLAIM to be. In order to really reach that title, we must first be champions of equality, fairness, TRUE "We The People" democracy and leaders in basic human rights...among other things. Unfortunately, we fall short in many of those, and we are slipping backwards, in case you haven't noticed.

Alright, it's time for me to get off my soap box. Thank you for taking the time to read this blog, as I'm sure it's probably just preaching to the choir, but I want it to be a record on the internet so that maybe we can someday look back on it and say.."Wow, women weren't allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia? That's hilarious." Let's see how fast history changes...IF it does.

A Witness To History

2009-05-16T00:44:00.004-06:00

[REPOST from my MySpace blog on Nov. 6, 2008]

Last night, over 70 million television viewers, myself included, were witness to United States history. More than 130 million cast their vote - the most voter turn-out for a U.S. Presidential election ever. Over half of that 130 million, again, including myself, can be proud to say that we helped make that history possible for this country, and for the man himself...President-elect, Barack Obama.

President Barack Obama. That may sound very strange to some, but to me, it has a nice ring to it. For nearly two years, Barack (and his family) endured an uphill battle, but with each speech he made, and with each ear that fell upon his eloquent and carefully-chosen words, it wasn't so difficult to imagine Senator Obama behind a podium adorned with the Presidential seal.

Last night, before the first polls began to close, I entered a chatroom entitled "Obama Victory Room," I believe it was. After visiting a few other right-wing rooms, and developing heartburn from all of the liberal bashers, I had to go to a room that sided with my thoughts and feelings on the evening to come. I needed to be in a more supportive environment.

The most striking thing I noticed was the overwhelming words of encouragement for America and Obama by people signing online from Australia, Wales and even Iran. They wanted us to know that the world community has not yet lost hope in the United States, despite the previous 8 years. They KNEW that we could do better, and were confident that we wouldn't let them down this time.

The world looked on as the poll numbers gradually came in, time zone by time zone. I was absolutely glued to the Election Mix channel on DirecTV -- 8 different election news feeds on one screen.

Talk about spoiled.

Before the last handful of states had reported their votes, LONG before the last numbers came in, everyone knew it was over for Senator John McCain. Heck, even as the night began, McCain rally goers weren't really expecting a win. The mood was rather stoic.

Between the Republican and Democratic chatrooms, I noticed one very distinct and disturbing difference -- many of McCain's supporters were making such untrue and cruel statements, such as not wanting to be associated with a "beggar class" party such as Democrats.

So it's a class system again? And Republicans are apparently the "elite class"?

Personally, I don't want to be associated with a party of bigots, racists and immaturity. I could be irresponsibly generalizing, but this is what I witnessed tonight in mass quantities. It quite literally brought the trash out of the woodworks.

Case in point... once the reality of an Obama victory was indisputable, we started to see an influx of people enter the chatroom simply to spout off hateful threats, generously using the term "nigger" in their copy-and-pasted drive-by's. If you caught John McCain's concession speech, I'm sure you recall the childish boo's in response to the mere mention of Obama's name. You also may recall the applause given at the victory rally when Barack congratulated Senator McCain for a campaign well fought. This is a fundamental difference I have seen time and time again between conservatives and liberals in times of triumph and loss.

Despite the remarks, there was an undeniable feeling of accomplishment tonight. Above everything else, it was major victory against the very idea that anyone other than a white man would sit behind that desk in the Oval Office. It finally proves that this nation is not just occupied by multicultural citizens, but will finally be led by someone who represents this diversity. Werd.

Proudly American,

Lynne

Echoed Thoughts On Prop 8

2009-05-16T00:00:00.003-06:00

[REPOST from my MySpace blog on Nov. 9, 2008]

The following statements were written by my friend, Paulette, who lives in Los Angeles, California. I chose to re-post this because it echoes EXACTLY what I've been telling "gay marriage" nay-sayers all along. We don't want your "word"...we don't want to force your church's hand -- we just want the same legal rights as any other tax-paying, consenting adult couple does. So, government? Change the WORD, already! And the religious conservative traditionalists? STFU!!

"My opinion and thoughts about Prop 8

The word marriage began long ago and with the church. And in the bible it means the union between a man and a woman. It is written so in the bible. And although many have argued that it is open for interpretation, I will not argue this and will never do so again. I respect the church and each of their beliefs. I respect those who follow their religions and who have their own beliefs. And although I may believe and interpret differently, I am not trying to change anyone's beliefs, sway them or argue they should be different.

The word marriage like other words has evolved though with time.
What once was used solely for religious purposes when joining a man and a woman has now been adopted within our government to determine these rights

- Inheritance
- Property ownership
- Taxes
- Medical Benefits

These above points have nothing to do with religion.

Same-sex couples who live together, pay taxes and are law abiding citizens would therefore like to have these rights as well and use this "word", or whatever word the government uses to mean this. This word just so happens to be "marriage". Had the government not adopted this word from the church and it was instead the word "Joint-ship" or "Union", then I believe there would not be such huge objections or uproar from so many (regarding laws).

But instead, because it is the word "marriage", people are arguing that gays are trying to change the views of the church and make them accept something that they do not. This is not the case. Gays simply want to not be treated differently and given a word to use from the government that is different than what the rest of society uses. By doing so, it is putting them in a different 'class' and feels like they are second class citizens (you can use the restroom, but only THAT one. Or you can drink from the fountain, but only THAT one).

So, I see two possibilities then…

1) What we should be fighting for is a separation of church and state and having a word that the government uses that is not religious. Something that ALL (heterosexual and homosexual) will then use. Then the word "marriage" would retain the definition that is chosen by the individual and church and moral values and government can remain separate.

or

2) The church and religious folks should realize that the word "marriage" has adopted a new meaning and usage throughout time and that it used by the government to allow for certain tax benefits, property ownership, inheritance rights, etc. Therefore, when gays want to be married, they just want the same rights and not be put in a different "class". It is not a way of making or forcing churches and people to believe and accept same-sex relationships, it is simply about non-discrimination and human rights.

Moral value arguments should be done outside of government. This has nothing to do with what one values or believes in."

TV Networks With Identity Disorder

2009-05-15T22:26:00.004-06:00

[REPOST from my MySpace blog on Mar. 14, 2009]

I'm for real about this... I thought I was mildly annoyed the first time I saw the show "Dog Whisperer" on National Geographic. Then, yesterday, a customer called asking where they can find a channel that focuses on wildlife, safari documentaries and the like. Well, of course I directed him to National Geographic Channel, because, after all, it's a publication and channel I grew up watching and reading for that very subject matter. Then, I began having to explain why National Geographic Channel actually isn't carrying so much of that content anymore, and mixing it up with other sh*t that has no reason to be showing on that channel.

Today, as I was trying to figure out what channel "Golden Girls" reruns were on, I found myself within our online TV channel program listings and couldn't believe my freakin' eyes.

The Shining on the Biography Channel. W... T... F. Following that? Paranormal State. What!?

Now I'm more than mildly annoyed.

Dog Whisperer and DogTown and ANIMAL shows should be on ANIMAL PLANET. Am I wrong?

Biographical documentaries of past and present people of interest/importance should be on BIOGRAPHY CHANNEL!

Epic documentaries of amazing things/places on this planet should be in National Geographic Channel - echoing the kind of content they'd publish in their magazines and books.

Travel Channel should be a fun channel dedicated to adventures in traveling and discovering new places to TRAVEL to on vacations.

Now, there are a FEW channels out there that stick to their format. Investigation Discovery and Crime & Investigation HD show programs such as anything revolving around law enforcement, investigative work. Hell, you might as well even throw in Ghost Adventures, Ghost Hunters International and Ghost Hunters into Investigation Discovery, also, since it's about "investigations" -- doesn't have to be of the law enforcement kind.

My beef is that so many of these channels that claim to have a particular format... end up muddling it up with all kinds of shows that have NOTHING to do with the network's title.

Is it to add variety to lift ratings and viewership? Probably. But it's still stupid.

I want to tune to a channel and know exactly what category of entertainment I can find in it. I wouldn't expect to find soft porn on ABC Family, but nowadays, I probably wouldn't be surprised if I did!

I challenge you readers to pull up your TV program guide and sift through the stations and what's playing on them... and then tell me if you find anything strange or ridiculous. Humor me. Or yourself, I don't care.

I've said my peace.

Oh, and Golden Girls reruns are on Hallmark. FYI.

Obama doing a poor job?!? (beware: rant ahead)

2009-05-15T21:49:00.003-06:00

[REPOST from my MySpace blog on April 5, 2009]

So, I went on AOL to check some of the day's top stories (according to AOL News, anyway) and saw an article on Obama's speech to Czech citizens about how he'd like to see an end to nukes around the world. This is just one of many bold (and human) ideas President Obama has offered up to the world public.

If you've been following his first 100 days closely so far, you will probably see that he has done something rather significant just about every day since taking the oath of office. He and his Administration are pushing forward, all while working diligently to untangle and clean up the past Administration's mess. The "mess" spills over into other continents, other economy's, other nation's citizens and leaders... the tangible and intangible, like relationships, for example.

Then I come across a little AOL poll at the end of the article.

"What rating would you give to Obama's overall job performance?"
....

Poor	42%
Excellent	22%
Fair	19%
Good	17%

Total Votes: 67,755

POOR? Are you sh___ing me?

This man and his team has reversed legislation that could've been damaging to generations far off into the future, he's trying his damnedest to fish the economy out of the toilet (much of which really isn't the responsibility or doing of the government to begin with), he's trying to rebuild trust with world leaders and world people that was lost during the last two presidential terms, he's actually keeping the majority of his promises made during his campaign.

Would you give the man a chance?!

And to the 42% that have so far voted that Obama is doing a poor job? $%#@ YOU. I hope you enjoy your paycheck tax cut, ingrates.

Evil, Time-Consuming Virtual Hobbies

2009-05-14T12:34:00.007-06:00

One of my biggest pet peeves on Facebook is its seemingly endless supply of useless apps, and an even more endless barrage of app invites.

"You've been poked! Poke me back!"

"Someone sent you a bumper sticker! Accept?"

I need to stop. It's just making me upset.

So, one day, I catch my girlfriend fiddle farting around on a well-known app called Farm Town. I scoff, of course. But somehow, by some freaky twist of fate, it lures me in! Not only did it have me by the ovaries, but I managed to convince an unfortunate many to follow suit.

Below are screen shots of my farm as it has morphed and blossomed into the time-waster that it has become today.

DAY 1.5
Day 4

Day 10

Present Day
I totally understand that there is no real-life significance to what you see here, but for some strange reason.... it's fun? It's certainly harmless. I mean it sure beats shooting up heroin. I don't do that, I'm just sayin.

For those of you on Facebook that have the Farm Town app, or will shortly after concluding this blog, find me using email addy LynneMartin@gmail.com ....and when you add me as a friend, also add me as a neighbor.

That is all.

A Brief Intro

2009-05-14T11:06:00.014-06:00

My inaugural blog! I wonder if you're as excited about this as I am?! My stomach is growling...brb.

(pause for food prep & intake)

OK, back!

Mi llamo es Lynne Martin and I'll just bet you're wondering where Lynnie Flynnie comes from. I come from my mother. But aside from that, during my last stint away from Idaho, working in Cambridge, Massachusettes, my fellow futon sales colleague, Gladys, felt the strong desire to expose me to some Boston culture. Every evening, about an hour before close, she'd flip on the radio and tune in to a station that featured a couple of hours worth of "Dancehall" music, which is a derivative of Jamaican reggae with, often, faster riddims (rhythms) and harder beats. This music, along with custom dance moves (usually several people participating), gives it much of its appeal.

I remember the first time I heard it on mainstream radio. Christina Aguilera felt she could bring it to the masses. Mainly throngs of awkward white club goers, not unlike myself. I would have to admit that she was successful, as now it seems other artists are wanting a piece of it, if nothing else but to boost their 'cool' factor. The one thing I've found that is lacking in the general club scene, and that apparently didn't catch on, was the choreographed dance moves! Seriously, had THAT been incorporated on a wide scale, I wouldn't have to subject myself to seeing just how horrible most of us really are at...dancing. We'd have a clear guideline and that's hard to mess up.

But I digress.

Gladys would painstakingly walk me through all the different songs and all their different stomps and knee slaps and hand gestures until I had them right. Then she'd coach me on dancehall club terminology, which could be a college course all in itself. For instance, "Pull up!" is a phrase used when you want the deejay to repeat the song. It's the Jamaican version of "Play it again, Sam." I can only imagine what people would think as they walked past our enormous store windows seeing a couple of girls dancing and singing our fool heads off to Richie Spice, Elephant Man or Lady Saw.

After proving my utterly rad side to Gladys, (and that I wouldn't altogether embarrass her at a dancehall club in Boston) I forever became "Lynnie Flynnie."

I wish I could remember all the moves and the songs they corresponded with, but, alas, all is lost. I had the experience, though. I have the nickname to prove it, and that's better than a t-shirt any day.